Climb Island Peak (6,189m), one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking peaks, while trekking through the Everest region, visiting Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, and enjoying spectacular views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu and Baruntse
Island Peak (Imja Tse) at 6,189m is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking peaks and an ideal introduction to Himalayan mountaineering. First climbed in 1953 as part of the British Everest Expedition training programme, the peak combines an achievable climbing challenge with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Everest region.
Located in the heart of the Khumbu, Island Peak rises dramatically from the Imja Valley, appearing like an island in a sea of ice, which inspired its name. The journey follows the classic Everest Base Camp trail through Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests and the breathtaking landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park. Along the way, trekkers visit iconic destinations including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, while carefully acclimatising for the climb ahead.
The ascent itself involves glacier travel, fixed ropes and a rewarding summit push, providing an excellent introduction to the skills required for high-altitude mountaineering. Although considered a trekking peak, Island Peak offers a genuine alpine experience, combining physical challenge, technical elements and stunning Himalayan scenery.
From the summit, climbers are rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Baruntse and countless snow-capped peaks stretching across the horizon. With its blend of Everest region trekking, cultural immersion and exciting summit climb, Island Peak remains one of the most sought-after peak climbing adventures in Nepal.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Island Peak Climbing.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu
Day 2: Briefing & passport collect for the permits
Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,886m), trek to Phakding (2,640m)
Day 4: Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Day 5: Acclimatisation day in Namche Bazaar and local excursion
Day 6: Trek Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m)
Day 7: Trek from Tengboche to Pheriche (4,243m)
Day 8: Acclimatisation day in Pheriche
Day 9: Trek from Pheriche to Lobuche (4,910)
Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,160m) and then on to Base Camp (5,486m)
Day 11: Trek from Gorakshep to Kalapatthar (5545m) for sunrise and down to Lobuche (4,910m)
Day 12: Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730m)
Day 13: Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,087m)
Day 14: Trek from Base Camp to High Camp (5,640m)
Day 15: Summit Island Peak (6,189m) and back to Base Camp
Day 16: Trek Base Camp to Dingboche (4,410m)
Day 17: Trek Dingboche to Tengboche (3,870m)
Day 18: Trek Tengboche to Monjo (2,810m)
Day 19: Trek Monjo to Lukla (2,886m)
Day 20: Fly to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu, approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 21: Departure
Note: The trek itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice.
Note: All expeditions are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax, recover from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Climbing Briefing, Permit Preparation and Equipment Check (B)
Today you will meet your climbing guide for a comprehensive expedition briefing. Permits will be finalised and all climbing equipment checked to ensure you are fully prepared for the climb. Any last-minute equipment purchases or rentals can be arranged in Kathmandu.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive to Manthali, Fly to Lukla (2,886m) and Trek to Phakding (2,640m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
A very early start to Manthali by road and then a short flight will take you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival, begin trekking immediately along a pleasant trail through Sherpa settlements and forested hillsides. The route follows the Dudh Kosi River, passing mani walls, prayer wheels and suspension bridges before reaching the riverside village of Phakding.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 4: Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) (B L D)
Following the Dudh Koshi River, the trail crosses several suspension bridges and passes through pine forests and traditional villages. Entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, the route continues to Jorsalle before beginning the challenging ascent to Namche Bazaar. Along the way, weather permitting, you may catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Acclimatisation Day in Namche Bazaar and Local Excursion (B L D)
A second night in Namche allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. A morning acclimatisation hike to Syangboche and the Everest View Hotel offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru. The afternoon is free to explore the vibrant Sherpa town.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 6: Trek Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m) (B L D)
The trail follows a spectacular route high above the Dudh Koshi Valley, with magnificent views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Nuptse. After descending to Phunki Tenga, a steady climb through rhododendron and fir forest leads to Tengboche, home to the region’s most important monastery.
Overnight in Tengboche.
Day 7: Trek Tengboche to Pheriche (4,243m) (B L D)
After visiting Tengboche Monastery, the trail descends through forest before crossing the Imja Khola and continuing through Pangboche village. As the vegetation becomes sparser and the landscape more alpine, panoramic mountain views dominate the route before arriving in Pheriche.
Overnight in Pheriche.
Day 8: Acclimatisation Day in Pheriche (B L D)
Today is set aside for acclimatisation. An optional hike to nearby ridges or viewpoints helps your body adapt to the altitude while offering spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Taboche, Cholatse and the surrounding peaks.
Overnight in Pheriche.
Day 9: Trek Pheriche to Lobuche (4,910m) (B L D)
The trail ascends gradually through alpine terrain to Dughla before climbing past memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives in the Himalaya. Continuing alongside the Khumbu Glacier, you reach the small settlement of Lobuche surrounded by towering mountains.
Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 10: Trek Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,160m) and Everest Base Camp (5,486m) (B L D)
Following the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, the trail reaches Gorak Shep before continuing to Everest Base Camp. Standing beneath the famous Khumbu Icefall offers a remarkable insight into Everest expeditions. After exploring the area, you return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Overnight in Gorak Shep.
Day 11: Sunrise Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and Trek to Lobuche (4,910m) (B L D)
An early morning climb to Kala Patthar provides one of the finest viewpoints in the Himalaya. The sunrise views of Everest, Nuptse, Pumori and the surrounding peaks are unforgettable. After descending for breakfast, you retrace your steps to Lobuche.
Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 12: Trek Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730m) (B L D)
Leaving the Everest Base Camp trail, you descend to Dughla before following the scenic Imja Valley towards Chhukung. Surrounded by towering peaks including Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Island Peak itself, Chhukung is the final permanent settlement before the climbing phase begins.
Overnight in Chhukung.
Day 13: Trek Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,087m) (B L D)
The route ascends steadily through alpine terrain and glacial moraine towards Island Peak Base Camp. Upon arrival, camp is established and your climbing guide will conduct a final review of technical equipment and climbing procedures.
Overnight at Base Camp.
Day 14: Trek Base Camp to High Camp (5,640m) (B L D)
Today’s climb to High Camp is relatively short but steep. As you gain altitude, the views become increasingly spectacular, with glaciers, rocky ridges and snow-covered peaks dominating the landscape. The remainder of the day is spent resting and preparing for the summit attempt.
Overnight at High Camp.
Day 15: Summit Island Peak (6,189m) and Return to Base Camp (B L D)
An early pre-dawn start begins the highlight of the expedition. The route crosses glacier terrain and ascends steep snow slopes using fixed ropes where required. Reaching the summit rewards climbers with breathtaking views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Baruntse and the surrounding Khumbu Himal. After celebrating your achievement, you descend carefully back to Base Camp.
Overnight at Base Camp.
Day 16: Trek Base Camp to Dingboche (4,410m) (B L D)
Leaving the climbing camp behind, you descend through Chhukung and back into the broad Imja Valley. The lower altitude and increased oxygen levels provide welcome relief after the summit effort.
Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 17: Trek Dingboche to Tengboche (3,870m) (B L D)
Retracing your route through Pangboche and alpine meadows, you descend towards Tengboche. The return of forests and warmer temperatures marks your gradual return to lower elevations.
Overnight in Tengboche.
Day 18: Trek Tengboche to Monjo (2,810m) (B L D)
The trail descends through rhododendron forests to Phunki Tenga before climbing briefly and continuing through Namche Bazaar. From Namche, the route follows the familiar trail down to Monjo.
Overnight in Monjo.
Day 19: Trek Monjo to Lukla (2,886m) (B L D)
Your final day on the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through traditional Sherpa villages and forested landscapes before the final climb back to Lukla. The evening is an opportunity to celebrate the successful completion of both the trek and summit climb with your crew.
Overnight in Lukla.
Day 20: Fly to Manthali and Drive to Kathmandu (B)
Weather permitting, an early morning flight takes you from Lukla to Manthali, followed by a drive back to Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is free to relax, enjoy the comforts of the city and celebrate your achievement.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 21: Departure (B)
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your Island Peak climbing adventure.
The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, flight schedules or other operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All expeditions are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Additional Information
Please note: Direct flights between Kathmandu and Lukla may be available depending on the season, weather conditions and airport traffic. During peak periods, flights are often operate via Manthali Airport.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1-night post-trek in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- Porters
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Island Peak Climbing
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
29 Days Days
Everest Region
Strenuous/Difficult
