Island Peak (Imja Tse) is a popular 6,189‑meter Himalayan trekking peak in Nepal’s Khumbu region that offers an unforgettable introduction to high‐altitude mountaineering. The expedition typically begins in Kathmandu with a scenic flight to Lukla, followed by a trek through picturesque Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. With dedicated acclimatization days and essential technical training—including the use of crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes—climbers are well-prepared for the summit push over glaciers and steep snowy slopes. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan giants, making this journey both a cultural immersion and a perfect stepping stone for aspiring mountaineers.
Duration
17 days
Difficulty Level
Medium
Trip Start and End
Kathmandu-Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring/Autumn
Trip Area
Everest Region
Max Elevation
6189m
Per Day Walk
5 - 6 Hours
Group Size
1-25
Accomodation
Hotels, Lodge and Tents
Ideal for novice mountaineers, the climb provides a controlled environment to develop technical skills like using crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes.
From the summit, enjoy stunning vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan giants.
Trek through classic Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, experiencing the local culture and traditions.
The itinerary includes dedicated rest days to gradually adjust to high altitudes, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.
Begin with a scenic flight to Lukla and traverse varied terrain—from lush alpine forests to rugged glacier paths—along the iconic Everest Base Camp route.
Pre-climb training sessions ensure that climbers are equipped with essential mountaineering skills, while experienced guides and modern equipment boost safety.
Standing atop Island Peak—an “island” in a sea of ice—offers a profound sense of achievement and a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
A detail description of Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Briefing with your expedition team and gear check. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Explore Kathmandu’s cultural sites and finalize gear. Pre-expedition meeting to review itinerary and safety protocols. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla. Meet your trekking team and begin the trek to Phakding along the Dudh Koshi River. Trek distance: 8 km. Ascent: 300 m. Overnight in Phakding.
Trek through suspension bridges and ascend toward Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest. Trek distance: 10 km. Ascent: 500 m. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Rest day to adjust to altitude. Optional hike to Everest View Hotel for stunning mountain views. Explore Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Trek through pine forests and ridges to reach Tengboche, home to a famous Buddhist monastery. Trek distance: 8 km. Ascent: 430 m. Overnight in Tengboche.
Continue through rhododendron forests and cross the Imja River before reaching Dingboche. Trek distance: 10 km. Ascent: 500 m. Overnight in Dingboche.
Rest day for altitude adjustment. Optional hike to Nangkartshang Peak for panoramic views. Overnight in Dingboche.
Trek along the valley with views of Lhotse and Ama Dablam before reaching Chhukung. Trek distance: 5 km. Ascent: 370 m. Overnight in Chhukung.
Follow glacial moraines and rocky terrain to reach Base Camp. Trek distance: 6 km. Ascent: 370 m. Overnight in a tented camp at Base Camp.
Practice essential mountaineering skills, including rope techniques and crampon use. Acclimatization at Base Camp. Overnight in a tented camp.
Begin summit push before dawn. Navigate steep snow slopes and fixed rope sections to reach the 6,189 m summit. Descend to Base Camp or Chhukung based on conditions. Climbing time: 10–12 hours. Overnight in Base Camp or Chhukung.
Trek back to Chhukung along the familiar route. Trek distance: 5 km. Descent: 370 m. Overnight in Chhukung.
Continue descending towards Dingboche through the valley. Trek distance: 7 km. Descent: 370 m. Overnight in Dingboche.
Retrace steps back to Namche Bazaar, passing through Tengboche. Trek distance: 10 km. Descent: 500 m. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Final trekking day through the Dudh Koshi Valley back to Lukla. Trek distance: 12 km. Descent: 500 m. Overnight in Lukla.
Early morning flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to the airport for international departure or onward travel.
➤ Technical Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jackets), Waterproof/windproof outer shell, Trekking and insulated pants
➤ Accessories: Warm socks, light & heavy-duty gloves, Hats, balaclavas, neck gaiters, Sunglasses with UV protection
➤ Mountaineering Gear: High‑altitude mountaineering boots, Crampons, Ice axe, Climbing harness, Helmet, Locking & non‑locking carabiners
➤ Backpacks & Organizers: 65‑liter expedition backpack, Smaller day pack, Waterproof stuff sacks/dry bags
➤ Personal Essentials: Headlamp with spare batteries, Personal first‑aid kit, Water bottles/hydration system, Water purification tools, Personal toiletries & documentation
Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is a 6,189‑meter Himalayan trekking peak in Nepal’s Khumbu region. It’s popular because it offers an accessible introduction to high‑altitude mountaineering, along with breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other giants.
Basic mountaineering skills—such as using crampons, ice axes, and handling ropes—are required. Even if you’re new to technical climbs, most expeditions include pre‑climb training at Base Camp to refresh these skills and ensure everyone is prepared.
Climbers must obtain a climbing permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association and an entry permit for Sagarmatha National Park. Most reputable expedition operators handle these arrangements on your behalf.
The main risks include altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and technical hazards on steep, icy terrain. Safety is ensured through structured acclimatization, pre‑climb training sessions, experienced guides, and proper mountaineering equipment, making the expedition both challenging and well-controlled.
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