What is Island Peak Climbing?

Island Peak (also known as Imja Tse) is a popular trekking peak located in the Everest region of Nepal. Standing at 6,189 m), it offers an excellent opportunity for climbers to experience high-altitude mountaineering, including glacier navigation and technical climbing. It is considered a suitable peak for those with some prior climbing experience but looking to summit a Himalayan peak.

What is the success rate for summiting Island Peak?

The success rate for summiting Island Peak typically ranges between 70-85%. Factors affecting success include weather, individual fitness, acclimatization, and proper preparation. Most climbers who follow the itinerary, prepare adequately, and ascend with a professional guide have a high chance of reaching the summit. Success also depends on the group’s collective ability to handle physical and mental challenges at high altitudes.

How high is Island Peak, and how does altitude affect climbers?

Island Peak stands at 6,189 meters, and altitude sickness can affect climbers above 3,500 meters. Acclimatization is key to minimizing risks, so climbers must take time to adjust to the altitude gradually. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. Climbers are advised to take rest days to allow the body to acclimate.

Island peak climbing

Island Peak (locally known as Imja Tse) is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal, standing tall at 6,189 meters (20,305 ft) in the Everest region. Nestled in the stunning Imja Valley, it rises between the giant peaks of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, offering climbers a thrilling and scenic ascent.

Despite its impressive height, Island Peak is considered a beginner-friendly expedition peak, making it ideal for those looking to transition from trekking to mountaineering. It requires basic alpine skills such as using crampons, ropes, ice axes, and harnesses, which are typically taught at base camp by experienced guides.

The climb usually begins after completing a proper acclimatization trek, often combined with the Everest Base Camp or Three Passes Trek. From Chhukung, trekkers ascend to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m) and attempt the summit via a high camp or directly in a long alpine start (around 1 a.m.).

The route includes a rocky ridge, a glacier crossing, and a steep 100-meter ice wall near the summit—challenging yet achievable with guidance and preparation. Reaching the top rewards climbers with unmatched 360° views of the high Himalayas, including Makalu, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and more.

Accomodation
Hotel/ Camping
Best Season
Autumn/ Spring
Maximum Altitude
6164m
Transportation
Fly/Car/Jeep/ Bus
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The Island Peak Climbing is one of the most popular climbing journeys in Nepal. This Journey is perfect for energetic and physically fit climbers who have a desire for adventure.

Trip Highlights

The Island Peak Summit at 6189 meters and the views from the peak.
Mount Makalu (8,475m), Baruntse (7,129m), Ama Dablam (6,812m) and many other Himalayan peaks.
The peak was named Island Peak in 1951 by Eric Shipton.
Amazing views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Changtse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Chumbu, Thamserku, Kangtega, Taboche & Lobuche from Kalapatthar.
Offers splendid views of gigantic mountains such as Mount Nuptse (7,879m), Mount Lhotse (8,501m), and Lhotse Middle (8,410m). Lhotse Shar (8,383m),
Magnificent vistas of Khumbu Icefalls & Glaciers .

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, where you’ll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Take time to rest or explore the nearby streets of Thamel. In the evening, attend a briefing about the climb and check your gear.

Day 02 :

Fly to Lukla (2,800m) and Trek to Phakding (2,660m)

Take a scenic early morning flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region. Begin your trek with a gentle descent through beautiful Sherpa villages and along the Dudh Koshi River to reach Phakding.

Day 03 :

Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through pine forests and small villages. After a steep uphill climb, arrive at Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa town and trading hub of the Khumbu region.

Day 04 :

Rest Day at Namche Bazaar for Acclimatization

Today is a vital rest day to help your body adjust to the altitude. Take a short hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village for acclimatization and stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Explore Namche’s shops, cafes, and Sherpa Museum.

Day 05 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m)

Leave Namche and follow a scenic trail with views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. After descending to the Dudh Koshi River, make a steady uphill climb through pine forests to reach Tengboche, home to the region’s largest and most famous monastery.

Day 06 :

Trek from Tengboche to Pheriche (4,200m)

Begin with a descent through rhododendron forests and cross the Imja Khola. Climb gradually past Pangboche, enjoying views of Ama Dablam. Continue along alpine terrain to reach Pheriche, a windy valley known for its health post and acclimatization support.

Day 07 :

Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,930m)

Ascend gradually from Dingboche through alpine meadows with views of Taboche and Cholatse. Pass through Dughla and climb the steep Thukla Pass, where memorials honor climbers lost on Everest. Continue along a rocky trail to reach Lobuche.

Day 08 :

Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170m), Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m)

Begin with a gradual trek over glacial terrain to reach Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a short rest, hike to Everest Base Camp, walking alongside the Khumbu Glacier and enjoying close-up views of the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.

Day 09 :

Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and Trek Back to Lobuche (4,940m)

Start early for a sunrise hike to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for a close-up panorama of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding peaks. After enjoying the stunning scenery, descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast, then continue the trek back to Lobuche for the night.

Day 10 :

Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung via Kongma La Pass (5,535m)

Begin the day with a challenging ascent over Kongma La Pass, the highest of the three passes, offering spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. After crossing the pass, descend to the peaceful village of Chhukung, nestled in the Imja Valley.

Day 11 :

Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m)

Today’s trek is a gradual climb through rocky terrain and moraines as you make your way to Island Peak Base Camp. Along the way, enjoy close views of Island Peak (Imja Tse) and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. This is the starting point for the summit climb.

Day 12 :

Pre-Climb Training at Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m)

Spend the day at Island Peak Base Camp practicing essential mountaineering skills such as using crampons, ice axes, ropes, and harnesses. Your guide will provide training on glacier travel, crevasse rescue, and climbing techniques to prepare you for the summit attempt. Rest and hydrate well.

Day 13 :

Summit Island Peak (6,189m) and Descend to Chhukung (4,730m)

Start very early before dawn for the challenging summit climb of Island Peak. Navigate snow, ice, and rocky sections using crampons and ropes with your guide’s assistance. Enjoy breathtaking 360° views from the summit. After celebrating, carefully descend back down to Chhukung for rest.

Day 14 :

Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche (3,985m)

Descend steadily from Island Peak Base Camp through rugged terrain and moraine paths. Pass through peaceful Sherpa villages and enjoy views of Ama Dablam as you make your way to the traditional village of Pangboche.

Day 15 :

Trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Descend through beautiful forests and small villages, retracing your steps along the trail. Enjoy views of surrounding peaks as you reach the bustling Sherpa market town of Namche Bazaar.

Day 16 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m)

Descend steadily through forests and riverside trails, passing through villages like Phakding. Enjoy your last day trekking as you arrive back in Lukla, where you can relax and celebrate completing the trek.

Day 17 :

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,350m)

Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for rest or further exploration of the city.

Day 18 :

Final Departure from Kathmandu

Heading home or continuing your journey, this marks the end of your memorable adventure in Nepal. Safe travels!

Island peak climbing

Trip Info

Overview

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FAQs

Overview

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Trip Info

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Includes

Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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