Standing at 6189m as the extension of both the Lhotse and the Everest, Island Peak is one of the most popular, exciting, and stunning destinations to trek in Nepal. Also known as the Imja Tse, the peak, however, is a difficult one to the summit.

The mountain requires substantial physical fitness, and has a low tolerance towards health issues, making the ascent quite challenging, yet a lot more rewarding; especially in Mid-March through May, and Mid-September through November. This trek can be completed within a duration of 10 to 20 days, keeping safety considerations and the itinerary in mind.

Itinerary

DAY 1: KTM – LUKLA – PHAKDING

The easiest way to reach the Himalayan Region from the capital is via air. We will take an early flight to Lukla and from Tribhuvan International Airport, and then trek to Phakding via the picturesque Dudh Koshi Valley.

Accommodation: Lodge in Phakding

DAY 2: PHAKDING – NAMCHE

After breakfast, we will pass through beautiful pine, fir, and juniper forest to reach the entrance of the Sagarmatha National Park, crossing five long suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River along the way. If the weather is clear, we can even get a glimpse of Mt. Everest.

Accommodation: Lodge/ hotel in Namche Bazar.

DAY 3: NAMCHE

The rest of the trek requires acclimatization. So the day shall be spent adapting to the region of Namche and regaining strength for what is to come. Various activities such as going up to the Tengboche to get a panoramic sunset with the Himalayas, trinket shopping, and sampling local cuisine are possible activities for the day.

DAY 4: NAMCHE – MONLA – PHORTSE

With efforts to adapt more to the altitude, we shall be taking a detour and visiting some more places in the Everest region. We will trek through Monla and reach the beautiful village on Phortse, just above the tree line.

DAY 5: PHORTSE – PANGBOCHE – DINGBOCHE

We will walk to Dingboche from Phortse via the Pangboche, savouring the view of the remarkable glaciers along the way.

DAY 6: DINGBOCHE – CHHUKUNG

On the way to Chhukung from Dingboche, we will get a view of Ama Dablam, the ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse, Tawache, and Chalotse. We can even get a sight of the Island peak on the way, near Bibre Village.

DAY 7: CHHUKUNG

We will acclimatize ourselves to get used to the high altitude by climbing Chhunkung Ri, from whose summit we can see a fantastic view of Ama Dablam and Amphu Lapsa.

DAY 8: CHHUKUNG – ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP

We will trek up to the last settlement valley of Chhukung and reach the base camp to the southern side of the peak.

DAY 9: ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP (TRAINING)

We will learn about the various procedures, technicalities, and safety parameters required to climb the Island Peak.

DAY 10: ASCEND TO PEAK – ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP

We will start our ascent to the peak right after midnight. After we reach the summit, we will be taking pictures and descend back to the base camp to celebrate our success.

DAY 11: ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP – PANGBOCHE

We will descend back to Pangboche from the base camp, which is more moderate since we are going to a lower altitude. Pangboche is a beautiful village surrounded by Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Imja Tse River.

DAY 12: PANGBOCHE – NAMCHE

We will walk from Pangboche to Namche via Tengboche a region in seasonally enveloped with rhododendrons and juniper trees. If we are lucky enough, we might catch a glimpse of mountain goats, snow leopards, and colourful pheasants as well. Overnight at Namche in a hotel/lodge.

DAY 13: NAMCHE – LUKLA

Taking the same path as that of day 1 and 2, we will go to Lukla from Namche along the Dudh–Koshi River.

Here is a short version of the same itinerary:

  • DAY 1: KTM – LUKLA – NAMCHE

  • DAY 2: NAMCHE

  • DAY 3: NAMCHE – TENGBOCHE

  • DAY 4: TENGBOCHE – DINGBOCHE

  • DAY 5: DINGBOCHE – ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP

  • DAY 6: TRAINING AT BASE CAMP

  • DAY 7: ASCEND THE PEAK – CHHUKUNG

  • DAY 8: CHHUKUNG – NAMCHE

  • DAY 9: NAMCHE – LUKLA

  • DAY 10: LUKLA – KTM

SOME TIPS TO KNOW:

  • Keep a few days extra in your schedule in case there should be any unforeseen delays.

  • Have the proper acclimatization time as per your need.

  • Buy right gear and clothing.

  • Get training beforehand.

  • Hire licensed guide and porter.

  • Carry extra personal medication for unforeseen delays.

  • Practice deep breathing during rests.

  • Do not hesitate to let your guide know if you're feeling any discomfort.

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