Highlights of Island Peak Climbing 14 Days

Summit Island Peak (6,189 m) and panoramic views of the Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam.
Hike in Sherpa villages, monasteries and beautiful Himalayan sceneries.
The acclimatization will include experience in the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
Experience acclimatization at Hotel Everest View (3880 m) and Nangkartshang View Point (5200 m).
Take an introduction to mountaineering, such as traveling across glaciers, fixed ropes, and snow climbing.
An ideal introduction to high altitude climbing to first time mountaineers.

Trip Overview

Island Peak Climbing 14 Days – The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure

The Island Peak Climbing 14 days expedition venture into Nepal’s Everest region is full of excitement, with challenges of trekking, cultural exploration and high altitude climbing. At 6,189 m, Island Peak, aka Imja Tse is one of the most popular trekking peaks to climb in the Himalayas. The climb beckons all adventurers, be they newbies into the Everest zone or seasoned climbers, with the lure of Everest and high peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, with climbs that offer raison d’être to the expedition.

From the Himalayan adventure, we take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Trekking from Lukla, you step into the Khumbu Valley, where you cross the first peoples the Sherpas villages, like Namche Bazaar, and the monasteries of Tengboche and Dingboche, where you encounter Khumbu’s rich cultural history. One of the elements of the adventure, the Khumbu valleys and the Himalayas high peaks, offer everchanging mesmerising and breathtaking inspirational high altitude climbing challenges.

When the expedition arrives at Chhukung, they establish camp at Island Peak Base Camp, where the climbers get ready to make the summit attempt. The group will have to navigate the face of the mountain, dealing with glaciers, rock, and other snow and ice features, which will require the use of crampons and climbing ropes. Guided by the mountain leaders and supported by the climbing porters, the climbers will learn and practice their skills, safely on all of the challenges.

The best thing about the trip will be the positivity on the Island Peak Climbing. Once they reach the summit, climbers will have the positive reward of being able to look at the 360° view of the other mountains, the valleys, and the glaciers of their destination. There will be a memory and picture of the view they will have from the top of their physical, emotional, and spiritual accomplishment of being at the top of Island Peak. That will be their confidence bonus.

From the top, the expedition goes back down to Lukla to catch the flight back to Kathmandu. The itinerary for Island Peak Climbing 14 days is designed to optimize the factors of adventure, safety, and acclimatization. It is the ideal itinerary for customers who want a trekking and mountaineering combo deal. This expedition is one of the most rewarding experiences the Himalayas have to offer. It captures the thrill of climbing an iconic peak in Nepal, and is designed for mountain lovers, photographers, and adventurers. It also combines the natural beauty of the Himalayas with the thrill of climbing.

Island Peak Climbing 14 Days Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu, then transfer to your hotel

Hello, Tashidelek and welcome to Nepal! On reaching the Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be in our hands of us and taken to your hotel by the bustling streets of Kathmandu with glimpses of the snow cap Himalayas at a distance.

Once you have checked in, take a rest and refresh. Our seasoned guide will later meet you in briefing you regarding the Island Peak Climbing 14 Days program, the itinerary, safety precautions and preparation in the future. Your climbing and trekking gear will be inspected and in case of missing gear, then we will help in arranging rental or purchase at Thamel.

The remaining day is left to sightsee the city or have yourself a nice meal in one of the numerous restaurants of Kathmandu which serve not only Nepali food but also foreign cuisine as you get ready to go out and have the adventure.

Max Altitude

1,300 M/4,265 Ft

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 02: Fly to Lukla, then Trek to Phakding

In the morning, we will head to the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) to catch a mountain flight to Lukla, which is home to one of the most famous (and most dangerous) airports on the globe. While this flight is brief, it will be one you won’t forget as you enjoy the view of the Himalayas. It is a bit of a dramatic entrance as the plane will land at Tenzing-Hillary Airport (2,800 m), which is located just under Mount Kongde Ri (6,187 m).

When we get to Lukla, you will be greeted by the experienced local trekking team. After we have had our breakfast and the luggage has been organized, we will start the scenic trek which will take us to Phakding.

Our trek starts as a gentle descent which we will do alongside the Dudh Koshi River. We will walk through the lively, stone-paved streets of Lukla town. Before we start our trek to Phakding, our guide will take care of the necessary Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Rural Municipality permits. This walk is great, especially for a warm up as we get to stretch our legs, and it will be a nice little kick off to this trekking adventure we are about to start.

The Sherpa settlements along our trail in Chheplung and Chaurikharka offer stunning views of Kusum Kangaru (6,367m). The trail continues to Thadokoshi, then a short down climb over some boulders to the village of Ghat, where the sacred peak Khumbila (5,761m), which the Sherpa people revere, dominates the skyline.

Following the eastern bank of the Dudh Kosi, we arrive at the village of Phakding (2,651m), which resides along the Dudh Kosi and is divinely peaceful, Here, we enjoy our first evening in the Khumbu region and settle in to lodge for the night, preparing for the trek to Namche next.

Important Information

Because of high trekking season (March- May and October- November) flights to Lukla get diverted frequently to Ramechhap (Manthali) because of air traffic management at Kathmandu. Ramechhap is about a four hours drive from Kathmandu and private transport will be arranged. Diverted flights will be the result of weather and the number of people flying.

Helicopter Option

For trekkers who prefer a more comfortable and time efficient start to their Island Peak Climbing 14 Days, direct helicopter transfers from Kathmandu to Lukla can be booked for an additional USD 500-600 per person (cost based on a shared flight of 5 passengers). This option is particularly sought after during busy seasons, as it helps you bypass the lengthy trip to Manthali and allows you to enjoy a more pleasurable flight to the heart of the Everest region.

The first day of the trek is short and easy, making it a great first day to help you acclimatize and an ideal start to your Island Peak climbing adventure.

Duration

30 Minutes flight & 3 hours walk

Max Altitude

2,6010 M/ 8,563 ft

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar

The day starts with a beautiful Himalayan sunrise and in the forefront comes Thamserku Himal gloriously. As we stroll next to the Dudh Koshi River, we cross the beautiful hamlet of Benkar and then we reach Monjo which is the entrance gate of Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park.

Upon park formalities, the trail then will take one to Jorsalle which is an ideal lunch stop before the climb of the trail. This is where we walk down through the beautiful rhododendron and pine trees to the well known Hillary Suspension Bridge. It is a thrilling bridge, which we cross at very high levels, above the river, and this offers great views of Mount Taboche (6,495m). There is a consistent stroll on the other side of the bridge leading to Topdanda (3,140m), or the Everest View Point.

It is here that we are firstly treated to spectacular sceneries of Mount Everest and the giant faces of Lhotse and Nuptse. The last part is a sharp uphill climbing which guides us into Namche Bazaar (3,440m) which is a colorful trading center of Khumbu region. We occupy ourselves in our lodge two nights, rest and acclimatize and relish the mountain air, which is most vivacious.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3,445 m/

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 04: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization Day

The day is spent on acclimatization as our body is getting used to the thin air of the Khumbu region. We practice the golden rule of climbing high and sleeping low and that leads us to have breakfast first before we pack our light daypack and head up the mountain to the well-known Everest View Hotel.

The route passes approximately 400 meters above, with an impressive view of the Himalayan mountains with Kongde Ri, Pachermo, Kangtega, Thamserku and other snow-clad mountains. We are compensated with beautiful scenery at the terrace of the Everest View Hotel.

It is an unbelievable vantage point where we get to see close ups of the Ama Dablam which is frequently referred to as the most beautiful mountain in the world. The view on clear days is all the way to Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Taboche and Cholatse. We then relax with the views and back to Namche Bazaar to rest and spend the night, well acclimatised to the next phase of the voyage.

Duration

2 hurs up

Max Altitude

3,380 M

Activity

hiking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 05: Trek to Phortse

Leaving Namche Bazaar, the road cuts through the valley with the mountainside to a crossroads village of Sanasa. It is now a sharp climb to the Mongla Danda (3,973m) which can be reached within 1 hour and 40 minutes.

The views of Taboche and Cholatse are spectacular on the ridge top, as is the panoramic view of the huge Khumjung Valley. Having had our lunch in this beautiful landscape, we come down within a period of 35 minutes to Phortse Thanga.

Across the broad Dudh Koshi River on a suspension bridge, the path then ascends steeply over two hours through alpine country which at last leads us into the traditional Sherpa village of Phortse, where we camp the night.

Duration

5-6 hours walk

Max Altitude

3,860 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 06: Trek to Dingboche

The trail steadily ascends through the rhododendron forests towards Upper Pangboche as the landscape is getting wider. This is a traditional Sherpa village and the most ancient monastery in the Khumbu region that has its roots that go back more than four centuries. It is the endpoint following a difficult 3 hours climb. The monastery has had a reputation for sacred relics such as the mythical Yeti scalp which was stolen in the 90s only to be returned to the lamas.

The lunch and refreshment at Shomare continue, and we enter the Imja Khola Valley. The landscape gets rougher as the vegetation dies down and the high alpine landscape takes its place. The final ascent is gentle, which takes us to the beautiful and high-altitude village of Dingboche, with stone walls encompassing it.

Our lodge has the beautiful views of Island Peak, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Mount Everest (Sagarmatha) and thus making Dingboche a perfect place to rest and acclimatize before the days to come.

Duration

4-5 Hours

Max Altitude

4,410 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 07: Acclimatization, hiking to Nagarjung 5,200 m

We are moving slowly this morning, then we start out on a hike of acclimatization in the direction of Nangkartshang Peak. The continuous three hour climb is not only strenuous but also very rewarding and is aimed at acclimatizing our bodies to the altitude.

At the peak, we are offered the incredible 360 view of eastern Himalayas, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Baruntse, Makalu, Lobuche, Thamserku, Taboche, Cholatse, Amphu Lapcha, and lots of other high mountains.

We come back to Dingboche having spent approximately an hour in the astonishing scenic setting. The afternoon is at leisure to rest, play cards, popcorn, and good sleep when we know we are going up to a new environment.

Duration

4-5 hurs

Max Altitude

5,200 m

Activity

hiking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 08: Trek to Chhukung

Having eaten breakfast in Dingboche, we abandon the village and start the Imja Khola Valley, walking across the high-altitude alpine scenery. The path is quite smooth with some morains and sparse vegetation and the landscape becomes rougher with time. On the way, the towering mountains such as Island Peak, Ama Dablam and Lhotse are visible on the horizon, and provide stunning scenery. We finally reach the tranquil village of Chhukung (4,750m) after several hours of hiking and it is located in the ideal location at the feet of Island Peak. This picturesque village is a perfect place to relax and have a preparation to the following Island Peak climb.

Duration

3 hours

Max Altitude

4,750m

Activity

short trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 09: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp

Now we are hiking out of Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp, and the great mountain is ahead of us. The route initially runs to the south on a rugged track and then with a lot of caution along the slippery glacial tracks Lhotse and Imja Glaciers and into the wide valley on the south west side of Island Peak.

At the Base Camp (5,200m) we get down to tents and have a nice lunch that is cooked by the camp cook. Afternoon is spent on critical mountaineering training- our competent Sherpa guides will show us how to use climbing equipment, rope skills and protective mechanisms in order to equip us with the final day of climbing the mountain.

We take a very early dinner and then take rest in our sleeping bags, reserving our strength to the difficult night on the peak.

Duration

4-5 hours

Max Altitude

5,200m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 10: Summit Island Peak (6,189m / 20,305ft) & Trek to Dingboche

The hardest day of the Island Peak Climbing 14 Days is the first day when you face early wake up at midnight. Rucksacks and climbing gear are ready, we enjoy a light meal and hot drink at the food tent and leave at 1: 30 AM. Lighting up the steep trail, we westward climb through rocky landmasses a height of about 800 meters to the Advance Base.

The path then proceeds over shifting sandy dunes then moves to icy and rocky slopes and it takes three hours to ply through it. Once we reach the glacier, we equip ourselves with entire climbing gear and get prepared to the part that requires use of ropes. Under certain circumstances, ladders have to be traversed across crevasses and the steep sections are approached through the use of ice axes.

At the base of the headwall of Island Peak, we attach ourselves to fixed lines and continue up the last 200 meters at a 45 degree incline, juming on some occasions, to add additional support. Having reached the top (6,189m / 20,305ft) we are presented with the remarkable 360-degree view with Everest, Ama Dablam, Baruntse, Pumori and Makalu, Lhotse, Cholatse and Thamserku.

Photos and partying over, we then very slowly re-enter Base Camp with a light meal, and then the entire length of the journey to Dingboche via Chhukung; a long, yet glorious day, full of victory and the views of the Himalaya that will be remembered forever.

Duration

10 hours

Max Altitude

4410 m

Activity

climbing/trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 11: Trek to Namche Bazaar

Following a difficult summit and the lengthy descent, we experience the strength back and walk along the Imja Khola Valley, through Dingboche and Shomare. The scenery is slowly turning greener, with pine, fir and other deciduous trees scattered over it, putting an end to high altitudes.

After passing over the Imja Khola using a steel bridge, we proceed towards Debuche where we are going to stay overnight. The additional energy can be used to take an optional walk to Tengboche to reduce the distance that needs to be covered the next day.

The path passes through the forests of rhododendron and conifer and it leads to the legendary Tengboche Monastery (Gompa). In this case we will be staying in a lodge overnight with breathtaking mountain scenes and the calmness of this spiritual Sherpa village.

Duration

7-8 hurs

Max Altitude

3,445m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Today we start the trek back to Namche bazaar to Lukla. The road slowly reduces along pine and rhododendron forests and through the scenic Sherpa villages like Monjo and Phakding. We pass a number of suspension bridges across the Dudh Koshi River on the way with the last panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.

The journey is not too long, which gives an opportunity to think about the journey and the outstanding landscapes during the trip. On reaching Lukla (2,800 m), we spend the night in a lodge, and we congratulate ourselves on the achievement of the hiking. The next day we get ready to fly back to Kathmandu.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

2,800 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 13: Flight back to Kathmandu

We get up early and go back to Kathmandu, remembering that mountain weather may occasionally draw back or cancel flights. Hopefully, we will have a scenic flight and get to Kathmandu in the middle of the day.

At the hotel, there are a long shower, good beds, and a good meal await. We celebrate our farewell dinner in the evening and have a wonderful dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, and a cultural show, which is a perfect ending of our Island Peak Climbing 14 Days trip.

Duration

30 minutes

Max Altitude

1,300 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 14: Hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport

After your final breakfast, you will be taken to Tribhuvan International Airport. It will be the start of a homeward journey that will conclude your great adventure of hiking Island Peak.

Max Altitude

1,300

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Includes & Excludes

What is included?

Free airport pickup and drop-off by private car and transfer to hotel
Tourist standard hotel twin sharing room accommodation (2 nights in Kathmandu with breakfast)
Domestic flight Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu, or Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap including 15 kg of baggage
Entry permit of Sagarmatha National Park
Rural Municipality fee of Khumbu pasang Lhamu
Climbing permit for Island Peak ( Imja Tse)
All base camp setup tents, kitchen, dining, matrix, and food
Full board meal, breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a day, one item choose from the menu
Complementary daily fresh fruit after dinner
Accommodation, Mountain tea house during the trek
Experienced sherpa climbing guide, government-licensed holder, speaking English
All staff wages, food, drinks, accommodations, transportation, and insurance
One strong sherpa helper for carrying your baggage (1 porter for 2 clients)
Your travel insurance will cover helicopter service in the event of an emergency.
Nepal government tax and the company’s official charge
Down jackets, duffel bags, sleeping bags, and trekking poles are provided but should be returned after the trek (if needed)
Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen level (AMS)
Assistant climbing guides provide (if groups are larger than 3 people)
Achievement certificate 6,189 M by NMA after summit island peak
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides trip certificates (after completing the trip)

What is excluded?

International airfare tickets (both ways)
The Nepal entry visa fee will be obtained upon arrival at the Kathmandu International Airport.
Additional accommodations, food, and drinks in Kathmandu (if staying an extra day)
Any dessert, sweet item, chocolate, cake, special tea, coffee, pie, pudding, bar bills, mineral water, or any extra personal expenses
During the trek, hot showers, mobile, camera, power bank, any battery charging, Wi-Fi Internet,
Your personal medical and travel insurance during the trekking and climbing
Personal first aid kit and personal climbing gear
Excess baggage weight is 15 kg maximum
Kathmandu sightseeing, entrance fees,
Tips for Guides and Porters

Note:

We also operate private trips.

Trip Information of Island Peak Climbing 14 Days

Best season for Island Peak climbing

The best season for Island Peak climbing is during the pre-monsoon season and the post monsoon season. March to May and late September to November are the best months to attempt Island Peak. The weather is generally fair and stable, and the views are phenomenal. Temperatures are moderate during the day, while the nights and higher altitudes will be chilly. Climbing during the winter months is possible, although with extreme cold, while the rainy season brings landslides, making climbing and trekking extremely dangerous and difficult.

Elevation and Distance

Island Peak or Imja Tse is 6,189 meters 20,306 feet. 120-130 kilometers trek (approximately 75-80 mile trek) plus round trip to the Island Peak Base Camp from Lukla through the Khumbu Valley. In a day, the group will do about 5 to 10 kilometers of trekking, so be prepared as the distance can be steep, rocky, or even snowy. The trek will allow ample time to acclimatize and enjoy the most stunning views of the Himalayas.

Maximum/Minimum/Walking/Distances

The distances walked each day depend on the daily altitude gains and losses. Walking distances also depend on the type of day. Rest and acclimatization days involve short 3-4 km walks to look out points or nearby villages. Long trekking days and summit days are the maximum walking days. These days can involve 10-12 km of walking and climbing. The climbing can be steep and icy or rocky. The distance walked and elevation gained each day are challenging and require a good level of fitness and stamina.

Preparation and training

Good physical fitness and psychological readiness are required to climb Island Peak. Recommended fitness activities are of a cardiovascular nature, such as running, cycling, or swimming, as well as leg, core and upper body strength training. Walking or hiking and stair climbing with a weighted backpack prepares the muscles for the steady exertion of trekking. It helps a lot to do moderate altitude hikes so the body can acclimatize to thinner air. This, combined with previous trekking experience, can prepare beginners for the trekking challenge.

Difficulty level

Island Peak Climbing is a trekking peak that is considered to have moderate and even challenging grades. However, this constitutes glacier travel, rocky/snowy sections, and other activities that require a beginner’s level of mountaineering training. Because of the significant height increases and rapid changes in altitude, the itinerary is spaced to allow for acclimatization and planned rest. Although there may be assistance and hand-holding along the way, the trek is a challenge that requires focus and an active assessment of altitude risks. Technical support and equipment like ropes, crampons, and ice axes are provided, in addition to an experienced guide.

Can a beginner do this expedition?

Island Peak field trips are limited to novice levels, and to ensure group safety a beginner should be properly prepared physically. The expedition is a long distance that is supported by guides and Sherpa porters who provide all the technical support and help required. The guides are present to provide the safety of the group, and therefore, to stay on the climbing speed, the group will be hiked up the peak, and other trekkers will not be assisted. The first-rate training is essential, following the itinerary strictly, paying attention to the guides, and maintaining a good mood, which are of utmost importance when a beginner is going to the pinnacle.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can occur to anyone at 3,000 meters, and the possibility of it increases the higher an individual goes. Symptoms can include a person feeling fatigued, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and even shortness of breath. To lessen the possibility of getting it, climbers should take it slow, drink a lot of liquids, and take days to rest to help the body acclimate. Guides come prepared with oxygen and a first aid kit, but any signs of critical altitude sickness are dealt with promptly. To help ensure the safety and highest chances of reaching the peak, sticking to the given acclimatization schedule is imperative.

Alternate Routes

The most well-known route to take is the Lukla and Khumbu Valley trek, but there are other options. A lot of trekkers go the Gokyo Valley route, as it is less crowded but provides views of stunning glaciers and lakes. Another option is the Ama Dablam Base Camp trek, which offers even more views and allows climbers to do a bit more acclimatization. This route is a bit longer and allows for more of a secluded trekking adventure.

Food and drink, accommodation, and transportation

Travel begins by flying from Kathmandu to Lukla, where the views of the Himalayas are outstanding. After Lukla, the trek continues through the Khumbu Valley, where you will find easy to follow and well marked trails. Along the trek, the lodges and teahouses offer adequate, but simple accommodations. At higher elevations, the use of tents will be needed.

The trek’s food offerings are a combination of Western and Newari food, expect to eat rice and lentils (Dal bhat), soup, noodles, and some other Western food offerings like pasta. You will be able to purchase tea and coffee, and you will need to buy some water along the trek. Lodges offer water that is filtered water, but it is better to buy your water.

Gadgets can be charged, communicate, and connect to the Internet/WiFi

Most lodges along the trek have a mobile network that is offered, but it may be limited at higher elevations, and the mobile is harder to use. You can charge your devices at most teahouses, but it can be pricey and the electricity is often limited. At some of the bigger villages, you may find WiFi – at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche – but it’s often unreliable and slow because of the higher elevation. Guides and hikers will need to improvise for the use of communication, so be sure to bring a power bank for your device. The maps are often kept stored on the devices for offline use.

Permits

There are a few necessary permits for all of the Island Peak expeditions. These includes a Sagarmatha National Park Permit, a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card, and an Island Peak Climbing Permit. These permits are manageable through trekking agencies, or they can be bought at either Kathmandu or Lukla before the trek begins. The permits are essential are an entry ticket for the region and a climbing ticket for Island Peak, for the purposes of safety and for regulated access to the region.

What to Expect

A mix of trekking, culture and mountaineering is what Island Peak expedition entail. Trekkers can look forward to beautiful views of the Himalayas, enormous glaciers, and endless views of the summits. Daily activities include early mornings, and a mix of moderate and challenging hikes. There are also acclimatization breaks, and preparation activities for the climb. The weather at the higher altitudes can changes very quickly, and can be anything from bright sun to snow storms. Expect cold nights, and tough day hikes. The trek also provides a lot of culture, especially in the sherpa homes and monasteries.

Do i need travel insurance?

Yes, Travel Insurance is also required in high-altitude treks and climbs. This policy should include evacuation in case of emergencies, helicopter rescue service, high altitude medical service, and cancellation of trips. The isolation of the place, as well as the risk of falling illness and injury, necessitate this necessary insurance policy for the health and well-being of all the representatives of the expedition.

What Other Expeditions Can climber Attempt After Island Peak?

Climbers of Island Peak are qualified to tackle other, more difficult peaks in the Himalayas. Other popular subsequent expeditions include Mera Peak Climbing (6,476 m), Lobuche East Climbing (6,119 m), and Ama Dablam (6,812 m). These climbs present more significant technical difficulties, along with advanced altitude and overall greater levels of mountaineering experience. Island Peak is an excellent building block to prepare for these climbs. It offers participants the opportunity to greatly increase their confidence, skills, and endurance in high altitudes.

Altitude Chart of Island Peak Climbing 14 Days

Equipment List

General Information

The company provides a feather sleeping bag, a feather down Jacket, but they should be refunded after the trek.
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides a duffle bag during the trek, but it should be refunded after the trek.
We mostly recommend for morning and evening, the windproof and waterproof thin-layered jacket above 3450m.
We mostly recommend for Daypack bag 35-45 Ltr.
Headlamp & extra batteries during the trek

Daily Use Essentials

A sun block cap & fleece hat
Sunglasses 100% snow uv protection
A muffle (full cover mask)
Sunscreen (30+ to 60 SPF, depending on age)
A pair of thin & warm gloves
A pair of Trekking poles
Water bottle & filter
Water purified tablets
lips guard

Upper Body Essentials

Warm hat
A pair of t-shirts
Thermal tops
Sports bras for ladies
windproof & fleece jacket
waterproof jacket

All Lower Body

waterproof trouser
warmer & fleece trousers
Extra comfortable sports pants
A pair of sports shoes
Thermal underwear
Pair of light sandals
Some Thick (woolen) socks
Sock liners
Light shoes
A pair of Comfortable trekking pants
A pair of comfortable waterproof trekking boots

Essential Climbing Gears

Helmet
Harness
Ascender
Descender
Carabiners 4 locks, 2 unlocks
Tape celling 120 cm
Alpine Boot good condition & fitsthe side
Crampon in good condition for an alpine boot
Ice-axe Normal

All the climbing equipment is available in Kathmandu, you can rent everything.

Personal Medical and First Aid Kits

Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for AMS)
Adhesive bandages and pocket masks
Non-stick pad W/ Adhesive
Ibuprofen & paracetamol tablets IP
Some Assorted adhesive bandages
Warps, splints, and wound coverings, butterfly bandage
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Moves in case sprain any body
pain-relief medication
Sinex, & Eye Drops etc.
Gauze sponge
Saline solution

Important Things

passport-size photos with original passport scan copy
Travel and medical insurance
Flight details (to pick you up & transfer to hotel)

Extra Essential Things

Energy gel or dry foods (that’s your desire)
A power bank is most important for a backup device (if you have one)
Camera, chargers, extra batteries, memory card)
Most important for ladies’ essential things (if you are a lady)

Frequently Asked Questions

General

How good is the internet and communication along the way?

Most villages offer mobile network services (though not at higher altitudes), and you can charge at teahouses for a fee. Major villages offer WiFi, but don’t expect good or fast service. It’s recommended you bring offline maps, power banks, and extra batteries.

Can a beginner climb the peak?

The only thing that you need to climb the peak is a good fitness level, and a commitment to do the training. The guides do technical climbing and the Sherpas do most of the heavy climbing. Some prior trekking experience is a good thing to have, but it is not necessary.

What should I expect on the trek and climb?

Expect beautiful views of the mountains, crossing glaciers, the culture, and physically demanding days. The weather changes fast and the nights are cold. The expedition includes treking, some technical climbing, and an immersion of the culture of the region for a truly unique experience in the Himalayas.

What is the trek and climb distance?

A typical expedition lasts for about 14 days. This includes trekking to Island Peak Base Camp from Lukla, acclimatization days, and summit attempts. The entire trek is roughly 120 to 130 kilometers. Every day, trek participants will do 5 to 12 kilometers which can vary depending on the terrain.

Can i climb other expeditions after Island Peak?

Definitely. Island Peak is followed by many more technical and challenging peaks that include Mera Peak (6,476 m), Lobuche East (6,119 m), or Ama Dablam (6,812 m). Island Peak is ideal in training and also acclimatizing with the future Himalaya climbs.

What kind of training does one need to become prepared for the trek?

Cardiovascular training, leg and core strength training, and practice hiking with a loaded backpack is a good start for preparation. To simulate actual trekking, participants can do stair climbing or hill training. If the altitude is moderate, participants train to acquire some experience, though, it is not a requisite.

Preparation & Fitness

What is the level of difficulty climbing Island Peak?

The Island Peak is a trekking peak which is a bit moderate to challenging. Some parts include a glacier, rocky trails, and snow to ice. First timers can attempt the climb but extreme fitness and mental preparation is a must.

Permits

Which permits are needed for the trip?

The Sagarmatha National Park Permit, the TIMS card and Island Peak Climbing Permit will be required. Both entry and climbing require such permits and they may be arranged with trekking companies or they must be bought in Kathmandu or Lukla.

Insurance and Visa

Is travel insurance mandatory?

Travel insurance is necessary, the insurance must include emergency evacuation coverage, helicopter rescue, high-altitude medical treatment, and trip cancellation coverage. Given the location and conditions, insurance is critical.

Accommodation and Facilities

What are the food and accommodation arrangements?

The accommodation consists of simple rooms and shared facilities of the teahouses and lodges. At the base camp, and other higher altitude locations, they use tents. The food consists of a blend of Western and Nepali food. This includes the easily available hot drinks, soups, and pasta. Plus, dal bhat, and sticky noodles.

Weather & Seasons

When is the most ideal time to ski Island Peak?

The most ideal time to ski Island Peak is during the pre-monsoon season (March to May) and the post-monsoon season (late September to November). The weather during these times is stable and the skies are clear. Winter and monsoon season climbing is possible, but not recommended due to cold, rain, and snow.

Health & Safety

What methods can one practice to avoid altitude sickness?

The itinerary has a gradual ascent schedule for acclimatization. To avoid altitude sickness, trekkers should stay hydrated, follow the schedule, get adequate rest, and avoid too much activity. The guides will monitor the climbers for altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. The guides are also equipped with oxygen and first-aid kits.

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