Nepal
21 Days
$2,200
This trip includes
Ground transportation in Nepal
Hotels & tea-house accommodation
All meals except in Kathmandu
Local flights cost covered in itinerary
Guided tour & trek throughout the trip
Island Peak, also known as the Imja Tse trek, is one of the most beautiful treks in Nepal. This trek takes the trekkers to the Island Peak Base Camp, where stunning views of the tall mountains can be admired, and trekkers can click photos of these fantastic mountain ranges, including the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. The name Island Peak is derived from its location where a peak is situated in the middle of the Khumbu glacier, making it look like land in the sea of ice. It was first discovered by Edmund Hillary, the expedition team, and his staff.
Although the Island Peak trek is on the bucket list for many trekkers and climbers worldwide, they need serious training, preparation, and permits. The island peak trek begins from Lukla, which the trekkers can reach on an adventurous flight from Kathmandu. From Lukla, the trekkers will follow the highly popular Everest Base Camp Trek trails. They pass through familiar Sherpa villages like Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Pheriche while gradually ascending towards the Island Peak summit.
Apart from the stunning remote settlements of the Everest region, the trekkers also love the diverse floras and faunas found here. The Island Peak trek passes through majestic and stunning Sagarmatha National Park, where trekkers will see familiar and rare species of floras and faunas. So, if you still have doubts about experiencing the Island Peak trek, it’s time to book your custom itinerary through MyEverestTrip.com.
The Island Peak Trek ranges from $2200 per person for one and two-person pax. However, if you decide to trek with a group of more than 2 people, the trekkers will receive a decent discount.
| Pax | Price |
| Solo | $2,200 |
| Group of 2 | $2,200 |
Several factors affect the price of the Island Peak trek: group size, season, cost of meals, transportation, availability of guides and porters. A few more factors affect the trek’s price, such as the difficulty level, duration of the trek, remoteness of the area, and types of luxury you want to experience during the trek. The trekkers also need to be wary about the cost of gear, equipment, and clothing that is necessary at the summit of the island peak.
| No. of Tourists | Price Per Person in USD |
|---|---|
| 1 Paxes | $2200 |
| 2 Paxes | $2200 |
This incredible trek spiced up with peak climbing was a true adventure. Though some days were strenuous and challenging, the staff did a fantastic job guiding us through and keeping the good spirit. I was impressed by our climbing leader's professionalism, taking every precaution to ensure nobody was unsafe. Trekking with these guys was a pleasure; they were always kind and service-minded.
Trekking through different landscapes, witnessing the culture, meeting so many friendly people, and everything so well organized made this a memorable trek. The trek contains enough days to put acclimatization days when needed, which was one of the reasons I chose My Everest Trip to operate this trek.
I would not hesitate to contact My Everest Trip again to operate another trek in the future. The excellent service provided by Puru and his staff fully lived up to all my expectations, and I give my warmest recommendations for this agency.
Alexander
Germany
Det har i mange år været en drøm for mig at vandre til Everest Base Camp og opleve storheden af Himalaya bjergene. En af mine venner har tidligere rejst i Nepal og havde brugt My Everest Trip som tur operatør og havde kun godt at sige om dem. Jeg kunne se at bureaet havde eksisteret i mange år og at ejeren Puru selv havde arbejdet både som porter og som guide, så jeg følte mig ganske tryg ved at kontakte ham.
Jeg kan godt lide at udfordre mig selv, så en kombination af trek og is klatring tiltalte mig meget. Det er meget tydeligt at her slækker man aldrig på sikkerheden for mens jeg på trekket fulgtes med en almindelig guide, var der i forbindelse med klatringen tilknyttet en Sherpa med speciale i is klatring. Derfor var alle sikkerhedsforanstaltninger i orden.
Himalaya er jo i sig selv en fantastisk oplevelse, men der kan hurtigt gå noget galt og derfor er det godt at vide at man altid er omgivet af mennesker, der med stor professionalisme guider én så trekket bliver den bedste oplevelse.
Jeg kan rigtig godt lide den rolige og afbalancerede tilgang det Nepalesiske folk har til tingene, små forhindringer bliver stille og roligt ryddet af vejen så man bare skal koncentrere sig om at nyde turen.
Jeg har kun godt at sige om selve trekket og hele den måde det var tilrettelagt på, alting klappede som det skulle og jeg har fået en oplevelse for livet.
Derfor kan jeg også med god samvittighed give My Everest Trip mine bedste anbefalinger.
Alf Kirkeby Hansen
Denmark
Apart from the regular costs, such as meals, accommodation, and transportation, the trekkers must be worrying about the additional costs that they should bear. So let’s get into it.
One thing that trekkers have to bear the cost during their trek is the extra equipment needed for personal reasons. Gears like mountain boots, mountain axes, crampons, etc. You should not compromise spending money to get the best quality extra personalized equipment, gear, or clothing.
Tipping is customary in Nepal and a way to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of your guides and porters. A reasonable tip is around 10-15% of their total wages, but the amount is ultimately at your discretion.
Along the Island Peak trek, the trekkers have options to get extra facilities like hot showers, Wifi, charging ports, extra foods, and battery charging facilities. Hotels at low altitudes may offer these facilities for free, but hotels at high altitudes have to pay for these facilities.
Island Peak is one of Nepal’s most underrated but equally beautiful treks. Here are some reasons you should experience Island Peak in 2025.
One of the main reasons to experience the Island Peak trek is to experience the authentic adventure in the snowy mountains of the Himalayas. This trek is the perfect combination of technical climbing and adventure trekking, ideal for adventure lovers worldwide. Furthermore, the trek’s adventure, thrill, and challenges make it more rewarding when the trekkers complete their trek. This success might motivate them to pursue other important goals in their life.
Another primary reason for the Island Peak trek is to explore the majestic Imja Valley, also known as the Imja Tse trek, due to its popularity. It is one of the hidden gems of the Khumbu region of Nepal. The path to Imja Valley is an experience as the trekkers pass through different landscapes, including lush forests, glacial moraines, and stunning valleys.
Lukla serves as the base camp for many treks and climbs in the Everest region, including Island Peak. Its vibrant atmosphere and cultural significance add to the experience. Be prepared for weight restrictions on internal flights to Lukla, as small planes have limited carrying capacity. Pack light and prioritize essentials. Due to weather conditions and runway limitations, flight delays are common in Lukla. Having some flexibility in your itinerary is advisable to accommodate potential delays.
The Island Peak trek can also be added to the Everest Base Camp Trek, making it even more adventurous, long-distance, and rewarding. The EBC trek with the Island Peak Trek is among the common trekking destinations in Nepal. The trekkers can pass through landmarks like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Kala Patthar, EBC, Imja Valley, and the Island Peak summit.
The trek in Island Peak is a fantastic opportunity to see stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and the entire Khumbu region. The trekkers can see panoramic views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyo mountains. The Island Peak summit is one of the popular vantage points in the Khumbu region, where trekkers can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the mountains and valleys.
Another major attraction of the Island Peak trek is the chance to immerse in the Sherpa community and culture. The trekkers pass through different Sherpa villages like Namche, Tengboche, Lobuche, Periche, etc., where you can see unique civilizations and people living unique lifestyles. The trekkers can also visit different types of Ghumbas, monasteries, chortens, mani walls, etc., to learn about their culture, which they have preserved for a long time.
Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Trek is an amazing experience in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The mountain, known as Island Peak, got its name in 1952 because it looks like an island rising from a sea of ice in the Chhukung Valley. In the early 1980s, it was renamed Imja Tse, but many still call it Island Peak. Island Peak is 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) high and sits above Chhukung. It is easy to see from Dingboche. The peak stands out in the Chhukung Valley and is surrounded by glaciers from Lhotse and Lhotse Shar.
Climbing Island Peak is an adventure. From the top, you can enjoy stunning views of the entire Khumbu region, including Mt Nuptse (7,879 meters), Mt Lhotse (8,501 meters), Lhotse Middle Peak (8,410 meters), and Lhotse Shar (8,383 meters), which has not yet been climbed. To the east, you can see Mt Makalu (8,475 meters), Cho Polu (6,734 meters), Mt Baruntse (7,720 meters), and the beautiful Ama Dablam (6,856 meters).
Himalayan peaks like Island Peak have attracted adventurers and climbers for many years. Among Nepal’s trekking peaks, Island Peak is the most popular because it is suitable for both beginner and experienced climbers. Climbing Island Peak is an exciting adventure that goes beyond just trekking to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters/17,598 feet). When you reach the summit, you will be standing on a mountain that rises to 6,189 meters.
The trip to Island Peak Climbing begins with a 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Once we arrive in Lukla, we will take a short hike to Phakding, which is over 6 km long, and it takes about 3 hours to reach Phakding from Lukla. If we have extra time, we will visit the local monasteries in Phakding. The next day, we will trek to Namche Bazaar, crossing several suspension bridges and walking through dense forests. We will spend a day in Namche, which will help us acclimate. The distance from Phakding to Namche is about 21.5 km, which means it takes up to seven hours to reach Namche. We will arrive in Namche, spend overnight, and spend another night acclimatization, where we can visit local areas like Sagarmatha Museum, Hotel Everest View, etc.
After acclimatizing, we will hike to Tengboche. After one night in Tengboche, we will continue to Dingboche and then to Chhukung. From Chhukung, the path leads north to the high Imja Valley and finally to the south ridge base camp of Island Peak. At this base camp, you will see amazing views of the Nuptse-Lhotse wall. We will camp overnight at the Island Peak Base Camp and plan to summit the peak the next day.
On the summit day, we will wake up early and climb a rocky ridge. You will follow our Sherpa guide. Just above this rocky ridge is a snow slope that leads to the summit. We will follow this slope. From the top of the peak, you will see stunning views of the mountains: Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,501m), Lhotse Central (8,410m), and Lhotse Shar (8,383m) to the north. To the south, you can see Ama Dablam (6,812m) and Baruntse (7,129m), and to the east, you will see Makalu (8,475m).
In order to experience the Island Peak Trek, you first have to visit Nepal from different countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Mexico, etc. You have to land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, from where your trekking journey begins. Many flights connect Nepal from different countries through different types of airways such as Emirates, Qatar Airways,, etc.
Qatar Airways usually has the shortest layovers in Doha. Another option is to fly via Delhi with airlines like British Airways or Air India, then take a connecting flight to Kathmandu. However, you should check flight schedules carefully, as some routes have long layovers. Once you arrive in Nepal, you can travel by domestic flight, private vehicle, or tourist bus. If you are trekking in the Everest region, flights to Lukla are the quickest option.
However, during peak seasons, you may need to travel to Ramechhap first, which involves a 5 to 6-hour drive from Kathmandu. In order to arrive in Nepal, make sure you do not book your trek last minute. Furthermore, flying to the Everest region is a bit challenging as Lukla airport is different, and the panoramic flight is also an adventure. Make sure you are booking your flight during the ideal season with appropriate weather conditions.
The trail to Island Peak from Chhukung is popular with hikers and climbers in the Everest region. The west side of Island Peak is covered in glaciers. Reaching the summit requires courage and willpower. However, the stunning views make it worthwhile. From the summit, you can see Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and other peaks. The expedition starts in Chhukung, a small village near Island Peak. You will meet your guide and climbing crew in Chhukung, who will check all your gear and equipment. After the equipment check, the team will head toward Island Peak.
As you travel towards Island Peak, you will face challenges like rugged paths and changing weather. When you reach the base camp of Island Peak, the team will let you acclimatize for a few hours and provide training on gear usage for climbing. Although the summit climb takes only a day, it can be physically exhausting. Climbing above 5000 meters in thin air demands a lot from your body and tests your strength. The climb requires short sleep, quick naps, and overcoming the effects of thin air. While previous mountaineering experience can help, it is not necessary. You will be tested on your physical endurance for three days, so be prepared for challenges.
My Everest Trip assures we can guide you through every obstacle. Our hardworking and ever-experienced guides and workers won’t let you get into trouble at the island peak base camp. We have provided ultimate happiness through various trips in the Nepal Himalayas.
The Island Peak Trek is one of the high altitude trek that takes trekkers to 6189m. Each day trekkers will start climbing the altitude before they reach the top of the summit. So let’s look at some of the vantage points and terrains that trekkers will reach during the summit of Island Peak.
The first vantage point of the Island Peak trek is the Island Peak High Camp which is at an elevation of 5,500 meters (18,000 feet). It is one of the acclimatization points where trekkers rest and conserve their energy. The ascent ahead is challenging, so you must maximize it. The camp has minimal facilities, with tents, etc, which is a peculiar high camp experience.
Another vantage point that trekkers will arrive after the Island Peak High Camp is the Crampon Point. The crampon point is a section where you prepare to climb the glacier at the top of the mountain. As the name suggests, you stop briefly here to put on your crampons and harnesses before continuing up the glacier.
Island Peak’s route involves traversing a glacier, which presents unique hazards like crevasses. Fixed ladders are often installed across the crevasses to safely navigate these obstacles. This section requires careful footwork, balance, and a steady nerve as climbers ascend or descend the ladders while tethered to safety lines.
The Island Peak Headwall is the most challenging portion of the trek. The climb is steep and requires climbers to use their equipment, axes, crampons, ropes, other equipment, and gears. Only trekkers with clear physical and mental fortitude will be able to complete this portion of the trek. Make sure you tackle all the obstacles of the trek, and be determined to complete the trek.
This phrase underscores the importance of meticulous attention at all times during the climb. The high altitude, combined with the technical nature of the terrain, can lead to fatigue, disorientation, and an increased risk of accidents. Climbers must remain focused, aware of their surroundings, and make careful decisions to ensure a safe and successful ascent.
Firstly, the trek to Island Peak begins in Kathmandu, where trekkers have different types of trekking accommodations to choose from. They can choose 3 to 5-star hotels with different luxuries, but if they are looking for budget-friendly options, there are plenty of affordable hotels and lodges with decent services as well. Services like room service, complimentary dinner, hot shower, massage, sauna, etc, are common in highly expensive hotels. After moving from Kathmandu, you will reach Lukla, which is part of the Everest region.
In the Everest region, you have different choices for places to stay, from basic to luxury. Up to Namche Bazaar, trekkers can find luxury lodges that offer western-style bathrooms, private rooms, Wi-Fi, and hot showers. These features make for a comfortable stay in a remote area. Beyond Namche, the accommodation becomes simpler, with teahouses that provide twin bedrooms and shared bathrooms. Although basic, these teahouses are cozy and offer essential services so trekkers can rest and recover during their journey.
For those using the classic package, MTE provides a private common room. Usually, a standard room in the Himalayas will have twin bedrooms, and bathrooms will be shared. At high altitudes, the services are limited, and there are not many facilities, but the owners of the teahouses are natives who welcome their guests, treat them like family, and cater to their every need. So if you ever want to experience the true remote teahouse experience, make sure you book your Island Peak Trek today.
On the Island Peak trek, trekkers receive three meals each day. Breakfast and dinner are served at the lodge where you stay, while lunch is provided at tea houses along the trail. When camping on the climb, you’ll have packed lunches and drinks. All meals are freshly prepared by our cooks using fresh fruits and organic ingredients sourced from Kathmandu and local villages. The meals are nutritionally balanced, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher diets with prior notice. Here are some of the menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that trekkers can taste during the trek.
Breakfast
Lunch and Dinner
During high-altitude treks like Island Peak, trekkers must always stay hydrated to avoid the chance of altitude sickness. In the lower altitudes, the water resources are in abundance, from mineral water to sparkling water; however, as you start climbing altitude and reach high remote areas, the water resources are limited. Open water resources like taps, pump handles, etc, are not suitable for drinking, so you might have to ask your teahouse for filtered and boiled water for consumption.
Apart from water, there are other types of drinks, such as teas with lemon, ginger, and honey. You can also drink energy drinks, but make sure you avoid heavily caffeinated products, along with alcoholic beverages, which can dehydrate you and can invite the possibility of altitude sickness.
When you trek Island Peak in the Everest region, you will be away from friends and family. Good communication is important for a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are key points to consider: check mobile network availability, use satellite phones, find internet services and Wi-Fi, get local SIM cards, know your emergency communication options, manage your electronic device charging, and follow best practices for remote areas. Some of the common ways of communication are listed below:
Satellite phones are essential for trekking in the Everest region. They provide a crucial way to communicate in remote areas, helping ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers. These phones work well where regular network coverage is poor or where the altitude makes communication difficult.
Using local SIM cards during the Island Peak Trek is a practical and cost-effective way to stay connected. They are effective up to a certain altitude and are way more reliable than satellite phones if the connection is normal. With the help of local SIM Cards, trekkers can also operate the internet and communicate with their home country through online apps like Messengers or Skype.
Internet access is very important for trekkers aiming to conquer the high-altitude Island Trek, specifically in the Everest region. Even though these areas are remote and at high elevations, trekkers can still find some connectivity options. Many tea houses, which provide accommodation and meals for trekkers, offer Wi-Fi services. However, this internet access typically comes with a cost, usually between $3 and $5 per day.
The Island Peak climb is among Nepal’s most challenging but rewarding treks. Since it is pretty tricky, it is wise for trekkers to time this trek and find the best season for trekking. We recommend either spring or autumn for trekking, which means months from March, April, May, October, and November could be ideal for the Island Peak trek.
Choosing the best time for the Island Peak trek reduces challenges and increases fun. Choosing the right season for a trek is also recommended if you are a beginner or don’t have enough mountain climbing experience in Nepal. However, if you are an experienced trekker looking for a different type of experience, let’s get into it in more detail.
Spring is the best time for the high-altitude trek in the Khumbu region. This season begins in March and ends in May. One of the main advantages of trekking in the Spring is that it is ideal for trekking due to clear, sunny weather and the perfect temperature. Furthermore, this season also invites blooming flowering trails covered with rhododendrons and magnolia forests. One major drawback of trekking in the Spring is the possibility of crowded trails, hotels, and teahouses. Suppose you need proper food and accommodation facilities during the trek. The average temperature during the Spring season is about 20 degrees in the day and 10 degrees at night, so we recommend packing both light clothes during the day and heavy woolen clothes for the night. During the night at the peak of the island summit, there is the possibility of snowstorms, so prepare yourself accordingly. Hence, we recommend trekking Island Peak in the Spring season.
Another season that is similar to spring is autumn. This season begins in September and ends in November. Just like Spring, the weather is obvious, and the temperature is also perfect. Although it is a bit chilly than the spring season, there is almost no chance of rainfall since autumn arrives after the monsoon season.
The average temperature of the Khumbu region during the Autumn season during the day is about 15 degrees, and during the night is about 5 degrees. Sometimes, near the summit, it crosses the freezing temperature, so make sure to prepare your clothing according to the temperature, which means carrying more woolen clothes is suitable. We definitely recommend you try the Island Peak trek during the Autumn season.
Monsoon season falls under the off-season in Nepal. This season begins in Nepal in the middle of June and ends in August. Monsoons are taken into account during the low account season due to the slippery path and leaches. Due to constant rainfall for several days, the chance of natural disasters like floods, landslides, erosions, and avalanches is quite common, which is another reason to avoid this time
The winter trek is also very challenging, and you shouldn’t climb Island Peak Nepal in January and February. However, if you don’t want to miss the most superficial mountain views covered in a thick white blanket, go for a short Everest View trek in winter.
The Alpine Grading system of Island Peak Climb is 2B in difficulty. Island Peak Climb is among the moderate to challenging level treks in Nepal, which means it is not as easy as Everest Base Camp Trek, nor is it extremely hard as climbing Mount Everest or Mount Annapurna itself. If you are physically fit, the most challenging sections are the final 2 days of your climb.
The main difficulty is breathing, but with proper acclimatization done ahead of time, staying well hydrated, and consuming enough nutrition, you should be able to cope with the altitude. This will be your final challenge when you finally come across the vertical wall. On top of that, you will be walking for 4-5 hours by the time you reach this point. All your previous endurance and strength training should have prepared your body to face those challenges.
One thing to note about Island Peak Climb is that it is a combination of both trekking and climbing. Hence, it is completely different from other trekking peaks in Nepal, like the EBC trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, etc. Here are some of the aspects of the island’s peak climb that make it different from other trekking destinations.
The most challenging portion of any trek or climb in Nepal is the Ice Headwall which trekkers will find during the last ascent of Island Peak Trek. Unlike any other challenging trek in Nepal, it requires technical climbing skills and the use of gear such as crampons, ice axes, ropes, trekking poles, etc.
Another fact that makes the Island Peak Trek different from other climbing peaks is the difficulty of the terrain. The trekkers pass through steep ascents and steep ice slopes, which require patience and a level of know-how in using equipment or technical climbing ability.
Unlike any other trekking destination in Nepal, the Island Peak trek passes through different types of holes, slopes, and small icy crevasses, which are dangerous. These crevasses are also the reason for triggering avalanches, which is why trekkers have to be careful using their equipment.
Island Peak is among the moderately level to challenging trek in Nepal, but it is not impossible for beginners. This trek is quite challenging and requires some level of know-how of technical climbing or trekking experience, but is not as absolutely necessary. However, beginners wanting to experience this trek must be physically fit and must have a decent stamina level.
Furthermore, for beginners, it is wise to hire guides, sherpas, and climbing experts in their climbing expedition as it will help in navigation and keep them safe and sound throughout the trek. Beginners with decent know-how of altitude acclimatization also have a high chance of success compared to trekkers who don’t know how to acclimatize. Always provide
Island Peak Trek is quite difficult since many factors influence the trek’s difficulty. The high altitude, remote settlements, long distances, durations, etc., create more difficulty for the trekkers. Although many trekkers feel the Island Peak Trek is challenging, they also know that it provides a sense of accomplishment and motivation to the trekkers. Here are some of the factors that make Island Peak Trek difficult.
One significant difficulty of the Island Peak trek is the high altitude which invites the possibility of altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is a common problem for people who visit high places. It happens when there’s not enough oxygen at high elevations. The main symptoms include a loss of appetite and headaches. Other symptoms can also occur due to different factors, such as vomiting, fever, drowsiness, and fatigue.
Another difficulty of the high altitude trek like Island Peak is the freezing temperature near the summit. The chance of frostbite is real, which can stop the trekker’s journey to a halt. The frostbite freezes the skin and the tissues beneath it, and exposure to extreme freezing temperatures might damage the skin so much that the trekkers must amputate it. Hence trekkers must take all the necessary clothing items from fleece jackets, gloves, shoes, hiking pants, hiking boots, etc.
One of the difficult factors that differentiates Island Peak Trek from other common treks is that this climb requires a few bit of climbing technical skills. The climbers must know how to use technical equipment like axes, ropes, crampons, etc, through snow slopes and crevices until the trek’s summit.
As with most high-altitude treks, Peak Climbing also bears the danger of hypoxia. The sudden altitude change, primarily when you fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (1400m to 3420m), causes trouble. As you climb to Island Peak, you’ll stay 6189 meters above water level. This opportunity is sure to take a severe toll on the human body.
Acute altitude sickness (AMS) shows symptoms like nausea and insomnia. You might also get a loss of appetite and diarrhea. While these symptoms are often moderate for some, they are fatal for others. In severe cases, you would like to steer back to a lower altitude and even require airlifting in extreme conditions.
Therefore, you should avoid triggering altitude sickness during Island peak climbing by following measures.
Island Permit is a unique and mysterious trek in Nepal, which is why not everyone can experience this trek. The trekkers wanting to enjoy this trek must issue some trekking permits. There are a few reasons why trekkers have to issue these trekking permits, and they are:
One key reason trekkers have to issue a trekking permit is the regulation of trekkers arriving in the Khumbu region and their safety. The mountain environment is also fragile, which is why only a limited amount of trekkers or tourists must enter the region which is filtered by the permits of the Island peak trek.
Another reason for issuing the trek permit for the island trek is the opportunity to conserve natural resources. Since issuing trekking permits controls the number of trekkers that conserve natural resources, the tourism board collects pay from the trekking permits, which will then be used to conserve natural resources, promote wildlife, and provide even more amazing trekking opportunities for people worldwide.
Now that you have understood why trekking permits are issued, it’s time to understand what permits are needed to successfully explore the Island Peak. You need three permits to explore Island Peak, and they are
The most crucial trekking permit you must issue during the Island Peak trek is the Sagarmatha National Park permit. The trail passes through the Sagarmatha National Park trail, which is why trekkers must issue the Sagarmatha National Park, which can be issued by the Nepal Tourism Board. The Sagarmatha National Park costs rs 100 for Nepali people, 100 for SAARC members, and Nrs 3000 for the other international trekkers.
This permit is for climbing Island Peak and is issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). It is given to experienced climbers in Nepal. The cost of the mountain climbing permit ranges from USD 70 to USD 250 per person, depending on the season.
Another permit that the trekkers must issue during the Island Peak trek is the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu entry permit. Every trekker or tourist entering the Khumbu region must issue this permit, making them legal and eligible. This permit helps the people of the Khumbu region to elevate their living standards.
Thankfully, the best trekking agency in Nepal, MyEverestTrek, does all the paperwork while you sit back and enjoy your journey.
Note: Since this is a trekking peak, you wouldn’t need a mountain climbing permit to go on the Island Peak Trek. The licenses are the same for all treks on Everest.
Lukla Airport, famously known as the “most dangerous airport in the world”, is a small airstrip in the heart of the Himalayas. Situated at a staggering altitude of 9,186 feet (2,800 meters) above sea level, it boasts a short, steep runway with a significant incline. Due to this highly complex topography, the landing and take-off of the planes were complicated, making Lukla Airport among the most dangerous airports in the world. Some of the unique features of the Lukla Airport are:
The journey from Lukla to Lobuche provides the trekkers with one of the best mountain trekking adventures and a chance to immerse in the unique and vibrant culture of the Sherpa villages. The trek from Lukla to Lobuche consists of small settlements such as Phakding, Monjo, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and finally, Gorakhshep, which is the final stop before Lobuche.
One of the best ways to tackle the Island Peak Climb is by acclimatizing properly. This can be done by including the EBC trek with KalaPatthar during the Island Peak trek so that you have plenty of places to acclimatize along the way. Some climbers succeed, while those with less experience often struggle to reach their goals due to altitude challenges. Although the Everest base camp trek isn’t essential, proper acclimatization before tackling Island Peak is crucial. Even the most experienced climbers can fail without adequate acclimatization.
Another tip you must follow during this trek is to hire two guides, one guide for trekking and another climbing guide who provides guidance on technical mountain climb. Guides and Sherpas are highly experienced in high-altitude treks like Island Peak, as they have expertise in navigation, safety, and trek security.
Island Peak Trek is among the most challenging treks with plenty of dangers. Hence, it is important to be safe in the high-altitude remote wilderness by investing in necessary gear, equipment, clothing, backpack, ice axe, equipment, harness, headlamp, trekking pole, ropes, etc. So buy or rent premium quality equipment to remain safe at high altitudes.
Island Peak is not a typical trekking peak. It requires climbing gear such as crampons, harnesses, fixed ropes, and abseil devices for the steep slope. This climb will challenge your mountaineering skills. Having basic mountaineering skills is helpful. We have set aside one day for a climbing course on our Island Peak trip. You can learn the fundamental skills you need to reach the summit at the base camp or Chukung with your climbing guide.
The Island Peak Trek needs proper training, which mainly focuses on the trekker’s core strength, stamina, and physical endurance. Being fit makes your Island Peak trek experience more enjoyable. The trek to base camp and the 10-12 hour summit push require good physical condition. Train for at least 3-4 months beforehand. Build strength and climbing skills, and improve your cardio fitness. Regular hiking with weight and cardio exercises will boost your stamina. Start with general conditioning, then focus on specific training for Island Peak. Be consistent and gradually increase your training load.
During the high-altitude trek, the trekkers have to prepare for everything. They should keep easy snacks, drinking water, and first aid kits. The trekkers must not think they will always be the same and must be ready for the change in temperature, weather, and chance of snowstorms or avalanches.
Be aware of your surroundings, including the weather, the ground, and other climbers. Look out for dangers like avalanches, crevasses, and rockfalls. Talk with your climbing partner and guide to keep everyone safe. Always listen to your guides, expedition leaders, expert climbers etc in case of any emergency.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes where dehydration is a common risk. Carry water purification tablets or a filter to ensure access to safe drinking water throughout the climb.
Although Travel Insurance is not mandatory for high-altitude trekking in Nepal, it is extremely important. Travel insurance creates a safety blanket for tourists and also covers very expensive expenses. Travel insurance that covers Medical evacuation insurance and Travel Protection is the most important for trekkers who are visiting Nepal for high-altitude trekking. So let’s get into more details.
The trekking or tour to Nepal is amazing in the ideal seasons, but due to some unforeseen circumstances, you might have to cancel that trip. In those cases, travel insurance can cover your nonrefundable expenses, such as food and accommodation expenses.
Island Peak Trek is a challenging trek in Nepal that can impact trekkers by causing injury, accidents, or illness. At those times, emergency medical rescue is essential, which is very costly. Hence, travel insurance with emergency medical coverage is important for trekkers who want to be rescued via helicopter when their health is in jeopardy.
Another main reason to issue travel insurance is to replace the important items that can be lost, stolen, or broken so that the overall value of your item is at least covered so that you don’t lose the value of the entire amount. However, the company will not issue travel insurance on highly expensive products like gold jewelry, etc.
So that you are all prepared to visit Nepal and explore Island Peak Trek, here are some things to know that you might find beneficial.
First of all, when you arrive in Nepal, you need to issue a Visa in order to enter the country and explore the Everest region or Island Peak trek. You will get an arrival visa at the Tribhuvan International Airport. However, you have to submit some documents such as your passport, passport-size photos, travel insurance, etc. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Nepal. In terms of the fee of an arrival visa is dependent on the number of days trekkers will stay. The fee structure is as follows
15 Days – USD 30
30 Days – USD 50
90 Days – USD 125
While you are planning to explore the Everest region, it is important to remember that the primary currency you will be using is Nepali Rupee. Hence, when you land at Kathmandu airport, you will find different banking services, which include currency exchange as well. We recommend you exchange some amount of your currency in NPR for your convenience in the future.
Although you can use ATM Cards or mobile transactions in the city areas of Nepal, in the remote areas, most of the teahouses only allow cash. So we recommend trekkers to carry at least 100 NPR cash per day.
If you are planning to trek to high-altitude peaks like Island Peak, you need to be careful and prepare extensively for the trek. Furthermore, the trekkers must pack all the necessary items while keeping it light as well. So let’s take a look at some of the items that you need to pack during the Island Peak trek.
When planning a trek, most people think about buying or renting hiking gear in Kathmandu. Many travelers visit or stay in Thamel before heading to their trekking destination. If you need to rent or buy hiking gear in Kathmandu, go to Thamel. It has several stores that offer everything you need. Most trekkers understand the importance of trekking gear; however, some beginners may not realize how necessary it is. Some people often make mistakes by either renting too much or buying too much. Many trekkers dislike packing heavy trekking gear in their luggage before flying to Nepal, as the weight feels like a burden. Therefore, we always recommend renting any missing gear in Thamel before starting your trip.
There is always a question among new trekkers about whether to buy or rent trekking gear. Well, the decision is based on you. If you are a frequent trekker who wants to invest in high-quality gear that you are comfortable with, it is wise to buy them, but if you are an occasional trekker who treks once a year, then it is best financial decision for you to rent them. However, finding appropriate
One of the reasons that you might want to choose My Everest Trip for booking is because of the different types of services, such as a flexible schedule, an extension of the trip, a customizable itinerary, the value of money, and last-minute booking. No matter what service you choose, you will receive full support.
My Everest Trip is dedicated to supporting local development and protecting local cultures and the environment. They belong to the Nepal Mountaineering Association and the Trekking Agencies Association. They are also a member of the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project.
If you want a safe trekking experience, then My Everest Trip is the most booked trek for everyone. The company has guides and experts with over 15 years of experience who organize and also help you in navigation, with proper supplies of first aid, medical help, etc.
My Everest Trip’s first priority is always the safety of the trekkers. The guides, staff, and other personnel of the trekking agency provide guidance, assistance, and advice on your safety before and during the trek until you arrive in Kathmandu for your departure.
MyEverestTrip will provide the Island peak guide and a porter once you book. You don’t need to hire any other team after that. If you are not taking any such trek package in Nepal, you can find the guide to Nepal online.
The straight line distance between Lukla and Island Peak Base camp is only 40 km. However, we will be walking for about 150 km round distance. This is a shorter and easier route than the Ama Dablam climb.
Although it’s a trekking peak, the Island Peak needs some Mountain climbing Training. An Ice axe, Crampons, and Harness would be best to mount the Island peak. The guide also helps use Top slings, karabiner locks, mountaineering plastic boots, fixed ropes, Descender fight figures, and more. Our team will train you to use all this equipment. Other climbing peaks, like Pisang Peak, are easier for newbie climbers.
MyEverestTrek has a 21-day Island peak Itinerary. This includes two days for arrival/ departure, one for sightseeing in Kathmandu, and three rest days. If you are a regular mountain climber, you might be able to climb the Island peak and be back in Kathmandu within 19 days. If the weather goes wrong or your health deteriorates, it might worsen.
Peak climbing isn’t cheap, mainly because you need to carry all the food and trek items from Kathmandu. This costs extra for the trekking gear and requires an additional workforce. Also, it would be best to fly to and from Lukla, MyEverestTrip well-arranged Island peak cost is $2050 for all permits, accommodation, guide/porter, and transportation.
Legally, yes, you can climb the island peak without a guide. Practically, no, you shouldn’t attempt to climb Island Peak without a guide. A mountain peak needs some climbing skills and technical support; thus, climbing an Island peak without a guide is risky. The $25/ day for a travel guide in Nepal will be worth it.
Along with a guide, you need a porter for this trek. A porter carries all the tents and cooking items so that you can cook and live comfortably.
No one would recommend you to go Mountain climbing alone. And climbing a 6189m peak is almost similar to a mountain climb. The rough path, avalanches, snowfalls, and remoteness of the mountains make your trek very hard. Sometimes, peak climbing can be deadly due to cold and altitude. So, going for island peak alone is not an excellent choice. At least hire a guide or a porter if you are a Solo trekker. Island Peak is filled with many other trekkers that you will likely not be alone during the peak season.
Charging facilities may be available at some base camps. Still, it’s a good idea to bring a power bank as backup, as electricity can be unreliable in the remote regions of Nepal.
Shower facilities are limited and basic during Peak climbing. It’s recommended to bring wet wipes and baby wipes to refresh yourself during the trek.
The duration of the Island Peak climb depends on the itinerary and pace. Still, it typically takes about a week to complete the climb, including the approach to the Mountain, acclimatization, and the actual climb.
As shown on the map itinerary, your journey will start from Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, you’ll directly take a flight to Lukla, which stands at 2860m. After reaching Lukla, your trekking journey begins.
Per our map, you’ll trek toward Phakding at an elevation of 2610m after arriving in Lukla. You’ll reach Phakding after trekking 3 for 4 hours. Before reaching Phakding, you’ll pass through Choplung and Ghat.
As seen on the map, your next destination is Namche Bazaar at an elevation of 3440m. It takes 5 to 6 hours to reach Namche Bazar from Phakding. Before reaching Namche Bazar, you’ll pass through Benker, Monjo, and Jorsale.
The trip from Phakding to Namche Bazar brims with natural beauty. You’ll see waterfalls, suspension bridges, the Dudh Koshi River, and a lovely Sherpa village along the way.
According to our map, you will visit Namche Bazar. You will see the Sherpa Museum, Syangboche Airport, and Khumbu Peaks. You will also experience the local culture, food, and way of life.
As shown on the map, your next journey will go towards Dhole, at an elevation of 4200m. To reach Dhole, you’ll pass through the beautiful rhododendron forest and the villages, including Khumjung, Mong, and Phortse Thanga. The trek takes you 5 to 6 hours to reach Dhole from Phakding.
As per our map itinerary, you’ll move ahead to Machhermo, located at an elevation of 4470m. Before reaching Machhermo, you can see the mountains, including Hamserku, Kangtega, Cho Oyu, and Taboche.
To reach Machhermo, you’ll pass through the villages of Lhabarma and Luza. The route takes 5 hours to reach Machhermo from Dhole.
As you look at the map, you begin your trek toward Gokyo Valley, which sits at an elevation of 4700m. To reach Gokyo Valley, you have to pass through Gokyo I, Gokyo II, and Gokyo III.
The trek generally takes 5 to 6 hours to reach Gokyo Valley from Machhermo. You’ll pass through different lakes and glaciers, including Ngozumpa Glacier, before reaching the amazing Gokyo Valley.
As per our plan, you will visit the Gokyo area. You will also hike to Gokyo Ri, which is at a height of 5360m. From Gokyo Ri, you’ll be able to see Mount Everest and Mount Makalu.
As you can see on the map, from Gokyo Valley, you’ll walk toward Thangnak at an elevation of 5330m. On the way, you’ll see Chola Peak and Kangchung Peak. It takes 2-3 hours to reach Thangnak from Gokyo Valley.
As shown on the map, your journey takes you to Lobuche. During the trek, you’ll be able to see the mountain peaks, including Ama Dablam and Cholatse.
Before reaching Lobuche, you’ll pass through Cho La Pass and Dzongla form. The trek takes
5-6 hours to reach Lobuche from Thangnak to Lobuche.
As per our map itinerary, you’ll trek to your most awaited destination, which is Everest base camp at an elevation of 5364m. You’ll pass through Gorakshep before reaching Everest base camp. From Gorakshep, it will take 3 hours to reach Everest base camp.
After reaching Everest base camp, your next destination is Kala Patthar. Kala Patthar is a high point on your trek, located at an elevation of 5550m. From Kala Patthar, you’ll be able to see the mountains, including Mount Everest, Nuptse, Changtse, and Pumori.
Based on our map, you will return to Lobuche from Kala Patthar. From there, you will embark on your next trek to Kongma La. Kongma La stands at an altitude of 5535m. The routes pass through rough terrain.
After reaching Kongma La, you’ll climb down to Chhukhung for your second last destination, which is the Island Peak base camp at an elevation of 5200m. To reach the Island Peak base camp, you’ll pass through Imja Valley.
On the map, you can see your final destination is at the summit at the highest elevation of 6189m. To reach the summit, you’ll go through beautiful surroundings and the High camp. After viewing the view of the surrounding from the summit, you’ll return from your journey to Chhukhung.
As you’re returning from your journey, you’ll return to Namche Bazar from Chhukhung. After Namche, you’ll return to Lukla for a flight. After Lukla, you’ll take a direct flight to Kathmandu, and your entire journey will end.
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