Island Peak Summit

Trip Facts

  • Duration 17 Days
  • Trip Difficulty strenuous
  • Max. Altitude 6189m
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time March to May and Sept to December
  • Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu, Tea house and Camping during the trek

Trip Highlights

  • Island Peak Summit (6,189m)
  • Everest Region Trek
  • Glacier and Ice Wall Climb
  • Sherpa Culture & Hospitality
  • High-Altitude Adventure

The trek to Island Peak takes you through the heart of the Everest region, passing Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and dramatic alpine landscapes. As you ascend beyond Chhukung, the trail becomes more remote and rugged, leading toward the glaciated Imja Valley. Each step toward base camp builds anticipation, blending adventure, cultural immersion, and preparation for the thrilling summit climb ahead.

Reaching the summit of Island Peak (6,189m) is a thrilling achievement for trekkers and aspiring climbers alike. From the narrow, snow-covered ridge at the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and the dramatic Khumbu glaciers below. The final push to the summit involves a steep ice wall and fixed ropes, demanding both physical strength and mental focus. Standing at the top feels like standing on the edge of the sky, surrounded by the towering giants of the Himalayas. It’s a powerful moment of triumph, solitude, and awe in the heart of the Everest region.

What's included

  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • 2 Nights Hotel stay in Kathmandu
  • Breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu-Lukla flight (Round Trip)
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
  • Climbing permits for Island Peak
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Local government tax, and TIMs Card
  • Tea House accommodation during the trek
  • Tent Camping accommodation on Island Peak Climbing
  • Down jacket, sleeping bag to be returned after the trek
  • An experienced and licensed trekking guide
  • Porter (1 for every 2 clients)
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu

What's not included

  • Entry visa and International travel costs
  • Travel insurance
  • Extra meals and beverages
  • Tips for Guide and porter
  • Personalized hiking gears
  • Anything not mentioned in “What’s Included?” section

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

    Upon arrival, our representative will greet you a warm welcome and take you to your hotel.

    Altitude: 1300m
    Accommodation: hotel
  • Day 02: Fly to Lukla (2,840m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m) – 3 to 4 hrs

    The scenic flight to Lukla offers thrilling mountain views and lands on one of the world’s most dramatic airstrips, perched high in the Himalayas. From Lukla, the trek to Phakding is a gentle descent through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages along the Dudh Koshi River.

    Altitude: 2610m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) – 6 to 7 hrs

    The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar is a challenging yet rewarding journey that follows the Dudh Koshi River and crosses several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Bridge. As you ascend through lush forests and pass small villages like Monjo and Jorsalle, the trail gradually climbs steeply toward Namche. The final ascent is tough but offers the first glimpses of Everest on clear days, making the arrival at the bustling Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar truly unforgettable.

    Altitude: 3440m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

    The acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar allows trekkers to rest and adjust to the altitude while exploring the vibrant Sherpa town and its local markets. A short hike to the Everest View Hotel or nearby viewpoints offers stunning panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, aiding gradual altitude adaptation.

    Altitude: 3440m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 5: Trek to Tengboche (3,860m) – 5 to 6 hrs

    The trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche offers breathtaking views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks as the trail winds along ridges and through rhododendron forests. After a steady descent to the Dudh Koshi River at Phunki Tenga, a steep uphill climb leads to the serene hilltop monastery village of Tengboche. Arriving at Tengboche, trekkers are greeted by the spiritual atmosphere of the famous Tengboche Monastery surrounded by towering mountains.

    Altitude: 3860m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 6: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m) – 5 to 6 hrs

    The trek from Tengboche to Dingboche begins with a descent through forested trails and crosses the Imja Khola before gradually ascending past charming villages like Pangboche. As the altitude increases, the landscape transitions into open alpine terrain with sweeping views of Ama Dablam and other majestic peaks. Dingboche, a quiet high-altitude village nestled in a wide valley, offers a peaceful setting for rest and acclimatization.

    Altitude: 4410m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

    The acclimatization day at Dingboche includes a short hike to higher elevations, such as Nagarjun Hill, offering spectacular views of Lhotse, Makalu, and the surrounding valleys. This rest day helps the body adapt to the thinning air, reducing the risk of altitude sickness before continuing higher.

    Altitude: 4410m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 8: Trek to Chhukung (4,730m) – 3 to 4 hrs

    The trek from Dingboche to Chhukung is a short but scenic walk through the windswept Imja Valley, surrounded by towering peaks like Ama Dablam and Lhotse. The trail gently ascends through yak pastures and alpine landscapes, becoming more rugged and remote with every step. Chhukung is a small, peaceful village that serves as a gateway for climbers heading toward Island Peak or Chhukung Ri.

    Altitude: 4730m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 9: Climbing Training Day in Chhukung

    The climbing training day at Chhukung is focused on preparing for high-altitude ascents with practical skills and safety techniques. Under the guidance of experienced climbing guides, trekkers learn to use equipment like harnesses, crampons, ascenders, and ropes on nearby ice or rock slopes. This hands-on experience builds confidence and ensures climbers are ready for the technical sections of Island Peak.

    Altitude: 4730m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 10: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,150m) – 3 to 4 hrs

    The trek to Island Peak Base Camp is a rugged and scenic journey through glacial moraines and barren alpine terrain, with striking views of Lhotse and Imja Glacier along the way. The trail is demanding due to the altitude and rocky paths, but the dramatic mountain scenery makes every step worthwhile. Reaching the base camp at the foot of Island Peak feels both remote and inspiring, as climbers prepare for the final ascent.

    Altitude: 5150m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tented Camp (Shared)
  • Day 11: Rest & Summit Preparation at Base Camp

    The rest day at Island Peak Base Camp is essential for conserving energy and making final preparations for the summit push. Climbers review gear, check weather conditions, and go over safety protocols with their guides to ensure everything is in order. Surrounded by towering peaks and glacial silence, the atmosphere is both calm and filled with anticipation for the climb ahead.

    Altitude: 5150m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tented Camp (Shared)
  • Day 12: Summit Island Peak (6,189m) & Return to Chhukung – 10 to 14 hrs

    The summit day on Island Peak begins before dawn with a challenging ascent over rocky terrain, glaciers, and a steep ice wall leading to the exposed summit ridge. Reaching the 6,189-meter summit offers an unforgettable reward—panoramic views of Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, and the vast Himalayan range. After celebrating briefly at the top, climbers carefully descend back to Island Peak Base Camp, exhausted but exhilarated by the achievement.

    After summiting Island Peak, the descent back to Chhukung retraces the rugged trail through moraines and icy slopes, requiring steady focus and endurance. Returning to the comfort of Chhukung offers a well-earned rest and a chance to reflect on the unforgettable summit experience.

    Altitude: 4730m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 13: Contingency/Buffer Day (in case of bad weather or altitude delay)

    A contingency day is essential to allow flexibility in case of bad weather, altitude-related issues, or unexpected delays during the climb.

    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 14: Trek to Pangboche (3,950m) – 5 to 6 hrs

    The trek from Chhukung to Pangboche follows a gentle descent through the wide Imja Valley, offering one last look at the towering peaks of the Khumbu. Passing through Dingboche and alpine meadows, the trail gradually re-enters more vegetated terrain. Pangboche, home to one of the oldest monasteries in the region, provides a peaceful stop with rich Sherpa culture and dramatic mountain views.

    Altitude: 3950m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazaar – 6 to 7 hrs

    The trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar begins with a descent through rhododendron forests and past familiar villages like Tengboche and Phunki Tenga. After crossing the Dudh Koshi River, a steady uphill climb leads back to the bustling hub of Namche. The journey is both reflective and rewarding, as trekkers retrace their steps with a deep sense of accomplishment and awe.

    Altitude: 3440m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 16: Trek to Lukla – 6 to 7 hrs

    The trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla is a long descent that winds through pine forests, across suspension bridges, and past vibrant Sherpa villages. While physically easier, the trail requires careful footing and is filled with a sense of nostalgia as trekkers pass familiar spots. Reaching Lukla marks the end of the trekking journey, often celebrated with gratitude and reflection before the flight back.

    Altitude: 2860m
    Meals: B/L/D
    Accommodation: Tea house accommodation
  • Day 17: Fly back to Kathmandu

    The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is a short yet thrilling journey, offering one last aerial view of the majestic Himalayas. As the plane touches down in the bustling city, trekkers transition from remote mountains back to modern life, carrying unforgettable memories.

    Altitude: 1300m
    Meals: breakfast
    Accommodation: hotel

FAQs of Island Peak Summit

  • How difficult is Island Peak to climb?

    Island Peak is considered a trekking peak, but it involves technical climbing sections, including glacier travel, a steep ice wall, and a narrow summit ridge. Proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and basic mountaineering skills are essential.
  • Do I need prior climbing experience?

    While prior high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended, climbers with basic training in rope handling, use of crampons, and ice axe can attempt Island Peak with the help of experienced guides.
  • What is the best time to climb Island Peak?

    March to May and September to November
  • How high is Island Peak?

    Island Peak stands at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) above sea level.
  • Is altitude sickness a risk on this trek?

    Yes, due to the high elevation, altitude sickness is a real risk. A properly planned itinerary with rest and acclimatization days is crucial to reduce the risk.
  • What kind of permits do I need for Island Peak?

    You will need an Island Peak climbing permit, a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit, and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit.
  • What gear is required for the summit?

    Essential gear includes climbing boots, crampons, harness, helmet, ice axe, carabiners, ascender, and a headlamp.
  • How long does the trek and climb take?

    The entire trip usually takes 16–20 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization schedule.
  • Is travel insurance necessary?

    Yes, travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation is strongly recommended.
  • What is the success rate for summiting Island Peak?

    With proper acclimatization and weather conditions, the success rate is relatively high, especially when guided by experienced professionals.
  • Safety tips?

    1: Climb high, Sleep low – acclimatize gradually 2: Go slow, listen to your body, and rest whenever needed 3: Stay with a guide/group, keep updated on weather, and be prepared to descend if in doubt.
  • Can I customize this trip?

    Yes. Glory Himalayan Trek & Tours will do the best to cater your needs.
  • Is it cheaper if we come in a group?

    Yes. Group prices will be cheaper. Please email us at gloryhimalayantreks@gmail.com for further information.

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