Island Peak Climbing - 17 Days

High Route Adventure presents you with a 17-day Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing Package with a visit to the iconic Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. This carefully crafted Island Peak itinerary, guided by our expert team, takes you to an impressive summit elevation of 6,189 meters (20,305 feet). Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is a popular trekking peak in the Everest Region.

You will begin your climbing adventure with our licensed guide from Kathmandu by taking an exciting flight to Lukla Airport. You will begin your trek by following the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush green forests filled with rhododendrons, fir, and magnolia trees. The trail takes you through small villages including Thulo Ghamela, Bengkar, and Monjo, before reaching Jorsalle, where you will enter Sagarmatha National Park.

You will then reach the picturesque Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, where you take a day off for acclimatization before setting off to Tengboche Village. You visit the sacred Dawa Choling Monastery in Tengboche. Then the trek continues through the villages of Pheriche, Lobuche, and Gorakshep. From there, you walk along the sides of the Khumbu and Lhotse glaciers. Finally, you reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters. Here, you can enjoy the unforgettable beauty of the Himalayas.

It’s now time to hike up Kala Patthar for a spectacular sunrise view, where you can get a close-up look at Mt. Everest. After enjoying the sights, you will return to Lobuche. From there, you will leave the classic Everest Base Camp route and tackle the challenging Kongma La Pass, which stands at 5,535 meters, to reach the village of Chhukung.

From Chukkung, you’ll start your journey to Island Peak base camp, where you can rest, acclimatize, and hone your climbing skills. The adventure begins as you leave Chukkung, facing the ice and snow of the Himalayas. After summiting, you’ll return safely from Imja Peak, taking in scenic views through Pangboche, Namche, and Lukla.

Why Choose Island Peak?

• The Incredible Sense of Achievement: The sense of accomplishment in summiting a 6,000+ meter Himalayan peak after a challenging climb is an amazing feeling. Standing atop the Imja Tse summit with views of the high mountains is hugely rewarding.
• Scenic Trek Through the Everest Region: Trekking through the beautiful Everest region for days before the climb is scenic, with views of mountains like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The culture of Sherpa villages, as seen in places like Namche Bazaar, is fascinating to experience.
• Learn Valuable Mountaineering Skills: Acquiring new mountaineering abilities, such as using ice axes, ropes, harnesses, and crampons, is enjoyable and enhances your outdoor passion. These are excellent skills for your next climbing expedition, like the challenging Manaslu Expedition.
• Stunning Alpine Landscapes: Island Peak(Imja Tse) is an adventurous trek through stunning landscapes, with views of glaciers, craggy ridges, and snow-capped peaks. The Alpine climbing environment is breathtaking if you love nature.
• Physical and Mental Fitness Challenge: Training and getting in your best physical fitness before the trip is a great goal to work towards. Seeing your endurance improve is motivating.
• A Major Yet Accessible Mountaineering Achievement: Climbing Island Peak is considered a major mountaineering achievement, but it is still accessible to adventurers with proper training and guidance. It’s a great introduction to serious climbing.
• Lifelong Memories and Personal Growth: Returning home with priceless memories, photos, and stories of climbing a Himalayan peak. You gain confidence in yourself and your abilities. It’s an amazing personal accomplishment.
• Spectacular Glacier Views: Magnificent vistas of the Khumbu Icefall and other glaciers, such as the Khumbu and Lhotse, can be seen from vantage points along the trail. The icefalls are spectacular to witness in person.
• Sherpa Culture and Traditions: Traditional Sherpa settlements, such as Namche Bazaar, offer insight into the lives of these mountain people. Sherpa people culture, traditions, and hospitality are fascinating to experience.
• Biodiversity of Sagarmatha National Park: The trail passes through Sagarmatha National Park, allowing you to spot unique flora such as rhododendrons and wildlife such as Himalayan Thar and musk deer. The Everest region’s biodiversity is incredible.

Why Book Your Island Peak Climb with Us?

There are a lot of agencies in Nepal that operates the Island Peak Climbing with EBC trek, but let’s know why High Route Adventure is different from the others:

➡️Experience – The Edge That Matters: High Route Adventure has 10 + years of high‑altitude expertise in the Nepalese Himalaya. We have completed hundreds of summits of Island Peak (Imja Tse) and neighboring peaks. Our experienced, licensed trekking guide has led several international climbing teams, research groups, and even private groups.

➡️Safety – Our Top Priority: Our experienced Sherpa guides are fully trained, hold a Nepalese government license, and have extensive knowledge of route conditions, weather forecasts, and avalanche danger. There will be a 24/7 emergency response, including an emergency evacuation plan with helicopter partners in Kathmandu and Lukla.

➡️Professional Guides & Support Staff: The Guide we will provide you with during the Imja Tse Peak Climbing will be a local Sherpa Guide. They are born in this region, and they know the Khumbu glacier, icefall routes, and hidden crevasse patterns very well. Also, our other supportive staff, such as porters, logistics support, drivers, and cooks, help you reach the summit conveniently.

➡️All‑Inclusive, Transparent Packages: All required permits for Island Peak Climbing, including Guide, porter, food, accommodation, logistics, ground transportation, and hotel transfer, will be included in the Island Peak Climbing Package. Also, all our prices are displayed on the website in USD, and there are no hidden costs.

➡️Tailor‑Made Itineraries: Every climber has their own interests, walking pace and travel dates. To meet our clients’ expectations, we offer a customized Island Peak Climbing itinerary. The flexible itinerary plan helps to match fitness levels, time constraints, and adventure goals.

➡️Local Partnerships & Sustainable Practices: During the climb, we don’t allow our clients to engage in any activities that would detract from the beauty of Island Peak. So you need to follow the “Leave No Trace Policy” strictly when you make us your travel partner. Also, after each trek, we donate a portion of the cost to support schools, clean‑water projects, and women’s cooperatives in the Khumbu region.

➡️Proven Success Rate: To date, we have a 100% success rate for clients who have trusted us with their Island Peak climbing. Our well-designed itinerary plan and expert team are the main reasons for this success.

➡️Post-Climb Support and Certificate After Completion: Before you attempt to reach the summit of Island Peak, we organize a special programme at the base camp to train you. You will learn the basic mountaineering skills from the expert climber. And after you complete the climbing, you will receive an official Island Peak Summit Certificate as recognition of your accomplishment.

➡️Additional Support: We provide a free sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffle bag for our clients. It will help to keep you warm at high altitude and make carrying your personal belongings more comfortable and convenient during the trek and climb.

Imja Tse – Island Peak Climbing Cost For 2026/2027

Our 17-day Everest Base Camp trek with Island Peak Climbing Package price starts from USD 2,235. We offer a special discount to group travellers. Only climbers can join the Island Peak Climbing group, but to do so, you need to contact our tour operator to match your departure date. Also, if you want to upgrade your hotel room, book a room at a tea house in a lower region, or have a private trip, you can add the additional cost to customize your experience.

Let’s see the cost of the Island Peak Climbing according to the group size.

Useful Links for Island Peak

Guest Requirements for Island Peak(Imja Tse) Climbing

🡲Island Peak Climbing is a challenging trek that ascends to 6,189m, so previous high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended.

🡲Participants must be able to walk an average of 6-7 hours daily while carrying a backpack weighing approximately 5-7 kg.

🡲Island Peak is a beginner-friendly trekking peak, so no previous mountaineering experience is required, but knowing basic climbing gear is essential.

🡲Climbers should have knowledge of high-altitude effects, the symptoms of altitude sickness, as well as preventive measures and safety tips.

🡲Climbers should be confident in their physical fitness, stamina, and mental strength.

🡲It is mandatory to summit the proof of travel and health insurance before heading out for the trip from Kathmandu.

🡲You should bring your own trekking and climbing equipment. Rental gear is available in Kathmandu if needed.

🡲Participants must be in good overall health and free from serious medical conditions that may affect their ability to climb safely.

Notes

Island Peak Climbing Permit

All climbers wishing to summit Island Peak must secure a permit through us. We will process your permit once you submit the required documents: a scanned copy of your passport and a passport-sized photograph. Your permit will be checked along the trekking route, so you must carry it with you and show or register your permit whenever officials request it. The required permits for the Island Peak Climbing are:

1. Island Peak Climbing Permit (NMA)
2. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
3. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

Note: Travellers must strictly comply with the rules of Sagarmatha National Park. Failure to do so will result in substantial fines and serious legal consequences.

Best Time For Island Peak Climbing 

Island Peak (Imja Tse) is a classic “trek-and-climb,” meaning it can be done in all major climbing seasons in Nepal. However, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most popular times to attempt the climb, as these seasons offer the best chance for a safe and successful summit. During this period, you can expect stable weather, clear mountain views, moderate temperatures, and excellent climbing conditions. The success rate remains high in these months, making it the perfect choice for many climbers.

During spring, the daytime temperature remains around 5 to 10 °C, and nighttime remains -5 °C or lower. There will be snowpack at high altitude, but not overly deep. Flights to Lukla operate regularly, and the likelihood of cancellations is low during this season. This time of year offers the best views of the stunning mountain peaks and the surrounding landscapes, thanks to clear skies. Moreover, the wildflower bloom and vibrant rhododendrons along the forest trail attract travelers during this season.

During autumn, the daytime temperature remains around 5 to 12 °C, and nighttime temperatures can drop to between -2 °C and -10 °C. At this time of year, the snow from the monsoon season becomes compacted, creating a stable footing on the trails, and crevasses are well-defined. The trail is in good condition, and trekkers can enjoy crisp, dry trails. The trekking paths are in good condition, allowing trekkers to enjoy crisp, dry trails. Many climbers prefer to ascend Island Peak in autumn due to the excellent snow and ice conditions, stunning sunrises, breathtaking scenery, and fewer crowds compared to spring.

EBC Trek with Island Peak Climbing Difficulty

Difficulty grade: PD+ (Peu Difficile Plus) in the French Alpine Grading System, indicating a semi-technical climb rated as "moderately difficult."

Reaching the 6,189-meter summit is a challenging but achievable task with proper preparation. Here are the main challenging factors that makes this peak climbing difficult:

• Altitude:  Altitude is the most challenging factor when climbing Island Peak. At high altitudes, the air becomes thin, which can cause altitude sickness (AMS). Symptoms of altitude sickness may include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. If climbers experience these symptoms, they may need to turn back without reaching the summit. Therefore, it is extremely important to follow the acclimatisation plan and AMS preventive measures.
• Technical Terrain: Climbers need to navigate carefully through glacier paths, rocky ridges, and snow-covered slopes. Above base camp to reach the summit. They must be able to use climber gear such as crampons, a harness, fixed ropes, an ice axe, and a jumar (ascender) properly.
• Physical Endurance: On trekking days, you will walk for an average of 5 to 7 hours. However, during the summit day, climbers need to walk for 9 to 10 hours, which is both physically challenging and mentally tough. So, a high level of endurance, good cardio & leg strength is required to participate in this climbing adventure.
• Weather Exposure: At high altitude, the weather conditions become unpredictable. Climbers must be prepared to face strong winds, freezing temperatures, heavy rainfall, and even the possibility of avalanches.

Physical Fitness Training for Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing

Read more → Island Peak Expedition: All You Need To Know Before Climbing

Accommodation: What to Expect

Accommodation for Island Peak Climbing has three phases: in Kathmandu, during the trek, and in tents while ascending the peak.

At Kathmandu:

Staying in Kathmandu can be a luxurious experience, as there are numerous hotel options available. For this package, we will provide 3-star hotel accommodations for our guests, ensuring quality service and amenities. Guests also have the option to upgrade their stay to a 4-star or 5-star hotel for an additional cost. Here are the facilities you can enjoy while staying at hotels in Kathmandu:

• Comfortable beds with clean linens
• Private bathrooms with hot water
• Wifi and internet access
• In-house restaurant and room service
• 24-hour front desk and security
• Laundry service(for 4- or 5-star hotels)
• Air conditioning or heating (depending on the hotel)
• TV and entertainment options in rooms
• Tea/coffee making facilities
• Luggage storage
• Airport transfer assistance (available in some hotels)
• Fitness center or gym (for 4- or 5-star hotels)
• Spa and wellness services (for upgraded hotels)

At the tea house:

As for the trekking days, teahouses are the only options available. Local communities set up these teahouses to provide basic facilities for travelers. Inside a teahouse, you will find a simple place to stay, sleep, rest, and eat. Staying in a teahouse is an integral part of trekking in Nepal. Here are the facilities you can get while staying in the teahouse:

• Cozy rooms with twin sharing beds, mattresses, and blankets.
• Shared or private bathrooms
• Basic meals such as Dal Bhat, noodles, soup, and tea/coffee
• A common dining area is available for both meals and socializing
• Charging facilities, Wi-Fi, and hot showers (note: the teahouse charge small fees for this service and hot shower is limited).
• Safe drinking water (boiled or filtered; bottled water may be available for purchase)

At the tent:

Above Chukkung, there are no teahouses available. Therefore, our team will set up a camping tent at Island Peak Base Camp. Our cooking guide will prepare nutritious meals to support your climb. Here are the facilities you can expect while staying in the tent:

• Spacious camping tents with sleeping mats
• Warm sleeping bags
• Dining tent
• Meals prepared by the dedicated Chef
• Hot drinks like tea, coffee, and soup
• Portable toilet facilities

Food and Drinks: What To Expect

During the trek and climb, High Route Adventure will provide our clients with three meals. You can choose from a variety of meals at the teahouse, but at the camp, the menu will be limited. There will be vegetarian and non-vegetarian meal options. Most of the food items will be Nepali dishes with a few international options. Alcohol, snacks and drinks are not included in the package, so you should manage the cost on your own. Let’s see what items you can expect during the Everest Base Camp trek with Island Peak Climbing:

Breakfast Options:

• Porridge
• Eggs (boiled, fried, or scrambled)
• Pancakes
• Toast with butter or jam
• Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate

Lunch Options:

• Rice or noodles with vegetables or meat
• Soups (vegetable or chicken)
• Sandwiches
• Local Nepali dishes (Dal Bhat, Momo, etc.)

Dinner Options:

• Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice) with curry and vegetables
• Pasta or noodles with sauces
• Other local specialties

Snacks (not included in package, self-arranged):

• Energy bars
• Chocolate
• Dried fruits
• Nuts

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization Tips

Our EBC trek with Island Peak climbing itinerary is carefully designed with gradual acclimatization, allowing climbers to reach the summit by adjusting to altitude. There will be fix rest day at Namche Bazaar as an acclimatization day.  Also, At Chhukung and Island Peak Base Camp, you'll climb ridges for stunning peak views and have plenty of time for rest and recovery before the summit. However, climbers should be aware and cautious about altitude sickness, as it can affect anyone trekking above 3,000 meters.

The early signs of altitude sickness(AMS) are:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue 
• Loss of appetite 
• Difficulty sleeping 
• Shortness of breath 

Note: If these early mild symptoms of altitude sickness(AMS). If it is not addressed early, they can progress to HACE (High-Altitude Cerebral Edema) or HAPE (High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema), which are advanced, life-threatening forms of altitude sickness. These conditions can be deadly if not treated immediately, so early recognition and proper care are crucial.

How to prevent altitude sickness during Island Peak Climbing

• Take Acetazolamide (Diamox) before ascent, and consult a doctor for a prescription.
• Avoid alcohol during the trip.
• Remember to follow the acclimatization guideline: "climb high, sleep low."Don't do heavy exercise at high altitude.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Limit high‑fat, heavy meals at high altitude and choose fresh, nutritious meals instead.
• Walk at your own pace and never move too quickly, as it can trigger altitude sickness.

When to Descend – The Non‑Negotiable Rule

• Persistent headache plus nausea, dizziness, or vomiting for > 24 h
• Ataxia (loss of coordination), confusion, or disorientation
• Shortness of breath at rest, rapid breathing, coughing, or pink frothy sputum
• SpO₂ levels are below 85% even while at rest and receiving oxygen.

Lukla Flight Delays & Cancellations: Tips for Island Peak Climbers

Getting to the Himalayan region can sometimes become a hassle due to its geographic location. The weather can be uncertain at any moment. Lukla flight is weather-dependent. As a result, there are frequent flight delays on the route between Kathmandu and Lukla. However, flight delays/cancellations can be accommodated with extra days beyond the planned itinerary. Remember that flight delays and cancellations are beyond our control.  For this reason, it is highly recommended to schedule 2 extra days to avoid issues with international return flights. On the other hand, we can arrange a helicopter ride in case of delays. But this comes at a cost of around USD 500-1000 per person, depending on demand.

Reminder: Island Peak Climbing has fixed departure dates from Kathmandu. In case of a change in the plan, we can arrange specific date requests. Otherwise, we can schedule a date that works for you. Please notify us before booking.

Flight guide → Kathmandu to Lukla Flight

Island Peak Climb: Flexible Itinerary & Weather Alerts

Unpredictable weather is common in the Everest region. In addition to flight delays, unexpected situations like inaccessibility, strikes, and poor trail conditions can arise. These factors can significantly affect the trip itinerary. The Island Peak Climbing Itinerary mentioned above is a general guideline. Due to unforeseen circumstances, changes to the itinerary may be required. At such times, our experienced guides have the authority to make itinerary adjustments. Our guides make this decision after consulting with the group. Consequently, the group's interests can effectively guide us towards exploring new trails, enhancing our journey along the way.

Travel And Health Insurance: Why It’s Most Important For Island Peak

Island Peak Climbing is a challenging, adventurous journey with several risks involved. To maintain safety, peace of mind, and to save on emergency costs, it is mandatory to have health and travel insurance. Without proper coverage, emergency rescue and treatment can be very expensive and may delay immediate assistance. Therefore, purchase travel insurance and make sure your policy cover this things:

• High-altitude trekking and climbing (up to 6,189 m)
• Emergency helicopter evacuation
• Medical treatment and hospitalization
• Search and rescue operations
• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Accidental injury coverage
• Repatriation expenses

Note: All our clients must provide proof of travel insurance to us before attempting the summit of Island Peak (Imja Tse). You can also purchase travel insurance here in Nepal, and if you need any assistance, we are happy to assist you.

Equipment

Here's a complete packing list for Island Peak (6,189m), covering trekking + technical climbing:

Documents & Money

• Passport + permits
• Travel/rescue insurance
• Cash (NPR small bills for teahouses)

Clothing (layering system)

• Base layers (thermal top/bottom, moisture-wicking)
• Mid layer fleece/softshell
• Insulated down jacket (heavyweight, for summit night)
• Waterproof/windproof shell jacket & pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Trekking pants + insulated climbing pants
• Down mittens + liner gloves + climbing gloves
• Warm hat/beanie, sun hat, buff/balaclava
• Wool/synthetic socks (trekking) + thick socks for climbing boots

Footwear

• Trekking boots (for approach trek)
• Double/mountaineering boots (plastic or insulated, e.g., La Sportiva Nepal/Olympus Mons) compatible with crampons
• Camp shoes/sandals
• Gaiters

Technical Climbing Gear

• Crampons (fitted to mountaineering boots)
• Ice axe
• Climbing harness
• Ascender (jumar)
• Locking + non-locking carabiners (4-6)
• Prusik cords/slings
• Climbing helmet
• Trekking poles

Sleeping & Camping

• Sleeping bag (-20°C rated for high camp)
• Sleeping bag liner
• Headlamp + spare batteries (essential for summit night)

Health & Personal

• Diamox (altitude sickness) and personal meds
• First aid kit, blister care, painkillers
• Sunscreen (high SPF) + lip balm with SPF
• Sunglasses (glacier-rated, UV400) + spare
• Hand/toe warmers
• Water bottles/thermos + water purification tablets/filter
• Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper

Extras

• Daypack (30-40L)
• Power bank
• Snacks/energy bars/electrolytes
• Basic repair kit (duct tape, safety pins)
• Dry bags/waterproof stuff sacks

Climbers can also rent gear and equipment in Thamel. If you need any assistance with renting, we are happy to help you. For a detailed packing list, click here: Packing list for trekking and climbing.