Island Peak with EBC Trek

Print Trip Details

Trip Overview


Title: Island Peak with Everest Base Camp Trek: A Himalayan Adventure

Introduction

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Everest region of Nepal with the Island Peak with Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek. This adventure combines the classic Everest Base Camp trek with the exhilarating climb to the summit of Island Peak, offering a unique and thrilling experience in the heart of the Himalayas. Over the course of approximately 19-21 days, you'll witness breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in Sherpa culture, and challenge yourself with a rewarding mountaineering endeavor.

Everest Base Camp - The Gateway to Adventure

Your trek begins in Lukla, a small mountain town with a thrilling airstrip. From there, you'll follow the footsteps of legendary mountaineers as you trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters/17,598 feet). The journey takes you through picturesque Sherpa villages, across suspension bridges, and amidst the majestic peaks of the Khumbu region. Reaching Everest Base Camp is a remarkable achievement, providing a close-up view of the world's highest mountain.

 Island Peak - Scaling New Heights

Leaving Everest Base Camp behind, you'll make your way to Island Peak Base Camp (4,970 meters/16,305 feet). Under the guidance of experienced climbing Sherpas, you'll receive training and prepare for the exhilarating ascent of  Imja Tse(6,189 meters/20,305 feet). The climb requires basic mountaineering skills, including the use of ice axe and crampons. Standing atop Island Peak offers an unparalleled panorama of the surrounding Himalayan giants, rewarding your efforts with a sense of triumph.

Enchanting Landscapes and Cultural Immersion

Throughout the trek, you'll be captivated by the awe-inspiring scenery of the Everest region. From the lush valleys and rhododendron forests to the rugged terrain and glacial landscapes, every step reveals nature's grandeur. Along the way, you'll encounter Sherpa villages, monasteries, and prayer flags, immersing yourself in the rich Sherpa culture. Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and other settlements offer a glimpse into the lives of the resilient mountain communities.

Best Time to Go and Essential Considerations

The best seasons for the Island Peak with EBC Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies and favorable trekking conditions. However, proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and adequate gear are essential for a safe and successful journey. Hiring a licensed guide and porters is highly recommended to ensure your well-being and provide local expertise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Island Peak with Everest Base Camp Trek is a remarkable adventure that combines the iconic Everest Base Camp trek with the thrill of scaling Island Peak. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Himalayan beauty, experience Sherpa culture, and challenge yourself in the realm of mountaineering. Embark on this extraordinary journey and create lifelong memories in the heart of the world's highest mountains.
 

Trip Highlights


  • Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek has the best combination of Himalayan trekking and climbing.
  • An easy ascent up a 6,000-meter peak for first-time climbers. Thrilling traverse through Imja, Khumbu, and Lhotse glaciers and the high pass of Kongma La
  • Experience Sherpa culture and  Himalayan  views of 7,000 and 8,000-meter peaks
  • Ideal peak to acclimatize and refresh your technical skills if planning to climb an 8,000 or 7,000-meter peak
  • Scenic mountain flight Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu
  • Gain an intimate understanding of the Sherpa culture in the Himalayas.
  • Visit the Ancient monastery in Tengboche
  • Explore the mesmerizing prayer wheels, colorful flags, mani stones, and huge suspension bridges
  • Explore breathtaking mountain valleys, slopes, springs, waterfalls, lush woods bursting with vibrant rhododendron, and more.
  • Summit Island Peak (6189m/20299ft)
  • Stunning views – Mount Everest (8848m/29021ft), Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,501m), Lhotse Middle Peak (8,410m), Lhotse Shar (8,383m).Makalu (8475m), Baruntse (7,162m) and Ama Dablam (6,812m)
  • Kalapatthar Excursion (5,545m/18187ft)
  • Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
  • Namche Bazaar – famous Sherpa town
  • Wildlife like musk deer, colorful pheasants, snow leopard, and Himalayan tahr
  • Explore the culture and lifestyles of the local Sherpa people
  • Khumjung monastery – said to have housed yeti scalp

Itinerary


DAY 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) and trip preparation

If you have a day flight, you will be lucky enough to glimpse the Himalayan mountains from the flight before landing. Our representative will be at the airport waiting for you at the terminal. He will drive you to your hotel and help you check in. Take a rest, and later on, if you feel like it, stroll around Thamel, a lively tourist hub.

Late afternoon or evening you will meet your guide who will brief you about your upcoming adventure. You can go through the gear and equipment list and rent or buy any item that’s not with you. There are plenty of rental shops in Thamel from where you can rent gear and equipment. Have an early night as we will be leaving early tomorrow..

Overnight in Kathmandu.

DAY 2 Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,318ft) and trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft) - 35 minutes flight and 3 to 4 hours trek

During peak trekking seasons (March, April, May, September, October, and November), flights from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu to Lukla may be redirected to Manthali due to traffic congestion. To catch the early morning Lukla flight from Manthali, we’ll pick you up from your hotel around 12:30 am and drive you for about 5 hours to Manthali Airport. The subsequent 20-minute flight from Manthali will take you to Lukla.

If you want to avoid the Kathmandu-Manthali-Lukla route, you can book a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla. The cost is approximately 550 USD per person when the expenses are shared among five individuals.

In December, January, February, June, July, or August, you will directly fly from Kathmandu to Lukla. After breakfast, we’ll take you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for an exhilarating 40-minute flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.

After your exciting and scenic flight, you will land at the Tenzing Hillary Airport at Lukla. The trek begins from Lukla, passing through Chaurikharka Village.

Once your plane lands, meet your porters and the rest of the crew. Sort out your luggage and pack for the final time before hitting the trail. Make your way out of the colorful Lukla bazaar and descend the trail to Phakding. Do walk carefully as there will be mule trains and yaks sharing the trail. Cross a metal suspension bridge and arrive at the riverside settlement of Phakding. Head to a teahouse where your rooms have been booked. Rest and afterward explore the village or make your way down to the Dudh Koshi Khola (Milky River) and take pictures of the scenic valley. Later, head back to the teahouse and take a rest.

Overnight in Phakding.

DAY 3 Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

Namche BazaarNamche Bazaar – Gateway to the Everest region and sherpa capital of the Khumbu region of Nepal

The walk to Namche is filled with magnificent views. For the first time, you get to see Mount Everest and a host of other mountains. Walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River, you take a trail decorated with mani stones and prayer flags. These are placed at various places on the trail by Buddhist monks to safeguard and protect the travelers from negative forces. The path goes through a forest of juniper, pine, and rhododendron. En route, you cross five metal suspension bridges, including the Hillary Bridge over the Imja River.

Make your way across the Sagarmatha National Park and hike up to Namche, the Sherpa capital. Carved like a bowl on the side of a mountain, Namche is one of the prettiest and most important Sherpa settlements in the Everest Region.

Overnight in Namche.

DAY 4 At Namche Bazaar : 1st Acclimatization Day (3,440m/11,286ft)

Spend a day acclimatizing in Namche. A bustling town lined with high-end as well as budget lodges, shops, restaurants, bakeries, and the only ATM beyond the 3000m mark, Namche is the economic heart of the Khumbu region. Traders from all over Khumbu converge in Namche Bazaar to buy or sell food items and other commodities.  Start your day early and walk up to the Sagarmatha National Park for a sunrise view. Watch the sunrise over the snowy summits of Mount Everest, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam.

After breakfast, takes an acclimatization hike to Hotel Everest View through Shyangboche. It is a steep ascent filled with incredible views of some of the highest views in the world. Hotel Everest View, which was at one time the highest hotel in the world, offers 360-degree views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Mount Everest. After enjoying the splendid views, head down to Namche. If you still have the stamina, you can trek further to the historic village of Khumjung. Visit the Hillary School, the first school in the region established by Sir Edmund Hillary. At Khumjung Monastery, you can view the scalp of a Yeti, the abominable snowman.

Overnight in Namche.

DAY 5 Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,664ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

TengboucheTengboche Monastery- Tibetan Buddhist monastery The Largest Monastery in the Everest Region

Take a scenic walk to Tengboche, a small Sherpa settlement. The Tengboche Gompa, the most important Buddhist monastery in the Everest Region, dominates the skyline of this small settlement. Your teahouse lies close to the Gompa. You can visit the monastery and witness the monks praying and chanting. Send out a silent prayer for the success of your expedition and seek blessings from the monks. The Sunrise and sunset view of Ama Dablam from Tengboche is not to be missed. Keep your camera ready for this magnificent sight.

Overnight in Tengboche.

DAY 6 Trek to Dingboche(4,410m/14,469ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

From Tengboche, you head to Dingboche, descend a forested trail, and cross a couple of suspension bridges. En route, you cross a couple of Sherpa villages, including Pangboche, the village with the biggest settlement of Sherpas in the region. As you ascend higher, the tree line vanishes, and you enter a rocky and barren landscape. The gain in elevation leaves you a bit breathless.

Dingboche is where many trekkers start feeling the effects of high altitude. Once you reach the settlement, head to a teahouse and take a rest, keep yourself hydrated by including plenty of fluids in your diet. Dehydration leads to AMS (acute mountain sickness), so do take good care.

Overnight in Dingboche.

DAY 7 At Dingboche : 2nd Acclimatization Day (4,410m/14,469ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

DingbocheDingboche Village

You spend your second acclimatization day at Dingboche. This is a small farming village with few houses and fields with stone walls. This settlement lies at a trail junction that forks towards Everest Base Camp and Island Peak. This is a popular overnight stop for climbers and trekkers.

For your acclimatization hike, you ascend a hill that lies right above Dingboche. Locally known as Nagarjun Hill (5,100m), this hill is also called Nangkartshang Peak. This hike is important as this ascent will acclimatize your body for the tough high altitude ascents in the coming days. It is a straightforward climb with no technical maneuvers.

Nagarjun Hill is one of the best viewpoints in the Khumbu region. Enjoy 360-degree views of Lhotse, Cholatse, Kantega, Ama Dablam, and Makalu. You can view the entire Ama Dablam peak from the base to the summit from the vantage point. You also get a close-up view of Island Peak, Imja Tse, Imja Glacier, and Cholatse. After soaking in the views and taking pictures, you head down to Dingboche. Take a late afternoon stroll around the village.

Overnight in Dingboche.

DAY 8 Trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

Keeping your pace slow but steady, you walk through the Khumbu Valley and reach Thughla. At Thughla Pass, you visit the memorials of mountaineers who lost their lives climbing Mount Everest. The ones dedicated to Rob Hall, Scott Fischer, and Late Babu Chhiri Sherpa (the daredevil Sherpa who climbed Mount Everest without supplementary oxygen and spent 22 hours at the summit) are covered with prayer flags and khatas (scarves offered as a mark of respect). Jon Krakauer has detailed Hall and Fischer’s ill-fated Everest expedition in his best selling book “Into Thin Air” and the movie “Everest.” The trail evens out, and we follow a rocky moraine to Lobuche.

There are only a handful of teahouses in Lobuche and you follow your guide to the teahouse where your rooms have been booked. Lhotse and Nuptse appear very close.

Overnight in Lobuche.

DAY 9 Trek to Gorak Shep (5,140m/16,864ft) and hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft) - 7 to 8 hours trek

gorek-shepView form Gorek Shep

Today you have a long and tiring walk ahead. But the hike is filled with thrilling moments as you reach the base camp of Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain. Leaving Lobuche, we follow the ablation valley beside the Khumbu Glacier and head up. The walk proves to be difficult because of the altitude gain and thin air. Gorak Shep lies below the dark mound of Kala Patthar. We head to our teahouse, take some rest and refreshments and continue onwards to Everest Base Camp. We walk on the moraine crest and carefully make our way through rubble and loose stones.

The Everest Base Camp lies beneath the spectacular Khumbu Icefall. Colorful tents of expedition groups dot the grey and frozen landscape. Take photographs and spend some moments taking in the views before retracing your steps to Gorak Shep. Spending a night at Gorak Shep is crucial for acclimatization before you head onward to Island Peak for your big climb.

Overnight in Gorak Shep.

DAY 10 Hike to Kala Patthar (5,550m/18,2019ft) and trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

Kala PattharKala Patthar – Most popular viewpoint in Everest region

We wake up early and hike to the most popular viewpoint in Everest Region, Kala Patthar. While the summit of Mount Everest is not visible from Everest Base Camp, one can view the rocky summit of the world’s tallest mountain from Kala Patthar. 7,000 and 8,000-meter peaks surround the viewpoint. Enjoy a 360-degree view of Pumori, Nuptse, and Lhotse.

After taking pictures and soaking in the views, it’s back to Gorak Shep. Have some refreshments, carry your bags, and head onward to Lobuche.

Overnight in Lobuche.

DAY 11 Trek to Chukkung (4,730m/15,518ft) via Kongma La (5,535m/18,159ft) - 7 to 8 hours trek

ChhukkungChukkhung Village – Final equipment and gear check Point for Island Peak Climb

Leaving Lobuche, we cross the Khumbu Glacier and make an ascent up the Kongma La pass. Today we take a packed lunch with us as we pass across an isolated route with no teahouses. The walk is difficult as we make our way past a trail filled with rubble and moraine debris. We walk over boulders and scree and reach Kongma La. Cairns covered with colorful prayer flags mark the pass. The views of the 8 miles long Nuptse and Lhotse walls are stupendous, and we pause for a moment to take in the glorious sight before heading descending to the Imja Khola Valley. We walk past a frozen lake and arrive at the valley before making the final descent to Chukkung. Formerly a yak herder’s camp, Chukkung is now an important stop for climbers en route to Island Peak.

Apart from teahouses and lodges, there are gear and equipment rental outlets from where you can hire good quality stuff. There will be final and thorough equipment and gear check. Good quality climbing equipment and gear are available for hire, and you can rent any item you need. But please do note large sized climbing boots (size 12 and above) won’t be available.

Overnight in Chukkung.

DAY 12 Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,100m/16,728ft) and pre-Climb Training - 3 to 4 hours trek

Island Peak Base Campisland-peak-base-camp

Today’s walk brings us to Island Peak Base Camp. We inch closer to our destination. It is a steep climb, and we take the uphill path that winds below the southern flank of the Lhotse glacier. The trail snakes past a stream and a striking glacial valley. We walk across the stunning Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines before finally arriving at the Island Base Camp. Base camp is located on a grassy slope beside the Imja Glacier. By the time we arrive at the base camp, our crew has already set up camp, and we make our way to our tents.

Pre-climb training will begin right after lunch. We sort our gear for our climb, and the climbing guides will offer special tips on climbing techniques. You can use this session to brush up on your climbing skills. The guides will demonstrate the proper use of a harness, ascender, carabiner, rappel device, ice axe, etc. As part of the training session, you will have to climb up and descend using ropes. This pre-climb training is very important, especially for first-time climbers, as this will boost your confidence level. As the climbing sherpas assigned to your group are seasoned climbers with several years of experience, you will be receiving very valuable inputs from these experts. It’s like being coached by the best mountain climbing experts.

Overnight at tented camp.

DAY 13 Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Island Peak High Camp (5,500m/18,040ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek

This is another acclimatization day before ascending Island Peak. So, today will be a relatively easy day with a few hours of climbing to a high camp at 5,500 meters. Gradually you will climb steep uphill, and after reaching the top, you will make your way through a steep rocky path and reach the high camp of Island Peak. It is a small campsite with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. You’ll get enough time for a good rest and general preparation for tomorrow’s climb.

Overnight stay in Island Peak High Camp.

DAY 14 Summit Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft) and return to Chukkung - 8 to 9 hours trek/ climbing

Island Peak - Summit DayIsland Peak – Summit Day

Wake up at midnight and make an early start by 3 AM or earlier. It is important to start as the wind begins to pick up speed in the mountain as the day progresses. We have to make it to the summit before the wind gathers force and halt our ascent to the top. We carry a packed lunch and some energy bars and take the trail away from the High Camp.  From High Camp, it takes around 3 hours to reach Crampon Point. It is called Crampon Point as the route becomes icy, and we wear our crampons from this point. At around 5,700m, we begin to use man rope for safety. We follow a narrow ridge that leads to the base of the Imja glacier. From the glacier, we enjoy stunning sunlit views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Baruntse, Mera Peak, Chamlang, Cho Polu, Peak 38, and other Himalayan giants. Our guides will fix ropes, and we cross the glacier following the rope line.

The climbing is not too technical as the path tilts to an angle of about 45 to 50 degrees. Depending on the weather and season, there will be crevasses or no crevasses en route. If there are crevasses en route, we will be using ladders (longest 8 meters and shortest 2 meters) to cross them. The number of crevasses may vary as per the weather. We are welcomed by the massive frozen wall of Lhotse’s south face as we reach the summit ridge. The guides will fix the ropes at some sections for safety. We follow the snowy ridge and finally reach the summit of Island Peak.

From the summit, it becomes clear why the peak is so named. The peak stands alone like an island surrounded by jagged mountains and glaciers. This is a moment of triumph, and we capture this momentous occasion in our camera. Before we head down, we soak in the panoramic views of the highest mountains in the world for one last time. We take time to enjoy the magnificent views of Imja glacier and Lhotse before arriving at the base camp. Evening we celebrate our success with our teammates and crew.

Overnight in Chukkung.

DAY 15 Contingency Day for Summit

A spare day that can be used in bad weather or sickness foils your summit attempt on Day 14. This day can also be used as a contingency day in case of flight delays or cancellations. If everything goes as planned, you can use this spare day to explore a village en route on the trail. You can also walk at a leisurely pace on your return trek. If you would like, you can use this spare day to explore Kathmandu once you get back to the city.

DAY 16 Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft) - 7 to 8 hours trek

We have a long and arduous walk to Namche. But this tiring walk is filled with inspiring Himalayan views. We will find the trail covered with rare Himalayan wildflowers like the Himalayan Edelweiss, Black pea, and Spiny Mountain Poppy if we are lucky. A Himalayan Tahr or a Musk Deer may cross our path. We walk past Dingboche, Shomare, Tengboche and Sansa en route. As we walk through pine and juniper forests, we are greeted with grand views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Everest, and other peaks. Once we get to Namche, we enjoy a hot shower and have our favorite meal.

Overnight in Namche.

DAY 17 Trek to Lukla (2,840m/9318ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

The final leg of your trek takes you from Namche to Lukla. Tread carefully as it is a steep descent. Once we reach Lukla, we head to a teahouse and rest our aching knees. As this is our last day in the mountains, we celebrate with our crew. There is local brew (chhyang) and Sherpa music to get us in the mood.

Overnight in Lukla

DAY 18 Fly to Kathmandu(1,400m/4,593ft) - 35 minutes flight

Lukla-AirportLukla Airport – Regarded as one of the world’s most extreme airport.

After your adventure, it is time to return. From Lukla, you will either fly to Manthali or Kathmandu, depending on the ongoing trekking season. If your trek is in March, April, May, September, October, or November, you’ll likely fly to Manthali, followed by a subsequent drive to Kathmandu. In December, January, February, June, July, or August, you will fly directly from Lukla to Kathmandu.

If you choose, you can bypass the Lukla-Manthali-Kathmandu route. For this, you can collaborate with four other individuals to book a helicopter, incurring an additional charge of approximately 550 USD per person.

If everything goes according to the schedule, you will return to Kathmandu on this day. We hope your journey back to Kathmandu will be relaxing, with no more trails to trek and no peaks to climb. You will probably be looking back at your journey, recreating the unforgettable memories you formed. Your trek package ends at Kathmandu.

  • Included standard meal (Breakfast)

DAY 19 Final Departure from Kathmandu

Today is your last day in Nepal. Bid goodbye to the friends you have made. You will be driven to the airport at least three hours before your flight departs. If you want to explore Nepal or extend your trip and visit other Himalayan destinations, please let us know.

Price Includes


  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu) cost and airport taxes
  • All standard meals (16 Lunches, 15 Dinners, and 16 Breakfasts) during the trek/climb.
  • Total 15 nights. Five nights twin sharing room with private attached bathroom at Lukla, Namche (3N), and Phakding. Eight nights twin sharing accommodation at Tengboche (2N), Dingboche, Chhukung (3N), Lobuche, and Gorakshep. 2 nights accommodation at camp/tent in the Island Peak Base Camp (twin sharing)
  • Group gears and supplies (ropes, ice screws, snow bars)
  • All camping equipment (kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chair, and kitchen utensils)
  • Government Licensed Friendship World Trek experienced trekking/climbing leader, cook, and porters to help trekkers luggage. (2 trekkers will share a porter) Max load 18 kg per porter.
  • Guide and porters’ costs, their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flight, and other necessary equipment.
  • Permits for Island Peak (6189m)
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit fee & Khumbu Pashang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees
  • Garbage deposit
  • Medical kits
  • The arrangement of sleeping bags and down jackets, if needed
  • All government and local taxes
  • Rescue operation arrangements in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance).
  • Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
  • Souvenir – a company’s T-shirt & a cap
  • Friendship World trek/climb appreciation certificate after the successful trek
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the end of the trek.

Price Excludes


  • International flight airfare
  • Nepal visa fees. 50 USD for 30 days.
  • Excess baggage charges (limit is 9kg per person)
  • All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek.
  • Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot (tea/coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc
  • Personal clothing and climbing gear
  • Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude heli- rescue and evacuation compulsory
  • Tips for guide and porters
  • Additional costs due to delays or consequences of delays caused by circumstances beyond our control, including landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc
  • All the costs and expenses not listed in “What is included in the package?” will be counted as excludes
Print Trip Details