Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek – 17 Days

171 Reviews in TripAdvisor
57 Reviews in Google

The 17-day Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek combines the classic Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), Kala Patthar (5,545 m), and technical Island Peak Climbing (6,189 m) into one itinerary. The 17-day Island Peak summit is a challenging Himalayan adventure that includes acclimatization days in Namche and Pheriche. Trekkers will enjoy the breathtaking mountain views of the entire Everest region.

Island Peak's climbing difficulty level is graded as strenuous because the trail demands technical mountaineering skills to reach the summit. Trekkers who have completed the 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek without shortcuts or other moderate trekking destinations in Nepal can attempt the Island Peak summit. The real summit climb requires proper climbing tools and mountaineering skills to reach 6,189 m above sea level.

The Nature Lovers Treks and Tours team combined the two most popular Everest region trekking destinations in a single itinerary. The journey offers majestic views of the entire Khumbu Mountains from the Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and Island Peak summits (6,189 m) above sea level. Trekkers will walk a rewarding high-altitude route in Nepal, enjoying the majestic snow-capped mountain views, villages, religious sites, and rhododendron forests.
 

Duration
17 Days
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Country
Nepal
Max Altitude
6,189m / 20,305 ft. at Island Peak
Starts
Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla
Ends
Lukla to Kathmandu/Ramechhap
Group Size
Private/Shared group
Activities
Trekking & Climbing
Best Time
Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)

What is Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek—17 Days?

The Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek is a combined high-altitude adventure of Everest Base Camp and the Island Peak summit in a 17-day itinerary.

Overview of the Combined Trek and Climb

The journey is divided into two parts. The first part of the itinerary leads to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m). Trekkers will walk through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pheriche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar. The second half of the adventure requires mountaineering skills to reach Island Peak Base Camp (5,087 m) and Island Peak Summit (6,189 m) from Chhukung.

Key Takeaway: Namche and Pheriche are two acclimatization (rest) days in the first half, and the second half includes Island Peak Base Camp and Island Peak Summit.

Where is Island Peak located?

Island Peak is located in the upper Imja Valley of the Khumbu region in Sagarmatha National Park in the Solu-Khumbu district of Nepal. Island Peak is part of Mahalangur Himal, which holds Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Trekkers reach Chhukung on day 11, and it is also the starting point of Island Peak climbing. After a four-hour walk from Chhukung, trekkers will reach Island Peak Base Camp at 5,087 m above sea level.

Key Takeaway: Island Peak's climbing difficulty is graded as strenuous or technically challenging because trails are physically demanding and require mountaineering skills.

What is Island Peak also called?

Island Peak, also called Imja Tse, is the official name assigned by the government of Nepal in 1983. But even today, Island Peak climbing permits use both names. The Island Peak name came from British mountaineer Eric Shipton in 1953. The surrounding view from Dingboche looks like an island surrounded by a sea of ice, and the land still offers the same scenery, so it still holds the older name Island Peak.

Key Takeaway: Imja Tse, the local name for Island Peak, means the mountain of the Imja valley.

Why Combine Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Climbing?

Climberscan board a shared helicopter from Lukla to Chhukung and start their Island Peak summit (6,189 m), skipping the entire Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar trek. Acclimatization days are important in higher-altitude trekking destinations because the human body needs proper time to adjust to the new climate and harsh weather. Trekkers spending 10 days climbing to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m)minimize the risk of suffering from acute mountain sickness during the summit climb. 

Key Takeaway: Kala Patthar offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, Changtse, and Ama Dablam.

Who is this 17-day Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek best for?

Climbers who have already completed moderate and strenuous trekking trails in Nepal, including the Everest Base Camp 17-day Island Peak climb, are best suited for this trek. Trekkers need to walk 6 to 7 hours daily, ascending and descending on rocky trails of the Everest region. The morning summit climb (6,189 m) from Chhukung takes around 10 to 12 hours of pushing in a cold climate.

Key Takeaway: Lobuche to Gorakshep via Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) takes around 7 to 8 hours, and Chhukung to Island Peak Summit (6,189 m) takes around 10 to 12 hours.

Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek—17-Day Highlights

Climbers will explore Sherpa villages, monasteries, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and the Island Peak Summit in 17 days, offering majestic views of the snow-covered mountains of the Everest region.

These are the 17-day highlights of Island Peak climbing with the EBC trek:

  • Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m).
  • Sunrise view from Kala Patthar (5,545 m).
  • Summit Island Peak (6,189 m).
  • Lukla Airport (2,846 m).
  • Namche Bazaar (3,440 m).
  • Monasteries at Tengboche (3,867 m).
  • Sherpa Villages and Culture.
  • Mountaineering Training at Island Peak Base Camp (5,087 m).
  • High-altitude glacier and snow terrain.

Key Takeaway: Dawa Choling Gompa is the largest monastery located at Tengboche.

Trip Gallery

Climbing Island Peak Summit
Mount Ama Dablam
View From Island Peak Top
Snowy Island Peak Summit Trail
Price From
US$2399US$2499
  • No. of peoplePrice per person
  • 1 paxUS$2400
  • 2 - 5 paxUS$2299
  • 5 - 10 paxUS$2099
Book This Trip

Short Itinerary & Altitude

Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing - 17 Days

Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek – 17 Days Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport (1,400m) and transfer to Hotel

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representative meets you at the arrival gate and transfers you to your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring vibrant Thamel. Attend an evening trek briefing with your lead guide.

Day 2

Fly from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla (2,860m) and trek to Phakding (2,610m)

Board a scenic mountain flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, one of the most thrilling airports in the world. Begin trekking through rhododendron forests and descend along the Dudh Koshi River to the village of Phakding.

Day 3

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Follow the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, cross the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge, and enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend steeply through pine forests to reach Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital of the Khumbu region.

Day 4

Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar | Hike to Hotel Everest View (3,880m)

A dedicated acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar reduces your risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS). Hike up to the Everest View Hotel using the proven climb-high, sleep-low strategy. Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Thamserku before descending to Namche for the night.

Day 5

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)

Trek along scenic ridgelines with sweeping views of the Khumbu Himalaya. Descend to the river at Phungi Thenga and climb through dense rhododendron forests to Tengboche. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region, and watch the evening prayer ceremony.

Day 6

Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)

Cross the Imja Khola and pass through the traditional Sherpa village of Pangboche. The landscape gradually transforms as trees give way to hardy alpine shrubs. Continue into the wide Imja Valley and reach Dingboche, your gateway to the high Himalaya.

Day 7

Acclimatization day at Dingboche | Hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m)

Your second acclimatization stop in the Everest Base Camp trek itinerary. Hike to the top of Nangkartshang Peak for spectacular views of the south face of Lhotse, the imposing Ama Dablam, and the sweeping Imja Valley. Return to Dingboche for an overnight rest.

Day 8

Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940m) via Thukla Pass

Head north through the wide valley toward Thukla, then make a steep climb over the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. At the top of Thukla Pass, pause at the stone memorial chortens erected in honour of climbers who lost their lives on Everest. Continue across flatter terrain to the small settlement of Lobuche.

Day 9

Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,164m) and hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m)

Cross rocky glacial moraines to reach Gorakshep. Check in to your teahouse and take a quick lunch before the final push to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m above sea level. Stand where the world's greatest mountaineers prepare for their Everest summit bid. Take in the dramatic Khumbu Icefall before returning to Gorakshep for the night.

Day 10

Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m) and trek to Dingboche (4,410m)

Begin the pre-dawn ascent to Kala Patthar, the highest viewpoint on the Everest Base Camp trek route. Watch the golden sunrise wash over the summit of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse in one of the most iconic panoramic Himalayan views in the world. Descend to Gorakshep for breakfast and continue down to Dingboche.

Day 11

Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730m)

Descend to more oxygen-rich altitude before branching off the main Everest Base Camp trail toward Chhukung, the base village for Island Peak. Register your climbing permit, meet your certified Island Peak climbing guide, and attend a comprehensive safety and gear briefing.

Day 12

Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,087m)

Trek across glacial moraines to reach Island Peak Base Camp, situated in the spectacular Imja Valley at over 5,000 m. Set up your high-altitude camp, complete a final equipment check for crampons, harness, ice axe, and ascender, and rest fully for summit day.

Day 13

Summit Island Peak (6,189m) and descend to Chhukung

Alpine start between midnight and 1:00 am. Your certified climbing Sherpa guides you across the glacier and up the fixed-rope headwall to the summit of Island Peak (Imja Tse) at 6,189 m above sea level. Enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, and Ama Dablam. Descend to Chhukung and celebrate your summit achievement.

Day 14

Trek from Chhukung to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Retrace the Imja Valley trail through Pangboche and Tengboche as you descend to the warmer, forested altitudes of the Khumbu region. Arrive at Namche Bazaar and enjoy a well-deserved hot shower and celebratory dinner with your trekking team.

Day 15

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860m)

The final trekking day of your 17-day Everest Base Camp and Island Peak Climbing adventure in Nepal. Cross familiar suspension bridges, pass through ancient Sherpa villages, and complete the last ascent to Lukla.

Day 16

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu/Ramechhap and transfer to Hotel

Catch your early morning flight back to Kathmandu or Ramechhap. Transfer to your hotel in the Nepalese capital. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and reflect on a remarkable high-altitude Himalayan expedition.

Day 17

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for final departure

Your 17-day Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing package concludes today. Our representative arranges your private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Arrive at least three hours before boarding.

Still Confused?
No worries. Our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
Customize Trip

Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop in a private vehicle throughout the package.
  • Two nights in a premium hotel in Kathmandu on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu or Manthali to Lukla and return, with a 10 kg plus 5 kg baggage allowance.
  • Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park entry permit.
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality trekking permit.
  • Island Peak climbing permit issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association.
  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card.
  • 14 nights of accommodation in the best available teahouses and lodges on a twin or double sharing basis.
  • Two nights of accommodation at Island Peak Base Camp with high-altitude tents.
  • All meals during the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruit.
  • Professional, government-licensed, English-speaking lead trek guide.
  • Certified Island Peak climbing guide and dedicated high-altitude climbing Sherpa.
  • Porter service, shareable between two trekkers.
  • Salary, meals, accommodation, insurance, and transport for all guide and support staff.
  • Group technical climbing equipment including fixed ropes, ice screws, snow pickets, and communal safety gear.
  • First aid medical kit with pulse oximeter, carried by the guide throughout the trek and climb.
  • Complimentary Nature Lovers Treks and Tours T-shirt, duffel bag, and route map.
  • Complimentary farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Trek and summit completion certificate.
  • All applicable government taxes and service charges.

Excludes

  • International airfare and Nepal entry visa fee, payable on arrival at Kathmandu airport.
  • Meals and sightseeing costs during your time in Kathmandu.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation, medical expenses, and mountaineering activities above 6,000 m. This is mandatory.
  • Personal trekking and climbing gear including crampons, harness, and ice axe.
  • Personal expenses on the trail such as laundry, phone calls, battery charging, Wi-Fi, hot showers, hot or cold beverages, snacks, and souvenirs.
  • Tips for guides, Sherpas, and support staff, which are highly recommended by the Nepali trekking industry.
  • Any extra nights or accommodation not specified in the itinerary.
  • Helicopter evacuation or rescue costs, which should be covered by your travel insurance.

Essential Information

How Difficult Is Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek?

The 17-day Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek is strenuous because the trails demand long walking days and climbing skills.

Overall Island Peak Climbing With EBC Trek Difficulty Level

Trekkers require 6 to 7 hours of daily walking and mountaineering skills on uneven trails of the Khumbu region, so Island Peak climbing difficulty is graded as strenuous. Trekkers should have good fitness, and acclimatization can easily complete the first half of the adventure. The second half, starting from Chhukung and going to the Island Peak summit, requires climbing skills, proper gear, equipment, and movement skills.

Trekking Difficulty vs Climbing Difficulty

The 17-day Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek is divided into two sections. In the first part, trekkers will reach Kala Patthar (5,545 m), the highest point of the Everest Base Camp trek. The journey includes two acclimatization days at Namche and Pheriche before ascending to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

The second part starts from Chhukung to Island Peak Summit, 6,189 m above sea level. Climbers must follow their guide's instructions and need an ice climbing experience certificate for this journey. Climbers will cross 5,500 m, increasing the risk of suffering from acute mountain sickness, and the trail is technically demanding.

High-Altitude Challenges

The human body needs a proper supply of oxygen to function properly, and on this 17-day journey, trekkers will reach Island Peak summit at 6,189 m above sea level. After crossing 3,000 m, you will notice symptoms of altitude sickness, such as breathing difficulty, fatigue, cold, and headache. So at high-altitude trekking destinations, proper acclimatization days and slow ascent are important for safety and comfort.

Long Trekking Days

Normally, trekkers will walk around 6 to 7 hours daily for the entire journey. But on day 9, the trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep through Everest Base Camp is the most physically demanding day of the first half of the itinerary. Trekkers will walk around 7 to 8 hours to reach Gorak Shep. Then, the summit attempt takes around 10 to 12 hours of technical climbing.

Is Island Peak Suitable for First-Time Climbers?

Yes, with the proper travel guide, itinerary, preparation, and acclimatization, Island Peak is suitable for first-time climbers. Every year, hundreds of trekkers attempt the Island Peak summit during spring and autumn with proper guiding, equipment, and gear. Many trekkers also believe that the Island Peak summit is the starting point of a Himalayan mountaineering journey.

Key Takeaway: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the two best seasons for Island Peak climbing with EBC Trek.

Permits Required for Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek

Trekkers need the Island Peak Climbing Permit, the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and the Khumbu Local Permit to complete the Island Peak summit.

Island Peak Climbing Permit

The Island Peak Climbing Permit is issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), located in Kathmandu. The NMA manages more than 20 to 30 high-altitude trekking peaks located in Nepal. Climbers must apply for the permit through a government-registered agency and cannot obtain it independently or at different checkpoints. 

Island Peak Climbing Permit Cost

The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) changed the fee structure for Island Peak Climbing permits depending on the season.

  • Spring (March-May): USD 250-350 per person.
  • Autumn (September-November): USD 175-200 per person.
  • Winter (December-February): USD 175-200 per person.
  • Summer/Monsoon (June-August): USD 175-200 per person.

Key Takeaway: Some websites still show the older fee structure for Island Peak Climbing, so ask your trekking agency team for the current permit cost.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Island Peak is located inside the Sagarmatha National Park, so climbers must have a national park entry permit to start their climbing adventure. Climbers can apply for this permit from the Nepal Tourism Board office located in Kathmandu or at the Monjo checkpoint. The money collected from permits helps in development projects in the Everest region and trail maintenance.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit Cost

The cost for the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit is

  • Foreign citizens: NPR 3,000 per person.
  • SAARC nations: NPR 1,500 per person.
  • Nepali citizens: NPR 100 per person.

Khumbu Local Permit

Climbers can obtain the Khumbu Local Permit, also known as the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, directly at Lukla or Monjo before the Sagarmatha National Park entry gate. The funds are later used for infrastructure development, trails, and bridge maintenance in Khumbu villages.

Khumbu Local Permit Cost

  • Foreign citizens: NPR 2,000 per person.
  • SAARC nations: NPR 2,000 per person.
  • Nepali citizens: NPR 2,000 per person.

Key Takeaway: Trekkers must have a valid Nepal visa and passport to apply for the Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek permits.

Who Arranges the Permits?

All the permits for Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek are managed by your trekking agency and your travel guide. Climbers cannot apply for the permit independently from the Nepal Mountaineering Association. From 2023, climbers and trekkers must travel with a licensed guide for their safety and comfort.

Best Time for Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best times for starting your Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek. Trekkers can enjoy the warm temperatures, comfortable weather, and blooming forests, perfect for long walking days.

Island Peak Climbing in Spring (March-May)

Spring (March-May) is the best season for Island Peak climbing combined with the Everest Base Camp trek. The season brings warm temperatures, stable weather, clear skies, and rhododendron forests, perfect for high-altitude trekking. The trail conditions are good, and stable weather makes navigation easier.

Island Peak Climbing in Autumn (September-November)

Autumn (September-November) is the most crowded season for Khumbu/Everest region trekking in Nepal. After the heavy monsoon rainfall, it brings the clearest skies, best for mountains photography. Autumn brings comfortable weather and warm temperatures, and many famous festivals in Nepal are celebrated in this season, perfect for the Island Peak summit push.

Island Peak Climbing in Winter (December-February)

A winter (December-February) summit push is possible but risky for both beginners and professional climbers. In winter, temperatures drop below -20°C, and unstable weather makes navigation difficult for the summit push. Climbers can expect unannounced avalanches and snowy trails, which are extremely dangerous in high-altitude climbing.

Island Peak Climbing in Monsoon (June-August)

Monsoon (June-August) is the worst season for Island Peak climbing with the EBC Trek. The heavy rainfall at lower altitudes, snowy trails, unpredictable weather, and poor visibility make the entire summit push impossible. The Lukla flights are delayed for days, weeks, and even months because of unstable weather and heavy rainfall.

What are the best months for the Island Peak Summit Push?

Late April to mid-May and October to early November are the best months for the Island Peak summit push combined with the Everest Base Camp Trek. The stable weather, dry trails, clear skies, and warm temperatures are perfect for high-altitude trekking and summit climbing.

Key Takeaway: June to August are the worst months for the Island Peak Summit Push with the EBC Trek.

Final thoughts on 16 Days Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek

The 16-day Island PeakClimbing with EBC Trek is strenuous because the itinerary combines the summit push with the Everest Base Camp trek. The trails are physically and technically demanding, with long walking days on rocky trails of the Everest region. But Island Peak Climbing is the perfect journey for beginner climbers searching for a high-altitude adventure. The trails reward climbers with mesmerizing mountain views of the entire Khumbu/Everest region. What are you waiting for? Contact our Nature Lovers Treks and Tours team, and let us handle all the logistics so you can focus on making unforgettable memories with your friends and family.

You May Also Like

Most popular trekking destination in Nepal
Everest Base Camp Trek
5.0(4 Reviews)

Everest Base Camp Trek - 14 Days

From
US$1299
US$1450
Explore
EBC trek with Heli return from Gorak Shep
Everest-Base-Camp-trail

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return - 12 Days

From
US$2000
US$2400
Explore
Luxury EBC Trek
Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek - 11 Days

Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek - 11 Days

From
US$2999
US$3599
Explore
Need Help? Call Us+977 9851254172