Overview

  • Duration: 20 Days
  • Diffculty: Strenuous 
  • Best Time: Sept - Dec, March - May
  • Max. Altitude: 6,189 m

Island Peak Climbing in Nepal

Island Peak Climbing, also known as Imja Tse, offers an exhilarating climbing experience beyond simply trekking in Nepal. The climb to Island peak is Nepal's most popular trekking peak. The Island peak with Everest base camp trek is suitable for all novice climbers and experienced trekkers. By Scaling this trekking peak, you will stand on the summit of a beautiful mountain at 6189 meters. Stand on top and cherish the same unforgettable sense of achievement as you would on the top of mt. Everest. Generally speaking, this expedition-style climb graded as Alpine PD+ is not technically challenging, but it can be physically demanding. Thus good physical fitness with a positive outdoor attitude is a must to have a safe and successful adventure. Typically this climbing adventure is the first step for most climbers to take part in before any summit attempt at giant peaks in the Himalayas.

Incredible success rate of 51 trekkers out of 62 scaled in 2016. Above 90 % summit success rate in the year of 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2022 on Island peak trip

Climb Island Peak with EBC Trek in Nepal

We take an exciting flight to Lukla to begin the Island peak with an Everest base camp (EBC) trek. First, we trek to Namche and Dinboche and spend two nights, respectively, planning to hike around to adjust to the thinner air as we go higher. On the way to EBC, we hike via the less trodden and upper route via Phortse village. Then, we walk to Everest base camp and Kalapathar for proper acclimatization on the island peak base camp at around 5000 meters. Finally, we summit the Island peak on day 14 from your arrival in Nepal, allowing enough time to adjust the less oxygen available at a higher elevation.

Climbing Training at the Base Camp

Climbing Clinic is a special training course designed to give required climbing skills and boost the confidence of all team members at the base camp of Island peak just before the summit push. Our experienced climbing guide will demonstrate the climbing gear and set us the fixed line for the actual climbing practice. We practice using different Climbing devices such as Zummar (ascending device), Figure of eight (descending device), safety ropes, ice axe, crampons, etc.

We will check the climbing boots with crampoons and practice walking around. If required, our climbing guide will demonstrate a few ladder-crossing techniques based on the current situation, as the climbing routes change often. A few rounds of practice give you more confidence and courage to test yourself at high altitude on the summit day.

Summit Day stands at 6189 m in the Himalayas.

Significantly the summit day starts very early in the morning with an exciting scramble along a rock ridge to a glacier. Furthermore, above the rocky hill is a steep snow headwall leading to the summit. Of course, this is a physically challenging but great day of achievement. Our permanent and highly experienced climbing guides fix NEW ropes. Thus ensure safe ascent with Jumar and harness for the strenuous and challenging section. The ultimate climb up a 60 - 70 degree faces about 150 meters to the summit ridge.

All personal and group climbing gear provided: La Sportiva climbing boot, Exped down mattress, sleeping bag, down jacket. Thus, no need to bring or invest in expensive gear just for one trip.

From the top of the Island peak, you can see a breathtaking panorama of the gigantic mountains of Nuptse, Lhotse, Lhotse central, and Lhotse Shar. This forms a semi-circle in the north. The stunning views of Makalu (8475 m), Baruntse (7129 m) in the east, and the famous expedition peak of Amadablam (6812 m) in the south.

Responsible Travel with Safety First

There is no doubt that Himalayan peaks have drawn adventurers, climbers, and cultural enthusiasts for many decades. We run all our trips with as reliable safety and comfort as possible at their highest standard, including the expedition climbs to Island peak. Most importantly, we ensure the medical trained and experienced guide leads your climbing trip. Besides, we carry the proper safety back up like Oxygen or a Portable Altitude Chamber. Furthermore, the comprehensive medical box deals with any problems that may arise on a trip. Proud to share with you that Mountain Monarch is a pioneering company with having responsible trekking policy. Dedicated 01 TREKKER:01 PORTER allows every trekker to have their own pace and flexibility on the trip. No doubt you feel proud that you have your porter, your porter carrying the lighter weight and walking next to you with a giant smile.

Gear and the best time to climb Island peak, Nepal

Besides the standard hiking gear such as a thermal layer, gloves, warm jacket, day pack, and hiking boot, etc. you need a set of climbing gear like climbing boots, helmet, ice axe, crampons, Jumar, a figure of eight, harness, carabiners, prusik loop, etc. along with climbing rope and tented gears. Mountain Monarch is a top ten company organizing peak climbing trips in Nepal. We provide all the personal and group climbing gear making your trip to the Island peak hassle-free and cost-effective simultaneously. March, April, May, October, and November are the best time to climb this Island peak with the EBC trek in Nepal. Winder climbing in December can be customized as it offers a clear sky though colder at night.

Island Peak Climbing Difficulty, Preparation, and How to Climb

Climbing the Island peak at 6189 meters is physically challenging, and some technical climbing with crossing the crevasse at some places. Due to the elevation gain on climbing, the oxygen level in the air becomes less; thus, proper acclimation is a must before the summit push. The headwall incline push, walking around the bolder, and crevasses crossing are the significant challenges on the way to the summit. Therefore, two to Three months of trek preparation is suggested before you arrive in Nepal. Besides that, mental preparation and positive thinking are equally essential on such an adventure trip. Thus, a fit person with good physical fitness and earlier outdoor adventure experience can join. These trekking peak climbing require a special climbing permit, and only Nepal-based registered trekking companies can get the climbing permit for you; thus, you need to choose the best and most trusted company to climb it.

Climbing Duration and Tented Camping

We have separated four days for the climbing of Island peak from the base camp at 4900 meters, where we stay at the tented camp. We have experience cooks to prepare plentiful hygienic food to surprise you with various camping meals. Rest of the days, while trekking, we stay at the local teahouse comparatively warmer and cozy. In addition, we have set up the climbing clinic, a specially designed climbing training day just before the summit push. The summit day typically starts early in the morning, taking around 10 hours to complete. We have our climbing guides there to support you on your big day.

Booking is open for the Spring and Autumn of 2023 and 2024

We have regularly organized the island peak climbing for the last two decades. Mountain Monarch is one of the top and award-winning climbing companies to organize trekking peak climbing in Nepal. We have many sets of fixed and guaranteed departure dates for this Island peak expedition trip in the Spring and Autumn seasons of 2023 - 2024. Indiviauland trekkers and groups of friends are welcome to join any of these fixed departure dates at the best and your suitable time of March, April, May, September, October, or November in 2023 and 2024. If you wish to have a private group departure date and itinerary, let us know we will customize it to the best of your interest to climb the Island peak safely and successfully.

Trip in Nutshell

  • Popular trekking peak climbing for the Himalayan summit thrill lifetime experience
  • Best combo of trekking to climbing experience in the Himalayas
  • Exceptional summit success rate with a most experienced climbing guide who climbed it more than 200 times
  • Travel with the Top 10 climbing operators in Nepal (4th in 2019)
  • Safety backup with supplementary Oxygen Cylinder and medical kits
  • All personal and group climbing gear provided
  • Climbing training at Imjatse base camp
  • Fixed departure guaranteed group joining dates
  • All full board meals with tea, coffee, and drinking water on the trip
  • Responsible travel policy 1 Trekker:1 Porter
  • Environment-friendly tented camp base camp with Solar power
  • Hassle-free all-inclusive adventure

Trip map

Island Peak Climbing map

Itinerary

  • Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel, free to relax and get over your jet leg.
  • Initial arrival information.
  • Welcome Dinner with a Nepali ethnic and cultural program.
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsWelcome Dinner
  • Altitude1340 m

  • Half-day sightseeing tour of world heritage sites Pashupatinath and Boudhanath.
  • The trek leader will organize a briefing and pack distribution in the afternoon.
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude1340 m

  • Morning scenic mountain flight to Lukla – 40 minutes flight.
  • Rearrange the trek Duffle bags before loading up by porters to proceed to Phakding (2,650 m), a leisurely afternoon’s picturesque walk.
  • Walk to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the main trading center for the Khumbu region. Cross 5 times suspension bridge over Dudhkoshi River.
  • We enter Everest National Park, the magnificent mountain views first sight of Mt. Everest.
  • AccommodationTeahouse
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude3440 m

Acclimatization day – short hike to Everest view hotel or nearby viewpoint follow-up the rule of Altitude goes high ,sleep low. In the afternoon can explore the museum, which exhibits the history and culture of the Everest region and the flora, fauna

  • AccommodationTea house
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude3440 m

  • Initial walking would be moderate through terraces and climb to Mongla after Mongla downhill until across the river. We ultimately see a beautiful village set in Phortse above the tree line.
  • AccommodationTea house
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude3810 m

  • The morning we traverse high pasture lands above the river and stop for lunch at Pangboche after lunch continues for the rest of the day up the glacial valley until it reaches Dingboche.
  • The second important acclimatization day is taking a hike above the village after breakfast; it’s essential to judge oneself coping with altitude properly or not.

 

  • AccommodationTea house
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude4410 M

  • On the way to Lobuche, we sight the great memorials of late Everest summiteers and the terminal moraine of the great Khumbu Glacier on the Thukla pass.
  • AccommodationTea house
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude4910 M

  • One of the most challenging and exciting days for all trekkers. Everyone’s dreams come true visiting Everest Base Camp at 5,380m; the Khumbu Icefall from Base Camp is spectacular. Finally, we returned down to Gorakshep for the night.
  • Kala Pathar, a realistic view tower at 5545m, tries to get on top before sunrise and watch the awe-inspiring sunrise on Everest and its dominants. Then, we make a quick descent to Gorakshep and pack up. After breakfast, we head down to Dingboche for an overnight stay.
  • AccommodationTea house
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude5140 m

  • The glacial river and open arid valley to the Island peak Base camp and pass on the way to the last settlement, Chhukung village, and finally reach Base camp near the south slopes of the Island Peak.
  • Our company chef prepares food for all while you are in base camp.
  • Climbing clinic – The climbing guide displays all the required climbing equipment, briefs you about the technical part, and demonstrates it properly. All the climbing members should obtain a basic knowledge of climbing gears to cope with the difficult situations on submit day. The climbing guide is always eager to assist you unless and until you are confident in using climbing gear.
  • AccommodationTented Camping
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude4970 m

  • Start walking with the help of a flashlight; the track leads northeast beyond the base camp, a few hundred meters rugged flat path before a steep climb of the hillside.
  • We climb the mountain ridge and come into the exposed area next to the summit glacier. We rope up all members to traverse the icy glacier and cross several crevasses. Ultimately reach the bottom of the south summit ridge and use a fixed rope and Jumar onwards, climbing a 45-degree ice slope and sharp summit ridge to the top. After enjoying summit views, we descend to base camp for a night's stay.
  • Spare day – It is essential to keep an extra day in case of bad weather or any problem that occurs before the summit day there will be at least an option to attempt to reach the top. This is an optional day in case of not used in an appropriate manner can use the exploration of the area or relax on the way down.
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude4970 m

  • Pangbuche, we retrace down Imja Valley and pass the tea houses of Chukhung and Dingboche. Rejoins with the main Everest BC trail after crossing the River.
  • Trek to Namche Bazaar, we explore the most famous Thyangbuche Monastery, drop down to the bottom of Dudhkoshi river, and hit the uphill of Kyenjuma village. Finally, the trail becomes level almost to Namche.
  • Namche to Lukla, beautiful mountain views and fresh green valley add energy to continue as far as to reach Lukla. It is our last night in the mountain and celebration night with the crew to keep all memories alive.
  • AccommodationTea house
  • MealsB, L, D, Tea, Coffee
  • Altitude2860 m

  • Fly back to Kathmandu spare time to buy some souvenirs before the flight back home
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude1340 m

  • The trip concludes with customizing Airport transfer/hope to see you on the next climbing trip to the Himalayas.
  • MealsBreakfast

Island Peak Itinerary:

Here is the detailed day-to-day guideline itinerary of Island peak with Everest base camp trek in Nepal Himalayas with elevation, walking hours, major highlights, and activities.

What's Included
  • Customize arrival and departure transfers on both domestic and international flights.
  • Standard Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin share bed-and-breakfast basis per the itinerary.
  • Nepali welcome dinner with the cultural show on arrival in Kathmandu
  • Half-day guided city tour with world heritage entrance fees as in the itinerary.
  • Full board meals while trekking (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner) for the entire Island peak climbing.
  • Freshly cooked Full board meals prepared by our cook while on Island peak expedition.
  • Properly boiled drinking water, tea, and coffee while on the trek.
  • Accommodation in a tea house or lodge while on the Island peak Everest base camp trek.
  • Accommodation in a Tented camp while on the island peak climbing.
  • Responsible trekking in the Himalayas with One trekker: One porter ratio policy.
  • Professional local experienced Trek Leader well trained in Wilderness First Aid with his support crew.
  • Well-experienced Climbing guide with all his allowance and expenses.
  • Trekking cook and other support staff while on tented camping on Island peak climbing duration
  • Porters to carry all personal gear and group equipment with proper insurance and required gear.
  • Supplementary Oxygen cylinder regulator or Gamow Bag (A life-saving device in case of Acute Mountain Sickness) along with the comprehensive First Aid Kit.
  • All required Personal and Group Climbing gear: LA SPORTIVA climbing boot, EXPED down-filled mattress, Black Diamond crampons, ice axe, Jumar, harness, the figure of eight, Carabiner, Climbing Helmet, rope, etc.
  • We provide all camping gear, including - tents for members, dining tents with tables and backrest chairs, Kitchen tents with utensils, staff, porter, and toilet tents on the whole trip.
  • Mountain Monarch Trip Gears - sleeping bag, inner fleece liner, down jacket, rain poncho, etc., for use during the trip.
  •  Expeditions Permit Royalty of US$ 250 only per person and other government tax.
  • Climbing Clinic Course at base camp.
  • Complimentary Mountain Monarch T-shirts, Trek Duffle bag, and trip map
  • Climbing certificates issued from the respective body of the Nepal Government for the successful climbers
  • Trekking or VDC entry permit, Everest National park entry fees, etc
What's Excluded
  • Nepal entry Visa fees; travel insurance of any kind.
  • International Airfare to Kathmandu for the Island peak trip.
  • All Drinks and main meals in cities.
  • Tips and Items of personal expenses like the hot shower, battery charge, telephone, beverage drinks, mineral water, etc.

Dates & Availability

Island Peak Trip Dates:

Planning to join the climbing trip in the Himalayas, we have many fixed Island peak expedition trip departure dates and trip costs to join the group 2023 and 2024 in Nepal. An all-inclusive package including all the personal and group climbing gear, permit guides, Lukla flight, etc.

April Departure
     
Start DateStart DateApril 01, 2023End DateEnd DateApril 20, 2023StatusStatusGuaranteedPricePriceUS$2690
Start DateStart DateApril 08, 2023End DateEnd DateApril 27, 2023StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS$2690
Start DateStart DateApril 15, 2023End DateEnd DateMay 04, 2023StatusStatusGuaranteedPricePriceUS$2690
Start DateStart DateApril 22, 2023End DateEnd DateMay 11, 2023StatusStatusGuaranteedPricePriceUS$2690
Start DateStart DateApril 29, 2023End DateEnd DateMay 18, 2023StatusStatusGuaranteedPricePriceUS$2690
Book with flexibility
All-Inclusive CostUS$2690

This trip can be booked privately if you’re travelling solo or private.

Make an InquiryCheck Availability
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Customer Reviews

  • S
    Steve Pikula 5.0CanadaNovember 13, 2022logo

    Simply the best on many levels!

    The company you chose makes a HUGE difference, and I'm so glad I decided on Mountain Monarch for many reasons.1) One to One porter to client ratio: Many people don't realize that numerous guiding companies treat their porters inhumanely by loading them up with unreasonable loads, often over 50kg. As clients, we have a social responsibility and should not allow companies to allow these wonderful people's horrible treatment for a few dollars. Mountain Monarch takes this seriously and treats their staff as well as their clients, and it was VERY noticeable on my trip! Kudos to them!2) Communication Transparency: Pradip (the company owner) always responded quickly and clearly from the first inquiry to the after-trip debriefing. He truly cares about his clients and wants to make the experience positive and memorable. 3) Local: The last time I was in Nepal, I used a Western company and quickly learned that ALL Westerners subcontract the locals to do the work for them anyway. This time, after a lot of research, I chose the best local Nepalese company I could find to put more money into the local economy rather than into Westerners' pockets which would grind down the wages local Nepalis earn. Nepal is a developing country, and I believe every dollar matters. So glad I did this!!4) Quality guides: I can say, without a doubt, that our guides were amongst the best anywhere on the trail or the mountain. The day before my climb, a large group returned from their summit attempt, and I heard them angrily announce to one of their friends at base camp that they were lucky to be alive. Only one set of fixed ropes on the mountain and a big traffic jam created some hazardous situations on the headwall. My guide Nigma and I discussed the situation and my concerns after hearing about the debacle. He quickly told me not to worry because he was bringing more than 80 meters of rope with him and would fix anchors along the way so we could bypass potentially dangerous areas. On summit day, that plan made all the difference in the world and allowed me to sail safely past others jammed up on the lines. I was NEVER concerned for a moment and was thankful I chose the right company. Also, our guides always read their clients well, ensuring we are at the right pace to achieve our objectives. That helped me slow down when I needed to and never pushed me beyond my abilities, not to mention supporting me by taking my trekking poles through tricky sections. Unlike other guides I saw, he was always there for me when I needed him. My wife's guide, Roshan, was also excellent and super supportive. These guys were the best by far, and so grateful to have them there to improve our experience.5) Food & Cook: At base camp, I was fed very well with quality food in a dedicated dining tent that was for me alone. I'm a fussy eater, and it was not a problem for the cook. I had hot drinks of every variety available to me and could eat as much as I wanted. Excellent service with a caring and supportive smile every time! Here are some tips for your trip: 1) Make sure you spend a night at Tengboche. It is a must-stay location.2) Bypass Pangboche if you can. They have a big problem with their out-of-control dog population. They bark, yelp, and howl all night, making it impossible to sleep. I highly recommend Mountain Monarch, and I can't say enough about them. You are in good hands with these guys!

  • R
    Ryan Mohr 5.0United StatesJune 05, 2022logo

    EBC Trek and Island Peak - April and May 2022

    Wow, where to start? We had such a fantastic adventure, and Mountain Monarch made it all happen. We trekked to Everest Base Camp and paired with Island Peak. I climbed Island Peak while my wife stayed at the Island Peak base camp. Mountain Monarch was a great company, and we felt completely taken care of the whole way. As promised, they patiently waited at the airport when we arrived in Kathmandu and took us straight to the hotel, which was great and comfortable! We had a half-day tour of Kathmandu, and our tour guide Ram was amazing and super knowledgeable. Our flight to Lukla to start the trip was smooth, and they helped make everything easy. Along the trek, all of the accommodations were set up for us, and we didn't have to do a thing! The accommodations along the way were great. Our guide Netra provided so much peace of mind in keeping us healthy along the way and watching out for our health and wellbeing (like carrying oxygen the whole way)...such a wealth of knowledge around everything from first aid, knowledge of the region, etc, we felt lucky to have him. The assistant guides were also fantastic; we loved Santosh and LB, as they took great care of us. Our Porters were also fantastic, friendly, and timely. They always were one step ahead and getting our gear to the next stop. At Island Peak, the camping setup was plush, and the food was excellent. The climb was super cool, and my climbing guide was right there alongside me the whole time.

    All in all, it was a fantastic experience, and Mountain Monarch delivered everything it said. We felt so good about everything, especially compared to other trekking companies that didn't seem as put together. I would absolutely recommend Mountain Monarch to anybody, and I would absolutely use them again for future trips to Nepal!!! 5 stars all around!

  • Z
    Zoe Bazley 5.0AustraliaFebruary 02, 2020logo

    Two Thumbs Way Up!!!

    A huge thanks to Pradip and the Mountain Monarch Team for getting us to the top of Island Peak. Great team, fantastic service, thoroughly enjoyed the entire trip!

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