Starts:

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

Arrival required by 16:00 (4:00 PM) on Day 1

Ends:

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

Departure at any time on Day 16

Transfers:

• We provide free airport transfers for all arrivals and departures, at any time—even if you plan to add extra nights before or after your trip. Just share your flight details with us in advance.
• To participate in the group briefing and welcome dinner on Day 1, please make sure to arrive in Kathmandu no later than 4:00 PM (16:00).
• On Day 2, you will travel from Kathmandu to Ramechhap (Manthali) by shared jeep, accompanied by your trekking guide.
• From Ramechhap, take a domestic flight to Lukla, the gateway to your Island Peak trek.
• After completing the trek, you will fly back from Lukla to Ramechhap, and then return to Kathmandu by shared jeep.
• All ground and domestic air transfers mentioned above are included in your package.
• Optional Upgrade: If you prefer a private jeep transfer or a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, please let us know at the time of booking. Additional charges apply.

What is the food like?

During your Island Peak expedition with Places Nepal Pvt. Ltd., you'll enjoy a combination of local flavors and high-altitude meals designed to keep you energized throughout the trek and climb. Here's a detailed breakdown of what's included:

Included Meals:

Breakfasts:

• Provided every day from Day 1 to Day 16.
• In Kathmandu: Enjoy a buffet breakfast at your hotel.
• On the trek: Choose from a local teahouse menu each evening for the next morning's breakfast.

Lunches:

• Day 10 (Island Peak Base Camp): A warm, energy-packed lunch is provided to fuel your preparation for the summit push.
• Day 11 (Summit Day): A packed lunch is included to keep you nourished during your long climb and descent.

Dinners:

• Day 1: Welcome dinner at a local Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu.
• Day 10: Pre-summit dinner at Island Peak Base Camp.
• Day 15: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate your achievement.

Meals Not Included:

• Lunch and Dinner during Trekking Days (except Days 10 & 11):
• These meals are not included, giving you the freedom to try various dishes at local teahouses and support the local economy.

Cuisine Highlights:

• Throughout your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to taste:
• Nepali staples like dal bhat, momos, and chapatis
• Tibetan-inspired meals such as thukpa and tsampa
• Indian dishes and continental options like pasta, pancakes, and fried rice
• Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available

What is the Accommodation like?

Your comfort is a top priority on this journey, from city hotels to mountain lodges and alpine tents. Here's what to expect:

In Kathmandu (3 Nights Total):

• Comfortable hotel located in the heart of Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist district.
• Twin-sharing en-suite rooms with A/C and Wi-Fi.
• Ideal for resting, exploring, and last-minute shopping.
• Room upgrades to private/single available upon request at booking (for Kathmandu only).

In Ramechhap or Kathmandu (Day 2):

Depending on flight schedules:

• Ramechhap Option: Simple guesthouse with basic shared twin rooms and private/shared bathrooms.
• Kathmandu Option: Extra night in your Kathmandu hotel (if Lukla flights operate from KTM).

On the Trek:

• Stay in traditional mountain teahouses/lodges along the trail.
• Rooms are basic but clean, usually twin-sharing, with communal dining areas.
• Rooms are not heated; a warm sleeping bag is essential.
• Shared toilets are common.
• Wi-Fi, hot showers, and device charging available for a small fee (bring your own adapter).

At Island Peak Base Camp (Day 10):

• Spend the night in expedition-style tents at an altitude of 5,087 meters (16,690 ft).
• All necessary gear like tents and sleeping mats is provided.
• A hot, hearty pre-summit dinner is served to help prepare for your midnight ascent.
• The summit push begins around 12:00 AM, so rest is essential this night.

How Difficult is Island Peak?

Island Peak (6,189 meters / 20,305 feet), also known as Imja Tse, is classified as a "Tough" trekking peak in Nepal. While it doesn't demand advanced mountaineering experience, it requires solid physical fitness, mental resilience, and basic climbing skills.

The journey involves several days of high-altitude trekking, ascending above 5,000 meters, which poses a significant challenge due to the reduced oxygen levels. Proper acclimatization is crucial to mitigate the risks of altitude sickness.

The summit push is particularly demanding, featuring glacier travel, crevasse crossings, and a steep 100-meter ice headwall with slopes ranging between 40 and 50 degrees. Climbers must be proficient in using crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes. These technical skills are typically covered during a mandatory training day at Chhukung

Weather conditions can be unpredictable, adding to the climb's complexity. Summit attempts usually commence around midnight, with the ascent and descent taking 10 to 14 hours.

Despite these challenges, Island Peak is an excellent choice for fit trekkers seeking to transition into alpine climbing. With comprehensive preparation, proper acclimatization, and guidance from experienced Sherpa climbers, many adventurers successfully reach the summit each year.

Weather on Island Peak & Best Time to Climb

Island Peak (Imja Tse) stands at 6,189 meters in Nepal’s Everest region, and the weather plays a critical role in the success and safety of any expedition. While the mountain can be attempted in multiple seasons, each comes with its own set of conditions. Understanding these weather patterns helps you choose the best time to climb Island Peak based on your goals, experience, and comfort with mountain climates.

Spring (March to May) – Ideal for Beginners and Photographers

Spring is one of the best seasons to climb Island Peak, offering clear skies, longer daylight hours, and relatively mild conditions. Daytime temperatures at lower elevations are comfortable (10°C to 15°C / 50°F to 59°F), while higher up at base camp, temperatures hover around freezing. Nights are cold but manageable. As rhododendrons bloom and the landscape bursts into color, the scenic beauty of the Khumbu region is at its peak. The stable weather and excellent visibility make this an ideal time for both summit attempts and stunning photography.

Autumn (September to November) – Best Overall Weather

Autumn is the most popular season for Island Peak expeditions, thanks to dry weather, crystal-clear skies, and consistent mountain conditions. The monsoon rains wash away dust and haze, revealing dramatic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Daytime temperatures are cool and pleasant, but nights at higher altitudes can drop well below freezing. With minimal rainfall and steady winds, this season offers some of the most reliable summit windows of the year.

Winter (December to February) – Quiet but Extremely Challenging

Winter climbs are possible, but only for well-prepared, experienced mountaineers. Expect freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy terrain. Base camp temperatures can fall below -20°C (-4°F), and the summit ridge may require advanced skills due to snow and wind. The advantage? Empty trails, solitude, and unmatched views—if you’re ready for the cold.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended

The monsoon season brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and low visibility. While the high Himalayas may receive snow instead of rain, the lower sections become muddy and prone to landslides. Flights to Lukla are frequently delayed or canceled due to weather. For this reason, Island Peak climbing is not recommended during the monsoon months.

Best Time to Climb Island Peak

The best time to climb Island Peak is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These windows offer the most stable weather, safe trail conditions, and breathtaking views. Whether you're a first-time climber looking for a guided Himalayan experience or a seasoned trekker seeking your first summit, these months provide the best balance of challenge, beauty, and safety.

How to Get Fit for Island Peak Climbing?

Climbing Island Peak (6,189m) is not just about altitude—it's a full-body endurance challenge that demands solid physical fitness, mental strength, and preparation. Whether you're an experienced trekker or an ambitious adventurer attempting your first Himalayan summit, a structured Island Peak fitness training plan is essential for a safe and successful expedition.

Build Cardiovascular Endurance

Island Peak involves long days of trekking (6–8 hours daily) at high altitudes. Start training at least 12–16 weeks before your climb:

• Cardio workouts 4–5 times a week: hiking, running, cycling, or swimming.
• Include hiking with a backpack to simulate trek conditions.
• Aim to build stamina for multi-day effort, not just short bursts of energy.

Strength Training for Climbing

You'll need strength—especially in your legs, core, and upper body—for glacier travel, scrambling on rock, and ascending fixed ropes:

• Legs: squats, lunges, step-ups, and stair climbing.
• Core: planks, mountain climbers, and Russian twists.
• Upper body: pull-ups, rows, push-ups—for ropework and ice axe handling.
• Train 2–3 times per week, alternating with cardio sessions.

Practice Hikes at Altitude (If Possible)

Nothing prepares you better than the real thing. If you have access to mountains or high-altitude trails, practice hiking on uneven terrain with a loaded backpack. If not, train on stairs, hills, or treadmills with elevation gain.

Flexibility & Recovery

Include stretching, yoga, or foam rolling in your weekly routine to stay flexible and prevent injury. Recovery is just as important as effort, especially during intense training weeks.

Mental Preparation

Summit day can last 10–14 hours, starting at midnight in freezing conditions. You’ll face altitude fatigue, cold, and technical sections using crampons, ropes, and ascenders. Train your mental toughness by pushing through difficult workouts, long hikes, and cold weather hikes if possible.

Learn Basic Mountaineering Skills

While you’ll receive training at Chhukung before the summit push, it helps to familiarize yourself with basic rope techniques, crampon walking, and ice axe usage in advance. Indoor climbing gyms, mountaineering courses, or alpine clubs can offer great practice.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a professional athlete to climb Island Peak—but you do need commitment, discipline, and the right training. Start early, stay consistent, and listen to your body. With strong preparation and guidance from experienced Sherpa climbers, Island Peak is an achievable first Himalayan summit for motivated adventurers.

Island Peak Climbing Equipment List

A successful and safe ascent of Island Peak requires proper gear suited for high-altitude trekking and alpine climbing. We've created a comprehensive equipment checklist, separating what’s provided, what you must bring, and what you can rent or buy in Kathmandu. This guide ensures you’re fully prepared for your Island Peak expedition with Places Nepal.

Provided by Places Nepal (Included in Your Package)

Sleeping Gear:

• Sleeping tent (twin-sharing at base camp)
• Insulated mattress

 (Optional: Bring your own inflatable sleeping pad or pillow for extra comfort.)

Climbing Gear:

• Ice axe
• Ascender and descender
• Climbing helmet
• Harness
• Carabiners (3 locking + 2 non-locking)
• Crampons
• Prusik rope
• Snow bar
• Tape sling

Note: Climbing boots are not included — bring your own or rent in Kathmandu.

 Optional: You may bring your personal harness, crampons, and carabiners for a better fit and comfort.

Personal Gear Checklist (You Must Bring)

Bags:

• 1 large duffel bag (70–80 liters, max 10–12 kg personal items) for porters (Places Nepal will provide this)
• 1 daypack (40–45 liters) with hip belt, rain cover, and ice axe loops

Note: Porters carry up to 20–24 kg including shared climbing equipment.

Clothing (Layering is Key):

Base Layers:

• Thermal underwear (top and bottom – merino wool recommended)
• Merino base tops (x2)

Mid Layers:

• Lightweight fleece or hoodie
• Trekking shirts/t-shirts
• Lightweight trekking pants or zip-offs

Outer Layers:

• Waterproof hardshell jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Waterproof trousers
• Four-season down jacket (rated to -20°C)

Additional Clothing:

• Fleece/hardshell trousers
• Insulated trousers
• Hiking shorts
• Underwear (sufficient pairs)
• Gaiters

Gloves:

• Liner gloves
• Windproof softshell gloves
• Insulated outer gloves/mittens

Sleeping:

• Four-season sleeping bag (comfort rated to -20°C)
• Sleeping bag liner

Optional: Inflatable pillow or personal foam pad

Footwear:

• Broken-in waterproof hiking boots (with ankle support)
• Climbing double boots (essential for summit day)
• Camp sandals or flip-flops
• Liner socks (x2), trekking socks (x3), warm mountaineering socks (x2)
• Microspikes (for added grip on icy trails)

Headwear:

• Warm wool hat/beanie
• Buff or neck gaiter
• Sun hat or cap
• Glacier glasses (UV protective)
• Ski goggles (for wind/snow on summit day)
• Headlamp (with spare batteries)
• Balaclava

Toiletries & Hygiene:

• Travel towel
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip balm (SPF 50+)
• Moisturizer & hand sanitizer
• Toothpaste, toothbrush, biodegradable soap/shampoo
• Toilet paper (in sealed plastic bag)
• Pee bottle (men) / Pee funnel (women)

Other Essentials:

• Water bottles (2 x 1 liter) or CamelBak
• Water purification tablets or system
• Power bank + charging cables
• Universal travel adapter
• Personal first-aid kit + altitude medication
• Sewing kit/repair tape/folding knife
• Thermal flask
• Adhesive toe/hand warmers
• Earplugs
• Passport photos (for permits)
• Light entertainment (book, Kindle, cards)
• 
  

Gear Rental & Shopping in Kathmandu

If you're missing anything, Kathmandu has many trekking stores offering gear rentals and purchases:

Rental Available:

• Climbing boots
• Sleeping bag
• Down jacket

Available for Purchase:

 Gloves, headlamps, trekking poles, water purification, etc.

(Quality varies—buy/rent from reliable shops recommended by Places Nepal.)

Important Tips:

• Minimize plastic waste: Avoid disposable plastics and help keep the Himalayas clean.
• Contact us early: Reach out at least one month before your trip if you have gear-related questions.
• Train with your gear: Break in your boots and test your backpack before departure.

Island Peak Climbing – 16 Days Overview

The Island Peak Climbing expedition is a thrilling 16-day Himalayan journey that combines high-altitude trekking, a non-technical yet demanding summit, and deep immersion into the Sherpa culture of the Everest region. Starting from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, the adventure begins with a welcome briefing and preparations before heading east to Ramechhap for an early morning flight to the legendary mountain airstrip of Lukla (2,840m). From Lukla, your trek follows the Dudh Koshi River through lush forests and traditional Sherpa settlements, gradually ascending towards higher altitudes.

The first major acclimatization stop is Namche Bazaar (3,440m), a vibrant mountain town perched on a hillside with panoramic views of Thamserku, Kongde, and glimpses of Everest. Here, you’ll spend an extra night to help your body adjust to the altitude. A short hike to the Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village offers stunning Himalayan scenery and cultural encounters. The trail then winds through the pine forests to Tengboche (3,860m), home to the region’s most famous monastery, framed by the dramatic backdrop of Ama Dablam and Everest.

As you ascend beyond Pangboche and into the open alpine terrain of Dingboche (4,410m), the landscape shifts to rockier paths and glacier valleys. Another acclimatization day here allows for exploration of Nagarjun Hill, rewarding you with views of Makalu, Lhotse, and the Imja Valley. The journey continues to the remote outpost of Chhukung (4,730m), where the mountains close in and the challenge intensifies. A high-altitude acclimatization hike to Chhukung Ri (5,546m) offers some of the best views of Island Peak itself, and prepares you physically and mentally for the days ahead.

The real mountaineering phase begins as you move to Island Peak Base Camp (5,087m), where you’ll spend a night under the stars in tents. A full climbing skills training session is conducted by our experienced Sherpa guides, covering the use of ice axes, harnesses, ascenders, crampons, and fixed ropes—skills essential for your summit push. On Day 11, summit day begins before midnight. The climb involves glacier travel, crevasse navigation, and a steep 100-meter ice headwall, before reaching the 6,189-meter (20,305 ft) summit of Island Peak. From the top, you’re rewarded with a stunning 360° panorama of the eastern Himalayas, including Lhotse, Nuptse, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu.

After your summit success, you’ll descend to Chhukung and retrace your journey through the same scenic route, returning to Lukla via Pangboche and Namche. A short mountain flight from Lukla brings you back to Kathmandu, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved farewell dinner and reflect on your incredible achievement.

What to Expect

Island Peak is considered a trekking peak, but make no mistake—it’s a physically and mentally demanding climb. Expect long trekking days at high altitude, with basic accommodations in mountain teahouses and a night in tents at Base Camp. Summit day is particularly tough, requiring a pre-dawn start and 10–14 hours of climbing and descent. Weather conditions can change quickly, and the final push includes crossing glacial terrain and using technical gear. However, no previous mountaineering experience is necessary, as our guides provide a full day of training in Chhukung. With proper preparation, strong fitness, and determination, Island Peak is achievable for adventurous trekkers looking to step into mountaineering.

Permits Required for Island Peak Climbing

Climbing Island Peak requires several official permits:

• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit – For entering the Everest region.
• Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit – A local entry permit introduced by the local government.
• Island Peak Climbing Permit – Issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), this special permit allows legal access to climb the peak.

All these permits are included in your package with Places Nepal, and our team will handle all the logistics so you can focus on the experience.

Why Choose Island Peak with Places Nepal

With Places Nepal, you're guided by experienced local Sherpa climbers who know the mountains intimately. Our well-crafted itinerary ensures proper acclimatization, technical training, and personal care throughout the journey. We provide high-quality logistics, a dedicated support team, and flexible customization options. Whether you’re an aspiring mountaineer or a seasoned trekker seeking your first summit, climbing Island Peak with us means adventure with safety, authenticity, and heart.