Island Peak Climbing - 18 Days

On Day 02, we will take an early morning scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2840 m, 25 minutes), during which you will enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Upon arrival in Lukla, we will meet up with the trekking team and begin the trek to Phakding (2610 m, 3–4 hours). The trail goes along the Dudh Koshi River and through beautiful Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, and lush forests. This gentle trek allows you to acclimatize gradually while experiencing local culture and scenery.

Upon reaching Phakding, settle into a teahouse lodge, rest, and enjoy a warm lunch and dinner. The evening provides time to relax, socialize with fellow trekkers, and prepare for the ascent to Namche Bazar the following day.

Today's trek takes us from Phakding (2610 m) to Namche Bazar (3440 m, 6–7 hours), the bustling Sherpa capital of the Khumbu region. The trail gradually ascends along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through pine and rhododendron forests.

With small villages, mani walls, and prayer flags along the trail, you'll get your first real taste of Sherpa culture. The last climb to Namche Bazar is moderately steep, but it rewards you with stunning views of Thamserku, Kongde Ri, and the Everest massif.

Upon arrival, we check into the teahouse lodge, enjoy lunch and dinner, and spend the evening exploring the vibrant local market, preparing for acclimatization activities the following day.

On Day 04, you will spend an acclimatization day at Namche Bazar (3440 m)to help your body adjust to the altitude. The day begins with a hike to the Everest View Point (3880 m), offering stunning panoramic vistas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

After descending, we visit Khumjung village, a traditional Sherpa settlement famous for its old monasteries and the famous Yeti scalp at the local monastery. We'll also go to the Everest National Park Museum to learn about the area's unique plants, animals, and Sherpa culture.

This day is meant to help you get used to the higher altitudes while also giving you cultural and scenic experiences. This will help you get ready for the higher-altitude trekking days that are coming up. Meals are served in the teahouses, and you spend the night in Namche Bazar, enjoying the local hospitality.

Today’s trek takes us from Namche Bazar (3440 m) to Tengboche (3865 m), which takes approximately 5–6 hours. The trail gradually ascends through rhododendron forests, pine woods, and traditional Sherpa villages, offering you scenic views of the Dudh Koshi River below. Along the way, we pass through Khunde and Khumjung villages, with opportunities to observe Sherpa life and visit local monasteries.

The highlight of the day is reaching Tengboche Monastery,which is one of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in the Khumbu region. It is set against the beautiful mountains of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest. This part of the trek is moderately hard, with well-marked trails and parts that are paved with stones.

We will stay overnight in a teahouse in Tengboche, enjoying meals and local hospitality, while soaking in the serene Himalayan atmosphere.

On Day 06, the trek continues from Tengboche (3865 m) to Dingboche (4410 m), taking approximately 5–6 hours. The trail gradually ascends through open valleys and alpine landscapes, offering spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Taboche, and Cholatse peaks. Along the way, we pass small Sherpa settlements and mani walls, witnessing local culture and traditional stone architecture.

The hike is moderately challenging, with some uphill parts that help you get used to the higher altitude. When we get to Dingboche, a beautiful village with terraced fields and rough mountains, we will settle into a teahouse. there

The evening provides time to rest and enjoy the tranquil Himalayan environment, preparing for further high-altitude trekking. Meals are served at the lodge, typically including Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, and local dishes, ensuring adequate energy for the next day.

Today is another day for acclimatization, a day which is essential to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. During this day, we will also hike to Nagarjun Danda (5300 m), a moderately challenging trek of approximately 5–6 hours round trip. The trail ascends through alpine meadows, rocky terrain, and offers breathtaking views of Island Peak, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Makalu. This hike helps you get used to being at a higher altitude and also gives you the perfect chance to take amazing beautiful pictures and enjoy the mountains.

Upon returning to Dingboche, we relax in the teahouse, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the next day’s trek. Meals typically include Dal Bhat, soups, noodles, and local dishes, providing energy and nutrition for high-altitude trekking. The evening is spent resting while enjoying the peaceful Himalayan surroundings.

On Day 08, we will trek to Chukung Valley (4730 m), a relatively short and moderate hike of about 2–3 hours from Dingboche. The valley is scenic, with glacial moraine landscapes, yak pastures, and spectacular views of Island Peak, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

After lunch, we will undertake a more challenging hike to Chukung Ri (5530 m), which will take about 4–5 hours round trip. The climb gives you a 360-degree view of the Himalayas, including Makalu and Nuptse. It's also a great chance to take out your camera and take pictures and get used to the altitude.

After descending back to Chukung Valley, we will stay at a local teahouse, enjoying nourishing meals such as Dal Bhat, soups, and local dishes, and rest to prepare for the Island Peak ascent. This day combines altitude training, scenic trekking, and stunning mountain vistas in a single experience.

On Day 09, we will trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5080 m), a moderate-to-challenging hike of approximately 5–6 hours from Chukung Valley. The trail passes through rugged terrain, glacial moraines, and high-altitude landscapes, offering breathtaking views of Island Peak, Lhotse, and Ama Dablamalong the way.

Upon arrival at Base Camp, we will settle into the teahouse accommodations and receive a detailed climbing briefing and instruction from the professional climbing guide. This session will teach you the basics of using ice axes and crampons, how to use ropes, and how to stay safe on the way up to the top.

Spending the night at Base Camp helps with acclimatization and prepares you physically and mentally for the challenging ascent to Island Peak. Meals provided will include hearty Dal Bhat, soups, and energy-rich snacks to fuel the climb.

On Day 10, we will undertake the summit attempt of Island Peak (6189 m), an exciting and challenging high-altitude climb. Starting in the early morning, we will ascend using technical mountaineering skills, including crampon and ice-axe techniques, guided by experienced climbing instructors. The climb offers spectacular panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam, making the effort highly rewarding.

After reaching the summit, you can take time to enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan vistas and capture memorable photographs. Following the summit, we will descend carefully back to Island Peak Base Camp (5080 m), where you can rest and recover.

The entire day involves 8–9 hours of strenuous activity, requiring good physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and adherence to safety protocols. Meals at Base Camp will include nutritious breakfast, lunch, and dinner to replenish energy.

Today is a day reserved as a spare day to accommodate any delays or challenges due to adverse weather conditions. This day ensures that climbers have a safe window to attempt the Island Peak summit if the weather on the planned day was unsuitable.

You can use this day to relax, get used to the new environment, or practice climbing skills with the help of your instructors. The base camp provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

This flexible day adds safety and contingency planning to the expedition, allowing you to adjust their schedule without rushing and ensures a higher chance of a successful summit under safer conditions. It also gives time to enjoy the surrounding Himalayan landscapes and connect with fellow climbers.

After the challenging summit attempt, we will descend from Island Peak Base Camp (5080 m) to Debuche (3820 m), a trek of approximately 5–6 hours. This descent gives your body time to recover from the high-altitude exertion while enjoying the scenic Himalayan landscape, including views of Ama Dablam and other nearby peaks. We will walk through glacial moraines, yak pastures, and small Sherpa villages along the trail. These will give you a glimpse into how people live there.

Upon arrival in Debuche, you will check into a teahouse or lodge for a comfortable stay. Meals for the day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are provided. The day is designed for gradual descent, helping your body adjust after the strenuous summit and providing an opportunity to relax and reflect on the climbing experience.

On day 13, we will trek from Debuche (3820 m) down to Monjo (2800 m), a journey of approximately 5–6 hours. The trail gradually descends through the Sagarmatha National Park, passing through forests, suspension bridges, and traditional Sherpa villages, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil Himalayan scenery after the intensity of the climb. Along the way, we may spot local wildlife such as Himalayan birds and grazing yaks, and interact with villagers to learn about their daily life and culture.

Upon arrival in Monjo, we will settle into a comfortable teahouse for the overnight stay. Meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are provided. This descent also helps your body adjust to lower altitudes, offering a restful and scenic conclusion to the high-altitude portion of your Island Peak expedition.

On day 14, we will trek from Monjo (2800 m) to Lukla (2840 m), which typically takes 5–6 hours. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through picturesque forests, traditional Sherpa villages, and several suspension bridges. This last part of the trek lets you relax and think about your Island Peak climbing adventure one last time while taking in the stunning Himalayan scenery.

Upon arrival in Lukla, you can celebrate the completion of your difficult but rewarding trek and spend the night in a comfortable teahouse. The evening provides an opportunity for you to rest, socialize with your fellow trekkers, and prepare for the flight back to Kathmandu the following day, concluding your high-altitude Island peak climbing adventure safely and comfortably.

Today, we will take a flight back from Lukla to Kathmandu, along the way you can once again enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel where you can spend a free afternoon resting, exploring, or shopping in Kathmandu’s lively markets and also visit souvenir shops. This is a great time to relax after the physically demanding trek and take in the city’s cultural atmosphere. The day’s arrangements include breakfast at the hotel, and the evening is at your leisure to prepare for your departure or continue exploring Kathmandu’s sights and local experiences.

Today is an exciting and memorable day as you will go on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tour includes visits to Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you can admire ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards; Swyambunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), sat atop a hill offering a breathtaking panoramic city views;

Pashupatinath Temple, which is one of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal is our next; and then visit Boudhanath Stupa, a center of Tibetan Buddhism with its massive dome and colorful prayer flags. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the history, culture, and religious significance of each site, making this an enriching experience for you to learn about the place's history and culture.

The day includes breakfast at the hotel, and you’ll have ample time for photography and leisurely exploration before returning to your accommodation in the evening.

Today’s itinerary features a guided sightseeing tour to two of the most culturally rich and historically significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites near Kathmandu: Bhaktapur Durbar Squareand Patan Durbar Square. In Bhaktapur, explore well-preserved medieval architecture, intricate wood carvings, ancient temples, and lively squares that showcase traditional Newari culture.

In Patan which is also known as Lalitpur, admire exquisite pagoda-style temples, artistic courtyards, and the Patan Museum, which highlights Nepalese art and craftsmanship. The guide will provide detailed explanations of the history, architecture, and local traditions, offering deep cultural insights.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner, celebrating the end of your adventure with delicious local cuisine and memorable experiences. This day combines cultural exploration with a warm send-off from Nepal.

Today is the final day of your Island Peak Climbing adventure. After breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your onward flight. Your guide and driver will ensure a smooth and timely transfer, giving you time to reflect on the remarkable experiences, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and cultural encounters throughout your trek. This marks the conclusion of your Nepal adventure with us.

We hope you enjoyed this difficult but rewarding trek with various breathtaking sceneries to witness and made countless amazing memories that will last with you for a long time. And we also hope to see you again for your next adventure in Nepal with us Nepal Excursion.