Island Peak Climbing - 20 Days

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Island Peak Climbing - 20 days in Khumbu region is an exciting adventure with the combination of trekking in the beautiful Everest region along with the chance to climb a stunning Himalayan peak. Island Peak having an altitude of 6160 meters is perfect for those who want to experience real mountaineering for the first time. The journey to Island Peak (Imja Tse) is beyond a simple trek - its a transformative adventure which merges the excitement of mountaineering with the himalayan beauty. Whether you're new to climbing or a seasoned trekker, this expedition strikes the ideal balance between challenge and fulfillment.

Island Peak Climbing in Nepal of 20 days includes walking on glaciers and using ropes, but with basic training and good fitness, it’s achievable for most trekkers. The journey to Nepal Island Peak Climbing and expedition takes you through famous Sherpa villages like Namche and Tengboche, with amazing views of Everst Range: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu along the way.

Highlights of 20 Days Island Peak Climbing in Nepal

  • Summit to Island Peak (6160 m) with breathtaking views of Everest Range.
  • Panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and more at every turn.
  • Thrilling and scenic flight from Kathmnadu - Lukla - Kathmandu
  • Explore the most famous Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Chola Pass along with peak climbing
  • Warm hospitality and colorful prayer flags in Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Pangboche.
  • Peaceful stops at Tengboche Monastery and Pangboche Monastery, with high mountains all around.
  • Explore clear glaciers and icefalls, and the calm blue Imja Tsho lake near Island Peak Base Camp
  • Crossing the steep Khumbu Glacier with crampons and ice axes for a true mountaineering taste.
  • Take a side trip to Everest Base Camp to see more and help your body adjust to the altitude.
  • Watch bright sunrises at Dingboche and glowing sunsets from the high camps over the mountains.
  • Rhododendron forests lower down and the chance to spot Himalayan wildlife like Himalayan thar and snow pheasant (The Himalayan monal (Lophophorus))
  • The unforgettable feeling of standing at 6,160 m, surrounded by the world’s highest peaks.
Trip Facts
Country
Nepal
Duration
20 Days
Trip Grade
Hard
Max. Altitude
6160 m
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Walking / Hiking
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Time
Spring & Autumn

"Island Peak Expedition: Blend of Trekking & Peak Climbing in the Everest Region"

Island Peak Climbing is an adventurous journey that combines a scenic trek in the famous Everest region with the excitement of summiting a beautiful Himalayan peak. Known locally as Imja Tse, Island Peak stands at 6160 meters (20,210 feet) and is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal. It offers the perfect introduction to high-altitude mountaineering for adventurous trekkers who want to experience real climbing without needing years of technical training.

The name “Island Peak” was given in 1951 by Eric Shipton’s expedition team. From the nearby village of Dingboche, the mountain looks like an island rising from a sea of ice, which inspired its name. Technically, the peak is an extension of the ridge that descends from Lhotse Shar, the southeast face of one of the world’s highest mountains.

The adventure begins with a scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From there, you trek through the famous Khumbu Valley, passing through traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. Along the way, you get to explore ancient monasteries, enjoy delicious local food, and take in the spiritual and cultural richness of the region.

As you ascend, the trail offers breathtaking views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam. The journey to Island Peak Base Camp takes you through the remote and beautiful Imja Valley, a peaceful and dramatic high-altitude landscape of glaciers, icefalls, and towering cliffs.

Island Peak is more than just a trekking peak – it offers a true mountaineering experience. The climb involves:

  • Walking on a glacier
  • Using crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes
  • A steep final climb to a narrow ridge that leads to the summit

Even though the climb requires some basic technical skills, it is achievable for fit trekkers with a sense of adventure. Most climbers will get some basic training at base camp or with their guides, which makes this peak a great choice for those looking to climb their first Himalayan summit.

The feeling of reaching the top is absolutely unforgettable. From the summit, you’ll be surrounded by giant Himalayan peaks. The views of Lhotse’s massive south face, Makalu in the distance, and the iconic Ama Dablam make all the effort worth it.

One of the best things about the Island Peak climb is that it often includes part of the Everest Base Camp Trek, which helps with proper acclimatization. This not only prepares your body for the altitude but also gives you time to fully enjoy the beauty and culture of the region.

You’ll have the chance to explore Namche Bazaar, the lively Sherpa town, visit the Tengboche Monastery, one of the most spiritual places in the Himalayas and witness the warm hospitality and strong traditions of the Sherpa people.

Whether you choose Island Peak as a standalone adventure or as part of a longer journey (like preparing for bigger climbs in the future), this experience offers something truly special. It’s not just about reaching the summit—it’s about the people you meet, the places you see, and the personal achievement you gain along the way.

For those seeking an iconic Himalayan journey with a dash of adventure, a touch of challenge, and a whole lot of beauty, Island Peak Climbing is the perfect choice.

Why Choose the Island Peak Climbing Expedition?

Island Peak Climbing is an excellent entry point into Himalayan mountaineering, combining a scenic trek through the Everest region with a manageable yet rewarding ascent to 6160 meters. Suitable for both first-time climbers and seasoned trekkers, the journey offers stunning panoramas of towering peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu. The climb is guided and accessible, requiring no advanced technical skills, making it a great preparation for more demanding high-altitude expeditions. Along the route, you'll pass through traditional Sherpa villages, experience their vibrant culture, and enjoy the unforgettable feeling of summiting one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking peaks.

Who can do Island Peak Trek In Nepal?

Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek is ideal for healthy, fit adventurers who can comfortably hike 5–7 hours a day on rough mountain trails and are eager to learn basic glacier‑travel skills. You don’t need prior climbing experience, just the willingness to practice using crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes under the guidance of experienced Sherpa. A good health (especially heart and lungs), a commitment to slow, steady acclimatization (often via the Everest Base Camp route), and a cooperative spirit for teamwork make this journey both safe and rewarding. Whether you’re 16 or 60, as long as you meet these requirements, Island Peak offers an incredible first taste of high‑altitude mountaineering.

Why Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition for 17 Days Island Peak Climbing + EBC Trek?

Choosing Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition means more than just booking a trek, it means traveling with trusted local experts who genuinely care about your experience, safety, and connection to the mountains. With over 20 years of experience in the trekking and climbing industry, we are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism. We carefully balance the thrill of adventure with your comfort, health, and safety at every stage of the journey.

Our professional team takes care of all logistics, including permits, domestic flights, ground transportation, and lodge accommodations. We also ensure that your walking pace and altitude gain are well managed for a safe and successful climb. Our licensed local guides and hardworking porters are not only highly skilled but also deeply rooted in the region, they share real stories and insights about Sherpa culture, Buddhist traditions, and daily mountain life.

Whether you’re a fit beginner or an experienced high-altitude trekker, we customize the itinerary to suit your pace, preferences, and fitness level. You’ll receive proper support for both trekking and climbing segments, including basic training at Island Peak Base Camp. With us, every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on soaking in the Himalayan beauty, crossing high mountain passes, and achieving your dream of summiting Island Peak.

Lukla Flight Information 

Flight from Ramechhap (March, April, May, October & November)
During the peak seasons of (Spring) March to May and October to November (Autumn), due to the high volume of tourists and maximum flights to Lukla, the Government of Nepal normally decides to operate flights from Ramechhap instead of Kathmandu to avoid air traffic. If flying from Ramechhap, we will have to wake up at 1 or 2 AM and take a 5–6-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap in a private or shared vehicle. From Ramechhap, we will take a 20-minute flight to Lukla.

Flight from Kathmandu (December - September)
During the off-peak months from December to September (i.e Winter / Monsoon), due to fewer tourists, flights to Lukla operate directly from Kathmandu. We have to wake up at about 5 or 6 AM and then meet guide at the hotel and drive to TIA airport and take 35-minute flights to Lukla.

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 02:Kathmandu – Lukla (2840 m) – Phakding (2610 m)
Max Altitude
2,610m / 8,562ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 03:Phakding - Namche Bazar (3440 m)
Max Altitude
3,440m / 11,286ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 04:Acclimatization at Namche Bazar (3440 m)
Max Altitude
3,440m / 11,286ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 05:Namche Bazar – Phortse Tenga (3680 m) – Dole (4038 m)
Max Altitude
4,038m / 13,248ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 06:Dole – Machermo (4470 m)
Max Altitude
4,470m / 14,665ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 07:Machermo – Gokyo (4790 m)
Max Altitude
4,790m / 15,715ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 08:Gokyo – Gokyo Ri (5360 m) - Thagnag (4700 m)
Max Altitude
4,773m / 15,659ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 09:Thagnag – Chola Pass (5330 m) – Dzongla (4830 m)
Max Altitude
4,830m / 15,846ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 10:Dzonglha – Gorakshep (5140 m) – EBC (5360 m)
Max Altitude
5,360m / 17,585ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 11:Gorak Shep - Kala Pathar (5545 m) - Dingboche (4410 m)
Max Altitude
4,410m / 14,468ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 12:Dingboche – Chukkung (4700 m)
Max Altitude
4,700m / 15,419ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 13:Chukkung- Island Peak Base Camp (5050 m)
Max Altitude
5,050m / 16,568ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 14:Island Peak Base Camp – Island Peak Summit (6160 m) – Chukkung (4700 m)
Max Altitude
6,160m / 20,209ft
Walking/Hiking
Climbing
Itinerary
Day 15:Chukkung- Tengboche (3860 m)
Max Altitude
3,860m / 12,664ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 16:Tengboche (3860 m) – Namche Bazar (3440 m)
Max Altitude
3,440m / 11,286ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 17:Namche Bazaar - Lukla (2840 m)
Max Altitude
2,840m / 9,317ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 18:Lukla - Kathmandu (1350 m)
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
Flight
Itinerary
Day 19:Free day in Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 20:Departure from Kathmandu
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Island Peak Climbing - 20 Days Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary can be customized according to your duration of holiday. Similarly hotel can be upgraded or downgraded depending on your requirement.

Starts: Kathmandu
Ends: Kathmandu

Altitude Chart

Unit:

Island Peak Climbing - 20 Days: Cost Details

Includes

  • Transfer from Airport-Hotel-Airport, including domestic transfers
  • 3 Nights in 3 star hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast in twin sharing basis
  • Flight tickets from Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu, (15 kilos per way-perperson in the fare), including of guide and airport taxes
  • Island Peak Climbing permit
  • Everest National Park entrance fee + Khumbu fees
  • All meals: (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with a tea-coffee during the trek and during ascent
  • Accommodation at lodges and camping tents during the trek and ascent
  • Hiring and equipment fees of mountain Guide(s)
  • Professional Nepal Government license holder English-speaking trekking guide during the trek
  • 1 porter (20-22 kilos) every two-person basis during the trek
  • Hiring of extra porters, transporting the climbing infrastructure and (7-8 Kilos of each client)
  • Fixed rope, screws and ice stakes, a camping tent for every two people, kitchen tent, bathroom tent and cooking utensils during the climbing period
  • Insurance, equipment, accommodation, all meals and salary of the guide and porter(s).
  • Duffel Bag for the trek
  • Achievement certificates of Island Peak Climbing 
  • Farewell Dinner
  • Company service charge
  • All necessary government taxes and fees

Excludes

  • International airfare & Nepal VISA fees
  • Personal equipment
  • Personal and medical insurance
  • Emergency rescue by helicopter (if necessary)
  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Visits and/or entrance fees to temples in Kathmandu
  • Bar bills and drinks (mineral water, soft drink, beers, etc.)
  • Hot showers, electric charges and wifi during the trek
  • Ice axe, Carabiners, Jumar, Eight, Harness, Crampons, Boots, Helmet, etc...
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, early termination or return of the program, etc.
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in INCLUDED

Dates & Availability

Select your preffered date
Mar 2026
Apr 2026
Oct 2026
Nov 2026
Duration:20Days
Departure Date:15 Mar - 03 Apr, 2026
Status:AvailableEarly bid offer
Price:US$2455US$2700

Our online briefing is designed to answer all your questions about the trek. We’ll go over the gear you’ll need (equipment checklist), provide a detailed itinerary, and explain what you can expect on the trail. After you book your trip, we’ll send you an email with available briefing dates and times. Once we receive your required documents, we’ll schedule and conduct the online trek briefing.

Add-ons & Options

Personalizing your Island Peak Climbing with EBC and Gokyo —just follow these steps:

Step 1: Select your desired departure date
Step 2: Specify the number of participants/ travellers
Step 3: Click on the ‘Book Now’ or ‘Add to Cart’ button
Step 4: Choose from the available add-on options to enhance your experience
Step 5: Proceed with the advance payment to confirm your booking

For our travellers interested for Island Peak Climbing with Everest Trek in Nepal, we would like to present a selection of exclusive add-ons to make your trekking experience comfortable and easier!

  • Island Peak Base Camp to Lukla Helicopter Flight at USD 500: With the ending of your successful summit to Island Peak, you can return back to Kathmandu on same day after paying - USD 500 per person. This option reduces the number of trekking days by 4 days in Everest.
  • Extra nights in Kathmandu: Travellers willing to spend extra nights in Kathmandu will have to pay extra USD 30 per night per person. 
  • Hiring Climbing Equipments for Island Peak Summit: It is possible to hire the entire set of equipment in Chukkung for Island Peak Climbing. It costs extra USD 50 per person to hire entire equipments. 

FOR REDUCTIONS (already included in cost):

  • Accomodation at Kathmandu USD 75 per person: We have included 3 star hotel accomodation in Kathmandu, travellers willing to book the hotel by themselves will be given USD 75 per person discount on the booking price.  (LESS)

Essential Information

Permits Required For Island Peak Climbing

To climb Island Peak and trek through the Everest region, you will need the following permits:

  • Island Peak Climbing Permit (from NMA) – Issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), this special climbing permit is mandatory for ascending Island Peak.
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit – Required to enter the protected area that includes the Everest Base Camp and Island Peak region.
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit – A local permit needed for all trekkers and climbers entering the Khumbu region, issued in Lukla or Monjo.

At Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, we handle all necessary permits in advance, so you don’t have to deal with any paperwork. Our guides carry all required documents and make sure your trek and climb go smoothly through every checkpoint.

When is the Best Time For Nepal Island Peak Climbing?

  • Spring (March – May): Spring is one of the best and most popular times for Island Peak Climbing. The weather is generally stable with mild temperatures, making it ideal for both trekking and climbing. The days are longer, allowing more daylight for walking and acclimatization. Trails are surrounded by blooming rhododendron forests, adding color to the landscape, and the views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other peaks are crystal clear. This season also sees many expedition groups preparing for their climbs, so the trail feels lively and active.
  • Autumn (September – November): Autumn is another perfect season for Island Peak Climbing. After the summer monsoon, the air becomes clean and fresh, offering sharp mountain views and deep blue skies. The weather remains stable, with dry conditions and comfortable daytime temperatures. Visibility is at its best, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the entire Everest region during your climb.

At Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, we highly recommend planning your Island Peak adventure in spring or autumn to enjoy the best weather, safety, and mountain views throughout your journey.

Meals & Accommodations during Everest - Island Peak Climb / Expeditions

Throughout the Island Peak Climb with Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, trekkers primarily stay in basic lodges and before summit, in Island Peak Base Camp you will sleep in tented camp. These lodges provide essential amenities and services, catering to the needs of trekkers while offering a unique cultural experience. About meals in Everest region, it is possible to get the local delicacies to western cuisines during the trek. And there are dining halls for fooding, to be warm in all the lodges.

Facilities:

  • Rooms: Typically, rooms are basic with twin beds, blankets, and a small table. Most lodges have shared bathrooms with basic toilet facilities.
  • Dining: Lodges have communal dining areas where trekkers can enjoy meals and socialize. The dining rooms are often heated with a central stove.
  • Food: A variety of meals are available, including local Nepali dishes and more familiar international options like pasta, rice, and soups.
  • Water: Safe drinking water is available for purchase, and most lodges offer boiled water for trekkers to fill their bottles.

Attached Rooms (fewer options)

  • Availability: In some lodges, particularly in larger villages like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Lukla, attached rooms with private bathrooms are available. These rooms come at an additional cost compared to standard rooms, offering more comfort and privacy.
  • Facilities: Attached rooms typically include private bathrooms with basic shower facilities, sometimes with hot water depending on the lodge and altitude.
  • Tented camp: Sleep in tented camp in Island Peak Base Camp, just before summit.  

During the peak season it will not be easy to get the accommodation during the trek, so for better service and hassle-free journey to Himalayas, book with Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, we will pre book and ensure to make your holiday memorable and pleasant.

A. Breakfast Menu (Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)
Main course: Bread / Muesli / Porridge / Pancake / Tibetan Bread / Chapatti / Corn flakes / Burger / Sandwich or any main course dish as per menu with a cup of tea / coffee

B. Lunch Menu (Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)
Main course: 
Chowmein / Fried Rice / Pasta / French Fries / Chips / Momo / Spring Roll / Pizza / Burger / or any main course dish as per menu with a cup of tea / coffee

C. Dinner Menu (Soup + Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)
Any soup:
 Mushroom soup / Garlic soup / Onion Soup / Potato Soup / Veg Soup or any soup as per menu
Main course: Macaroni / Pasta / Chowmein / Fried Rice / Chips / Pizza / Spaghetti / Momo / Noodles / Nepali Thali / or any main course dish as per menu with a cup of tea / coffee

Island Peak Climbing + EBC Trek – 20 Days Cost For 2025 & 2026

Booking for Island Peak Climbing + EBC Trek of 20 days is now available for 2025 & 2026. Without compromising on the services, we ensure to provide you quality services from arrival in Kathmandu to departure from Kathmandu. Please check the rate below for group price to Nepal Island Peak Climbing:

    TARRIFS      2 - 3 pax       4 - 7 pax      8 -11 pax      12 - 15 pax
       2025   USD XXX P/P    USD XXX P/P    USD XXX P/P    USD XXX P/P
       2026   USD XXX P/P    USD XXX P/P     USD XXX P/P    USD XXX P/P

Difficulty Level of Island Peak Climbing In Everest Region

Island Peak Climbing - 20 Days trek and climbing is considered a moderately to highly challenging adventure graded HARD. It combines a high-altitude trek through the Everest region with a non-technical but demanding peak climb to 6,160 meters (20,210 ft). While it's achievable for fit trekkers, it does require proper preparation and support.

Here’s what makes Island Peak challenging:

  1. High Altitude: You’ll spend several days above 4,000 meters, and the summit stands at over 6,000 meters. This means you need to acclimatize properly to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
  2. Trekking & Climbing: The journey includes 5–7 hours of trekking daily, and the climb itself involves a pre-dawn start, a long summit day, and a steep final ridge to the top. It also includes a glacier crossing with the use of crampons, fixed ropes, and ice axes.
  3. Technical Skills: While it’s not a highly technical climb, basic mountaineering skills are needed. Most trekkers receive a short training session at base camp on how to use climbing gear safely.
  4. Weather Conditions: Weather at high altitudes can be cold and unpredictable, especially on summit day. Strong winds and low temperatures may add difficulty to the climb.

Island Peak is best suited for trekkers who are physically fit and have some prior trekking or high-altitude experience. With the right mindset, training, and support from experienced teams like Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, it becomes a challenging but incredibly rewarding Himalayan adventure.

Altitude Sickness and Remedies during Everst Trek & Island Peak Climbing Expedition

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a common concern during Island Peak Climbing due to the high elevation. Since the trek and climb take you above 5,000 meters, your body needs time to adjust to the thinner air and lower oxygen levels. Being aware of the symptoms and knowing how to prevent and manage them is key to a safe and successful climb.

Common Symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness or tiredness
  • Nausea or loss of appetite
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Shortness of breath

These symptoms often show up at higher altitudes, especially in places like Dingboche, Chhukung, or during the climb to Island Peak Base Camp.

What You Can Do:

Walk Slowly

  • Take your time and let your body adjust naturally.
  • Include acclimatization days (such as in Namche and Dingboche).

Stay Hydrated

  • Drink 3 to 4 liters of water every day.
  • Ginger tea, garlic soup, and herbal teas can help.
  • Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine.

Eat Properly

  • Even if you’re not hungry, eat regular meals.
  • Focus on carbohydrates for energy and recovery.

Keep Warm

  • Dress in layers and keep your body warm, especially your hands, feet, and head.
  • Sudden cold can weaken your body’s ability to adjust.

Pay Attention to Your Body

  • If you feel unwell, take a break and don’t climb higher.
  • Let your guide know immediately if your symptoms get worse.

Medicines & Natural Remedies:

  • Diamox (Acetazolamide): Helps prevent AMS, take 1–2 days before reaching higher altitudes (with a doctor’s advice).
  • Paracetamol or Ibuprofen: For mild headaches or body pain.
  • Ginger, garlic soup, and herbal teas: Natural remedies to help with circulation and digestion.
  • Oxygen: Sometimes available at lodges or for emergency use—but usually not needed if you acclimatize properly.

With proper care, acclimatization, and guidance from experienced teams like Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, you can stay safe and enjoy your Island Peak adventure. Our guides monitor your health every day and are trained to help you in case of any altitude-related problems.

Equipment List for Island Peak Climbing - 20 Days

1. Clothing

Base Layers:

  • Moisture-wicking long-sleeve and short-sleeve shirts
  • Moisture-wicking thermal underwear

Insulation Layers:

  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Down jacket (lightweight but warm)

Outer Layers:

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof and windproof trousers

Trekking Clothes:

  • Comfortable trekking pants
  • Long-sleeve trekking shirts
  • T-shirts (moisture-wicking)

Headwear:

  • Warm hat (fleece or wool)
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Buff or neck gaiter (for dust and wind protection)

Handwear:

  • Windproof fleece gloves
  • Insulated down or synthetic mittens (for summit)

Footwear:

  • Trekking boots 
  • Camp shoes or sandals (for evenings)
  • 4-5 Pairs of thermal socks (moisture-wicking)
  • Gaiters (for snow & ice)
  • Trekking boots (lightweight, broken-in)
  • Mountaineering boots (Double boots like La Sportiva G2, Scarpa Phantom 6000)

2. Technical Gears

  • Climbing harness
  • Carabiners (2 locking, 2 non-locking)
  • Belay/rappel device (ATC or similar)
  • Ascender (Jumar)
  • Figure 8 or descender (optional for fixed rope)
  • Helmet
  • Ice axe (general mountaineering type)
  • Crampons (compatible with boots)

Note: It is possible to hire the climbing equipments in Chukkung for Island Peak Climbing. 

3. Other Gear and Equipment

Backpacks:

  • Large backpack or duffel bag (for porters to carry, usually 50-70 liters)
  • Daypack bag to carry your personal requirements.

Sleeping:

  • Sleeping bag (-25°C or colder)
  • Sleeping bag liner (optional for extra warmth)

Trekking Poles:

  • Adjustable trekking poles
  • Headlamp or Torch

Hydration:

  • Water bottles (Nalgene or similar) or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets

Personal Items:

  • Passport and trekking permits
  • Cash (for purchases along the trail)
  • Insurance documents (ensure coverage includes high-altitude trekking)

Miscellaneous:

  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Headlamp (headlight)
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
  • Backups for charging
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Reusable bags (for waste and organizing items)
  • Travel towel

4. Medical / First Aid Kit:

  • Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment)
  • Personal medications
  • Altitude sickness medication (Diamox (for altitude) Ibuprofen / Paracetamol 
  • Pain relievers (ibuprofen or paracetamol)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Anti-diarrheal (e.g., Imodium)

5. Toiletries

  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Wet wipes / biodegradable soap
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Toilet paper (essential!)
  • Pee bottle (for high camps)

Island Peak Climbing - 20 Days FAQs

Island Peak (also called Imja Tse) is 6160 meters (20,210 feet) above sea level.

Island Peak is considered a moderately challenging climb. While it doesn't require advanced mountaineering skills, you’ll need to use basic climbing gear like crampons, ropes, and an ice axe. Good fitness and some trekking experience at high altitude are essential.

rior climbing experience is not strictly necessary for Island Peak, but it is highly recommended. The climb involves basic mountaineering techniques such as using crampons, ice axes, and navigating fixed ropes on snow and ice slopes. Most climbers successfully summit with professional guides and a brief technical training before the ascent. Good physical fitness and some high-altitude trekking experience will also improve your chances of success and safety.

The typical Island Peak itinerary from Gokyo - Chola Pass - EBC is of 20 days trekking as this route is best for acclimatization for summit day. However, it takes 1 dasy starting from 2-3 am from High camp to Island Peak Summit (6160 m) in a single day.

You need below permits for Island Peak Climbing:

  • Island Peak Climbing permit issued from NMA through a registered licensed company 
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit,
  • Khumbu Gaupalika Entry permit

The best season to climb Island Peak are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) when the weather is more stable and mountain views are clear. However, spring is the best season for expeditions. Also, it is possible to climb the Island Peak in winter as well, but the weather is extremely cold.

You’ll stay in tea houses (lodges) during the trek and tented camp in Island Peak Base Camp during your journey. Normally the lodges during the trek are basic with bed, bedsheet and very few lodges with attached bathroom facilities. 

Food options during the trek include a variety of Nepali and international dishes such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), pasta, noodles, soups, snacks, fries, pizza and many more. Meals are prepared fresh at tea houses, ensuring nourishing and filling options for trekkers. Also, in some places like: Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche there are coffee machine and bakery as well.

Yes, most tea houses along the trek offer vegetarian-friendly meals, and it’s possible to arrange vegan options or meals suitable for lactose-intolerant trekkers. Typical dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), vegetable soups, fried rice, chapati, and potatoes can be prepared without dairy or meat. Just inform your guide or the team in advance, and Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition will make sure your dietary needs are well taken care of throughout the journey.

Yes, in villages like Namche, Dingboche, and Lukla, you’ll find electricity (for charging devices) and Everest Link Wi-Fi (available for purchase). However, once you reach higher and remote areas (like Chhukung or base camp), electricity and internet may be limited or unavailable.

Altitude sickness is a common risk during Island Peak Climbing due to the high elevation. If you show symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue, your guide will monitor you closely and take necessary steps—such as resting, hydrating, or descending to a lower altitude. In severe cases, you may be evacuated by helicopter. Having proper acclimatization days in your itinerary, ascending gradually, and being honest about your symptoms is crucial to staying safe. Trekking insurance that covers high-altitude rescue is strongly recommended.

Temperatures at Island Peak Base Camp and the summit can drop to -15°C (5°F) or lower, especially during the night and early morning on summit day.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Island Peak Climbing. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking and mountaineering (up to at least 6,200 meters) and must include emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, trip cancellation, and loss of gear or baggage. Be sure to check with your insurance provider that climbing peaks classified as “trekking peaks” by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) is included, as many standard policies do not automatically cover this. Always carry a copy of your insurance during the trek and climb.

It’s important to prepare with cardiovascular training (hiking, running, cycling), strength exercises (especially for legs and core), and stamina building through long hikes. If possible, try hiking with a backpack to simulate actual trekking conditions.

Weather delays, especially with flights to/from Lukla, are common. We recommend keeping atleast 1–2 extra days in kathmandu while planning your trip so that you can adjust the itinerary incase of dely or any circumstances. Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition will assist with rescheduling and make all possible arrangements to minimize disruptions.

Yes, tipping is customary and appreciated in Nepal. Guides and porters work hard, and tips are a great way to show gratitude. Normally after the completion of trek, guides and porters expect the tips so we recommend to tip them as per their services and work. Mostly, we suggest minimum 10 dollars a day or 10% of total payment made to the company for the service.

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