$ / Per Person
The Island Peak Expedition is an adventure-packed trek in the Khumbu Himalayas; it is a powerful blend of adventure, culture, and personal challenge. Island Peak expedition combines the famous Everest Base Camp trail with a thrilling climb to Island Peak (6,189 m), making it one of the most rewarding high-altitude trekking and climbing experiences in Nepal.
This combined trekking and climbing journey tests your endurance, builds your confidence, and brings you closer to the beauty of the Himalayas. The landscapes seen from various points of your trek, from the summits of Kala Patthar, Kongma La, Chhukung Ri, and Island Peak, the people you meet during this journey, and the spiritual atmosphere of the Everest region create a truly meaningful experience in your life through this journey.
Your Island Peak Expedition begins in Kathmandu, where you prepare for the journey and experience a warm traditional welcome. After completing all preparations, you take a scenic flight to Lukla.
From Lukla, the trekking journey begins. You walk along beautiful trails through rivers and forests, reaching small Sherpa villages like Phakding. The trail then ascends through a lush river valley to Namche Bazaar, the main trading center of the Khumbu region.
In the early days, the stages to the Island Peak Base Camp allow you to acclimatize slowly to the altitude. At the same time, you get to experience the beauty of trekking in the Khumbu Himalayas, local life, culture, and hospitality of the Sherpa people.
As you continue the Island Peak Expedition, the trail takes you deeper into the Everest region. You walk through beautiful Sagarmatha National Park, surrounded by forests of pine and rhododendron.
Gradually, the landscape changes. Villages become smaller, and the mountains become larger. You pass through places like Tengboche, where you visit the famous Tengboche Monastery.
From Tengboche, you can see stunning views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and imposing Ama Dablam. This part of the Island Peak Expedition offers you the chance to admire and enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of the Khumbu Himalayas and spiritual life in the Himalayan bases.
One of the most exciting parts of the Island Peak Expedition is reaching Kala Patthar (5,545 m). From Kala Patthar lookout, you can enjoy one of the best and close-up views of Mount Everest, and of course, the Everest illuminated in golden color as you coincide with a Sunset or Sunrise.
The approach journey to Kala Patthar takes you through high-altitude villages like Dingboche, Pheriche, and Lobuche. You also walk near the Khumbu Glacier, which adds a unique experience to the trek.
The sunset and sunrise views from Kala Patthar are truly breathtaking and an iconic day of your life before standing atop Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse.
The adventure becomes more challenging as you cross Kongma La Pass (5,535 m). Kongma La is an optional pass to approach Chukung before reaching the Island Peak Base Camp, but there is also a lower trail. Those taking the high trail crossing the Kongma La experience the Khumbu glacier crossing on foot, climbing one of the three passes of Everest, an alpine lake, a meadow, and a peaceful trek with grand scenery.
After crossing the Kongma La Pass, you descend on a peaceful alpine meadow toward Chhukung, offering incredible mountain views. At Chukung village, you will also climb Chhukung Ri for acclimatization and to enjoy amazing panoramic views of Makalu.
The classic route from Chhukung to the summit of Island Peak (Imja Tse) is a breathtaking journey that typically takes 2-3 days and involves a trek to Base Camp, an optional climb to High Camp, and a challenging summit push. You will traverse glacial moraines and negotiate a steep headwall to stand atop this famous peak.
Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp Trail ascends the Imja Valley, passing by the Lhotse Glacier moraine. The path starts smoothly but becomes rockier as you approach the campsite, set in a wide moraine of the Imja Valley at an altitude of 5,087m. The Base Camp serves as the primary stoppage for the summit push. The tented camp facilities are basic but functional, including sleeping tents, a dining tent, and a kitchen tent where crews prepare meals. At the Island Peak Base Camp, you have meals and receive final gear checks and climbing training from your guide, if required. It is a place to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the climb ahead.
A short but steep climb over rocky moraine and a gully leading to a small plateau or ledge just above the Island Peak Base Camp, designated as Island Peak high camp. This stage is not used by all and is used by some to shorten the summit day. It was reasonable when the snow line used to cover the peak and extend to near the high camp in the past decades. The Island Peak High Camp is a basic, rugged campsite with limited space and provides only the most essential shelter before the final push.
From Island Base Camp or High Camp to Summit starts early morning (around 2:00 AM), crossing a glacier (requiring crampons and roped travel), followed by the crux: a steep headwall of snow/ice (around 60 degrees) fixed with ropes. The summit ridge offers the final spectacular views. 5-7 hours.
After summiting the Island Peak, you begin your return journey to base camp and to Chhukung on the same day. You trek returns through villages like Pangboche and Phortse, visiting the oldest monastery of the Khumbu Region, Phortse village, and enjoying the serene beauty of flora and fauna from Pangboche to Namche. From Namche, it is the last day of the journey, enjoying lush valleys, grand Himalayas, and tiny yet lively Sherpa villages, ending in Lukla.
A celebratory last day in Lukla, then hop on an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. The journey ends with a warm welcome back, a last-day guided tour of Kathmandu, a celebratory farewell meal, send-off hugs, and a return flight home, where everyone is waiting for your return!
For a day-to-day itinerary, hotel information, customised programs, or anything else related to your travel plan. Please get in touch with annatreks@gmail.com or WhatsApp/Message at +977 985 10 30619. You can also message us on Facebook.
Iconic Peak Ascent: Summit Island Peak (6,189m) is a technically accessible yet rewarding Himalayan climb with glacier traverses and panoramic views.
Everest Exploration: Witness Everest (8,848m) from Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp, and Kongma-La Pass, plus Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Makalu vistas.
High-Altitude Challenges: Cross the demanding Kongma-La Pass (5,535m)\ and trek to Everest Base Camp (5,350m).
Socio-Cultural & Spiritual Depth: Explore ancient monasteries (Tengboche, Khumjung). Soak in Sherpa culture at Namche Bazaar, Phortse, and Khumjung.
Wilderness & Solitude: Traverse isolated trails (e.g., Kongma-La to Chhukung) and spot rare wildlife (musk deer, Danphe pheasants).
Unique Vantage Points: Sunset/sunrise at Kalapathar (5,545m). Panoramic tea breaks at the Everest View Hotel (3,880m). Summit views from Chhukung Ri (5,540m), rivalling Kala Patthar and from the Top of Island Peak.
Traditional welcome, trip briefing, and time to explore local shrines.
Scenic early morning drive ~4-hours & flight to Lukla 15-min, meeting the trekking crew, and a gentle first trek ~3-hour.
Trek for 5 hours, first views of Mt. Everest, crossing suspension bridges, entering the bustling Sherpa “capital.”
Excursions for ~3 hours, visit Sagarmatha National Park Museum, stop at the Everest View Hotel (3,880m) for a stunning tea break with panoramic mountain vistas.
Trek for ~5 hours, incredible views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Lhotse; visit the famous Tengboche Monastery.
Trek for ~5 hours, landscape changes to high-altitude shrubs, visit Pangboche village and its ancient monastery.
Rest day with an optional hike to Nangkartshang Ridge for acclimatization and fantastic views.
Trek for ~3 hours, pass memorial chortens for fallen climbers, first views of the Khumbu Glacier.
Trek for ~6 hours, hike to Kalo Patthar for the closest, most spectacular sunrise views of Mt. Everest. Decent to Lobuche.
Trek for ~6 hours, challenging high pass crossing with a crystal-clear glacial lake at the top, incredible isolation and views.
Trek to Island Peak High Camp (5,600m)
Trek for ~5 hours, approach the base for your summit push, surrounded by glacial lakes and towering peaks.
Climb for ~9-10 hours, summit a Himalayan Peak for indescribable 360-degree views of the world’s highest mountains.
Trek for ~6 hours, scenic descent, visit the ancient Pangboche Monastery, trek on a less-frequented trail rich with wildlife.
Trek for ~5 hours, descend back to lower altitudes, enjoy final panoramic views from Mongla-Namche.
Trek for ~6 hours, a celebratory farewell dinner with your Sherpa team to mark the end of the trek.
Morning flight and drive, arriving in Kathmandu by mid-afternoon.
Free day to relax, shop, or take an optional guided city tour.
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home.
| Distance | Aprox 155 km. |
| Duration | 19 days (13-day trek 2-day climbing) |
| Grade | Challenging (High-altitude trekking & peak climbing). |
| Max elevation | Island (Imjatse) Peak 6,165 metres |
| Highlights | Summit Island Peak (6,189m) for a rewarding, accessible Himalayan climb with glacier travel. Experience iconic Everest (8,848m) views from Kalo Patthar, EBC, and Kongma-La Pass (5,535m), plus vistas of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Makalu. Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,350m), explore the ancient monasteries of Tengboche, Pangboche, and Khumjung, and immerse yourself in Sherpa culture in Phortse-Khumjung. Traverse remote trails like Kongma-La to Chhukung, spot rare wildlife (musk deer, Danphe), enjoy sunrise/sunset at Kalo Patthar (5,545m), tea at Everest View Hotel (3,880m), and panoramic viewpoints from Chhukung Ri (5,540m) and the Island Peak summit. |
| Route | Kathmandu → Lukla → Namche Bazaar → Tengboche → Pheriche → Kongma-La Pass (5,535m) → Everest Base Camp/Kalapathar → Chhukung → Island Peak Summit → Phortse → Lukla |
| Category | Detail |
| Who can join these treks | The trek suits fit, health-conscious travellers aged 20+ who can handle high altitudes and other minor uphill/downhill challenges. There is no upper limit on seniors’ participation if they are physically fit and medically cleared. First-timers with basic to adequate training are welcome. All treks are led by our experienced guides and helpers, providing overall care. |
| Group Policy | We specialise in premium private treks and tours. We do not combine individual travellers into groups. Your “group” is defined solely by the friends, family, or colleagues you choose to travel with when booking a specific program. This policy guarantees a personalised and exclusive adventure tailored just for you. |
| Required permits | Sagarmatha National Park Permit (for the UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (for supporting local infrastructure). |
| Guide | Guides are mandatory, solo trekking has been prohibited since April 2023. As of March 2025, all trekkers are required to hire a government-licensed guide for safety and environmental reasons. |
| Physical Preparation | Require cardio and stamina excersises for 2–4 weeks like basic running, cycling, or stair climbing (aim for 5 km in 1 hour). Strength gain training such as lunges, squats, and backpack hikes (build to 10–15 kg only if you are not taking a porter service). |
| Safety and Health | Be mindful of altitude sickness and recognise its symptoms (headaches, nausea, dizziness). Take preventative measures (such as taking Diamox/acclimatising rest days), and descend immediately if symptoms become severe. Medical Clinics are in Namche, Pheriche, and Dingboche for AMS treatment. |
| Vaccinations | Consult a doctor for recommendations (recommended for typhoid, hepatitis A/B, and tetanus). |
| Insurance | Must cover emergency helicopter rescue (up to 5,500 m) and medical service. We strongly advise all trekkers to invest a little more in addition to the trip cost and purchase comprehensive insurance that covers all kinds of emergencies, ensuring you are financially secure and prepared for unforeseen circumstances. |
| Water and Food | Avoid tap water; use purification tablets or bottled water. Menus expand at lower elevations (dal bhat, pasta, momo, noodles, apple pie). Eat carb-rich meals (daal bhat, garlic soup for altitude). Avoid meat (limited refrigeration) and salads (tap water risks). |
| Cash | There are ATMs at Lukla and Namche, but it is recommended that Nepalese rupees be carried (teahouses and remote areas often lack ATMs). Convertible currencies are accepted, but they convert at a lower rate. |
| Connectivity | Limited Wi-Fi (available for a fee in most lodges). One can buy a local SIM in Kathmandu, though coverage is limited and sporadic. |
| Best Time to Trek | October–November (clear skies) or March–May (rhododendron/orchid blooms). The short treks are open year-round. |
| Tipping | Tips for guides/porters: please allow $5–$10/day per member. |
The following table outlines seasonal packing priorities, which include all essentials, as well as a clothing layering system for variable conditions.
| Season | Clothing | Key gear |
| Spring/Autumn | Moisture-wicking base layers, insulated jacket, waterproof shell | -10° to -15°C sleeping bag, Microspikes (for High Pass). |
| Winter | Heavy thermal base, down jacket/pants, balaclava | Microspikes, -20°C sleeping bag |
| Monsoon | Quick-dry clothing, a full waterproof suit | waterproof pack cover, insect repellent, -5-10°C sleeping bag |
Clothing Layering System for Variable Conditions |
||
| Layer Type | Key Items | Purpose |
| Base Layer | Merino wool/synthetic tops and leggings | Moisture-wicking; temperature regulation |
| Mid Layer | Fleece jacket; down vest/jacket | Insulation: retains body heat |
| Outer Shell | Waterproof/windproof jacket and pants | Shields against rain, snow, and wind |
| Accessories | Warm hat, sun hat, buff, waterproof gloves (inner + outer), wool socks (2–3 pairs) | Protects extremities from cold/frostbite |
| Foot ware | Broken-in waterproof hiking boots + Camp shoes. |
| Essentials | Sunglasses, trekking poles (for mud/snow), reusable water bottle, headlamp, first-aid kit, portable charger, high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, toilet paper, earplugs. |
| Backpack | 30–40L (Daypack for you). |
| Duffel Bag | ≤15 kg (for Porter). |
| Climbing Gear | Bring personal gear ( boots, harness, helmet etc.); agency provides group equipment. |
| First-Aid Kit | Bring personal medications, agency provides group first-aid medical box). |
| Note | Use packing cubes to organize gear. Limit clothing to 2–3 sets of quick-dry layers |
During your trek, you will have a variety of lodging options, ranging from simple, family-run lodges and teahouses to luxury lodgings. These lodges are situated among the peaks and Sherpa villages, offering a heartwarming glimpse into local life, culinary traditions, and dining charm as they decorate their dining areas in the traditional Sherpa style. The most common are Teahouses and Lodges with basic facilities, including twin-bed rooms with blankets, quilts/pillows, shared bathrooms/toilets (squat or Western-style), and communal dining halls with wood stoves for heating. There are also Luxury Lodges (Lukla, Phakding, Namche, Dingboche) that offer private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, heated spaces, and gourmet dining with supplement charges. The availability of hot shower facilities depends on altitude; lower valleys (Lukla-Monjo-Namche) with warmer temperatures usually offer piped/running water, while higher elevations (above Tengboche-Dingboche-Lobuche-Gorak Shep) with freezing temperatures often offer bucket-style showers (heated on request). However, embrace the brisk mountain breeze, though! Bathing in the cold can feel less inviting.
Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees in villages).to show respect and consideration for the local culture and customs. Circumvent clockwise around the Mani walls, stupas, and monasteries, and while visiting the inside of the monasteries. Use the right hand to eat and give/receive items. Remove your shoes/sandals when entering the kitchen, visiting homes, monasteries and temples. And ask permission before photographing people / temples / monasteries. Avoid photographing children when they are alone or without family permission. Avoid public displays of affection. For eco practices, carry out trash, use biodegradable products, and avoid plastic bottles(carry a reusable water bottle).
Rent/buy a down jacket/sleeping bag in Kathmandu to save space.
Please contact at annatreks@gmail.com
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