Island Peak, also known as "Imja Tse," stands proudly at an elevation well above 20,305 feet. While it may not be counted among the highest mountains, it serves as an excellent destination for those preparing for future climbing endeavors. Island Peak Climbing offers a plethora of rewards, including breathtaking views of iconic peaks such as Ama-Dablam, the awe-inspiring south face of Lhotse and Everest, Lhotse itself, and Makalu. This adventure is filled with thrills and excitement. Compared to more demanding climbs, this trek is relatively easier and requires only a foundational understanding and practice of snow-climbing techniques. Kala Patthar, also known as "A Black Mountain," rises to an impressive altitude of 5,550 meters. Situated just below the majestic south face of Pumori (7,161 meters / 23,494 feet), Kala Patthar is a sought-after destination for trekkers in the Everest region. The primary reason for this is that it offers the most exquisite and captivating views of Mount Everest. Furthermore, it provides an unparalleled 360-degree panorama of the entire Himalayan mountain range.
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu Airport & transfer to Hotel (1,345m/4,428ft)
An airport representative from Bold Himalaya pick you up upon your arrival. Then transfer you to the hotel for a short briefing about the trip. In the meantime, you can roam around the city to get familiar with the new city or take a rest and relax.
Kathmandu Sightseeing & Final Preparation
After breakfast at the Hotel, sightseeing starts with a visit to Kathmandu - Swayambhunath (monkey temple), and Boudhanath. In the afternoon, meet with the guide and check the trekking gear for final preparation. (Overnight at Hotel)
Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding (2,610m)
After breakfast from the Hotel, we drive to the airport to catch a flight to Lukla (2,600m). After arrival in Lukla, the trail leads north from the airstrip to the edge of the Lukla Plateau. The walk is easy and goes through several villages reaching Phakding (2,800m). (Overnight at Tea House Lodge – Phakding)
Phakding – Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft)
Today’s trekking is a bit difficult and uphill. After breakfast, we entered the Sagarmatha National Park. The park preserves the rare floras and faunas. Then we cross several bridges before ascending to the heart of Khumbu region, Namchhe Bazaar. Namche is known as the Sherpa Capital where you are presented with striking views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Kongde Ri. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge)
Namche Bazaar – Khumjung Valley Excursion (3,790m/12434ft)
This day is an acclimatization day spent in and around Namche Bazaar. The Khumjung Valley Excursion begins at the marketplace with a steep climb of about one hour to Shyangboche. From the top of Shyangboche, one can see beautiful views of Mt. Everest (8848m), Ama Dablam (6856m), Themserku (6608m), Nuptse (7879m), and Lhotse (8383m). After we trail downwards to Khumjung, where one can see the Sir Edmund Hillary School and hospital. (Overnight at Tea H
Namche Bazaar – Tengboche (3,870m/13,664ft)
Another amazing day in the trip, we go by the eastern ridge with views of rhododendron forest and descend through the forest. We cross the Dudh Koshi River and after that, we ascend uphill which leads us to the Buddhist land. We may see Himalayan Thar and Pheasants along the way. Now, we reach Tengboche Village. Here we can see the famous Tengboche Monastery which is also a pilgrimage
Tengboche – Pherichhe (4,240m/13,910ft)
From Tengpoche, it's a short steep, and muddy descent until a suspension bridge then ascending to Pheriche. While walking one passes small villages like Diboche through birches, conifers, and Rhododendron forest. After a long walk, the trail passes several villages such as Pangboche, and reaches Pheriche. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge - Pheriche)
Pheriche – Lobuche (4,930m/16,174ft)
Leaving Pheriche the trail leads a very soft way up to Dugla (4,620m). After that it ascends for about 2 hours, then flat to Lobuche. Walking time takes about 6 hours. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge - Lobuche)
Lobuche – Gorak shep- Everest Base Camp (5,160m/16,929ft)
From Lobuche, the rail is relatively flat with several small ascends and descends to Gorak shep which is nestled below the summit of Mt. Pumori (7,161m.) and the sheer west face of Nuptse. This takes 2 Hours. In the afternoon you will be visiting EBC (5400m) with a guide. The trail to EBC takes you along the Khumbu glacier. From here you can observe the blue ice and the Khumbu icefall. This trekking will be an unforgettable experience. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge – Gorak Shep).
Gorak Shep – (Kalapathar)- Dingbouche (4,440m/14,566ft)
Excursion to Kalapathar. From Gorak Shep, the trail is a steep ascent to the top of a small peak, Kalapathar 5545m meaning "black rock". From here we can see Mt.Everest, Mt.Nuptse, Mt.Ama Dablan, Mt.Kantega, Mt.Tamserku, Mt.Tawatse and Mt.Pumori all present themselves in a 360-degree panorama. It’s possible to begin the ascent to Kalapathar very early in the morning and sunrise can be seen over the Himalayan range. After Kalapathar, the trail leads down to Dingbouche. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge - Dingbouche)
Dingboche - Chhukung (4,700m/15,419ft)
After breakfast, the trail leads uphill to Chhukung (4700m) and steep climb up to Chhukung for 360 views of the Himalayas. Chhukung is the entry point for the Island Peak Expedition trip. In Chhukung you will meet the climbing guides and cooks. From this point day trips to Glacier or to Imjatse Valley can be done. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge - Chhukung).
Chhukung - Island peak Base Camp (5,087m/16,689ft)
The trail leads a fairly steep way climbing south and then turning east to the main line of the valley. It then winds along or below the southern flank of the moraine from the Lhotse Glacier. The trail continues along a streamside leading to what we call Big-rock. The route to the Amphu Lapcha lies to the southeast. A crisis cross route through the Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines leads to a wide valley flanking the southwest side of Island Peak. Here there will be briefings, preparations & tanning about the climb. Overnight in Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m) (Overnight at Tent Camp)
Island Peak Base Camp- High Camp (5,500m/18,044ft)
The trail to High Camp is steep and rocky. Along the way, we can see beautiful views of Imja glacier and lake. (Overnight at Tent Camp – High camp)
Island Peak Summit (6,189m/20,305ft) and Back to Chhukung
Island Peak Ascent (6,189m/20,305ft), from early about 3 am in the morning will have to start climbing the rock gully towards the summit. This is not difficult but there are several short rock steps to climb before you emerge on the right side of the gully. The route then follows a ridgeline, which leads to an exhilarating and exposed traverse onto the snout of the summit glacier. You will need to rope up for the glacier as it contains several crevasses but it leads without difficulty to a 100m(330ft) snow and ice slope (40-45°) on which the guides will fix a rope. From the top of this slope, it is 3 rope lengths along a sharp summit ridge leading to the top. After enjoying the summit views you will descend all the way to Base Camp and then Chhukung. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge – Chhukung)
Chhukung – Tengbouche
The trail makes a gradual descent through scrub junipers and around Mani stones as it follows the hillside. The trail passes many Mani walls in deep rhododendron forests where crossing after the Imja Khola, the trail climbs many carved Mani stones to Pangboche. Pangboche Gompa is the oldest in Khumbu; a visit will be well worth it. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge – Tengbouche)
Tengbouche – Namche ( 3,440m)
This is the day to return back Namchhe Bazaar and the path leads downhill to Phungitenga and we continue the flat trail until Namchhe. Here you can explore The Everest National Park Museum which houses many mountaineering and Himalayan artifacts. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge – Namche)
Namche – Lukla (2,800m)
We trek back to Lukla through the same route, crossing several suspension bridges and Sherpa settlements. Our goal today is to reach Lukla before the sunset for celebration of our successful trip. (Overnight at Tea House Lodge – Lukla)
Day 18: Lukla – Kathmandu
We take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. And maybe you can go shopping or buy souvenirs for your friends and family. Or better you can relax, have a massage, and dine the best meals in the city in some of the best restaurants. (Overnight at Hotel)
Free Day in Kathmandu and drop to airport
After winding up a successful trip, our representative drops you off at the airport for your further journey. You are dropped off at the airport around 3 hours before the departure so that there may not be any delays. Have a safe journey!
Inclusion
· All airport pick up and drop in Private vehicle
· All transportation A/C car, tourist deluxe bus during trips
· Three star category hotel in the city in twin sharing bed with breakfast basis & nice trekking lodge during trekking
· Whole accommodations during trips
· We provide sleeping bag & down-jacket during trek (if you don’t have your own but return after trek)
· Full meals during trekking as mention in the itinerary (Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner )
· Some seasonal fruits
· First aid medicine item, T-shirt & Trip achievement certificate
· Trekking permit & TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
· Special Professional Climbing Guide their salary, accommodation, meals and their insurance
· One especial cultural show and farewell dinner program
· Our government tax official expenses
· Climbing Permit
· Climbing equipment & all required gears
Exclusions
· Extra meals in the Kathmandu & dessert items, any types of drinks
· Tour entrance fees
· Client's international air ticket
· Clients travel insurance & tips for the trekking crew
Reviews
Bold Himalaya
Multinational Tailor-made Tour Operator
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Expedition Information
$2,455
Island Peak (Imja Tse)
Trekking,
Mountaineering,
Climbing
Fitness Level
2
Technical Level
1
Group Size
1-50
Ratio
1:6
Continent:
AsiaCountry:
NepalLocation:
Island Peak (Imja Tse)Elevation:
6,189 m / 20,305 ftGPS:
27.9212 N°, 86.9339 E°