16-Day Island Peak Climbing Trip Highlights

Thrilling flight to Lukla Airport at an elevation of 2840m.
Walk through the legendary trekking trail through the Sherpa village, which has an exceptional culture.
Enjoy the close view of the lofty mountain, extensive green hills, and the Tibetan-Buddhist culture.
Witness the extensive view of the world's highest peak (Mt. Everest) and its neighboring mountains.
Spectacular 360-degree landscape and mountain views after Dingboche.
Walk the pristine Imja Valley to get to Island Peak Base Camp.
Experience Camping in the wilderness with camping food.
Summit ISLAND PEAK and realize why Eric Shipton gave this name to the peak in the 1950s.
Witness the most grandiose view of the surrounding peak including the soaring LHOTSE, the 4th highest mountain in the world.

Short Island Peak Expedition Overview:

This 16-day Island peak climbing is basically for travelers who have tight time schedules. It is designed for those who have limited time frames yet want to experience the wilderness peak climbing in Nepal. This short island peak expedition allows anyone with a busy schedule to experience the thrill of trekking and Climbing in Nepal. Island Peak, is locally known as Imja Tse, and it is one of the prominent climbing peaks in the Everest region.

The height of Island Peak is 6,189 meters which is 20,305 feet. It was in 1953, that Eric Shipton gave the name ISLAND PEAK since the peak stands as an island in the sea of mountains around it including the fourth-highest mountain, Mt. Lhotse. It is one of the most highly sought peaks by aspiring mountaineers and beginners and brags as one of the most popular climbing climbing peaks in Nepal.

The 16-day Island Peak Climbing offers a challenging climbing experience with stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan Mountains. These spectacular mountain views include Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam,, and many more. However, Climbing Island Peak does require some technical climbing skills and experience. So it is recommended that climbers have some prior mountaineering experience before attempting to climb the peak.

It is to be noted that this 16-day Island Peak Climbing skips the Everest Base Camp and takes you gradually to the base of Island Peak. Usually climbing Island Peak requires 20/21 days will acclimatization principles including Everest Base Camp. However, this Short Island Peak Expedition is more straightforward and would gradually take you to the base of the peak without further climbing to EBC. Island Peak is certainly a technical peak but it is considered a relatively achievable peak for anyone who is physically fit.

Here is a brief history of Island Peak:

The climbing history of Island Peak dates back to 1953 when it was first climbed by a British expedition team led by Eric Shipton. The team consisted of four members: Charles Evans, Alf Gregory, Charles Wylie, and Tenzing Norgay, who later went on to become one of the first people to summit Mount Everest.

In 1983, a team of Nepalese climbers led by Ang Rita Sherpa became the first group to summit Island Peak in winter. Island Peak has become a popular trekking peak in Nepal, attracting thousands of climbers each year. It is a relatively easy climb compared to other peaks in the region, and climbers with basic mountaineering skills can attempt it.

Over the years Imja Lake at the base of Island Peak has been at risk of GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Floods). This is because with the now climate change issue there have been concerns about the impact of tourism and climate on the vulnerable surroundings of Island Peak. The local authorities have introduced measures to limit the number of climbers and to promote responsible tourism in the region.

Overall, Island Peak has a rich history and continues to attract climbers from around the world who are drawn to its stunning views and relatively easy ascent.

Island Peak Climbing Trip Summary:

This typical 16 Day Island peak Climbing starts from arriving in the city of Kathmandu. Next, we take the most thrilling flight to the airport of Lukla situated at the height of 2,840 m/9,317 ft. Gradually we head out to the settlement of Namche Bazaar, the administrative center and the Capital of the Khumbu region. Namche is indeed a hidden paradise in the Himalayas with an outstanding view of Mt. Kongde. It is a town with almost all the desirable facilities with luxurious lodges, banks, and shopping stores including genuine brands, bars, bakeries, etc. Since acclimatization is a must we spent an extra night in this beautiful settlement of Namche.

Progressively, we move to higher elevation settlements like Phortse and Dingboche. Phortse happens to be one of the most beautiful terraced villages that give you a sense of serenity and deliver an exquisite mountain view. From Phortse we walk the high elevated hill-cut trail and then head to the settlement of Dingboche, the highest permanent settlement. You can literally view Island Peak from Dingboche and we spent an extra night here for acclimatization.

The next day we trek further to Island Peak base camp at the elevation of 5,000m - 16,404ft. At Island Peak base camp we provide you with a twin-sharing member tent and kitchen crew. Besides your group leader, our Cook, Climbing Sherpa, and their assistant will accompany you. Here, the cook is accountable for all the diverse meals. They are broadly trained in regard to hygiene, preparing meal variety, and presentation. Our accomplished climbing Sherpa will conduct a clinical course on required climbing skills and safety measures. Island peak expeditions has always served as a preparation arena for mountaineers before scaling any high peaks.

16-day Island Peak Climbing Detail Itinerary

Please keep in mind that the provided 16-day Island Peak Climbing Detail Itinerary serves as a general guideline only. While we make every effort to follow this plan, trekking in the Himalayas can be influenced by varied factors like weather, trail conditions, and the health and acclimatization of the group. Our experienced guides prioritize your safety and will make necessary adjustments as needed. This might involve changes in the daily schedule or rest days for better acclimatization. Your trekking experience is our top priority, and we're committed to providing you with the best adventure while ensuring your well-being. Thank you for your understanding and flexibility.

Flight Delay/Cancellation in Kathmandu and Lukla:

The unpredictability of Flights flying to and from Lukla Airport, the gateway to Mount Everest, and the world’s most electrifying airport is pretty evident from its history of delays and cancellations. Diverse factors lead to the situation of cancellation including the weather, technical issues, poor visibility, etc. In such conditions, Nepal Pyramids will charter a helicopter to make certain that you don’t miss your trip or your international flight. But again under these circumstances, the possibility of flying a helicopter depends on the Nepal Civil Aviation flying rules.

Travelers are to pay the cost of the chartered helicopter which is payable through cash, traveler’s cheques, or credit cards (Visa and Master Cards only). Travelers will be provided with a receipt upon payment so that they may claim the amount from their travel insurance. The cost per person is governed by the number of people taking this facility.

Why it is always wise to have an Additional Leisure Day???

It is always wise to have an additional leisure day in Kathmandu as a contingency day in the case of Lukla – Kathmandu / vice-versa flight cancellation under certain circumstances. This certainly helps in cushioning the cancellation day and also gives anyone more of a chance to explore Kathmandu, the capital, ‘The Shining Pearl of Asia’ with its beautiful temples, monuments, and time-honored legends and history. The city undeniably has so much to offer anyone with a thrilling tour experience. Nepal Pyramids will always be there to assist you with your city exploration.

Important Information

COMPLIMENTARY EQUIPMENT: During your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu, we provide you with a complimentary waterproof Duffel Bag, buff (neck gaiter), 2 Toilet Rolls, a Map, and a Baseball Cap. The duffel bag will serve as a means to pack all your necessary trekking supplies for your upcoming adventure.

YOUR DAYPACK: In addition to the duffel bag, it is essential that you have your own daypack with a waterproof cover. This daypack will be used to carry your daily necessities such as cash, important documents, water supplies or rehydration bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, and extra clothing.

EQUIPMENT WE PROVIDE: Besides the complimentary equipment, WITHOUT ANY EXTRA COST, we provide you with PrimaLoft wind stopper jackets, a Warm Down Sleeping Bag with liners, a Walking Stick if required, and Yak-Track (mini crampons where required). However, When trekking at altitudes above 4,000 m, it is crucial to have a lightweight down jacket and warm fleece Jackets or hoodies.

ASSIGNING PORTERS: To ensure your comfort and convenience, we assign one porter between two trekkers. The porter will be responsible for carrying the duffel bag throughout the entire trek. It is important to note that the weight of your duffel bag should not exceed 10/11 kg as the weight limitation for porters is 25/30kg max and if you are flying to any high mountain airports in Nepal your overall weight limitation including your duffle + daypack is only 15kg / 33 pounds.

YOUR EXTRA LUGGAGE: For your convenience, you can store all your extra luggage, and suitcases at the hotel SAFETY STORE in Kathmandu. This way, you can travel light and have peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe and secure.

TIPPING: Tipping is a gesture of appreciation, a heartfelt way to express gratitude for the incredible journey you've embarked upon and the dedication of the remarkable individuals who have been your guiding stars throughout your trek. The practice of tipping, at 10% of the trip cost, is a tradition that allows you to give back, acknowledging the extraordinary efforts of your guides, porters, and the entire team who make your adventure possible. It is a way to honor their dedication, hard work, and the stories they've shared around the campfire, deepening the bonds formed in the heart of the mountains.

AT THE ARIPORT: Upon arrival, we strongly advise against entrusting your bag to anyone other than our trusted office representatives. Unknown airport porters taking your luggage for a few seconds and claiming for TIPS is a very common incident at the airport. Our team is there to ensure that your belongings remain safe and that you can embark on your adventure with confidence. Your safety and peace of mind are our utmost priority.

We hope this information clarifies the important details regarding your trip. Should you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected]. We want to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in Nepal.Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trekking:

16 Day Island Peak Climbing