Island Peak Ascent and Everest Base Camp Trek
Climb Island Peak (6,189 m) in the heart of Nepal’s Khumbu region, surrounded by Himalayan giants like Everest and Lhotse. Over 19 days, trek through Sherpa villages, visit iconic monasteries in Tengboche and Pangboche, and experience sunrise from Kalapatthar. Cross the Kongma La Pass (5,535 m) and summit Island Peak with the guidance of certified mountain guides from Himalaya Summit Club.
Private
Himalaya
19 Days
Mar - May, Sep - Nov
High
Intermediate
Highlights
- Watch the breathtaking sunrise from the Kalapatthar viewpoint.
- Traverse the Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), the Everest region’s highest mountain pass.
- Explore the spiritual heart of the region, including the monasteries of Tengboche and Pangboche.
Description
Island Peak (6,189 m) stands proudly among the legendary giants of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest and Lhotse, captivating trekkers from around the world.
This trek offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and stunning mountainous scenery for those ready to explore the heart of the Khumbu region.
Over 19 days, you’ll start in Kathmandu and fly to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. From there, trek through Sherpa villages, cross the Dudh Koshi River, and visit iconic monasteries in Tengboche and Pangboche. Follow trails to Pheriche and Lobuche, stand at the base of Everest, and watch the sunrise from Kalapatthar. Your journey continues via the Kongma La Pass (5,535 m) to Chhukung, where you’ll prepare for the Island Peak summit before descending back through Namche Bazaar to Lukla.
For the best experience, plan your adventure from mid-October to mid-December, and come prepared with appropriate gear and clothing. Guided by experienced professionals from Himalaya Summit Club, your trip combines expert support with the flexibility to tailor the trek to your preferences.
Experience summiting Island Peak, witness the sunrise over Everest, explore Sherpa culture, and cross the highest mountain pass in the region. Let us guide you on a journey you’ll remember forever—join us for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Price includes
Price details
- * Private airport transfers between the airport and hotel.
- * Twinshare accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
- * Guided Kathmandu city tour with an expert local guide and private vehicle.
- * One lead internationally certified Nepalese Mountain Guide, NNMGA/IFMGA, assistant climbing guides, with a 2 climbers to 1 assistant guide ratio, and porters, with 1 porter for every 2 climbers.
- * Meals, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, clothing, and medicine for guides, climbing assistants, and porters.
- * Three meals per day during the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- * Island Peak climbing permit and all required government permits.
- * Group medical supplies and first aid kit.
- * Himalaya Summit Club duffel bag, available on request before booking and confirmed during the pretrip meeting.
- * Predeparture information and trip dossier.
- * Welcome or farewell Nepali dinner in Kathmandu.
- * All required paperwork, office service charges, government taxes, and administrative fees.
- The price does NOT include:
- * Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- * Nepal entry visa fee, available on arrival at the airport.
- * International flights, airport taxes, and Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fees.
- * Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, hot drinks, hot water, and hot showers during the trek.
- * Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, snacks, sweets, beverages, bar bills, and camera battery charging.
- * Travel insurance, which is mandatory and must include emergency evacuation coverage for trekking above 5,500 meters.
- * Personal trekking and climbing gear.
- * Tips for guides, trekking staff, porters, and drivers.
- * Any other expenses not specifically listed
Meeting point
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a Himalaya Summit Club representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest, unpack, or explore the city at your own pace. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel Place: Kathmandu Altitude: 1,300 m
Day 2: Trip Preparation in Kathmandu
Today is dedicated to preparing for the trek and climb. You will meet the guides and porters, review the itinerary, check your gear, and go over the basics of trekking and climbing in the Himalayas. If time allows, an optional sightseeing tour can be arranged to visit some of Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, or Kathmandu Durbar Square. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel Place: Kathmandu Altitude: 1,300 m
Day 3: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding, 2,610 m
After breakfast, you will transfer to the airport and take a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From there, the trek begins with a walk through Himalayan villages and landscapes before reaching Phakding. Overnight in Phakding.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Lukla to Phakding Altitude: 2,610 m Duration: 3 to 4 hours, 8 km
Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, 3,440 m
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests, suspension bridges, and traditional settlements. Along the way, you may enjoy views of Thamserku and, on clear days, your first glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. After a steady uphill section, you will arrive in Namche Bazaar, the main Sherpa town of the Everest region. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,440 m Duration: 5 to 6 hours, 8.2 km
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar, 3,440 m
This day is reserved for acclimatization. You can explore Namche Bazaar, hike to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic mountain views, or visit Khumjung village and its monastery. The day helps your body adjust to the altitude before continuing higher. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,440 m
Day 6: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, 3,860 m
The trail leads toward Phunki before climbing to Tengboche, one of the most important spiritual centers in the Khumbu region. You will visit the famous Tengboche Monastery and enjoy impressive views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Overnight in Tengboche.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Tengboche Altitude: 3,860 m Duration: 5 to 6 hours, 9 km
Day 7: Trek from Tengboche to Pheriche, 4,371 m
Today’s route descends through forest before crossing a river and gradually climbing toward Pangboche, where you can stop for lunch. From there, the trail continues to Pheriche, a high-altitude village surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery. Overnight in Pheriche.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Pheriche Altitude: 4,371 m Duration: 4 to 5 hours, 10 km
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Pheriche, 4,371 m
You will spend the day acclimatizing in Pheriche. Depending on conditions, you may rest, explore nearby Sherpa settlements, or hike to Nangkar Tshang, 5,116 m, for views of Makalu, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, and Island Peak. You will return to Pheriche for the night.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Pheriche Altitude: 4,371 m
Day 9: Trek from Pheriche to Lobuche, 4,910 m
The trail gradually leads toward Dughla before climbing the steep moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. You will pass memorial sites and prayer flags dedicated to climbers before continuing along the glacier moraine with views of Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumo Ri, and the Mahalangur Himal. Overnight in Lobuche.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Lobuche Altitude: 4,910 m Duration: 5 to 6 hours, 6 km
Day 10: Trek to Gorakshep and Visit Everest Base Camp, 5,364 m
Today you will trek to Gorakshep and continue toward Everest Base Camp. The trail crosses rocky terrain, glacial moraine, and streams before reaching the iconic base camp, surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Khumbu Glacier. After spending time at Everest Base Camp, you will return to Gorakshep for the night.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp Altitude: 5,170 m at Gorakshep, 5,364 m at Everest Base Camp Duration: 6 to 7 hours, 13 km round trip
Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar and Return to Lobuche, 4,910 m
Early in the morning, you will hike to Kala Patthar, one of the best viewpoints for Mount Everest. As you climb, views of Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse, and Everest become increasingly impressive. After enjoying the panorama of the Khumbu region, you will descend and return to Lobuche. Overnight in Lobuche.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Lobuche Altitude: 4,910 m Duration: 7 to 8 hours, 9 km round trip
Day 12: Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung via Kongma La Pass, 5,535 m
You will cross the Khumbu Glacier and continue toward Kongma La Base Camp before ascending Kongma La Pass, one of the high passes of the Everest region. From the pass, the route descends toward the Imja Khola Valley and continues to Chhukung, a small Sherpa village below Island Peak. Overnight in Chhukung.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Chhukung Altitude: 4,730 m Duration: 6 to 7 hours, 11 km
Day 13: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp, 5,020 m, and Climbing Training
The trail to Island Peak Base Camp follows a steep route through the Imja Valley, with views of glacier moraines and the Lhotse Glacier. After reaching base camp and settling into the tent camp, the guides will lead a climbing skills session. You will practice using your ice axe, climbing boots, harness, ascender, and other technical equipment in preparation for the summit climb. Overnight at Island Peak Base Camp.
Accommodation: Tent camp Place: Island Peak Base Camp Altitude: 5,020 m Duration: 3 to 4 hours, 7 km
Day 14: Island Peak Summit, 6,189 m, and Return to Base Camp
Summit day begins early. You will climb through snow, ice, and steep terrain using ropes, ice axe, and other climbing equipment where required. After crossing technical sections and crevassed terrain, you will reach the summit of Island Peak, with spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. After the summit, you will descend back to base camp. Overnight at Island Peak Base Camp.
Place: Island Peak Altitude: 6,189 m Duration: 10 to 12 hours, 7.5 km
Day 15: Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche, 3,985 m
After the summit climb, you will descend to lower altitude through the wide Khumbu Khola Valley. The route passes Sherpa villages and may include a visit to Upper Pangboche and its historic gompa, one of the oldest in the Khumbu region. From Pangboche, you can enjoy views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega. Overnight in Pangboche.
Place: Pangboche Altitude: 3,985 m Duration: 5 to 6 hours, 12.2 km
Day 16: Trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar, 3,440 m
The trail crosses the Imja Khola and continues through the forests of Tengboche. After a possible short visit to Tengboche Monastery, you will descend through rhododendron forests, follow the Dudh Koshi River, and continue toward Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3,440 m Duration: 4 to 5 hours, 11.5 km
Day 17: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, 2,840 m
Today you will descend toward Lukla, crossing the Dudh Koshi River and its tributaries along the way. The trail becomes more gradual as you approach Lukla, where you will spend your final night in the Everest region. Overnight in Lukla.
Accommodation: Lodge Place: Lukla Altitude: 2,840 m Duration: 6 to 7 hours, 16.5 km
Day 18: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu, 1,300 m
You will take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying final aerial views of the Khumbu region. After arriving in the capital, you can rest, explore the city, or visit local markets for souvenirs. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel Place: Kathmandu Altitude: 1,300 m
Day 19: Final Departure
Your Island Peak climbing and Everest Base Camp adventure comes to an end. A company representative will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.
Details
Accommodation
Accommodation in Kathmandu will be arranged at Hotel Marshyangdi, Mandala Boutique Hotel, Yatri Suites & Spa, or a similar hotel. During the trek, you will stay in local teahouses. All accommodation is based on twin-sharing rooms.
Single rooms may be available on request for an additional cost. Himalaya Summit Club will arrange rooms with attached bathrooms whenever possible, but in some trekking areas, teahouses may only offer shared washing and toilet facilities.
Single rooms are usually easier to arrange in Kathmandu and at lower elevations, but availability becomes limited at higher altitudes.
Disclaimer
To join any of our trips, you must have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical issues and accidents, including emergency treatment, air ambulance, and helicopter rescue costs.
Please note that Himalaya Summit Club does not arrange or sell insurance.
Equipment you will need to bring
You must bring a lightweight alpine helmet that meets UIAA or CE safety standards.
You will need an adjustable alpine harness that fits securely over several layers. A slightly padded waist belt is recommended for comfort during longer belaying or hanging sections.
Your mountaineering boots must be warm, rigid, crampon-compatible, and suitable for high-altitude snow, ice, and mixed terrain. B3 category boots are recommended. From November to March, double-layer high-altitude boots such as La Sportiva G2 Evo or G2 SM are strongly recommended. Advanced single-layer boots such as Scarpa Phantom 6000, La Sportiva Nepal, or La Sportiva Cube may be suitable depending on conditions and experience.
You will need crampons. C2 semi-automatic crampons are recommended for mountaineering, while C3 automatic crampons are preferred for technical ice climbing. Suitable models include Petzl Vasak, Petzl Sarken, Black Diamond Sabretooth, Grivel G12, Petzl Lynx, Black Diamond Cyborg, and Grivel G14.
A semi-technical or classic mountaineering ice axe is required for standard mountaineering routes and training. For more technical terrain, you may need a pair of ice climbing tools.
You must bring four HMS locking carabiners, one left-hand and one right-hand jumar or ascender, and a belay device such as an ATC Guide or Figure of Eight.
You will also need a 3-meter length of 8 to 9 mm dynamic rope for personal use, along with a short safety rope for backup during jumaring and technical sections. Around 5 meters of 7 mm prusik cord is also required.
You must bring one or two 20 to 22 cm ice screws, preferably from reliable brands such as Black Diamond or Petzl.
Finally, you will need a 120 cm tape sling for anchors and protection. A 9 mm rope may also be used for anchor construction.
About the guide
Tul Singh & Guides' Team
5.0
(3)
Mountain Guide
Hello and namaste! My name is Tul Singh (Tulsi). I'm originally from the western part of Nepal and grew up near the Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world (8156m). I am an avid mountaineer who works as both a mountain guide and instructor on mountaineering, rock climbing and ice climbing courses.
My first summit was on the Nagamari (6547m), a remote peak here in Nepal. Since then, I have reached the summit of Mount Everest twice, the summit of Cho Oyo (8201m) once and climbed to the top of Ama Dablam (6812m) five times. In addition to climbing mountains here in Nepal, I have also climbed some important peaks in Europe, the United States and elsewhere in Asia throughout my career. Some of the highlights include Mont Blanc, Mount Elbrus, Mount Rainier, and the lesser known Mount Sudarshan Parbat (6540m) in India.
I am an active member of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), the Nepal Mountaineering Instructors Association (NMIA) and the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA). Additionally, I work as a mountain rescuer and have had the privilege of participating in many successful rescue missions over the years.
Languages
Nepali | English
Certificates
NNMGA | IFMGA
What people are saying about Tul Singh & Guides' Team
Keira
Gerhard
Was an excellent experience. Gelje was an excellent guide. Very accommodating and extremely supportive. So was Gurung Tulsi. Though I did not make it to the summit this was an outstanding trip. The whole area is breathtaking with its sceneries.
Federico
Tulsi is an incredibly experienced guide with an amazing team. The logistics are carefully planned and the team really demonstrated their professionalism throughout the whole trip. Everything was always conducted with safety in mind. The locations we travelled through are also stunning. The course is very comprehensive and will cover everything you need to acquire those foundational skills for mountaineering. The technical skills I learnt will prove invaluable in the coming years when I'll explore the glaciers in the alps. Tulsi is also very open to share general knowledge beyond the main topics covered in the course. Thanks to Tulsi and the team for this amazing experience and a successful summit!
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