Island Peak Climb with Everest Base Camp Trek

Island Peak Climb with Everest Base Camp Trek, 19 days

The Island Peak with Everest Base Camp Trek via the Three Passes is a captivating 19-day adventure that commences and concludes in the lively city of Kathmandu, Nepal. This extraordinary journey leads you through the enchanting Gokyo Lakes region, nestled within the stunning heritage of the Khumbu Valley. The Island Peak Climb with Everest Base Camp trek is an exhilarating journey that immerses you in the heart of Nepal’s Khumbu region. The trek presents awe-inspiring views of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest.  But it also offers the thrilling opportunity to summit Island Peak, a challenging yet attainable climb for adventure enthusiasts.

Island Peak, officially known as Imja Tse (6,189 m / 20,305 ft), is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal. Located in the Everest region, it rises impressively from the Imja Valley, appearing like an island in a sea of ice—hence the English name given by Eric Shipton’s 1953 British Everest Expedition. The climb offers a thrilling mix of trekking and basic alpine climbing, making it an ideal challenge for adventurous trekkers aiming to step into mountaineering.

Island Peak is often seen as the perfect first step for aspiring mountaineers. The climb begins with trekking, an introduction to essential alpine skills, rope work, glacier travel, crampons, and an ice axe.

Island Peak Climb with Everest Base Camp Trek

Get ready for a big challenge as you aim to conquer Island Peak climbing via three tough high mountain passes: Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,545m). These passes are popular for the views of Mt. Everest, making this trek known as the Three Passes Trek. Each pass is like a doorway to stunning natural beauty and will test your strength for the mountain adventure journey. Get set to be amazed as you cross these tough passes and see the breathtaking scenery waiting for you in the Himalayas.

Island Peak Climbing Group cost with the package

The cost per person decreases as the group size increases, making it more affordable for larger teams. The price of the package depends on the number of days spent, but we have crafted a 19–day full package (including the Everest Base Camp trek and the Island Peak climb).

• For a solo climber (1 person), the price is USD 2,670.

• For 2 people, the rate is USD 2,580 per person.

• For 3 to 4 people, the cost is USD 2,570 per person.

• For 5 to 6 people, the price is USD 2,560 per person.

• For 7 to 15 people, the rate drops to USD 2,550 per person.

• For 16 people above, the cost is USD 2,550 per person.

The cost of the Island Peak climb covers all the essential logistics, gear, and staff support needed for a safe and successful expedition. A shorter 3-day climb from Chhukung costs around USD 700 – 870 (guide, permits, camping, climbing gear).

Island Peak Distance from Chhukung

The Chhukung Valley lies east of Dingboche in the upper Imja Valley of the Everest region. At an altitude of around 4,730 m (15,518 ft), it serves as a quiet and scenic side valley surrounded by dramatic Himalayan peaks. The valley is flanked by Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Baruntse, with the massive south face of Lhotse dominating the skyline.

Chhukung is often used as an acclimatization stop for trekkers heading to Island Peak (Imja Tse), Kongma La Pass, the three passes trek, or those exploring side hikes such as Chhukung Ri (5,550 m), which offers spectacular panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, and the Imja Glacier.

Unlike busier villages like Dingboche or Namche, Chhukung is smaller, with a handful of lodges that offer basic but comfortable accommodation. Its peaceful setting makes it an excellent base for preparing for high passes and climbing adventures.

• Chhukung (4,730 m) to Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m):

  • Approx. 3–4 hours trek

  • Distance: ~4.5 km / 2.8 miles

  • Trail: Gradual ascent through rocky trails along the Imja River, with stunning views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the Imja Glacier.

A Journey Through Chhukung to Island Peak Climbing

• Island Peak Climbing From Chhukung, trekker hike to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m), which takes 3-4 hours.
• The summit push typically starts very early in the morning (around 2 AM) to take advantage of stable weather conditions and to ensure a return to Base Camp by afternoon.
• The climb involves crossing glaciers, climbing a steep snow wall, and finally, ascending a narrow ridge to the summit.
• The summit of Island Peak is at 6,189m (20,305ft), offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu.
• After summiting, climbers descend back to Base Camp and then retrace their steps to Chhukung, Dingboche, Tengboche, Namche Bazaar, and finally Lukla, where they catch a flight back to Kathmandu.

The interesting part of Island Peak Climbing is following the path of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, who conquered Everest in 1953, and used Island Peak for training. Now, you can walk the same way they did, making your adventure even more special.

Physical Fitness Preparation for Island Peak Climbing

• Hiking and Trekking: Start with moderate hikes and gradually increase the distance and elevation gain. Carry a backpack to simulate climbing conditions.
• Running and Jogging: Include interval training and long-distance runs to build aerobic capacity and endurance.
• Cycling: Both road biking and mountain biking are excellent forms of exercise for building leg strength and cardiovascular fitness.
• Swimming: Great for overall cardiovascular conditioning and low-impact exercise.

Frequency: Aim for 3-5 sessions per week, each lasting 30-60 minutes.

Strength Training

• Legs: Squats, lunges, deadlifts, and step-ups to build strength in your quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and glutes.
• Core: Planks, Russian twists, leg raises, and mountain climbers strengthen your core muscles, which are crucial for stability and balance.
• Upper Body: Pull-ups, push-ups, bench presses, and rows to develop arm, shoulder, and back strength needed for climbing and handling ropes.

Frequency: Aim for 2-3 strength training sessions per week, focusing on different muscle groups.

Mental Training

• Visualization: Practice visualizing successful climbs and overcoming obstacles.
• Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness and meditation techniques to improve mental clarity and stress management.
• Goal Setting: Set realistic, incremental goals to keep motivated and track progress.

A Carefully Crafted Itinerary

Island Peak Climb with Everest Base Camp Trek is a 19-day itinerary that incorporates essential acclimatization periods. As you gradually ascend the Khumbu Valley via the Three Passes, you’ll have the opportunity to savor magnificent views from Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m). These vantage points provide unparalleled perspectives on the Himalayan giants that surround you.

Island Peak Base Camp

• Altitude: 5,100 m (16,732 ft)

• Location: Southeast of Chhukung, in the Imja Valley

• Facilities: Mostly camping, but some tea houses in Chhukung provide food and gear rental before moving to Base Camp.

• Climbing Route:

  • From Base Camp, climbers ascend steep grassy slopes and scree to reach High Camp (5,600 m).

  • The final climb involves a glacier crossing, fixed rope sections on a headwall, and a thrilling summit ridge.

Preparation for Higher Mountains

Many climbers use Island Peak as training for higher expeditions, such as Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, or other 7000m and 8000m peaks. Climbing Island Peak helps them:

• Test their fitness and acclimatization ability.

• Practice using high-altitude climbing gear.

• Experience a real Himalayan summit push in a relatively controlled environment.

Success Rate and Safety

The likelihood of successfully reaching the summit of Island Peak usually falls between 60% to 70%. Several factors, such as weather conditions, personal experience, and acclimatization, play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Ensuring safety is the top priority, and participating in guided expeditions enhances the chances of a successful climb. Having experienced guides can make a significant difference in navigating challenges and increasing the overall success rate of summit attempts.

Your Experienced Guides

When you join the Nepal Wilderness Trekking team for this extraordinary adventure, you’re in the hands of seasoned experts. Our experienced climbing guides are ready to lead you through the heart of the Himalayas on this exhilarating journey. With years of experience, they possess the necessary expertise to ensure your safety and success on this technical ascent.

An Unforgettable Adventure

The Three Passes trek with Island Peak climbing offers not only the thrill of scaling Island Peak but also the challenge of conquering three high mountain passes. With excellent acclimatization opportunities, your attempt at Island Peak Climbing becomes more achievable.

Comprehensive Support

The Nepal Wilderness Trekking team leads the Island Peak Climbing with exceptional services and unwavering support for our valued clients. Our dedicated team of seasoned porters and support staff is committed to ensuring that your trek and climb are not only adventurous but also marked by seamless and unforgettable experiences. Our experienced and passionate team makes your journey memorable and full of adventure. You can trust us to guide you safely and reliably through the mountains.

Conclusion: A Journey to Cherish Forever

Join us on the Island Peak Everest Base Camp trek for an unparalleled adventure. You’ll fulfill your dream of summiting a technical 6000-meter peak and create lifelong memories of the Himalayan wilderness. Embrace the spirit of adventure as our expert team guides you to the pinnacle of Island Peak, an achievement to cherish forever.

Island Peak Climbing Permit Costs

Obtaining permits for Island Peak climbing is a crucial part of the process. The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) issues permits for various peaks, with Island Peak categorized as a Group B trekking peak. Permit costs vary based on the season:

• Spring (March to May): USD 250 per person
• Autumn (September to November): USD 125 per person
• Winter (December to February): USD 70 per person
• Summer (June to August): USD 70 per person

Spring and Autumn are the Best times to climb Island Peak due to their favorable weather conditions, with Spring being the peak season, commanding the highest permit cost. Winter and Summer, with fewer tourists, entail lower expenses.

It’s important to note that NMA permits can only be obtained through government-registered local trekking agencies affiliated with the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). These agencies can not only secure your permit but also provide comprehensive support and arrangements for your island peak climbing with EBC Adventure with an experienced professional climbing guide.