Island Peak Climbing with EBC Cho La & Kongma La - 21 Days

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  • Duration 21 Days
  • Trip Grade Technically Challenging
  • Country Nepal

Are you interested in climbing a peak in Nepal? Then you are at the right place. The Island Peak is one of the most famous trekking peaks, ideal for beginner climbers. Even if you are not new to climbing, you will enjoy climbing this peak. The physical demands of Island Peak climbing are very high, but the climbing route is not technically challenging.

Island Peak Climbing with EBC Cho La & Kongma La is a 21-day adventurous expedition in Nepal. This trip involves trekking and climbing. The journey is challenging but very rewarding. You will explore the lap of Mount Everest and cross two famous passes. The trail traverses from lush valleys and beautiful Sherpa villages to glacier moraines and the summit of Island Peak.

Unlike the 7000m and 8000m mountains, you do not have to spend many days at the base camp of Island Peak acclimatizing. Instead, you will push to the summit right away. This is possible because you will be spending a few days trekking and getting used to high altitudes before the climbing starts.

Our Island Peak climbing itinerary involves hiking to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Not only that, but the participants also cross Cho La and Kongma La. Altogether, you will spend 12 days trekking before arriving at the Island Peak Base Camp. It allows you to acclimatize and build your stamina and confidence.

Crossing Cho La and Renjo La will boost your confidence and prepare you mentally for Island Peak. We have curated this itinerary to increase the success rate for beginner climbers. Reduce the trekking days if you have previous climbing experience and do not need long acclimatization time.

Highlights

  • Conquer a 6000 meters fantastic mountain in the Himalayas
  • Enjoy an adventurous trek through rhododendron forests and Sherpa villages of the Khumbu region
  • Experience the thrilling Lukla flights and explore famous villages like Namche Bazaar
  • Go on side hikes to the Hotel Everest View, Thame, Gokyo Ri, and Kala Patthar
  • Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes and reach the Everest Base Camp
  • Get to see the mountain lifestyle of the locals and their ancient culture
  • Cross Cho La and Kongma La passes
  • Climb Island Peak
  • Witness heavenly landscapes and jaw-dropping mountain vistas

What to expect during this climbing trip in Nepal?

Island Peak is known as Imja Tse in the Nepali language. When seen from higher mountains, this peak looks like an Island between a sea of mountains, which is why it is named Island Peak. Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary gave this name to Imja Tse in 1953 during their Mount Everest expedition.

During the Island Peak Climbing with EBC Cho La & Kongma La, you will see beautiful landscapes that range from lush valleys to barren hills. Rivers, waterfalls, and streams change to moraines and glaciers.

Our itinerary includes multiple side hikes to viewpoints from where you will see gorgeous sunrises and breathtaking mountain panoramas. On this trip, participants see the finest mountain views from day one.

Trekkers see Thamserku, Kongde Ri, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Kanchenjunga, Cholatse, and numerous other mountains. The view from the top of Island Peak is heavenly.

Our Island Peak climbing itinerary allows you to explore the Khumbu region, home to the Sherpa community. If you have not explored this region yet, this is a golden opportunity. Explore famous villages like Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Gokyo Village, Tengboche, Dingboche, etc.

Likewise, you will come across many old stupas and monasteries on the way. The trail ascends and descends across various climatic zones, so you will also discover different vegetation. Navigate the Ngozumpa glacier moraines on the way to Gokyo Village. It is the biggest glacier in Nepal.

Witness the stunning beauty of the Gokyo Lakes and cross the Cho La Pass. The trail then ascends to Everest Base Camp, the lap of the tallest mountain in the world. You will take a side hike to Kala Patthar, then cross the Kongma La Pass to enter Chhukung Valley.

From here, hike to the Island Peak Base Camp. Spend a night at the base camp in our comfortable alpine tents and start climbing towards the summit of Island Peak. You will scale the summit and return to Chhukung village the same day. Therefore, you will not spend more than one night above 5,000 meters.

Island Peak Climbing route

The Island Peak climbing route involves mostly steep snow-covered slopes. From the base camp, you will follow rocky terrain and ascend to the glacier.

The route goes above the ride and crosses a steep snow headwall that leads to the summit. The final ascent involves a 60- 70-degree face about 150 meters tall.

Pre-climbing training

If you are new to climbing, our pre-climbing training will be very valuable for you. At the Island Peak Base Camp, your team leader will teach you some basic climbing techniques. He will teach you how to ascend and descend using fixed ropes and other climbing gear. The training will make you mountain-aware and confident.

Who can do the Island Peak Climbing with EBC Cho La & Kongma La 21 days?

Island Peak is one of the best trekking peaks in Nepal if you want to start mountaineering. Climbing this peak provides a great introduction to the alpine environment and mountaineering.

Because there are no technical challenges, beginner climbers can climb Island Peak. You will hone your climbing skills and build strong physical and mental resilience, which will help you during higher-peak climbing expeditions.

How do you prepare for Island Peak climbing with Everest Base Camp?

To prepare for Island Peak climbing, participants must build their strength and stamina. Regular exercise and muscle building are required. You have to be physically and mentally strong to push yourself in thin air and low oxygen levels. High-intensity workouts, aerobic exercise, long walks with weights, etc, are recommended.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. Our team will help you throughout the journey to make it successful. You will get the best Island Peak Climbing with EBC Cho La & Kongma La cost and service with us. Bookings are open 2024/2025 climbing seasons.

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Meet our team members upon landing at the Kathmandu airport. Say hello to them and follow them to your hotel in Thamel. We use private vehicles according to the group size. After checking in at the hotel, freshen up and get some rest. We will catch up for the trek briefing and final preparations in the late evening.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

If you travel to the Everest region in spring and autumn, you will take the Lukla flight from Ramechhap Airport. You will go to Kathmandu around 1:00 AM and drive to the airport. It takes 4 to 5 hours to get there. The flight will be early in the morning. Enjoy a stunning mountain panorama.

At Lukla, you will be joined by the porter. Start walking downhill with your guide and porter to Phakding village. The trail goes through small settlements like Chheplung and Ghat. You will trek through forests of rhododendrons and magnolia. On the way, cross numerous suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.

  • Max Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 35 minutes flight & 3 hours trek
  • Distance: 6.2 km/3.8 miles

Start trekking from Phakding village early and hike to Namche Bazaar. The trail continues through rhododendrons and magnolia forests. On the way, you pass small villages and cross many suspension bridges, including Tenzing Hillary Bridge. You will register the permits at Monjo. From Monjo ahead, it is mostly a steep uphill walk to Namche Bazaar.

Mountain views: Kongde Ri, Kusum Kanguru, Taboche, Thamserku, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles

Today, you will spend an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. After a delicious breakfast, hike to Thame village. The trail is tranquil and offers stunning mountain panoramas. In Thame, you will visit an old monastery. After the hike, return to Namche Bazaar to spend the night.

Mountain views: Thamserku, Kongde Ri, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 3,800 m/12,467 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5 hours

Leaving Namche Bazaar, you will hike to the Hotel Everest View. From here, continue to Khumjung village. The trail offers a superb view of Mt. Thamserku. Visit an ancient monastery in Khumjung monastery and observe the daily life of the locals.

Mountain views: Thamserku, Kangtega, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Everest, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 3,790 m/12,434 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 3 hours

From Khumjung village, you will walk up to Phortse Thanga via a forested route. The trail then continues ascending to Dole. On the way, stop at Mong La for lunch. You have to be extra careful because the terrain will gradually get steep and rocky.

Mountain views: Thamserku, Kangtega, Ama Dablam, etc.

  • Max Altitude: : 4,100 m/13,451 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4 hours

It is another short walking day from Dole to Machhermo. Follow steep, rugged tracks and pass by prayer flags, stupas, and shrines. You will trek through small settlements like Lapahram and Luja before reaching Machhermo.

Mountain views: Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Island Peak, Kyajo Ri, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 4,470 m/14,450 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Distance: 7 km/4.3 miles

In one hour of walking from Machhermo, you will reach Phanga. It is a landslide area. Cross a suspension bridge and follow an uphill trail to Longpongo Lake (4,690 m). From here, you will trek through the Ngozumpa Glacier moraine, the biggest glacier in Nepal.

The trail passes the first two Gokyo Lakes and takes you to the third lake, Dudh Pokhari, where Gokyo village is located. It is a short walk to Gokyo village, so hike to the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes later in the day.

Mountain views: Lobuche, Island Peak, Cholatse, Taboche, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 4,790 m/15,584 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 5.7 km/3.5 miles

Begin your day early in the morning and hike to Gokyo Ri, following a steep route. Upon reaching the viewpoint, you will see a breathtaking sunrise and a jaw-dropping view of Mt. Everest and other mountains. After the hike, you will descend to Dragnak to spend the night.

Mountain views: Everest, Cho Oyu, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Lhotse, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 4,690 m/15,387 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6-7 hours

On this day, you will cross the Cho La Pass. It will be a long day starting early in the morning. Follow a steep, rugged uphill route that gradually ascends to the top of the pass. You may have to walk on snow and ice. The view from the top of the pass is amazing. The later part of the trail descends to Dzongla.

  • Max Altitude: 5,420 m/17,782 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 7-8 hours

Today, you will hike to the Everest Base Camp. From Dzongla, gradually ascend to Gorak Shep. It is the last settlement before EBC, and you will spend the night here. Drop your heavy duffel bags at the lodge and continue hiking to the base camp of Mount Everest. Upon reaching here, take pictures and look around. Then, descend to Gorak Shep for the night.

Mountain views: Taboche, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse Pumori, Langtren, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 5,364 m/17,598 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6-7 hours

Wake up early in the morning and hike to Kala Patthar. Enjoy a jaw-dropping sunrise and mountain panorama from here. Mount Everest's view is incredible from this point. Then, descend to Gorak Shep and have breakfast. After that, you will follow a downhill route to Lobuche village.

Mountain views: Everest, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Lhotse, Nuptse Pumori, Langtren, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 5,545 m/18,192 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6-7 hours

Today, you will cross the Kongma La Pass. Wake up early and follow your guide to the top of the pass. It will be tough climbing, but the view at the top will make you forget all the pain. From the pass, the trail descends to Chhukung village.

Mountain views: Taboche, Island Peak, Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse Pumori, Langtren, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 5,540 m/18,176 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 7-8 hours

The trail ascends, offering terrific mountain and glacier views to Island Peak Base Camp. We will follow a rugged, steep route that gradually ascends to the base camp. Our supporting team will be at the base camp all ready to welcome us. Upon reaching the base camp, we will be greeted with a warm drink. We will settle in the tents and plan our summit day.

Mountain views: Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Cholatse, Tabuche, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 5,100 m/16,732 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Camp
  • Duration: 4 hours

From the Island Peak Base Camp, you will begin climbing at dawn. Follow a steep, rocky route that leads to the high camp. From here, climb for three hours and reach the crampon point. You will climb wearing crampons from here onwards.

Further, the route is snowy and icy. The guides will secure the climbing route with fixed ropes. You will climb using these ropes. A narrow track will take us to Imja Glacier. From here, we will climb on 40 to 45-degree slopes to reach the top of the glacier.

The final part of the climb involves ascending a vertical wall and crossing two crevasses using ladders. During the climb, we see unbelievable views of Makalu, Baurntse, Ama Dablam, Mera Peak, Chamlang, etc.

After enjoying some time at the summit, we will return to the Island Peak Base Camp following the same route and descend to Chhukung village to spend the night. It is going to be a long day but very memorable.

  • Max Altitude: 6,187 m/20,298 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 8-9 hours

The trail descends from Chhukung to Tengboche village. First, you will walk to Dingboche. From here, descend to Shomare and continue to Pangboche village. The trail drops down via lush forests to Imja Khola. Cross the river, ascend to Deboche village, and continue trekking via rhododendron forests to Tengboche.

Mountain views: Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 3,860 m/12,660 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4 hours

Leaving Tengboche village, you will descend to Phungi Thanga. From here, the trail ascends to Namche Bazaar. Further, you will follow a steep downhill route to Monjo via dense forests.

Mountain views: Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 2,835 m/9,301 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5 hours

From Monjo, walk the following forest and reach Phakding. The trail then gradually ascends along the Dudh Koshi River to Lukla. Cross many suspension bridges on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5 hours

You will fly back to Kathmandu on this day. After landing at the Ramechhap Airport, drive to Kathmandu. The guide will drop you at the hotel. The remaining day is leisure in the city.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 35 minutes flight

You have a free day in Kathmandu. You can spend it as you wish. Explore tourist sites and local markets. Buy souvenirs and try Nepali dishes. Enjoy your time in the city.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will fly back to your home today. Be ready on time to leave your hotel. Our team will drop you off at the international airport.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Add-ons and Options
  • Helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla: If you want to skip the commercial Lukla flight, add a comfortable helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
  • Helicopter flight from Lukla to Kathmandu: If you want to skip the commercial Lukla flight, add a comfortable helicopter flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Give a grand ending to your venture in the Himalayas.
  • Update to luxury lodge: Upgrade the accommodation to a luxury lodge to get heated rooms with private washrooms, charging, WiFi, and hot showers.
  • Single room while trekking: If you want a single room during trekking, add this upgrade to your package.
  • Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu: Explore the historical sites in Kathmandu with an experienced tour guide and get to learn deeply about Nepali history and culture.

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You can change the Island Peak climbing itinerary if our proposed itinerary does not match your requirements. We also request that you be flexible with the itinerary, as it may require changes if the situation demands.

Essential Info

Island Peak climbing difficulty

Climbing Island Peak is physically strenuous but technically not challenging. Our Island Peak climbing itinerary also includes trekking to EBC and crossing Cho La and Kongma La passes. You will complete the major trekking part before climbing the peak. It will help you acclimatize and get you physically and mentally ready for the climb.

Island Peak climbing is only recommended to fit individuals who have trekked before and are looking to challenge themselves. Although the technical challenges are very low on Island Peak, the journey is very demanding. It will test your strength, endurance, willpower, and patience.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is common during high-altitude adventures like climbing Island Peak. However, you shouldn't underestimate it. Take good care of yourself, and if you feel any discomfort, inform your guide and get first aid right away.

Acclimatization is necessary to avoid altitude sickness. This itinerary is designed to provide a full acclimatization opportunity to the climbers. You can also do a few other things, like ascending slowly, maintaining your pace, eating ample food, and keeping yourself hydrated.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory to join a peak climbing program. There is no provision for travel insurance in Nepal, so climbers have to buy it in their country. Make sure that your insurance covers evacuation in the Himalayas because most of them don't. If you get sick or injure yourself during the journey, you may need helicopter evacuation as per the situation.

The best time to climb Island Peak

The best time to climb Island Peak or any peak in Nepal is March to early June and late September to November. The weather is stable during these months, and there are very low risks of avalanches and snowstorms. Climbers have many summit windows, so the success rate is the highest.

Likewise, you will enjoy a moderate climate and stunning mountain panoramas while trekking. The temperature ranges from 5°C to 28°C in the daytime and drops below 5°C at night and morning. The trails are bloomed with rhododendrons and many other flowers and vegetation, which make the scenery extremely beautiful.

Accommodation & food

Basic mountain lodges will be your home during trekking. The Everest region has a good number of luxury lodges in many villages. You can upgrade your accommodation to a luxury lodge if your budget allows.

The basic lodge offers twin-shared rooms, and services like charging, hot shower, and WiFi usually cost a few extra bucks. Likewise, washrooms are common. Western-style toilets are found in many places, but you also have to use squat toilets at high elevations.

The rooms in basic lodges are small but clean and cozy. We recommend a sleeping bag to keep yourself warm at night. The blanket provided by lodges may not be enough if you are very sensitive to cold.

Our package provides three meals a day. You will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the lodge. A decent variety of food is available for trekkers. In villages like Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche, you will find fresh bakeries, burgers, pizza, cafes, and many other food options.

Dal bhat, rice with curry, fried rice, chapati, momo, noodles, thukpa, porridge, soups, pancakes, oats, muesli, eggs, etc, are found everywhere. Similarly, clean drinking water is readily available. You can buy boiled water for a fraction of the cost in the lodges to refill your water bottle.

You will spend the night in a tent at the Island Peak Base Camp. Climbers do not need to bring their own tents. We provide our guests separate sleeping tents and shared washroom and dining tents. Likewise, our crew will cook fresh meals for you during the climbing duration.

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