Trip Overview
Island Peak climbing is one of the most popular and adventurous climbing in the Himalayas that has attracted thousands of trekkers and climbers over the year. The Island peak stands 6,189 meters above sea level and is also widely known as Imja Tse peak. Island peak is one of the most stunning mountains in the Himalayas and climbed in 1953 AD by a British expedition team for the first time. The top of Island peak offers panoramic views of the numerous Himalayan Mountains and breath-taking scenery.
There is an interesting story behind the origin of the name of the Island peak. Back in 1953 AD, when a British traveler namely Eric Earle Shipton saw a peak from Dingboche, the view of the peak resembled him like a sea of ice and named it Island peak. The journey takes you to the next level as climbing Island peak also includes exploring the base of the world's highest mountain- The Everest base camp. Island peak is located near the Chukung glacier between Ama Dablam and Mt. Lhotse, and this Island peak adventure takes you far away from your daily life amidst huge Himalayan Mountains and spectacular sceneries. The trail is adventurous and passes by beautiful villages where you get to see the daily life of the locals.
The Island peak climbing begins with a scenic and thrilling flight to Lukla. From Lukla, you trek towards Phakding and ascend through Sagarmatha National Park to reach Namche Bazar. The trail then passes through lovely dense forests and takes you to Dingboche via Tengboche. At Tengboche, you visit an ancient monastery. Further, you pass by several villages and reach Everest Base Camp and hike up to the Kala Patthar. And, This ascends help you in acclimatization as well. You then move to Chhukung valley and gradually ascend towards the Island peak base camp. From here, follow the steps of your Sherpa guide, and you scale the Island Peak and reach its top.
One of the attractions of the island peak is the thrilling flight to Lukla. Lukla is the starting point of the Island peak climbing, and to reach Lukla, you take a breathtaking flight that offers aerial views of the Himalayas. The flight is short but stimulating. The next attraction of Island peak is a trek in Sagarmatha national park and this park is one of the UNESCO World natural heritage sites. This national park is home to numerous Himalayan flora and fauna. The trail from Monjo goes through the national park and ascends to Namche Bazar. Most parts of the trail include steep climbs and various streams.
You spend a day in Namche Bazar for acclimatization purposes. You get to explore the village and go on short excursions to nearby areas from Namche. Trekkers usually hike up to the Everest View Hotel, Khumjung village, or Syangboche Airstrip to witness beautiful views of the snow-capped peaks. Likewise, as Namche Bazar is the biggest Sherpa settlement area, you get to observe the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the locals. You can also visit places like the Sherpa culture museum, Everest photo gallery, cafes, etc.
The attraction of Island peak climbing is to explore and experience the culture and lifestyle of Sherpas. While you pass through many villages, you get to see the unique and simple lifestyle of the local communities. The ancient monasteries, stupas, Chortens, and prayer wheels add a blissful & spiritual essence to the journey. Tengboche monastery is the most important monastery in the Khumbu region. Not only that, but it is also the biggest and the oldest monastery in the Region. The monastery has played a vital role for years for locals. Many significant rituals and festivals are celebrated here. The monastery was first built in 1961 and later re-built twice in 1934 and 1989 as it got destroyed due to earthquake and fire respectively, and you visit this Monastery in Tengboche while you trek to Island peak climbing.
You also visit the Everest base camp on this Island peak climbing adventure. The Everest base camp is the base of Mt. Everest, which is the highest mountain in the world. Everest base camp is renowned among travel enthusiasts all around the world. Situated at 5,364 meters, EBC offers a panoramic view of Everest and the surrounding mountains. Before heading towards the Island peak base camp, you ascend to Kala Patthar from Gorekshep to witness gorgeous sunrise and 360-degree views of Mt. Everest and Himalayas. This short hike also helps you in acclimatization. Kala Patthar is 5555 meters just above the Everest Base Camp and a very famous viewpoint in the Khumbu region.
Climbing the Island peak is the main focal point of the adventure. The route to the top of the peak is not easy, but you get to see some of the most beautiful views and experience a life-changing adventure. There are many technical and demanding parts of climbing. However, with the help of our professional Sherpa climbers, you reach the summit & return safely.
Island Peak climbing is all about great views of the Himalayan Mountains that join you from the beginning of the journey. You get to see many famous mountains, including Everest from different perspectives. Other stunning views of mountains like Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Mt. Kongde (6,187 m), Mt. Pumori (7,161 m), Mt. Thamserku (6,623 m), and Mt. Kantega (6,782 m) will fuel you to move ahead.
We offer fixed departure group trek for the Island peak and tailor-made and private departures as well. Our experienced and professional crew assist you during the trip. We make sure everything goes smoothly during the trekking and climbing period.