Island Peak Climbing

Island Peak 6169m also known as Imja Tse is one of the popular trekking peak in Nepal for climbing on Himalayas. From Dingboche the mountain is seen as an island peak in a sea of ice. The summit is interesting and attractive with a highly glaciated west face rising from the Lhotse Glacier. The ridge rising to the south from this point leads to the summit of Island Peak. Imja Tse not only provides an enjoyable climb but also provides some of the most spectacular scenery of Himalayas in Khumbu region. Seen from the summit the giant mountains/ Everest , Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,516m), Lhotse Middle Peak (8,410m) and Lhotse Shar (8,383m) make a semi circle in the north. The views of Makalu (8463m) in the east, Baruntse and Amadablam in the south add more charm in climbing Island Peak. For many mountaineers climbing Island Peak marks the beginning of climbing on Himalayas to prepare for a big Himalaya expedition in Nepal in later years. For some mountaineers the peak stands for the purpose of acclimatization before heading to bigger mountain climbing. Trekking to Kalapatthar or Everest base camp is best suited for acclimatization before proceeding Island Peak climbing.

Overview

Trip Description:

We begin our journey via flight to the small mountain airstrip to Lukla, the heart of the Khumbu region, lies at 6,189m height. Imja Tse is also located at the head of the Imja Khola valley, which is surrounded by a sea of ice in the eastern Khumbu. The view of the summit namely, Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,501m), Lhotse middle Peak (8,410m) and Lhotse Shar (8,383m) semi circled from the north to the east. The Makalu (8,875m) towers is another the most amazing Himalaya in the region which you many not feel at anywhere in the world.

If we are at Namche, we need to stay 1 or 2 days for acclimatization and then we follow the classic Everest trail along with the Dudh Khosi, and the Imja Khola. We come to pass many Sherpa villages, monasteries and temples while head on through forest of rhododendron and dwarf firs until we reach the alpine meadows above the tree line. Having plenty of acclimatization, we make our way steadily in a northern direction to the Khumbu glacier and our first destination we reach is the “Kala Pattar”. No doubt, we have supreme views of Mt Everest from here and build up strength for the second leg of our journey.

Subsequently, we began our journey down to the Khumbu glacier and beyond the Dingboche and we rejoin the Imja Khola and head on to the east and at last we reach to the base camp near Pareshaya Gyab (5,070m). We also can summit Imja Tse and return comfortably in a day. We spend next few days exploring this remote corner of Sagamartha National Park, establishing a high camp at 5,640m, then we prepare for the highlight of the trip, using crampons and ropes, we climb snow slopes and cross glaciers on our final push to the summit. Finally, we climb up to the summit and standing on the summit we have spectacular views. Then, we begin to descend back down to Namche Bazaar and head on to the airstrip at Lukla.

Island Peak Trip Facts:
———————————-
Climbing Destination: Island Peak Summi
Group Size: Min – 2/max-12
Highest Access of the Climbing: 6,189M
Best Season: May, October and November
Mode of Climbing: Tea House/Camping
Trip Grade: Mounteering
Walking Hour: Approximately 6 – 7 hours
Transportation: Return flight Kathmandu – Lukla.
Total Days: 19 Days

Itinerary

Day 1 :

Arrive at Kathmandu: Arrive at Kathmandu airport (1345 meters). You will be met by our representative and transfer to hotel and a short brief about the trekking and climbing after refreshment.

Day 2 :

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing(1350m): Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple and Baudhanath Stupa and Preparation for Climbing.

Day 3 :

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) and Trek to Phakding: It takes about 30 minutes to fly From Kathamndu to Lukla and Takes about 3 and half hours to Trek to Phakding (2640 m.), you transfer to the domestic airport for your flight to Lukla. Lukla is a small town with an airport. There are few tea shops, lodges, hotels and general stores. You begin today&rsquos trek from Lukla following a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi. Nupla (5885m) can be seen in the distance on the opposite bank, is a peak atop the Kongde Ridge. You descend a mountainside path that merges into your route to Everest, with views to a valley to your right and at its far end, Kusum Kang (6367m.). The Dudh Kosi approaches as you pass a Mani wall and arrive at Ghat teahouse. You continue along a small path with many climbs and descents following the left bank of Dudh Koshi to Phakding.

Day 4 :

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m.): It takes about five hours. The trail starts through a level path along the right bank. Thamserku looms skyward on the opposite bank. You cross a stream and climb the terraced hill from the Dudh Koshi route, to arrive at Benkar. The trail now climbs from the riverbed on the left bank into the mountain, through a forest to Chumoa. You continue along a path with many ups and downs cross a stream, and pass by the tiny village of Monjo. Now you descend the path of stone steps and return to the right bank. After a short climb you come to Jorsale&rsquos teahouse and hotel, also stop at the National Park entrance counter where National Park fee is collected. After your departure from Jorsale you enter a forested mountainside. You follow a short walk along the riverbed of this V-shaped valley where the river forks - the right is the Dudh Koshi and the left is the Bhote Koshi that leads to Nampa La. After short distance along the Bhote Kosi you begin the steep ascent to Namche Bazar. As the mountain path zigzags uphill, you will emerge at a ridge top rest area that offers excellent views of Everest (8848m) and Lhotse (8516m.), The climb eases somewhat, and Namche Bazar appears ahead as you travel along the path surrounded by pines. Pass the plateau where the Saturday bazaar is held and enter the village. Namche Bazar (3440m) is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges and opens out only where it faces the Bhote Koshi. The village is a central hub of the area and food, sundries and even mountain climbing equipment may be purchased here.

Day 5 :

Rest day at Namche Bazaar (3440 m.) for acclimatization: Namche is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the Khumbu and has an abundance of lodges, tea shops and souvenir shops as well as a magnificent outlook. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for acclimatization to the high altitude before heading off towards Tyangboche. For the acclimatization you walk upto Khhumjung where you can visit monastery. Khhumjung is densely populated by Sherpa community. You can also enjoy the splendid views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawche and kongde. Or you can have an hour walk up to the Syangboche (3800m.) where Everest View Hotel is situated above Namche for the outstanding view of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru. .There is also good views from the National Park Centre and Museum just above the town. This museum exhibits Sherpa culture.

Day 6 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche (3867 m.): It takes about five hours. You leave the village for a climb to the top of a ridge and level mountain path that offers an excellent panorama of Thamserku, Kantega, and Kusum Kangrib. To the right there is a steep cliff that drops down to the Dudh Kosi, faintly visible on the valley floor below. As you make your way around a branch ridge, Ama Dablam (6812m) Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse (7855m) and Tawoche (6501m) suddenly appear. After a gentle descent the mountain path ends you will come to the fork leading to Gokyo. Now you descend past two tea houses and through the village of Trashinga. Though you cannot see it, you can hear the Dudh Kosi and soon you descend to the river and arrive at Phunki Tenga. It is a long climb to Tyangboche the first half is especially steep. As you climb through the forested zone, the incline eases and a splendid view appears. Continue climbing the mountainside diagonally until you come to the stone gate built by lamas which marks your entry into Tyangboche (3867m). You may use the large plateau in front of the splendid monastery as your campsite. There are a lodge and hotel managed by the National Park Service. Tyangboche is an important lookout point on this course, and the sunset on Everest and Ama Dablam is especially beautiful.

Day 7 :

Trek from Tyangboche to Pheriche (4260 m.): It takes approximately five hours. Leave Tyangboche and the Khumbu mountains as a backdrop-and descend a rhododendron covered area to emerge to a pleasant level area. Pass a long Mani stone wall to enter the village of Deboche. Go on to Minlinggo and leave the mountain path to cross over a suspension bridge to the left bank of the Imja Khola. Climb the mountain path while looking up at Ama Dablam and Kantega (6779m) as they appear on the opposite bank. Ascend the chorten-lined route, come to a fork, the upper path passes Pangboche and a monastery, take the lower path to Pangboche Olin and its stone wall-enclosed potato field. Pass through the village and cross a stream to a path skirting a rocky area to terraced hills along the riverbank. The trails climb slowly, winding above the Imjatse River, to a big Mani Stupa. From here, the walk is fairly moderate as you enter the Imjatse Valley beneath the mighty peaks of Ama Dablam, Nuptse and Lhotse with views of the eastern snow capped mountains including the Island Peak or Imjatse (6,189m) Pheriche is a beautiful patchwork of fields enclosed by stone walls protecting the crops of barley, buckwheat and potatoes from the cold winds and grazing animals.

Day 8 :

Acclimatization day at Pheriche: On this day you may have full day rest or there are some places where you can go for a day hike climb up to Nagarjun Peak about two hours offer view of Imjatse Valley with Dingbuche village and Mt.Makalu(8,463m), Ama Dablam, Island peak etc. And back to Pheriche for overnight.

Day 9 :

Pheriche to Lobuche (4,930m) -5 to 6 hours: After your complete acclimatization, the trail heading you gradually climb up until Duglha offering stunning views of Tawachee and Cholatse.From Duglha trail directly up to the Khumbu Glacier for an hour, then left into the memorial area before reaching the village of Lubuche. In this stage the effects of the altitude will be kicking in and you can expect colder nights.

Day 10 :

Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep (m.): It takes about seven hours. Trek up the valley following the rocky moraine path, view icy glacial pond and icebergs down below of Khumbu glacier. After the last rocky moraine dunes, a short downhill walk brings you to Gorakshep, the flat field below Kala Patthar (5545m) and Mt. Pumori (7145m.) Gorakshep is the location of the original Everest Base Camp with the new camp being further up the valley. Now the trail winds through rocky path and Khumbu glacier. The view of Nuptse, Lho-La and Khumbutse appear at the front of you. Sometime the avalanche can be seen on the way. After a great moment, you retrace back passing through Khumbu glacier with magnificent views of Lobuche, Cholatse, Mt. Pumori and Tabuche.

Day 11 :

Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5545m.) and trek to Dingboche (4350m.): It takes about six hours. Early morning climb to Kala Patthar (5545m.) and enjoy the view of sunrise. From Kala Patthar you can have a panoramic view of Mt. Everest and many other mountain peaks like Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbetse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku and many more. Dingboche is the place where one can make phone calls to any part of the world. Yaks are normally regarded as the porters in this area.

Day 12 :

Dingboche to Chhukung Valley: It talkes about 4 hours to get Chhukung and overnight at Chhukung.

Day 13 :

Trek from Chhukung valley to Island Base Camp.

Day 14 :

Climbing the Island peak and trek dwon to Dingbuche.

Day 15 :

Trek from Dingbuche to Tengboche.

Day 16 :

Trek from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar (3440 m): It takes about four and half hours. The walk from Tyangboche is mostly downhill on the main busy trail with a few steep climbs for an hour from the bridge at Phungitenga, near to Shanasha. The walk to Namche is very scenic on a long winding path. En route you will visit traditional villages of Khumjung and Khunde. There is an opportunity to visit one of its monasteries, the only monastery that has a Yeti Scalp. From Khumjung village another 30 minutes walk brings you to the village of Khunde, where you can visit the Khunde Hospital funded by Sir Edmund Hillary Trust. After Khunde, a scenic and pleasant walk brings you to Namche for the overnight

Day 17 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2886 m.): It takes about five hours. The last day of your trek leads from Namche Bazaar via Monjo to Lukla. The trek is pleasant, except for few short uphill climbs and then down to the Bhote-Koshi River crossing it three times. The last uphill climb of 45 minutes will bring you to Lukla for your overnight stay.

Day 18 :

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu. You take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu.

Day 19 :

Transfer to international airport for your final flight departure.

Price Includes

  • National Park entry permit
  • Trekking permit
  • Land transportation to and fro
  • Accommodation in lodges during the trek
  • Food: three meals a day
  • A guide & required number of porter(s)
  • Essential equipment.

Price Excludes

  • Personal expenses
  • Insurance
  • Tips
  • Emergency evacuation by Helicopter
  • Alternative transportation in case of heavy rain, landslide, strike, road blockade etc.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Island Peak Climbing

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