Island Peak is a popular trekking peak located in the Khumbu (Everest) region of Nepal. Standing at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet), it is a semi-technical climbing peak best suited for beginners.

Why is it called “Island Peak”?

It’s called Island Peak because the British people saw it from Dingboche during the Everest expedition in 1953, and it looks like an island rising from the sea of ice. That’s why it’s called Island Peak.

Where is Island Peak located?

Island Peak is in the Imja Valley of the Everest region and is summited from Chukung after spending the rest day in Dingboche.

How high is Island Peak?

Island Peak is 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) high.

What is the height of the Island Peak base camp?

The base camp of Island Peak is situated at an altitude of 5087 meters.

What is the height of Island Peak High Camp?

The elevation of the Island Peak high camp is 5600 meters.

Is Island Peak suitable for beginners?

Island Peak is the most suitable trekking peak for beginners. Perfect for first-time climbers or even for experienced climbers who are climbing a peak for the first time in Nepal.

What permits are required to climb Island Peak?

Permits that are required for climbing Island Peak are the Island Peak climbing permit, a garbage deposit permit from the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC), the Sagarmatha National Park permit, and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality permit.

How do I obtain the climbing permit?

The permit for Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Municipality can be obtained at Lukla, but for Island Peak climbing, the garbage deposit permit must be obtained through a registered trekking agency from the Nepal Mountaineering Association.

Are trekkers’ information management system (TIMS) cards required?

Currently, the TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System card) is not in use in the Everest region and cannot be obtained for the Everest Base Camp trek.

What is the cost of an Island Peak climbing permit?

The cost for climbing Island Peak depends upon the season; for example, for springtime the cost is 250 dollars, for autumn time it's 125 dollars, and for winter and summertime it's 70 dollars.

When is the best season to climb Island Peak?

The best time to climb Island Peak is during spring (March, April, and May), as there is a moderate temperature in the base camp, and the stable climbing conditions help a lot, but the crowds are slightly larger compared to other seasons.

Can Island Peak be climbed in winter?

Yes, Island Peak can be climbed in winter, but climbers must tolerate the cold temperature and should take the risk of frostbite and cold. Island Peak can be climbed in winter, but note that the days are shorter and there is limited daylight during wintertime

How difficult is Island Peak?

The difficulty level of Island Peak is considered a PD+ in the alpine grade system, which means a little difficult, plus it means that it is suitable for fit trekkers with basic mountaineering experience.

Do I need previous mountaineering experience for Island Peak?

Previous mountaineering experience is not required, but a good level of fitness is required, and basic skills like walking on glaciers and snow, using crampons, ice axes, and harnesses, and good stamina are required. At Chukung and Dingboche, the basic skills are taught by the climbing guide to all the climbers.

What technical skills are required for Island Peak?

Basic use of crampons on icy slopes or glaciers, walking on fixed ropes, knowledge of ropes, and use of ice axes, carabiners, jumars, and harnesses are required for climbing Island Peak.

Do I need to know how to use crampons, an ice axe, rope, and a jumar?

Yes, climbers need to use crampons, ice axes, ropes, and jumars along with harnesses while climbing Island Peak

How physically fit should climbers be for Island Peak climbing?

Climbers must be able to walk for 6-8 hours comfortably at an altitude of 5000 meters; that’s how fit climbers must be for climbing Island Peak.

Island Peak climbing - 18 days

Overview: What Makes Island Peak Climbing Special?

Island Peak rises from the Imja Valley and resembles a floating island in a sea of snow—hence the name. It offers the rare opportunity to experience real Himalayan mountaineering without the extreme difficulties of 7,000m and 8,000m peaks.

With professional guidance and proper acclimatization, this climb becomes both achievable and rewarding. Many climbers combine Island Peak with an Everest Trekking Package, where they explore the most iconic trails of the Khumbu region, including the Everest Base Camp Trek or a scenic Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour for aerial views of the world’s tallest peaks.

Major Highlights of Island Peak Nepal

Summit a 6,000m peak: A highly rewarding achievement for trekkers.
Panoramic mountain views: See Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Baruntse, and more.
Technical yet beginner-friendly: Ideal for those transitioning from trekking to mountaineering.
Sherpa culture & hospitality: Explore Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Chhukung.
Trek through Everest trails: Follow iconic paths visited by legendary climbers.
Safe & guided experience: Learn proper mountaineering techniques from certified climbing Sherpas.
Flexible trip combinations: Add Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, or a helicopter tour.

How does the Island Peak climb start and end?

Starting our adventure, the Island Peak-Imjatse Himal Climb and trek, after reaching Lukla from Kathmandu, taking a swift short flight, where the walk leads through nice farm Sherpa villages around the Dudh Kosi River valley.

The walk continues with a climb to reach the famous Namche Bazaar, stopping for two whole nights for acclimatization purposes before heading to higher terrain. Namche is an interesting town/village with facilities of banks, ATMs, many good restaurants, and lodges/resorts, including well-stocked shops and stores.

From Namche onward, walk into green tree lines of blue pines, firs, and rhododendron with views along the trail facing Everest-Lhotse and majestic Ama Dablam, including an array of peaks, and then slowly reaching a beautiful spot at Thyangboche with time to visit its interesting monastery surrounded by snow-capped peaks and woodland.

After Tengboche, we head into wild, open, windswept country to reach scenic Imjatse Valley at Dingboche and Chukung, where our true adventure begins. heading towards Island Peak base camp with ample time for practice and rest before the summit on top of Island Peak.

With enough rest and preparation, aim higher following our expert guide to reach the summit of Island Peak/Imjatse Himal, surrounded by a mind-blowing panorama of peaks. After feeling high and in great spirits, descend back to Chukung and then on the trail back to Lukla for a sweeping flight to Kathmandu after a remarkable and mesmerizing adventure on Island Peak climbing and treks.

Major Attractions of Island Peak Climbing

1. Summit a 6,189m Himalayan Peak

Reaching the top of Island Peak is the biggest highlight of the trip. At 6,189 meters, the summit offers an unforgettable sense of achievement—perfect for trekkers stepping into the world of mountaineering.

2. Breathtaking Views of High Himalayan Giants

The panoramic scenery from Island Peak is nothing short of spectacular. From the summit ridge, you can witness some of the world’s highest mountains, including:

Mt. Everest
Lhotse
Makalu
Ama Dablam
Baruntse
Nuptse
This makes Island Peak Nepal one of the best vantage points in the entire Everest region.

3. Perfect Introduction to Mountaineering

With moderate technical sections—such as glacier travel, crevasse crossings, and fixed rope climbing—Island Peak Climbing offers a safe and manageable introduction to alpine mountaineering. It's ideal for trekkers who want to transition into climbing.

4. Trek Through the Legendary Everest Region

The approach to Island Peak follows the iconic trails of the Khumbu region, passing through:

Namche Bazaar
Tengboche Monastery
Dingboche
Chhukung
These scenic and cultural highlights are part of many Everest Trekking Packages and add immense value to the journey.

5. Cultural Immersion in Sherpa Villages

Experience the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, visit ancient monasteries, and witness traditional mountain lifestyles—a signature part of any trekking and climbing journey in Nepal.

6. Combine with Everest Base Camp Trek

Many climbers add the Everest Base Camp Trek before attempting Island Peak. This not only supports proper acclimatization but also enriches the adventure with iconic destinations like:

Everest Base Camp
Kala Patthar
Khumbu Glacier

7. Options for Aerial Exploration

For those seeking luxury and speed, you can complement your climbing journey with an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour—offering unbeatable aerial views of Everest and surrounding peaks.

8. Thrilling and Scenic Lukla Flight

The adventure begins with the famous flight to Lukla Airport, known for its short runway and incredible mountain scenery. It’s a highlight that sets the tone for the entire expedition.

9. Beautiful Glaciers, Ice Walls & Alpine Terrain

The climb features stunning Himalayan alpine landscapes—ice fields, glaciers, frozen lakes, and dramatic ridgelines—making every step visually rewarding.

10. Safe & Guided Climbing Experience

Your climb is supported by expert, licensed mountain guides who ensure safety, proper technique, and a structured summit strategy. This makes Island Peak accessible even to first-time climbers.

Climbing Experience: What to Expect

Island Peak is graded as a moderately technical climb, making it perfect for beginners who want to try mountaineering for the first time. The climb includes:

A steep headwall near the summit
Glacier travel across crevasses
Use of ladders tied across ice gaps
Ice climbing with crampons
Rope ascension using a Jumar
Fixed rope descent with a figure-8 device

Your climbing sherpa will provide training at base camp, covering all essential skills like tying knots, using ropes, handling an ice axe, and climbing safely on steep sections.

Island peak climbing daily altitude and distance chart

Day	Route	Start Altitude (m)	End Altitude (m)	Distance (km)	Altitude Gain (m)	Altitude Loss (m)	Duration (hrs)
1	Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding	2,840	2,610	8	100	330	3–4
2	Phakding to Namche Bazaar	2,610	3,440	12	830	0	5–6
3	Acclimatization in Namche	3,440	3,440 (hike to ~3,900)	4–5 (round trip)	460	460	3–4 (hike)
4	Namche to Tengboche	3,440	3,860	10	580	160	5–6
5	Tengboche to Dingboche	3,860	4,410	11	700	150	5–6
6	Acclimatization in Dingboche	4,410	4,410 (hike to ~4,900)	4–5 (round trip)	490	490	3–4 (hike)
7	Dingboche to Chhukung	4,410	4,730	6	320	0	3–4
8	Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp	4,730	5,100	4	370	0	3–4
9	Summit Island Peak, back to Chhukung	5,100	4,730	12–14 (round trip)	1,089	1,459	10–13
10	Chhukung to Pangboche	4,730	3,930	12	100	900	5–6
11	Pangboche to Namche Bazaar	3,930	3,440	14	200	690	6–7
12	Namche to Lukla	3,440	2,840	21	300	900	6–7
13	Fly back to Kathmandu	2,840	1,400	-	-	-	35 min flight

Outline Island Peak Climbing Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding.
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Day 04: Acclimatization day in Namche.
Day 05: Trek to Tengboche.
Day 06: Trek to Dingboche.
Day 07: Acclimatization day in Dingboche.
Day 08: Trek to Lobuche.
Day 09: Trek to Gorakshep, visit Everest Base Camp.
Day 10: Hike to Kala Patthar, return to Dingboche.
Day 11: Trek to Chukung.
Day 12: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp.
Day 13: Summit Island Peak, return to Chukung.
Day 14: Trek to Dingboche.
Day 15: Trek to Namche.
Day 16: Trek to Lukla.
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu.
Day 18: Final departure.

Week	Cardiovascular Training	Strength & Core Work	Technical Skills	Altitude/Field Training	Flexibility & Mental Preparation
1	3–4 sessions of 30-min moderate runs, cycling, or brisk walks.	2 sessions using bodyweight exercises (squats, lunges, step-ups) with a light load.	Familiarize with gear basics—practice knot tying and rope handling indoors.	1–2 gentle hikes on mild inclines (30–45 min).	10–15 minutes of stretching or yoga daily.
2	3 sessions, increasing run duration to around 40 min; include one interval session.	2 sessions focusing on legs and core; incorporate light resistance or weights.	Introductory practice with ice axe handling and basic crampon fitting in a controlled setting.	Hike moderate inclines (45–60 min).	Post-session balance drills and a dedicated yoga session.
3	3 sessions: one longer run (45 min) plus an interval session for varying pace.	2 sessions: add a weighted backpack (light load) during exercises and gradually increase reps.	Practice setting and adjusting crampons; simulate slope walking indoors (if possible).	Moderate incline hike (around 60 min) to build stamina.	Extended stretching routines and yoga post-workout.
4	2–3 sessions featuring one long hike (60–90 min) integrated with steady-paced cardio.	2 sessions: increase weights/reps for leg exercises, emphasizing functional strength.	Simulate glacier traverse by practicing rope techniques and self-arrest maneuvers using training tools.	Hike on variable terrain that mimics altitude shifts with moderate difficulty.	Focus on balance training and recovery techniques; 15–20 min of stretching.
5	3 sessions combining 50-min cardio and interval hill repeats to elevate the heart rate.	2 sessions: perform circuit training for legs and core, using weighted exercises for added challenge.	Outdoor session practicing rope techniques, ice axe handling, and crampon usage under realistic conditions.	Engage in a high-incline hike or use an altitude training facility—aim for a 75-min session.	Incorporate yoga, breathing practices, and visualization exercises to boost mental readiness.
6	1 long hike (90–120 min with a weighted pack) plus 2 moderate 40-min runs for endurance.	2 sessions: a bootcamp-style full body workout focusing on power and endurance.	Field practice: attend a guided outdoor session to refine technical mountaineering skills.	If accessible, complete a small altitude trek or a high-altitude hike to simulate conditions.	Extended yoga, balance drills, and meditation sessions to reinforce recovery.
7	Begin to taper intensity: 2 light sessions (30–40 min) to maintain endurance without overexerting.	1–2 light sessions for maintenance—focus on perfecting form and proper load handling.	Full gear check simulation: run through a “mini expedition day” with quick refreshers on climbing techniques.	A short, moderate hike (30–45 min) to continue subtle altitude acclimatization.	Restorative yoga and dedicated recovery time with mental prep exercises.
8	Light cardio: one 30-min active recovery session to keep the muscles engaged.	Minimal strength work—focus on light exercises that emphasize form and mobility.	Final technical review: check gear, review techniques, and do a calm practice session for confidence.	A controlled, short hike (around 30 min) to retain altitude familiarity.	Emphasize meditation, restorative stretching, and final mental relaxation exercises.

Client Reviews

Grateful Trekker
I would recommend using this company 100%. I took a trip in May and Dikshaya was with me for over 2 weeks of that trip. I got sick early in the trek and without her help that could have ended my trip early. Having people like Avi and Dikshaya with you knowing that they are very aware of high altitude sickness and what it looks like is very important. They went above and beyond to make sure I was OK and healthy enough to continue. The trip itself was amazing and has changed my life . I will be returning to Nepal this March and will be reaching out to these folks before I get back in country.
James LUnited States,Dec 22, 2024