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Island peak

Also known as: Imja Tse

Height: 6,189 m

Duration: 18 days

Country:

Nepal

Known locally as Imja Tse, Island Peak stands at 6,189 meters and is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal. Nestled in the heart of the Khumbu region, it offers climbers a challenging yet attainable introduction to Himalayan mountaineering. Whether you’re looking to combine Everest Base Camp and Island Peak in one unforgettable adventure or focus solely on the climb, an Island Peak expedition promises stunning views of towering giants like Lhotse, Makalu, and Everest.

A climb up Island Peak is a thrilling experience, blending high-altitude trekking with moderate technical climbing. The ascent begins at Island Peak Base Camp, situated at 5,087 meters, before tackling steep ice slopes and a narrow summit ridge. While prior climbing experience is helpful, the route is equipped with fixed ropes to assist climbers. Reaching the Island Peak summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramas and a profound sense of achievement, making it a highlight of any trip to the Island Peak Himalaya region.

For those interested in combining trekking with mountaineering, an Island Peak trek is an ideal choice. Many climbers pair the climb with a trek to Everest Base Camp, enjoying the cultural richness of Sherpa villages along the way. Whether you’re exploring the region through Island Peak trekking or taking on the challenge of the Island Peak climb, this journey offers the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and natural beauty in the Himalayas.

Climbing Island peak

Prepare for an adventure climbing Island peak. This overview provides essential details on routes, difficulty, costs, and the best times to go, helping you plan a successful expedition.

Route

3,349 m gain over 18 days
Starting and ending in Lukla
approach: walk in

Walk in

+2,500 m over a 65 km approach
7 - 10 days in
2 - 4 days out

Climb

+1,300 m over 2 days.
1 high camp. The typical route for Island Peak does not involve any high camps beyond the base camp.

Difficulty

PD: Not very hard (alpine grade 2)
AD: Fairly hard (alpine grade 3)

Cost

$1,852 - $7,800 guided

When to go

March to May
September to November

Permits

3 permits are needed
costing around $109 total

Guide mandatory?

Pictures from climbing Island peak

These are pictures taken while climbing Island peak. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of mountaineering Island peak, to help the community of climbers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (there own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.

Island peak mountain guides

Guide links

These guides offer organised mountaineering expeditions for Island peak. From here you can check each guides profile, or browse directly to their website to see the trip. You can separately view the guides directory to browse all guides in one place.

Below is a curated list of independent mountain guides offering expeditions for Island peak. Each guide provides their own experience, allowing climbers to select the approach that best suits their style, budget, and experience level. You can explore each guide’s dedicated trip page to review what they offer, from logistics and support to pricing details, with no additional influence from us.

Guide	Info	Cost
Himalayan Exploration Treks	view guides trip webpage	from $660
Accessible Adventure Private Limited	view guides trip webpage	from $1,600
Nepal Social Treks	view guides trip webpage	from $1,852
Alpine Ramble Treks	view guides trip webpage	from $1,855
Mission Summit Treks and Expedition	view guides trip webpage	from $1,900
Mission Summit Treks & Expedition	view guides trip webpage	from $1,900
Touch The Himalaya Treks & Expedition	view guides trip webpage	from $1,982
Global Holidays Adventure	view guides trip webpage	from $2,000
Info Nepal Tours and Treks	view guides trip webpage	from $2,000
My Everest Trip	view guides trip webpage	from $2,050
Adventure Great Himalaya	view guides trip webpage	from $2,050
Peak climbing Nepal	view guides trip webpage	from $2,055
Kuluar	view guides trip webpage	from $2,100
Hiking Adventure Treks	view guides trip webpage	from $2,150
Nepal Trek Hub	view guides trip webpage	from $2,200
Exciting nepal treks & expedition	view guides trip webpage	from $2,200
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks	view guides trip webpage	from $2,200
Nepal Hiking Pvt. Ltd	view guides trip webpage	from $2,250
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking	view guides trip webpage	from $2,290
Icicles Adventure Treks & Tours	view guides trip webpage	from $2,290
Nepal Climbing Adventure Pvt. Ltd.	view guides trip webpage	from $2,290
Guide in Himalaya	view guides trip webpage	from $2,299
Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd.	view guides trip webpage	from $2,300
Incredible Treks	view guides trip webpage	from $2,399
https://ecoholidaysnepal.com/	view guides trip webpage	from $2,450
Higher Path Treks & Expeditions	view guides trip webpage	from $2,490
Nepal Nomad Trekking	view guides trip webpage	from $2,500
Trek Mania Nepal	view guides trip webpage	from $2,540
Ace The Himalaya	view guides trip webpage	from $2,600
Discover Altitude Pvt. Ltd	view guides trip webpage	from $2,650
Himalayan Circuit	view guides trip webpage	from $2,769
High Route Adventure	view guides trip webpage	from $2,780
Peregrine Treks & Tours	view guides trip webpage	from $2,790
Himalaya Hub Adventure Pvt. Ltd.	view guides trip webpage	from $2,830
Nepal mountain trekkers	view guides trip webpage	from $2,850
Nepal Everest Base Camp Trekking Company	view guides trip webpage	from $2,999
Highland Expeditions	view guides trip webpage	from $3,000
Follow Alice Tours	view guides trip webpage	from $3,490
Alpinist Club	view guides trip webpage	from $3,500
Everest Marathon	view guides trip webpage	from $3,500
Himalayan Glacier Adventure & Travel Company	view guides trip webpage	from $4,230
SummitClimb	view guides trip webpage	from $4,450
Adventure Consultants	view guides trip webpage	from $6,650
Alpine Ascents International	view guides trip webpage	from $7,800

Island peak itinerary

The climbing itinerary for Island Peak includes a base camp at 5,087 meters, a high camp at 5,280 meters, and the summit at 6,189 meters. This demanding ascent requires technical climbing skills and offers experienced mountaineers a thrilling adventure in the heart of the Everest region.

Island Peak Base Camp

The starting point of the climb, situated at an altitude of 5,087 meters. It serves as a hub for acclimatization and preparation.

5,087 m

High Camp

A campsite located at an elevation of 5,280 meters, providing a crucial stop for the final push towards the summit.

5,280 m

Island Peak Summit

The pinnacle of the climb, reaching an elevation of 6,189 meters. From the summit, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Khumbu region and surrounding peaks.

6,189 m

Island peak route

Explore the 3D route map for a realistic view of the ascent to Island peak. This interactive map provides a close-up look at key points like base camp and high-altitude camps along the way. For those planning their own expeditions, it offers a helpful overview of the mountain's terrain and surroundings.

Island peak weather

How is the weather on Island peak, and when is the best time to go.

Weather on Island Peak varies greatly throughout the year. The best months for climbing are usually March to May and September to November when the weather is dry, clear and stable. However, temperatures can still be very cold and the weather can change quickly. Winter months from December to February are very cold with high levels of snowfall, while summer months from June to August are warm and wet with a high chance of monsoon rains.

The best time to climb Island peak is in these months:

Island peak Services

Gear rental, porters, guides, transport, internet, accommodation

The Island Peak route is a popular trekking route with a well-established tourism infrastructure. You can expect to find a range of services along the way including accommodation, food, guides, porters, medical services, gear rentals, and transportation options.

Accommodation

Tea houses and lodges are available along the route for overnight stays. Accommodations are basic with shared rooms and common toilets. Expect to pay between $5-10 per night for a room.

Food

Food is available on the trek, with tea houses offering a range of dishes including local Nepalese food, continental dishes, and snacks. Expect to pay between $3-8 for a meal.

Guides

Guides are available and can be hired in Kathmandu or in the town of Lukla. They typically cost between $20-30 per day depending on their experience and qualifications.

Porters

Porters are also available for hire along the route. They can carry up to 30 kg of luggage and typically cost between $15-25 per day depending on the weight of your belongings.

Medical facilities

Basic medical services are available along the route at some of the tea houses and lodges. However, it is recommended that you bring a basic first-aid kit with you, and be prepared for any emergencies by bringing appropriate medication and supplies with you.

Gear rental

Equipment rental is available in Kathmandu, including tents, sleeping bags, and climbing gear. Some tea houses may also rent out gear, but it is recommended that you bring your own equipment. Make sure you have proper clothing, boots, and equipment for cold weather and high-altitude trekking.

Transport

The trek starts and ends in Lukla, which can be reached by a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu. Private cars and taxis are also available for hire in Kathmandu to get to the airport. During the trek, walking is the main mode of transportation.

Internet / Phone

Connectivity can be limited along the route, especially at higher altitudes. Some tea houses may offer wifi for a fee, but it is generally slow and unreliable. It is recommended that you bring a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon in case of emergencies.

ATMs

There are no ATMs along the trekking route, so it is recommended that you bring enough cash with you to cover your expenses.

Shops

There are shops along the route selling snacks, drinks, and basic trekking supplies. However, prices can be higher than in Kathmandu, so it is recommended that you bring everything you need with you.

Island peak permits

What permits are needed for climbing Island peak

To climb Island Peak, you will need to obtain several permits. Here is a summary of the permits required for this trip:

1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

$25 (~3,000 in the local currency)
Allows entry into Sagarmatha National Park.
Can be obtained in advance or at the entrance gate of the park.

2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

$17 (~2,000 in the local currency)
Permit to enter Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality.
Can be obtained in advance or in Lukla.

3. Island Peak Climbing Permit

$67 (~8,000 in the local currency)
Permit to climb Island Peak.
Can be obtained through a licensed trekking agency in Kathmandu or in Chukhung.

Island peak access - getting there

How to get to Island peak

Flight: The fastest and most convenient way to get to the start of the Island Peak climb is to take a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu, followed by a trek to the starting point of the climb.
Overland: It is possible to take a bus or private vehicle from Kathmandu to Jiri, followed by a trek to the starting point of the climb. This option is more time-consuming but allows for a scenic overland journey.
Helicopter: For those who want to save time and enjoy a unique experience, it is possible to take a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a trek to the starting point of the climb. This option is more expensive but offers stunning aerial views of the region.
Return: At the end of the Island Peak climb, trekkers can retrace their steps back to the starting point, or alternatively, they can continue their trek to other destinations in the region, such as Gokyo Lakes or Everest Base Camp.

Island peak Videos

Get inspired by these incredible videos capturing the experience of climbing Island peak. From route highlights to summitsummit views, these clips showcase the mountain’s beauty and the challenges it presents. Have your own Island peak video? We'd love for you to share it with the community to inspire future climbers.