EBC Trek with Island Peak Climbing

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Trip Overview
  • Duration: 17 Day
  • Trip Grade: Strenuous
  • Trip Start and End: Kathmandu
  • Trip Area: Everest Khumbu Region
  • Trip Style: Trekking and Peak Climbing
  • Age Group: 15 or Above
  • Trip Type: Private and Group
  • Trip Method: Fully Guided
  • Booking Type: Instant Booking
  • Max. Altitude: 6,165 m (20,226 ft)
  • Best Season: Apr - May, Oct - Nov
  • Foot Print:Carbon Neutralleaf

Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing is a trek through picturesque Sherpa villages, Everest Base Camp, and Chhukhung Valley in the seam of Lhotse Shar Glaciers that culminates at Island Peak (6,165m). The trek seamlessly integrates adventurous mountain challenges with a taste of natural marvels and cultural richness.

Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing

  • Embark on a thrilling journey to the summit of Island Peak, ascending icy glaciers and crossing crevasses.
  • Trek through picturesque Sherpa villages, wooded rhododendron forests, and glacial moraines of Khumbu.
  • Visit the centuries-old monasteries of Tengboche and Pangboche. Explore regional communities, interact with locals, and learn about their cultural and spiritual values.
  • A serene walk through the Sagarmatha National Park and its biodiversity.

Island Peak Climb with Everest Base Camp Trek Overview

The EBC Trek with Island Peak climb commences after a scenic 30-minute flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Upon landing at a narrow runaway, your trek starts steeply above the Dudh Koshi Valley and to the stunning village of Phakding. If you’re still full of energy, you may as well visit Phakding monastery.

The following day promises a tranquil journey through picturesque Himalayan villages and dense forest trails, offering varied cultural scenes and panoramic vistas. The highlight of the trip is probably the Hillary suspension bridge crossing as it offers both a thrilling experience and a marvelous view of ever-expanding landscape.

What further lies is a journey through popular Sherpa town, which comes off as a vibrant, bustling hub. Your Namche Bazaar stay is abound of gratitude for you’ll get to bond with locals, immerse in their culture, and feast on warm hospitality.

The same is the case with the idyllic villages of Tengboche and Dingboche, where visitors are introduced to the ancient Tengboche Monastery, Tibetan customs, and traditions. Their layover in the village entails a trip to the famous Buddhist monastery, where resonating chants of monks fill the quietness of the Himalayan region.

Ahead on the trek to Everest Base Camp and Island Peak Climbing Trip, you’ll navigate the rocky moraines of Khumbu glacier and further make a strenuous ascent crowning at Everest Base Camp, where you’ll be overwhelmed but also proud to finish it at last. Here, you’ll get to view the Mt. Everest panorama and its surrounding peaks.

After a successful ascent, you’ll now diverge from the main EBC Trail and head to Chhukhung through the Kongma La Pass crossing. This long and physically demanding trek is rewarded with breathtaking Mt Nuptse and Lhotse views.

Why include EBC with Island Peak?

It’s increasingly common to integrate EBC Trek with Island Peak Climbing for it offers a profound experience and deeply rewarding quests. The trek prepares mountaineers for the unrelenting challenges that lie before the trail to Island Peak.

Everest Base Camp Trek lays a solid foundation by exposing trekkers to varied terrains, which are out of their element. The experience of a tough climb through moraine valleys and glaciers enhances trekker footwork and improves their balance when climbing Island Peak.

Trekking Everest Base Camp requires ascending to a higher altitude, which means trekkers are acclimatized well before the climb and need no longer rest days. Ascending as high as Everest Base Camp at 5,364m allows them to adjust to the weather and temperature at higher elevations just before ascending the Island Peak.

Climbing Island Peak at 6,165m

Evading the acclimatization at Chhukhung, you’ll proceed up to the Island Peak Base Camp. As the climbing crew puts up the tent beside ice slopes, you’ll acclimatize to the altitude that centers on mountaineering skills development.

Since it’s a sherpa-guided climb, you’ll follow the team leader closely. You’ll start to ascend the mountain just after midnight using the crampons and ice axes. After a tedious journey of 3-4 hours, you’ll arrive at High Camp. A further 6-8 hours of ascent through the glaciers and ice slopes will bring you to the summit.

The EBC with Island Peak Package takes you to the crest of Island Peak, which may not be the highest summit in the Everest region but is still one of the climber’s favorites. Viewed as a secluded island in a sea of glaciers and snow slopes, it appears as a soaring pyramid surrounded by majestic snow peaks.

Climbers en route to Island Peak.

Island Peak with Everest Base Camp

Though trekking Everest Base Camp alone is a great milestone for many trekkers, adding Island Peak to the logistics gives adventure a whole new dimension. It’s because the trek provides an actual mountaineering experience and a culmination conquest, unlike any high-altitude trek.

For climbers, summiting Island Peak is an ultimate feat given the combined physical challenges of alpine climbing and the excitement of reaching a significant summit. The adventure not only brings them a deep sense of honor but also pride in defying challenges in the face of adversity.

When mountaineers reach the crest of Island Peak, they are filled with a wave of emotions and bliss whilst surrounded by gigantic snow peaks and towering cliff ice. It evokes unforgettable memories of breathtaking scenery, cultural exploration, and camaraderie built during the expedition.

Island Peak climb also introduces trekkers to a lesser-known route that is far more sparse than the classic EBC trail. This provides a more intimate and tranquil experience than other popular treks.

Explore Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp at 5,364m is not just a destination but a deep sentiment for many trekkers and adventurers alike. It’s a testament to their sheer conviction and unwavering perseverance as they prevail over all the challenges to reach the base of the world’s highest peak.

However, this strenuous journey of trekkers also comes with the fondest memory they’ve ever cherished. Starting from the bustling Sherpa town of Lukla, trekkers are immersed in the majesty of the Everest region.

Their long extended trip is met with a majestic view of the Himalayas, the warm hospitality of locals, and quaint villages. Further down the path, trekkers get to visit ancient Tibetan monasteries, witness religious ceremonies, and participate in cultural activities.

At the base camp, they are greeted with an awe-inspiring view of Everest along with Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The splendor of Khumbu Icefall above the colorful tents also looks nothing but spectacular.

Majestic view of many 8000 Peaks from Island Peak and Kalapatthar

Though not as famous as EBC, Island Peak still has its dominance in the Everest region. Standing at an apex of 6,165m within the mountain terrains amidst giant snow peaks, Island Peak holds a distinct appeal among climbers in the Everest region.

Considering that most mountains within the vicinity of Everest massif are stern or unreachable, Island Peak offers a comprehensive experience. It introduces climbers to technical facets of mountaineering while providing them with a splendid view of its surroundings.

The peak offers an unobstructed view of Himalayan giants including Nuptse, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam. You can see several eight-thousanders from the crest of Island Peak along with Lhotse Central I in the east and Lhotse Shar in the south.

Unfortunately, you can’t catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest because of the way the Lhotse is structured. Its massive wall prevents the climbers from getting a clear view off the top. However, those who ascend to Kala Patthar will enjoy the pristine view of Mt Everest along with Nuptse, Changtse, and the northern flank of Lhotse.

Why Trek to EBC and Climb Island Peak with Sublime Trails

For us at Sublime Trails, summiting Island Peak is much more than reaching an unprecedented height; it’s about cultivating a real-life experience during the undertaking. Hence, we do our best to ensure that the climbers enjoy the process as much as they prize the scenic view at the Island Peak summit.

We value our dedicated team of experts who strategized and devised a perfect itinerary for climbers of Island Peak. Not to mention, our proficient guides who are out front throughout the venture, paving the way from start to finish.

They go to all lengths to prepare the climbers with the required training and mountaineering equipment. Our crew members also take the responsibility of creating a safe passage by fixing ropes and harnesses.

When you plan the trip with us, your accommodation and meals during your stay at Everest region are well taken care of. Whether you prefer shared accommodations or private, we strive to provide options that suit your taste and budget.

EBC Trek with Island Peak Climbing Itinerary

  • Day 1:Arrive in KathmanduAltitude: 1,400 m (4,600 ft)
  • Day 2:Fly to Lukla, Trek to PhakdingAltitude: 2,610 m
  • Day 3:Phakding to Namche BazaarAltitude: 3,440 m
  • Day 4:Acclimatization at Namche BazaarAltitude: 3,440 m
  • Day 5:Trek to TengbocheAltitude: 3,867 m
  • Day 6:Tengboche to DingbocheAltitude: 4,410 m
  • Day 7:Acclimatization at DingbocheAltitude: 4,410 m
  • Day 8:Trek to LobucheAltitude: 6,119 m
  • Day 9:Lobuche to Gorakshep and EBC Hike and Return to GorakshepAltitude: 5,164 m
  • Day 10:Trek to DingbocheAltitude: 4,410 m
  • Day 11:Dingboche to Chhukhung ValleyAltitude: 4,730 m
  • Day 12:Trek from Chhukhung Valley to Island Peak Base CampAltitude: 5,100 m
  • Day 13:Summit Island Peak and trek down to ChhukhungAltitude: 4,730 m
  • Day 14:Trek to Dingboche and helicopter flight to KathmanduAltitude: 4,410 m
  • Day 15:Trek to NamcheAltitude: 3,440 m
  • Day 16:Trek to LuklaAltitude: 2,860 m
  • Day 17:Fly to KathmanduAltitude: 1,400 m

Day 1:Arrive in Kathmandu

  • Max Altitude1,400 m (4,600 ft)
  • Accommodation3-Star Hotel

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you at the airport and usher you to your hotel. Late in the afternoon, there’s a brief meeting where you’ll meet your guide and other trekkers. If that leaves you some spare time, maybe check out the local eateries or walk around the city.

Day 2:Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding

  • Max Altitude2,610 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsLunch and Dinner

Your day starts with a 30-minute flight to Lukla, which is as intriguing as can be. The views from the plane are striking and a cue to what lies ahead. After arriving at Lukla airport, you’ll meet our crew and porters, then commence the trek. The trek to Phakding takes 3-4 hours and is mostly along the Dudh Koshi River.

Day 3:Phakding to Namche Bazaar

  • Max Altitude3,440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

The first blush of morning in Phakding comes with a glimpse of serenity and majesty. It offers you an unusual sight of surrounding landscapes and verdant forests to enjoy with a warm tea. After a flavorful day starter, you’ll begin the trek to Namche, crossing the Dudh Koshi River and passing through rhododendron forests.

Your lunch stop at Monjo is trailed by an entry into Sagarmatha National Park. You’ll arrive at Namche in the afternoon.

Day 4:Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

  • Max Altitude3,440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

After Namche, there’s a gradual incline in elevation so it’s only wise to stay put and acclimatize to the altitude. There are plenty of optional hikes in Namche with the likes of Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center, Khumjung, and Kunde.

Everest View Hotel is another popular choice for it rests at 3,780m elevation, giving trekkers enough reasons to hike. Further at the Khumjung Village, you can visit Hillary School, named after Edmund Hillary, and an ancient monastery. You’ll then return to the teahouse and have a warm dinner.

Day 5:Trek to Tengboche

  • Max Altitude3,867 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

The trek continues along the mani walls and through the pine forests, providing occasional glimpses of Everest and surrounding snow peaks. You’ll walk alongside the river valley, then descend to the Dudh Koshi River, traversing up and down on a series of stone steps.

At Tengboche, you’re welcomed by a scenic backdrop of mountains and Tengboche Monastery. If you time your arrival prudently, you’ll be able to observe the evening prayers and witness the artistic marvels of the monastery.

Day 6:Tengboche to Dingboche

  • Max Altitude4,410 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Today, you’ll trek to Dingboche winding through juniper, pine, and birch forests, all while the towering mountains unroll before you. You’ll cross the Imja River, then scale the village of Pangboche, where you can visit the centuries-old Pangboche Monastery.

A gentle walk along the Lobuche River leads you to Imja Valley and farther up to Dingboche. Here, you can see a stunning assortment of fields surrounded by stone walls to shelter crops and animals.

Day 7:Acclimatization at Dingboche

  • Max Altitude4,410 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

This morning, you’ll hike to Nagarjun Hill as a part of our acclimatization. While this trek is a short one, the elevation gain is apparent so you’ll retrieve your route and sleep lower at Dingboche.

Day 8:Trek to Lobuche

  • Max Altitude6,119 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

After breakfast, you’ll leave Dingboche and ascend the steep ridge leading to the monument. As time goes on, the trail becomes even while the panoramic view of Everest comes close. At this point, you can witness Khumbutse, Pumori, and Kantega in their finest.

After crossing the glacial moraine, you’ll pass through the village of Thukla along the memorial statues. Finally, you’ll arrive at Lobuche.

Day 9:Lobuche to Gorakshep and EBC Hike and Return to Gorakshep

  • Max Altitude5,164 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Taking a leave from Lobuche, you’ll set off for an arduous journey, following the wide valley alongside Khumbu Glacier. You’ll walk over the rocky moraines of Changri Nup Glacier to reach the tiny settlement of Gorakshep, which is mostly teahouses.

Here, you’ll have a comforting lunch before making a final push to Everest Base Camp. The closer you stride to the camp, the clearer the view of Everest and its surrounding mountains. Once you’ve explored the camp, you’ll return to Gorakshep and rest there at night.

Day 10:Trek to Dingboche

  • Max Altitude4,410 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

The trek to Dingboche follows the same route, except it’s downhill this time. You’ll navigate through rural Himalayan settlements with a series of ups and downs, which may seem easy but pose a great challenge. Remember descending can cause a strain on your knees so walk slowly and steadily.

Day 11:Dingboche to Chhukhung Valley

  • Max Altitude4,730 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

So far, we tailed the main EBC trail but now it’s time to diverge and take an off-the-beaten path to Chhukhung Valley. The trek is a two-hour walk through the Imja Valley and up to Birbire, where yak herders often built a temporary shelter. 

The trail here unfolds a picturesque view of stunning landscapes and snow peaks, including the south face of Island Peak. After about thirty minutes of walk from Birbire, you’ll arrive at Chhukhung Valley.

Day 12:Trek from Chhukhung Valley to Island Peak Base Camp

  • Max Altitude5,100 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

The trek today requires a five-hour ascent from Chhukhung along the glacial moraines. After a gentle walk, you’ll make another difficult climb to Island Peak Base Camp, which takes about 40 minutes. While the tents are being set up, you’ll prepare for the mountaineering and the use of crampons and fixed rope. You must also join the crew for a short training session.

Day 13:Summit Island Peak and trek down to Chhukhung

  • Max Altitude4,730 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Put on your best mountaineering boots, for the climb to Island Peak is not easy. You’ll ascend the mountain in pitch darkness with just a headlamp on.

After reaching the high camp, you’ll make a strenuous ascent on a steep snow slope using a fixed rope set up by guides. Keep in mind, that the final climb is the hardest and requires great persistence.

Once at the summit, you can soak up the spectacular views and catch a marvelous sight of Lhotse and Nuptse. You’ll then retrace your steps back and return to Chhukung for an overnight stay.

Day 14:Trek to Dingboche and helicopter flight to Kathmandu

  • Max Altitude4,410 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

After breakfast, you’ll prepare to descend the trail, crossing small streams and passing yak pastures. The trail proceeds down a small village of Dusum, where trekkers stop and enjoy a quick respite.

Upon arriving at Dingboche, Trekkers will get a flight back to Kathmandu. Those who remain firm on continuing the trek will spend the night in a teahouse.

Day 15:Trek to Namche

  • Max Altitude3,440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

From Dingboche, the trek is mostly downhill through the wooded forest teemed with various wildlife. You can keep an eye out for regional species like pheasants, musk deer, and marten while you’re in the sanctuary. In the evening at Namche, enjoy a cup of warm tea under the luminous sky, painted in a golden hue.

Day 16:Trek to Lukla

  • Max Altitude2,860 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

The trek from Namche to Lukla is a picturesque 6-7 hour walk through the dense forest and across the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. The trail is easy now so you’ll likely be on time for afternoon snacks in the teahouse.

Day 17:Fly to Kathmandu

  • Max Altitude1,400 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast

With eyes full of stories and a heart full of memories, you’ll take a scenic flight once again, this time a journey back to Kathmandu. When you arrive at Tribhuvan airport, our staff will transport you back to your hotel.

Love doing it your way?

Cost Details

Included

  • 3-Star accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Tea house accommodation along the way
  • All land transportation with pickups and drops
  • Domestic Flight to Lukla and back
  • One guide and an assistant guide for each group of 6 people
  • One porter for two trekkers (A porter can carry up to 30 kg)
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Fee, TIMS Card
  • Down jacket, Sleeping bag, and other amenities which should be returned to the company after the trip
  • Necessary paperwork with the Government of Nepal and the Tax Department
  • All necessary insurance for guides and porters
  • First Aid service in case of minor injuries
  • Salary, food, and accommodation for guides and porters

Excluded

  • Any meals other than breakfast (for Kathmandu)
  • Rescue & travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation, loss, theft, or damage to baggage and personal effects (We strongly advise you to take out personal travel insurance.)
  • Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, cold drinks, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, etc.)
  • All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including mineral water
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Tipping for the Sublime Trails crew

Trip Essential Information

Accommodation and Meals during the Island Peak Climbing with EBC

Several teahouses along the trekking routes to EBC offer an accommodation service of the trekkers’ choice. These teahouses vary from basic to comfortable options and are often operated by local families.

While most teahouses en route provide basic amenities with a well-sized room, others offer improved services with fine hospitality. Nevertheless, they all provide essential supplies and meals, making the stay as comfortable as possible.

These teahouses prepare delicious meals for trekkers and mountaineers so they can fuel up before the journey. While the foods aren’t fancy, they are comforting and warm with plenty of options.

Necessary Permits for Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek

To trek in the Everest region, trekkers must obtain necessary permits like Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, and Nepal Mountaineering Association Permit.

For this, trekkers shall pay the applicable permit fees required for Everest Base Camp Trek and Island Peak Climb. They have to foot the bill of USD 30 imposed by Khumbu Rural Municipality to explore the region.

Note the permit is only available at a local government office upon arriving at Lukla. Those who’ve taken the alternative route through Jiri or Salleri can obtain the permit in Monjo. Trekkers must also cover the climbing cost of Island Peak, which varies depending on the season (Spring: USD 250; Autumn: USD 125; Winter & Summer: USD 50).

All foreigners except SAARC compatriots have to pay an additional USD 25 or so equivalent amount per person to enter the Sagarmatha National Park. They must also pay NRS 2,000 for a TIMS card.

Meanwhile, the citizens from member countries of SAARC are only required to pay 1,500 for the entry permit—the TIMS card also costs them merely NRS 1,000. They can easily purchase this card at a Tourist Service Center in Kathmandu.

For those trekking with Sublime Trails, you’ll have all the permits arranged for you. We’ll look after all the paperwork required to get the permit so that you can have a hassle-free trip.

Best Season for Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climb

The peak season for Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing is the same as most mountainous treks: Spring and Autumn. This is mostly because they offer a mix of warm weather, vibrant crowds, and seasonal activities that make for perfect trekking.

While spring brings low humidity and clear skies, autumn ensures a dry route with little rain. Months like April and May offer mild temperatures ranging from 14 to 22 Degrees Celsius while October and November bring temperatures between 0 and 15 Degrees Celsius.

Despite this, the weather conditions remain pleasant throughout these seasons with improved visibility, which enhances the trekking experience. It allows trekkers to fully enjoy the pristine views and breathtaking landscapes that epitomize the Himalayan region.

FAQs

  • Labeled as a trekking peak by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), Island Peak is quite suitable for beginners unless they are unfit or in poor health. The trek isn’t technical but does require a few skills, especially with the use of ice axes, crampons, and fixed rope. Some prior trekking experience and training also come in handy when climbing Island Peak.

  • Although various sources of drinking water are available in the Everest region, boiled or filtered water is the safest option. You can purchase or refill this drinking water during every stop along the trek. Most teahouses even offer bottled water, but they tend to be expensive. If you’re concerned about waterborne diseases, consider bringing a water purification tablet.

  • It’s not essential to bring supplemental oxygen during the Island Peak climb, but if you insist on getting one then we will comply. Usually, climbers are acclimatized before ascending the summit so they do not experience the radical effects of altitude or breathing problems.

  • Solo trekking on Island Peak is impermissible as the controlling authorities require climbers to hire a licensed guide who can ensure a safe climb. These sherpa guides are well-experienced and have a planned approach to mountaineering.

  • Travel insurance is a must for Island Peak Climbing and Everest Base Camp Trek. This is mostly due to the unpredictable nature of mountains that pose a greater risk for climbers and sometimes even require emergency evacuation and medical treatment. Travel insurance covers the helicopter evac, medical treatment in Nepal, and costs of other unforeseen events.

  • Sure, you can rent climbing equipment or purchase one if you need it. There are several rental stores and shops in Thamel, that lease trekking gear for a small fee. However, note that some rental companies offer counterfeit products claiming to be famous brands so be careful when picking the gear. Visit well-reputed stores and inspect the equipment before renting.

  • Altitude sickness is the major threat for climbers of Island Peak as they have to ascend high up to 6,165m. However, there’s nothing to fear as proper acclimatization and medication minimize the risks. Just take your time and remain consistent with the trekking speed.

  • Although Island Peak is a non-technical climb, it’s still challenging with a mix of high-altitude climbing and crevasses crossing. Hence mountaineers require a good level of fitness and stamina. A good fitness regimen and cardiovascular exercise help to sustain the physical demands and potential risks.
     

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