Island Peak Itinerary

Day 2 is a free day for you. You may choose to explore Kathmandu, visiting its temples, markets, or heritage sites at your own pace. Meanwhile, the team will finalise the necessary permits, including those for the Annapurna Conservation Area. In the evening, a pre-trek briefing will be held, covering key details of the Island Peak ascent, including logistics, safety measures, and expectations for the journey ahead.

An early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,827m) offers striking views of the Himalayas along the Nepal–Tibet border. The 40-minute journey ends with a landing on Lukla’s short airstrip, where porters assist with luggage. From here, the trek begins with a descent to the Dudh Kosi River, joining the main trail towards Namche Bazaar. Passing through the small settlement of Ghat (2,550m), the route continues to Phakding, where the day’s walk ends at a local tea house.

Leaving Phakding, the trail crosses the Dudh Kosi River and winds through forests of rhododendron and blue pine. The route gradually ascends, passing Benkar, where glimpses of snow-capped peaks such as Kusum Kanguru (6,369m) and Thamserku (6,623m) come into view. The path follows the riverbank to the confluence of the Dudh Kosi and Bhote Kosi, where a high suspension bridge marks the start of a steep ascent. The climb to Namche Bazaar is demanding but rewarding, with the possibility of sighting Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Taboche along the way. The day ends in Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region.

Today is an acclimatisation day in Namche Bazaar, allowing time to adjust to the altitude. This thriving Sherpa town is set in a natural amphitheatre, offering sweeping views of the Khumbu peaks, with Everest visible in the distance. After breakfast, options include a hike to Thami (3,810m), following the Bhote Kosi valley, or a visit to the national park headquarters, where exhibits provide insight into Sherpa culture and the region’s wildlife. The day is best spent moving at a steady pace, aiding acclimatisation before the trek continues higher.

The trail descends from Namche Bazaar through Khumjung before rejoining the main Everest route at Shanasa. Continuing past Trashinga, the path drops steeply to the Dudh Kosi River, crossing at Phunki Tenga (3,250m). From here, a steady but demanding ascent winds through forests of fir, juniper, pine, and rhododendron, eventually emerging at Tengboche. The monastery, a spiritual centre of the region, stands against a dramatic backdrop of towering peaks, including Ama Dablam, Kangtega, and Everest. The night is spent in a lodge nearby.

The trail descends from Tengboche through a dense forest of birch, juniper, fir, and rhododendron before gradually ascending towards Dingboche. The increasing altitude necessitates a steady, measured pace throughout the day. After crossing the Imja Khola, the path leads to Pangboche, where Ama Dablam dominates the skyline. From here, the route climbs across exposed alpine slopes before crossing the river once more, eventually reaching the high-altitude village of Dingboche, where the night is spent.

Today is a designated acclimatisation day in Dingboche. Take time to adjust to the altitude while exploring the village or taking a short hike to higher ground for better adaptation. Rest and hydration are essential before continuing the ascent. Overnight in a local lodge.

The trek continues towards Chhukhung Valley, nestled beneath the imposing rock face linking Nuptse and Lhotse. The route gradually ascends through an open landscape, offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, Ama Dablam (6,856m), one of Nepal’s most striking mountains, dominates the horizon. Upon arrival in Chhukhung, the afternoon is free to rest or explore the area.

Leaving Chhukhung after breakfast, the route leads towards Island Peak Base Camp. As the trail ascends, Lhotse looms ahead, while the vast expanse of the Imja Glacier stretches across the valley. The surrounding landscape of ice and rock grows increasingly dramatic with every step. Upon reaching base camp, tents are pitched, and the afternoon is spent preparing for the climb. A pre-climb training session covers essential techniques and equipment use, ensuring readiness for the summit attempt the following day.

The summit push begins well before dawn, moving steadily upwards under the glow of headlamps. Reaching the top before midday is crucial, as strong afternoon winds can make further ascent hazardous. The route first ascends a rocky slope before transitioning to a narrow, exposed ridgeline. Where necessary, fixed ropes are set in place by the guide. A final, demanding 400-metre snow slope leads to the summit, requiring careful footing and measured effort. A short ladder spans a crevasse near the top, marking the last challenge before standing on Island Peak’s summit. After taking in the panoramic views, the descent begins, retracing the route back to base camp.

Day 12 consists of packing up camp and then trekking to Pangboche.

The track today will go down quite abruptly as you walk back to Namche Bazaar. To arrive at the camp and to reach our overnight spot, you will have a steep climb.

The final leg of the trek retraces the familiar path to Lukla, with a lunch stop in Phakding along the way. The return journey offers a last opportunity to take in the mountain scenery before reaching Lukla, where many trekkers mark the completion of their journey. The evening is often spent reflecting on the trek’s challenges and achievements in the company of fellow travellers.

An early start ensures a timely transfer to Lukla’s small airport for the return flight to Kathmandu. The 40–45-minute journey offers a final aerial view of the Himalayas before landing at Tribhuvan International Airport. On arrival, a transfer to the hotel provides a chance to rest or explore the city at leisure.

A free day in Kathmandu offers time to unwind, explore, or pick up souvenirs. Those interested in cultural sightseeing may choose to visit the historic cities of Patan and Bhaktapur, known for their ancient temples and traditional architecture. Alternatively, the day can be spent at a relaxed pace, enjoying the city's markets, cafés, or gardens.

A transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport is arranged for departure. The journey marks the end of the trek, with assistance provided for a smooth transition to onward travel.