If you’re a novice trekker with some basic rope handling and mountaineering skills, Island Peak, locally known as Imja Tse, is your ideal mountaineering objective. Providing aspirants a less exacting mountain climbing experience, Island Peak trek in Nepal tops out at 6189 meter, where trekkers can obsess sublime spectacles of lush forested valleys and serene mountain ranges. The name “Island Peak” was given to Imja Tse because of its appearance from a distance: an island amidst a sea of ice. The meld of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration people will experience from this trek is sure to create life-long memories.
The trek to Island Peak begins with a flight from Kathmandu to the Mountainous town of Lukla, where trekkers will embark on their hike into the ancient villages and high mountain passes in the Himalayan foothills of the Khumbu region. Upon reaching Lukla, trekkers head towards Namche Bazaar. Depending on your travel host, you might spend a day for in Namche for acclimation. A must-see during this trek, the antiquated Tengboche Buddhist Monastry, is situated on the next stop, Tengboche. From Tengboche, you will proceed towards Dingboche and then to Chhukung, where you will most likely receive your pre-climb training. Finally, you will begin your ascension to the Island Peak Summit. During the climb and from the summit you will get a great vantage point to the panoramic view of the Everest, Lhotse and Makalu—the highest, the fourth highest and the fifth highest peaks of the world. The trek lasts about 16 days, including return time. Trekkers will walk an average of 5 hours on a daily basis during the entire trip.
No frills standard tea house accommodation is customary in the Himalayan regions while trekking in Nepal, and so is the case with this trek. Similar to other trekking destinations in Nepal, you will require a valid trekking permit for this trek, along with the TIMS card. A refundable deposit of USD 250 is also required to ensure trekkers’ compliance with garbage regulations. You don’t have to worry about permits and some incidental fees if you book your trek from a trekking agency, as they will manage it all for you. Depending on the cost you bear, your travel package may also include travel insurance, local plane tickets, food and accommodation throughout the trip and airport pickup.
Average Walk: 5 hours a day
Best Season: April to May and October to November
Difficulty: Moderate ice climbing
Elevation: 6189 meter
Duration: 14 – 16 days
Cost: $900 – $1300