Island Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp Trek 19 Days
A journey shaped by the landscapes, people and experiences of Nepal.
Offered by Journey DMC
NEPAL · TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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Read the full journey overview
Island Peak, Standing at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet), offers a challenging yet achievable peak for aspiring mountaineers. The climb involves glacier crossings, steep ice and rock sections, and a final summit push that rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks. The Everest Three Passes Trek is an adventurous and strenuous trek that takes hikers through three high mountain passes Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La. This trek offers a comprehensive exploration of the Everest region, with stunning vistas of iconic Himalayan peaks, pristine lakes, and Sherpa culture. It's an immersive experience that combines trekking, mountaineering, and cultural exploration, making it a dream adventure for those seeking to challenge their limits while immersing themselves in the stunning landscapes and rich traditions of the Everest region.
The memorable moments
Days Activities Accommodation Meal Day 01 Arrival Kathmandu Hotel [-/L/D] Day 02 Trip Preparation Day Hotel [B/L/D] Day 03 Fly to Lukla then trek toward Phakding Tea house [B/L/D] Day 04 Phakding to Namche Bazaar Tea house [B/L/D] Day 05 Namche Bazaar: Acclimatization Day Tea house [B/L/D] Day 06 Namche Bazaar to Thame Tea house [B/L/D] Day 07 Thame to Lumde Tea house [B/L/D] Day 08 Lumde: acclimatization day Tea house [B/L/D] Day 09 Trek from Lumde to Gokyo via Renjo La Pass Tea house [B/L/D] Day 10 Acclimatization Day in Gokyo Valley: Hike to Gokyo Ri Tea house [B/L/D] Day 11 Gokyo to Thaknak Tea house [B/L/D] Day 12 Trek from Thaknak to Cho La pass to Lobuche Tea house [B/L/D] Day 13 Lobuche to Gorak Shep , visit Everest Base Camp Tea house [B/L/D] Day 14 Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and back to Lobuche Tea house [B/L/D] Day 15 Lobuche to Kongma La to Chhukung Tea house [B/L/D] Day 16 Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp, pre-climb training Tea house [B/L/D] Day 17 Island Peak Base Camp to Summit, and back to base camp Tea house [B/L/D] Day 18 Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche Tea house [B/L/D] Day 19 Pangboche to Namche Bazaar Tea house [B/L/D] Day 20 Namche Bazaar to Lukla Tea house [B/L/D] Day 21 Fly to Kathmandu Hotel [B/L/D] Day 22 Final departure [B/L/-]
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu — Upon landing at Tribhuwan International Airport, complete the immigration and customs procedures. A representative and driver from Journey DMC will meet you at the airport and escort you to the Hotel.
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Day 2: Trip Preparation Day — Following a hearty breakfast at our hotel, you have the option to explore the nearby areas, perhaps doing some last-minute shopping for any adventure essentials you might need on your upcoming journey.
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Day 3: Fly to Lukla then trek to Phakding — After enjoying a hearty breakfast, our adventure begins as we head to the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for an early morning flight to Lukla. The flight treats us to awe-inspiring views of lush green landscapes and majestic snow-capped mountains, culminating in a thrilling landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla. This airstrip nestled on a hillside amidst towering peaks is renowned as one of the world's most beautiful and challenging landing sites.
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Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar — Following a satisfying breakfast, our trek leads us through enchanting pine forests, with the melodic sounds of nature accompanying our journey alongside the Dudh Koshi River. After approximately an hour of walking, the majestic Mt. Thamserku (6,608m) reveals itself to our right, while the tranquility of pine, fir, and juniper forests envelops us throughout. Weather permitting, we may even be treated to a glimpse of Mt. Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge.
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Day 5: Namche Bazaar: Acclimatization Day — This day is dedicated to acclimatization, a crucial step in adjusting to the higher altitudes and ensuring our well-being. Health experts advise staying active rather than remaining idle during this rest day. There are several options available for making the most of our time in Namche. We can opt to explore the charming villages in and around Namche, allowing us to interact with the warm Sherpa people and immerse ourselves in their rich culture. Another option is to embark on a hike to the Everest View Hotel, where we can relish a close-up view of the mighty Everest, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
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Day 6: Namche Bazaar to Thame — Our journey takes us westward, tracing the path along the Bhote Koshi River valley. The vistas of the Himalayan peaks, with Kongde Ri (6,187m), Khumbi Yul La (5,765m), and Kusum Kanguru (6,373m) in view, are truly awe-inspiring. Our first stop is the village of Phorte, where Sir Edmund Hillary's Himalayan Trust once established a nursery.
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Day 7: Thame to Lumde — Following a nourishing breakfast, our first stop is the Thame Gompa, a 350-year-old monastery perched gracefully amidst the cliffs overlooking Thame. Here, we have the chance to soak in the serene atmosphere and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the region. After spending some quality time at the monastery, we resumed our trek towards Lumde.
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Day 8: Lumde: acclimatization day — The second acclimatization day is a crucial step in ensuring our well-being and preventing any symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) as we prepare for the challenging Renjo La pass climb on the following day. This rest day allows us to adjust gradually to the high altitude and thin air.
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Day 9: Lumde to Gokyo via Renjo La Pass — Today marks the first of our three pass crossings as we conquer the challenging Renjo-La. The climb is demanding, but the reward at the summit is truly worth the effort. Along the way, we come across prayer flags that serve as a spiritual marker for the past.
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Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Gokyo Valley — Depending on the weather conditions, we have the option to ascend Gokyo Ri today, offering us a chance to revel in the best mountain vistas of the Everest Region. Climbing Gokyo Ri is undoubtedly a strenuous endeavor, given its steep nature, but the reward is beyond measure. The ascent typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, but the sight that awaits at the summit is well worth the effort.
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Day 11: Gokyo to Thaknak — If the weather did not favor our ascent of Gokyo Ri on the previous day, we seize the opportunity to do so today. Following a hearty breakfast, we depart from Gokyo village, ascending to a ridge and then making our way through the intricate terrain of the Ngazumpa Glacier to reach the mountain on the opposite side. From there, we traverse along the mountain's edge, eventually leading us into the tranquil village of Thaknak.
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Day 12: Thaknak to Cho La pass to Lobuche — Today promises to be one of the most challenging days of our journey. The Cho La pass, while not inherently difficult, presents a steep ascent and involves traversing a glacier on its eastern side. Caution is paramount as the trail is nearly vertical, and the presence of ice-glazed rocks can make it slippery. Our trek from Phedi takes us through a ravine and a rocky trail, gradually ascending as we traverse the side of a frozen lake. At long last, we reach the pinnacle of the pass, adorned with fluttering prayer flags. The striking pyramid of Ama Dablam commands our attention to the south, while Cholatse rises majestically to the west. On our right, Lobuche East and Baruntse stand tall. Negotiating some crevasses along the way, we ultimately arrive at Dzongla, another picturesque location offering unobstructed views of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche Peak, and the distant Pheriche Village below.
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Day 13: Lobuche to Gorak Shep , visit Everest Base Camp — Our journey continues as we embark on the trail leading to Everest Base Camp, traversing the terrain that was once the vast Gorak Shep Lake. We march forward, encountering the somber memorials dedicated to Indian army mountaineers who have left their mark in this challenging region.
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Day 14: Trek from Gorak Shep towards Kala Patthar and back to Lobuche — Our day begins with meticulous preparations for an early morning departure, set against the backdrop of pre-dawn darkness and the biting cold, with temperatures ranging from -10 to -14 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the ever-present possibility of chilly winds adds to the challenge. As we set out, familiar peaks like Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse majestically rise to the east, while the grandeur of Mount Everest gradually unveils itself.
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Day 15: Trek from Lobuche to Kongma La to Chhukung — Following a hearty breakfast, our journey takes us on a trek through the Khumbu Glacier, leading to Kongma La Base Camp at an elevation of 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). The ascent to Kongma La Pass is undeniably the most challenging part of our trek today, demanding our resilience and determination.
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Day 16: Trek from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp, pre-climb training — The trek to Island Peak Base Camp entails a moderately steep trail, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. Initially, we ascend towards the south, and then veer eastward, following the primary line of the valley. As we advance, we traverse a winding path that meanders below the southern edge of the moraine, which is a product of the Lhotse Glacier.
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Day 17: Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Summit, and back to base camp — Summit day begins with a very early wake-up call, typically around 12 to 1 a.m., as we prepare for the climb ahead. A nourishing breakfast is essential before commencing our ascent. Timing is crucial, and we must reach the summit before noon, as strong winds tend to pick up in the highlands during the afternoon, potentially posing a barrier to a successful summit.
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Day 18: Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche — Today's trek is notably easier as we make our descent to lower altitudes, allowing us to savor the changing scenery and milder terrain. We retrace our steps, following the familiar route through the expansive Khumbu Khola valley. Along the way, we pass through the picturesque Sherpa villages of Orsho and Shomare, where we can soak in the local culture and hospitality.
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Day 19: Pangboche to Namche Bazaar — Our journey continues as we leave Pangboche and retrace our steps back to the Imja Khola. From there, we ascend through the lush forest, surrounded by the vibrant colors of rhododendrons and juniper trees, en route to Tengboche. Those interested can take the opportunity to visit the nuns at the Tengboche monastery, immersing themselves in the spiritual and cultural aspects of the region.
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Day 20: Namche Bazaar to Lukla — Our descent takes us along a steep and challenging trail, making it essential that we tread cautiously as we navigate the rocky terrain. With each step, our legs may feel shaky from the exertion of the past few weeks. Crossing suspension bridges over the fast-flowing Dudh Koshi River and its tributaries, we gradually find the trail becoming more level.
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Day 21: Fly back to Kathmandu — Following your challenging mountain expedition, you'll catch an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arriving in the capital city, you can finally enjoy some well-deserved rest in the comfort of your hotel room. This rest is much-needed after the physical and mental exertion of your journey, providing you with the opportunity to rejuvenate and reflect on the remarkable experiences you've had in the mountains.
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Day 22: Final Departure — After an early morning breakfast, your journey to Nepal comes to an end. Transfer to the airport.
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What's included in your experience
Included
- Transfer service on arrival and departure.
- 3 night’s hotel accommodation in Kathmandu. Twin-share on Full Board Plan.
- Trekking lodges/tea houses and tent accommodation during trekking and mountaineering tours.
- Experienced state-licensed mountaineering guides during the trekking and climbing stages.
- Full board is available at tea house/hotel/lodge during trekking.
- English-speaking staff and porters will be on site to accompany you on your journey (1 porter for every 2 guests, carrying up to 30kg).
- Trekking permit (entrance fee to Sagarmatha National Park).
- TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System).
- Permission to climb Mt. Everest summit from the Nepali government.
- First aid kits for groups and staff.
- Use sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags, and hiking poles (please return them at the end of the trip if you do not have them).
- Helicopter rescue insurance for workers at height.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse oxygen saturation and heart rate twice a day to ensure your health while trekking
Not included
- All packaged foods/snacks, sodas, energy drinks, bottled water, alcohol, tobacco, chocolate, and health bars.
- Items of a personal nature - laundry expenses, tips.
- Rescues, repatriation, medicines, medical tests, and hospitalization expenses.
- Medical insurance and emergency evacuation if needed.
- Travel insurance and helicopter rescue.
- Airfare of international flights.
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Personal climbing gear.
- Tips, gifts, souvenirs.
- Tips for tour guides, porters, and drivers.
Essential trip information
Fitness & eligibility
2
Meeting point
Kathmandu
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