Island Peak Climbing

Your Himalayan adventure begins as you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Upon arrival, a representative from Higher Path Treks & Expeditions will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the vibrant Thamel district. After some rest, you’ll meet your guide for a briefing about the expedition. In the evening, you can explore the bustling streets of Thamel or enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by our company, introducing you to the tastes of Nepal.

Late in the evening, we depart Kathmandu for a scenic night drive to Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, approximately 4–5 hours. Early the next morning, we board a short but exhilarating flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Upon landing at Lukla’s high-altitude airstrip, we meet our porters and begin our trek through charming Sherpa villages and lush rhododendron forests. A gentle descent along the Dudh Koshi River brings us to Phakding, where we spend the night.

Today’s trek is both scenic and challenging. We continue along the Dudh Koshi, crossing several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Bridge. As we ascend gradually, you’ll get your first glimpse of Everest on a clear day. The final climb to Namche Bazaar is steep and rewarding. Nestled in an amphitheater-shaped valley, Namche is the cultural and trading heart of the Khumbu region. Overnight at a lodge with panoramic mountain views.

Acclimatization is crucial for high-altitude success. Today, we explore Namche and its surroundings. Hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) for stunning views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest. Visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center to deepen your understanding of Sherpa traditions and mountaineering history. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or browsing local bakeries and shops.

A relatively short and pleasant hike today brings us to the picturesque village of Khumjung, tucked beneath the sacred peak of Khumbila. Along the way, we visit the Hillary School and the ancient Khumjung Monastery, which is said to house a yeti scalp. This peaceful village offers a more intimate glimpse into Sherpa life, away from the busier trekking routes.

We trek through pine forests and alpine terrain, passing through Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. Here, we take a short break to admire the monastery and its spiritual ambiance before descending to Debuche and continuing along the Imja Khola River to Pangboche. This village has one of the oldest monasteries in the region and offers awe-inspiring views of Ama Dablam.

As we gain altitude, the terrain becomes more rugged and sparse. We walk along stone-walled fields and alpine meadows, arriving in Dingboche, a beautiful village surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Here, the effects of altitude start to become more noticeable, making it an important place to rest and hydrate. Enjoy views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and the Imja Valley.

Another vital acclimatization day. We hike to Nagarjun Ri, a steep climb offering incredible vistas of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu. This climb strengthens your conditioning for higher altitudes and provides photographic opportunities. After descending, you can relax at the lodge, explore Dingboche’s fields, or chat with fellow climbers preparing for Island Peak or Everest.

We head further into the Imja Valley toward Chhukung, a small settlement at the base of the Island Peak route. This short trek allows for a gradual approach to higher altitudes and helps your body adjust. Chhukung offers dramatic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants, and you’ll have the evening to prepare for the next day’s training.

We ascend Chhukung Ri for an acclimatization hike, reaching an altitude higher than Island Peak Base Camp. This hike builds your stamina and offers unmatched views of the southern face of Lhotse and Island Peak itself. In the afternoon, our climbing guides conduct a pre-climb training session. You’ll learn about fixed rope techniques, ice axe use, harness safety, and crampon walking—all essential for summit day.

Today, we move towards Island Peak Base Camp, traversing rocky moraines and glacial streams. Upon arrival, we set up camp and do final checks on climbing gear and clothing. The environment here is raw and inspiring—surrounded by towering ice walls and deep blue glaciers. After an early dinner, it’s off to rest for a midnight wake-up for the summit push.

We begin our climb around midnight, crossing a glacier and ascending steep snow and ice slopes. Using fixed ropes and crampons, we tackle the final headwall and summit ridge. At the summit, you're rewarded with panoramic views of Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, and the vast expanse of the Himalayas. After capturing the moment, we carefully descend back to base camp, then continue to Chhukung for a well-earned rest.

With the summit behind us, we retrace our steps through Dingboche and Pangboche, descending back into lower altitudes. Tonight, we stay in Kyangjuma, a lovely spot with stunning sunset views over Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks.

We descend further, enjoying the familiar sights and sounds of the Khumbu Valley. Passing through Namche Bazaar once more, we cross suspension bridges and follow the Dudh Koshi River downstream to Phakding. The warmth and oxygen-rich air at this elevation will be a welcome relief.

The final day of trekking takes us back to Lukla, where we celebrate the completion of our journey. After checking into your lodge, you can enjoy a celebratory dinner with your guides and porters, reflecting on the memories and friendships formed during this adventure.

After an early morning flight from Lukla to Manthali, we drive back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Spend your afternoon relaxing or shopping for souvenirs. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner with cultural performances organized by Higher Path Treks & Expeditions.

Our journey comes to an end. A company representative will transfer you to the airport for your flight back home. You leave with unforgettable memories of Nepal’s mountains, culture, and the achievement of summiting Island Peak.