Everest High Passes and Island Peak

Island Island Peak (6187 meters), also locally known as Imja Tse, lies to the south of Mount Everest and is one of the most popular of the trekking peaks. After exploring the temples, shrines, bazaars and restaurants of Kathmandu we take an exciting mountain flight to Lukla and trek up the Dudh Kosi Valley, surrounded by the soaring peaks of Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru.

It's a steep ascent to Namche Bazaar, capital of the Kumbu Sherpas, where we are again greeted by spectacular mountain vistas. A rest day here aids acclimatization and there are great optional walks to enjoy the area. We then trek into Gokyo Valley and ascend gradually, to ensure proper acclimatization, walking beside the moraines of Ngozumpa Glacier and turquoise lakes to reach Gokyo.

From here we can climb Gokyo Ri to view of all of the region's 8000-metre peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu & a breathtaking panorama. Our trek then heads via Cho La Pass (5300 meters) to Lobuche, where we follow Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep. From here we ascend Kala Patar (5555 meters) where we experience another breathtaking panorama of Everest and her surrounding peaks.

We also visit the historical site of Everest Base Camp. Now well acclimatized, we cross Kongma La (5535meters) to Chukkung, to make our attempt on Island Peak. Though technically harder than Mera Peak, this expedition is also well within the reach of anyone seeking their first Himalayan summit.

After summiting Island Peak, we return at our leisurely pace back to Namche and Lukla for our return flight to Kathmandu.

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Itinerary / Highlights

Day 01- Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1345meters).
There you will be met by our Airport Representative and transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02- Pre-trip Meeting and Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley.
In the morning after breakfast at 9 AM, we host a Pre-Trip meeting at your hotel in Kathmandu and introduced your trek Leader/Guide mean time and it will provide an opportunity for individuals to ask questions about the your trek and to introduce you to other participants. This includes a final briefing and preparations for the trip.

PLEASE ADVISE US IF YOU WILL BE ARRIVING LATE AND ARE THEREFORE UNABLE TO ATTEND THE PRE-TRIP MEETING.

In THE PRE-TRIP MEETING All passengers MUST bring:
1. Passport.
2. Four copies of Passport size photos each.
3. Travel Insurance Policy.
4. A writing pen
5. Notepad.

After the Pre-Trip meeting and breakfast your sightseeing trip will start at 9.45 AM in the morning. We provide a private vehicle and professional tour guide. We visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where we observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. After Bodhnath Stupa we visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here we see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. We also visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which is a collection of pagoda and shikhara & style temples grouped around a fifty-five-window palace of brick and wood. The attraction of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is The Lion gate, The Golden gate, The Palace of fifty five windows, Art Galleries, The Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla.

The rest of our time in Kathmandu is free for further exploration and some last-minute shopping in Thamel area near by your hotel. Later, we are supplied with our Trek Pack and departure information for tomorrow. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03- Fly to Lukla (2804 meters) trek to Phakding (2610 meters) 3 hours.
An early morning start takes us to Tribhuwan international Airport in Kathmandu for the 35 minute scenic flight to Tenzing and Hillary Airport at Lukla at 2804meters. On arrival at the airport guide will brief you and introduce our porters before we begin our trek towards Phakding at 2610meters.

After landing we have time to explore the village while our Sherpa crew sort and load our trekking equipment. Then we begin our trek by descending towards the Dudh Kosi River where we join the main trail to Namche Bazaar, located just above Chaunrikharka (2713m). The walking is easy and after passing through the small village of Ghat (2550m) it is a short walk to Phakding. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 04- Trek to Namche Bazaar (3441 meters) 5.30 hours.
We continue trekking along the banks of the Dudh Kosi, crossing this majestic river many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. After entering Sagamartha National Park, the trail climbs steeply with breathtaking views. Namche Bazaar known as the Gateway to Everest which is home to many quality restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, Money exchange, internet cafe and a bakery. Namche is one of the biggest villages along the whole Everest trail. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 05- Namche Bazaar Acclimatization day.
We will spend a day here in order to acclimatize and adjust to the thinning of the air. As well as a short trek to a museum celebrating the traditional customs of the Sherpa people to visit. Today we hike up the Syangboche Airport, and around Everest View Hotel. From this point, we can see rewarding views of the Himalayas with a stunning sunrise or sunset over the panorama of the Khumbu peaks. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 06- Trek to Phorste Thanga (3680meters) 5 hours.
Today, the trail climbs steeply out of valley through rhododendron forest, juniper and large conifers start to appear as the elevation increases making the trekking beautiful in spring. The trail passes through Yak Kharkas and summer settlements. The views of Khumbi La and Tawache are magnificent throughout the day. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 07-Trek to Machherma (4470 meters). 5 hours.
The trail climbs a ridge for an excellent view both down the valley to Kengtega and up towards Cho Oyu and descend to a river and again climbs steep to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpz glacier. We will reach at Machherma by early noon. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 08- Trek to Gokyo (4790 meters) 5.30 hours.
Today the trek takes us at one of our final destination, Gokyo (4790m). We will make this camp our base for 2 nights as we will have couple of sightseeing and hiking trips around Gokyo. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 09- Trek Gokyo Ri (5483 meters) and then Back to Gokyo. 5 hours.
Today, early in the morning we have steep climb up to the top of Gokyo Ri at elevation of 5483 meters, ample rewards to one attempts this trip. There are stunning views of the supper Gokyo valley, the massive Ngozumpa Glacier and an incredible panoramic view of the whole Khumbu Himalayas, such as giants as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu and Gychung Kang can be seen. Those who explore the glacier and Gokyo peak are rewarded. This day we have for acclimatization and after noon back to the camp. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 10- Trek to Thangna (4500 meters) 4 hours.
Trekking to the foot of Cho La pass for our overnight stay at Guesthouse.

Day 11- Cross Cho La pass (5300 meters) then trek to Dzongla (4710 meters) 7 hours.
Today is a long trek starting before sunrise at 4/5 am to reach the pass by 9-10 am otherwise weather conditions will greatly affect our journey. We cross over at an altitude of 5300 meters we could be exposed to strong winds if crossing too late. We start to climb steeply that is regularly used and easy to follow. However, the problem may arise due to the altitude and snow. It often causes terrible problems to cross the pass if it is covered by snow. As you reach the top, you are rewarded by the magnificent views, then we descend to the Dzongla at noon. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 12- Trek to Lobuche (4910 meters). 4 hours.
Today, we will take easy and short trekking route as we had big and hard trekking day yesterday. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 13- Trek to Gorak Shep (5180 meters) then hike up to Kalapattar (5555 meters) back to Gorak Shep. 7 hours.
This will be difficult yet rewarding days of the trek. Most of this day is spent climbing Mt. Kala Patar, a small peak (by Himalayan standards) at 5555meters. The ascent is demanding but the climber gets the most magnificent mountain panorama possible: Everest, the highest point on the planet at 29028ft, 8848meters, towers directly ahead and on all sides loom the other giants, Nuptse, Pumori, Chagatse, Lhotse and countless others. If possible we can stay and watch the awe-inspiring sunset on Everest and its neighbours. We make a quick descent to Gorak Shep, a tiny hamlet at 5180 meters. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 14- Trek to Everest Base Camp (5365 meters) then back to Lobuche (4910 meters). 7 hours.
This is another big day walk along the Khumbu Glacier and up to Everest Base Camp at 5365meters. , the closest you can get to Mt. Everest without mountaineering equipment. There will likely be a team there about to attempt the summit. The view of the Khumbu Icefall from Base Camp is spectacular. We return down to Lobuche for the night. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 15- Cross Kongma La pass (5535meters) and trek to Chukkung (4710 meters), 8 hours.
After leaving camp we ascend past a series of small glacial lakes with fine views of Makalu to the south-east. As we near the pass we cross glacial moraines before a final rocky scramble leads to a narrow ridge adorned with prayer flags. The top of the pass is usually very windy so, after a short rest, we descend that lead down into the Chukkung Valley. It is a tiring walk today, but the fantastic scenery makes it all very worthwhile. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 16- Trek to Island peak base camp (5240 meters) 4 hours.
From Chukkung we make a leisurely start following the Imja Valley with great views of Ama Dablam dominating the skyline and follow the moraines that flow from Lhotse (8501meters) towards the sand flats at Pareshaya Gyab. It is only a short distance from here to Base Camp, which we will reach in the mid-afternoon. Today is only 4 hours walking as we are becoming acclimatized to the thinning of air, from today the accommodation will be tented camp for next two days and you will be having camp food cooked by our professional cook. Overnight at Tented camp.

Day 17- Rest and Acclimatization day Overnight at Tented Camp.
We will spend a day here in order to acclimatize and adjust to the thinning of the air. As well as a short trek around base camp to prepare us for the 6000 meter adventure the next morning. Overnight at Tented camp.

Day 18 & 19- Summit to Island peak (6187meters) and return to Chhukung (4750meters)
We have allowed two days to climb Island Peak, although we will probably not require more than one if weather conditions are fine. The strategy for the climb will be decided by our trek leader at the time, taking into account the group's acclimatization, weather, snow conditions and other factors. Generally we rest in the morning and after lunch ascend from Base Camp to High Camp (5700m), a steep, two-hour climb up grassy slopes on a well-defined trail. The site of the camp is just below the permanent snowline. The following morning we leave very early for the final climb to the summit. This may take between four and six hours, depending on snow and weather conditions. We will fix a rope on the summit headwall for safety on both the ascent and descent. Although it is not a difficult climb technically, the snow slopes are crevassed, the headwall is reasonably steep and a head for heights is useful. To reach the summit, willpower and stamina are required, but the incredible feeling of achievement atop this 6000-meters giant will remain a lifetime memory. The view from the summit is utterly fantastic! Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Makalu and Baruntse are the dominant giants rising above a sea of 'lesser' peaks. Given good conditions we should be able to descend back to Chhukhung from our summit attempt. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 20- Trek to Tengboche (3860meters). 6 hours.
Leaving the mountains behind us our descent takes us through various towns of Dingboche, Orsho, Shomare and Lower Pangboche to reach the suspension bridge over the Imja Khola River to ascend gradually through Debuche and then to Tengboche at 3800 meters. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 21- Trek to Namche Bazaar (3441meters) via Khumjung (2780 metres) . 5 hours
From Tengboche we descend steeply through beautiful forest of juniper, rhododendron and fir to Phunkitenga. After a welcome break and perhaps a cup of tea we cross the Dudh Kosi River and ascend to Trashinga. From here the trail contours high above the valley through to Shanasa, where we have the option of visiting Kunde and Khumjung villages before returning to Namche Bazaar - our stop for the night. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 22- Trek to Lukla (2804meters) 5 hours .
This is our last day of trekking, finally we return to Lukla where the trek began, which will seem like a lifetime ago. Enjoying time to reflect on the trek as a group and the personal achievement of all those who took part. In the afternoon is free to wander around, relax or perhaps enjoy a hot shower! In the evening we enjoy a farewell dinner, followed by a few celebratory drinks and dancing with our Sherpa companions. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 23- Morning flight to Kathmandu.
We rise early in the morning to be ready for the arrival of our aircraft for the flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu we are met and transferred back to our starting hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 24- Leisure day in Kathmandu .
It's also spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla, If you are interested in continuing on to Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting Adventure, Kathmandu Shopping Tour Overnight at hotel.

Day 25- Transfer to international airport for your final departure.
The trip ends, our Airport Representative will drop you to the Kathmandu International Airport for your flight departure from Nepal to home or your onward journey. If you wish to stay on in Kathmandu, please pre-book your post-tour accommodation before you commence your travels.

The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. Our Island peak adventure can be customized at your request to accommodate your specific requirements.

NOTE: On adventure trips of this type, weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

Other Details

Accommodation Details

Standard twin sharing accommodation in four/five star hotel in Kathmandu breakfast included (4 nights)

All your standard Meals as per itinerary during the trek and Climb (24 breakfasts, 20 lunches and 20 dinners).
All hot drinks as per itinerary such as tea, coffee (4 times a day) during the trek.
Tea Houses / Lodges, Guesthouses and Tented accommodation during the trek (17 night´s Trekking Guesthouse and 3 night´s tented camp).