DIFFICULTY
Moderate
DURATION
17 Days
BEST TIME
April – May
Sept – Oct
COST
₹ 2,20,000
OVERVIEW
Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is a mountain located in the Himalayas of eastern Nepal. The peak was first named Island Peak by Eric Shipton’s party in 1951 due to its appearance as an island amidst a sea of ice when viewed from Dingboche. While the peak was later renamed Imja Tse in 1983, Island Peak remains the prefered choice for mountaineers.
Island Peak is a popular training peak for those attempting to climb Mount Everest, as many of the skills required for the expedition are the same. These skills include crossing crevasses with ladders and using jumars on a fixed-line. Located in the Chukkung valley, this stunning mountain appears like an island dwarfed on both sides by the impressive Lhotse/Nuptse South Wall to the north and Baruntse to the south. The views from the top of Island Peak are truly breathtaking, and the climb is made all the more memorable by the spectacular ridge climb to the summit. For those who have dreamed of climbing a technical 6000-metre Himalayan summit, Island Peak offers an excellent opportunity to do so.
It is a challenging climb and requires technical skill, making it a great option for experienced mountaineers or those who are looking for a challenge. Typically, the expedition to Island Peak takes around 16-18 days, which includes acclimatization, preparation, and the actual climb. During the expedition, climbers will trek through stunning valleys and high-altitude villages, experiencing the unique culture of the Sherpa people. The climb to Island Peak includes a variety of terrain, including steep snow and ice slopes and a ridge scramble to the summit.
While the climb is challenging, the rewards are immense. At the summit of Island Peak, climbers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Lhotse, Nuptse, Baruntse, and Ama Dablam.
Explore the comprehensive metrics of the climb, including altitude changes, climb duration, route specifics, distance, and more. Recorded on Garmin during our 2024 expedition to Island Peak and Ama Dablam (in that order), this data provides an in-depth analysis of what happens on ground zero, helping you prepare better. Click here to explore the data.
INCLUSIONS
- Guides & Porters (English & Hindi speaking)
- All necessary airport arrival & departures
- 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu with a bed and breakfast plan
- Flight fare from Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu for members
- Flight fare from Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu for guides, porter
- Domestic airport departure taxes
- English-speaking trekking guide and his salary
- City tour transport, tour guide, and entry permit in Kathmandu as per itinerary
- Best available tea house accommodation & food. Three meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) a day during the trekking period (open menu to choose any one item per meal from the menu). Order more at your own cost.
- All necessary permits required for trekking
- B&C Merchandise – Buff, Duffle bag, Tshirt/Fleece, Certificate, Medal, and more
- Insurance for B&C staff.
- Porter/Yak for load carrying during the trek.
- Certificate.
- Participants will get an exclusive discount on all Fast&Up products.
EXCLUSIONS
- International flight tickets.
- Nepal Entry Visa fee (to be applied for 30 days).
- Heli services in Nepal during trekking.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner).
- Boiled water, beverages, and alcoholic drinks.
- Emergency medical evacuation.
- Tips for staff.
- Personal expenses and extra services beyond the itinerary.
- Personal gear, including sleeping bag (available for hire) and other trekking/climbing equipment.
- Travel, medical, and emergency rescue insurance.
- Phone calls, internet, battery recharge, laundry, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffee or espresso drinks.
- Any other services not mentioned in the inclusions.
ADDITIONAL CHARGES
- ₹3,000 extra (one side) will be charged if the Lukla flight takes place via Ramechhap instead of Kathmandu.
- An additional charge of ₹5,000 per person will apply for each extra day spent in Kathmandu or Lukla due to flight delays or other unforeseen circumstances.
- If any member of your group requires additional transfers beyond those organized, supplementary charges may be applicable.
- Room Upgrades: Guests will be charged for room upgrades as per the hotel policy.
- Early Check-in/Late Check-out: Additional charges may apply for guests arriving before the designated check-in time or departing after the scheduled check-out time.
- Helicopter Returns: If any participant returns by helicopter, no deductions will be made as all services are prepaid.
PREPARATION GUIDE
- Have some previous trekking / mountaineering Experience. Preferably climbed a 5000 meter peak.
- Weight train the body. Walk uphill or stairs steps with a weighted back pack.
- Strength training for the lower body and core. Do planks, crunches and cycling.
- Climbing Island peak requires a fit body and a conscious mind. One needs to be exercising regularly for the past 3-4 months.
- Any high altitude trek requires you to build a good amount of cardiovascular endurance. Jogging is the best exercise to increase your stamina.
- You need strong legs to success fully finish a high altitude trek. Squats are the best way to build leg strength quickly. Especially your thighs, glutes and knees.
- For detailed advice and coordination, we’ll have a WhatsApp group.
THINGS TO PACK
For Your Head:
- Woolen warm cap to protect against cold winds
- Balaclava for extra warmth
- Bandana (can be used as a sweatband or to cover your face from dust)
For Your Feet:
- 2-3 pairs of regular socks
- 1 pair of thick woolen socks for warmth
- Trekking boots with ankle support and good grip
- Extra pair of comfortable sneakers or shoes to wear at the campsite
For Your Hands:
- 1-2 pairs of warm inner gloves
- 1 pair of waterproof gloves to keep your hands dry
- Hand warmers (optional, but useful in very cold weather)
- A pair of fleece gloves for extra insulation
Clothing: The Armor of the Adventurer:
- 1 pair of thermal innerwear (top and bottom) for base warmth
- 2 pairs of lightweight, quick-dry trekking pants
- 1 pair of windproof and waterproof Gore-Tex trousers
- 1 Gore-Tex or waterproof jacket for wind and rain protection
- 1 poncho (optional) for sudden rain
- 1 fleece jacket for light warmth
- 3–4 full-sleeve dry-fit T-shirts for layering
- 1 heavy down or padded jacket for extreme cold
Navigational & Survival Gear:
- 20L backpack (for water, snacks, fleece, etc.)
- Duffel bag (provided by us; carried by mules/porters)
- 1 trekking pole (or 2 for better balance)
- Tiffin box for packed lunch
- Filter water bottle
- Thermos flask (for warm water or tea)
Personal Care Compact:
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Face towel, tissues & wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer & lip balm
- Moisturizer (optional but helpful in dry climate)
- Personal medication kit
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Illumination & Eye Protection:
- Headlamp with extra batteries – a must-have for night treks and early morning starts
- Sunglasses – Polarized, Category 4 with 100% UV protection and a wrap-around fit to guard your eyes from harsh sun glare and snowy reflections. Carry a backup pair just in case.
Soul Nourishment:
- Camera – capture the beauty and magic of the mountains
- Music player or earphones – enjoy peaceful moments with your favorite tunes
- Books or playing cards – perfect for downtime and relaxing at camp
