ISLAND PEAK CLIMBING - 19 DAYS

After you arrive in Kathmandu, our team will be at the airport to welcome you with warm hospitality. You will be transferred to your hotel in the city where you’ll receive a detailed briefing about your upcoming trek and climb. The evening is free for you to explore the lively Thamel area, pick up any last-minute gear, or simply relax.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Today starts early with a breathtaking flight to Lukla, known as one of the world’s most thrilling airports due to its high altitude and dramatic mountain surroundings. If flights operate from Ramechhap, you’ll take an early morning drive to Manthali before flying. Once in Lukla, you’ll enjoy breakfast before beginning your trek. The trail to Phakding is gentle and scenic, descending gradually through pine forests and across suspension bridges. You’ll pass small hamlets and prayer wheels along the Dudh Koshi River as you reach Phakding, a lovely village nestled in the river valley.

Overnight in Phakding.

After breakfast, your journey continues north along the Dudh Koshi River. You’ll pass through Monjo, the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where your permits will be checked. The trail then climbs steadily through forests and over high bridges—including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. The final ascent to Namche Bazaar is steep but rewarding. As you approach the village, you may catch your first distant glimpse of Mount Everest. Namche is a vibrant trading hub with cafes, bakeries, shops, and incredible mountain views.

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Today is a rest and acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the higher elevation. While you rest, you can still explore. A short hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,900 m) offers stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other nearby peaks. You can also visit the Sherpa Museum and explore the local bazaar. This day is essential for safe acclimatization and prepares you for the higher altitudes ahead. 

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Leaving Namche, the trail offers amazing views of snow-covered mountains. After a series of ups and downs, you’ll reach the village of Tengboche, home to the Tengboche Monastery, the most important monastery in the region. If you arrive early, you can attend a Buddhist puja ceremony, surrounded by prayer flags and peaceful mountain scenery. The views of Ama Dablam from here are simply breathtaking.

Overnight in Tengboche.

After breakfast, continue your trek towards Pheriche, passing through small Sherpa settlements and crossing alpine meadows. This area is more open and wind-swept, with high-altitude vegetation and wide glacial valleys. Pheriche has a Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) health post, where you can learn about altitude safety and treatment. It’s a common rest stop for climbers and trekkers alike.

Overnight in Pheriche.

You’ll now gain more altitude as the trail leads through moraine fields, with stunning views of the Khumbu Glacier. The path is rugged but scenic. Along the way, you’ll pass memorials to fallen climbers near Thukla Pass, which offer a sobering reminder of the mountain’s power. Upon reaching Lobuche, you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dramatic mountain terrain.

Overnight in Lobuche.

Today is a major milestone. You’ll first reach Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After dropping your bags, continue the trail toward the iconic Everest Base Camp, walking across rocky terrain and glacial moraines.

Once you reach base camp, take in the legendary surroundings—the Khumbu Icefall, colorful expedition tents (in climbing season), and massive walls of ice and rock. After photos and a short rest, you’ll return to Gorakshep.

Overnight in Gorakshep.

Early in the morning, hike to Kala Patthar, a rocky ridge offering the best ground-level view of Everest and its surrounding giants. Watch the sun rise behind the world’s tallest mountain before descending. After breakfast in Gorakshep, begin your descent through Lobuche and on to Dingboche, a beautiful village surrounded by stone-walled fields.

Overnight in Dingboche.

Today you leave the main EBC trail and head to Chhukung, a small settlement situated closer to Island Peak. The landscape becomes wilder and more remote. Fewer trekkers visit this area, so the peace and views are incredible. Chhukung is also a common acclimatization stop for climbers heading to Island Peak or other nearby summits.

Overnight in Chhukung.

The trail today leads to the Island Peak Base Camp, passing over glacial streams, rocky ridges, and barren slopes. The surroundings become more dramatic as you approach the base camp nestled beneath Imja Glacier. Here, tents will be set up and gear will be prepared for the summit push. You'll spend the evening preparing, resting, and soaking in the high alpine environment.

Overnight in tented camp in Island Peak Base Camp.

This day is reserved for training and acclimatization. Your climbing guides will conduct a session on rope techniques, glacier travel, crampon use, and proper climbing posture. This is especially helpful for beginners. You’ll also take a short hike to further adjust to the altitude and rest up for the early start the next morning.

Overnight in tented camp.

The big day begins around midnight. Wearing headlamps, you’ll climb steeply over rock and glacier terrain, using fixed ropes and ladders if needed. The final section is the most technical—an exposed ridge with icy slopes that leads to the summit.

From the top, enjoy unmatched views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and more. After photos and celebration, descend carefully back to base camp and continue to Chhukung.

Overnight in Chhukung.

After breakfast, begin your descent through familiar terrain. The views look completely different from this perspective, and it’s easier to appreciate the journey.

You’ll return to Tengboche, where you can rest and revisit the monastery.

Overnight in Tengboche.

The trail descends further through forests and ridges. You’ll pass Namche Bazaar, where you can take a break and shop for souvenirs, then continue to Phakding for the night.

Overnight in Phakding.

Today is your final day of trekking. The trail back to Lukla is familiar, and you'll walk at a relaxed pace. Once in Lukla, you can celebrate your successful expedition with your team.

Overnight in Lukla.

Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Depending on season and flight schedule, you might fly to Ramechhap and then drive. Once in the city, enjoy the comforts of your hotel, shop in Thamel, or relax with a Nepali meal.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

This extra day allows flexibility in case of flight delays or bad weather. If not needed, you can use it for sightseeing, souvenir shopping, or a massage after the long journey.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Today marks the end of your journey. Our team will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home, filled with unforgettable memories of your Himalayan adventure.