Island Peak (6,189m), locally known as Imja Tse, is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking peaks and a perfect introduction to Himalayan mountaineering. Starting the climb from Chhukung (4,730m) in the Imja Valley, trekkers embark on a short but intense expedition that combines high-altitude trekking with basic alpine climbing.
From Chhukung, the trail ascends steadily along the moraine and glacier valley, offering dramatic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Baruntse, before reaching Island Peak Base Camp (5,100m). Here, climbers prepare gear and receive training on rope handling, crampon use, and glacier techniques. Some expeditions may set up a High Camp (5,300m) to shorten the summit day, though many teams climb directly from Base Camp.
The summit push begins before dawn, usually around midnight. The route first follows rocky slopes and scree to the glacier, where climbers rope up and put on crampons. A steady ascent across the glacier leads to the challenging ice and snow headwall, a 100–150m section that requires the use of fixed ropes, jumar ascenders, and good stamina. Finally, a narrow but thrilling ridge brings climbers to the summit of Island Peak, where sweeping views of Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and the Everest massif reward the effort.
After the summit, climbers carefully descend the headwall with abseils and retrace the glacier route, returning to Base Camp and eventually to Chhukung.
| Group Size : | Min 2 pax | Max - altitude : | 6189m/20305ft. |
| Destination : | Nepal | Fitness level : | Challenging |
| Arrival : | Chukkung | Departure from : | Chukkung |
| Meals : | All meals during trek | ||
| Accomodation : | Hotels/Mountain Lodges | ||
Day 01: Meet our Climbing Guide at Chhukung and trip briefing.
Day 02: Island Peak base camp
Altitude: 5,200m/17,060ft. | Trek: 3/4 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 03: Island Peak Summit (6,189m/20305ft) back to Chhukung
Altitude: 6,189m/20305ft. | Trek: 8/9 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 04: Contingency Day
Not really satisfied with this itinerary ? Make your own
Cardiovascular fitness: Strong stamina is essential since the climb involves high-altitude trekking (up to 6,189m) with reduced oxygen levels.
Strength: Core, leg, and upper body strength are important for handling steep ascents, ladders, and rope work. Training like hiking with weight, stair climbing, squats, and lunges helps.
Balance & Flexibility: Needed for moving safely on mixed terrain (rock, snow, and ice). Yoga or stretching exercises improve agility.
Island Peak is considered a trekking peak, but the summit requires basic mountaineering skills:
Using crampons on snow and ice
Ascending/descending fixed ropes with a jumar (ascender)
Abseiling/rappelling with a figure-8 or belay device
Self-arrest techniques with an ice axe
Pre-climb training is often provided by guides at Island Peak Base Camp.
Day 01: Meet our Climbing Guide at Chhukung and Trip Briefing
Arrive in Chhukung (4,730m), a small village nestled at the end of the Imja Valley. Upon arrival, meet our experienced climbing guide who will brief you about the upcoming climb, safety protocols, equipment checks, and climbing techniques. The rest of the day is for rest and acclimatization. You can enjoy short walks around Chhukung with stunning views of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
Accommodation: Tea house in Chhukung
Meal: Dinner
Day 02: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m / 17,060ft)
After breakfast, begin your trek towards Island Peak Base Camp. The trail gradually ascends through the Imja Valley, offering panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and the towering south face of Island Peak. Upon arrival at Base Camp, your climbing crew will set up tents and prepare meals. The afternoon will be spent on basic climbing training—using crampons, ropes, harnesses, and ice axes—to help you prepare for the summit push.
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 5,200m / 17,060ft
Accommodation: Tent at Base Camp
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 03: Summit Island Peak (6,189m / 20,305ft) and Return to Chhukung
Today is the big day! You’ll start early, around 1–2 a.m., climbing up the rocky ridge before reaching the glacier. With the help of fixed ropes, you’ll make your way up the steep snow slope leading to the summit ridge. Reaching the summit of Island Peak rewards you with breathtaking 360° views of Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,481m), and Ama Dablam (6,812m). After spending a short time at the top for photos and celebration, descend carefully back to Base Camp, rest briefly, then continue to Chhukung.
Trek Duration: 8–9 hours
Altitude: 6,189m / 20,305ft
Accommodation: Tea house in Chhukung
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Contingency Day
A spare day is kept as a buffer in case of bad weather, acclimatization issues, or any unforeseen delays. If all goes as planned, you can use this day to relax at Chhukung or explore nearby trails. Service not included
Not really satisfied with this itinerary ? Make your own
During the trip weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors that are 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.
Note : Set your own departure date if you have a group size of 2 packs or more.
| Start Date | Trip Price | Trip Status | Booking |
|---|
SERVICE EXCLUDES:
SERVICE EXCLUDES:
I went Island Peak climbing this March the experience was awesome. It was great once in a lifetime experience for me.
☐ Thermal base layers – 2–3 tops & 2–3 bottoms
☐ Fleece jackets/pullovers – 1–2
☐ Lightweight down/synthetic jacket – 1
☐ Waterproof/windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar) – 1
☐ Waterproof trekking pants – 1
☐ Trekking shirts (quick-dry) – 2–3
☐ Trekking pants (convertible optional) – 2–3
☐ Trekking shorts (optional) – 1
☐ Trekking socks – 4–6 pairs
☐ Warm wool socks – 2 pairs
☐ Underwear (quick-dry) – 5–7 pairs
☐ Sun hat/cap
☐ Buff/neck gaiter
☐ Wool/fleece hat
☐ Lightweight gloves (liner)
☐ Balaclava
☐ Warm insulated gloves/mittens (waterproof)
☐ Sunglasses (UV protection – Category 3 or 4)
☐ Trekking boots (broken in, waterproof)
☐ Approach shoes/trainers
☐ Camp sandals/slippers (optional)
☐ Gaiters (snowy sections)
☐ Duffel bag (50–100L, waterproof, for porters/yak) (We provide 50 L Duffel Bag)
☐ Daypack (30–40L)
☐ Dry bags/stuff sacks
☐ Sleeping bag (–15°C to –20°C for trekking) (We provide Sleeping Bag for trek use)
☐ Sleeping bag liner
☐ Sleeping pad (for camping treks)
☐ Water bottles (2 × 1L)
☐ Hydration bladder (optional)
☐ Water purification tablets/drops
☐ Insulated bottle cover
☐ Snacks (energy bars, electrolytes)
☐ Headlamp (with spare batteries)
☐ Batteries (spare batteries)
☐ Trekking poles
☐ Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & lip balm (SPF 30+)
☐ Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, wipes, sanitizer)
☐ Quick-dry towel
☐ Earplugs
☐ Power bank & charging cables
☐ First aid kit & medications
☐ Travel insurance & permits
☐ Heavy down expedition jacket/pant
☐ Insulated climbing pants
☐ Extra thermal layers
☐ Balaclava
☐ Glacier sunglasses (Category 4 UV protection)
☐ Climbing harness
☐ Helmet
☐ Crampons (compatible with boots)
☐ Ice axe
☐ Ascender (Jumar)
☐ Descender (ATC, figure 8)
☐ Locking (3) & unlocking (3) carabiners
☐ Tape Slings 240 cm / Dynamic Cord 6mm (300 cm)
☐ Head Light 300-500 Lumens Spare Battery (Energizer Ultimate Lithium)
☐ Glaciers Glasses (Antifog, Polarized, Uv Protection)
☐ Double/triple-layer climbing boots
☐ High-altitude gaiters
☐ Extra warm gloves/mittens
☐ Warm expedition socks (extra pairs)
Alice Taylor
I went Island Peak climbing this March the experience was awesome. It was great once in a lifetime experience for me. ...see all reviews
25 Days
$2430
The Everest High Passes via Island Peak Trek is one of the most...
20 Days
$2350
Island Peak Climbing in Nepal – A Gateway to Himalayan Mountaine...
15 Days
$2190
Island Peak Climbing, also known as Imja Tse is popular among climbers...
28
$5095
For mountaineers seeking the ultimate Himalayan adventure, the 3 Peak...
Kesher Mahal Road, Thamel, Post Box no: 19233
Nepal
[email protected]
+977-9810334042
:+977-9810334042
https://www.treksplannernepal.com/
