Island Peak Climbing information (FAQ)

Island Peak, often called the Imja Tse peak by the locals is unquestionably a challenging trek. The peak lies in the utmost famous Khumbu region of Nepal. Island peak climbing not only makes your dream to summit the mountain come true but also gives you an incredible opportunity to reach to the base of the world’s highest point. That is, to the Everest Base Camp. 

The peak stands at an elevation of 6,198 meters/ 20,305 feet above sea level. It lies in the charming Imja Tse village in the Everest region. Island peak climbing is a complete package of thrill, excitement, adventure and making dreams come true. You will reach some of the most amazing and beautiful places on the planet. You will also explore the Sagarmatha National Park as you reach the Sagarmatha district. 

A British Expedition team first climbed the peak in the year 1953 as a part of the training exercise. Then later, it was officially opened for commercial trekking.

Here are some of the information you will require for selecting or commencing the trekking/climbing to the Island peak. 

How much does Island peak climbing cost?

Island peak climbing is a 19 days long package. The cost during your stay will be determined by various factors. As for during the trek, you will be spending 15 days in the basic tea houses in the village of the Himalayas.

The lodges and tea houses in the Everest region are all Nepal’s traditional tea houses and lodges. They provide you all the basic services you will be requiring. The cost of food and accommodation will increase as you go up higher and higher. 

Other than the fooding and stay, you will have to pay for permits. The permit fee for a group of up to 4 climbers costs USD350 whereas, for an additional member, an extra USD40 per person will be charged. You will also need to deposit USD250 for ensuring compliance with the garbage regulations.

If you go by yourself, you will also have to pay for the guide and porters individually. Thus, it will be beneficial for you to buy a package from a reliable trekking agency and go. They will manage all the costs of the foods, stays, permits, and wages for the guides as well. We, Mount Face Nepal, will be a good choice for you to organize your climbing trip.

Island Peak Climbing highlights?

Some of the highlights of this climb are:

• The scenic short flight to Lukla from Kathmandu, enjoying the scenic beauty of the landscapes
• Spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains in the high Khumbu valley around Everest region.
• Explore the Sherpa museum in Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery and many chortens, colorful prayer flags, and stupas along the way.
• Summitting Island peak and getting a lifetime experience. 
• Visiting world’s highest Everest Base Camp & viewpoint Kalapathar for the majestic view of the sunrise from between the mount massifs.
• The warm hospitality and friendly nature of the Sherpas and observe their Buddhist culture. 

When is the best time to climb Island Peak?

The best time to climb peaks or go for trekking in any destination in Nepal is during Spring and Autumn season. These seasons fall in the month of February-May and September-October. 

For Island Peak climbing as well, you will get the best out of the trek if you visit during these months. They fall just outside the monsoon and summer season and bless you with the best incredible views of the snow-capped peaks under the deep blue sky. The weather is also not that cold and is constantly dry and stable during these months.

Do I need a visa/permit for Island Peak?

It is mandatory for all the visitors to get a visa in order to land in Kathmandu on the flight except for the Indian citizens. Since the trip lasts almost 20 days, it will be perfect to get a 30-day multi-entry visa. You can also explore other cities and spend quality time in the remaining time if you wish to. One of these visas will cost you US$ 40.

Usually, the Group B trekking peaks permit costs USD350 for a group of four people. And as Island Peak falls under a Group B Trekking Peak, you will need to pay US$350. You will also require to pay in addition to a permit to the Sagarmatha National Park as well as a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. 

Also, a deposit of USD250 might also be required for garbage management purposes. 

Altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is the negative health effect of high altitude. The rapid exposure to low amounts of oxygen at high elevation leads to this sickness. One suffering from altitude sickness might show symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, tiredness, trouble sleeping, and dizziness.

The island peak package allows you to take acclimatization for two days. During these two days, you will be taking rests and going for short hikes around the villages in order to adjust your body to the increasing altitude and temperature. 

You would have already spent 2 weeks at high altitudes by the time you reach Island peak. This will adequately allow your body to be acclimated for the summit of the peak.

Despite all these, altitude sickness can affect anyone if not followed precautions properly. Therefore, you are advised to walk slowly in own pace and most importantly, keep yourself hydrated. Also, you can bring some medicines that will cure headaches and vomiting. 

How do I get to Everest Base Camp?

Island Peak Climbing is a popular trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal. For this, you will be taking a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The trek then begins from Lukla to ultimately reaching the Island Peak. You will make stops on various villages along the route for overnight stays. Such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pheriche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, and the Everest Base Camp.

On the 9th day of trekking, we will reach the Everest Base Camp where you will spend some time and explore around. You will also cross over the Gokyo lakes and the three pass trek which is arduous than the Everest Base Camp trek. 

This trek will also take you to Kala Patthar, an amazing viewpoint at an elevation of 5,545 meters. An early morning hike to the viewpoint will reward you with a breathtaking view of the sunrise from between the mount massifs and the amazing panorama of Everest. 

The following day’s trek will then take you to the Island Peak, the ultimate destination of the whole journey. 

How fit do I need to be for island peak climbing?

Island peak climbing takes you high altitude. In order to reach the top, you need to be extremely fit and trained. As you will be ascending several thousand feet of elevation on successive days, you will need to have a good climbing condition, strength, and cardiovascular training.  Carrying a day pack (20 lbs.) on your back for these many days won’t be easier. 

You will at least require three to four months of training to progressively ramp up your hike time, distance, and elevation gain.

What’s the food and accommodation like on the Island Peak climbing?

During your Island Peak climbing, you will have the three-course meal in the lodges or tea houses you will be staying in. As we reach above the Everest Base Camp, we will spend the nights in organized camps. The sherpa guides are experts in cooking and you will be fed nutritious foods. 

Make sure you drink 4-5 liters of water per day in order to keep yourself hydrated and avoid any kind of sickness. Your body dehydrates faster at higher altitudes. So, always follow the necessary precautions. 

What gear should I pack for Island Peak?

As Island Peak Climbing is an extreme yet classic sport, you will require quite a lot of gears. We have listed down some of the basic equipment you will be requiring. Such as:

GEARS

Ice Axe

Helmet High altitude mountaineering boots

Harness, ascender, and descender

Crampons

Waist Leash

locking and non-locking carabiners and prusik cord

Trekking Poles

(Make sure all these equipment you buy/rent are of high qualities)

FOOTWEAR

Woolen or synthetic socks

Double boots

Gaiters

Light Trekking Shoes

TECHNICAL CLOTHING

Short Underwear

Baselayer Bottom

Baselayer Top

Softshell Pants

Hardshell Pants

Softshell Jacket

Midlayer Top

Hardshell Jacket

Insulated Synthetic Pants

HANDWEAR

Lightweight Liner Gloves

Softshell Gloves

Insulated Shell Gloves

HEADWEAR

Climbing Helmet

Buff

Sun Hat

Wool/Synthetic Ski Hat

Ski Goggles

Headlamp

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT

Sleeping Bag

Inflatable Sleeping Pad

Co-polyester water bottles (avoid Water bags and metal bottles). 

SPF sunscreen and lip screen

Camera

Small Duffel

Travel Luggage

Luggage Tags

Toiletry Bag

Water Purification

MEDICATIONS & PRESCRIPTIONS

Personal prescriptions

Plus Pepto Bismol

Band-aids

Antiseptic

Cipro (500mg tablets)

Metronidazole, Z-Paks (250mg tablets)

Diamox (125mg tablets, approx. 35 total)

and a variety of standard painkillers