Island Peak Expedition

Itinerary

Island Peak Expedition - Short Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing and expedition preparation (1,400m)
• Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,860m), trek to Phakding (2,610m)
• Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
• Day 5: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
• Day 6: Trek to Diboche (3,820m)
• Day 7: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)
• Day 8: Trek to Chhukung (4,730m)
• Day 9: Acclimatization in Chhukung (4,730m)
• Day 10: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,070m)
• Day 11: Trek to High Camp (5,600m)
• Day 12: Summit Island Peak (6,189m), trek back to Base Camp
• Day 13: Extra day for summit attempt (5,600m)
• Day 14: Trek to Pangboche (3,930m)
• Day 15: Trek to Monjo (2,950m)
• Day 16: Trek to Lukla (2,860m)
• Day 17: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Day 18: Free day in Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Day 19: Departure from Kathmandu

Island Peak Expedition Detailed Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m), transfer to your hotel. Explore the city at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Preparation

Explore UNESCO heritage sites like Swayambhunath and Boudhanath. Final gear checks and preparations.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

• Trek Distance: 8 km
• Trek Duration: 4 hours
  A scenic 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla followed by a trek through villages, rivers, and dense forests to Phakding.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Phakding.

Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

• Trek Distance: 10 km
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
  A steep ascent through pine forests and suspension bridges, with the first view of Mt. Everest. Reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Himalayas.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Namche.

Day 05: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar

Hike to Syangboche (3,780m) or Everest View Hotel. Explore local markets and museums. Essential rest to adapt to high altitude.
Overnight: Teahouse in Namche.

Day 06: Trek to Deboche (3,820m)

• Trek Distance: 11 km
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
  Descend to the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges, and ascend past Tengboche Monastery to Deboche.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Deboche.

Day 07: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)

• Trek Distance: 11 km
• Trek Duration: 6 hours
  A gradual uphill walk with stunning views of Ama Dablam. Pass through Pangboche village to reach Dingboche.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Dingboche.

Day 08: Trek to Chhukung (4,730m)

• Trek Distance: 7 km
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
  A relatively short trek through glacial valleys with views of Lhotse and Nuptse.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Chhukung.

Day 09: Acclimatization Day in Chhukung

Optional hikes to Chhukung Ri (5,550m) or nearby ridges to help acclimatize for the upcoming summit.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chhukung.

Day 10: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (4,970m)

• Trek Distance: 6 km
• Trek Duration: 5 hours
  A gradual ascent to Island Peak Base Camp, crossing rocky terrains and moraines. Prepare for summit day.
  Overnight: Tent at Base Camp.

Day 11: Trek to Island Peak High Camp (5,600m)

• Trek Distance: 4 km
• Trek Duration: 2-3 hours
  Short but steep trek to High Camp. The trail includes rock steps and scree, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
  Overnight: Tent at High Camp.

Day 12: Summit Island Peak (6,189m) & Return to Base Camp

• Trek Duration: 9-10 hours
  Summit day! A tough climb using ropes and crampons to reach the summit. After breathtaking views, descend back to Base Camp or Chhukung.
  Overnight: Tent at Base Camp or Teahouse in Chhukung.

Day 13: Extra Day for Summit (Weather Contingency)

Spare day in case of bad weather conditions.
Overnight: Tent at Base Camp.

Day 14: Trek to Pangboche (3,985m)

• Trek Distance: 11 km
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
  Descend through alpine valleys, with views of Everest and Lhotse.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Pangboche.

Day 15: Trek to Monjo (2,950m)

• Trek Distance: 12 km
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
  Retrace the path through Namche Bazaar to the quieter village of Monjo.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Monjo.

Day 16: Trek to Lukla (2,840m)

• Trek Distance: 13 km
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
  Final trek back to Lukla, celebrating the successful summit of Island Peak.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Lukla.

Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu

Take a morning flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 18: Free Day in Kathmandu

Rest and explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu, visit Thamel, or shop for souvenirs.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 19: Final Departure

Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

 

Terrain and Weather Overview for Island Peak Expedition:

On the Island Peak Expedition, trekkers will experience a range of terrains, from lush valleys and alpine meadows at lower altitudes to rugged, rocky paths and icy trails as you ascend. As you gain elevation, expect colder temperatures and the possibility of snow, especially near the summit. The views of towering Himalayan peaks such as Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam are stunning, providing constant motivation. The terrain becomes increasingly challenging as you approach the summit, requiring technical climbing skills and proper gear for steep, icy sections.

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Island Peak Expedition Fitness Criteria:

This trek requires a good level of fitness and compulsorily a prior 5,000m trek successfully completed. 

To register for this trek you are required to complete any of the below-mentioned fitness criteria.

5K run in 35 minutes or Cycling 10kms in 40 mins or Swimming 1 km in 40 mins or Stair climbing 50 floors (10 floors up and down 5 times) in 30 mins.

Once you do register, please share the proof of fitness criteria with your Trek Captain anytime 30 days before departure.

If you're not already following a fitness regime, you would need to follow the regime that will be shared with you. The training routine is spread over four months and you would be expected to work out at least 4 times a week. The regime is designed to help you climb smarter even in higher altitudes. The regime consists of a good combination of exercises that works on all parts of your body including - Upper Body, Core, Endurance, Lower Body, Shoulder strength and improving your breathing pattern. When followed religiously, you can be assured that you will be ready for the trek. Not only does this regime help you with the trek, but it will also help you inculcate a sense of fitness in your day-to-day life. 

NOTE:

Trekkers who have already trekked in the same route or have trekked at a similar altitude (highest altitude of this trek) or even higher, automatically get qualified. However, they would have to get both the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond singed as a mandate.

Trekkers who do not qualify the fitness criteria or fail to share the fitness criteria proof have to get both the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond singed with the same mentioned in the documents respectively. 

Trekkers will not be allowed to join the group if the duly filled, signed and sealed copies of the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond are not shared. 

Island Peak Expedition Gradient:

The Island Peak Expedition offers a varied gradient that takes trekkers from lush lowland villages to rugged high-altitude environments. The trek begins with a moderate ascent through the Everest region's Sherpa villages, forests, and rivers. As you gain altitude, the terrain becomes more alpine, with steeper inclines and rocky paths leading to high camps. The summit push includes a technical ascent with icy slopes and crevasses, requiring the use of ropes and crampons. Island Peak’s gradient is both challenging and rewarding for trekking enthusiasts and aspiring climbers.

Island Peak Expedition Risk and Liability:

The Island Peak Expedition involves trekking and climbing in remote high-altitude areas with inherent risks, including altitude sickness, variable weather, and technical climbing challenges. TrekNomads prioritizes safety, employing experienced guides and first aid measures, but participants must accept personal responsibility for their health and safety. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and cancellations is mandatory. While TrekNomads aims for a secure expedition, participants must acknowledge the inherent risks and adhere to all safety protocols and guide instructions to ensure a safe ascent.

Do’s and Don’ts for Island Peak Expedition:

• Do carry out a no-litter policy: Trekkers must bring back any waste created during the expedition.
• Do wear appropriate clothing: Lightweight trekking gear is recommended. Avoid jeans, heavy fabrics, or bright colours.
• Don’t carry excessive weight: Keep your backpack light with only the necessary gear.
• Do stay with the group: Always remain within sight of your trek lead and keep them informed if you need to stop.
• Don’t panic around wildlife: If you encounter animals or insects, stay calm and let them pass undisturbed.
• Don’t venture alone: Avoid wandering off into the forest or risky areas without informing your trek lead.
• Do communicate health issues: If you feel unwell, inform the trek lead immediately.
• Don’t disturb nature’s sound: Avoid playing loud music during the trek; immerse yourself in the tranquility of the environment.
• Don’t smoke or consume alcohol: Smoking, drinking, or any intoxicants are prohibited to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.