You will be met by one of our representative Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks & Expeditions and transferred to Hotel. Remainder of the afternoon or at free. A pre-trip briefing will be given around 5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down jacket. This evening we will head out for dinner hosted by ATH and this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with other participants.
Overnight: Hotel Meals: B
Depending on the season, you will either have a free day to explore Kathmandu's bustling streets and significant landmarks or embark on a bus ride to Ramechap, a small town that operates flights to Lukla, the gate way trekking in the Everest region. Overnight: Hotel or Lodge *NB: Domestic flights to/from Lukla may operate from Manthali Airport, Ramechap during spring and autumn trekking seasons (March to May and October to December). This is determined by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and dates are subject to change. Your leader/Guide will let you on flight arrangements locally.
Meals: B
We have an early start with a short flight to Lukla. The Tenzing-Hillary Airport, which was established by Sir Edmund Hillary to help access the Mt. Everest region and the Sherpa people. It is a nice picturesque flight with marvelous views of the Eastern Himalaya. Once you at Lukla we are immediately presented with views of huge peaks surrounding the village, offering a glimpse of what is to come. Our local teams assembles and we head downhill towards to Chhoplung, often we pass groups of Dzopko and Donkeys carrying trading goods and trekking gears along the trail, Walking through pine forest and cleared areas reveal terraced fields and a variety. A dzopko is a yak and cow crossbreed while a yak is a full-blood long haired male, more commonly found at higher altitudes. Spectacular mountain peaks unfold above us and seem to hover above the tree-line as they rise above the deep river valley. Shortly after leaving Chhoplung village we cross the Kusum Khola, (the Dhado kosi) a tributary stream to the Dudh Kosi, and the peak of Kusum Kangru (6369 m) can be seen to the East, at the head of the valley. Further along the trail, across the valley to the North-West, Nupla (5885 m) and Kongde Ri (6093 m) rise above the forested ridges. The broad and well-marked trail meanders around fields of potatoes and buck-wheat, passing through villages and rows of dahlia trees, passing Ghat village. We will see our first Mani walls today. These stone structures are a compilation of many stone slabs, each with the inscription "Om Mani Padme Hum" which translates to "Hail to the jewel in the lotus", and is mantra (chant) venerated by Buddhists. Buddhists will walk Clockwise to the left of these Mani Walls and chortens, but you may notice that people of the lowlands who have no knowledge of Buddhism do not follow this practice. Overnight: Phagding one of the good lodge.
Meals: BLD
Today immediately we cross the thundering glacial river, named "Dudh Kosi” (the milky river) because of its colour. Ascend through pine forests, visit the Remijung monastery one of the three original monasteries of Khumbu, Thame, Pangboche and Remijung “Pema chhuling” Monastery. After completion of visit the monastery descend to re-join the main trail at Tokyok and continue to Chhumoa. Spectacular The allure of the mountains is hard to resist, but we must be patient, as it is very important to acclimatise slowly and thereby fully appreciate our time at higher altitude. Today's walk is not a long one, and you will be eager to press on. Slow down, and enjoy the journey.
Overnight: Lodge Meals: BLD
This morning we cross and re-cross the Dudh Kosi again. Pass through the gates of the Sagamartha National Park. The establishment of this national park is a significant attempt to stem the use of fire-wood in the area, and our camping trek groups use only kerosene fuels for cooking, a philosophy we follow everywhere in Nepal, whether we are in a national park or not. Tea-houses and lodges are encouraged to use kerosene, yak dung or electricity but unfortunately households are still continue to use mostly fire-wood for cooking, heating and for hot water for trekker's showers. This practice continues to deplete the forests. We follow the river course to the confluence of the Dudh Kosi and the Bhote Kosi till “Larcha Dovan” and cross a spectacular high bridge before commencing our ascent to the Namche Bazaar, the capital of Sherpa’s” It is a tough climb as the trail passes through pine forest to a vantage point that provides first view of Mt Everest. The trail continues to climb and meander to Namche Bazaar and the sight of this prosperous village spread within a horse-shoe shaped valley opposite the beautiful peak of Kongde Ri is worth every step. After lunch you may wish to peruse the Tibetan or the Sherpa shops in search of a bargain.
Overnight: Lodge Meals: BLD
Our trek will start with an incline to Syangboche airstrip and along the ridgeline towards Everest View Hotel or to Khunde Hospital. We are welcomed with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains including Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, Khangtega, Ama Dablam and many more. After a quick break, we continue towards Khumjung and visit Sir Edmond Hillary’s famous “Schoolhouse in the clouds.”This school was the first in the entire Khumbu region being built in 1961 with the help of the Sir Edmund Hillary and the Himalayan Trust. The school originally opened with only two classrooms but has since expanded to cater for over 350 students. We descend and follow the trail for approx 25 minutes to Kyangjuma. For those who are feeling the early effects of altitude can opt for a shorter acclimatization walk of around 2 hours directly from Namche to Kyangjuma.
Overnight: Lodge Meals: B,L,D
The walk to Pangboche is one of the most spectacular trekking days in this trip. The trail starts with a gradual descent through rhododendron and pine forests as we approach a suspension bridge to cross the Dudh Kosi “Fungi Thanga” We start our climb through pine forests to the top of a long ridge which flows from the summit of Kantega. If we are lucky, we may come across local wildlife including the Himalayan Thar, Musked Deer and bird life the vibrant Danphe Pheasant, the national bird of Nepal. A traditional gateway and chorten welcomes to Thyangboche. From the steps of the Monastery we will be rewarded to a clear view of Everest between Nuptse and Lhotse as well as Peak 38, Shartse and Ama Dablam. Thyangboche is considered the spiritual heart of the Khumbu Valley and the monastery was re-built with the help of Sir Edmund Hillary after being decimated by a fire in 1989. We continue down hill to Deboche for lunch before making our final push to Pangboche.
Overnight: Lodge Meals: B,L,D
We follow the Imja Khola to stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Kantega, Thamserku, Ama Dablam and Nuptse as we descend into the valley and cross the suspension bridge. As we reach the village of Shomare, we gradually ascend above the tree line where the terrain becomes increasing sparse, barren and dotted with high altitude shrubbery. The views of mountains are spectacular as we reach at Dingboche, situated just beneath the impressive Ama Dablam.
Overnight: Lodge Meals: B,L,D
An important acclimatisation/rest day today with the option of hiking high up to the ridge overlooking the Dingbuche village, or perhaps to Firuche visiting Himalayan Rescue first aid post. Views are always spectacular.
Overnight: Lodge Meal: BLD
Today, we leave behind the trail to Everest Base Camp and trek towards Island Peak Base Camp. The trail ascends steeply through rocky terrain, passing small Sherpa settlements and crossing several high-altitude streams. The further we go, the more spectacular the views of the surrounding peaks, including Lhotse and Makalu. Island Peak Base Camp is located at 5,087 meters, and after a challenging day’s trek, we rest here, preparing for the climb ahead.
This day is crucial for acclimatization and preparation. We take the day to rest and adjust to the altitude, making sure we are physically ready for the summit attempt tomorrow. The guide will conduct a briefing on the climbing route, gear check, and safety procedures. You can also spend time exploring the area around the base camp or relax and enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks.
Today is the big day! We start early in the morning to attempt the summit of Island Peak. The ascent involves a mixture of snow, ice, and rock climbing, and you’ll be equipped with crampons, an ice axe, and other mountaineering gear. The climb is challenging, but the reward at the top is worth every effort: panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After taking in the summit views and celebrating, we return to Island Peak Base Camp for a well-earned rest.
In case of bad weather or unforeseen circumstances, we keep a spare day in the itinerary for contingency. This will give us the flexibility to either rest or adjust our schedule to ensure the safety and success of the trek and summit.
We continue our descent, heading back to Namche Bazaar. This day offers a relaxing trek through familiar terrain, with glimpses of the peaks we have trekked past and summited. Upon arrival in Namche, you can rest and indulge in some shopping or explore the town's cafes, shops, and cultural sites. Enjoy the comfort of a cozy lodge before the final stretch back to Lukla.
Today, we trek back to Lukla, retracing the trail we followed in the beginning of our trek. The journey is relatively easy, and the return offers a chance to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past weeks. In Lukla, we celebrate the successful completion of the trek and the summit of Island Peak with the team and other trekkers.
After a hearty breakfast in Lukla, we take the morning flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can relax and reflect on your journey. The afternoon is free for leisure, allowing you to explore the city, visit markets, or relax after your incredible adventure.
Enjoy a day of rest and relaxation in Kathmandu. You can explore more of the city, visit temples, or do some last-minute shopping in the bustling Thamel area. You can also treat yourself to a traditional Nepali spa experience or visit local art galleries. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the success of the trek and the new friendships formed along the way.
It’s time to say goodbye to Nepal. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure. You’ll leave with a lifetime of memories from your Everest Base Camp trek, Island Peak summit, and the warm hospitality of the Nepalese people. We wish you safe travels and hope to see you again on another adventure with Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks.
The Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak combines the classic adventure of reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters) with the thrilling challenge of summiting Island Peak (6,189 meters), a popular climbing peak in the Everest region. This trek gives you the chance to walk in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers, explore Sherpa villages, and witness spectacular mountain views, including the towering Mount Everest and neighboring peaks like Lhotse and Nuptse. The added ascent of Island Peak provides an exciting summit experience, where you'll use mountaineering skills such as ice axe and crampon use, under the guidance of professional climbing instructors. With Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks, you’ll have expert guides, porters, and support staff to ensure both your safety and success.
The Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak is challenging due to the combined physical demand of high-altitude trekking and technical climbing. The trek to Everest Base Camp is moderate to strenuous, requiring trekkers to be in good physical condition, capable of walking 6–8 hours a day in rugged terrain. The Island Peak climb is more demanding, requiring basic mountaineering skills, a good level of fitness, and the ability to use climbing equipment such as crampons, an ice axe, and ropes. Prior mountaineering experience is not mandatory, but a strong fitness level and familiarity with high-altitude trekking will greatly improve your chances of success. Our team of experienced guides ensures that everyone is well-prepared and safe during both the trek and the climb.
The Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak typically takes 16–20 days, depending on the pace of the group and the acclimatization schedule. This includes trekking to Everest Base Camp, an acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar and Pheriche, and extra days for Island Peak summit preparation and climbing. The trek itself can take around 12–14 days, while the Island Peak climb typically adds another 3–4 days to the itinerary. Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks provides flexible options for adjusting the itinerary to suit your individual needs.
The best times to do the Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and the best conditions for both trekking and climbing. During spring, the temperatures are milder, and you’ll encounter fewer trekkers. Autumn offers clear skies, and the mountains are stunningly visible, but it is a busier season. Winter and monsoon are less ideal due to snow and rain, respectively, which can make the trails and summit conditions more difficult.
You will need several permits for the trek and climb, including:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit – required for the Everest Base Camp region.
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card – needed for all trekkers in Nepal.
Island Peak Climbing Permit – a special permit for climbing Island Peak.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit – required for the Everest region.
At Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks, we will take care of all the necessary paperwork and ensure that you have all the required permits before your trek begins.
Accommodation is provided in teahouses along the trekking route, offering basic yet comfortable rooms with twin beds, typically with shared bathrooms. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the teahouses become more basic, but they are warm and provide shelter. Food along the trek is mostly local Nepalese and Tibetan dishes such as dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. While in Namche Bazaar, Lukla, and Pheriche, you can expect more varied menus, including Western options like pasta, pancakes, and eggs. During the Island Peak climb, you will camp with a full support team to provide meals and all necessary equipment.
The Island Peak summit is technically demanding and is often categorized as a PD+ (Pretty Difficult) climb. While no prior technical mountaineering experience is required, you should be prepared for the physical and mental challenges of climbing at 6,189 meters. The ascent includes using ropes, crampons, ice axes, and climbing on steep snow and ice. Your guides will provide thorough climbing training on proper equipment use, and you’ll have several days for acclimatization and preparation before attempting the summit.
Altitude sickness is a potential concern at elevations above 3,000 meters, especially as you approach Island Peak and Everest Base Camp. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatization days built in at Namche Bazaar, Pheriche, and Dingboche to help your body adjust to the higher altitudes. Our guides are trained to recognize and manage the early signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), and we carry medical supplies, including diamox and oxygen for emergencies. In case of severe altitude sickness, evacuation by helicopter or other means is always available.
For this trek and climb, you’ll need a combination of trekking gear and climbing equipment. Essential items include:
Trekking boots, down jacket, waterproof jacket, trekking poles, gloves, hat, warm layers, sleeping bag (-20°C rated), headlamp
Climbing equipment: Crampons, ice axe, harness, climbing helmet, and ropes (we provide the necessary climbing gear, but ersonal gear like gloves, and boots, may need to be fitted for your comfort).
Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks provides a comprehensive packing list and can assist with gear rentals in Kathmandu if needed.
Yes, the Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak is suitable for both solo travelers and female trekkers. The Everest region is one of the most frequented trekking areas in Nepal, and the local Sherpa communities are incredibly welcoming. At Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks, we take great pride in offering safe, supportive, and culturally respectful experiences. Our guides are highly trained to provide excellent care and ensure your safety at all times.
Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks is known for its personalized service, local expertise, and deep commitment to the safety and success of our trekkers and climbers. Our experienced Sherpa guides have extensive knowledge of the Everest region and climbing, ensuring you receive both the best preparation and the most enjoyable experience possible. From pre-trip training and proper acclimatization to 24/7 support throughout the journey, we ensure your Everest adventure—whether it’s trekking or climbing—is an experience of a lifetime.
