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19-Day Trek To Everest Base Camp & Island Peak From Kathmandu

  • Tour Category

    Group & Private Tour

  • Tour Types

    Mountaineering, Trekking, Camping

  • Duration

    19 Days

  • Activity Level

    Challenging

  • Language

    English

Description

Sign up for this fantastic trekking experience in the snowy Island Peak of Nepal from Kathmandu. Catch a glimpse of Mount Everest and visit Sherpa villages as you hike towards Imja Tse. Marvel at the impeccable views of the Himalayan range at 6,189 m. Also, explore the highlights of Khumjung village, including Edmund Hillary School and Khumjung Monastery.

Highlights
  • Trek to the Everest Base Camp from Kathmandu
  • Conquer the Summit of the Island Peak Mountain
  • Traverse through scenic villages, gorges, glaciers & waterfalls
  • Marvel at the panoramic view of the Himalayan Range from the Summit
  • Day 1- Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 meters/ 4,593 feet) expand_more
    • Land in Kathmandu with views of the Himalayas and lush green hills. A representative will meet you, drive you to your hotel, and assist you with check-in. After a brief rest, head out and stroll around Thamel, a lively tourist hub. 
    • Later in the evening, join in for a special welcome dinner and cultural show at an authentic Nepalese restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu.
  • Day 2- Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trip Preparation (1,400m/4,593ft) expand_more
    • Head out on a sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu valley, and visit various ancient temples, monasteries other landmarks listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll around narrow alleyways and streets of the valley and witness the authentic culture and lifestyle of the region.
    • In the evening, join in for a short briefing with your guide about the trek and climbing. Overnight in Kathmandu.
  • Day 3- Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,318ft) and trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft) expand_more
    • Catch an early flight towards Lukla. The flight is filled with majestic views of central Nepal's Himalayas and lush woodlands. The Tenzing Hillary Airport is perched on a plateau surrounded by high mountains. The airport is regarded as one of the world's highest and most extreme airports.
    • Once you land, meet with your guide, porters, and the rest of the crew. After assembling your backpack, head out into the trail. The trek officially starts from Lukla, and today you will settle in Phakding. The trail takes you across dense woodlands crossing various suspension bridges to the riverside settlement of Phakding. 
    • Once you reach Phakding, head towards your tea house, and after checking in, you can explore the area, head down towards the Dudh Koshi river, and get an iconic view of the scenic valley. Later return to your tea house and have friendly chats with the locals. Overnight in Phakding.
  • Day 4- Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft) expand_more
    • Today’s trail is filled with wonders of nature. Walking alongside the banks of the Dudh Koshi River with views of the mighty Everest and endless other mountain peaks. The sections of the trail are dotted with colourful prayer flags and mani stones. The colourful flags represent various parts of creation and are believed to carry prayers to heaven and protect travellers from negative forces. Cross through dense juniper, pine, and rhododendron woodlands and traverse several high suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Bridge over the Imja River covered with colourful flags.
    • As you continue along the trail, you’ll make your way across the Sagarmatha National Park; your documents will be checked at the park entrance. After that, head towards Namche, the Sherpa capital. The settlement is perched on a high hill with views of majestic snow-covered mountains. 
    • Once you reach the settlement, head out, explore the area, and witness the majestic views at dusk. Overnight in Namche.
  • Day 5- At Namche Bazaar: 1st Acclimatization Day (3,440m/11,286ft) expand_more
    • Today is your first acclimatisation day at Namche Bazaar, and the region has various vantage points for acclimatization hikes. After breakfast, head towards Hotel Everest View, one of the highest-altitude hotels offering a panoramic view of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Mount Everest. 
    • After exploring the area, head towards the historic village of Khumjung. Visit the Hillary School, the first school in the region established by Sir Edmund Hillary, or head towards Khumjung Monastery, where the scalp of a Yeti, the abominable snowman, is said to be preserved. 
    • Later, head back towards Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche.
  • Day 6- Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,664ft) expand_more
    • After breakfast, head into the trail towards Tengboche, a small settlement nestled in the variant Dudh Koshi valley. Today's trail is covered with woodlands of juniper and rhododendron with views of the Himalayan giants of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kwangde.
    • The settlement of Tengboche offers a close-up view of Ama Dablam, one of the world's most picturesque peaks and the Khumbu region's oldest Buddhist monastery. Explore the monastery and witness the monks chanting sacred texts and prayers. Overnight in Tengboche.
  • Day 7- Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,469ft) expand_more
    • Today, start early after breakfast and head towards Dingboche, descending through a forested trail and crossing several suspension bridges. 
    • On the trail, you will pass various Sherpa villages, including Pangboche, the biggest settlement of Sherpas in the Khumbu region. The trail takes you today past the tree line and towards high arid terrain and rocky landscape. 
    • Once you reach Dingboche, head towards your tea house and rest. 
    • Later head out to witness views at dusk. Overnight in Dingboche.
  • Day 8- Dingboche : 2nd Acclimatization Day (4,410m/14,469ft) expand_more
    • Today is your second acclimatization day. Wake up early and head out to witness the Himalayan sunrise and, after a light breakfast, head towards the trail leading to Nagarjun Hill at an elevation of 5,100 meters, also called Nangkartshang Peak. This hike is an ideal acclimatization destination with straightforward trails and no technical manoeuvres.
    • The summit of Nagarjun Hill is one of the best viewpoints in the Khumbu region, providing a 360-degree view of Lhotse, Cholatse, Kantega, Ama Dablam, and Makalu. Get close-up views of Island Peak, Imja Tse, Imja Glacier, and Cholatse. Ama Dablam peak’s base to summit is seen from the summit, a different view of the mountain. 
    • After spending a brief time at the summit, head back towards the settlement of Dingboche. Overnight in Dingboche.
  • Day 9- Trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109ft) expand_more
    • Today you will be traversing through the incredible landscape of the Khumbu Valley, following the trail ascending to the Khumbu Glacier's steep terminal ridge and rocky terrain. 
    • You will reach Thughla Pass. The pass's summit is covered with prayer flags and stones that serve as memorial shrines for climbers who perished on Mt. Everest. From here, follow the moraine towards Lobuche. 
    • Once you reach Lobuche, head towards your tea house. 
    • Later, stroll around the settlement with views of Lhotse and Nuptse looming in the backdrop. Overnight in Lobuche.
  • Day 10- Trek to Gorak Shep (5,140m/16,864ft) and hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft) expand_more
    • The hike to Everest Base Camp is not extremely challenging. However, you will be traversing rugged terrains and glacier trails. Apart from all the meandering, take it slow, as altitude may be a problem for some. Once you reach Gorak Shep, leave your heavy backpack and head towards the Everest Base Camp, travelling across glacier moraine and high Himalayan rocky terrains. The camp is nestled beneath the spectacular Khumbu Icefall. Where you will witness nothing else down here but only camps. Expedition groups set out the colourful tents.
    • Once you reach the base camp, enjoy the majestic views of endless snow peaks surrounding you. After spending a brief time at the base camp, retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep. Overnight in Gorak Shep.
  • Day 11- Hike to Kala Patthar (5,550m/18,2019ft) and trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109ft) expand_more
    • Today, start early and towards the Kala Patthar. One of the most renowned vantage points of the Everest region. Most trekkers visit this vantage point to view Mount Everest and the endless peaks of the Mahalangur Range. From the summit, enjoy a panoramic view of 7,000 and 8,000-meter peaks. 
    • After a brief time at the summit, head back down towards Lobuche. Overnight in Lobuche.
  • Day 12- Trek to Chukkung (4,730m/15,518ft) via Kongma La (5,535m/18,159ft) expand_more
    • Today’s trail takes you across the Khumbu Glacier, and from there, you will ascend towards the Kongma La pass. There is no teahouse in this region, so you’ll have a packed lunch. The pass's summit is covered with colourful flags carrying prayers to heaven as the wind ravages it. 
    • From the passing, witness a grand view of Nuptse and Lhotse glacier walls, and after a brief rest, head down, traversing across rocky terrain covered with moraine and loose rubbles towards the Imja Khola Valley. Following the trail descent to Chukkung. A yak herder’s camp, the settlement is now an important stop for climbers en route to Island Peak. Apart from teahouses, there are gear and equipment rental outlets where you can hire good-quality gear. 
    • After a brief rest at Chukkung, you will have a brief orientation and final check of your climbing gear. Overnight in Chukkung.
  • Day 13- Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,100m/16,732ft) and Pre-Climb Training expand_more
    • Today’s trail will take you to Island Peak Base Camp. The trail steeply ascends below the southern flank of the Lhotse glacier, traversing past several streams and a glacial valley. Following the trail, cross the stunning Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines before arriving at the Island Base Camp. Once you arrive at the base camp, head towards your tent set out by your climbing team.
    • After lunch, set out for pre-climb training. Organize your gear, and the climbing guide will provide you with techniques and training sessions. The guides will demonstrate the proper use of a harness, ascender, carabiner, rappel device, ice axe, etc. As part of the training session, you must climb up and descend using ropes. This pre-climb training is critical, especially for first-time climbers, as it will increase their confidence. 
    • After training, head towards your tent and rest tomorrow as you will have to wake early. Overnight at tented camp.
  • Day 14- Summit Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft) and return to Chukkung expand_more
    • Wake up around midnight and start early, by 1 AM or earlier. It is very vital to start early at high elevation. The weather deteriorates as the day progresses.
    • Follow the Island Peak Base Camp trail and arrive at a steep slope just above High Camp. 
    • From High Camp, head towards Crampon Point, which takes around 3 hours to reach. As you reach the elevation of 5,700 meters, put on your crampons and follow a narrow ridge leading to the base of the Imja glacier. Enjoy stunning views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Baruntse, Mera Peak, Chamlang, Cho Polu, Peak 38, and other Himalayan giants from the glacier. From here, you will cross the glacier following the fixed rope line.
    • The trail from here has few technical parts and has high elevations. This section of the trail has crevasses, depending on the weather and season. Ladders are used while crossing the crevasses. As you ascend further, you will be welcomed by the massive frozen wall of Lhotse’s south face as you reach the summit ridge. From here, your climbing team will fix ropes at some sections; following the ridge; you will reach the peak's summit.
    • The summit is surrounded by rugged boulders and glaciers, like an island. After you reach the summit, witness the majestic views of the Himalayas and the panoramic view of the world's endless snowy peaks. Spend a brief time at the summit and head toward the base camp. 
    • From the base camp, retrace your steps back to Chukkung. After reaching your tea house, celebrate your success with your team. Overnight in Chukkung.
  • Day 15- Contingency Day for Summit expand_more
    • If your summit attempt on Day 14 is called off due to weather conditions or lack of proper fitness, this extra day has been set aside for summiting. This day can also be used in the case of an emergency, such as flight delays or cancellations and other unanticipated situations. If all goes according to plan, the additional day may be used to take it easy and explore more of the path. Alternatively, you might spend the additional day tour in Kathmandu.
  • Day 16- Namche (3,440m/11,286ft) expand_more
    • Today’s trek is long and tough so start early. Today's trail has breathtaking views of Himalayan vistas and is covered with lush sub-tropical forest and miles of undergrowth. Keep an eye out as you may spot various biodiversity in the region. 
    • Trek past settlements of Dingboche, Shomare, Tengboche, and Sansa. Traversing across woodland of pine and juniper forests, with views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Everest, and other peaks. 
    • Once you get to Namche, head towards your accommodation and later head out towards bars and pubs around the region. Overnight in Namche.
  • Day 17- Trek to Lukla (2,840m/9318ft) expand_more
    • Wake up early and witness the views of dawn over the mountains. After a late breakfast, head onto the trail and retrace your steps to Lukla. As most of the trail today is downhill, take extra caution. 
    • Once you reach Lukla, head towards your tea house and rest. In the evening, celebrate your last night in the mountains with your team. Overnight in Lukla.
  • Day 18- Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) expand_more
    • Board an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. The scenic flight offers you views parallel to the world's highest peaks. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be driven to your accommodation. 
    • The rest of the day is yours to explore, head towards various attractions around the valley or go for souvenir shopping. 
    • In the evening, attend a special cultural program with a farewell dinner to commemorate the end of your journey.
  • Day 19- Departure expand_more
    • Today after breakfast, our staff will drop you off at the airport and bid farewell to your newfound friends and Nepal.
What's Included
  • All private transportation, including airport transfers
  • Domestic flight (Kathmandu- Lukla -Kathmandu) 
  • Meals (breakfast, dinner, and lunch) during the trek
  • Camping accommodation for all the days of the tour
  • English-speaking guide and porters 
  • Fees and insurance for the guide and porters
  • All necessary papers permit and TIMS card
  • A basic first-aid box
  • Emergency rescue operation (only if you have Travel Insurance)
  • All government, local taxes, and official expenses
  • Farewell dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant with cultural shows
What's Excluded
  • Nepal entry visa fees; you can easily issue the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
  • Foods and hotels before and after the trek
  • All kinds of beverages, including tea, water, wine, etc.
  • Additional costs by out of management control due to natural calamities, weather conditions, etc.
  • Personal expenses include snacks, laundry, telephone, WIFI, hot shower at tea houses on a trek
  • Personal trekking equipment for this trek
  • Tipping for the guide and staff (recommended)
  • Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the included section of this trek
What to bring
  • Duffel/rucksack bag/suitcase (We provide one complimentary duffel bag that is to be returned after the trip.)
  • Day pack
  • Trekking shoes
  • Sports shoes or sandals
  • Sun hat/cap
  • Warm woollen cap
  • Warm fleece jacket or puffy jacket
  • Waterproof Gore-Tex layer
  • Pullover or warm sweeter
  • Raincoat
  • 4/5 pairs of good quality socks
  • Hand gloves
  • 2-3 pairs of trekking trousers
  • 3-4 pairs of trekking shirts
  • 3-4 pairs of underwear (non-cotton preferred)
  • Sunglasses
  • Water bottle
  • 4-season sleeping bag (Optional; we can provide one if you need it. It is to be returned after the trip.)
  • Flash or torchlight
  • Camera and batteries
Know before you go
  • Entry permits & requirements:
    • The following permits are required for your Everest Base Camp Trek:
      • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
      • Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
      • Island Peak Climbing Permit
  • You can get a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or the park’s entrance gate in Monjo.
  • You must fill out an application for permission and show your passport or a copy of your passport. To obtain the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit, you must be in Lukla. The permit can be obtained at the rural municipality counter on the settlement’s outskirts.
  • The climbing permit fee for Island Peak varies according to season.
  • If you want to hike from Jiri, you’ll need to pay some amount at the Gaurishanker Conservation Area Project Entry Permit, or you must receive permission from the Nepal Tourism Board’s headquarters in Kathmandu.
Meeting Point

Kathmandu, Nepal

Cancellation Policy

No refund in case of any cancellation.

Persons
Persons

Total number of people (Min: 1 , Max: 20)