Nepal · Trekking

21-Day Island Peak Climbing Tour with Everest Base Camp and Gokyo

21 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Conquer the summit of Island Peak, a Himalayan challenge
  • 02 Marvel at breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and surrounding peaks
  • 03 Trek through Sherpa villages, immersing in local culture
  • 04 Experience the thrill of technical and non-technical climbing

Embark on a 21-day Island Peak climbing adventure in Nepal's Everest region, combining high-altitude trekking with a challenging Himalayan summit. Follow a spectacular route through Sherpa villages, Namche Bazaar, Gokyo Valley, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Chhukhung before ascending Island Peak. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and surrounding peaks, cross dramatic mountain passes, and experience both trekking and technical climbing. The journey ends with time to relax in Kathmandu and reflect on your achievement.

The summit of Island Peak offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, including Mount Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 21 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Cities Kathmandu, Everest Base Camp-South, Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Phakding, Island Peak, Lobuche, Kala Patthar, Gorakshep, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, Sagarmatha National Park, Chukhung
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Welcome Dinner

Your guide will welcome you at TIA, Kathmandu, where our representatives will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once you have had time to settle in, you will meet your guide to discuss the details of the trip before joining a welcome dinner. Stay overnight at the hotel.

2
Day 02

Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is a popular route for trekkers and climbers heading to the Everest region of Nepal. The flight takes around 35 minutes. Upon arrival in Lukla, you will be greeted with stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and begin your trek to Everest Base Camp or other regional destinations. It is important to take it slow and gradually acclimatize to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness.

3
Day 03

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar is a popular route for trekkers in the Everest region of Nepal. The trek covers a distance of approximately 7-8 kilometres and takes around 5-6 hours to complete.

From Phakding, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through small villages and lush forests. The trail gradually ascends, and after a few hours of trekking, you will reach the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, where you need to check your permits.

After crossing the checkpoint, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging as you ascend towards Namche Bazaar. You will pass through several small settlements along the way, and the views of the mountains become more and more spectacular.

Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest. Namche Bazaar is a bustling town with plenty of guesthouses, restaurants, and shops. It is an excellent place to rest and acclimatize to the altitude before continuing your trek to higher elevations.

It is important to take it slow and acclimatize gradually to avoid altitude sickness. It is recommended to stay in Namche Bazaar for at least a day or two before continuing your trek. You can explore the town, visit the local markets, or take short hikes to nearby viewpoints for stunning views of the mountains.

4
Day 04

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Acclimatization is an essential aspect of trekking in Nepal's Everest region. Namche Bazaar is an ideal place to rest and acclimatize before continuing your trek to higher elevations.

5
Day 05

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dhole

The trek from Namche Bazaar to Dhole is challenging but rewarding in the Everest region of Nepal. The distance from Namche Bazaar to Dhole is approximately 8-9 kilometres, and it takes around 6-7 hours to complete the trek.

The trail from Namche Bazaar to Dhole is steep, with several ascents and descents along the way. You will pass through beautiful rhododendron forests, cross several suspension bridges, and trek along the ridgeline with stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.

As you ascend towards Dhole, the trail becomes more challenging, and the air becomes thinner due to the high altitude. Taking it slow and acclimatizing gradually is essential to avoid altitude sickness.

6
Day 06

Trek from Dhole to Machhermo

The trek from Dhole to Machhermo is another challenging section of Nepal's Everest Base Camp trek. The distance from Dhole to Machhermo is approximately 10-11 kilometres, and it takes around 5-6 hours to complete the trek. The trail from Dhole to Machhermo follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through small villages and dense forests. You will cross several bridges and streams along the way, and the trail becomes steeper as you ascend towards Machhermo.

7
Day 07

Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo Valley

The trail from Machhermo to Gokyo Valley follows the Dudh Koshi River, and you will pass through several small villages and stunning mountain scenery. You will also pass by the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, and cross the first of the Gokyo Lakes, Longpongo, before reaching Gokyo Valley.

8
Day 08

Acclimatization Day at Gokyo Valley

On your acclimatization day at Gokyo Valley, you can explore the surrounding area and hike to the nearby Gokyo Ri peak, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

You can also take a leisurely walk around the Gokyo Lakes or visit the nearby Renjo La Pass, a popular alternative route to the Everest Base Camp trek. Renjo La Pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers and is a great place to experience the region's natural beauty.

9
Day 09

Trek from Gokyo to Thangnak

The trail from Gokyo to Thangnak follows the Ngozumpa Glacier, and you will pass through several small villages and stunning mountain scenery. You will also cross the second of the Gokyo Lakes, Taboche Tsho, before reaching Thangnak.

10
Day 10

Cross Cho-La Pass and Trek to Lobuche

The trail from Thangnak to Cho-La Pass is steep and rocky, and you will need to be in good physical condition to undertake this section of the trek. The Cho-La Pass is located at 5420m, and you will need to cross a steep and slippery glacier to reach the pass. The ascent to the pass can be physically demanding, but the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Cholatse, Tawache, and Ama Dablam, make it all worthwhile.

After crossing the Cho-La Pass, the trail descends steeply to Lobuche, a small village at 4910m. Lobuche is a popular stopover for trekkers on the Everest Base Camp trek, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Nuptse and Everest.

11
Day 11

Trek to Everest Base Camp and Gorakshep

The trail from Lobuche to Gorakshep is rocky and steep, and you will need to be in good physical condition to undertake this section of the trek. The trail passes through the Khumbu Glacier, and you will need to cross several streams and rocky paths before reaching Gorakshep.

Reaching Everest Base Camp is a memorable experience and a significant achievement for many trekkers. The campsite is located at the base of the Khumbu Icefall, and you can witness the massive South Col and the stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Nuptse, Lhotse, and Everest.

After visiting Everest Base Camp, you can trek back to Gorakshep, where you will spend the night. Gorakshep offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, and you can also climb Kala Patthar, which offers an excellent view of Everest and the surrounding mountains.

12
Day 12

Kala Patthar Hike and Return to Lobuche

The trail from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar is steep and rocky, and you will need to be in good physical condition to undertake this section of the trek. The ascent to Kala Patthar is physically demanding, but the stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori, make it all worthwhile.

After visiting Kala Patthar, the trail descends steeply to Lobuche, where you will spend the night. The descent can be challenging, and you must be careful while descending the rocky path.

13
Day 13

Cross Kongma La Pass to Chhukhung

The trail from Lobuche to Kongma La Pass is rocky and steep, and you will need to be in excellent physical condition to undertake this section of the trek. The ascent to Kongma La Pass is physically demanding, but the stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Makalu, make it all worthwhile.

Kongma La Pass is a high mountain pass located at an altitude of 5535m, and it offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. After visiting the pass, the trail descends steeply to Chhukhung, where you will spend the night.

14
Day 14

Trek from Chhukhung to Island Peak Base Camp

The trail from Chhukhung to Island Peak Base Camp is steep and rocky, and you will need to be in excellent physical condition to undertake this section of the trek. The ascent to Island Peak Base Camp is physically demanding, but the stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam and Lhotse, make it all worthwhile.

15
Day 15

Summit Island Peak and Return via Base Camp to Chhukhung

The trek from Island Peak High Camp to the summit (6189m) is a challenging and technical climb that requires mountaineering skills and experience. The distance from the High Camp to the summit is approximately 2.5 kilometres, and it takes 8-10 hours to complete the climb.

The climb to the summit involves steep ascents on mixed terrain, including ice and snow. You will need to be in excellent physical condition, have previous experience using crampons, an ice axe, and rope, and be accompanied by a professional guide or Sherpa.

The summit of Island Peak offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, including Mount Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse. After reaching the summit, you will descend back to Island Peak Base Camp, where you will spend the night in tents.

The next day, you will trek back to Chhukhung (5200m), which is a distance of approximately 10 kilometres and takes around 4-5 hours. It is important to take it slowly and steadily on the descent to avoid altitude-related issues.

Once you reach Chhukhung, you can rest and acclimatize for a day before continuing your trek back to Namche Bazaar and Lukla. It is essential to rest properly and gradually descend to avoid any altitude-related issues.

16
Day 16

Reserve Day for Contingency

Keeping at least one reserve day for contingency during the Everest Base Camp trek, including climbing Island Peak, is highly recommended. The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, and flight cancellations or delays can occur due to adverse weather conditions.

17
Day 17

Trek from Chhukhung to Namche Bazaar

You will begin the trek by descending towards the Imja Khola River and crossing several suspension bridges. The trail then passes through small settlements and rhododendron forests before reaching the village of Tengboche.

Tengboche is a popular stop on the trek, known for its beautiful monastery and stunning views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks. You can take a break here and explore the monastery or enjoy tea while admiring the mountain views.

After Tengboche, the trail descends further towards the Dudh Koshi River, where you will cross another suspension bridge. You will then climb up to the village of Namche Bazaar, the commercial and cultural hub of the Khumbu region.

In Namche Bazaar, you can rest and explore the village, visit the local market and shops, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. It is also an excellent place to acclimatize and prepare for the rest of your trek back to Lukla and Kathmandu.

18
Day 18

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

You will begin the trek by descending towards the Dudh Koshi River and crossing several suspension bridges. The trail then passes through small Sherpa villages, where you can observe the local culture and way of life.

Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Lhotse. You will also pass through several forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees, which provide a refreshing break from the sun.

The final stretch of the trek is a steep descent towards Lukla, where you will have a chance to say goodbye to your guide and porter and celebrate the completion of your trek. You can also explore the local markets and shops and interact with the friendly locals.

After spending the night in Lukla, you will catch an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. This will allow you to reflect on the incredible trekking experience and plan your next adventure in the Himalayas.

Take the time to appreciate your stay in Lukla, reflect on your trekking experience, and make exciting plans for future Himalayan adventures! Tips: 300-350 per client

19
Day 19

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Flying from Lukla to Kathmandu is a popular and convenient way to end a trek in the Himalayas. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and takes around 35-40 minutes. After arriving in Kathmandu, you can take some time to explore the city and reflect on your trekking experience.

20
Day 20

Leisure Day in Kathmandu or Optional Sightseeing

After your trek, spending a leisurely day in Kathmandu is a great idea to relax and explore the city. One of the most popular areas to explore is Thamel, a vibrant and bustling district filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can wander through the narrow streets and alleys, shop for souvenirs or locally made handicrafts, or simply sit at a cafe and watch the world go by. Thamel is also home to many trekking and adventure gear shops, so it is a good place to pick up any last-minute items. If you are interested in exploring Kathmandu's cultural and historical sites, you can take many optional sightseeing tours. Some of the top attractions include:

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): This ancient Buddhist temple sits atop a hill overlooking the city and is known for its colourful prayer flags, intricate carvings, and resident monkeys.

Pashupatinath Temple: This sacred Hindu temple complex is located on the banks of the Bagmati River and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a fascinating place to observe the rituals and customs of Hinduism.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: This historic square in the heart of the city is home to many temples, palaces, and statues and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Boudhanath Stupa: This massive Buddhist stupa is one of the world's largest and a center for Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu.

21
Day 21

Final Departure

It looks like you have completed your adventure in Nepal! Before you head back home, please take a moment to share your feedback with us. We hope you had an amazing time exploring Nepal's natural beauty and cultural richness.

Finally, as you prepare for your international flight back home, thank you for choosing us as your travel partner. We hope that you will cherish the memories of your trip to Nepal for years to come, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure in the future. Be ready at the hotel lobby 3 hours before your international flight. Namaste! See you again next time.

Island Peak, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Valley, Kala Patthar

Where this trip takes you

Island Peak, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Valley, Kala Patthar

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 15 cities · 21 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • All transport pick-up and drop-off
  • 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast for 4 nights
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu covering 4 UNESCO heritage sites
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (National Park permit and TIMS), all crew taxes, and peak climbing permits
  • An experienced English-speaking government-registered trekking guide, an experienced climbing guide, and local porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Guide and porter salaries, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging
  • Welcome dinner at a Nepali restaurant
  • Best available twin-sharing lodge-to-lodge accommodation during the trek, and tented accommodation, food with tea/coffee, and seasonal fruits during the climbing
  • A comprehensive first aid kit and oximeter to check heart rate and oxygen saturation to Everest Base Camp and return
  • All government and local taxes
  • Boiled water will be provided during the climb
  • General climbing equipment such as rope, ice screw, snow bar, etc.
  • Everest trekking and climbing route map, free information, and distribution achievement certificates

What's Not Included

  • International flight ticket
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Food and drinks in Kathmandu
  • Lunch and dinner during the trip
  • City entrance fees
  • Hot and bottled drinks
  • Travel insurance and medical evacuation
  • Electronic devices, Wi-Fi, hot shower, and laundry at extra cost
  • Single room in Kathmandu and early arrival extra room cost
  • Tipping for crews, driver, porter, guides, and climbing guides; you may pay about 350-500$
  • Flight delay or cancellation due to bad weather
  • Personal trekking and climbing gear

What to bring

When preparing for Island Peak climbing, it is important to pack the necessary equipment and supplies to ensure a safe and successful ascent. Here is a suggested list of items to bring:

Clothing:

  • Moisture-wicking base layers (shirts and pants)
  • Insulated jacket or down jacket (suitable for cold temperatures)
  • Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants
  • Fleece or softshell jacket
  • Trekking pants (convertible pants are useful)
  • Synthetic or wool socks (carry extra pairs)
  • Warm hat and gloves (insulated for cold temperatures)
  • Balaclava or neck gaiter
  • Gaiters (to protect against snow, debris, and moisture)
  • Mountaineering boots (sturdy and suitable for crampons)
  • Camp shoes or sandals (for rest days)

Climbing Gear:

  • Mountaineering boots (compatible with crampons)
  • Crampons
  • Ice axe
  • Harness
  • Helmet
  • Climbing ropes
  • Carabiners and quickdraws
  • Ascenders and descenders (e.g., jumar, belay device)
  • Prusik loops
  • Snow shovel (for snow camping)
  • Snow goggles or glacier glasses
  • Trekking poles

Camping Equipment:

  • Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
  • Sleeping pad or insulated mat
  • Tent (appropriate for the season and weather conditions)
  • Cooking stove and fuel
  • Cookware and utensils
  • Water purification tablets or filtration system
  • Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
  • Portable power bank (for charging electronics)

Personal Essentials:

  • Backpack (large enough to carry your gear)
  • Daypack (smaller pack for day hikes or summit push)
  • Sunglasses (with UV protection)
  • Sunscreen (high SPF)
  • Lip balm
  • First aid kit (including any personal medications)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.)
  • Lightweight towel
  • Water bottles or hydration bladder
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Trekking poles

Miscellaneous:

  • Map and compass (or GPS device)
  • Cash (local currency)
  • Travel adapter and charger (if needed)
  • Trekking permits and relevant documents
  • Camera or video equipment (with spare batteries)
  • Portable altitude sickness medication (consult with a healthcare professional)
  • Entertainment items (books, playing cards, etc.)

Remember to pack light and only bring what you truly need. It is also advisable to check with local guides or tour operators for specific recommendations and up-to-date information about the climb. Proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and preparation are essential for a successful and safe climb.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 21 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

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