Island Peak Climbing

Arrival in Kathmandu – Airport Pickup & Hotel Transfer

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner, Jagdamba Holidays. Our representative will be waiting with an official Monkvana sign and a traditional marigold garland to welcome you to Nepal.

You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. For late-night arrivals, transportation will be arranged according to your arrival time.

Your representative will also provide information about the tour briefing and group meeting. During the briefing, we will review your travel plans and included services and introduce you to your trekking or tour guide.

Before the journey begins, all participants will complete the required travel and liability forms. Any outstanding tour balance should also be settled during the meeting.

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla & Trek to Phakding

We normally fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,846 m), the gateway to the Everest region. If direct flights are unavailable, we travel via Ramechhap (Manthali). When time allows, we explore Kathmandu Valley before driving to Manthali for an overnight stay. If the schedule is tight, we depart Kathmandu around 2:00 AM for the 132 km, four-hour drive to Manthali to catch the early morning flight.

The first flight from Ramechhap to Lukla departs at 6:30 AM. After landing in Lukla, you’ll meet your trekking guide and porter and enjoy a short tea break before beginning the trek.

The trail to Phakding (2,620 m) follows a scenic route through Nurning Ghat, covering approximately 8.5 km in 3–4 hours. The trail features gentle ups and downs, with around 190 m of ascent and 380 m of descent.

Arrive in Phakding, a charming riverside village and the largest settlement in the area. Check in at Namaste Lodge or a similar-standard tea house, then relax and enjoy your first evening in the Everest region before meeting your guide to review the next day’s plan.

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

After breakfast, set out from Phakding toward Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) via Monjo. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags and winding through traditional Sherpa villages and beautiful rhododendron forests. As the trail climbs, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with spectacular Himalayan views emerging along the way.

The trek covers approximately 9.5 km in 5–6 hours, with an elevation gain of around 860 m. The steady ascent marks an important step into the higher Khumbu, leading you to Namche Bazaar, the region’s vibrant Sherpa trading and cultural hub.

After reaching Namche, check in at Khumbu Lodge or a similar-standard tea house. Take time to rest and enjoy a warm meal, or explore the town’s colorful markets, cafés, and bakeries before settling in for the evening.

Acclimatization Day – Hike to Khunde

Enjoy a well-earned acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, giving your body time to adjust to the altitude. After breakfast, begin an optional scenic hike to Khunde and Khumjung, two traditional Sherpa villages rich in local culture and heritage.

Continue to the famous Everest View Hotel (3,880 m), where you can enjoy refreshments while taking in spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. After enjoying the mountain panorama, return to Namche Bazaar for lunch and free time to explore the lively town, browse the markets, or relax at a café.

In the evening, gather for dinner and a briefing to prepare for the next stage of the trek.

Trek from Namche to Tengboche

After breakfast, begin your trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860 m), following a scenic mountain trail through rhododendron forests and traditional Sherpa landscapes. As the route winds along the hillsides, enjoy impressive views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other Himalayan peaks.

The trek covers approximately 9.5 km and takes around 4–5 hours of walking, with approximately 780 m of elevation gain and 360 m of elevation loss. The trail gradually leads into the quieter upper Khumbu, culminating at Tengboche, renowned for its historic Tengboche Monastery and magnificent mountain setting.

Upon arrival, check in at Tashi Delek Lodge or a similar-standard tea house. Take time to visit the monastery and appreciate its rich Buddhist heritage, peaceful surroundings, and exceptional views of Ama Dablam before enjoying a relaxing evening in the heart of the Everest region.

Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche

After breakfast, begin your trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m), following the Imja Tse Valley through alpine landscapes and traditional Sherpa settlements. As you gradually leave the forested slopes behind, the scenery opens into a rugged mountain environment, with impressive views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the surrounding peaks.

The trek covers approximately 10.5 km and takes around 5–6 hours. You will gain approximately 610 m in elevation and lose around 140 m along the route. The gradual ascent takes you deeper into the high-altitude landscape of the Khumbu, marking an important stage on the journey towards Everest Base Camp.

Upon arrival in Dingboche, check in at Khumbu Lodge or a similar-standard tea house. Take time to explore the village, enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery, and relax in preparation for the next stage of your Everest Base Camp adventure.

Rest Day in Dingboche – Hike to Nangkartshang Viewpoint

Today is dedicated to acclimatization in Dingboche (4,410 m), an important stop on the Everest Base Camp Trek. After breakfast, enjoy a gradual hike to Nangkartshang Viewpoint (5,060 m), one of the most rewarding viewpoints above the village. The trail offers magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Island Peak, and the Imja Valley, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the dramatic Himalayan landscape.

The round-trip hike covers approximately 4 km and takes around 4–5 hours. You will gain approximately 660 m in elevation and descend the same amount on the return journey. The gradual ascent provides valuable acclimatization while allowing you to experience the spectacular high-altitude surroundings.

The hike is optional, and you may instead spend the day exploring Dingboche at a relaxed pace. A second night at this altitude gives your body valuable time to adapt to the increasing elevation before continuing towards Lobuche.

After the hike or a leisurely day in the village, return to Khumbu Lodge or a similar-standard tea house to rest and enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings. Take time to experience the traditional Sherpa culture and lifestyle before preparing for the next stage of your Everest Base Camp adventure.

Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche

After breakfast, trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940 m) through the rugged landscapes of the upper Khumbu. The trail gradually climbs towards Thukla Pass (4,830 m), offering impressive views of Pumori, Nuptse, Cholatse, and the surrounding peaks.

The trek covers approximately 8 km and takes around 4–5 hours. You will gain approximately 600 m in elevation and lose around 20 m along the route. At Thukla Pass, pause at the moving Everest memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest and other Himalayan peaks.

Continue to Lobuche, a small high-altitude settlement beneath towering Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival, check in at New EBC Guest House or a similar-standard lodge, then rest and prepare for the following day’s trek to Everest Base Camp.

Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep & Explore Everest Base Camp

After breakfast, begin your trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,140 m), following a rugged trail through the high-altitude landscape of the Khumbu. The route crosses rocky moraines and glacial terrain, with dramatic views of Pumori, Nuptse, Khumbu Glacier, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

The trek covers approximately 14 km and takes around 7–8 hours. You will gain approximately 424 m in elevation and lose around 224 m along the route. As you approach Gorak Shep, the landscape becomes increasingly stark and dramatic, marking your arrival in one of the highest settlements on the Everest Base Camp route.

Upon reaching Gorak Shep, check in at Buddha Lodge and take some time to rest and have lunch before continuing towards Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). The trail follows the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, with towering peaks and rugged glacial landscapes surrounding you.

Reaching Everest Base Camp is the defining moment of the trek. Take time to enjoy the remarkable surroundings, capture photographs, and appreciate the achievement of reaching the base of the world's highest mountain. After exploring Base Camp, retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

Return to Buddha Lodge Gorak Shep for a well-earned rest and prepare for the following morning's early hike to Kala Patthar (5,550 m), one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region.

Sunrise at Kala Patthar (5,550 m) & Trek to Dingboche

Rise early from Gorak Shep and hike to Kala Patthar (5,550 m / 18,209 ft.) before dawn. From the viewpoint, enjoy sunrise over the Everest massif, with stunning views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, Lhotse, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. After enjoying the mountain panorama, descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast before continuing towards Dingboche as part of your Island Peak Climbing Expedition.

After breakfast, trek from Gorak Shep to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,469 ft.) via Lobuche (4,940 m / 16,207 ft.) and Thukla Pass (4,830 m / 15,846 ft.). The trail crosses rugged glacial moraines and broad alpine valleys. The combined Kala Patthar hike and trek to Dingboche covers approximately 16 km and takes around 7–8 hours, with approximately 450 m of elevation gain and 1,270 m of elevation loss. Lunch will be arranged at a suitable lodge or along the trail, depending on the day’s progress and conditions.

Upon arrival in Dingboche, check in at Khumbu Lodge or a lodge of similar standard. Accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. Take time to rest and prepare for the next stage of your Island Peak Climbing Expedition.

Trek from Dingboche to Island Peak Base Camp via Chukhung

After breakfast in Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,469 ft.), begin the trek towards Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m / 16,732 ft.) via Chukhung (4,750 m / 15,584 ft.). The trail climbs through open alpine valleys and rugged terrain, with impressive views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. After a short rest in Chukhung, continue across glacial moraines and rocky terrain towards the base camp, marking the transition from trekking to the climbing stage of your Island Peak Climbing Expedition.

The trek from Dingboche to Island Peak Base Camp covers approximately 11 km and takes around 7–8 hours, with approximately 800 m of elevation gain and 20 m of elevation loss. The challenging high-altitude route provides an important acclimatization day before the Island Peak climb. Lunch will be arranged at a suitable lodge or along the trail, depending on the day’s progress and conditions.

Upon arrival at Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m / 16,732 ft.), settle into your private tented camp beneath the impressive south face of Island Peak. Accommodation is provided in a private tent with shared camp facilities, with breakfast and dinner included, while the dedicated kitchen team prepares freshly cooked meals and provides unlimited drinks according to your choice. Rest and prepare for the upcoming Island Peak climbing with guidance from your professional local Nepalese climbing team.

Island Peak Summit (6,189 m) & Return to Chhukung

Start early from Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m / 16,732 ft.) for the summit ascent of Island Peak (6,189 m / 20,305 ft.), the main objective of your Island Peak Climbing Expedition. The climb begins before dawn and follows snow, ice, and rocky terrain, with fixed ropes used on the technical upper sections. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks before beginning the descent.

After reaching the summit, descend carefully along the same route towards Chhukung (4,750 m / 15,584 ft.), passing through rugged glacial terrain and high-altitude landscapes. The Island Peak summit ascent and return to Chhukung covers approximately 13 km and takes around 10–11 hours, with approximately 980 m of elevation gain and 1,370 m of elevation loss. Lunch will be arranged at a suitable location along the route, depending on the day’s progress and conditions.

Upon arrival in Chhukung, check in at Chhukung Resort or a lodge of similar standard. Accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. Rest and recover after the challenging summit day while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the Imja Valley.

Trek from Chhukung to Tengboche via Dingboche

After breakfast in Chhukung (4,750 m / 15,584 ft.), begin the scenic trek towards Tengboche (3,860 m / 12,664 ft.), passing through Dingboche and Pangboche. The trail descends through broad alpine valleys before entering beautiful forests of rhododendron, pine, and juniper, with impressive views of Ama Dablam, Mount Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Along the way, pass traditional Sherpa settlements, mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags reflecting the rich culture of the Khumbu region.

The trek from Chhukung to Tengboche covers approximately 15.2 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with approximately 150 m of elevation gain and 1,020 m of elevation loss. The gradual descent brings a refreshing change from the high alpine landscape to greener forested surroundings. Lunch will be arranged at a suitable lodge or along the trail, depending on the day’s progress and conditions.

Upon arrival in Tengboche, check in at Tashi Delek Lodge or a lodge of similar standard. Accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. Take time to rest and explore the peaceful surroundings of Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important spiritual landmarks in the Everest region.

Trek from Tengboche to Monjo via Namche Bazaar

After breakfast in Tengboche (3,860 m / 12,664 ft.), begin the descent towards Monjo (2,835 m / 9,301 ft.), following the scenic Everest Base Camp trail through Kyangjuma (3,600 m / 11,811 ft.). The route winds through rhododendron, pine, and juniper forests, traditional Sherpa settlements, and scenic hillsides, with impressive views of Ama Dablam, Mount Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding peaks.

The trek from Tengboche to Monjo covers approximately 15.5 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with approximately 400 m of elevation gain and 1,450 m of elevation loss. Continue through forested valleys and cross the Dudh Koshi River before reaching Monjo and the lower Khumbu region. Lunch will be arranged at a suitable lodge or along the trail, depending on the day’s progress and conditions.

Upon arrival in Monjo, check in at Alpine Valley Lodge or a lodge of similar standard. Accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. Relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Monjo as you continue your return journey through the Khumbu region.

Monjo to Lukla via Phakding

After breakfast in Monjo (2,835 m / 9,301 ft.), begin the final trek towards Lukla (2,846 m / 9,350 ft.), passing through Phakding (2,620 m / 8,596 ft.) along the classic Everest trekking route. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through lush forests and traditional Sherpa villages, crossing suspension bridges and passing mani walls, prayer wheels, and small monasteries. Enjoy the peaceful scenery of the lower Khumbu region as the trail gradually leads towards Lukla.

The trek from Monjo to Lukla via Phakding covers approximately 12.5 km and takes around 4–5 hours, with approximately 410 m of elevation gain and 330 m of elevation loss. Lunch will be arranged at a suitable lodge or along the trail, depending on the day’s progress and conditions.

Upon arrival in Lukla, check in at Buddha Lodge or a lodge of similar standard. Accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. Relax and enjoy your final evening in Lukla after completing the trekking journey through the Everest region.

Note for Trekking Success Celebration: On the final evening, guests may choose to offer a farewell dinner to the trekking team (guides and porters) to celebrate the successful completion of the trek. This is entirely optional and not mandatory. If a celebration is arranged, no alcohol of any kind should be offered to trekking staff, in accordance with our local partner’s safety and professional guidelines throughout the trekking journey.

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu & Hotel Transfer

After completing your unforgettable trek in the Everest region, take a scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. As the aircraft lifts off from Lukla’s iconic mountain runway, enjoy sweeping aerial views of deep valleys, winding rivers, and towering Himalayan peaks. On clear days, you may catch final glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu from above. If a direct flight to Kathmandu is not available on your travel date, you will fly from Lukla to Ramechhap (Manthali) instead.

The direct flight from Lukla to Kathmandu takes approximately 40–50 minutes. If traveling via Ramechhap, the Lukla–Ramechhap flight takes approximately 20 minutes, followed by a road journey of approximately 132 km to Kathmandu, which takes around 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in at Hotel Kailash Kutee and take time to relax after your Himalayan adventure. Enjoy a free evening to reflect on your journey or explore Kathmandu’s rich culture, colorful markets, and renowned cuisine.

Buffer Day in Kathmandu

Keep a flexible buffer day in Kathmandu to allow for possible weather-related flight delays and ensure a smooth, stress-free journey. Mountain flights are highly weather-dependent, making this extra day an important part of the itinerary.

If flights operate as scheduled, you may enjoy a relaxed day in Kathmandu or arrange a sightseeing tour at short notice through our local partners, subject to availability and at an additional cost. Popular options include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Enjoy your final day at your own pace and stay at Hotel Kailash Kutee before your onward journey.

Farewell – Airport Transfer & Departure

As your Himalayan journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on Nepal’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences—from majestic mountain landscapes to the warm hospitality of local communities.

For a smooth departure, a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner Jagdamba Holidays, will meet you at your hotel approximately 3.5 hours before your scheduled flight and provide a comfortable transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Thank you for choosing Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o. and Jagdamba Holidays. We look forward to welcoming you again on future journeys across the Himalayas and beyond.