EBC + Island Peak Expedition (6,189m)

Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Expedition - Short Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Day 2: Meet and greet / Gear Check. Travel from Kathmandu to Ramachep. Stay at Ramechhap.
• Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,860m), trek to Phakding (2,610m)
• Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
• Day 5: Acclimatisation in Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
• Day 6: Trek to Dibuche (3,820m)
• Day 7: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)
• Day 8: Acclimatisation Day at Dingboche
• Day 9: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
• Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and then trek to Everest Base Camp
• Day 11: Sunrise trek to Kalapatthar, then Trek to Lobuche
• Day 12: Trek to Chhukung (4,730m)
• Day 13: Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,070m)
• Day 14: Trek to High Camp (5,600m)
• Day 15: Summit Island Peak (6,189m), trek back to Base Camp
• Day 16: Extra day for summit attempt (5,600m)
• Day 17: Trek to Pangboche (3,930m)
• Day 18: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
• Day 19: Trek to Lukla (2,860m)
• Day 20: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Day 21: Free day in Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Day 22: Departure from Kathmandu

EBC with Island Peak Expedition Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu, airport pick up, check-in in to the hotel. Evening you will be escorted for a traditional Nepali welcome dinner. Stay the night in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Ramechhap

Relax day in Kathmandu. Detailed trek brief on the Everest base camp trek, trekking gear/equipment check and team bonding activities by our local team. Today by noon you will be travelling from Kathmandu to Ramachhap. Stay the night in Ramechhap.

Important Notice:
We'd like to bring to your attention a crucial update regarding your upcoming journey with TrekNomads. Due to ongoing developments and essential maintenance at Kathmandu Tribhuvan Airport, your flight to Lukla will be rerouted from Kathmandu to Ramechhap Airport. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has mandated that flights to and from Lukla operate through Ramechhap since the 2019 post-monsoon season. This arrangement, initially temporary, has been extended, and CAAN is considering a permanent shift for all Lukla flights from Ramechhap. While some flights will certainly still go from Kathmandu, they are not always guaranteed, even when booked in advance and can be subject to unplanned and prolonged delays. 

​If your flight departs from Ramechhap Airport, your journey will commence on day two of your itinerary. You will travel for four to five hours to the town of Ramechhap, where TrekNomads will arrange accommodation and an evening meal. While the roads may be bumpy, this journey is essential to ensure your Everest Base Camp dream becomes a reality. Day three begins with an early start to be at the airport and a flight to Lukla. TrekNomads ensures you're on one of the first flights from Ramechhap, allowing for the best available weather monitoring and a swift start to your trek.

On the return, you'll fly from Lukla to Ramechhap and embark on an adventurous drive back to Kathmandu. Please note that traffic entering Kathmandu can be significant, extending the journey to approximately six to seven hours with breaks for food and rest.

Day 3: Phakding

Altitude: 8,563 ft (2,610 m)

Trek Duration: 3-4 hours, 8 Km

Depart to the airport for an early morning flight to Lukla (2,800m a gateway destination from where the Everest base camp trek begins. After an adventurous 20-minute flight above the breathtaking green and white mountains, we reach the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. Lukla has one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating with a dramatic landing on a hillside surrounded by high mountain peaks. Upon arrival at Lukla, we meet our other crew members, and after some packing and arrangements, we start our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. Overnight at a lodge. Get good rest because the Everest base camp trek distance is 145+ km. 

Day 4: Namche Bazaar

Altitude: 11,286 ft (3,440 m)

Trek Duration: 5-6 hours, 10 Km

You start the trek by walking through a beautiful pine forest. The trail takes us along the Dudh Koshi River through many suspension bridges, one of which is the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. First, we catch the wonderful prospect of the glimpse Mt. Thamserku (6,618 m). Through the settlement of Benkar, Chumoa, and Monjo, we come to the check post and entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. We pass through the last village of Jorsale before reaching Namche Bazaar. The trail climbs through the forests and bridges until we reach the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. After a final steep ascent of about two hours, we get the first view of Mt. Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. Upon this juncture, we rest here to admire the view. We still need to hike about 1.5 hours to reach Namche Bazaar, a gateway to Mt. Everest and the main trading centre of this region. We stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 5: Namche Bazaar Acclimatisation

Today is the first of the two days set aside for "acclimatization." Health experts recommend we stay active and moving during the rest day too instead of being idle. We either spend the day taking a day's hike to the Everest View Hotel or to Khumjung Monastery. Namche Bazaar is the main centre of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery, and a colourful market. Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge. Your dinner is included in our Mt Everest base camp trek package. You can view the everest base camp trek cost here. 

Day 6: Tengboche

Altitude: 12,697 ft (3,870 m)

Trek Duration: 5 -6 hours, 10 Km

Upon breakfast in Namche, we set out towards Tengboche, enjoying a superb view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam and a close-up view of Thamserku. The trail today is more or less smooth with few ascents and descents. The view of the magnificent Himalayas keeps us company all through the journey. Along the way, we can spot wildlife Musk Deer, a herd of Himalayan Thar and multicoloured pheasants. The trail goes gradually down up to Kayangjuma. After having a relaxed lunch at Phunki Thenga, we gear up for a slightly tougher climb through the pine forests before we reach Tengboche. Tengboche is a great place for close-up views of Mt Ama Dablam and the popular monastery of the Everest region. Overnight stay at a lodge.

Day 7: Dingboche

Altitude: 14,468 ft (4,410m)

Trek Duration: 5-6 hours, 9 Km

With mountains at its backdrop, the monastery at Tengboche looks more spectacular in the morning. we can take pictures of the monastery and the scenery around and as usual start the day's journey. to Pangboche village. We pass through several Chortens and Mani walls and small villages. The place where we stop for lunch allows a fantastic close-up view of Mt Ama Dablam. In the afternoon, we walk north to Pheriche or take the eastward trail beneath the towering north face of Mt Ama Dablam. From here onwards, the walk is fairly moderate as we enter the Imja Valley. The valley gradually unfolds as we approach the confluence of the Lobuche River. We descend into the river and begin the last and steepest climb of the day up to Dingboche. On arrival at Dingboche, overnight lodge

Day 8: Dingboche Acclimatisation

We spend our second day of acclimatization at Dingboche. A refreshing breakfast while admiring a looming Ama Dablam (6,856m) to the south is fantastic. To better appreciate Mt Ama Dablam, Mt Lhotse and numerous other peaks visible from Dingboche, we climb the ridge on the north behind the village. This will be an ideal acclimatizing excursion. We can see three of the world's six highest peaks, Mt Lhotse, Mt Makalu, and Mt Cho Oyu. To the west, loom the towering peaks of Cholatse (6440 m) and Taboche (6542 m). As we look northwest, we see an array of peaks rising at the head of the Khumbu Khola valley. The Lobuche West and Lobuche East peaks are most dominant along with Lhotse, which stands over 8500 m (8501m). Overnight lodge

Day 9: Lobuche

Altitude: 16,207 ft/ 4,940 m

Trek Duration: 4-5hours, 7 Km

After breakfast, we pass through the valley lunch place at Thukla. After trekking for an hour, we reach the memorial of Scott Fischer (American mountaineer) and Babu Chiri Sherpa (a Nepali mountain guide who summited Mount Everest ten times) who perished on an Everest climbing mission. As the trail drops to the Khumbu Glacier moraine, we find ourselves facing several great peaks - Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori and Mahalangur Himal. We are now in the vicinity of Everest, but the great mountain remains elusive. Mt Nuptse towers to the right as the trail crosses the Khumbu Glacier. As we pass along a murmuring stream leaving the Khumbu Glacier behind, we now begin to feel a little out of breath due to high altitude. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 10: Gorak Shep / Everest Base Camp

Altitude: 16,962 ft (5,170 m) - 17,598 ft (5,364 m)

Trek Duration: 3+5 hours, 4+8 Km

The trail to Gorak Shep goes ahead through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Ahead on the trail we see the crest of the north ridge of Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtern, Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Nuptse, etc. A small ascent would take us to Thangma Riju from where we perceive a 360-degree vista of snowy mountains. Climbing steeply up to the top through the torrent of Changri Glacier, we catch our first glimpse of Kala Patthar, Mt. Pumori. As we reach Gorak Shep, we will find snow-capped mountains looming all around us, including the top of the world - Mt. Everest. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once-vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing the EBC trek straight ahead, upon reaching the Everest Base Camp we appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer's tents stand out in bright colours against the monotony of grey surroundings (especially in the Spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste, and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. Everest is not visible from here back to Gorak Shep overnight lodge.

Day 11: Kalapatthar Summit / Lobuche

Altitude: 18,192 ft / 5,545 m - 14,341ft/ 4,371 m

Trek Duration: 3+4 hours, 6+10 Km

Today is the climax of our trip. We start early in the morning to catch the dramatic views from Kala Patthar and witness the first light of day caress the peaks of the mountains, particularly, Mt. Everest. However, we need to prepare for an early morning departure, amid predawn darkness and cold temperature (-10 to -14 C).

Further, there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself. During the ascent to Kala Patthar, we can pause to catch a breath at several outstanding viewpoints from where we can snap great pictures. After several hours of ascent, we reach Kala Patthar. From Kala Patthar, we scramble up to the top of a rocky outcrop marked by cairns and prayer flags. Mind-blowing Himalayan panorama unfolds before our eyes as they wander

Return to Gorak Shep and after breakfast trek back to Lobuche overnight at a lodge.

Day 12:Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung via Kongmala Pass

• Altitude: Kongmala Pass – 5,535 meters (18,159 feet)

• Trek Distance: 13-15 km (Approx.)

• Trek Duration: 7-8 hours

This challenging yet rewarding trek takes you over the Kongmala Pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. You’ll descend towards Chhukung, a small village in the heart of the Everest region. A truly unforgettable day amidst the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas.

Day 13: 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 14: 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 15: 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 16: Extra Day for Summit (Weather Contingency)

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

Day 17: 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 18: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

• Trek Distance: 16 km
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
  Retrace the path through Tengboche to the town of Namche Bazaar.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Monjo.

Day 19: Trek to Lukla (2,840m)

• Trek Distance: 18 km
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
  Final trek back to Lukla, celebrating the successful summit of Island Peak.
  Overnight: Teahouse in Lukla.

Day 20: Fly to Kathmandu

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

Day 21: Free Day in Kathmandu

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

Day 22: 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.

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.