Embark on an unforgettable 18-day adventure to Island Peak and Everest Base Camp, a expedition that combines breathtaking Himalayan vistas, glacial summits, and the iconic trek to the base of the world’s highest peak.
The Island Peak Climbing & Everest Base Camp Trek is an 18-day adventure through Nepal’s Khumbu region, blending the thrilling ascent of Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft) with the legendary journey to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft) and Kala Patthar’s dawn vigil. This inspiring dual-quest offers a harmonious mix of high-altitude trekking and moderate mountaineering, weaving cultural immersion in Sherpa monasteries like Tengboche with panoramic views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu. Starting with a thrilling flight to Lukla, the itinerary winds through rhododendron valleys, Imja Valley’s turquoise lakes, and rugged moraines, culminating in triumphant summits amid the Khumbu’s eternal embrace. With strategic acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Chhukung, this journey is crafted for adventurers with moderate fitness, ensuring a safe, rewarding path of growth and grace. Ideal seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) for blooming trails, clear skies, and optimal climbing conditions.
Land in vibrant Kathmandu, where your Himalayan dream takes flight. Our Ascent Himalaya team welcomes you with a warm smile. Stroll through colorful markets, visit ancient temples, or relax in your cozy hotel. Feel the buzz—tomorrow, the mountains call!
Tip: Jet lag? Take it easy and explore nearby temples.
Enjoy a 30-minute flight to Lukla's fun airstrip. Start with an easy 3-4 hour walk along riverside paths, passing prayer flags and friendly villages. It's a gentle intro to trekking!
Tip: Snap photos of the Dudh Koshi River—it's picture-perfect.
Cross swaying suspension bridges over the sparkling Dudh Koshi on this 5-6 hour hike through wildflower meadows and terraced fields. Arrive in lively Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa heartland buzzing with bakeries and shops—grab a slice of apple pie and feel the energy build!
Tip: Climb the short acclimatization loop at sunset—Namche's glow is pure magic.
Embrace a restful day with a gentle 2-3 hour hike to the Everest View Hotel for teasing panoramas of Everest and Ama Dablam. Wander the bustling markets or visit the Sherpa museum—let the altitude acquaint you kindly.
Tip: Pack your camera for the hotel's balcony—those Everest selfies will steal hearts back home.
Wander 5-6 hours through pine-scented paths and fluttering prayer flags to Tengboche Monastery. Join monk chants and soak in ruby-roofed serenity with epic Ama Dablam views—it's where mountains meet mindfulness.
Tip: Time your arrival for the evening puja—incense and drums create unforgettable chills.
Ascend 5-6 hours past Imja Khola's murmur through Imja Valley's widening wonders, spotting yaks and distant glaciers. Settle in Dingboche's stone-walled haven, where barley fields frame your growing resolve.
Tip: Gaze at Island Peak's silhouette—your future friend on the horizon.
Recharge with a 3-4 hour jaunt to Nagarjun Hill's prayer flags and panoramic perch, breathing deep amid wildflowers. Afternoon whispers of climbing prep from your Sherpas—body and spirit align.
Tip: Hydrate with ginger tea—Dingboche's crisp air rewards the mindful.
Push 4-5 hours over rocky ridges past memorials that honor the heights, into Lobuche's stark beauty. Khumbu Glacier's groans echo your adventurous pulse—EBC draws near.
Tip: Pause at the memorials—quiet respect fuels the final strides.
Short 2-3 hour trek to Gorak Shep, then 3-4 hours round-trip to EBC's storied sands—amid ice towers and prayer flags, touch the roof of the world's edge. Return for sunset's golden hush.
Tip: Layer for EBC's chill—Everest's shadow inspires beyond the cold.
Rise pre-dawn for 2-3 hours to Kala Patthar's black-rock throne—Everest's sunrise symphony unfolds in fiery glory. Descend 5-6 hours to Pheriche's welcoming arms for well-earned rest.
Tip: Steady breaths at Kala Patthar—sunrise's light lifts the soul skyward.
Ease 4-5 hours down to Pangboche, then up Imja Valley's lush folds to Chhukung—Island Peak looms like a faithful sentinel. Evening tales of tomorrow's ascent kindle the fire.
Tip: Spot the peak early—Chhukung's views whisper encouragement.
Explore with a 3-4 hour hike toward Imja Tsho Lake's turquoise tease, practicing steps in Sherpa shadow. Gear checks and mantras prepare your heart—adventure's crescendo nears.
Tip: Dip a toe in Imja Tsho—sacred waters cleanse and calm.
Climb 4-5 hours over Lhotse Shar Glacier's rubble to base camp's tented tableau. Sherpas rig ropes and routes; the amphitheater of giants cradles your camp.
Tip: Crampon familiarization here—confidence blooms in the doing.
Pre-dawn 8-10 hour round-trip: Icefall ascent, ridge traverse, summit push—Lhotse's flank and Everest's crown reward your grace. Descend to base camp's triumphant tents. Tip: Puja at dawn—mountains honor the humble heart.
Ease 6-7 hours down glacial paths to Pangboche's monastic murmur—legs lighten as valleys welcome back. Evening reflections over tea seal your dual triumphs.
Tip: Savor the views southward—Island's farewell lingers long.
Flow 6-7 hours through Tengboche's trails and bridges, back to Namche's bazaar buzz. Shop for silks or sweets—bonds with your trail kin deepen.
Tip: Treat to bakery bliss—Namche's pies taste of perseverance.
Gentle 5-6 hour descent along Dudh Koshi's roar to Lukla's lively close. Farewell feast with raksi toasts—stories swirl like evening mists.
Tip: One last group photo—Lukla's airstrip frames your forever friends.
Savor a 30-minute flight over peaks' poetic farewell. In Kathmandu, Thamel's glow awaits for debrief delights or departure ease.
Tip: Window seat please—flying out feels like the ultimate victory lap.
