Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, your priority is obtaining a Nepali Tourist Visa. This can be done on arrival or by filling out a form online in advance. Ensure you have your original passport, passport photos, and visa fee ready. Once your visa is sorted, you'll be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Take this time to rest and recover from your journey, preparing yourself for the adventures ahead on your Island Peak Climbing Itinerary.

In the early morning, we'll pick you up and transfer you to Kathmandu's domestic terminal. From there, we'll board a flight bound for Lukla Airport, nestled in Nepal's picturesque Khumbu region. This area is renowned for its popularity among trekkers, boasting the iconic Mount Everest as its crown jewel. The flight to Lukla promises stunning views of the majestic mountains that dot the landscape. Upon arrival in Phakding, you'll rendezvous with the rest of our crew, setting the stage for the adventures that lie ahead. Our journey from Lukla will take us along a well-marked path, descending to the Dudhkoshi River before gradually ascending to Phakding. Tonight, we'll rest and recharge at a cozy guesthouse in Phakding, readying ourselves for the experiences awaiting us.

Continuing our trek along the northern bank of Dudh Koshi River, we soak in the stunning panoramic views. Crossing several suspension bridges, including the famed Hillary Suspension Bridge, we reach the Sagarmatha National Park Check Post to register our permits. Inside the park, we navigate through dense forests, catching our initial glimpse of Mount Everest. Pressing forward, we soon reach Namche Bazaar, the vibrant gateway to Everest, marking a pivotal moment in our journey.

Today is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing you to explore Namche Bazaar at your leisure. This vibrant hub boasts numerous Wi-Fi-equipped cafes, restaurants, and shops offering souvenirs and gear. You have the option to hike to the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center or visit Khumjung, where you can see the Hillary School and old monasteries. Continuing to Khunde, you'll encounter a Sherpa settlement, offering insight into Sherpa culture and lifestyle. A visit to Syangboche Airport, one of the world's highest but currently inactive, provides additional views of Everest. For an even closer look, consider hiking to Everest View Hotel before returning to Namche Bazaar, with a chance to see yak farms along the way.

Commencing after an early morning breakfast, our trek to Tengboche promises panoramic vistas of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku mountains. Notably, Tenzing Norgay, one of the first to summit Everest, hailed from the village of Thani and spent time as a monk at Tengboche Monastery. Along the trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Island Peak, though the journey's undulating terrain presents challenges. Amidst the trek, keep an eye out for wildlife such as musk deer, pheasant, and Himalayan tahr. Crossing the Dudh Koshi River and traversing dense alpine forests, we'll arrive at Phunki Tenga before continuing to Tengboche. Home to the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu Region, Tengboche Monastery stands as a testament to resilience, having been rebuilt following destruction by both earthquake and fire, with restoration aided by the Sir Edmund Hillary Fund.

Embarking on our uphill trek towards Pangboche, we traverse past numerous chortens, mani walls, and quaint villages, with mesmerizing views of the majestic Island Peak looming in the distance. Following the path alongside the Lobuche River, we venture into the Imja Valley, ascending steeply to Dingboche. En route, the panoramic vistas include the impressive Island Peak (6,812m) and the towering Mt. Lhotse (8,516m). Nestled amidst protective stone walls shielding crops from harsh winds and wildlife, Dingboche's unique landscape features kilometers-long stone walls formed from removed stones during plowing.

Following a hearty breakfast, we embark on an eastward journey towards the mesmerizing Chukhung Valley. Our path leads us through the picturesque stone-walled fields of the Imja Khola Valley, offering captivating glimpses of the majestic Mt. Lhotse and Ama Dablam along the way. As we tread along the rocky trail, the rugged beauty of the Himalayan landscape unfolds before us, filling our hearts with wonder and excitement. Upon reaching our destination, Chhukung, we settle into our lodge accommodations, ready to immerse ourselves in the upcoming adventure. Here, we have the opportunity to meet with our experienced guide, who will provide us with essential insights into the climb ahead and assist us in making necessary preparations. Their expertise and guidance will ensure that we are well-equipped and mentally prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. As we gather in Chhukung, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Everest region, anticipation and excitement fill the air. The camaraderie amongst fellow trekkers grows stronger, fueled by our shared passion for exploration and adventure. With each step forward, we inch closer to the pinnacle of Island Peak, ready to embrace the thrill of the climb and the breathtaking beauty that awaits us atop the Himalayan summit.

Today, we focus on acclimatization and essential training for our Island Peak climb. Our Sherpa guide will instruct us on peak climbing techniques and the use of necessary equipment like ice axes, crampons, and harnesses. While prior climbing experience can boost confidence, it's not required. With our guide's expertise and determination, we're poised for success on this exhilarating Himalayan adventure.

As we depart from Chhukung, our journey takes us northward, tracing the contours of the valley and skirting along the Lhotse glacier's moraine to the east. Following a brief hike beside the flowing river, we encounter a prominent rock formation. Scaling it takes us about 40 minutes, bringing us to the coveted destination: Island Peak Base Camp. Here, amidst the rugged beauty of the Himalayas, we pitch our tents and prepare for the challenges ahead. For us, trekkers-turned-climbers, this moment marks a significant transition. As we settle into our temporary home at Base Camp, anticipation builds for the training session that awaits. Our Sherpa guide will impart invaluable skills and knowledge, ensuring that we are well-equipped for the ascent. From mastering the use of ice axes and crampons to honing our rope skills and harness techniques, each lesson learned brings us closer to our shared goal: summiting Island Peak. With determination in our hearts and the guidance of our experienced guide, we are ready to embrace the adventure that lies ahead.

As the first light of dawn breaks across the Himalayan landscape, we set out on our final ascent towards the summit of Island Peak. With the guidance of our seasoned Sherpa guides, we embark on this exhilarating journey, aiming to reach the summit before the afternoon winds pick up. Our route begins with a steady ascent to a rocky ridge, leading us to the base of a glacier where our true mountaineering adventure begins. With ropes securing our path, we navigate the glacier's icy terrain, steadily making our way towards the coveted south ridge. As we ascend along the ridge, each step brings us closer to the summit of Island Peak. The panoramic views unfold before us, showcasing the awe-inspiring majesty of the surrounding peaks, including the towering giants of Lhotse, Makalu, and Baruntse. Standing atop Island Peak, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, we savor the unforgettable moments of triumph and accomplishment. With the world stretching out beneath us, we pause to reflect on the magnitude of our achievement before beginning our descent back to base camp. Descending from the heights of the summit, we return to Chhukung, our hearts full of memories and our spirits uplifted by the challenges overcome. As we settle in for the night, surrounded by the camaraderie of fellow trekkers, we reflect on the remarkable journey that brought us to this moment and the indelible bond forged amidst the beauty of the Himalayas.

An additional day has been strategically included in our itinerary, serving as a contingency plan in case inclement weather disrupts our scheduled summit attempt. Should our original summit day prove successful, we'll embrace the opportunity to unwind and fully immerse ourselves in the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas. However, if unfavorable weather conditions persist, this spare day will offer us a second chance to conquer Island Peak. The flexibility of our itinerary ensures that we remain adaptable to changing circumstances, maximizing our chances of achieving our mountaineering goals. Tonight, we'll find ourselves back in Chhukung, surrounded by the rugged grandeur of the mountains. Regardless of the outcome, we'll cherish the moments spent amidst the Himalayan splendor, finding solace and inspiration in the untamed wilderness that surrounds us.

Today, you'll be retracing your footsteps along the rugged path back to Chhukung, and then onwards to Dingboche. As you descend into the breathtaking surroundings of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll find yourself immersed in its natural wonders. For trekkers seeking solace amidst the majestic peaks, this journey offers not only a physical challenge but also a chance to connect with the spiritual essence of the famous Tengboche monastery, a monumental presence in the Everest region. Soak in the tranquility of this sacred place, let the whispers of the mountains guide your steps, and savor every moment of this unforgettable adventure.

As we navigate the trail back to Namche Bazaar, we're surrounded by the vibrant life of the forest, where encounters with pheasants, musk deer, and mountain goats remind us of the untamed beauty of this wilderness. The path meanders along steep slopes, each bend revealing a new panorama adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, a symbol of the spiritual journey we've undertaken. As we journey homeward, don't miss the opportunity to capture the awe-inspiring vistas of Everest's peak and the rugged silhouette of Lhotse. These snapshots will serve as cherished mementos of our Himalayan adventure, etched forever in our hearts. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, our weary bodies find respite in the comfort of our lodges. It's a time to relax, rejuvenate, and reflect on the incredible experiences shared on this unforgettable trek.

itself. Returning to the serene Dudh Koshi Valley, the path gently ascends uphill towards Lukla, following the meandering Kusum stream. But before we hasten to Lukla, a steep ascent to the west awaits, leading us through quaint villages nestled amidst lush greenery. As we ascend, the landscape transforms, offering entirely new vistas from the village of Toktok. Descending from there, the trail intersects with the main path, where a sidestream joins our route before we arrive at Toktok Village. From Toktok onwards, the scenery shifts once more, offering a fresh perspective as we approach the bustling town of Lukla. It's here that our remarkable journey culminates, setting the stage for our return flight to Kathmandu the following day.

After completing your trek, your return journey will vary depending on the season. If you trek between March to May or September to November, you'll take a quick 20-minute flight from Lukla to Manthali, followed by a 5-hour scenic drive to Kathmandu. For treks in other months, a direct flight to Kathmandu is available. Alternatively, there's an option to book a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu, albeit at an extra cost of approximately 550 USD per person (based on five-person sharing). Upon reaching Kathmandu, you'll be greeted with a sense of achievement from conquering Island Peak. You'll then head to your respective hotels, where you can unwind and spend the rest of the day as you please.