Trip Overview

A magnificent circuit of the Everest region with a challenging ascent of Island Peak (6189mt.) is a wonderful trek that takes us first of all into the heart of the Khumbu as we follow in the footsteps of the great Everest climbers through Namche Bazaar towards Everest Base Camp. An ascent of Kalapatthar (5545m) is a good acclimatization and that gives us magnificent close-up views of Everest. Leaving the main trail, we cross the little used Kongma La Pass to camp below Pokalde Peak. We then move into the Imja Valley to the base of Island Peak before short walk to the high camp. This challenging trek involves scrambling on rock followed by the ascent of a snow face and then up the final ridge. For those who are well acclimatized and have the determination and energy, the views from the top provide some of the most striking scenery in the Khumbu – the rugged summits of Nuptse rear above us, while Lhotse, Cho Polu, Baruntse, Makalu and Ama Dablam are just some of the magnificent Himalayan giants we will observe from the top.
We leave the Everest Base Camp Trek at Dingboche and walk up to Chhukung. Then a base camp and/or an advanced base camp can be established between 5300 and 5600 m. The route to the summit includes a rather steep slope and a narrow ridge. Hence, Crampons, Ice-axe and ropes are to be carried while on climbing the peak.