Island Peak, or Imja Tse, as it is known locally, stands at 6189m: its western name was originally coined by the mountaineer, Eric Shipton, in 1952, when he saw the peak appearing to be floating among the sea of glaciers that surround it near the head of the Chukkung Valley. The impressive peak was first climbed in 1953 by a British team as a training exercise in preparation for the ascent of Mount Everest later that same year, and indeed Tenzing and Hillary were two of the members of that initial team also.

Island Peak is located between Ama Dablam and Lhotse, and is the most sought-after trekking peak destination because of its challenging geographical conditions – each year more than 300 groups attempt to scale its summit. This trek offers an excellent opportunity to climb a Himalayan peak; the most difficult section is a mixed rock and ice wall at a slope of around 45 degrees, leading to the narrow summit ridge. The magnificent views from the summit, however, are certainly a fitting reward for all efforts – views which include the towering peaks of Nuptse (7879m), Lhotse (8501m), Makalu (8475m) and Ama Dablam (6856m), amongst others. Island Peak itself is the extension of the South Ridge of Lhotse Shar, separated by a small col.

As with most of the treks in the Everest region, the journey to Island Peak begins with an unforgettable and exhilarating flight from Kathmandu, and a heartstopping descent onto the unique runway  at Lukla. From there, the trek to Island peak follows in the well-trodden footsteps of the great Everest climbers, passing into the heart of the Khumbu, through Namche Bazar, Tengboche and many other Sherpa habitations, before moving on towards Everest Base Camp. Good acclimatization and magnificent close-up views of Everest will be gained from an ascent of Kala Pattar (5545m), before returning to Pheriche or Dingboche, and heading north east through the Imja Valley and Island Peak base camp, prior to the short walk to high camp and on to the summit.

Climbing Island Peak (6160m) is certainly a challenge, involving scrambling on rock before the ascent of a snow face and then up to the final ridge. Those with sufficient determination and energy, in addition to being well acclimatised, will be rewarded with some of the most striking scenery in the Khumbu, as described above. The descent follows the main Everest trail, a reverse version of the inward route, and after a night of rest and celebration in Lukla, enjoyed with the trekking staff, a return flight to Kathmandu will be undertaken early the following morning.

Altitude Chart