EBC with Island Peak Climbing - 17 Days

Elevation: 1400 m → 2860 m → 2610 m

Begin your Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing with an exhilarating flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a journey of about 30 minutes that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan giants, including Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and glimpses of Everest itself. As the plane glides over deep valleys and terraced hillsides, the snow-capped peaks grow closer until you land at the famous Lukla airstrip—often described as one of the most thrilling landings in the world.

Upon arrival at Lukla Airport, you’ll meet your trekking crew and set off on the trail toward Phakding. The route begins with a gentle descent, winding through traditional Sherpa villages adorned with colorful prayer flags and Buddhist mani walls. Following the sparkling Dudh Koshi River, you’ll cross sturdy suspension bridges, pass pine and rhododendron forests, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

After 3–4 hours of leisurely trekking, you’ll arrive in Phakding, a charming riverside village surrounded by green hills and snow-dusted peaks in the distance. Spend the evening relaxing in a cozy teahouse, exploring the village, or simply enjoying the peaceful sound of the river.

This overnight in Phakding marks not only the first step into the Khumbu region but also the start of your acclimatization, setting a steady pace for the incredible high-altitude adventure across Everest’s two spectacular passes that lies ahead.

Elevation:  2610 m → 3440 m

Your journey from Phakding to Namche Bazaar begins with the soft sound of the Dudh Koshi River flowing alongside the trail. The path initially meanders through lush pine forests and charming Sherpa villages, crossing several high suspension bridges draped in prayer flags. Among these is the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge, swaying high above the river with dramatic mountain backdrops—an experience both thrilling and memorable.

As you progress, the trail gently climbs and then steepens, leading you deeper into Sagarmatha National Park. Here, you’ll register your permits before continuing on winding paths that offer glimpses of snow-covered peaks through the trees. The air grows crisper, and the climb more challenging, but each step is rewarded with stunning views.

The final ascent to Namche Bazaar is a steady uphill push, often considered one of the most demanding stretches of the early trek. As you round the last bend, the vibrant terraced town of Namche appears, tucked into a natural amphitheater at 3,440 meters. This bustling trading hub of the Khumbu region offers a lively mix of teahouses, shops, bakeries, and gear stores, all surrounded by majestic peaks.

Spend the evening soaking in the lively atmosphere, exploring the winding streets, or simply enjoying a warm drink while taking in your first panoramic views of the Everest region. This marks a key milestone in your Everest Two Passes Trek, as Namche will serve as both a base for acclimatization and a cultural gateway to the high Himalayas ahead.

Elevation: 3440 m

Your acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar is all about letting your body adjust to the higher altitude while enjoying the rich culture and stunning scenery of the Khumbu region. At 3,440 meters, the thin air makes it essential to “climb high, sleep low,” so today you’ll take a short but rewarding hike to higher viewpoints before returning to Namche for the night.

One popular acclimatization hike leads up to the Everest View Hotel, perched at 3,880 meters, offering breathtaking panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other towering peaks. The trail passes through Syangboche airstrip and continues on to Khumjung, a traditional Sherpa village where you can visit the famous Khumjung Monastery—home to a purported Yeti scalp—and the Hillary School, founded by Sir Edmund Hillary himself.

If you prefer a shorter excursion, the climb to the National Park Museum above Namche is equally rewarding, providing sweeping views of Everest and the surrounding mountains, along with exhibits on Sherpa culture, local wildlife, and mountaineering history.

The rest of the day is yours to explore Namche’s lively market streets, visit bakeries for freshly baked treats, or shop for handmade handicrafts and trekking gear. You might also spend time at a local café with Wi-Fi to update friends and family on your journey.

This acclimatization stop is not just a health precaution—it’s also a chance to immerse yourself in Sherpa culture, savor the hospitality of the Khumbu, and prepare both physically and mentally for the more challenging trails ahead on your Everest Two Passes Trek.

Elevation:  3440 m → 3867 m

Leaving Namche Bazaar behind, today’s journey takes you deeper into the heart of the Khumbu region as you make your way to Tengboche (3,860 m), home to the region’s most important Buddhist monastery. The trail begins with a relatively gentle and scenic contour along the valley wall, offering spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the elegant Ama Dablam standing tall over the horizon.

The first stretch is an enjoyable walk through fragrant pine forests and past small chortens (Buddhist shrines) before a gradual descent to the riverside settlement of Phunki Tenga. Here, you’ll cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River and pause for a well-earned rest—this is also a good place to refill water bottles or enjoy a snack before tackling the steeper section ahead.

From Phunki Tenga, the trail climbs steadily through rhododendron and fir forests. In spring, these forests burst into color with vibrant blossoms, while in autumn the crisp mountain air and golden light make the ascent particularly beautiful. As you gain altitude, the air becomes cooler and the views more dramatic.

Arriving in Tengboche, you’re greeted by the sight of Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual and cultural landmark framed by snow-covered peaks. You’ll have time to explore the monastery, attend the monks’ evening prayers if you wish, and soak in the serene atmosphere that makes this place so special. The views from Tengboche—especially of Ama Dablam—are among the most iconic in the Everest region.

Tonight, you’ll stay in one of the teahouses near the monastery, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of mountain winds and distant prayer chants. This stop not only offers a spiritual highlight but also positions you perfectly for the higher-altitude trekking days ahead.

Elevation:  3867 m → 4410 m

Leaving the tranquil setting of Tengboche, the trail to Dingboche (4,410 m) begins with a gentle descent through pine, fir, and rhododendron forests, often accompanied by the soothing sound of the Imja Khola river below. Early in the morning, the air is crisp, and the views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and the Everest massif are at their most striking.

You’ll descend to Deboche, a small settlement tucked in the forest, before crossing a suspension bridge over the Imja Khola. From here, the path climbs steadily toward Pangboche, the highest year-round inhabited village in the region. Pangboche offers a chance to visit the centuries-old Pangboche Monastery and enjoy panoramic views that get better with every step.

Beyond Pangboche, the trees begin to thin out, replaced by scrub and alpine meadows, marking your entrance into the harsher yet stunning high-altitude landscape. The trail follows the Imja Valley, with Ama Dablam’s graceful ridges looming dramatically overhead. You’ll pass through Shomare, a small settlement where trekkers often stop for tea or lunch, before continuing your gradual ascent.

The final stretch toward Dingboche takes you across open terrain dotted with stone walls protecting barley and potato fields from the wind. Dingboche itself is a picturesque village surrounded by snow-dusted peaks, with wide-open views that stretch toward Island Peak and the Lhotse wall.

Tonight, you’ll rest in Dingboche, where the slower pace of life and expansive mountain scenery provide the perfect setting to prepare for the higher-altitude challenges ahead. The change in landscape and altitude will be noticeable here, making this an important step in your acclimatization journey.

Elevation:  4410 m

Your acclimatization day in Dingboche (4,410 m) is a crucial pause in the Everest Two Passes Trek, giving your body the time it needs to adapt to the thinning air before you ascend further. While this is a “rest” day, it’s best to keep active with a light hike to encourage better acclimatization.

One of the most popular acclimatization hikes from Dingboche is to Nangkartsang Peak (5,083 m), a vantage point that rewards you with sweeping views of Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and the Imja Valley. The hike is steady but steep, taking about 3–4 hours round trip, and is an excellent way to experience higher elevation before returning to sleep at a lower altitude.

Alternatively, you can take a gentler walk toward Chhukung (4,730 m) in the upper Imja Valley, passing beautiful yak pastures and enjoying incredible views of Island Peak and the surrounding glaciers.

In the afternoon, spend some time exploring Dingboche itself. This charming Sherpa village is spread across a wide, sunny valley, with traditional stone walls crisscrossing the fields. You can relax in a teahouse, chat with fellow trekkers, or simply soak in the crisp mountain air.

Staying overnight again in Dingboche not only helps your body adjust but also gives you a chance to appreciate the slower rhythm of life in the high Himalayas. Tomorrow, you’ll be climbing higher, so today’s mix of light activity and rest will set you up for success on the trail ahead.

Elevation:  4410 m → 4910 m

Leaving Dingboche behind, the trek to Lobuche (4,940 m) is a gradual but steady climb through the rugged and stark high-altitude landscapes of the Everest region. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through fields and stone walls, offering expansive views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and Lhotse.

As you gain altitude, the trees disappear, replaced by scrub and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass small settlements and memorials honoring climbers who have lost their lives on Everest, serving as a solemn reminder of the mountain’s challenges. The trail continues to ascend steadily, offering glimpses of the Khumbu Glacier and the dramatic ridges of the Everest massif in the distance.

Before reaching Lobuche, trekkers often pass Duglha (4,620 m), a small teahouse settlement ideal for a short rest and refreshment. From Duglha, the final stretch to Lobuche involves a gradual climb across rocky terrain with minimal vegetation, surrounded by towering peaks and glacial moraines.

Lobuche is a small, high-altitude settlement with basic teahouse accommodation, where trekkers can rest and prepare for the challenging day ahead toward Everest Base Camp. The village offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and provides a dramatic introduction to the high Himalayas, making it a perfect stop before tackling the final approach to the base of the world’s highest peak.

Elevation:  4910 m → 5164 m → 5364 m → 5164 m

Leaving Lobuche behind, the trek to Gorak Shep (5,164 m) follows a rocky trail alongside the Khumbu Glacier, offering dramatic views of the surrounding peaks, including Pumori, Lingtren, and the imposing Everest itself. The landscape here is stark and glacial, with moraine-covered paths and occasional icy stretches, giving trekkers a true high-altitude experience.

Upon arrival in Gorak Shep, the highest settlement on the trek, you’ll take a short rest before continuing on to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). The route from Gorak Shep to the base camp traverses loose rocks and gravel, with panoramic views of the Khumbu Icefall and towering Himalayan peaks. At Base Camp, you can soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere, seeing the starting point of many climbers’ historic ascents of Everest.

After exploring Base Camp, you’ll return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay in one of the simple teahouses. The village offers basic amenities but unforgettable views, making it the perfect place to rest and prepare for the early morning hike to Kala Patthar, where you’ll witness one of the most iconic sunrise panoramas over Everest and its neighboring. peaks.

Elevation:  5164 m → 5545 m → 4910 m

An early start today is essential, as you set out from Gorak Shep (5,164 m) for the iconic hike up to Kala Patthar (5,545 m)—one of the best vantage points for panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants. The trail is steep and demanding, especially at this altitude, but the effort is rewarded with a sunrise spectacle unlike any other. As the first rays of light strike the snow-capped peaks, you’ll witness Everest glowing gold alongside Nuptse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam.

After soaking in the scenery and capturing unforgettable photographs, you’ll descend back to Gorak Shep for breakfast. From here, the route retraces the trail through glacial moraines and the rugged Khumbu landscape as you gradually lose altitude, making your way to Lobuche (4,940 m). The walk feels easier compared to the climb, and the thicker air brings a welcome sense of relief after the extreme heights of Kala Patthar.

Arriving in Lobuche, you can enjoy a warm meal and rest in preparation for the next phase of your adventure—crossing high passes or continuing deeper into the Everest region. Today’s combination of a pre-dawn climb and a steady descent makes it both physically demanding and emotionally rewarding.

Elevation:  4910 m → 5100 m 

Leaving Lobuche (4,940 m) behind, today’s trek takes you toward the eastern reaches of the Khumbu Valley and the base of your climbing objective—Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m). The trail initially heads south toward Dughla, passing memorial cairns dedicated to climbers who have lost their lives in the Himalayas. From there, you’ll descend gradually into the Imja Khola Valley, where the landscape shifts from glacial moraines to alpine pastures.

After passing Pheriche or Dingboche, the air feels slightly warmer, and the towering peaks of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Makalu dominate the skyline. Continuing on, you follow the path to Chhukung, the last major settlement before Island Peak. From Chhukung, the route turns more rugged, with rocky trails and occasional glacial streams to cross as you approach base camp.

Reaching Island Peak Base Camp, you’ll set up camp amidst a dramatic amphitheater of snow-clad peaks. The afternoon is spent resting, checking gear, and receiving a briefing from your climbing guide about the summit attempt. Surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayas, the excitement builds as you prepare for the challenge ahead. Tonight, you’ll sleep under the stars at high altitude, with the looming silhouette of Island Peak as your constant reminder of tomorrow’s goal.

Elevation:  5100 m 

Today is dedicated to rest, acclimatization, and final preparation for your summit push on Island Peak (6,189 m). Spending an extra day at Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m) allows your body to adjust to the high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and improving your chances of a successful climb.

After breakfast, your climbing guide will conduct a skills training session on a nearby slope or glacier. You’ll practice using crampons, ice axes, ascenders, descenders, and ropes, along with techniques for traversing ladders over crevasses and climbing fixed lines on steep snow or ice. Even if you have prior experience, this refresher helps build confidence for the summit day’s technical sections.

The rest of the day is for hydration, light movement, and rest. Short acclimatization walks around the camp offer breathtaking views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Baruntse, and the glaciated Imja Valley. Meals are simple but energy-rich, designed to fuel your body for the demanding climb ahead.

As evening falls, the team reviews the summit plan, checking weather conditions, departure time, and safety protocols. The night is spent in your tent, conserving energy and mentally preparing for the early pre-dawn start that will take you to the top of one of Nepal’s most celebrated trekking peaks.

Elevation:  5100 m → 5600 m 

Today marks the transition from trekking to the final staging point for your Island Peak (6,189 m) summit bid. Leaving Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m), the route climbs steadily toward Island Peak High Camp (5,600 m), a strategically placed campsite that shortens the ascent on summit day.

The trail quickly becomes steeper and more rugged, weaving through rocky moraine ridges and sections of loose scree. At times, you’ll follow narrow paths carved into the hillside, with panoramic views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the Imja Glacier opening up behind you. The higher you climb, the thinner the air becomes, so the pace remains slow and deliberate to conserve energy and aid acclimatization.

Upon reaching High Camp, you’ll set up tents on a relatively flat section surrounded by icy ridges and towering peaks. The afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and making final gear checks—ensuring crampons, harnesses, ropes, and ice axes are ready for the pre-dawn summit push. Dinner is kept early and light, as you’ll be waking in the dark for one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the expedition.

As night falls, the stars blaze brilliantly overhead, and the silhouette of Island Peak looms close—reminding you that the summit is now within reach.

Elevation:  6189 m → 4730 m 

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of your expedition—a true test of endurance, skill, and determination. Your summit bid for Island Peak (6,189 m) begins in the pre-dawn hours, typically around 1:00–2:00 a.m., when the snow is firm and weather conditions are most stable.

The climb starts with a gradual ascent on a rocky trail before reaching steeper slopes of scree and frozen ground. Soon, you’ll step onto the glacier, where crampons, ropes, and ice axes become essential. Navigating crevasses and ladders requires focus and steady pacing, while fixed rope sections demand both physical and mental strength.

As the horizon begins to glow, the final push up the steep snow slope to the summit ridge offers one of the most exhilarating moments of the journey. Standing on the summit, you’re rewarded with 360-degree Himalayan panoramas, including Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, and even Everest in the distance. This is a moment to savor—a hard-earned victory in the thin, cold air of the high Himalaya.

After celebrating and taking photos, you’ll begin the careful descent, retracing your route back across the glacier and down to High Camp. Following a short rest and gear packing, you’ll continue the long descent back to Chhukung (4,730 m). The lower altitude feels refreshing, and the warmth of the teahouses offers comfort after the high-altitude challenge.

The evening in Chhukung is filled with well-deserved rest, hearty food, and the quiet pride of having conquered one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking peaks.

Elevation:  4730 m → 3985 m 

After the excitement and exertion of summiting Island Peak, today’s trek offers a more relaxed descent as you leave Chhukung (4,730 m) and head toward the traditional Sherpa village of Pangboche (3,985 m). The trail gradually descends through alpine meadows and moraine ridges, offering stunning views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks along the way.

The path passes through small streams, prayer flags, and stone-walled fields, providing glimpses of local Sherpa culture. The descent allows your body to recover from the high-altitude exertion, while the scenery remains dramatic and awe-inspiring.

As you approach Pangboche, the village comes into view, known for its ancient monastery, one of the oldest in the Khumbu region, and its welcoming Sherpa community. Lodges in Pangboche offer warm meals and cozy rooms, perfect for resting and reflecting on the high-altitude adventure behind you.

This day is a peaceful transition from the climbing portion back into the main trekking route, giving you time to enjoy the serenity of the Khumbu Valley while still surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery.

Elevation:  3985 m → 3440 m 

Leaving the charming Sherpa village of Pangboche (3,985 m), today’s trail takes you back toward the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). The route descends gradually through pine forests, terraced fields, and traditional stone walls, offering a relaxing contrast to the previous high-altitude days.

Along the way, you’ll pass small villages, mani walls, and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. The trail may also provide opportunities to spot yaks grazing in the meadows or Himalayan blue sheep on the distant slopes. The descent feels easier on the legs and lungs, as the air becomes thicker and more comfortable.

Approaching Namche Bazaar, the vibrant energy of the town becomes apparent. Shops, bakeries, and tea houses line the narrow streets, offering warm meals, cozy rooms, and the chance to reconnect with fellow trekkers. This stop is ideal for rest, resupply, and reflection on the incredible journey through the Everest region.

Spending the night in Namche allows you to fully recover from the trekking and climbing adventure while enjoying the culture and hospitality of the Sherpa community before continuing your descent toward Lukla.

Elevation:  3440 m → 2800 m 

Today marks the final day of your trek as you leave Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) and descend toward Lukla (2,860 m), the gateway to the Everest region. The trail winds gently through the Khumbu Valley, passing small villages, terraced fields, and lush forests of pine and rhododendron. The gradual descent feels easier on your legs and lungs, providing a welcome relief after many high-altitude trekking days.

Along the way, you’ll cross several suspension bridges over roaring glacial streams, and may encounter yaks or local herders tending their flocks. The scenery transitions from alpine landscapes to more verdant lower valleys, offering a final opportunity to soak in the natural beauty of the region.

Approaching Lukla, the atmosphere becomes livelier as trekkers converge on the town and the busy airstrip comes into view. Arriving in Lukla brings a mix of accomplishment and relief—after days of trekking through remote villages, high passes, and glacial trails, you’ve returned to a familiar hub with comfortable lodges and bustling activity.

Spending the night in Lukla allows for a restful evening before your flight back to Kathmandu, marking the conclusion of an unforgettable adventure through the Everest region, combining both trekking and the high-altitude challenge of summiting Island Peak.

Elevation:  2800 m → 1400 m 

After completing your incredible journey through the Khumbu region, today you’ll take an early morning flight from Lukla (2,860 m) back to Kathmandu (1,350 m). The short flight, lasting about 30–40 minutes, is a final chance to admire the stunning Himalayan panorama from the air, including views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, as you descend toward Nepal’s bustling capital.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax, refresh, and celebrate the completion of your expedition. This is the perfect time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences, from trekking through remote Sherpa villages and glacial valleys to summiting Island Peak and witnessing the majesty of Everest up close.

The evening may be spent enjoying a celebratory dinner with your trekking group and guides, sharing stories, and taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu. This marks the formal end of the Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak Climbing, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.