Useful Info
Himalayan Penchant
Climbing Island Peak is a very good way to keep your feet into the climbing world of Himalayas. The journey is not technically challenging, but do require strong physical fitness, stamina, and will power perfect for novice climbers. Island Peak Climbing 17-days offers a completely different perspective of the Everest region. From the rich culture of locals to the tempting beauty of the Himalayan landscape there is a lot to explore and experience during Island Peak Climbing. Likewise, huge glaciers and snow-capped mountains like Mt. Everest 98,848 m), Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), etc makes the journey more intriguing.
Island Peak Climbing landmark
Lukla
Lukla is the starting point of the Island Peak Climbing. A scenic flight from Kathmandu will take you to Lukla in a short time. Known as one of the extreme airports in the media, flying to Lukla will be the most thrilling flight of your life.
Namche Bazar
Namche Bazar is the most popular place in the Khumbu region. It is also the biggest residence area for Sherpa's. The village has many facilities like luxury lodges, fine cafes & restaurants, WiFi, etc.
Island Peak
Standing 6,189 meters high, Island Peak is a gorgeous peak. The peak is located between Ama Dablam and Lhotse on top of Chukung glacier. From the top of the peak, you will get to witness a surreal view of the surroundings.
Culture
During Island Peak Climbing, you will trek through several villages that will present you the rich culture and tradition of Sherpa people. People here are mostly bound by Buddhism. The entire region is full of monasteries, chortens, gumba, and mani stones that will showcase you the cultural richness of the region. Similarly, you will stay overnight in several villages during the trek, which will give you a chance to interact with locals and take a deep look into their unique lifestyle, beliefs, and values.
Ethnic Diversity
People from the Sherpa community mostly lives in the Khumbu region. Similarly, you can also find Rais, Limbus, Sunwars, Manangis, and Lopas. All of these people are from different community and carries their own major festivals, culture, languages, dress, and delicacies.
Natural Aptitude
During the Island Peak Climbing, you will come across vegetation that ranges from subalpine to alpine zone. The trail passes by Sagarmatha National Park, which is home to many wildlife including rare ones like the red panda, snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, etc. Likewise, you will also get to see many flora and herbal plants. Moreover, other parts of the trail also include beautiful forests of rhododendron, pine, fir, maple, cedar, juniper, etc.
Island Peak Climbing difficulty
Island Peak Climbing is a difficult journey not in terms of technical climbing but the journey is physically exhausting. The long steep ascends, rugged path, and high altitude makes the journey strenuous. You need to walk on slippery and snowy areas for a minimum of 5 hours a day daily. You’ll need to adapt to sleeping on hard beds and withstand sub-zero temperatures. However, it doesn't mean one cannot go on this trek. Good health and strong physical fitness are all you need to go on Island Peak Climbing.
Altitude Sickness and Prevention
Altitude sickness is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It is a common illness that travelers experience during high altitude journey. As Island Peak Climbing also takes you above 6,000 meters there are chances of altitude sickness. However, including enough rest days in between the trip and drinking plenty of water can help avoid AMS.
Transportation and Bag Pack
Island Peak Climbing 17-days begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla. From here, you will begin and towards the base of Island Peak gradually.
Below is the list of things that you should carry during Island Peak Climbing:
- T-shirts and Pants (Innerwear)
- Thermal Wears
- Breathable Underwears
- Trekking Pants/Shoes/Socks
- Insulating Jacket
- Rain jacket
- Warm woolen Gloves
- Sun hat/woolen hat
- Goggles
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking Pole
- Crampons
- Harness
- Rope
- First aid kit
- Toiletries (toilet paper, hand sanitizer, sunblock, towel, soap, shampoo, sanitary napkins, etc)
- Miscellaneous (camera, extra batteries, journal, cards, bars, snacks, water purification tablets, etc)
Food and Accommodation during Island Peak Climbing
The Island Peak Climbing takes you through the bustling settlements first, and later it joins the isolated parts of the Himalayas. You will be staying at teahouses and small lodges. Food in the trails is pretty average, as it includes dal bhat tarkari, dhido, momo, noodles, sandwich, tea, coffee, etc. You can carry extra food if you want. 3-star and 5-star hotels will be your major resting spot in the city. There will be unlimited options to dig on in Kathmandu.
Best Season to go on Island Peak Climbing
The best to go on Island Peak Climbing is during the Autumn season, which starts in October and ends at mid-December. The snow is also not too much, and the sun is not too overpowering as well. The monsoon clears the clouds and fog, which provides you with clear views of mountains. Likewise, Spring is another good time to climb Island Peak.
However, Monsoon (June to mid-September) and Winter (December to February) is not a preferable time to go on Island Peak Climbing 17-days. The rainfall makes the views unclear and trail also become slippery & full of insects. And, the harsh cold makes the journey almost impossible.
Island Peak Climbing Cost
Island Peak Climbing cost can vary from one travel agency to another. The cost will include food & accommodation during the trek, all necessary permits, first aid kit, and expenses of guides & porters. For more detailed information, you can check our cost includes and cost excludes part. With us, you will find the most affordable and comprehensive cost for Island Peak Climbing.
Miscellaneous
- Make sure to carry insect repellents and table salts
- Collect enough information on the weather and temperature
- Get yourself a nice map
- Maintain body hydration- drink plenty of water daily
- Walk slow and safely
- Take out insurance that will cover any emergency evacuation and property loss
- Carry hand cash as there will be no atm on the way
- Pack light
- Do not get obsessed over network and internet; spend time in nature