Trip FactsDuration: 10 days,Trip Destination: Island peak submitProgram Type: tea house trek / camping,Max. Altitude: 6100m,Minimum Pax: one,Activities: trek, hikeand climb,Start Trip: Lukla,End Trip: Lukla,Accommodation: Local base but net and clean and tent,Meals: Breakfast,lunch and dinner,Best Season: sep to dec and feb to june,Transportation: Domestic plane and car,Per Day Walking: 4 to 6 hours,Trip Grade: gradegradegradeIsland Peak is a relatively easy trekking peak in the Everest region. From Kathmandu we fly to Lukla (30 minute flight) were we prepare for the trek and then we trek to Phakding (2660m). The way to Namche Bazaar crosses the Dudh Koshi river many times via suspension bridges until the final ascent to Namche Bazaar through pine forests. We rest here to acclimatize and can visit the museum and view Mount Everest and the surrounding Everest range. This village is a Sherpa trade centre supplying the whole of the Everest region with goods and services. We leave the forests and enter a more alpine environment where you may see deer, wild goats and yaks. We then reach Tangbuche (3890m) where there is a large monastery. The monks chant every morning and evening adding to the magical atmosphere. The views again stretch across the Everest range. At the end of September there is an annual Buddhist festival called ‘Manirimdu’ where people from all over this region come to be blessed by the respected monks.Following the lush valley we arrive in Pangbuche (4000m) where you can visit the oldest monastery in the Everest region. The Sherpas from this village are famed for their mountaineering experience and often support the teams attempting to climb Mount Everest. The trail continues from here gently ascending until Dingbuche (4,360m) a large settlement between Amadablam, Lhotse and Everest. We rest again to acclimatize for the climb. This is the junction for the trail to Everest Base Camp and Island Peak Base Camp. After 5 hours following the Chhukung Valley we reach Island Peak Base Camp where we pitch our tents ready for the climb.The climbing guide will then talk through and demonstrate how to use the winter mountaineering equipment. An early start is required to climb the glacier to reach the summit (approximately a 4 hour climb). After absorbing the breathtaking views across the Everest Range and the Tibetan Plateau we descend back to Chhuking village or Dingbuche. We return to Lukla along the same trail. We celebrate our success then with a farewell meal for the porters who have supported us in our efforts. An early morning flight takes us back to Kathmandu.
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