Island Peak with Everest Three Passes Trek – 20 Days

Our airport representative will receive you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. A private tourist car will drop you off at the hotel. You will have some time for refreshment and relaxation. Then, you can see us at the office to get the specifics of the trek schedule. After finishing, you can explore around your hotel area or do last-minute shopping for your journey.

Today, you will first drive from Kathmandu to Manthali Airport, Ramechhap. From here, you will take a 25-minute short yet thrilling flight to Lukla. In Lukla, we will serve you breakfast. Our guide will split the luggage for the porters to carry while you eat breakfast. Then, you will begin our trek to Phakding.

You will only take a short hike on this first day of your adventure. The Island Peak with Everest Three Passes Trekking trail on this day is relatively easier with not many challenging sections. It begins with a short descent through rhododendron and pine forests. The trail follows the beautiful Dudh Koshi River. Along the way, you will pass by several small Sherpa settlements, mani walls, prayer flags, and chortens.

Similarly, you will cross several suspension bridges over raging rivers. On clear days, you can get a distant view of Mount Kusum Kanguru. The trail is mostly downhill and a gentle slope trek. You will stay overnight in a lodge in Phakding. It is a beautiful village that sits on the riverbank. In the evening, you can explore the village and its surroundings.

You will resume our Three Pass trek with Island Peak Climbing from Phakding after breakfast. Just as you exit Phakding village, you will cross a suspension bridge. Then, you will follow the trail along the Dudh Koshi River. For the first few hours, you will trek on gentle paths. It enters lush forests of conifers and walks past several Sherpa villages like Toktok, Benkar, and Jorsalle. Likewise, you will also pass by prayer wheels, mani walls, and chortens. You will cross five suspension bridges that span the Dudh Kosi River. Upon reaching Monjo, you will register your permit number and group information at the entrance gate of Sagarmatha National Park. From here, your trek within the national park begins.

Moving forward, you will cross the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge, one of the highest bridges in the Everest region. The trail starts to get challenging from here. You begin trekking on a steep and zigzag path through pine forests to Namche Bazaar. The steep climb, combined with growing altitude, makes it the toughest part of today’s trek. Located in the heart of the Khumbu district, Namche Bazaar is the “Sherpa Capital” and trading hub of the region. There are a decent number of shops, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and teahouses here. You can get your first glimpse of Mount Everest if the weather favors us. For two days, you will rest and acclimatize in Namche.

Your day 5 adventure starts from Namche Bazaar after breakfast. The trail ascends gently and passes by mani walls, prayer flags, and chortens. After about 30 minutes of trekking, the path begins to level out. Then, the trail continues to go along the ride before slowly descending towards Kyangjuma. All the while, the gorgeous snow-capped mountain peaks are visible at the distance. The path leads towards Phungi Tanka, offering views of beautiful landscapes. You will continue descending and cross a suspension bridge. The Phungi Tanka village sits on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River.

The trail starts to climb steeply from here onwards. It becomes more challenging as you climb through forested slopes with moss-covered trees. En route, you may come across a yak caravan. The terrain is rugged, and the elevation gain makes the journey more challenging. You will follow the trail to Tengboche village, which sits on a wide open ridge. Tengboche is popular for its iconic Tengboche monastery and breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. The serene and spiritual environment offers deep cultural and herbal marvels. The challenges, views, and experiences make it a memorable leg of the overall trekking excursion.

Today, the trek begins from Tengboche and takes you to Dingboche. You will start with a steep downhill descent through forests of rhododendron and pine. There are a few stone steps along the way, but you will mostly hike on dirt trails toward Deboche. You will continue trekking through forests of rhododendrons, firs, and birch, before crossing a long suspension bridge over Imja Khola. After crossing the bridge, the Island Peak with Everest Three Passes Trek route starts climbing gently. You will trek along the Imja Khola valley to reach the charming village of Pangboche.

The village gives you a glimpse into Sherpa culture and Tibetan Buddhism. It is home to one of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu region, the Upper Pangboche Monastery. The panoramic mountain views get more beautiful as you ascend higher. Similarly, the landscape also transitions from lush forests to alpine meadows and highland pasture. You will start trekking on the rugged Himalayan terrain. The route passes by Orsho village, where it splits into two. The left trail takes you to Pheriche, while the right one heads towards Dingboche. You will take the right turn and ascend on rocky paths. Dingboche is nestled in the lap of the mountains and offers panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak. It is located in the Imja Valley. You will rest here for the next two days.

Dingboche provides a vital acclimatization stop for trekkers heading to even higher altitudes. Today is your rest day, so you can spend the day resting at the village. You can explore the village and enjoy local foods at a comfortable hotel.

However, those feeling adventurous can take an optional side hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m). The hike is challenging, and you will have to climb uphill on rocky steps with loose scree. In addition to the rugged terrain, the winding trail is narrow and exposed to high wind. The landscape is barren, and the high altitude can cause one to experience altitude sickness. Upon reaching the Nangkartshang, grand views will greet you. From majestic Ama Dablam to Island Peak, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, the panoramic mountain view will leave you breathless. Below, you can see the beautiful Imja Valley. After the excursion, you will return to Dingboche and stay overnight.

On Day 8, you will begin your trek from Dingboche to Chhukung. Before that, you will enjoy a hearty breakfast in Dingboche while enjoying the views. Leaving the village, you will pass by numerous stone walls and pastures. The trail gently begins to ascend on rocky paths. Along the way, you will pass by small yak pastures and settlements. Similarly, the trail continues to climb, and you can get up close views of the towering mountain peaks.

You will continue your gradual uphill climb along the valley until you arrive in Chhukung. It will be your overnight stop. The valley from here starts to open up towards the Island Peak Base Camp. After checking in at your accommodation, you can take time to relax and acclimatize. In the evening, you can explore the village and recharge yourselves after today’s adventure. It is important to stay hydrated, dress in layers, and follow the guide’s.

You will start your morning with a hearty breakfast in Chhukung. You will leave behind Chhukung and join the trail that heads right towards the south. It starts on a flat trail and gradually begins to ascend on rocky terrain. You will trek along the northern side of the Imja Khola while enjoying the view of Ama Dablam. The trail takes you deeper into the Imja Valley, while continuously gaining elevation.

From the Imja Valley, you will trek through moraine ridges. The surrounding is just rocky and glacial debris with no vegetation. Since the route is exposed, it can get very windy. For the final stretch of today’s trek, you will make a steep ascent and head towards Island Peak Base Camp. The base camp sits on a flat section of moraine below the Island Peak. There are no teahouses or lodging here, so you will have to stay in a tent tonight.

After settling in, take time to rest and acclimatize. Similarly, attend a briefing with a manual concerning the following day’s climb and safety measures. Conclude the day with a replenishing dinner and make sure your mountain climbing gear is organized for the ascent.

An exciting day lies ahead of you today. Finally, you will summit the iconic Island Peak, and you will begin early. You will have breakfast at 2:00 AM and ascend to Island Peak’s High Camp at 3:00 AM. The trail immediately starts to go uphill steeply. You have to trek on a narrow, ridge-like trail that’s mostly gravel and rocky. From the High Camp, the Island Peak Climbing route becomes more demanding. Guided by our experienced crew, you will push to the summit around 6:00 AM. We aim to reach the summit by 10:00 AM to avoid the high winds in the afternoon.

The route takes you through a narrow ridge along a glacier edge. You must climb uphill while navigating crevasses and may have to use fixed ropes. Similarly, you have to use gear like ropes and jumars to climb a steep ice-snow slope with a 45°–60° incline. After overcoming it, you will follow a short, exposed snow ridge that takes you to the summit. Standing on top of the Island Peak is an exhilarating experience. You can witness panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, and more.

After the challenging climbing, you will begin your descent to High Camp and then to the Island Peak Base Camp. You will retrace your steps through glacier moraines and rugged terrain along the Imja Valley. Descending is comparatively easier, but still physically demanding. You will follow the familiar path to Chhukung and stay here overnight.

On Day 11, you will leave Chhukung and head to Lobuche via Kongma La Pass. As soon as you leave the village, the trail starts to ascend steeply through glacial moraine and rocky terrain. The winding trail with rocky slope ascends towards Kongma La Pass. You must overcome boulders and glacial debris to get to the top of the pass. Reaching the top of the pass, fluttering prayer flags and panoramic mountain views greet you. Similarly, you can also see the beautiful Khumbu Glacier.

After feasting your eyes on the mesmerizing views of Makalu, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and other surrounding peaks, you will begin your descent. Although descending is comparatively easier than climbing uphill, it is still steep and tricky. You will navigate the glacial moraine and some icy sections while climbing down from the Kongma La Pass. Then, you will cross a glacier before gradually climbing a small ridge. After trekking for a while, you will finally reach Lobuche. You will stay here for the night. Conclude the day with dinner, unwind, and prepare for the following day’s journey.

You have another exciting day ahead of you. Today, you will join the classic trail to the iconic Everest Base Camp. With the excitement in the air, you will follow the trail along the Khumbu Glacier’s lateral moraine. You must trek on rugged terrain and glacial debris. The trail gradually begins to gain elevation and takes you to Gorakshep. Similarly, it offers a beautiful view of Pumori, Nuptse, Lingtren, and Khumbu Icefall along the way.

From Gorakshep, you will continue ascending along the Khumbu Glacier’s edge. The trail takes you over glacial moraines and prayer flags. Finally, you will reach the Everest Base Camp, right at the foothill of the world’s highest mountain, Everest (8,848.86 m). While the summit of Everest itself is not visible from here, you can enjoy a gorgeous view of the mountain. The base camp also offers gorgeous views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Lingtren, Changtse, and many other towering peaks.

After enjoying the views to your heart’s content, you will descend to Gorakshep. You will rest your tired muscles after oyur long day’s trek at a lodge here.

On Day 13, you start the day with a 5:00 AM hike to the iconic Kala Patthar. You will reach the summit by 6:30 AM to witness a panoramic sunrise over Everest and neighboring peaks. The climb to the famous viewpoint is rocky and steep. Similarly, you will follow the ridge along the Lobuche Glacier. Sunrise from Kala Patthar is undeniably one of the highlights of the Island Peak with Everest Three Passes Trek. You can see an unobstructed view of Everest as well as other surrounding peaks.

After enjoying the sunrise view, you will descend to Gorakshep. You will have breakfast and head east towards Dzongla. The trail follows the Lobuche Glacier moraine. Likewise, the terrain is a mix of rocky ridges, moraines, and glacial debris. En route, you will pass by small temporary camps and teahouses. You can also see the Cho La Pass route and the Amphu Laptsa area. Tonight you will stay at Dzongla. Conclude the day with dinner, sharing trekking tales, and preparing for the next day’s adventure.

You will enjoy a hearty breakfast with a view before leaving Dzongla. The trail starts to ascend gradually through rocky moraines. As you trek higher, the Island Peak with Everest Three Passes becomes steeper and more exposed. Along the way, you will cross snowfields and glacial streams. The more you gain elevation, the steeper the slope becomes. The winding path on loose and rocky terrain will finally take you to Cho La Pass. Adorned with colorful prayer flags, enjoy the beautiful views of towering peaks, glaciers, and Imja Valley.

You will descend from the south-eastern side of the Cho La Pass top. It is steep with some technical sections. Be careful with your footing and climb downhill gradually. After successfully descending, the slope begins to ease. Similarly, the barren landscapes transition into alpine meadows. You will follow the stone-paved trail and reach Dragnag village. It is a small but beautiful village where you will rest overnight.

On this day, you will take a half-day rest at Dragnag to recover from yesterday’s challenging Cho La Pass crossing. Then, you will continue your Island Peak with Everest Three Passes Trek. The trail goes downhill following the northern bank of the Dudh Koshi River. You will trek past alpine meadows, yak pastures, and glacial moraines. Similarly, you will overcome occasional stone steps along the way.

The trek today is mostly on a gentle uphill slope with minimal steep sections. As you get closer to Gokyo, the trail gets slightly steeper. The stunning view of Nepal’s longest glacier, Ngozumpa Glacier, also comes into view. You will stay overnight in Gokyo, enjoying the serene atmosphere and views.

Day 16 begins with a 5:00 AM ascent to Gokyo Ri. We aim to reach the summit by 6:30 AM to witness the enchanting dawn over the Everest region. The climb starts with a moderately steep trail that becomes steeper at the final section to the summit of Gokyo Ri. You will trek through moraine ridges that get narrower and rockier as you go higher. Luckily, there are no technical sections.

Upon reaching the top of Gokyo Ri, you can witness the stunning, turquoise Gokyo Lakes, such as Thonak Cho, Ngozumpa Cho, Dudh Pokhari, and more. Likewise, you can also see Ngozumpa Glacier and panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas. After enjoying the view, you will descend to Gokyo. Enjoy a well-deserved breakfast upon your return, and spend the rest of the morning and afternoon in Gokyo for relaxation. Dinner in Gokyo provides an opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights, weather, and enjoy stargazing under the clear nighttime sky. You will stay another night at Gokyo Tea House or your selected lodging.

You will resume your trek from Gokyo and cross the third and final high mountain pass today. Your day begins early with a 6:00 AM breakfast in Gokyo. Then, you set out ready for the challenging trek ahead and depart for Renjo La Pass at 7:00 AM. The trail goes uphill towards north-northeast, passing the upper Gokyo Lakes. You will trek along the glacial moraine and lateral ridges of Ngozumpa Glacier. Similarly, the ascent gets steeper as you get closer to the top of the Renjo La Pass. The top of the pass is exposed, narrow, and rocky. It offers a stunning view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and more. You can see glacial valleys down below.

After spending some time at the top, you will make a steep descent along the rocky slopes. It is relatively easier than climbing, but it does put pressure on your knees. After the descent, the trail gradually eases. It takes you through alpine meadows, yak pastures, stone-paved paths, and lateral ridges. Finally, you will reach Lumde and check into a lodge here. In the evening, you will relax, have dinner, and reflect on the day’s rewarding yet demanding adventure.

Your day starts with a 7:00 AM breakfast in Lumde, setting the stage for a trek to Namche Bazaar through Marlung. You will leave Lumde by 8:00 AM and begin with a gradual descent through alpine meadows. The trail follows the Imja Khola Valley and takes you past rocky ridges. En route, you will cross several wooden bridges over rushing streams. After traversing various terrains, you will take a lunch break in Marlung at noon to rest before the journey to Namche Bazaar.

After the brief break, you will resume the trek. The trail continues to descend, passing by Sherpa villages. Once again, the landscape starts to become greener, and you begin trekking through rhododendron forests. The trail also merges with the main Everest Base Camp Trekking route and takes you to Namche Bazaar by 3:00 PM. You will check in at your lodges. Then, you can rest and immerse ourselves in the bustling mountain metropolis’s environment. Spend the night exploring the town, purchasing souvenirs, or soaking in the neighborhood lifestyle.

Day 19 starts with an 8:00 AM breakfast in Namche Bazaar. Today marks the very last leg of your trek. You will descend from Namche Bazaar to Lukla at 9:00 AM, following the familiar path and taking in panoramic mountain perspectives. At 12:30 PM, you will have lunch while enjoying the trip. Then, you will resume the descent through captivating villages and lush landscapes and arrive in Lukla by 3:00 PM.

Upon checking in at the lodge in Lukla, your trekking adventure ends. In the evening, we will have a celebratory dinner, reflecting on the memorable stories. Express gratitude to your hiking crew and spend the night relaxing, perhaps sharing stories with fellow trekkers or the local community.

Today is the final day of your Island Peak with Everest Three Passes Trekking journey. After breakfast, you will check out of your Lukla lodging and catch a morning flight to Ramechhap. After arriving in Ramechhap, you will drive back to Kathmandu, while enjoying the views of rural landscapes. Upon reaching Kathmandu, check into your chosen accommodation, rest, and relax.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner, savoring Nepali delicacies and reflecting on your hiking adventure. With this, our journey together concludes. Thank you for choosing Himalaya Guide Nepal.