Everest Base Camp - Kalapthar - Island Peak Climbing

Everest Base Camp - Kalapthar - Island Peak Climbing

The beauty of its mountains and hospitality and warmth of its Sherpa people are legendary. This wonderful trek takes us into the heart of the Khumbu Valley, and visits Everest Base Camp. An ascent of Kala Pattar (5545m), is good acclimatization and gives us magnificent close-up views of Everest. Leaving the main trail we decent to Chhukung via Dingboche. We then move into the Imja Valley to the base of Island Peak. The climb of Island Peak (6189m) is challenging, involving scrambling on rock, an ascent of a snow face and then tackling the final ridge. For those who are well acclimatized, determined and have the energy, the views from the top provide some of the most striking scenery in the Khumbu region. Our descent, surprisingly fast, brings us back to Lukla and to our flight to Kathmandu.

Trip Facts

Starting from: Kathmandu – Lukla Flight
Ending at : Lukla
Maximum Elevation : 6173m Island Peak
Mode of Trip : Lodge & Tended Camp Trek
Grade : Challenging
Activities : Trekking + Tour
Group Size : 02 (minimum)
Departure : Every day throughout the week
Per Day Hiking : 5-7 hours
Culture : Different Community with majority of Sherpa, Tamang & Tibetan.
Best Time: October, November, December, March, April, May & June
Trip Price: USD 2215.00 per person

Trip Highlight

  • Exploring the temples, shrines, bazaars and restaurants of Kathmandu
  • Scenic flight to and from Lukla.
  • Step inside and experience life as the “mountain people” live, in the heart of Himalaya.
  • Visiting Tengboche Monastery.
  • Impressive views of Khumbu Ice fall.
  • Everest Base Camp, walking on the Khumbu glacier, Climbing Kalapattar.
  • Attempting Island Peak.

Day to day itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu airport, meet our staff & transfers to Hotel.
Day 02: Sightseeing: Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath temple, Patan Durbar square and Swayambhunath temple. 4/5 hrs.
Day 03: Preparation day.
Day 04: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding 2610m.
Day 05: Phakding - Namche Bazaar 3440m.
Day 06: Namche rest for acclimatization & explore
Day 07: Namche - Thyangboche3860m.
Day 08: Thyangboche - Pheriche.
Day 09: Pheriche - Lobuche 4940m.
Day 10: Lobuche - Kala Pattar 5554m - Gorakshep (5180m) 7 hrs.
Day 11: Gorakshep - Everest Base Camp (5365m) - Lobuche 7 hrs.
Day 12: Lobuche - Chhukung 4750m.
Day 13: Chhukung - Island Peak base camp 5240m.
Day 14: Island Peak BC - High Camp & preparation day.
Day 15: HC - Island Peak 6173m. summit & back to Chhukung.
Day 16: Chhukung - Pangboche.
Day 17: Pangboche -Namche via Thyangboche 3860m.
Day 18: Namche Bazar 3440m - Lukla 5 hrs.
Day 19: Lukla - Kathmandu by early flight & transfer to Hotel.
Day 20: Day free in Kathmandu
Day 21: Transfer to Airport for onward journey.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu
On arrival in Kathmandu you are met by our representative who will transport you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu for the night.
Day 02: Kathmandu City Tour
After having breakfast enjoy a guide sightseeing tour around Kathmandu valley. You will visit many Buddhist and Hindu temples which reflect the local culture and tradition of Nepalese society. In the evening you will return to the Hotel.
Day 03: Flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Trek to Phadking (2700m)
You have a scenic flight of 30 - 35 minutes to Lukla (2800m) from Kathmandu. In Lukla you can see the airline office and numerous lodges. The trail from Lukla leads you to Chablung (2700) and it descends steeply to the Tharo Kosi which is also known as Kusum Kangru Khola (river). Beyond the Tharo Kosi Bridge, the trail climbs to Ghat (2590) and again climbs to Phadking. In Phadking you can climb to the gompa to see your first view of the high peaks. Now you will really feeling like you have arrived in the Himalayan Kingdom. Stay at Guest house- Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast. O/N at Phadking.
Day 04: Phadking to Namche Bazaar (3420m)
From Phadking the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and reaches Zamphuti. From here you can see excellent views of Thamserku peak. Then the trail climbs to Chomoa, the site of an agricultural project, an interesting place to have a look around and gain an insight into the farming way of life of these people. From Chomoa, the trail again climbs to Monjo (2840m) and enters the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park (1148sq km, established in 1976). Walking some distance up hill you will be at Jorsale (2830m) and after a long climb with views of Mt. Everest peeking over the ridge of Nuptse (7879m) the trail reaches the street of Namche Bazaar. Stay at Guest house- Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast. O/N at Namche Bazaar (3420m).
Day 05: Acclimatization in Namche (3420)
After having breakfast take some sightseeing around Namche Bazaar. Then you can hike to the Everest View Hotel, the ideal place to overview some of the outstanding mountains such as Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Lhotse etc. Make sure you have your camera to capture this moment. You can walk around the Khumjung valley, Hillery School and Khunde Hospital and then return back to Namche. In the centre of Namche you can visit the mountaineering museum and visit the Sagarmata Pollution Control Committee (SPCC). In Namche Bazaar you can spend some time interacting with the fun-loving Sherpa and Rai people. In Namche above the police check post you will see Sagarmatha National Park headquarters and if you want to look at the visitor centre it is open from 8am to 4pm except Saturdays and holidays. Stay at Guest house- Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast. O/N at Namche.
Day 06- Trek to Tengboche Monastery (3860 meters) 5 hours.
The trek continues along the rushing glacial waters of the Dudh Kosi with magnificent views of the mountains. We trek to an altitude of 3860meters today. On reaching Tengboche you will see the local monastery. Inside the monastery are incredibly ornate wall hangings, a 20-foot sculpture of Buddha, and the musical instruments and robes of the Lamas. The group will be taken to observe a prayer ceremony either in the evening or morning depending on how the days trekking went. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 07- Trek to Pheriche (4200 meters) 5.30 hours.
We descend for half an hour to river side through nice forest,, cross the river and start trekking up towards opposite hill and landscapes starts more dry and desert afterwards. We will cross a traditional and cultural sherpa village Panboche where we can see a close up daily activities of sherpa people. After this, we make a gradual up towards a small hill afterwards trail goes to wide mountain valley called pheriche. This is a nice wide village located on the riverside. A small helipad is available here for helicopter rescue and daily High altitude Mountain sickness class available here with Mt. Specialist. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 08- Rest and acclimatization day.
Today you can enjoy another day for acclimatization. We will have trip to Dingboche Ri to get a marvelous view of the surrounding mountains, especially Lhotse�s massive south wall, then return to Dingboche in the evening. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 09- Trek to Lobuche (4910 meters) 5 hours.
Today, the trail continues along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and passes by stone memorials for climbers who have perished on nearby summits. We continue to climb as we are heading to the altitude of 4910 meters at Lobuche which is really just a few huts at the foot of giant Lobuche peak. Some breathing problems may arise today due to the altitude. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 10- Trek to Gorak Shep (5180 meters) then hike up to Kalapattar (5555 meters) back to Gorak Shep. 7 hours.
This will be one of the most difficult yet rewarding days of the trek. Most of this day is spent climbing Mt. Kala Patar, a small peak (by Himalayan standards) at 5555meters. The ascent is demanding but the climber gets the most magnificent mountain panorama possible: Everest, the highest point on the planet at 29028ft, 8848meters, towers directly ahead and on all sides loom the other giants, Nuptse, Pumori, Chagatse, Lhotse and countless others. If possible we can stay and watch the awe-inspiring sunset on Everest and its neighbours. We make a quick descent to Gorak Shep, a tiny hamlet at 5180 meters. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 11- Trek to Everest Base Camp (5365 meters) then back to Lobuche (4910 meters). 7 hours.
This is another big day walk along the Khumbu Glacier and up to Everest Base Camp at 5365meters. , the closest you can get to Mt. Everest without mountaineering equipment. There will likely be a team there about to attempt the summit. The view of the Khumbu Icefall from Base Camp is spectacular. We return down to Lobuche for the night. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 12- Trek to Chukkung (4710 meters), 6 hours.
From Lobuche we take a slightly different route down to Dingboche. Then we slightly ascend into the Chukkung Valley. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 13- Trek to Island peak base camp (5240 meters) 4 hours.
From Chukkung we make a leisurely start following the Imja Valley with great views of Ama Dablam dominating the skyline and follow the moraines that flow from Lhotse (8501meters) towards the sand flats at Pareshaya Gyab. It is only a short distance from here to Base Camp, which we will reach in the mid-afternoon. Today is only 4 hours walking as we are becoming acclimatized to the thinning of air, from today the accommodation will be tented camp for next two days and you will be having camp food cooked by our professional cook. Overnight at Tented camp.
Day 14 & 15- Summit to Island peak (6187meters) and return to Chhukung (4750meters)
We have allowed two days to climb Island Peak, although we will probably not require more than one if weather conditions are fine. The strategy for the climb will be decided by our trek leader at the time, taking into account the group's acclimatization, weather, snow conditions and other factors. Generally we rest in the morning and after lunch ascend from Base Camp to High Camp (5700m), a steep, two-hour climb up grassy slopes on a well-defined trail. The site of the camp is just below the permanent snowline. The following morning we leave very early for the final climb to the summit. This may take between four and six hours, depending on snow and weather conditions. We will fix a rope on the summit headwall for safety on both the ascent and descent. Although it is not a difficult climb technically, the snow slopes are crevassed, the headwall is reasonably steep and a head for heights is useful. To reach the summit, willpower and stamina are required, but the incredible feeling of achievement atop this 6000-meters giant will remain a lifetime memory. The view from the summit is utterly fantastic! Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Makalu and Baruntse are the dominant giants rising above a sea of 'lesser' peaks. Given good conditions we should be able to descend back to Chhukhung from our summit attempt. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 16- Trek to Tengboche (3860meters). 6 hours.
Leaving the mountains behind us our descent takes us through various towns of Dingboche, Orsho, Shomare and Lower Pangboche to reach the suspension bridge over the Imja Khola River to ascend gradually through Debuche and then to Tengboche at 3800 meters. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 17- Trek to Namche Bazaar (3441meters) via Khumjung (2780 metres) . 5 hours
From Tengboche we descend steeply through beautiful forest of juniper, rhododendron and fir to Phunkitenga. After a welcome break and perhaps a cup of tea we cross the Dudh Kosi River and ascend to Trashinga. From here the trail contours high above the valley through to Shanasa, where we have the option of visiting Kunde and Khumjung villages before returning to Namche Bazaar - our stop for the night. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 18- Trek to Lukla (2804meters) 5 hours .
This is our last day of trekking, finally we return to Lukla where the trek began, which will seem like a lifetime ago. Enjoying time to reflect on the trek as a group and the personal achievement of all those who took part. In the afternoon is free to wander around, relax or perhaps enjoy a hot shower! In the evening we enjoy a farewell dinner, followed by a few celebratory drinks and dancing with our Sherpa companions. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 19- Morning flight to Kathmandu.
We rise early in the morning to be ready for the arrival of our aircraft for the flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu we are met and transferred back to our starting hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 20- Leisure day in Kathmandu.
It's also spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla.
Day 21- Transfer for your final flight departure.
The trip ends, our Airport Representative will drop you to the Kathmandu International Airport for your flight departure from Nepal.

Altitute Sickness

Altitude sickness often known as acute mountain sickness (A.M.S.) in general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. We ensure minimal risk by building in rest days into our trekking itineraries. Most people will feel some affect of altitude, shortness of breath and possibly a light headed, which is fairly common. Acute mountain sickness is very different and normally involves a severe headache, sickness and loss of awareness. In almost every potential case there are enough warning signs to take appropriate action.

Our expert and trained guides will advise you about any health requirements and also altitude sickness while you are trekking, so you should not worry about it, we do however recommend you get advice from your travel doctor or health advisor before you leave. The following information gives you an idea about high altitude sickness and how to minimize the affects

There are three stages of altitude sickness and symptoms.

1. Normal AMS Symptoms - Should expect but not worry.

Following are the normal altitude symptoms that you should expect but not be worried about. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.

  • Periods of sleeplessness.
  • Need more sleep than normal (often 10 hours or more)
  • Occasional loss of appetite.
  • Vivid, wild dreams especially at around 2500-3800 meters in altitude.
  • Periodic breathing.
  • The need to rest/catch your breath frequently while trekking, especially above 3500 meters.
  • Runny nose.
  • Increasing urination while moving to/at higher altitudes (a good sign) 
  • Dizziness.

2. Mild AMS Symptoms - NEVER GO HIGHER

Many trekkers in the high valleys of the Himalaya get mild AMS, admit or acknowledge that you are having symptoms. You need have only one of the following symptoms to be getting altitude sickness.

  • Mild headache.
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness.
  • Weakness.
  • Sleeplessness.
  • Dry Raspy cough.
  • Fatigue/Tired.
  • Loss of apatite.
  • Runny nose.
  • Hard to breath.

What to do if a mild symptom doesn't go way?

  • If you find mild symptoms developing while walking, stop and relax (with your head out of sun) and drink some fluids. Drink frequently.
  • If mild symptoms developing while walking, stop have rest, drink some fluids and take 125-250mg Diamox. Diamox generally takes one to four hours to begin alleviating symptoms. Drink more water and consider staying close by. 
  • If symptoms develop in the evening, take 125-250mg Diamox and drink plenty of fluids again.
  • If symptoms partially go away but are still annoying it is safe to take another 250mg Diamox 6-8 hours later.
  • If mild symptoms continue getting worse try descending for a few hours which may be more beneficial than staying at the same altitude. Going higher will definitely make it worse. You're here to enjoy trekking not to feel sick.

3. Serious AMS Symptoms - IMMEDIATE DESCENT

  • Persistent, severe headache.
  • Persistent vomiting.
  • Ataxia (loss of co-ordination, an inability to walk in a straight line, making the sufferer look drunk)
  • Losing consciousness (inability to stay awake or understand instructions) 
  • Mental confusion or hallucinations.
  • Liquid sounds in the lungs.
  • Very persistent, sometimes watery, cough.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Rapid breathing or feeling breathless at rest.
  • Coughing clear fluid, pink phlegm or blood (a very bad sign).
  • Severe lethargy/fatigue.
  • Marked blueness of face and lips.
  • High resting heartbeat (over 130 beats per minute)
  • Mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.

Dangerous cases of AMS

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)

This is a build-up of fluid around the brain. It In most cases the first five symptoms on the mild and severe lists previously. Coma from HACE can lead to unconsciousness are death within 12 hours from the onset of symptoms, but normally takes 1-2 days to develop. At the first sign of ataxia begin treatment with medication, oxygen and descent. Usually 4 to 8mg of dexamethasone is given as a first does, then 4mg every six hours, Diamox every 12 hours and 2-4 liters /minute oxygen. Descent is necessary but a PAC (portable altitude chamber) bag will often be used first if available.

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

This is an accumulation of fluid in the lungs and is very serious. It is responsible for all the other mild and serious symptoms and it is often accompanied by a mild fever. By far the treatment is oxygen at 4 liters a minute but using PAC (portable altitude chamber) bag treatment is a good substitute. If there is no PAC bag or oxygen then descent will be life saving. HAPE can lead to unconsciousness are death very quick.

Prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

  • Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
  • Don't make rapid Ascent. Don't go too far too fast.
  • No Alcohol, Sleeping pills and Smoking.
  • Drink more fluid 3-4 Liters a day, clean water-boiled or treated / tea / coffee / soup / juice etc.
  • Climb high and sleep low.
  • Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
  • Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, guide book.
  • Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
  • Never leave or descent sick person along.
  • Avoid getting cold.
  • Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer.

First Aid Kit

This is the basic list to cover the more common ailments that affect trekkers. Climbing groups, expeditions and trekkers going to isolated areas will need a more comprehensive kit.

  • Bandage for sprains
  • Plasters/Band-aids
  • Iodine or water filter (optional)
  • Moleskin/Second skin - for blisters
  • Antiseptic ointment for cuts
  • Anti-bacterial throat lozenges (with antiseptic)
  • Aspirin/Paracetamol - general painkiller
  • Oral rehydration salts
  • Broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxin)
  • Anti-diarrhea medication (antibiotic)
  • Diarrhea stopper (Imodium - optional)
  • Antibiotic for Guardia or similar microbe or bacteria
  • Diamox 250/500mg (for altitude sickness)
  • Sterile Syringe set (anti-AIDS precaution)
  • Gel hand cleaner.

What to Pack

Essential Equipment List

Luggage should be restricted to a frameless backpack which must not weigh more than 20kgs (ideal – 15kg). We recommend a backpack over a suitcase for ease of transportation.

  • Passport/Tickets/Vaccination Certificates/Spare Passport Photos/Travel Insurance Policy
  • Money Belt

Recommended general packing list

  • Travel towel (i.e microfibre material)
  • Toiletries
  • Biodegradable Laundry Soap
  • Torch/Spare Batteries
  • Sun Hat
  • Anti-bacterial hand wipes/santitizer
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera – film/batteries/memory card/charger
  • Travel alarm clock
  • Sewing kit
  • Reading material/Guide Books
  • Padlocks
  • Travel pillow
  • Swiss army knife
  • Travel clothesline
  • Universal sink plug/Laundry Soap
  • Student ID (if applicable)
  • I-pod/MP3/Discman
  • Pens and Notebook

Clothes and Footwear

  • Light versatile clothes – cotton and quick drying (dark colours recommended)
  • Underwear/socks
  • Swimwear
  • 2 x long trousers, these should be lightweight and comfortable, preferably cotton.
  • 2 x shorts
  • Skirt/dress
  • Sarong/headscarf (particularly useful if you need to cover up quickly)
  • 4 T-Shirts/2 Long-sleeve t-shirts
  • Fleece (for cooler evenings)/Thermal underwear for high altitude areas
  • 1 smart/casual outfit for evenings out
  • 1 Waterproof/windproof jacket
  • Comfortable walking shoes – trainers/sandals
  • Hiking boots if any trekking involved
  • Flip Flops/Thongs/Jandals – also for the showers

Recommended First Aid Supplies

  • Sunscreen
  • Plasters/Bandage/Steri-Strips
  • Antiseptic
  • Blister pads
  • Pain killers
  • Diarrhorea remedies
  • Moisturiser/after sun cream/lip balm
  • Malaria Tablets (if required)
  • Any prescription medication required (please inform the tour leader at your pre-departure meeting about these)
  • Contact lenses and solution
  • Cold/flu decongestants
  • Antihistamines
  • Travel motion-sickness tablets (i.e. natural ginger tablets)
  • Contraceptives
  • Mosquito Repellent
  • Insect bite cream
  • Tampons
  • Tweezers
  • Rehydration salts (Gastrolyte)

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick up & transfer by car / Van / Bus.
  • 4 nights accommodation with breakfast at deluxe hotel in Kathmandu as per above program.
  • Kathmandu City Tours inclusive of all entry fees, tour guide, car / van.
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with Tea & coffee during the trek.
  • Full board meal (veg. / non veg.) prepared by our expert cook.
  • Trekking equipment (two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, Table with chairs, kitchen utensils, Down sleeping bag / Jackets, walking sticks, and other necessary equipments during the trek).
  • Accommodation during the trek.
  • Climbing Permit
  • Garbage Deposit.
  • 1 highly experienced, helpful and friendly Guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people), their food, accommodation, salary, equipments, insurance.
  • Round Trip flight to & from Lukla & Domestic airport taxes in Kathmandu and Lukla.
  • First Aid medical kit.
  • Sagarmatha National Park permit.
  • Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS).
  • Government taxes.
  • Office Service charge.

Cost Excludes

  • Any meals in Kathmandu other than breakfast.
  • Travel insurance (if you want us to arrange your travel insurance, we would greatly be happy to assist). For detail information regarding the travel insurance, please contact us
  • International air fare to and from Nepal.
  • Nepal Tourist Visa fee US$ 25 or equivalent foreign currency with multiple entry for 15 days, US$ 40 or equivalent foreign currency with multiple entry for 30 days. You may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport - Kathmandu.
  • Disembarkation Airport Tax in Nepal - approx. US$ 24.
  • Items of a personal nature.
  • Any kind of alcoholic drinks, hot water, hot shower, cold drinks, laundry, phone call, internet.
  • Trekking Equipments (down sleeping bag and down jackets are available to hire or buy in Kathmandu, which would cost approximately US$ 1 per day per item to hire and US$ 60 to US$ 100 per item to buy).
  • Tips for guide, porters, driver..
  • Expenses occurred due to unavoidable Events i.e. road wrecks, flight delays etc.