Island Peak or also known as Imja Tse is one of the most popular trekking peak of Nepal. The peak was named Island Peak in 1951 by Eric Shiptons party since it appears as an Island in a sea of Ice when viewed from Dingboche. The peak was later renamed in 1983 to Imja Tse but Island Peak remains the popular choice. The peak is actually an extension of the ridge coming down off the south end of Lhotshe Shar. The combination of Everest base camp trek and Island Peak climbing is probably the best trip in Nepal adored by adventure seekers. Imja Tse not only provides an enjoyable climb but also provides some of the most spectacular scenery of Himalayas in the Everest region. Seen from the summit the giant mountains, Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,501m), Lhotse Middle Peak (8,410m) and Lhotse Shar (8,383m) make a semi circle in the north. The views of Makalu (8475m) in the east, Baruntse and Amadablam in the south add more charm in climbing Island Peak. For many mountaineers climbing Island Peak marks the beginning of climbing on Himalayas to prepare for a big Himalayas expedition in Nepal. For some mountaineers the peak stands for the purpose of acclimatization before heading to bigger mountain climbing. Trekking to Kaalapatthar or Everest base camp is best suited for acclimatization before proceeding to the climbing on Island Peak .The normal route for climbing Island Peak is South East Flank & South-West Ridge Normally; the base camp is set at Pareshaya Gyab (5,087m), between Imja Tse and the lateral moraine of the Imja Glacier, starting the climb between 2 and 3 am. Proper care should be taken to avoid the possible avalanche in the event of heavy snow fall. For some people reaching to the summit from the base camp is a day activity. However, most of the climbers prefer alpine style camping at high camp which adds the joy of climbing and also helps a safe ascent.
However, adequate water supply and concerns about sleeping at a higher altitude may dictate starting from base camp. Base camp to high camp is basically a hike but just above high camp, some rocky steps require moderatescrambling and up through a broad open gully. At the top of the gully, glacier travel begins and proceeds up to a steep snow and ice slope. From this points about 100 meters Fixed rope is necessary which will be fix by our Guide or Sherpa Climber.
Trip Profile:
Grade: +++++
Maximum Height: 6160meters
Types of Trek: Tea house and Camping
Best Time: April & May and October- November
Minimum members: 2 person in a trip
Maximum members: 12 persons in each team