Island Peak Climbing 17 Days

(5.0) 2 reviews

Trip Facts

  • Duration 17 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous plus
  • Destination Nepal
  • Transportation Private Vehicle and Domestic Flights
  • Activity Trekking and Peak Climbing
  • Best Season March- May and Sept- Dec
  • Group Size Mini 1, Max 12 People
  • Trip Start/End Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude 6,189m/20,306ft

Trip Highlights of Island Peak Climbing 

  • Explore the cultural and historical sites of Kathmandu
  • Enjoy a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region
  • Trek through the beautiful landscapes of the Khumbu Valley
  • Visit the famous Tengboche monastery, with stunning mountain views
  • Reach Island Peak Base Camp at an altitude of 5,200m/17,060ft
  • Go on a training session at Island Peak Base Camp with professional climbing guides
  • Summit Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft), a challenging peak in the Everest region
  • Admire breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas from the summit
  • Experience Sherpa culture and hospitality along the way
  • Trek through diverse terrain, including glaciers, moraines, and alpine forests
  • Cross high suspension bridges and traverse steep ridges
  • Witness the stunning beauty of the Khumbu icefall and glacier
  • Accommodation in teahouses and tented camps with great hygiene
  • Savor local cuisine and enjoy warm hospitality throughout the trek
  • Experience the thrill of a lifetime and achieve a remarkable feat.
All departure dates are published for a guaranteed departure. If the dates don't meet your travel plans. In that case, we offer private trips that can be customized for individuals, couples, and families. Please contact us for details and pricing. Island Peak Climbing can be customized in a 14-day or 16-day if you prefer a shorter itinerary at your request.

Climbing Island Peak: A Comprehensive Guide

Island Peak is a stunning summit that stands in the Himalayas. It's also called Imja Tse locally. This captivating mountain in the quiet Chukkung Valley resembles a small island. It is flanked to the north by the magnificent Lhotse/Nuptse South Wall and to the south by Baruntse. The views from the peak of this mountain are breathtaking and further enhanced by an exciting traverse along a ridge. Island Peak Climbing is a great opportunity for those who want to climb a challenging Himalayan peak that reaches 6,000 meters. It is a mountain of historical importance since it was used as a training area for Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing in 1953.

Island Peak remains a favorite training peak among climbers who want to conquer Mount Everest. The path that they blazed is still the same today. This mountain can help you develop many skills needed for Everest expeditions. Using ladders to navigate crevasses and using jumars with fixed lines. The Island Peak Climbing lasts at least 17 days, including days in Kathmandu, and has 14 days on trek/climb. We recommend allowing extra time for bad weather or flight delays getting into and out of the mountains.

Island Peak Climbing is a thrilling and rewarding experience for mountaineers worldwide. Island Peak, located in Nepal, offers breathtaking views and a chance to conquer a majestic Himalayan summit. The climb is moderately challenging, requiring good physical and mental preparation. Before embarking on this adventure, it's important to understand the costs involved, such as the Island Peak climbing permit cost, the best climbing season, and the various Island Peak climb difficulty levels.

The Nepal Mountaineering Association issues climbing permits for Island Peak, and the cost may vary depending on the season, $250 per person in Autumn and $125 per person in Spring. Island Peak is the best season for climbing during Spring and Autumn, between September to November and April to May, respectively. During these months, the weather is stable, providing outstanding visibility, which makes it perfect for climbers.

Accommodation options for Island Peak climbing range from teahouses to camping sites, where teahouses provide basic amenities such as a bed, hot shower, and food, and tented Camp be provided while climbing the Peak. Island Peak Climbing is an unforgettable experience that requires planning and preparation. With proper preparation and understanding of the permit cost, best seasons, climbing difficulty, and accommodation options, you can conquer the majestic Island Peak and enjoy Nepal's stunning views and unique culture.

How Difficult is Island Peak Climbing?

Island peak climb is popular for beginners looking to get into mountaineering. However, successfully climbing the peak requires prior trekking experience at high altitudes. Island Peak presents a challenging climb with steep ascents and thin air to breathe, particularly difficult at the foot of the headwall. At the same time, the climbing route is safe and features fixed lines to the Summit. Hiring an experienced guide is recommended for a successful climb. Experienced guides offer valuable support and assistance throughout the journey, including providing necessary equipment and knowledge. With proper preparation, training, and guidance, you can conquer this majestic Himalayan summit and create unforgettable memories. Island Peak climb is an adventure of a lifetime that requires determination, perseverance, and a love for the great outdoors.

Weather and Temperature

Autumn (September, October, and November) is the best time to climb the Island peak. The temperature in autumn remains around 15°C, and the maximum temperature range up to 20°C on sunny days. The morning and night hold chilling weather of -10°C. The weather at the Island's peak summit is chilling and freezing.

The Spring Season (March, April, and May) is another good season to climb the Island peak. In spring you will get wonderful sunshine days. The temperature in the higher regions, i.e., above 4000m, is colder, with an average temperature of 17°C during the daytime. Similarly, the maximum temperature is around 25°C on sunny days, and the minimum temperature is -15°C.

Island Peak Emergency and Evacuation

In the event of an emergency during your Island Peak climb, helicopter evacuations are the most common way of handling the situation. Nepal has an established system for dealing with logistics, but it's important to have travel insurance in place and communicate clearly with your insurance company about your destination and activities. The initial responsibility of moving a casualty falls on the team, guide, porters, and anyone nearby. They'll move the casualty to the nearest safe place and then to a point where evacuation can be made. Bad weather often delays helicopter assistance, so self-sufficiency and self-management are essential in the mountains.

Assisted descent using horses is common and costs about USD 150 per day, payable in cash. Insurance companies can organize helicopter evacuations with direct communication and provision of policy details. While satellite phones aren't always necessary due to mobile phone availability, there may be times when a trek to a lodge with a phone connection is required. If experiencing altitude sickness, the best advice is to descend rather than risk further ascent and more severe cerebral or pulmonary edema. Appropriate medication and acclimatization techniques can help, but descending remains the safest option. Incidents are rare, and Island Peak is located in a well-supported region of Nepal, with the Himalayan Rescue Centre situated in Pheriche, not far from Chukkung.

Island Peak Support Team

Planning your Island Peak Climbing adventure with Adventure Club Trek ensures that a professional team will support you throughout the journey. We provide comprehensive trip-related information before your arrival to Nepal, which helps you prepare for the climb. When you arrive, we'll be ready to organize the trip and offer standby services from our office, including accommodation, food, staff, peak climbing equipment, required permits, and emergency evacuation awareness.

Regarding the Island Peak climb, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction. Our experienced team member, Mr. Birendra Chudal, will assist you with all the necessary information and provide a detailed briefing about the trip when you arrive in Kathmandu. He'll oversee all aspects of the trip's arrangement and operation to ensure everything runs smoothly. Throughout your adventure, you'll be accompanied by a government-authorized licensed guide, assistant guide, and experienced porters who are fully responsible for your safety and security.

If you have any concerns or questions, our support team is always available to address them. Plus, we can provide additional information about the Island Peak climbing permit cost, Island Peak climbing in Nepal, Island Peak climbing season, EBC with Island Peak climbing, Mera and Island Peak climbing, and the Island Peak climb in general.

Food and Accommodation during the Climbing

The 17-day Island Peak Climbing Itinerary takes you to various remote locations with unique cultures and lifestyles. You may wonder about the type of accommodation and food provided during the trip. As the area is remote, high-quality hotel rooms are not available. However, the tea houses in beautiful villages offer twin-sharing rooms with attached bathrooms maintained with great hygiene. You'll be sharing a room with another trekker. Still, you can book a single room in advance, although availability is limited.

Each day you will be served 3 delicious meals. In general, breakfast and dinner are served at the same lodge. Lunch is served at small teahouses or restaurants located along the trail. While in tent camps, we serve tea and coffee with a packed lunch. Our climbing chefs prepare breakfast and dinner. Fresh fruits and organic ingredients are used in the meals, which come from Kathmandu and local villages along the way. Nutritionists have designed a balanced meal of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Chefs are trained to prepare food hygienically. Prior notice is required for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

Our staff ensures you receive the best nutritional food for a safe journey ahead, regardless of the location. Rest assured; you'll have comfortable accommodation and healthy meals throughout your Island Peak Climbing adventure.

Island Peak Base Camp Climbing Training

Island Peak Base Camp Climbing is an important part of Island Peak Climbing. Our guide will lead the training, demonstrate the correct equipment use, and set up fixed lines to allow for climbing practice. The training involves using ropes, Jumars, Figures of Eight, ice axes, crampons, and more. Climbers can also practice using crampons by walking in them to become familiar with the equipment. The training increases confidence and gives climbers the skills and knowledge to tackle Island Peak successfully. Adventure Club Trek provides comprehensive training to ensure a successful ascent in a few days.

Experience Required For Island Peak

Island Peak climbing can be a rewarding 'trekking peak' experience, as it doesn't require technical skills. The climb is achievable for those with good physical condition and some mountaineering skills. Moreover, trekkers who have completed the Everest Base Camp trek, anyone who climbed above 16,404 feet, or trekkers who have completed the Kilimanjaro climb can make their way up to the peak without much difficulty. However, properly equipping yourself and working on your fitness are crucial components in this journey. Climbers should undergo a series of fitness routines months before, building stamina, free weight training, other bodyweight exercises, carrying a backpack while ascending, cardiovascular training, and more. Adventure Club Trek provides essential instructions and guidance to make your journey easier before you arrive in Nepal for your climb. Also, the Island Peak climbing season, permit cost, and mera and island peak climbing are details you may need to consider.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS AND ITEMS

  • Valid passport, 2 extra passport-size photos, airline tickets.
  • Dollars, pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepali visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and purchasing your own drinks and gifts.
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc

CLIMBING

  • Ice axe
  • Crampons
  • Harness
  • Screw gate
  • Descended abseil device
  • Prussic loops
  • Plastic mountaineering boot

Additional Equipment Info

Climbing Island Peak requires boots that fit crampons, are warm, and fit well. Choosing the right type of boots graded at least B1 for crampon use is essential. Investing in B2 hybrid or B3 rigid plastic boots is ideal for mountaineering on higher or colder routes. Full 8000m triple boots are unnecessary but can be used if you already have them. Our porters will carry your main bag up to a maximum weight of 15 kg while catering to all group needs, including assisting those who need to go back down the valley. Unless specifically tenting, accommodation is in well-equipped, warm, sociable lodges or teahouses.

Itinerary

+ Expand All- Collapse All

A representative of Adventure Club Trek will greet you upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. You will be taken to your hotel by Adventure Club Trek in its private vehicle after you have completed your customs formalities. Your trekking leader will give you an orientation during a welcome meal after you have rested at your hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsWelcome Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude1,350m/4,428ft

Rest and unpacking are the main activities of our day. In the afternoon, we will meet with your climbing guides and check your set to ensure it is in good condition before our journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Max. Altitude1,300m/4,264ft

After breakfast, we fly early morning to Lukla, through one of the most beautiful air routes in the world, enjoying breathtaking green and white mountains. This culminates in a hillside landing surrounded by high mountains. Upon our arrival at Lukla, we meet the rest of our crew members. We then begin our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla to Phakding. To improve acclimatization, we have a short hike today. Moreover, if interested, we can take a side trip to a nearby monastery. Overnight in Phakding.

Note:Sometimes, the flight takes off to Lukla from the Manthali airport of Ramechhap. It's about a 4-hour road trip, which begins early in the morning (around 3 am). Driving early, you don't have to face traffic and catch the flight on time. The situation comes in special conditions like harsh weather and ground maintenance.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude2,800m/9,187ft

After breakfast, Begin the day with a trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. The journey includes a walk through pine forests and along the Dudh Koshi River, with views of Mt. Thamserku and, weather permitting, glimpses of Mt. Everest. Cross five suspension bridges, with the highest being the Hillary Bridge. Namche Bazaar serves as the gateway to Mt. Everest and is the main trading center of the region. The uphill walk from Hillary Bridge to Namche Bazaar concludes the day's trek. Overnight in Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3,438m/11,280ft

Today is an acclimatization day in preparation for our exciting Island Peak climbing adventure. Health experts advise staying active and moving around on this rest day instead of idle. We can stroll around Namche's quaint villages and get to know the Sherpas and their rich culture. Alternatively, we can hike to the Everest View Hotel and enjoy a breathtaking view of the mighty Everest. While in Namche, we may also visit the local museum exhibiting the region's native flora and fauna and the history of Mount Everest region. For trekkers looking to explore more, we propose a 5-6 hour hike to Khumjung village, where we can visit the Edmund Hillary School and the Khumjung Monastery, famous as the monastery that houses the head of the Yeti, before the overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3,438m/11,280ft

After breakfast, we make our way toward Tengboche. This easy walk from Namche to Phunki is followed by an ascent towards Tengboche village, which contains the largest monastery in the Khumbu region. It is situated within the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of outstanding universal value. It offers a spectacular panoramic 360-degree view of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. We also visited the monastery at around 3 p.m. the same day to observe a religious ceremony. 

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3,870m/12,697ft

With the Himalayas as the backdrop, Tengboche Monastery is an idyllic location to witness the breathtaking Himalayan landscape. Images captured during the morning visit make for permanent souvenirs. Following this, the trek through lush birch forests, conifers, and rhododendrons begins on easy paths. The picturesque trail dips to Debuche, crossing the Imja River before an ascent to Pangboche. The upper trail is typically chosen to ensure pristine views of the Himalayas. Pangboche Monastery is another place of interest. As we enter Imja Valley, the walk ahead is moderate. The gradual unfolding of the valley culminates at the confluence of the Lobuche River; after that, we descend and climb up to Dingboche. 

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4,360m/14,305ft

Dingboche is a summer retreat. It is surrounded by imposing mountain peaks: Ama Dablam, Nuptse-Lhotse Ridge, Tawache, and Chalotse. Today's trek begins with walking in stone-walled fields and the Imja Khola valley. We will then walk up the glacier moraines, encompassed by the immense Lhotse and Ama Dablam mountains. We continue further, passing through the Bibre village and witnessing the Island Peak soaring above us. There are icy streams that manifest on the trail. We arrive at Chhukung, a small settlement approximately 30 minutes from Bibre. Across the valley lies the famous Ama Dablam and the Amphu Labsa mountains. The overnight stay will be in Chhukung.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4,730m/15,519ft

Today is another acclimatization day. Climb Chhukung Ri, a peak above Chhukung village, to help adjust to the high altitude. The climb involves easy scrambling near the summit. Enjoy stunning views of Ama Dablam and Amphu Labsa peaks from the top. Descend back to Chhukung for an overnight stay.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude5,546m/18,196ft

Today, we're trekking to Island Peak Base Camp, navigating a fairly steep trail. Start by climbing towards the south and then turn east to reach the valley's main line. Follow a winding path beneath the southern flank of the moraine from Lhotse Glacier and continue along a delightful trail alongside a stream. The route to Amphu Lapcha lies southeast. A crisscross route through Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines leads to a wide valley flanking the southwest side of Island Peak. Overnight at Island Peak Base Camp. 

  • AccommodationTented Camp ( Camping)
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude5,200m/17,061ft

We start our training for the Island peak climb today after breakfast. Our guides will train you on peak climbing techniques and proper usage of climbing equipment like ice axe, crampons, harnesses, ascenders, and climbing boots. Rope skills will also be covered for climbing up and down. Prior training is not compulsory for Island Peak climbing. However, having training experience before beginning the climb will increase your chances of scaling the summit and allow you to relish the climb fully. We will primarily be climbing on rock surfaces until around 5770m, shifting to ice and rope climbing when necessary. Rope usage depends on the season's condition and crevasses. If time allows, you can rest for tomorrow's climb or hike to high camp. 

  • AccommodationTented Camp ( Camping)
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude5,200m/17,061ft

We woke up bright and early, at 12-1 am, to have breakfast before beginning our climb. We must reach Island Peak's summit before noon since the afternoon highland winds may pose a challenge. Our trail moves beyond base camp, first on the sand before transitioning to grass and boulders. As we progress upwards, the slope tapers and leads us into a steep rock channel, which we navigate to the right-side exit. Following a ridge walk, we arrive at an exposed traverse onto the glacier snout; ropes will be available when necessary. Next, a steep snow slope takes us to the summit ridge, leading us to fixed and man ropes for safety. The fixed rope comes into play only after successful rock climbing. It is typically 350m long (depending on the season and crevasse conditions). New crevasses of 3-4m long necessitate the use of ladders. After we enjoy the summit views, have pictures taken, and return to Island Peak Base Camp, where some of our crew awaits to celebrate our successful expedition.

  • AccommodationTented Camp (Camping)
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude6,189m/20,306ft

Today's trek descends to lower altitudes, making it easier. We pass through the picturesque Sherpa villages of Orsho and Shomare, following the Khumbu Khola valley. For those who want to explore more, we can visit the oldest Gompa in the Khumbu region, in Upper Pangboche, or take the standard route to reach Pangboche. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Pangboche offers stunning views of nearby peaks such as Everest and Kangtaiga. 

 
 
  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3,985m/13,075ft

From Pangboche, we'll follow our previous route to the Imja Khola River and up through the forest to Tengboche. There, we can visit nuns at the monastery if interested. After lunch at Tengboche, we'll continue through the hillside covered by rhododendron and juniper trees. We'll cross a bridge over the Dudh Koshi River and follow the trail through the gorge, passing by pine forests before reaching Sansa. During the trek, we'll be on the lookout for wildlife, such as mountain goats, snow leopards, and colourful pheasants. 

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3,438m/11,280ft

Having breakfast at Namche, we continue descending through the steep downhill route, cross the suspension bridge and reach Jorsalle. We check out from the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint. We head further to Monjo, pass Bengkar, and reach Phakding. We have lunch at this point at the beautiful location with the River sound. Crossing the bridge, we walk through the gentle trail passing the potatoes field all the way to Lukla. This is the last point where we celebrate the trip's success with the entire team.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude2,800m/9,187ft

Taking an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu of 40 minutes, we receive you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. It's time to release the tiredness, enjoy walking around the local market and buy souvenirs in the afternoon. Then we meet for the farewell dinner in the evening.

Note: In case of a flight delay, either you will have to stay in Lukla till the weather becomes clear or you have the option to take a helicopter ride. In case of maintenance of a domestic airport in Kathmandu, you may have to fly from Lukla to Manthali Airport and drive further to Kathmandu. The 4 to 5-hour drive may extend due to the traffic congestion.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsFarewell Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,350m/4,429ft

Our Island Peak Climbing 17 Days ends here. A representative from the Adventure Club Trek will accompany you and see you off at Tribhuvan International airport a few hours before the scheduled flight to your home.

Note: If you still have a few days after the trekking schedule, you might be interested to experience other adventurous activities like jungle safari, RaftingBungeejumping, and paragliding. You may contact the Adventure Club Trek for the arrangement.

  • MealsBreakfast

Note: Your safety is of the utmost concern while traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary. However, we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline, and illness or injury can occur. To avoid dangerous situations, we may occasionally change the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That being said, Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and keep your safety our number one priority. We thank you for your understanding.

Trip Map

Island Peak Climbing 17 Days map

Cost Details

Price Includes

  • Arrival and departure transfer by private tourist vehicle
  • Standard twin-sharing hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast as per the Itinerary.
  • Best available twin sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek
  • Tented accommodation during the climb
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu including temples’ / monuments’ entrance fees and private vehicle
  • Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek and climb
  • Professional local experienced Trek Leader / Guide trained in Wilderness First Aid.
  • Well-experienced Climbing guide with all his allowance and expenses.
  • Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu and Lukla including airport departure tax
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
  • Welcome and farewell dinner.
  • Assistant trekking guides walk with the group to support as necessary.
  • Porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Staff costs include their salary, food, accommodation, domestic airfare, and medicine.
  • Insurance covering all staff and porters as per state law
  • Everest National Park permits and TIMS permits for trekking.
  • Island Peak Climbing Permit.
  • Group climbing equipment (Climbing Rope, Ice Screw, Snow Bar, Ice Hammer, Camping Tents, and Kitchen equipment)
  • Island Peak climbing certificates are issued from the respective body of the Nepal Government.
  • Trekking cook, and other support staff while on Island peak climbing.
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag ( to be returned after trip completion) 
  • Complimentary Adventure Club Trek T-shirt, and trekking map
  • Duffel bag for trekking 
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • Travel and rescue arrangement.
  • All government and local taxes.

Price Excludes

  • Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days and USD 50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days)
  • International air fares/flights (fares and flights can be arranged upon request).
  • Personal expenses (alcoholic drinks, bottled water, cold drinks).
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu.
  • Travel Insurance (Essential – Should include emergency evacuation coverage up to 6190meters).
  • Excess baggage charge(s)
  • Personal climbing equipment
  • Personal climbing guide if requested
  • Personal trekking equipment.
  • Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (tipping is expected, but it is not mandatory).

Useful Info

Acclimatization And High-Altitude Sickness

The acclimatization planned during the trip helps trekkers adapt to the environment with less oxygen. Our body needs time to adjust to higher altitudes. Rushing to the higher elevation without acclimatization may result in acute mountain sickness (AMS), which could be fatal. The trekkers may suffer from AMS above 2,400m/7,875ft as the amount of oxygen becomes less and less with the increase in elevation.

We can categorize AMS into three categories with its symptoms. The trekker suffering from normal AMS feels giddy, gets a headache, has Nausea, is out of breath, and is suggested not to worry as it disappears after the body gets used to less oxygen. Likewise, trekkers suffering from mild AMS show symptoms of dizziness, muscular pain, insomnia, headache, vomiting, loss of appetite, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Mild AMS can be treated with anti-headache medicines.

A person suffering from serious AMS shows heightened symptoms, including shortness of breath, even while resting. The trekker with serious symptoms can barely walk, and fluids may start building up in the lungs. The trekker with serious AMS must be taken to a lower altitude immediately.

Advanced cases of AMS

If AMS is not treated in time, it can be life-threatening and lead to edema, a condition in which fluid is accumulated in the body's tissues. Following are the two serious altitude sicknesses caused at high altitudes.

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)

In HACE, the brain gets swollen, leading to coma and even death. Its symptoms are paralysis on one side of the body, bladder dysfunction, fatigue, bowel dysfunction, loss of coordination, and confusion. Descend to a lower altitude as soon as possible to prevent the worsening of the condition.

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

Fluid is accumulated in the lungs, which also increases the capillary pressure. Its symptoms include severe shortness of breath at rest, dry cough that later leads to producing frothy pink sputum, and fatigue. Important Note: Severe cases of AMS are rare. All our guides at the Adventure Club Trek are aware of the symptoms of AMS and can handle them with care. We prioritize acclimatization, talk about the use of Diamox beforehand and counsel all our trekkers on the risk and preventive factors before and during the trip. Your safety is our main concern.

First-Aid Kit

Our guides and porters are equipped with a basic first-aid kit during regular treks. For expeditions that take on isolated and off-the-beaten trekking paths, a comprehensive first-aid kit is compulsory; the same goes for climbing expeditions.

  • A bandage in case of sprains.
  • Plasters/ Band-aids and antiseptic ointments for simple cuts
  • Iodine or water filter (optional) instead of buying bottled mineral water
  • Moleskin/Second skin in case of blisters.
  • Aspirin/Paracetamol -painkiller.
  • Oral rehydration salts-Nava Jeevan or Jeevan Jal (orange-flavored ORS)
  • The broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxacin).
  • Anti-diarrhea medication (antibiotic).
  • Diarrheal stopper (Imodium - optional).
  • Diamox 250/500mg (for altitude sickness).
  • Gel hand cleaner/sanitizer.
  • Note: We can add medical supplies per the trekkers' special needs to the first-aid kit given above.

Equipment And Packing List

This is the list of guidelines to help you pack what is needed to bring in on the trip. The packing list may vary depending on the season you set off on the journey. Please note that a trekker's luggage should be at most the limit of 11kg as there will be one porter to carry the luggage of two trekkers. Apart from the luggage, each trekker must carry a day pack, including valuables or what is important. Please pack only the items that are necessary for you.

  • The Adventure Club Trek will lend each trekker a set of down Jackets, sleeping bags,s and duffle bags.
  • Our main guide, trained in wilderness first aid, will carry a comprehensive medical kit.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS AND ITEMS

  • Valid passport, two extra passport-size photos, and airline tickets.
  • Dollars, pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepali visa at Kathmandu airport, paying for restaurants and hotels, gratuities, snacks, and purchasing your drinks and gifts.
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc

CLIMBING

  • Ice axe
  • Crampons
  • Harness
  • Screw gate
  • Descended abseil device
  • Prussic loops
  • Plastic mountaineering boot

 HEAD

  • Bandana or headscarf is also useful in dusty conditions
  • Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Prescription sunglasses (if required)

UPPER BODY

  • Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and two long sleeves)
  • Light and expedition-weight thermal tops
  • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and jacket *
  • Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable

LOWER BODY

  •  Non-cotton underwear briefs
  • 1 pair of Hiking shorts
  • 1 pair of hiking trousers
  • 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
  • 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers
  • 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric

FEET

  • 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
  • 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
  • 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, "broken-in")
  • 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
  • Cotton socks (optional)
  • Gaiters (winter only), optional, "low" ankle high version

HANDS

  • 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
  • 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
  • 1 pair of mittens consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)

TOILETRIES

  • 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
  • Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Female hygiene products
  • Small mirror
  • Personal Hygiene
  • Wet wipes (baby wipes)
  • Tissue /toilet roll
  • Anti-bacterial handwash

SLEEPING

  • 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)*
  • Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
  • Rucksack and Travel Bags
  • 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
  • 1 large duffel bag *
  • A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables should have good shoulder padding
  • Small padlocks for duffel-kit bags
  • 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)

MEDICAL

  • Small, personal first-aid kit. (Simple and light)
  • Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
  • Anti-diarrhea pills
  • Anti-headache pills
  • Cough and cold medicine
  • Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetylpolyamine
  • Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills, as they are respiratory depressants.
  • Water purification tablets or the water filter
  •  Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies
  • Extras/Luxuries
  • Reading book
  • Trail map/guidebook
  • Journal and pen
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
  • Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)

Visa And Entry Procedures

Everyone needs a visa to enter Nepal except Indian nationals. Citizens of the SAARC nations like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Bhutan do not require a visa for 30 days. Fortunately, getting a Nepal visa is an easy process. Tourist visas and official overland entry points are issued on arrival at the international airport. However, travelers from Afghanistan, Iraq, Cameroon, Ghana, Somalia, Swaziland, Senegal, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Liberia have yet to be issued a visa on arrival. After arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will find electronic kiosks to assist with your visa processing. After taking the completed form and paying the visa fee, you must stay in the long immigration queue for your visa on arrival.

Visitors can now apply for the online visa within 15 days of their arrival date in Nepal. For this, you will need your Nepal hotel address and a digital passport-sized photo to be uploaded to the online application. After submitting the form online, you need to print out the confirmation page, which has to be furnished at the immigration section in Kathmandu airport, along with your passport and the required visa fee. You can apply for your online Nepal visa here.

Tourists can also apply for a Nepali visa at the local Nepali Embassy or Consulate in their respective countries. Or, they can even mail their visa application to the office near their location, but well ahead to allow sufficient processing time. Nepal visa information for all categories of travelers and their correspondence cost can be very handy, so for more information and contact details of the Nepali Embassies and Consulate worldwide, you may click here.

Whichever way you enter Nepal, you will be given a 15/30/90-day visa as required. The general Nepal tourist visa fee on arrival for multiple entries is:

15 days – US$30, 30 days – US$50, and 90days – US$125

Tourist visas can be extended for a maximum of 150 days in a year, and these extensions are granted only at the Department of Immigration offices in Pokhara and Kathmandu. For more information on Nepal visas, visit our visa information page.

Our Climbing Guides and Porters

Here at Adventure Club, our staff is like family. We only use locals to support their communities and train our staff rigorously to be the best they can be – for you! 

  •  Full first-aid training
  • Climbing Guide Training 
  • English and other common languages (as requested) 
  • Village and Land Conservation 
  • Mountaineering (for specialty expeditions or climbing treks)

All our Trekking/Climbing guides are carefully trained for leadership, as good leadership is vital for your trek to be enjoyable, safe, and successful. Most of our guides grew up in Sherpa country or other mountainous parts of Nepal. Their pride in their region shows itself in the way they lead treks and interface with you. 

Porters Care

On any team, courtesy and respect are fundamental for an enjoyable and worthwhile experience. Our porters are an essential, integral part of each trekking team, and as such, they are well-treated and well-paid. After your trek, you will find that they have fully earned your gratitude and respect. We expect all trekkers to keep their baggage weight under 22kgs/40lbs. Adventure Club Trek maintains a full commitment to the rights of our porters, providing them with appropriate clothing, gear, and lodging. In case of serious accident or sickness, they receive the same care as anyone else employed on the trekking team, even including evacuation by helicopter at our expense if appropriate. We fully support the IPPG (International Porter Protection Group), which strives to maintain and improve our porter's working conditions.

Travel Insurance

To be adequately protected in terms of insurance, you will need specialist travel insurance for participation in hazardous activities. A travel insurance policy that covers helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, injury, death, lost baggage, theft, liability, medical treatment, and expenses is strongly recommended. Ensure the insurance covers all the activities you undertake during your Nepal stays, such as trekking and climbing. If you are injured and unable to travel, you can ask for a rescue helicopter from a remote area only if you have definite proof that you can pay for it. Adventure Club Trek has an agreement in Kathmandu that guarantees payment for helicopter evacuations. They pay a cash deposit to the helicopter operator and collect the money from you once you have been rescued. Be sure your policy specifically covers mountaineering or alpinism, or you may need help to settle a claim.

Electricity, WIFI, and Battery Recharge

During your trek on the Everest region, electricity is available to recharge your phones, laptop, and iPads from micro-hydropower and solar panels on a paying basis. As for Wi-Fi, there are no hotspots along the trekking trail after Namche. Starbucks Coffee in Lukla and Everest Bakery in Namche are the only two places offering free Wi-Fi. At other places upwards, you need to pay for internet services, which increases gradually with the altitude.

Communication On Island Peak Climb

On Island Peak Climbing in Nepal, the internet service will be available at lodges with some extra service charge. You can also contact your family and friends from the guesthouses, but as we reach high altitudes, the communication will be through the phone for safety purposes. We communicate with all our valuable clients through the team leader at least once daily to ensure you are fine and enjoying the trip. The Adventure Club Trek office in Kathmandu will constantly touch you for help you may need during the trek. Depending on the network you use, there could be a poor signal to the network before the high altitude. We can provide you with a separate local sim card for a better network upon your request. Many places have WIFI service available at an extra cost. During peak climbing, you will be using sat phones.

Group Size and Team Composition 

We always form a small group of like-minded people to give them a wonderful and perceptive travel experience. It provides opportunities to interact and share in a fun-filled environment when out in the wilderness. Generally, our travel group comprises a maximum of 16 members. We need at least two participants to run our fixed departure dates. For private trips, the number of group members does not apply. We always strive to form a team, ensuring members are comfortable with one another.

Tipping 

Tipping is optional in Nepal, as most services include a service charge. However, if you want to express your gratitude, you are free to tip drivers and hotel staff. People usually welcome such generosity. When tipping your porters or trekking leaders, use your discretion as per the quality of the services. Tip money does not form a part of our employees' wages. However, you can use tipping as a way of showing appreciation for excellent service at the 

  • DanielBago
    DanielBagoHungaryDate: May 22, 2014

    Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes with Island Peak climbing in March 2014

    I did Gokyo Ri - Kala Patthat - Everest Base Camp - Island Peak trek with Adventure Club Trek in March 2014. It was very good, definitely one of my best trips. Our guide, assistance guide, and porters were very professional, friendly, and helpful with an intensive knowledge of local life, mountains, nature, and Khumbu village.
    I traveled with a group of 18 and it was not an easy job to manage necessary needs for us in such a remote area but our guide managed it efficiently that makes me feel like we were still in the homeland.
    I would like to thank to Adventure Club and especially Birendra for their kindness during the trip, they proved professionalism on the trek and provided good information and assistance.I would definitely recommend using Adventure Club Trek for any adventure trips in Nepal.

  • Balázs N
    Balázs NHungaryDate: May 19, 2014

    Unforgettable Everest base camp trek with island peak climbing

    It was my first time trekking to Everest base camp through the most amazing Gokyo Lake with Adventure Club trek and its team. I found them very professional and friendly with lots of knowledge about local life, villages, culture, and mountains.
    Our guide Birendra ( also the owner of the company) and his team took care of us as family members and did not let us feel away from home, we always have had services on time.
    It was a very hard trip for me because I had got diarrhea on the first date because I ate everything together :) I could manage it and made my trip successful, we also climbed Island Peak and it was a great experience.
    As I have had an incredible time with the team of Adventure club trek and I enjoyed every moment of the trek, I would like to highly recommend them.

Similar Trips

Ask a Question

Sign up for our newsletter

Drop Us a Message