Everest High Passes with Island Peak

Detailed itinerary

• day 01
  Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

  Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to rest and adjust to the time zone while soaking in the vibrant energy of this ancient city. In the evening, we’ll hold a comprehensive pre-trip meeting where we’ll review your epic 23-day adventure, discuss gear requirements for both trekking and technical climbing, and answer any questions about this ultimate Himalayan challenge.

  Points of Interest:

  • Thamel district (shopping and restaurants)

  • Durbar Square (if time permits)

  • Local markets and temples

  • Pre-trip briefing and gear check

  • Accommodation: Hotel
• day 02
  Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,334ft) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,562ft)

  Your extraordinary adventure begins with an early morning flight to Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport, famous for its short runway and spectacular mountain views. This thrilling flight sets the tone for the epic journey ahead. After landing in Lukla, we’ll meet our experienced porters and begin our trek through the pristine Dudh Koshi River valley to Phakding. The trail is primarily downhill, allowing you to ease into the rhythm of Himalayan trekking while your body begins its gradual acclimatization process.

  Note: During peak seasons (March-May and October-November), flights operate from Manthali Airport, requiring a 2:30 AM departure and 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu.

  Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy (gentle downhill with some flat sections)

  Points of Interest:

  • Tenzing-Hillary Airport – one of the world’s most challenging airports

  • Dudh Koshi River valley with pristine mountain streams

  • Buddhist prayer wheels and mani stones

  • Traditional Sherpa villages and terraced fields

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 03
  Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280ft)

  Today features one of the most significant elevation gains of the trek as we make our way to the legendary Sherpa capital. Following the roaring Dudh Koshi River, we’ll cross several dramatic suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. At Monjo village, we’ll enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sagarmatha National Park, where permits are checked and the real adventure begins. The final two hours involve a challenging uphill climb that rewards you with your first glimpse of the commercial hub of the Khumbu region – Namche Bazaar, gateway to the high Himalayas.

  Trek Distance: 10-12km (6-7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging (significant uphill sections)

  Points of Interest:

  • Hillary Suspension Bridge spanning the dramatic gorge

  • Sagarmatha National Park entrance and visitor center

  • First potential viewpoint of Mt. Everest (weather permitting)

  • Namche Bazaar’s famous Saturday market

  • Traditional Sherpa architecture and culture

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 04
  Namche Bazaar: Acclimatization Day (3,438m/11,280ft)

  This is your first crucial altitude acclimatization rest day, following the mountaineering principle of “climb high, sleep low”. Today we’ll take an acclimatization hike to higher elevation while returning to Namche to sleep, helping your body adapt to the altitude and reducing the risk of altitude sickness. The recommended hike is to the famous Everest View Hotel, offering spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other towering peaks. Explore Namche’s vibrant market, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Khumbu region.

  Hike Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) round trip | Hike Duration: 3-4 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Everest View Hotel with panoramic mountain vistas

  • Khumjung village and its historic monastery

  • Hillary School and Sherpa Cultural Museum

  • Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center

  • Traditional Sherpa lifestyle and customs

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 05
  Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3,736m/12,258ft)

  Today we venture off the main Everest Base Camp trail to explore the beautiful Bhote Koshi valley, following ancient trade routes that once connected Tibet with Nepal. The trail offers magnificent views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and the stunning Ama Dablam as we make our way to the traditional Sherpa village of Thame. This historic settlement has produced many famous Sherpa mountaineers and offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Himalayan life. The moderate elevation gain allows for continued acclimatization while exploring this culturally rich region.

  Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Ancient trade routes to Tibet

  • Traditional Sherpa village architecture

  • Thame Monastery with its rich history

  • Spectacular mountain panoramas

  • Birthplace of famous Sherpa mountaineers

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 06
  Trek from Thame to Lumde (4,368m/14,331ft)

  Continuing our ascent through increasingly dramatic alpine terrain, we make our way to Lumde, a small settlement that serves as our gateway to the high passes. The landscape becomes more rugged and spectacular with each step, as we leave the last vestiges of tree line behind. The moderate day’s walk allows for proper acclimatization while positioning us perfectly for the challenging high pass crossings ahead. The views become increasingly dramatic as we approach the heart of the high Himalayas.

  Trek Distance: 6km (3.7 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Transition to high alpine environment

  • Spectacular mountain vistas expanding with altitude

  • Traditional yak herding settlements

  • Preparation for high pass adventures

  • Dramatic landscape changes

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 07
  Lumde: Acclimatization Day (4,368m/14,331ft)

  Your second strategic acclimatization day is essential preparation for the challenging high pass crossings ahead. Today we’ll take short acclimatization hikes around Lumde, allowing your body to adapt to the increasing altitude while enjoying spectacular mountain views. This rest day is crucial for reducing the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring you’re properly prepared for crossing Renjo La Pass tomorrow. Use this time to rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the incredible high-altitude adventures that await.

  Hike Duration: 2-3 hours optional hiking | Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Acclimatization hikes with mountain views

  • Preparation for high pass crossings

  • Traditional high-altitude settlements

  • Rest and recovery in pristine mountain environment

  • Mental preparation for technical challenges ahead

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 08
  Trek from Lumde to Gokyo via Renjo La Pass (4,800m/15,749ft)

  Today marks your first high pass crossing and entry into the spectacular Gokyo Valley! The challenging ascent to Renjo La Pass (5,360m) rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and countless other Himalayan giants. The technical rocky sections near the pass require careful navigation, but the views from the top are absolutely spectacular. The descent into the pristine Gokyo Valley reveals a landscape of stunning turquoise lakes nestled beneath towering peaks, creating one of the most beautiful settings in the entire Himalayas.

  Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (high pass crossing with technical sections)

  Points of Interest:

  • Renjo La Pass (5,360m) – first high pass conquest

  • Spectacular panoramic views of 8,000m peaks

  • Entry into pristine Gokyo Valley

  • First glimpse of turquoise Gokyo Lakes

  • Technical rocky terrain and potential snow conditions

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 09
  Acclimatization Day in Gokyo Valley: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,576ft)

  Your third crucial acclimatization day features the spectacular ascent of Gokyo Ri, one of the finest viewpoints in the entire Everest region. The challenging climb is rewarded with unparalleled 360-degree views of four of the world’s fourteen 8,000-meter peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The pristine turquoise lakes of Gokyo Valley spread out below like jewels, creating a scene of indescribable beauty. This day perfectly exemplifies the “climb high, sleep low” principle while providing some of the most spectacular mountain photography opportunities of your entire journey.

  Hike Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) round trip | Hike Duration: 3-4 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Challenging

  Points of Interest:

  • Gokyo Ri summit (5,357m) with 360-degree mountain panorama

  • Four 8,000m peaks visible: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu

  • Pristine turquoise Gokyo Lakes

  • Ngozumpa Glacier – Nepal’s longest glacier

  • World-class mountain photography opportunities

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 10
  Trek from Gokyo to Thaknak (4,600m/15,093ft)

  Today we trek along the lateral moraine of the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest glacier, as we make our way toward Thaknak in preparation for tomorrow’s challenging Cho La Pass crossing. The trail follows the glacier’s edge, providing fascinating insights into glacial geology while offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Thaknak serves as the perfect staging point for the technical Cho La Pass, allowing for final preparations and rest before tackling what many consider the most challenging of the three high passes.

  Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Ngozumpa Glacier – longest glacier in Nepal

  • Glacial moraine landscapes and formations

  • Preparation base for Cho La Pass crossing

  • Spectacular mountain views throughout the day

  • Traditional high-altitude settlement

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 11
  Trek from Thaknak via Cho La Pass to Lobuche (4,940m/16,208ft)

  Today presents the most technically challenging high pass crossing of your journey as we tackle the formidable Cho La Pass (5,420m). This pass requires careful navigation through rocky terrain and potentially icy conditions, making it a true mountaineering challenge. The ascent is steep and demanding, but the views from the pass are absolutely spectacular. The descent on the far side can be equally challenging, requiring concentration and sure footing. Upon reaching Lobuche, you’ll have conquered the second of three high passes and positioned yourself perfectly for the approach to Everest Base Camp.

  Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 8-10 hours | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (technical pass crossing)

  Points of Interest:

  • Cho La Pass (5,420m) – most technical of the three passes

  • Potential snow and ice conditions requiring careful navigation

  • Spectacular mountain panoramas from the pass

  • Technical rocky terrain and steep ascents/descents

  • Entry into the Everest Base Camp approach valley

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 12
  Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, visit Everest Base Camp (5,170m/16,963ft)

  Today is one of the absolute highlights of your epic journey as we make our way to the legendary Everest Base Camp! Following the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, we’ll first reach Gorak Shep, our highest accommodation point. After a light lunch, we continue to Everest Base Camp itself, where you’ll stand at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain and experience the incredible atmosphere of mountaineering expeditions. The colorful prayer flags, expedition tents, and the imposing Khumbu Icefall create an unforgettable scene that represents the dreams and aspirations of climbers from around the world.

  Trek Distance: Lobuche to Gorak Shep: 4.5km (2.8 miles) | Gorak Shep to EBC and back: 7km (4.3 miles) round trip Trek Duration: Lobuche to Gorak Shep: 2-3 hours | Gorak Shep to EBC and back: 4-5 hours round trip Difficulty Level: Very Challenging

  Points of Interest:

  • Khumbu Glacier and the famous Khumbu Icefall

  • Everest Base Camp – the ultimate trekking destination

  • Colorful prayer flags and expedition atmosphere

  • Views of Nuptse, Pumori, and Khumbutse

  • Standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 13
  Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft) and return to Lobuche (4,940m/16,208ft)

  We’ll wake before dawn for the challenging but incredibly rewarding climb to Kala Patthar, timed to reach the summit for sunrise over Mount Everest. This iconic viewpoint offers the closest views of Everest available to trekkers, with the massive pyramid of the world’s highest peak dominating the horizon. The sunrise illumination of Everest, Nuptse, and the surrounding peaks creates one of the most spectacular mountain scenes on Earth. After this incredible experience, we’ll return to Gorak Shep for breakfast before beginning our descent back to Lobuche, where the slightly lower altitude provides welcome relief.

  Wake-up Time: 4:00-4:30 AM for sunrise hike Trek Distance: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar: 2km (1.2 miles) round trip | Gorak Shep to Lobuche: 4.5km (2.8 miles) Trek Duration: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar: 2-3 hours round trip | Gorak Shep to Lobuche: 2-3 hours Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (Kala Patthar), then Moderate (descent to Lobuche)

  Points of Interest:

  • Sunrise views from Kala Patthar – closest Everest views for trekkers

  • Spectacular panorama of Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori

  • World-class mountain photography opportunities

  • Descent providing altitude relief

  • Reflection on incredible achievements so far

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 14
  Trek from Lobuche via Kongma La to Chhukung (4,730m/15,519ft)

  Today we tackle the final and highest of the three legendary high passes – Kongma La (5,535m). This challenging crossing represents the culmination of your high pass adventures and requires determination and stamina after the previous days’ exertions. The ascent is steep and demanding, but the views from the pass are absolutely spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. The descent into the beautiful Chhukung valley provides your first glimpse of Island Peak, the technical climbing objective that awaits. Chhukung serves as the perfect base for your Island Peak preparations.

  Trek Distance: 10km (6.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (highest pass crossing)

  Points of Interest:

  • Kongma La Pass (5,535m) – highest of the three passes

  • Completion of the three high passes circuit

  • First views of Island Peak (6,189m)

  • Entry into Chhukung valley

  • Spectacular mountain panoramas from the highest pass

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 15
  Chhukung: Rest and Acclimatization Day (4,730m/15,519ft)

  This essential rest day before your Island Peak attempt allows for final acclimatization and preparation for the technical climbing ahead. We recommend an optional hike to Chhukung Ri for additional acclimatization and spectacular mountain views, including close-up perspectives of Island Peak, Lhotse, and the magnificent Ama Dablam. This day is crucial for rest, equipment preparation, and mental preparation for the technical mountaineering challenge that awaits. Use this time to hydrate, rest, and review climbing techniques with your guides.

  Hike Distance: 3km (1.9 miles) round trip to Chhukung Ri | Hike Duration: 2-3 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Chhukung Ri viewpoint with Island Peak views

  • Close-up views of Lhotse (8,516m) – world’s fourth highest peak

  • Ama Dablam (6,856m) – one of the world’s most beautiful mountains

  • Final preparations for Island Peak climbing

  • Rest and recovery in spectacular mountain setting

  • Accommodation: Tented
• day 16
  Trek to Island Peak Base Camp, Pre-climb Training (5,200m/17,061ft)

  Today marks the beginning of your technical mountaineering adventure as we trek to Island Peak Base Camp and receive comprehensive climbing instruction. The relatively short trek allows time for thorough technical training, including rope work, crampon use, ice axe techniques, and climbing strategies for summit day. Your experienced climbing guides will ensure you’re fully prepared for the technical challenges ahead. The base camp setting, surrounded by towering peaks, creates an incredible atmosphere of anticipation for tomorrow’s summit attempt.

  Trek Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Island Peak Base Camp (5,200m) establishment

  • Comprehensive mountaineering instruction and training

  • Technical equipment familiarization

  • Rope work, crampon, and ice axe training

  • Mental preparation for summit attempt

  • Accommodation: Tented
  • Meal: Lunch & Dinner
• day 17
  Island Peak Summit Day (6,189m/20,306ft) and return to Base Camp

  Summit day! Today represents the culmination of your incredible 23-day adventure as you attempt to reach the summit of Island Peak (6,189m). The early morning start in darkness leads through glacier terrain, up steep snow slopes, and finally up the technical headwall using fixed ropes. The summit rewards you with spectacular 360-degree views of Himalayan giants including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and countless other peaks. This technical climb represents a significant mountaineering achievement and the perfect culmination to your comprehensive Everest region adventure.

  Climbing Distance: 6km (3.7 miles) round trip | Climbing Duration: 10-12 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (technical mountaineering)

  Points of Interest:

  • Island Peak summit (6,189m/20,306ft) – significant mountaineering achievement

  • 360-degree panoramic views of 8,000m peaks

  • Technical climbing with fixed ropes and glacier travel

  • Spectacular mountain photography from the summit

  • Personal achievement and adventure culmination

  • Accommodation: Tented
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• day 18
  Buffer Day for Weather/Summit Attempt (6,189m/20,306ft)

  This crucial contingency day provides flexibility for weather delays or a second summit attempt if needed. Weather conditions at high altitude can change rapidly, making this buffer day essential for safety and success. If the summit was successful yesterday, this day can be used for descent preparation and celebration of your incredible achievement. The high-altitude environment requires careful monitoring of weather conditions, and this extra day ensures you have the best possible chance of summit success while maintaining safety margins.

  Activities: Weather contingency, rest, or descent preparation | Difficulty Level: Variable

  Points of Interest:

  • Weather contingency planning and flexibility

  • Potential second summit attempt opportunity

  • Rest and recovery at base camp

  • Celebration of achievements

  • Safety margin for changing conditions

  • Accommodation: Tented
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• day 19
  Trek from Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche (3,985m/13,075ft)

  After your incredible mountaineering achievement, today begins the journey back to civilization as we descend through the beautiful Imja valley to the traditional village of Pangboche. The dramatic descent provides welcome relief from the high altitude while offering spectacular views of the peaks you’ve just conquered. Pangboche, with its ancient monastery and traditional Sherpa culture, provides a perfect setting for reflection on your incredible achievements. The rich oxygen at this lower altitude feels luxurious after the thin air of the high peaks.

  Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long descent)

  Points of Interest:

  • Dramatic descent through Imja valley

  • Pangboche village with ancient monastery

  • Traditional Sherpa culture and lifestyle

  • Spectacular retrospective views of conquered peaks

  • Welcome relief of richer oxygen levels

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 20
  Trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280ft)

  Today’s trek takes us through familiar territory as we retrace our steps through Tengboche monastery and down to Namche Bazaar, celebrating your incredible achievements in the high Himalayas. The descent through rhododendron forests and past traditional villages provides time for reflection on your epic 23-day adventure. Namche Bazaar feels like returning to civilization after your high-altitude odyssey, and it’s the perfect place to celebrate with fellow trekkers and share stories of your incredible journey through the three high passes and successful Island Peak summit.

  Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (mostly downhill)

  Points of Interest:

  • Tengboche Monastery revisit

  • Familiar villages with new perspective

  • Celebration of incredible achievements

  • Return to “civilization” at Namche Bazaar

  • Sharing experiences with fellow adventurers

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 21
  Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m/9,187ft)

  Your final day of trekking takes us back to where this incredible adventure began, as we descend from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla. The long but rewarding trek follows familiar paths through the Dudh Koshi valley, crossing the Hillary Suspension Bridge and passing through the checkpoints of Sagarmatha National Park. As we approach Lukla, the significance of your achievement becomes clear – you’ve completed one of the most comprehensive and challenging adventures in the Everest region, conquering three high passes and summiting a technical 6,000-meter peak. Lukla is famous for hosting end-of-journey celebrations, and tonight you can truly celebrate an extraordinary achievement.

  Trek Distance: 18km (11.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long distance with varied terrain)

  Points of Interest:

  • Final trekking day of epic 23-day adventure

  • Familiar landmarks with new appreciation

  • Sagarmatha National Park exit

  • Lukla celebration atmosphere

  • Reflection on extraordinary achievements

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 22
  Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft)

  We’ll have an early breakfast and head to Lukla airport for our return flight to Kathmandu, bringing your incredible Himalayan adventure full circle. The spectacular mountain flight offers final views of the peaks you’ve conquered and the valleys you’ve explored. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the bustling city atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the pristine mountain environment you’ve called home for the past three weeks. Tonight’s farewell dinner with traditional cultural shows provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate your extraordinary achievement with your fellow adventurers and guides.

  Flight Duration: 35 minutes (Lukla to Kathmandu) | Total Travel Time: 2-3 hours including transfers

  Points of Interest:

  • Spectacular mountain flight with final peak views

  • Return to Kathmandu’s vibrant atmosphere

  • Contrast between mountain and city environments

  • Farewell dinner with cultural shows

  • Celebration of extraordinary achievements

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Farewell Dinner
• day 23
  Final Departure

  After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping in Thamel or relaxation at your hotel. Our representative will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. As you prepare to leave Nepal, you’ll carry with you memories of an extraordinary adventure – having crossed three legendary high passes, stood at Everest Base Camp, and summited a technical Himalayan peak. This comprehensive journey represents one of the most complete and challenging adventures possible in the Everest region.

  Airport Transfer: Scheduled according to your flight time (typically 3 hours before international flights)

  Points of Interest:

  • Final shopping opportunities in Thamel

  • Airport transfer and departure

  • Reflection on extraordinary 23-day adventure

  • Memories of three high passes and Island Peak summit

  • Completion of ultimate Everest region circuit

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast