Island Peak (Imja Tse)
In Nepali: आइल्यान्ड पिक (इम्जा चे) · Also known as: Imja Tse
Eric Shipton's 1951 expedition named it Island Peak because it looked like an island in the ice when seen from Dingboche. It is one of the most climbed peaks in Nepal and is often combined with the Everest Base Camp trek.
The climb involves fixed ropes up a steep headwall and a narrow summit ridge, so basic mountaineering training is needed. Even without climbing, the walk to Chhukung and Island Peak base camp gives huge views of Lhotse's south face.
Route at a glance
From Chhukung (about 4,730 m) it is a half-day walk to base camp beside the Imja glacier. Summit day starts around midnight: a rocky climb to crampon point, a crevassed glacier crossing, a steep snow and ice headwall of about 100 m on fixed ropes, and finally a narrow ridge to the summit.
Good to know
Most climbers first trek to Everest Base Camp or Gokyo for acclimatisation, then add three to four days for Island Peak. A permit, guide and equipment (boots, crampons, harness, ascenders) are required; many agencies offer a practice session at base camp. The summit view takes in Lhotse's south face towering above, Makalu to the east and Ama Dablam to the south.
Quick answers
- Where is Island Peak (Imja Tse)?
- Island Peak (Imja Tse) is in Solukhumbu district, Koshi Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Island Peak (Imja Tse)?
- About 6,189 m (20,306 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Island Peak (Imja Tse)?
- For a 18-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 163,500 (≈ US$1,210) per person on a budget, or NPR 189,500 (≈ US$1,405) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 74,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Island Peak (Imja Tse)?
- Plan 16 nights there for the trek; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 18 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Island Peak (Imja Tse)?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 5,000 / US$37 to enter Sagarmatha National Park plus the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipality fee (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Island Peak (Imja Tse)?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Island Peak (Imja Tse)?
- October–November; April–May
- How do I get to Island Peak (Imja Tse)?
- From Chhukung, a day beyond Dingboche; climbing permit and guide required. It is about 160 km (straight line) from Kathmandu, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Island Peak (Imja Tse) called in Nepali?
- आइल्यान्ड पिक (इम्जा चे)
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