The first time I saw Island Peak, I wasn’t planning to climb it. I was on the Everest Base Camp trek, tired and amazed by the views, when someone pointed to a snow-covered peak in the distance. “That’s Island Peak,” my guide said. “You can climb it.” I laughed. Me? Climb a mountain? But the thought stayed with me. What if I tried?
That question became a journey. That journey changed everything.
A Peak That’s Made for First-Time Climbers
Island Peak is also called Imja Tse. It stands at 6,189 meters (20,305 feet) and sits in the heart of the Everest region. The name “Island Peak” came from early climbers who thought it looked like an island in a sea of ice. It may not be as high as Everest, but don’t let that fool you. It’s a real mountain with glaciers, crevasses, ropes, and rewards. That’s why it’s often called the perfect first Himalayan summit. The best part? You don’t need to be an expert. You just need basic fitness, good training, and the will to try.
The Trek to Island Peak: Step by Step
We started from Lukla, just like the Everest Base Camp trekkers. The walk was full of forests, hanging bridges, rivers, and warm tea houses. I loved passing through places like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. The mountain views felt like paintings come to life. We took our time to adjust to the height. After about 8–10 days, we reached Chhukung, the village where the climb begins. That’s where we met our climbing guides and got our gear ready. Our days were filled with both training and excitement. I learned how to wear crampons, use an ice axe, and clip into fixed ropes. I was nervous—but also proud.
Island Peak Climb: The Numbers You Should Know
If you’re thinking about Island Peak climbing, here are some key facts:
Trek Duration (Round Trip): 16–20 days (including acclimatization)
Climb Duration: 1–2 days (from Island Peak Base Camp)
Summit Elevation: 6,189 meters / 20,305 feet
Starting Point: Lukla
Best Seasons: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–November)
Technical Level: Beginner to Moderate
Permit Required: Yes (Peak climbing permit and local area permits)
Most people combine this climb with the Everest Base Camp trek or at least follow the same trail partway. It helps your body get used to the altitude, and the journey is beautiful.
The Climb That Took My Breath Away
We left Island Peak Base Camp around 2 a.m. It was cold. The stars were bright. My backpack felt heavy, but my heart was full of fire. We climbed through rocky trails and snowy slopes. I used every skill I’d learned—tying knots, breathing deeply, and moving slowly. The final push was steep. I had to pull myself up using ropes fixed in the ice. At last, I stood on the summit of Island Peak. I saw Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, and so many other giants around me. The wind blew hard, but I didn’t feel it. I was too full of joy. I cried a little. I laughed a lot. I couldn’t believe it—I had done it.
What I Learned on the Mountain
Island Peak climbing taught me more than mountain skills. It taught me about courage.
I was scared. I was tired. I didn’t always think I could do it. But I kept going. Step by step, rope by rope, breath by breath.
Sometimes, climbing isn’t about being the strongest. It’s about staying in the moment, believing in yourself, and trusting the mountain to show you who you really are.
Should You Climb Island Peak?
If you’ve done a few treks and want something more, this could be your mountain.
Island Peak gives you the thrill of a true Himalayan climb without needing expert-level skills. You’ll learn, you’ll struggle, and you’ll grow. And in the end, you’ll stand on top of a snowy summit, feeling more alive than ever before. So, should you try Island Peak climbing? Only you can answer that. But if your heart says yes even just a little maybe it’s time to listen.
Final Thought
You don’t need to climb Everest to feel like a mountaineer. Sometimes, one peak is all it takes to change how you see the world and yourself.