Island Peak & Ama Dablam – EBC Trek – 18 Days

Itinerary

• Day 01
  Arrive Kathmandu (1,350 m)

  You will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal. Once you arrive, our representative will be holding cards with your name to welcome you and drive you to the hotel.

  Upon reaching the hotel, you will get refreshed and rest. Or you can explore Thamel, the liveliest area in Kathmandu. Also, ensure all the needed gear is ready.

  Overnight in Kathmandu.

  

  Max. Altitude

  1,350 m

  

  Overnight

  Kathmandu
• Day 02
  Half-day sightseeing & trek preparation, Kathmandu (1,350 m)

  This day in Kathmandu (~1,400 m) is designed for light sightseeing and trek preparation. Trekkers can explore the city’s rich cultural landmarks, such as Swayambhu Nath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, or Durbar Square, depending on time and preference.

  In addition to sightseeing, this day is used for trekking preparation: checking gear, repacking, arranging permits (TIMS and Sagarmatha National Park), and reviewing the itinerary with your guide. It ensures that all equipment is ready, and climbers are well-informed about altitude, safety, and trekking logistics.

  

  Max. Altitude

  1,350 m

  

  Overnight

  Kathmandu
• Day 03
  Fly KTM to Lukla (2,860 m), Trek to Phakding / Monjo (2,610–2,835 m)

  Today, your day will begin with an exciting flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The plane will be airborne for 30 minutes, and after you touch down, you will join the other team members. If you have to purchase some things, you can get them there, and afterward, we will proceed to Phakding. The journey from Lukla starts with a beautiful mountain flight, traversing a mild downhill path through charming Sherpa settlements, pine woodlands, and beside the Dudh Koshi River. Hikers walk by mani walls, prayer wheels, and suspension bridges as they take in their initial glimpses of the Khumbu area. The hike is straightforward and aids in acclimatization as the path travels to Phakding or a bit beyond to Monjo, where inviting tea houses, riverside views, and friendly Sherpa warmth create a pleasant initial night on the Everest journey.

  

  Max. Altitude

  2,860 m at Lukla

  

  Overnight

  Phakding / Monjo

  

  Duration

  4-5 hrs.
• Day 04
  Phakding / Manjo to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

  After breakfast, we will trek to Namche Bazaar, also known as the Gateway to Everest, situated at an altitude of 3440m, which is one of the top destinations in this region.

  The trek to Namche Bazaar is not that difficult, and the trail is rocky but beautiful too, as you will start seeing the Himalayas. Your trek starts with climbing uphill, crossing several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. Then, you will reach the Monjo village.

  From Monjo village, we continue our trek and pass the rhododendron forest, and we will arrive at the Sagarmatha National Conservation Area’s entrance. Here you will do some paperwork, and then continue with the walk. By evening, we will reach Namche Bazaar.

  Once we reach Namche Bazar, you will be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Mount Everest standing tall in the distance.

  Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

  

  Max. Altitude

  3,440 m

  

  Overnight

  Namche Bazaar

  

  Duration

  5-6 hrs.
• Day 05
  Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440–3,880 m)

  Today, we will acclimatize in Namche, visit the village, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. After breakfast, we will hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,860m), the highest hotel in the Sagarmatha National Park. Also, there is a Khumjung village where you can go for a hike instead of the Everest View Hotel.

  Returning from the hotel, we will then explore the Namche market. There is a Sherpa Museum situated above the village off the Tengboche trail. You will visit this museum, where you will witness the “Hall of Fame” gallery that includes the photos of the Everest summiteers, including Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Sherpa.

  Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

  

  Max. Altitude

  3,880 m

  

  Overnight

  Namche Bazaar

  

  Duration

  3-4 hrs.
• Day 06
  Namche to Phortse / Porche Village (3,840m)

  Today’s trek takes you from Namche Bazaar (~3,440 m) to Phortse (~3,840 m), moving eastward along the Dudh Koshi valley. The trail begins with a gentle descent from Namche before crossing several suspension bridges and gradually ascending through forested slopes, rhododendron patches, and scattered Sherpa villages. This section of the trek is quieter and less crowded, offering a more peaceful trekking experience compared to the main Everest Base Camp route.

  Along the way, trekkers are treated to stunning panoramic views of iconic Himalayan peaks such as Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega, with excellent photo opportunities and scenic resting spots. Phortse itself is a charming, traditional Sherpa village, known for its stone houses, prayer flags, and tranquil alpine setting. It provides an ideal place to rest, acclimatize, and immerse yourself in the local culture before continuing higher into the Khumbu region.

  

  Max. Altitude

  3,840 m

  

  Overnight

  Phortse

  

  Duration

  5-6 hrs.
• Day 07
  Phortse to Pangboche (3,985 m)

  Today’s trek takes you from Phortse to Pangboche, moving through the scenic upper Khumbu Valley. The trail is mostly a gradual ascent, winding through alpine meadows, yak pastures, and scattered Sherpa villages. Trekkers cross small streams, suspension bridges, and sections of rocky paths while enjoying uninterrupted panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, and other surrounding Himalayan peaks.

  Pangboche is renowned for its ancient monastery, one of the oldest in the Khumbu region, offering a fascinating glimpse into Sherpa culture and Buddhist traditions. The village itself is set amidst dramatic alpine scenery, with stone houses, prayer flags, and the peaceful rhythm of local life. It provides an excellent spot to rest, acclimatize, and take in the high-altitude environment, while enjoying the quiet charm of one of the most iconic villages on the Everest trekking route.

  

  Max. Altitude

  3,985 m

  

  Overnight

  Pangboche

  

  Duration

  3-4 hrs.
• Day 08
  Pangboche to Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,600m), Back to Pangboche

  Today’s trek is a day hike from Pangboche to Ama Dablam Base Camp and back. The trail begins with a steady uphill climb through alpine meadows, yak pastures, and rocky ridges, offering increasingly dramatic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse as you gain altitude.

  The hike provides an excellent acclimatization opportunity and a closer look at the iconic Ama Dablam massif, one of the most photographed peaks in the world. At Base Camp, trekkers can explore the glacial moraine, observe climbing preparations, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding high Himalayas.

  The return to Pangboche follows the same trail, descending gradually through peaceful meadows and villages, giving the legs a chance to recover while soaking in the spectacular scenery. This round-trip hike is challenging but rewarding, combining adventure, acclimatization, and unforgettable mountain vistas.

  

  Max. Altitude

  4,600m at Ama Dablam Base Camp

  

  Overnight

  Pangboche

  

  Duration

  6-7 hrs.
• Day 09
  Pangboche to Dingboche (4,410 m)

  Today’s trek takes you from Pangboche to Dingboche, following a gentle but steady ascent through the upper Khumbu Valley. The trail passes through alpine meadows, yak pastures, and scattered Sherpa villages, with occasional suspension bridges and small streams along the way.

  The route offers spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks, making for a visually rewarding hike. Dingboche is a peaceful high-altitude settlement, ideal for rest and acclimatization, with teahouses providing warm meals and comfortable lodging. This stage allows trekkers to adjust gradually to higher altitudes while enjoying the serene alpine environment.

  

  Max. Altitude

  4,410 m

  

  Overnight

  Dingboche

  

  Duration

  3-4 hrs.
• Day 10
  Acclimatization at Dingboche, Nagarjun hike-optional (5,083 m)

  Today is a rest and acclimatization day at Dingboche. The primary goal is to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude before continuing higher into the Khumbu region. Trekkers can spend the day resting in the village, hydrating, and enjoying the alpine surroundings.

  For those seeking light activity, an optional hike to Nagarjun Hill provides excellent acclimatization. The trail climbs steadily through rocky slopes and alpine meadows, offering panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Island Peak, and the surrounding valleys. This hike is moderately challenging due to altitude but highly rewarding for photography and acclimatization purposes.

  Dingboche itself is a serene high-altitude village with teahouses, prayer flags, and yak pastures, making it an ideal spot to relax, prepare meals, and enjoy the stunning Himalayan scenery.

  

  Max. Altitude

  5,083m at Nagarjun Hill

  

  Overnight

  Dingboche

  

  Duration

  3-5 hrs.
• Day 11
  Dingboche to Chukhung (4,730m)

  Today’s trek ascends from Dingboche to Chukhung, following a steady uphill trail through alpine meadows, rocky ridges, and glacial streams. The path gradually gains altitude, offering panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Island Peak, and surrounding peaks, making the climb both challenging and visually rewarding.

  Chukhung is a small high-altitude settlement, serving as a base for Mera Peak, Lobuche, and surrounding trekking routes. The village provides basic teahouses for rest and acclimatization. This stage helps trekkers adjust to higher altitudes while enjoying the serene alpine environment, yak pastures, and spectacular Himalayan vistas.

  

  Max. Altitude

  4,730m

  

  Overnight

  Chukhung

  

  Duration

  2-3 hrs.
• Day 12
  Chukhung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,087m)

  Today’s trek ascends from Chhukung (~4,730 m) to Island Peak Base Camp (~5,050 m). The trail is moderate to challenging, gradually climbing through rocky moraines, glacial streams, and alpine ridges, with the altitude making a steady pace essential. Trekkers gain a true sense of the high Himalayas as the terrain becomes more rugged and exposed.

  Along the way, the trail offers spectacular panoramic views of Island Peak, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and surrounding high peaks, making the hike visually rewarding. The landscape includes glacial valleys, moraine ridges, and occasional patches of snow, giving trekkers a taste of expedition-style trekking.

  Island Peak Base Camp is a high-altitude staging area where climbers can rest, acclimatize, and prepare for the summit attempt. The camp provides a dramatic backdrop of towering peaks and glaciers, offering one of the most striking high-mountain settings on the trek. This day is vital for adjusting to altitude, organizing climbing gear, and mentally preparing for the climb ahead.

  

  Max. Altitude

  5,087m

  

  Overnight

  Island Peak Base Camp

  

  Duration

  3-4 hrs.
• Day 13
  Summit Island Peak (6,189 m) & Return to Chukhung (4,730m)

  This is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek. The day starts very early, often around midnight to 2:00 AM, to ensure climbers reach the summit and return safely before afternoon weather changes. The ascent begins from Island Peak Base Camp, traversing rocky moraine, snow slopes, and glacier sections. Trekkers use crampons, harnesses, ropes, and ice axes, with guidance from experienced climbing instructors.

  The climb is steep and physically demanding, requiring careful pacing and altitude awareness. As you ascend the final snow and ice slopes, the panorama opens dramatically, offering unforgettable views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and surrounding 6,000–8,000 m peaks. Reaching the Island Peak Summit is an exhilarating achievement, marking the high point of the trek with breathtaking 360° Himalayan vistas.

  The descent retraces the same route back to Island Peak Base Camp and continues down to Chhukung. After a long and demanding day, this return allows trekkers to rest, recover, and celebrate completing one of the most iconic climbs in the Khumbu region.

  

  Max. Altitude

  6,189 m at Island Peak

  

  Overnight

  Chukhung

  

  Duration

  11-12 hrs.
• Day 14
  Chukhung to Tengboche (3,860 m)

  Today’s trek descends from the high alpine environment of Chukhung (~4,730 m) down to the spiritual heart of the Khumbu, Tengboche (~3,867 m). The route begins with a steady downhill walk back through Dingboche and the wide Imja Valley, surrounded by stunning views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Island Peak. The descent is relaxing and easier on the legs, passing through yak pastures, stone-walled fields, and traditional Sherpa villages.

  After reaching Pangboche, the trail continues with gentle ups and downs through pine forests and mani walls. The final section includes a short but noticeable uphill climb to reach Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in the Everest region.

  In Tengboche, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the surrounding Himalayan giants. Evening prayers at the monastery offer a peaceful cultural experience after a scenic trekking day.

  

  Max. Altitude

  3,860 m

  

  Overnight

  Tengboche

  

  Duration

  5-7 hrs.
• Day 15
  Tengboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

  Today’s trek descends from the serene monastery village of Tengboche (~3,867 m) back to the bustling mountain hub of Namche Bazaar (~3,440 m). The day begins with a long downhill walk-through rhododendron and pine forests, passing small settlements and enjoying beautiful views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and the Dudh Koshi Valley.

  After reaching the river, you’ll cross a suspension bridge before starting one of the day’s main challenges: a steady, gradual uphill climb toward Kyangjuma. Although the ascent is noticeable, the path is well-maintained and scenic, with wildlife sightings such as musk deer and Himalayan pheasants common along this stretch.

  The final portion of the trek is a pleasant, mostly level trail contouring the mountainside, leading you back to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region. Here you can enjoy cafés, bakeries, gear shops, and warm lodges—perfect for relaxing after days at higher altitudes.

  

  Max. Altitude

  3,440 m

  

  Overnight

  Namche Bazaar

  

  Duration

  4-6 hrs.
• Day 16
  Namche to Lukla (2,860 m)

  The trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla is the final and often long day of the Everest journey, gradually descending through rhododendron and pine forests, past small Sherpa villages, mani walls, and riverside trails. Trekkers retrace parts of the route taken on the way in, passing through Phakding or Monjo, crossing suspension bridges, and enjoying sweeping views of the Dudh Koshi River and surrounding ridges. The descent allows for easier walking after the high-altitude sections of the trek, while still providing opportunities to observe local culture, prayer wheels, and traditional stone stupas. Arriving in Lukla (2,860 m), trekkers are welcomed by the bustling lodge area and the famous airstrip, marking the completion of a remarkable high Himalayan journey and preparing for the flight back to Kathmandu.

  

  Max. Altitude

  2,860 m

  

  Overnight

  Lukla

  

  Duration

  6-7 hrs.
• Day 17
  Fly Lukla to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

  The journey from Lukla to Kathmandu begins with a scenic mountain flight, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, as well as the deep valleys, rivers, and villages of the Khumbu region. The flight, usually around 35–45 minutes, provides a spectacular perspective of the trekking route and the glacial landscapes from above. Landing in Kathmandu, trekkers transition from the high-altitude wilderness to the bustling city, where they can enjoy comfort, hot showers, cultural sightseeing, and a chance to reflect on their unforgettable journey through the Everest region. 

  

  Max. Altitude

  1,350 m

  

  Overnight

  Kathmandu

  

  Duration

  30 minutes flight
• Day 18
  Departure from Kathmandu

  Today marks the end of your incredible Himalayan journey. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time in Kathmandu for last-minute shopping, relaxing at a café, or exploring nearby temples before heading to the airport.

  Your guide or representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your departure. As you say farewell to Nepal, you’ll carry with your unforgettable memories of high mountains, warm Sherpa hospitality, and the adventure of a lifetime.