Lobuche and Island Peak Climbing 20 Days

Introduction of two major peaks: the Lobuche and Island Peak

If you are looking to push your trekking limits and chase panoramic Himachalayan views at the same time, then climbing both Lobuche East (6,119 m) and Island Peak (6,189m) in one journey is a dream come true. These two iconic trekking peaks lie within the Everest region and attract climbers from around the world for their mix of alpine adventure and high-altitude thrills. 

Island Peak stands tucked behind Dingboche in the Imja Valley, while Lobuche East rises near the Lobuche village along the Everest Base Camp route. Many mountaineers love this route because it combines technical climbing challenges with the spiritual and scenic journey of trekking through the Khumbu.   

Lobuche East is known for its sharp, snow-draped ridgeline that looks absolutely majestic from below and even more surreal from its summit. From the top, you can spot Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu,  Ama Dablam, and more spread out like a frozen masterpiece. 

The trail leading up to Lobuche East starts off gradually but gets steep and demanding near the high camp, with snow and loose rocks. Fixed ropes and crampons become essential closer to the summit ridge, and the final push requires solid footwork, but the reward is a 360-degree Himalayan view you will never forget.  

Island Peak, also called Imja Tse, hides quietly in the Imja Valley and gives climbers a more technical and dramatic climbing experience. After visiting Everest Base Camp and watching sunrise over Everest from Kala Patthar, the journey continues towards Island Peak Base Camp, which is an adventure in itself. 

The climb begins with a rocky trail that leads to the glacier, where climbers rope up and cross crevasses before facing a steep ice wall near the summit. The summit view from Island Peak is wild; you are surrounded by the walls of Lhotse, Baruntse, Makalu, and even glimpses of the route you just trekked.   

This 20-day itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatisation. It begins with a scenic flight to Lukla and passes through vibrant Sherpa villages like Namche and Tengboche. You will hike to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar first, preparing your body for the altitude before attempting any peak. 

After summiting Lobuche East, you will get a rest and recovery day before approaching Island Peak, where the final challenge awaits. The combination of cultural trekking and mountaineering makes this journey truly once in a lifetime.     

Scenic flight to Lukla

Most flights to Lukla take off early in the morning, usually between 6:00 AM and 9:30 AM, depending on the weather. The Himalayan skies tend to stay clearer in the early hours, so that’s when most airlines like Tara Air, Sita Air, and Summit Air schedule their departures. 

You will feel a mix of excitement and nerves as you wait at the domestic terminal in Kathmandu, surrounded by fellow trekkers and climbers. It’s a short wait, but the buzz in the air makes it feel special. 

The flight to Lukla takes around 30 to 35 minutes, but it's not your average plane ride. As the plane rises above Kathmandu Valley, the hills roll into sharp ridges, and then suddenly there they are, snowy Himalayan peaks stretching all the way to the horizon. The view is absolutely unreal if you grab a seat on the left side of the plane while flying to Lukla. 

From that side, you get the best glimpse of Langtang Lirung, Gauri Shankar, and sometimes even a sneak peek of Everest if the skies are clear. The descent into Lukla is thrilling, with its short airstrip perched on a hillside, which definitely adds an adventurous start to your journey.  

Why choose the Lobuche with Island Peak Climbing?

This adventure brings together the best of Himalayan trekking and mountaineering in one unforgettable journey. You don't just climb one peak; you take on Lobuche East and Island Peak, two of the most exciting trekking peaks in Nepal. Before you even start your summit push, you will hike all the way to Everest Base Camp and stand beneath the highest mountain in the world. 

Along the way, you walk through ancient Sherpa villages, visit monasteries like Tengboche, and witness a culture deeply connected to the mountains. Every trail offers a new perspective, not only of the landscape but also of yourself. Whether you are sharing tea with locals in a teahouse or staring at stars above your tent, every moment feels rare and real.  

How Difficult is it to Climb Lobuche and Island Peak

Climbing Lobuche and Island Peak is not a walk in the park. The altitude alone makes breathing feel like a task, and once you get close to the summit, things get steeper and colder. You will need to use ropes, crampons, and climb on snow and ice, which can get pretty intense if you are not used to it. 

It really helps if you have already done a high-altitude trek like the Three Passes, as it builds your stamina and gets your body ready for what's to come. Going straight for the summit without that kind os prep can hit harder than expected. 

Difficulty Level of Lobuche Peak Climbing

Lobuche Peak stands at 6,119 meters and offers a thrilling experience for trekkers who want to push beyond the usual trails. The climb gets steeper and more technical after Lobuche High Camp, on summit day. It usually takes about 8 to 10 hours to reach the top and return to high camp, depending on the weather and your pace. 

The final sections involve fixed ropes, rock slabs, and icy ridges that require focus and a solid grip on basic mountaineering skills. You will need to use crampons and a harness, and you will be clipped onto ropes most of the way to the summit. The exposure is real; one misstep can be risky when crossing the narrow ridge near the top. 

Trekkers with previous high-altitude experience, like the Three Passes Trek, often feel more confident and prepared here. If you are aiming for two-peak climbing, the Lobuche and Island combo, tackling Lobuche first gives you a good warm-up for what’s ahead. 

Difficulty Level of Climbing Island Peak

Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, rises to 6,189 meters and is considered slightly more technical than Lobuche. From the Island Peak base Camp, the summit push can take around 10 to 12 hours round trip, with the real test starting after you cross the glacier. 

You will navigate ladders over crevasses, climb steep ice walls, and tackle a final 100-meter vertical headwall that requires fixed rope techniques. The views from the top are wild; you can see Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu stretching across the sky.

The challenge is to climb and also deal with thin air and freezing wind at high elevation. If you haven’t done high-altitude trekking before, this peak can hit you hard physically and mentally. That’s why most climbers who plan Lobuche and Island Peak Climbing prepare with longer treks like Everest Base Camp or the Three High Passes. Once you’re up there, though, the struggle makes the summit feel even more earned.

How much does it cost to Summit the Lobuche and Island Peak?

The cost of climbing Lobuche and Island Peak really depends on how you choose to do it. If you are going solo or booking a more luxurious package with extra support, the price goes up. Group climbs with basic services are more affordable and also make it more fun and social. Comfort, number of climbers, and services like hot showers or helicopter returns can shift the total cost quite a bit. 

Another thing that affects the price is the climbing gear; some people bring brand new equipment, while others rent. Gear like crampons, harnesses, boots, and down suits can be rented in Kathmandu, but buying your own means a better fit and reliability. The price also includes training, meals, guides, permits, and logistics. With Nature Excursio, here is what you can  expect:  

• 1 Pax: $3,369
• 2 Pax: $3,199
• 3-5 Pax $2,949
• 6-10 Pax: $2,879
• 11-16 Pax: $2,839