Island PeakThe route between Lukla and Island Peak is one of the more classic Himalayan routes. It takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in Nepal, with the added bonus of a steep climb up a 6,189-meter mountain. It gradually takes in the Sherpa villages, mountain scenery, Buddhist culture and impressive scenery of Nepal from the much lower altitude of Lukla and this approach is important because the climbing of is from an already relatively high level.

Lukla to Phakding

The trek effectively starts once reached Khula Manahlu, although the real trek only begins once reaching Lukla. The transition from bustling Kathmandu to silent mountain is almost instant upon touchdown. after assembling a team of porters and guides, the trail snakes along the Dudh Koshi Gorge to reach Phakding. The trek is fairly light and therefore a great warmup for the elevation trip ahead. The trail passes through various forests, villages and prayer stones, and is characterized by the crossing of numerous suspension bridges, the trekkers should take advantage of this first stretch to high an efficient pace.

Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Once leaving Phakding, the trail heads to the north, through villages and forests up toward Namche Bazaar. Approaching the river Dudh Koshi, a number of suspension bridges are encountered, some of which are draped in Newari prayer flags. The path then continues to become steeper until the ascension to the notorious Sherpa settlement of Namche can be achieved. This is a significant rise in altitude thus haste should be avoided, the climb will become much easier if the pace is kept slow, water is regularly sipped and short movement breaks are taken at regular intervals.

Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar

Namche Bsaar is used as an easy acclimatisation stop on the Lukla to Island Peak route. Rather than moving onto higher altitude straight away the climbers generally stop for another day here. It is possible to undertake a brief walk to a higher viewpoint, gaining altitude exposure. Before moving on to sleep in Namche again and inspect equipment, sort out kit and clothing and prepare for more difficult conditions both mentally and physically; the following stages will introduce increasing altitude gradually.

Namche to Tengboche

Once we got used to the Namche environment the footpath continued to Tengboche through beautiful scenery of forest and mountain views, with some gentle ascents offering spectacular views of Ama Dablam and others. Tengboche is famous for its monastery and mountain location. Although the views make the walk seem quite straightforward the effects of altitude will start to slow us down so we need to make sure we walk quickly without wasting energy while going uphill.

Tengboche to Dingboche

The trail ascends from towns like Tengboche to flatter and more remote terrain and heads toward the town of Dingboche, where trees become less prevalent and rocky plains, stone fences, khaki-colored hillsides and huge Himalayan mountains fill the scenes. Dingboche is a significant halt in your trek, as the height is in excess of past settlement. A decline in exercising and oxygen intake is common, and a calm tempo is strictly necessary. Drinking large quantities of water, taking in plenty of nutrients, and having plenty of rest is extremely significant as the trek draws close to the Island Peak climbing region.

Dingboche to Chhukung

This stage continues into the Imja Valley climbing inland toward Chhukung. The trail follows the valley between huge mountain scenery and the prominence of Island Peak steadily increasing as climbers near the climbing area. Chhukung is a small outpost that offers the last big ‘over-stay’ beforehand, being relatively gentle in distance it gives climbers some time to build up strength. Guides can also take this chance to check on their climbing kit and go through the complicated technical parts of the trip.

Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp

The transition from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp signals the start of the more serious climbing approach. The trail traversed barren and windswept high-altitude ground with sparse vegetation. The mountain loomed high above the farmlands and the team would gaze upon the majestic scenery en route to Base Camp. When at Base Camp, climbers would unpack the tents and rally the technical equipment. Guides could possibly teach climbers about crampons, harnesses, ropes, and the climbing technique, if necessary, based on the plan of the expedition.

Island Peak Base Camp Preparation

Time at Base Camp should be used for recovery, preparation and observation. Climbers should rest as much as possible, eat properly and keep well-hydrated and warm. The guides can usually take care of checking technical equipment and run through the route with the team. Depending on conditions, the extra day or so before summit day can be used with a higher camp. Constant change in snow, ice, weather and glacier condition requires the route description to closely follow the guides assessment of the route, rather than be a static baseline from season.

Island Peak Summit Route

The summit attempt always begins very early as there is considerable time required for both up and down. Depending on conditions, snow or ice slopes, exposed sections and fixed rope passages may be encountered. Appropriate technical gear may include crampons, harnesses, and helmets. At this high elevation, even experienced trekker can move slow; oxygen availability is so low. Guides are continuously watching weather and travelers condition and are prepared to turn back, should conditions deteriorate or in the event of serious altitude illness.

Descent Toward Chhukung

Once the summit effort is finished, the team will reverse their ascend and head back down again to lower elevations. Descending after a big day of climbing can be quite taxing on the body, and moving efficiently is still important. Finally the trail back to the Chhukung area is reached where the climbers can recover and prepare to head back through the Khumbu. This is a much lower elevation so breathing becomes much easier and the body can recover more effectively. A good meal and plenty of fluids combined with good rest are especially important after the short summit effort.

Return to Lukla

The return starts with a descent back down the Khumbu trail passing the lower villages and in the direction of Namche Bazaar and Lukla. Experienced climbers can appreciate the variation in the scenery as the approach is made back down through the higher mountains to the greener valleys. Although the walk back in may be easier because of the lower altitude, tired legs make a long downhill walk difficult. Once the party reach Lukla the climb is nearly over. The flight back to Kathmandu is again subject to suitable weather and flight operations.

Conclusion

The Lukla to Island Peak route offers a relatively gentle and scenic approach to one of the most frequented of the Nepalese trekking peaks. Starting at Lukla and ending at the high-altitude Island Peak Base camp trekkers get a taste for the ever-changing scenery and the rich Sherpa, Buddhist and Himalayan culture. The route should be trekked with proper acclimatization and a cautious pace, technical knowledge, good company and adaptable plans, and by following these, climbers will be able to make the most of the trekking and high-altitude climbing experience.

Lukla to Island Peak Route Guide

Lukla to Island Peak Route Guide: A step-by-step journey through the Everest region to Island Peak.