Lobuche East 6119M & Island Peak 6189M - Entry level climbs
Challenge yourself to combine the 6000M peak expedition with the shadow of Everest
Highlights
2016-2025, 100% safety records. Over 70+ Summits
Expedition to Lobuche East 6119M and Island Peak 6189M
Inclusion of Apline gears and equipment for rent
Itinerary selection from the S
Signature 18-day and classic 21-day itineraries
Shared helicopter route from Kathmandu to Lukla and Dingboche-Lukla-Kathmandu (singular climb).
1:2 Guide to client ratio. Small and dedicated team with dedicated team strategy and 1 to 8 clients
100% safety record and 90% Summit success on 2020-2025 expeditions
Training programs of 12 weeks from Training Peaks for 6000M climb
Overview
This 18- to 25-day Lobuche East and Island Peak expedition itinerary ensures you acclimatize gradually while trekking up the Khumbu Valley to Everest base camp and gradually progress before reaching the summit of Lobuche East Peak and Island Peak. Both peaks are semi-technical and graded at PD+/3. The Lobuche Peak Expedition (6,119 m) and Island Peak Expedition (6,189 m) are two of the most popular 6,000-meter climbing peaks in Nepal, mostly used as training peaks by climbers planning to prepare for high-altitude peaks like Everest (8,848 m).
Itinerary - Signature climb
Days 1 and 2: Arrival and Kathmandu (equipment check, induction with expedition leader)
Day 3: Shared helicopter. Kathmandu - Lukla and trek to Monjo 2800 m (5 - 7 hours)
Days 4 and 5: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). Additional 3-hour acclimatization trek, up to 3,880 m)
Day 6: Namche / Phortse (5 to 6 hours)
Day 7: Phortse to Pheriche 4371 m (5 to 6 hours)
Day 8: Pheriche to Lobuche village or east base camp 4910 m (4 to 5 hours)
Day 9: Rest and training day
Day 10: Lobuche High Camp 5600 m (5 to 6 hours)
Day 11: Summit day 6118 m / High camp or Lobuche village
Day 12: Gorakshep / Everest Base Camp 5340 m (7 to 8 hours)
Day 13: Kalapatthar 5545 m / Dingboche 3600 m (8 to 10 hours)
Day 14: Dingboche / Chukung 4730 m (5 to 6 hours)
Day 15: Chukung / Island Peak base camp 5087 m (3 to 4 hours)
Day 16: Ascend to Island Peak Summit (6189 m) / Descend to Dingboche (8-10 hours)
Day 17: Shared helicopter journey from Dingboche - Lukla - Kathmandu
Day 18: Departure
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Days 1 and 2: Arrival in Kathmandu, exploration, and preparation (equipment check, introduction with team, expedition leader, and expedition briefings)
Day 3: Kathmandu to Lukla and then trek to Monjo 2800 m (5 - 7 hours)
Days 4 and 5: Namche Bazaar/Acclimatisation 3440 m (3-hour acclimatisation trek, up to 3880 m)
Day 6: Namche / Phortse (5 to 6 hours)
Day 7: Phortse to Pheriche 4371 m (5 to 6 hours)
Day 8: Pheriche to Lobuche village or east base camp 4910 m (4 to 5 hours)
Day 9: Rest and training day
Day 10: Lobuche High Camp 5600 m (5 to 6 hours)
Day 11: Summit day 6118 m / High camp or Lobuche village
Day 12: Gorakshep / Everest Base Camp 5340 m (7 to 8 hours)
Day 13: Kalapatthar 5545 m / Dingboche 3600 m (8 to 10 hours)
Day 14: Dingboche / Chukung 4730 m (5 to 6 hours)
Day 15: Chukung / Island Peak base camp 5087 m (3 to 4 hours)
Day 16: Ascend to Island Peak Summit (6189 m) / Descend to Dingboche (8-10 hours)
Day 17: Dingboche to Pangboche or Tengboche
Day 18: Pangboche or Tengboche to Namche Bazaar 3440 m (5 - 6 hours)
Day 19: Namche Bazaar / Lukla 2800 m (6 - 8 hours)
Day 20: Lukla to Ramechap and jeep to Kathmandu
Day 21: Departure
Expedition Investment
Signature climb: USD 7,550 Per person
Classic climb: USD 6,350 per person
Deposit: USD 300 per person
Guaranteed departure without extra hidden costs. We accept payment in GBP, EUR, and AUD. For more information about costs in your local currency, inquire with us.
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Autumn 2026
28th September - 15th October (8 spots)
18th October - 4th November
Spring 2027
6th - 23rd March
3rd - 20th April
27th April - 14th May
Autumn 2027
26th September - 13th October
1st November - 18th November
If the departure dates for the signature climb do not match your schedule, you can book a private climb with us.
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Autumn 2026
28th September - 18th October (8 spots)
18th October - 7th November (6 spots)
Spring 2027
6th - 26th March
3rd - 23rd April
27th April - 17th May
Autumn 2027
26th September - 16th October
1st November - 21st November
If your schedule doesn't match with our classic climb expedition departure dates, contact us for a private climb.
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Certified Sherpa mountain guide from the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA)
Branded merchandise such as caps, buffs, and down jackets from Namas Adventure
Recovery-focused 90-minute massage in Kathmandu after expedition
1:2 Sherpa guide and client ratio
Shared heli ride from Kathmandu to Lukla and Dingboche to Kathmandu via Lukla during return
Mountaineering Gears (Gears Include: -20C Mountain Hardware sleeping Bag, climbing helmet, harness, 3X carabiners, Point Kantz Crampons, Ascenders, z-lite sleeping foam mat, Duffle bags)
Cooking team with assistant at Base and Hign camps
Porter service to carry weight limited to 30 kg. Extra weight requires the client to hire an additional porter costing $700 for 22 days.
Single room in a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights before the expedition and 1 day after the expedition (note that the client must return on the scheduled date from the expedition). In case of an extra hotel stay on the date not mentioned in the itinerary, the client is required to pay by self.
Mandatory permits, including the NMA Peak Climbing Permit, the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Fee, and garbage management fees.
All domestic transports to reach and return from the trekking trailhead
Three-course meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner on expedition days
Hot water facilities
Accommodation in a lodge or guesthouse during the trekking days
Porter service
Airport pickup and dropoff services
Welcome and farewell dinner
Basic first aid kit.
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Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA)-certified Sherpa guides
Branded merchandise from Namas Adventure, such as a down jacket, buff, and cap
Sherpa guide to client ratio of 1:2
Gears and equipment, including a -20°C Mountain Hardware bag, climbing helmet, 3X carabiners, duffle bag, assender, and crampons
Team including cook and assistant in basecamp and high camp
Porter for up to 30 kg weight per climber. Extra weight requires hiring additional porters that cost $700 USD for 22 days
Accommodation in a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights before the expedition and 1 day after the expedition. In case of an extra hotel stay on the date that is not mentioned in the itinerary, clients are self-responsible for payment.
Peak climbing and trekking permits such as the NMA Peak Climbing Permit, the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Fee, and garbage management fees.
Cost of local or domestic transportation to reach and return from trailhead
Three course meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, during the expedition days
Hot water pot every night
Accommodation in a lodge or guest house during the trekking days
Airport pickup and dropoff services
Basic first aid kits
Welcome and farewell dinner
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Cost of international flight to and from Nepal
Cost of Nepal visa and travel insurance
Bonuses like summit bonuses, tips, and gratitude to guides, porters, and other team members
Personal expenses
Cost of personal drinks and beverages
Emergency evacuation fees
Donation and gift to hotel staff, community, person, or team members
Cost of phone services, laundry, and rental expenses
Cost of additional destinations and stays
Expenses on teak breaks, snacks, chocolates, and any other additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Additional cost due to delay and cancellation of expedition due to natural phenomenon
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In case of a single participant in the expedition, the additional cost of USD 600 applies. It is because during a single client expedition, the expedition team, including guides, staff, transportation, logistics, and other fixed operational expenses, cannot be shared (expenses are only shared when multiple clients are there on expedition). The additional USD 600 supplement helps to cover extra operation costs. Although the additional payment ensures that clients get tailored guidance, assistance, and support, ensuring their safety, staffing, logistics, and service standards.
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Donna Brown 🇬🇧
Lobuche East and Island Peak Expedition (2022)
This was our first trip to Nepal and our first time climbing 6000 m-plus peaks, so we had lots of questions. Namas always replied quickly with all the relevant information, which put us at ease. Their service was second to none.
The Sherpas and porters are a real credit to Namas, and I cannot praise them highly enough. They looked after us, showing kindness, compassion, and strength that I will be forever thankful for. Their knowledge of the mountains was second to none, and they work so hard to make sure their clients have the best experience possible. This may have been our first trip to Nepal, but it won't be the last.
Thank you, Namas, and we will see you soon.
Daniel Jülg 🇩🇪
Lobuche East and Island Peak Expedition (2022)
I climbed Lobuche East and Island Peak with Namas Adventure. My questions before the trip were always answered very quickly. Our guides were very experienced and very kind; they made this trip an unforgettable experience.
I can recommend Namas to anyone who wants to have a good time in Nepal.
Blogposts
Climbers Guide - Lobuche East and Island Peak
Island Peak 6189M - TechnicalityIsland Peak (6189 meters) is a PD+ alpine mountain in Nepal that has some technical climbing features and wide exposed glaciers. The final route includes basic rock scrambling, roped steel ladder glacier crossings, climbing on a steep snow/ice wall using fixed ropes, and an exposed final summit ridge.
Climbers undertaking this Island Peak trip will be trained in basic mountaineering skills by our guides, including scrambling on rocky surfaces and walking on snow/ice with ice axes and crampons. It is best if you have previous experience with basic winter or alpine climbing, as this will help you with basic technical knowledge for attempting the final summit. You will also need to be physically fit, as the climb will demand your physical strength and endurance. With a combination of physical fitness, basic climbing skills, and sheer will, you will be able to celebrate your moments at the summit of Island Peak. Finally, to top it all off, enjoy 360-degree views of the Himalayas all around you, a perfect way to accomplish your Island Peak summit.
Lobuche East (6,119 m) - TechnicalityLobuche East (6119 meters) is a graded PD alpine mountain that has some technical climbing and complicated glaciers. Any clients undertaking this trip should have some basic mountaineering experience, including rock scrambling and climbing on snow/ice with ice axes and crampons. It is best if you have experience with basic winter or alpine courses, where you have all the basic technical knowledge of alpine climbing. A basic skill training day will be included on the trip, but this is more intended as a skill.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
1. Initial Inquiry and Planning
Namas Adventure first understands the goals, aspirations, and preferences of climbers from conversations with the expert team. We provide tailored plans and recommendations that match your preferences and interests. As we recognize the ideal expedition, clients are required to secure their spot in the expedition, followed by a deposit. After payment, Namas works closely with clients in each planning and preparation stage. From training and gear selection to arranging permits and logistic management to arranging insurance or renting mountaineering gear, everything is managed.
2. Preparing for the Journey
As the expedition dates approach, we help you prepare for your journey. We collect all the remaining payment 60 to 90 days before the expedition to ensure all documentation and arrangements are confirmed. If you have any remaining questions, we are always there to address the question. Our team is always available via phone calls and emails to ensure you are fully prepared, confident, and ready for adventure to Lobuche East and Island Peak.
3. On-Expedition Support
As you land in Nepal, our responsibility begins. We welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport and provide pre-expedition briefings. During the briefings, you can raise any concerns if you have. In case of confusion regarding gears, you can discuss with the expedition team to ensure you are fully prepared. In case you require flexibility in plans, you can discuss it with Namas so that we can adapt to it. From airport pickup to arrangement of all domestic transportation, logistics, and support during the expedition until your departure from Nepal, Namas ensures your adventure is fun and memorable.
FAQ'S
When is the best time to climb Lobuche East and Island Peak? . . .
The best time to climb Lobuche East and Island Peak is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, temperatures are warmer and climbers get longer daylight hours. The trail in the lower region comes alive with blooming flowers and rhododendron blossoms, making the journey fun and adventurous.
Autumn brings clear skies, clear mountain views, and crisp, predictable conditions for summit pushes.
Which route will the Namas team choose? I can see the mountain is very steep and exposed. What is your climbing strategy? . . .
Lobuche East and Island Peak are semi-technical trekking peaks in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Climbing these peaks requires proper acclimatization and rest days. Namas Adventure follows a practical itinerary with a climbing strategy that uses Base Camp and High Camp along the standard route.
For Lobuche East, Namas uses the Southeast Ridge route, with fixed ropes set on the icy, snowy, and rocky sections that lead to the summit. For Island Peak, Namas uses the Southwest Ridge route, which involves navigating the lower glacier, crossing crevasses on ladders, and scaling the steep snow and ice section to reach the summit.
How long is a typical day on the mountain? . . .
On the 18 to 21-day expedition to Lobuche East and Island Peak, typical trekking days last 5 to 6 hours, and high camp moves take around 5 to 6 hours depending on pace and route conditions. Summit days on Lobuche East and Island Peak take an average of 10 to 14 hours, as they involve navigating steep and challenging terrain.
What is summit day like? . . .
Summit day is the hardest part of climbing Lobuche East and Island Peak. Your guide wakes you up around midnight to gear up, eat, and prepare for the climb. On Lobuche East, you ascend to an exposed but breathtaking ridge with a massive drop. In this section, you move with careful footing using a mechanical ascender (Jumar) on fixed lines.
On Island Peak, summit day involves crossing a cracked glacier and climbing a 100 m ice headwall. This is a near-vertical 45 to 60-degree wall of ice and hard snow that requires strong calves, kicking in your front points, and pulling yourself up step by step on the rope.
Can I see Mt. Everest from the Lobuche East or Island Peak summit? . . .
The Lobuche East summit offers a clear view of the Mount Everest summit pyramid, the South Col, and nearby peaks such as Pumori, Nuptse, and Lhotse. From the Island Peak summit, Everest is blocked by the Nuptse face. However, Island Peak still gives you a magnificent 360-degree panorama of peaks such as Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and the Imja Glacier valley.
Contingency days in the Island Peak and Lobuche East expedition? . . .
Namas Adventure includes contingency days in the itinerary to accommodate delays caused by poor weather when climbing Island Peak and Lobuche East.
Guides/Sherpas for the Lobuche and Island Peak climb? Ratio: clients. Qualification and level of English? . . .
Namas Adventure provides experienced Sherpa guides with IFMGA/NNMGA certification for expedition teams of 1 to 8 members. The guide-to-climber ratio is 1:2, or 1:1 at an additional charge. Namas expedition guides are highly qualified and speak English proficiently.
How much do you suggest tipping guides and porter teams? . . .
Upon a successful summit, we suggest tipping USD 300 to the guide in appreciation of their guidance, support, and effort in making your expedition memorable. You can also donate equipment such as jackets, trekking poles, gloves, or hats to the staff.
Are Lobuche East and Island Peak suitable for beginner climbers, and what level of fitness do I need? . . .
Yes, Lobuche East and Island Peak are suitable for beginner and intermediate climbers, as they are trekking peaks classed as semi-technical high-altitude mountains. However, climbers must be physically and mentally fit and able to use skills such as rope climbing, handling gear and equipment, walking on crampons, and using an ice axe. Beginner climbers are encouraged to train for 3 to 4 months to make sure they are physically fit and prepared for the expedition.
Who is the Lobuche East and Island Peak expedition for? . . .
The Lobuche East and Island Peak expedition is for climbers aged 18 and above with beginner to intermediate experience who want high-altitude experience in preparation for higher climbs in the future.
Can my friends and family join me on the trek to Chukung or Everest Base Camp? . . .
Yes, your friends or family can join you on the trek to Chukung or Everest Base Camp during your Lobuche East and Island Peak expedition. Please let us know in advance by email or phone call.
Can I contact other climbers to join this trip? . . .
Yes, Namas Adventure highly encourages you to invite other climbers to join the Island Peak and Lobuche East expedition. Sharing the adventure creates lasting memories, is more cost-efficient, and gives you support at every step.
How much weight can I bring during the expedition? . . .
Namas Adventure carries up to 30 kg of your luggage during the Lobuche East and Island Peak expedition. If your luggage exceeds 30 kg, you will need to hire an additional porter, which costs an extra USD 700 for 22 days.
Is it possible to organize a private climbing trip? . . .
Namas Adventure organizes private climbing trips to Lobuche East, Island Peak, or any other peak during a suitable season, provided you are well prepared and fit to climb. A private climb costs extra, as the team needs to organize separate logistics and arrangements.
How hard is it to climb to the summit of Lobuche East and Island Peak? . . .
Both Lobuche East and Island Peak are rated Alpine PD, or 2B, in difficulty. These peaks challenge climbers with steep ascents, rocky terrain, cold weather, and strong winds, so good physical fitness and preparation are required. Technical skills and prior experience can also make the expedition more successful and comfortable.
What is the physical fitness required for the Island Peak climb? . . .
To climb Island Peak, you need to be in good shape and fit enough for the semi-technical nature of the peak. You must be able to handle long hiking days to base camp, walking on challenging rocky, snowy, and icy terrain, and long summit pushes.
What sort of hotels do we stay at in the city? . . .
Namas Adventure arranges 5-star hotels for climbers during their stay in Kathmandu. The hotels are within walking distance of popular tourist attractions and provide amenities ranging from basic to luxury to keep you comfortable during your stay.
Are showers and laundry available during Lobuche East or Island Peak? . . .
Laundry and shower services are available at base camps and along the trekking route to Lobuche East and Island Peak. At higher elevations, however, these services become scarce or unavailable.
Are meals included in the Lobuche East and Island Peak package? . . .
Yes, the Lobuche East and Island Peak package by Namas Adventure includes three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during expedition days. Namas Adventure also caters to vegetarian and other special diets if informed in advance.
Do I need to get a visa for Nepal? . . .
Yes, you need a visa to enter Nepal (except Indian nationals). Nepal offers visa on arrival to most nationalities at Tribhuvan International Airport and at border entry points.
When should I book my ticket? . . .
We recommend booking your ticket 60 to 90 days before your expedition date to make sure your trip has met the minimum numbers and will operate. If you find a good deal earlier, you can book, but we recommend a flexible or reschedulable ticket in case the expedition is delayed by poor weather.
Where do we meet? Will I be picked up? . . .
Namas Adventure will receive you at Kathmandu airport and drop you off at your hotel in Kathmandu. If you are arriving in Nepal before the scheduled arrival date, please let us know in advance so we can arrange to welcome and pick you up from the airport.
Will you provide a clothing and expedition equipment list? . . .
Yes, we provide a clothing and expedition equipment list upon inquiry and booking confirmation. We also offer an equipment rental service to help you get all the gear required for the expedition.
What kind of tents will we use? Brands/sizes and setups? . . .
We use alpine 3/4-season tents from brands such as Mountain Hardwear, Salewa, and Kailas. Our tents are ideal for two people, but a single tent can be provided for solo or private climbers. We recommend 2 people per tent for company and to preserve heat.
Will supplemental oxygen be provided during the expedition? Is this included in our expedition fee? . . .
Supplemental oxygen is not provided during the Lobuche East and Island Peak climb. However, our team carries backup oxygen for emergencies. We can also arrange oxygen bottles on request at an extra charge.
Will there be any access to a satellite phone? If yes, what are the charges for usage? . . .
Yes, satellite phones are available during the expedition. Usage is charged separately at an average of USD 3 per minute.
Is insurance mandatory for the Lobuche East and Island Peak expedition? . . .
Yes, insurance is mandatory on all our trips, including the Lobuche East and Island Peak expedition. Insurance covers you in case you need emergency evacuation, if the expedition is cancelled due to weather conditions, or for other unforeseen factors.
Climb Lobuche East and Island Peak
Do you want to climb Lobuche East and Island Peak? You can be rest assure on climbing Lobuche and Island Peak with our team. Namas Adventure provides all-inclusive premium services on all our climbing tour. Namas Adventure offers the most exciting and safest climbing with a structured and carefully acclimatising itinerary. Our goals is to go all the way to top of these peaks safely and enjoy the experience under the guidance of experienced tour guides and Sherpas.
Our Package to Lobuche East and Island Peak climbing
Our price is the best in the industry. There are no other hidden expenses when you choose our package. We guarantee you a lifetime experience for 25 days. Safety is of paramount importance to us. Namas Adventure offers the much-needed safety gear and equipment to climb Lobuche east and Island Peak comfortably.
Relaxing and comfortable accommodation is provided during the trip to help you wake up with full of energy. When you reach at BC and high camps, you will be provided with frozen foods and hydration tablets. You can expect healthy and delicious dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
If you want to climb Lobuche East and Island Peak safely and comfortably with a clear plan, you can choose our package. We offer a fulfilling climbing experience at an affordable price.