Island Peak (Imja Tse)
6,189m
Nepal's most popular trekking peak at 6,189m — a challenging but accessible summit near Everest Base Camp.
Elevation
6,189m
First Ascent
1956
First Ascent By
Members of a British expedition
Base Camp Trek
18 days
Permit Fee
USD 250
Difficulty
PD
Island Peak (6,189m), officially named Imja Tse, is the most popular trekking peak in Nepal and an excellent introduction to Himalayan mountaineering. Located in the Khumbu region near Everest, the peak gets its English name from its appearance — it looks like an island in a sea of ice when viewed from Dingboche.
The standard route involves a glacier approach, a steep headwall climb using fixed ropes, and a narrow summit ridge. While technically a 'trekking peak' (requiring a simpler permit process), it should not be underestimated — altitude, exposure, and glacier travel make it a serious endeavor.
Most climbers combine Island Peak with the Everest Base Camp trek, adding 3-4 days for the climb. The summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Baruntse.