Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak Climbing
At a Glance
  • Duration22 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max. AltitudeIsland Peak (6,189m)
  • Group Size1-20
  • Trip StyleTrekking & Climbing
  • StartsKathmandu
  • EndsKathmandu
  • Best TimeMarch-May & Sep-November
Highlights

  • Witness the surreal beauty of Gokyo Lakes, which is a glacial lake shimmering beneath the shadows of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

  • Summit Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas.

  • Conquer the thrilling Cho La Pass (5,420m), a high-altitude glacier crossing linking the Gokyo Valley to Everest Base Camp.

  • Stand at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall in Everest Base Camp.

  • Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) at sunrise for an unforgettable close-up view of Everest’s golden summit glowing in dawn light.

  • Climbing Island Peak (6,189m) is a true Himalayan adventure, with steep snow slopes and a summit that rewards you with a 360° Himalayan panorama.

  • Walk through ancient Sherpa villages, where prayer wheels spin, mani stones whisper mantras, and the warmth of teahouses welcomes.

  • Experience the best of both worlds: less-crowded trails in Gokyo Valley and the iconic energy of the Everest region.

  • Sleep under star-filled skies in remote mountain lodges, where the silence of the high Himalayas is profound.

  • Challenge yourself on a true mountaineering ascent, using crampons, ice axes, and ropes to summit a Himalayan peak.

The air is thin, the wind whispers through the prayer flags, and the world stretches endlessly below the sea of jagged peaks and swirling mist. You stand atop Gokyo Ri, breathless in more ways than one, as the morning sun ignites the turquoise lakes. The mighty Everest pierces the sky in the distance. This is not just a trek; this is a pilgrimage into the heart of the Himalayas. Every step is a story, every pass a conquest, and every summit a revelation.

Your journey begins in the quiet embrace of Sherpa villages, where the rhythm of yak bells and the scent of juniper incense guide you deeper into the mountains. The trail to Gokyo unfolds like a hidden dream. The glacial lakes are so blue they seem unreal, their stillness reflecting the snow-crowned giants above. Crossing the Cho La Pass is a test of will, where ice glistens underfoot and the thin air hums with the thrill of adventure. Everest Base Camp is a place of legends, where the Khumbu Icefall looms like a frozen tempest and the spirit of mountaineering lingers in the wind.

The climb begins in darkness, headlamps cutting through the cold as crampons bite into the glacier. With each deliberate step, the horizon brightens until suddenly, you are standing on the roof of the world, the first light of dawn spilling over the Himalayas. The valleys below are a patchwork of shadow and gold, and for this fleeting moment, you are part of the sky.

15 days outline itinerary of Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak Climbing

Day

Activity

Altitude (m)

Duration

1

Arrival in Kathmandu

1,400m

-

2

Drive to Ramechhap

474m

~5 hrs

3

Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding

2,800m → 2,652m

20-min flight

3-4 hrs trek

4

Trek to Namche Bazaar

3,440m

5-6 hrs

5

Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar

3,440m

Rest day

6

Trek to Dole

4,200m

5-6 hrs

7

Trek to Machhermo

4,470m

4-5 hrs

8

Trek to Gokyo

4,790m

4-5 hrs

9

Hike Gokyo Ri, explore Gokyo Lakes

5,357m (summit)

3-4 hrs ascent

10

Trek to Dragnag

4,700m

3-4 hrs

11

Cross Cho La Pass, trek to Dzongla

5,420m → 4,830m

7-8 hrs

12

Trek to Lobuche

4,910m

3-4 hrs

13

Trek to EBC, return to Gorakshep

5,364m → 5,181m

7-8 hrs round trip

14

Hike Kala Patthar, trek to Chhukung

5,545m → 4,730m

8-9 hrs total

15

Trek to Island Peak Base Camp

5,240m

3-4 hrs

16

Summit Island Peak, return to Chhukung

6,189m → 4,730m

10-12 hrs

17

Trek to Pangboche

3,985m

5-6 hrs

18

Trek to Namche Bazaar

3,440m

5-6 hrs

19

Trek to Lukla

2,800m

6-7 hrs

20

Fly to Ramechhap, drive to Kathmandu

1,400m

35-min flight, 5-6 hrs drive

21

Contingency day (weather buffer)

-

Flexible

22

Departure or extend stay

-

-

Jump to detailed itinerary

Why is the Island Peak combined with the Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes?

The Island Peak (6,189m) climb is seamlessly combined with the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes trek for adventurers seeking the ultimate Himalayan experience. This is the blending of world-class trekking with a thrilling high-altitude summit. This route is carefully designed to maximize acclimatization, as the gradual ascent through the Gokyo Valley and over the Cho La Pass. This prepares the body for Island Peak’s technical climb. The Gokyo Lakes detour offers quieter trails, mesmerizing turquoise glacial lakes, and the stunning vantage point of Gokyo Ri (5,357m).

The classic EBC leg immerses you in the iconic Khumbu region. By the time you reach Island Peak, your body has adjusted to the altitude, and your skills are honed. Beyond the physical advantages, this journey delivers unmatched diversity. This includes serene valleys, high mountain passes, glacial terrain, and the exhilaration of standing atop a Himalayan peak with 360° views of Lhotse, Makalu, and Everest. It is not just a trek; it is a complete Himalayan odyssey of scenic, challenging, and deeply rewarding experiences.

Weekly Training Plan for Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak Climbing

To successfully complete this 22-day Himalayan adventure, you will need a mix of endurance, strength, and altitude adaptation. Since Island Peak (6,189m) involves glacier travel, fixed ropes, and steep snow climbing, your training should prepare you for both long trekking days and technical mountaineering.

Cardiovascular Endurance (4-5 Days/Week)

  • Hiking: Weekly long hikes (6-8+ hours) with a weighted backpack (10-15kg) on steep terrain.

  • Stair Climbing: 30-60 mins with a pack (or use a stair machine).

  • Running/Cycling: 3-5 km runs or 1-hour cycling sessions to build stamina.

Strength & Core (3 Days/Week)

  • Legs: Squats, lunges, step-ups (with weight).

  • Upper Body: Pull-ups, push-ups, dumbbell rows (for rope/ice axe use).

  • Core: Planks, Russian twists, leg raises (critical for balance on steep slopes).

Altitude Simulation (If Possible)

  • Hypoxic Training: Use altitude masks or train in high-elevation areas.

  • Breath Control: Practice deep breathing exercises to improve oxygen efficiency.

Technical Skills (For Island Peak)

  • Crampon & Ice Axe Practice: Learn self-arrest techniques (if you have access to snow/glaciers).

  • Rope Skills: Basic knot-tying, clipping carabiners, ascending fixed lines.

The mountains seen during this trek

Mountain

Elevation (m)

Notable Features

Mount Everest (Sagarmatha)

8,848m

World’s highest peak, iconic pyramid shape

Lhotse

8,516m

Everest’s neighbor, steep south face

Makalu

8,485m

Solo giant, sharp pyramid form

Cho Oyu

8,188m

6th highest, broad summit

Nuptse

7,861m

Everest’s western "wall"

Ama Dablam

6,812m

Matterhorn of the Himalayas

Thamserku

6,623m

Jagged peak near Dudh Koshi River

Kangtega

6,782m

"Horse Saddle" peak

Taboche

6,542m

Towering spire near Khumbu Glacier

Cholatse

6,440m

Sharp ridge connecting to Taboche

Island Peak (Imja Tse)

6,189m

Climbing highlight, 360° Himalayan vistas

Lobuche East

6,119m

Popular trekking peak

Pumori

7,161m

"Daughter Peak" near Everest

Why Hiking Adventure Trek for Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak Climbing?

When it comes to conquering the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Island Peak—one of Nepal’s most epic high-altitude adventures—you need a trusted, experienced, and passionate team to make your journey safe, seamless, and unforgettable. Here’s why Hiking Adventure Trek stands out:

  • Unmatched Expertise in the Himalayas

  • Safety First

  • Responsible & Sustainable Trekking

  • Hassle-Free Logistics

  • Beyond the Ordinary: Our Unique Touches

  • 100% Success & Satisfaction Record

With Hiking Adventure Trek, you are not just booking a trek; you are gaining a team of Himalayan guardians dedicated to making your journey safe, exhilarating, and transformative.
Secure Your Spot Today! Limited spaces for spring/autumn 2025/26.

Itinerary

Customize Trip

Your Himalayan journey starts as you touch down at Tribhuvan International Airport, where our friendly team welcomes you with a traditional khada (ceremonial scarf). After a short transfer to your boutique hotel in Thamel, you’ll have time to freshen up before an in-depth trek briefing with your lead guide. We’ll meticulously check your gear, provide rental equipment if needed, and discuss altitude strategies.

As evening falls, join us for a welcome dinner at a heritage restaurant, where you’ll savor authentic dal bhat (lentil curry with rice), momos (dumplings), and other Nepali specialties. This is your chance to meet fellow trekkers, ask last-minute questions, and soak up Kathmandu’s vibrant energy before heading into the mountains.

    To avoid potential flight delays from Kathmandu’s congested airport, we embark on an early-morning road journey through Nepal’s picturesque countryside. The drive winds past terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and the Sun Koshi River, offering glimpses of rural Nepali life.

    By afternoon, we reach Ramechhap, a small town that serves as our launch point for the Lukla flight. We’ll stay at a comfortable lodge near the airport, where you can repack your duffel bags, enjoy a hot meal, and rest early for tomorrow’s exciting mountain flight.

      Wake before dawn for one of the world’s most spectacular (and adrenaline-pumping) flights. The 25-minute journey in a twin-engine STOL aircraft treats you to jaw-dropping Himalayan views as you approach Lukla’s cliffside runway (rated among the most dangerous airports).


      Upon landing, meet your Sherpa crew and begin trekking through the lush Khumbu Valley. The trail descends gently past prayer-flag adorned mani walls, pine forests, and traditional Sherpa homes. Cross several suspension bridges over the roaring Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phakding, where we’ll spend our first night in a cozy teahouse.

        After breakfast, we follow the Dudh Koshi River, passing waterfalls and more swaying suspension bridges. At Monjo, we complete Sagarmatha National Park permit formalities before tackling the day’s highlight: the steep ascent to Namche.
        The climb rewards you with your first clear view of Everest’s summit (weather permitting) from a vantage point near the Hillary Suspension Bridge—one of the trek’s most photographed spots. As you enter Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa capital, you’ll notice its colorful markets, German bakeries, and even espresso bars—a welcome taste of civilization at 3,440m!

          Today is strategically designed for active rest and altitude adaptation. After breakfast, we’ll hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), where you can sip tea while admiring Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam from their panoramic terrace.

          Back in Namche, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum to learn about local traditions and mountaineering history. Later, explore the Saturday market (if timed right), where Tibetan traders sell everything from yak cheese to trekking gear. Hydrate well and enjoy a hot shower—your last proper one until after Island Peak!

            Leaving the crowded EBC trail, we ascend through rhododendron forests alive with birdsong. The path offers uninterrupted views of Kangtega and Thamserku as we climb above the tree line.

            By afternoon, we reach Dole, a tranquil hamlet with stone-walled pastures where yaks graze. The thinner air becomes noticeable here—move slowly, drink ginger tea, and enjoy the starry skies after dinner.

              Today’s shorter hike follows the Dudh Koshi’s milky glacial waters through alpine meadows dotted with boulder-strewn moraines. Keep an eye out for Himalayan tahrs (mountain goats) on the cliffs above.

              Machhermo’s spacious lodges provide warmth and comfort. After lunch, visit the site of the infamous 1974 yeti attack (yes, really!) or simply relax with a book in the sun.

                The trail climbs steadily past the second Gokyo Lake, where the turquoise waters mirror Cho Oyu’s massive bulk. As we round a ridge, the third and largest lake (Dudh Pokhari) appears, its sacred waters flanked by prayer flags.

                Settle into your lakeside lodge, then explore the shoreline. If energy allows, climb a small hill behind the village for sunset views of Everest peeking over the Ngozumpa Glacier.

                  We start pre-dawn with headlamps, climbing 500m of switchbacks to reach Gokyo Ri’s summit by sunrise. As light spills across the Himalayas, you’ll witness four 8,000m peaks simultaneously: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—a view many consider the trek’s visual pinnacle.

                  Spend the afternoon visiting the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes, where the silence is broken only by the wind and occasional avalanche rumble.

                    Today’s short but technically challenging trek takes us across the Ngozumpa Glacier—the largest in Nepal—where the shifting moraine creates a surreal, almost lunar landscape. The trail weaves between ice ponds and house-sized boulders, requiring careful footing. As we ascend to Dragnag (also called Thangnak), the sheer south face of Cho Oyu dominates the horizon.

                    This afternoon is crucial for rest—hydrate aggressively and organize your pack for tomorrow’s Cho La Pass crossing. Pro tip: Line your water bottles with wool socks to prevent freezing overnight!

                      Departure at 4:00 AM with headlamps, crunching over frozen scree. The pass reveals its true character: a steep, icy gully requiring crampons and careful rope work (our guides will fix lines if needed). At the top, prayer flags snap in the wind as you take in Ama Dablam’s iconic silhouette and the Tibetan Plateau stretching north.

                      The descent is equally demanding—loose scree gives way to glacial slabs. Dzongla’s tiny lodges feel like an oasis, where hot lemon tea and a hearty garlic soup (a Sherpa altitude remedy) await.

                        A gentler day along the Khumbu Glacier’s lateral moraine, with Pumori’s pyramid guiding us forward. Notice the memorial chortens honoring fallen climbers—a sobering reminder of the mountains’ power.

                        At Lobuche, prepare for tomorrow’s EBC push: Charge all devices (solar charging costs $5/hour here!), and consider renting an extra down blanket—nighttime temps plunge to -15°C (5°F).

                          The trail weaves through chaotic icefall debris—trekking poles are essential for balance. At EBC (seasonal Apr-May), witness expedition tents in neon colors, ice doctors maintaining ladders across crevasses, and climbers nervously awaiting their summit window.

                          Pro Tip: The actual "base camp rock" is often obscured—ask your guide for the best photo spot with the Khumbu Icefall backdrop. Return to Gorakshep exhausted; dinner is served early for tomorrow’s Kala Patthar sunrise attempt.

                            Depart at 4:30 AM—the -20°C (-4°F) air stings exposed skin as we climb 1.5 hours of steep switchbacks. At the summit, watch Everest’s pyramid glow crimson, its plume trailing like a banner. The descent retraces our steps before veering east into the Imja Valley, where the trail to Chhukung offers new angles on Lhotse’s terrifying South Face.

                              A short but steep climb past glacial lakes leads to base camp, where our team sets up tents beside moraine walls. After lunch, the climbing Sherpas conduct training:

                              • Crampon techniques for the 40° headwall

                              • Ascending/descending fixed ropes

                              • Self-arrest with ice axes

                              Sleep by 7:00 PM—summit day starts at midnight!

                                1:00 AM wake-up. By headlamp, we traverse the Imja Glacier’s crevassed edge, then tackle the 400m ice wall—front-pointing with crampons while clipped into fixed ropes. The final ridge narrows to just shoulder-width, with exposure dropping 1,000m to the glacier below.

                                At the summit, unzip your down suit to reveal your Hiking Adventure Trek Ltd. banner for victory photos with Makalu’s razor-edged summit framing the background. The descent is grueling but triumphant—celebrate with a Coca-Cola (yes, available even here!) back in Chhukung.

                                  Descending past ancient mani walls, we visit Pangboche Gompa, home to a purported yet scalpe and the oldest monastery in Khumbu. The thicker air at lower altitude lets you finally sleep deeply—no more midnight gasping for breath!

                                    Passing through Tengboche’s hilltop monastery, stop to hear monks chanting during afternoon prayers. In Namche, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and apple pie feel like luxuries after weeks in the wilderness.

                                        If the weather permits, then we will have the 7:00 AM flight, which offers the last glimpses of Everest. Back in Kathmandu, our farewell dinner features a slideshow of your trekking photos to induce both laughter and tears.

                                          If unused, spend your buffer day exploring Kathmandu’s Durbar Square or Boudhanath Stupa. We will handle all airport transfers for your flight home.

                                            Service Details

                                            Includes
                                            • Airport transfers in a private vehicle.
                                            • Accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star hotel) on a B&B basis.
                                            • Private drive Kathmandu-Ramechhap- Kathmandu. Flight Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap.
                                            • Tea house accommodation during the trek.
                                            • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek and climb.
                                            • Island Peak climbing permit and required trekking permits.
                                            • Experienced trekking and climbing guide.
                                            • Group climbing equipment and training.
                                            • Porter for luggage and all staff wages, insurance, and meals.
                                            • First aid kits, welcome/farewell dinners, and government taxes.
                                            Excludes
                                            • Personal climbing gear and insurance.
                                            • Personal expenses like drinks, Wi-Fi, and hot showers in the mountains.
                                            • Tips for staff.
                                            • Expenses occurred due to natural calamities, political unrest or weather conditions.
                                            Essential Information

                                            EBC Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak Best Time, Season, and Months

                                            The ideal seasons for this 3-in-1 Himalayan adventure are spring (pre-monsoon) and autumn (post-monsoon), when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and temperatures are moderate. Below is a detailed breakdown of the best months, seasonal pros/cons, and what to expect:

                                            Spring Season (March to May)

                                            Temperatures:

                                            • Day: 10°C to 15°C (lower valleys) / 5°C to -5°C (above 4,000m)

                                            • Night: -5°C to -15°C (Gorakshep/Island Peak BC)

                                            Advantages:

                                            • Crystal-clear skies with unobstructed mountain views (perfect for photography).

                                            • Warmer days compared to autumn, making high passes like Cho La more comfortable.

                                            • Rhododendron forests in full bloom (especially March-April below Namche).

                                            • Busy trails—great for social trekkers; Island Peak permits fill fast.

                                            • Everest climbing season (April-May)—see expedition teams at EBC.

                                            Disadvantages:

                                            • Higher chance of afternoon clouds in May as monsoon approaches.

                                            • More crowded in popular teahouses (book lodges early).

                                            • Flight delays possible due to morning fog in Lukla (March).

                                            Autumn Season (September to November)
                                            Temperatures:

                                            • Day: 8°C to 12°C (lower valleys) / 0°C to -10°C (above 4,000m)

                                            • Night: -10°C to -20°C (Gorakshep/Island Peak BC)

                                            Advantages:

                                            • Driest and clearest skies—best visibility for Everest, Gokyo Ri, and Island Peak.

                                            • Cooler hiking temps (less sweat, better comfort on steep climbs).

                                            • Post-monsoon greenery—lush landscapes before winter snow.

                                            • Fewer trekkers than spring until late October.

                                            Disadvantages:

                                            • Colder nights—bring a -20°C sleeping bag for Island Peak BC.

                                            • Shorter daylight hours in November (sunset by 5 PM).

                                            • Limited flight flexibility due to high demand in October.

                                            Winter (December to February)
                                            Temperatures:

                                            • Day: -5°C to 5°C (above 4,000m)

                                            • Night: -15°C to -25°C (Gorakshep) / -20°C to -30°C (Island Peak BC)

                                            Advantages:

                                            • Empty trails and teahouses (90% fewer trekkers).

                                            • Surreal snowy landscapes—Gokyo Lakes freeze partially.

                                            • Cheaper permits and lodges.

                                            Disadvantages:

                                            • Extreme cold risks Frostbite—technical gear mandatory.

                                            • Cho La Pass is often snow-blocked (requires ice axes/crampons).

                                            • Many lodges closed—limited food options.

                                            4. Monsoon (June to August)

                                            Why Avoid?

                                            • Heavy rain below 3,500m (leeches, slippery trails).

                                            • Clouds obscure peaks 80% of the time.

                                            • Flight cancellations due to fog in Lukla.

                                            • Landslide risk on Ramechhap Road.

                                            Food or Meal Availability on EBC Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak

                                            During the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Island Peak trek, you will enjoy a variety of meals designed to fuel your high-altitude adventure. In lower-altitude villages (Lukla to Namche), teahouses offer extensive menus featuring Nepali, Tibetan, and Western dishes, including dal bhat (rice with lentil soup and vegetables), momos (dumplings), pasta, pizza, and pancakes. Fresh vegetables, eggs, and even yak steaks are common. As you ascend higher, the menu becomes simpler due to limited supplies—potatoes, noodles, soups, and carb-heavy meals dominate. At Gorakshep and Island Peak Base Camp, expect basic but hearty meals like garlic soup (which helps with altitude), fried rice, and instant noodles.

                                            On Island Peak climbing days, our team provides high-energy, packable meals—granola bars, nuts, chocolate, and thermoses of hot drinks. While meat and dairy are available in lower regions, we advise avoiding them above Namche due to slower digestion at altitude. Bottled water is available everywhere, but we recommend purification tablets or filtered water to reduce plastic waste and costs.

                                            Accommodation Facility on EBC Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak

                                            Accommodation on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak varies from cozy teahouses to high-altitude base camp tents. In lower-elevation villages (Lukla, Namche, Phakding), you will stay in well-equipped teahouses with private rooms (twin beds), communal dining halls warmed by yak-dung stoves, and basic shared toilets. As you ascend to Gokyo, Lobuche, and Gorakshep, accommodations become more rustic with unheated rooms, thin walls, and communal squat toilets, but the mountain views compensate. At Island Peak Base Camp (5,240m), you will sleep in expedition-style tents with insulated sleeping mats while our team sets up a dining tent with hot meals.

                                            Key Notes:

                                            • Namche and Tengboche offer the "luxury" of Wi-Fi (paid) and bakeries.

                                            • Above 4,500m, expect dorm-style beds and freezing nights—rent a sleeping bag (-20°C rated).

                                            • Cho La Pass & Island Peak require warm layers—teahouses provide blankets, but nights dip to -15°C.

                                            • Book early in peak seasons (Oct/May) to secure the best lodges.

                                            Despite sparse amenities, the Sherpa hospitality, steaming cups of ginger tea, and camaraderie around the dining stove make these lodges unforgettable. Just pack earplugs (for snoring neighbors) and a sense of adventure!

                                            Island Peak Climbing via Gokyo and EBC Trek Difficulty Level

                                            The Island Peak Climbing via Gokyo and Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging but achievable high-altitude adventure. This trek is rated as moderate to strenuous due to its long trekking days, high passes, and technical climbing. The trek itself involves 6-8 hours of daily hiking over rugged terrain, with steep ascents to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Kala Patthar (5,545m). The real test comes with Island Peak (6,189m), which requires basic mountaineering skills, including crampon use, fixed-rope climbing, and ice-axe handling on a 40° snow/ice slope. While no prior climbing experience is mandatory, good fitness, mental resilience, and proper acclimatization are essential.

                                            Key Challenges:

                                            • Altitude: Spending nights above 5,000m (Gorakshep, Island Peak BC) is risky for AMS, so we recommend slow ascent via Gokyo to aid acclimatization.
                                            • Cho La Pass: A steep, icy scramble requiring careful footing and stamina.
                                            • Island Peak Summit Day: A 10-12 hour push from BC, starting at midnight in sub-zero temps.
                                            • Weather: Unpredictable snow/wind, especially in shoulder seasons (March, November).

                                            Who Can Do It?

                                            • Fit trekkers with prior high-altitude experience (e.g. Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Valley).

                                            • Beginners were willing to train (cardio + strength) and learn glacier skills during pre-climb training.

                                            • Not suitable for those with severe vertigo or poor fitness.

                                            With proper preparation, expert guides, and a well-paced itinerary, this trek-to-climb journey is a rewarding Himalayan milestone with breathtaking scenery with a true mountaineering achievement.

                                            Travel Insurance for Island Peak Climbing via Gokyo and EBC Trek

                                            Climbing Island Peak (6,189m) via the Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp route demands specialized travel insurance due to extreme altitudes, technical climbing risks, and remote locations. Standard policies WON’T cover this expedition—here is what you need:

                                            Mandatory Coverage:

                                            1. High-Altitude Coverage (Up to 6,500m)

                                              • Must include emergency rescue, medical evacuation, and treatment for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

                                              • Verify that helicopter rescue from Island Peak/Gokyo is explicitly listed.

                                            2. Mountaineering & Rope Climbing

                                              • Many insurers exclude "technical climbing above 4,500, so look for "trekking peaks" or "alpine mountaineering" coverage.

                                            3. Trip Cancellation/Interruption

                                              • Lukla flights are weather-dependent, so ensure delays or cancellations are covered.

                                            Recommended Providers:

                                            • World Nomads (Explorer Plan) – Covers trekking peaks up to 6,000m.

                                            • Global Rescue specializes in high-altitude evacuations.

                                            • True Traveller (UK/EU)—Includes climbing up to 6,500m.

                                            Altitude Sickness and Remedies on Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak Climbing

                                            The Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Island Peak trek takes you above 5,000m (16,400+ ft), putting you at risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) or worse, HAPE (high altitude pulmonary edema) or HACE (high altitude cerebral edema). Our acclimatization focused itinerary via Gokyo Valley helps minimize risks, but you must recognize symptoms and act fast:

                                            AMS Symptoms (Mild to Severe):

                                            • Headache, nausea, dizziness (mild AMS)

                                            • Confusion, loss of balance, coughing pink froth (HAPE/HACE—EMERGENCY!).

                                            Prevention & Remedies:

                                            1. Climb High, Sleep Low: Our route includes acclimatization days in Namche (3,440m) & Machhermo (4,470m).

                                            2. Hydrate Relentlessly: Drink 3-4L daily (electrolytes help). Avoid alcohol/caffeine.

                                            3. Medications: Diamox (125mg twice daily) aids acclimatization (start 1 day before ascent).

                                            4. Garlic Soup & Ginger Tea: Sherpa remedies that boost circulation and oxygen uptake.

                                            5. Descend Immediately if Symptoms Worsen: No summit is worth risking HACE/HAPE.

                                            Emergency Protocols:

                                            • Portable Oxygen & PAC Bags: Carried by guides for severe cases.

                                            • Helicopter Evacuation: Your insurance MUST cover high-altitude rescues (up to 6,500m).

                                            Pro Tip: Monitor your oxygen saturation (SpO2) with a pulse oximeter—below 70% at rest. Alert your guide!

                                            Island Peak Climbing via Gokyo and EBC Trek Packing List, Gears, and Equipment

                                            Here’s a comprehensive packing list for your Island Peak Climbing via Gokyo & EBC Trek, categorized for trekking, climbing, and personal essentials. Proper gear is critical for safety and comfort in extreme altitudes and variable weather.

                                            Category

                                            Essential Items

                                            Notes








                                             

                                            Clothing

                                            - Moisture-wicking base layers (merino wool/synthetic)

                                            - Insulated down jacket (-15°C rated)

                                            - Waterproof hardshell jacket & pants

                                            - Trekking pants (convertible)

                                            - Warm fleece/softshell mid-layer

                                            - Thermal underwear (top & bottom)

                                            - Gloves (lightweight + insulated summit gloves)

                                            - Warm hat & sun cap

                                            - Buff/neck gaiter

                                            - 4-5 pairs of moisture-wicking socks

                                            Layer for -20°C to +15°C temps. Avoid cotton!



                                             

                                            Footwear

                                            - Trekking boots (broken-in, waterproof)

                                            - Mountaineering boots (for Island Peak)

                                            - Camp shoes/sandals

                                            - Gaiters (for snow/mud)

                                            - Crampon-compatible socks (for summit day)

                                            Rent double-layer boots in Kathmandu if needed.




                                             

                                            Climbing Gear

                                            - Climbing harness

                                            - Ice axe (60-70cm)

                                            - Crampons (12-point, steel)

                                            - Helmet

                                            - Ascender/Jumar

                                            - Carabiners (2 locking, 2 non-locking)

                                            - Prusik cords

                                            - Climbing gloves (for ropes)

                                            Provided by most agencies, but check quality.

                                             

                                            Backpack & Bags

                                            - 40-50L trekking backpack

                                            - 20-30L summit/daypack

                                            - Waterproof duffel bag (for porters)

                                            - Dry sacks (for electronics)

                                            Keep pack weight under 8kg for summit day.

                                            Sleeping Gear

                                            - Sleeping bag (-20°C to -30°C rated)

                                            - Sleeping bag liner (silk/fleece)

                                            - Inflatable sleeping pad (for Island Peak BC)

                                            Lodges provide blankets, but nights are FREEZING.

                                            Hydration

                                            - Insulated water bottles

                                            - Hydration bladder (optional)

                                            - Water purification tablets/filter

                                            Avoid plastic bottles—refill at teahouses.

                                            Health & Safety

                                            - Diamox (for altitude)

                                            - Basic first-aid kit (blister care, painkillers)

                                            - Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

                                            - Lip balm (with SPF)

                                            - Hand sanitizer/wet wipes

                                            - Rehydration salts (ORS)

                                            - Pulse oximeter (optional)

                                            Diamox helps with acclimatization—consult your doctor.

                                            Miscellaneous

                                            - Trekking poles (collapsible)

                                            - Sunglasses (UV 400, glacier goggles for summit)

                                            - Headlamp (extra batteries)

                                            - Power bank (20,000 mAh+)

                                            - Camera/GoPro

                                            - Earplugs (for noisy lodges)

                                            - Lightweight towel

                                            - Snacks (energy bars, nuts)

                                            Solar charging costs $3-5/hour in teahouses.

                                            Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak Climbing Booking Procedure

                                            Booking with Hiking Adventure Trek Ltd is simple and secure. Follow these steps to reserve your spot:

                                            • Visit our website: www.hikingadventuretrek.com

                                            • Navigate to the Everest Base Camp with the Gokyo Lakes & Island Peak trek page or anyone you would like to choose.

                                            • Check the departure calendar for available dates

                                            • Click "Book Now" and fill out the form

                                            • Pay a 20% deposit (via credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer) to secure your spot.

                                            • Receive a confirmation email with:

                                              • Invoice and payment receipt

                                              • Pre-trek checklist (packing, training, visa info)

                                              • Guide contact details

                                            • Join a pre-trek briefing (Zoom) with your guide

                                            • Clear remaining fees 15 days before arrival

                                            Why you should book a HAT trips?
                                            • Hiking Adventure Staff are loved and cared
                                              Hiking Adventure Staff are loved and cared

                                              Hiking Adventure Team is committed to a supportive and enabling working environment. We continue to invest in comprehensive training for our team, with the goal to foster an excellent working atmosphere. We believe that motivated, capable employees are crucial for reaching our shared objectives while providing valuable benefits to the community at large.

                                            • We Help You Plan Your Journey
                                              We Help You Plan Your Journey

                                              We offer you your dream adventure in trekking and tours around Nepal, Bhutan, India, and Tibet. From the thrilling high mountain expeditions to the charm of ancient landmarks and the richness of cultural experiences, we plan the best for your journey.

                                            • Quality Travel Service Since 2011
                                              Quality Travel Service Since 2011

                                              Planning a trip to Nepal? We have been offering premium travel experiences, expert guidance combined with immersive adventure since 2011. From thrilling trekking routes to enriching cultural tours, we promise authentic journeys that leave a mark on your soul.

                                            • We help build Community-Driven Social Responsibility
                                              We help build Community-Driven Social Responsibility

                                              We promote community-based social responsibility through capacity building programs, job creation, and empowerment initiatives. Our customer trust-driven approach cultivates friendships and sustains our thriving travel community.

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