Sherpa Adventure

Overview
Itinerary
Life on Trek
Equipments

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- Duration
  
  23 days
- Group
  
  16 Pax
- Difficulty
  
  Moderate
- Accommodation
  
  Hotel / Lodge
- Max.Altitude
  
  6189m
- Season
  
  All Season

Island peak climbing takes you to the acclimatization hike to the most popular trekking destination of Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar first for the close up views of Mt. Everest before scaling the pick. Island Peak was the name given to the mountain in 1952 by Eric Shipton's who thought it to be reminiscent of an island in a sea of ice. It is also known as "ImjaTse" in Sherpa Name.

After exploring the temples, shrines, bazaars and restaurants of Kathmandu we take an exciting mountain flight to Lukla and trek up the DudhKosi Valley, surrounded by the soaring peaks of Thamserku and KusumKanguru. It’s a steep ascent to Namche Bazaar, capital of the KumbuSherpas, where we are again greeted by spectacular mountain vistas. A rest day here aids acclimatization and there are great optional walks to enjoy the area.

We continue trek to TengbochePheriche and accommodate at high altitude in Gorakshep. After enjoying with magnificent views of Mt. Everest and surrounding peaks, we continue descend to Chhukung to prepare for the ascent of Island Peak. After a day of walking from Chhukung we reach the Island Peak Base Camp to prepare for to attempt the peak. It may take an additional day or two to scale the peak depending on weather conditions. For some people reaching to the summit from the base camp is a day activity. However, some climbers prefer alpine style camping at high camp which adds the joy of climbing and also helps a safe ascent. After a successful climbing we return at our leisurely pace back to Namche and Lukla for our return flight to Kathmandu.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413 ft)

Upon arriving at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be received by our airport representatives who will warmly greet you and transfer to the hotel on a private tourist vehicle. We provide 3-star accommodation in the city and we arrange for a trip briefing with dinner in the evening.
Day 2

Visit old town of Kathmandu

A professional guide and vehicle are provided for a day of sightseeing in and around Kathmandu city. We visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city along with other interesting cultural monuments that dot the valley. These include Boudhanath Stupa (the largest Buddhist shrines in the world), Pashupatinath (the holiest Hindu temple in the world), Durbar Squares (Palaces and fortresses of medieval Kings), along with other popular cultural attractions. We get to observe the lifestyle of Nepalese people, holy sadhus and monks, fascinating history as well as awe-inspiring architecture.
Day 3

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m/9,186 ft). Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563 ft)

Early in the morning, you will be transferred to the airport in Kathmandu for a scenic 30-minute flight to Lukla. The airport guide will brief you and introduce our porters before we begin our trek towards Phakding (2,610m). There will be some time to explore the village while our Sherpa crew sorts and loads trekking equipment and baggage. The trek starts with a descent to DudhKosi River, from where the wider trail leads us to the village of Ghat (2,550m), and then to Phakding on an easy-paced walk.
Day 4

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar (3,440m/11,286 ft)

Walking along the shores of Dudh Kosi, we get to cross the serene river many times on exhilarating suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. A little further, we enter Sagarmatha National Park from where the trail climbs steeply with picturesque sights. After trekking for a few hours, we reach Namche Bazaar, known as the Gateway of Everest.
Day 5

Namche Bazaar acclimatization day

In order to acclimatize to the altitude gained and thinner air, we spend a day in Namche Bazaar. There are several quality restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, money exchange services, internet cafes and bakeries at this town, also the largest in the Everest region. We pay a visit to the museum nearby known for its traditional artefacts that showcase the Sherpa culture. We also hike to Syangboche Airport from where we can see rewarding vistas of stunning sunrise and sunset over the Himalayan panorama.
Day 6

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Deboche (3,800m / 12,467ft)

We ascend out of the village and follow a high, fairly level path above the DudhKosi enjoying spectacular mountain views of Everest, Nuptse and Lhotse as we go. We pass the various shops set up by Tibetans selling trinkets and then descend through forest of blue pine to cross the DudhKosi again at Phunki (3,250m). We make another ascent on a switchback trail, sometimes made quite dusty by yak trains, to reach the spectacularly sited Thyangboche Monastery (3,867m) from where there are brilliant views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, AmaDablam and Taboche to the north and northeast, Thamserku and Kantega to the southeast and Kwangde to the southwest. Thyangboche Monastery was seriously damaged by fire in 1989 but has since been rebuilt and there will be time to visit both the monasteries and a museum. We reach our teahouse at Deboche. 6 hours walk.
Day 7

Trek from Deboche to Dingboche (4,350m/14,272 ft)

Cross a large open meadow and descend through a forest of birches, conifers and rhododendron to cross the ImjaKhola. The trail now climbs up past some magnificently carved Mani walls to Pangboche Monastery 3900m, the oldest monastery in the region. Our route now takes us beyond the tree line. Much of the vegetation is scrub juniper, tundra and windflowers. Pass several yak herders’ huts and climb over a small ridge before crossing the KhumbuKhola and ascending to Pheriche.
Day 8

Dingboche acclimatization day

A day for acclimatization and exploring: you can do a day’s walk up the ImjaKhola valley through Bibre at 5060m to the yak huts at Chukhung. Here are good views of the east face of AmaDablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse wall. Or you can walk north, up along the valley side to the ruined NangkartshangGompa, or continue up to nearby Nangkartshang peak with its fantastic views. 5 hours walk.
Day 9

Trek from Dingboche to Chukhung (4,710m/15,453 ft), back to Dingboche

From Pheriche we proceed northwest across the flat floor of the valley draining the Tshola and Khumbu glaciers. The stone walled fields of Pheriche are the last we pass. After two miles we turn right and start to climb the terminal moraine of the Khumbu glaciers. At lunchtime we reach Dhugla. From Dhugla the track climbs over the gargantuan chaos of the Khumbu Glacier’s moraine. Eventually, it takes us to the left of the glacier and to the huts at Lobuche.
Day 10

Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,180m/16,995 ft) via Kala Patthar (5,555m/18,225 ft)

It is a 6am start for those who wish to ascend Kalapathar. Gentle walk initially, then ascend after about an hour and cross the moraine. Descend to the expanse of the GorakShep (5,160m). A two hours steep ascend brings us to the top of Kalapathar. From Kalapathar descend to GorakShep and spend the night there.
Day 11

Trek from Gorakshep to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109 ft) via Everest Base Camp (5,365m/17,602 ft)

From GorakShep, it may be possible to make an excursion in the direction of the Base Camp area, depending on group fitness. Though of interest, this trip is not as spectacular as the ascent of Kalapathar as there are no views of Everest but there is a possibility of meeting/visiting famous climbers and their camps. Return to Lobuche.
Day 12

Trek from Lobuche to Dingboche (4,350m/14,272 ft)

Return from Lobuche to Dughla and then, taking a different trail, stay with above the valley floor before descending steeply to DingbocheAfter Lunch continue up the valley to reach Chhukhung in about two hours and rest at Chhukhung.
Day 13

Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4,710m/15,453 ft)

After Breakfast continue up the valley to reach Chhukhung in about two hours and rest at Chhukhung.
Day 14

Trek from Chhukung to Imja Tse (Island Peak) Base Camp (5,240m/17,192 ft)
Day 15

Trek from Imja Tse Base Camp to High camp or training at Base Camp
Day 16

Ascend to Imja Tse (6,189m/20,305 ft) and back to Imja Tse Base Camp
Day 17

Extra day at Imja Tse Base Camp in case of bad weather
Day 18

Trek from Imja Tse Base Camp to Tengboche (3,860m/12,664 ft)

Walk down the Imja valley to Tengboche.
Day 19

Trek from Tengboche to Monzo (2,825m/9,268 ft)

From Tengboche via Namche Bazaar to Monzo.
Day 20

Trek from Monzo to Lukla (2,800m/9,186 ft)

We continue on down Dudh Koshi for lunch at Ghat, or to Lukla.
Day 21

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413 ft)

Today we fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla, and during your flight you can enjoy some last-minute glimpses of the mountains. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can rest, relax and go sightseeing throughout the day.
Day 22

Leisure day in Kathmandu

This is a leisure and free day in Kathmandu for exploration. You are free to go souvenir shopping, spa and more exploration of the city, or extend your trip to include bungee jumping, rafting, mountain biking, Everest mountain flight and other adventurous activities. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner at Mul Chowk Restaurant’s cozy and elegant dining ambience.
Day 23

Departure from Nepal

The trip concludes today. You will be dropped at Kathmandu's Tribhuwan International Airport by our airport representative for your flight departure from Nepal.

Life on Trek

Trekking staff

Whilst on the trek, the Nepali guides and porters will ensure that you are well looked after. Every trek has an English speaking guide, known as the Sirdar, who is in overall charge. It is his responsibility to organize the trek en route and manage the guides and porters and deal with the local peoples and they are experts in trek organization, as well as being able to discuss the local culture, religion, and landscape. In addition there will be other guides, sometimes referred to by the generic term Sherpa, who will be your walking companions on the trek and will assist the Sirdar in organizing the logistic of the trek. On camping treks there will be full kitchen crew who are responsible for all aspects of catering. And finally there will be porters who are the transportation system of the Nepali mountains. They will carry the duffle bags and other equipment as necessary.

Accommodation

Fully equipped Camping treks - accommodation is provided in spacious 2 person tents. We use this method for our climbing trips and some treks where lodges are less frequent.
Lodge trek - accommodation is provided in the local Nepali lodges, some times known as tea- houses. It is usually necessary to share a double room. We use this method for our treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions.

Food

On camping treks, all food is prepared by the trek cook - an expert in preparing delicious camp food. And most importantly, special care is taken to provide well - boiled, purified drinking water. On lodge treks, food is provided in the lodge and this ranges from delicious local specialties to common western dishes. If necessary, bottled water can be purchased from the lodges for a small fee, although many trekkers prefer to use fresh water with the added precaution of a purifying agent. You could bring some Chocolate or special energy drinks for yourself as these are hard to get in the Himalayas.

A typical trekking day

A typical day revolves around the Nepal sunrise and sunset. The day starts with an early wake up call. You then pack up your gear and enjoy a rousing breakfast before starting your morning's walk. The Sirdar will already be organized loads to porters and or animals, and your group will then set off on the trail at a leisurely pace, enjoying the view and stopping to take photographs. After 2-3 hours walk you stop for lunch. This lasts for about 90 minutes which gives you time to relax, or explore the local village. The afternoon's walk is usually shorter and we arrive at the campsite or tea-house in plenty of time to relax and savour the surroundings. Later in the evening dinner is served, giving you an opportunity to sample the delicious food, talk over the day's events, and look forward to another special day on the trails of Nepal.

Health and safety on the trek General

A comprehensive first aid kit is carried on the trek. However we advise that you also carry your personal first aid kit which includes specific items of preference.
We will, in an emergency, arrange for helicopter evacuation. (Note that you are required to hold insurance for this unlikely eventuality).
All meals on our camping trips are prepared to strict hygiene standards specifically for our groups, under the supervision of the trekking staff.
We use tea-houses that we now have strict hygiene standards and provide a broad menu.

High Altitude

Anyone can be affected by Altitude Sickness. However, our itineraries are specifically designed to minimize the risks associated with trekking to high altitudes by building in acclimatization and rest days. In the event of any symptoms we will ensure that the individual descends to a lower altitude to gain a quick recovery.

And finally……….. It must be stressed that whilst trekking in the Nepal Himalaya is challenging and rewarding, you must be prepared for he occasional inconvenience or discomfort. The correct mental attitude to trekking is as important as being physically prepared.

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Equipments

All equipment and food, and your own personal backpacks are carried by the porters or pack animals. It is only necessary to carry a camera or small daypack ! On camping treks all necessary camp equipment is provided - this includes dining tent, dining table and chairs, toilet tent, foam mattresses, and all cooking equipment. The only kit that you will need to bring is your own personal equipment and clothing.

Recommended Trekking Kit

The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend that you take with you. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list, rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel are essential for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.

Footwear

Walking boots with suitable ankle support that have been worn - in prior to the trek, and which are waterproof.
Trainer or casual shoes, for trekking andor for traveling
Warm socks for colder areas.
Gaiters ,,in case of rain or snow.

Leg wear

Loose, casual trousers for trekking.
Thermal leggings for colder areas.
Long skirt for women as an alternative to trousers
Waterproof trousers

Body

Selection of T-shirts, and long sleeved shirts, preferably not cotton.
Thermal shirt for colder areas.
Warm shirt, possibly fleece, for colder areas.
Fleece jacket or warm wool jumper.
Windproof, waterproof outer shell garment for higher altitudes.
Down jacket (optional for cold nights & mornings: can be hired in Kathmandu cheaply)

Head Hands

Wool or fleece hat, or balaclava.
Hat or cap for sun protection while trekking.
Sunglasses or goggles.
Sunscreen lotion and lip balm
Warm gloves.

Other Items

Strong rucksack, or large holdall to be carried by porters
Day sack to be carried personally.
Plastic bags or stuff sacks to storeseparate trekking gear inside your main bag.
One liter water bottle.
Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
Sleeping bag 4 season.
Torch, ideally head torch.
Camera and film! - for those not to be forgotten shots of the Himalaya.
Toilet items and towel.
Large handkerchief bandana for neck.

Recommended Mountaineering Kit

In additional to the items mentioned above for trekking the following is a list of the additional specialist items which are required for the trekking peaks.

Plastic or Leather mountaineering boots, with gaitors & crampons that have been tested for a good fit.
Fleece trousers or salopettes.
Additional mitts and gloves suitable for climbing.
Ice ace, and ski poles (Note: ice axe can hired in Kathmandu)
Climbing harness
2 X tape slings
2 X screw gate karabiners.
Descended abseil device Ascender