Overview
The Everest region draws trekkers looking for everything from short trips to demanding high-altitude expeditions, set against the backdrop of Mt. Everest, Sherpa culture, and the legend of the Yeti. For trekkers who want to summit a peak and spend as much time as possible in the region, this trip combines all three major high passes with an Island Peak climb.
The route covers Renjo La and Chola Pass, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Kongma La, and finally the climb up Island Peak, which is why the trip is called Three Passes with Island Peak Climb. It gives a complete tour of the Khumbu Valley in one itinerary.
This is a hard trek, crossing Renjo La (5,340m), climbing Gokyo Ri (5,360m), and crossing the tough Chola Pass (5,330m) around the Tawache (6,367m) and Cholatse (6,440m) massif, before continuing to Everest Base Camp (5,364m), Kala Patthar (5,545m), and Kongma La (5,535m).
Beyond the altitude, the trip is a close look at Sherpa culture and daily life in the high valleys. The summit of Gokyo Ri offers a 360-degree view that takes in Cho Oyu, Everest, and Makalu in a single sweep.
Climbing permits for Island Peak follow current regulations from the Nepal Mountaineering Association.
For the trek without the climb, see our Everest Three Passes Trek and for a shorter peak-climbing combo, see our Everest Base Camp with Island Peak trip.
Highlights
- One of Nepal's most popular trekking peaks, bounded by glaciers
- Outstanding views of Lhotse, Baruntse, and Makalu from the top of Island Peak
- Island Peak's resemblance to an island in a sea of ice
- First ascended by a British expedition team in 1953
- Crossing all three major high passes: Renjo La, Chola, and Kongma La
- A side trip to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar
