Destination
Nepal
Region
Everest
Trip Grade
Adventure/Expedition
Highest Elevation
6189m.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation
Tea House/Camping
Trek Duration
16 Days
Group Size Min
02 Climber
Best Time
Sept-December & February-May
Start/End Point
Lukla to Lukla

Trip Overview

Island Peak Climbing is one of the most climbed trekking peaks in Nepal which is not a very technical mountain to climb. This peak climbing is the perfect choice for those trekkers who are nature, adventure, and challenging lovers with basic mountaineering skills. This route is the one for you if you are searching for peak climbing and Everest Base Camp Trek with beautiful views and thrilling trails. It is ideal for adventure seekers in their quest for a challenging trek and climbing experience which is one of the most popular choices at the height of 6000m from sea level. Climbing on this route offers an exhilarating climbing experience beyond simply trekking in Nepal.

Island Peak Climbing is perfect for those who wish to expand their experience towards mountain expeditions where you will have wonderful views of the mountain and landscapes. We will have a great view of the mountain like Mt Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu. And explore the Sagarmatha National Park which is the home of many rare wild animals, medical herbs, and flora and fauna. It also gets to experience the technical climbing technique and improve your mountain climbing skill through this adventurous expedition. This peak climbing is not technically challenging but it can be physically demanding.

Island Peak Trip Highlight

Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is a popular climbing peak in the Everest region of Nepal. Here are some of the highlights of climbing Island Peak:

  • Spectacular views: Climbing Island Peak offers breathtaking views of some of the highest mountains in the world, including Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. The summit of Island Peak is also a great vantage point to admire the stunning glaciers and icefalls of the surrounding area.
  • Technical challenge: Island Peak is a challenging climb that requires some technical skill, including the use of crampons, ice axe, and ropes. Climbers will encounter steep snow and ice slopes and may have to navigate through crevasses, making the climb a thrilling adventure.
  • Cultural experience: Climbing Island Peak also offers a chance to experience the unique culture of the Sherpa people, who are known for their mountaineering skills and rich traditions. The trek to the Island Peak base camp passes through several Sherpa villages where trekkers can experience the local way of life and learn about the Sherpa culture.
  • Remote location: Island Peak is located in a remote and rugged part of the Himalayas, which means that climbers can enjoy the peace and solitude of the mountains. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan Thar, which adds to the sense of adventure and exploration.
  • Personal achievement: Climbing Island Peak is a significant accomplishment that requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. The climb will challenge you both physically and mentally and will give you a sense of personal achievement and fulfillment that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

How Difficult Is The Island Peak Climbing?

Climbing Island Peak, also known as Imja Tse, is considered a challenging climb, and it’s rated as a PD+ (Peu Difficile Plus) on the Alpine grading system. Here are some of the factors that make the climb challenging:

  1. High altitude: Island Peak is located at an altitude of 6,189 meters (20,305 feet), which means that climbers will need to deal with the effects of high altitude. Acclimatization is critical to the success of the climb, and climbers will need to take the necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
  2. Technical terrain: Climbing Island Peak requires some technical skills, including the use of crampons, ice axe, and ropes. The climb involves steep snow and ice slopes, and climbers may need to navigate through crevasses, making the climb a technical challenge.
  3. Weather: The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, and climbers may need to deal with snow, high winds, and extreme cold. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and climbers will need to be prepared to adapt to the conditions.
  4. Physical fitness: Climbing Island Peak requires good physical fitness and stamina. Climbers will need to carry heavy packs and deal with the effects of high altitude, which can be physically demanding.

Despite the challenges, many climbers successfully summit Island Peak each year. With the right preparation, training, and guidance from experienced guides, it’s possible to overcome the difficulties and achieve the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit of Island Peak.

Best Time To Climb Island Peak

The best time to climb Island Peak is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons, which typically run from March to May and from September to November, respectively. Here’s why:

  1. Good weather conditions: During the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, the weather in the Everest region is generally clear and stable, with little precipitation and low cloud cover. This makes for good climbing conditions, with excellent visibility and minimal risk of snowfall and avalanches.
  2. Optimal temperatures: The temperatures during these seasons are generally mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) in the lower elevations and dropping to below freezing at higher altitudes. This means that climbers can avoid the extreme cold of winter and the intense heat of summer.
  3. Accessibility: During the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, the trekking routes to Island Peak are open and accessible, with fewer disruptions due to snow or other weather-related hazards. The trails are also less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive experience.
  4. Cultural experiences: These seasons also offer opportunities to experience the cultural festivals and celebrations of the Sherpa people, such as the Mani Rimdu festival in the Tengboche monastery in November. Additionally, during the spring season, the trekking trails are dotted with colorful rhododendron blooms, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.

While it’s possible to climb Island Peak outside of these seasons, the weather conditions and accessibility can be more challenging, and the risks may be higher due to increased snowfall and other weather-related hazards. Therefore, the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons are generally considered the best time to climb Island Peak.

What About Altitude Sickness Island Peak Climbing?

Altitude sickness is a significant concern for climbers attempting to climb Island Peak, as the peak reaches an altitude of 6,189 meters (20,305 feet), which is considered a high altitude. Here are some important things to know about altitude sickness and how to prevent it:

  1. What is altitude sickness? Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that can occur when climbing to high altitudes too quickly. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, altitude sickness can be life-threatening and can lead to conditions such as high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
  2. How to prevent altitude sickness: The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to acclimatize slowly by spending several days at lower elevations before ascending to higher altitudes. Climbers can also take measures such as staying hydrated, eating a nutritious diet, and avoiding alcohol and other substances that can interfere with acclimatization. In some cases, climbers may also choose to take medication such as acetazolamide to help prevent altitude sickness.
  3. Signs of altitude sickness: It’s essential to be aware of the signs of altitude sickness and to take action if symptoms occur. If you experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, or shortness of breath, it’s important to rest, hydrate, and descend to a lower elevation if the symptoms do not improve.
  4. Importance of experienced guides: Having an experienced guide is essential when climbing Island Peak, as they can help monitor for symptoms of altitude sickness and make decisions about when to rest, descend, or continue the climb. Guides can also provide advice and support for acclimatization and can assist with any medical emergencies that may arise.

Book this trip Email: info@everesttrekkingroutes.com or Direct Call:  +977-9843467921  (Rabin Gurung)

Details Itinerary

DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU

After arriving in Kathmandu, a delegate from Everest Trekking Routes will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon, you may take a rest or visit the Everest Trekking Routes office. In the evening there will be a welcome dinner given by Everest Trekking Routes where you will be served Nepalese food which will introduce you to the country’s food culture.
Trek time: 20 Minutes drive to Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 02: FLY TO LUKLA, TREK TO PHAKDING (2,651M/8,700FT) 3 – 4 HOURS

Our Guide will transfer to the Domestic airport and short Lukla flight for 30 minutes and introduce our local mountain porters. Kick off your beautiful trek through larges village Chourikharka and demented towards Dudhkoshi River and continue to Phakding (2652m. 8700ft.) we will have to stay acclimatization and we will stay overnight at the lodge of Phakding.
Trek time: 3-4 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 03: PHAKDING TO NAMCHE BAZAAR (3,438M/11,280 FT) 5 – 6 HOURS

After a hot breakfast trek to Namche Bazaar, the biggest village in the Khumbu region, which is the most popular Himalayan city Touristic area same as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Trekking toward Monjo Entering Sagarmatha National Park and Trekkers Information Management System Main Gate. Flow up Dudhkoshi River and cross the highest double substance bridge bottom of the Namche. I have the chance to see Mt. Everest on the trail and continue to Namche. And we will stay overnight at the lodge.
Trek time: 5-6 hour trek
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 04: ACCLIMATIZATION DAY – NAMCHE BAZAAR: (3,440M/11,284FT)

Today Explore and Acclimatization day, after breakfast visit to Sherpa Museum which is popular in the Khumbu region about the Sherpa culture and history, and will have the hike to the top of the Everest viewpoint take a cup of tea or coffee at Everest View lodge. If the weather is perfect then will see Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Island Peak, Amadablam, and Many Others Trekking peaks. When we return from Everest Viewpoint visit Khumjung Village and Admon Hillary high school take lunch and back to Namche, Little sightseeing stay overnight at the lodge.
Trek time: Acclimatization day & Short Hiking
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 05: NAMCHE BAZAAR TO PHORTSE (3,870M/12,694FT) 5- 6 HOURS

We will continue trek to Phortse medium beautiful Sherpa village. Beginning part flat and easy after Sanasa moderate slide and stepping to Mongla situate 4000m. During the time trekking, we will pass through the lush forest of Rhododendron, pine, and oak forest. We will have our lunch on the way and we will move towards Phortse. Take lunch that depends on choice and extremely descending to Phortse Tenga pass the bridge and end of our destination and we will stay overnight at lodge.
Trek time: 5-6 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 06: PHORTSE TO DINGBOCHE (4,360 M/14,300 FT) 5 – 6 HOURS

We trek to Dingboche, which is a massive viewpoint and a chance to see lots of wild animals such as Blue sheep, dear, Himalayan Thar, and Many Domestic Yaks browsing grass. The Phortse to Dingboche is the most beautiful trail selected by Everest Trekking Routes. Take lunch at Upper Pangboche or Samara and slowly trek to Dingboche and we will stay overnight at the lodge.
Trek time: 5-6 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 07: DINGBOCHE ACCLIMATIZATION DAY

Today is Acclimatization day at Dingboche just a light hike to a little pick or a hike to Chhukung just a combination of acute mountain sickness and visiting Dingboche Sherpa Villages. Will have to wear warm cloth and take lots of drinking water. Make sure could reach our Destination to EBC and stay the extra night at the lodge.
Trek time: Acclimatization day at Dingboche
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 08: DINGBOCHE TO LOBUCHE (4910 M) 5/6 HOURS

After a hot breakfast, we will continue trek to Lobuche, over 4000 meters have to most care health because before Lobuche slowly toward Dhukla and take lunch and rest for a while and hard part stepping and amazing Lobuche peak, Ama Dablam peak, Lobuche peak, Pumori peak, and Nupse Peak. It makes us enjoy and stay overnight at the lodge.
Trek time: 5-6 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 09: LOBUCHE TO GORAK SHEP (5170 M/16,961FT),

From Lobuche to Gorakshep takes more than 2 hours and must leave early morning, because take the hot drink as tea or coffee continue to Gorakshep and get accommodation to leave the bag. Before the visit to Everest Base Camp, we have to have Breakfast and take with us light food. It is a hard and long day most 8 to 10 hours. Return from EBC and we will stay overnight at the lodge.
Trek time: 8-9 hour visit to Everest Base Camp 5364m.
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 10: GORAK SHEP TO KALA PATTHAR (5,545M/18,192FT) TO DINGBOCHE (4,400M): 16KM, 7-8 HOURS

Early morning hike to Kala Patthar peak 5545m. Which is our main destination sunrise and panoramic views in front of Mt Everest and Pumori Expedition, Magnificent Himalayan range and return to Gorakshep take breakfast then after that continue to trek to Dingboche. At the time of trekking, we will pass through the lush forest of rhododendron, pine, and oak. We have our lunch on the then after we will continue our trekking towards Dingboche where we will stay overnight at a lodge.
Trek time: 7-8 hour hike up Kalapathar Peak 5545.
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 11: DINGBOCHE TO CHHUKUNG (4750M) 3 HOURS

In the morning time, we will leave Dingboche for Chhukung after having breakfast early in the morning. During the time of trekking, we get a chance to see the wonderful views of the mountain including Mt Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and many other highest mountains of this region. At Chhukung, we get ourselves ready double-checking our equipment for our Island summit day. And we will spend one night in this beautiful village.
Trek time: 3 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 12: CHHUKUNG TO ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP (5000M/17,060FT): 3-4 HOURS

Spending the wonderful night in Chhukung we will trek to Island base camp and also another short day lunch and dinner same place. After lunch takes short rest and continue to the basic Island peak climbing train for all Members, and visit Imja Lake which is the biggest Lake Khumbu region and prepares the Summit. We get the chance to see the wonderful views of the mountain including Mt Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and many other highest mountains of this region. Go to bed earlier and have short sleep stays overnight at Campsite.
Trek time: 3-4 hour trek
Accommodation: Camping

DAY 13: ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP TO ISLAND PEAK SUMMIT (6,189M/20,305FT), BACK TO BASE CAMP: 10-12 HOURS

Early morning get up around 12:00 AM take breakfast and leave at 1: PM starts This is not difficult but there are several short rock steps to climb before we emerge on the right side of the gully. Island Peak which is the most challenging and magnificent views (6189m.) tough day and the Technical Ice part takes more than 10 hours. After summiting Island peak we will come back towards Island Peak base camp where we will spend one night in this place.
Trek time: 10-12 hour summit to Island Peak 6189m.
Accommodation: Camping

DAY 14: ISLAND PEAK BASE CAMP TO PANGBOCHE (3,985M/13,074FT) 5-6 HOURS

From the Island peak base camp, we will trek towards Pangboche after having breakfast early in the morning. Following the same route back through the wide valley of Khumbu Khola. We pass through the beautiful sherpa valley. And we continue our trek towards Pangboche and pass through the lush forest of rhododendron, pine, and oak. We have our lunch on the way then after we will take some rest then after we will continue trek towards Pangboche where we will spend one night in this beautiful village.
Trek time: 5-6 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 15: PANGBOCHE TO NAMCHE BAZAAR (3,440M/11,286FT): 4-5 HOURS

We trek to Namche Bazaar, the biggest village in the Khumbu region, which is the most popular Himalayan city Touristic area same as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Trekking toward Monjo Entering Sagarmatha National Park and Trekkers Information Management System Main Gate. Flow up Dudhkoshi River and cross the highest double substance bridge bottom of the Namche. We have the chance to see mt. Everest on the trail and continue to Namche. And we will spend one night at the lodge.
Trek time: 5-6 hour trek
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 16: NAMCHE BAZAAR TO LUKLA (2,800M/9,186FT): 19KM, 6 – 7 HOURS

We leave Namche Bazaar for Lukla after having breakfast in the hotel and we easily downhill but more traffic from yak, Jhopkyo, and Porters toward manjo. Before Lukla takes light lunch and continues to Lukla, finally we will complete our trip and warm up with all team to say goodbye to local porters waiting for the flight to Kathmandu and stay overnight at the lodge.
Trek time: 6-7 hour trek
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 17: FLY TO KATHMANDU

We will be driven towards the local airport of Lukla to fly towards Kathmandu valley. Because some time very hard to get a flight and lots of people waiting. We must reserve for flight before our trip. When we arrived in Kathmandu explore and shopping souvenirs for your family. We will spend one night in Kathmandu valley.
Trek time: 30 Minutes fly to Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 18: FINAL INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE

We will drop you at the International Airport with our vehicle for your departure and we will see you off.
Trek time: Final departure
Accommodation: Home

Cost Include/Exclude

Cost Includes

  • Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up and Drop by private car/van/bus.
  • 3* Category Hotel In Kathmandu: 2 Nights standard accommodation in Katmandu BB Plan
  • Both Way Domestic Air Ticket Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu
  • You’re Meal in During the Trekking as Your standard meals (3 times a day Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with a cup of tea or Coffee).
  • $ 250 Per Person Special Climbing Permit.
  • $ 300 Climbing Sherpa Per Person his climbing fee, insurance, equipment, food, accommodation, etc.
  • $ 500 Garbage Deposit.
  • Climbing Gear such as Harness, figure Eight, Rope, Snow bar
  • 2-night full board Campsite at Base Camp
  • Accommodation in Trekking: All accommodations in lodge/tea houses during the treks.
  • Trekking Guide: Government License holder An experienced, helpful, friendly, and English-speaking Trekking Guide. His well-paid salary, meals, accommodation insurance, flight ticket, etc.
  • Trekking Porter: porters (1 porter for 2 people). Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation.
  • After the Success Trip, Everest Trekking Routes will Provide Adventure Certificate.
  • The arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service will be paid for by your Travel insurance company.
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • All government taxes and services charge

Cost Excludes

  • Meals and Extra Accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Extra Porter $ 20 Per Day
  • Climbing Sherpa $ 350
  • Personal Climbing Equipment
  • personal expenses (bar bills, beer, coke, a bottle of water, hot water, phone call, laundry service, Helicopter rescue, Electronic device recharge such as Mobile, Camera, etc.)
  • Tips for guide, porters, and driver.

Trip Map

FAQ

Fixed Departure Booking

Departure Date Duration Availability Cost Booking

Recent Client Reviews

Liau Gii Hau

Malaysia

LangTang 8 days tour

I requested Mr. Rabin Gurung to have a guide/porter before starting my journey, and he sent a very experienced guide Mr. Phul to be my guide/porter. Mr. Phul has more than 25+ years of experience becoming a mountain guide. I had problems during the hike up to the mountain but Mr. Phul always gave me support all the way, he shared the newer things in the jungle with my brother along the trek.

Source by: TripAdvisor

Yap Chun Sing

Singapore

Wonderful Experience trekking in Manaslu

Had a wonderful time hiking at the Manaslu area with my tour guide Sushil Gurung and porter Madan Gurung. They helped us with our every need from last minute rental gear like sleeping bags to telling us more about Nepal and being knowledgeable about the area. Both of them are experienced and knowledgeable. Both of them are very observant about how you are coping with the pace and terrain and will change pace to suit your pace.

Source by: TripAdvisor

Deon Poh

Singapore

Manaslu Circuit Trekking

Positive experience liaising with Everest Trekking for our Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The guide made adjustments to our plans based on our comfort/fitness level and the weather so that we managed to finish the trail.
Our guide helped us secure some last-minute stuff for us like our sleeping bag rentals.
Most importantly the hike itself was great as well thanks to our guide for his hospitality and our porter’s hard work.
Appreciate the apples cut for us every night during the hike carried by the guide and to the porter for pushing through even though his eyes hurt from the sun glare from the snow.
Thank you for this great experience.
Everest Trekking liaison: Rabin Gurung
Guide: Sushil Gurung
Porter: Madan Gurung

Source by: TripAdvisor

Mook Kunnapat

Bangkok, Thailand

Annapurna Base Camp trekking

ในช่วง 5 ปีที่ผ่านมาได้มีโอกาศไปเดิน Trek ที่เนปาลกับไกด์ Rabin มา 3 ครั้งแล้ว ประทับใจทุกครั้ง ทีมงานลูกหาบดีเรียบร้อยใส่ใจ บริการดี ไว้ใจได้ ราคาสมเหตุสมผล ใครจะไปเนปาลแนะนำเลยครับ!!

I’ve trekked in Nepal with Rabin 3 times in the past 5 years, and it’s been awesome!! Great team, reliable services, and reasonable price. Highly Recommended!!

Source by: TripAdvisor

Mike Q

Austral

Manaslu basecamp and Circuit and Tsum Valley

I have just completed a trek of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum valley with three other friends. The trip was magnificent, stunning mountain peaks, ancient forest, impressive rivers and waterfalls and interesting villages. During the trip we were very well looked after by our guide, Dhansingh Gurung who gently and efficiently took us through 21 days of trekking over diverse terrain and Sangam (Durga) our porter who was always helpful and cheerful. Both Dhansingh and Durga added considerably to the enjoyment of the experience with their friendliness and local knowledge. If I return to Nepal, I will definitely use our guide and porter again.

Sorce on: TripAdvisor

Jasmin H

Germany

Gokyo Lakes with Gokyo Ri

The trekking was an extraordinary experience. Breathtaking views of Everest and the surrounding 8000s. Rabin Gurung always made sure we have a nice accommodation, enough for eating and drinking, warm and comfortable. He is a really caring guide. I would do another trip with him right away. He organised everything so that we could totally focus on the hiking.

Source from: TripAdvisor

Tuffy Kin Leung

USA

Gokyo Lake — EBC

My wife and I had an amazing experience with both Dhansingh and Rabin Gurung. We took a 2 weeks trek with them from Lukla — Gokyo Lake — EBC . What a blessing we had them along the way , we will never forget and be grateful and thankful for the unquie, warm , genuine hospitality that we had , plus all the priceless encounters within the nature. Namaste!

Email: tuffyl@yahoo.com

Sources from: TripAdvisor

Toft Lars

Denmark

Mera Peak Climbing Guided & Trip Operation by Everest Trekking Routes

My brother and I had the pleasure of having Rabin as our guide on the trip to Mera Peak Expedition.
Everything was planned to perfection and we had a great time with Rabin, who is friendly, funny, and always helpful.
Last but not least, we reached the summit.

Source: TripAdvisor

Soren Dorfhoff

Denmark

Island Peak, Everest Base Camp and Lobuche Peak Climbing (October 2022)

I have now used Everest Trekking Routes for two trips to Nepal. I can’t put my finger on anything that needs improvement. The initial communication part is spot on. They are quick to respond and I usually my questions answered on the first reply. Both times I have been greeted at the airport by a super polite guide. I’ve felt welcome and gotten all my needs tended to.
On my second trip, we could not fly to Lukla, because of bad weather. Instead of waiting for the weather to clear up, they arranged alternative transport to the mountains, to avoid wasting precious days in Kathmandu.

The whole city experience has been an absolute pleasure. Except for the hard work, summiting a mountain 😅

Best recommendations to the guys from Everest Trekking Routes 👌

Source: Tripadvisor

Family Tour in Nepal

Alex Lim

Singapore

Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Rabin Gurung

This is my second trip with Rabin and I am already looking forward to a third trip with him soon. That shows how much I value his services, his extensive experiences with the treks, his honesty, and of course, the great supporting staff he have.

I feel safe and well taken care of with Rabin as my guide. He is a man with integrity and deal in a most honest way with us. This is unlike lots of horror stories you read about guides and tea-house owners collaborating to fleece hikers. We pay exactly what we consumed at the tea houses based on the published menu prices, no more and no less. With Rabin, there is no hidden cost.

With more than 20 years of trekking experience, he gave good advises on the route and safety measures to take. For example, he insisted that we started off early on a particular day so that we will reach a section with an ice sheet before the ice started to melt and traversing the ice-sheet becomes dangerous and difficult.

We have a large team of porters and assistant guides to take care of our team of 12 hikers and everyone on Rabin’s team have been extremely helpful and friendly. My teenage son enjoyed playing Uno and sliding down the ABC  Trek icy slope with a teenage porter, a fellow hiker who has walking difficulties was supported all the way by assistant guides and porters and our meals were all ordered in advance so the group don’t have to wait long for food to be served.

Singapore

Sources from: TripAdvisor

Family Tour in Nepal

Mark Gamboa

Vancouver, British Columbia

Everest Base Camp Trek with Suk Bahadur Gurung

Searching for the perfect company to embark on the EBC trek was not easy when doing research on who to go with. I happen to have really lucked out by choosing to go with Everest Trekking Routes, because they were great, through and through.

I did the trek in November but started inquiring with them back in February. Rabin is the CEO of the company, and he has helped me in every way possible. He was prompt in answering my questions via email and meticulously arranged the EBC trek, which felt customized to all my needs. In person, he was kind and courteous. And my guide Suk was friendly and helpful throughout the hike. He had brought all the necessary medication for me and asked every day how I was feeling. Suk is also a very good card player and was grateful for his company on the 12-day hike/ Kathmandu City Hike.

I’m sure most of you reading this have gone with some tour company elsewhere in the world, and perhaps you might agree that most of them have treated you as simply a commodity in the assembly line. By going with Everest Trekking Routes, I never felt that. Rabin and Suk took care of me from beginning to end, and I sing all their praises for getting me to Everest Base Camp, which was a major deal for me and my friends and Family. Rabin and Suk became family to me. Thank you for everything, guys!

Antonia Carol Suning

Sabah Malaysia

Everest Base Camp & Lobuche Peak with Rabin Gurung

It was such a hard fight to join this trip. Because I had to work hard to find funding for this training. It is the first summit I attended team NOBAT ( No Boundary Adventurers Association Sabah ) to the Himalayas with AMG (Adventure Mountain Guide Rabin Gurung), I gained a great experience, which Mr. Rabin Gurung was very friendly and kind as a mountain guide who experience he made this trip so enjoyable, and build a better friendship.

I would like to thank him for giving the best service to us, this is the first time I walk for 21 days hahaha. In every step, he remained faithful to accompany and not leave us, even though there are 2 people in our group who did not succeed, and he sent us back to our high camp Lobuche to support the spirit reaching the summit of Lobuche Peak Climbing.

Nice trip and good services such as tents, food, and stories you tell about your family, it is good, and I enjoyed the trip because you protected me and my team so much.

Keep up the good work you AMG! I am happy to see and to know you! Good luck! * extra bonus able to speak Bahasa Melayu! hehe

Jasen Moore & Helen Kerrandjas

Canada

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Rabin Gurung

While Rabin is a very knowledgeable and capable guide it was his kindness, Warm smile, and Constant eagerness to help that made our trip truly memorable. Rabin Gurung quickly earned our trust and friendship and would be an excellent companion on any trek! we would very happily Recommend Rabin to anyone who is making a trip to Nepal. He is is a wonderful person and a good friend.

Email: helen.karrandjas@maclaren.com
Details Address: 191 Millwood Rd, Upper Toronto, ON M4S 1J6 Canada

Jaistin Tamin

Sabah Malaysia

Everest Base Camp, Island Peak, Lobuche Peak & Chulu West Peak with Rabin Gurung

Sewaktu saya ditugaskan oleh persatuan NOBAT untuk mendapatkan khidmat ‘trekking guide’ bagi ekspedisi NOBAT Himalaya 2013, saya telah menghubungi beberapa ‘trekking agent’ di Kathmandu melalui emel. Saya tertarik dengan laman web Rabin Gurung dan ‘testimonial’ dari beberapa individu yang penat mendapatkan khidmatnya. Rabin memberikan tawaran kos yang paling berpatutan. Dari raut wajahnya saja saya yakin dia adalah orang yang jujur dan’friendly’. Satu kelebihan lain ialah dia boleh berbahasa Malaysia.

Apabila bertemu dengan Rabin buat pertama kalinya di Kathmandu, memang sah bahawa kami telah membuat pilihan yang tepat. Sepanjang trekking, Rabin sangat professional dalam khidmatnya. Beliau flexible dan mudah diajak berunding. Kami tidak lagi menganggapnya sebagai pemandu jalan tetapi sebagai sahabat..kepada sesiapa yang ingin trekking di Himalaya, sila dapatkan khidmat Rabin. Saya percaya anda bakal membuat pilihan yang tepat.
Email: cliffhanger_08@yahoo.com

Island Peak Climbing

Jeff Tucker & Wanida Tucker

USA

Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley with Rabin Gurung

Recently my wife and I visited Nepal for the eighteenth time and enjoyed a wonderful trek, one of the best treks ever, and this was largely due to our guide, Rabin Gurung (Trekking Guide in Nepal), with whom we also trekked around Manaslu in 2010.

If you come to Nepal with the idea of doing ‘your own trek’ with a small party, I highly recommend hiring Rabin. Not only does he have many years of experience but he is very honest and humble, so much so that one woman at a very basic lodge on our recent trek, impressed by his honesty, told my wife that “this man is a very good man, honest man, all other guide-man say lie to customers, say them that price is higher than the real price, so they can get more money.”

Rabin is always in good humor and friendly and gets along well with the local people and the porters too. Furthermore, his varied experience from his earlier years as a porter and cook helped to make him a better guide. I can’t remember how many times during our treks, when we stopped at a new or very basic lodge, or even at a tea house for lunch, when the owner’s cooking skills were at most primitive, Rabin tactfully volunteered to move into the kitchen and some amazingly delicious food would come out, made from the most simple ingredients.

Three years ago, in March of 2010, the Manaslu trek was not what it is now. Along the entire trek from Arughat (where we had to start walking), until we reached to Annapurna circuit route, there was at that time only a single lodge with what could be called a ‘menu’, and that was the one and only lodge in Sama village at that time. All other villages either had nothing but dal bhat and perhaps chapatis, or nothing to eat and no lodge at all. We had to camp some places, but when we could, we stayed in the simple lodges that existed and he often improved our diet by cooking foods that the proprietor did not know how to cook, sometimes even such a basic menu item as an omelet, to be rolled up inside a chapati for breakfast.

This year, again in March, we decided to return to the same area, with the desire to explore the newly opened valley of Tsum. This is a lovely, beautiful valley populated by some 4000 Tibetan people, who have lived for nearly a thousand years in that inaccessible ‘hidden valley’, connected by easy passes to Tibet but until not so many decades ago, without any reasonable connection to Nepal through the truly stupendous canyons of the lower section of the valley. Indeed, many inhabitants could not speak any Nepali, only Tibetan, which made it difficult at times. We had a double permit, which if you ever want to see Tsum Valley thoroughly, I highly recommend. Most people try to do a quick one-week detour to Tsum Valley as a kind of bonus side trip on the way around Manaslu. They never know what they have missed. Some of the most interesting villages and friendliest people, and some truly awesome scenery, can be visited in Tsum valley if you have time. One week is too little time to see more than a quick glimpse of the Valley.

I and my wife have been trekking in Nepal for years, myself since 1981, and our trek to Manaslu was the first time we had ever used a guide (because it was required on that trek), despite having visited some very remote areas such as crossing the Trashi Labtsa Pass from Khumbu into Rolwaling with friends in 1982. I had doubts about using a guide, I had seen how so many of them control their clients and take a commission from lodge owners to fill their pockets, I have seen many guides from Kathmandu who knew less about the local people and places than I did. I say this not to boast but as a word of caution: there are all too few honest, humble, helpful, and experienced guides out there, and many of those who are have moved into the higher levels of trekking management and no longer guide. But from the first days, on our 2010 Manaslu trek, we were impressed by the level of experience Rabin has, and also his sensitivity in allowing us to make our own itinerary day by day. He never was angry, never showed irritation, always explained patiently what was going on, and was always in a good mood. We were a group of five at that time, and by the end of the first week, we all agreed that if we returned to Nepal for another trek requiring a guide, we would try to get Rabin again.

This is what we did in March 2013 on our visit to Tsum Valley. Using more porters in order to have tents and extra food, we planned to visit the highest area of the upper end of Tsum Valley and ascend to one of the high passes overlooking Tibet. This year was plagued by poor weather and too much snow in March, however, and we were unable to do that, as were all the people who had set out to trek around Manaslu this March: the deep snow at higher elevations did not allow anyone in the first weeks of March to cross the Larkya La and go around Manaslu. But we had time, and because of the tents and food we had, we also had more options. The tents and food we used in a wonderful visit to the nunnery at Gumalungdang, up a steep side valley surrounded by the huge peaks of Ganesh Himal. We camped there for two nights, as there is no accommodation yet, and enjoyed incredible sunrise views of the nearby Ganesh Himal and also the distant great Peaks of HImalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu.

Tsum Valley is developing rapidly, as is the Manaslu circuit. However, particularly if you are new to Nepal trekking, don’t believe the hype that many agencies will tell you, that the Manaslu trek is the “new Annapurna circuit”. The Annapurna trek, over a period of three decades, developed a huge infrastructure for trekkers, with scores and scores of hotels, often equipped with deluxe menus and services, hot showers, laundry service, spring mattresses, etc. I think it will be some time yet before these things appear on the Manaslu trek, and if you find them in some places, don’t expect them at the next place. Tsum Valley is one step back in development yet.

One problem to watch out for is this: Manaslu Tsum Valley’s popularity and this can be said for Manaslu too, is growing much faster than services can be built–may be large because the road around Annapurna has grown so quickly and has put people off from that once glorious trek. We were there both times in March when there are fewer trekkers than in April or especially during the high season in October and November. In Tsum, as of March 2013, there was only one real lodge with rooms, and that was just a bit beyond Lokhpa at the foot of the valley. The other ‘lodges’ were basically beds in a side room of a local house, the largest such able to sleep ten people but others only four or five. Most villages had only one such place for trekkers to sleep, some villages had no place. When we reached Mu Gompa, in March all but one of the 80 monks were away from the valley for the winter, and furthermore, there was no food available at all. Only because we had our tents and stove and food for going higher up the valley (which we were unable to do because of snow), were we able to stay there e and eat our own food, instead of returning to Nile village the same day. The same goes for Gumbalunddang, where no food was available. if you are going o visit Tsum valley, and perhaps Manaslu too, during the busiest season, think seriously about hiring at least one EXTRA porter and having a tent, stove, and food, in case of accommodation is full! It might be worth it! Also, think of the porters: we saw many groups of two or three with a guide and a single porter carrying an enormous load, who was trailing far behind the others during the day. Many of them were unhappy with the arrangement.

In conclusion, this time with four people in our group, and with several porters and with Rabin as our guide again, we once more enjoyed what all agreed was one of the best treks we’ve ever done in the Himalayas, out of a total number of over thirty now, in Nepal and India. Rabin is an excellent choice for a guide. He is honest and will help you save money instead of trying to find ways to squeeze more for himself, he is fun and funny and friendly and all along the trails, he makes new friends with the people we meet along the way. He is experienced but doesn’t try to tell the customers what to do, he asks what they want to do, and then explains the options. If you are the type of trekker who is truly interested in Nepal, in the places, the culture, and religion and people and villages, and like to understand what is happening around you, hire Rabin as your guide, you won’t be disappointed. Indeed, like us (except for one, the same group that went around Manaslu with Rabin three years earlier), perhaps you will want to return to Nepal and go on another trek with Rabin Gurung!

Email: jefftckr@s8.dion.ne.jp

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