Island Peak is located in Khumbu Region (Everest Region). It is one of the most popular peaks of Nepal. It is a busiest peak where at least thousands of climbers step in. Regulus suggests any climber be it amateur or professional to experience Island Peak because it is not that hard and technical in comparison to other peaks.
It is a rewarding climb that gives astounding view of many mountains like Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and yes, Mount Everest.
The peak stands high at an altitude of 6,189m. Climbing Island Peak gives exhilarating experience to climbers. If you are planning to climb Ama Dablam or Mount Everest climb then before that Regulus suggests you to gain firsthand experience at Island Peak. This will benefit you to learn climbing techniques and build confidence in you. Earlier climbers used to practice here before going for Mount Everest climbing.
Island Peak was known as Imja Tse earlier. Eric Shipton, a renowned climber coined new name to Imja Tse as Island Peak in 1951. This is because the peak appears like an island in the vast ocean of ice while watching from Dingboche.
In the course of time, Island Peak replaced its new name with the same old one—Imja Tse. But, at present, the peak is still popular as Island Peak among foreigners and Nepalese.
The extended ridge coming down of south end of Lhotse Shar makes the Island Peak. It was the Swiss team who climbed the Island Peak for the first time in 1956. They climbed Island as a training session prior to Mount Everest climbing.
The use of ropes, crampons, ice axe among other equipments is common in Island Peak climbing. The crossing of a glacier with open crevasses and climbing fixed line by the use of jumar makes the climbing more exciting and thrilling.
The final section of Island Peak climbing is really challenging where you need to show excellent level of climbing techniques and fitness level. The summit is of around 13 to 16 hours which starts during night or midnight. The sunshine and blowing wind in the peak during day time makes the climbing impossible so climbers summit at night.
