Affordable Island Peak Climbing

Affordable Island Peak Climbing Package in Nepal

Climbing Island Peak (6,189 m), locally known as Imja Tse, offers aspiring mountaineers a budget-friendly peak climbing in Nepal that doesn’t compromise on adventure. Tucked in the Everest region, Island Peak is often the first big Himalayan summit for peak climbing in Nepal for enthusiasts. It earned its name from appearing like an island amid a sea of ice when viewed from Dingboche. Despite its formidable height, Island Peak climbing in Nepal is considered a “trekking peak” – meaning it’s challenging yet accessible to fit trekkers with basic mountaineering skills. The comparatively affordable Island Peak Climbing Package in Nepal makes it an optimal choice for those seeking high-altitude thrills on a budget. In this guide, we’ll explore the climb via the Chhukung route, break down the Island Peak climbing cost from Kathmandu, detail an EBC + Island Peak itinerary, and compare whether Island Peak or Mera Peak is better for budget-conscious climbers. We’ll also tackle Island Peak climbing difficulty, permit requirements, and FAQs to help you plan your adventure.

Island Peak climb via the Chhukung route

Island Peak is typically approached via the village of Chhukung in the Imja Valley, a side valley of the main Everest Base Camp trail. Most climbers reach Chhukung (4,730 m) after trekking through the Khumbu region, following the classic Everest trail through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and then branching east to Chhukung. This approach allows for gradual acclimatization and uses the network of tea houses along the route, keeping the journey logistically simpler and affordable. From Chhukung, it’s a short half-day hike to Island Peak Base Camp (around 5,100 m), which sits below the mountain's southwest face.

Climbing Route: From base camp, the Island Peak climb via the Chhukung route follows the mountain’s southwest ridge. In the pre-dawn hours, climbers cross an icy glacier in the Imja Valley, navigating crevasses and ascending to a high camp or directly up a steep snow slope. The crux of the climb is a 45-degree headwall of snow and ice that leads to the summit ridge. Fixed ropes are used on this 100-meter headwall, requiring climbers to use crampons, ascenders (jumar), and ice axes. This section often defines the island Peak climbing difficulty – it’s strenuous and mildly technical, but with guidance and fixed lines, it’s manageable for novices with training. After conquering the headwall, a narrow, airy ridge is traversed to reach the small summit. This ridge rewards you with breathtaking 360° views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Baruntse, and Ama Dablam.

Climbers use fixed ropes to ascend the steep, icy headwall of Island Peak. The final push to the 6,189 m summit involves a 45° snow-and-ice slope and a narrow summit ridge. Proper acclimatization and basic mountaineering skills help ensure a safe climb on this Island Peak climbing package adventure.

Why the Chhukung route to climb Island Peak?

This is the standard and most straightforward approach to Island Peak. Coming via the main Everest trail means you can leverage the infrastructure (lodges, eateries) up to Chhukung, which keeps costs lower compared to more remote approaches. Many trekkers doing the Everest Base Camp trek or the Three High Passes trek add Island Peak as an extension. Some climbers reach Chhukung independently and then join an Island Peak climb from there. By already being in the area and acclimatized (for example, after the EBC trek or Gokyo trek), you can tackle Island Peak in just 2–3 days starting from Chhukung, which can significantly cut costs on guide and logistics. This approach is ideal for budget-conscious climbers who are comfortable trekking solo or with a small group to Chhukung, then hiring climbing guides only for the peak itself.

Despite being one of the “easier” trekking peaks, do not underestimate Island Peak. It requires good fitness, and climbers must be prepared for extreme altitude and cold. The Island Peak climbing difficulty is rated roughly “PD+” (Peu Difficile+) on the alpine grading – a moderate climb with some technical sections. In practical terms, this means most of the ascent is non-technical trekking on rock or glacier, but the final few hundred meters involve fixed ropes, ladder or crevasse crossings, and use of mountaineering gear. Island Peak is often used as a practice climb before higher expeditions (even Everest). With adequate acclimatization and instruction, first-time climbers have a good chance of summiting. However, the summit success rate isn’t 100%, often due to altitude sickness or insufficient fitness, so plan a conservative itinerary that allows your body to adjust. Overall, the Chhukung route offers the most accessible path to experience Himalayan expedition-style climbing at a fraction of the cost of major peaks.

Island Peak climbing cost from Kathmandu

One of the main appeals of Island Peak is that it can be climbed without an astronomical budget. That said, there are a variety of costs to consider, especially if you are starting and ending the trip in Kathmandu. Here we break down the typical expenses included in an Island Peak climbing package and tips on managing them:

Package: A guided package from Kathmandu usually bundles all major expenses: domestic flights, permits, guide/porter services, meals and lodging on the trek, group climbing equipment, and often some gear rental. A standard full-service package for Island Peak (often 17–21 days including the EBC trek) typically ranges from USD 3200 to $4,000 per person.

Lukla Flight: The quickest way to the Everest region is via a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport). A round-trip Lukla flight for foreigners costs around $450. Most packages include this, but confirm if it’s covered. Alternatives like travelling via Phaplu+Jiri by road exist to save money, but add many days of trekking.

Permits: There are multiple permits required for Island Peak. First, you need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit (for the Everest region), which costs NPR 3,000 (around $25–30) for foreign nationals. Additionally, the local rural municipality fee for Khumbu (often called the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit) is about NPR 2,000 ($20). The Island Peak climbing permit is issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Its cost depends on season: $250 in spring (Mar–May), $125 in autumn (Sept–Nov), and only $70 in the off-seasons (winter or summer). These fees are generally included in packages – if you’re arranging independently, you’ll pay them in Kathmandu or Monjo (for park fee) and through a trekking agency for the climbing permit. Aside from these, a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card ($10–20) may be required if not trekking with an organized group (though in Solukhumbu, the local permit often replaces TIMS).

Guide and Staff: For safety and legality, hiring a licensed climbing guide is mandatory for Island Peak (NMA rules stipulate climbs must be organized through a registered agency with a guide). Guides with climbing expertise may cost $50 per day, but in packages, this is built into the price. Porter services (to carry heavy gear, camping equipment, etc., especially above base camp) also add to costs. The Porter with kitchen staff with their expenses costs USD 25 per day. A budget approach might involve minimal staff (e.g., one guide who doubles as a porter above base camp). Overland Trek Nepal and other companies provide an experienced Sherpa climbing guide, base camp crew (cook, helpers), and porters in their packages, ensuring you have support throughout the trek and climb.

Food and Accommodation: On the trek up to Chhukung/Island Peak base camp, you’ll stay in teahouses (lodges). Meals and lodging in the Everest region are relatively pricey compared to cities due to the remote location – expect roughly $35-$40 per person per day for three meals and a basic twin-share room. In a package, these are prepaid. At Island Peak Base Camp, you’ll likely be camping (tents, kitchen equipment, and food are brought by the outfitter). The package cost covers these camping arrangements, too. If you go on your own, budget for tent rental, food supplies, and maybe hiring a cook/porter to assist at base camp. 

Gear Rental: Island Peak requires some specialized gear: mountaineering boots (double boots), crampons, harness, ice axe, carabiners, ascender (jumar), helmet, etc. If you join a package, often the group equipment (ropes, ice screws) is provided, and personal climbing gear can be rented in Kathmandu or even in Chhukung. Rental costs for a full set of gear might be around $100–$150 for the trip. Overland Trek Nepal’s packages include complimentary use of some gear like down jackets and sleeping bags, which is a bonus.

Miscellaneous: Remember to budget for travel insurance (with high-altitude evacuation coverage), visa fees, and any shopping or extra days in Kathmandu. Also, tips for guides and porters at the end are customary, usually around 10% of the climb cost divided among the staff.

In summary, if you book an Island Peak climbing package from Kathmandu, you’re looking at roughly a $2800–$3,500 total cost for a well-run trip with a reputable company (some premium outfitters or longer itineraries may charge up to ~$4k). This covers almost everything from the moment you arrive till departure. For most travelers, the package route provides peace of mind and a higher chance of summiting safely. It’s worth noting that Island Peak’s cost is comparatively low next to big expeditions – even compared to trekking peaks like Lobuche East or more technical climbs, Island Peak remains one of the most accessible climbs financially in Nepal.

Island Peak Climbing Itinerary via EBC Trek

There are several ways to incorporate Island Peak into a trekking itinerary, but a popular choice – and one that maximizes your Everest region experience – is to combine it with the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek. This not only provides superb acclimatization (improving your summit chances) but also ticks off a visit to Everest Base Camp, essentially two adventures in one. Below is what a standard Island Peak climbing itinerary via EBC might look like (approximately 18–20 days total). You can customize the length, but we’ll assume a pace that allows proper acclimatization:

Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840 m); Trek to Phakding (2,610 m). A short, scenic flight brings you to Lukla. Begin trekking down the Dudh Koshi valley to the small village of Phakding. (~3–4 hours trekking).

Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). Trek through pine forests and cross high suspension bridges, entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo. A steep climb brings you to Namche, the Sherpa hub. (~6 hours).

Day 3: Acclimatization day in Namche. Spend an extra night to adjust to the altitude. Take a day hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) or Khumjung village. Enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam on a clear day.

Day 4: Namche to Tengboche (3,867 m). Trek along a high trail with panoramic views, then descend to the Dudh Koshi and back up through rhododendron forests to Tengboche. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery with Ama Dablam towering close by.

Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m). Pass through Pangboche village (with its ancient monastery), then ascend above treeline to the farming settlement of Dingboche. The views of Island Peak and Lhotse’s south face are impressive from here.

Day 6: Acclimatization in Dingboche. A second planned acclimation day – take a hike up Nagarjun Hill (~5,000 m) or to Chhukung Ri, then return to Dingboche to rest. This helps your body prepare for higher elevations.

Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940 m). Trek past Dughla and the memorial area (dedicated to climbers who perished on Everest) and continue to the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Reach Lobuche by afternoon.

Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,164 m); visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). A tough but rewarding day. Trek to Gorak Shep, the last outpost. After an early lunch, hike across the rocky glacier terrain to Everest Base Camp – stand among the colorful prayer flags and tents (during climbing season) at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.

Day 9: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and down to Dingboche (or Pheriche). Pre-dawn ascent of Kala Patthar for spectacular sunrise views of Everest and the surrounding giants. This is the highest altitude point on the trek. Descend back to Gorak Shep for breakfast, then retrace steps down past Lobuche and Dughla. Depending on how you feel, you can either stay in Pheriche (~4,240 m, easier on the knees) or Dingboche again. (This is a long day; some itineraries add an extra day here and break this into two days.)

Day 10: Dingboche/Pheriche to Chhukung (4,730 m). Take the side valley route to Chhukung, a small settlement with a few lodges. The trek is relatively short (3–4 hours) and not too steep. 

Day 11: Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m). A gentle trek of 3 hours leads to Base Camp, located near the snout of the Imja Glacier. The campsite is usually set on a rocky area just above the moraine. In the afternoon, your climbing guides will conduct a training session: practicing with ropes, ice axe, harness, and crampons on the nearby ice – ensuring everyone is comfortable with equipment for the next day. Turn in early, as the summit push will start well before dawn.

Day 12: Summit Island Peak (6,189 m) and return to Base Camp or Chhukung. Summit day! Typically, you’ll wake around 1–2 AM for a very early start. After a light high-calorie breakfast, begin climbing by headlamp. Ascend through rock gullies and scree to High Camp (about 5,600 m, sometimes climbers camp here for a shorter summit day). Hit the snowline and rope up for glacier travel around first light. Cross crevasses (ladders may be in place) and approach the base of the headwall. Using fixed ropes, climb the 45° snow/ice slope up ~100 m onto the ridge. By late morning, reach the summit of Island Peak! Celebrate with stunning views – you’re eye-level with Lhotse and have a sweeping panorama of the eastern Himalayas. The descent retraces the route: abseil or down-climb the headwall with safety lines, then trek back across the glacier. Back at base camp by early afternoon. If everyone is energetic and conditions are good, some groups opt to continue down to Chhukung the same day to rest in a lodge. (Summit day: 8–10+ hours round-trip depending on starting point and pace.)

Day 13: Extra contingency day. It’s wise to have at least one buffer day in case of bad weather, slower acclimatization, or any other delay. If Day 12’s summit attempt was thwarted by weather, you can try again on Day 13. If you submitted on schedule, this day can be used to rest and leisurely descend. Often, if Day 12 was successful, this day might be used to trek back as far as Pangboche or even Namche.

Day 14: Trek from Chhukung/BC area to Pangboche or Namche. Say goodbye to Island Peak and head back down the valley. It’s a long but satisfying descent as oxygen levels rise with every meter. If starting from Chhukung, you might reach Namche Bazaar by the evening of Day 14, but many itineraries break it into two days (Chhukung to Pangboche or Tengboche one day, then Namche next).

Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla. A long descent to the Dudh Koshi and a final climb up to Lukla. By afternoon, you’ll arrive back where you started. Enjoy a last dinner with your trekking crew, celebrating the completion of a great adventure.

Day 16: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu. Weather permitting, take the morning flight out of Lukla and return to Kathmandu. (Day 17/18 can be kept as additional buffer days in case of flight delays or a slower trek out.)

This itinerary can be adjusted based on your needs. For instance, if skipping EBC, you would head straight from Dingboche to Chhukung (saving 3 days). Or if you want even more acclimatization, you could insert an extra rest day at Chhukung before heading to base camp. Some climbers also establish a High Camp on Island Peak around 5,600 m to shorten summit day – that would add a day for moving from Base Camp to High Camp. The key is to balance time vs. cost vs. safety: a slightly longer itinerary costs a bit more (extra days’ food/lodging and guide fees) but improves your summit success odds and overall safety by preventing altitude illness.

Island Peak’s standard EBC combo itinerary is popular because it offers a complete Everest region experience. You trek through famous spots like Namche and Tengboche, see Everest Base Camp, and then tackle a peak climb – all in one trip. It’s certainly physically demanding, but thousands of adventurers have done it, many as their first Himalayan climb. If you’re reasonably fit and can budget ~3 weeks of travel, this itinerary is an incredible value. You come home not just having trekked to Everest Base Camp (an achievement in itself) but also with a 6,000+ meter summit under your belt!

(Note: Overland Trek Nepal can customize itineraries – whether you want to include Gokyo Lakes, do back-to-back peaks, or shorten the trip, a good operator will tailor the plan. Always communicate your goals and limits so they can design an affordable itinerary that gives you the best shot at the summit.)

How much does it cost to climb Island Peak with the standard itinerary?

If you’re planning for the standard guided itinerary (including EBC trek) as described above, how much should you budget? As mentioned in section 2, a full-package Island Peak climb with the Everest Base Camp trek generally costs in the ballpark of $2800 to $3,500 per person. The cost usually includes everything: airport transfers, two-way Lukla flight, guides and porters, permits, all trek/climb meals, lodging, climbing gear (rent), and hotels in Kathmandu.

Which peak climbing is better for a budget climber, Island Peak or Mera Peak?

Island Peak and Mera Peak are often compared, as both are popular “first 6000m” climbs in Nepal’s Himalayas. If you’re a budget-conscious climber, you’ll want to consider both the cost and the difficulty/experience of each climb. Let’s break it down:

Location & Route: Island Peak is in the Everest (Khumbu) region, near the EBC trail, whereas Mera Peak lies in a more remote area to the south of Everest (the Hinku Valley). The approach to Mera is typically longer – often a 15–18 day trip – and involves a more isolated trek (fewer teahouses, sometimes camping is needed). Island Peak’s approach can be shorter and more lodge-supported. This means Mera Peak climbing in Nepal often incurs slightly higher costs due to the longer duration and extra logistics (e.g., camping gear, multiple permits for different regions). From a budget perspective, Island Peak has the edge in terms of requiring fewer days and being logistically simpler, which usually translates to a lower price tag for equivalent services.

Cost Comparison: Many adventure companies offer both climbs. In general, Mera Peak packages cost a few hundred dollars more than Island Peak packages. For example, one source notes that guided Mera Peak expeditions range roughly $2,500–$3,000, while Island Peak is around $2200–$2800 for a similar setup. This aligns with the fact that Mera is often an 18–20 day itinerary versus Island 15–17 days. Some of the extra cost for Mera goes into a separate permit (Mera is in the Makalu-Barun National Park area) and possibly a return via a challenging pass (some itineraries exit Mera via Amphu Lapcha Pass into Chhukung, adding mountaineering complexity). If you were to climb both peaks separately, you’d pay those respective full costs. Interestingly, Overland Trek Nepal mentions that combining Mera + Island in one extended trip can be economical (since you share acclimatization and logistics), whereas doing them separately costs $2,899 for Mera and $3,299 for Island in their pricing. That suggests Island Peak climbing with EBC can be higher up to USD 3300 to 4000 per person due to adding several days via EBC. 

Difficulty & Success Rate: Mera Peak vs Island Peak in terms of difficulty is a nuanced comparison. Mera (6,476 m) is about 300 m higher, which makes the summit day very physically demanding due to the thin air. However, Mera is often considered less technical – it is a high-altitude glacier walk up a broad dome, with no cliff or ridge at the top. Island Peak (6,189 m), while lower, presents a trickier climb: the summit involves steep snow/ice climbing of roughly 100 meters and a sharp ridge, requiring fixed ropes and confidence with heights. Mera Peak is classified as Alpine Grade PD (Peu Difficile), and for many years was even rated “F” (Facile) – meaning straightforward for a climb, though glacier changes have introduced a bit more challenge (a short ice section now). Island Peak is rated slightly harder, around Alpine Grade PD+ or AD- in some listings, and is sometimes described as 2B in the NMA grading (indicating some technical climbing skills needed). In plain English, Mera is generally considered the easier climb, and Island Peak a notch more challenging. As one trekking company puts it, “Mera Peak is easier to climb than Imja Tse (Island Peak) in terms of technicality”. Overland Trek Nepal echoes this: from a safety point of view, Mera is simpler, whereas Island’s narrow ridge and ice wall make it the tougher of the two.

Which is better for a beginner on a budget? If your primary goal is to bag a 6000er at minimum cost and you don’t mind missing the Everest Base Camp trail, Island Peak might be the better choice. It can be done more cheaply due to fewer days needed, and you have the option to trek independently to the region to save money. The island also has the cultural bonus of being in the Khumbu (you’ll experience famous villages, monasteries, and possibly add EBC). On the other hand, Mera Peak offers a more wilderness experience – its trek is quieter, through lush valleys and less-traveled passes. Some budget travelers spend more on Mera because the lack of teahouses means you may need a guide and porter support from day one (no option to easily do it 100% solo). Both peaks have identical permit fees (each $250 in spring, etc.), so no difference there. Both require a flight to Lukla (though some Mera itineraries start with a drive and a different trailhead to save on the flight – but that adds several trek days).

From a value perspective, many find Island Peak more bang for your buck – you get the famous Everest views and a taste of technical climbing. For a less-technical challenge, Mera Peak is sometimes recommended first, but the added length and cost might not appeal to everyone. If you are worried about technical difficulty and willing to invest a bit more, Mera could be “easier” in a relative sense, as it’s mostly a long hike on snow (you still use crampons and rope for glacier travel, but no steep wall). If you’re comfortable learning some rope work, Island Peak’s climbing section adds excitement without needing prior climbing experience – guides fix the lines and show you how to ascend with a jumar and descend safely.

In terms of success rates, both peaks see high success among guided groups when the weather cooperates. Mera’s higher altitude can knock climbers out with AMS if not properly acclimatized; the Island’s trickier final section can be a mental/physical hurdle that turns some around. With good preparation, success on either is very achievable for fit first-timers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How difficult is Island Peak to climb?

Island Peak is considered a moderately difficult climb by Himalayan standards. It’s often described as a “trekking peak” – meaning it’s achievable for fit trekkers – but it does have some technical challenges. The altitude (6,189 m) is a major factor making it tough; most people will feel the thin air and need to acclimatize properly. Technically, the route involves glacier travel and a steep 45° snow/ice headwall near the summit. Climbers must use crampons, fixed ropes, and ladders over crevasses. Overall, the climb is graded PD+ (Peu Difficile plus) – not extremely hard, but not easy either.

How much does it cost to climb Island Peak?

The cost can vary widely depending on the level of support and itinerary. For a fully guided package from Kathmandu, including the Everest Base Camp trek, the typical price is around USD 2,500–$3,500 per person. This covers almost everything: permits, round-trip Lukla flight, guide and porter services, meals, accommodations, and climbing gear logistics

Do I need prior climbing experience to climb Island Peak?

Prior technical climbing experience is not strictly required, but it is highly beneficial. Island Peak is often attempted by fit trekkers who have no mountaineering background – it’s sometimes the first climb for people who have done treks like Everest Base Camp or Kilimanjaro. That said, you should at least have experience with high-altitude trekking and be comfortable with strenuous activity for many hours. Most importantly, you’ll need to learn some basic mountaineering skills either before the trip or when you reach base camp.

What is the best time to climb Island Peak?

The best seasons for Island Peak are spring and autumn, specifically March to May and late September to November. During these times, the weather in the Everest region is generally stable, with clearer skies and moderate temperatures at high altitude. Spring (pre-monsoon) offers slightly warmer nights on the mountain and beautiful blooms (rhododendrons) at lower elevations; you’ll also meet a lot of Everest expedition climbers on the trail in spring. Autumn (post-monsoon) usually has the clearest visibility, crisp air, and stunning views – plus the trails and base camp are a bit drier after the summer rains. Both seasons are busy trekking/climbing times in Nepal, meaning you’ll likely find groups to join and the teahouses will be open.

How long is the Island Peak climb (duration)?

The duration of an Island Peak trip can range from around 14 days to 21 days, depending on the itinerary. A common itinerary including the Everest Base Camp trek is about 18–20 days, which covers trekking to EBC, climbing Island Peak, and returning to Kathmandu. If you’re only focusing on Island Peak and not visiting Base Camp, you can streamline the trip to around 15–16 days (for example, Kathmandu to Kathmandu in just over two weeks). This usually involves trekking directly to Chhukung, climbing the peak, and trekking back.

Which is more affordable, Island Peak or Mera Peak?

Both Island Peak and Mera Peak are relatively affordable climbs, especially compared to big Himalayan expeditions, but Island Peak is generally a bit more affordable. The trip length for Island Peak is usually shorter, and it’s easier to do it using the teahouse system, whereas Mera Peak’s itinerary is longer (often by 2–4 days) and may require camping gear and a more extensive support crew. In terms of package cost, Island Peak climbs often range around $2800 - 3200, whereas Mera Peak packages might be $2,500–$3,000.

Conclusion – Conquer Island Peak with Overland Trek Nepal

Standing atop Island Peak and gazing at the giants of the Himalayas is a dream within reach – even for travelers on a budget. By carefully planning your affordable Island Peak climbing package, you can experience the thrill of mountaineering at a fraction of the cost of larger expeditions. We’ve seen that choosing the right season, trekking in with a group, and picking a trustworthy local operator all contribute to keeping the adventure both cost-effective and successful. In the Everest region, Island Peak truly shines as a “value for money” climb, offering high-altitude drama and spectacular scenery without requiring you to be a millionaire or a mountaineering pro.

If you’re ready to take on Island Peak, consider doing so with a company that knows the terrain inside and out and prioritizes your safety and experience. Overland Trek Nepal is one such outfitter – a reputable local company with over a decade of experience in trekking and peak climbing in Nepal. Overland Trek Nepal has a proven track record of successful summits and satisfied clients. They offer budget-friendly packages that don’t compromise on service or safety. Whether you want a basic climb or a combined Everest Base Camp trek, Overland can tailor the itinerary to your needs while keeping costs reasonable. With experienced Sherpa guides, quality equipment, and a commitment to client welfare, you’ll be in good hands from Kathmandu to the summit and back.

Contact Overland Trek Nepal today via email or WhatsApp at +9779851138871 to begin your affordable Himalayan adventure – and take the first step toward scaling a 6,000-meter peak in the mighty Everest region. Happy climbing!