Poon Hill & Ghandruk Trek

Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking peaks — a beautiful and accessible climb that combines Himalayan trekking with a rewarding mountaineering experience. Rising from the heart of the Khumbu region, Island Peak appears as a gleaming triangle of snow and ice set amidst the giants of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The peak was named “Island Peak” by Eric Shipton’s 1953 Everest expedition team, who believed it resembled an island floating in a sea of ice.   This 17-day journey through the heart of the Everest region blends adventure, culture, and challenge — taking you along the legendary Everest Base Camp trail before diverting toward the Imja Valley and the base of Island Peak. You’ll trek through lush forests, cross high suspension bridges, explore ancient monasteries, and acclimatise with visits to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar before tackling the climb itself.   Island Peak offers a perfect first Himalayan summit for aspiring mountaineers. The climb is non-technical but demanding, involving glacier travel, fixed ropes, and a final steep snow slope to the summit ridge. From the top of Island Peak, you will be rewarded with an awe-inspiring Himalayan panorama — Lhotse’s towering south face above you, with Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Baruntse stretching across the horizon.   Max Elevation: Island Peak Summit (6,189 m) Best Season: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (October–November)

Embark on a classic high-altitude trek with Karmaia Adventures to the sacred base of Mount Jomolhari (7,326m), Bhutan’s second-highest peak and a revered dwelling place of the goddess Jomo. This 12-day journey is designed for trekkers seeking an authentic Himalayan adventure beyond the cultural circuit. The trek begins in the Paro Valley, ascending through pristine forests, remote yak-herder settlements, and across high mountain passes to reach the breathtaking amphitheater of Jangothang, with direct, towering views of Jomolhari’s majestic western face. Blending a moderate to challenging trek with cultural sightseeing, this journey offers a profound connection to Bhutan’s pristine landscapes and ancient mountain traditions.   Location: Paro, Jomolhari Trek, Thimphu Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights Difficulty: Challenging (strenuous multi-day high-altitude trek; suitable for experienced hikers) Max Elevation: Yale La Pass (4,930 m) Best Season: Spring (Apr–early Jun) and Autumn (late Sep–Nov)

Journey deeper into the heart of the Himalayas with this seven-day exploration, crafted by Karmaia Adventures. This immersive itinerary goes beyond the classic trail to include the pristine and protected Phobjikha Valley, the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes. Experience the beautiful contrast of Bhutan, from the vibrant culture of its capital and the sub-tropical warmth of Punakha to the remote, high-altitude serenity of Gangtey. This journey is a perfect blend of profound spirituality, breathtaking natural beauty, and authentic encounters, culminating in the legendary pilgrimage to the Tiger's Nest Monastery.   Duration: 07 Days / 06 Nights Location: Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha & Paro Difficulty: Moderate (one challenging day: Tiger’s Nest hike; other days involve light walks and scenic drives) Max Elevation: Phobjikha (2,900 m) Best Season: Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov); Winter (Dec–Feb) for crane spotting

This combined traverse is a classic Himalayan odyssey: start in the remote Hinku Valley to climb Mera Peak (6,476 m), cross the dramatic Amphu Laptsa high pass, and descend into the Imja Valley to climb Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) — all in one continuous expedition. Over roughly 25 days, you move from lush lower valleys and Sherpa villages into stark glacial amphitheaters, live at high camps beneath towering peaks, and stand on two of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking peaks.   The route is the perfect synthesis of wilderness trekking, rich mountain culture, and approachable mountaineering: Mera offers broad, sweeping glacier climbs and an unrivalled 360° summit panorama of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse and Kanchenjunga; Amphu Laptsa delivers high-mountain drama, hanging glaciers, and a narrow notch that links two distinct worlds; Island Peak finishes the traverse with a technical headwall and summit ridge that reward climbers with intimate views of Lhotse and Ama Dablam.   This journey demands fitness, patience, and acclimatisation, plus basic technical skills (crampon and rope work). But for those who seek a sustained Himalayan experience — wilderness, quiet trails, summit triumphs, and an epic alpine crossing — the combined Mera, Amphu Laptsa, Island Peak route is one of Nepal’s finest adventures.   Difficulty: Challenging — high-altitude trekking plus two trekking-peak climbs and a technical high pass (Amphu Laptsa). Max Elevation: Mera Peak Summit (6,476 m) Secondary Summit: Island Peak (6,189 m) Best Season: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (October–November)