• Duration 21 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous

    The strenuous grade is both moderate and difficult. Even in this grade, treks reach around 5000-5500 meters. You walk generally 6-7 hours every day. Strenuous treks require good physical condition and acclimatization.

  • Country Nepal

Located in the world-renowned Everest region (Nepal), the Island Peak is one of the most stunning non-technical 6000m mountains. If this is your first time climbing the Himalayas, it is a perfect peak to climb.

The Island Peak rises from the Lhotse glacier at the southern end, offering a marvelous summit experience. Climbing, it offers stunning mountain vistas, and the summit provides a heavenly panorama of the southern faces of Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse.

Anyone who wants to enter mountaineering should consider Island Peak climbing as their practice peak. Likewise, climbers who just want to experience the thrill of climbing a Himalayan mountain can also do the Island Peak climbing.

This peak stands 6,189 meters above sea level and is known as Imja Tse in the local language. As glaciers surround the peak, it looks like an Island, so Eric Shipton, a British mountaineer, named it Island Peak during his 1951 expedition.

Island Peak is one of the most climbed peaks in Nepal, and its climbers include some of the greatest climbers of human history, like Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary.

Compared to Lobuche Peak and Mera Peak, the climbing Island Peak is a bit more challenging, so it is ideal for climbers looking to hone their basic skills.

Similarly, if you are planning to climb a 7000m mountain in the Himalayas and are looking for a training peak, then Island Peak is one of the best options.

Highlights

  • Climb Island Peak, a fantastic 6000m mountain in the Himalayas and ideal for beginner climbers
  • Enjoy trekking in the Khumbu region for the first few days of the journey
  • Explore picturesque Sherpa villages, lush rhododendron forest, and thrilling suspension bridges
  • Hike to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar
  • Take three amazing side hikes to the Hotel Everest View, Nagarjuna Hill, and Chhukung Ri
  • Witness stunning mountain views and diverse landscapes
  • Your team leader will provide you pre-climbing training before you push toward the summit to boost your confidence

What can you expect during the Island Peak climbing 21 days?

Island Peak climbing is an incredible adventure in the Everest region of Nepal. Travelers experience the mountain lifestyle, discover the lush flora and fauna of Sagarmatha National Park, and interact closely with Sherpas. The journey is exciting and thrilling.

Following our Island Peak climbing itinerary, you will gradually ascend into Khumbu Valley, which offers fantastic acclimatization. You will enjoy three acclimatization days before reaching the Island Peak Base Camp and also hike to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

Climbers who are actively trekking and are confident they do not need to hike to EBC for acclimatization can shorten the itinerary and directly aim for the Island Peak summit. For more information, talk to us.

The landscapes on the Island Peak climbing expedition are breathtaking. You will witness lush rhododendron forests, beautiful rivers and streams, hanging suspension bridges, picturesque villages, glacier moraines, glaciers, and snow-capped mountains.

This trip allows you to witness the five eight-thousanders: Everest (8,849 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Cho Oyu (8,188 m), and Makalu (8,463 m). Likewise, Thamserku (6,608 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Pumori (7,161 m), and Nuptse (7,861 m). are some other fantastic mountains you will see.

Island Peak Climbing:

You will climb to the summit from the Island Peak Base Camp without making any higher camps. It will be 9 to 10 hours of ascending and descending day. First ascends along a rocky ride to the glacier. Then, cross a steep snow headwall to reach the Island Peak summit.

Crossing the headwall is challenging, but your team leader will help you. The route will be fixed with ropes. The final climb includes a 60-70-degree face about 150 meters tall.

Pre-climbing training:

A pre-climbing training session will take place at the Island Peak Base Camp. Your team leader will teach you the basics of climbing. He will share the climbing plan and all possible scenarios you may encounter.

Likewise, you will learn to use climbing gear like fixed rope, crampons, ascender, descender, etc. This training session will boost your confidence and make you mountain-smart.

How do you prepare for Island Peak climbing with Everest Base Camp?

You do not have to take a climbing lesson for the Island Peak climbing with EBC. However, you must prepare your body and mind for the journey. We expect participants to have previous trekking experience.

If you have not trekked before and plan to climb Island Peak directly, we do not recommend it. You can start with moderate trekking programs like Langtang Valley trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, and Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Then, go for more advanced treks like the Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, and Everest Three High Passes. These treks will prepare you physically and mentally for a climbing expedition.

Similarly, participants with previous trekking experience should actively train to build their strength, stamina, and endurance before the trip begins.

Why climb Island Peak with Adventure Treks Nepal?

The climbing plan we offer is the most excellent for beginner climbers. You will have adequate acclimatization days and enjoy hiking to Hotel Everest View, Nagarjuna Hill, and Chhukung Ri. So, the risk of altitude sickness is relatively low. Nonetheless, do not underestimate it and follow preventive measures.

At Adventure Treks Nepal, we offer more than thirty years of expertise. In those years, we have led hundreds of climbers safely to the Island Peak. Today, we offer the safest Island Peak climbing strategy with a tested safety and evacuation plan.

You will climb with senior Sherpas who have climbed these mountains numerous times before, allowing you to learn a lot about mountaineering. Our team will motivate you and support you throughout the journey.

If you are determined to reach the summit, our team will always be there for you to make it happen. Likewise, there is no issue of hidden charges with us. You get the best Island Peak climbing cost and top-notch service.

Are you ready to embark on a fantastic climbing expedition in Nepal? Then contact us to book your Island Peak climbing 2024/2025 departure.

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Meet our representatives at the Tribhuvan International Airport with your nameplate. Our team will welcome you and drop you off at the hotel in Thamel. If you have any questions, you can ask them. The remaining day is free in the city. Explore the bustling streets of Thamel.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

In the morning, you will visit some tourist sites with a tour guide and be introduced to Nepali culture, heritage, architecture, and art. Later in the day, you will meet your mountain guide and pack for the expedition. Do last-minute shopping and double-check the gear.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Fly to Lukla in the morning. Leave your hotel around 1:00 to 2:00 AM and drive to Ramechhap Airport. It takes 4 to 5 hours to reach the airport from Kathmandu. In the spring and autumn, the Lukla flights are operated from the Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu Airport.

Once you land at Lukla, you will begin trekking with your crew to Phakding village. The trail descends through rhododendron forests and small villages. Cross many suspension birds on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 35 minutes flight & 3 hours trek
  • Distance: 6.2 km/3.8 miles

Continue trekking from Phakding through lush forests and small settlements. Cross the long Tenzing Hillary suspension bridge before arriving at Monjo. Register your permits here and follow a steep uphill route to Namche Bazaar.

  • Max Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles

Namche Bazaar is the most significant Sherpa settlement and has many modern services, shops, cafes, ATMs, etc. In the morning, you will hike to the Hotel Everest View. As its name says, you can see Mt. Everest along with Mt. Lhotse and Mt. Ama Dablam from here. After the hike, I spent the remaining day resting in Namche Bazaar.

  • Max Altitude: 3,962 m/13,000 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4 hours

The trail from Namche Bazaar continues to Tengbcohe village. Walk on uneven tracks to Kyangjuma. You will descend to Phungi Thanga and climb to Tengboche village. From here, the view of Mt. Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam is excellent. Explore the biggest monastery of the Khumbu region in this village.

  • Max Altitude: 3,860 m/12,660 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 9.6 km/5.9 miles

First, the trail descends to Deboche and continues, dropping down to Imja Khola. Crossing a suspension bridge, you will ascend to Pangboche village and pass by settlements like Orsho and Shomare on the way to Dingboche.

  • Max Altitude: 4,410 m/14,470 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 9.1 km/5.6 miles

Spend the second acclimatization day in Dingboche village. Early in the morning, hike to Nagarjuna Hill to witness a gorgeous sunrise and a stunning mountain view of Makalu, Cho Oyu, Island Peak, Everest, etc.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4-5 hours

The trail follows a level path and crosses glacier fields to Thukla. From here, you will ascend on a steep uphill track to reach Dughla Pass. Further, walk along the Khumbu Glacier and pass by memorial chortens to reach Lobuche village.

  • Max Altitude: 4,940 m/16,210 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles

Today, you will hike to Everest Base Camp. From Lobuche, the trail ascends to Gorak Shep. The terrain will be steep and rocky. You will leave your heavy luggage at Gorak Shep and hike to EBC. Explore the base camp and return to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

  • Max Altitude: 5,364 m/17,598 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Distance: 15 km/9.32 miles

Hike to Kala Patthar in the morning, famous for its jaw-dropping Everest view and gorgeous sunrise. After the hike, you will retrace the trail to Lobuche village from Gorak Shep.

  • Max Altitude: 5,545 m/18,192 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 7 km/4.3 miles

From Lobuche village, you will follow the same trail back to Dingboche village. From here, you will trek on a different route to Chhukung Valley. The trail will be steep and offbeat.

  • Max Altitude: 4,730 m/15,518 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 10.6 km/6.5 miles

Early in the morning, hike to Chhukung Ri for acclimatization. This is your final rest day before climbing. Enjoy stunning mountain views and spend the remaining day resting.

  • Max Altitude: 5,546 m/18,195 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5 hours

From today on, you will begin climbing the Island Peak summit. On this day, ascend to Island Peak Base Camp. From Chhukung, the route is rocky and steep. You will walk past the Imja River and ascend to Lhotse Glacier. Follow a zigzag track along a riverbed to the base camp from here. Join a pre-climbing training later in the day.

  • Max Altitude: 5,240 m/17,191 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Camp
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 5 km/3.1 miles

You begin climbing around 1:00 AM to 2:00 AM. Leaving the base camp, you will slowly ascend through a narrow passage and reach the high camp. From here, climb up the glacier to continue to the snout of the glacier.

You will then follow steep slopes and cross a headwall to reach the summit. After enjoying some time at the top of Island Peak, follow the same trail back to base camp and descend to Chhukung for the night. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 9-10 hours
  • Distance: 5 km/3.1 miles

It is the same route from Chhukung to Tengboche village. First, you will trek to Dingboche village and descend to Tengboche via terraced fields, small villages, and lush forests.

  • Max Altitude: 3,860 m/12,660 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 12.9 km/8 miles

After breakfast, start trekking back to Namche Bazaar. Retrace the trail, enjoying beautiful mountain views.

  • Max Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 11 km/6.8 miles

From Namche Bazaar, you will follow the same trail back to Lukla. First, descend to Phakdig village. From Phakding, the trail ascends to Lukla via lush rhododendron forests.

  • Max Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 7-8 hours
  • Distance: 13.6 km/8.3 miles

Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. The guide will drop you at the hotel. The remaining day is free.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 35 minutes flight

Spend this entire day in Kathmandu as you wish. Visit tourist sites, buy souvenirs, try Nepali food, and rest.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Our team will take care of your airport departure. They will drop you off at the international airport according to your flight schedule.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Cost Details
Included
  • Arrival and Departure.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with an entrance fee.
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in simple Tea house (mountain lodge) while trekking.
  • Kathmandu-Manthali Kathmandu transport.
  • Manthali (Kathmandu) Lukla (Kathmandu) Manthali flight ticket with Airport Tax.
  • Trekking Porter with Insurance.
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Climbing Guide with Insurance.
  • Climbing guide, Trekking Guide and Porters food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • Accommodation in Tent with Meals while climbing.
  • Lobuche east Peak climbing map.
  • Sagarmatha National park entry fee.
  • Climbing guide with insurance.
  • Group Equipment.
  • Personal and Group Personal climbing gears Ice Axe, Zoomer, Harness set, Figure of 8, Carabineer, Tap Sling etc.
  • Special Permit for Island peak.
  • Khumbu pasang lhamu rural municipality entry permit fee.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Government taxes.
  • Office services charge.
Excluded
  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance included Helicopter Rescue.
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days and US$ 30 for 15 days you should get visa open your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Wi-Fi, Heater charge, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.
  • Climbing boots & Crampons.
  • Warm Jacket and Sleeping bag.
Essential Information

Island Peak climbing difficulty and altitude sickness

Island Peak climbing is a very challenging endeavor in the Himalayas. The peak is non-technical, so it is ideal for beginner climbers but requires intense physical and mental fitness.

Previous high-altitude experience is a must. You will spend numerous days trekking through diverse landscapes. It will help you acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.

Our Island Peak climbing itinerary has three rest days, giving ample time to adjust to high elevation. The journey is well-paced, and the climbing route mostly includes snow-covered slopes.

The final ascent is climbing a steep snow headwall, a 60-70-degree face about 150 meters tall. Below are some advice to avoid altitude sickness during climbing:

  • Persistent headache, vomiting, nausea, difficulty breathing, insomnia, loss of appetite, and dizziness are some early signs of altitude sickness.
  • Drink 2 liters of water daily and consume soups, ginger honey teas, etc, to keep yourself hydrated.
  • Maintain your pace while climbing. Do not rush and listen to your body's signals of any discomfort.
  • Take your time to adjust to the environment and elevation. Enjoy your surroundings and embrace the simple mountain life.

What is the best time to do the Island Peak climbing?

The best time to climb Island Peak is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These are the top climbing months in the Himalayas because of stable weather and various summit windows. The risk of avalanches and snowstorms is low in these seasons. Likewise, you will enjoy stunning mountain vistas and a mild climate.

How are accommodations and meals during the Island Peak climbing?

Lodges are the accommodation during trekking. You will get twin bedrooms and shared washrooms. You have to pay more money for a single room.

The toilet can be Western or squat style. Pack ample toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer, etc. The services like hot showers, WiFi, and charging may cost you a few extra bucks in the lodges.

If you do not want to pay for these services every time you use them and would love a more comfortable room with a private washroom, upgrade the accommodation to a luxury lodge.

While staying in lodges, you will have food as per their menu. From typical dal bhat, thukpa, and momo to pasta, burgers, pizza, curries, meat dishes, etc, you will enjoy a decent variety of food.

You will spend the night in the tent at the Island Peak Base Camp. We provide full base camp service. Our crew will set up the tents and prepare delicious meals for the duration of the climb.

Travel insurance for Island Peak climbing

Travel insurance is mandatory to join Island Peak Climbing. It must cover medical bills and helicopter evacuation. Buy travel insurance in your country because it is not available in Nepal. Make sure it covers vacations in the Himalayas.

As you may know, the Himalayas are a remote area, and climbing a peak involves risks of unpredictable weather, natural disasters, accidents, injuries, and altitude sickness. So, travel insurance is essential to provide timely rescue if needed.

Guide and porter during the Island Peak climbing

Our Island Peak climbing package includes a professional Sherpa guide and porter with a base camp crew. The guide and porter will accompany you throughout the trip, whereas the base crew will provide necessary assistance at the base camp and during climbing.

You will climb Island Peak with a reliable and trustworthy active mountaineer who has previously helped many climbers on this peak. He will provide you with basic climbing training and fix the route as needed. You will learn a lot from your guide.

Our guides are very experienced d individuals and are well-trained to lead groups to the top of peaks in Nepal. Likewise, the Porter will carry duffel bags for you during your time in the mountains. They usually walk ahead of the group and reach the village early.

Tips:

Tipping guides and porters is mandatory. It is a token of thank you for their support and hard work during the journey. You can tip 15% to 20% of the package cost. If you want to tip more, it is up to you.

Island Peak climbing with Everest Base Camp packing

For the Island Peak climbing expedition, you will need the following things:

*Note that all the clothes, gear, and other essentials are available in Kathmandu at the best price.

Head & Hand

  • Sun Cap
  • Wool/Fleece Hat
  • Balaclava
  • Neck Gaiter/High Neck
  • Lightweight Synthetic Liner Glove
  • Wind Stopper Fleece Gloves
  • Heavy Gloves (Mitten)

Upper Body

  • Short-Sleeved Shirts/T-shirts
  • Lightweight Top/Thermo Coat
  • Midweight Top
  • Synthetic or Fleece Jacket
  • Down Insulated Jacket
  • Gore-Tex Jacket

Lower Body

  • Underwear
  • Lightweight Long Underpants
  • Midweight Long Underpants
  • Trekking Pants
  • Synthetic Insulated Pants
  • Gore-Tex Pants
  • Trekking & Climbing Socks
  • Summit Socks

Technical Devices/Climbing Gears

  • Climbing Helmet
  • Headlamp with Spare Batteries (Petzl/BD)
  • Ice Axe Semi-technical
  • Harness
  • Carabiners (Both Lock & Unlock)
  • Ascenders/Jumar
  • Belay Device (ATC Guide/Figure of 8)
  • Assistant Rope
  • Tape Sling
  • Ice Screw
  • Summit Boot/G2SM
  • Crampons
  • 1 Sleeping Bag: -30 +C to -40 +C
  • Thermarest Cell Foam Mattress
  • Sun/Glacier Glasses UV Protection
  • Snow Goggle UV Protection
  • Extendable Trekking Poles (BD Alpine Flz)

First Aid Kit

  • Sunscreen (-50 Spf)
  • Lips Guard (-20/-50 Spf)
  • Water Purification Tablets
  • Baby Wipes or Wet Towels
  • Handy Plaster
  • Crack Bandage
  • Tincture
  • Lodine
  • Strepsils
  • Antibiotic
  • Paracetamol
  • Aspirin
  • Sinex
  • Anti-Diarrhea Capsule/Eldoper
  • Brufen/Ibuprofens
  • Diamox
  • Eye Drops
  • Zip-Lock Bags

Toiletries

  • Hand Sanitizers & Hand wash
  • Wet Tissues
  • Deodorant
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Bath Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Moisturizers
  • Laundry Soap
  • Garbage Bag

Miscellaneous

  • Swiss Knife
  • Sandals
  • Lightweight Hiking/Trekking Boots
  • Camp Booties
  • Rucksacks (45 - 55 Ltr.)
  • 1 Duffel Bag
  • Water Bottles
  • Thermos/Flask
  • Pee Bottle
  • Pack Towel
  • Umbrella/RainCoat
  • Spare batteries
  • Waterproof Stuff Sacks
  • Satellite Phone (if possible)
  • Solar chargeable power bank (optional)
  • Journal/Pen
  • Book/Board Game
  • Energy bars & Snacks

Travel Documents

  • Valid Passport
  • Valid Visa
  • 4 PP Size Photo
  • Insurance Paper (Medical & Rescue) & Contact Address
  • Family/Company Contact Number & Address
  • Credit Card
FAQs

Island Peak is located in Nepal's Khumbu region (the Everest region), part of the eastern Himalayan range.

Yes, climbing Island Peak is extremely physically and mentally challenging. However, the peak is not technically difficult, so it is recommended for beginner climbers.

Yes, beginners can climb Island Peak. Previous climbing experience is not required, but participants must have prior trekking or high-altitude expertise.

Our Island Peak climbing itinerary is 21 days long, including your arrival and departure to/from Kathmandu, two full days in Kathmandu for preparation and rest, and three acclimatization days before climbing the peak.

The Island Peak climbing cost starts around USD 2,550 per person and can go above this amount, depending on the itinerary and services included in the package.

No, Mont Blanc is not harder than Island Peak. If accessible, we highly recommend climbing Mont Blanc before heading towards Island Peak. You will gain high altitude and beginner climbing experience, which will be very fruitful during Island Peak climbing.

Yes, you can climb Island Peak without experience. It is a perfect peak to start building your climbing skills and experience.

Yes, you can see a breathtaking view of Everest from Island Peak.

The Island Peak is not technically challenging. Only the final ascent involves climbing a headwall, which is a 60-70-degree face about 150 meters tall.

Both Mera Peak and Island Peak are physically challenging but technically not advanced. Mera Peak is higher than Island Peak, so you will experience a higher altitude. In contrast to that, Island Peak involves a bit of steep climbing toward the summit.

The oxygen level at the summit of Island Peak is around 9.6%. Although it is low, climbers can endure it without using supplemental oxygen support.

You have to book a seat to climb Island Peak. In 2024, you can climb between late September to early December. Get your seat according to your availability. After booking the trip, start physically and mentally preparing for the journey. Likewise, gradually collect climbing gear, clothes, and other essentials.

We highly recommend the modern steel 12-point crampons with anti-balling plates for Island Peak. If you need more suggestions, contact us.

The success rate of Island Peak climbing is over 90%. If you are well prepared for the expedition and have the right support, you will have a high success rate.

Climbing with a registered Nepali mountain guide is compulsory in Nepal. If you want to experience solo climbing, opt for a private expedition. This option allows you to climb the mountain one-on-one with our Sherpa guides. There will be no other climbers in the group than you.

Lobuche Peak has two summits: Lobuche East Peak and Lobuche West Peak. You will climb Lobuche East Peak, which stands 6,119 meters above sea level and is considered a trekking peak. The climbing route to the Lobuche East Peak is non-technical and ideal for beginner climbers. The Lobuche West Peak is an expedition peak and requires technical climbing.

To climb Lobuche Peak with the Everest Base Camp trek, you will need these permits:

  • The Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry permit
  • The Sagarmatha National Park permit
  • The expedition royalty and permit fee of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) for Lobuche Peak
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