The highest of these peaks, marked Chulu West on the trekking maps, has a recorded altitude from at least two expeditions of nearer 6400m; this might more accurately be called Chulu Central. As a result, many climbing parties have mistakenly climbed one of these peaks thinking it to be Chulu East or West. It is usually understood that with the permit to climb the East or West peak an attempt can be made to the nearby peak as well. The obvious approach to this peak diverges from the main trail to the Thorung La pass past the village of Manang and Base Camp is established in a small valley to the North. From base camp, the route follows a subsidiary North-West ridge that leads up to the main peak. A climb of one or both of these peaks combined with Nepal's most famous Around the Annapurna trek makes up for one of the most spectacular Himalayan trekking and climbing outings.
Duration
17 days
Difficulty Level
Medium
Trip Start and End
Kathmandu-Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring/Autumn
Trip Area
Annapurna Range
Max Elevation
6,419m / 21,060ft
Per Day Walk
5 - 7 Hours
Group Size
1-25
Accomodation
Hotels, Lodge and Tents
Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, with pristine glaciers and towering peaks that create a truly awe‐inspiring backdrop.
Traverse diverse landscapes—from lush, terraced valleys and traditional villages to rugged, high-altitude alpine terrain—covering about 15–20 km per trekking day.
The itinerary incorporates critical acclimatization days in Manang, ensuring a gradual elevation gain and reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
While much of the trek is non-technical, the final ascent to the 6,419‑meter summit requires the use of climbing tools (such as crampons and ice axes) on steep, icy slopes.
Experience the local lifestyle as you pass through Gurung and Tibetan communities, offering insights into traditional customs, architecture, and warm hospitality.
Benefit from experienced, certified guides and supportive Sherpa teams who manage logistics and ensure safety throughout the challenging expedition.
A detail description of Itinerary
• Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to your hotel, and enjoy a welcome dinner with an introductory briefing.
• Explore cultural sites like Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath, attend a detailed expedition briefing, and complete a gear check.
• Depart early for a 7–9 hour drive to Besisahar or Jagat, the starting point of the trek, and settle in for the night.
• Begin trekking through lush forests and traditional villages, crossing suspension bridges before reaching Dharapani after 5–6 hours.
• Ascend gradually through scenic landscapes, passing waterfalls and dense pine forests to reach Chame after 6–7 hours of trekking.
• Walk through narrow trails with mountain views, crossing the Marsyangdi River before arriving in Pisang after 4–5 hours.
• Trek past traditional villages and alpine terrain, gradually gaining altitude before reaching Manang in about 4–5 hours.
• Take a short hike to a viewpoint or monastery, rest, and prepare for higher altitude trekking.
• Continue the ascent past Yak pastures and rocky landscapes, reaching Ledar (4,200 m) after about 4–5 hours of trekking.
• Follow a rugged trail upward, gaining altitude steadily before reaching Base Camp (4,900 m) in about 4–5 hours.
• Climb to High Camp (5,600 m) over steep, glaciated terrain, setting up camp after a 4–5 hour trek.
• Start early for the final ascent, using technical climbing gear to summit Chulu West (6,419 m) before descending back to Base Camp in 8–9 hours.
• Use this day for additional acclimatization, recovery, or as a contingency for weather delays.
• Descend from Base Camp, trekking through rocky terrain for 5–6 hours before reaching Thorong Phedi.
• Cross the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and descend towards Muktinath, trekking for about 8–9 hours.
• Take a scenic drive from Muktinath to Pokhara, enjoying beautiful mountain and valley views along the way.
• Travel back to Kathmandu by flight or road and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
➤ Technical Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jackets), Waterproof/windproof outer shell, Trekking and insulated pants
➤ Technical Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jackets), Waterproof/windproof outer shell, Trekking and insulated pants
➤ Accessories: Warm socks, light & heavy-duty gloves, Hats, balaclavas, neck gaiters, Sunglasses with UV protection
➤ Mountaineering Gear: High‑altitude mountaineering boots, Crampons, Ice axe, Climbing harness, Helmet, Locking & non‑locking carabiners
➤ Backpacks & Organizers: 65‑liter expedition backpack, Smaller day pack, Waterproof stuff sacks/dry bags
➤ Personal Essentials: Headlamp with spare batteries, Personal first‑aid kit, Water bottles/hydration system, Water purification tools, Personal toiletries & documentation
The Chulu West climb is considered moderately difficult to challenging. It requires previous trekking experience, good physical fitness, and basic mountaineering skills for the final summit push.
While not mandatory, basic mountaineering experience (such as using crampons, ice axes, and ropes) is highly recommended. The summit day involves technical climbing on steep, icy slopes.
Wi-Fi is available in major villages like Chame, Pisang, and Manang (but slow and expensive). Mobile networks (NTC/Ncell) work in lower areas but become unreliable after Manang. Satellite phones may be used by guides at higher altitudes.
You should have good cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and stamina. Regular training, including hiking, running, and strength exercises, is recommended at least 2–3 months before the expedition.
Beginners with strong fitness levels and prior high-altitude trekking experience can attempt Chulu West. However, a basic mountaineering course or prior experience with crampons and ice axes is beneficial.
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