Chulu West Peak Climbing

  • Duration 21
  • Trip Grade Moderate to STRENUOUS
  • Starts at Kathmandu
  • Ends at Kathmandu
  • Meals All Inclusive
  • Accommodation Hotel, Lodges, Tea House
  • Max. Altitude 6419
  • Activity Trekking, Exploring
  • Group Type Private
  • Group Size 2-16
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Visit Muktinath- one of the most revered temples in Nepal
  • Summit the Chulu West Peak
  • Visit Pokhara and enjoy a leisurely boat ride in the Phewa Lake
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range
  • Visit Jomsom and the Manang village, ethnic villages of the Manang region that house monasteries and other revered sites

Chulu West Peak Climbing Overview

The 21 days Chulu West Peak Climbing adventure is a beautiful journey that takes you to the remote regions of the Annapurna. The Chulu West is one of the most beautiful peaks globally, shadowing over the Manang valley- one of the highest-located valleys on Earth. Throughout the trekking trip, you will be presented with unforgettable views of the Annapurna Himalayas, like the Dhaulagiri, the Nilgiri Peak, and the Annapurna range Himalaya peaks. So, if you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path trek in one of the most naturally diverse and gorgeous regions in Nepal, then the Chulu West Peak Climbing is the one for you!

The trekking journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Syange/Jagat. From there, the trip encompasses all the best natural and Himalayan features of the region into a condensed journey, filled with incredible Himalayan sights and cultural riches. You will pass through many prominent Magar and Gurung villages like Pisang and Chame as you make your way to the Chulu West Base Camp.

Likewise, the trekking trail also takes you to Muktinath, one of the most revered shrines in Nepal, holy to both the Hindu and the Buddhist people of the country. You will also cross the Thorong La Mountain Pass and stay at Jomsom, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Not to mention, the trail also coruscates alongside the Kali Gandaki River, home of the Saligram treasures. Finally, you will also walk along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world.

Finally, the trip highlight includes the summit of the Chulu West. There is nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment once you reach the summit of a mighty Himalaya. Moreover, the journey adjourns at Pokhara, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Nepal. Although the Chulu West Peak Climbing journey is filled with amazing natural beauty and treasures, it is also filled with cultural riches. You will be making your way through the ethnic Magar, Gurung, and Tamang villages throughout the trip. The trekking trail is also lined with many Mani stone walls, small Chortens, and Stupas. It truly is a spiritual journey as much as it is an adrenalin adventure.

The most impressive part- you don’t have to worry about anything! Our team of professionals and expert guides will take care of everything for you on the trip. You are guaranteed the best services in each aspect of the journey, from food and accommodation to guide and transport. So join Brown Bear Trail for one of the most beautiful and well-rounded trips in the Annapurna. Don’t miss out on this chance of enjoying the Himalayan beauty that you will not find anywhere else!

Day to Day Itinerary
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You may arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by one of our airport representatives. He will help you get transferred to your Hotel. There are no planned activities for the day, so you may check into your Hotel and relax. Overnights stay at the Hotel

Today, you will prepare for the upcoming trip. You can browse the many trekking and hiking shops near your Hotel that sell and rent peak climbing equipment. If you want, you can also have a tour of Kathmandu’s four major UNESCO World Heritage sites as well- the Pashupatinath Temple, the Swayambhunath Stupa, the Kathmandu Durbar Square, and the Boudhanath Temple. Having such heritage sites so close together in a city makes Kathmandu one of the densest cities in the world that features UNESCO Heritages. Overnights stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

You will begin your drive to Syange/Jagat early in the morning. It is a rather long trip to the village of Syange, and you will be driving through the countryside, passing Besisahar. The drive is filled with wonderful views of Nepal’s countryside life, with vast mustard fields and terrace farms making appearances alongside coruscating rivers and green hills. The road to Besisahar is coal-tarred, so the initial part of the drive is smooth. After Besisahar, however, the road gets a little dusty and coarse, so you expect a rather bumpy ride. Nevertheless, the natural beauty of the changing landscape is a constant company on your journey today. Overnights stay at a guesthouse at Syange/Jagat.

Today’s trek begins early in the morning; following the trekking trail, you will make your way into the small settlement of Tal. The path goes through the region’s low-lying alpine woodlands of pine, cedar, and maple, so the trip is relaxing and refreshing. Then, crossing smaller streams via suspension bridges clad in colorful prayer flags, you will continue to Kodo. The path also goes through many barley farms and terrace fields of potato farms. The land in this region is quite suitable for terrace farming, and the temperate climate also makes the woodlands be evergreen throughout the year. Finally, you will arrive at Dharapani, one of the biggest villages in the region. Overnights stay at Dharapani.

The trek from Dharapani to Chame is steep, but the beautiful scenery makes up for the constant up-and-downhill climb. The path takes you through the valley ridgelines, and the views of mountain peaks like the Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV are spectacular from atop the ridge openings. There are small hot springs scattered throughout the trail, which add a sense of relief to a hard day’s trek. Finally, you will reach Chame- the administrative center of Manang. Overnights stay at Chame.

Today’s trekking trail along a steep and narrow pathway that goes through a very dense temperate forest. As you approach the forest clearing, you will be greeted by a dramatic curved rock face that rises 1,500 meters from the river below. As the trail starts opening up the further along the forest your descent, you will be surrounded by majestic Himalayan Peaks that line the forest horizons. As you continue along, you will find yourselves in a U-shaped valley of Manang. Two giant snowy peaks shadow this beautiful valley. Further ahead a few miles is Pisang. Overnights stay at Pisang.

Today’s trekking trail along a steep and narrow pathway that goes through a very dense temperate forest. As you approach the forest clearing, you will be greeted by a dramatic curved rock face that rises 1,500 meters from the river below. As the trail starts opening up the further along the forest your descent, you will be surrounded by majestic Himalayan Peaks that line the forest horizons. As you continue along, you will find yourselves in a U-shaped valley of Manang. Two giant snowy peaks shadow this beautiful valley. Further ahead a few miles is Pisang. Overnights stay at Pisang.

This day is set aside as a rest day and also for acclimatization. You can spend the day exploring Manang and paying a visit to the Bhojo Gompa. You can also hike up to Gangapurna Lake. A little distance away from Manang is a village called Vraga, which houses an ancient monastery. You can also make a short visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association from the village juncture, which is situated a few meters ahead. The village of Manang is situated in the broad valley of the Marsyangdi River. North of the village lies the Annapurna Mountain range. Since the village is situated on the mountain’s northern slope, it tends to get the most sunlight and the least snow cover during winters. That is why the village harbors vast cultivation fields on the northern slopes, jutting out of the hills like terraces. The ethnic people here are the Manangi people, who follow Tibetan Buddhist customs. Overnights stay at Manang.

The trek from Manang to Ledar is steep but steady. You will gain a steady amount of elevation as you continue on your journey. The scenery changes from terrace fields to open slopes as you make your way to Leder, and during autumns- the blazing fall colors blanket the hills. As you ascend above the tree line at 4000 meters, you will find fewer and fewer trees, and even if you do find one, the trees are lonesome, standing on their own. The villagers here use pack horses for transport and to herd the cattle. Ahead of the tree line is Yak Kharka- a small settlement that the villagers use during the winter for herding their cattle. A few miles upfront from the pasturelands is Ledar at 4,200 meters. Overnights stay at Leder.

The trek uphill towards the Chulu West Base Cam is a journey filled with barren and rocky terrain. The higher the elevation to go, the more snowier the landscape gets. Because the terrain is dry and rock-strewn, you will hardly find any vegetation today. Only the occasional streams of the Gandaki River mark the terrain. Steadily making your way up the valley, you will finally arrive at the Chulu West Base Camp. Overnights stay at camp.

The trek from Base camp to Camp I is not technical, but you will be gaining elevation. Today’s trip is beautifully decorated with wonderful views of mountain peaks like the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri, including the Lamjung Himal, the Manaslu Peak, and the Gangapurna Himal. The rocky terrain is also decorated with patches of snow the higher up you trek. Overnights stay at Camp I.

This is another day set aside for acclimatization. You can spend the day letting your body catch up and building your stamina. You will need the strength in the upcoming days. You can also spend the day with your guide, learning about properly using the pea climbing equipment and getting yourself familiar with the climbing strategy. Overnights stay at Camp I.

Leaving Camp I, you will continue climbing the rock band towards Camp II. While the route is not that technical, you may still have to use ropes, crampon, and ice-axes. You will set up Camp II at about 5,530 meters. While you can attempt the summit directly from Camp I, it is not recommended that the climb is relatively straightforward from Camp II until the summit. Thus, it is better to make an overnight stay at Camp II for rest and acclimatization. Therefore, overnights stay at Camp II.

Steadily making your way to the top using climbing equipment and following your guide, you will summit the Chulu West Peak. You will start the climb early in the morning, before dawn. It is a magnificent feeling of conquering the peak, and the vast panorama of the valley below and of the surrounding mountains from the top is quite incomparable. After enjoying the scene from the top, you will make your way back down to Camp I. Overnights stay at Camp I.

From Camp I, you will steadily descend the hills back towards Leder. The descent down the valley is much easier than the climb up. Once again, you can notice the change in the terrain as you make today’s journey. Overnights stay at Leder.

This is a contingency day, set aside for cases where you cannot do the climb for any reason. The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and if you cannot do the climb for any reason the day before, you can use this day. On the other hand, if everything goes according to plan, you will not need this day.

The trail from Leder to Thorong Phedi is tranquil. The eerie quiet of the landscape seems almost alien-like. Hiking through relatively flat fields, you will be presented with incredible mountain views. On occasions, you can also spot local horses roaming around. There are not many lodges along the trail, but you can find many local homes. The small residential houses of the mountains appear nearly tent-like and nomadic, like the yurts of Central Asia. The trail from here on out is an extremely easy gradual uphill towards Thorong Phedi. Overnights stay at Thorong Phedi.

The trip today involves a lot of up-and-downhill climbs. From Thorong Phedi, you will steadily make your way up the mountain pass of Thorong La. The climb can be a bit strenuous, but the mountain views from the top of the pass are quite a sight! You can see panoramic views of the Gandaki valley and the Annapurna Mountains from the top of the pass. Small cairns and Mani stones also line the trail, decorated with colorful prayer flags. From the top, you will then descend downwards towards Muktinath. The temple of Muktinath is a revered holy site for both the Hindu and the Buddhist people of Nepal. You can pay a visit to the temple and light a camphor oil. Ahead of Muktinath is the Kali Gandaki Gorge. You will follow the gorge and the river towards Jomsom. Overnights stay at Jomsom.

From Jomsom, you will take a short quick flight towards Pokhara. The short flight presents you with a panorama of the vast Kali Gandaki Valley, with the gorge and the river. Upon arriving in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your Hotel. You can also spend the rest of the day enjoying a boat ride at Phewa Lake and visiting the Tal Barahi Temple. Overnights stay at a hotel in Pokhara.

You will bid the mountains goodbye today and make your way back to Kathmandu. The drive is about 6 to 7 hours, and you can once again enjoy the fleeting glimpses of Nepal’s countryside life. Mustard and barley farms roll the fields, and small rivers and streams decorate the journey. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, you will be taken to your Hotel. Overnights stay at the Hotel.

You will be transferred to the airport for your final departure today.

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Customize Trip
Cost Includes
  •  All Arrival and Departure Transfer from the airport to the hotel
  • and vice-versa.
  • Twin sharing rooms at Tourist Standard Hotel or 2-3 stars Hotel in
  • Kathmandu on a Bed / Breakfast basis. (Includes welcome and farewell
  • dinner).
  • Domestic flight Ramechap / Lukla / Ramechap or Kathmandu with
  • chartered vehicles to Ramechap and back.
  • Hotel and dinner at Ramechap on the way to Lukla.
  •  Full board trekking on lodge basis till Lobuche includes B-L-D with
  • twin sharing room basis.
  •  Applicable Climbing and National Park permits and Garbage deposit fees.
  •  Wages, transportation allowance, and insurance of trekking and camping
  • staff, as well porters, including Yak man.
  •  High altitude guide, staff, and potters, special wages and equipment
  • and special allowance.
  •  Climbing guide insurance climbing allowance with peak bonus including
  • climbing equipment.
  • Medical Kits and ropes and oxygen for staff and guides only.
Cost Excludes
  •  Personal Medical / Travel Insurance.
  • Single room supplement in Kathmandu Hotel and on trekking in local lodges at extra cost.
  • In Kathmandu hotel on a bed and breakfast only basis no lunch or dinner except on welcome and farewell.
  • Personal expenses laundry, tipping, soft/hard drinks, and extra meals on treks.
  • Emergency evacuation by any means of transportation or using a helicopter service.
  • Camping Services including tents and food above Camp-I on own arrangement.
  • Early return from expedition due to personal reasons or problems as well as being sick etc. The money will be refunded by the company for all expenses to borne by oneself.
  • Personal oxygen and medical kit on climb and royalty fees of Mt. Everest climb.
  • Personal trekking and climbing gear including sleeping bags, down jackets.
  • Tipping of trekking/camping staff, cook, kitchen staff, and porters and of climbing guides.
Departure Dates

We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.

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FAQs

  • Chulu West Peak Climbing is an exhilarating expedition in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a thrilling ascent of a 6,419-meter peak. Located north of the popular trekking destination, Pokhara, it provides trekkers with stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. The trek begins in the bustling town of Besisahar, and the route takes you through picturesque Gurung villages like Bahundanda and Chamje, leading into alpine forests and high-altitude meadows. Key highlights include the high camp, offering extraordinary views of the surrounding mountain range, and the summit, which provides an unforgettable 360-degree perspective of the majestic Himalayas. The trek is a perfect blend of cultural encounters and breathtaking natural beauty.

  • The highest altitude of Chulu West Peak Climbing reaches 6,419 meters (21,055 feet) at the summit. At such heights, altitude sickness can become a concern. To prepare, it is crucial to build a strong fitness base before the trek, focusing on endurance and cardiovascular health. Acclimatization is key to preventing altitude sickness. It is essential to follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle—gradually ascending and taking rest days at intermediate altitudes. Drinking plenty of water, eating nutritious meals, and avoiding alcohol and smoking will aid in acclimatization. If symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, occur, descending to a lower altitude and seeking medical help is necessary.

  • Chulu West Peak Climbing requires a good fitness level, as it involves strenuous trekking and technical climbing at high altitudes. Trekkers should have prior experience in trekking at altitudes of over 4,000 meters and be comfortable with basic mountaineering techniques, including using crampons, ice axes, and ropes. A moderate level of fitness, including strength, endurance, and cardiovascular conditioning, is essential for the trek and summit push. The climb to the summit is challenging due to steep sections, snow-covered slopes, and potentially harsh weather conditions. The technical nature of the ascent demands a strong mental attitude, determination, and the ability to work closely with a guide and fellow trekkers.

  • The best time to climb Chulu West Peak is during the pre-monsoon (spring) months of March to May and post-monsoon (autumn) months of September to November. These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and manageable temperatures, making for an optimal climbing experience. Weather conditions in the Himalayas can change rapidly, with snowstorms and extreme cold common at higher altitudes. Preparation should include packing warm, layered clothing, such as down jackets, thermal wear, and waterproof outer layers. Be prepared for fluctuating temperatures, with cold mornings and evenings. It’s also important to bring sun protection, including sunglasses and sunscreen, to shield against UV exposure at high altitudes.

  • Accommodation along the Chulu West Peak Climbing route primarily consists of tea houses, basic lodges, and campgrounds. In the lower-altitude areas, such as Besisahar and Chame, trekkers can expect more comfortable lodgings with basic amenities, including beds, blankets, and simple communal dining areas serving local food. As you ascend, the facilities become more basic, with limited heating and simpler meals. In the higher camps, such as high camp and base camp, trekkers typically sleep in tents. These campsites offer minimal facilities but provide breathtaking mountain views. Expect to share spaces with other climbers and guides, and be prepared for basic sanitation and services.

  • Managing cash for Chulu West Peak Climbing requires planning ahead, as ATMs are not available in remote trekking areas. It is advisable to carry enough Nepali rupees to cover food, accommodation, and other expenses along the route. You can exchange currency in Kathmandu or Pokhara before embarking on the trek. Charging facilities are available in lower-altitude areas, but as you ascend, the options become more limited, often requiring a small fee. Some tea houses may offer Wi-Fi, but the connection is often slow or unreliable. Communication with the outside world is limited, so it’s best to inform family or friends of your trekking plans beforehand and carry a satellite phone for emergencies.

  • Medical facilities along the Chulu West Peak Climbing route are sparse, with the nearest proper healthcare services located in larger towns like Besisahar or Pokhara. In remote areas, trekkers must rely on their guides, porters, and the assistance of local tea house owners. Guides and porters are typically trained in basic first aid and can offer immediate support in case of altitude sickness, injuries, or other emergencies. Many guides carry basic medical kits with essential supplies like pain relievers, bandages, and altitude sickness medication. In the case of a severe emergency, the trek may need to be halted, and the trekker will be evacuated by helicopter or on foot to the nearest medical facility.

  • During the Chulu West Peak Climb, trekkers will encounter various cultural and religious practices, particularly from the indigenous Gurung and Thakali communities. Respecting local traditions is important, including greetings, dress codes, and conduct around religious sites. Temples, stupas, and prayer wheels are commonly found along the route, particularly in villages like Manang. Trekkers should not touch religious artifacts, and it’s customary to walk around stupas in a clockwise direction. It is also important to respect local beliefs, especially around sacred sites like monasteries and shrines. Additionally, trekkers should engage with the local culture with respect, showing gratitude for the hospitality extended by the people along the route.

  • Chulu West Peak Climbing offers a variety of wildlife and natural beauty, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts. Wildlife sightings may include the Himalayan tahr, musk deer, snow leopards, and a variety of bird species such as pheasants and vultures. The route also passes through picturesque landscapes, with views of towering peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. Ethical guidelines for preserving the environment include minimizing waste, avoiding littering, and respecting the local flora and fauna. Trekkers should stay on marked trails to prevent damaging sensitive ecosystems and avoid disturbing wildlife. Using eco-friendly products and supporting sustainable tourism practices also contributes to the preservation of this pristine environment.

  • Staying safe during Chulu West Peak Climbing involves proper preparation, including physical conditioning and carrying the right gear. Always trek with a licensed guide, as they are familiar with the route and safety protocols. In case of an emergency, guides are trained to assess situations like altitude sickness or injury and provide immediate first aid. Evacuation procedures for medical emergencies typically involve descending to a lower altitude, where the trekker can receive better care. If necessary, a helicopter evacuation can be arranged from higher altitudes to a medical facility. Trekking with a group is also safer, as it ensures support during emergencies. Having adequate travel insurance is crucial to cover potential evacuation costs.

  • The climb of Chulu West Peak is moderately challenging, involving a technical ascent that requires mountaineering skills such as using crampons, ice axes, and ropes. The route includes steep snow slopes and glacier sections, making it physically demanding. The success rate of summiting is generally good for well-prepared trekkers with the right skills and acclimatization. However, factors like weather conditions, altitude sickness, and individual fitness levels can affect success. Unexpected snowstorms, poor visibility, and temperature extremes can also impede progress. Proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and the expertise of guides are key to increasing the chances of a successful summit. Flexibility in the itinerary can also help account for unforeseen challenges.

  • For Chulu West Peak Climbing, you will need essential mountaineering gear, including a high-quality sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures, a down jacket, thermal inner layers, and waterproof outer clothing. Sturdy trekking boots with crampon compatibility, gaiters, and warm gloves are vital for the climb. Other important items include trekking poles, an ice axe, crampons, a helmet, and a headlamp. Bring a backpack with a hydration system, extra food, and snacks for the trek. Personal items like sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, and a first aid kit are also necessary. It’s important to pack light but ensure you have all the required gear for the safety and success of your climb.

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