Chulu West Peak Climbing

Overview
Itinerary
Trip Gear
Reviews

Trip Facts

	Trip Duration 18 Days
	Region
	Country Nepal
	Group Size 2 To 15 Person
	Arrival On Kathmandu
	Departure From Kathmandu
	Best Season Autumn(Sep To Nov) And Spring(March To May)
	Max Altitude 6419M
Very Difficult Trekking covers 4000 meters to 6000 meters. Physical fitness, and acclimatization are the must. Hiking per day of 7 hrs per day and altitude becomes an obstacle. You have to cross the Himalayan passes using basic climbing equipment. Even the trail is steep and may be slippery.	Trip Grade Very Difficult
	Activities Peak Climbing

Chulu West Peak Climbing Overview

Chulu West Peak Climbing is one of the fascinating Peak Climbing adventures in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Regarded as the physically demanding climbing peaks in Nepal, conquering the Chulu Peak summit is not everyone’s cup of tea. To achieve the Chulu West Peak Summit, one should be physically fit and must have a strong willingness to conquer the peak.

With an elevation of 6419m, Chulu West Peak Climb offers trekkers a wonderful opportunity to witness spectacular Annapurna ranges, Gangapurna, Dhauligiri, Chulu Peak, and several Tibetan Peaks. To make the climb more adventurous what serves the most is the combined Annapurna Circuit trail. Traversing the trek along the Marshyangdi River, the trail takes us to the beautiful Manang Valley before reaching the Chulu West Peak Summit.

Relishing the views from the Peak summit is undoubtedly a major attraction of this Chulu Peak Climb. But the attractions are not only limited to the mountain views. The overwhelming hospitality of the Manangese and Thakali people makes the journey more rewarding.

Further, the Braga Monastery and the holy Muktinath temple add religious values to your Chulu West Peak Climb Journey. While mentioning all prime attractions how can we forget to add the Annapurna region’s ecological aspects to the list?

From the arid landscape to the densely populated forests, this trip never fails to amaze you with its natural grandeur. Moreover, a trek along the deepest Kaligandaki gorge gives you the next level of happiness during the trek. Besides, a stroll around the major Pokhara and Kathmandu valleys contributes a lot to making your Nepal tour more reminiscing.

Conquered for the first time by the Japanese Expedition Team in the year 1952, Chulu West Peak consists of several other peaks in its vicinity. The other peaks are Chulu East Peak, Chulu Central Peak, and so on. Chulu Central Peak is not a commercial climbing peak. Thus many climbers opt for the Chulu West Peak Climb. However, during the climb, many climbers get confused between Chulu West and Chulu Central Peak.

If you have the desire to conquer the climbing Peaks in Nepal, book our 18 Days Chulu Peak Climb Itinerary. If you have any problem with our rough itinerary plan, we, the team of Mission Himalaya Treks are always ready to customize the itinerary as per your plan.

How to get to the Chulu West Peak Summit?

Taking the roadway drive from Kathmandu up to the Besisahar, Jagat, Dharapani, or Chame, you can start your trek from any of these locations. Following the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail up to the Yak Kharka. Leaving the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail from Ledar, we will then divert our way towards the Chulu West Base Camp.

From the Base Camp, Chulu West High Camp is around 5 hours away. Following the rocky trails from the High Camp, you can use the climbing gears to conquer the Chulu West Peak Summit. After conquering the peak summit you can retrace the way back to Ledar. From Ledar, you have the option to either retrace the way back to the Besisahar or continue to trek on the Annapurna Circuit trekking trail towards Muktinath through Thorong La Pass.

Proceeding the trek from Muktinath to Jomsom, you can then opt for the roadway or airway transport to reach Pokhara. From Pokhara, you again have the option to choose the roadway drive or flight to return to Kathmandu.

Chulu West Peak Climbing Difficulty:

Rated on the B grade by the Nepal Mountaineering Association, the Chulu West Peak climb demands a strong fitness level and good technical skills. Though it is possible to beat the Chulu West Peak without previous climbing training, having the previous climbing training and high pass trekking is highly preferable.

Having previous training and climbing experience increases your confidence level and makes your Chulu West Peak Climb easier. However, if you are a beginner, you have to put on extra effort.

The trek up to the Chulu West Peak High Camp is not very strenuous, but the route from High Camp to the Peak summit is a lot more daunting and challenging. In some conditions, the slopes here are vulnerable to avalanches, increasing the difficulty level of this trek. For a successful climb, you have to use the ropes.

Best Time to Climb Chulu West Peak Climb:

For experienced trekkers, Chulu West Peak Climb is doable all year round. However, if you want to enjoy the full journey, you have to trek the region choosing the best time. Wondering which is the best time for Chulu West Peak Climbing? Well, it all depends on what you call the best.

Normally Autumn and Spring season are best for the Chulu West Peak Climb. If you are a peace lover, with some warm gear you can conquer the Chulu West Peak Summit in winter.

As some part of the trek falls under the rain shadow region, a summer trek is also possible for the Chulu West Peak Climb. But you have to be very careful during this season.

Required Permits for Chulu West Peak Climb:

Chulu West Peak Climbing demands a total of three permits. They are TIMS(Trekkers Information Management System) Card, Annapurna Conservation Area Project(ACAP) Entry Permit, and Chulu West Peak Climbing Permit.

To vanquish the Chulu West Peak Summit, you have to book the climbing package with the local travel agency in Nepal. You needn’t have to take the stress of document formalities.

Your travel agency will prepare all the required documents. To acquire the permits all you have to do is just submit the below-mentioned documents to your travel company.

Two Passport-sized Photographs
Photocopy of your Passport
Permit Fees
Rough data about your trekking days in the trekking region

Preparing for Chulu West Peak: Training and Equipment Essentials

Before beginning the ascent of Chulu West Peak, one must meticulously prepare oneself, emotionally and physically. Climbers should engage in comprehensive training regimes that include cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking in varied terrains to build endurance and acclimate to different hiking conditions. It’s imperative to be comfortable with basic mountaineering techniques, including using ice axes, crampons, and ropes.

In terms of equipment, securing the right gear is crucial for a successful ascent. Essentials include a sturdy pair of mountaineering boots, thermal clothing, a high-quality sleeping bag suitable for extreme cold, insulated gloves, and a windproof jacket. Technical gear like ice axes, harnesses, carabiners, and helmets must be of high quality and checked for reliability before the climb.

Environmental Stewardship on the Climb

Climbing Chulu West is not only a personal challenge but also an opportunity to engage with the environment responsibly. Climbers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the pristine ecosystems of the Annapurna region. This includes packing out all waste, using eco-friendly products, and respecting wildlife habitats. The trek also offers a chance to learn about local conservation efforts and how they help preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area.

Cultural Exchange and Local Traditions

The Chulu West Peak climb is as much a cultural journey as it is a mountaineering expedition. The trail winds through traditional villages where the Manangese and Thakali communities reside. These ethnic groups are known for their rich cultural heritage and hospitable nature. Engaging with the locals can provide a deeper understanding of their traditions, beliefs, and lifestyles. Visits to places like the Braga Monastery and interactions with the local monks add a spiritual dimension to the trek, enriching the climbing experience.

Chulu West Peak Climbing Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel

Walking Hours: 30 Min Drive

Meals Included: None

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Max. Altitude: 1350m

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, our team member will greet you and transfer you to the designated hotel location. Once you arrive at your hotel room, you can give your full time for rest. However, if you don’t want yourself closed inside the four doors of the hotel room, there are different activities inside Kathmandu which you can opt for refreshment purposes.

For instance, strolling around the streets of Thamel is the most admired refreshment activity among thousands of travelers visiting Nepal. Stay overnight in a hotel room in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Side trip inside Kathmandu Valley and Trek Preparation

Walking Hours: 6 Hours Tour

Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

With the cool morning breeze at your hotel surrounding, wake up early and enjoy the delicious morning breakfast before heading for the side trip around Kathmandu.

Due to the time limitation, we will only be visiting a few UNESCO world heritage sites including, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and so on.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani

Walking Hours: 9 To 10 Hours Drive

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 1860m

After early breakfast, we will today head to Dharapani from Kathmandu. Driving along the river banks of Trishuli and Marsyangdi, we will pass through the beautiful settlements of Besisahar, Jagat, Chamje, Tal, Karte, and many other villages on the way. The scenery of beautiful rhododendron forests and green farmlands accompany you throughout your journey. Overnight at Dharapani.

Day 4: Trek from Dharapani to Chame

Walking Hours: 7 Hours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 2690m

Relishing the astounding views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Lamjung Himal and many other mountains, we will climb uphill into the forested ridges towards the west. After spending some time with the locals at Chame what you admire the most is their heartwarming hospitality.

Day 5: From Chame trek to Pisang

Walking Hours: 6 Hours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 3255m

Leaving Chame behind, we will make Pisang our today’s destination. On the way, we will cross the suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River. Further, we will also enjoy the rejuvenating walk along the Rhododendron and Pine forest. As we climb higher, we can notice the change in vegetation and terrain.

Besides the stunning views of Pisang Peak, Annapurna II, and some other mountains, the presence of Mani Walls and Prayer flags en-route makes your journey more fruitful. Being the gateway village of Pisang Peak Climbing adventure, at Pisang, you can encounter several Pisang Peak Climbers. Thus, during your stay at Pisang, you can grab some information regarding Pisang Peak also.

Day 6: Trek from Pisang to Manang

Walking Hours: 9 Hours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 3540m

By trekking towards Manang from Pisang we will continue our Chulu West Peak Climbing adventure. Upon reaching the arid landscape of Manang, not only the unique landscape but also the unique culture and lifestyle of locals are there to astonish us.

Day 7: Acclimatization day at Manang

Walking Hours: 3 Hours Hike

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 3540m

Known as the district beyond the Himalayas, Manang is an ideal place to spend a day. Therefore, for both acclimatization and exploration purposes, we will separate this spare day at Manang. As the locals here follow the Buddhist tradition, during our stay we savor the beauty of several beautiful monasteries located here.

Further the vistas of the Annapurna range and Gangapurna Lake makes our day at Manang a special one. Overnight stay at Manang.

Day 8: Trek from Manang to Ledar

Walking Hours: 6 Hours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 4200m

After the early morning breakfast, we will walk on the steep trail towards Tenki, the last permanent settlement on the way to Ledar. Further trekking for a while from Ledar, we will reach the rural community of Gunsang. Continuing a trek from Gunsang, the trail takes us to Yak Kharka.

From Yak Kharka, Ledar is a few steps away. On the way to Ledar, we will get an ample opportunity to observe the stunning views of various spectacular mountains.

Day 9: From Ledar, trek to Chulu West Peak Base Camp

Walking Hours: 6 Hours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Camping

Max. Altitude: 4900m

Enjoying the early morning sunrise view from Ledar, we will proceed our journey through the steep trails towards the Chulu West Peak Base Camp. It takes us around 6 hours to reach Chulu West Peak Base Camp from Ledar.

The gain of the altitude makes the trek more challenging but no worries, the enthralling views of landscape and mountains make the trek more worthy. Upon reaching the Base Camp location, we will set up the camp there.

Day 10: Preparation Day for Climbing

Walking Hours: 5 Hours Training

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinne

Accommodation: Camping

Before the actual ascent to the Chulu West Peak, it is always a better option to spend a rest day at the Chulu West Peak Base Camp. On this day our climbing guides will train and teach us some climbing techniques. Besides the climbing practice, this day also let us explore the beauty of the surrounding ambiance.

Day 11: Base Camp to High Camp

Walking Hours: 4 Hours

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tented Camp

Max. Altitude: 5600m

Starting the day with the delicious breakfast we will pack all our gear and march towards the high camp for the night stay. Though the trek is of around 4 hours, the steep climb might make us feel exhausted. Upon reaching the High Camp location, to remove our tiredness, we will set up the camp at the High Camp location and enjoy our leisurely time there.

Day 12: High Camp to the summit of Chulu West Peak(6419m) and return to the Base Camp

Walking Hours: 10 Hours Climbing

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tented Camp

It is the most important day of our Chulu West Peak Climbing. On this day we will wake up early around 2 am for the ascent to the Chulu West Peak Summit. Before the climb, our climbing guides check all situations properly. Checking all the risk conditions, they will decide whether it is favourable to climb the Peak or not.

If the situation is normal, we will start our Chulu West Peak Climb. With the help of our guide, we will successfully reach the Peak summit. Bring up a seraphic smile on our faces, the cool breeze and ethereal beauty of surrounding Annapurna, Gangapurna, Thorong Peak, Chulu East, Tilicho, and some other Tibetan peaks pay off for all our hardships and efforts. Moreover, the view of Manang Valley from this peak summit is way more beautiful.

After capturing some moments on our camera and mind, we will then retrace the way back to the Chulu West Peak Base Camp for an overnight stay.

Day 13: Trek from Chulu West Peak Base Camp to Thorong Phedi

Walking Hours: 7 Hours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 4525m

We will descend the trail along the Khone Khola river up to the wooden suspension bridge. From the suspension bridge, the trails now narrow to the hill towards Thorong La Phedi. Overnight stay at Thorong La Phedi.

Day 14: Via Thorong La Pass(5416m), trek to Muktinath from Thorong Phedi

Walking Hours: 7 Hours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 3800M

Traversing along the riverbank of Thorong Khola, we will cross the world’s largest Thorong La Pass. Offering the spectacular views of Annapurna and Chulu massifs, Thorong La Pass is the best place for a tea break. From Thorong La Pass, Muktinath is around 5 hours away. After trekking around 5 hours through the forests and farmlands from Thorong La Pass we will eventually stop at Muktinath for an overnight stay.

Day 15: Muktinath to Jomsom through Kagbeni

Walking Hours: 6 Hours Trekking

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Max. Altitude: 2740m

Renowned as the religious site for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, Muktinath is the highest located temple in the world. We will wake up early to visit this sacred place. Devoted to Lord Bishnu, a stroll around this temple gives every visitor eternal peace and happiness. Further, it is also believed that a holy bath on the 108 water sprouts and ponds here washes away all the sins of the lifetime. During your visit, you can see many people taking a holy bath here.

After spending some time at this holy destination, we will then descend to the Jomsom through Jharkot and Kagbeni. If you are lucky enough, while trekking on the way at the bank of deepest Kaligandaki Gorge, you can see the sacred black stones called Saligrams.

Appreciating the great hospitality of benevolent Thakali people, we will spend the night at Jomsom.

Day 16: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

Walking Hours: 20 Min Flight

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Max. Altitude: 822m

Terminating the actual trekking journey, we will today head to the Pokhara from Jomsom. To reach Pokhara from Jomsom we have several options available. However, among all, we will choose the flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. By chance, if our flight got canceled we will have the option of roadway drive from Jomsom to Pokhara.

With various natural attractions and adventurous activities, this lake city Pokhara lures thousands of travelers. Upon reaching Pokhara, we will indulge in some adventures. If you just want a peaceful time other than adventure, you can go for a peaceful walk around the lakeside Pokhara. Stay overnight at Pokhara.

Day 17: Fly/Drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara

Walking Hours: 25 Min Flight Or 7 Hours Drive

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

On this day we will return to Pokhara. Depending upon your preference, we will either take a roadway drive or flight back to Pokhara from Kathmandu. It will give you plenty of time for a side trip and souvenir shopping in Kathmandu if you take a flight.