• Duration:17 Nights 18 Days
  • Max. Altitude: 6419m
  • Group Size: 1-8
  • Activity: Trekking & Climbing
  • Pick Up: TIA Airport

About Chulu West Peak Climbing

Chulu West (6419m) is an exciting challenge for both experienced trekkers as well as amateur climbers. Although it is technically more straightforward than peaks such as Chulu East, which has a sharp steep summit, Chulu West requires more stamina and strength to make the long, tough slog through the snow to reach the summit. Proper acclimatization is the key to enduring the extended time required to complete this expedition. Chulu West Peak’s location in the Annapurnas, its height and moderate difficulty put Chulu up as one of the best trekking peaks in Nepal Himalaya. The summit view is glorious as you can eyewitness the panoramic Annapurna Himalayan range to the south, and to the North are Tibet and China bordering Nepal. 

Our Chulu West Peak Climbing trip starts at Besi Sahar and follows the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail into the Marsyangdi Valley to reach the north side of Annapurna Massif. We leave the Annapurna Circuit trail at Yak Kharka beyond the village of Manang to follow a yak trail into a barren, uninhabited land with little vegetation. We spend 3 nights at Chulu Camps (one night at Base Camp, the other night at High Camp and another night at Camp I) for proper acclimatization and to practice some climbing techniques needed for the Chulu West peak summit.

We make at least one higher camp (Camp I) and cover rugged terrain on rocks and ice to reach the summit. The first part requires fixed ropes, but the final climb to the summit is long and gradual, which is more tiring if the snow is soft. After enjoying the summit view, we return to the (lower) high camp on the same day. Leaving High Camp, we descend to Thorang Phedi and then march towards the next exciting ascent to Thorung La Pass (5416m), which touches the edge of the legendary Tibetan plateau. We then descend into the deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Gandaki Valley, reaching a famous pilgrimage site, Muktinath, where there are a number of Hindu and Buddhist temples.

The best season for Chulu West Peak Climbing is from March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn). However, winter is also a great time to climb if you are well-prepared for the cold weather. In the crisp and cold month of December, views of the mountains are crystal clear, and there are fewer tourists around. The duration of the trip can be lengthened or shortened according to your preference. Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expedition will arrange every detail of your Chulu West Expedition; lodge accommodation, guides, food, and all the necessary climbing and camping equipment.

Planning to climb Chulu West Climbing in 2024 and 2025.

Guaranteed Departures. We are preparing for our 2024 and 2025 dates and groups for Cuhlu West Peak Climbing. Please get in touch for further details. Book your spot and experience the adventure of a lifetime with Annapurna Foothills Treks & Expedition.  

Highlights of Chulu West Peak Climbing

  • Challenging yet technically Straightforward Peak Climbing
  • View from the summit includes Three 8000ers; Mt Dhaulagiri (8167m) Mt Manaslu (8163m) and Mt Annapurna (8091m)
  • Explore and experience the beautiful Gurung Villages, their culture, tradition and way of living in Annapurna Region
  • Includes the amazing Annapurna Circuit Trekking
  • Pay a visit to the nearby monasteries, such as Braga Monastery, Muktinath Temple and other sites of cultural and religious importance
  • Guided and accompanied by our experienced Sherpa Climbing Guides and the Team throughout the expedition
  • Traverse through Kali Gandaki Gorge Valley (the deepest River gorge in the world)

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, 1,300 m/4,265 ft

Flying to Kathmandu is in itself an exciting and memorable experience. On a clear day, you will get a panoramic view of the snow-capped towering peaks. After completing the visa formalities in airport, collect your luggage downstairs. As you exit the airport terminal, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives carrying your name on our company’s’ signboard, Annapurna Foothills Treks & Expedition. Moving forward, you’ll be taken to your hotel in our vehicle. Once you reach at hotel, you’ll be welcomed by them as well and after that you can relax in your room or go for a walk exploring the city.

  • Hotel

Today, we will start by early drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The road leads us West following the Trisuli River, then branches off the Pokhara highway, going North alongside the Marshyangdi River. Normally, we arrive at Besisahar in the early afternoon and then we will take a private jeep to reach Dharapani.  We will follow the Marshyangdi Valley all day. 

  • Breakfast and Welcome Dinner
  • Hotel

An uphill journey takes us to the village of Chame known for its hospitality and spectacular views. This will be your first chance to take in panoramic views of Annapurna II, III and Lamjung Himal.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea house/ Lodge

From Chame to altitudes over 3000 meters, you will notice the surrounding changing as natural trees and plants become more scarce as the terrain begins to shift to a drier more desert like environment.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea house/ Lodge

We are now in the dry, arid region of Manang called Nyesyang. This area falls in a rain shadow area of Himalaya where it seldom rains in the summer months; though it snows in the winter and the snow remains on the ground for a long time. The local people are mostly farmers and traders. There are two routes leading out of Pisang towards the Manang Valley. We take the one which follows the left bank of the valley floor. Today, we will enjoy magnificent views of Annapurna III, IV, Gangapurna and the Tilicho peaks. At Hungde, we cross the river and walk along a fairly broad trail through the buckwheat and potato fields to the village of Braga, famous for it's monastery which is expected to be more than 500 years old. Then after a slight climb, we will reach the village of Manang. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea house/ Lodge

This is an ideal place to stop and spend the day around Manang for many reasons. First, we want to acclimatize to the altitude and to conserve our energy to succeed in our Mini Annapurna Trek endeavor. Second, this is the part of the trek where we are closest to the mountains. Most people climb the hill behind Manang to enjoy the magnificent views of the whole Annapurna range and the enormous icefall that crashes and rumbles down from Gangapurna. The sunset and sunrise over this natural amphitheater is one of the most beautiful mountain views in the country.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea house/ Lodge

After crossing Manang, the trail climbs steeply to the village of Tenki, which is the last permanent settlement. The trail ascends for a short distance to Gunsang, a small settlement of tea houses and an amazing viewpoint of the mountains. It finally levels out into the open pasture lands from which the name Yak Kharka, Yak Pastures, is derived. After an hour walk from there, we reach Letdar where we will stay overnight. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea house/ Lodge

After enjoying a refreshing morning sunrise view, we continue along the winding trail before the meadow encountering a large rock formation. We will camp near a stunning viewpoint offering views of the Annapurna giants towering over the clouds.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Camping

Today, early in the morning, we will be heading towards Chulu West High Camp.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Camping

After packing and arranging our equipment, we move along the trail admiring the rapidly changing landscape as we reach higher elevations. We then continue along a steep trail leading to the strategic camp I location that will allow the best access to the peak. We will set up camp here and enjoy a timeless panoramic sunset as the mountains reflect the pinkish sunlight over the mountains.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Camping

We will take a light day and return back down to the base camp taking plenty of time to descend safely on the slippery trail. Upon arrival at the camp I, you may either rest or take a short hike to enjoy more of the Himalayan scenery.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Camping

Since we cannot guarantee favorable weather for the scheduled summit day, we have allowed an extra day in the schedule. If we are unable to summit the Chulu West Peak on scheduled date  due to bad weather or some other reason, such as someone in the group having acclimatization problems, the reserve day will be useful.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Camping

We continue through pastures to a settlement called Letdar from where we get an excellent view of Chulu West. From here, the trail follows the bank of the Jarsang Khola, a tributary of Marsyangdi before branching off to climb the scree slopes high above the river, to Phedi.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea house/ Lodge

We have an early start today for crossing Thorung La Pass (5416 m). The trail becomes steep immediately on leaving camp, the path is well defined. The gradient flattens after around 4 hours of steady climbing. From the snow-covered mountains above to the head of Kali Gandaki valley below, we are surrounded by the brown and purple hills of Mustang offering a once in a lifetime vantage point. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea house/ Lodge

We will head down the Kali Gandaki Gorge past the town of Kagbeni before arriving in Jomson. We will stay here for the night to learn more about the local culture and customs of the Tibetan people while exploring this peaceful town.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea house/ Lodge

We will return along the short 35-minute flight route to Pokhara.

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

Early in the morning, we depart from Pokhara Tourist Bus Station to travel back to Kathmandu. If you are interested in continuing on to Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting adventure or any other tours you can start today.

Option: We have not included the airfare of Pokhara – Kathmandu (USD $120 Per Person). The exciting half hour flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu gives you the feeling of a mountain flight, high in the Himalaya where you can see the Langtang, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. If you chose to travel to Kathmandu by flight, we give free Airport Drop and Pick up. You need to book this flight before start the trek. 

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight back to home. 

  • Breakfast

Trip Map

Chulu West Peak Climbing map

What's Included

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace or Coaster in a private vehicle.
  • Authentic Nepali welcome dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 nights on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
  • Accommodation in Pokhara: 1 night on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
  • Accommodation during Trek: local lodges 9 nights (twin-share rooms, beds with comfortable foam mattresses and pillows)
  • Accommodation during Camping; 5 nights full camping services
  • All standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trekking
  • English speaking experienced Sherpa guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder).
  • All Camping Equipment required during the Trek, sleeping tents/mattresses, kitchen tent, kitchen equipment
  • All required Personal and Group Climbing gears
  • Climbing rope, Ice screws, Snow bar
  • Trekking cook, kitchen staff, Trek Sherpa and other support staff while on Chulu West peak climbing
  • One Sherpa guide-assistant if the group size is more than 4 Trekkers.
  • Porters: One porter for Two Trekker basis.
  • Trek Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
  • Personal insurance for Nepalese staff.
  • Annapurna Foothills Duffle Bag for Trekking.
  • Annapurna Foothills Souvenir
  • Energy Supplies; Snickers, Mars, Bounty etc. 
  • First aid medicine kit.
  • Chulu West Peak Permit
  • Annapurna Conservation Fee, TIMS permits & all required permits or Official Documentation.
  • All ground transfers.
  • Airfare Jomsom – Pokhara guests and guide
  • All government and local taxes.
  • Chulu West Peak climbing certificates issued from the respective body of the Nepal Government

 

What’s Excluded

  • Your Personal Travel Insurance.
  • Nepal Entry Visa Fee.
  • Lunch & Dinner in cities - allow $ 10 to $ 14 per meal in Tourist restaurants.
  • Beverages (drinks, mineral water, boiled water and beer).
  • Tips for guide, porters and driver (customary).
  • Any personal expenses not mentioned in the above services.
  • Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early return from Trek (for any reason) than the planned itinerary.
  • Personal Climbing Gears: Mountaineering Boots, Crampons, Harness, Ice Axe, 2 x Tape slings, 2 x Screwgate Karabiners, Descender / Abseil,  Device (Jumar), Prussic Loops, Helmet

Departure Dates

FromToStatusPrice  
Start Date03 Apr, 2024End Date20 Apr, 2024AvailableUS$ 2550
Start Date22 Apr, 2024End Date09 May, 2024AvailableUS$ 2550

Departure Note:

Guaranteed- We already have trekkers booked for those dates and you can join the group.

Available - The date is available to book and once you confirm your trip it will be guaranteed.

Limited - The departure date is filling fast and only limited seats are available to join.

Closed- The Trip cannot be booked on that specific date. Contact us for customized dates.
 

The departure dates are your arrival dates in Nepal.


We have set dates for departure to the Chulu West Peak Climbing. So, pick your preferable date and let the adventure begin.

If the date you prefer is not listed on our departure dates then you can contact us directly to book the trip on your own desired date.

We have listed the price up to 10 trekkers at maximum. If you are more than 10 trekkers, then please feel free to contact us for amazing discounted group price and further booking process.

Private Trips to Chulu West Peak Climbing is possible. Contact us to design your own private trips with you loved ones.

Solo Trips: Single trekkers are always welcome to join the climb. On your arrival at Kathmandu, you’ll have a single room in Kathmandu Hotel as per your requirement and have to share a room at the local teahouses during the trekking.

Useful Info

Chulu West Peak Climbing Packing List:

“There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” Alfred Wainwright

Are you planning your dream trip to the Himalaya of Nepal? Make sure you have packed well for your hiking, trekking and climbing experiences in Nepal. The time period of your visit also determines your packing list. The best trekking seasons for beginning your Chulu West Peak Climbing are spring and autumn. During these seasons, maximum flow of trekkers can be witnessed. Weather during spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) are likely to be mild with clear blue sky and outstanding mountain views. But nights can get freezing cold at higher elevation. So, packing appropriate clothing, gear, and equipments for your Chulu West Peak Expedition is a must for lifetime memorable trekking and climbing experience in Annapurna region of Nepal.

A strategically way of packing will be keeping in mind that your stuffs will be packed in two bags. One will be the daypack that you carry every day on your trek. Pack your daypack as light as possible by carrying only the essentials so that you can relish your moments in wilderness freely. Pack anything you may need each day during your hike in your daypack. Other bag will be your duffle bag which will be carried by your Porter from the very beginning of your trek till the end.

 

Upper Body:

  • Warm beanie hat
  • Tubular Headwear (buff)
  • Sun Hat or Cap (cap and buff all fit under your hood)
  • Polarized Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Headlamp (Black Diamond / Petzl) with spare batteries
  • Sunscreen with factor 50+
  • Upper Body (Core body):
  • 3 Light and trekking weight thermal tops
  • 3 T-shirts or cool-max trekking shirts
  • 1 Fleece Jacket or pull over (Merino, soft shell)
  • 1 Waterproof shell jacket with hood (lightweight, breathable)
  • 1 Down Jacket

Lower Body:

  • 2 Thermal base layers (merino or polartec power dry)
  • 2 Pairs trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts.
  • 1 Heavy weight hiking trousers (wind proof soft shell for warmth at higher altitude)
  • 1 Waterproof/ Rain pants
  • 2 Light Hiking shorts
  • 2 Fleece Pants
  • 4 Under wears (merino)

Hands:

  • 1 Lightweight gloves or liner gloves
  • 1 Pair shell gloves (Gore-Tex)
  • 1 Waterproof outer glove

Feet:

  • 3 Warm Trekking socks (smart wool)
  • 3 Pairs of liner socks
  • 2 Pairs of thick/ warm socks
  • 2 Thick wool socks to wear at night in lodges
  • Trekking Boots (waterproof, ankle support with rigid sole)
  • Lightweight Rubber Shoes / Trainers / Trail Runner to wear at the Tea Houses

Accessories:

  • 1 Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches) 40 - 50 Liters
  • 2 Water bottle or camel bag, 1-liter (one with an insulated cover is recommended)
  • Large duffle bag (and a lock as the porters will carry this)
  • A pair of adjustable Trekking Pole
  • Camera with extra battery
  • Sleeping bag (- 15 C depending upon trips)
  • Sleeping Bag liner
  • Ear Plugs
  • Portable Solar Charger
  • Smart Trekking Watch

Personal First Aid Kit:

Please do note that our trekking guides will be too carrying the first aid kit with them especially for the guests and the entire team as a whole. Still, we suggest the following items to be carried with you while trekking in the Himalaya of Nepal.

  • Personal Medication
  • Diarrhea Stopper (e.g. Imodium)
  • Paracetamol Tablets
  • Small Swiss Army knife (which has knife, scissors and tweezers)
  • Diamox for altitude (consult your doctor about this)
  • Water Purification tablets or drops
  • Blister kit / Zinc Tape
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Dressing Gauze
  • Antibiotic Cream

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