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Chulu West Peak Climbing - 22 Days

Chulu West Peak Climbing - 22 Days

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An unparalleled experience that combines climbing the Chulu West Peak with rich cultural discovery and the Himalayas' most spectacular scenery.

Trip Overview

Duration22 Days

Trip GradeStrenuous

CountryNepal

Maximum Altitude6,419 m

Group Size2-14 pax

StartsKathmandu

EndsKathmandu

ActivitiesMountaineering, Peak Climbing

Best TimeSpring (Apr-May) | Autumn (Sep-Nov)

The magnificent Chulu West Peak, first successfully ascended in 1952 by a Japanese Expedition, offers an exhilarating mountaineering challenge in Nepal's Annapurna region. The Base Camp for this expedition is strategically located in a secluded valley just north of Manang, nestled away from the main Thorong La trekking trail. This journey begins from Besisahar, the district headquarters of Lamjung, a neighboring district to Gorkha, marking the gateway to your high-altitude adventure.

From Besisahar, the trail gradually ascends, winding its way towards the renowned Manang Valley. This picturesque valley, situated at approximately 3,540 meters, is one of the highest permanent settlements in the world that you will traverse, offering breathtaking views and unique cultural insights. A crucial acclimatization day will be dedicated to exploring the Manang Valley, allowing your body to adapt to the increasing altitude, and perhaps including an excursion to sites like Gangapurna Lake.

From Manang, the expedition veers north, leading through Ledar and onwards to the Chulu West Base Camp. A dedicated period of three days is set aside for the challenging ascent of Chulu West Peak, providing ample time for summit pushes and contingency planning. Upon successful completion of the climb, the expedition seamlessly integrates back into the classic Annapurna Circuit route, where you will continue towards the iconic Thorong La Pass.

After conquering both Chulu West and Thorong La, the expedition follows the well-trodden path back towards Kathmandu, mirroring the latter stages of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This expedition offers a unique opportunity to combine a significant peak climbing experience with the unparalleled beauty and cultural richness of the Annapurna region, promising an unforgettable adventure for experienced trekkers and aspiring mountaineers alike.

Join Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal's fixed departure Chulu West Peak expedition and summit the magnificent peak to unlock new levels of personal strength and achievement.

Chulu West Peak Climbing - 22 Days Itinerary

Kathmandu to KathmanduExpand all

Day 01

Arrive at Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

Welcome to Nepal! Settle in and prepare for your adventure.

Depending on how you plan to arrive at Kathmandu, we will arrange for you to rendezvous at your hotel in Thamel. In most cases, you will arrive at Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport where you will meet your guide.

In the evening, you will join for a program briefing with your group members. In case you arrive late at night, you will meet your group members next day at breakfast during which you will also be briefed about your program.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Accommodation: 3-star hotel in ThamelTransportation: Private transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport to your hotel in Thamel

Day 02

Peak climbing briefing and preparation

Today is dedicated to ensuring you are fully prepared for your Chulu West Peak climbing expedition. Our expert team will conduct a thorough equipment check, followed by a comprehensive briefing covering the expedition plan and a detailed review of the climbing route with our experienced advisor. This crucial day allows you to clarify any questions and build confidence before our journey into the mountains begins.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu

Day 03

Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760 m)

Scenic drive through the Nepali countryside, reaching the start of our trekking adventure.

Your Annapurna Circuit adventure kicks off with an early morning scenic drive to Besisahar (Lamjung district), taking about 6-7 hours, on a private vehicle.

The journey starts on the well-paved Prithvi Highway, winding through lush green hills, terraced farmlands, and charming rural villages. You'll often follow the Trishuli River, enjoying glimpses of Nepali life. At Malekhu, you'll stop for lunch and continue driving along the scenic route with views of distant Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Machhapuchhre.

Max Altitude: 1,430 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge in ChyamcheTransportation: Private transfer to the trail head

Day 04

Change to a 4x4 vehicle and drive further to Chame (2,670 m; 68 km; 4 hrs)

Entering the Marsyangdi Valley, drive through forests, plesant settlments and alongside the river.

After breakfast at Beishsar, you'll change to a 4x4 as paved roads giveway to a dirt track and follow the Marshyandi River all the way to Chame. The scenic 4-5 hour drive takes you past waterfalls and lowland villages. Before road expansion, treks started from Besiahar but now the trail and the road overlaps and isn't a plesant hike.

Max Altitude: 2,300 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge in Danakyu

Day 05

Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300 m; 12 km; 4-5 hrs)

Your trek today takes you through a beautiful pine forest, with the Annapurna range growing ever closer. You'll pass through fascinating rock formations and enjoy increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding mountains. The trail leads you to Upper Pisang, a traditional village perched high above the valley, offering spectacular panoramic vistas of Annapurna II and Annapurna III.

Max Altitude: 3,300 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge in Upper Pisang

Day 06

Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540 m; 19 km; 4-5 hrs)

Today's trek is particularly scenic as you enter the dryer, more arid landscapes of the Nyeshang Valley. You'll witness a dramatic change in vegetation as the treeline recedes, replaced by high plateaus. The views of Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and Chulu East are constant companions. Your destination is Manang, a large and historically significant village, where you'll spend two crucial nights for acclimatization.

Max Altitude: 3,540 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge in Manang

Day 07

Acclimatization day at Manang

Excursion to Gangapurna Lake (3,543 m) & Chongar viewpoint (3,720 m) | 4 km; 2-3 hrs

This is an essential day dedicated to acclimatization, allowing your body to adapt to the increasing altitude. You'll embark on an invigorating excursion to Gangapurna Lake, a stunning glacial lake fed by the Gangapurna glacier. This hike provides not only breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks but also crucial 'climb high, sleep low' acclimatization, preparing you for the higher passes ahead. You can also visit the Chongar viewpoint for wider panoramas.

Max Altitude: 3,720 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge in Manang

Day 08

Trek from Manang to Churi Ledar (4,210 m; 12.75 km; 4-5 hrs)

With your body well-rested and acclimatized in Manang, you'll gradually ascend to Churi Ledar, prioritizing acclimatization.

You'll trek through diverse landscapes, starting in alpine terrain, moving into a dense pine forest, and ultimately reaching your destination. The trail takes you past Manang, then up a climb to Tenki, the last village before Thorong La Pass.

Next, you'll reach the picturesque village of Ghusang, known for its mountain views and welcoming teahouse. You'll pass Mani walls, small teahouses, and cross a bridge before arriving at Yak Kharka, famous for its yaks and pastures. You’ll finally reach Churi Ledar by crossing a glacial stream and a steady, gradual climb.

Max Altitude: 4,210 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge at Churi Ledar

Day 09

Rest day at Churi Ledar | Chulu West Peak climbing preparation

You rest and prepare for the Chulu West Peak climbing.

Max Altitude: 4,210 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge at Churi Ledar

Day 10

Trek from Churi Ledar to Chulu West Base Camp (4,844 m; 3.5 km; 4 hrs)

The trail to Chulu West Base Camp from Churi Ledar starts with a steady ascent. Though not demanding, the altitude can challenge your stamina. You'll move at a steady, deliberate pace across the rugged landscape, allowing ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the incredible vistas that unfold as you approach Base Camp.

After a pass at 4,740 m, the trail levels out to a pasture at the foot of a scree hill. At the base camp, your climbing guide will brief you about the trail and provide crucial training that includes ice walking, use of crampons, carabiner, ice-axe, basic self-rescue, and knot tying practice for the upcoming challenge.

Max Altitude: 4,844 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tented Accommodation at Chulu West Base Camp

Day 11

Trek from Chulu West Base Camp to Advance Base Camp (5,100 m; 1.5 km; 2-3 hrs)

Today, you'll ascend to Advance Base Camp. The trail initially leads you north of the pasture on a gentle incline, then transitions into a scree field, subtly contouring along the hills. After climbing a rockface on a fixed rope, the trail is dominated by loose slates. where you'll establish your camp on a sheltered ledge. This strategic spot offers stunning views overlooking Chulu West’s summit and a steep rock face providing natural protection from the elements. Just around the bend, at 5,111 meters, lies a rock band that you will cross tomorrow, en route to High Camp.

Note: Many expeditions push directly from Base Camp to High Camp which is set up in between 5,350 meters to 5,750 meters. While possible, this rapid ascent is often highly fatiguing due to significant altitude gain, compounded by the unpredictable mountain weather common in western Nepal. Our extensive experience has shown that climbers frequently abandon their summit attempts from this single high camp, primarily due to accumulated exhaustion. To maximize your chances of success and enhance your safety, Himalayan Ecstasy's Chulu West Peak Expedition strategically includes the provision of Advance Base Camp, a proven approach that significantly boosts summit success rates.

Max Altitude: 5,100 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tented Accommodation at Advance Base Camp

Day 12

Trek from Advance Base Camp to High Camp (5,550 m; 1.8 km; 2-3 hrs)

Today, you'll tackle one of the most challenging section on the Chulu West expedition, the rock band which forms a col on the ridge of the mountain and requries the used of fixed ropes. Just across the rock band a dramatic valley will open up, revealing a panorama of magnificent peaks surrounding you. After successfully crossing the second pass through a steep rock face, the trail gently climbs through a scree field until you reach the Chulu West Glacier at 5,450 meters. From this point, you'll don your crampons, as your ascent continues across permanent ice on the north-west shoulder of Chulu West. The route then gradually ascends, leading you to a high alpine saddle (col) at approximately 5,500 meters. Here, a pristine, elevated plateau unfolds, where you will establish your High Camp, strategically positioned for your summit attempt amidst serene views of the Annapurna and peri-Damodar range, and the Thorung La pass.

Max Altitude: 5,550 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tented Accommodation at High Camp

Day 13

Chulu West Summit (6,419 m) and return to Chulu West Base Camp

You start early in the morning up a scree trail until you reach the crampon point. The rest of the route to the Chulu West summit is on ice and snow on a ridge. The climb is slow and ardous but equally rewarding with panoramic views all along. Afterwards, you'll descend to Chulu West Base camp.

Max Altitude: 6,419 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tented Accommodation

Day 14

Contingency Day (in case of bad weather)

This day will act as a buffer day incase of bad weather or other unforseen circumstances that might halt your summit push.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tented Accommodation

Day 15

Trek from Chulu West Base Camp to Thorung Phedi (4,450 m; 12.5 km; 5-6 hrs)

You'll retrace your steps back to Ledar, and continue on the Annapurna Circuit Trail to Thorong High Camp. Tomorrow, you'll go across the Thorong La pass (5,416 m) to arrive at Muktinath.

Max Altitude: 4,450 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge at Thorung Phedi

Day 16

Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath (3,800 m; 16 km; 8-9 hrs) via Thorung La (5,416 m)

Across the Thorung La Pass (5,514 m)

You'll begin your ascent before dawn, trekking steadily upwards to reach the prayer-flag-adorned summit. From the pass, you'll be rewarded with truly breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs, stretching endlessly. The descent is long and gradual, leading you through the arid, almost lunar landscapes of Mustang to Muktinath, a significant Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site, where you can find rest and spiritual solace.

Day 17

Trek to Jomsom (2,730 m) via Lupra (3,000 m) | 6-7 hrs; 17.8 km or drive from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,730 m; 2 hrs; 22 km)

Descend into the Mustang region, with the option to explore the unique village of Lupra.

From Muktinath, you have the option to trek or drive to Jomsom. If you choose to trek, you'll embark on a scenic path that leads through the unique village of Lupra, offering a glimpse into a more traditional way of life in Mustang. The landscape continues its arid, desert-like character, defined by the deep Kali Gandaki gorge. Alternatively, a shorter drive provides a quicker transfer to Jomsom, a larger town in the Mustang district known for its apple orchards and strong winds.

Max Altitude: 2,730 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Local Lodge in Jomsom

Day 18

Fly to Pokhara (25 min) or drive to Pokhara (158 km; 6-7 hrs)

You will either fly or drive to Pokhara (depending upon the weather and the package you've booked).

Max Altitude: 823 m Meals: Breakfast & LunchAccommodation: Lakeside Hotel in PokharaTransportation: Private transfer from trail-end to Pokhara

Day 19

Rest day in Pokhara

Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Pokhara, with options for sightseeing or relaxation.

You have the day at leisure to explore its many attractions; visiting the stupas and waterfalls or simply relaxing in one of the many cafes along the lakeside, reflecting on your epic Himalayan adventure.

Day 20

Fly to Kathmandu (30 min) or drive to Kathmandu (205 km; 6-7 hrs)

Scenic flight overlooking the high peaks you visited a few days ago or drive along the countryside, reaching the start of your trekking adventure.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 3-star hotel in Thamel

Day 21

Rest day in Kathmandu | Farewell dinner in the evening

You have the day at leisure to explore Kathmandu. In the evening, you're invited to join Himalayan Ecstasy for a farewell dinner celebrating your trip in Nepal.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: Breakfast & DinnerAccommodation: 3-star hotel in Thamel

Day 22

End of trip - Departure

Trip Cost Details

Includes

The following are the list of services, also defined in the itinerary, included in the package cost for the Chulu West Peak Climbing package:

Room and board in the city, transfers & flights

Airport Transfers: 2 airport transfers (international arrival & departure) in a private air-conditioned vehicle
Trailhead Transfers: Private transfer from Kathmandu to Besisahar in a car, van or bus (depending upon group size) and from Besisahar to Chame in a 4x4 (6 members per jeep)
Trail-end Transfer: Private transfer from from Chame to Besisahar in a 4x4 (6 members per jeep) and from Besisahar to Kathmandu in a car, van or bus (depending upon group size)
Accommodation in Kathmandu: 4 nights in a 3-star hotel at Hotel Thamel Park in Kathmandu
Meals in Kathmandu: 4 breakfast at your hotel and 1 complimentary farewell dinner

Room and board on the trek

Accommodation: Twin sharing room on local lodges as available on the trail
Meals: 3 meals a day with a cup of either tea or coffee or as defined in the itinerary
Additions: Seasonal fresh fruits, cookies, and water purification tablets (with advance notice)

Trek & Expedition Crew

Climbing Guide: An English-speaking professional, experienced and licensed climbing guide
Support Staff: Assistance guide for groups above 6 and 1 porter for 2 guests (one porter carries maximum 25-kilogram baggage)
Crew Insurance: Insurance for climbing guide, assistant guide/s, and porter/s per Nepal government rule

Expedition Setup and Equipment

Camp Equipment: Dome tent with mattress on a twin sharing basis, Kitchen and Dining tent, Kitchen equipments, Toilet tent, Climbing rope: fixed and main rope
High Food

Other Services

Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) Permit, TIMS permit, & Chulu West Peak Climbing Permit
Gear: 1 duffel bag - to be returned after the trek
First-aid: Comprehensive medical kit equipped with an oximeter

Excludes

International airfare, Nepal visa fees (two passport photographs), travel and medical insurance, emergency evacuation costs.
Meals not specified in the itinerary and inclusions.
Personal expenses on the trip (snacks, chocolate bars, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, hot showers, telephone and internet services, electricity charges at higher altitudes, laundry, etc.).
Costs arising from natural calamities, mishaps, or anything beyond our control.
Any costs incurred due to your voluntary departure from the expedition, including early return, are non-refundable.
Tips for guides and porters (while not obligatory, it is expected by your staff at the end of their service).
Personal items including but not limited to trekking gear (hiking poles, gaiters, sunglasses, etc.), clothing (shorts, shoes, slippers, etc.), and hygiene and toiletries (sunscreen, toilet paper, hand sanitizer).
Any service not specifically mentioned in the 'Services Includes' section.

Route Map

Chulu West Peak Expedition Map by Himalayan Ecstasy

Dates & Availability

Sep 2025

Oct 2025

Mar 2026

Apr 2026

May 2026

Departure Date

Status

Price

Departure Date

Starts: September 07, 2025Ends: September 28, 2025

Status

Available

Cool, dry weather and excellent visibility

Price

US$2700

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Flights from Jomsom to Pokhara

High winds and infavorable weather conditions in Jomsom could cause flight cancellations in which case, Himalayan Ecstasy will arrange land transfer to Pokhara. The difference in cost based on total members will be calculated and either reimbursed or added to your trip cost.

Essential Information

Climbing Chulu West (6,419 m) is a great way to acclimatize and prepare for 7,000 m and 8,000 m mountains. On this expedition, you'll get first-hand experience on using fixed ropes, crampons and ice-axe, carabiner, harnessing, and glacial walk.

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