Chulu West Peak, standing at an impressive altitude of 6,419 meters, offers a thrilling opportunity for mountaineers to experience the exhilaration of summiting a Himalayan peak. Located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, Chulu West Peak climbing presents a challenging yet rewarding adventure that combines technical climbing skills, stunning landscapes, and a sense of accomplishment that few can rival.
The journey to Chulu West begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the vibrant town of Besi Sahar, followed by a trek through beautiful villages, lush forests, and terraced fields. As trekkers gain elevation, the surroundings transform into a rugged alpine landscape, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. The trail leads to the base camp, where climbers prepare for the ultimate ascent.
The climb to Chulu West demands technical expertise and physical fitness. Experienced climbers will encounter steep slopes, icy glaciers, and challenging rock faces, requiring the use of equipment such as crampons, ice axes, and ropes. As climbers ascend higher, the air becomes thinner, adding an additional element of difficulty to the expedition. However, the sense of achievement and the panoramic views of the Annapurna massif and surrounding peaks make every step worth it.
The Chulu West Peak climbing experience also offers cultural encounters with local communities along the way. The region is inhabited by diverse ethnic groups, including Gurungs and Manangis, who have a rich heritage and a unique way of life. Interacting with the locals, staying in tea houses, and experiencing their warm hospitality adds depth to the adventure, fostering a deeper connection with the region and its people.
Safety is of utmost importance during Chulu West Peak climbing, and climbers are advised to be accompanied by experienced guides and Sherpa support teams. These knowledgeable professionals ensure that climbers are well-prepared, follow proper acclimatization protocols, and navigate the challenging terrain safely.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our local team warmly welcomes you at the airport. You will then be escorted to the hotel, where you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. The itinerary includes a briefing about the trek's progress and presentation, followed by leisure time. If you arrive in the morning, you'll have the entire day at your disposal. This can be used for rest or for those interested, to explore the surroundings freely. It's an ideal chance to deeply experience Nepalese culture and indulge in the local culinary delights.
Final altitude: approximately 13,50 m
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: night in the hotel
Have breakfast and then you have the whole day to explore the best Kathmandu Sightseeing spots with your guide. You can visit and explore one of the most famous Shiva temples, Pashupatinath, recognized as the monkey temple; Swyambhunath, the largest Stupa in the world, also called Boudhanath Stupa; and finally the Royal Palace, Kathmandu Durbar Square. The next day, you will begin your trek on the Annapurna Circuit, so you have to check your equipment to make sure that you are ready for your adventure and climb. Have dinner and stay overnight in the same hotel in Kathmandu
Day tour
Final altitude: approximately 13,50 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: night in the hotel
Early in the morning, a departure from Kathmandu by private vehicle towards Bhulbule; from there, we change vehicles and, along the Marsyangdi River, cross the rice fields and the first traditional Nepalese villages; nice views of traditional houses and terraced crops of corn and millet. Arrived in the village of Ngadi for our first night in the lodge.
Number of hours of driving: about 12 h
Final altitude: approximately 2500 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a lodge
Walk in a forest dominated by impressive rock cliffs, at least until about 3000 meters, where, at a bend in the river, the rock lies down in a huge spectacular inclined plane and the valley opens up. This is the valley of Manang. We sleep in a Tea house in Pisang, a Tibetan influence's village, where there is a building made up of 152 prayer wheels! Visit of the old village and its monastery which dominates the valley 150 meters above, unfortunately, deserted in favor of the new village frequented by trekkers.
walking: about 9 h
Final altitude: approximately 1,300 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a lodge
Panorama of this day: the enormous glacial barrier of the northern slopes of Annapurna IV, II, III, Gangapurna, and Tarke Gyang. One of the most famous mountain landscapes in the world! The path climbs to reach the perched village of Ghyrau (3670 m). The absolutely exceptional landscape alone justifies the trek. Balcony trail to Ngawal (3600 m), one of the beautiful villages on the route
walking: 6hrs
Final altitude: approximately 3600 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a lodge, Tea house
From the hamlet of Ngawal, the descent is via an often dusty path that weaves its way between junipers and rose hips. Continue to Braga, a very beautiful village built in a horseshoe at the foot of chiseled rocks. It is a beautiful site and ideal for photos. Visit of the hamlet, built between fairy chimneys, and the 13th century monastery, one of the oldest in the region (provide headlamps because some of the old frescoes are located in very dark areas). After strolling through this magical place, there are a few kilometers left at the bottom of the valley (about an hour) to reach Manang, the last real village in the Marsyangdi valley. Manang is also a kind of base camp before the climb to Thorung La and the world of high altitude.
walking: 6hr
Final altitude: approximately 3500 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a lodge, Tea house
Rest day in Manang. For those who wish, hike to Kicho Tal (Ice Lake) round trip. We retrace our steps to reach the typical village of Braga. From the village we take a steep and continuous path toward Ice Lake. At the top, the efforts are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Annapurna with the lake in the foreground. Descent by the same path to reach Manang (3500 m).
After a steady climb through the immense mountain pastures where the big altitude yaks graze; a sense of isolation begins to set in. The panorama is exceptional over the entire Annapurna chain. Stop at Leder for the night. This short stage is particularly conducive to good acclimatization. However, those who wish and who feel in good shape will have the opportunity to climb in the afternoon on the slopes located under the Chulu West and the beautiful panorama of the Gangapurna. With a little luck, they will also be able to see some bharals, these Himalayangoats called "blue sheep".
walking: 6hrs
Final altitude: approximately 3600 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a lodge, Tea house
After breakfast in Ledar, we embark on a trek to the Chulu West BseCamp. Although the rising altitude poses its challenges, we continue with determination, relishing the serene journey amidst breathtaking landscapes. Upon reaching the base camp, we promptly set up our campsite, allowing ample time to acclimate and freely explore the surroundings. The base camp treats us to a mesmerizing panorama of the magnificent Annapurna ranges.
The much-awaited day has finally arrived - the day to conquer Chulu West Peak. Today's adventure will be challenging and thrilling as we embark on our climb. We'll kick off early, before dawn breaks, gradually ascending along the icy trail. As the sun illuminates the Himalayan landscape, we'll be rewarded with captivating and awe-inspiring views. Equipped with ropes, crampons, and ice axes, we'll press on toward the summit.
Standing atop Chulu West Peak will fill us with an overwhelming sense of joy, triumph, and accomplishment. The panoramic vista of majestic mountains, including Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Gaganpurna Peak, and Lamjung Peak, will be truly exceptional. Once we've immortalized these beautiful moments, we'll carefully descend back to the base camp, cherishing the memories of this remarkable achievement.
Today, our focus is on tidying up the base camp before we set off toward Thorong High camp. We retrace our steps along the trail leading to Letdar, then venture northward towards the challenging pass. Throughout the journey, we cross several small streams originating from the majestic Chulu East and Chulu West peaks. While passing through certain areas susceptible to landslides, we may encounter a few scattered tea shops offering respite.
For the success of our day, the departure in the direction of Thorung La is very early (between 3h30 and 5h of ascent) in order to reach the pass before 9h to enjoy the view and avoid a sometimes violent wind. The ascent is slow and regular; it's a good idea to take your time thinking about staying well hydrated. The sun rises and warms us while depositing superb lights on the 6000 meters which surround us... From the pass, the view is extraordinary on the massifs of Annapurnas, Chulu, and Daulaghiri, and on the desert foothills of Dolpo and Mustang. It is a great reward for the efforts made over several days… After admiring this exceptional panorama, a long descent (where the view continues to dazzle us) leads us to Muktinath, located at the gates of Mustang. It has been a great place of pilgrimage since the dawn of time… Visit the sanctuaries raised between willows and poplars, where Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims meet
walking: 9hrs
Final altitude: approximately 3760 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a lodge, Tea house
From Muktinath, we join the Dangla pass before descending towards Lupra. The view is exceptional on the North face of the Nilgiri, on the Dhaulagiri (8167 m), and on the Tukuche peak. Arrived at the village of Lupra with one of the last Bon monasteries in the region (an ancient religion that prevailed in the Himalayas before the arrival of Buddhism). The peaceful life of this still authentic village contrasts with the modern world located just 2 hours walk away... From Lupra, the path descends into the bed of the river to join the track and Jomosom, a large administrative, lively, and commercial town on the banks of the Kali Gandaki.
walking: 6hrs
Final altitude: approximately 2700 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a lodge, Tea house
We end this superb trek by descending by bus to the impressive gorges that the Kali Gandaki has dug. In Beni, the tar continues the journey to Pokhara for a much-appreciated gluteal rest.
Private vehicle
Final altitude: approximately 800m
Meals: breakfast – lunch
Accommodation: night in a Hotel
Flight Pokhara - Kathmandu
by private vehicle and domestic flight
about 35 minutes
about 1300m
Meals: Breakfast –
Accommodation: overnight at the hotel
free time depending on the departure time of your flight and our representative will drop you at the airport, ending your journey in Nepal. We hope to be of service to you again. Thank you and safe travels.
Trip Included
- ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE : Airport - Hotel transfers – Airport (Pick Up and Drop), by private vehicle.
- HOTEL ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu With breakfast plan.
- WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Offices' Staff.
- CARGO CLEARANCE : Assistance for cargo clearance in Nepal’s Customs, clearance cost is subject to a charge.
- PERMITS : Expedition Royalty and permits fee of Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) to climb chulu west peak and Annapurna conservation area project
- GARBAGE MANAGEMENT : Stool Shipment Transfer & Garbage Deposit fees.
- INSURANCE : Medical & Emergency rescue Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
- MAP : Trekking and climbing map.
- DUFFLE BAG : One Alpinist club Duffle Bag.
- MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : private jeep as per itinerary.
- EXPEDITION STUFFS TRANSPORTATION : All necessaries' expedition equipment transportation for all Members and Staff from Kathmandu to Manang(by jeep cargo) and Base camp (by Porter/ mule) – While returning: Base camp to kathmandu (by porters / jeep) .
- MEMBER LUGGAGE : Up to 25 Kg per member as personal baggage during the trek to be carried by porters.
- FOOD AND LODGING : 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at Hotel/Lodge/Tent during the trek and at the Basecamp and high camp.
- PORTER : Porters per member up to the Base camp and from the Basecamp (both ways).
- HIGH ALTITUDE CLIMBING SHERPA : 1 government-licensed climbing Sherpa per member (1 Member: 1 Sherpa), during the entire climb from Basecamp to the summit and back.
- ASSISTANCE : Climbing Sherpa to assist in carrying your gear to the high camps.
- CLIMBING SHERPA SALARY & ALLOWANCE : Climbing Sherpas' Salary, Equipment, Food, and Clothing.
- OXYGEN BOTTLE (O2) : Oxygen bottles will be in stock at base camp in case of an emergency (with an appropriate charge).
- OXYGEN MASK & REGULATOR : 1 Set of Summit Oxygen masks will be in base camp in case of an emergency.
- HIGH CAMP SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE AND LOGISTICS) : High Altitude Tent, Lights, Necessary cooking EPI gas, cooking pot, High food for a member, Sherpa, and other crews. Group climbing gears, fixed and dynamic rope during the climbing period as required.
- HIGH ALTITUDE TENT : Members will share tents in high camps (2 members: 1 tent).
- WEATHER FORECAST : Weather forecast report during the entire expedition.
- GUIDE : Local government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.
- MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive Medical kit for members and staff.
- CERTIFICATE : chulu west Peak climbing certificate issued by NMA (after climbing e peak successfully).
Trip Excluded
- AIR FARE : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
- NEPAL ENTRY VISA FEE : Nepalese Visa fee is $50 USD for 30 Days.
- LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking / Expedition than the scheduled itinerary).
- EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition, domestic flight cancellation (due to any other reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- INSURANCE POLICY : Insurance covering both medical and high-altitude evacuation costs (for the trip cancellation, interruption, high altitude rescue & air evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.) *Mandatory
- PERSONAL EXPENSES : Telephone Calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages (during the trek and in Kathmandu but we will have soft drinks for members at base camp).
- PERSONAL CLIMBING EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items, Bags, Personal Medical Kit, and all kinds of Personal Trekking / Climbing Gear.
- TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
- FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
- INTERNET SERVICE : Not included during the trek and the expedition.
- SUMMIT BONUS : Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa - Minimum 300 USD.
- TIPS : Calculate some tips for the high camp and other staff– Minimum 100 USD.
- EXTRA : Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Notes: Costs may be subject to change in itinerary. So costs will be recalculated if the trekking/tour days get modified.
Note: For unforeseeable reasons at this stage of climatic hazards, form or deformity of the participants or others (state of the roads, traffic, case of unforeseeable, your guide or guide may have to adapt the program, if necessary for the smooth running of your trip. He remains the sole judge and guarantor of your safety. Walking times are given as an indication and may vary from one participant to another.
Trip Organization
Your Guide and Team, chulu west peak climbing
Your guide, from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure, is responsible for the success of your trip and oversees your team. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, respect his position as the team leader, and above all follow his advice! Often your guide is the only English-speaking member of the team. In the mountains and, especially when during high-altitude travels, your guide is responsible for the safety of the group. The instructions he gives and the remarks he makes to all participants must be carefully followed. The interest and safety of the trekking group must be preserved, even when it may be to the detriment of an individual member of the group.
Your Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:
The Guide Leader (Sirdar) is responsible for and leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
climbing sherpa: is responsible fixed the rope and guide you to the summit
The Cook is responsible for all meals and is on a trek that doesn’t use lodges for meals. (camping trek )
The Kitchen-boy is an assistant to the cook. ( camping trek )
The Assistant Guide is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and set camp.
The Porter is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid. Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for alpine treks.
Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person: Lodge (tea house) Accommodations: 15 kg maximum; Tent Camping: 22 kg maximum; Expeditions/summit ascents: 20 kg maximum. The porters are given a premium wage for carrying loads over 30 kg. In addition, the Nepal Alpinist Club takes care to take out insurance for the Guide and porters. Specific equipment is allocated to them for crossing passes at altitude (even if wearers often refuse to put on shoes due to lack of habit).
Accommodations in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you will accommodate in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are:
Hotel Ramada: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the necessary comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Accommodation during the peak climbing
For camping, accommodation during the expedition: during the expedition, breakfasts, Lunch, and Dinner are prepared by the kitchen team. They are taken to the mess tent. additional energy food is provided. Purchased locally, they offer a more limited. You can, if you wish, bring some complementary cereal bars adapted to your taste.
For lodge accommodation: meals are prepared by the cooks of the lodge and are taken from the lodge's dining room.
Here is a typical one-day menu:
breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, or Tibetan bread or pancakes, or pancakes, butter/jam, tea or coffee
Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffee
During the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included. Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
Water: provide tablets (Hydroclonazone, Micropur, or another type) to disinfect the water you put in your water bottle, depending on the source and on the advice of your guide. It is sometimes possible to buy purified water and refill your water bottle without having to buy bottled water. You can also buy mineral water in the cities (not included in the price) but its ecological balance is poor, as you know. Also, we do not recommend it.
Preparation for the Trek
Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that required short periods of high exertion.
Medical check-up
Being in good health is essential to fully enjoy your Alpinist Club trip. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.
Acute Mountain Sickness
This trip takes place at high altitudes, so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated for you. Think about it before you go.
Your Personal Trekking Gear
- woolen hat
- fleece hat
- T-shirt 3
- Thermal full t-shirt (base layer)
- Fleece jacket
- Down jacket
- light insulating wear (mid-layer)
- Gore-Tex jacket
- Thermal Trouser (base layer)
- Trekking trousers (flexible )
- down pant
- Gore-Tex pants
- Gore-Tex gloves
- thin/warm gloves
- Rain punch
- woolen shock (thick)
- sandal
- camp shoes (sports shoes)
- Trekking boot 1
- sun /glacier glass (uv protect )
- snow gaiter
- sleeping bags
- personal first aid
- pocket knife
- washing soap, towel, tooth pest/ brush
- sun lotion enough +30 /50 & lip guard
- Trekking poles (u can buy in Nepal as well)
- headlights, water bottles, Thermos
- books, a camera, playing card
Climbing gear
- Climbing helmet
- alpine boot
- crampons (good condition )and fit for alpine boot
- ATC Guide
- Ascender (jumar)
- screw gate carabineer
- open gate carabineer
- ice Axe normal
- ice screw 22m
- auxiliary cord 8m in length with 6mm diameter
- dynamic safety cord - 3m length with 8mm diameter
- harness
- tape sling- 180cm- 120 cm
