Chulu West Peak Climbing takes you deep inside the Annapurna region on the foothills of the Manang Himal in the northwestern part of the country. The Chulu West Peak is one of the iconic trekking peaks of Nepal. The peak’s summit is at an elevation of 6,419 meters/21,061 feet. The Range consists of four peaks, two peaks rising on the eastern and western sides. The Chulu West Peak is known as Chulu central peak and is the highest in the range. The Chulu West Peak was first summited by a team of Japanese expeditions in 1952. Despite the altitude, the climb is non-technical in most of the sections and is ideal for first-time climbers and experienced ones. Making it one of the most visited trekking peaks in the country.
Staring our journey from Kathmandu
The Chulu West Peak Climbing starts with a drive from Kathmandu following the tracks of Prithvi Highway towards the settlement of Dharapani. The trek officially starts from Dharapani, from where you will be traversing through the central hills of Nepal, to the settlement of Chame. Next from Chame head towards Lower Pisang. On the way stop at Bhartang and visit the apple orchids of the region and have various cuisines made of apples a delicacy of the region. From Bhartang traversing across waterfalls, pristine rivers, and high alpine meadows to the settlement of Lower Pisang.
Chulu West Base Camp
From Lower Pisang head towards Upper Pisang on the route visit the ancient Braga monastery and discover every inch of the building covered with majestic art and the monks chanting sacred text. As you progress on this trail you will reach the settlement of Manang. After an acclimatization excursion at Manang head towards Leder, high Himalayan pastureland. Next head towards Chulu West Base Camp, traversing across high alpine terrain with dry and arid landscapes.
From Chulu West Base Camp, head towards Camp I. The following day you will have an acclimatization excursion and pre-climbing training. The next day you will head towards Camp II, following the trail covered with snow and using a fixed rope. From Camp II head towards the summit of Chulu West Peak, from the summit witness grand views of the Mountain giants of Annapurna II, III, IV, Manaslu, Pisang Peak, Gangapurna, and Chulu East peaks as well as views up to the eastern part of the Himlung valley. After summiting head back to Camp I. The next day heads towards Manang and the following day head towards Kathmandu.
The 18 Chulu West Peak Climbing takes you to various locations of the classic Annapurna circuit. Where most of the places are frozen in time. Be a part of this thrilling experience with your travel partner Female Guide Kathmandu.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4592ft)
The flight into Nepal is breathtaking, with views of the Himalayas and lush green hills. A representative from Female Guide Kathmandu will meet you, drive you to your hotel, and assist you in check-in. After a brief rest head out and take a stroll around Thamel, a lively tourist hub. Later in the evening join in for a special welcome dinner and cultural show at an authentic Nepalese restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2 :
Kathmandu sightseeing and Trip Preparation (1,400m/4,593ft)
Head out on a sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu valley, and visit various ancient temples, monasteries other landmarks listed on the UNESCO world heritage site. Stroll around narrow alleyways and streets of the valley and witness the true culture and lifestyle of the region. In the evening join in for a short briefing with your guide about the trek and climbing. Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 3 :
Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,960m/6,431ft) - 9 to 10 hours
Today from Kathmandu head towards Dharapani. The drive takes you on the twisting roads of Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli river and eventually the Marsyangdi River. Passing several colorful settlements perched on hilltops and riversides on the central hills of Nepal. Upon reaching Dharapani head towards your accommodation. Later head out and explore the area. Overnight stay in Dharapani.
Day 4 :
Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,892ft) – 6 to 7 hours
After an early breakfast starts your trek by following the trail towards Timang village. The trail takes you past typical villages of central Nepal and lush agriculture belts with terrace farms. As you progress on the trail you will cross a bridge and ascend cliffs of granite and reach the settlement of Timang village. From here traverse through dense woodlands of pine and ciders to the settlement of Koto. At the entrance to Koto, ready your paperwork. After your permits are checked head follow the trail and eventually you will reach the settlement of Chame. Chame is the headquarters of the Manang district, and the settlement has various types of tea houses providing basic to luxury ones. Once you reach the settlement head towards your tea house and later head out to explore the area. Overnight stay in Chame.
Day 5 :
Trek from Chame to Lower Pisang (3,300m/10,827ft) - 5 to 6 hours
Today you will head towards Lower Pisang. The trail today is filled with wonders of nature and changing landscapes. Start from Chame to Bhartang, traversing across dense woodland of cider and pine forest with miles of undergrowth, following the pristine river. Once you reach Bhartang, explore the apple orchids of the region and have various cuisines made of apples a delicacy of the region. From Bhartang, head towards Dhukur Pokhari and witness views of the high waterfall, sheer cliffs, and ridgelines. As you cross the river this section of trail provides you with views of the Annapurna range. Progressing on the trail cross waterfalls, pristine rivers, and high alpine meadows. Following a descent, you will reach the settlement of Lower Pisang. Overnight stay in Lower Pisang.
Day 6 :
Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,519m/11,546ft) - 6 to 7 hours
From Lower Pisang head towards Upper Pisang, the settlement is nestled just around 100m from Lower Pisang. Follow the trail and traverse through narrow alleyways, as you ascend you will witness views of Annapurna II and several other mountain peaks. Once you reach the settlement of Upper Pisang, head towards Ghyaru. This section of the trail is filled with dotted Mani walls with inscriptions and mantras. Following the trail, you will reach the settlement of Gyaru, a village frozen in time where little has changed from past decades. Next from Ghyaru head towards the Ngawal village on a decent trail. As you reach the settlement you will be greeted by rows of colorful prayer flags. The flags are believed to carry prayers to heaven and safeguard travelers crossing the route. From Ngawal head towards Braga village traversing across a zigzag trail, on route visit the ancient Braga monastery and discover every inch of the building covered with majestic art. After exploring the monastery, continue towards the settlement of Manang. This section of the trail is arid and sandy. Following the Marsyangdi with backdrops of snowcapped mountains, you will reach the settlement of Manang. Once you reach Manang head towards your tea house and relax later head out to explore the region. Overnight stay in Manang.
Day 7 :
Acclimatization and Rest day in Manang, Optional Hike to Ice Lake (4600m)
This is your day of acclimatization as you climb higher, your body needs to adapt to the thin air in higher altitudes. An acclimatization excursion helps your body to adapt to these higher elevations. The settlement has several vantage points ideal for an acclimatization hike or you may head out towards the Ice Lake also known as Kicho Tal. Later explore the village, the village offers you basic to luxury amenities. Try various local cuisines of the region and learn about the wonderful legends and culture of the mountain people.
Day 8 :
Trek from Manang to Leder (4,200m/13,780ft) – 4 to 5 hours
Today you will be heading to Leder. The trail will take you into the deep wilderness and alpine territory beyond the tree line. Start by following the ascending route towards Yak Kharka a high Himalayan pastureland and grazing fields of Yaks. From Yak Kharka traverse across the alpine territory with patches of herbs and scrubs on rocky terrain, as you progress on the trail you will reach another pastureland of Leder. The settlement of Leder is small and has a handful of houses. Upon reaching Leder head towards your tea house. Later head out to any vantage point to witness mesmerizing views of dusk. Overnight stay in Leder.
Day 9 :
Trek from Leder to Chulu West Base Camp (4,900m/16,077ft) - 4 to 5 hours
After an early breakfast head onto the trail. Today you will be traversing high alpine terrain with dry landscapes. As you gain altitude, some may feel sight disturbance so take it slow and have frequent rest. As you progress on the trail the terrain changes into rocky landscapes towards Chulu West Base Camp. The base camp is surrounded by colorful prayer flags, safeguarding the travelers crossing the region. Witness grand views of snowcapped mountains from the base camp and sleep above the clouds. Overnight stay in Chulu West Base Camp.
Day 10 :
Hike from Chulu West Base Camp to Camp I (5,100m/16,733ft) – 4 to 5 hours
Today’s hike is short but gains altitude rapidly. Follow the arid and rugged terrain covered with loose rocks and patches of snow. Following the trail, you will reach Camp I. Once you reach Camp I, witness grand views of the landscape. Later witness spectacular Himalayan sunset and if the weather is clear head out for stargazing in the evening. Overnight stay in Camp I.
Day 11 :
Acclimatization and pre-climbing Day at Camp I
Today is your second day for acclimatization day. Head towards any vantage point and witness majestic views of the Annapurna range and Thorong Peak. After an acclimatization excursion in the morning. After lunch you will start your pre-climbing training, organize your gears, and the climbing guide will provide you with techniques and training sessions. The guides will demonstrate the proper use of a harness, ascender, carabiner, rappel device, ice axe, etc. As part of the training session, you will have to climb up and descend using ropes. This pre-climb training is critical, especially for first-time climbers, as it will increase their confidence. Overnight stay in Camp I.
Day 12 :
Climb from Camp I to Camp II (5,530m/18,144ft) – 4 to 5 hours
Wake up early before dawn and after a light breakfast head towards Camp II. As the mountain weather deteriorates as the day progresses it is very crucial to start early. Follow your climbing guide traversing inclined terrains and snowy slopes. On this section of the trail, fixed ropes are used following the ropes head towards Camp II. Upon reaching Camp II witness the views of the grand landscape. After a brief exploration rest as you will be scaling the summit of the Chulu West Peak. Overnight stay in Camp II.
Day 13 :
Summit Chulu West Peak (6,419m/21,061ft) and Back to Camp I - 9 to 10 hours
Today you will be summiting the Chulu West Peak. Wake up early around 12 and get going by 1. The mountain weather can get harsh as the day goes on. Follow the steps of your climbing guide traversing on snowy terrain, in some sections fixed rope is used. Ascending on a steep section you will reach the summit of Chulu West. Once you reach the summit witness a spectacular view of endless snowcapped mountains. Mountain giants of Annapurna II, III, IV, Manaslu, Pisang Peak, Gangapurna, and Chulu East peaks as well as views up to the eastern part of the Himlung valley. Witness the sun rising and turning the snow-white peaks into the hue of colors. After spending a brief time at the summit retrace your steps back to Camp II and move below to Camp I. While ascending take caution as the trail is very slippery and has sheer cliffs at some sections. Overnight stay in Camp I.
Day 14 :
Trek from Camp I to Manang (3,519m/11,546ft) – 6 to 7 hours
Today after breakfast head towards Manang. As most of the section is downhill, take it slow. Following the rapid descending trail will take you to dense woodland from alpine landscapes. Pass various settlements and varieties of woodlands to the settlement of Manang. Upon reaching Manang head towards your tea house. Celebrate the success of your climb with your team and enjoy your last night in the mountains. Camp II and move below to Camp I.
Day 15 :
Contingency Day
If your summit attempt on Day 14 is called off due to weather conditions or lack of proper fitness, this extra day has been set aside for summiting, this day can also be used in the case of an emergency, such as flight delays or cancellations and other unanticipated situations. If all goes according to plan, the additional day may be used to take it easy and explore more of the path. Alternatively, you might spend the additional day tour in Kathmandu.
Day 16 :
Drive from Manang to Kathmandu via Besisahar - 267 km, 10 to 11 hours
Today after breakfast, say goodbyes to the mountains and newly made friends. After getting to your transportation head towards the settlement of Besisahar. The track takes you on a journey, following the pristine turquoise rapids of the Marsyangdi River. On route, you will pass through various bustling settlements and views of the mountains where you were trekking. Once you reach Besisahar, and after a stop for lunch head on a long drive towards Kathmandu. Following the Marsyangdi river and eventually the rapids of Trishuli River. Once you reach Kathmandu head towards your accommodation and rest. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 17 :
Free day in Kathmandu
Today you will have a leisure day. You can go for a guided tour of the city or head out on your own. Go souvenir shopping and visit the various attractions around the city. Later in the evening join in for a special farewell dinner with your climbing team to mark the end of your successful adventure.
Day 18 :
Final departure from Kathmandu, Nepal
After breakfast, a representative from Female Guide Kathmandu will drop you at the airport 3 hours before your flight. Bid your farewell to Nepal. NOTE: All of the trekking hours and distances mentioned above are estimates and should only be used as a general guideline.
