Chulu West Peak Climbing Cost and Best Itinerary 2025

Highlights of Chulu West Peak Climbing

Experience the thrill of conquering the peak above 6000 m
Exceptional views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna Peak, Tilicho Peak, and Lamjung Peak
Hike through the classic and iconic trail of the Annapurna region
Experience the Tibetan culture, tradition, and customs
Cross one of the High Passes known as Thorong La
A short detour and spiritual experience in Muktinath
Short and scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
Excursion of the heavenly city of Pokhara
One whole day tour of the cultural, traditional monuments of Kathmandu

Trip Overview

Chulu West Peak Climbing is a journey you will definitely be proud of. The Chulu West rises at an altitude of 6419 m above sea level and lies north of the Annapurna massif in a mountain ridge between Damodar Himal and Labse Khola. Although classified as the trekking peak, to climb to such an altitude, you will need serious preparation and excellent physical shape. However, the emotions you will experience when participating in the Chulu West Peak climbing are genuinely worth it.

The summit of the peak offers stunning views over the Annapurna massif and to Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Manaslu. In addition to the thrill of conquering the 6000 m high mountain, the Chulu West peak climbing journey also offers beautiful scenery and cultural diversity as you get closer to the Tibetan border.

Our route approaching the peak runs through the Marshyangdi Valley on parts of the Nepal classic Annapurna circuit trail. Sections on the newly built road or gravel track alternate with the remaining trekking paths that lead to the main town of Manang. You hike past mani walls, shrines, and prayer wheels – characteristics of the Buddhist culture.

After a short detour to the ancient village of Manang, you progress to the hamlet of Ledar and finally leave the main trekking route and climb steeply to the base camp below Chulu West. After climbing the peak, our descent then takes place over the 5,416 m high Thorong La Pass to the famous pilgrimage site Muktinath and on to Jomsom. From there you fly to Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu.

Our Chulu West Peak climbing program is combined with an acclimatization trek so that you are fully acclimatized to the altitude before attempting the summit. With the past high-altitude trekking and the knowledge of using the climbing equipment, you can successfully summit the Peak.

The best months for Chulu West Peak climbing are March, April, September, October, and November.

How does our journey begin?

After you arrive in Kathmandu, our Chulu West Peak climbing program begins with a drive to Syanje. The following day marks the commencement of our trek towards the settlements of Dharapani, Upper Pisang, Manang, and Ledar.

From Ledar, our approach to the peak starts with the trek to the Chulu West base camp and High Camp. The next day in the early morning, we begin our assault on the peak.

After climbing the peak, our succeeding days will be mostly downhill towards Muktinath, Jomsom, and Pokhara from where we return to Kathmandu.

Chulu West Peak Climbing Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

After arriving at the TIA, and completing the Visa formalities, you will exit the gate where our representative will warmly welcome you. He will then take you to your accommodation in downtown Kathmandu.

Today, you will be able to catch the first brief glimpses of fascinating Buddhist and Hindu temples and shrines and the ancient local traditions as you walk around exploring the area near your hotel.

In the evening, our tour guide will meet you, gather all group members, and brief you about the Chulu West peak climbing program. You are open to asking any questions related to your trip.

Duration

30 Minutes Drive To Hotel

Max Altitude

1300 m

Activity

Arrival Nepal

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley

We have planned a guided tour of Kathmandu city today along with trip preparation for Chulu West peak climbing. Our colleagues will collect your documents to get the necessary permits. In the meantime, we will visit the sacred Pashupatinath temple, Boudhanath stupa, Swayambhunath temple complex, and Durbar Square.

In the evening, we can look around the bazaar, shop for the missing equipment, and start tuning in for the tour ahead of us.

Duration

Half Day

Max Altitude

1300m.

Activity

Sightseeing

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 03: Drive From Kathmandu To Syanje

We will wake up early in the morning to get ready for a long road trip to Syanje. We will drive west along the Trishuli River and after a few kilometers, the road branches to Prithvi Highway towards the North. From here on, the gurgling waters of the Marshyangdi River will be our constant company. Eventually, we will reach Besisahar where we will take a lunch break. Enjoy the beautiful landscape of rural Nepal decorated with cultivated rice fields, small streams, and waterfalls. Buy some snacks for the rest of the journey.

We will again drive along the winding but dusty and coarse road to reach Syanje where we will rest after a delicious dinner.

Duration

7-8 hrs

Max Altitude

1100m

Activity

Driving

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 04: Trek To Dharapani

We will formally begin our hiking today and progress to Chulu West. After breakfast, we will leave Syanje and cross the roaring Marshyangdi River over a long steel bridge. Then we will climb up for about 2 to 3 hours towards Tal village and enter the region of Manang.

The route from here will rise up steeply for a while, then descend and again climb up till we reach Dharapani.The village is embellished with colorful Mani walls, prayer flags, and houses with wooden roofs. We will settle for the night in one of its quaint little settlements.

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max Altitude

1860m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 05: Trek To Chame

Enjoy your morning breakfast with the magical panorama of Annapurna and Manaslu. Get ready to trek again along the Marshyangdi River over the stony paths to reach Bagarchhap. Now, we will enter the deep forests of bamboo, rhododendrons, banana palms, and tangerine trees to reach the Timang Village.

After resting for a while, we will hike along for a few more hours to reach Chame past the village of Thanchok. Breathe in the pure Himalayan air t Chame with the spellbinding views of Manaslu, Annapurna II and IV, and Lamjung Himal.

The village is also the district center of the Manang district, there are various checkposts here. It is the last major town until Manang and offers you a good opportunity to buy food and trekking equipment.

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max Altitude

2670m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 06: Trek to Upper Pisang

Today we will be gaining an elevation of approximately 700 m and reach an altitude of more than 3000 m. so we will gradually walk listening to our body and drinking more water along the route.

Once again ascending through the dense forest, we will reach the Bhratang Village known as the Heaven for Apple. We can enjoy some freshly cooked apple pie fresh apple juice here. Then moving along the steep narrow trail, we will reach Dhikur Pokhari. Walking a little further, there is a huge rocky boulder of 1500 m known as Paungda Danda Rock Face. We will take a lunch break here enjoying the mesmerizing views of Annapurna II, Chulu, and Pisang peaks.

As we walk ahead, there will be two trails in front of us: the lower trail leading to Lower Pisang and the upper trail leading to Upper Pisang. We will walk on the upper trail and walk for a few hours to reach Upper Pisang where we will stay and relax for the night.

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max Altitude

3300m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 07: Trek To Manang

Today we will gain only around 200 m altitude so our walk will be easy but long and scenic. There are two paths that will lead us to Manang: one short route will take us only three hours to reach Manang traversing Humde airport. However, we will take a longer route for the best panorama and climb to Ghyaru with a beautiful lake along the trail.

Then we will climb steeply to reach Ngawal and overcome the steep stone stairs till we reach Lophelling Monastery. Along the route to Manang, we will pass the beautiful small village of Braga with its old Buddhist monastery.

Forget your exhaustion with the beautiful spectacle of Mount Annapurna II, IV, and Mount Tarke-Kang.

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max Altitude

3,540m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 08: Acclimatize day ( rest day) or hike to ice lake

Today we have an acclimatization day at Manang- a beautiful place for rest, exploration and adaptation to the high-altitude atmosphere. After a comfortable breakfast, we will hike towards the Ice Lake also known as Kicho Tal.

Waking towards Braga, we will climb up along a winding trail enjoying the magnificent vies of surrounding mountains and Manang village. After about three hours, we will reach the Ice Lake. We will have our lunch at its bank and enjoy the serene surroundings.

After sometime, we will descend to Manang, explore its monasteries, and interact with locals.

Duration

5-6 Hrs

Max Altitude

4620m.

Activity

Hiking Ice Lake

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 09: Trek To Manang to Ledar

We will gain an impressive altitude today reaching an altitude of more than 4000 m. we will therefore hike at our pace gradually to allow our bodies to properly acclimatize. First, we will hike along the alpine terrain and walk through the cool shadow of a deep forest of pine. Then we will climb steeply till we reach Tengi.

Next, the beautiful village of Ghunsnag will welcome us with its mesmerizing mountain views and warm tea house. We will rest here for a while to have our lunch. Then we proceed to cross a small bridge over a stream to reach Yak Kharka famous for its extensive pastures for yak and sheep grazing.

We will now move on to cross the small glacial stream and ascend till we arrive at Ledar where we will stay for dinner and overnight rest.

Duration

3-4 hrs

Max Altitude

4210m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 10: Trek To Base Camp

Today, we will reach the base camp of Chulu West Peak. Of course, we have to ascend but the climb will not be very difficult and technical. We will gain about 700 m elevation today and breathe in the thin air of the base camp. So we will approach this very gradually and steadily. please do not hurry as we have to move on the rugged glacial terrain with secure footing and keen attention.

In about 4 to 5 hours, we will reach the base camp from where we can admire the breathtaking view of the huge Annapurna massif. Our crew will set up the tents for us and will also prepare hot meals for us.

In the meantime, our climbing guide will train us on using crampons, ice axes, and jumar. He will also train us on how to ascend and descend using ropes.

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

4910m

Activity

Move To Base Camp

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Tent

Day 11: Trek To High Camp

Today marks our ascent to an altitude of more than 5000 m. The uphill trekking takes place along the rocky and glacial terrain that may need the usage of ice axes, ropes, crampons, and trekking poles. Our guide will fix the rope in the steep sections so we can cross it easily.

Along the way, we will come across the first camp as Camp I at the altitude of 5100 m. some climbers stay here to acclimatize reserving the next day for ascending to High Camp or directly summit the peak of Chulu West.

But we will progress to Camp II or High Camp as the ascension of the peak from here will be pretty straightforward.

After reaching the High Camp and setting up the tents, we will have our meal and then practice once more using our climbing equipment to gain more confidence.

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

5595m

Activity

Climb To High Camp

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Tent

Day 12: Climb to Chulu west summit and return to high camp or Ledar

Starting the day early in the morning, we will set off with our climbing gear to assault the Chulu West peak. The ascent will take place initially over a wide ridge with snow and ice. After a short descent, the ascent begins over the mighty but not too steep northern flank of Chulu West. We will climb gradually resting for a while during the ascent, catching our breath, and following the instructions of our climbing guide. We will use our ice axe, ropes, and crampons on the treacherous sections to assist with our climb.

Congratulate yourself as you reach the top of the peak and witness the grandest spectacle of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna Peak, and Lamjung Peak. Enjoy the moment, click photos, and make reels from the tip of the peak.

After spending some time, we will now descend to High Camp for our hot meal with a cup of tea or coffee. if we are not too exhausted we may go down to Ledar, if too tired, we will rest at High Camp for the night.

Duration

9 to 10 hours

Max Altitude

6419 m

Activity

Climbing Day

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Tented Camp

Day 13: Trek To Thorong Phedi / High Camp

If we are beginning our day from the High Camp, we will first descend to Ledar, the only we will follow the classic Annapurna Thorong La Pass trail to reach Thorong Phedi. We will head north crossing numerous small streams and overcoming the strenuous landslide zones. The landscape will be quite barren with a tundra-like alpine structure where only a few lichens and grasses grow.

Moving further, we will reach the junction from where we will turn left and cross the bridge to reach Thorong Phedi. In case of fatigue, we can rest overnight at Phedi. If we are up for it, we can hike uphill steeply to reach High Camp.

Duration

4-6 hrs

Max Altitude

4,925m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 14: Trek to Muktinath Via Thorang-la Pass

We have a long day of trek ahead. If we are beginning our day from Thorong Phedi, we may have to wake up pretty early and overcome a steep ascent to reach High Camp.

From the High Cap, the path to the almighty Thorang-la Pass is not long and not that sharp. Climbing uphill steadily for two to three hours will take us to the top of the Pass at 5416 m. From the top, we can have the outstanding panorama of Annapurna massifs, Gangapurna, Khatung Kang, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Mukut-Himal, and Mustang valley.

A large pile of stone with colorful prayer flags adorned the Pass summit and there is also a tea house at the top where you can enjoy our morning tea with these incredible views.

Now, it’s time to tackle a steep descent to Muktinath, which can put a lot of strain on our thighs for another 3 hours. The trail runs through the ruins of some yak herders settlement, and the village of Chaharu before reaching Muktinath.

Duration

7-9 hrs

Max Altitude

5,416m

Activity

Highest The World / Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 15: Trek To Jomsom

We will spend the morning exploring the Muktinath temple complex where 108 natural stone tap water flows. There is also an eternal flame which we will witness and also take part in the pilgrimage ritual.

Then we will resume our downhill journey through the wide Kali Gandaki Valley to reach Jomsom. Passing the villages of Dzong, and Putak, we will arrive at the red sandy barren land of Kagbeni where we will have our lunch break.

Then passing through Ekle Bhatti, we will finally reach Jomsom where the influence of Tibetan Buddhism can be easily seen along with the beautiful views of Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri.

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max Altitude

2,743 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 16: Jomsom To Pokhara By Flight

Early in the morning, we will fly to Pokhara for about 20 minutes. This short flight will offer us some incredible spectacles of Kali Gandaki River Valley and the magical Annapurna massifs.

After landing at Pokhara airport, we will check into our hotel in Pokhara and rest. You can walk around the majestic city of Pokhara on your own and enjoy the boat ride over Lake Phewa or a simple walk around Lakeside.

Duration

20 minutes

Max Altitude

822 m

Activity

Local Flight

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 17: Drive From Pokhara To Kathmandu By Tourist Bus

Early in the morning, we will pack our backpacks for a road trip to Kathmandu from Pokhara on a deluxe tourist bus. The drive to Kathmandu once again will offer us glimpses of rural settings, some wonderful views of the icy mountains, and the Trsihuli and Marshyangdi Rivers.

As we reach Kathmandu, we will drive you to your hotel where you can rest after your tiring journey and incredible achievement.

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max Altitude

1300m

Activity

Driving

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 18: Departure From Kathmandu International Airport

You will have free time after breakfast before you are taken to the airport for your flight home in a private vehicle, depending on the departure time of your plane.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Excluded

Includes & Excludes

What is included?

Airport Pick Up / Drop Off ( Private Car )
Accommodation 3* Star Hotel Twin Sharing Room ( 2 Nights In Kathmandu With Breakfast)
Kathmandu To Synge By Private Jeep
Domestic Flights Transportation Jomsom To Pokhara
Pokhara To Katmandu By Luxury Tourist Bus
All Meals During The Trekking & Expedition (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, And Tea)
Accommodations, Mountain Lodge Twin Sharing Room
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Tourist Information Management System (TIMS)
Chuli West Peak Climbing Permit
Climbing Guide’s Equipment
Provides All Tent & Kitchen, Cooking Things, Foods, Drinks At Base Camp / High Camp
Provides All Climbing Gears Ropes, Snow Bars, Ice Screw, Carabineers
Government Licensed Holder, Good Speaking English, Great Experience Guide
All Staffs Wages, Foods, Drinks, Accommodations, Transportations And Insurance
One Strong Sherpa Helper For Carrying Your Baggage & Porter For 2 Trekkers
Hill Sherpa Trekking First Aid Kit Carrying By Guide
Water Purification Tablets For Tap Water, Ensuring Safe Drinking Water Throughout The Journey
Helicopter Services Covered By Your Travel Insurance Incase If Emergency
All Government Taxes And Official Expenses & Ground Transportations
Climbing Guide Will Be Manage According To Group Size
Oxygen Meter For Checking Pulse, Level (AMS) Acute Mountain Sickness
Hill Sherpa Trekking Provides Complementary Sun Block Cap
Trip Certificate Provides By Hill Sherpa Trekking

What is excluded?

International Airfare Tickets
Nepal Entry Visa Fee, visa Obtains On Arrival At International Airport in Kathmandu)
Additional Accommodations, Foods, Drinks In Kathmandu ( If Stays Extra Day)
Your Personal Medical & Travel Insurance,
Desserts, Sweet Items Like Chocolate, Cake, Pie, Pudding, Any Extra Expenses
Excess Baggage Luggage Weight Is 15 KG Maximum,
During The Trek Hot Showers, Mobile, Camera, Power Bank Any Batteries Charging, Wi-Fi Internet,
Kathmandu Sightseeing Monument Entrance Fees ($30 USD Per Person)
Tips For Guide & Poters
Your Personal Climbing Gears
Personal First Aid Kit
Tips For Guide & Porters

Departure Dates

Date	Duration	Price	Availability	Join
Oct 02, 2024 - Oct 19, 2024	18 Days	US$ 2360	3 seat	Book Now
Oct 09, 2024 - Oct 26, 2024	18 Days	US$ 2360	3 seat	Book Now
Oct 25, 2024 - Nov 11, 2024	18 Days	US$ 2470	2 seat	Book Now

Note:

We also operated private trips.

Trip Information of Chulu West Peak Climbing

Best Time

The climbing season on Chulu West Peak is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). these months offer more chances for good and stable weather with a lesser probability of precipitation. so these are the peak season for climbing Chulu West.

The winter ascents are also possible with extra precaution and preparation but in winter the higher slopes are covered with hard ice and the temperature is very low.

In summer, the Annapurna region receives heavy rainfall with the possibility of landslides and slippery roads. The Mustang region lies in the rain shadow region so it receives very little downpour even during monsoon. We don’t suggest, climbing the Chulu west in monsoon/summer.

Elevation and Distance

The starting point of our Chulu West Peak climbing program is Syanje at an altitude of 1100 m at a 130 Km distance from Nepal’s capital. the final goal is Chulu West which erects at 6419 m. according to numerous experienced climbers who already have conquered the Chulu East, the Chulu West surpasses the Eastern one in beauty.

The standard duration needed for Chulu West Peak climbing is 17 to 18 days which may vary based on the route chosen. The highest elevation we will spend the night is at High Camp at 5595 m above sea level.

Maximum and Minimum Walk

Our Chulu West Peak climbing program lasts 17 days with 10 days of trek and one day of climbing the Peak. Within the span of 11 days on foot, we cover the average distance of 15 to 20 Km every day walking for 6 to 7 hours approximately.

The duration however may vary on our day-to-day program due to the diverse terrain, climate, and capability of the trekker. The minimum duration we will undertake in this entire expedition is 3 to 4 hours on the eighth day as we hike from Manang to Ledar. The short walk has been strategically planned for better acclimatization before assaulting the base camp.

The maximum walking duration of course is on the climbing day as we set out to reach the top of the summit. It takes 9 to 10 hours to reach the summit and descend to High Camp.

Difficulty

Climbing Chulu West Peak is a moderate, non-technical snow climb that poses no technical challenges, but the weather and altitude make it challenging especially if you decide to climb the mountain in winter. The risks involved in the climb are due to icy slopes, snowy trails, and glacial terrain. However, with proper training, preparation, acclimatization, and staying on the route, our journey is safe. The classic routes to Chulu West are categorized at PD/3.

Can a beginner climb Chulu West?

From the point of view of professional mountaineering, climbing Chulu West can be done by anyone in good physical condition. If you lead a healthy lifestyle, do not have serious chronic diseases, and have willpower, you can participate in this expedition. Make sure to choose the autumn if you are a beginner for the relatively easy trek and more success.

Preparation and training

Regarding preparation for Chulu West Peak climbing, everything is simple- start running in the park, in the gym, or on the road. It would be ideal to start with 30-minute running training 3 times a week 3 months before the climb and in the last 3 weeks move on to training for 1.5-2 hours – this is about 10 km.

If you follow this simple training regimen, your endurance will quickly rise to a good level, your leg muscles will strengthen, and your respiratory and cardiovascular systems will become toned.

Alternate routes

For an additional challenge and adventure, you can also incorporate the Tilicho Base Camp trek and Tilicho Lake excursion in your Chulu West climbing expedition. For this purpose, you can take a few days’ detour from Manang to Tilicho Lake and base camp. Then return to Manang and hike to Ledar to assault the Chulu West Peak.

Alternately, if you happen to be in Jomsom, you can climb Chulu West Peak from there reversing the classic route and hiking the Annapurna circuit trail on your way back.

Altitude Sickness

You will be at an altitude of more than 3000 m from day 5 of our program posing the risk of altitude sickness. However, we have designed our program such that you will spend the night at a high altitude so your body acclimatizes very well.

Still, if you have a headache, nausea, dizziness, or difficulty sleeping and breathing, take Diamox and inform our guide. You can postpone your program for a day or two and descend to a lower elevation. Hydrating yourself by drinking lots of water and resting in between walks are key to preventing altitude sickness.

Transportation, Meals and Drink

We offer airport pick-up and drop-off services on your arrival and departure day in Kathmandu. At the start of the trekking journey, we drive to Syanje by jeep or bus depending on the group size. On our way back to Pokhara, we will fly to Pokhara on a small domestic flight included in our service.

Regarding meals and drinks, we offer a hearty breakfast every morning when in Kathmandu. During the trek, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner from the lodge menu with tea and fresh fruits after dinner will be provided.

The meals are pretty basic with Dal, Vat, and Tarkari the main dish along with porridge, egg, momos, chowmen, thukpa, and pizza being the second options.

During the base camp stay and ascent period, tents will be set up by our crew. They will prepare hot meals three times a day with boiled water, tea, and coffee.

Communication, Gadgets charging, and Internet/wifi

During the trekking period, the Namaste (NTC) and Ncell networks work pretty fine for communication and mobile internet. During the ascension period from the base camps, there may be no service.

Wifi is available at almost all tea houses or lodges but the speed may be slow depending on the number of users. Charging your devices is also available in the lodges. The service can cost extra dollars from your pocket.

Permits

For the Chulu West Climbing expedition, we need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit and a climbing permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association. We will be responsible for obtaining these permits and the service cost is included in our program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which one is easy to climb: Chulu East or Chulu West?

Chulu East rises to an altitude of 6584 m whereas the Chulu West stands at 6419 m above sea level. Technically, Chulu West is easier to climb than Chulu East, however, the trail to climb Chulu West needs more strength. The trail is long, and there are treacherous slopes to overcome.

What to take with us for Chulu West Climbing?

You can buy or rent all the necessary equipment. See detailed instructions for choosing equipment on our Essential Gear Checklist.

Who will accompany me on my journey to Chulu West climbing?

During the entire program, you will be accompanied by an experienced mountain guide – the leader of the group. On the day of the ascent, you will also have assistant guides with you.

Do I need insurance for this journey?

To participate in this tour you are required to take out insurance that can support you on your personal rescue expenses, medical, and travel expenses if needed.