Chulu west peak climbing

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport, Transfer to request category hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (1350m/4,430ft)

Your journey to the Himalayan peak begins as you land in the Tribhuwan International Airport (Kathmandu). Here, the local representatives from Nepal Unique Treks & Expeditions welcome you and then drive you to the hotel. Check in to your room before heading out for a quick, relaxing stroll in the nearby areas. In the evening, we invite you for a welcome dinner after which you can head to your room and sleep the night off.

Day 2: Preparation and briefings at the departments of tourism. Last-minute shopping.

On the second day, you will meet your guides, who will brief you about the entire journey and the Chulu West Peak Climbing Map. Besides, this day also counts for the last-minute shopping and a quick stroll through Kathmandu. The guides will take you to some of the most significant places in Kathmandu, where you can enjoy local cuisines, traditions, and delve deep into the religious celebrations. We recommend that the climbers ask all the questions that they have during the briefing session at the Department of Tourism.

By the end of the day, all the climbers will be ready with all the necessary gear, documents, and permits. Have your dinner at the hotel, and then you can spend another night in Kathmandu before heading to Besisahar the next day.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (823m/2,700ft, 08hrs) Lodge accommodation.

Early morning today, we leave Kathmandu and go for a beautiful and scenic drive to Besisahar, the entrance point of the Chulu Peak Climbing region. This overland journey offers stunning views of terraced fields, rivers, and rural villages before taking us to Besisahar. We will drive for about 8 hours and then enter Besisahar, a charming little town and the traditional gateway to the Annapurna Circuit.

Take your time to stroll around the village and interact with the locals before having dinner and spending a night in a cozy and comfortable lodge.

Day 4: Drive from Beshishahar to Dharapani (1860m/6,103ft, 06hrs) Lodge accommodation.

After having a delicious and fulfilling breakfast in Besisahar, we set off on a rugged yet scenic drive toward Dharapani on the fourth day. This journey by a shared jeep again takes us past several waterfalls, deep gorges, and picturesque hillside settlements. As time goes by and we reach near Dharapani, the landscape begins to transform, hinting at the grandeur of the Himalayas that lie ahead.

At Dharapani, you can witness a shift in the entire atmosphere. As we approach the Himalayan village, the air starts getting cooler while the scenes get more majestic. Besides, the quaint Dharapani village, situated along the Marsyangdi River, marks the official start of our trekking route. AS we reach here within 6 hours of leaving Besisahar, you will have enough time to interact with the locals and get some insights about the village before having dinner and sleeping.

Day 5: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2670m/9,055ft, 05- 06hrs) Lodge accommodation.

Well, this might be the day all the climbers have been waiting for, as we will start trekking in the Chulu West Peak Climbing trail. This section of the trail is well-marked and leads us through dense pine and fir forests. As we walk for some time, the climbers can experience the sweet scent of Himalayan cedar filling the crisp air and witness towering cliffs rising beside the river. Moreover, the trail also gradually opens up outstanding and picturesque views of the distant Himalayas.

Within about 5 to 6 hours, we finally reach Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. This village, located 2670 meters above sea level, offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere surrounded by towering peaks. Besides, the traditional stone houses, natural hot springs, and panoramic mountain vistas perfectly blend comfort with raw alpine beauty. We will have dinner and sleep for the night in a well-managed lodge or tea house in Chame.

Day 6: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3100m/10170ft, 05 hrs) Lodge accommodation.

Now that we have started walking, we need to walk for several days straight. So, are you ready to cover another section of the Chulu West Peak Climbing trail? On the sixth day, the guides lead you on a walk from Chame to Upper Pisang. As you depart from Chame, the landscape widens, revealing sweeping valleys flanked by soaring cliffs and snow-capped giants. Passing through several smaller settlements, pine forests, listening to the sound of prayer wheels, and crossing a suspension bridge, we make our way to Upper Pisang. However, before that, we also come across a marvel at the sheer rock face of Paungda Danda.

After 5 hours of steady climbing, we finally reach the high-altitude village of Upper Pisang, perched above its lower counterpart with spectacular views of Annapurna II and IV. Here, you will experience the time moving slower and the air getting thinner. However, with its traditional stone homes, hillside monastery, and panoramic Himalayan backdrop, Upper Pisang feels like a quiet sanctuary in the clouds. Dinner and overnight stay will be arranged by Nepal Unique Treks & Expeditions in Upper Pisang.

Day 7: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3519m/10997ft., 05hrs); Lodge accommodation.

Another day calls for another adventure in the Chulu West Peak Climbing map. Today, we make our way to an altitude of 3352 meters above sea level. It takes about 5 hours for us to complete today's walk. Talking about the route, we follow the upper trail through Ghyaru and Ngawal, where centuries-old villages welcome us now and then. Besides, the path also climbs gently along open ridgelines. While ascending, you can also expect jaw-dropping panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and the magnificent Gangapurna. Even though the vegetation, the crisp mountain air, and fluttering prayer flags encourage you to climb higher.

Manang, one of the most popular Himalayan towns of Nepal, sits graciously at an altitude of 3,352 meters above sea level. Surrounded by rugged peaks and glacier-fed rivers, Manang is a lively mountain town where trekkers gather to rest, acclimatize, and soak in the local culture. To your amusement, this town also contains bakeries, monasteries, and breathtaking scenery. With all these, you will certainly enjoy your stay in Manang.

Day 8: Acclimatization and rest in Manang; explore the village and local attractions.

Today is all about giving your body the time it needs to adjust to the higher altitude, and for that, we choose Manang. Just imagine spending a resting day in a town with the stunning backdrop of Gangapurna and Tilicho peaks. Wouldn't that be majestic? So, just take your time to relax and prepare your body to ascend higher in the Chulu West Peak Climbing trail. Besides, we also recommend the climbers to go for some optional hikes to Gangapurna Lake or the viewpoint above the village. In either case, the climbers can prepare themselves physically and mentally for the upcoming walks.

After returning from the hike, you can relax in the nearby bakeries, cafes, or even rest in your lodge room. Make sure to eat an adequate amount of food and keep yourself hydrated even when you are in Manang. Other than that, you can also visit the local monastery or take part in a high-altitude lecture provided by the Himalayan Rescue Association to learn more about mountain health. By the end of the day, you’ll feel both refreshed and more prepared for the adventures that lie ahead.

Day 9: Trek from Manang to Lather (4250m/13943ft, 06hrs.); Lodge accommodation

After breakfast and some basic preparations, we leave Manang today and ascend towards Lather. Lather is a scenic and remote settlement at an altitude of 4,250 meters above sea level. This settlement offers a peaceful resting place, surrounded by the grandeur of mountains like Chulu West and Yakawa Kang.

Talking about the trail, as we leave Manang, it gradually ascends through a breezy terrain, where dramatic cliffs and glacial streams keep our company. As we ascend at a slow pace, we can notice the green, lush valley giving way to striking alpine landscapes. This means only one thing: we have entered the alpine terrain. It takes about 6 hours for us to reach Lather from Manang. After that? Well, stroll around the village and interact with the locals before having dinner and spending the night in Lather.

Day 10: Trek from Lather to Chulu West Base Camp (4950m/16240ft, 5hrs); Camping accommodation.

Finally, after 10 days of walking on this trail, we set foot towards the Chulu West Base Camp. This day marks one of the major significances of the Chulu West Peak Climbing package. Also, you will notice that the journey shifts from the trekking trail to true mountaineering territory. From this day, you need to advance like a mountaineer, not just a trekker. As we make our way on the trail from Lather to Chulu West Base Camp, the air becomes thinner, the terrain becomes more raw & rugged, and the scenery? Nothing less than epic. Moreover, you will also notice that the civilization completely vanishes as you ascend higher in the trail.

After about 5 hours of walking uphill, we will reach the western base camp of Chulu Peak. Surrounded by towering giants like Chulu West, Pisang Peak, and the Annapurna massif, the camp sits at an altitude of 4,950 meters above sea level. Besides, it is also located in a relatively flat expanse of moraine, offering safe and scenic ground. Furthermore, you can also expect a harsh yet strikingly beautiful. Take your time to explore the base camp while the Sherpa guides set up camps for your stay and prepare your dinner. After that, we have a night to spend here.

Day 11: Climb from base camp to High Camp (5600m/18372ft, 04hrs); camping accommodation.

Are you ready to conquer the peak of Chulu West? Well, we are just 2 days away from that achievement. As you wake up on the eleventh day, freshen up, and have your breakfast, we have a demanding climb to make. Yes, get your trekking boots and gear ready as it's time to ascend above 5000 meters. Also, remember to be aware of the chances and possibilities of altitude sickness. Throughout the climb, we will pass through several loose scree and steep sections requiring careful steps and a strong mindset. However, the jaw-dropping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges keep you more than encouraged.

High Camp is perched on a windswept ridge, a rugged and remote staging point for tomorrow’s summit push. Besides, the extraordinarily beautiful scenarios, icefalls, and the mild sound of wind keep you freshly active and kicking. As you settle into your tent, excitement and nerves blend in the thin mountain air. With stars overhead and Chulu West looming above, you’ll sleep (or try to!) with your heart set on the summit.

Day 12: Climb from High Camp to Camp I (5950m/19521ft, 06hrs).

As the morning breaks with sunrise over the Himalayas, we set off on another astonishing walk, taking us closer to the Chulu West Peak. We go through a steep and often icy trail that takes us through snowfields and over rocky ridgelines. Also, you will realize that every breath taken above such a high altitude is harder earned, and every step takes focus. However, the awe-inspiring vistas of snow-draped peaks surrounding you act as powerful motivation for the climbers.

Camp I lies on a glaciated plateau, carved into the heart of the mountain. From here, the summit feels tantalisingly close, and the sense of anticipation is electric. As you wander around Camp I, the Sherpas from Nepal Unique Treks & Expeditions prepare dinner and a tent for us to spend the night.

Day 13: Attempt to summit (6419m/21,060ft, 13hrs); Descend to high camp

Summiting Chulu West is a demanding alpine endeavour that typically begins around midnight, allowing climbers to take advantage of stable early morning weather and firm snow conditions. The ascent from Camp I to the summit is long and physically strenuous. Moreover, it also involves technical snow and ice sections, crevassed glaciers, and steep inclines that may require fixed rope support. Due to the high altitude and potential for rapid weather shifts, the climb cannot be accomplished in one continuous push without proper staging. Therefore, we return to high camp to acclimatize and rest.

We need to take this day's ascent very seriously, so the guides only begin the walk after checking whether all the climbers are perfectly ready or not. If the weather deteriorates or symptoms of altitude sickness appear, the summit push may be aborted or postponed. If everyone is in the right condition, it takes about 13 hours for us to reach the summit, spend some time there, collect memories, and then return to the High Camp. Just imagine standing tall at an altitude of 6,419 meters above sea level and watching the sky-towering Himalayan vistas.

Day 14: This is our scheduled summit day; from the summit we will return to the Base Camp(4950m/16240ft., 5hrs); camping

This is just a day separated for people who could not summit the Chulu West Peak on the first try or on the 13th day. If the summit push wasn’t completed earlier, we’ll make another carefully timed attempt, starting in the early hours with all necessary precautions in place. The additional day offers flexibility and increases our chances of a safe and successful ascent, aligning with the golden rule of mountaineering: climb high, sleep low, and never rush altitude.

Day 15: We trek from Chulu West Base Camp to Lather (4500m/ 14764ft.); Tea house accommodation.

With the summit behind us and spirits soaring high, we begin our descent from Chulu West Base Camp, retracing our steps toward Lather. The journey downhill offers a fresh perspective of the dramatic alpine landscape, rocky cliffs, icy slopes, and endless skies. Besides, you will also get more relaxed as you descend lower and lower before reaching Lather. Here, you can take a rest in the comfortable and warm tea house. Just think of the technical ascent you made a day ago and give some rest that your body some rest.

Day 16: Trek from Lather to Thorong Phedi (4420m/ 14,501ft, 04hrs) Lodge accommodation.

Today, we go for a short yet essential descent to Thorong Phedi. This is the base camp of one of the high passes in the Annapurna region, the Thorong La Pass. Spending a night in Thorong Phedi also prepares us for a journey to Thorong La Pass on the next day. As we leave Lather, the trail goes across barren slopes and loose gravel paths. Here, the climbers can also expect amazing views of jagged ridgelines and deep valleys.

After walking for about 4 hours in this section of the Chulu West Peak Climbing trail, we finally reached Thorong Phedi. We recommend the climbers to find a well-earned rest while being surrounded by looming cliffs and snow-capped peaks. Nepal Unique Treks & Expeditions arranges dinner and overnight stay in a lodge or hotel in Thorong Phedi.

Day 17: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3850m/ 12,631ft, 07hrs), Thorong La Pass (5416m/ 17,770ft). Lodge accommodation.

Today, the climbers need to wake up as early as 03:00 A.M. and begin the walk before sunrise. We intend to watch a mesmerizing sunrise view from Thorong La Pass (5416 meters). It takes about 3 to 4 hours for us to reach the Pass through some icy trail demanding a slow yet steady pace. As we reach the Thorong La Pass, the climbers can take their time to cherish the moment and capture as many memories as they can.

After spending some time in the Thorong La Pass, we begin a descent towards Muktinath Temple. As we walk for a couple of hours, we can experience the surrounding transitioning from alpine to Mustang’s arid, rain-shadowed terrain. Besides, we will also have a short lunch break before continuing towards Muktinath. After lunch, we walk on steep, gravelly slopes which finally take us to the final point of the day. Get yourself freshened up before visiting the Muktinath temple, a sacred temple for Buddhists and Hindus. After that, we will have dinner and spend a night here in Muktinath itself.

Day 18: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2700m/ 8,858ft, 04hrs) Lodge accommodation.

After a spiritual and restful night in Muktinath, we begin a gentle descent towards Jomsom. Today's trek brings a gentle shift from sacred highlands to the windswept valley floor of the Kali Gandaki. As you descend, the barren cliffs and wide, open vistas of Mustang take all your attention and keep you wondering. Gradually, the climbers can notice lush greenery and some charming villages like Jharkot and Kagbeni.

As we approach Jomsom, we will be welcomed by a broad riverbed, flanked by dry hills and snow-dusted peaks in the distance. Known for its fierce afternoon winds, Jomsom is both a gateway and a finale of any treks in the Annapurna region. Well, that's it! Now you can check in at the hotel, freshen up, and enjoy some local delicacies Jomsom has to offer you.

Day 19: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (810m/ 3,116ft, 17min) Hotel accommodation in a Bed and Breakfast.

From Jomsom, we take a flight to Pokhara on the 19th day of the Chulu West Peak Climbing package. It takes about 17 minutes for the flight to land at Pokhara airport. However, the timing of the flight can be changed due to some factors like changes in climatic conditions or a packed schedule. Once you reach Pokhara, our local representatives will drive you to the hotel. Check in at the hotel, get freshened up, and then you are free to explore the lakeside.

The Phewa Lakeside has a lot to offer you, whether it be with its vibrant and peaceful environment, peeks of some distant peaks, or amazing cafes and restaurants. It's all up to you! Try out some delicacies in different cafes, spend quality time boating on the Phewa Lake, and in the evening, you can relax in the clubs and pubs.

Day 20: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus that takes about seven hours, also you can take a flight which takes about 25 minutes, overnight at the Hotel. Farewell dinner with a cultural program in the evening.

Today, you’ll journey back to Kathmandu, either by a comfortable tourist bus or via flight. If you take the bus, you will be in for a journey through picturesque river valleys and terraced hillsides. However, if you want a rather shorter and quicker way to reach Kathmandu, take the flight.

Once in Kathmandu, you’ll check into your hotel and have time to freshen up and rest. In the evening, a special farewell dinner awaits! The Nepal Unique Treks & Expeditions team invites you for a delightful cultural program showcasing traditional Nepali music and dance. Trust us, this will be the best way to celebrate your achievements in the mountains and the lifelong memories made along the way.

Day 21: Drop off at the airport for the final departure, or join other programs.

The 21st day marks the official end of the Chulu West Peak Climbing package. Here, the decision is yours! Whether you want to return to your home or go for some other adventurous program in Nepal. If you choose to return to your home, our representatives will drive you to the airport and bid you a final farewell. However, if you want to go for some more adventure, you can book Trekking, Peak Climbing, or a Tour in Nepal with Nepal Unique Treks & Expeditions.