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6419 meters (21,060 feet)
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Moderate
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Annapurna
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Kathmandu Airport- Kathmandu Airport
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Car, Jeep, and Flight
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Three-Star to Five-Star Hotels (Kathmandu), tea houses/lodge/camp during the climb
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5-7 Hours Per Day
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Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
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1-12 People Per Group (Option for Private Tour is available)
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Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna, Manaslu, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
Overview
If you are looking for a short alpine adventure, the Chulu West Peak (6419 meters) can be your perfect destination. Chulu West Peak is one of the majestic peaks of the Himalayas. Located in the Annapurna region, Chulu West Peak is one of the popular trails of Nepal.
Chulu West is a part of the Damodar Himal range of Manang located in western Nepal. This peak stands South from Chako Peak (6687 meters). Towards the North-South lies the Nar, Phu, and Hunglung Khola. Chulu West Peak climb offers an iconic view of the bold Mt Annapurna (8,091m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), and the 360 degrees panorama of the Annapurna Range. Considered as one of the best peaks in the Annapurna region, the trail to Chulu West will lead you through a range of landforms, diverse cultures, and ethnicity of Nepal.
The Chulu West Peak climb starts at Dharapani. From here, you will follow the trekking route that leads to many other famous destinations in the Annapurna sanctuary. The path follows the Marsyangdi river valley. You will experience varying landscapes and Gurung cultures along the way. Walk along the green meadows that lead up to a barren topography.
You will see the red forest of rhododendron up to the upper valley. Continuing past the Pisang, you will reach Manang. Manang is the best acclimatization spot for climbers headed towards Annapurna Range. From here you will climb up to Chulu West Base Camp after passing Letdar. The main trail will lead you up to High Camp followed by Camp II on the next day. Finally, a day more of ascending, and you will stand tall at the height of 6419 meters. Getting surrounded by the iconic peaks of the Himalayas feels like a sight of heaven on Earth.
After a successful summit, descend to Camp I and then to Phedi. The following day you will take a pilgrimage visit to Muktinath. You will cross Thorung La Pass at 5416 meters on your way to Muktinath. Finally, trek to Jomson where you will catch a flight to Pokhara. After a day off, you will drive back to Kathmandu and board a flight back home on the 18th day of your journey.
The best season for Chulu West Peak Climbing is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these two seasons, the weather remains clear and increases the chances of the best view of the mountain ranges. Moreover, the days are longer so that you get enough time to reach the destination each day.
Why You Will Love Chulu West Peak Climb
- Chulu West is one of the straightforward peaks in the Annapurna region,
- Includes the astounding Annapurna Circuit trekking route,
- One of the famous trekking destinations of Nepal,
- Easy peak to develop alpine skills,
- Challenging yet technically sound,
- Stay in beautiful villages and surround yourself with Gurung ethnicity and lifestyle,
- View of Chako Peak (6687 meters) that runs alongside Hunlung Khola, Phu Khola, and Nar Khola,
- To the South runs Marsyangdi River and Mesokanto La,
- To the West is the Kali Gandaki gorge (world’s deepest gorge),
- To the North is the Parchekya La (5447 meters)
- Summit views include Annapurna (II, III, IV), Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Manaslu.
Is The Chulu West Peak Climb Right For You?
- The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and can affect the itinerary in terms of the number of days. Customer safety is our top priority, and thus, the package may lengthen in case of harsh weather conditions during the climb. So make sure you plan the time of the year carefully. The scenery and conditions may vary depending on the season you choose to pursue the climb.
- For about a week, you will have to walk continuously for 5 to 7 hours per day, excluding the climb itself. So it is better that you prepare yourself physically and mentally for the challenge. Do some exercises to increase your stamina and strength before you come to Nepal for your climb. Also, it will be a plus point if you engage yourself in climbing exercises prior to this expedition.
- Chulu West rests at a height of 6419 meters/21,060 feet. This climb is technically straightforward yet challenging.
- It will test your stamina, endurance, and strength. The adventure may be particularly difficult for those with low fitness levels or no previous summiting experience. So keep in check that your body can meet the fitness level required for the climb.
- This journey includes around nine overnight stays over 3000 meters. The thinning air pressure may increase the risk of developing AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). You may encounter shortness of breath and mild headaches during your stay or climb. Your guide will make sure to lead you according to your natural pace. Walk slowly to let your body adjust to the thinning air.
- Our guides and Sherpas are well trained and experienced in handling emergencies. They also carry first aid, including some emergency medicines, to help you in the time of difficulty. In extreme cases where you need emergency evacuation from any spot, we will rescue you via helicopter.
- We recommend that you keep yourself active and fit to decrease the risk of fatality. Make sure that you are physically and physiologically capable of taking the climb before booking the trip. If you are unsure about your conditions, you should seek medical advice.
Day to Day Itinerary Table – Chulu West Peak Climbing
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival At Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) and Transfer to Hotel | 1400 m | |
| 2 | Drive From Kathmandu to Dharapani | 1960 m | 7 hours drive on Jeep, |
| 3 | Trek From Dharapani to Chame | 2670 m | 7 hours |
| 4 | Trek From Chame to Pisang | 3300 m | 6 hours |
| 5 | Trek From Pisang to Manang | 3540 m | 5 hours |
| 6 | Acclimatization Day in Manang | 3540 m | 5 hours |
| 7 | Trek From Manang To Letdar | 4200 m | 4 hours |
| 8 | Trek From Letdar To Chulu West Base Camp | 4900 m | 5 hours |
| 9 | Ascend from Base Camp to Chulu West High Camp | 5100 m | 8 to 9 hours |
| 10 | Ascend from High Camp to Camp II | 5530 m | 5 hours |
| 11 | Summit Chulu West Peak and Return To Camp 1 | 6419 m at the peak, 5100 m at High Camp | 5 hours |
| 12 | Reserve Day | 5100 m | - |
| 13 | Trek From High Camp to Phedi | 4450 m | 6 hours |
| 14 | Trek From Phedi To Muktinath via Thorung La Pass | 3800 m at Muktinath 5416 m at Thorung La Pass | 7 hours |
| 15 | Trek From Muktinath To Jomsom | 2710 m | 6 hours |
| 16 | Fly From Jomsom To Pokhara Airport and Explore The City of Pokhara | 827 m | 35 minutes |
| 17 | Drive Back to Kathmandu | 1400 m | 6 hours |
| 18 | Final Departure from Tribhuvan International Airport | 1400 m | - |
Safety and Precautions
When you are traveling to a higher altitude, the risk of altitude sickness increases, but we don’t want our customers to halt or cancel the summit due to the unwanted difficulties. So we have mentioned few tips that would help you prevent and deal with altitude sickness:
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
- Difficulty in breathing,
- Dizziness (light-headedness),
- Fatigue,
- Headache,
- Loss of appetite,
- Nausea and vomiting,
- Rapid pulse.
Preventing Altitude Sickness
- Avoid direct summit to the high altitudes. Give your body time to adapt to the changing altitude, air pressure, and environment. Don’t expose your body to the harsh environment directly.
- Take several days to hike in high altitude.
- Take a rest at every 600 to 800 meters as you climb up.
- Keep your body hydrated by drinking enough water.
- Strictly avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
Treating Altitude Sickness
In case you start experiencing any symptom of altitude sickness, follow the guidelines below:
- Immediately stop the climb and rest where you are at the moment where you start experiencing the symptoms of altitude sickness
- In case of headache, take ibuprofen aspirin.
- If you feel sick, take antihistamines like trimeprazine or promethazine
- Garlic and Sichuan pepper work great to prevent and treat altitude sickness
Medication
- Acetazolamide prevents and treats altitude sickness. It should be taken 24 to 48 hours before you start your climb,
- Ibuprofen and aspirin for headaches,
- Promethazine for nausea and vomiting.
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