Chulu West Peak Climbing (6,419m) - 20 days

Chulu West is part of the Manang Himal, which are quite rightly included in the larger Damodar Himal, the eastern limit of which runs south from Chako and Peak 6,687 in a north-to-south direction along the Hunlung Khola, Nar Khola and Phu Khola. To the south it is bounded by the Marsyangdi Khola and the Mesokhando La. To the west its limit is the Kali Gandaki and to the north the Parchekya La (5,447m/17870ft).

Chulu West climb combined with Nepal's most famous “Annapurna Circuit Trek” trek makes up for one of the most spectacular Himalayan trekking and climbing outings. Allowing about maximum 20 days of completing this climb and trek.This trip is considered a technical trekking peak, which requires the knowledge of mountaineering skill. The ascent of Chulu West can be made from Manang or ChuriLetdar through a narrow valley north of Manang situated off the main trail to Thorong La pass 5,416m.

The trek approach goes through the Annapurna Circuit, It is not overly difficult and the terrain passes through monsoon rain forest and rhododendron forest is one of the beautiful experiences. The mountain views are full of natural splendors with views of the Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, II, III, South, Tent Peaks and others. This trek is regarded as one of the best trek that offers so much of distinct sensation.

Journey

Chulu West climbing trip begins with driving from Kathmandu to Nadi via Beshishar towards west of Nepal along the Annapurna Circuit trekking trail. We might drive up to Chame if possible; otherwise we can start our trek from Nadi bazar (small town) following the world’s famous trekking destination, Annapurna Circuit trekking. Once we reach at Manang, “a typical Tibetan Buddhist town” we will do some acclimatization hiking or day rest. Next day continue following the Annapurna circuit trails to Lader and the following day to the base camp of Chulu West (4,350m) where our camping accommodation begins. We have allocated 3 nights 4 days for the setting the higher camps, summit attempt and descent to the base camp. Looking at the weather condition, we set the high camps and put some deposits of the tent & food and push for the summit attempt. After our successful summit of the peak, then we again continue the Annapurna trails crossing over the famous pass Thorang La Pass (5,416m) and continue until Jomsom via Muktinath, from there we take next early morning flight for Pokhara, and days layover, sight tours and an over night halt at a nice and beautiful city Pokhara. Next morning flight to Kathmandu and continue as per the set plan.

TRIP HIGHTLIGHTS

Experiencing local cultures of Gurung, Thakali and Magar’s community etc.
Trekking through Annapurna Circuit crossing over Thorang Pass (5,416m)
Chulu West (6,419m)
Climbing on the technical peak
Mt Annapurna (8,091m)
Breathtaking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m)

DETAILS ITINERARY

Day 1
Kathmandu Arrival (1300m), transfer to hotel &trip briefing

After you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will have to go through custom formalities. You will be greeted by our representative who will be anxiously waiting for you with a placard displaying your name in his hand. You will be transferred to the 3-Star category hotel in a private vehicle. Once you get refreshed, you will get briefing regarding the itinerary. Enjoy welcome dinner in the evening where you can taste authentic Nepali dinner. Stay overnight in a hotel.

Day 2
Necessary preparation and Final packing

You will be transferred to our office for documentation work. You will also be introduced with your crew members and other trekkers who are going to join you on the trip. In the afternoon, half day sightseeing tour will be organized during which you will be taken on memorable UNESCO Heritage Tour. Tour begins with visit to Nepal’s holiest Pashupatinath Temple Complex and takes us through Nepal’s largest Bouddhanath Stupa and 2500 years old Swoyambhunath Stupa. We will return to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 3
Drive to Besishar (760m), 8hrs

After early breakfast, we will gather at Tourist Buspark, Kantipath and then drive through scenic Prithvi Highway with beautiful views of Nepal’s first cable car at Kurintar and Marsyangdi River to Besisahar. We will leave the main trail towards Pokhara at Dumre and follow the branched road to Besisahar. We will pass through several Gurung, Magar and other villages before we reach Besisahar which is the District Head Quarter of Lamjung. There is a huge market area in Besisahar. It has a subtropical temperature and one can find deciduous forest at Besisahar. Stay overnight at Besisahar.

Day 4
Drive to Dharapani (1,860m) 6-7hrs

From Besisahar, we will catch a local jeep and drive towards Dharapani. We will pass through Bhulbhule to Syange. We will pass through many ethnic villages on our way. Our journey continues through Jagatto Chamje. We can see traditional teahouses in Chamje. From Chamje, we will take a bumpy ride through a difficult road built by Nepalese Army by blasting rocks. We will reach Dharapani where we will stay overnight.

Day 5
Trek to Chyame (2,670m)5-6hrs

We will notice change in vegetation from Dharapani onwards. Temperature also drops down from this point. Leaving Dharapani behind, we will follow the raised path through pine forest to reach Bagarchhap which is the first Tibetan fashioned village that we will meet in our way. From Bagarchhap, we will climb uphill to Danake. Moving through the farm land, we will enter forest area. Enjoy the views of LamjungHimal, AnnapurenaII Mountain and other peaks and mountains. We will walk past Latamanang and Koto villages to reach Chyame where we will stay overnight.

Day 6
Trek to Pisang (3,200m)5-6hrs

We will start the trek on this day from the other side of river. We will walk along the northern edge of river and pass through pine forest. Moving through the dispersed villages, we will reach Bhartang which is famous for its apple garden. We will follow the gradually ascending path to bridge. The trail escalates uphill through pine forest to the top of DhukurPokhari hill. We will enjoy the close-up view of Pisang peak and Chulu peak as we walk along tree lines. Lowering down from the ridge over an hour, we will reach Pisang village. We will visit the local monastery and climb to the upper Pisang to enjoy view of Annapurna Range. Stay overnight at Pisang.

Day 7
Trek to Manang (3,540m) 5-6hrs

After an early morning tea, we will leave Pisang and walk through dense pine forest. We will enjoy the scenic views of surrounding Mountains as we walk through the forest to the top of the ridge from where we can get our first view of Manang valley. We will also get the view of Humde village and its small air-strip. Gangapurna Mountain, Annapurna II Mountain, Annapurna III Mountain, Tilicho Peak, Chulu East peak and Pisang peak also comes into view. We will proceed further to Humde village. The trail takes us uphill to Braga village. Depending on the time, we will visit Braga Monastery where we can see thankas and paintings. Climbing uphill for an hour, we will reach Manang where we will stay overnight.

Day 8
Rest & acclimatize day (3,540m)

This is the acclimatization day. We will utilize this day to take leisure stroll around Manang. Manang is a large village comprising of more than 500 houses. Manang allows unobstructed views of Annapurna II Mountain, Annapurna III Mountain (7,555 m), Gangapurna Peak (7454 m), Tilicho Peak (7132 m), Chulu West (6583) and Chulu East (6059 m) peaks. There also exists Himalayan Rescue Association in Manang where we can visit. Stay overnight in Manang.

Day 9
Trek to Ledar (4,200m) 4-5hrs

Early in the morning, we will leave Manang and follow the ascending path from Manang to Tenki village. Tenki allows views of close-up views of Annapurna Mountain, Gangapurna Peak and Tilicho peak. We will climb uphill through juniper bushes and arrive at the Valley of Jarsang River. The trail continues further toGhunsa village through meadow. Crossing the wooden bridge, we will walk along mani wall to Yak Kharka. An hour of walk from Yak Kharka will take us to Ledar where we will stay overnight.

Day 10
Chulu West Base Camp (4,350m)4-5hrs

Walking past the alpine vegetation area from Ledar, we will follow the scenic path with views of Annapurna IV Mountain, Annapurna III Mountain, Pisang Peak and Lamjung Mountain before arriving at Chulu West Base Camp. We will set our camp and explore the surrounding area. Enjoy the close-up view of Annapurna Range from Chulu West Base Camp and stay overnight.

Day 11
Chulu West High Camp(5170m) 4-5hrs

Climbing to Chulu West High Camp will be bit more challenging. It takes about 4hrs of difficult climb to reach High Camp. From High Camp, one can enjoy the panoramic views of Dhaulagiri Mountain, Manaslu Mountain, Gangapurna Mountain, LamjungMountain and Pisang Peak. Sherpas will set up a Camp while we can explore the surrounding. The guide will check on condition of gears of every climbers. Stay overnight at Chulu West High Camp.

Day 12
Chulu West Camp I (5800m) 5hrs

Although not a technical climb, the trail towards Chulu West Camp I is difficult. Go slow and steady to avoid High Altitude Sickness. Enjoy the breath-taking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Lamjung Mountain and other peaks and mountains. Stay overnight at Chulu West Camp I.

Day 13
Climb Chulu West Summit (6419m), Lower Down to Base Camp 8-9hrs

This is the day that we had been anxiously waiting for. We will wake up at around 2 am and after taking light breakfast, we will begin our journey. We will climbthe rock band with the help of climbing equipment like crampon, ice axe and ropes. We will make a gradual ascend to avoid High Altitude sickness and reach to the summit before noon. After enjoying the epic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain Ranges including Gangapurna Mountain, Manaslu Mountain and other peaks and mountains from the summit, we will lower down to Base Camp where we will stay overnight.

Day 14
Spare day for summit push

Including a spare day in our itinerary makes sure that our trip goes according to plan even if we get delayed by unforeseen circumstances like bad weather and other factors.

Day 15
Trek to ThorongPhedi (4450m)6hrs

The return trek begins on this day. We will lower down from Base Camp and retrace the route back to Ledar. After brief rest at Ledar, we will continue our journey to ThorongPhedi where we will stay overnight.

Day 16
Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m), Trek to Muktinath (3800m) 8hrs

We will start our trek early before sunrise. After quick tea, the porters will arrange packing and then we will climb through the steep slope to reach the top of Thorong La. We will enjoy mountain views and view of Kaligandaki valley and then we will lower down to Muktinath where we will stay overnight.

Day 17
Trek to Jomsom (2710m)5-6hrs

Muktinath is the holy temple that is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Muktinath means the Lord of Salvation. Visit Muktinath temple to see 108 water sprouts. There is also a Jwala Mai temple where fire lights up eternally. We will lower down from the temple and follow the descending path through dry land with no vegetation. We will reach to the bank of Kaligandaki River. Following the river, we will reach Kagbeni and head towards Jomsom. Jomsom is one of the major trade post that exists in ancient trade route used by locals to trade with neighbouring Tibetans.

Day 18
Jomsom to Pokhara Flight (25min), Pokhara TourO/N Hotel

An early morning flight will take us to Pokhara from Jomsom. Jomsom is also known as the Windy City as heavy wind blows after noon at Jomsom. So, it is wise to catch a morning flight. We will be transferred to hotel from Pokhara Airport. After refreshment, we will organize Pokhara Tour during which we will visit KI Singh Bridge, Mahendra Cave, Seti Gorge and other exciting places. We will visit Phewa Lake in the evening before returning back to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 19
Fly to KTM (20min), free evening

We will drive to Pokhara Airport in the afternoon. Scenic flight from Pokharawith aerial views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri will take us to Kathmandu. Take rest. Write a journal and arrange your photo albums. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 20
Int’l departure for onward journey to home

You will be transferred to the Airport three hours before your scheduled flight. Safe journey. We hope to see you soon.

Start Date

End Date

Availability

Price

Min.

Start Date

9th Oct 2019

End Date

28th Oct 2019

Availability

OPENED

Price

USD 3,100

Min

Book

REMARKS : If you have private team (+2 persons team), contact our sales person for customized date and special group based discounted cost

COST INCLUDES

Peak Climbing Permit
Conservation/National park fees and all govt. taxes
All internal flight cost with airport departure tax
4 (four) nights 3 star hotel accommodation on twin sharing BB basis
All airport/hotel/airport transfers by private vehicles
Climbing Sherpa Guide on 1:3 ratios
Climbing Sherpa’s wages, climbing bonus & allowances etc
Required number of porters
Light camping equipment with high altitude tent
EPI gases with stove for high camp cooking purpose
All meals quality and hygienic (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
All drinks (tea, coffee, hot chocolate, treated drinking water)
High attitude individual packed food for climbing period
All necessary climbing hardware gears including climbing ropes
Group first aid kit with Oxygen set
Insurance of all local team members
Equipment for porters
Half day guided city tours
Group celebration dinner

COST EXCLUDES

Medical/personal high risk insurance, (must cover emergency evacuation cost)
International departure taxes
Personal trek& climbing gears
Personal Climbing Sherpa
Major meals in Kathmandu
Cost of personal expenses i.e. telephone calls, laundry, Toiletry items etc.
Bottle water, boiled water, soft drinks, beers
Tips to the local staff

Fitness

Most of our trekking peaks are over 6,000m; therefore we count it as tough trip. Your tough level of fitness is really important for this trek. So we strongly suggest preparing yourself in good physical fitness level. You do not need to be an athlete but a good level of overall fitness is important. Being fit will certainly improve your chances of reaching your chosen summit.As an indication, you should be able to walk 8 km / 5 miles with a maximum height gain of 800m / 2,000ft with a 10kg rucksack in 5 hours or less.

In order to get ready for this challenge, you need to be trained at least for about 4 to 6 months to prepare yourself as strong candidate. You can go to fitness center every morning for about 2 hours, do hiking every weekend with increasing weights on your pack (i.e. 7kg, 10kg, 13 kg, 16kg and up to 20kg).Manage some time for cycling for couple of hours for 3 or 4 times a week. However during climbing, there might be little symptoms of altitude illness like mild headache, fatigue etc. but take it as normal and just drink a lot of water (4 – 5 liters) every day. On this trek, youneed to be able to hike 6 – 10 hours over hilly terrain up to 6,000m of altitude with daypack.

Experience Required

All of our trekking peaks climbing trips are accessible to experienced trekkers and those who have done some climbing trips in European mountains in order to take another challenge on the Himalaya's Mountains. This trip will be helpful if you want to gain some knowledge about the mountaineering and have future plan to climb BIG Mountains.

If you have any previous mountaineering experiences and well knowledge about playing with mountaineering gears, good with rock climbing and ice climbingwill increase the chances of reaching to thesummit but previous trekking and mountaineering experiences is not mandatory and also doesn’t require any technical experience. Note that if you are participating on one of the technical climbing peak then you must have well knowledge aboutplaying with mountaineering climbing gears (i.e. crampon with boot, Ice axe, harness, ropes, jumars, prussiks, abseiling, moving past knots, anchor etc.).Crampons are use for maximum grip and harness and ropes are use for maximum safety during climbing. But for those who have no mountaineering experience and skill but have gottough level of fitness, you will be have basic training session by our guides about how to use the climbing gears during rest/acclimatization day.So we always make it sure regarding the safety of the team and successful climb of the peak.