Chulu West Peak Climbing - 16 Days

On the first day of Chulu West Peak Climbing, we will leave Kathmandu and begin a journey toward Nagdi, one of those pretty little villages at an elevation of 1,100 meters. The road composes a very fine symphony of terraced rice fields, green forests, and traditional villages, actually showing a glimpse into the rich rural landscape of Nepal. Through these winding roads, the views of the Himalayas appear in the distance and help set the stage for an inspiring adventure ahead.

Nagdi is a small village located right next door to the Marsyangdi River. This is where we settle in at one local tea house. The very calm environmental setting and the soft murmur of the river give this part of traveling the feel of a good retreat after a long day’s journey. Overnight stay at a tea house in Ngadi.

Our trek is initiated by a pathway that starts at Nagdi to reach Chamje, an elevation of 1,410 meters. This creates an inclined ascend encompassing lush forests, waterfalls, and terraced fields that shine through the natural beauty of the area. Emerging along the trail takes tough turns with stone steps and the addition of suspension bridges to make the excursion adventurous, by the way.

Chamje, with the traditional stone houses of its inhabitants, bursts in our senses after thundering down a colossal cliff, accompanied by the sound of the Marsyangdi River forever flowing down below. A village serving as the gateway to the Manang district, Chamje has sweeping views of hills and waterfalls. The late afternoons in Chamje are quiet, with just enough time to rest before the great adventures awaiting the days to come.

Today, we will depart from Chamje and continue our climb to Dharapani, which is located at an elevation of 1960m. This is through a trail of rhododendrons and pine forests with numerous swinging bridges built over the Marsyangdi River. The views change with the distance ahead, and greening vegetation shows a gradual increase with the height, where more and more snow-capped peaks are reflected in the glance. 

Dharapani mostly comprises very large communities in the Manang Valley, representing a junction for the trekker from all the routes. Further, this village is characterized by its architecture, reminiscent of Tibetan-influenced buildings with chortens and prayer wheels surrounding paths. This makes it a stopover for many trekkers in their journey.

On the fourth day of the Chulu West Peak Climbing, we start our hike early in the morning from Dharapani. The scenery changes as we march on this trek from Dharapani to Chame, which lies at an altitude of 2,710 meters. The thick pine forests of the trail carved into a cliff crawling above the river below. On the way, find hot springs for sore muscles and open views.

Chame, the administrative seat in Manang, is a lively village at the junction of tradition and modernization throughout Nepal. The magnificent views of the prestigious peaks of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II will greet you. Above all, this valley has very good infrastructure for trekking, making it possible for a pleasant night’s stay within the alpine scenery.

Today, we will climb even higher and approach Pisang, and by the time we reach that point, we are at an altitude of 3,300 meters. The variety of terrains offered on this trail runs from very dense forest to wide meadows. It then opens up as we near Pisang, unveiling the wide U-shaped valley of Manang and the rather stunning Paungda Danda rock face, a hallmark of the region.

Lower and Upper Pisang, like all things, have their beauty. The place boasts Tibetan-style traditional houses, monasteries, and the view of fluttering prayer flags all around and is extremely quiet and truly beautiful for the eyes. Alone at Pisang, the sight of Annapurna II and IV is a treasure trove for the eye. Overnight stay at a local tea house in Pisang.

From Pisang to Manang, we will reach 3,519 meters, offering two routes: the lower and simpler one and a higher and more challenging one through Ghyaru and Ngawal. Those taking the upper route would find it rewarding for the breathtaking panorama of the Annapurna massif and a refreshing experience of traditional villages that seem untouched by modernity. 

Manang is a major stop in the Annapurna Circuit, where some animated villages imbibes cultural heritage and bustle around towering peaks, namely Gangapurna and Annapurna III. The most interesting attractions available for trekkers to hike in the village include its monasteries, cultural museums, and glacial Gangapurna Lake. These could be among the attractions to visit that might offer enlightenment to their ways and the region’s natural beauty.

Today’s day is set for acclimatization at Manang. This day of rest will go a long way in preventing mountain sickness and preparing one’s journey for the days ahead. We will spend the day exploring the village, visiting the Himalayan Rescue Association or, for those really keen on trekking, hiking off to viewpoints like Praken Gompa or the Gangapurna Glacier. 

These excursions give some wonderful views of the Annapurna range and insight into the local Buddhist culture. The warm welcoming by the Manangi people deepens the experience with their traditions and lifestyles they intend to carry around.

On the eighth day of the Chulu West Peak Climbing, we will hike from Manang to Yak Kharka. The gradual uphill hike manifests that the air is getting thinner and the vegetation sparser, indicating the height of our climbing around Yak Kharka. The gives you stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Chulu West and Chulu East. 

Scattered along the track are the small tea houses and prayer flags, all contributing to a cool environment in which to sit or lie back and reflect. Arriving at Yak Kharka brings with it some isolation time, taking in the scenic vistas and getting adjusted to the high altitude. Overnight stay at a tea house in Yak Kharka.

Today’s journey starts with a flat climb through alpine meadows and rough terrain. As we ascend, the trail becomes more difficult, involving steep sections and rocky trails leading up to the base camp, where at an altitude of about 4,900 meters, the views are spectacular, encompassing the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Here, we set up camp, preparing ourselves for the summit attempt – a briefing on climbing techniques and safety protocols. These are very serene surroundings dominated by snow-covered peaks and crisp mountain air.

From base camp, we make our way to high camp, established at an elevation of about 5,600 meters. The way isn’t so easy because the trail is steep, with icy slopes and loose scree, requiring careful footing and climbing equipment. Thus, you require technical climbing skills like using crampons and ice axes. As you climb further high, the air gets thinner, and so does the adventure. High camp provides a nearer view of the summit and its surrounding giants.

After camping, we will have to acclimatize for the final challenge of summiting the next day. Tonight, we will stay at a tented camp, preparing for the summit.

On the eleventh day of the Chulu West Peak Climbing, we will finally conquer Chulu West Peak and make our dream come true. Summit day usually begins early, sometimes even before dawn, so that all can take full advantage of the most favorable weather conditions. Ropes and crampons are technical equipment used to climb the final severe, icy slopes towards the summit. 

A very hard but rewarding stretch leads to the summit, from where we can get a panoramic view of the Annapurna range, including parts of Annapurna I, II, Gangapurna, and even more distant remote peaks of Tibet. After exploring and sightseeing, we will descend back down towards the base camp. This long day tests, at times, both mental and physical endurance; the flavor of its achievement remains truly memorable.

Today, we will hike to Thorong Phedi at 5,416 meters above sea level from the base camp. On the descent from base camp, the trail meanders towards Thorong La Phedi, which consists of a few settlements at the foot of the Thorong La Pass itself. From the base, the trail involves passing through rugged terrain, glacial streams, and moraine valleys while being accompanied by inspiring mountain vistas.

Located at the foot of one of the highest trekking passes in the world, Thorong La Phedi has basic amenities and the opportunity to recharge for the crossing of the Thorong La Pass the next day. The atmosphere is lovely, in which we share trekking and climbing stories with each other.

The walkthrough Thorong La Pass marks Trek to Muktinath from Thorong Phedi. The journey gets off super early to reach the height of the pass (5,416 m) for prayer flags winding in the cool breeze against a backdrop of the simultaneously illustrious Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

As we descend to Muktinath, the landscape changes from frozen trails to those likened to an arid-dry desert. Muktinath is a sacred shrine of even Hindus and Buddhists, with 108 water spouts and an eternal flame. The spiritual aura offered by the temple complex provides a perfect ending to the day’s trek. Overnight stay at a local tea house in Muktinath.

On the fourteenth day of the Chulu West Peak Climbing, we will hike from Muktinath to Jomsom. The trail is full of beautiful villages and settlements, taking you through Kagbeni, the charming little settlement full of traditional houses and a few monasteries. It is an amazing place to enjoy the picturesque valley of Kali Gandaki River, trapped in between two beautiful higher peaks of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.

The bustling town of Jomsom acts as a gateway to the Mustang region. Jomsom, with its modern facilities and the best possible place for the celebration of success after the trek, is now the waiting place for final relaxation.

The Chulu West Peak Climbing is already complete now, and it’s time to return. So today, we will board a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. The short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara gives a good bird’s eye view of the entire range of the Annapurnas with Dhaulagiri. We can appreciate the distance traveled on glaciers, rivers, and valleys that are nothing less than the imagination.

Pokhara is the city of lakes, which is the major tourist hub in Nepal. We can explore Phewa Lake and go boating, visit local markets, or reflect on their adventures in the soothing atmosphere of this vibrant city. After exploring this vibrant city, we will stay overnight at a hotel.

On the sixteenth day of the Chulu West Peak Climbing, we will finally head back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. The journey winds up with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu through the hills, rivers and terraced landscapes.

In the capital, you can shop for souvenirs or reward yourself with relaxation on a successful trip to Chulu West Peak. Mountain Treks Nepal will organize a farewell dinner that gives you the best experiences of Nepali cuisine. In the evening, you can explore the lifestyle of Thamel and hop into cafes and bars. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.