Chulu East Peak Climbing
Trip Overview
Overview
Chulu East Peak is a popular climbing destination located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Rising to an elevation of 6,584 meters (21,601 feet). It also offers a thrilling and challenging adventure for mountaineers seeking to test their skills and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. The journey to Chulu East Peak begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to the city of Pokhara, followed by a drive to the village of Chame, the starting point of the trek. From here, trekkers also embark on a multi-day trek through breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, and picturesque villages, all while surrounded by towering peaks. As the trek progresses, the altitude gradually increases, and acclimatization stops are crucial to ensure the climbers' safety and well-being. The route takes climbers through Manang Valley, where they have the opportunity to explore the unique Tibetan-influenced culture and visit ancient monasteries. The spectacular views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and other peaks further add to the allure of the journey. Reaching the base camp of Chulu East Peak marks the commencement of the technical climbing section. Climbers will need to be equipped with proper mountaineering gear and have the necessary skills to navigate steep ice and rock faces. The ascent requires careful planning, teamwork, and physical endurance. However, the rewarding feeling of standing on the summit, surrounded by panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, makes every effort worthwhile. The descent follows a similar route, allowing climbers to reflect on their achievement and soak in the natural beauty of the region. Upon returning to Chame, trekkers can take a jeep back to Pokhara or continue their journey on foot for a more immersive experience.Conclusion and Summary
Chulu East Peak climbing trip is not only an exhilarating adventure but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage of the region. The warmth and hospitality of the local people, coupled with the pristine landscapes, make this expedition an unforgettable experience for all who undertake it.Trip Highlight
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kathmandu, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, and/or Boudhanath.
- Scenic Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
- Magnificent lakes, glaciers, gorges, and waterfalls
- Traverse through the world’s most extensive pass – the Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
- Explore Tilicho Lake (4,949m) – one of the highest lakes in the world
- Blue sheep at Yak Kharka
- Unpopular and off the beaten track trails
- Drive through the wonderful Marsyangdi Valley with views of hills, waterfalls along the swift-flowing Marsyangdi river
- Visit Muktinath – a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists
- Barge Monastery – the largest monastery in the Manang district
- Spinning wheels and watching mani walls
- View yak pastures and other meadows
- Spectacular and majestic views of the Himalayas.
- Exploring old monasteries and remote villages for cultural exchange
- Encountering some of the wild animals while traveling through the forest
- Spend a day in Pokhara, the most happening city in Nepal
- Stay at the stunningly beautiful Jomsom, the headquarter town of the Mustang District.
- Scenic Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Perfect mix of Climbing as well as Trekking as it includes the classic Annapurna Circuit Trekking
- One of the highest trekking peaks in Nepal permitted by Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA)
- accompanied by our experienced Sherpa climbing guides
- An excellent peak to confirm alpine skills
- Panoramic Views of Annapurna II, III and IV, Gangapurna, Glacier Dome, Thorung Peak, Chulu West, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak and Manaslu from Chulu East Summit
Itinerary
Upon arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be treated to the mesmerizing views of high-standing mountains surrounding hills and the Kathmandu valley. After completing your customs and formalities at the airport, head to the terminal, where our representatives will greet you at Friendship World Trek. They will transfer you to your hotel or homestay based in Kapan/ Thamel, situated 5 km away from the airport.
After taking some rest at your homestay/ hotel, you can visit our office which is nearby. In the evening, enjoy the lively streets of Kapan/ Thamel and enter the different shops, cafes, and pubs. Devour the authentic Nepali dishes offered to you in the welcome dinner.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
After having breakfast, as suggested by your guide, you will head out to complete all the necessary documentation for the tour. We will collect our Chulu East Peak climbing permit from the respective authorized office. Also, as it is a climbing trip, you would require warm clothes and adequate trekking gear to carry along. Hence, you can visit a nearby trekking store to hire or purchase the necessary equipment on this day.
Later in the day, we will drive to the nearest landmarks listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square located in Basantapur/ Freakstreet. Explore its courtyards, temples, Hanuman Dhoka Museum, and status of high historical and cultural significance. From thereon, visit the Swayambhunath Stupa located in the city’s western outskirts, from where a panoramic view of the city can be seen. Alternatively, you can visit Boudhanath stupa, one of the largest stupas in Nepal located on the northeastern end of the city. Pashupatinath Temple is another site worth high significance for being one of the most renowned Hindu temples worldwide.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Today, we will start by early drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The road leads us West following the Trisuli River, then branches off the Pokhara highway, going North alongside the Marshyangdi River. Normally, we arrive at Besisahar in the early afternoon and then we will take a private jeep to reach Dharapani. We will follow the Marshyangdi Valley all day.
An uphill journey takes us to the village of Chame known for its hospitality and spectacular views. This will be your first chance to take in panoramic views of Annapurna II, III and Lamjung Himal.
From Chame to altitude over 3000 meters, you will notice the surrounding changing as natural trees and plants become more scarce as the terrain begins to shift to a drier more desert like environment.
We start early in the morning and walk for 3 hours to get a stunning view from the Ghyaru Village. After spending a hour there, we will continue our journey to Ngawal and stay overnight in tea house of Ngawal.
This is an ideal place to stop and spend the day around Ngawal for many reasons. First, we want to acclimatize to the altitude and to conserve our energy to succeed in our Mini Annapurna Trek endeavor. Second, this is the part of the trek where we are closest to the mountains. Most people climb the hill behind Ngawal to enjoy the magnificent views of the whole Annapurna range and the enormous ice fall that crashes and rumbles down from Gangapurna. The sunset and sunrise over this natural amphitheater is one of the most beautiful mountain views in the country.
The trail moves across the Cheggi Khola River before gradual rising to a peaceful apple field known for its stone huts and scenic vantage points. Continue past a powerful waterfall fed from a tall cliff in the distance before arriving in a small meadow used to feed local goats and yaks. Finally, we arrive in Yak Kharka where we will make camp near a stunning ridge offering views of the powerful mountains looming over the valley.
After enjoying a refreshing morning sunrise view, we continue along the winding trail before the meadow encountering a large rock formation. We will camp near a stunning viewpoint offering views of the Annapurna giants towering over the clouds.
Today, we will spend a day here to acclimatize and to prepare for the upcoming day tomorrow. We will make arrangement check our gear and will be given a demonstration of the do’s and don’ts. We will make small treks around the base camp with Annapurna massifs towering in the background. We will also be taking short hikes around the area to adjust better to the Himalayan atmosphere. Overnight at tented camp in Chulu East Base Camp
After collecting and organizing our gear we will reach the further higher ground and get to witness a change in the terrain. This trek is a steep one and much caution is advised. We will set our camp at a place which allows us easy access to our climb tomorrow. The sunset is going to be one of the most mesmerizing ones in the journey as the sun slowly disappears beyond the magnificent Himalayan ranges. Overnight at tented camp in High Camp
After packing and arranging our equipment, we move along the trail admiring the rapidly changing landscape as we reach to higher elevations. We then continue along a steep trail leading to the strategic camp I location that will allow the best access to the peak. We will set up camp here and enjoy a timeless panoramic sunset as the mountains reflect the pinkish sunlight over the mountains.
Today is the summit day and we begin the journey as early as possible while the sky is still full of stars. We will be walking on trails that open up to a snowy ridge. We will get a panoramic view of the Himalayas including Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri (8167m), Hiunchuli (6441m) and the Manang valley on the grounds below. Getting to this point is truly rewarding after the strenuous journey that we have made. After the successful summit, we will have some time to take some beautiful photographs and make our way down to the base camp. Overnight at tented camp in Base Camp.
Since we cannot guarantee favorable weather for the scheduled summit day, we have allowed an extra day in the schedule. If we are unable to summit the Chulu West Peak on scheduled date due to bad weather or some other reason, such as someone in the group having acclimatization problems, the reserve day will be useful.
We will return to the orginal path leading to Manang passing through several agricultural fields taking time to stop at the Braga Monastery to see the daily routines of the local monks. The monastery is famous for its timeless views of the Annapurna region and we will stop to enjoy the spiritual mountain scene.
With the trek lasting more than 7 hours, it’s going to be a long and stressful day on the trail to Siri Kharka. Thus, we fill the stomach with a plateful of yum foods and start hiking the dramatic trail up to Khangsar. The elongated trail demands a lot of physical strength when continuously slopes upwards.
After coming across the Khangsar Khola, we’ll head towards the village to Shree Kharka. Once we end up in the village, there’s a little sightseeing to be done, watch blue sheep, and interact with locals.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Maximum Altitude: 4060 meters
Trek Distance: 10.5 km
Trek Duration: 7-8 hrs
Trek to Tilicho Base Camp is slightly easier than what we experienced with Siri Kharka. So
chill out and enjoy the sublime view of mountains until you are not finished doing breakfast. From there, we’ll descend the hill over a narrow trail that moves through areas prone to landslides.
Hence, move carefully while embarking on the trail and watch out every step. We’ll also come across ice lakes and glaciers while leading towards Tilicho Lake. While this is fun watching, walking the trail is extremely difficult and bugging.
Passing through the wild forest, we’ll have a high chance to spot wild animals and birds. Eventually, after trekking proper 6 hours, we’ll reach Tilicho Base Camp which is also our dwelling for the night.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Maximum Altitude: 4200 meters
Trek Distance: 7.2 km
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs
Morning hours are perfect to witness the impeccable beauty of Tilicho Lake so wake up an hour early to live the heart-warming moment. Shortly thereafter, we’ll have breakfast and start making our way through ice sheets and snowy trails.
There’s a strong wind in the evening at Tilicho Lake. Therefore, to avoid the cold we’ll complete the trail as fast as possible. Upon reaching the spot, you can enjoy the peculiar lake and its surrounding nature.
Seasonal changes don’t harm the lake’s beauty. It’s circled by high mountains which constantly supply fresh water to the lake. After exploring the series of mountains and clear blue water, we’ll get back to the trail and walk steadily. The night is to be spent at the tented camp.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Maximum Altitude: 4919 meters
Trek Distance: 10 km
Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs
After having a real good time at Tilicho Lake, we shall be heading towards the trail right off. We’ll climb down the puffy route covered with snow and cross the Mesokanta La pass at 5120 meters. Walking the pass involves lots of technical climbing so pay attention while traveling the route.
From there, we’ll follow the trail 400 meters above Khangsar village and come across the ruins. Subsequently, we’ll lead an unmarked route that walks on a wooden bridge over the Thorung Khola river. Arriving in Yak Kharka after a 7 hours trek, we’ll get some warm tea and spend the spare time touring villages. Overnight stay at the village in a local lodge.
Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Maximum Altitude: 5120 meters
Trek Distance: 10 km
Trek Duration: 6-7 hrs
Today we head to the foot of Thorong La pass, Thorong Phedi. From Yak Kharka, we will climb up to a ridge, then head down and cross the Marsyangdi river on a wooden bridge. After climbing up the mountain, we follow a narrow trail across a slope and descend to Thorung Phedi. The uninhabited, rugged terrain is otherworldly and much different than the lush lowlands that we passed on the way up during the initial phase of the trek.
- Overnight stay at Thorong High Camp Hotel
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
This day will be remarkable as we will trek from Thorong Phedi (4,525m/14,525ft) to Muktinath Temple (3,760m/12,623ft) via Thorung La high pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft). It is also one of the most challenging parts of the trek as Thorong La Pass is one of the highest passes in the world, and it is the highest point of the trek.
We start early in the morning and push ourselves through the icy air and high altitude, but the views from the pass are totally worth it. Northwards, towards Tibet, we will see a panorama of majestic Himalayan peaks, and if you look back, you will see the Annapurna range.
We then descend to Muktinath – a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists. The Buddhists call Muktinath – Chumig Gyatsa, which in Tibetan means Hundred Waters. Muktinath Temple is known for 108 stone sprouts with water flowing from the Kaligandaki. You can also see the eternal flame that has been burning there for more than 2,000 years.
- Overnight stay at Hotel Town House Muktinath (room with attached bathroom)
- Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
We will head down the Kali Gandaki Gorge past the town of Kagbeni before arriving in Jomson. We will stay here for the night to learn more about the local culture and customs of the Tibetan people while exploring this peaceful town.
We’ll literally come out of Manang district today and take a scenic flight to Pokhara. Waking up feeling rested we’ll get our backpack ready and start heading towards the airstrip in Jomsom. Flight to Pokhara usually lasts 20 to 25 minutes throughout which we get to watch the series of mountains and waterfalls.
After taking down the city, we’ll set off on a lakeside tour, visit Barahi Temple, and a few other adventurous places. Fewa lake makes the perfect spot to watch the sunset and Mt. Machhapuchhre so we’ll stay at the lake till late evening. We’ll be back at the hotel before dinner and take a peaceful sleep.
Meals: Breakfast
Maximum Altitude: 1400 meters
Flight Distance: 67 km
Flight Duration: 20 minutes
Early in the morning, we depart from Pokhara Tourist Bus Station to travel back to Kathmandu. If you are interested in continuing on to Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting adventure or any other tours you can start today.
Option: We have not included the airfare of Pokhara – Kathmandu (USD $120 Per Person). The exciting half hour flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu gives you the feeling of a mountain flight, high in the Himalaya where you can see the Langtang, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. If you chose to travel to Kathmandu by flight, we provide free Airport Drop and Pick up. You need to book this flight before start the trek.
It’s your last day at Kathmandu city and as per the flight’s time, our officials will drop you at the airport. If required, they’ll help you with the security and even stay there until the flight takes off.
Meals: Breakfast
Departures & Availability
The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.
Check Available Dates
| Start Date | Price | Availability |
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All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.
Price include
- Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace or Coaster in a private vehicle.
- Full-day Kathmandu Valley sightseeing with a tour guide, on private transport, including entrance fees to world heritage sites
- Authentic Nepali welcome dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu, Two nights on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
- Accommodation in Pokhara, One night on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
- Accommodation during Trek ; local lodges 9 nights (twin-share rooms ,beds with comfortable foam mattress and pillows)
- Accommodation during Camping ; 5/6 nights full camping services
- All standard meals(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trekking
- English speaking experienced Sherpa guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder).
- All Camping Equipment required during the trek, sleeping tents/mattresses, kitchen tent, kitchen equipment
- All required Personal and Group Climbing gears
- Climbing rope, Ice screws, Snow bars
- Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
- Water Purification Tablet for Drinking Water
- Souvenir – a company’s T-shirt & cap
- Friendship World Trek trek achievement certificate after the trek
- Farewell dinner at Kathmandu at the end of the trek
- Trekking cook, kitchen staff, Trek Sherpa and other support staff while on Chulu East peak climbing
- One Sherpa guide-assistant if group size is more than 4 Trekkers.
- Porters: One porter for Two trekker basis.
- Trek Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
- Personal insurance for Nepalese staff.
- Company’s Duffle bag for Trekking.
- Energy Supplies; Snickers, Mars, Bounty etc.
- Garbage fees / a comprehensive medical kit
- Climbing permits (Please bring 6 passport size photos each for permits)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Fee.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Rescue operation arrangements in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance).
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
- All required permits or Official Documentation.
- All ground transfers, Bus, jeep and Tourist Bus
- Airfare Jomsom – Pokhara guests and guide
- All government and local taxes.
Price Excludes
- Your Personal Travel Insurance.
- Nepal Entry Visa Fee.
- Lunch & Dinner in cities – allow $ 10 to 14 for per meal in Tourist restaurants.
- Beverages (drinks, mineral water,boiled water and beer).
- Tips for guide, porters and driver (customary).
- Any personal expenses not mentioned in above services.
- Extra night accommodation, meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival or late departure, and early return from the trek.
- Personal Climbing Gears: Mountaineering Boots, Crampons, Harness, Ice Axe, 2 x Tape slings, 2 x Screwgate Karabiners, Descender / Abseil, Device (Jumar), Prussic Loops, Helmet
- Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory
- Tips for guide and porters
- Additional costs or (due to) delays caused by circumstances beyond our control, like landslides, bad weather, itinerary modifications for safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc
- All the costs and expenses not listed in “What is included?” are counted as excludes
Gears And Equipment
Trip Information
The climb usually takes around 20 to 23 days to complete, including acclimatization days and training days. Climbing Chulu East requires a permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), and climbers are required to hire a licensed climbing guide.
The cost of Chulu East Peak Climbing can vary depending on the duration of the climb, the mode of transportation, the type of accommodation, and the services included in the package. Generally, the cost can range from $3,500 to $5,500 USD per person for a 20 to 25-day climb, which includes the cost of permits, transportation, accommodation, food, climbing gear, and the services of a climbing guide and porter.
It is recommended to book the climb with a reputable trekking agency that provides experienced climbing guides and proper climbing equipment to ensure a safe and successful climb. The best time to climb Chulu East is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is clear and stable.
Chulu East Peak Climbing Packing List:
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” Alfred Wainwright
Are you planning your dream trip to the Himalaya of Nepal? Make sure you have packed well for your hiking, trekking and climbing experiences in Nepal. The time period of your visit also determines your packing list. The best trekking seasons for beginning your Chulu East Peak Climbing are spring and autumn. During these seasons, maximum flow of trekkers can be witnessed. Weather during spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) are likely to be mild with clear blue sky and outstanding mountain views. But nights can get freezing cold at higher elevation. So, packing appropriate clothing, gear, and equipments for your Chulu East Peak Expedition is a must for lifetime memorable trekking and climbing experience in Annapurna region of Nepal.
A strategically way of packing will be keeping in mind that your stuffs will be packed in two bags. One will be the daypack that you carry every day on your trek. Pack your daypack as light as possible by carrying only the essentials so that you can relish your moments in wilderness freely. Pack anything you may need each day during your hike in your daypack. Other bag will be your duffle bag which will be carried by your Porter from the very beginning of your trek till the end.
Upper Body:
- Warm beanie hat
- Tubular Headwear (buff)
- Sun Hat or Cap (cap and buff all fit under your hood)
- Polarized Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlamp (Black Diamond / Petzl) with spare batteries
- Sunscreen with factor 50+
- Upper Body (Core body):
- 3 Light and trekking weight thermal tops
- 3 T-shirts or cool-max trekking shirts
- 1 Fleece Jacket or pull over (Merino, soft shell)
- 1 Waterproof shell jacket with hood (lightweight, breathable)
- 1 Down Jacket
Lower Body:
- 2 Thermal base layers (merino or polartec power dry)
- 2 Pairs trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts.
- 1 Heavy weight hiking trousers (wind proof soft shell for warmth at higher altitude)
- 1 Waterproof/ Rain pants
- 2 Light Hiking shorts
- 2 Fleece Pants
- 4 Under wears (merino)
Hands:
- 1 Lightweight gloves or liner gloves
- 1 Pair shell gloves (Gore-Tex)
- 1 Waterproof outer glove
Feet:
- 3 Warm Trekking socks (smart wool)
- 3 Pairs of liner socks
- 2 Pairs of thick/ warm socks
- 2 Thick wool socks to wear at night in lodges
- Trekking Boots (waterproof, ankle support with rigid sole)
- Lightweight Rubber Shoes / Trainers / Trail Runner to wear at the Tea Houses
Accessories:
- 1 Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches) 40 – 50 Liters
- 2 Water bottle or camel bag, 1-liter (one with an insulated cover is recommended)
- Large duffle bag (and a lock as the porters will carry this)
- A pair of adjustable Trekking Pole
- Camera with extra battery
- Sleeping bag (- 15 C depending upon trips)
- Sleeping Bag liner
- Ear Plugs
- Portable Solar Charger
- Smart Trekking Watch
Personal First Aid Kit:
Please do note that our trekking guides will be too carrying the first aid kit with them especially for the guests and the entire team as a whole. Still, we suggest the following items to be carried with you while trekking in the Himalaya of Nepal.
- Personal Medication
- Diarrhea Stopper (e.g. Imodium)
- Paracetamol Tablets
- Small Swiss Army knife (which has knife, scissors and tweezers)
- Diamox for altitude (consult your doctor about this)
- Water Purification tablets or drops
- Blister kit / Zinc Tape
- Hand Sanitizer
- Dressing Gauze
- Antibiotic Cream
Chulu East Peak Climbing Route Map
Gallery
FAQS
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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
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