Chulu West
Photo Credit: “Chulu West, prayer flags (4521534960)” by Greg Willis from Denver, CO, USA
Expedition Details
Altitude: 6,419m
Location: Nepal
Estimated Price: $3,500+ Permit costs vary by season*
Number of days: ~16-22
Season:
The peak seasons for climbing Chulu West Peak are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November), offering stable weather, clear skies, and best views with moderate temperatures, though winter (Dec-Feb) is also possible for experienced climbers seeking fewer crowds and crisp views.
A Chulu West Peak climbing itinerary involves driving from Kathmandu to the trek start point, hiking through the Annapurna region to Manang for acclimatization, trekking to Chulu West Base Camp, then ascending to the High Camp and the summit. The descent involves returning to Base Camp, crossing Thorong La Pass to Muktinath, and then traveling to Jomsom for a flight to Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu. Most itineraries are around 16-22 days, but they can be customized.
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Arrive in Kathmandu, check into your hotel, and have a briefing and preparation day.
Day 3:Drive to Jagat/Syange: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat or Syange, the start of the trek, which is about a 7-8 hour journey.
Day 4: Trek to Dharapani: Begin your trek, passing through forests and suspension bridges to reach Dharapani.
Day 5: Trek to Chame: Trek through the valleys and forests, enjoying views of Manaslu and Annapurna ranges to reach Chame.
Day 6: Trek to Pisang: The trail continues through pine and fir forests to reach the village of Pisang.
Day 7: Trek to Manang: Trek to Manang, a beautiful valley with stunning mountain views.
Day 8: Acclimatization in Manang: A rest and acclimatization day to adjust to the altitude; you can do a day hike to a nearby lake.
Day 9: Trek to Yak Kharka/Leder: Trek to Yak Kharka (or Leder), a higher altitude pasture.
Day 10: Trek to Chulu West Base Camp: Trek to the Chulu West Base Camp (around 4,900m).
Day 11: Climb to High Camp: Ascend to the high camp (around 5,500m) for further acclimatization and preparation for the summit push.
Day 12:
Summit Day:
The main day involves climbing to the summit of Chulu West Peak (6,419m) and descending back to Base Camp.
Day 13: Trek to Thorong Phedi: Descend from Base Camp to Thorong Phedi, the base of the Thorong La Pass.
Day 14: Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath: Cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and descend to the holy site of Muktinath.
Day 15: Trek to Jomsom: Trek to Jomsom, enjoying views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
Day 16: Fly to Pokhara:Take a scenic morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
Day 17: Drive to Kathmandu: Drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu.
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu: Depart from the international airport.