Chulu West Peak Climbing

Overview

Chulu West Peak Climbing is an exciting adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal. At an elevation of 6,419 meters (21,060 feet), Chulu West is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal listed under NMA Trekking Peaks. It is an opportunity to combine Annapurna Trekking along with an adrenaline expedition experience. The climb up to Chulu West Summit offers an excellent opportunity for climbers to experience high-altitude climbing without being too technical.

Being in the popular Annapurna Trekking region, the trekkers will get to enjoy stunning views of some of the world’s highest mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu along the trail. Thus, walking across various landscapes and the excitement of peak climbing are combined in Chulu West Peak Climbing. Chulu West is a great option whether you are an experienced climber or someone eager to venture into high-altitude climbing for the first time.

The Chulu West Peak Climbing program incorporates the paths of the world-famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. Therefore, since the routes adjoins the Annapurna Conservation Area, climbers are required to have Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) along with Chulu West Peak climbing permit for the expedition. The peak climbing permit has to be issued by Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) with a registered trekking and expedition operator like Nepal Mountain Guide. Whereas, it is the same with the ACAP permit, which is issued by NTNC.

The trek begins with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to the lovely town of Besisahar, which signifies the start of our ascent into the Annapurna region. After leaving Besisahar, we will hike through enchanting villages, verdant valleys, and terraced farmlands until we arrive at the Chulu West Base Camp, which is situated at an elevation of about 4,900 meters (16,076 feet).

As we ascend higher up to the Chulu West Base Camp, even though it is not so technical ascent, the landscape changes dramatically along with the altitude. Therefore, proper acclimatization is essential for a safe and sound journey. When we reach the base camp, the lush greenery in the lower part of this trek is replaced by alpine forests, and the villages become sparser. This is when we begin to feel the true remoteness of the Himalayas. The trail takes you through Manang, a beautiful town located at an altitude of 3,519 meters (11,545 feet) and one of the major highlights of the Annapurna Circuit. Manang is a great place to acclimatize, as the altitude starts to become more challenging from here. We can also hike to nearby viewpoints and monasteries for more exposure to the altitude along with deeper insight into the landscapes and nature.

We will be training here for our ascent at the Chulu West Base Camp before to attempting to climb the Chulu West Peak. The climbing leaders will also instruct you on how to utilize various tools that will be needed for the ascent, like an ice axe, crampons, ropes, and other items. Make sure you check your equipment again to make sure there are no defects causing you trouble. The climbing leader may also take you higher from Base Camp for the training. Return to the tent and relax properly after getting ready for the summit. From here, we will start your ascent to the higher camp, typically set at 5,500 meters (18,044 feet). The terrain becomes more challenging as we ascend, with rocky paths and steep slopes.

The final push to the summit is both exciting and demanding. The climb itself is not overly technical, but it requires basic mountaineering skills such as using crampons, ice axes, and ropes. Reaching the summit of Chulu West is a moment of pure joy and achievement. Climbers are rewarded with breath-taking vistas of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges from the Chulu West Summit. One will always remember the sensation of being encircled by majestic mountains while standing on a peak in the Himalayas. As we need to start ascending towards the summit early before dawn, by the time the sun is up, we will be nearing the summit. Therefore, the vistas while we reach the summit are beyond explanation with the rays of the sun striking through gigantic peaks.

After reaching the summit and having our moment with photographs and all, the descent begins. While it may feel easier going down, it’s important to remain cautious and stay focused. The descent to base camp and then back to the Annapurna Circuit Trail can still be physically demanding, especially after the exhaustion of the climb. But with the sense of achievement and the memories that are going to last forever, the descent and the journey back to Kathmandu is a pure sense of bliss. Following a successful summit attempt, we continue on the well-traveled Annapurna Circuit path, passing over the well-known Thorong La Pass and the holy site of Muktinath before arriving in Jomsom. We fly to Pokhara from Jomsom and take a bus to Kathmandu from there. However, the Chulu West itinerary can be tweaked as per the specifications and requirements of the climber as well.

The best time to climb Chulu West is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most stable weather conditions, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. In the spring, the trail is adorned with blooming rhododendrons, making the trek even more picturesque. Autumn, on the other hand, offers crystal-clear views of the mountains, with less risk of rain or snow.

However, those who are experienced with mountains and prefer quieter trails can even go for the Chulu West expedition in Winter (December to February). But it is important to consider that the temperatures can be extremely cold, especially at higher altitudes. It is not recommended to climb Chulu West Peak during Monsoon time because the trails will be slippery and increase the risk of landslides and other natural calamities due to extreme rainfall.

Climbing Chulu West Peak is an exciting but difficult adventure, so you need to be in fairly good shape. It’s not very technical, but you will be walking a lot, climbing steep paths, and adjusting to high-altitude conditions. It is important to train for the climb by building your endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Remember that mental readiness is just as important as physical fitness. Climbing to high altitudes can be mentally taxing, particularly if you’re exhausted or experiencing altitude sickness. Through perseverance, positivity, and concentration, you can overcome these obstacles and reach your objective. If you are planning to climb the Chulu West Peak with a successful and remarkable experience, our veteran trekking guide and climbing Sherpa at Nepal Mountain Guide will be your best companion. Get in touch with us today for further information and planning this adrenaline experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

Itinerary