Overview of Chulu West Peak and Annapuna Circuit Trek
Vertex Holiday presents a unique adventure, “Chulu West Peak Expeditions and Annapurna Circuit. An adventure that suits all enthusiastic trekkers, climbers, and adventurers with ever-exciting feats. Where beginners in mountaineering can enjoy, as well as for expert mountaineers.
Chulu West Peak Expeditions and Annapurna Circuit offer exciting and delightful adventure holidays. The trek and climb to the summit of Chulu West Peak at 6,419 meters and 21,059 feet high. On reaching the Chulu West Peak summit, climbers will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The whole of Chulu ranges from west, mid, east to far Chulu peaks towards the north east, including Gangapurna Himal. As well as the Nilgiri’s and Annapurna massive mountain ranges, as far as the Thorang-La Pass.
Vertex Holiday allows climbers with ample rest days for acclimatization and preparation for the classic climb to Chulu West Peak. The climbing grade is PD + (Per Difficult with plus), the grading is from the French and Swiss Alpine Climbing Systems. From the base camp, walking on ice, snow, and glaciers, spending overnights at High Camp and Camp-I before the summit bid.
The climb is straightforward with some technical difficulties to negotiate, where all climbers should be well-equipped with good climbing gear. The company will allocate an expert and experienced mountain guide who has climbed various peaks around the Himalayas.
These great, awesome adventures begin with an exciting, long drive from Kathmandu heading due west towards the Lamjung district. From the town of Bhesishar, the journey follows the Marsyangdi River right up to its glacial source at Manang Valley. Throughout the drives, climbers will be rewarded with excellent views of Manaslu, Lamjung, and the Annapurna Himalaya range.
The drive leads through farm fields and villages of Jagat, Dharapani, and Chame town to enter the scenic Manang Valley. On entering the picturesque Manang Valley, enclosed by an array of peaks of Chulu and Pisang towards the north. Annapurna’s massive peaks stand close in the south as the drive reaches Manang Village. Exploring the Manang Village, steeped in age-old cultures and the best viewpoints. The adventure then begins heading north-west towards Chulu West Peak, leaving the main popular trail of Thorang-La Pass.
An enjoyable and scenic walk leads you to Chulu West Peak base camp from the last settlement of Ledar. The Vertex Holiday guide and camping crew will set up the tented camp, then the true adventure starts. Heading towards our main goal and highlights, with steady climbing, reaching the top of Chulu West summit. Enjoying the alluring panorama of the surroundings’ giant peaks, the adventure then leads to crossing over the high Thorang-La Pass.
Thorang-La stands at 5,416 m high, and it is also the boundary between the Manang and Mustang districts. The high pass of Thorang-La offers incredible views of Dhaulagiri, Bhrikuti, Nilgiri, and the Annapurna, with Manaslu ranges towards the east.
From here, downhill to Muktinath, revered as a holy site for the Hindu’s and Buddhist followers. Slowly, the adventure ends, reaching the Kaligandaki River Valley at Jomsom, the headquarters town of the Mustang region. The adventure then concludes with an interesting overland journey to scenic Pokhara. After an exciting experience on the Chulu West Peak Expedition and the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Detail Itinerary of Chulu West Peak and Annapuna Circuit Trek
On reaching Kathmandu, Nepal international airport, you will be received by our staff and guides for a short transfer to your hotel. Located in the hub of Kathmandu city, around the Thamel area most interesting and exciting place for all your needs and requirements. After checking into rooms and getting refreshed, join with other members of Chulu West Peak Climb for a briefing provided by our guide or leader.
Evening enjoy group dinner in a nice, authentic Nepalese restaurant with a live cultural program to entertain you with dinner.
Car 30m
Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
Meals Welcome Dinner
Altitude 1350m
A spare and free day in Kathmandu to overcome hangovers from the jet lag, an optional tour around Kathmandu at places of great interest. Kathmandu city is steeped with world heritage sites that make the whole valley an interesting place to explore, afternoon preparation for the trek and climb to Chulu West. Includes paperwork and permits for Chulu West Peak climb.
Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Altitude 1350m
Our adventure begins with an exciting drive towards Nepal Mid-West, the route leads past Bhesishar town (headquarters of Lamjung district). From Bhesishar drive continues on a dirt road past many farm villages of Khudi, Bulbule following Masrsyangdi River upstream. The drive takes you through rice terraces, fields, and villages to reach Syange, a small farm village, and with winding ups for a short while to reach a hill village at Jagat, a lovely area with views of cascading waterfalls.
After Jagat, a slow climb above the Marsyangdi River to Chamje, and back to the Marsyangdi River. Enjoy the views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges. The drive continues through a nice forest towards Tal Besi, a village in a valley. The journey carries on to Dharapani village, a nice village located at the junction of the Annapurna and Manaslu circuit routes.
After Dharapani heads through rhododendron and pine forest, passing villages of Bagarchap and Danaque, to Timang village. From here onward, amidst a strong Buddhist-cultured village, facing views of Mt. Manaslu, 8,163 m. After the Timang village drive leads to Koto and then to Chame town. Chame is a major town of the Manang area and the headquarters of the Manang district. From Chame onwards, the drive heads closer to the mountains and through cool alpine forests of rhododendron and pine trees. From Bhratang village, an uphill ride to Dukure Pokhari, a small place with few teahouses and a lodge overlooking Chulu’s and Pisang peak, with a possible lunch stop here. Finally, by the journey heads down to Pisang village, stands beneath the Pisang Peak with views of Annapurna II. Slowly, the drive enters the wide and scenic Manang Valley, enclosed by Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna, Chulu’s, and Pisang peak. The drive slowly ends, reaching Manang Village after driving past the old Braga monastery. One of the oldest monasteries adorned with Buddhist relics, ancient wall painting and frescoes. On arrival in Manang, transfer for an overnight in a nice lodge just in time for dinner amidst a massive mountain range.
Jeep 12 hrs
Accommodation Tea House
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 3540m
A necessary rest day at Manang for acclimatization before heading to higher areas and climbing to the summit of Chulu West peak. At Manang, take a short hike around Manang, a large village situated in a windswept valley by the bank of Masrsyangdi River below the Annapurna and Gangapurna mountain range. The best short hike of a few hours is climbing to an exciting viewpoint facing close to the Gangapurna Ice Fall and Manang Lake. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the village, enriched with old heritage cultures.
Walking 6 hrs
Accommodation Tea House
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 3540m
After a pleasant time at Manang village with rest days, walk towards Thorang-La and Chulu West Peak Base Camp. The walk leads to gradual ups to Yak Kharka and then to Ledar, an interesting walk. On treks, enjoy the views of the snow mountain range, crossing a small stream as the walk leads to Yak Kharka for a short break. From here, a short hour walks to Ledar for an overnight stop. Ledar is a small settlement with views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Chulu Peaks.
Walking 6 hrs
Accommodation Tea House
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 4200m
Morning, our route diverts from Ledar off the main Annapurna Circuit trail.
The walk leads towards complete wilderness to reach a small glacial stream past the yak herder’s shades and around pasture fields. The small path climbs to a ridge into a hidden valley where our base camp is set at the height of 4,900 m.
Walking 7 hrs
Accommodation Tent / Camping
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 4900m
A necessary rest day to study the route of the climb, as well as for acclimatization and practice climbing. Our staff will check the loads to carry towards the respective higher camps, where all logistic support is required.
Accommodation Tent / Camping
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 4900m
After Base Camp, a morning walk leads uphill on steep scree slopes at a Col or a ridge, and then reaches north of the col, then ascends to a snow slope for 200 meters to the base of a band or rock at an altitude of 5,100 m to set our High Camp or Camp I for the great climb to the summit of Chulu West.
Walking 3 hrs
Accommodation Tent / Camping
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 5100m
Morning climb over the rock band with some technical difficulty to reach the North-West flank of Chulu West Peak summit at 5,450 m / 17,880 ft. high to set up Camp I, afternoon checking the route of the climb and rest to preserve energy for the next morning’s big climb to the summit of Chulu West.
Walking 4 hrs
Accommodation Tent / Camping
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 5400m
Starting early morning before dawn, and then climbing past the rock band, fixing ropes, then continuing climbing from a small plateau on a narrow ridge to reach the top of the summit of Chulu West Peak. On top, facing a grand view of all the mountains include all of Chulu’s and Pisang Peak. After a successful climb to the summit, descend safely back to base camp using the same safe route.
Summit push via Camp II. Takes more than 8-9 hours with descent to Base Camp. • Descend to Camp I or Base Camp.
Walking 9 hrs
Accommodation Tent / Camping
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 6419m
Vertex Holiday reserves an extra day as contingency, in case of bad weather and route conditions. If this day is not required can enjoy a rest at Muktinath or make a short drive to Pokhara.
Accommodation Tent / Camping
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 4900m
After packing all the camping and climbing gear, and making the area as clean as it was before, in its pristine nature. From base camp, an easy stroll back to Ledar joins the main popular route of the Annapurna Circuit towards Thorang-La Pass. On reaching Ledar by lunch time, enjoy the afternoon at leisure, after the great climb to Chulu West Peak.
Walking 6 hrs
Accommodation Tea House
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 4200m
Morning walk on the main Trekking trails of the Annapurna Circuit towards Thorang-La High Camp. After a gradual walk down to a stream, and then a short climb to Thorang Phedi (bottom/base). Enjoy a short, refreshing break at Phedi, and continue climbing for a short while towards Thorang High Camp for an overnight stop.
Walking 6 hrs
Accommodation Tea House
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 5400m
One of the highlights of the adventure is enjoying an early breakfast, and then climbing to the top of Thorang-la pass. The route leads on a steep, winding path, and after a steep climb, reaches Thorang La Pass. Located at an altitude of above 5,416 m / 17,769 ft. high. The highest point of the adventure is after the Chulu West Peak summit. From the pass, enjoy the grand vista of the snow-capped peaks. From the top, a long descent towards holy Muktinath, situated around the Lower Mustang area. At Muktinath for an overnight stop, take a short tour around the Muktinath Temple premises. One of the holiest spots for both Hindus and Buddhists, the word Muktinath literally means ‘the place for Nirvana or Liberation’.
Walking 8 hrs
Accommodation Tea House
Meals B/L/D
Altitude 3550m
175 kilometers (110 miles) driving by Jeep takes about 8-9 hours. Drive through Jomsom, Kaligandaki gorge, and Tatopani. Completing the toughest deeds of a lifetime experience, enjoy a long and exciting drive to scenic Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal. The drive leads through the Kaligandaki River valley and the world’s deepest gorge between towering Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri Himal. The journey follows past the town of Jomsom and the lovely villages of Marpha, Tukuche, and towards the low, warm areas at Tatopani. A village with natural hot springs, from here to Beni town, and finally on the main highway towards Pokhara. On reaching Pokhara by the calm Phewa lakeside, transfer to a nice hotel for dinner and an overnight halt.
Jeep 6 hrs
Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
Meals B/L
Altitude 850m
Enjoy the morning views of the massive Annapurna Himal range with majestic Machhapuchare, the famous Fish-Tail Peak. The drive heads east towards the Trisuli River at Mugling Bazaar, then on the winding, busy road. The ride heads uphill towards Kathmandu city and the valley, after an interesting overland journey of 5-6 hours. Finally, the adventure concludes on reaching the hustle and bustle of the city life of Kathmandu. On arrival, transfer to your respective hotels for the last dinner and overnight in Nepal.
Bus 7 hrs
Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Altitude 1350m
As time for your international flight departures, our guide and staff transfer you to the airport.
After a great adventure of a lifetime experience on the Chulu West Peak Expedition and Annapurna Circuit trek.
Car 30m
Meals Breakfast
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
Airport and hotel transfers as per itinerary in private vehicle
Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
One night twin-sharing accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara
Full board meals with tea or coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
Government licensed holder English speaking guide during the trek and climb, require porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their
food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and insurance
General climbing equipment such as rope, ice screw, snow bar, etc.
Chulu West peak climbing permit fees.
Pokhara – Kathmandu transports by Tourist Sofa Bus
Pokhara – Nayapul and Nayapul – Kathmandu transports by private car
vertex Holiday duffle bag (down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek
First aid medical kit
Annapurna conservation permit fee
TIMS Fee- Trekkers’ Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
Government taxes & office service charge
What's Excluded?
Nepal visa arrangement (more on Nepal Visa Information)
International airfares
Excess baggage charges
Travel and rescue insurance
Added night/s accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, delayed departure, and early return from the mountain (due
to any cause) than the programmed itinerary
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the programmed itinerary)
Alcoholic drinks and cold drinks
Personal expenses such as phone calls, bar bills, laundry, battery recharge, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, extra porters, etc
Personal trekking and climbing gears
Tips for trekking staff and driver
Essential Information - Chulu West Peak and Annapuna Circuit Trek
Chulu West Peak with Annapurna Circuit Trek Insurance:
For treks and Climbing Insurance is important; it’s best to purchase from your home country. So it will be easier to claim some of the money back if someone is sick and with unfortunate accident. Can happen in any other country, especially on this high altitude adventure around the remote corners and away from medical facilities. Two types of Insurance Travel and Medical Insurance, the travel insurance comes in handy. If the trip is cancelled and delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions or a broken trail en route, trekking. Including the flight to and from Kathmandu and Lukla can be delayed or lead to cancellation. In this situation, the option of using the service of a helicopter at extra cost, which should be claimed from your travel insurance. As well as the medical Insurance in case of emergency evacuation, due to ill health.
Chulu West Peak with Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty:
Trekkers and climbers joining these treks and climbs to Chulu West and the Annapurna circuit or other adventures around the Nepal Himalayas. Should realize beforehand that Nepal is a country of the world’s highest mountain range, from the foothills to the world’s tallest peaks. From green valleys and mid-hills to rugged mountainous landscapes and terrains. The first part of the trek is normal and gradual, despite the gain in elevation as you progress towards Chulu West Peak base camp. The only difficulty on this trip is the long hours drives both ways.
The trek is normal, but the climb requires some practice. As well, all climbers should be well acclimatized for the safe and successful ascent to the summit. The climb is straightforward with few technical challenges to encounter, with proper gear and a good guide, all the circumstances can be overcome.
Why choose Chulu West Peak with Annapurna Circuit Trek ?
Chulu West Peak is more of a small-scale mountaineering expedition, although lesser heights than Chulu East, but takes more days to reach its summit than other trekking peaks of Nepal. A great mountaineering feat to experience for all, from beginners to expert mountaineers and climbers.
Chulu West Peak first ascent on November 4th, 1978, by Dr. Larry Zaroff, Peter Lev, guided by Nepalese guides Ang Jambo Sherpa and Lakpa Nuru Sherpa.
On this adventure where trekkers can marvel grand panorama of all group of Chulu peaks with Pisang Peak, Damodar Himal, includes views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8, 167 m), Mt. Annapurna- I (8, 091 m) Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m.), Mt. Annapurna III (7, 555 m), Mt. Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Mt. Annapurna South (7, 219 m), Mt. Nilgiri’s (7,041 m), Mt. Huin-Chuli (6, 441 m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6, 986 m), Tukuche peak (6, 920 m), Tilicho peak (7, 134 m).
Chulu West Peak with Annapurna Circuit Trek Preparation:
Before and after booking for these adventures, one needs good exercise and should be in sound health. The first preparation is booking at the right season and purchasing the best equipment for the trek and climb. All needful documents should be done before you depart for Nepal. Members can request a packing list and enquire about the size of the group.
Physical Requirements for Chulu West Peak with Annapurna Circuit Trek
The treks take you on steep climbs and long downhills for some days, with only a few gradual sections. The adventure starts from a gradual winding path with a few short steep ups till Chulu West base camp. After crossing the high bridge, on leaving the Marsyangdi River. Trekkers have to be ready for a steep, undulating climb for a few hours to cross over Thorang-La Pass. After the pass and beyond, on an easy, wide, scenic, winding, gradual path to end the trek at Muktinath. The only difficulty to face is that some days are longer, on the climb to the summit of Chulu West Peak, and then towards Muktinath via Thorang-La Pass. Heeding the slow and steady approach with enough short rest will overcome the difficulty with the altitude and climbs.
People and Culture around Chulu West Peak with Annapurna Circuit Trek
Around Manang and Lower Mustang areas and the far north of the Annapurna range. Trekkers will witness various hill tribes, lower hills of mixed tribes, Gurung-Magar with Hindu Bharamins, Chettries and Dalits. In the higher hills above 1,800 meters, the major tribes are the Manang, native of Tibetan. The native of Manang follows the Buddhist religion, similar to their Tibetan predecessors.
The journey leads through many traditional villages adorned with Buddhist monuments of a stupa. Includes rows of prayer wheels with prayer walls; most large villages are adorned with old monasteries. The Manang and Mustang Villages are steeped in fascinating, colorful Buddhist cultures.
After Thorang-La Pass enters the Mustang district, populated by the Thakali people, interwoven with the Buddhist religion. From Jomsom and around the Kaligandaki Valley.
Best Season for Chulu West Peak Climb:
March to May and from mid-September till November, the best time is in spring. From March to May, most days are fine and clear for views and climbing. Springtime, with longer sunlight hours but cold mornings and nighttime above 1,800 m onward. Chances of snowfall with a cloudy afternoon sometimes.
The next best season is autumn, which starts from September to November. Most days are fine for excellent views with a pleasant trek and climb.
During autumn or fall, days are shorter with limited sunlight hours from late morning until late afternoon. Expect snow sometimes on treks and climbs above 3,000 meters high.
Most Asked Questions by Travellers
In the Nepal Himalayas, there are two types of mountaineering expeditions, below 6,500 m are known as trekking peaks. Which is a smaller-scale mountaineering expedition of alpine style climbing for a day or more to two days. The major mountaineering expeditions involve peaks above 6,500 m, 7000 and 8,000 meters. A large-scale and full-fledged mountaineering expedition that requires a minimum of a week to a maximum of 2-3 weeks. To reach the summit of the designated peaks and return to base camp. As well, the Climbing and Royalty Fees are different for all peaks depending on elevation.
For Chulu West Peak, around the Manang areas Mules are used depending upon the region of expeditions. Includes strong porters to carry and ferry all the load to the respective camps.
Nepal has four main seasons: spring from March to May, and summer/monsoon starts from June to August. Includes autumn/fall, which begins from September to November, with the winter season starting from December to February. The best time for mountaineering expeditions is spring and autumn, as well as the high season for trekking and other adventures.
Depending upon the peaks from above 6,500 m to 8,000 m, a group of a maximum of 12 climbers. Can share the climbing permits as per the rules of the Nepal Tourism Department. The fees for climbing major peaks vary according to the height of the mountains, as well for sharing basis.
Yes, on route treks where one can charge their electronic items like lap-top, cell phone, etc. Paying an extra cost per hour per item. Most lodges run electricity either by normal hydro or solar power. But on leaving the villages and temporary settlements with lodges, there will be no facilities. Except that the expeditions have their own generators for camping. Climbers can bring a portable solar panel and gadgets that can fit outside the backpack.
All food prepared by the lodge is hygienic and good, where you can order from the long list of the menu. From continental, Chinese, Indian, Tibetans and Nepalese foods, but for a larger group, it is best to have set meals.
Which will save time and fuel energy, the set meals will have a variation from Nepalese, Indian, and continental foods. From base camp, our cook will serve and cook all the good and healthy foods of great variety.
The company does provide portable oxygen cylinders or small light canisters and Gamow Bags for high-altitude trekking and climbing peaks. But for major and smaller expeditions, the climber will be responsible for the oxygen cylinders. As per the norms and rules of the expeditions, it includes and excludes certain items from the trip cost.
Minimum 16 years old and maximum 70 years of age, depending if one can get medical insurance. In some special conditions above 70 years old have reached the summit of Mt. Everest. Elderly climbers require more guides to take care of them from the base camp onwards.
Reviews on Chulu West Peak and Annapuna Circuit Trek
5.0
Based on 1
Review
Oliver Paterson Seattle USA
A perfect adventure holiday
A perfect adventure holiday, Chulu West Peak Expedition with Annapurna Circuit trek. Although the climb was quite tough, it was worth joining for. I would recommend it to others; it was truly a great experience with Vertex Holiday.
