Max. Altitude
6,584m
Best Season
Oct-Dec & Mar-May
Activity
Trek & Climbing
Start / End Point
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Overview of Chulu East Peak Climbing
Chulu East Peak Climbing is arguably Nepal's adventurous yet doable mountain. It’s an iconic peak in the north of Annapurna, surrounded by rugged mountains and craggy hills. It has an undulating landscape with serene lakes and deep forests that provides a spectacular view.
But like any mountain, Chulu East Peak comes with its own set of challenges and difficulties. The climb is certainly not an easy ride with extremely rough trails, snowy ridges, and glaciers. It requires good skills to ascend its long winding path that starts from Chame and ends at Jomsom.
The trail runs off the hill and into the forest before switching to ice slopes. It passes several villages and crosses multiple rivers and streams to advance. We’ll climb the glaciated terrains using crampons, which makes the trail less slippery.
However, you must still beat its rugged terrains full of rocks and boulders to reach the summit. After setting foot on the summit, we’ll have to return to the camp and make it down to Jomsom before taking the flight to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu.
Highlights of Chulu East Peak Climbing
What to expect in this Chulu East Peak climb?
Chulu East Peak is one of the very few peaks that’s full of surprises. You can spend all your time here and still not get weary of its beauty. It has many scenic places with beautiful landscapes to visit and explore. Every trek here offers a breathtaking view of towering mountains, like Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna.
On this expedition with Life Himalaya, you might see varied wildlife and some endangered species like the red panda, plumaged pheasant, and musk deer. Its trail will take you to many villages in the region and give you a quick look into the local culture and traditions.
The trail to Chulu East will also lead you to Throng La Pass, one of the most popular treks in the Annapurna region. It’s the highest mountain pass at 5,416 meters, with a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys.
Apart from the views, climbing Chulu East Peak will also give you a taste of the Himalayan lifestyle. No matter where you choose to stay, you won’t be disappointed. The warm hospitality and friendly treatment of guests will leave you stunned.
When is the best time for Chulu East Peak Climbing?
The best time for Chulu East Peak Climbing is between March and May when the region enjoys mild weather with low humidity. The transition period from winter to spring will see everything from winter storms to sunny and hottish days.
The early spring is often cold and may experience snowfall in various parts of the region. Its temperature rises in early April and reaches up to 8 degrees Celsius at the end of the season. Hence, most trekkers hit the trail before summer grips the region.
You can expect the temperature to be lower at higher elevations and must prepare for cold. Spring also gets an occasional rainfall, which can make the trail murky so bring your best kit. After spring, autumn makes another excellent time for Chulu East Peak Climbing. It shares the same mixed bag of cold, rain, and sunshine.
The weather is mostly hot and sunny at the beginning of the season, but as it pushes to the end, the temperature falls, reaching up to -10 Degree Celsius. Its September temperatures are as high as 8 Degree Celsius but drop significantly in October and November. The weather is reliably nice in mid-autumn, drawing the most crowds.
Still, it’s worth climbing Chulu Peak in Fall as the views are marvelous. The autumn foliage with a blend of yellow, orange, and red is fully displayed in the surrounding forests. Its cloudless sky and sunny days make it easier to catch beautiful glimpses of Annapurna massif and its neighboring mountains.
Chulu has extreme weather in winter, making the trek twice harder than it is. It has freezing temperatures with frequent snowstorms and blizzards. The weather is cold in the mountains as the temperature reaches below -10 Degree Celsius.
Mid-July is when Chulu starts to experience heavy rainfall and winds. The trails are wet and murky, which makes trekking almost impossible. Landslides and floods are likely to obstruct the way; therefore, precautions have to be taken while climbing the peak during the monsoon.
How difficult is Chulu East Peak Climbing?
Chulu East Peak is probably one of the less challenging mountains out there. It’s the beginner’s peak, given moderate walking trails and easy accessibility. However, climbing Chulu East isn’t smooth sailing for all due to its mixed terrains that vary in difficulty level.
The trail at lower elevation seems to be easily done due to well-traced and short routes. Unfortunately, this is not the case at higher altitudes. The difficulty level is much more at the mountain than at the base. With steep ridges, glaciers, and ice slopes, it’s hard to beat the trail here.
You’ll have to prepare for unpredictable weather ranging from warm sunshine to strong winds and heavy snowfall. Climbing the mountain without tracking the weather can be dreadful, particularly in winter.
You may encounter snowstorms and blizzards on the way, which can halt your expedition. The trails covered in deep snow are slippery and unfit for trekking unless you have a crampon that provides traction and makes climbing easier.
Mountaineers are required to build stamina before getting on the trail to Chulu East Peak Climbing, as it varies depending on the altitude. Most of its sections have lofty hills with side cliffs and rugged terrains that run miles without any stop.
You’ll exhaust yourself while climbing these trails, especially after the base camp. Although there’s a minimal incline on the trail, you’re still likely to feel the pressure while climbing the peak. The decreasing atmospheric pressure makes it even worse as mountaineers struggle with altitude sickness.
Many experience common symptoms like headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Hence to deal with Altitude sickness, rest up and give your body enough time to get used to the altitude.
Peak Climbing in Nepal has always been a spectacle. Join Life Himalaya and embark upon a climbing experience.
Chulu East Peak Climbing Itinerary
01
Arrive Kathmandu & Transfer to hotel
As referred, our officials will stay informed of your flight schedule and keep track of its landing. They’ll be just in time to pick you up at the airport and drive you off to the hotel. In about half an hour, you’ll be in your room getting rest and recovering from jetlag.
Maximum Altitude
1,320 m.
Trek Duration
15 min Drive
Accomodations
Lodge
Transportation
02
Full day guided sightseeing inside the Kathmandu valley
Before leaving the city, we’ll spend a day making necessary preparations and enjoying a day out. We’ll seize the time to visit as many attractions as possible, which include some historical and archeological sites.
We’ll explore Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swyambhunath by noon and then head off to Bouddha Stupa. The monastery lies 11km from the center outskirts of Kathmandu, and it takes almost 15 minutes to drive here.
One of the busiest tourist destinations in the town, Boudhanath is home to more than 50 monasteries and monks. It’s much like Pashupatinath, with hymns and prayers filling the street.
After spending some time here, we’ll leave for the Hindu temple Pashupatinath to watch the evening prayer and then drive off to the hotel.
Maximum Altitude
1,320 m.
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodations
Lodge
03
Drive: Kathmandu to Chame
Taking a break from all the fun, we’ll head to our next destination Chame in the north of Kathmandu. It takes almost 7 hours of drive to reach this town of just over 1000 people.
The journey starts with a drive along the Trishuli River and hillsides overlooking tropical forests.
Passing the local villages, the highway leads us to the Marsyangdi River and the headquarters of the Lamjung district in Besisahar. The road trip continues with a drive past rural settlements to finally stay at Chame.
Maximum Altitude
2,670 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
7 hours Drive
Accomodations
Camp
04
Chame / Pisang
The trek from Chame begins with a gentle walk along the river and up into the pine forest to Bhartang. As the trail gains elevation, we’ll trek a rugged hill clutching the cliff and cross a bridge.
The path continues to rise through the forest and levels off only around Dhukur Pokhari.
There are few teahouses in this area where trekkers can stop and have a meal before the long journey. Out of here, the trail descends the valley and passes grass fields, leading to snow-covered slopes.
After half an hour of continuous ascent, we’ll arrive at Lower Pisang, where lush green forests surround the village. We’ll spend the night in a camp at Pisang.
Maximum Altitude
3,300 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
05
Trek to Yak-Kharka
Today’s one of the toughest climbs we’ve had until now. The trek is long and strenuous with a rising elevation that starts with a decent climb to Upper Pisang. We’ll soon enter the wild forests below and pass the old mani walls with stone tablets that leads to Ngawal.
We’ll have some grueling hikes on this section as the trail is steep and rugged. We’ll have our lunch in the village before continuing the trek to Braga, which is quite painful with lots of walking.
Most trekkers choose to stop here for the night, but we’ll continue trekking to Manang.
The trek is as short as 2km and still demanding, with a rough and dusty trail. Without getting any rest, we’ll keep walking the rugged trail that weaves out of Manang and through the valley, providing a scenic view.
After climbing the trail for almost half an hour past grazing fields and yak pastures to arrive at Ghunsang. Leaving the village behind, we’ll walk a narrow lane with a few ups and downs and cross the river numerous times before it finally leads us to Yak Kharka.
Maximum Altitude
4,210 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
06
Continue to Chulu-East Base Camp
After breakfast, we’ll continue trekking to Chulu East Base Camp, which is in the north of Marsyangdi Khola. The trek is mostly uphill with no level ground walk, which makes it super challenging. It kicks off with a long ascent over the winding path and lush meadow.
The trail keeps running until it meets at a large rock formation where we’ll set up our camp.
Maximum Altitude
5,140 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
5 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
07
Rest day for acclimatization at Base Camp. Explore the surrounding
Today’s the acclimatization day as the trail above base camp is super intensive with an extreme elevation gain that can cause altitude sickness. Thus we’ll stop at the camp and prepare for the big day.
We’ll take some easy trails and explore the surrounding of Chulu East Base Camp. Many scenic spots here offer a stunning view of Chulu East and its nearby mountains. We’ll be returning to camp before evening and spending the night there.
Maximum Altitude
4,700 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
4 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
08
Ascend High Camp of Chulu-East, return back or stay there
We set off early and head up to the Chulu East high camp at 5,600 meters. The trek on this trail is too tiring and strenuous with the endless uphill walk. It’s mostly inclined with ice slopes and snowy terrains that require crampons to hike.
As we reach the higher altitude, glimpses of Chulu East and other glistening mountains become visible. You can see the beautiful glaciated slopes and undulating landscapes, providing a scenic view.
Without any quick stop, we’ll continue ascending the trail until it ends at the high camp.
Since we’re still unaccustomed to the atmosphere at high camp, it’ll be better to leave the camp and return to base. The trek will help us prevent altitude sickness and make climbing easier.
However, we can stay at the high camp and continue our expedition from here if you want.
Maximum Altitude
5,600 m.
Meals
Breakfasr, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
09
Optional day (For bad weather). Attempt for ascend or explore the surrounding
The weather at Chulu East is unpredictable, with often high winds and storms barging into the mountains. Therefore, we’ve slated a day for you to relax and do some last-minute preparations before the ascent.
We’ll spend the day exploring base camp or making a second attempt to ascend the Chulu East high camp.
Either way, we’ll have great fun watching mesmerizing views, climbing steep slopes, and trekking mountainous terrains.
Maximum Altitude
6,584 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accomodations
Camp
10
Make the summit of Chulu East and return the base camp
on the main day of Chulu East Peak Climbing, after getting the required training and advice, it’s time for us to leave the high camp and proceed toward the mountain.
Carrying a backpack with all stuffed equipment, we’ll head up to the summit. Making the way through glaciers and moraine, the trail runs over a sheer cliff and onto a ridge.
Much of the trail in this part is covered in snow and quite slippery, making it hard to navigate. But, once we get the pace, it’s just a matter of time before we end up at the peak.
At this point, you’ll have a bitter-sweet moment with all the lovely scenes but a difficult trip.
After our brief time at the summit, we’ll retrace the steps to Chulu East Base Camp. This might take two or two and a half hours, depending on how fast you are. After reaching the camp, we’ll have our meal and drift off.
Maximum Altitude
6,584 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
7 hours Trek
Accomodations
Base Camp
11
Trek to Mananag
Making a lot of good memories in and out of the camp, we’ll now descend on Manang. The trek starts by following a quiet trail that goes as far as Khangsar Village. Crossing the bridge over Khangsar Khola, the trail now runs uphill and to the north of Manang at Siri Kharka.
The closer we draw to Manang, the farther we get from Chulu East as it becomes less visible. After five hours of trekking, we’ll finally reach the small village of Manang, which is also our place to stay.
Maximum Altitude
3,540 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
5 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
12
Rest to acclimatize
Although the expedition is over, we’ll still need stamina to continue trekking. Therefore, instead of continuing the excursion, we’ll spend a day at Manang, enjoying the local lifestyle and delicacies. We’ll rest all morning and visit the places around during the day.
Maximum Altitude
3,519 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
4 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
13
Continue to Letdar
After feeling much more relaxed and energized, we’ll continue trekking Letdar, a small village in Manang. First, we’ll head up the hill leaving Marsyangdi River, and walk the edge of the mountainside. In doing so, we’ll pass a couple of villages like Gunsang, where the trekkers stop for lunch.
From here, the trek gets hard as we have to walk vast rock-strewn plains. The trail definitely offers a gorgeous view of rolling hills and surrounding mountains. But, you’ll barely see any forests or trees on this part of the trail.
We’ll follow the route for about four hours before it ends at Letdar. The people are sparse in this area, with only two guesthouses providing accommodation to visitors.
Maximum Altitude
4,200 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
4 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
14
Letdar / Thorung Phedi
From Ledar, we ascend the mountain ridge and follow the trail above the east bank of Kone Khola. Following a gentle ascent of the trail, we’ll climb down the bridge crossing to the west of the valley
After a few ups and downs, we’ll lose all vegetation as the landscape turns dry and rocky. The trail soon becomes a thin ridge of broken shale and rocks, roving a landslide-prone slope.
From here, we’ll start noticing the Thorung Phedi soon enough, but there’s still a way to go. We’ll push for our final ascent off the mountainside, which takes almost an hour before we reach the landmark.
Maximum Altitude
4,450 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hours Walk
Accomodations
Camp
15
Cross Thorung La. Cont. to Muktinath
This is the toughest and the most incredible of all walks we’ve ever done. Today, we’ll attempt to cross Thorong La Pass while paving the way to Muktinath. We’ll begin with a climb to high camp on a bumpy trail that takes almost an hour.
From high camp, we ascent to Thorong La, which is steep and slippery, with most trails covered in snow. After reaching the acme, we’ll descend the ridge all the way down to 3,670 meters. This is probably the worst and the longest descent we’ll ever have, and the journey is not so easy.
Our paths are hidden in deep snow and need to be excavated. But, once we cross the trail, it’ll be easy to descend the village. On our stop, we’ll tour Muktinath and its holy spouts with other small pilgrimages.
Maximum Altitude
5,416 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
9 hours Trek
Accomodations
Camp
16
Muktinath to Jomsom
We’ll have a full hearty breakfast in Muktinath before leaving for a trail. Soon we’ll climb down the trail through Lubra and the village of Kagebni. Its 20.2km trail will take us past many small villages and mountain streams we’ll cross using old bridges.
Coming out of the village in Kagbeni, we’ll march the unpaved trail that runs all the way down to Jomsom.
Maximum Altitude
3,710 m.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration
7 hours Walk
Accomodations
Lodge
17
Fllight: Jomsom - Pokhara
We’ll catch our flight from Jomsom airport to return to Pokhara. It’ll take about 15-20 minutes to reach the city in the west of the capital. You’ll enjoy some spectacular views from the flight, including high cliffs and valleys until and even after landing at Pokhara.
With the free time in hand, we’ll do some sightseeing at the lakeside and have a nice dinner before going to bed.
Maximum Altitude
3,710 m.
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodations
Camp
Transportation
20 min Flight
18
Flight: Pokhara - Kathmandu
After a very fun day at Pokhara, it’s time for us to catch the flight to Kathmandu. So, leaving the hotel, we’ll head off to the airport and board the plane after getting a security clearance.
The flight will last almost 20 minutes and provide a jaw-dropping view of sweeping hills and towering mountains.
Maximum Altitude
1,320 m.
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodations
Hotel
Transportation
20 min Flight
19
Free day to explore, and enjoy Kathmandu
Since you couldn’t see most of Kathmandu earlier, take this time to visit the city and its major tourist spots. You can also shop or get souvenirs for your friends and family. Kathmandu also has a great nightlife with numerous restaurants, pubs, and bars catering to all tastes and moods.
Maximum Altitude
1,320 m.
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodations
Hotel
20
Final Departure of Chulu East Peak Climbing
On your last day in Kathmandu of Chulu East Peak Climbing, our officials will pick you up at the hotel and transfer you back to the airport. If needed, they’ll help you check in and take your luggage inside the airport.
Maximum Altitude
1,320 m.
Meals
Breakfast
Required Equipments for Trekking in Nepal
- Breathable Underwear
- Sports Bra
- Base Layers
- Trekking Shirts
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Fleece Jacket
- Down jacket (insulated jacket)
- Windcheater (water proof)
- Sun protection Hat
- Headband or Beanie
- Scarf or neckband
- Gloves (inner and outer )
- Hiking Boots
- Trekking Shoes
- Hiking Socks
- Thermal Socks
- Gaiters
- Duffel Bag
- Day pack
- Sleeping Bag
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses
- Hydration bladder or Water bottle
- Head Lamps
- Batteries
- Personal towel
- Swiss army knife
- Sun lotion
- Medical & first-aid kit
- Woolen socks
- Waterproof jacket
- Lip Guard
- Insulated pants
- Baby wipers
Required Equipments for Climbing in Nepal
- Water bottle
- Batteries and bulbs
- Flashlight
- Personal towel
- Swiss army knife
- Rucksack
- Sun lotion
- Medical & first-aid kit
- Sewing kit
- Polypropylene/wool socks
- Other required equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Down Jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Trekking shoes/boots
- Camp shoes
- Jumperorpile jacket
- Hiking pants
- Hiking shirts
- Full–sleeves shirt
- T-shirts
- Sun hat
- Gloves
- Woolen hat
- Long underwear
- Goggles or sun glasses
- Gaiters
- Sun block for lips
- Light cotton socks
- Mountain trekking boots
- Woolen socks to wear with boots
- Nylon wind breaker
- Insulated pants
- Nylon wind pants
- Long sleeved cotton/woolen shirts
- Sun hat
- Long cotton hiking shorts
- Fleece/wool for climbing
- Lightweight fleece
- Sleeping pad (karri mat) or thermarest
- Down high altitude sleeping bag
- Down jacket/trousers/vest
- Light cotton athletic socks and wool socks
- Water proof climbing jacket
- Head torch/batteries/bulbs
- Climbing sunglasses
- Lightweight thermal/insulated ski gloves
- Sun screen
- Warm climbing trousers
- Wool long underwear
- Other required equipment
- Climbing boots
- Gaiters
- Ice axe
- Harness
- Crampons
- Karabiners
- Tapes/slings
- Snow bars
- Ice screws
- Rock pegs
- Deadmen
- Crash hat
- Day bag
- Rucksack
- Lip salve
- T-shirts
- Ascenders
- Ascenders
- Kit bag
What's Included
- Airport  pick up and drops international and domestic.
- Complete departure information, About trek,transportation , guide, altitude sickness and reconfirmation and extend visa service (if necessary) and extra tour service before the trek starting.
- 3 star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- 2 night Pokhara hotel with Breakfast.
- Drive from Kathmandu to Chame & Kathmandu for member and involved staffs.
- Private transportation picks up and drops.
- Best Lodge accommodation & full board meals throughout the trek.
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included chosen from lodge menu.
- Â Nights twin share accommodation during the trek.
- As per group size experienced, government license holder Climbing guide, helpful and friendly strong, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff.( 5 trekkers 1 assistant guide )
- Experienced Climbing Guide (Sherpa).
- Warm Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag will be provided during the Chulu peak (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after the trip )
- Climbing Equipment’s for the Chulu peak.
- chulu peak climbing trail map.
- Climbing permits (Please bring 3 passport size photos for permits)
- First Aid kits for the staffs and the groups.
- Services coordination for emergency and rescue operations
- Government taxes & office service charge
-  Farewell dinner at reputed traditional Nepali  Restaurant
- Achievement certificate
What's Excluded
- Meals not quantified in the ‘Meal Inclusions’ in the itinerary’
- Travel insurance
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa charge.
- All beverage and others personal expenses.
- Snacks and other personal expenses
- Hot shower during the trek.
Chulu East Peak Climbing - Essential Information
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