Experience the challenge of this seldom-climbed Himalayan giant.
Chulu West
Overview
A Remote Himalayan Climb
Our Chulu West expedition is one of Nepal’s most rewarding mountaineering adventures, blending the famous Annapurna Circuit trek with a climb of Chulu West at 6419 metres. This classic journey offers a rare combination of trekking through diverse terrain, climbing a remote Himalayan peak, and experiencing authentic mountain culture far from the crowds of the Everest region.
Unlike many popular routes, Chulu West remains quiet and uncrowded – a place where it often feels like it’s just you, your team, and the mountains. As you travel through lush valleys and over high alpine passes, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Annapurna I, II, III, and IV, with each day offering something new and unforgettable. Midway through the journey, we branch off from the main trail to establish Base Camp and then move higher to Advanced Base Camp, where our three-day climb begins.
Climbing Chulu West with US
Our Chulu West Base Camp is one of the most spectacular in Nepal, set beside a clear mountain stream and framed by panoramic views of the Annapurna range. From High Camp and Advanced High Camp, the outlook expands in every direction – south towards the snow-covered Annapurnas and north to the barren, windswept Tibetan Plateau. Standing on the summit of Chulu West, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree panorama that captures the very essence of the Himalaya.
Following the climb, we continue our journey across the famous Thorang La Pass at 5416 metres, where the views of Dhaulagiri (8167m) are simply breathtaking. Every detail of our itinerary has been carefully planned with acclimatisation and safety in mind – no shortcuts.
The Chulu West expedition is ideal for those seeking a challenge beyond trekking, yet still accessible to adventurers with no prior mountaineering experience. With expert guidance, excellent preparation, and a spirit of teamwork, this climb delivers everything a Himalayan adventure should be: remote, beautiful, and truly unforgettable.
22 Days / 21 nights
4 Nights Hotels / 12 Nights Lodges / 5 Nights Camping
Highest Altitude – Chulu West (6419m)
Most meals included
Minimum group of 2 required at advertised price
Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu
Day 2: Sightseeing and final preparations
Day 3: Drive to Bhulbhule (846m)
Day 4: Trek to Jagat (1300m)
Day 5: Trek to Dharapani (1860m)
Day 6: Trek to Chame (2620m)
Day 7: Trek to Pisang (3190m)
Day 8: Trek to Manang (3530m)
Day 9: Rest and acclimatisation day in Manang (3530m)
Day 10: Trek to Letdar (4200m)
Day 11: Rest and acclimatisation day in Letdar (4200m)
Day 12: Trek to Chulu West Base Camp (4900m)
Day 13: Climb to Chulu West Advanced Base Camp (5300m)
Day 14: Climb to Chulu West High Camp (5800m)
Day 15: Climb Chulu West (Contingency Day)
Day 16: Summit Chulu West (6419m) then return to base Camp
Day 17: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4450m)
Day 18: Cross Thorang La Pass (5416m) and continue to Muktinath (3800m)
Day 19: Trek to Jomosom (2710m)
Day 20: Fly to Pokhara (822m)
Day 21: Fly to Kathmandu (1350m)
Day 22: Trip concludes
*The trip price displayed reflects twin-share accommodation and is your full trip price in AUD.
Dates
Dates
Availability
Dates 8 Mar – 29 Mar, 2026
Availability closed
Dates 10 May – 31 May, 2026
Availability going
Dates 26 Sep – 17 Oct, 2026
Availability going
Dates 24 Oct – 14 Nov, 2026
Availability going
Chulu West
Itinerary
Day 1
ArrivAL in Kathmandu
Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, where our Trek Climb Ski Nepal staff will meet you and transfer you to the Radisson Hotel.
After settling in, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the comfort of this premium accommodation. In the evening, join your guides and Sherpa team for a welcome dinner and drinks — the perfect introduction to your upcoming Chulu West adventure.
Radisson (or equivalent standard) Hotel in Kathmandu
Dinner
1350m (Kathmandu)
Day 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing
Start your morning with a fantastic buffet breakfast at The Radisson before setting off on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu.
You’ll visit some of the city’s most iconic cultural and religious landmarks, taking in the vibrant energy of Nepal’s capital. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time or make any last-minute gear purchases with help from our local staff.
Radisson (or equivalent standard) Hotel in Kathmandu
Breakfast
1350m (Kathmandu)
Why Every Trip We Run Is Successful
Since 2006, we’ve guided thousands of climbers on successful mountaineering expeditions. Our perfect safety record and near-perfect summit success reflect a simple truth: we plan thoroughly, support you every step of the way, and never compromise on safety. View all our mountaineering expeditions
Day 3
Drive to Bhulbhule
After breakfast, we leave Kathmandu and begin our scenic drive along the highway to Pokhara. The journey takes us through picturesque towns, terraced fields, and traditional Nepali villages.
We stop for lunch along the way before continuing to Besisahar and on to Bhulbhule in the beautiful Marsyandi Valley – the starting point of our Chulu West trek. Overnight in Bhulbhule.
Bhulbhule Guest House
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
846m (Bhulbhule)
Day 4
Trek to Jagat
Today’s trek begins with a gentle ascent through the village of Bahundanda before continuing towards Jagat.
The trail follows the Marsyandi River, offering superb views and glimpses into rural Nepali life. We arrive at Jagat in the afternoon and settle into our lodge accommodation for the night.
Jagat Panorama Lodge
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
1300m (Jagat)
Day 5
Trek to Dharapani
We cross several suspension bridges today as the scenery changes dramatically along the trail. Lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and impressive rock formations make this a particularly scenic section of the Chulu West approach. After a steady day’s trek, we arrive at the beautiful village of Dharapani. Overnight in Dharapani.
Hotel Manaslu
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
1860m (Dharapani)
Day 6
Trek to Chame
Our route from Dharapani to Chame offers more incredible views and a true sense of entering the higher Himalaya. The air becomes crisper and the peaks more dramatic as we make our way through pine forests and small settlements. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, provides a warm welcome and our first real mountain town experience.
New Tibet Hotel
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
2620m (Chame)
Day 7
Trek to Pisang
The trail from Chame to Pisang is one of the most scenic stretches of the Chulu West route. We trek through dense forests and along steep ridges, catching magnificent views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II.
As we approach Pisang, we’re treated to a view of the dramatic Paungda Danda rock face – a 1500-metre-high curved slab rising spectacularly from the valley. Overnight in Pisang.
Lamjung View Guest House
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
3190m (Pisang)
Day 8
Manang
Today we trek higher into the arid landscapes of the upper Manang Valley. The route gradually opens up, revealing wide valleys and breathtaking views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna.
As we reach Manang, one of the largest villages in the region, we can feel the altitude and see the Tibetan influence in the architecture and culture. Overnight in Manang.
Manang Himalayan Lodge
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
3530m (Manang)
Day 9
Rest and Acclimatisation Day in Manang
A rest day in Manang allows your body to adjust to the higher altitude. We take short hikes in the area to enhance acclimatisation while enjoying stunning views of Gangapurna and the surrounding Annapurnas. This day of recovery ensures we’re ready for the higher sections of our Chulu West climb.
Manang Himalayan Lodge
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
3530m (Manang)
Days 10 & 11
Trek to Letdar
From Manang, we make a steady ascent to Letdar, gaining altitude gradually. The landscape becomes more rugged and open, with spectacular views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks.
We spend two nights at Letdar to aid the all-important acclimatisation process, preparing ourselves for the climb ahead.
Annapurna View Hotel
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
4200m (Letdar)
Day 12
Trek to Chulu West Base Camp
Leaving the main trail, we ascend through rolling alpine hills to reach Chulu West Base Camp. The setting is magnificent – a pristine camp beside a glacial stream, surrounded by high peaks. The view to the south of Annapurna I is spectacular.
Here we begin our focused preparation for the summit climb, checking gear and reviewing essential mountaineering techniques.
Camping
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
4900m (Chulu West Base Camp)
DayS 13 & 14
Moving to Advanced Base Camp and High Camp
On day 13 of our expedition we leave Chulu West Base Camp and make our steady ascent to Advanced Base Camp. The route takes us slowly up a beautiful glacier, surrounded by breathtaking views of snow-covered ridges and towering peaks. We move carefully, taking time to acclimatise and enjoy the incredible setting as we reach Advanced Base Camp 5300m.
The following day we leave Advanced Base Camp and make our steady ascent to High Camp at 5800m. The route takes us slowly up a beautiful glacier, surrounded by breathtaking views of snow-covered ridges and towering peaks. We move carefully, taking time to acclimatise and enjoy the incredible setting as we reach our camp perched high on the mountain.
Camping
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
5800m (Chulu West High Camp)
Days 15 & 16
Climbing Chulu WEst
The summit day begins long before sunrise, as we set out beneath a star-filled Himalayan sky. Each step up the final ridge of Chulu West is filled with quiet determination and anticipation. As dawn breaks, the first golden light spills across the Annapurna range, illuminating a world of snow and silence that few ever get to witness.
Reaching the summit at 6419m is the defining moment of the expedition – the culmination of endurance, teamwork, and trust built over many days in the mountains. From the top, the 360-degree panorama is simply breathtaking, stretching from Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas to the endless expanse of the Tibetan Plateau. It’s a moment that stops time, a mix of exhaustion, pride, and pure awe that words can’t fully capture.
After taking photos and sharing hugs with our Sherpa guides and teammates, we begin our careful descent back to Base Camp. The sense of accomplishment lingers with every step, knowing we’ve stood on one of Nepal’s most beautiful and seldom-climbed peaks.
(Contingency day included here)
Camping
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
6419m (Chulu West summit)
Day 17
Trek to Thorong Phedi
Today we leave Base Camp and enjoy a slow trek to Thorong Phedi. Thorong Phedi is a key stop before crossing the Thorang La Pass. The walk is shorter today but given our efforts over the past week, a cruisy day is thoroughly enjoyed by all. We spend the night preparing for one of the most iconic high passes in the Himalaya.
Thorong Base Camp Lodge
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
4450m (Thorong Phedi)
Day 18
Cross ThorAng La Pass to Muktinath
An early start sees us making our way up and over the Thorang La Pass at 5416 metres – a challenging but unforgettable experience. The panoramic views across Chulu West, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri are spectacular. After the pass, we enjoy a long descent to Muktinath, where we feel the welcome return to lower altitude.
Bob Marley Hotel
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
3800m (Muktinath)
Day 19
Trek to JomosoM
From Muktinath, we descend steadily to Jomosom, passing through stark landscapes reminiscent of the Tibetan Plateau. The scenery today is dramatically different – dry, remote, and hauntingly beautiful.
By afternoon, the bustling town of Jomosom greets us with the comforts of civilisation once again. Overnight in Jomosom.
Jomosom Himalayan Guest House
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
2710 (Jomosom)
Day 20
Fly to Pokhara
We take a short but scenic mountain flight from Jomosom to Pokhara, a vibrant lakeside city surrounded by Himalayan peaks. The day is yours to relax beside the tranquil Phewa Tal Lake or explore Pokhara’s cafés and shops. Overnight in Pokhara at a comfortable hotel.
Mt Kailash Resort
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
822m (Pokhara)
Day 21
Fly to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we board a short flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu and return to The Radisson Hotel. The afternoon is free to rest or shop for souvenirs before gathering in the evening for a farewell dinner with our guides and Sherpa team. It’s the perfect finale to an extraordinary expedition.
Radisson Hotel
Breakfast
1350m (Kathmandu)
Day 22
Departure Day
Your Island Peak expedition concludes. Our staff will transfer you to Kathmandu International Airport for your onward flight – taking with you lifelong memories, new friendships, and a deep sense of accomplishment.
Radisson Hotel
Breakfast
1350m (Kathmandu)
Chulu West
What’s included
- 3 nights accommodation at The Radisson Hotel (or equivalent) in Kathmandu with breakfasts
- 1 nights accommodation at Mt Kailash Resort Hotel in Pokhara
- Welcome dinner and drinks in Kathmandu
- All ground transfers in Nepal
- Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu (includes entry fees and guide)
- Private vehicle transfer from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule
- Fixed-wing flights from Jomosom to Pokhara (includes taxes)
- Fixed wing flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (includes taxes)
- National Park entrance fees, climbing and trekking permits
- All meals while trekking and climbing
- 12 nights lodge accommodation
- 5 nights camping
- All camping facilities (tents etc.) for overnights at Chulu West Base Camp and High Camp
- All necessary personal climbing equipment (includes harness, ice-axe, boots, crampons, prusiks & carabiners)
- Experienced expedition leader and guides
- Porters to carry all personal and group equipment
- Porter’s insurance
- Emergency medical kit and gamow bag
- Down jacket, sleeping bag and sleeping mattress
- Complimentary Trek Climb Ski Nepal kit bag
- All Nepalese tourist taxes and fees
Note: Tips for porters and guides are NOT included
Chulu West
Accomm & Meals
Our Chulu West expedition includes three nights at The Radisson Hotel (or equivalent) in Kathmandu and one night at Mt Kailash Resort in Pokhara. While trekking in the mountains, you will stay in lodges each night and the days/nights climbing Chulu West will be camping in tents.
Trek Climb Ski Nepal provide a complimentary welcome dinner with drinks in Kathmandu on the first evening of your trip. Breakfasts are included at The Radisson Hotel and Mt Kailash Resort and all meals while trekking in the mountains (along with morning and afternoon teas) are also included.
We proudly employ an all you can eat food and fluids policy on all our trips. Proper food intake and regular hydration are critical to safe altitude acclimatisation.
Simon BRand
“This was probably the best mountaineering expedition I’ve ever been on. Tika, Nick and the crew were top notch and everything was planned out perfectly. Summit day was one of the most spectacular days of my life.”
Chulu WEst – May 2016
Chulu West
Gallery
