Summit Chulu West-21 Days

Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport and completion of customs and immigration formalities, a representative from Hill and Mountain—an established Nepali adventure travel company renowned for its personalized care and professionalism—will greet you at the arrivals area and accompany you to your designated hotel bookmundi.com . Once settled, you're free to unwind in your room or take a leisurely walk around Thamel, Kathmandu’s bustling tourist quarter known for its vibrant streets and shops. In the evening, you'll be treated to a welcome dinner at an excellent Nepalese restaurant, featuring authentic cuisine paired with cultural performances. After dinner, you’ll return to your hotel to spend the night in Kathmandu—setting a warm and memorable tone for the expedition ahead.

After breakfast at your hotel, take some time for a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets—perfect for picking up any last-minute essentials before your adventure begins. Midday, you'll briefed by the Hill and Mountain Trekking Guide. There, you'll meet your trekking guide, fellow participants, and get a detailed rundown of the expedition—covering logistics, team roles, and gear expectations. Afterward, you'll return to the hotel to rest and recharge overnight in Kathmandu.

Today begins early, as we embark on a full-day drive to reach the starting point of our trek. After breakfast, we depart Kathmandu around 7 a.m., heading west toward Besisahar. From there, the journey continues for approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions, to our destination—either Syange or Jagat. En route, we traverse the scenic countryside of Nepal, passing through terraced fields, rivers, villages, and picturesque mountain landscapes. The road conditions vary: the section up to Besisahar is paved, while the remainder of the route is unpaved and can be rough, especially after Besisahar. Despite these conditions, the journey offers stunning views that make the drive worthwhile. Upon arrival, we check into a local guesthouse in Syange or Jagat, where we can relax and prepare for the trek ahead. Overnight stay in Syange or Jagat.

After a hearty breakfast, we embark on a relaxed yet scenic journey into the heart of the Manang district. Crossing a substantial bridge near Tal, we enter Manang and continue along the trail, which meanders through lush barley, rice, and potato fields, as well as serene pine forests. The path offers glimpses of traditional stone houses adorned with intricate wood carvings, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Passing the village of Kodo, we arrive at Dharapani, a significant settlement in the Manang Valley situated at an elevation of approximately 1,860 meters (6,102 feet) above sea level. Dharapani serves as a vital stopover for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit, providing essential amenities such as teahouses, guesthouses, and shops. The village is inhabited by diverse ethnic groups, including Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin communities, adding to its cultural tapestry. In the evening, we can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and prepare for the next day's adventure. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Dharapani.

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey through the Manang Valley. The trail meanders through lush pine forests and terraced fields, offering glimpses of traditional stone houses adorned with intricate wood carvings, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. As we approach Chame, the administrative center of the Manang District, we are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV. The trail also passes by small hot springs, providing a welcome opportunity to relax and soothe our muscles after the day's trek. Chame, situated at an elevation of approximately 2,710 meters (8,891 feet), serves as a vital stopover for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit. The village offers essential amenities such as teahouses, guesthouses, and shops, making it a convenient base for acclimatization and preparation for the next leg of the journey. In the evening, we can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and prepare for the next day's adventure. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Chame.

After breakfast, we begin on a scenic journey through the Manang Valley. The trail meanders through lush pine forests and terraced fields, offering glimpses of traditional stone houses adorned with intricate wood carvings, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. As we approach Chame, the administrative center of the Manang District, we are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV. The trail also passes by small hot springs, providing a welcome opportunity to relax and soothe our muscles after the day's trek. Chame, situated at an elevation of approximately 2,670 meters (8,760 feet), serves as a vital stopover for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit. The village offers essential amenities such as teahouses, guesthouses, and shops, making it a convenient base for acclimatization and preparation for the next leg of the journey. In the evening, we can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and prepare for the next day's adventure. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Chame.

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey through the Manang Valley. The trail meanders through lush pine forests and terraced fields, offering glimpses of traditional stone houses adorned with intricate wood carvings, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. As we approach Chame, the administrative center of the Manang District, we are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV. The trail also passes by small hot springs, providing a welcome opportunity to relax and soothe our muscles after the day's trek. Chame, situated at an elevation of approximately 2,670 meters (8,760 feet), serves as a vital stopover for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit. The village offers essential amenities such as teahouses, guesthouses, and shops, making it a convenient base for acclimatization and preparation for the next leg of the journey. In the evening, we can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and prepare for the next day's adventure. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Chame.

Today is designated as an acclimatization day. It is advisable to avoid complete rest and instead undertake a brief walk to a higher altitude to facilitate acclimatization. Manang serves as an appropriate location for this purpose, given that the following two days will involve strenuous and demanding trekking with rapid altitude gain. It is imperative to remain vigilant and cautious regarding the effects of altitude at all times. From an acclimatization perspective, visiting sites such as Bhojo Gompa or Gangapurna Lake is highly recommended. We will undertake a gentle excursion to the nearby village of Vraga, an ancient settlement housing a monastery. Additionally, we will make a brief visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association to acquire pertinent information on Mountain Sickness. Overnight accommodation will be in Manang.

From Manang, we continue through alpine landscapes with high altitude vegetation and forests. A gradual ascent takes us to Yak Kharka and then to our today’s camp. Our today’s camp area is most used as the alpine pasture by the local people.

Today, we continue our trekking from Leder to Chulu West Base Camp. From the Base Camp, we can enjoy the views of Annapurna Himalayas. We may also like to discover the surrounding areas. At this point, we will set up our camp for overnight stay.

From Chulu Base Camp, we proceed with our hike toward Camp I. Although the route is not technically demanding, it is important to remain mindful that we are ascending at high altitudes. At this point, we have the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, as well as Manaslu, Gangapurna, and Lamjung Himal.

Today is designated as a rest and acclimatization day at Camp I. During this time, the climbing leaders and support staff will proceed to Camp II to deliver equipment and supplies before returning to Camp I. Meanwhile, we may rest and, if desired, take a walk around the vicinity of Camp I.

Today, we depart from Camp I and continue our ascent across the rock band toward Camp II. Although the route is not highly technical, the use of ropes, crampons, and ice axes may be necessary. Camp II will be established at an elevation of 5,530 meters (18,143 feet). While some climbers attempt to reach the summit directly from Camp I, we opt to spend the night at Camp II to ensure adequate rest and proper acclimatization, as the climb from Camp II to the summit is relatively straightforward.

Today is our summit day, and it will be a long and demanding journey. Consequently, we will rise much earlier than usual. Throughout the ascent, we must exert considerable effort along the icy high-altitude trail; however, the breathtaking views of the high Himalayas are so captivating that they often draw our gaze beyond the path. After reaching the summit, we will descend back to Camp I.

From Camp I, our return path descends all the way to Leder. While descending, we enjoy the panoramic views of the Annapurnas and other peaks. We make our overnight stay at Leder and celebrate the summiting of Chulu West Peak.

There is no guarantee of favorable weather on the planned summit day. Therefore, this day is reserved as a contingency in case we are unable to reach the summit of Chulu West Peak as scheduled due to adverse weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, if any member of the group experiences difficulties with acclimatization, this day can be utilized to allow for proper adjustment. If the expedition proceeds without issues, this reserve day will not be necessary.

Today, we clean up the base camp and head for Thorong Phedi. It is going to be mostly an easy way walk downhill. However, we do not forget that we are still in high altitude area.

Today, we begin by crossing the renowned high pass of Thorong La. An early start is essential to successfully complete this segment. After crossing the pass, we arrive at Muktinath, a significant pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Muktinath features a Vishnu temple alongside a nearby monastery, exemplifying the religious harmony present in Nepal. For Hindus, this area is considered a “Muktikhsetra,” meaning a place of liberation or salvation. Water spouts channel a stream flowing above the temple. From Muktinath, we are treated to spectacular views of Dhaulagiri Peak. Following our visit, we travel back to Jomsom by local bus.

After breakfast, we proceed to the airport to board a flight back to Pokhara. The 30-minute flight offers a spectacular journey through the gorge between two towering mountains, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Upon arrival at Pokhara Airport, our guide will escort us to our hotel by the lakeside. We will spend the afternoon at leisure exploring the picturesque Pokhara Valley. While strolling along the banks of Fewa Lake, one of Nepal’s largest lakes, we will be captivated by the reflection of Fish Tail Mountain on the water’s surface. Options for the afternoon include taking a boat ride on Fewa Lake or enjoying an hour-long walk to the World Peace Pagoda. In the evening, we will further explore the vibrant lakeside area.

After breakfast today, we will embark on a 200-kilometer drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. It is advisable to sit on the left side of the vehicle to fully appreciate the scenic views along the route. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will be escorted to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free to correspond with travel companions and organize photographs. The evening may be spent at leisure or used for some last-minute shopping. Finally, we will gather for a celebratory dinner with the Hill and Mountain trekking staff.

Our journey in Nepal concludes today. Approximately three hours prior to our scheduled flight, a representative from Hill and Mountain rwill accompany us to the airport and extend their farewell wishes. As we depart for home, we will have ample time to reflect on our experiences and begin planning future adventures in this remarkable country.