Mt. Chulu East 18 Days

Mount Chulu is a mountain located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, specifically in the northern part of the country. It is part of the larger Chulu range, which lies to the north of the Annapurna massif. The mountain is known for its challenging climbing routes and is a popular destination for mountaineers seeking a less crowded alternative to some of the more famous peaks in the region.

Climbers attempting Chulu East or West should be prepared for the challenging conditions at high altitudes, including the risk of altitude sickness. Most expeditions take around 2 to 3 weeks to complete, depending on the route taken and the acclimatization schedule.

Highlights of Mt Chulu:

1. Location and Accessibility

• Mount Chulu is situated in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
• The mountain can be accessed via a trek starting from Besisahar (the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit), which is well-connected to Kathmandu.
• The trekking route offers stunning views of several peaks, including Annapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri.

2. Climbing and Trekking

• Chulu West is often tackled by mountaineers seeking to combine trekking with a moderate technical climbing challenge.
• Chulu East is considered a more difficult climb due to its steeper faces, requiring a higher level of technical skill.
• Most climbers ascend Chulu West as part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, while Chulu East requires a more specialized expedition.

3. Scenic Beauty

• The area around Mount Chulu offers breathtaking landscapes, including alpine meadows, lush forests, and rugged terrains.
• The views of the surrounding Annapurna range and other high peaks are spectacular.
• The high-altitude lakes, such as Tilicho Lake, are also prominent stops near the region, known for their serene beauty.

4. Altitude and Challenges

• Chulu West and East stand at considerable heights: Chulu West (6,419m) and Chulu East (6,584m).
• The climb involves navigating glaciers, ridges, and snow-covered terrain, making it a physically demanding journey.
• Altitude sickness is a concern due to the high elevations, requiring proper acclimatization.

5. Trekking Highlights

• Annapurna Circuit: The trek through the Annapurna Circuit passes near Chulu, with stops in scenic villages like Manang and Yak Kharka.
• Thorong La Pass: One of the highest trekking passes in the world at 5,416 meters, offers incredible views as it connects the northern and southern parts of the Annapurna range.
• The Chulu region provides a mix of cultures, landscapes, and natural beauty.

6. Unique Flora and Fauna

• The Annapurna region is rich in biodiversity, and trekkers can witness a variety of wildlife, including blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and snow leopards.
• The lower altitudes of the trek pass through lush forests filled with rhododendrons and pine trees.

7. Best Time to Visit

• The ideal seasons to attempt a trek or climb around Mount Chulu are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, stable weather, and mild temperatures.

8. Expedition Challenges

• Mount Chulu is considered a technical climb in some sections, especially Chulu East.
• Climbers may face challenges such as crevasses, glacial terrain, and steep ascents.
• Proper mountaineering equipment, including crampons, ice axes, and ropes, is necessary for a safe ascent.

In essence, Mount Chulu is a great option for those looking to experience both trekking and climbing in the Himalayas, with exceptional views and a challenging but achievable summit.

Trip Outline

Day 01: Drive Kathmandu to Syange/Jagat [1100m/3608 ft]: 8 - 10 hrs
Day 02: Trek Syange/Jagat to Dharapani [1,960m/6,430ft]: 7 - 8 hrs
Day 03: Dharapani-Chame [2,710m/8,891ft]: 6 - 7 hrs
Day 04: Chame- Pisang [3,300m/10824ft]: 5 - 6 hrs
Day 05: Upper Pisang-Manang [3,500m/11,482ft]: 6 - 7 hrs
Day 06: Manang: Rest
Day 07: Manang to Leder [4200m/13,776ft]: 4 - 5 hrs
Day 08: Leder to Chulu West Base Camp [4900m/16,072ft]: 4 - 5 hr
Day 09: Chulu East base camp to camp I [5100m/16,728ft]: 4 - 5 hrs
Day 10: Rest & Acclimatization at Camp I
Day 11: Camp I to Camp II [5,530m/18,143ft]: 4 - 5 hrs
Day 12: Summit Chulu East [6419m/21,055ft] and back to Camp I: 9 - 10 hrs
Day 13: Camp I to Leder: 5 - 6 hrs
Day 14: Contingency Day
Day 15: Leder to Thorong Phedi [4450m/14,596ft]: 3 - 4 hrs
Day 16: Thorong Phedi - Thorong Pass [5416m/17,765ft] - Muktinath [3,800/12,467ft]-Jomsom [2,715m/8,910ft]: 7 - 8 hrs trek and 2 hrs drive
Day 17: Jomsom to Pokhara by bus
Day 18: Drive back to Kathmandu: 6 - 7 hrs