Trip Overview
This expedition combines trekking and alpine climbing in the Annapurna region. Climbers pass through yak pastures, alpine meadows, and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages. The summit push rewards adventurers with panoramic Himalayan vistas including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Mustang peaks. High-altitude camping ensures a genuine Himalayan experience for moderately experienced climbers.
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Summit Chulu West (6,419 m) with spectacular alpine views
Trek through Kali Gandaki valley and Tibetan-influenced villages
Cultural exposure at Muktinath Temple
High-altitude camping experience
Panoramic vistas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Mustang ranges
Itinerary
Day 1Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)
- Meet at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel.
- Trek/climbing briefing and gear check.
- Overnight in hotel.
Day 2Kathmandu Sightseeing & Permit Preparation
- Visit UNESCO sites: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square.
- Obtain Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and trekking peak permit for Chulu West.
- Overnight in hotel.
Day 3Drive/Flight to Jomsom (2,700 m)
- Scenic flight over Pokhara, Kali Gandaki Valley, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Explore Jomsom Bazaar, overnight in lodge.
Day 4Trek Jomsom to Tangge / Kagbeni (2,800 m) – 4–5 hrs
- Gradual trek through arid Kali Gandaki valley with views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
- Visit historic Tibetan-influenced villages along the way.
- Overnight in lodge.
Day 5Trek Tangge/Kagbeni to Muktinath (3,710 m) – 4–5 hrs
- Follow Kali Gandaki valley, pass through Jharkot and Chele.
- Explore Muktinath Temple (sacred to Hindus & Buddhists).
- Overnight in lodge.
Day 6Trek Muktinath to Khopra Khola (4,000 m) – 5–6 hrs
- Gentle ascent into high alpine terrain with yak pastures.
- Camping preparation and gear check for climbing rotation.
- Overnight in tented camp.
Day 7Trek Khopra Khola to Chulu West Base Camp (4,800 m) – 4–5 hrs
- Ascend to base of Chulu West with views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Dhaulagiri.
- Camp setup at BC. Overnight in tented camp.
Day 8Base Camp – Acclimatization / Short Hike
- Hike nearby ridges for acclimatization and reconnaissance of summit route.
- Review climbing techniques and rope work.
- Overnight in tented camp.
Day 9Base Camp to High Camp (5,400 m) – 4–5 hrs
- Ascend steep moraines and rocky slopes.
- Establish high camp on a snow/rock terrace.
- Overnight in tented camp.
Day 10Summit Push – High Camp to Chulu West Summit (6,419 m) & Return to High Camp – 8–10 hrs
- Early morning alpine start.
- Climb snow slopes and rock slabs using ropes and crampons.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mustang.
- Descend to High Camp for overnight.
Day 11High Camp to Base Camp – 3–4 hrs
- Descent back to BC, rest, and celebrate summit success.
- Overnight in tented camp.
Day 12Base Camp to Thorong Phedi / Yak Kharka (4,000 m) – 4–5 hrs
- Gentle descent through alpine meadows and yak pastures.
- Overnight in lodge or camp.
Day 13Trek to Jomsom (2,700 m) – 5–6 hrs
- Return along the Kali Gandaki River valley.
- Overnight in lodge.
Day 14 Fly/Drive Jomsom to Pokhara – 30 min flight / 5–6 hrs drive
- Scenic flight back to Pokhara or drive depending on weather.
- Overnight in hotel.
Day 15Pokhara – Free day / Rest
- Explore lakeside city, Phewa Lake, or relax.
- Overnight in hotel.
Day 16Drive/Flight Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Scenic drive or flight back to Kathmandu.
- Free time for shopping or sightseeing.
- Overnight in hotel.
Day 17Final Departure
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for onward flight.
Route Map
