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Chulu east
Chulu East offers a challenging climb that rewards you with unparalleled panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayan giants. Its less-trodden path provides a sense of solitude and adventure, making it a hidden gem among Nepal's trekking peaks.
Table of contents
GuidesPictures
Itinerary
Route
Weather
Gear
Services
Permits
Access
Videos
Summit View
Variations
FAQs
Similar
Route
- 5,669 m gain over 20 days
- Starting and ending in Besisahar
- approach: walk in
Walk in
- +2,300 m over a 45 km approach
- 4 - 6 days in
- 3 - 5 days out
Climb
- +1,470 m over 3 days.
- 1 high camp. There is one high camp at around 5,050m, which is typically used.
Difficulty
- PD: Not very hard (alpine grade 2)
Cost
- $1,000 solo
- $1,620 - $6,350 guided
When to go
- April and May
- September and October
Permits
- 2 permits are needed
- costing around $102 total
Guide mandatory?
- no
Guide links
| Guide | Info | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Life Dream Adventure | more info | $2,800 |
| Great Nepal Treks | more info | $3,050 |
| Hiking Adventure Treks | more info | $2,210 |
| Sherpana | more info | $1,620 |
| Nepal Tour & Trekking | more info | $1,700 |
| Tibet Holidays | more info | $2,095 |
| Nepal Guide Treks & Expedition | more info | $3,055 |
| Nepal Eco Adventure | more info | $2,750 |
| Mountmania | more info | $2,500 |
| Swotah Travel | more info | $2,650 |
| Highland Expeditions | more info | $3,800 |
| Annapurna Foothills | more info | $4,200 |
| Access Nepal Tour | more info | $3,290 |
| Exciting Nepal Treks & Expedition | more info | $2,650 |
| Unique Path Trekking & Expedition | more info | $2,376 |
| Makalu Adventure | more info | $2,750 |
| Utmost Adventure | more info | $2,700 |
| Discover Altitude | more info | $2,999 |
| Swiss Family Treks and Expedition | more info | $3,490 |
| Outward Adventure Treks | more info | $4,100 |
| Gokyo Treks & Expedition | more info | $2,055 |
| Explorer Adventure | more info | $2,450 |
| Mountain Ram Adventures | more info | $3,200 |
| Nepal Nomad Trekking | more info | $2,798 |
| Peregrine Treks | more info | $3,250 |
| Nepal Social Treks | more info | $2,422 |
| Sunrise Adventure Treks | more info | $2,490 |
| Great Panorama Treks and Expedition | more info | $3,500 |
| Wild Yak Expeditions | more info | $6,350 |
| Orbit Alpine Adventure | more info | $2,300 |
| My Everest Trip | more info | $2,180 |
| Third Eye Adventure | more info | $2,190 |
| Unique Treks | more info | $2,850 |
| Global Holiday Adventure | more info | $2,700 |
| Dream Himalaya Adventures | more info | $3,390 - $3,305 |
| Accessible Adventure | more info | $2,390 |
| Nepal Trekking Routes | more info | $1,950 |
| Himalayan Diamond Adventure | more info | $2,799 |
| Pro-Himal Adventure | more info | $3,750 |
| Eternal Himalaya | more info | $2,359 |
The climbing itinerary for Chulu East includes a base camp at 5360 meters, a high camp at 5530 meters, and the summit at 6584 meters. This challenging ascent requires technical climbing skills and offers experienced mountaineers an exhilarating adventure in the Annapurna region.
Chulu East Base Camp
The starting point of the climb, situated at an altitude of 5360 meters. It serves as a central location for acclimatization and preparation.
5,360 m
High Camp
A campsite located at an elevation of 5530 meters, providing a crucial stop for rest and acclimatization before the summit push.
5,530 m
Chulu East Summit
The summit of Chulu East, reaching an elevation of 6584 meters. From the summit, climbers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
6,584 m
Chulu east weather
How is the weather on Chulu east, and when is the best time to go.
The best time to climb Chulu East is from September to November, when the weather is generally dry and stable. The winter months from December to February can be very cold and snowy, while the summer months from June to August can be wet due to the monsoon season.
The best time to climb Chulu east is in these months:
- Apr
- May
- Sep
- Oct
Chulu east Services
Gear rental, porters, guides, transport, internet, accommodation
The Chulu East trek is a popular trekking route that offers a variety of climbing and trekking services. The route passes through several villages and remote areas, and there are several accommodation options, food choices, and gear services available.
Accommodation
Teahouses and lodges are available along the route. These are basic but comfortable and provide meals and lodging facilities.Food
A variety of food options are available on the route, including local Nepali food and western cuisine. However, the availability of food items may vary with the altitude.Guides
Local guides are available for hire and are highly recommended due to their knowledge of the area and experience. The cost of hiring a guide can range from $25-$30 per day.Porters
Porters can also be hired to carry heavy equipment or luggage. The cost of hiring a porter can range from $20-$25 per day.Medical facilities
There are basic health clinics and pharmacies available in some of the villages along the route. However, it is recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications.Gear rental
Basic gear can be rented in Kathmandu, including sleeping bags, jackets, and boots. However, it is recommended to bring your own equipment, especially for climbing purposes. Additionally, it is essential to carry crampons and ice axes during the climbing season (March - May and September - November).Transport
Private jeeps and buses are available from Kathmandu to Besishahar. From there, local transportation can be used to reach the starting point of the trek. Helicopter services are also available for emergencies or to reach remote areas.Internet / Phone
Connectivity can be limited on the trek, with intermittent phone signal available in some areas. Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses, but it may not be reliable. It is recommended to carry a local SIM card and a portable charger.ATMs
ATMs are not available on the route, and it is recommended to carry enough cash.Shops
Small shops are available in some of the villages along the route, selling basic items such as snacks, toiletries, and souvenirs.Chulu east permits
What permits are needed for climbing Chulu east
For climbing Chulu East, you will need to obtain several permits.
1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- $23.5 (~3,000 in the local currency)
- A permit required for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Can be obtained in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Besisahar.
2. Chulu East Peak Permit
- $78.5 (~10,000 in the local currency)
- A permit required for climbing Chulu East Peak.
- Can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Chulu east access - getting there
How to get to Chulu east
- Private Car/Jeep: The most convenient and comfortable way to get to the start of the Chulu East climb is by hiring a private car or jeep, which can be arranged in advance.
- Public Bus: Public buses are available from Kathmandu to Besishahar, which is the starting point for the trek. From there, you will need to hire a jeep or walk to Chame, where the trek officially starts.
- Shared Jeep: Shared jeeps can be found in Besishahar, which is the starting point for the trek. They are a more affordable option than private cars, but can be crowded and uncomfortable.
- Flight: Flights are available from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Jomsom, both of which are near the Annapurna region. From there, you can hire a jeep or take a bus to Besishahar and then proceed to Chame.
- Helicopter: Helicopter rides are available from Kathmandu to Chame, which is the starting point for the trek. However, they are expensive and not a practical option for most trekkers.
These are variations on the typical route. Which could be added on; either part way along or at the start / end to extend the trek.
Mesokanto Pass
add 4 - 6 extra days
A popular variation that includes crossing the high and scenic Mesokanto La pass to reach the remote village of Naar Phu.
Chulu east questions
What to know about climbing Chulu east
Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.
These treks are similar in length, difficulty, and elevation. Offering a similar level of challenge as the Chulu east trek and provide beautiful landscapes, cultural experiences, and a sense of adventure.
