Chulu Far East Expedition
Chulu Far East Expedition
Around the Annapurna, the Naar Phu Valley, and Thorong La & Objective: Chulu Far East
This great trek at the foot of the Annapurna follows a rarely used route to explore the secret Naar Phu Valley and its Tibetan villages. For hikers who love pristine and wild spaces, the Naar Phu Valley, one of the trans-Himalayan communication routes to Tibet, has only recently opened to tourism.
After crossing rice fields and forests, we rise into the high mountain domain. The glaciers are very close. Arriving at Metha, Chako, Kyang, and Phu—villages of dry stone houses, chortens, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind, punctuate a high-altitude desert under Tibetan influence.
We leave the Naar Valley by crossing Kang La at 5,322 m before descending to Ngawal and then heading to the Chulu Far East Base Camp, where we will spend three days. After this proper acclimatization, we begin the ultimate objective of this trek: Chulu Far East at 6,059 m.
From the top, the Annapurna and Manaslu massifs unfold before our eyes.
- Crossing the two passes of Kang La and Thorong La and their views of the Himalayas
- Ascending Chulu Far East and reaching 6,000m
- The variety of landscapes and ethnic groups encountered on this off-the-beaten-path trek
- The isolated Narphu Valley and the authentic Tibetan villages of Naar and the perched village of Phu Gaon
- Ascending Chulu Far East and reaching 6,000m
- The variety of landscapes and ethnic groups encountered on this off-the-beaten-path trek
- The isolated Narphu Valley and the authentic Tibetan villages of Naar and the perched village of Phu Gaon
Daytime
Welcome and transfer to the hotel from the airport.
- Accommodation: Holy Himalaya Hotel on BB or similar
- Meals: On your own
- Accommodation: Holy Himalaya Hotel on BB or similar
- Meals: On your own
Day exploring the treasures of the Kathmandu Valley: Pashupatinath, a 12th-century Hindu site and cremation ground dedicated to Shiva, where pilgrims bathe in the sacred Bagmati River. Then, visit Boudhanath, a large Buddhist stupa located in the heart of the Tibetan quarter. Afterwards, stroll through the streets of old Kathmandu. After lunch, there is the option to visit Bhaktapur, a superb medieval Newar town, one of the jewels of the valley and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Accommodation: Holy Himalaya Hotel on BB or similar
- Meals: On your own
- Accommodation: Holy Himalaya Hotel on BB or similar
- Meals: On your own
Early morning private vehicle transfer to the village of Besisahar (950 m), where we meet our porters.
Local jeep transfer with the team to Dharapani (1,960 m)
- About 5 h + 4 h of driving
- Accommodation: Lodge
Local jeep transfer with the team to Dharapani (1,960 m)
- About 5 h + 4 h of driving
- Accommodation: Lodge
After an hour’s walk, we arrive at Bagachap, from where we can see Annapurna II and, up to Danaque, views of the Manaslu massifs. We then leave the Marshyangdi River for an hour-long climb to Upper Timang. After crossing a rhododendron forest (in bloom during spring), there are superb views of the Himalayas and the valley. The walk then becomes easy until Thanchok, crossing a pine forest before reaching Koto, a small Gurung village on the banks of the Marshyangdi River.
- Ascent: 900 meters
- Descent: 250 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Ascent: 900 meters
- Descent: 250 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
From Koto, we enter the high Naar and Phu valleys, recently opened to tourism. We cross the Marshyangdi River via a suspension bridge and follow the Naar Phu River along its right bank. The trail is cut into the cliff, walking over scree and through a pine forest. After 2 hours, we cross another suspension bridge and walk along the left bank through more pine forest, then cross the river again via a wooden bridge. The gorges narrow between vertical cliffs as we continue toward Dharamsala, with stunning views of Lamjung Himal (6,932 m).
After about an hour of walking, we cross a small stream and climb approximately 300 m on a fairly steep slope (45 min) to reach Metha, the first dry-stone village in this beautiful valley. Spectacular views of Annapurna II (7,937 m) and Lamjung (6,932 m).
- Ascent: 1,300 meters
- Descent: 400 meters
- Walking time: 7 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge / local homestay
After about an hour of walking, we cross a small stream and climb approximately 300 m on a fairly steep slope (45 min) to reach Metha, the first dry-stone village in this beautiful valley. Spectacular views of Annapurna II (7,937 m) and Lamjung (6,932 m).
- Ascent: 1,300 meters
- Descent: 400 meters
- Walking time: 7 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge / local homestay
Vegetation becomes scarcer, dotted with wildflowers, junipers, and birches, whose bark was once used as paper for religious texts.
The Khampa warriors, originally from Kham (in eastern Tibet), settled in Metha after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959 until the Nepalese military intervention in 1975. The inhabitants of Naar and Phu descend to this village in winter.
We take the trail that climbs toward Phu, following the Phu River. After about 1.5 hours along a relatively flat balcony trail, we arrive at Jhunum (3,640 m). Along the path, we pass shepherds’ huts and enjoy excellent views of the glaciers. We cross two streams, then reach the village of Chaku (3,750 m), a former Khampa settlement, and continue on the trail climbing toward Phu along the river of the same name.
We cross the Labse River (“snow leopard” in Tibetan) to reach Kyang. Beautiful views of Pisang Peak (6,091 m), Tilje Peak, Gyaji Kang, Pokharan Himal, and more. The numerous chortens lining the trail remind us that we are in Tibetan country.
- Ascent: 300 meters
- Descent: 700 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
The Khampa warriors, originally from Kham (in eastern Tibet), settled in Metha after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959 until the Nepalese military intervention in 1975. The inhabitants of Naar and Phu descend to this village in winter.
We take the trail that climbs toward Phu, following the Phu River. After about 1.5 hours along a relatively flat balcony trail, we arrive at Jhunum (3,640 m). Along the path, we pass shepherds’ huts and enjoy excellent views of the glaciers. We cross two streams, then reach the village of Chaku (3,750 m), a former Khampa settlement, and continue on the trail climbing toward Phu along the river of the same name.
We cross the Labse River (“snow leopard” in Tibetan) to reach Kyang. Beautiful views of Pisang Peak (6,091 m), Tilje Peak, Gyaji Kang, Pokharan Himal, and more. The numerous chortens lining the trail remind us that we are in Tibetan country.
- Ascent: 300 meters
- Descent: 700 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
We continue the day walking along a trail carved into the rock, then follow the river. Along the way, we may spot herds of Naur (blue sheep), a favourite prey of snow leopards. A beautiful climb leads us to the first gate of Phu, passing a large mani and some ruins. After about an hour of walking on a gentle slope and crossing a large suspension bridge, we arrive at the village of Phu through an impressive gate. The village, once a crossroads for trans-Himalayan trade, is perched on a small rocky promontory, with houses blending into the rock. Beautiful views of Himlung (7,126 m), Kangguru, Pokarkang (6,265 m), and the Annapurna range.
- Ascent: 1,000 meters
- Walking time: 4 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Ascent: 1,000 meters
- Walking time: 4 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
Very long stage to reach the village of Naar in the late afternoon. We descend to the Phu Khola (3,400 m), which we cross via a suspension bridge, then climb up to the village of Naar.
- Ascent: 1,400 meters
- Descent: 1,200 meters
- Walking time: 7–8 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Ascent: 1,400 meters
- Descent: 1,200 meters
- Walking time: 7–8 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
We set off very early in the morning, gradually climbing to the Kang La Pass base camp. We enter further into the mineral world of rocks and moraines. Beautiful views of Chulu East and West, as well as Pisang Peak, and camp at the foot of Kang La Pass (4,400 m). From the pass, panoramic views of the entire Annapurna massif. Descent to the beautiful village of Ngawal.
- Ascent: 1,200 meters
- Descent: 1,700 meters
- Walking time: 8–9 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Ascent: 1,200 meters
- Descent: 1,700 meters
- Walking time: 8–9 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
We set off very early in the morning to reach the pass at sunrise. From the pass, panoramic views of the entire Annapurna massif. Steep descent to Chulu Base Camp and preparation for the ascent.
- Ascent: 1,000 meters
- Descent: 900 meters
- Walking time: 7–8 hours
- Accommodation: Camp
- Ascent: 1,000 meters
- Descent: 900 meters
- Walking time: 7–8 hours
- Accommodation: Camp
Days dedicated to the ascent of Chulu Far East (a slightly difficult one) Trekking Peak, offering a splendid panorama of the entire Himalayan range from Annapurna to Manaslu. Return to Base Camp.
- Ascent: 1,200 meters
- Descent: 1,200 meters
- Walking time: 9–10 hours
- Accommodation: Camp
- Ascent: 1,200 meters
- Descent: 1,200 meters
- Walking time: 9–10 hours
- Accommodation: Camp
Note: An extra day at the camp is planned if necessary to accommodate unforeseen circumstances.
Along the route, we overlook the Manang Valley before reaching Manang via Kicho Lake.
- Descent: 950 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Descent: 950 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
Ascent to Yak Kharka or Letdar.
- Ascent: 680 meters
- Descent: 100 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Ascent: 680 meters
- Descent: 100 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
Gradual, sometimes steep ascent from Phedi. Afternoon free or short walk.
- Ascent: 600 meters
- Walking time: 4 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Ascent: 600 meters
- Walking time: 4 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
Very early morning departure with a 3.5-hour climb to reach Thorong La Pass, followed by a steep descent to Muktinath. The first village of Mustang is a religious sanctuary for both Buddhists and Hindus. Visit the small temple of Muktinath.
- Ascent: 600 meters
- Descent: 1700 meters
- Walking time: 8 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Ascent: 600 meters
- Descent: 1700 meters
- Walking time: 8 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
Ascent to a small, remote pass, then sometimes steep descent to the Bonpo village of Lupra. We then follow the windy bed of the Kali Gandaki River to the Thakali town of Jomsom.
- Ascent: 400 meters
- Descent: 1,200 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Ascent: 400 meters
- Descent: 1,200 meters
- Walking time: 5 hours
- Accommodation: Lodge
Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Transfer to your hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel Batika on B&B basis
- Accommodation: Hotel Batika on B&B basis
Free late afternoon in Kathmandu.
- Accommodation: Hotel Holy Himalaya on B&B basis or similar
- Meals: Free
- Accommodation: Hotel Holy Himalaya on B&B basis or similar
- Meals: Free
Notes
Difficulty:
Alpine Grade: PD (slightly difficult – slope under 40°)
Snow route without major technical difficulty – requires knowledge and practice of roped walking, with crampons and ice axe.
The best period for the ascent is in autumn, from October to November.
The second choice is spring, in March – April, although there is still a risk of avalanches during snowmelt.
Alpine Grade: PD (slightly difficult – slope under 40°)
Snow route without major technical difficulty – requires knowledge and practice of roped walking, with crampons and ice axe.
The best period for the ascent is in autumn, from October to November.
The second choice is spring, in March – April, although there is still a risk of avalanches during snowmelt.
Destination
Nepal
Activity
Trekking & expeditions
Duration
20 Days
Trek days
15
Max. altitude
6059 Meters
Trek Type
Very Difficult
Domestic flights
JOM - PKR
Accommodation
Hotel / Lodge / Camp
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Pour votre prochain trek avec nous en Himalaya, voyagez léger et en conscience : Base Camp vous offre un savon biodégradable fabriqué au Népal, pour ne laisser aucune trace…
Include
- All airport transfers and transport to Besisahar in a private vehicle and private local jeep from Besisahar to Dharapani.- 3 nights at Holy Himalaya Hotel or similar
- 1 night at Batika or Middle Path & Spa in Pokhara on BB
- Trek on full board in lodges & light bivouac according to the itinerary
- English-speaking high-altitude guide (French-speaking for groups of 3 or more) for the trek and its flight
- 1 day of guided visits with vehicle and French-speaking cultural guide
- 1 porter for 2 people for personal belongings for the entire trek (15 kg/person)
- Light camping & expedition team: 1 cook/Sherpa & 2–3 extra porters
- Trekking permits: ACAP, TIMS, and special Narphu permit (100 US$/person)
- Collective camping and kitchen equipment (2-person tents + mess tent for staff, EP Gas, stoves, food…)
- Staff insurance
- Guide insurance: 300 US$ for each high-altitude guide and Sherpa
- Equipment bonus (climbing allowance): 350 US$ for each high-altitude guide and Sherpa
- Collective climbing equipment
- Royalties: 250 US$/person (Autumn)
- Oxygen bottles available if necessary
- Jomsom – Pokhara flight: 165 US$/person (subject to change without prior notice from airlines)
Not Include
- Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara (excluding breakfast)- Nepal visa (US$50 at the airport for 30 days)
- Entrance fees to sites during visits in the Kathmandu Valley
- International flight
- Mandatory repatriation insurance
- Personal climbing equipment (see below)
- Tips, personal expenses, drinks, sleeping bag, etc.
- Supplement for Himalayan climbers in spring: 175$ per person (Royalties)
- Supplement single room for 4 nights in a hotel: 110$