views
Chulu East peak lies to the north of the Annapurna Massif, close to the popular Annapurna Circuit route. It is one of the three Chulu peaks—Chulu East, Chulu West, and Chulu Far East—each offering different levels of difficulty and exposure.
Chulu East stands out for being both technically interesting and accessible for climbers with basic mountaineering skills.
What Makes This Climb Special?
Chulu East is more than just a climb. It’s an extended Himalayan journey that takes you through diverse landscapes—lush valleys, alpine meadows, and high mountain deserts. You’ll pass traditional Gurung and Manangi villages, explore centuries-old monasteries, and walk along ancient salt trade routes.
As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes more dramatic. Snow-covered peaks dominate the skyline, including views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak.
Climbing Experience and Fitness
Chulu East requires a good level of physical fitness and some basic mountaineering experience. You don’t need to be an expert climber, but you should be familiar with using ice axes, crampons, and harnesses. Training in advance is highly recommended.
The climb involves glacier walking, fixed rope sections, and exposed ridges. Altitude is another challenge, so acclimatization days are built into most itineraries.
Typical Itinerary
Most Chulu East expeditions take about 18 to 21 days. The journey usually begins in Besisahar and follows the Annapurna Circuit trail up to the village of Chulu or Yak Kharka. From there, a few days are set aside for acclimatization and climbing practice before moving toward Chulu East Base Camp.
Summit day starts early and can take 10 to 14 hours round trip, depending on weather and group pace. After the climb, most routes continue over the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), offering a rewarding finish to the adventure.
Best Season to Climb
The best months for climbing Chulu East are spring (April to early June) and autumn (late September to November). These seasons bring stable weather, clear skies, and safer snow conditions.
Permits and Support
Climbing Chulu East requires special permits: a Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) climbing permit, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a TIMS card. Most climbers go with a licensed expedition company, which handles logistics, gear, and permits.
Hiring experienced guides and porters is not only helpful but also adds safety and local insight to the trip.
Final Thoughts
Chulu East Peak offers something for both trekkers looking to take the next step and mountaineers searching for a challenging yet achievable Himalayan summit. It’s a chance to go beyond trekking and into true alpine adventure—while still soaking in the deep cultural layers of the Annapurna region.
