Chulu East In Nepal
For ardent novice, Chulu East is a delight for trekking and climbing. Technically, Chulu East is a friendly peak and does not require much trekking or climbing experience. However, physical fitness and complete acclimatization is must for everyone attempting to summit Chulu East. The route that weaves to this peak is not strenuous and is not that difficult. Besides a strong backup of supportive team of a leader, porter, sherpas and cooks, trekkers and mountaineers should also be equipped and familiarized with equipments like crampons, harness, ice axe, tying knots and handling climbing ropes. The best season to trek and climb Chulu East is from March to May and from September to November.
Generally, Chulu East trek/expedition is a 20-25 day trip. Besi Sahar[820m] is the starting point of a trek to Chulu East. The trekking trail follows Marshyangdi river valley leaving behind striking red-walled houses of Denauti village and smiling people of Gurung village in Khudi[790m]. Against the backdrop of enchanting Annapurna mountain ranges, the trail crosses suspension bridge and enters Ngadi village where there are many shops and teahouses to cater to travellers’ needs. In few hours, trekkers finally reach Bahundanda[1310m]. The term, Bahundanda means “Brahmin hill” and as the name suggests Bahundanda is hugely populated by Brahmins. The journey continues towards Jagat[1343m], Dharapani[1946m], Chame[2685m], Pisang[3200m], Julu[3500m] and then ascends Chegaji Khola Valley towards Chulu East Base Camp. Easy climb through scattered chortens and forests of juniper and pines takes further to Julu where trekkers can relax and get fully acclimatized.
Next, the route walks past goat and yak pastures of Yak Kharka amid the stunning myriad of snow capped peaks. Eventually, trekkers arrive at Base camp [4200m].
At this point Annapurna range dominates the senses with its majestic charisma. En route, there is a chance of spotting musk deer and other rare fauna. At the camp sites, trekkers can explore the cultural richness of the places and interact with local people. Normally, the trail progresses further to North-East Ridge from the base Camp ascending past moraines to High Base Camp at an altitude 5000 meter and then to Chulu East. Upon summiting Chulu East, the route then meanders through Thorung La pass towards Kali Gandaki valley and eventually retraces the trail that leads to the end of the trip.
When it comes to exploring the Himalayas of Nepal, Chulu East is an attractive and irresistible choice. Many past mountaineers and trekkers who have had their share of experiencing Chulu East trek/expedition regard this charismatic peak a glorious treat.
Julien Van Loye
http://www.explorehimalaya.com
http://www.explorehimalaya.com/trekking_peak.php
julien@explorehimalaya.com
Tags: annapurna, chulu, climbing, himalaya, holiday, nepal, peak, tour, walking