Climbing Chulu Far East Peak in Nepal was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. Nestled in the heart of the Annapurna region, this peak is often overlooked by trekkers heading to more famous summits like Annapurna or Machapuchare. But for those who seek an adventure that’s both challenging and less crowded, Chulu Far East offers the perfect escape.

The Start of the Adventure

The journey to Chulu Far East begins in the lively town of Besisahar, the starting point for most treks in the Annapurna Circuit. From here, you drive to the village of Ngadi, and then the real adventure begins with a multi-day trek through scenic villages, terraced fields, and dense forests. The path takes you up to the high Himalayas, where the air gets thinner and the views more breathtaking with every step.

As a beginner climber, I wasn’t sure what to expect from Chulu Far East, but I was drawn to the idea of summiting a peak that was both physically demanding and visually stunning. The trek itself is a good mix of trekking and mountaineering, and while the altitude can be challenging, the spectacular scenery made it all worth it.

The Trekking Experience

The first few days of the trek are relatively straightforward. You’ll pass through small villages like Chame and Lower Pisang, where you’ll experience the culture of the local Gurung and Manangi people. The charm of these villages, combined with views of towering snow-capped peaks like Annapurna II and Manaslu, makes the journey feel magical.

As you ascend, the landscape gradually changes. The lush greenery of the lower altitudes starts to give way to rugged, rocky terrain. The higher we climbed, the more I realized how remote and peaceful this region is compared to the more crowded trekking routes. It’s a sense of isolation that only adds to the sense of achievement.

By the time we reached Chulu Base Camp, the challenge really began. At an altitude of around 4,800 meters (15,748 feet), it’s not the highest base camp, but the thin air is enough to make every step feel heavier. The view of the towering Chulu Far East Peak towering above is both awe-inspiring and intimidating.

The Summit Push

Summiting Chulu Far East is not an easy feat. While it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, the steep slopes and high-altitude conditions make it a physically demanding task. On summit day, we began our climb in the early hours, just as the sun began to rise. The cold was biting, and with each step, the air grew thinner, but the excitement kept me going.

The climb took about 6 to 8 hours, with a few breaks to catch our breath and hydrate. As we neared the top, the final push involved scrambling over rocky terrain and using crampons for extra traction on icy sections. The wind picked up, and at times it felt like we were battling the elements, but nothing could take away the exhilaration of nearing the summit.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I stood on the summit of Chulu Far East Peak. The view from the top was beyond anything I had imagined. The vast Annapurna range stretched out before me, with peaks like Annapurna IV and Gangapurna gleaming in the sunlight. Below, the valleys and glaciers lay quiet, untouched by the bustling world below. I felt a deep sense of accomplishment—not just for reaching the peak, but for completing a journey that had pushed me physically and mentally.

The Descent and Reflection

The descent was much quicker, but still tricky, especially as the air began to thin and our bodies started to feel the effects of altitude. We made our way back to Chulu Base Camp and then continued our trek back down to lower altitudes, where the air became easier to breathe.

Looking back, climbing Chulu Far East Peak was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. It’s a peak that isn’t as well-known as some of Nepal’s bigger climbs, but that only adds to its appeal. For anyone seeking an adventure in the Annapurna region that combines trekking and mountaineering, Chulu Far East is the perfect choice.

If you’re up for the challenge, I highly recommend this trek—it’s not just about reaching the summit; it’s about the journey and the unforgettable memories along the way.