1.820.3345.33

10 Best Peak Climbing in Nepal

Wondering about the best destinations for peak climbing in Nepal? Thinking about the right peak to scale among a myriad of choices that suits your taste and experience? Well, look no further! This list is specifically designed to answer your curiosity about the highest trekking peaks in Nepal. Consequently, it will help you select the peak you are looking for. Even if you desire to trek in the Nepalese Himalayas, this article will be a useful read. Most of the peaks mentioned below fall in the vicinity of the trekking routes that you will be traversing in your Nepal trip.

Also known as “trekking peaks”, as classified by Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), climbing peaks generally fall between 5,000m to 7,000m. Firstly, Nepal is home to some of the highest trekking peaks in the world. In fact, with a total of 15 peaks below 7000m (22,970 ft.). As the name implies, you can attempt these peaks as part of a normal trekking trip. Finally, it will lead you up to the summit. However, you will need a separate permit to scale the peak along with associated permit fee.

Indeed, most of Nepal’s highest trekking peaks are non-technical from mountaineering point of view. Nevertheless, sound health conditions and physical fitness plays an important role. And of course, you will need a keen sense of adventure for high altitude. For that reason, below we present ten of the best destinations for peak climbing in Nepal.

1. Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft)

Island Peak
Climbers approaching the summit of Island Peak

Arguably the first choice among Trekking Peaks in Nepal, Island Peak has carved a niche of its own. Prepare to enter the heart of the Himalayan Khumbu region where Sherpa traditions have been the way of life. Some of the highest mountains in the world including Mt. Everest will greet you, not to mention the nearby 8000ers like Lhotse, Cho-Oyu and Makalu.

Island Peak is one of the most frequently climbed peaks in the Himalayas. You can combine your Island Peak climbing with a trek to the Everest Base Camp. You can also make a nearby ascent to Kala Patthar Peak. It has a non-technical (alpine PD+) grading. Managing to the summit is not so difficult except for the 100 meters steep ascent just before the summit. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most visited destinations for peak climbing in Nepal.

2. Mera Peak (6,476m/21,247ft)

Mera Peak Base Camp
Mera Peak Expedition

Another very popular destination for peak climbing in Nepal is Mera Peak. It can be an excellent choice for those who need introduction to mountaineering. Also, the highest trekking peak in Nepal, yet surprisingly easier to conquer. And the credit goes to its relatively non steep slopes.

Mera Peak consists of three summits: Mera North, Mera Central, and Mera South. When we speak of Mera Peak, we are talking about Mera Central. It is pretty much a straightforward ascent to the summit. Usually, you will not encounter any issues except may be proper acclimatization. And sometimes perhaps bad weather if you are attempting during off-season. You get to see and savor some of the best views of the entire Everest region from the top of the peak.

3. Lobuche East Peak Climbing in Nepal (6,119m/20,070ft)

Lobuche Peak
Climbing Lobuche Peak

Compared to its neighboring Mera and Island Peaks, this is one of the more challenging peaks to scale in the Everest region. Although classed as Grade PD+ (Peu Difficile+) on the Alpine Grading system, same grade as the Island Peak, Lobuche East certainly has a more technical feel to it. Some previous mountaineering experience will obviously be very helpful. Actually, this peak consists of two separate peaks: Lobuche Far East and Lobuche East. You can also combine Lobuche East with Island peak climb on a single expedition. After a challenging ascent to the summit, of course an entire view of the Himalayas, including Everest is there to relish.

4. Yala Peak Climbing in Nepal (5,700m/18,700ft)

Yala Peak
Trekkers on their way to Yala Peak

On our list, Yala Peak is located at the nearest from Kathmandu, and offers one of the easiest climbs. You can accomplish Yala Peak even if you have limited trekking experience. The only pre-requisite is your physical fitness and good health conditions. However, comparably it is not a very popular destination for peak climbing in Nepal

On offers are picturesque Langtang valley with its distinct Tibetan culture, famous Kyanjin Gompa village, and an excellent view of the entire Langtang range. Mount Shishapangma (8,013m), the highest mountain in Tibet, is also on sight from atop Yala. Additionally, you can also trek to Gosaikunda Lake and take a trip to Helambu, famous for its apple orchards and monasteries.

5. Pisang Peak (6,091m / 19,978ft)

Pisang Peak
The magnificent Pisang Peak

Rising above the village of Pisang, this peak lies on the northern fringes of the Manang valley on the eastern part of the Annapurna range. You can include the ascent to the mountain with the famed Annapurna circuit trek. Along the route lies the famous Thorong La Pass, one of the highest passes in the world at 5416m. The trek rises steadily along a relatively well-defined ridge to the summit pyramid.

The climb is somewhat technical in nature. We recommend some previous mountaineering experience for hassle-free ascent. The peak offers a gorgeous panoramic view of the entire Annapurna range: Himlung (7126m) and the trans-Himalayan Tibetan plateau to the north; Manaslu, (8163m) to the northeast; Annapurna II (7937m) and IV (7525m) to the south; Gangapurna (7454m) and Annapurna III (7555m) to the west.

6. Chulu West Peak Climbing in Nepal (6,419m / 21,055ft)

Chulu Peak, Annapurna Circuit Trail
Chulu Peak, Annapurna Circuit Trail

Like Pisang, Chulu West is located just off the Annapurna circuit trail in Manang valley, in close proximity to the Thorong La Pass. Technically a bit more demanding and longer hike, the ascent to the summit usually involves setting up two high camps before the final climb.

Generally speaking, we recommend Chulu West Peak climbing in Nepal for trekkers with excellent physical condition and some previous climbing experience to their name. But the rewards are immense once you get to the top: a panoramic view of the entire Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with a close-up view of Tibet and China to the north. Definitely a mountain to scale if you are that adventurous type who loves to savor a hard-earned success!

7. Dhampus Peak (6,012m / 19,719ft)

Dhampus Peak
Dhampus Peak, Dhaulagiri Circuit

Located north-east of the Dhaulagiri massif along the Dhaulagiri circuit, the trail to the peak includes crossing of French Pass at 5360 meters and Dhampus Pass at 5240 meters. Just add a few more days to your Dhaulagiri circuit trail, and you can very well scale Dhampus Peak. You don’t need any prior climbing experience to scale this peak.

You will trek through the mountainous terrain of rural western Nepal, greeted along the way by beautiful valleys and villages of Kaligandaki region. The summit view is no less stunning: over thirty different peaks between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges with the close view of Tukuche and Dhaulagiri. Something to think about if you want to go for peak climbing in Nepal and do want to scale a peak located somewhere other than Everest and Annapurna regions.

8. Pokalde Peak (5,806m / 19,049ft)

pokalde-peak
Pokhalde Peak, Everest Region

Lying 12 km south-west of Mt. Everest, Pokalde Peak, also known as Dolma Ri, is one of the easier and shorter trekking peaks in our list. Just a 650-meter hike from its base camp will take you to the summit, and in most cases without the use of ice axes and crampons. Other than Everest itself, some notable peaks visible from its summit include Makalu, Ama Dablam and Pumori. Pokalde is fast becoming a popular commercial tourist peak because of its relative ease of ascent and offering all the benefits of a classical Everest trek. Interestingly, some trekking companies combine Pokalde Peak climbing with nearby ascent to Island Peak and Lobuche East.

9. Pharchamo Peak (6,187m / 20,298ft)

Pokalde Peak
Pharchamo Peak, Everest Region

If you want to get a taste similar to that of ethnic Sherpa culture of Everest region, but without all the crowds that Everest region draws, then a trek to Pharchamo Peak might just be for you. Even in peak trekking seasons, you will hardly encounter other trekkers while on this route. On this trek, you will be passing through the beautiful Rolwaling valley with its exceptionally rich biodiversity and ethnic culture, and lies west of the well-known Khumbu region.

Pharchamo Peak has a well-defined north by northwest ridge, which makes the ascent all the more achievable. From atop the peak, you will have a majestic view of nearby Mt. Gauri Shankar, along with other known peaks from Langtang and Everest regions. On a side note, this region also harbors tales of the legendary “Yeti”, or “abominable snowman”, as known in the west. Over the years, trekkers and climbers alike have reported sightings of this mysterious creature, and it still continues to haunt the imagination of locals as well as tourists visiting the region.

10. Tent Peak Climbing in Nepal (5,663m / 18,575ft)

Tent Peak
Tent Peak, Annapurna range

Also known as Tharpu Chuli locally, Tent Peak, lies in the midst of the Annapurna range, and offers a commanding view of the entire Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by some of the highest mountains on earth. Prominent among the nearby peaks in close view from atop Tent Peak are Annapurna I (8091m), along with Annapurna South and Annapurna III.

It is a no surprise that this peak is the most climbed one in the Annapurna region, and ranks third among Nepalese trekking peaks, after Island and Mera. It has a comparatively low altitude leading to easy ascent all the way to the summit. This trip is best for those who are ready to try their hand from trekking to amateur mountaineering. As a part of this trip, you will trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, followed by a few days of the peak climbing.

These are the list of some the popular and recommended mountains for beginners to avid climbers. This list can help you gain some perspectives on climbing peaks in Nepal. And probably you will start sorting out the right one. You can also plan a customized expedition to improve your chances for a successful climb. Contact us for more information regarding the popular climbing mountains in Nepal. Good luck with your next climbing trip in Nepal the upcoming season!

Leave a Reply

Planning a Trip?

We have a pool of travel experts working in this industry for more than a decade. Consult to get started.

Book a Call Back