Nepalese Trekking Peaks

Nepalese Trekking Peaks

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There's a lot of ?s on this page at the moment where I haven't been able to find information. If you can help me out please add any info under 'corrections/addition' or PM me. Thanks.

Overview

At the final ridge of Imja...
At the final ridge of Imja Tse SE normal route

The next step up beyond hiking is to tackle one of the 18 mountains designated as trekking peaks. The category was created by the Nepal Mountaineering association as an intermediate stage between hiking and all-out mountaineering. They are often close to major peaks, with astounding views from their summits. Climbing them gives you the exhilaration of pitting yourself against Himalayan conditions and altitudes. It is essential to note that these are still considerable mountains, taller than almost anything in North America or Europe. Don’t be fooled by the name ‘trekking peak’ - most classic routes require a little scrambling over snow and ice so make sure you are familiar with the use of crampons and ice axes. The peaks also have plenty of potential for more experienced Alpinists looking for tougher challenges. The north face of Cholatse for example is a serious undertaking not to be taken lightly.

Regulations

Regulations pertaining to trekking peaks are relatively simple. A permit is required which is issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association on payment of the royalty fee. This fee depends on whether the peak is in group A or group B. Group B consists of the original 18 trekking peaks and Group A consisits of a further 15 trekking peaks introduced in 2002, some of which shouldn't really be called trekking peaks because they require a solid base of mountaining skills. Cholatse for example was downgraded from full expediton status. The permit simply allows you to climb the mountain and other bureaucracies such as perchase of trekking permits are still applicable.

Fee structure for group "A" NMA peaks
Royalty for up to seven members: US $ 500
Royalty for each additional member up to 12 persons: US $ 100


Fee structure for group "B" NMA peaks
Royalty for 1-4 members: US $ 350
Royalty for 5-8 members: US $ 350 + US $ 40 per person
Royalty for 9-12 members: US $ 510 + US $ 25 per person

Note : Maximum number of members in one team is 12

The Nepal Mountaineering Association have produced a small booklet containing the regulations governing the ascent of trekking peaks. There are certain requirements governing trekking peaks, such as the need for a registered sirdar and for a recognized agency to get your peak permit.

An amount of $250 must be deposited with NMA as garbage deposit to get a permit. This is refunded on the basis of a satisfactory report jointly signed by the concerned team leader, sirdar and climber.

One advantage of Nepal is that mountaineering gear is readily available in Kathmandu - but not as cheaply as it used to be! The Maoist troubles are a possible deterrent to climbing in Nepal. However in general the vital importance of tourism to Nepal is well-understood, and mountaineers are not interfered with, although there have also been a few stories of money being demanded or cameras taken. The situation varies from month to month so try to get up-to-date information before you go.

Climbing Grade

Listed peaks are graded using the Alpine Grade system. The overall seriousness of the complete route based on all factors of the final approach, ascent, and descent—including length, altitude, danger, commitment, and technical difficulty. This system originated with UIAA Roman numerals; it is now generally seen with French letters and is increasingly being used worldwide. Grades described below are for the 'classic' route ascent lines. Alternative routes will obviously be of a higher grade.

F: Facile/easy. Rock scrambling or easy snow slopes; some glacier travel; often climbed ropeless except on glaciers.

PD: Peu Difficile/a little difficult. Some technical climbing and complicated glaciers.

AD: Assez Difficile/fairly hard. Steep climbing or long snow/ice slopes above 50º; for experienced alpine climbers only.

The original 'B' group trekking peaks are rated no more than Alpine grade AD. Many of the easier peaks also have harder routes that are not listed here. Some of the newly introduced 'A' group peaks are technically harder and are comparable in grade to many "expediton peaks"

I have divided peaks in to their relevant geographical areas and then listed them in order of height.

Annapurna Himal

Peak Height (m) Height (ft) Alpine Grade Latitude Longitude First Ascent Royalty Group
Singu Chuli (Fluted Peak) 6501 21329 AD 28o34'48" 83o52'48" 1957 B
Hiuchuli 6441 21132 PD 28o31'00" 83o53'00" 1971 B
Thorong Ri (Khatung Kang Fore) 6144 20157 PD 28°46'57"N 83°55'40"E ? N/A
Tharpu Chuli (Tent Peak) 5663 18579 PD/AD 28°33'44"N; 83°53'23"E 1964 B
Mardi Harmal 5587 18330 F 28°28'31"N 83°55'41"E 1961 B

 

 
Thorong Ri seen while...
Thorong Ri
 
Singu Chuli from above Annapurna Base Camp
Shingu Chuli
 
Tharpu Chuli from Annapurna...
Tharpu Chuli from Annapurna BC
 
Hiunchuli
Hiunchuli

Gaurishankar Himal

Peak: Cherigo
Height (m): 6257
Height (ft): 20528
Alpine Grade: AD
Latitude: 27°54'23"N
Longitude: 86°24'48"E
First Ascent: ?
Royalty Group: A

Kangchenjunga Himal

Peak: Boktoh
Height (m): 6142
Height (ft): 20154
Alpine Grade: ?
Latitude: 27o37'12"
Longitude: 88o00'00"
First Ascent: 1991
Royalty Group: A

 

Peak: Peak 5950m
Height (m): 5950
Height (ft): 19052
Alpine Grade: PD-
Latitude: 27o80'28"
Longitude: 88o11'33"
First Ascent: ?
Royalty Group: N/A


 

The summit of Peak 5950
The last few meters to the top of Peak 5950

Khumbu Himal

 
Mera Peak from the south....
Mera Peak from the south
 
close-up shot on Mera Peak...
Mera Peak's Route
 
Hongu Peaks from Mera
Upper slopes of Mera Peak, with the Hongu Valley shrouded in cloud. The Kangchenjunga massif can be seen in the far distance
 
Mera Peak Summit
Approaching the summit of Mera Peak

 

Peak Height (m) Height (ft) Alpine Grade Latitude Longitude First Ascent Royalty Group
Mera Peak 6476 21247 PD 27°42'33"N 86°52'06"E 1953 B
Cholatse 6440 21128 ? 27°55'11"N 86°45'56"E 1982 A
Kusum Kangguru 6367 20889 ? 27°43'51"N 86°47'21"E 1979 B
Imja Tse (Island Peak) 6183 20285 PD/PD+ 27°55'12"N 86°56'5"E 1953 B
Lobuche East / Lobuje East 6119 20075 PD+ 27°57'32"N 86°47'27"E 1984 B
Lobuche West / Lobuje West 6145 20160 ? 27°58'9"N 86°46'57"E ? B
Kongde Ri (Kwangde Ri) 6011 20298 AD 27°47'36"N 86°38'32"E 1975 B
Khongma Tse (Mehra Peak) 5849 19189 ? 27°56'39"N 86°50'21"E 1975 B
Pokhalde 5806 19049 PD/PD+ 27°55'30"N 86°50'04"E 1953 B
Chhukung Ri 5559 18238 F 27°55'32"N 86°52'45"E ? A

 

 
Imja Tse aka Island Peak...
Island Peak
 
Imja Tse - ascent in October...
Ascent of Imja Tse
 
At around 5850m approaching...
Around 5850m approaching the final ridge on Imja Tse's SE Normal Route
 
Island Peak Summit
Summit of Island Peak

 

 
This photo has finally found...
Lobuche East
 
A photo of the eastern part...
Kongde Ri
 
Himalaya Trip 2004
Cholatse
 
The summit of Pokalde as seen...
Pokalde

Langtang Himal

Peak Height (m) Height (ft) Alpine Grade Latitude Longitude First Ascent Royalty Group
Yubra Himal 6035 19800 ? 28°6'27"N 85°34'05"E ? A
Paldor Peak 5896 19344 ? 28o16'43" 85o11'02" 1949 B
Gamja La Chuli (Naya Kanga) 5846 19181 PD 28o09'00" 85o35'24" 1986 B
Yala 5500 18044 F 28°14'23"N 85°37'34"E ? A

 

 
Naya Kanga from Kyanjin
Naya Kanga
 
From the summit of Tsergo Ri...
View NE from summit of Tsergo Ri.Yala peak on the left and the much larger Morimoto Peak on the right
 
Yala Peak from high camp
Yala Peak from high camp

Jugal Himal

Peak: Langsisa Ri
Height (m): 6427
Height (ft): 21085
Alpine Grade: ?
Latitude: 28o12'36"
Longitude: 85o42'36"
First Ascent: 1982
Royalty Group: A

Mahalangur Himal

Peak Height (m) Height (ft) Alpine Grade Latitude Longitude First Ascent Royalty Group
Ombigaichen 6340 20800 AD/D 27o51'00" 86o52'48" 1960 A
Pharilapcha (Machermo) 6017 19740 ? 27°55'44"N 86°40'51"E 2003 A
Kyajo Ri 6186 20295 D+ 27°54'31"N 86°40'14"E 2002 A
Nirekha 6159 20206 ? 27°58'38"N 86°45'48"E ? A
ABI 6097 20003 ? 27°59'5"N 86°43'9"E ? A

 

 
Kyajo Ri from Machhermo
Kyajo Ri from Machhermo
 
Mt Pharilapcha from High...
Pharilapcha

Manang Himal

Peak Height (m) Height (ft) Alpine Grade Latitude Longitude First Ascent Royalty Group
Chuli East 6584 21601 PD+ 28°44'9"N 84°2'3"E 1955 B
Chulu West 6441 21131 PD+ 28°44'37"N 84°1'20"E 1952 B
Pisang 6144 20157 PD- 28o38'24" 84o11'24" 1955 B

 

 
 Chulu East  from High Camp
Chulu East
 
Chulu West 6583m
Chulu West
 
Pisang Peak
Pisang Peak

Rolwaling Himal

Peak Height (m) Height (ft) Alpine Grade Latitude Longitude First Ascent Royalty Group
Parchemuche / Pharchamo / Parchamo 6187 20298 PD 27°50'11"N 86°32'50"E 1955 B
Ramdung 5950 19438 PD 27°49'7"N 86°25'52"E 1952 B

Manaslu Himal

Peak: Larkya Peak
Height: 6249m
Alpine Grade: ?
Latitude: 28°38'45"N
Longitude: 84°31'56"E
First Ascent: 1982
Royalty Group: A

Books

The Trekking Peaks of Nepal by Bill O'Connor ISBN: 0898866766

Trekking and Climbing in Nepal by Steve Razetti ISBN: 0811729478

Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepalese Himalaya by Stan Armington ISBN: 1864502312

Trekking in the Everest Region by Jamie McGuiness ISBN: 1873756607

External Links

Nepal Mountaineering Association

The UIAA - Mountaineering in the Greater Ranges

Additions and CorrectionsPost an Addition or Correction

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BigLee

BigLee - Mar 7, 2007 11:24 am - Hasn't voted

Re: Paldor

Thanks for that. The Jugal/Langtang thing has always confused me a bit as it appears to be virtually the same subrange. I'll make those changes you mention.

dmiki

dmiki - Mar 23, 2008 7:37 am - Voted 10/10

corrections

Great list, thank you for creating this page! Some comments: "one of the 18 mountains designated as trekking peaks" The number should be 33 (18+15), no? (But you have 35 peaks listed on the page. Also the NMA mentions Lobuche West 6145m as a trekking peak as well. I could never figure out the 'correct' number of peaks designated as trekking peaks myself, different sources list different peaks and numbers.) http://www.nepalmountaineering.org/climbingregulation.php -> http://www.nepalmountaineering.org/index.php?razer=climbingregulation (2 broken links) "Mardi Harmal" -> "Mardi Himal" Hiuchuli -> Hiunchuli (I think this is the more common spelling) Cherigo -> Chekijo (I think this is the more common spelling) "Chuli East" -> "Chulu East" Gokyo Peak should not be a child of this page, although it is a 'trekking' peak in the sense of the word, but does not require an NMA permit.

dmiki

dmiki - Mar 23, 2008 8:19 am - Voted 10/10

Climbing grades

Kusum Kanguru is D, Paldor is AD/AD+ Some more info.

Bruno

Bruno - Aug 30, 2011 12:23 pm - Voted 10/10

Khongma Tse coordinates

Based on the Nepa map and GE, correct summit location is about 1.4km further south at 27°56'39.26"N 86°50'21.32"E. The coordinates given by the ministry of tourism (27°56'24" 86°50'24") do correspond to P5777m located about 1km further south. Edit: wrong coordinates given

Bruno

Bruno - Sep 2, 2011 1:48 am - Voted 10/10

Pharilapcha

Coordinates (from Google Earth, crosschecked with map): 27°55'44"N 86°40'51"E Apparently, all pictures posted by SP member reybelo are from the first ascent in 2003. Here another picture of Parilapcha from the South.

Bruno

Bruno - Sep 24, 2011 6:25 am - Voted 10/10

Some corrrections

Thanks BigLee for maintaining this list, but I think a few corrections are needed: 1) Number of peaks and classification As Dmiki wrote, the total is 33, 15 belonging to group A and 18 belonging to group B. You wrote "Group B consists of the original 15 trekking peaks and Group A consisits of a further 18 trekking peaks introduced in 2002". The number 15 and 18 should be inverted. 2) Lobuje West Lobuje West, which belongs to the B group, is missing from the list. Lobuje / Lobuche West, 27°58'9"N 86°46'57"E, altitude 6145m 3) Wrong coordinates After a rapid check, it seems that several coordinates are wrong, some several hundred km off, some other are confusing minutes with decimal coordinates, some just a few hundred meters off. Here what I hope are the correct ones (but without guaranty!): Thorong Ri (28°46'57"N 83°55'40"E) Tharpu Chuli (28°33'44" 83°53'23") Mardi Himal (28°28'31" 83°55'41") Chekijo (27°54'23 86 24 48) Mera Peak (27°42'33" 86°52'06") Cholatse (27°55'11" 86°45'56") Kusum Kanguru (27°43'51" 86°47'21") Imja Tse (27°55'12" 86°56'5") Lobuche East (27°57'32" 86°47'27) Kongde (27°47'36" 86°38'32"E Khongma Tse (27°56'39"86°50'21") Pokalde (27°55'30" 86°50'04") Yala (28°14'23" 85°37'34") Tsergo Ri (28°12'47"N 85°36'3") Kyajo Ri (27°54'31" 86°40'14") Nirekha (27°58'38" 86°45'48") Chulu East (28°44'9"N 84°2'3"E) Chulu West (28°44'37"N 84°1'20"E) Parchemuche / Pharchamo / Parchamo (27°50'11"N 86°32'50"E) Ramdung (27°49'7"N 86°25'52"E) Larkya (28°38'45"N 84°31'56"E) 4) Missing coordinates Chukhung Ri (27°55'32" 86°52'45") Yubra Himal (?28°6'27" 85°34'05") Pharilapcha (aka Machermo) (27°55'44" 86°40'51") Abi (27°59'5"N 86°43'9"E) 5) Ombigaichen According to Himalayan Database, first ascent was on 18.11.1960 and not in 1962. 6) Larkya Correct altitude should be 6249m and not 6010m. 7) Phari Papchi You have this mountain in your list, as apparently belonging to the NMA-A group, but I can't find it anywhere. The altitude given (6017m) is also the same as Pharilapcha, so it is maybe a duplication. The coordinates also do not correspond to any peak in the Mahalangur Himal, but to Pisang Peak. I think you should remove it from the list. 8) Machermo (6237m or 6273m) This peak appears in the NMA list (Group A) but not in your list. It is also listed in many trekking agencies websites, but most pictures of Machermo do represent Pharilapcha (6017m) (when not confusing with Parchamo). According to the Himalayan Database, Machermo (or Machhermo) is just another name for Pharilapcha (6017m). Most expedition report do mention these two names. So I guess that there is just a mistake by listing both Machermo (6237m) and Pharilapcha (6017m) in their "Group A" peaks, as it is most probably the same mountain, with the lowest altitude being the correct one. The total number of so-called trekking peaks would be 14 (Groupe A) + 18 (Groupe B) = 32. 9) Table It would be nice if all peaks would be presented in the same table format. 10) Spelling It could be nice if the table could mention the alternative spellings used for the same peak, so that it would facilitate the search. E.g. from different maps, or from the NMA website: http://www.nepalmountaineering.org/noticespage-13-NMA%20Peaks

BigLee

BigLee - Jan 11, 2013 8:00 am - Hasn't voted

Re: Some corrrections

Finally got around to making these changes. Let me know if any numbers still wrong. The original coordinates were off the Himalayan Index, which are not quite as accurate. Thanks.

Scott

Scott - Aug 20, 2013 2:47 pm - Hasn't voted

Chhukung Ri

Big Lee, Chhukung Ri is sometimes listed as a trekking peak, but apparently this is in error. Kyazo Ri 6186 meters is the actually peak that was supposed to be listed, but apparently someone goofed on the website (or so we were told). According to the National Park, you don't need a special permit for Chhukung Ri, in fact you can purchase a certificate for climbing it (we got one). If you click on the link for Chhukung Ri on the Nepal Mountaineering Association, it actually links Kyazo Ri.

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