The 5546m tall Chhukung Ri peak is one of the many smaller peaks in the Mahalangur Himalayan range located in Everest region of Nepal. It forms a trio of stunning trekking peaks along with Pokalde peak and Island peak.
Mountaineeringw-wise Chuuking Ri peak is regarded a non-technical peak therefore less challenging than other climbing peaks. One can easily make it to the top of the peak from its base camp in under 4 hrs involving steep rocky ascent. Experienced Sherpa climber, proper planning with plenty of acclimatization period is required to successfully climb the mountain. The views of mountains from the top including Makalu, Lhotse, South Wall of Lhotse, Ama Dablum, Kantega, Bartunse and Thamserku is just amazing.
Part of the fun while climbing Chhukung Ri is the trekking journey through Sherpa villages of Chukkung, Dingboche, Tengboche, Namche as well as crisscrossing Sagarmatha National Park, which is a UNESCO world heritage site.
The best season to climb Chhukung Ri is either Spring or Autumn season. Special permits for climbing has to be obtained from Nepal Mountaineering Association. Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition can organize logistics and Sherpa climbing guides for both solo or group expedition.
On your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, you will be greeted with flower garlands/Khadas. Our representative will then take you to your hotel. If time prevails, you will visit office for paperwork.
Stay overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Today, you will visit popular world heritage monuments in Kathmandu including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swoyambhunath, and Pashupatinath. Alternatively, you can also choose Bhakatapur and Patan sightseeing. By late afternoon, you will drive back to your hotel.
Stay overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
After early-morning breakfast, our guide will pick you up from the hotel and drive to the domestic airport terminal. Receive your boarding pass and fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) that takes about 35 minutes. The flight offers you up close views of the Himalayas and romantic landscapes of hills, farms and rivers.
On arrival to Lukla, you will begin 3 hours trek to Phakding (2640 m.). You start your trek from Lukla with a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi River. Mt. Nupla (5885m) which can be seen in the distance is a peak atop the Kongde Ridge. You descend a mountainside path that merges into your route to Everest, with views to a wonderful valley to your right; and Mt. Kusum Kang (6367m.) to the far end.
Stay overnight at lodge.
Namche Bazaar (3440m) is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges and opens out only where it faces the Bhote Koshi.
Stay overnight at lodge.
It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for acclimatization to the high altitude before heading off towards Tyangboche. For acclimatization you walk up to Khumjung where you can visit a monastery. You can also enjoy the splendid views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawoche, and Kwangde and so on. Or you can take an hour's walk up to Syangboche (3800m.) where Everest View Hotel is situated above Namche for an outstanding view of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru.
Stay overnight at lodge.
As you climb through the forested zone, the incline eases and a splendid view appears. You continue climbing the mountainside diagonally until you come to the stone gate built by lamas which marks your entry into Tyangboche (3867m).
Stay overnight at lodge.
Dingboche is a beautiful patchwork of fields enclosed by stone walls protecting the crops of barley, buckwheat and potatoes from the cold winds and grazing animals.
Stay overnight at lodge.
There are some breathtaking views of the North face of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge as you explore this beautiful valley that leads up to Island Peak. The walk is short with a good chance to relax in the afternoon. Another option is to hike up to Chhukum, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Island peak, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Tawoche peak and others.
Stay overnight at lodge.
The onward journey leads north for up to 50-minutes until you come to a Mani-prayer Stupa. The trail follows a downward path to Pheriche village. Today's walk offers views of the Mt.Tawache, Ama Dablam and to the north-Pokalde (5741m), Kongma-tse (5820m) and the great wall of Nuptse. After two hours walk, the trail from Pheriche joins near Dugla (4595m) before a small wooden bridge over the river of Khumbu glacier.
Stay overnight at lodge.
Trek up the valley following the rocky moraine path, view icy glacial ponds and icebergs down below of the Khumbu glacier. Gorakshep is the location of the original Everest Base Camp with the new camp being further up the valley. Now the trail winds through a rocky path and the Khumbu glacier. The view of Nuptse, Lho-La and Khumbu Tse appears in front of you.
Stay overnight at lodge.
You accomplish an early morning climb to Kala Patthar (5545m.) and enjoy majestic sunrise and up close viewof Mt. Everest. From Kala Patthar you can have a panoramic view of Mt. Everest and many other mountain peaks like Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbu Tse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku and many more peaks. Yaks are normally used to ferry daily essentials.
Stay overnight at lodge.
The trail gradually ascends up to the Chhukung. Today, you can also visit Chhukung Ri (5546 m.).
Stay overnight in at lodge.
On the way you can enjoy the panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Island Peak and many others.
Stay overnight in camp.
Tyangboche is a small village with a famous monastery offering you splendid views of Ama Dablam, lush green hills and river views.
Stay overnight at lodge.
The walk from Tyangboche is mostly downhill on the main busy trail with a few steep climbs for an hour from the bridge at Phungitenga, near to Shanasha. The walk to Namche is very scenic on a long winding path. En route you will visit traditional villages of Khumjung and Khunde. From Khumjung village another 30 minutes walk brings you to the village of Khunde.
Stay overnight at lodge.
The last day of your trek leads from Namche Bazaar via Monjo to Lukla. The trek is pleasant, except for a few short uphill climbs and then down to the Bhote-Koshi River crossing it three times. The last uphill climb of 45 minutes will bring you to Lukla for your overnight stay.
Stay overnight in lodge.
You take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu.
Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.
Chhukung Ri is situated just above the village of Chhukung, in the Imja Valley, east of Dingboche. It lies on the popular Everest Base Camp (EBC) route, just before Island Peak Base Camp and near the trail leading to Kongma La Pass, one of the Three Passes. It's a great addition for trekkers heading toward EBC, Island Peak, or the Three Passes Trek.
Chhukung Ri is a moderate to strenuous high-altitude hike rather than a technical climb. There are no ropes or climbing gear required, but the altitude and steepness make it physically demanding. The trail involves rocky paths and occasional scree slopes, but it’s manageable for fit trekkers with proper acclimatization.
From Chhukung village, the round-trip hike to the summit and back typically takes about 5 to 7 hours, depending on your pace and acclimatization level. Most trekkers begin early in the morning to catch the best views and stable weather. The elevation gain is around 700–800 meters, which can feel much tougher at altitude.
While hiring a guide is not mandatory for Chhukung Ri, it is highly recommended, especially if:
Guides can help pace you properly, monitor your health, and share fascinating insights into the mountains and Sherpa culture.
Absolutely! Chhukung Ri is often used as an acclimatization hike for those heading to:
Climbing to over 5500 meters and descending to sleep at 4700 meters (Chhukung) aligns perfectly with the "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization principle. It's an excellent way to prepare your body for higher altitudes ahead.
The ideal seasons are:
Winter is cold and snowy, and monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain and cloud cover, making these times less favorable.
You don’t need a separate peak climbing permit, as Chhukung Ri is not classified as a technical climbing peak. However, you do need:
To reach Chhukung, follow the classic Everest Base Camp route:
It’s often included as a detour on the EBC trek, Three Passes Trek, or Island Peak climbing itineraries.
Chhukung has several basic teahouses offering warm meals, cozy rooms, and spectacular mountain views. Meals typically include:
Rooms are simple with shared toilets, but clean and warm enough for a night’s stay.
Yes, since the summit is above 5,500 meters, altitude sickness is a real risk. Proper acclimatization is crucial. Symptoms to watch out for include:
Take it slow, hydrate well, and consult your guide if symptoms worsen. It's best to acclimatize for a few days at Dingboche or Chhukung before attempting the climb.
The panoramic views from the summit are among the finest in the Khumbu. From the top, you’ll see:
Sunrise climbs are especially rewarding, with golden light painting the Himalayas. It’s truly one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region.
Yes, it’s an excellent introduction to high-altitude hiking, especially for those not ready for technical climbing. It offers:
It’s perfect for adventure-seekers looking to test themselves at high elevation without committing to a full mountaineering expedition.
Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Chhukung Ri Peak climbing. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.
Mountaineering Equipments
Crampons, Ice axe, Helmet, Harness, Lock and unlock Carabineers, Shovel, Climbing pack, Rope, Ski poles, Desender/abseil device, Jummer (Asender) , Tapes, Prusik Loops, Rappel device, Hand Warmer (if possible)
Clothing and Wears
Trekking shoes with spare laces, Mountaineering Boots, Plastic or leather for mountaineering boots, Gore-Tex pants, Long shorts, Insulated Parka, Jumper, Waterproof Jackets, Down Jacket, Fleece Vest, Wool cap, Neck Gaiter, Gloves, Climbing Socks, Thermal Underwear, Sandals, Snow Goggle
Essential Gears
Backpack, Duffle bag, Sleeping Bag, sleeping pad, Tents
Gadgets
Map, Compass, Camera, GPS, Two way radios, Binoculars, Head Lamp, Flashlight
Sun Protection Items
Sun glasses, sun scream, Lip balm
Medical
First aid Kit (Brufen / Ibuprofens, Antibiotic, Diamox, Paracetamol, Handy Plaster, Crack Bandage, Tincture Iodine, etc.)
Other Essentials
Energy Bars, Water bottle, Water Purification Tablets, Toiletries, Trekking poles, Pocket knife, raincoat, Satellite Phone, Altimeter
