Chhuama Mountain in Mustang
The world of mountaineering witnessed a historic achievement on November 2, 2025, as an eight-member mountaineering team successfully reached the summit of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang. Located in the remote Upper Mustang region, Chhuama Mountain stands at 6,213 meters, presenting a formidable challenge even to experienced climbers.
This ascent marks the first-ever successful climb of the third of the three Chhuama peaks, highlighting Mustang as a rising hub for adventure tourism and high-altitude mountaineering in Nepal.
According to Umesh Poudel, Chief of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Lomanthang Office, the achievement is a milestone for both local tourism and Nepal’s reputation as a mountaineering destination.
About Chhuama Mountain in Mustang
Chhuama Mountain in Mustang is located in the remote Upper Mustang region, near Namdo village in Lomanthang Rural Municipality-4. The mountain, part of a lesser-known Himalayan subrange, is renowned for its challenging terrain, harsh weather conditions, and breathtaking natural scenery.
Climbers attempting Chhuama Mountain in Mustang must navigate a demanding route that begins from Namdo village and passes through the Chhuama Base Camp at 5,480 meters. The mountain is part of three peaks collectively known as the Chhuama peaks, all of which remained unclimbed until this historic expedition.
The successful ascent of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang has drawn global attention to this hidden Himalayan gem, emphasizing the region’s untapped adventure tourism potential.
The Expedition Team
The historic ascent was accomplished by an eight-member mountaineering team, consisting of three South Korean climbers Dongjin, Namyong, and Hnichul and five experienced Nepali guides.
The South Korean climbers, known for their expertise in high-altitude Himalayan expeditions, were supported by Nepali guides who possess unparalleled knowledge of Mustang’s geography and mountain terrains. The team’s successful collaboration was key to reaching the summit safely.
The Route to the Summit
The team ascended Chhuama Mountain in Mustang via a challenging route that began in Namdo village. The journey required traversing the Chhuama Base Camp at 5,480 meters, after which the team continued their climb for 10 hours starting at 2 am on November 2.
The route, though unmarked and rarely attempted before, offered spectacular views of Upper Mustang’s rugged landscape, including high cliffs, steep ridges, and snow-capped peaks. According to ACAP officials, this ascent not only required physical endurance but also strategic planning, as the region’s weather conditions are unpredictable.
Upper Mustang: The Gateway to Chhuama Mountain
Upper Mustang, often referred to as the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal, is known for its unique Tibetan-influenced culture, arid landscapes, and ancient monasteries. The ascent of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang has added a new dimension to the region’s appeal, attracting both adventure seekers and cultural travelers.
The Namdo village, serving as the starting point of the climb, is a quaint settlement, offering climbers both cultural immersion and logistical support. The trek to the base camp itself is considered a challenging adventure, requiring travelers to navigate rugged terrain, high passes, and scenic valleys.
The Climb: A Test of Endurance and Skill
The successful ascent of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang was a 10-hour climb from base camp to summit, highlighting the mountaineers’ stamina, strategy, and teamwork.
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Start Time: 2 am on November 2
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Climb Duration: 10 hours from Chhuama Base Camp
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Challenges: Low oxygen levels, cold temperatures, and steep ridges
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Summit Altitude: 6,213 meters
The climbers described the summit as breathtaking, offering panoramic views of Mustang’s highlands and surrounding Himalayan peaks. This achievement reflects both technical mountaineering skills and the guiding expertise of the Nepali team.
Significance of the First Ascent
The first ascent of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang is significant for several reasons:
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Adventure Tourism: The achievement positions Upper Mustang as an emerging destination for mountaineering expeditions, attracting global adventurers.
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Cultural Exposure: The climb highlights the heritage and culture of Mustang, allowing international visitors to experience its unique landscapes and communities.
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Nepal’s Mountaineering Reputation: Nepal, already home to the world’s tallest peaks, further strengthens its standing as a top global mountaineering hub.
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Local Economic Boost: Tourism related to expeditions like this can bring income and opportunities to Mustang’s villages, including Namdo and Lomanthang.
Challenges Faced During the Ascent
Climbing Chhuama Mountain in Mustang was not without challenges:
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Extreme altitude: At 6,213 meters, climbers face low oxygen levels, which require high-altitude acclimatization.
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Weather: Sudden snowstorms, high winds, and sub-zero temperatures tested the team’s endurance.
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Remote location: Limited access to rescue facilities and medical support increased the risk factor.
Despite these obstacles, the team’s preparation and expertise ensured a safe and successful summit.
Voices from the Expedition
According to ACAP Chief Umesh Poudel, the first ascent of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang is a landmark achievement for Nepali mountaineering and tourism promotion.
The South Korean climbers expressed their excitement and gratitude, highlighting the support and local knowledge provided by Nepali guides. The collaboration between international climbers and local experts underscores the importance of teamwork in high-altitude expeditions.
Chhuama Mountain: A New Attraction for Adventurers
With its first successful ascent, Chhuama Mountain in Mustang is now on the radar for adventure enthusiasts and mountaineers worldwide. The mountain offers:
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Challenging climbing routes for experienced mountaineers
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Stunning Himalayan landscapes
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Opportunities for trekking and cultural exploration in Mustang
Travel agencies and local operators are expected to develop guided expeditions, ensuring that climbers can safely explore this newly famous peak.
Environmental and Cultural Considerations
Upper Mustang is not only a destination for adventure but also a sensitive ecological zone. ACAP emphasizes the importance of:
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Sustainable trekking practices
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Minimizing environmental impact during climbs
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Respecting local culture and traditions
The successful ascent of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang has been carried out with minimal ecological disturbance, setting a benchmark for future expeditions.
Planning Your Chhuama Mountain Adventure
For those inspired to explore Chhuama Mountain in Mustang, here’s what travelers should know:
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Best Season: Late autumn (October–November) and spring (March–May)
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Starting Point: Namdo village, Lomanthang Rural Municipality-4
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Base Camp: Chhuama Base Camp (5,480 meters)
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Requirements: High-altitude experience, acclimatization, professional guides
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Permits: Must secure climbing permits through ACAP
Future expeditions will not only focus on mountaineering but also trekking packages that combine adventure and cultural experiences.
The Future of Mountaineering in Mustang
The first ascent of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang is likely to:
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Attract international mountaineers
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Boost adventure tourism in Upper Mustang
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Promote Nepal as a global adventure hub beyond Everest and Annapurna
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Encourage local communities to participate in tourism sustainably
With proper infrastructure, promotion, and ecological safeguards, Mustang could become a major high-altitude climbing destination.
The historic ascent of Chhuama Mountain in Mustang by an eight-member team, including South Korean climbers, is a milestone in Nepali mountaineering history.
This achievement highlights:
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Nepal’s natural beauty and rugged terrain
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Upper Mustang’s untapped potential for tourism
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Collaboration between local and international climbers
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The growing importance of sustainable adventure tourism
With its first successful ascent, Chhuama Mountain in Mustang now stands as a symbol of adventure, courage, and Nepal’s unmatched Himalayan spirit.
For adventurers and travelers, Mustang has a new peak to conquer and the story of Chhuama Mountain is only just beginning.