About Yala Peak Climbing
About Yala Peak Climbing
Yala Peak, at an elevation of 5550 m, is the perfect introduction to Himalayan peak climbing, a safe way to have an authentic alpine peak experience, even for those without any previous climbing experience. Any physically fit person can safely summit Yala Peak. The final scramble to the summit is relatively straightforward and only an additional 700 meters. Yala Peak, the smallest of all the trekking peaks in Nepal, can be done in the shortest time while still at a pace to allow proper acclimatization.
Since the Langtang Valley is a less popular destination than Everest or Annapurna, there are fewer tourists in this area. The Langtang Valley stretches up to the Tibet border, so it's a chance to experience a culture strongly influenced by Tibetan heritage and geographical proximity. Langtang Valley is rimmed to the north by peaks rising to around 6500m and a smaller range of 5000-6000m to the south. Yala Peak falls in the northern range.
Yala Peak Climbing route overview
The Yala Peak Climbing trail starts at Syabrubensi (1505m), after a spectacular 9-hour drive that follows the winding Trishuli River gorge. The trek begins in sub-tropical forests, but as it climbs higher into the Langtang Valley, the woods grow thinner, and the valley widens. Approaching Langtang Village (3300m), on the second day, there are great views of Langtang Lirung (7246m), Lenpo Gang (7083m), Dorje Lakpa (6990m) and even the mighty Shishapangma (8013m) which is Tibet's only 8000+ meter mountains.
On the 5th day, reaches the last settlement on the trail, Kyanjin Gompa (3970m), the site of an ancient Buddhist monastery. There are many chortens by the path, and walking with them to our right is the custom. Spending an extra day to acclimatize allows us to explore the Langshisa glacier or climb to Kyanjin Ri (4350m) for more amazing views of the snow-capped mountains.
Yala Peak Summit Day
The trail to Yala Peak Base Camp (4800m) is relatively easy, and beautiful views are always on the way. From just above base camp, we can see the rocky south face of Yala Peak and the Yala Glacier on the southwest face. FromBase Camp, we make our pitch for the summit which is more difficult if there is snow. The trail ascends to a rock ridge and then drops and ascends steeply on boulders. There is a flat area before the final 40m vertical snow/rock cliff leading to the narrow summit ridge. To celebrate our achievement, we attach our new prayer flags to the summit pole, which is covered with flags and banners from past expeditions. The view from the summit is simply amazing. We can see Langtang Lirung to the west, Yansa Tsenji (6500m), a mountain on the Nepal-Tibet border, Shishapangma in Tibet, Morimoto Peak (6750m), and Langshisa Ri (6800m) to the east.When we start our careful descent to Kyanjin Gompa, the Yala Glacier will groan in the sun's heat.
Best time to climb Yala Peak
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the perfect times to visit Nepal or enjoy the weather. The weather remains calm and pleasant, which offers the ideal time for climbing and trekking around the country when it is neither too hot nor too cold, making climbing more comfortable. Spring (March-May): During this season, you can see a wide variety of blooming flowers, such as the national flower of Nepal (Rhododendron) and other wildflowers throughout the trail. In this particular season, the country attracts a large number of tourists. This season comes after winter and ends, leading to monsoon.
Autumn (September- November): Autumn is the best season for trekking in Nepal around the year. It is undoubtedly the best time to visit Nepal, as summer monsoons clear the surroundings and enjoy the magnificent view of mountains and blue sky. During the autumn months, the weather remains pleasant, not much affected by the cold.
How complicated and technical is Yala Peak Climbing?
Climbing Yala Peak is rated as Grade F on the Himalayan Index, meaning it is a "non-technical" and simple climb. It is also considered one of the most accessible peaks to climb in Nepal, with no special mountaineering skills or experiences required. The real challenges are the altitude and the weather. Therefore proper acclimatization and preparations are needed to summit Yala Peak without problems.
Where is Yala Peak?
Yala Peak is located in the Langtang Region of Nepal, about 75 kilometers north of Kathmandu. It is a non-technical peak that can be climbed by hikers with moderate experience. The summit of Yala Peak is at an altitude of 5,500 meters (18,045 feet), and it offers stunning views of the Langtang Valley, the Ganesh Himal, and Shishapangma, the highest mountain in Tibet.
How long does it take to climb Yala Peak?
Climbing Yala Peak is the shortest and easiest Peak climbing in Nepal. Our standard itinerary is 12 days, including one extra day for acclimatization at Kyangin Gompa. Though the itinerary varies depending on your fitness level and the time you want to spend there.
How many nights do I spend in a tent during Yala Peak Climbing?
For trekking, you spend eight nights in clean and comfortable tea houses. However, according to our standard itinerary, you sleep one night in a tent. However, it can vary depending on the situation, such as weather conditions, your body etc.
How can I communicate if there's an emergency during Yala peak climbing?
For trekking, the tea houses will have an internet facility, or you must purchase internet recharge cards. But the internet speed will be fundamental. You can also purchase Nepalese SIM cards (NCEL or NTC), but their coverage will be limited. On the other hand, our climbing guide will also carry a satellite phone for emergency use with minimum cost whenever the internet and data connections are unavailable. You can also bring your own if you have one.
Is travel Insurance needed for Yala Peak Climbing?
A big yes! Annapurna Foothills Treks highly recommends getting travel insurance before this adventurous trip to Nepal. While purchasing travel insurance, kindly ensure that it covers emergency evacuation, injury, lost baggage, liability, and medical treatment. The insurance must cover all the activities you will undertake during your stay in Nepal. Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions Pvt. Ltd. can organize the appropriate medical response based on your policy.
Planning to climb Yala Peak in 2023 and 2024
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