Yala Peak Climbing

Best Time Frame for climbing Yala Peak

The most comfortable and the opportune time for Yala Peak climbing are the autumn months spanning between September through November and the spring months spanning between March through May.

The autumn in Nepal begins after monsoon so the season enjoys the most stable weather and climatic condition featuring the transparent blue skies and remarkable visibility- the two most significant factor for the successful climb of any summit around the world.

If we take into account the landscape, it remain vibrant and colorful throughout the season but the drawback is a huge amount of climbers and trekkers sharing the same trail as you.

Likewise, spring time brings in the blooming rhododendrons into the Langtang landscape with the more r less consistent weather excellent for trekking longer days. However, you may see collection of fog in the morning but you can enjoy the reduced pricing at the lodges and fewer travelers sharing your trail.

December, January and February bring in the extreme cold condition in the Langtang region. At the base camp of Yala and the summit itself, you can find a huge pile of deep snow that can be an obstacle for the new climbers. However, for the experienced one, this time can present a compelling option.

You should avoid trek to Yala Peak in the active monsoon time of June, July, August when torrential rain can hinder route to the Yala summit due to potential landslides, floods, and isolation of certain regions.

How hard is the Yala Peak Climbing Expedition?

Yala Peak with its impressive high altitude of 5500 m lies very near north of Kathmandu and has been designated as one of the trekking peak of Nepal.

The summit itself holds a grade F (Facile) recognition in the Alpine Grading System suggesting the summit is relatively simple with gentle walking path consisting of gentle incline most of the sections.

The climbing trek from the base camp to the Yala Summit does not involve any deep or small crevasses. Only the last 400 m stretch to the summit will be slightly complicated where the use of fixed ropes and handrails can be a must to enhance the safety of the climbers.

The altitude of the Peak itself is relatively lower even than that of Kala Patthar. So it is certainly the most beginner-friendly peak in Nepal which need no uses of any technical gear or skill.

However, in the snowy conditions of the winter, ice axes, crampons, and ropes may be needed for the safe ascension to the summit. If you have some high-altitude hiking experience but no climbing experience of any peak, then the Yala Peak climbing expedition is certainly made for you.

The summit is often used as an acclimatization peak before making the advance journey to Naya Kang, Mera, or Lobuche.

As for the Yala Peak climbing 14 days journey, we will be walking the total distance of 77 km and we will staying for two nights under tents at the 4600 m altitude of the base camp of Yala Peak which will also be our highest overnight altitude.

Similarly, each section of the walking days do not require no more than 6 or 7 hours except for the final climbing day when you will have to allocate around 8 hours of the day.

Therefore, this journey is classified as moderate challenge that is ideally suited for climbers and trekkers who are in excellent physical condition.

Who can engage in the Yala Peak Climbing Expedition?

Climbing Yala Peak can be an excellent option for the beginner and new climbers because of the peak’s uncomplicated and non-technical character.

Yes, a basic level of experience and understanding about the alpine setting and the climbing can be very beneficial but it is not a requirement.

Remember, the Yala Summit has been designated as the trekking and not a climbing peak by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) as most of the approach to the peak involves trekking.

However, when ascending the Yala Summit, the climbers will have to face a stretch of 180 meters of snow on a slope inclined at 35-40 degrees that ends with 650 m elevation gain on the day of the summit.

As for the trek to Yala Peak goes, it is a completely lodge hiking journey where you will have your lodging in the pre-arranged tea houses of the villages en route. Only two nights will be spent in the tent at the base camp of the Yala Peak.

Likewise, the journey up to the Yala Peak base camp is also very feasible characterized by moderate daily distances and a gradual incline. In addition, our mountain climbing guide will supervise the entire Yala Peak climbing expedition who will also provide tips, training and instructions along with some technical guidance.

All in all, the Yala Peak climbing 14 days adventure is open to all aspiring climbers and trekkers who have exceptional sound health conditions.

However we do prefer for you to have some high altitude trekking experience in Nepal for which you can first take the Langtang Valley trek only and then attempt the peak thereafter.

AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness/ Altitude Sickness) and Acclimatization

In the course of our Yala Peak climbing 14 days journey, we will find ourselves spending five consecutive nights at altitude above 3500 m. Such prolonged stays at such elevation can often lead to triggering of the acute mountain sickness often termed as altitude sickness.

On our way to climbing Yala Peak, our highest elevation will be limited to 5500 m with the integration of a rest day at Kathmandu and another at Kyanjin Gomba when we will be ascending the 4773 m Kyanjin Ri before the summit ascent.

This measured steps will help to facilitate our approach to the summit. Furthermore, we also have adhered to the principle of a gradual ascent so we have ensured our daily walks do not exceed 6 hours thereby reducing the risk of severe altitude sickness.

So most probably, you will only go through the milder condition of this sickness in the form of dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, appetite and sleep loss and minor breathing discomfort.

In order to avoid such discomforts, you can take the medication Diamox which hastens the acclimatization process and prevent the AMS. For the effective use, you should begin taking Diamox  when you are in the capital beginning with half a tablet in the morning and another half in the evening.

Please understand that this medication is only to prevent and not to treat the symptoms if they had already occurred. In addition, if you have any complications related to kidneys, or if you are already taking any other medication, you must get the medical counsel before using Diamox.

We suggest you not to depend on the medication but prevent the AMS with the proper and adequate hydration during the hiking journeys. You should treat this journey as a marathon and not a sprint so enjoy the adventure at a pace that is both comfortable and sustainable.

Here we also like to emphasize that if you exhibit any single sign of the AMS, you should inform our guide without any delay. He has the oximeter and first aid kit to monitor your oxygen level throughout the trip.

If needed, he may recommend your descent or postponement of your trip by few days till you feel capable again to go on with the journey.

Training and Preparation for the trek to Yala Peak

Although Yala Peak is relatively a smaller peak (lesser than the Kala Patthar and slightly above Thorong La Pass), it still is a Himalayan peak which towers at 5500 m altitude requiring its climbers to be in exceptionally good physical and mental shape.

Thus, it is wise to commence your training regimen as early as possible, most probably two months, before your departure date so you can attain the requisite physical readiness.

For the successful assault of the Yala Summit, endurance is vital for which you can engage in swimming, cycling, running, or walking and maintain this routine.

You should aim for prolonged regular session that can span from 3 to 4 hours a day. If you belong to the city life, you can favor swimming and running scheduling these activities around three times a week gradually increasing the intensity and the distance over the course.

You should also give equal importance to the outdoor activities most likely the hiking adventure with gradual elevation gain of around 500 m each day.

You can also familiarize yourself with the gear that may come in handy during the climbing time of the Peak. Once you are in Nepal, you can prepare with the easy high altitude trekking adventure for which you can consider undertaking the Langtang Valley trek first.

Or, you can also learn the essential climbing skill through the rock climbing session and try to practice with crampons and fixed ropes whenever you get the chance.

As for the mental preparation goes, you can reach out to the climbers who have conquered any peaks in Nepal and learn form their experiences.

You can also seek out the online resources about Yala Peak and its climatic conditions so you can set the true expectation from the Yala Peak Climbing adventure.

Alternate extension to your Yala Peak climbing 14 days Adventure

If you like to enrich your Yala Peak climbing 14 days adventure with more thrill and excitement, then we recommend you to include the crossing of the 5130 m high Ganja La pass in your travel program.

Once you complete conquering the summit of Yala, you can then set forth to Nyengang Kharka from Kyanjin Gomba and then overcome the challenge of the Pass, and continue onward to Keldang.

Then, you will travel through the beautiful villages of the Helambu valley such as Tarkeghyang and Sermathang before traveling back to Kathmandu via Melamchi.

If Ganja La Pass seems to be a bit overwhelming for you, then you can include a simple low Pass of Pangsang that is only 3800 m in altitude. After crossing this amazing pass, you will be redirected towards the remarkable Ruby Valley.

Or, you can just add the Helambu trek to your trek to Yala Peak. After your triumph at Yala, you can proceed towards Sin Gompa from Kyanjing Gomba and advance towards Gosaikunda Lake.

You will then tackle the 4610 m high Lauribina Pass, which will lead you to Tharepati, Tarkeghyang, and Sermathang.

Yala Peak vs Other Trekking Peaks of Nepal (Mardi, Pisang, Island, Mera, and Lobuche)

Yala Peak is one of the most easiest and approachable peak that is also very closely located to Kathmandu in the astounding Langtang region of Nepal.

It reaches only to 5500 m so if you have already been to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, the peak will be much easier for you. And, if we talk about the spectacle, the summit gives away the most fabulous views of the entire Langtang mountain range that includes some of the mountains that are very less known to the tourists such as Gangchempo (6387 m), Dorje Lakpa (6966 m), and Naya Kang (5844 m).

The trek to Yala Peak is also free from major from major technical obstacles making it the ideal choice for any individual who posses above the average physical capability.

Also, the adventure begins from lower elevation followed by slow and steady increase in elevation that aids in acclimatization making the journey easier and reachable.

There are also no need for expensive flights, long hiking days and most importantly, the way to the summit is also relatively untouched by commercialization like the other popular route of Everest or Annapurna.

As for the other trekking peaks, the Mardi and Pisang peaks belong to the Annapurna region, while the Mera, Lobuche, and Island peaks belong to the Everest region.

All these peaks rise above 6000 m in altitude, except for the Mardi Peak, which reaches 5587 m, slightly higher than the Yala Peak. The journey to any of these summits require either a long road journey or an internal flight to Lukla, which can be quite pricey.

And, if we compare the difficulty level, the Yala Peak is the most easiest one followed by Mardi Himal. The other peaks are quite challenging that require basic mountaineering skills, although they are also designated as trekking and beginner-friendly peaks.

If we go for the beauty of the landscape, then we must say Langtang region is more diverse, where you can experience both the subtropical and alpine zones within just 14 days.

You can get similar experiences in other peaks as well but not within the short span of a fortnight, as they will require longer trekking days. Likewise, the entire journey from and down the Yala summit can be completed within 7 to 8 hours, while other peaks require 9 to sometimes even 12 hours of journey.

Therefore, the Yala Peak is more beginner-friendly and the ideal acclimatization peak that can further prepare you for the advanced challenges in the future.

Accommodation and Dining

We have arranged a pleasant three-star rated hotel for your three nights in Kathmandu. Here, you will enjoy the comfort of a double occupancy room that offers you a private bath, WiFi, and hot water for 24 hours.

During the hiking and the climbing part, you will  have your nights spent in the cozy war shelters of the locals. The shelters will also provide you double single beds, sometimes three with mattress, some basic furnishings and warm blankets.

During camping for two nights at the base camp, our company will be providing you with good quality thick, and durable tents which will be set up by our crew.

As for the dining option, you will have the convenience of breakfast in Kathmandu and three times meals (breakfast, dinner, and lunch) during the walking part. Take this opportunity to explore the local Tamang cuisine of the region.

When camping, our kitchen team will provide you with fresh, hot meals three times a day.

Transportation

You will have a hassle free start in Kathmandu with our included private transfer from TIA to your lodging in the capital. On your final day in the capital, the same included transfer will be offered to you to take you to TIA.

On the second day in the capital, you will explore the sights of Kathmandu in a private vehicle, guided by our licensed tour guide. For the trip from and to Syabrubesi, we will arrange bus transportation, but if you want an exclusive transportation service, you can also check our upgrade options for more information.

Travel Insurance

Although Yala Summit is not that high but it presents its own set of dangers. The trek to Yala Peak can quickly change from a fairy tale journey to an unfortunate incident if undertaken without adequate planning.

However, if you undertake the Yala Peak climbing journey with a comprehensive policy, you will not only give yourself peace of mind but also your loved ones.

One of the obvious risks associated with climbing Yala Peak is the potential for accidents that can lead to medical and hospital expenses. Incidents such as falls or slips can result in the need for consultations, tests, surgeries, hospital stays, and medications.

In such cases, your insurance policy will help you by covering the incurring hospital bills. Additionally, accidents in mountain climbing and trekking often need search, rescue, and evacuation operations involving helicopters and ambulances which can be pretty costly.

Therefore, having a policy with evacuation coverage of up to 5500 m for this journey is vital. Likewise, it is wise if you also invest in policies with coverage for damage, loss or theft of personal items along with trip interruption and cancellation so you can reschedule your adventure without any hassles.

Make sure your insurance provider also offers you 24-hour specialized assistance so you can contact support teams around the world as soon as possible.

In addition, please keep in mind that a right form of travel insurance plan is required for our Yala Peak climbing expedition, as it is necessary for attaining the essential permit for the journey.

Essential Permits for climbing Yala Peak

Because Yala Peak lies below 6000 m mark, this peak do not require the climbing permit from Nepal Mountaineering Association like other trekking peaks.

Thus, climbing Yala Peak only need two permits similar as to the Langtang Valley trek. They are the entry permit to the National park of Langtang and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Permit.

The park permit can be arranged at Dhunche on the way to Syabrubesi or at the tourism office in Kathmandu with the payment of only 3000 NPR or USD 25 per climber.

The TIMS permit can be arranged from the tourism office or the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) with the payment of 2000 NPR per climber.

Please remember the processing of these permits and the related fees are an important part of our service.