Yala Peak Expedition

Yala Peak Expedition

Yala Peak (5,732m) — Nepal's most accessible Himalayan summit, the ideal first peak climb above the Langtang Valley.

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Expedition Overview

Expedition Overview

What is the Yala Peak Expedition?

Yala Peak stands at approximately 5,732 metres in the Langtang region of Nepal, north of Kathmandu, and is widely regarded as the most accessible trekking peak in the entire country. Non-technical throughout, with a straightforward snow and glacier walk to the summit and no advanced mountaineering skills required, Yala Peak is the natural first Himalayan summit for climbers with good fitness but little or no prior high-altitude experience.

AltiPro's Yala Peak Expedition follows the classic Langtang Valley trek from Syabrubesi through Lama Hotel and Langtang village to Kyanjin Gompa, the traditional gateway to the peak, with acclimatization hikes to Kyanjin Ri or Tserko Ri built in along the way. From Kyanjin Gompa, the route continues to Yala Base Camp at approximately 4,600m before a straightforward summit push over snow and moderate glacier terrain to the top at 5,732m. The expedition spans 13 days from Kathmandu to return.

Yala Peak is rated Easy to Moderate. No prior climbing experience is required, and as of the Nepal Mountaineering Association's September 2025 policy update, peaks below 5,800m, including Yala Peak, no longer carry an NMA royalty fee, only a refundable garbage deposit. The main demand is fitness and comfort with altitude above 5,000m rather than technical difficulty, making Yala Peak AltiPro's standard recommendation for a genuine first Himalayan summit.

Summit: 5,732 m Southeast Glacier Route Easy–Moderate Langtang Valley, Nepal 13 Days Max 10 Climbers Full Service Spring & Autumn
 
About Yala Peak

About Yala Peak — Nepal's Most Accessible Himalayan Summit

Yala Peak rises above Kyanjin Gompa in the upper Langtang region, one of the closest Himalayan trekking areas to Kathmandu and among the most culturally rich, with Tibetan-influenced villages, chortens, and monasteries lining the trail. The valley was badly affected by the 2015 earthquake and has since been carefully rebuilt, and the Langtang Yala Peak trek today combines that living cultural landscape with one of the safest introductions to high-altitude peak climbing available anywhere in Nepal.

Published summit elevations for Yala Peak vary across sources, from 5,500m to 5,732m, reflecting differences in survey data rather than distinct summits. AltiPro uses 5,732m throughout its materials, consistent with the most commonly cited commercial figure. Since September 2025, the NMA no longer charges a royalty fee for trekking peaks below 5,800m, which includes Yala Peak; only a refundable garbage deposit and the standard Langtang National Park and TIMS permits are required.

From the summit, climbers are rewarded with sweeping views across the Langtang Himal, including Langtang Lirung, Shishapangma across the Tibetan border, Ganesh Himal, and the glaciated Langtang valley floor far below.

 
Why Choose AltiPro

Why Choose AltiPro Adventures for Yala Peak?

The Ideal First Himalayan Summit

Yala Peak's non-technical route and accessible altitude make it AltiPro's standard recommendation for climbers with no prior peak-climbing experience. AltiPro's Sherpa guides still teach basic crampon and ice axe use at Base Camp, giving first-time climbers a genuine introduction to mountaineering fundamentals.

A Complete Langtang Cultural and Mountain Experience

Because the approach follows the full Langtang Valley trek, climbers experience Tibetan-influenced villages, working monasteries, and a cheese factory at Kyanjin Gompa alongside the peak climb itself, one of the more complete single-trip Himalayan experiences available close to Kathmandu.

Close to Kathmandu, Genuinely Himalayan

Langtang is one of the closest major trekking regions to Kathmandu, cutting travel time compared to the Khumbu or Annapurna regions, without compromising on the scale or authenticity of the mountain experience.

Full Sherpa Support and Equipment

All climbing equipment is provided by AltiPro: crampons, harness, ice axe, and rope, along with cook staff at Base Camp. Climbers do not need to own or bring technical climbing gear.

Medical Support

A full medical kit at Base Camp, with satellite communication for emergency coordination. Helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu can be arranged if required during the expedition.

Spring and Autumn Options

AltiPro operates Yala Peak in both spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), the two stable weather windows for the Langtang valley and summit.

 
Route & Approach

The Southeast Glacier Route (5,732 m)

The standard route on Yala Peak follows the Langtang Valley trail before a short, non-technical push over snow and glacier terrain to the summit, one of the most approachable high-altitude routes in Nepal.

1

Kathmandu to Lama Hotel via Syabrubesi (1,400m to 2,470m)

Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, then trek along the Langtang Khola through forest to Lama Hotel.

2

Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (2,470m to 3,430m)

Continue up the valley through pine and rhododendron forest, with the peaks of the Langtang Himal coming into view, to Langtang village, rebuilt since the 2015 earthquake.

3

Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa (3,430m to 3,870m)

A short trekking day to Kyanjin Gompa, the traditional gateway to Yala Peak, with time to visit the monastery and local cheese factory.

4

Acclimatization at Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m)

A rest day with an acclimatization hike to Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) or Tserko Ri (5,033m) for sweeping views across the Langtang Himal before continuing toward the peak.

5

Kyanjin Gompa to Yala Base Camp (3,870m to 4,600m)

Climb steadily above the valley floor to AltiPro's established camp at Yala Base Camp, with gear issue and a short crampon and ice axe orientation.

6

Base Camp to Summit (4,600m to 5,732m)

Summit day follows a straightforward snow and glacier route with no severe technical sections, though a rope may be used for safety on the upper slopes, to the summit at 5,732m, with sweeping views across the Langtang Himal, Shishapangma, and Ganesh Himal.

 
Difficulty

How Difficult is the Yala Peak Expedition?

Yala Peak is rated Easy to Moderate and is one of the least technical Himalayan summits in Nepal, with a straightforward snow and glacier route and no severe technical sections. The main challenges are the altitude above 5,000m and sustained daily walking rather than climbing difficulty, making it considerably more accessible than peaks such as Mera Peak or Tent Peak.

Overall Difficulty
 
3 / 10
Physical Demand
 
5 / 10
Altitude Challenge
 
4 / 10
Technical Climbing
 
2 / 10
Remoteness
 
3 / 10
 
Best Season

Best Season for the Yala Peak Expedition

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ideal season Possible Not recommended

Spring (March–May): Stable pre-monsoon conditions with clear views across the Langtang Himal and rhododendron forests in bloom lower in the valley.

Autumn (September–November): Crisp post-monsoon conditions with excellent visibility for the summit. October and November are considered the ideal months. AltiPro operates both seasons, contact for current dates.

 
Cost & Packages

Yala Peak Expedition Cost

Full-service Yala Peak expedition — Langtang Valley approach, all climbing equipment, and full Sherpa support included.

Includes Langtang National Park entry permit, TIMS card, refundable garbage deposit, full Sherpa support to summit, all climbing equipment for summit day (crampons, harness, rope, ice axe), Base Camp cook service, and a complete medical kit. International flights, ground transport upgrades, and personal trekking equipment are not included. Contact AltiPro for a complete Yala Peak climbing cost breakdown.

 
FAQs

Yala Peak Expedition — Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about climbing Yala Peak with AltiPro Adventures.

How difficult is Yala Peak?

Yala Peak is rated Easy to Moderate and is one of Nepal's least technical Himalayan summits, with a straightforward snow and glacier route requiring no advanced mountaineering skills. The main challenge is the altitude and sustained walking rather than technical climbing.

Is Yala Peak suitable for beginners with no climbing experience?

Yes. Yala Peak is widely regarded as the best first Himalayan summit in Nepal for climbers with good fitness but no prior peak-climbing experience. AltiPro's Sherpa guides teach basic crampon and ice axe use at Base Camp.

What is the Yala Peak climbing cost?

AltiPro's full-service package includes permits, the Langtang Valley approach, Sherpa support, all climbing equipment, and Base Camp services. Contact AltiPro for a current, detailed cost breakdown.

Do you need a climbing permit for Yala Peak?

Since September 2025, the Nepal Mountaineering Association no longer charges a royalty fee for trekking peaks below 5,800m, which includes Yala Peak. Climbers still need the standard Langtang National Park entry permit and a TIMS card, along with a refundable garbage deposit.

Can Yala Peak be combined with the Langtang Valley Trek?

Yes. Yala Peak is climbed as an extension of the Langtang Yala Peak trek, and AltiPro can extend the itinerary further with the Langtang Gosainkunda Extended trek for climbers wanting more time in the region.

How long is the Yala Peak expedition?

13 days from Kathmandu to return, including the drive to Syabrubesi, the Langtang Valley approach through Lama Hotel and Kyanjin Gompa, and the summit attempt on Yala Peak (5,732m).

What are the summit views like from Yala Peak?

The summit delivers sweeping views across the Langtang Himal, including Langtang Lirung, Shishapangma across the Tibetan border, Ganesh Himal, and the glaciated Langtang valley floor far below.

What permits are required to climb Yala Peak?

A Langtang National Park entry permit, a TIMS card, and a refundable garbage deposit; no separate NMA climbing royalty is charged for peaks below 5,800m. AltiPro manages all permit applications from Kathmandu.

Detailed Itinerary

Click on each day to view details

Day Program Meals Accom.
1 Arrival in Kathmandu Dinner Hotel
2 Kathmandu – Permit Processing & Expedition Briefing Breakfast / Dinner Hotel
3 Drive Kathmandu → Syabrubesi (1,400m to 1,503m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Lodge
4 Trek Syabrubesi → Lama Hotel (1,503m to 2,470m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Lodge
5 Trek Lama Hotel → Langtang Village (2,470m to 3,430m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Lodge
6 Trek Langtang Village → Kyanjin Gompa (3,430m to 3,870m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Lodge
7 Acclimatization Day at Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Lodge
8 Trek Kyanjin Gompa → Yala Base Camp (3,870m to 4,600m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Tent
9 Acclimatization & Climbing Training at Base Camp (4,600m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Tent
10 Summit Day – Yala Peak (5,732m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Lodge
11 Trek Kyanjin Gompa → Lama Hotel (3,870m to 2,470m) Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Lodge
12 Trek Lama Hotel → Syabrubesi – Drive to Kathmandu Breakfast / Dinner Hotel
13 Final Departure from Kathmandu Breakfast

Services

Includes

Park entry permit for the Langtang region approach.
Trekkers' Information Management System card for all members.
Refundable garbage deposit for the group, in place of an NMA royalty fee for peaks below 5,800m, refunded on proof of waste pack-out.
All applicable Nepal government taxes and AltiPro Adventures company service charges.
Airport pick-up and drop in Kathmandu by private vehicle.
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a bed and breakfast basis, single room, before and after the trek.
Welcome dinner and farewell dinner in Kathmandu with the AltiPro team.
Trekking route map, plus one AltiPro Adventures duffle bag per member.
Private vehicle transfer from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and return.
Full board teahouse accommodation throughout the Langtang Valley approach and return trek.
Porter support of up to 20 kg per member from Syabrubesi to Yala Base Camp and return.
Daily wages, salary, equipment, food, and clothing for all Nepalese staff and porters.
Experienced trekking guide for the full expedition, from Kathmandu to summit and back.
Three meals a day at Yala Base Camp (4,600m), managed from the camp kitchen.
Tent accommodation at Base Camp for the summit push.
Satellite phone available for emergency use; per-call charges apply for personal calls.
Comprehensive first aid medical kit for members and staff.
High-energy food and hot drinks provided at Base Camp and on summit day.
Crampons, harness, ice axe, and rope for the summit day, above what climbers bring personally.
One climbing Sherpa for the group on summit day, providing basic crampon and ice axe instruction and rope safety on the upper slopes.
Climbing Sherpa salary, equipment, food, clothing, and insurance.
Helicopter rescue standby pre-arranged from Kathmandu before expedition departure.
Yala Peak climbing certificate presented on successful summit.

Excludes

International flight airfare to and from Kathmandu.
Nepal entry visa fee, USD 125 for 90 days.
Personal trekking and climbing gear, clothing, boots, and equipment.
Soaps, shampoos, toilet paper, and other personal hygiene items.
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, except the included welcome and farewell dinners.
Extra accommodation in Kathmandu for early arrival or late departure.
Telephone, internet, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, and alcoholic beverages.
Travel, medical, and high-altitude helicopter rescue insurance, mandatory with a minimum USD 15,000 cover; higher cover strongly recommended.
Summit bonus for the climbing Sherpa, minimum USD 250 per member.
Tips for the trekking guide and porters, minimum USD 100 per porter.
Gratuities for kitchen and support staff.
Special filming, camera, and drone permit fees.
Costs due to flight cancellations, road disruptions, or other unforeseen situations.
Any other services not listed in the Includes section.

Gear Lists & Useful Information

No Gear Lists Available

Gear lists and additional information for this expedition will be available soon.

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