Yala Peak Expedition
Yala Peak (5,732m) — Nepal's most accessible Himalayan summit, the ideal first peak climb above the Langtang Valley.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Best Season for the Yala Peak Expedition
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.
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.
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
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| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | Dinner | Hotel | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Arrive at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel, welcome dinner, and Yala Peak Expedition briefing.
2
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Kathmandu – Permit Processing & Expedition Briefing |
Breakfast / Dinner |
Hotel |
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Process the Langtang National Park entry permit and TIMS card, gear check, and expedition briefing.
3
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Drive Kathmandu → Syabrubesi (1,400m to 1,503m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Scenic drive from Kathmandu along the Trishuli valley to Syabrubesi, the starting point of the Langtang Valley trail.
4
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Trek Syabrubesi → Lama Hotel (1,503m to 2,470m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Follow the Langtang Khola through forest, crossing suspension bridges, to Lama Hotel.
5
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Trek Lama Hotel → Langtang Village (2,470m to 3,430m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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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.
6
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Trek Langtang Village → Kyanjin Gompa (3,430m to 3,870m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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A short trekking day to Kyanjin Gompa, the traditional gateway to Yala Peak, with time to visit the monastery and local cheese factory.
7
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Acclimatization Day at Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Rest day with an acclimatization hike to Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) or Tserko Ri (5,033m) for sweeping views across the Langtang Himal.
8
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Trek Kyanjin Gompa → Yala Base Camp (3,870m to 4,600m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Climb steadily above the valley floor to AltiPro's established camp at Yala Base Camp, with gear issue for the climbing phase.
9
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Acclimatization & Climbing Training at Base Camp (4,600m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Rest and altitude adaptation at Base Camp, with a short crampon and ice axe orientation ahead of the summit push.
10
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Summit Day – Yala Peak (5,732m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Pre-dawn departure from Base Camp. Follow a straightforward snow and glacier route, with rope used for safety on the upper slopes, to the summit at 5,732m, then descend fully to Kyanjin Gompa.
11
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Trek Kyanjin Gompa → Lama Hotel (3,870m to 2,470m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Long descent day retracing the valley trail back through Langtang village to Lama Hotel. Post-summit celebration.
12
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Trek Lama Hotel → Syabrubesi – Drive to Kathmandu |
Breakfast / Dinner |
Hotel |
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Final descent to Syabrubesi, then drive back to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner and Yala Peak climbing certificate presented.
13
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Final Departure from Kathmandu |
Breakfast |
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Transfer to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport for international departure.
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Services
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Gear Lists & Useful Information
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Gear lists and additional information for this expedition will be available soon.
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