Chukhung Ri 5,546 m
Chukhung Ri (5,546 m) is a short acclimatization hike in the Imja Valley and is considered the counterpart to the better-known Kala Patthar. It lies directly above the village of Chukhung and offers one of the best views of the Lhotse South Face, which rises over 3,000 meters.
From the summit, a breathtaking panorama of the Imja Glacier and the turquoise Imja Lake unfolds. Directly opposite, Ama Dablam rises with its north face. It is the ideal preparatory peak if you plan to climb Island Peak afterward. Technically straightforward, but steep and physically demanding at high altitude. Sure-footedness is essential in the upper, boulder-strewn section just before the summit.
Chukhung Ri
Start: Chukhung (4.730 m)
Destination: Chukhung Ri (5.546 m)
Elevation gain: 800 m
Distance: 2 km, Duration: 5-6 hours
The trail begins north of the lodges. It starts by winding across relatively flat grassy slopes and crosses a few small streams. After a while, the trail splits. The left fork leads to the higher summit (5,550 m). To the right, the trail leads to the lower peak (5,417 m). The path becomes increasingly steep and, in the upper section, leads over loose scree and large boulders. The path to the main peak is somewhat more exposed toward the end, but does not require any real climbing.
