Chhukung
The last village of the Imja Valley, below Lhotse's great south face
Chhukung (4,730 m) is the last village in the Imja Valley, the starting point for Kongma La and Island Peak, with Chhukung Ri above it for close-up views of Lhotse and Makalu.
Why Chhukung is known
Starting point for Kongma La on the Three Passes Trek
Base for Island Peak (Imja Tse) climbers
Chhukung Ri acclimatisation hike (about 5,550 m)
Close views of Lhotse's south face and Ama Dablam
Quiet glacial basin above Dingboche
About Chhukung
Chhukung (4,730 m), also spelled Chhukhung, is the last settlement in the Imja Valley, a short walk above Dingboche. It sits in a wide glacial basin surrounded by some of the most impressive mountain walls in Nepal: the south face of Lhotse, the Nuptse ridge, Ama Dablam and Island Peak. Once a summer yak-herding settlement, it is now a small cluster of teahouses used by climbers heading to Island Peak and by trekkers on the Three Passes route.
Getting there
From Dingboche the trail follows the Imja Khola gently upstream past stone walls and yak pastures. It takes 3 to 4 hours, so most trekkers arrive before lunch with time to rest and acclimatise.
Chhukung Ri
The hill above the village, Chhukung Ri (about 5,550 m), is one of the best acclimatisation hikes in the Khumbu. The 2 to 3 hour climb gives a close-up view of Lhotse’s south face, Makalu, Baruntse and the Imja Tsho glacial lake. Climbing high here and sleeping lower in Chhukung helps prepare your body for Kongma La.
Gateway to Kongma La and Island Peak
On the Everest Three Passes Trek, Chhukung is the starting point for Kongma La (5,535 m), the highest pass of the trek. It is also the base for climbers going to Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,165 m) via Island Peak Base Camp.
Practical tips
Teahouses are basic and nights are very cold. Charging and Wi-Fi are limited and paid. Bring a warm sleeping bag and cash in Nepalese rupees.
Highlights
- Climb Chhukung Ri for views of Lhotse, Makalu and Baruntse
- See the vast south face of Lhotse up close
- Walk among glaciers and moraine in the upper Imja Valley
- Meet climbers heading for Island Peak
- Prepare for the Kongma La crossing
Location
Open in Google MapsFrequently asked questions
How high is Chhukung?
Chhukung is at 4,730 m (15,518 ft), the last settlement in the Imja Valley above Dingboche.
How far is Chhukung from Dingboche?
About 3 to 4 hours on a gentle trail up the Imja Valley, gaining around 300 m.
What is Chhukung Ri?
A viewpoint above the village at about 5,550 m. The 2 to 3 hour climb gives close views of Lhotse's south face, Makalu, Baruntse and Imja Tsho lake, and is a classic acclimatisation hike.
Why stay in Chhukung on the Three Passes Trek?
It is the starting point for Kongma La. Sleeping here shortens the pass day and gives your body one more step up before 5,535 m.
Is Chhukung the base for Island Peak?
Yes. Climbers stay in Chhukung before walking to Island Peak Base Camp (about 5,090 m) for the climb of Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,165 m).
Can I visit Chhukung on the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Yes. Many EBC trekkers walk up to Chhukung and back on their acclimatisation day in Dingboche.
What are the teahouses like in Chhukung?
Basic but friendly, with cold rooms and heated dining rooms. Charging and Wi-Fi are limited and paid.
How cold is Chhukung at night?
In the main seasons, nights are often -10°C or colder. A four-season sleeping bag is essential.
