Ngadi Chuli, sometimes called Peak 29, is a 7,871 m mountain in the Mansiri Himal, just south-west of Manaslu. It is the twentieth highest peak in the world and one of the quietest, because it is overshadowed by its 8,000 m neighbour.
A giant in the shadow
Most visitors to this region are drawn to Manaslu. Ngadi Chuli rises just below it, connected by a long ridge, and reaches 7,871 m (25,823 ft). From some angles it looks as large as the main peak.
Where it stands
The mountain is located in the Gorkha district. It forms part of the Manaslu massif and is seen from the circuit trail around Samagaon and Samdo.
First ascent
The first ascent was in 1970. The route was long and technical, and few teams have repeated it.
Seeing it from the circuit
Good views come from Samagaon and the Pungyen monastery area. A sunrise walk gives wonderful light. See the Manaslu Circuit guides and the Himalchuli guide.
Why few climb it
The ridge is long, avalanche prone and demands a strong team. It is a specialist objective.
Common questions
Is Ngadi Chuli the same as Peak 29? Yes. Is it climbed often? No. Can I see it on the circuit? Yes.
Names and numbering
The name Peak 29 comes from early survey numbering, when many Himalayan peaks were identified by number before they had local names. Ngadi Chuli is the local name now used on most maps, though the older number is still heard.
The Manaslu massif
Manaslu, Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli form a great chain. Manaslu itself is the eighth highest mountain in the world at 8,163 m. Reading the chain as three connected giants helps you to understand the shape of the region.
A mountain for the patient
Because Ngadi Chuli is so seldom climbed, many photographs of the Manaslu massif show it as a quiet shape at the side of the frame. Spend a little time looking for it on clear mornings.
Season and care
Autumn gives stable weather. The circuit crosses the Larkya La, a high pass, so allow spare days for weather.
More questions
Is Ngadi Chuli higher than Himalchuli? Slightly lower, at 7,871 m against 7,893 m. Does the trek go close to it? You see it from the upper part of the circuit. Is it climbed often? No, very rarely.
A reminder about permits
The Manaslu Circuit needs special permits, a licensed guide and at least two trekkers in most cases. We handle all of the paperwork and explain what you need to carry. Check the current rules with us when you book, because they can change.
