What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: NMA Singu Chuli Peak Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 6501m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Mardi Himal Vs Annapurna Circuit Scenery Time.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Beginner Annapurna Treks Manageable Altitude, 12 Day Annapurna Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Annapurna Circuit Packing List Warm Valleys Cold Pass.

What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: NMA Singu Chuli Peak Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 6501m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Mardi Himal Vs Annapurna Circuit Scenery Time.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Beginner Annapurna Treks Manageable Altitude, 12 Day Annapurna Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Annapurna Circuit Packing List Warm Valleys Cold Pass.

Singu Chuli Fluted Peak Climbing

Transportation
Flight + Private Vehicle
Group Size
Max 8
Maximum Altitude
6501
Accomodation
Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping
Fitness level
High
Arrival on
Kathmandu
Departure from
Kathmandu
Best season
Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
Guiding method
Live Personal Climbing Guide (Sherpa)
Tour type
Peak Climbing
Language
English
Meals
Includes (BLD) + Camp Meals
Permits
NMA Singu Chuli Peak Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card.
Destinations
Annapurna Region
Activities
Hiking, Peak Climbing, Trekking
Trip Type
High Altitude, Nature Friendly
Difficulty
Hard

Singu Chuli (6,501m / 21,328 ft), also known as Fluted Peak, is a trekking peak in the Annapurna region of north-central Nepal, located within the Annapurna Sanctuary. The peak lies at approximately 28 degrees 32 minutes north latitude and 83 degrees 52 minutes east longitude, in the Annapurna Conservation Area, immediately east of Tharpu Chuli (Tent Peak). Singu Chuli was first climbed in 1987 by an American expedition. The Nepal Mountaineering Association classifies it as a Group A trekking peak, but it is one of the most technically demanding trekking peaks in Nepal.The standard route climbs the north-east face, with Base Camp at approximately 4,400m in the Annapurna Sanctuary itself, a High Camp at around 4,900m, and a higher camp at 5,400m. The summit push involves sustained ice climbing on the famous fluted face, with 50-70 degree ice slopes and some vertical steps that require fixed ropes. The technical difficulty is rated D on the Alpine grading system, similar to lower-grade expeditions. Climbers should have previous mountaineering experience including ice climbing and the ability to ascend fixed ropes confidently.Singu Chuli is named for the distinctive fluted ice face on its north-east side, which gives the peak its alternative name Fluted Peak. The flutes are vertical grooves in the ice, formed by sun and wind erosion, that create challenging and aesthetic climbing terrain. The mountain is significantly more technical than nearby Tharpu Chuli and Hiunchuli, and is rarely climbed due to the technical difficulty. The summit rewards climbers with a 360-degree panorama of the entire Annapurna Sanctuary, one of the most spectacular mountain amphitheaters in the world.The approach follows the classic Annapurna Sanctuary trek from Pokhara through Nayapul, Ghandruk, Chhomrong, and the Modi Khola gorge to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). The region is culturally Gurung homeland, with traditional villages, ancient gompas, and the famous Gurung museum at Ghandruk. The best climbing seasons are spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November). Singu Chuli is one of the least-climbed trekking peaks in Nepal due to its technical nature.

Highlights

Climb a 6,501m technical peak with sustained ice climbing on the famous fluted face.
First climbed in 1987 by an American expedition, one of Nepal least-climbed trekking peaks.
Significantly more technical than nearby Tharpu Chuli and Hiunchuli.
Summit offers 360-degree panorama of the entire Annapurna Sanctuary.
50-70 degree ice slopes with vertical steps requiring fixed ropes.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport with private vehicle transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Evening welcome dinner and trek briefing with the climbing guide.

Day 02 :

Drive to Pokhara

6-hour scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara along the Prithvi Highway. Afternoon free to explore Phewa Lake.

Day 03 :

Drive to Nayapul & Trek to Ghandruk

Short jeep drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then trek 4 hours to the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk.

Day 04 :

Trek to Chhomrong

Trek through Kimrong Danda and descend to the Kimrong Khola, then climb to the large Gurung village of Chhomrong.

Day 05 :

Trek to Dovan

Descend to the Chhomrong Khola, then climb through bamboo and rhododendron forest to the small settlement of Dovan.

Day 06 :

Trek to Deurali

Continue climbing through dense forest with several rock overhangs and waterfalls. The valley narrows dramatically.

Day 07 :

Trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Climb through the gate of the sanctuary between Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre, then continue to Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

Day 08 :

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Climb to the broad Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by Annapurna I, South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.

Day 09 :

Acclimatization at Annapurna Base Camp

Full acclimatization day at Annapurna Base Camp. Optional hike to the glacier viewpoint. Equipment check and climbing briefing.

Day 10 :

Trek to Singu Chuli Base Camp

Leave Annapurna Base Camp and climb north-eastward across the glacier to reach Singu Chuli Base Camp at 4,400m. Establish camp with full kitchen service.

Day 11 :

Climbing Training at Base Camp

Full day of climbing training at Base Camp. Practice ice climbing, fixed-rope ascension with jumars, and mixed climbing technique. Pack and prepare for the High Camp carry.

Day 12 :

Trek to High Camp

Climb over moraine and glacier to reach the High Camp at 4,900m at the base of the fluted face. Establish tents and prepare for the higher camp carry.

Day 13 :

Trek to Higher Camp

Climb the lower portion of the fluted face on fixed ropes to reach the Higher Camp at 5,400m. Establish tents and prepare for the summit push.

Day 14 :

Summit Singu Chuli & Descend to Base Camp

Pre-dawn start at 1 AM. Climb the famous fluted face with 50-70 degree ice slopes and vertical steps on fixed ropes, reaching the 6,501m summit. Spectacular 360-degree views of the entire Annapurna Sanctuary. Descend to Base Camp for celebration.

Day 15 :

Buffer Day for Summit

Buffer day reserved for weather or acclimatization. If the summit was achieved on Day 14, descend to Annapurna Base Camp. If summit was postponed, attempt again today.

Day 16 :

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Descend from Base Camp back to Annapurna Base Camp for hot showers and a celebratory meal.

Day 17 :

Trek to Bamboo

Continue descending down the Modi Khola gorge to Bamboo.

Day 18 :

Trek to Jhinu Danda

Continue descending to Chhomrong, then down to Jhinu Danda with its natural hot springs for a well-deserved soak.

Day 19 :

Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara

Final short trek to Nayapul, then jeep drive back to Pokhara. Afternoon free to explore Phewa Lake.

Day 20 :

Drive to Kathmandu

6-hour scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Check in to hotel and evening farewell dinner.

Day 21 :

Buffer Day in Kathmandu

Buffer day for travel delays or optional sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley. Visit Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, or Pashupatinath.

Day 22 :

Final Departure

Private vehicle transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

Things to Carry for Singu Chuli Fluted Peak Climbing

Headwear

Warm fleece or wool beanie hat (essential for cold mornings)
Sun hat with wide brim for UV protection
Neck gaiter or buff (multi-purpose for dust, wind, cold)
Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3 or 4)
Ski goggles for high-altitude passes and snow

Upper Body Layering

2x merino wool base layers (long sleeve)
1x mid-layer fleece jacket
1x soft shell jacket for wind and light rain
1x hard shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex)
1x down jacket rated to -25C (we provide rental for USD 20)

Lower Body

2x trekking pants (quick-dry, one convertible)
1x thermal bottom layer for cold nights
1x rain pants (Gore-Tex)
2x merino wool underwear
1x swimwear (for hot springs)

Hands

1x thin liner gloves (merino or fleece)
1x insulated waterproof gloves
1x expedition mittens for passes above 5,000m

Footwear

1x sturdy trekking boots (broken in for 50+ km, waterproof)
1x camp shoes or sandals for evenings
4-5x pairs merino wool trekking socks
2x pairs liner socks
Gaiters for snow, scree, and mud

Sleeping Gear

1x 4-season sleeping bag rated to -20C (we provide rental for USD 30)
1x sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece)
1x inflatable sleeping pad

Trekking Equipment

1x trekking poles pair (essential for descents, we provide rental for USD 15)
1x headlamp with spare batteries (200+ lumens)
1x 20-30L day pack
1x large duffel bag 80-100L (we provide free)
1x dry bag for electronics
1x water bottle or hydration bladder (2L minimum)

First Aid & Health

Personal prescription medications (with doctor’s letter)
Diamox for altitude sickness (consult your doctor)
Ibuprofen and paracetamol
Imodium for stomach issues
Rehydration sachets (ORS)
Blister treatment (Compeed, moleskin)
Antiseptic wipes and bandages
Lip balm with SPF 30+
Sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring 2 tubes)
Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and wet wipes

Electronics

Camera with extra batteries (cold drains fast, bring 2-3 spares)
Power bank (20,000mAh minimum)
Universal power adapter (Nepal 220V, Type C/D/M)
Headphones
eReader or book

Documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity, 4 extra passport photos)
Travel insurance certificate (covering trekking to 6501m)
Flight tickets
Credit cards and USD cash
Emergency contacts

What We Provide (Rental)

4-season sleeping bag (rental USD 30 with deposit)
Down jacket (rental USD 20 with deposit)
Duffel bag for porter carriage (free, you keep it)
Trekking poles (rental USD 15)
First-aid kit, pulse oximeter, emergency oxygen
Water purification tablets
Satellite phone on remote treks

Related Packing Guides

Read our detailed packing guides: Annapurna Circuit Packing List Warm Valleys Cold Pass, Rupina La Trek Gear List Remote, Tamang Heritage Trail Packing List Spring Autumn, Pathibhara Trek Packing List.

Note: Pack light. Porter weight limit is 15kg per trekker. Layers are key for mountain weather. We send a detailed seasonal packing list after booking.

Know Before You Book – Singu Chuli Fluted Peak Climbing Information

Trip Name: Singu Chuli Fluted Peak Climbing – 22 Days
Duration: 22 days
Difficulty: Hard
Maximum Altitude: 6501m
Group Size: Max 8

Difficulty & Fitness

This trek is rated Hard. Hard treks involve 6-8+ hours of walking daily at high altitude. Previous high-altitude experience strongly recommended. The maximum altitude is 6501m. You need a fitness level of High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises.

Read our difficulty guides: Annapurna Base Camp Vs Mardi Himal Scenery Difficulty, Ghorepani Poon Hill Vs Mardi Himal Views Difficulty.

Best Time to Go

Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.

Read our seasonal guides: Annapurna Region Treks Crowded Peak Season, Annapurna Base Camp Photography Season Fewer Crowds.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Luxury lodges (where available) offer heated ensuite rooms. 3-star or higher hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) included during treks with tea and coffee. Vegetarian options widely available.

Food and water guides: Tea House Trekking Annapurna Circuit, Poon Hill Trek Teahouses And Food Guide.

Transportation

Transport: Flight + Private Vehicle. Domestic flights (where applicable) are weather-dependent – build 1-2 buffer days into your schedule. Private ground transport uses comfortable AC vehicles.

Flight and transport guides: Australian Travelers Flights Rest Days Annapurna Base Camp, Jomsom Muktinath Trek Transport Backup Flights Roads.

Required Permits

NMA Singu Chuli Peak Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos after booking. Permit fees are included in your trip cost.

Permit guides: Mardi Himal Vs Annapurna Circuit Scenery Time, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Permits Guide.

Altitude Safety

Maximum altitude is 6501m. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness is a real risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. Walk slowly, stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol above 3,500m, report symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.

Altitude safety guides: Beginner Annapurna Treks Manageable Altitude, 12 Day Annapurna Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization.

Training & Preparation

Read our training guides: Annapurna Circuit Trek Fitness Level, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Operator Mixed Fitness.

Insurance Requirement

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our treks and tours. Your insurance must cover trekking to 6501m altitude (for treks), emergency helicopter evacuation up to USD 10,000, emergency medical treatment, and trip cancellation. We recommend World Nomads, IMG Global, or Allianz Adventure plans. Bring a printed copy of your insurance certificate.

Insurance guides: What Cancellation Terms And Travel Insurance Details Matter Before Booking A Ren, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Insurance Needed.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple sanctums. Walk clockwise around stupas and chortens. Ask permission before photographing people. Use your right hand for eating and passing items. Say namaste (palms together) as a greeting.

Culture guides: Manaslu Vs Annapurna Circuit Village Culture, Annapurna Circuit Mountain Views Villages Culture.

Booking & Payment

To confirm your booking, a deposit is required (50% for helicopter tours). The balance is due 30 days before departure (7 days for helicopter tours). We accept bank transfer, credit card (4% surcharge), PayPal. Free cancellation up to 60 days before departure. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation. Contact us for current pricing and availability.

What is Not Included

International airfare to/from Kathmandu, Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days), travel and rescue insurance (mandatory), personal trekking gear and clothing, hot showers and device charging on trek, alcoholic beverages, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, tips for guide/porter/driver (recommended 10-15% of trip cost), and any costs from unforeseen events like weather delays.