Hiunchuli Peak Climbing

Hiunchuli Peak Climbing

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Camping

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

6441 m.

Transportation

Tourist Bus & Private Vehicle

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn
Duration
24 Days
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  • Book now, pay later

Hiunchuli Peak Climbing (Himchuli peak ):

First climbed in 1971 by British Col. Jimmy Roberts, the 6441m tall Hiunchuli peak is categorized as a trekking peak. It is an exciting peak to climb that rewards you superb view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchhre and almost every mountains of the Annapurna Massif. A special climbing permit is required for climbing the peak which is issued by Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA).

Hiunchuli Peak lies in the Annapurna I of the Annapurna ranges and is distinctly visible as an extension of Annapurna South. Along with the Macchapuchre, the peak provides a passage for Modi Khola which drains much of the Annapurna sanctuary.

Hiunchuli Peak is a technically challenging climb. A climber has to be well aware in the use of ropes and ice axes. Successful climbing requires great physical fitness. The risks of climbing this peak are presented by the occasional rock slides, wind and seracs. We will set Camp I and Camp II before the summit. Apart from conquering summit, this journey leads you to explore world famous Annapurna trekking route.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Food
Welcome Drink
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
1400

On your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, you will be greeted with flower garlands/Khadas. Our representative will then take you to your hotel. If time prevails, you will visit office for paperwork.
Stay overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Food
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
1400

Today, you will visit popular world heritage monuments in Kathmandu including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swoyambhunath, and Pashupatinath. Alternatively, you can choose Bhakatapur and Patan sightseeing.  By late afternoon you will drive back to your hotel.
Stay overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
914

After early morning breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel and taken to the tourist bus station. Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (914m.) takes about seven hours. The drive will take most of our morning time, leaving much of the afternoon to get a warm glimpse of Pokhara Valley and its beauty. If you choose to fly, you can reach Pokhara in 25 minutes. There are several flights from morning to afternoon available from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Pokhara is the tourist's paradise with full of natural as well as cultural heritage sites such as lakes, caves, Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples along with the magnificent views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and many other mountain peaks.
Stay overnight at hotel in Pokhara.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
1050

After early morning breakfast, drive from Pokhara (915 m.) to Nayapul (1050m.) takes approximately one and half hours. Now you begin your trek from Nayapul (1050m.) to Tirkhedhunga (1577 m.) via Birethanti (1065m.) which takes about four and half hours. Some people prefer to go to Ulleri, one and a half hour trek from Tirkhedhunga, for better views of mountains.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
2675

it is only 4 hrs trek to Ghorepani. To begin your trek, you ascend steeply for the early 2 hours and then gently pass through Ulleri (2070m.) and Banthanti, both Magar villages. On the way you can view the Machhapuchhare or Fish Tail (6997m.), Hiunchuli (6441m.) and Annapurna (7219m) south.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
3232

Poon Hill is a popular viewpoint to see sunrise/sunset and majestic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Tukuche Peak (6920m.), Nilgiri (6940m.), Varaha Shikhar (7847m.), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Annapurna III (7855m.), Machhapuchhare (6993m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.), and Lamjung Himal (6931m.).

After spending sometime in Poon Hill, hike back to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue trekking towards Tadapani (2630m) which takes about five hours.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
2950

It is a very easy trek descending gently all the way through rhododendron and oak forests. This is one of the popular destinations for the bird lovers. Ghandruk is a big Gurung village offering good views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna (7455m.), Annapurna III (7755m.) and Fishtail.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
2253

At the beginning of the day, you ascend gently for an hour up to Ghandrukkot (2100m.) and descend steeply to the Kimrung Khola (1700m.). The trail then ascends to Chhomrong- a gateway to Annapurna Sanctuary trek and inhabited by Gurung, one of the major ethnic groups of Nepal.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
2600

The train in the beginning descends until you cross a small bridge. From here it’s a long steep ascent up to Sinuwa. The path ahead through bamboo, rhododendron and oak forests. Enjoy local farming in terraced landscapes all around.
Stay overnight in lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
3700

The trail ahead is devoid of any villages until we reach Macchapuchre Base Camp. You trek gently ascend through bamboo forests with varieties of rhododendron and oak trees to Himalaya. Another one and a half hour trek reaches you to Deurali and another two hours up to Macchapuchre Base Camp.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
4130

It is further 2 hours walk to reach Annapurna Base Camp. Annapurna Base Camp is a vantage point to see the Himalayas at a 360 degree turn. Some of the impressive ones include Mount Hiunchuli (6441m.), Annapurna South (7229m.), Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna III (7555m.), Gangapurna (7454m.) and Machhapuchhare or Fish Tail (6997m.) etc. You can explore Annapurna South Glaciers in detail.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Camp

This day you trek along rocky glacier path. You can enjoy the majestic views of Annapurna I, Fish tail, Singu Chuli, Tent peak and many more.
Stay overnight at camp.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Camp
Elevation
5500

The rocky trail goes straight up to High Camp. You can enjoy the same views of earlier day.
Stay overnight at camp.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Camp

At the summit of Camp I, you can have closer panoramic views of Annapurna I, Fish tail, Singu Chuli, Tent peak and many more.
Stay overnight at camp.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Camp

This day, you will enjoy the same views of earlier days.
Stay overnight at camp.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Camp

Summit Hiunchuli peak (6441m.) and back to Hiunchuli Camp II. Stay overnight at camp.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Camp

Walk down to Annapurna South Base Camp. Stay overnight at camp.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
4130

Trek from Annapurna South Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp. Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
3720

Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo via Machhapuchhare Base Camp takes about six to seven hours.

The trail gradually descends passing through bamboo forests.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
1780

We will descend through Sinuwa and Choomrong. After Bamboo, the trail goes steeply up to the Kuldi Ghar and now the trail is quite flat until you reach Sinuwa. You trek gradually descends to the Chhomrong Khola and you have to follow stone staircase for almost an hour to reach Chhomrong. 1 hr further down will take you to Jhinu Danda.  You can visit a natural hotspring in Modi Khola, which is 20 minutes hike from Jhinu Danda.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
1890

You will pass through many villages, farms and terraced fields. You will cross Landruk and Deurali villages on the the way. Pothana is a beautiful villagesurrounded by green forests.
Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
Breakfast & Lunch
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
900

The trek from Pothana to Phedi takes about 3 hours followed by an hour’s drive to reach Pokhara. On your way to Phedi from Pothana you will pass by Dhampus village and beyond that you will enjoy scenic terraced fields and mountain views.
Stay overnight at hotel in Pokhara.

Food
Breakfast & Lunch
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
1400

En route, you will enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. If you choose to fly back to Kathmandu, it takes about 25 minutes. There are several flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara from morning to afternoon.
Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Food
Breakfast

As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.

What Is Included ?

 

a) Kathmandu

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
  • 3 night hotel accommodation with breakfast 
  • One day city sightseeing with an English speaking tour guide and private vehicle
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening
  • Souvenirs

 

Trekking and climbing

  • 2 night hotel accommodation in Pokhara as per the itinerary
  • Hiunchuli peak climbing permit
  • Entry permit for Annapurna conservation Area (ACAP)
  • Trekkers' Information Management system (TIMS) card
  • Climbing guide (Sirdar)
  • Equipment fees for climbing guide
  • Required porters including a cook (some nights will be camping and will require cook and cooking utensils)
  • All meals three times a day during the trek/climb
  • Accommodation in teahouses (lodges) for some nights and some nights camping
  • Necessary trekking/camping equipment such as tents, mattresses, sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags, rope, snow bar, rock piton, Carabineers Crampons, Ice axe, Helmet, Harness, cooking utensils, etc.
  • Cooking fuel
  • Transportation:  Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist deluxe bus and Pokhara to Phedi and Ghandruk to Pokhara by private vehicle
  • Insurance and equipments for the guide and porters
  • First aid kit
  • Tax, VAT and our service charge
  • Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)

What Is Excluded?

  • Personal nature expenses (Telephone calls, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers and any alcoholic beverages)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for involved staffs
  • Sherpa summit bonus
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal climbing equipments
  • Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu (even in case of early arrival or late departure, early return from trekking due to any personal reason than the scheduled itinerary)
  • Entrance fees while sightseeing in and around Kathmandu

Hiunchuli Peak Climbing Altitude Profile

FAQs

Hiunchuli Peak is considered technically challenging and suitable for climbers with previous high-altitude experience. It’s often categorized as a “difficult trekking peak” due to the combination of technical rock and ice climbing, unpredictable weather conditions, and the risk of rockfall and avalanches in certain sections.

Unlike peaks that are mostly walked up with crampons and poles, Hiunchuli requires the use of ropes, ice axes, and sometimes fixed-line climbing on steep ridges. This means climbers should be comfortable with alpine techniques like abseiling, using ascenders, and glacier travel.

It’s not ideal for complete beginners, but it’s a great next step for those who have summited easier trekking peaks and want to push their limits a bit more. Acclimatization, physical fitness, and a good guide are crucial for a safe and successful summit.

The best time to climb Hiunchuli Peak is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons:

  • Spring (March to May): This is a favorite season for many climbers. The weather is relatively stable, and the trails are adorned with blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers. Visibility is usually excellent, and temperatures, while cold at high altitudes, are manageable.
  • Autumn (September to November): After the monsoon rains have cleared the dust and pollution from the air, autumn offers crystal-clear skies and cooler, dry weather—perfect for photography and safe climbing conditions. However, nights can be colder compared to spring.


Avoid climbing during the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rain, landslides, and leeches on the trails. Winter (December to February) brings very cold temperatures, snow, and increased risks of avalanches, making it a less suitable time for most climbers.

Yes, you’ll need several permits to legally climb Hiunchuli Peak:

Climbing Permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA): Hiunchuli is classified as a Group "B" trekking peak, and you must apply for this permit through a registered trekking agency.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Since the climb is within the Annapurna region, this permit is mandatory.

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Issued by the Nepal Tourism Board, this card helps authorities keep track of trekkers for safety purposes.

Make sure to carry multiple passport-sized photos and copies of your passport, as you’ll need them for these permits. 

Climbing Hiunchuli Peak requires excellent physical fitness and strong endurance. This isn’t just a high-altitude trek—it involves long days of hiking and technical climbing with gear, often on steep and icy terrain.

You should be able to:

  • Trek 6–8 hours a day with a pack.
  • Handle elevation gains of 500–800 meters daily.
  • Carry a backpack with climbing equipment.
  • Climb using ropes and ice axes (some training in alpine climbing is helpful).


To prepare, it’s recommended to start training at least 3–4 months before the trip. Your routine should include cardiovascular workouts (running, cycling, swimming), strength training (especially core and legs), and long hikes with a loaded pack. Altitude simulation or hiking at high elevations beforehand can also be beneficial for acclimatization.

A typical Hiunchuli Peak climbing expedition takes around 20 to 24 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization schedule. Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Kathmandu Arrival & Preparation: 2–3 days for rest, gear check, and permits.
  • Trek to Base Camp (via Annapurna Base Camp or Ghandruk): 7–9 days depending on route.
  • Acclimatization & Summit Attempt: 4–6 days at higher camps including the summit push.
  • Return Trek to Pokhara: 4–6 days.
  • Extra Buffer Days: Always recommended in case of bad weather or health issues.


The route is scenic and passes through terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and ethnic villages, giving plenty of time to adjust to the altitude and enjoy the journey.

While no high-altitude climb is without risk, Hiunchuli Peak is considered safe when climbed with proper planning, a qualified guide, and the right gear. The main safety concerns include:

  • Altitude sickness: Adequate acclimatization and hydration are key.
  • Technical challenges: Falls or slips on icy or exposed sections.
  • Avalanches or rockfall: Especially during or after storms.


Hiring an experienced climbing guide or team is highly recommended—they are trained in rescue, first aid, and can make key decisions regarding weather and route safety. Always check your gear thoroughly and stay updated with weather forecasts.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Hiunchuli Peak climbing. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.
 

Additional Information

Mountaineering Equipments

Crampons, Ice axe, Helmet, Harness, Lock and unlock Carabineers, Shovel, Climbing pack, Rope, Ski poles, Desender/abseil device, Jummer  (Asender) , Tapes, Prusik Loops, Rappel device, Hand Warmer (if possible)

Clothing and Wears

Trekking shoes with spare laces, Mountaineering Boots, Plastic or leather for mountaineering boots, Gore-Tex pants, Long shorts, Insulated Parka, Jumper, Waterproof Jackets, Down Jacket, Fleece Vest, Wool cap, Neck Gaiter, Gloves, Climbing Socks, Thermal Underwear, Sandals, Snow Goggle

Essential Gears

Backpack, Duffle bag, Sleeping Bag, sleeping pad, Tents

Gadgets

Map, Compass, Camera, GPS, Two way radios, Binoculars, Head Lamp, Flashlight

Sun Protection Items

Sun glasses, sun scream, Lip balm,

Medical

First aid Kit (Brufen / Ibuprofens, Antibiotic, Diamox, Paracetamol, Handy Plaster, Crack Bandage, Tincture Iodine, etc.)

Other Essentials

Energy Bars, Water bottle, Water Purification Tablets, Toiletries, Trekking poles, Pocket knife, raincoat, Satellite Phone, Altimeter

Duration
24 Days
  • Best price guaranteed
  • Book now, pay later
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