The Humla Karnali, Nepal’s longest river, enters the country at Hilsa, marking the commencement of the valley on its western side. The Trans-Himalayan Limi Valley, adorned with stunning landscapes, expansive vistas, and photogenic scenery, unfolds as a truly remarkable destination. A trek to Gyuokharka (5150m) in this valley promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering breathtaking views of Nepal’s Himalayas, including Saipal (7031m), Byas Rishi, Api, Kanjirowa, Kanti, and Gorakh Himalayas. The panorama extends to the Tibetan Himalayas, featuring iconic peaks like Mt. Kailash and Gorlamdanda, accompanied by the serene Mansarovar Lake.
Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the region is home to rare flora and fauna. Explorers may encounter marmots, wolves, wild yaks, blue sheep, wild horses (kyang), barking deer, musk deer, hares, Himalayan black bears, and occasionally the elusive snow leopard in this exotic and remote landscape. Inhabitants of this pristine region, with their unique Tibetan language, traditions, and culture, add to the allure of the journey. The Limi Valley is dotted with expansive and charming villages like Halji and Gombayok, nestled along the banks of the Limi Khola, creating a captivating blend of nature and indigenous Tibetan culture.
Overview
| Duration: | 16 days | Trip Garde: | Moderate to Difficult |
| Country: | Nepal | Activity: | Trekking |
| Arrival on: | Departure From: | ||
| Accomodation: | Camping | Max-Elevation: | 4949 meters |
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and trekking preparation.
Day 03: Flight to Nepalganj, Overnight in a hotel.
Day 04: Fly to Simikot (2856m) then trek to Dharapuri (2400m) – camp
Day 05: Trek to Salli Khola (2400m) – Camp
Day 06: Trek to Muchu (2920m) – Camp
Day 07: Trek to Sipsip (4330m) – camp
Day 08: Trek over Nara la pass (4325m) – camp at Hilsa -Camp
Day 9: Trek to Manepema (3990m) – camp
Day 10: Trek to Til (4200m) – camp
Day 11: Trek to Limi (4600m) – camp
Day 13: Trek to Yang (4400m) – camp
Day 14: Rest day – exploration day – camp
Day 15: Trek to Talung (4370m) – camp
Day 16: Between the valleys, camp at Dhingba (3610) – camp
Day 17: Yakba (3060m) – camp
Day 18: Simikot (2950m) – camp/lodge
Day 19: Fly Nepalunj and connect flight to Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
Day 20: In Kathmandu – free day to explore Kathmandu own. Hotel
Day 21: Transfer to airport, departure from Kathmandu.
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
Upon your arrival at the International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will warmly greet you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. In the evening, BG Travel will host a welcome dinner at a restaurant, providing an opportunity for you to relax, enjoy a meal, and begin your journey in Nepal with a sense of hospitality and warmth.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and trekking preparation.
After breakfast, we commence a guided tour, exploring some of the most historical and spiritual landmarks in Kathmandu. Among these, several are recognized as World Heritage Sites. The tour includes visits to the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the renowned ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath), and the Buddhist shrine (BouddhaNath), one of the largest Stupas in the world. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where you’ll have the opportunity to meet our trek leader and fellow team members. We will provide detailed information about your upcoming trek and address any questions you may have. The night is spent in Kathmandu, preparing for the adventure ahead.
Day 03: Flight to Nepalganj, Overnight in a hotel.
According to the flight schedule for Nepalgunj, we proceed to the domestic airport for a scenic one-and-a-half-hour flight to Nepalganj. Upon reaching Nepalgunj, there will be time in the late afternoon or evening to explore the town. Situated on the southern border of Nepal with India, Nepalgunj has a hot and tropical character, providing a unique cultural and climatic experience for visitors to immerse themselves in.
Day 04: Fly to Simikot (2856m) then trek to Dharapuri (2400m) – camp
Embarking on our journey, we take a fixed-winged charter flight to Simikot, the administrative headquarters of Humla, Nepal’s most remote district. After meeting our crew, the trek commences with an ascent from the airstrip on a rocky trail, passing through fields of barley and wheat. Climbing a forested ridge above Simikot, we then navigate a long and steep descent past Dandaphoya. The trail levels off as we proceed through walnut and apricot trees, leading to the scattered village of Dhara Pokhari, divided by the Yakba Khola. This marks the initial leg of our trek in the remote and captivating landscapes of Humla.
Day 05: Trek to Salli Khola (2400m) – Camp
Leaving the campsite, the trek progresses by crossing a lengthy scree slope, followed by a path along the river leading to a waterfall near the shepherds’ camp at Chachera. The trail ascends over a ridge, bypassing the village of Kermi, and enters a spacious valley adorned with walled fields of potato and buckwheat. Proceeding through a sparse pine forest, the descent from the ridge brings us to the Salli Khola. The campsite is set by the river, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting for the night’s stay.
Day 06: Trek to Muchu (2920m) – Camp
The trek entails crossing the river and ascending over a rocky ridge before descending to the gray waters of the Humla Karnali. After traversing another ridge, a sandy meadow unfolds where goat herders often camp by the river. Beyond the meadow, the valley narrows, and the trail crosses several more ridges, passing through the villages of Yalbang and Yangar. Winding its way precariously above the river, the trail eventually leads to the crossing of a suspension bridge, bringing trekkers to the village of Muchu. This section of the journey showcases diverse landscapes and villages along the Humla Karnali.
Day 07: Trek to Sipsip (4330m) – camp
Departing from Muchu, the trail traverses over a ridge to the Tumkot Khola, following along the rocky streambed for a brief distance. Soon after, a steep climb through a rock-filled gully commences. The trail passes through Palbang with its vibrant yellow mustard fields before reaching the small settlement of Yari. Beyond Yari, the route ascends the valley toward a pass known as Nara Lagna. The camp is set below the pass in a meadow known as Sipsip, providing a serene and picturesque setting for the night. This segment of the trek offers a challenging yet rewarding journey through varied terrains and settlements.
Day 08: Trek over Nara la pass (4325m) – camp at Hilsa -Camp
A challenging steep ascent brings trekkers to an elevation of 4580m at the Nara La pass. From the summit of the pass, a steep and rugged descent follows, leading to the Karnali River. A short distance from the river, stone pillars come into view, marking the boundary between Nepal and China. This part of the trek involves navigating through high mountain passes and descending to the river, providing a dramatic shift in the landscape and an encounter with the border between Nepal and China.
Day 9: Trek to Manepema (3990m) – camp
Upon reaching Hilsa, where there is a check post, the trail aligns with the main route from Sher to the Limi Valley. Heading northeast and overlooking the Humla Karnali River, the trail encounters undulating terrains with ups and downs. This section provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and there’s a good chance to catch a glimpse of exotic blue sheep and, if lucky, even the elusive snow leopards. The trek leads to Manepeme, named after a massive stone carved with the mantra “Om Mane Padme Om,” adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the journey.
Day 10: Trek to Til (4200m) – camp
Following breakfast, the trail meanders in and out of ravines along the side of the valley, gradually ascending towards the foot of the rock face. The path then descends to a small stream before continuing down and crossing a slope. Climbing over two rocky ridges, there is a short descent to two chortens marking the end of the ridge above Til Chu. This vantage point provides the first view of Til Gompa across the valley and the barley fields of the Till village. The descent continues all the way down to a campsite at the confluence of Takchi chu and Til chu, offering a serene setting for the night. This segment of the trek unfolds a variety of landscapes and scenic vistas along the way.
Day 11: Trek to Limi (4600m) – camp
The trek continues by following the Takchi Chu river and crossing it on a wooden bridge. After a short walk, the trail passes through barley fields to reach Halji at an altitude of 3670m. Alternatively, you can bypass the village by staying near the river in a pleasant plantation of willow trees. In Halji, a visit to the Rijziling Gompa in the heart of the village is a must. The Gompa, dating back to 1000 years, is home to around 30 monks. The people of Halji rely on farming barley and engage in trade at the border with Tibet. The trek then progresses further to the small village of Sunkhani before reaching the beautiful village of Limi. This part of the journey offers cultural insights and a chance to explore ancient monastic traditions in the region.
Day 13: Trek to Yang (4400m) – camp
As the trek advances, the valley becomes rockier, with the trail featuring gradual ups and downs. In Limi, the local people are known for crafting well-finished wooden bowls from pine, birch, and maple trees that grow on the south side of the river. After passing through the village and trekking uphill, you reach a campsite where a hot spring is located. This provides a unique opportunity to enjoy a rejuvenating bath in the natural hot spring, adding a refreshing and therapeutic element to the trekking experience.
Day 14: Rest day – exploration day – camp
Day 15: Trek to Talung (4370m) – camp
A brief climb leads you over a rocky ridge, and you reach Talung, a village that was abandoned many years ago, with some remnants still visible. Along the way, there is a small hot spring. After passing the lake, the ascent continues for about one hour to reach the campsite at Talung. This part of the trek not only unfolds the history of the region through the remnants of the abandoned village but also offers natural elements like hot springs, enhancing the overall trekking experience.
Day 16: Between the valleys, camp at Dhingba (3610) – camp
The journey from Talung to Dhingba is strenuous, encompassing a long day of trekking that involves crossing three passes: Pali La, Kuki La, and Sechi La (4530m). The day’s trek is demanding, both physically and mentally. Upon reaching Dhingba, a sense of relief and accomplishment sets in, marking the end of a challenging day. The passes add an element of elevation gain and descent, making this segment of the trek physically demanding but rewarding in terms of the stunning landscapes and the sense of achievement upon reaching Dhingba.
Day 17: Yakba (3060m) – camp
Following the strenuous trek to Dhingba, the next leg of the journey is relatively easy and short, leading to Yakba. This day provides a pleasant and more relaxed trekking experience, allowing trekkers to recuperate and enjoy the surrounding landscapes. The change in pace offers a welcome break and an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
Day 18: Simikot (2950m) – camp/lodge
The trek culminates with a journey to Simikot, where you spend the night. This marks the last day with the trekking staff, providing an opportunity for farewells and expressing gratitude for their support throughout the trek. The evening in Simikot is a time to reflect on the journey, bid farewell to the dedicated team, and enjoy a peaceful night before concluding the trekking adventure.
Day 19: Fly Nepalunj and connect flight to Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
Day 20: In Kathmandu – free day to explore Kathmandu
Day 21: Transfer to airport, departure from Kathmandu.
included/excluded
included
- included
excluded
- not included
