Himlung Expedition ( 7126 M) - 32 Days
32 Days
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Himlung Himal is a popular name for amateur climbers who are used to climbing at the altitude below 8000 meters. It stands at 7126m and 23,380ft, located at the remotest part of Nepal, sharing the border with Tibet. For professional climbers, it is among the easier peaks to climb. However, for climbers who have only started scaling mountains above 6000meters, Himlung can be an exciting challenge.
The Himlung Expedition offers a whole different insight into the culture and presents views of the Himalayas’ hidden gems. It offers a 360-degree view of peaks like Nanda Devi, Rajramba, API Himal, Kappa Chuli Peak, Manaslu range, Annapurna range, and some others.
This region receives very few tourists compared to the other regions of Nepal. That’s because the journey to Himlung basecamp passes through one of the remotest valleys in Nepal, the Nar Phu valley. Not very long ago, the valley was a restricted region. It was only in 1992 that the Nepal government declared this region open for tourists.
The route to Himlung Himal passes through the remote region of Nar Phu Valley, which is full of pristine forests, exquisite waterfalls, extraordinary villages, and glaciers. The remoteness of this place makes it an exotic destination offering unmatchable insight into the traditional lifestyle. You can see the Tibetan influence prevailing in this part of the country from the unique gompas, chhortens, and mani stones.
The expedition follows the traditional route to the summit with four camps at different altitudes, including the basecamp. The basecamp is at the altitude of 4920m, Camp I at 5450m, Camp II at 6000m, and Camp III at 6375m.
Short History of Himlung Expedition
The first-ever ascent of Himlung Himal was from the East Ridge on October 27, 1983. This expedition was a joint expedition from Nepal and Hirosaki University Alpine Club, led by Junji Kurotaki. Likewise, another Japanese team led by climber Osamu Tanabe was the first to climb the least popular West Face and the West Ridge on October 30, 2009.
Why You Will Love Himlung Expedition
- You will be climbing one of the popular mountains for climbers with an altitude of 7126m.
- You will experience the remoteness of this place, unlike any other place.
- Phu village is one of the oldest villages of Nepal with a 500 years old civilization.
- You will enjoy the deserted landscape, unlike anywhere else.
- Captivating views of mountains of Annapurna and Manaslu range will leave you awestruck.
- Experience spiritual energy by visiting centuries-old gumba.
- You will be amazed to see the Tibetan influenced lifestyle.
- This expedition is an affordable option for climbers who are looking for peaks to practice.
Is Himlung Expedition Right For You?
- Himlung expedition explores the remotest region of Nepal that is less explored and takes you to the neighboring village of Phu. It is one of the oldest settlements in Nepal and shares a border with Tibet.
- Himlung Himal is a perfect mountain to climb for someone who wants to level up their game in climbing but is still not ready for an 8000er. At 7126m, Himlung is perfect for amateur climbers.
- Himlung Himal remains unknown to many as it lies in the remote valley of Nar Phu. You will encounter very few tourists and experience a complete rural lifestyle in this expedition.
- Climbing Himlung will not cost you a fortune, unlike mountains like Everest and Annapurna. It is cheap and requires significantly less amount of time compared to other mountains.
Day to Day Itinerary Table - Himlung Expedition
| Days | Itinerary | Altitude(in meters) | Duration(in hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Arrive in Kathmandu | 1400 | - |
| Day 02 | Rest in Kathmandu, Expedition briefing and Preparing | 1400 | - |
| Day 03 | Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar | 760 | 6-7 hours |
| Day 04 | Drive from Besisahar to Koto | 2600 | 7-8 hours |
| Day 05 | Trek from Koto to Meta | 3560 | 5-6 hours |
| Day 06 | Trek from Meta to Kyang | 3840 | 5-6 hours |
| Day 07 | Trek from Kyang to Phu Gaun | 3900 | 5-6 hours |
| Day 08 | Acclimatization at Phu Gaun (rest day) | 3900 | |
| Day 09 | Trek from Phu Gaun to Himlung base camp | 4900 | 5-6 hours |
| Day 10-25 | Climbing Period: Base Camp – Himlung Summit | 7126 | |
| Day 26 | Trek from Base Camp to Phu Gaun | 3900 | 4-5 hours |
| Day 27 | Trek from Phu Gaun to Meta | 3560 | 6-7 hours |
| Day 28 | Trek from Meta to Koto | 2600 | 5-6 hours |
| Day 29 | Drive from Koto to Besisahar | 780 | 7-8 hours |
| Day 30 | Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu & transfer to the Hotel | 1400 | 6-7 hours |
| Day 31 | Leisure day in Kathmandu City | 1400 | - |
| Day 32 | Transfer to International Airport for final departure | 1400 | - |
Himlung Expedition Itinerary (32 Days)
Day 1: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
Altitude: 1400 m
On this day, you will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Once you arrive, our representatives will be there to receive you and guide you to your hotel. The hotel is either a 3-star or a 5-star hotel in the center of Kathmandu. You can get some rest as you may be having jet lag after a long flight. However, if you feel fine, you can go for a stroll in the city in the evening. For dinner, you will be served delicious Nepali cuisine.
Highlights
- 3-star or a 5-star hotel for accommodation
- Delicious, tasty and authentic Nepali cuisine.
Day 2: Rest in Kathmandu, Briefing, and Preparation
Altitude: 1400m
We have this day in our itinerary exclusively for you to prepare for the expedition. Since Himlung lies in one of the remotest parts of Nepal, this is the day you can use this day for shopping anything you need during the expedition. You can look for food, equipment, books or anything else that you need.
If you are interested, you may visit some sites listed as World Heritage sites in Kathmandu. This tour can be an organized one, or you can go for it yourself too. In the evening, your guide will join you for dinner, followed by a briefing session. The briefing helps you visualize the itinerary better and plan the trip accordingly.
Highlights
- Explore some of world heritage sites like Durbar Square, Swoyambunath, Pasupatinath and many more in Kathmandu(optional)
- Take a tour of the old and vibrant market of Thamel.
- Witness modern life in perfect blend with the traditional architecture
Special Information
You must attend the briefing session in the evening. You will receive your permits and will be introduced with the team who’ll share the experience throughout the journey with you.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar
Altitude: 760 m
A four-wheeler will be ready for you to take you to Besisahar on this day. After breakfast, you hit the road along the Prithivi Highway to reach Besisahar in the Lamjung district of Nepal. You will enjoy driving through the highway alongside the Trishuli River. Villages along the highway give you a glimpse of the traditional Nepalese lifestyle and help you get familiar with them.
On reaching Besisahar, you will unload your backpacks and call it a day off. You will be staying in a hotel in Besisahar. Besisahar is a small town that is a gateway for the Annapurna Trekking region.
Highlights
- Comfortable private vehicle for travel.
- Pleasant view of the Trishuli River and the villages alongside.
- Witness the traditional village lifestyle of Nepalese people.
Day 4: Drive from Besisahar to Koto
Altitude: 2600m
After breakfast, you will be driving from Besisahar to Koto on this day. The road from Besisahar to Koto is bumpy all the way, so fasten your seatbelts.
The views along the way are more than satisfying, though. The turquoise Marsyangdi flowing alongside is a pleasure to the eyes. Likewise, the villages you pass through are an absolute delight to watch or take photographs. You will pass through villages like Timang, Tal, Dharapani, and many such before reaching Koto.
Highlights
- Ride through waterfalls and rivers.
- Adventurous and exciting ride.
- Scenic view of Marsyangdi and nearby villages.
Special information
There is a road construction project ongoing in this region. So, you can expect to drive through a well-constructed road enjoying the splendid view. However, do not keep your expectations too high.
Overnight in Koto.
Day 5: Trek from Koto to Meta
Altitude: 3560m
You will start trekking on foot from this day. After an early breakfast in Koto, we leave the main trail that leads to Annapurna Circuit and take a side trail on the right. This secluded trail passes through forests alongside the river. You will enjoy the thrilling walk through trails carved on mountains.
You will rarely encounter people on the trail, depending on time and season. But, the natural beauty will keep blowing your mind time and again. The walk on this day may be a little challenging since it is the very first day of trekking. On arriving at Meta village, you will be staying in a teahouse.
Highlights
- Cross suspension bridges multiple times and walks alongside the river.
- Walkthrough dense pine forests and waterfalls.
- Thrilling walk through the edge of the mountains.
Overnight in Meta village
Day 6: Trek from Meta to Kyang
Altitude: 3840m
The walk on this day takes you to the Kyang, which is a settlement area at 3840m. You will be trekking in the higher regions compared to the walk on previous days. And you’ll notice the difference in the landscape too.
You will be amazed by the surreal landscape of this region. Surrounding alpine shrubs and the rocky trails add a rugged feel to this land. The deserted landscape and the grassy meadows blend perfectly to give you a picturesque backdrop.
Kyang is a plain grassy land perfectly suitable for camping. However, there are a couple of teahouses too. For your comfort, we will spend the night in a teahouse.
Highlights
- The surrounding landscape becomes unreal with vacant land and grassy meadows.
- Witness the settlements and Tibetan influenced the lifestyle of the locals.
Overnight in Kyang.
Day 7: Trek from Kyang to Phu Gaun
Altitude: 3900 meters
You cross the 4000 meters altitude mark on this day. The landscape entirely changes once you move ahead from Kyang. Small trails are carved along the rocky mountains. Walking in these trails is an exhilarating experience with the Phu river flowing on your left.
If you’re lucky, you will get to see some wildlife on the way. Locals commonly report high-altitude cats and Blue sheep. There are no villages or stops on the way, so carry all the necessities and be well prepared for the walk.
Phu Gaun is one of the remotest places in Nepal. You will be stoked and amazed to see the lifestyle of people living here. Everything about this place is captivating with around 400 years old settlement.
Highlights
- An exhilarating walk through trails that are carved high above in the mountains with the Phu River flowing below.
- Deserted landscape with a rocky trail gives you an unreal feeling.
- Experience the isolated life of the people of Phu Gaun.
- Feeling of traveling back in time.
Day 8: Acclimatization at Phu Gaun (rest day)
Altitude: 3900m
As you are now at an altitude of almost 4000 meters, it is important to acclimatize yourself properly. There are a few teahouses in Phu Gaun. You will be staying in one of these teahouses. Enjoy your breakfast in the morning, and spend a day exploring the surrounding places.
Phu Gaun is a traditional settlement with very few residents. This village borders Nepal and Tibet with its surrounding high altitude rocky mountains. There is a lot that the village has to offer you.
You can visit the nearby Gompa built on top of a hill. Immerse yourself into the spiritual energy of the surroundings and experience a divine feeling of peace. You can dwell upon the architecture here, unique to this place and unlike anywhere else.
Highlights
- Experience the tradition that is hundreds of years old.
- First-hand experience of the lifestyle of people living here.
- Views of surrounding rocky mountains and rivers.
Special information
While resting for acclimatization, do not sleep during the day time. Sleeping does not let your body acclimatize to the altitude. So, instead of sleeping, opt for options like exploring the culture or a short hike.
Overnight in Phu Gaun.
Day 9: Trek from Phu Gaun to Himlung base camp
Altitude: 4900m
On this day, you start your trek from Phu Gaun to reach the Himlung base camp. The walk this day is through the hilltop, and thus the views are exquisite. Surrounding views of the mountain ranges of Annapurna will keep your heart filled with joy and delight.
The basecamp is a 1000m ascent from the village of Phu. On reaching the basecamp, you’ll see a team of Sherpas who have already made the tent ready to use. All required arrangements for food and shelter are well planned and maintained accordingly.
Highlights
- Views of peaks in the Annapurna region.
- Deserted landscape and river views.
Overnight in Himlung Base Camp.
Day 10-25: Climbing Period: Base Camp – Himlung Summit
Altitude: 7126 m
The climbing period lasts for fifteen days once you reach the basecamp. There are 4 camps set up, including the base camp at different altitudes. You will do one rotation climb up to Camp III before pushing for the summit of Himlung Himal.
Before the actual climb begins, some basic practice sessions are held. The sessions will help you understand the surrounding landscapes better. Climbing Himlung is an easy job until you have a good team spirit and self-determination.
Once you reach the top, views of peaks like Machhapuchre, Annapurna, Gangapurna, Manaslu are all surrounding you. You will be awestruck with a view that is one of its kind. Standing at top with the world's highest mountains surrounding you is an experience of a lifetime.
After a short while, you will descend with a tiring body but a heart filled with joy and pride.
Highlights
- Excellent food and accommodation services
- Well trained team of professionals and sherpas
- Majestic views of Annapurna, Manaslu, Machapuchhre, Gangapurna and such.
- Well set-up routes that make it easy to ascend and descend.
Day 26: Trek from Base Camp to Phu Gaun
Altitude: 3900 meters
On this day, you descend with a happy heart walking downhill. The walk is easy and comforting. Splendid views of surrounding mountains will keep you company throughout the descent.
On reaching Phu, you can get comfortable sleep that your body has been aching for.
Highlights
- Splendid mountain views of peaks like Annapurna, Machapuchhre, Manaslu, and many more.
- Easy walk through the downhill slope.
Day 27: Trek from Phu Gaun to Meta
Altitude: 3560 meters
Start your trek after an early morning breakfast as it is a long day of the walk today. The trail is constantly uphill and downhill. You pass through settlements like Lyang, Chyaku Jhunum, which shows people’s traditional lifestyle in Narphu Valley.
As you will be descending, you can feel the comfort in walking as the altitude decreases. On reaching Meta, you call a day off and spend the night there.
Highlights
- Forests and meadows start to appear, adding beauty to the landscape.
- A comfortable walk through well-managed trails.
Day 28: Trek from Meta to Koto
Altitude: 2600 m
Continue the walk after breakfast to reach Koto. You will walk through forests and comparatively dense settlements. Frequent encounters with waterfalls and rivers will freshen you up time and again.
Highlights
- A comfortable walk through forests and waterfalls.
Special information
You should tip our team of Sherpas involved in the expedition. Since you will head for Besisahar the next morning, there will be a short session followed by dinner. You’ll officially part from the team and say your goodbyes.
Overnight in Koto.
Day 29: Drive from Koto to Besisahar
Altitude: 780 m
It is time to hit the bumpy road again. A 4 wheeler will drive you back on this day from Koto to Besisahar. You will be driving through the same road, passing through beautiful villages and picturesque landscapes.
Highlights
- Excellent views of waterfalls, rivers, and landscapes.
- Drive through the picture-perfect villages of Lamjung.
Day 30: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu & Transfer to the Hotel
Altitude: 1400m
Following the same way, you drive back to Kathmandu from Besisahar. The journey on this day is a comforting one. The comfort of the road, the views, and the internal satisfaction of a successful ascent will help you enjoy the journey even more.
Highlights
- Comfortable drive with quality roads and vehicle
- Views of the Trishuli river with some mountains in the backdrop.
Day 31: Leisure day in Kathmandu City
Altitude: 1400 meters
You will have this day for yourself. You can experience all the luxury and comfort that you have been missing on the journey. There are plenty of things like sauna, massage and such for your relaxation. You may as well celebrate in the evening with a group dinner. Plan your day wisely as this is the only day in Kathmandu and enjoy it accordingly.
Highlights
- Enjoy the luxuries you have been missing for a month.
- Explore the nightlife in Thamel.
- Visit some world heritage sites.
Day 32: Transfer to International Airport for final departure
Altitude: 1400 m
You will depart from Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport. Our representative will see you off at the airport.
Cost Includes
- Arrival and departure cost on domestic and international flights
- Food and accommodation in Kathmandu on B/B plan
- All the meals (Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast) During the Trekking and climbing of Himlung Summit and back
- All of the transportation service from initial and endpoints of Himlung Expedition
- Climbing Sherpa guide for the expedition
- Himlung Expedition Group climbing equipment like climbing rope, ice axe, ice screw, ice bar, etc
- All the required permits for Himlung Expedition
- High altitude meals
- All of the insurance and expenses of Liaison officer (Government of Nepal)
- All necessary camping and kitchen equipment provided including base camp tents, dining tent with table and backrest chair, kitchen with all utensils, toilet with commode, etc
- High altitude tents and the crucial gadgets like EPI gas and burner for the high climb
- Warm clothes and trek gear for Nepali staffs including porters
- Life and medical insurance of all the staff and porters
- Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) and Gamow Bag along with the comprehensive first-aid kit
- Communication devices like a walkie talkie and satellite phone in case of emergency
- Emergency Oxygen with regulator and mask while climbing Himlung
- Agency service charge
- Farewell dinner with Nepali song and dance
Cost Excludes
- International airfare as well as airport tax
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Medical and personal high-risk insurance
- Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu
- Bar and beverage bills
- Personal climbing gears and equipment
- Emergency rescue evacuation
- Climbing bonus and tips for Himlung Base Camp staffs and personal expenses
- Permit fees and charge for satellite phone, communication gadget, and commercial filming while on Himlung Expedition.
- Garbage deposit USD3k (sharing of the total person), and the deposit fee won’t be refunded if the climbers don’t take back their garbage to Kathmandu.
Booking
Review
Nar phu valley trek with Kamal guide, perfect!
My partner and I went on a 9-day trek in the Nar and Phu Valley. Our Kamal guide was just perfect! Professional and very nice, he accompanied us along with the porter Prim throughout the itinerary, adapting it to our needs and desires. I don't think we could have fallen into better hands than Kamal, he promptly solved all the little problems we encountered, he was fantastic as was the porter Prim. Amazing experience thank you!
Nepal Social Treks Review
I’ve just completed the 15 day Everest Base Camp trek with Nepal Social Treks and can’t praise the company, guide & porter highly enough. My guide in particular, Lhakpa was an absolute star who could not do enough to make the time away as comfortable as possible. Considerate, knowledgeable, funny, kind & inspiring. I genuinely don’t think I could have completed the trek without their support! A lifetime ambition completed thanks :)
EBC by Gokyo
If you are planning to do the EBC, the Agency should be Nepal Social Trek and the Guide should be Santa Thabir Magar. Permanent communication during trekking and excellent coordination at all times. The alternative I recommend is Gokyo. Something heavier than the classic, but definitely extraordinary. Also the views of the great mountains during the circuit, are not to forget them
Ho prenotato il viaggio dall'italia. C'è stato qualche problema non dovuto all'agenzia perchè non sono partiti voli per giorni per l'everest e loro prontamente hanno sistemato tutto. Narayan, la mia guida e amrit il mio porter sono stati fantastici. Grazie grazie grazie
Great Anil Sherpa
FAQs about Himlung Expedition
How much does it cost for the Himlung expedition?
According to the Tourism Department of Nepal, the royalty fees for any mountains depend on two factors. First, the height of the peak and second, the season for the climb. For the spring season, the cost for the Himlung expedition is $500. Likewise, the cost for the autumn season is $250, and for winter/summer, the cost is $125. The seasonal price is the amount you need to pay to the Department of Tourism to get the permit to climb the peak.
How tough is it to climb Himlung?
Himlung Himal has an altitude of 7126m. For professional climbers, it is not a difficult feat to achieve. However, if you’re just starting as a climber, it can be a challenge, given the weather conditions and altitude.
How long does it take to climb Himlung?
The actual climbing period for Himlung Himal is about 15 days once you reach the basecamp. However, the expedition’s overall period, including the trekking time to reach the basecamp is 28-29 days.
What are the food and accomodation facilities like?
Himlung Himal is a remote trekking region. It receives very few tourists, even during the major seasons. That is one of the reasons why it has few teahouses, and the accommodation facilities are pretty basic. We will be staying in these teahouses during the trekking and tents on expedition, so the food and accomodation facilities are basic.
Once you’re in the base camp, the food that we import from abroad is what we offer. Our sherpa cooks will ensure that they give you the taste of home while you’re away from home. Foods like pasta, bacon, pizza, beans, or such are offered. Similarly, for accommodation, we use high-quality tents and stay in camps.
Which route do we use for the climb?
The route to Himlung Himal follows the round Annapurna trek and diverges from the village of Koto. It passes through Phu village, which is one of the remotest villages of Nepal. We will be using the normal south-west route for the summit.
Who will be my guide?
To accompany and guide you to the top and back, we assign our world quality professionals well known for their knowledge and service. They have more than 5 years of experience, along with the experience of summiting Everest at least 3 times.
Trekking Gear List For Himlung Expedition:
Here are some of the personal trekking gear that you can carry during Himlung Expedition:
- Bags
Duffel Bag
Daypack
Rucksacks
Waterproof
Stuff Sacks (large and small)
- Clothing:
Trekking Shirt - Pack 4 to 5 breathable trekking shirts, balancing both half and full sleeves.
Trekking Trousers - Minimum 2 water and wind-resistant trekking pants.
Trekking Shorts - Pack a couple of trekking shorts for lower reaches of the trek.
Lightweight, long underpants - pack 2-3 pairs.
Down pants
Mid-weight long underpants - pack 2-3 pairs.
Down Jacket - Carry a high-quality down jacket to keep you warm from the extreme weather at the trek’s upper reaches.
Waterproof Shell Jacket - One waterproof jacket to stay protected in the wet weather.
Breathable Underwear - Carry at least 4 to 5 pairs of breathable and comfortable underwear.
- Footwears:
Trekking shoes
Sandals/Trainers Hiking Socks
Thermal Socks
Gaiter (For Winter)
- Head Wears:
Warm Beanie
Sun Protection Hat
Balaclava
Fleece Hat
Neck Gaiter
- Hand Wear:
A Pair of Inner Gloves
A Pair of Outer Gloves
Heavy gloves (mitten)
- Sleeping Bags:
Sleeping Bag for Base Camp Down
Sleeping Bag - 20 to -40 degree celsius for extreme conditions
Thermarest Mattress (Cell Foam and Inflatable)
- Medical:
First-Aid Kit
Bandages
Antibiotic
Ibuprofens
Diamox
Paracetamol
Handy Plaster
Tincture Iodine
- Other Accessories:
Trekking Poles
UV Protection Sunglasses
Water Bottle
Water Purification Tablets
Toiletries
Wet Tissues
Soap
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Shampoo
Garbage Bag
Headlamp with Spare Batteries
Hand Sanitizers
Sunscreen/Lip Balm
Trekking Towels
Camera
Portable Chargers
Pocket Knife
Umbrella/Raincoat
Climbing Gear List For Himlung Expedition
These are some of the important climbing equipment that you should carry while taking on the Himlung Expedition:
Climbing Boots
Summit Gloves
Climbing Helmet
Climbing Ropes
Down Suit
Crampons
Ice Axe
Ice Tools
Belay Device
Harness
Ascender
Lock Carabiner
Unlock Carabiner
Tape Slings
Prusik Loops
Snow Goggle
Head Light
Satellite Phone
Hand Warmer