Himlung Expedition ( 7126 M) - 32 Days
32 Days
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
Nepal Social is the best choice
I booked my trip through Nepalviaje (website in spanish) and from the first moment everything was perfect. Starting with Fernando that was answering really fast all our questions, when we arrive to Kathmandu the person waiting for us in the airport was absolutely fantastic, he wait over and hour for us cause it tooks a while to get out of the airport, the hotel for the first and last night is absolutely brilliant, when you arrive to the Office everything is super clear and they make you feel at home. The Trek is a experience of a lifetime, our guide Lhakpa IS the best guide ever and will not only guide you all the way to the base camp but show you things about culture and take care about every single details, lodges are always fantastic with a huge variaty of food. We made it with other girl and all of us reach EBC, Lhakpa will give you all the good advices to make it and the company will take care of everything, even the last day Basu(the manager of the company) call us to provide a helicopter service to come back to Kathmandu as the weather in Lukla was mean to be bad for a couple of days. 10/10 for this company and all the people involve on it
10/10 experience
The whole experience was brilliant. Manaslu trek. From before the trip, the nepalsocialtreks team were contactable and clear in communication. The only area I would suggest for slight improvement is advice about buying hiking spikes as we weren't informed and our guide suggested we buy it whilst we were on the trek. Otherwise no issues. Now onto the the trek itself, it was brilliant. Amazing views and scenery. The organisation was brilliant from the guides and porters. Accomodation was good, nothing fancy of course but had the essentials. Food was delicious. Our guide urken was unbelievable. One of my friends became altitude sick and had to turn back. He organised everything with porter going with my friend and bus back to Kathmandu when they were able to reach a place with roads. He was efficient and acted quickly. Urken also was very attentive to our needs and always willing to help. A very kind man. The porters were amazing as well, I am shocked at their strength but they always had a smile on their face despite understandably being knackered. I would definitely recommend the trip.
Great experience on the Annapurna Circuit!
My partner and I did a private trek on the Annapurna Circuit and had an amazing time. A huge thanks to our guide Ashut and our porter Tirtha—they were a fantastic team and took excellent care of us. Everything was handled very professionally, and we felt like we were in great hands the whole way. Ashut shared so much knowledge about Nepal and the local culture. He also monitored our health closely, ensuring we were well-prepared to make it over the Thorung La Pass safely. The food and accommodations were lovely, and our guide always made sure we got the best rooms available in the teahouses. All transport was perfectly organized and smooth. It was a wonderful, exciting trip and we’d definitely recommend trekking with these guys! We will definitly be back!
I had an incredible experience doing the Manaslu Circuit trek!! As I was the only one who had booked, they paired me with another solo girl from a different company which worked super well. Our guide Nekhil was attentive, supportive and made us feel really safe. He was clearly a very experienced guide and gave us lots of tips to manage the altitude and trekking, plus having lots of fun together along the way! Our porter Chhiring was awesome too! Not only were the views incredible, it felt so nice to be ‘looked after’ and have everything taken care of so we could just enjoy ourselves. This included by the office in Kathmandu, who were so helpful and generous in giving me an extra day in a nearby hotel and lending me some gear. I couldn’t have been happier with the experience! I would definitely recommend :))
Hey, this was awesome! The Agency made all well, and especially, Ngima Sherpa is the best guide ever! He made my experience on everest view trek special and wonderful. His heartwarming, calm and respectful behaviour let me feel welcome and my needs during trek seen. He knows a lot of trekking and the insides there in the mountains, showed me all possible in that 7 days and has my full 5-star review. Always again!
Amazing experience! We had a very loving and caring guide Narayan. Also not possible without our porters 💜💜
