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Humla Limi Valley Trek, 17 Days NFw2

5.0

If you’re searching for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in western Nepal, the Limi Valley trek is an excellent choice. This trek reaches the northwestern corner of Nepal, a remote and culturally rich area within the rugged folds of the Himalayas.

At a Glance
Location

Limi Valley

Duration

17 Days

Activities

Trekking

Accommodation

Tents

Meals

All meals included

Group size

Min 6 Pax.

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Max. Altitude

4530m.

The Limi Valley is a hidden gem where Tibetan culture remains deep and largely untouched by modern influences. Here, the way of life is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, and the people continue to practice ancient customs. The trail from Simikot heads northwest toward the Tibetan border. The path moves through lush landscapes filled with natural herbs, yak pastures, and cultivated fields. You’ll pass through yak pastures and fields of cultivated land, moving through several traditional ethnic villages like Til, Halji, and Talung. The trek also takes you through Tumkot and Yari, where you’ll cross high mountain passes such as Nyalu La and Nara La.

Along the way, the trek follows the Karnali River and presents beautiful views of notable peaks such as Mt. Saipal and Annapurna. At Yak Kharka, you’ll have a chance to see Mount Kailash in Tibet. The trek was once continued along the traditional pilgrim route to Mt. Kailash, but recent restrictions by the Chinese Government have halted this practice. You can still appreciate the cultural connections through the prayer flags and mani stones that line the trails, as well as the beautifully crafted stone structures.

Major Highlights

  • Explore the rugged and remote Western Region of Nepal
  • Meet with the local Thakuri people
  • Discovery of the Limi Valley, a less-visited valley of Nepal
  • Experience the isolation and rugged beauty of Nepal’s remote western region.
  • Immerse yourself in the Tibetan Culture
  • Witness the view of Mount Kailash
  • Trek alongside the Karnali River as it cuts through spectacular rock formations
  • Flying through the Himalayas and landing at Simikot in Humla district.
  • Walk through the ancient salt trading route
  • Marvel at spectacular mountain vistas, including Mt. Saipal, Api, Annapurna, and Kanjirowa
  • Alpine meadows are rich in wildlife and unique plant species.
  • Conquer two high mountain passes, Nyalu La Pass at 4,995 meters and Nara La at 4,620 meters.
  • Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries
Itinerary

Early in the morning, we will take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, the largest city in the Terai region. As you fly over the Himalayan range, enjoy the view of prominent peaks such as Ganesh, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Upon landing in Nepalgunj, you will find yourself in a lively city with an Indian-influenced ambiance. After settling into your hotel, take a leisurely walk around town to explore its unique charm and prepare for tomorrow’s journey.

On this day, wake up early for a flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot. The flight takes you from the Terai plains to the Himalayan foothills. You can see panoramic views of the pre-Himalayan peaks and distant Tibetan snow-capped mountains. Simikot, a vibrant village known as the gateway to Mount Kailash and Western Tibet, welcomes you with its wide atmosphere.

Today begins with a descent from Simikot to Dharapuri. The trail winds through varied terrain and brings you through lush landscapes and past small settlements. After crossing a pass, the descent becomes steep, requiring careful navigation. The trek, lasting 4 to 5 hours, concludes with a night spent camping near the Karnali River.

Today’s trek is relatively short, following the Karnali River from Dharapuri to Kermi. You will walk through fields of barley, buckwheat, rice, and potatoes, providing a glimpse into the local agriculture. Kermi is a small and picturesque village known for its Buddhist influences. It is the first Buddhist village on the trek. Spend the night in Kermi.

The trek from Kermi to Yalbang involves a gradual uphill climb, passing through fields of barley and buckwheat. Ascending, you’ll cross a small pass before encountering a steep descent that leads to a large iron suspension bridge over the Sali River. It will take about 6 to 7 hours and ends in Yalbang.

Leaving Yalbang, your path takes you high above the Karnali River, providing views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you will see caravans of mules, goats, and dzos. The expedition brings you to Tumkot, where you’ll visit Namkha Khyung Dzong, one of the largest and most important monasteries in the region. Spend the night in Tumkot.

Today’s trek begins from Tumkot and continues to Yari, involving a slow and gradual ascent. The trail leads to more deserted land near the Nara La Pass. As we gain altitude, the landscape changes, offering different perspectives of the Himalayan terrain. We will camp just past the Yari village after a long walk.

Crossing the Nara La Pass will be a challenging yet rewarding climb. The pass shows expansive views and a chance to see colorful Tibetan prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The trek is long and strenuous but allows you to experience the remote beauty of the area. Upon arriving at Hilsa, the closest port to Tibet, you will experience a sense of achievement as you enter the Limi Valley.

From Hilsa, continue your trek to Manepeme, moving further into the Limi Valley. You will cross the suspension bridge over the Humla Karnali River and head north along a newly built road. This section of the trek brings you deeper into the valley. Stay overnight in a hotel.

The trip from Manepeme to Til starts with a climb over a small pass, followed by a descent to the Limi River. As you walk, you’ll cross the Chenglungma caravan campsite and visit the old cave of Cha-sa Nam-ka Dzong. This leg of the trek passes through various geographies and historical sites.

We begin with a downhill walk from Til, leading towards Tiljung. The trail then continues to Halji, the largest and most significant village in Limi. Halji is surrounded by snow-peaked mountains to the south and a glacier to the north, providing a dramatic backdrop to this important village. Spend the night in Halji.

We will depart from Halji to reach Jang, following a trail that gradually ascends through the valley. Jang is another key village in the Limi Valley. You can engage with the local villagers and learn about their cultures.

Your walk today starts from Jang to Talung, navigating through swampy wetlands and climbing over a small pass. Descending, you’ll pass a beautiful turquoise lake before reaching your campsite by the river in Talung.

After departing from Talung, our journey began with a challenging ascent over the Nayalu La Pass. We spent an entire day trekking through the grasslands, gradually ascending to the high summit before making our way down to the river below.

We descend from Shunjungma back to Kermi, retracing our steps through the diverse landscapes encountered earlier. This return journey allows us to reflect on our trek and enjoy the familiar surroundings of Kermi once again.

We will travel from Kermi to Simikot, complete the trek, and return to the village where our journey began. It is a delightful place to spend the night.

Our 17-day trekking comes to an end. After having breakfast, you will conclude your trek with a flight from Simikot to Nepalgunj, and then onward to Kathmandu.

Cost Includes
  • English-speaking guide
  • Meals and accommodation in tents (cooks and assistants, personal tent, mess tent, and toilet tent), mattresses, kitchen utensils
  • Porters throughout the trek
  • Trekking permits, National Park entries
  • Domestic flights per the program with taxes
  • Insurance for Nepalese staff
  • Airport transfers
Cost Excludes
  • Personal insurance covering mountain rescue costs
  • Visa of Nepal
  • Cost of Drinks like tea, coffee, alcohol
  • Restricted site entry fees
  • Satellite phone communication
  • Hotel nights and meals in Kathmandu
Book your spot

Starting from

€1,628

$960 for flights and permits

Instant Booking

Secure Payments

No Hidden Costs

Trip Difficulty

Medium

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FAQs

It is not mandatory to hire a guide and a porter but it is highly recommended. A guide can assist with navigating the trails and provide information related to the local culture, while a porter can carry your heavy gear and luggage.

Yes, trekkers need a special permit to enter the Limi Valley, as it is a restricted area. You will need to obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

The Limi Valley Trek is considered difficult due to its high altitude and remote location. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepare for long days of walking, steep ascents, and potentially harsh weather conditions.

The ideal times to trek in the Limi Valley are during the spring (May to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. However, many travelers choose to trek during the monsoon season as part of their pilgrimage to the sacred Mt. Kailash.