Himlung Expedition

Manaslu Region offers to the adventure lover in the form of Himlung Expedition an aspiring height of 7,126m/23373ft. The mountain is best for the preparation of 8000-meter peak climbing in the future. Unlike any other 7000ers, Himlung is quite easy considering the technical aspects. Himlung lies in the two hidden and mysterious valleys Nar and Phu region; the northeast of Annapurna and northwest of Manaslu. These areas were opened for tourists only recently. These valleys are culturally and naturally safeguarded, and thus considered remote areas. Special permits are required by the climbers for doing the Himlung expedition. Voyage to Himlung follows the Annapurna route to Koto and from Koto to Nar-Phu Gaun. During this trip, you get greeted by glaciers, gullies, springs, and remote villages nearby exhibit tremendous culture with breathtaking views of Api Himal, Kappa Chuli Peak, Nandadevi, and many more. 

Climbing Mt. Himlung involves some demanding technical climbing sections. However, with the right team leading you and of course, a sound fitness level and mental determination, it is doable. This beautiful expedition is not the easiest one and unlike other trekking peaks of Nepal. Having said that, it takes a lot of fitness, preparation, and a bit of experience as well.

After successfully climbing the Peak we will head back down to Meta, Koto, Syange, Besisahar – by jeep, and to Kathmandu. The ideal time to make this climb is in March, April, or October and November when the snow is still compacted thus making it safer and easier to traverse.

Day 01 Arrival day in Kathmandu    
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft 
Meals Plan: Welcome Dinner 
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

On arrival in Kathmandu; we will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your trip hotel. Later we meet and brief you on the upcoming Amadablam Expedition with us, and introduce your guide to Mt. Amadablam Expedition. Evening, we host a welcome dinner at one of the finest local restaurants in Kathmandu with music and ethnic dance. Overnight at Kathmandu Hotel.    

Day 02 Half-Day Guided Tour of Kathmandu Valley
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft 
Meals Plan: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Today after breakfast we will start to our guided trip to cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu; including visits to the pilgrimage sites of Hindus Pashupatinath temple, the world biggest Bouddhanath Stupa, visit Swoyambhunath Stupa also known as monkey temple and historical Kathmandu Durbar Square with temple, unique architectures and the living goddess Kumari in central Kathmandu. Overnight.

Day 03 Trip Preparation Day
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft 
Meals Plan: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

After breakfast in our hotel, we may wonder around nearby areas and do some shopping for our adventurous trip the following day. In the afternoon, we will visit for a pre-trip discussion and meet our guide as well as other participants. You will also be briefed on the nature of expedition, equipment and team composition. Later, we will go back to our hotel and have a peaceful sleep. Overnight in Kathmandu

Day 04 Drive to Besisahar
Altitude: 800m/2,625ft
Travel Distance: 173 km Driving: 6-7 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today, after breakfast we will drive along the Kathmandu – Pokhara Highway towards Dumre, from where we will follow the rough route along the Marsyangdi River. Passing through the low-lying villages and paddy fields, we will drive for as long as 8 hours to arrive at Besisahar, which is the headquarter of Lamjung District. Overnight in Besisahar.

Day 05 Besisahar to Koto drive
Altitude: 2,610m/8,563ft
Travel Distance:    64 km Driving: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

In the morning, we will have our breakfast in our hotel and begin our drive through the off-beat road from Besisahar towards the village of Koto, our trailhead. As we drive along the Marsyangdi River, we will cross a beautiful waterfall and picturesque villages of Bhulbhule, Syange, Jagat, Chamche, Tal, Dharapani, Bagarchhap, Danagyu, and Timang before we reach Koto. Koto is the junction from where we leave the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail and follow the Nar Phu Valley Trekking route. The drive from Besisahar to Koto is around 5 to 6 hours on a private vehicle. Overnight in Koto.

Day 06 Trek from Koto to Meta
Altitude: 3,560m/11,680ft
Hiking: 7-8 hrs 14 km
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

In the morning, we register our restricted area permit at the Police Check Post. Then we trek through the River bank of Soti Khola again through wonderful pine forests, streams and suspension and reach Dharmasala. We have our lunch on the way. We then continue the trek through forests and ascend steeply towards Meta village. Finally, we arrive on the Tibetan Plateau where we have a very good view of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight in Meta.

Day 07 Meta to Chyaku hike
Altitude: 3,700m/12,140ft
Hiking:  3-4 hrs 7 km
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today, we trek out of Meta after breakfast. As we begin walking, magnificent sights of the unique, colorful Tibetan Buddhist Chortens appear in sight right in front of us. These are what Nar and Phu Valleys are famous for. The trail is easy following the contour and is marked by extravagant shapes of very old juniper trees and colorful bushes along the sides. After walking for about 3 to 4 hours, including crossing several suspension bridges, we will reach the deserted fields of Chyaku. Overnight in Chakyu.

Day 08 Hike from Chyaku to Kyang
Altitude: 3,560m/11,680ft
Hiking:  3-4 hrs 3 km
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We will walk on undulating paths crossing suspension bridges over different streams today. As we keep walking, the woods become thinner with wider vistas. After 3 to 4 hours of hike with a final steep climb up the valley along a small river, we will reach Kyang. It is a temporary village with remnants, particularly the ruined forts of the Khampa settlements (the place where Khampa refugees from Tibet, once captured and lived). Overnight in Kyang.

Day 09 Trek from Kyang to Phu Gaon
Altitude: 4,250m/13,944ft
Hiking:  4-5 hrs 8 km
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

In the morning after breakfast, we start walking past the Phu Khola on a rocky trail heading towards a narrow gorge. After some time, the trail descends towards a river and upon arriving at the river bed, we will cross the river across a wooden bridge. Then, the trail heads north towards a steep climb. As we gently make our way up, we will witness several large chortens and deserted buildings. After 5 to 6 hours, we will cross a suspension bridge and arrive Phu Gaon. Overnight in Phu Gaon.

Day 10 Acclimatization Day
Altitude: 4,250m/13,944ft
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today is the scheduled acclimatization day. We are suggested to rest and get acclimatized with the altitude. As we are in the Lost/Hidden Valley, we will explore the breathtaking Phu Valley, the culture, natural diversity, and religious practices of the ethnic groups of people. We will spend this day going for short hikes exploring the Tashi Lakhang Monastery – the old Buddhist Monastery, which is supposed to be the last monastery constructed by Karmapa Rinpoche. Phu village is an ancient village that has a history of almost 800 years.
We will tour around its old-aged houses and monasteries as well. Samdo Monastery and Choling Monastery are the two attractions of the Phu Village. Apart from exploring the cultural avenues of the Lost Valley, the valley also offers us a great view of Himlung Himal and other snow peaks of the region. Overnight in Phu Gaon.

Day 11 Phu Gaon to Himlung base camp
Altitude: 4,900m/16,077ft
Hiking:  4-5 hrs 8 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After an acclimatization day in Phu Gaon, it is now time that we hike towards the east through a glacial valley leading to Himlung Himal base camp. Today is the shorting hiking day, so after breakfast we will leave the village on a similar trail as the past days, but with some gain in elevation. After 3 to 4 hours of a slow-pace walk, we will arrive to the base camp of Mt. Himlung, where our Sherpa team will set up a tent for the expedition team. Overnight in Mt. Himlung base camp.

Day 12 Acclimatization at the base camp
Altitude: 4,900m/16,077ft
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today, we will take rest and get acclimatized properly at the base camp. At the base camp, we will get to admire breathtaking views of the lofty mountains around us. Some climbing groups may not rest one day at the base camp, but we recommend to take ample rest and get properly acclimatized so that the climbing days are smooth and hassle-free. Overnight in Mt. Himlung base camp.

Day 13 Base camp to Camp One
Altitude: 5,450m/17,881ft
Hiking:  4-5 hrs 2 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, we begin on a slow and steady pace towards camp one. We need to remember that the expedition from here onwards is slightly demanding for which we may need several days/weeks of training and practice. It is always best to seek advice and assistance from our group leader on the climbing trails, in case of any difficulties. The trail towards camp one is significantly snowy. Our Sherpa crew will go ahead of us to set up our tents and make provision of hygienic meals. On arrival at camp one, we will be stunned to witness the awe-inspiring views of the Annapurna, Manaslu and Gangapurna mountains. Overnight in Camp One.

Day 14 Camp One to Camp Two; return to base camp
Altitude: 6,000m/19,686ft
Hiking:  4-5 hrs 3.5 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast at camp one, we will check our supplies and then begin our journey towards Camp Two. The climb is steady but quite strenuous. With a sound poise and self-determination, we will succeed to pass through it. On arrival at camp two, we get to witness the magnificent sunset view, which is indeed truly mesmerizing and once-in-a-lifetime experience. After spending a short while at camp two, we will make our way back to the base camp to spend the night. Overnight in Mt. Himlung base camp

Day 15 Acclimatization at the base camp
Altitude: 6,000m/19,686ft
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today is the second day set apart for acclimatization before we take on the exciting summit of Mt. Himlung. We will spend the entire day resting at the base camp, which is a nice way of getting properly acclimatized. While at the base camp, we may walk around the campsite, take photographs. Our guide will equip us with our necessary gear for the remaining trip. Overnight in Mt. Himlung base camp.

Day 16 Base camp to Camp One
Altitude: 5,450m/17,881ft
Hiking:  3-4 hrs 2 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Just like the early climb to camp one, we will check our supplies and then begin our journey towards Camp Two. On arrival at camp two, we will take rest in our camping tents and be prepared for the much demanding ascending in the next few days. Overnight in Camp One.

Day 17 Camp One to Camp Two
Altitude: 6,000m/19,686ft
Hiking:  2-3 hrs 2 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today after breakfast at camp one, we will proceed further ahead towards camp two with our experienced team of Sherpas, who will assist us in everything. Our previous climbing experience and the guidance of our Sherpa crew will come quite handy today. We will ascend slowly with a sound poise and self-determination. On arrival at camp two, we will rest in our tents set up by our crew member. Overnight in Camp Two.

Day 18 Camp Two to Camp Three
Altitude: 6,350m/20,834ft
Hiking:  2-3 hrs 2 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We will leave Camp two and proceed our climb towards camp three after our breakfast in the morning. We need to move ahead with caution so as to avoid any risk of injury. It is a rather short ascend of 350m from camp two to camp three, so we will arrive at camp three campsite at noon time. After lunch at the campsite, we will move around the surroundings and savor the beauty of the Himalayas, take pictures and relax at our camp. Overnight in Camp Three.

Day 19 Rest Day at Camp Three
Altitude: 6,350m/20,834ft
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This day is set aside so that we get ample rest before taking on the summit, and our body gets properly acclimatized to the altitude. So, we will take plenty of rest and stay hydrated all the time. In the meantime, our guide will prepare everything adequately for the upcoming summit bid, the next day. Overnight in Camp Three.

Day 20 Camp Three – Mt. Himlung summit – Camp Three
Altitude: 7,126m/23,380ft
Hiking:  7-8 hrs 3 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After taking plenty of rest and getting acclimatized, our body will be revitalized for the last segment of our adventurous journey to the top of Mt. Himlung. Today is definitely our big day and an important part of the entire expedition. After our trek leader makes sure that our equipment is working properly, we will begin our journey in the morning after breakfast. We will overcome the steep, snowy, and technical sections that are certainly strenuous with the aid of reliable equipment and expertise of our climbing guide.
After several hours of climbing, we will reach on top of Mt. Himlung. There, we will enjoy a vista of the surrounding landscape and the pristine beauty of the Himalayan mountains. Due to the risk of altitude sickness, we won’t spend much time at the summit. We will now begin descending back to our camp. Overnight in Camp Three.

Day 21 Camp Three to Base Camp
Altitude: 4,900m/16,077ft
Hiking: 2-3 hrs 5 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This day, we will have our breakfast and make way towards the base camp. The trail ahead keeps descending through some of the most stunning landscapes. Although it is comparatively easier to walk down to the base camp, but we need to take care of our knees and ankles. The rough surface of the trails might be very hard on our knees and ankles. After about 5 to 6 hours of descending, we will arrive at the base camp. We will spend the night at our tents ruminating the wonderful memories of our Himulung expedition. Overnight in Base Camp.

Day 22 Hike from Base Camp to Phu Gaon
Altitude: 4,250m/13,944ft
Hiking: 4-5 hrs 8 km
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

It is now time to descend to Phu Village after the successful summit of Mt. Himlung. We will clean up and then enjoy our breakfast at the base camp and then set out to retrace back to Phu. The 5 to 6 hours of descend back to Phu is moderate, but we must take care that we don’t hurt our knees or ankles during the descend. If time is right for you and the day falls a full moon night, then you will get to witness the Full Moon prayer by the local people. Overnight in Phu Gaon

Day 23 Trek from Phu Gaon to Meta
Altitude: 3,560m/11,680ft
Hiking: 6-7 hrs 18 km
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We will leave the scenic village of Phu after our breakfast on a descending trail and follow the trail back to the suspension bridge. During the hike today, we will pass the monasteries, chortens, and old buildings behind descending towards Kyang. The trail passes through a battered moraine before we cross over the Mruju Khola. As the trail has more descends, we get to enjoy the astonishing views of Lamjung Himal without getting much tired. After 5 to 6 hours of walk, we will end up reaching the village of Meta, where we will rest for the remaining time in our designated teahouse or lodge. Overnight in Meta.

Day 24 Meta to Koto
Altitude: 2,610m/8,563ft
Hiking: 5-6 hrs 14 km
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast in Meta, we will begin walking, following the same trail that we had hiked while going for our Himlung expedition. Today is the last trekking day for us, so it is another chance to enjoy the trek and look out for sceneries that we might have missed earlier. The trail passes through stone huts of Singenge towards a dense forest gradually leading to a slight descend to a suspension bridge over the Seti Khola. Walking around 6 to 7 hours amidst the beautiful sounds of the several gushing rivers and peaceful forested trails, we will reach Koto Village after a short ascend. Overnight in Koto.

Day 25 Drive from Koto to Besisahar
Altitude: 800m/2,625ft
Travel Distance: 64 km Driving: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We have our breakfast in Koto and then a private vehicle will be waiting for us that will take us to Besisahar. The drive from Koto to Besisahar is approximately 7 to 8 hours on the dusty road. By the time we reach Besisahar, we might feel exhausted by the bumpy ride, so we will rest in our designated teahouse/lodge room. Overnight in Besisahar.

Day 26 Besisahar to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
Travel Distance: 173 km Driving: 6-7 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Farewell Dinner

After breakfast in Besisahar, we will drive back to Kathmandu, which is roughly 6 to 7-hour drive depending on the road and traffic conditions on the main highway. On arrival in Kathmandu, we will be transferred to our designated hotel where, we will rest for the evening. Later, we will have a farewell dinner hosted by Advanced Adventures. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 27 Leisure day in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Today is a leisure day for us in Kathmandu. We may either stroll around the streets of Thamel or explore the world heritage sites. Some of us may want to buy souvenir items to carry back home for relatives or friends back home. In the evening time, we may enjoy the serene atmosphere of Thamel’s nightlife. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 28 Final Departure
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft
Meals: Breakfast

Today you will depart Kathmandu. Breakfast at Kathmandu hotel, then you are free for shopping at the Kathmandu. When the time to depart back comes, we will transfer you to the airport. Have a safe flight and visit Nepal time and again.
End of our services!

Cost Includes:

• Airport - Hotel transfers – Airport (Pick Up and Drop), by private vehicle.
• Twin sharing accommodation in Kathmandu (4-star category) on breakfast basis.
• Welcome and Farewell Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu
• All necessary Expedition Royalty and a permit fee of Nepal Government to climb Himlung Himal, Conservation area entry permit and fee.
• LIAISON OFFICER: 1 Government Liaison officer with full equipment, salary, and accommodation.
• Medical & Emergency rescue Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
• Drive from Kathmandu – Besi Sahar - Koto and while returning, Koto – Besi Sahar – Kathmandu by a tourist jeep, as per itinerary.
• All necessary expedition equipment transportation for all Members and Staff by Private Jeep
• Up to 60 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek to be carried by porters or Yaks.
• 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at Hotel/Lodge during the trek and at the camping period. Hygie
• All Necessary equipment for Camping during the trek.
• Experienced and well-trained Base Camp Cook & kitchen Helpers as required.
• All Nepalese staff & porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food & clothing.
• 1 Solar panel and Generator for lights at base camp, battery charge, for laptop and other electronic devices.
• Oxygen, Mask Regulator, Ice wall, and gear training at basecamp by Sherpa Guides
• One climbing Sherpa per member (1 Member: 1 Sherpa), during the entire climb from Basecamp to the summit and back, and on each rotation.
• Climbing Sherpa to assist in carrying your gear to the high camps.
• Climbing Sherpa Salary, Equipment, Food, and Clothing.
• Carry Bonus of Sherpas and Route Fixing Charges.
• Oxygen bottles will be in stock at base camp in case of an emergency (with an appropriate charge).
• 1 Set of Summit Oxygen masks will be in base camp in case of an emergency.
• High Altitude Tent, Necessary cooking EPI gas, cooking pot, High food for a member, Sherpa, and other crews at (C1) (C2) and (C3). Group climbing gears, and fixed and dynamic rope during the climbing period as required.
• Members will share tents in camps (2 members: 1 tent).
• The team of experienced Sherpas will fix the rope and the route.
• Satellite Phone for emergency communication carried by Sherpa, also available for members with an appropriate charge.
• Walkie–Talkie for communicating from Base Camp to Mountain and Mountain to Base Camp.
• Weather forecast report during the entire expedition.
• Comprehensive Medical kit for members and staff.
• Himlung Himal climbing certificate issued by MoCTCA (after climbing Himlung successfully).

Cost not Includes:

• International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
• Nepalese entry Visa fee 
• Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking / Expedition than the scheduled itinerary).
• Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition than the scheduled itinerary.
• Insurance covering both medical and high-altitude evacuation costs (for the trip cancellation, interruption, high altitude rescue & air evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.) *Mandatory
• Your personal expenses like Telephone Calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages (during the trek and in Kathmandu but we will have soft drinks for members at base camp).
• PERSONAL CLIMBING EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items, Bags, Personal Medical Kit, and all kinds of Personal Trekking / Climbing Gear.
• TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
• INTERNET SERVICE : Not included during the trek and the expedition.
• SUMMIT BONUS : Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa- Minimum 1200 USD.
• TIPS : Calculate some tips for Basecamp and high camp staff – Minimum 350 USD.
• Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.

Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is mandatory for booking this trip. Having good travel insurance will not only guarantee you peace of mind while you travel but also provide you with complete cover for anything things that may go wrong. So if you have insurance it helps you for the risks management. While you are in High Altitude region might face lots of difficulties. You may suffer from various health problems; injuries, illness and even High altitude sickness can tear up your trip. Travel insurance is a safety net if things go wrong. At times, even a helicopter may be needed along with a rescue team, for ground evacuation and rescuing. So, every traveler MUST have the insurance covered against personal accident, medical expenses, emergency air ambulance/helicopter rescue services and personal liability. Start your trip with all the necessary health & traveling insurances for your safety. For more information please visit this link: https://www.advadventures.com/page/travel-insurance.html

Meal Plan 
Eating is a big part of traveling. We will provide three time meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) that crews require on the trail. On this trip, you can enjoy both traditional Nepalese cuisines serves the Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), as well as a variety of different food items, such as vegetables, noodles, potatoes and soup along with some have Nepali versions of western food such as pizza, pasta and French fries.

When an individual is allergic to some food products, requires a special diet, or has specific religious food needs; we will arrange it as per your requirements on request. Also the crew will carry fresh fruits supplies at a time along the trail. Our guides have been carefully checked for quality and quantity of the food in every teahouse. Explicit cooking directions are indicated on each food for your convenience.

Accommodation plan
During this trip, we will spend nights in Kathmandu at three-star standard hotels and during our trek we will use mountain teahouses and tented camps. A Tea House is the combination of guesthouse, restaurant, and social hang out. Private rooms are available in Tea Houses. The lodges are fairly basic. The rooms are spare with twin beds and very little additional furniture. Blankets are generally provided. Most bathrooms are shared and toilets are the western version. Most of the Tea Houses have running water facility. Many of them have hot water available for bathing at additional cost. It is advisable to carry wet wipes as an alternative. For the Climbing part we use tented camps.

There is a large dining room-cum-lounge, warmed by an iron cylinder, fitted with a chimney duct, in which a log fire is lighted. Most teahouses now also have electricity for charging small appliances - mobile phones and cameras - and there may be a small charge for this.

Best time to visit Nepal
Nepal is for all season! But because of the huge range in altitude and landscape, climate of Nepal differs significantly throughout the country. Most recommended seasons for trekking and climbing are autumn (Sept, Oct, Nov) and spring (March, April, May). In these seasons you will be rewarded by good weather, sunny and warm with clear sky and outstanding views. During monsoon (June, July, Aug) although there will be no problem for trekking, the issue could be less visibility and rain. For the student of botanical, monsoon is blessing as the higher valleys, mountains and meadows blossom with flowers and abundant vegetation. You can do trek in winter (Dec, Jan, and Feb) also; only the issue is cold weather with snowfall at higher elevations. The trekking routes are filled with trekkers during spring and autumn but during monsoon and winter the routes are not packed and you could enjoy rather best of nature. However, because of effects of global warming the climate is changing worldwide and there could always be possibility of exception in these weather patterns. In best seasons also there could be hoax of bad weather and sometimes even in adverse months; weather tends to be excellent for trekkers.