Overview of Himlung Himal Expedition

The Himlung Himal is a classic summit located in the northeast of the Annapurna Range of Nepal. Height of Himlung Himal is 7,126 meters (23,380 feet) peak and popular climbing destination for those looking to challenge themselves or prepare for the 8,000-meter mountain climbing. Himlung Himal is considered a moderately difficult peak to climb, with technical challenges such as steep snow and ice slopes, crevasses, and rock sections. The Himal is sheltered between the Nepal and Tibetan borders and takes 30 days overall for the expedition, which includes acclimatization days. Post-monsoon (September to November) and spring (March to May) is the climbing seasons for expedition. The Himlung Himal Expedition follows the Annapurna circuit from Koto to Nar-Phu Gaun. The climbers can enjoy the perfect blend of Nepal’s Himalayan landscape along with hints of Tibetan culture.

Himlung Himal Difficulty

Himlung Himal is considered a moderately difficult peak to climb, with technical challenges such as steep snow and ice slopes, crevasses, and rock sections. Climbers need to have prior mountaineering experience and be physically fit to attempt this peak. The expedition also involves crossing a high-altitude pass, which adds to the difficulty level.

Himlung Himal Base Camp

The Himlung Himal Base Camp is located at an altitude of around 4,950 meters (16,240 feet) and is accessible via a trek that usually takes around 7-10 days from the town of Besisahar. The base camp is situated on a grassy plateau near the Himlung Glacier and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Brief of Himlung Himal Expedition

• Our trek will begin from Koto after two days of travel by bus or jeep from Kathmandu. It takes usually 7 to 8 days to trek to the Naar and Phu and then to the Base Camp.
• Our Camps are facilitated with all the required necessary services. However, we will continue to move slowly and not spend much time at the Base Camp.
• The voyage’s strenuous climb will begin at Camp 1. Likewise, we will like to note that it is also an important base for us. The reason for this is due to the transition between rock and glacier is difficult and it changes from year to year.
• Then comes Camp 2 and Camp 3. The climbers will have to brave the rocky slope to reach the summit. After the summit, the climbers will be brought back to Camp 3 to spend the night.
• After a night’s rest, the climbers will be moved to the Kari Kobler Base Camp. The descending is comparatively quick and easy than the climb and soon enough, you will be making your way back to Kathmandu.

Why we are different from others?

• We also would climb Himlung Himal in a continue style because after more than fifteen years of experiences we believe this is the less traumatic way to climb the Himalayan high summit, with a good opportunity to be well acclimatize and the pleasure of a deep immersion in high altitude.
• Climbing with main rope on a glacier is also our credo in mountaineering as our culture is the alpine style with a real guiding relationship and a close proximity between the climbers, for more safety.
• We organize this expedition on a basis of One by One: one Nepali climber for one foreign climber. For more pleasure and safety.
• Normally we do not use fixed ropes but in case of necessity and emergency will be used and take off those ropes after used.
• We also do not use same base camp (Kari Kobler) as other uses, instead we use French base camp.
• Why we use French base camp?
  Because we do not have to face big and dangerous black glacier several times which are unpleasant to cross at the moraine passage, better water facility, better sunlight throughout the day and view, more safety place, near camp1, better acclimatization, less crowded.

Highlights of Himlung Himal Expedition 

• Remote and Less-Crowded Destination: Himlung Himal is located in a less-visited region of Nepal. This allows for a more serene and pristine mountaineering experience, away from the hustle and bustle of busy climbing routes.
• Stunning Himalayan Scenery: Breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Himlung Himal itself, as well as other nearby peaks such as Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. The panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and rugged landscapes are truly awe-inspiring.
• Unique Cultural Experience: The Himlung Himal region is home to ethnic Tibetan communities with their distinct culture, traditions, and lifestyle. 
• Challenging Climbing Experience: Himlung Himal is a technically challenging peak that requires previous mountaineering experience and skills such as ice climbing, glacier travel, and high altitude climbing. 
• Adventure Trekking: The approach to Himlung Himal involves a trek through the beautiful Manaslu region, passing through remote villages, crossing suspension bridges, and traversing rugged landscapes. The trek offers an adventurous journey with diverse flora and fauna, and an opportunity to experience the raw natural beauty of the region.
• Cultural Immersion and Interaction: The expedition provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the unique culture and lifestyle of the local communities in the region. This includes interacting with the friendly villagers, learning about their traditions, and gaining insights into their way of life, which adds a cultural dimension to the expedition.
• Personal Growth and Achievement: Physically and mentally demanding endeavor that pushes climbers out of their comfort zones and challenges their limits. Successfully summiting this majestic peak can be a significant personal achievement, boosting self-confidence, resilience, and character development.

Day 1: When you arrive in the airport, our staff will receive you at Tribhuvan International airport, Kathmandu. He/ She will be displaying a placard with Himalayan Travelers written in it outside the airport terminal. He will meet, greet and welcome you with auspicious garland and escort you to your respective hotel by our private tourist vehicle. At the hotel, he will assist you to check in and do pre-trip meeting with you. Final altitude about 1,300m. Meals: lunch and dinner not included, welcome drink and bed and breakfast included. Accommodation: nights at the hotel.

Day 2: An Expedition preparation day to rest and digest the journey, and enjoy the atmosphere of Boudhanath/Thamel. You can also do some last-minute shopping, and most importantly, optimize your luggage to a mountaineering bag and a trekking bag. Final altitude about 1,300m. Meals: lunch and dinner not included, bed and breakfast included. Accommodation: nights at the hotel.

Day 3: You will begin the trek by driving from Kathmandu to Besishahar, which is the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Fortunately, the road improves year after year. Mode of transportation: Private vehicle, bus, and jeep (about 5-6 hours by bus and about 2/3 hours by jeep). Have lunch and continue to Syange.

Day 4: After breakfast, we drive to Koto, but if somebody wishes to stop at Timang and continue by foot, it is possible to walk a little to stretch your legs. Mode of transportation: Private jeep (about 4-5 hours by jeep). Final altitude about 2,600m. Accommodation: night in a lodge.

Day 5: The trekking will begin with a long stage, and you will reach Meta after the end of the vehicle transfer. Camping in Dharamshala is also possible but not much suitable, so Meta is a much better option. End of the vehicle transfer and beginning of the trek. Early departure, optimization of the journey with some tea breaks and lunch; the objective is to not arrive too late in Meta. Duration of the trek: about 7 hours Elevations: +1000 m /-100 m Final altitude about 3,560m. Accommodation: overnight in a lodge or tent depending on weather, crowd, and mules.

Day 6: The trek from Meta to Naar is an adventure that offers a unique blend of challenging terrain and cultural immersion. Along the way, we will come across several small bridge and monasteries. The traditional houses and monasteries that dot the landscape and stunning mountain views. This day is both a cultural detour to visit the village of Naar, a short stage, and an acclimatization phase that allows for a comfortable first night’s sleep at 4,000 m. Duration of the trek: about 5 hours Elevations: +590m /-210m Final altitude about 4,110m. Accommodation: overnight in a lodge.

Day 7: Naar to Kyang. Return to the Khola and take a beautiful path to Kyang, the winter village of Phu. Lodge or camping in Kyang. Spend some time understanding acclimatization and exchange information on the hypoxic environment. The trek takes around 5:30 hours. Final altitude: approximately 3,820m. Accommodation: lodge or camping.

Day 8: We trek from Kyang to Phu for about 4 hours, with an elevation gain of +300m/-100m, and reach a final altitude of about 4,080m. The arrival at the gate of Phu is a beautiful moment of emotions, and discovering Phu is always incredible. We will spend the night in a lodge or tent.

Day 9: Today is a rest/hiking day to continue our acclimatization by sleeping at the same altitude. We can stay quietly in the surroundings of the village or hike towards the small summit of Gurusangbo. The view is superb, discovering all the peaks of Phu, and of course Himlung. We will spend the night in a lodge or tent.

Day 10: Of our high-altitude adventure, we depart from Phu and after a half-day walk, we reach Kari Kobler Base Camp. Although it is a beautiful place, the water source is far for the kitchen team and it gets overcrowded due to other companies using it. Therefore, we decide to skip it and cross the Pangri glacier directly to set up camp at the French Base Camp. This is because it offers cleaner and nearer water and better sunlight throughout the day, with stunning mountain views and glaciers visible at all times. This marks the beginning of our high-altitude adventure as we will only return to Kari Kobler Base Camp at the end of our ascent or in case of necessity. It takes around 4 hours to reach Kari Kobler Base Camp with an altitude gain of 450m and descent of 150m, with a final altitude of approximately 3,950m.

 French Base Camp is usually an advanced base camp for other companies, but we use it as our base camp. Our team staff sets up camp there, requiring extra porters to transport our expedition equipment and cross Pangri Glacier. This decision saves us from crossing the black glacier, which can be unpleasant and a bit dangerous at the moraine passage. Typically, all other teams stay at Kari Kobler Base Camp and follow a more traditional progression. The walking time to French Base Camp is around 2:30 hours with a final altitude of approximately 4,980m, and we spend the night in a tent.

Day 11 to 21: We will ascend Himlung Himal without returning to the base camp. It takes us two days to set up a higher camp and transport our equipment. The first day is a simple round trip to deposit our belongings, and the next day rest, and another day we transport sleeping bags, mattresses, and a few odds and ends to sleep there. The first three camps are very typical because we have used them for all our previous ascents. Our ascent is a continuous progression, and the descent is efficient, directly to the Base Camp where we find the entire kitchen team. The rating for the ascent is Himalayan grade IV (summit between 6,500m and 7,126m, several high-altitude camps) PD in snow. Himlung is not an easy summit, even though it remains accessible. We will have altitude meals prepared by the participants, and we will spend the nights in a tent.

Day 22: We will spend the day cleaning and packing at the base camp, preparing to return home. The expedition is over, but the journey is not yet finished. We will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner and spend the night in a tent.

Days 23-25: We will trek from French Base Camp to Koto for three days and reach the Marsyangdi valley and the lodges of Koto, on the Annapurna Circuit. The path is now familiar, and the valley is still as beautiful. Summit celebration in Koto. We will have breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, and spend the nights in lodges. We will reach a final altitude of about 2,600m.Accommodation overnight in a lodge.

Day 26: An early morning departure by jeep from Koto to Besisahar where we enjoy some dal bhat for lunch, and then a bus ride to Kathmandu, making for another productive day. Fortunately, the road is getting better and better, although the arrival in Kathmandu is always traumatic. Transfer/transport duration: about 10 hours. Final altitude: about 1,300m. Meals: breakfast in lodge, lunch at Besisahar. Meals: lunch and dinner not included, bed and breakfast included. Accommodation: nights at the hotel.

Day 27: A final free day in Kathmandu before departure the next day. Final altitude: about 1,300m. Meals: lunch and dinner not included, bed and breakfast included. Accommodation: overnight in hotel.

Day 28: Departure time.

SUMMARY OF THE PROGRAM:

Due to unpredictable factors such as weather conditions, customs issues, road conditions, traffic, landslides, or force majeure events, your expedition leader may need to adjust the program as necessary for your safety and the smooth progress of your journey. They are the sole judge of your safety.

The activity times are only indicative and may vary from participant to participant. You must follow your guide’s recommendations, who may suggest canceling your expedition due to weather or safety concerns, or your physical condition.

The itinerary on our expedition programs or ascent program on high mountain expeditions is flexible enough to adapt to weather conditions. The expedition may be stopped at any time if deemed necessary by the expedition leader for the whole group or some participants.

Keep in mind that this project remains an autonomous expedition, and unforeseen events are possible. Himalayan Travellers, your expedition leader, your guide, or our local teams cannot be held responsible in any way.

Participants will bear all costs related to the postponement of the expedition schedule, including additional accommodation nights and airfare supplements. The “buffer” days are considered part of the expedition proper.

Any early return of the expedition or certain members, generating unforeseen expenses such as accommodation, meals, ticket modifications, or other activities not foreseen in this program, are entirely the responsibility of the participants.

“When you book with Himalayan Travellers, we want you to be fully informed about the cost of your trip. Our fully inclusive land-only price ensures that there are no hidden extras or last-minute costs. Almost everything is included in the price, and if you would like to provide gratuity for your trekking and expedition staff, it is entirely optional. We want you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind knowing that everything has been taken care of.”

Cost Includes

We propose only full organize expedition, from Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
And in an “ALL INCLUDE” mode.
Even if some things are NOT include.   

•  Airport Transport and all other transport, by Buss and Jeeps.
•  Services of experienced trekking guides, Nepali leaders senior, Nepali leaders junior, Cook, Kitchen Boys and porters. 
•  All accommodation (twin share, 4 nights hotel with breakfast in Kathmandu).
•  All meals on trek, and B.C. 
•  Naar phu Special Trekking Permit and Annapurna Conservation fees 
•  Expedition permit and  Liaison officer with all his expenses
•  All camping equipment – 1 member, 1 tent…

Cost Excludes

• The Nepalese visa.
•  Insurance (compulsory on all trips – ensure you are adequately covered for emergency evacuation by helicopter).
•  Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
•  Spending of a personal expenses, E.G. laundry, snacks and bottle drinks, souvenirs, etc.
•  International flight.

The Himlung Himal expedition is considered to be much less arduous among the 7,000 meters’ mountains. Having said that, do not think it is an easy climb either. The trails will challenge you and test your mountaineering skills.

The climb will slowly become strenuous after Camp 1. The normal route from Camp 3 consists of a PD+ side in the snow. Similarly, it has a slope of 35/40 degrees with significant exposure to hard or icy snow.

Consequently, the climbers will require to have a high level of mountaineering experience in order to feel comfortable on the slope. A little lack of miscalculation could prove to be dangerous.

The physical fitness of the climbers will also play a crucial role during the expedition due to the altitude and the effort required for the climb.

Finding a similar climb equivalent to the technical level of Himlung Himal is a fairly difficult. But if one has to compare then the climb can be said similar to the Coolidge corridor at Pelvoux, the Middle Glacier to the Aiguille d’Argentière, the crossing of Lyskamm, and the crossing of Mont Blanc.

Is it safe in Nepal?

Yes, it is safe in Nepal. Over the past 10 years, Nepal has become the top traveling destinations in the world.

What is Trekking?

Trekking is a form of walking, undertaken with the specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. It usually takes place on trails in areas of relatively unspoiled wilderness.

What is climbing or Expedition?

Mountain expedition or climbing is typically referred to a long journey or voyage undertaken for a specific purpose, often exploratory, scientific, geographic, in high mountains. It is the activity of using one’s hands and feet to ascend a steep object.

Do I need Trekking Permit?

Yes, for trekking all regions is has required Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) as new policy. You will need a National park / Conservation entrance permit. Some of control area does require a special trekking permit issue by Immigration through trekking agency.

Do I need Climbing/ Expedition Permit?

Yes, compulsory you need climbing/expedition permit. We have 33 trekking peaks which permit issued by the Nepal mountaineering Association for more information visit www.nepalmountaineering.org. The rest of the mountain to climb we need to collect the permit from Nepal Government – Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation – for more information visit www.tourism.gov.np which issue by Trekking agency.

What types of equipment do i need?

Light, loose garments are recommended in spring (March, April and May) and summer (June, July and August), while woolens and jackets or similar warm clothings are needed from November to February.

 I am suffering from Acrophobia  can i do trekking in Nepal?

Yes you can do. we have many place to go small hill trek, like Kathmandu valley trek, Pokhara valley trek, Ghorepani poon hill trek, mardi himal trek…….

How can I book my trip?

You can book your trip by mail. mail Address:- 
Mobile Namber:- +977-98 51 06 21 76

 How to make payment?

The 25 % payment in advance through the company bank account. Please note full payment should be made before tour departure date for cash. For cheque or bank transfer.

 What are the best seasons/months to do trek in Nepal? 

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Nepal. Lots of travelers want to visit Nepal in September, October, March, and April.

What is the difference between trekking, hiking and mountain climbing?

You can do all three activities in Nepal, but they are quite different things. Trekking is a multi-day walk, where you stay overnight at the place you have walked to. Hiking generally refers to a one-day walk. It might be two hours or eight, but if it takes place within a single day, it will probably be referred to as a hike. Mountain climbing is another thing entirely. It takes special equipment, training and comes with more risk. Neither trekking nor hiking require any special skill, other than the ability to walk.

What is Personal Insurance?

You will need personal travel insurance before coming Nepal so you are responsible to organize travel insurance, which at least covers injury, medical expenses, rescue, repatriation, cancellation, etc.

Do will we use Oxygen?

Oxygen,We will not use oxygen for progression. And it is not (either) a service that is offered.
However, we will have an oxygen cylinder for medical use. Clearly, it is only used in the event of a problem, to descend (and especially not to continue to climb!)

will we use fixed ropes?

It’s more interesting to guide expeditions without fixed ropes (or with as few as possible).
And overall, if we do use fixed ropes, we will take them OUT

What is High Altitude Sickness?

General trekkers going to higher altitudes quickly the problems like headache, Nausea, shortness of breath, tiredness encountered at high altitude i.e. above 8000 ft. Factor of Altitude Sickness.
Specially, in trekking in Himalaya there are problems of Altitude Sickness (AMS). Our bodies have the ability to adjust to higher altitudes if given enough time. This process of adaptation is called acclimatization. Altitude illnesses observed in Nepal include acute mountain sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), the presence of fluid in the lungs. High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), swelling of the brain. And High Altitude Retinal Hemorrhage (HARH), bleeding in the retina of the eye.

Will somebody come to pick me up at the Airport?

 Yes, somebody will come to the airport to pick you. Outside of Terminal Hall, he/she will be displaying a play card of Himalayan travellers trek & Expedition.