When you arrive at the airport, our company representative will greet you warmly and ensure a smooth transfer to the hotel. At the hotel, you will have the opportunity to meet our team. We plan to hold a pre-trek briefing in the evening, between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. This gathering is an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with the other members of your group before we all proceed to enjoy a delicious dinner. During the welcome dinner, you will be able to taste authentic Nepalese cuisine and watch captivating cultural dance performances, immersing you in Nepal's rich cultural traditions.

Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Kathmandu with our experienced city tour guide. Our itinerary includes several remarkable sites:

• SWOYAMBHUNATH, also known as the Monkey Temple, is perched atop a hill and can be reached by climbing a long set of steps. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu.
• BOUDHANATH STUPA is adorned with traditional Gompas adorned with vibrant prayer flags. It serves as a focal point for Sherpas and Tibetans who partake in the spiritual practice of circumambulating the stupa (koras).
• PASHUPATINATH, a sacred Hindu temple, is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River and features Ghats where cremation ceremonies take place, offering a unique glimpse into Hindu rituals.
• KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE, one of the ancient capitals of the Kathmandu Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant square showcases a harmonious fusion of Hindu and Buddhist temples, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

With our knowledgeable guide, you will learn about the historical, religious, and architectural significance of these iconic landmarks. Prepare to be captivated by Kathmandu's unique charm and spiritual ambiance.

Enjoy a smooth and comfortable domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, departing from Tribhuvan Domestic Airport and arriving at Nepalgunj Airport in approximately 50 to 60 minutes. This scenic flight provides beautiful aerial views of Nepal’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the Himalayan foothills to the lush Terai plains. A midday flight is often recommended, allowing you to check into your hotel and still have time to explore the city in the evening.

After checking in at Nepalgunj, you can visit highlights such as Bageshwori Temple, known for its sacred pond and unique statue of Lord Mahadev, or take a relaxing walk around Rani Talau. Food lovers should not miss the vibrant street food scene around Dhamboji and the bustling New Road market, where you can try local delicacies like chatpate and spicy momo, reflecting the cultural blend of Nepal and nearby India.

Early the next morning, take a scenic mountain flight from Nepalgunj Airport to Simikot Airport, the district headquarters of Humla District, dramatically perched on a ridge overlooking the Humla Karnali River and surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival, trekkers are welcomed by their trekking crew and introduced to Simikot, a culturally rich Himalayan town that serves as the main gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mount Kailash and western Tibet. At an elevation of around 2,910 meters (9,547 ft), trekkers may begin to feel the effects of altitude, so it is recommended to take the day slowly, stay hydrated, and explore the surrounding village at a relaxed pace. Weather conditions can sometimes delay flights because Simikot operates under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), meaning fog in Nepalgunj or heavy clouds in the mountains may cause cancellations, so keeping a buffer day in your itinerary is advisable. Due to high-altitude aircraft limitations, baggage allowances are typically 10 kg of checked luggage and 5 kg of carry-on, and extra weight is charged per kilogram. The short runway at Simikot is carved into a narrow mountain ridge, making the landing both thrilling and memorable, marking the beginning of an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

After breakfast in Simikot, our guide will handle the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) at the police checkpoint before beginning a short but steep climb to Simikot Pass, marked by prayer flags and offering panoramic views of Simikot town and the expansive Humla Karnali River valley below. From the pass, the trail descends sharply through rocky switchbacks, passing pine forests and the village of Tuling, where rugged mountainsides transition into terraced fields of barley and buckwheat. As the trail levels near the Karnali River, trekkers experience warmer, more humid air and the soothing sounds of rushing water, eventually reaching the culturally Tibetan village of Dharapori, a common first campsite. Here, trekkers can see traditional water-driven grain mills (ghattas) and vibrant green terraces set against high-desert mountains. Along the trail, trekkers may encounter local Hindu and Buddhist communities transporting supplies along the rugged path, providing a glimpse into their resilient way of life. The day concludes with your first camping experience near the serene Karnali River, surrounded by the breathtaking Himalayan landscape.

After breakfast in Dharapori, the trail follows the northern bank of the Humla Karnali River, winding through narrow sections carved into the rock face, with both well-defined paths and exposed viewpoints. The trek offers stunning scenery, including waterfalls cascading down cliffs across the river and high-altitude fields of barley, buckwheat, potatoes, and occasional walnut and apricot trees that bring a splash of green to the arid landscape. The final ascent to Kermi involves a steady climb along the ridge to the first fully Buddhist village on the route, distinguished by whitewashed houses and Mani walls. This leg of the trek is leisurely, following the river through narrow gorges and elevated slopes, providing time to enjoy the dramatic views and recover from previous days. In the afternoon, trekkers can relax at the Kermi Hot Springs, a 20–30-minute walk uphill from the village, before visiting two historic monasteries: Laikyo Gompa, about 45 minutes from the campsite, and Lhundrup Choeling Gompa, a 30-minute walk away, both offering rare insights into the spiritual and cultural life of the Humli-Buddhist community.

After breakfast in Kermi, the trail gently climbs through pine and rhododendron forests before reaching the Sali Khola, a major tributary of the Humla-Karnali River, where trekkers can rest or enjoy a packed lunch in the shade. After crossing the Sali Khola via a large iron suspension bridge, the trail ascends steeply in zig-zag switchbacks up a ridge, offering breathtaking bird’s-eye views of the Humla-Karnali River canyon far below. The route is bordered by fields of barley and buckwheat, with occasional glimpses of sunbathing lizards on rocks, and trekkers may encounter mule and dzopa caravans transporting goods from Simikot and Nyinba Valley to Taklakot in Tibet. As the trail continues toward Yalbang, the vegetation thins, revealing rocky outcrops, low shrubs, and expansive high-altitude terrain with panoramic views of surrounding Himalayan peaks. Yalbang is home to the Namkha Khyung Dzong Monastery, a major Nyingma Buddhist site with approximately 130 resident monks, where visitors can explore the courtyard, observe rituals, and participate in tea ceremonies. Be sure to witness the daily puja at 7 am or 4 pm for a spiritually enriching experience. Trekkers are advised to pace themselves over 3,000 meters, practice deep breathing to adjust to the altitude, restock essentials at village shops, and keep a windproof layer handy, as afternoon winds can pick up on the exposed ridges.

After breakfast in Yalbang, the trail climbs high above the Humla Karnali River, following narrow cliffside paths that offer dramatic views of turquoise waters far below and towering rock walls across the gorge. The route passes the quaint village of Yangar, featuring a sturdy suspension bridge over the river, before ascending steeply through a rocky canyon where pine forests give way to hardy desert shrubs and wind-swept boulders. Along the 6-hour trek, trekkers encounter traditional salt-carrying flocks of sheep and traverse sections of “Nepali Flat” trail interspersed with spectacular rock-cut passages resembling three-sided tunnels. The path then reaches Muchu (3,120 m), a settlement with stone houses and narrow alleys, where Restricted Area Permits are often checked. From Muchu, the trail continues along a short descent and flat stretch to Tumkot, near the Tumkot Khola, with optional visits to local teahouses and campsites. A 20–30-minute climb from Tumkot leads to the Dhungkar Choezom Monastery, the only Sakya lineage monastery in Humla and one of the few in Nepal, offering a culturally rich and spiritually rewarding experience amidst the stunning Himalayan landscapes.

After breakfast in Tumkot, the trek begins by following the Tumkot Khola briefly before turning away from the riverbed, leaving behind the last clusters of trees as the trail begins a long, winding ascent into the high desert. The terrain becomes increasingly rocky and barren, with vast scree slopes, dramatic rock formations, and a deep blue sky caused by the thinning atmosphere. The trail follows slow zig-zags, and although not technically difficult, the high altitude makes each step more strenuous. Along the way, trekkers pass through seasonal pastures where Dzokpas—a hybrid of yak and cow—graze on sparse grass, and the silence is broken only by the wind or an occasional herder’s whistle. The landscape gradually changes, with low junipers replacing most trees, and some sections overlap with an under-construction dirt road of uncertain completion. About 1½ hours into the trek, you pass the small village of Pani Palwang, where a few teahouses offer refreshments or a lunch break, before continuing to Thado Dunga, just beyond Yari, a high-altitude campsite at the base of Nara La Pass consisting of stone shelters and tent pads used by trekkers and traders. A highlight of this section is the view back toward Dhikyi Choeling Monastery, which from above appears as a lone sentinel guarding the entrance to the upper Humla valleys.

After breakfast in Thado Dunga, the trek begins the final ascent to Nara La Pass along a slow, rhythmic dirt path, climbing to 14,000 ft (4,330 m) as the air thins and the landscape transforms into a lunar-like high desert. The summit is marked by a massive heap of stones and hundreds of fluttering Tibetan prayer flags, where adding a stone is considered auspicious, and panoramic views unfold: to the south, the rugged mountains of Nepal just traversed, and to the north, the vast high-altitude plains of Tibet (China), with the Humla Karnali River far below marking the border. Along the climb, trekkers may encounter caravans of mules and yaks, and a few teahouses at Thado Dunga provide refreshments before the 2-hour steep ascent, which can take longer if snow is present. The descent from Nara La is challenging, dropping nearly 700 meters over loose scree and dust, though a newer dirt road offers a longer, gentler alternative. The trail eventually reaches Hilsa, a bustling border town with a large suspension bridge over the Karnali River and the Chinese immigration post, where travelers without a Tibet group visa cannot cross. Today's trek combines high-altitude adventure, dramatic lunar-like landscapes, cultural encounters, and stunning Himalayan vistas, making it one of the most memorable sections of the Humla Limi Valley Trek.

After breakfast, the trek heads north from Hilsa along the newly constructed road into Limi Valley, following the Humla Karnali River and crossing a suspension bridge. This remote valley is renowned for its wildlife, including elusive snow leopards and Himalayan blue sheep. After 4–5 hours of trekking, you reach Manipeme, situated at 12,900 ft (3,930 m) and named after the Buddhist Mani Mantra engraved on a large rock. The trail climbs steadily from the trekking side of Hilsa, leaving the border town behind, and follows a high ridge with narrow cliffside paths winding along vivid red, purple, and grey rock walls of the Karnali gorge, while the turquoise river rushes hundreds of meters below. Expansive northern views toward the rolling plains of Tibet create a true Trans-Himalayan experience. Nestled in a rugged, stony landscape, Manipeme offers solitude, breathtaking scenery, and iconic Carnelian cliffs shaped by centuries of wind and water erosion. Trekkers should be prepared for exposed paths if prone to vertigo, carry at least 3 liters of water due to limited sources, and bring wind protection, as temperatures drop sharply after sunset, making this high-altitude campsite a serene yet challenging stop on the Humla Limi Valley Trek.

From Manipeme, the trail begins a gradual morning ascent, winding around massive ridges with narrow paths and offering spectacular views of the Humla Karnali River far below and the jagged, snow-capped peaks marking the Tibet border. A long ancient Mani wall signals the symbolic entrance to Limi Valley, and trekkers catch their first glimpse of the green oasis of Til. The trail descends toward the Limi Khola, crossing a sturdy bridge into a fertile, sheltered environment leading to Til, a classic Tibetan-style village of around 30 families, with stone-and-mud houses surrounded by bright green barley and mustard fields. Along the way, trekkers pass the Chenglungma caravan campsite and the old cave of Cha-sa Nam-ka Dzong, a south-facing cliff used historically for retreats, before arriving at Til. Key highlights include visits to the 1,000-year-old Rinchen Ling Gompa and the 300-year-old Kunzum Do-Nag Monastery, both rich in frescoes, statues, and scriptures preserved in the dry mountain air. This stretch, often called the Trans-Himalaya Dread Path, has sloping and undulating terrain, with potential encounters with yaks and sheep laden with trading packs. Trekkers should watch for wildlife like blue sheep (Bharal) and snow leopards, respect local customs, sample the local Tsampa or barley bread, and protect themselves from strong UV rays during the descent into the valley.

Leaving Til, the trail follows the northern bank of the Limi Khola, where the valley widens and the landscape transitions from dramatic cliffside paths to gravel riverbeds, golden scree slopes, and occasional green patches. Along this stretch, trekkers encounter some of the Himalayas’ longest and most impressive Mani walls, hundreds of meters long and intricately carved with Buddhist prayers—always walk to the left of these sacred walls as a mark of respect. The trail descends for about an hour to Tiljung, near the Tagtsi Khola, a main tributary of the Karnali River, crossing a suspension bridge before following the river into a narrow valley toward Halji. Halji, the largest and most significant village in Limi, features tightly packed stone and sun-dried mud-brick houses, firewood stacked on roofs, and is home to the 800-year-old Rinchenling Gompa, the oldest and most important monastery in western Nepal, with massive statues of Buddha and Indian master Atisha and centuries-old murals preserved in the dry climate.

In Halji, the recommended Climb High strategy for acclimatization involves a slow 2–3-hour hike along the northern slopes above the village, gaining 200–300 meters in elevation while taking in breathtaking views of the Halji Glacier and surrounding 6,000 m peaks. This ridge hike is also ideal for wildlife spotting, including Tibetan Gazelle and Blue Sheep, so bring binoculars and move quietly to respect the serene, high-altitude environment. Cultural immersion continues at Rinchenling Gompa, where early risers can witness the monks’ morning puja, complete with the resonant sounds of dungchen horns and drums echoing inside the ancient wooden walls. Explore the monastery library to see the centuries-old Kanjur manuscripts written in silver and gold ink on handmade paper. Halji itself remains a living time capsule; stroll through narrow stone alleys to observe women weaving colorful yak wool into traditional pulu, or felt boots, and visit the water-driven ghattas along the river, where barley is ground into tsampa, the valley’s staple food.

Leaving Halji, the trail reaches Jang, the third and final settlement of the Limi Valley, where trekkers can enjoy a cup of traditional butter tea and visit its ancient monastery before venturing into the uninhabited high country. Beyond Jang, permanent structures disappear, and the trail follows the Limi Khola upstream through wide, flat floodplains of gravel and low alpine shrubs, gradually gaining altitude. As the path climbs into the high pastures, trekkers encounter the Dokpa nomadic summer camps, with large black yak-wool tents and hundreds of grazing yaks, showcasing the traditional nomadic lifestyle that has endured for centuries. This region also offers excellent wildlife viewing, including sightings of the elusive Tibetan Wild Ass (Kyang), galloping across the plains. The day concludes at Tumling, a high-altitude grazing area and base for the final ascent toward Nyalu La Pass, where the thin air, constant wind, and pristine night skies highlight the vastness and beauty of the Trans-Himalayan wilderness.

After breakfast in Tumling, the trek begins with a steady early-morning ascent to Nyalu La, traversing thin-air terrain of scree and rock. Along the way, trekkers pass the high-altitude Selima Tso (4,570 m), its turquoise waters often partially frozen and framed by barren, snow-capped peaks. The final push to the prayer-flag-strewn summit is short but physically demanding, offering breathtaking views of Mount Kailash and Mount Gurla Mandhata to the north, with the Humla mountains stretching south. After crossing the pass, the trail descends nearly 1,800 meters, a steep journey where trekking poles and frequent breaks are essential to protect knees and joints. As you drop in elevation, the landscape transforms dramatically: barren scree gives way to alpine meadows, then dwarf juniper, and finally lush forests of birch and rhododendron. The day concludes at Shali Khola, a scenic forested campsite near rushing water, where oxygen-rich air and vibrant greenery mark a refreshing contrast to the high desert.

The day begins with a forest ascent from the Shali Khola valley floor, winding through dense stands of blue pine, spruce, and silver fir, with fragrant, cool air and occasional late-season rhododendrons adding bursts of color. As you gain altitude, the trees thin, giving way to open alpine meadows used by local herders in the summer, with small mountain streams along the way providing convenient water refill spots (with purification). The trail then follows a ridge traverse, offering expansive views of surrounding peaks as the terrain becomes rockier and more exposed, approaching 4,000 m, leading to the high-altitude Langdogd Base—a secluded meadow or rocky flat situated just below the final steep section of Langdogd Pass. This quiet, wild campsite allows trekkers to scout the path for the next day’s climb, while keen observers can spot high-altitude medicinal herbs traditionally collected by local Humli people. Tonight marks the final high-altitude camping experience above 4,000 m before descending back to the lower valleys.

From Langdogd Base, the trek begins the steep ascent to Langdogd Pass, following a zig-zagging rocky trail with occasional loose sections. The summit is marked by stone cairns and weathered prayer flags, rewarding trekkers with panoramic views of the Karnali Valley and the jagged Nyiule and Saipal massifs—a fitting culmination of the high-altitude Limi loop. The descent from the pass is challenging, dropping nearly 900 meters over scree and rocky steps before the terrain softens into alpine scrub and high-altitude meadows. The day concludes at Lekh Dinga, a picturesque herder settlement perched on a high ridge. Unlike the arid villages of Limi, Lekh Dinga feels more verdant and Himalayan, with greener meadows, increased moisture in the air, and domestic livestock such as sheep and goats grazing alongside yaks.

From Lekh Dinga, the trek begins with a steady morning descent through mixed pine and oak forests toward Hepka, a traditional Humli village bustling with mid-altitude life. Here, terraced fields of barley and buckwheat spread across the hillsides, dotted with walnut trees, while stone-and-timber homes reflect the region’s architectural style. Continuing along gentle "Nepali flat" contours, the trail reaches Okhreni, where the landscape becomes increasingly agricultural, making it an ideal stop for lunch or tea while enjoying sweeping views of the Humla-Karnali valley and observing the harmonious coexistence of Hindu and Buddhist communities. From Okhreni, the final gradual descent toward Simikot begins, with the airstrip coming into view—a surreal reminder of civilization after days in the high mountains. The last stretch involves a short climb onto the ridge where Simikot sits, passing through the town’s outskirts, and culminating in a warm arrival where trekkers check into a guesthouse, celebrate with a hot shower, and enjoy a well-earned dinner with their trekking crew.

The return journey from the Limi Valley starts with a spectacular mountain flight from Simikot (IMK) to Nepalgunj (KEP), operated by Tara Air, Sita Air, or Summit Air. This flight lasts approximately 45 to 50 minutes and typically departs in the early morning, between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM. The route navigates the rugged peaks of Humla and Mugu, providing breathtaking aerial views. However, it is highly weather-dependent, as afternoon winds and clouds can often lead to cancellations.

From Nepalgunj, travelers then continue to Kathmandu (KTM) on larger aircraft, such as the ATR-72 or CRJ jets, operated by Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, or Shree Airlines. These flights take about 50 to 60 minutes and offer multiple departures from morning until late afternoon, transitioning from the hot Terai plains back into the Kathmandu Valley.

Note: It is important to be aware of the strict baggage allowances for the Simikot leg of your journey. Typically, the limits are 10 kg for checked luggage and 5 kg for carry-on items, due to high-altitude flight restrictions. Extra charges will incur for any overweight luggage. To avoid complications, it is highly recommended to include a buffer day before your international flight, as unpredictable mountain weather can lead to unexpected cancellations.

Today we have free time to explore Kathmandu on our own. You could spend the day shopping for souvenirs, exploring the colorful streets and bazaars, or sampling the local cuisine. You could also go to some of the city's popular tourist attractions, such as Bhaktapur and Patan, which highlight Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage. You could also participate in other activities such as hiking, biking, or adventure sports, or simply relax and rejuvenate at one of the city's many spas and wellness centers. Whatever you decide, make sure to take in the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of this wonderful city.

Today, we will transfer to Kathmandu International Airport to depart. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will collect our belongings and head to the airport. We will arrive at the airport on time to complete all of the necessary formalities and board our flight. Before we leave this enchanting country, take one last look at the breathtaking Himalayan views and appreciate the Nepalese people's warm hospitality and kindness. This concludes our tour, and we hope you had a memorable and enjoyable experience in Nepal.