Himlung Expedition

Key Information
  • Duration27 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Technically Challenging
  • Max Altitude 7126m
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Season March - May and September - November

Trip Highlights

  • Himlung Himal summit 7126m.
  • Less technical, easy accessible and less risky.
  • Meet the Nepali climbimbers and exchange climbing experience.
  • Enhance mountaineering skills.
  • Visit the local villages, the local monasteries and explore the Tibetan Buddhist culture.
  • Get to see the unique lifestyle of the mountain people and witness a diverse landscape.

Trip Overview

Mt Himlung Himal sits in a remote corner of the Manaslu region on the border between Tibet and Nepal. This magical, unspoilt corner of the Himalayas was previously off limits to foreigners, with the Nepalese government only opening the area 1992. Because of this not many have ever seen this majestic peak never mind climb it. Local knowledge and the few previous expeditions have recognized however that for a mountain that stands at over 7000m it is safe and relatively untechnical making it one of the more accessible mountains of its size.

The five day approach to the mountain follows a valley that is often described as one of the most beautiful in the world. Picture cascading waterfalls, Monasteries perched on mountain sides and hanging glaciers, all before we even reach Base Camp.

You shall be immersing yourself in the incredible Nepalese culture, staying in quaint mountain villages and rustic teahouses as you ascend towards base camp where the climbing period will begin. Supported by a team of experienced guides and Sherpa your camps will be established and all supplies and amenities catered for on the mountain so you can focus on acclimatization and taking it all in before your push for the summit.

How do we climb Mount Himlung Himal?

Mount Himlung Himal climbing is divided into two phases- trekking and climbing.

Trekking Phase:

Mount Himlung Himal expedition starts with a long drive (9-10 hours) to Koto village via Besisahar, Besisahar is the gateway of the popular trekking destination Annapurna Circuit Trek. From Koto you will trek through beautiful villages, crossing numerous suspension bridges over the Marshyangdi River. Landscapes and mountain views are incredible throughout the trek.

The trail then ascends to Phu village which is situated at the most remote area of Nepal where you will interact with local people, explore their culture and see their lifestyle. You will visit the ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, you will stay overnight in the local guesthouses during trekking and you will have an opportunity to taste local Nepali foods.

Climbing Phase:

The route to the base camp of Mt. Himlung Himal is mixed rugged and steep. Upon reaching the Himlung Base Camp, you will be welcomed by our staff, and from here onwards, the real adventure begins. At the base camp, you will spend 12 to 15 days doing acclimatization rotations. Mt. Himlung has three different camps where you spend your nights above base camp.

"Your team leader will also organize pre-climbing training sessions at base camp, which will add to your climbing skills and allow you to learn more techniques to conquer Himlung."

Camp I is situated at 5430 meters. First, you will climb to Camp I, return to the base camp, and rest. This is your first rotation. The climbing route to Camp I follows through glacier, rocky trail and takes around 4-5 hours to reach. On the way, you will navigate via large rocky glacier and climb an easy fourth-class piece without any fixed ropes. 

For the next rotation, you will climb to Camp II, which is located at 6000 meters. It takes around 3 hours to reach Camp II from Camp I. From the Himlung Base Camp, you will climb to Camp I, spend a night here, and proceed to Camp II the next day for the acclimatise purpose then you will return all the way back to Base Camp. 

For the final push, you will begin climbing from the Himlung Base Camp to Camp I and stay overnight here. The following day, climb to Camp II and stay overnight here. On day three, physically fit climbers do the summit push and return to Camp II or Camp I to spend the night. Whereas average climbers ascend to Camp III situated at 6350 meters, spend the night there, and then push to the summit the next day and return to Camp II or Camp I.

While climbing from Camp II to Camp III, you will use fixed ropes along the entire way. The surrounding mountain views are excellent. It takes around 2 hours to reach Camp III from Camp II and trails are not very steep climbing. 

From Camp III to the summit (7126m) involves demanding slopes of snow-ice climbing at a 60-degree + angle. After the summit push, you will return to the base camp. Our team will be all ready to welcome you with a hot drink followed by a celebration dinner.

You will then trek back to Koto, retracing the path via Phu village and Koto village and drive back to Kathmandu.

*Note: Our support crew will set up all the tents and take care of your meals. You will be all focused on acclimatizing, climbing, and resting.

Join on our expedition 2025/26

Ascent Adventures Nepal first organized this expedition in 2022 between March-April. We have fresh experience on how to make a successful summit and now we are organizing every Spring and Autumn season. If anyone is looking for a mountain above 7000m we highly recommend Himlung Himal. Feel free to contact us and get more information.

History- Himlung Himal was first climbed via the East Ridge on October 27-1983.

 

Itinerary

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These are our regular itineraries; please feel free to contact with us if you would like to customise them to suit with your budget and timetable.

One of our company staff will receive you from the airport and transfer you to your hotel by private vehicle. Your hotel is located in Thamel, which is in the heart of Kathmandu city. In the evening we will collect you from the hotel and take you for a welcome dinner. During the dinner, we will brief you about the entire program, and then we will move forward accordingly.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Welcome dinner
  • Altitude: 1350m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast only

Today is your preparation day. You will meet with your guide, who will brief you about the entire trip and check your gear to make sure you have enough equipment for the entire journey. If you don't have proper gear, then the guide will advise you to purchase enough. You can buy or rent from the trekking shop nearby the hotel.

We will take you on a short Kathmandu city tour. The tour guide will take you to Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, which is situated at a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will get an opportunity to engage with locals and witness Nepalese customs, culture, religion, and tradition during the tour. 

Set out on a captivating road trip from Kathmandu to Koto, a peaceful village located in the heart of Nepal's Manang district. The 236-kilometer journey takes around 8-10 hours by private vehicle, offering a blend of stunning landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. Starting early from Kathmandu, you'll pass through Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region, before venturing onto winding roads that cut through lush forests, terraced fields, and picturesque villages. This scenic drive offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Nepal's diverse natural beauty and cultural heritage, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.

  • Distance:
  • Altitude: 2610m
  • Duration: 9-10 hours
  • Accommodation: Local guest house
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you'll begin your trek from Koto towards Meta village. The journey takes you through stunning landscapes, including several thrilling suspension bridges and dense, lush forests. As you walk, you'll pass through waterfalls, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle, with breathtaking landscape views along the way. The trek is of moderate difficulty, making it suitable for seasoned trekkers seeking a peaceful, less-traveled route in this serene corner of the Himalayas. With each step, you'll feel a deeper connection to the natural beauty and solitude of the region.

  • Distance:
  • Altitude: 3560m
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Accommodation: Local guest house
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After a nourishing breakfast at your hotel, you'll embark on your trek from Meta to Phu Village. The journey takes you through lush landscapes, cross few suspension bridges, passing through the picturesque villages of Chyaku and Kyang. You will stop for lunch at Kyang, where you can rest and enjoy a local meal. As you continue, the trail unfolds with breathtaking views of towering mountains and deep valleys. The final stretch leads you to Phu, a serene and remote village nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. After arriving, you'll settle in for a peaceful overnight stay, immersing yourself in the tranquility of this untouched destination.

  • Distance:
  • Altitude: 3900m
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Local guest house
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today you will stay to acclimatise. You will visit an ancient monastery and stroll around the village, where you will get to experience their local culture and interact with local people. This extra day will give you an opportunity to experience local culture and acclimatise your body to the high altitude.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Phu Village to Himlung Himal Base Camp, a trek that offers an exciting blend of rugged terrain and awe-inspiring Himalayan landscape. The trail winds through scenic arid valleys, and rocky outcrops. Along the way, you'll pass by traditional Yak shelters offering a glimpse into the local life in the high mountains.

After approximately four hours of steady trekking, you'll reach the serene Himlung Himal Base Camp, situated at 4,920 meters. Upon arrival, the base camp crew will greet you with warm drinks and a hearty lunch. This tranquil spot is the perfect resting place for climbers to acclimatize and prepare for your expedition above Base Camp.

  • Distance: 10kl
  • Altitude: 4900m
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner served by chief.

The Himlung Himal expedition is a challenging and rewarding journey, combining technical climbing with the beauty of Nepal’s high Himalayas. The adventure begins with an acclimatisation period at base camp, where you will rest and prepare for the climbs ahead. During this phase, you'll reach up to Camp 2 for acclimatisation and climbing preparation.

Your first climb takes you to Camp 1 and returns back to base camp. You will have a rest day at base camp, then you'll repeat the climb to Camp 1, spend the night this time and the next day reach up to Camp 2 at 6020 meters, then once again return back to base camp.

You will have full preparation for the final push. Once you are fully prepared, the final summit push begins. From base camp, you’ll ascend to Camp 1 for the night, then the next day climb to Camp 2, spend the night and climb to Camp 3, located at 6350 meters. After spending some time at Camp 3, you will make your final ascent from Camp 3 to the summit of Himlung Himal (7126 meters), a journey that takes around 6-7 hours.

After soaking in the success of reaching the summit, you’ll descend to Camp 2 for the night, then make your way all the way back to base camp. Upon your return, you’ll celebrate your successful summit with the team before heading back to Kathmandu the next day.

  • Distance: 24km
  • Altitude: 3560m
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Local guest house
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinnerm
  • Distance: 15 kl
  • Altitude: 2610m
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Local guest house
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance:
  • Altitude: 1350m
  • Duration: 10 hours
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner
  • Meals: Breakfast only

 Ascent Adventures Nepal representatives will transport you to the airport by private vehicle for your smooth departure around three hours prior to your scheduled flight. 

Cost Details

Includes
  • Arrival pickup and drop-off by private vehicle
  • 4 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu in a 4-star category hotel on the BB plan.
  • Welcome & Farewell diner in a tourist-standerd restaurent in Kathmandu.
  • PERMITS: expedition royalty and a permit fee of the Nepal government to climb Himlung Himal, Annapurna conservation area entry permit, and Nar-Phu restricted area permit fee.
  • Garbage: garbage management fee.
  • LISIAN OFFICER: 1 government liaison officer with full equipment, salary, and accommodation.
  • Insurance: Emergency helicopter rescue insurance for Nepali climbers. Medical and accidental insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
  • TRANSPORTATION: Member's transportation by private vehicle.
  • Expedition stuff transportation: all the necessary expedition equipment transportation.
  • FOOD AND ACCOMMODATION 3 meals a day, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including hot drinks such as tea and coffee. Accommodation in a local guest house during the trek and individual tents at Basecamp and C1, C2, and C3 on a sharing basis, and we will have a toilet tent and shower tent at Basecamp.
  • High-altitude foods, EPI gas, cooking pot as required.
  • CLIMBING GUIDE: 1 member-1 climber, including his insurance, equipment bonus, daily wages, food, and accommodation.
  • PORTER: to carry members's baggage and to transport all the necessary expedition equipment.
  • COOK: 1 professional Basecamp cook and kitchen helper.
  • HEATER: Heater at base camp in the dining room and solar power/generator for battery charging and lights.
  • Oxygen bottle in case of an emergency with an appropriate charge.
  • ROPE: Fixed and dynamic rope during the climbing period as required.
  • Satellite Phone: A satellite phone for emergency calls is also available for members with an appropriate charge and walkie-talkie.
  • Medical kit
  • Certificate after successful summit.
Excludes
  • International flight.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from the Expedition than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu than the schedule program and in case of early return.
  • Insurance policy: insurance covering both medical and high altitude evacuation costs (for the trip cancellation, interruption, high altitude rescue & air evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation,etc.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Personal climbing equipment.
  • Toiletries.
  • Internet service.
  • Summit bonus minium $700 for summiter climbers.
  • Tips: tips for basecamp staff –minimum $200 per person.
  • Extra: any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the "cost includes" section.
Client Reviews
  • rating starLife changing trip

    The most incredible and formative trip of my life. The remoteness and beauty of this remarkable place is mind blowing but what made the trip truly special was Bigraj and his team. So professional, unbelievably welcoming and we left with a whole crew of new life long Nepalese friends.

    E
    ed jacksonUnited Kingdom, February 14, 2025
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  • rating starIncredible trip with Ascent Adventures.

    We climbed Himlung Himal with Ascent Adventures and had the most incredible trip.
    First I want to mention the amazing people on the team. We were in the mountains with them for 3 weeks and they looked after us so well. We were like one big family for the whole time and we got very connected to them. The connections we had were some of the best memories for me.

    The supported us so well on the climb and planned everything so well.
    We had amazing food and facilities for how remote we were up the mountain.

    Finally I want to mention our lead guide Bigraj. He works so hard to make sure we were always safe and enjoying the trip.
    He Perfectly chose the team of guides and Sherpa’s for our group and the trip and everything ran so smoothly.
    Great energy and communication skills.

    Thanks for a memorable trip.

    Arron
    ArronUnited Kingdom, January 13, 2024
    TripAdvisor
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