Region
Manaslu
Grade
Hard
Duration
29 Days
Accomodation
Hotel/Trekking guest houses/Tent
Group size
2 - 15 People
Best Seasons
March-May/Sep-Nov
Maximum Altitude
7126m
Trip Type
Budget Travel, Nature Walk, Weekend Trips

Overview

An expedition to Mt. Himlung is more than just a climb. It’s a journey into the heart of the remote Peri Himal range of Nepal. Located northeast of the Annapurna and Manaslu regions, Himlung stands at an impressive 7,126 meters, demanding the attention of every adventurer. Its rugged terrain and challenging routes are guarded by steep faces and ridgelines, reserved for only the most experienced climbers. From the summit, you are surrounded by a vista of Himalayan peaks like no other, with Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak clearly visible.

The first ascent of Himlung was made by a Japanese team in 1992, marking the beginning of its popularity among mountaineers. Since then, many climbers have successfully reached the summit, mostly following the traditional route. This expedition will follow the conventional route, which requires fixed ropes and several high camps above the base camp. The climb involves mixed snow and ice climbing, with sections of pure rock climbing on high-quality granite. The final push to the summit includes steep snow slopes and ice climbing, often requiring ropes for safety, speed, and success. Due to the technical nature of the route, fixed ropes will be used for most of the climb above camp one, and prior experience with abseiling and mechanical ascenders (jumars) is mandatory.

Objective dangers on the Himlung route are minimal. The snow slopes are generally stable with a low avalanche risk, the rock is of good quality, and the mountain is below the reach of jet stream winds. However, the route is extremely exposed, and mistakes with rope work can be unforgiving. To ensure safety and success, we maintain a low client-to-guide ratio and employ experienced guides to keep you on track. Your guide(s) will handle the fixing of ropes and the smooth running of the expedition, with their primary concerns being client safety, service, and success.

Climbing Route & High Camps

**Base camp (4,840 m):** Situated on a large grassy meadow with wonderful views.

**Camp I (5,450 m):** Our first real camp is only a few hours’ walk from base camp. This section involves boulder hopping and easy scrambling, with fixed ropes used as handrails in some sections.

**Camp II (6,000 m):** This section involves primarily rock climbing on high-quality granite, with challenging and exposed moves. The narrow ridge requires switching back and forth, with fixed ropes in place for safety. Good rock-climbing skills will help you move efficiently and quickly over this terrain.

**Camp III (6,350 m):** Now for the hardest snow and ice pitches of the route. We follow a system of steep snow and ice gullies to reach the Mushroom Ridge. This narrow, windy ridge leads to a small plateau at 6,300 meters, which serves as camp three.

**Camp three:** A cold and exposed position, camp three is the starting point for our summit push. Sherpas often use a full climbing rope to secure tents due to the wind funneling through this location. It is the only safe flat area within range of the summit.

**Summit day:** The initial route involves a moderately steep slope to the right of the large ice cliff. After this, we move toward the center of the face, with the angle easing slightly. After a couple of tough hours, we reach the summit (7,126 m), which offers ample space for moving around and taking pictures. The view includes many of the world’s highest peaks, along with numerous 7,000-meter and lesser peaks.

Highlights of the Expedition

– Climb the technically challenging peak, Mt. Himlung, with professional and experienced Sherpa guides.

– An acclimatization trek through the culturally rich regions of Nar and Phu.

– Pristine and remote Himalayan wilderness experience.

– Medical backup oxygen with a mask set at base camp.

– Excellent and comfortable logistics at Himlung base camp.

– Expert and experienced cook and crew.

– Expedition concludes with the successful summit of Mt. Himlung.

Trip Facts

– **Maximum elevation:** 7,126 m

– **Region:** Peri Himal, Nepal

– **Latitude, Longitude:** 28° 42′ N, 84° 28′ E

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel.

Our representative will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival schedule. Then you will be transferred to the hotel in the heart of Kathmandu city. Our staff will help you until the check-in procedure ends at the Hotel. You can have a rest at the Hotel. Overnight at Kathmandu Meal:self

Day 02 :

Climbing Preparations

Day 03 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Chamje [1410m/4626ft] 7-8 hrs Drive Lodge

After breakfast, we prepare for a drive from Kathmandu along the banks of Trishuli River for a couple of hours up to Dumre and then along the banks of Marsyangdi River. Our drive goes over scenic zigzag hilly roads passing through Besisahar and drives towards Chamje. Before we could drive up to Besisahar and trek from there, but now the expansion of motor road has made it possible to drive further to Chamje - the starting point of the trek. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 04 :

Trek from Chamje to Dharapani [1960m/6430ft] 5-6 hrs Trek Lodge

After breakfast, we leave Chamje and start our trek on the trail that crosses a suspension bridge and then climbs steeply to reach Sattale where the valley becomes narrow. After some time of trekking, we will arrive at the village of Tal, which marks the entry to Manang district. From Tal village, our trail descends down to cross a suspension bridge over Marsyangdi River. After crossing the river our trail is a fairly moderate trek all the way to the Gurung village of Dharapani. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 05 :

Trek from Dharapani to Koto [2600m/8528ft] 5-6 hrs Trek Lodge

Today we leave Dharapani and follow the trail that is a moderate trek towards the village of Bagarchhap. After crossing the village, our trail climbs steeply through the dense forest filled with fir and pine trees as we approach Timang. Great views of Lamjung Himal can be seen from here. Our trek continues on a flat trail and then descend before climbing again to reach Thanchok. From there we will gently descend to reach Koto for our overnight stay. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 06 :

Trek from Koto to Singenge [3230m/10594ft] 6-7 hrs Trek Tented Camp

There is a permit check-post at Koto where we must register before trekking any further. After completing the registration process at Koto check-post our trail descends down to cross a suspension bridge over Naar Phu Khola and heads upstream to cross another suspension bridge over Seti Khola tributary. From there, our trail becomes steeper as the gorge closes in forming a canyon. We continue to trek with the thrilling experience of crossing a wooden bridge before making a final climb to arrive at the stone huts of Singenge for overnight camping. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 07 :

Trek from Singenge to Kyang [4100m/13448ft] 6-7 hrs Trek Tented Camp

From Singenge, we will follow the trail that passes through the seasonal settlement of Meta. During our trek, we will get stunning views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. From here we will traverse around the hillside to a board clearing of Junam Goth. Our trail from here climbs a little before dropping down to cross Mruju Khola which is the outflow of Lyapche Glacier. From there we will climb steeply and cross an eroded section of the moraine to reach our campsite at Kyang. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 08 :

Trek from Kyang to Phu [4580m/15022ft] 5-6 hrs Trek Lodge

After breakfast, we leave Kyang and follow the trail that enters a narrow gorge before descending down to the river. Once at the river bed - we will see a wooden bridge over the river. Instead of crossing the wooden bridge, we will trek along the trail that heads north. Our trail climbs steeply for some time before descending gently towards a series of deserted buildings and large chortens. From there, our trek heads for the crossing of a suspension bridge to arrive at the village of Phu. Here we will spend an additional day exploring around Phu village. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 09 :

Exploration day at Phu Valley; Visit Samdu, Choling and Tashi Monastery Lodge

Today we will spend our day exploring around the village of Phu. The stone village of Phu is believed to be as old as 800 years. We spent our day visiting Samdu Monastery and Choling Monastery. Walking around the small streets will give us the feeling of stepping back in time. Also, climbing up to Tashi Monastery is considered best from an acclimatization point of view. Overnight at Phu village. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10 :

Trek from Phu to Himlung Himal Base Camp [4842m/15881ft] 3-4 hrs Trek Tented Camp

Today is a rather short day of trekking. After breakfast, we leave Phu and follow the slightly rising trail that heads all the way to a good campsite at 4842 meters. Once we reach our campsite, our climbing Sherpa crew will set up the base camp and start making preparations for setting up additional camps at higher altitudes above the base camp. Accommodation: Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 11-21 :

Climbing Himlung Himal [7126m/23345ft] and descend back to base camp 12 days climbing toward Himlung Himal Tented Camp

We will spend several days doing climbing training practices and take adequate days for proper acclimatization. Our Sherpa crew in the meantime will do all the hard works of setting up additional camps above the base camp, provide healthy and hygienic meals and finding routes to reach the summit of Himlung Himal. Fully equipped with all the climbing gears and taking weather conditions into consideration we follow in the footsteps of experienced climbing Sherpa guides and tackle several technical climbing sections to reach the summit. Once at the summit we are rewarded with stunning views of Manaslu & Annapurna Himalayan Ranges. We will spend a short quality time at the summit and descend following the same route back to base camp. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 22 :

Trek back to Phu village [4580m/15022ft] 5-6 hrs Trek Lodge

Having achieved our target - the summit of Himlung Himal, we make a relaxed start and clean up around the base camp. After breakfast, we leave base camp and start retracing our steps on the same trail that descends down to Phu village. We will stop at Phu for our overnight stay. Enjoy the rest of the evening exploring around the small streets of Phu. The environment around here is truly magical. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 23 :

Trek from Phu to Meta [3560m/11676ft] 5-6 hrs Trek Lodge

After breakfast, we leave Phu village and follow the same trail that crosses a suspension bridge and goes along a series of deserted buildings and chorten. We continue to follow the trail that descends towards Kyang. From there, our trail descends and crosses an eroded section of moraine before crossing the Mruju Khola. Our trek continues with breathtaking views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. We will arrive at the seasonal settlement of Meta. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 24 :

Trek from Meta to Koto [2600m/8528ft] 6-7 hrs Trek Lodge

From Meta, our trek continues on the same trail that descends rather steeply to reach the bottom of the valley. Our trail passes through the stone huts of Singenge before descending down through densely forested sections. After some time of downhill trekking, we will approach a suspension bridge over Seti Khola tributary. We will cross the bridge and then climb for Then we cross a suspension bridge over Seti Khola tributary before climbing a short ascend to reach Koto village. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 25 :

Trek from Koto to Dharapani 5-6 hrs Trek Lodge

After breakfast, we pack our gear and leave Koto. Our trail climbs steeply as we approach towards the village of Thanchok. From there we will descend for a while before climbing a short switchback to reach Timang. At Timang there are few tea houses with good services for trekkers. Also, from here we can get mind capturing views of Lamjung Himal. After a small rest, we continue our trek on the trail that descends passing through thick pine and fir forest towards the village of Bagarchhap. A short trek from Bagarchhap will lead us to Dharapani for the overnight stay. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 26 :

Trek from Dharapani to Chamje 4-5 hrs Trek Lodge

Today we leave Dharapani and trek along the landslide affected area before descending to cross a suspension bridge over Marsyangdi River. Our trail ascends gradually to reach Tal village. From there we trek towards the narrow section of the valley and eventually arrive at Sattal. A fairly moderate trek from there will bring us back to Chamje for our overnight stay. We will celebrate the evening with our climbing team members after accomplishing the challenging and adventurous - Expedition of Himlung Himal with Nepal Guide Treks and Expedition. Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 27 :

Drive back to Kathmandu from Chamje 7-8 hrs Drive Hotel/Resort

After breakfast, we will take a drive Chamje back to Kathmandu. Our drive is a scenic journey that goes over the scenic zigzag hilly roads and through the terraced farmlands, and dense forest areas with good views of Annapurna, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal ranges. The daily activities of the local people can be observed while our drive passes through numerous roadside villages and towns before arriving back to Kathmandu. You will be transferred to the hotel after arriving at Kathmandu. Meals: Breakfast + Lunch

Day 31 :

Trek to Lukla 5-6 hrs trek Altitude: 2865m

Our last day walk of this adventurous trip will lead us to the high ridge of Kalo Himal. We will cross Zatrawala Pass by ascending a moderately steep trail. When we reach the top of the pass, we will descend down the hill and cross Chutanga all the way to Lukla. This trekking trail offers us plenty of wonderful scenes of dazzling silver mountains at the backdrop.

Day 28 :

Leisure day in Kathmandu Hotel/Resort

You would surely like to see as much of Kathmandu as possible. The world heritage sites of UNESCO inside Kathmandu, if not visited on the second day of the trip can be visited on this day. An early start is practical to visit the temples of Kathmandu. Also, walking around the shopping area of Thamel is worth spending quality time at Kathmandu. We will celebrate the successful completion of Himlung Expedition and have a final meal together in the evening. Meals: BB Plan + Farewell Dinner

Day 29 :

Departure——(Airport Drop)

As international per flight schedule Our representative will drop you at the International Airport as per your flight schedule. Meals: Breakfast

Travel Gear

Shoes

Almost all climbers use Italian OneSport shoes today. The One Sport company has been aquired by Millet – boots still looks the same but the brand tag is different.

Get them oversized (1-2 sizes). This is not your average weekend climbing trip and you need something where your toes have space to move freely, or you’ll get frostbite by rush delivery.

HotTronics make great heating pads and wires that can be used in your boots on your summit attempt. Michael Strynoe rebuilt the battery packs to give more power at a lower weight using AA Lithium batteries.

Crampons

Camp makes the ultralight titanium crampons. They are light, but considered not durable. We took our chances with them and they never broke on us.

Bring spares and carry one spare at the summit attempt. Secure them to the boots with steel wire if they keep falling of. There are however many brands of crampons around. Choose your favorites, remember only that ice climbing crampons differ from glacier crampons.

Clothes

You will need multi-layer clothing for climbing between BC and C3. The temperature changes dramatically when the clouds obscure the sun.

One or two layers of lightweight Gore-Tex over fleece will work well, since the layers will be easy to shed or add. Carry a lightweight down jacket at all times. Use a cap to protect your head in the sun. Wear water-resistant gloves in the icefall and a good pair of down mittens higher up. Carry a spare mitten on your summit attempt.

Use a heavy down suit for the summit. We wear it already from C2 on the summit attempt in order to save weight. If you choose to do that, move early in the morning or you’ll boil.

We have used down suites from both Mountain Hardware and North Face and they all worked equally well. Check that the hood will work together with the oxygen mask, covering your face properly. If possible, bring a spare down suit for cold nights in BC. Bring plenty of lightweight socks to change.

Face mask

Use a heat-exchanging, wired face mask for protection against Khumbu- cough. Use the mask already from Gorak Shep. You’ll get used to it and be protected right from the start. You should find the mask in stores for cross-country skiing. If you don’t, check the gear link list on this web site. The Finnish manufacturer is listed there.

Harness

North Face makes a great no-nonsense harness. Remove the stuff that you don’t need. Tie about half a meter of line with a carabiner for the fixed ropes. Forget screw carabiners, you want them big and simple at Everest. Make a knot halfway up the rope and hook up a jumar with another carabiner. Secure the jumar in the front to your backpack straps or at chest level when not in use, this being the easiest way to get hold of it. Use a repelling device or just a carabiner if you know the technique.

Terms and Conditions

**Booking and Payment:**

– A deposit is required to confirm your booking.

– Full payment must be made before the expedition departure date.

– Payment methods and cancellation policies will be specified by the expedition company.

**Expedition Itinerary:**

– The expedition itinerary, including daily schedules and accommodation details, will be provided.

– Itineraries may be subject to change due to weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or the expedition guide’s discretion.

**Permits and Documentation:**

– Climbers are responsible for obtaining all necessary permits, including climbing permits and national park entry permitsthrough the expedition company.

– Copies of valid identification (passport) and passport-sized photographs may be required for permit applications.

**Health and Fitness:**

– Climbers should be in excellent health and physically fit to undertake high-altitude climbing.

– Any pre-existing medical conditions or medications should be disclosed to the expedition company.

**Insurance:**

– Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation, medical expenses, and trip cancellation is mandatory.

– Proof of insurance coverage is required before the expedition.

**Responsibilities:**

– Climbers must follow the instructions and decisions of the expedition leader and Sherpa guides for safety and itinerary adherence.

– Respect local customs, culture, and environment during the expedition.

**Equipment and Gear:**

– Climbers are responsible for bringing appropriate climbing gear and clothing suitable for high-altitude conditions.

– Rental options for equipment are available through the expedition company.

**Liability:**

– The expedition company and its guides are not liable for any loss, injury, or damage to personal belongings during the expedition.

– Climbers participate at their own risk and are advised to exercise caution at all times.

**Force Majeure:**

– The expedition company is not liable for delays or changes to the itinerary due to natural disasters, political unrest, strikes, or other force majeure events.

**Cancellation and Refund Policy:**

– Cancellation fees apply based on the timing of cancellation relative to the expedition departure date. Arrangements may be cancelled at any time, but the cancellation should be communicated to us in writing. Since cancellation incurs administrative costs, we will retain any deposit paid and in addition will apply cancellation charges as follows:

– More than 60 days: Deposit Only

– 31 – 60 days: 50%

– 15 – 30 days: 75%

– Refund policies for unused services or changes to the itinerary will be outlined in the terms and conditions.

By booking the Himlung Expedition, participants agree to abide by these terms and conditions.