Journey through one of Nepal's most remote Himalayan regions, following ancient trade routes to the hidden Limi Valley, crossing high mountain passes, visiting centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and experiencing authentic Himalayan culture in one of the least-visited corners of the Himalaya
The Humla Limi Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, culturally rich and adventurous Himalayan journeys. Located in the far north-west of Nepal, close to the Tibetan border, this extraordinary trek explores the hidden landscapes of Humla and the ancient Limi Valley, a region that remained largely inaccessible to outsiders until recent decades.
Following sections of the mighty Karnali River, Nepal’s longest river, the route passes through isolated mountain villages, high-altitude deserts, sacred monasteries, traditional Tibetan Buddhist settlements and spectacular Himalayan wilderness. The trek offers a rare opportunity to experience a way of life that has changed little for centuries, where yak caravans, ancient trade routes and centuries-old monasteries remain central to daily life.
Beyond its remarkable cultural heritage, the trek showcases an incredible variety of landscapes. Deep river gorges gradually give way to vast open valleys, high mountain passes, alpine grasslands, wetlands, turquoise lakes and barren Tibetan-style plateaus. Along the way, trekkers encounter ancient gompas, sacred mani walls, nomadic camps, hot springs and remote communities rarely visited by outsiders.
The highlight of the journey is the spectacular Limi Valley, one of Nepal’s most isolated inhabited valleys. Here, traditional villages such as Til, Halji and Jang preserve a unique form of Tibetan culture, architecture and Buddhism. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dramatic desert landscapes, the valley feels more like Tibet than Nepal.
This fully supported camping trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking genuine wilderness, cultural immersion and an off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure far from the crowded trekking routes of Nepal.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Humla Limi Valley Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and passport collection.
Day 2: Trek briefing and preparation.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Overnight in Nepalgunj.
Day 4: Fly to Simikot (2,910m) and trek to Dharapuri (2,300m), approx. 5 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Dharapuri to Kermi (2,870m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Kermi to Yalbang (3,060m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Yalbang to Talkot (3,073m), approx. 5 hours.
Day 8: Trek from Talkot to Yari (3,663m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 9: Trek from Yari to Hilsa (3,700m) via Nara La Pass (4,620m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 10: Trek from Hilsa to Manepeme (3,990m), approx. 5 hours.
Day 11: Trek from Manepeme to Til (4,000m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 12: Rest day in Til.
Day 13: Trek from Til via Halji to Tatopani (3,950m), approx. 8 hours.
Day 14: Trek from Tatopani to Talung (4,370m), approx. 8 hours.
Day 15: Trek from Talung to Shinjungma (3,620m) via Nyalu La Pass (4,949m), approx. 8 hours.
Day 16: Trek from Shinjungma to Kermi (2,670m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 17: Rest day in Kermi with optional visit to the hot springs.
Day 18: Trek from Kermi to Dharapuri (2,300m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 19: Trek from Dharapuri to Simikot (2,950m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 20: Fly from Simikot to Nepalgunj and onward to Kathmandu.
Day 21: Departure from Nepal.
The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Passport Collection
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, passports will be collected to process the Humla restricted area permits. The remainder of the day is free to relax and recover from your journey.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Trek Briefing and Preparation (B)
Today is dedicated to final preparations for the trek. Your guide will conduct a detailed briefing covering the route, safety procedures, camping arrangements and equipment requirements. There will also be time for any last-minute shopping or gear rental.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (B L D)
Fly south-west across Nepal to Nepalgunj, a bustling city located near the Indian border. This overnight stop positions us for the early mountain flight to Humla the following morning.
Overnight in a hotel.
Day 4: Fly to Simikot (2,910m) and Trek to Dharapuri (2,300m) | Approx. 5 Hours (B L D)
An early morning mountain flight takes you from Nepalgunj to Simikot, the administrative centre of Humla District. The spectacular flight offers your first views of the remote western Himalaya. After meeting the trekking crew and final preparations, begin trekking through the Karnali River Valley, descending towards Dharapuri through traditional villages and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Overnight in camp.
Day 5: Trek from Dharapuri to Kermi (2,870m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Following the Karnali River upstream, the trail passes through a mixture of Hindu and Buddhist settlements. Beautiful views open across the valley as the route gradually climbs towards Kermi, one of Humla’s traditional Buddhist villages. Nearby natural hot springs provide an opportunity to relax after the day’s walk.
Overnight in camp.
Day 6: Trek from Kermi to Yalbang (3,060m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route continues along the Karnali Valley, passing caravans transporting goods between Tibet and Nepal. The trail leads to Yalbang, home to the important Namkha Khyung Dzong Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the region.
Overnight in camp.
Day 7: Trek from Yalbang to Talkot (3,073m) | Approx. 5 Hours (B L D)
As the valley widens, the landscape begins to change dramatically. Dense forests gradually give way to more open terrain characterised by rocky slopes, sandy hillsides and sparse vegetation. After reaching camp near Talkot, there is an opportunity to visit the historic Dhungkar Choezon Monastery.
Overnight in camp.
Day 8: Trek from Talkot to Yari (3,663m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
A gradual ascent takes you into increasingly remote terrain beneath the Nara La Pass. The route traverses high mountain landscapes with expansive valley views and evidence of the growing Tibetan influence in both culture and architecture.
Overnight in camp.
Day 9: Trek from Yari to Hilsa (3,700m) via Nara La Pass (4,620m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
One of the major highlights of the trek. A steady climb leads to Nara La Pass, marked by colourful prayer flags and sweeping Himalayan views. From the pass, enjoy your first views into the spectacular Limi Valley and neighbouring Tibet before descending to Hilsa, located on the Nepal-Tibet border.
Overnight in camp.
Day 10: Trek from Hilsa to Manepeme (3,990m) | Approx. 5 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the border region behind, the trail enters the remote landscapes of the Limi Valley. Wide valleys, traditional settlements and spectacular mountain scenery accompany the gradual ascent to Manepeme.
Overnight in camp.
Day 11: Trek from Manepeme to Til (4,000m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Cross a small pass before descending to the Limi River. The trail then follows the valley to Til, one of the traditional villages of the Limi Valley, surrounded by high mountains and expansive landscapes.
Overnight in camp.
Day 12: Rest Day in Til (B L D)
A welcome rest day in one of the most beautiful locations of the trek. Explore the surrounding area, observe traditional village life or relax by the Limi River. The surrounding cliffs are also home to Himalayan griffon vultures often seen soaring overhead.
Overnight in camp.
Day 13: Trek from Til via Halji to Tatopani (3,950m) | Approx. 8 Hours (B L D)
A fascinating cultural day as you pass through Halji, one of the most important settlements in the Limi Valley. Explore its ancient monastery, traditional houses and extensive mani walls before continuing to Tatopani. Natural hot springs near camp provide an opportunity to relax after a long day.
Overnight in camp.
Day 14: Trek from Tatopani to Talung (4,370m) | Approx. 8 Hours (B L D)
The route traverses wetlands, crosses a small pass and passes a stunning turquoise alpine lake before reaching Talung. The landscapes become increasingly wild and remote as you move deeper into the high Himalaya.
Overnight in camp.
Day 15: Trek from Talung to Shinjungma (3,620m) via Nyalu La Pass (4,949m) | Approx. 8 Hours (B L D)
Another spectacular high-pass crossing. The climb to Nyalu La rewards trekkers with breathtaking 360-degree views across the Himalayan ranges. After enjoying the panorama, descend through alpine grasslands to the campsite at Shinjungma.
Overnight in camp.
Day 16: Trek from Shinjungma to Kermi (2,670m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
A long descent through forests and mountain valleys brings you back to the familiar surroundings of Kermi. Rhododendron forests, rivers and traditional villages accompany the day’s walk.
Overnight in camp.
Day 17: Rest Day in Kermi (B L D)
A second rest day allows time for recovery after the high passes. Relax at the nearby hot springs, explore the village or enjoy short walks in the surrounding countryside.
Overnight in camp.
Day 18: Trek from Kermi to Dharapuri (2,300m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Retrace the Karnali Valley route, descending through Buddhist villages and beautiful river scenery back to Dharapuri.
Overnight in camp.
Day 19: Trek from Dharapuri to Simikot (2,950m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
The final trekking day climbs steadily back to Simikot. Upon arrival, there is time to explore the local markets, relax and celebrate the completion of this remarkable Himalayan journey.
Overnight in camp.
Day 20: Fly from Simikot to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu (B)
Weather permitting, fly from Simikot to Nepalgunj and continue onwards to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 21: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your Humla Limi Valley Trek adventure.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Additional Information
Permit information: To obtain the Humla Restricted Area Permit, we require your original passport at least two working days before departure.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International & domestic airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 nights pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- 1 night accommodation in Nepalgunj: Pre trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team
- Domestic flights as outlined in the itinerary
- Camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on domestic flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Humla Limi Valley Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
21 Days
Annapurna Region
Strenuous/Difficult
