This day is dedicated to cultural sightseeing and expedition preparations. You will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath. Meanwhile, the expedition team will complete climbing permits, liaison formalities, and equipment inspections. A detailed expedition briefing will be conducted in the evening.

After breakfast, you begin a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna and Manang regions. The drive follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers, passing terraced farmland, small towns, and river valleys. Overnight at a lodge in Besisahar.

Today’s drive continues along the Marsyangdi Valley, passing through Chame and several traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages. The landscape gradually becomes more alpine as you approach Koto, the entry point to the restricted Nar–Phu Valley. Overnight at Koto.

The trek begins by entering the Nar–Phu Valley, following a narrow trail along steep canyon walls carved by the Phu River. The trail ascends gradually through remote terrain, crossing suspension bridges and rocky paths before reaching Meta, a small seasonal settlement surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

Today’s hike leads deeper into the isolated Nar–Phu region. The trail traverses arid, high-altitude landscapes with wide valleys and ancient stone shelters. You pass grazing areas used by yak herders before reaching Chyaku, a quiet and rarely visited settlement.

The route continues through open terrain with expansive mountain views. The trail follows the river valley, gradually ascending toward Kyang, a seasonal grazing village with traditional stone houses. The remoteness of this region offers a true wilderness experience.

Today’s trek takes you to the ancient village of Phu Gaon, one of the most culturally preserved Tibetan settlements in Nepal. The village is dramatically set beneath Himlung Himal and surrounded by barren cliffs and high peaks. Upon arrival, you will explore the village and prepare for the climbing phase ahead.

This rest day allows for proper acclimatization. You may take short hikes to nearby viewpoints or visit the historic Tashi Lhakhang Monastery. The day is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing equipment for the approach to Base Camp.

Leaving Phu Gaon, the trail ascends gradually through alpine terrain toward Himlung Base Camp. The route follows glacial valleys and yak pastures before reaching the base camp site, located beneath the massive south face of Himlung Himal. Tents are set up, and the expedition officially enters the climbing phase.

Himlung Himal Climbing Phase
This day is used for rest, acclimatization, and technical training. Climbers practice the use of crampons, ice axes, fixed ropes, and high-altitude safety techniques. Sherpa teams begin preparing higher camps.

The first rotation begins with a steady ascent to Camp I. The route involves glacier travel and moderate snow slopes. After reaching Camp I, the team rests briefly before returning to Base Camp or staying overnight, depending on conditions and group strategy.

Today’s rotation involves climbing higher to Camp II. This ascent is steeper and requires careful movement on snow and ice. After reaching Camp II and spending time acclimatizing, the team descends back to Base Camp for recovery.

A rest day at Base Camp to allow the body to adapt to altitude. Climbers hydrate, eat well, and prepare for the next rotation. Weather and route conditions are closely monitored.

The second rotation begins with an ascent to Camp I, following the now-familiar route. This time, the body responds better due to prior acclimatization.

The team ascends again to Camp II and spends the night there. This overnight stay helps prepare climbers for the final push to higher camps.

The route to Camp III is more demanding, involving steeper snow slopes and colder conditions. Camp III is established high on the mountain in preparation for the summit attempt.

A crucial rest day at Camp III to allow final acclimatization and recovery before the summit push. Equipment is checked, and weather forecasts are assessed carefully.

An early alpine start begins the summit attempt. The route follows long snow slopes to the broad summit ridge. From the summit of Himlung Himal, climbers enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Manaslu, and the Tibetan Plateau. After reaching the summit, the team descends carefully back to Camp III.

After the successful summit push, climbers descend from Camp III through Camp II and Camp I, returning to Base Camp. This long descent marks the end of the climbing phase.

Return Trek
The trek back begins with a relaxed descent to Phu Gaon. Returning to the village allows time to rest and reconnect with local culture.

Retracing the route through the Nar–Phu Valley, the trail descends through wide valleys and rocky landscapes back to Meta.

Continue descending along the canyon trail to Koto, enjoying the gradual return to greener landscapes and warmer air.

After breakfast, drive back along the Marsyangdi Valley to Besisahar, passing through familiar villages and scenic river valleys.

The journey continues by road back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest.

This free day allows for relaxation, sightseeing, souvenir shopping, or optional spa treatments. A farewell dinner may be organized in the evening to celebrate the expedition.

You will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure, concluding your Mt. Himlung Himal Expedition