LIMI VALLEY TO KAILASH TREK

The Limi Valley to Kailash Trek is a spiritual journey that allows exploration of the Himalayas and offers a transformative experience. Located in northwest Nepal, the Limi Valley is a remote area largely untouched by modern life. It is surrounded by high peaks and green meadows and is home to the Limi people, who uphold their traditions.
The trek starts in the village of Hilsa, where locals warmly share their stories and culture. As you walk through the valley, you'll see ancient monasteries, fluttering prayer flags, and hear local chants. The valley is rich in Tibetan Buddhism, evident in the carvings and murals of its monasteries, including the historic Yari and Halji Monasteries.
The trek to Mount Kailash is challenging, covering about 100 kilometers through rugged terrain and high passes, taking around 23 days. The highest point is the Dolma La Pass at 5,630 meters, making acclimatization essential to avoid altitude sickness.
To prepare for the trek, focus on physical fitness, acclimatization, packing essentials, hydration, nutrition, and cultural respect. Mount Kailash is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, making it a key destination for trekkers.
The Kora, a spiritual walk around Mount Kailash, is about 52 kilometers long and is believed to erase sins and bring blessings. The journey features stunning views, sacred lakes like Manasarovar, and the chance to witness local devotion.

Minimum travellers 2
Maximum travellers 10

Itinerary

  • 1

    Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

    Today we fly to Nepalgunj. Overnight at the hotel.

  • 2

    Fly from Nepalgunj to Simikot 2950m

    From Nepalgunj, fly to the airport in the far west of Nepal - Simikot. Simikot is the district headquarters of Humla. Overnight in a cottage in Simikot.

  • 3

    Trek from Simikot to Kermi 2670m 5-7 hrs

    Today begins the Limi Valley Trek along the least frequented hiking trails in Nepal. Overnight at the camp in Kermi.

  • 4

    Trek from Kermi to Shinjungma 3620m 6-7 hrs trek

    The Limi Valley Trek picks up quite a bit of elevation gain today, we climb Shinjungma and set up our camps at 3620m.

  • 5

    Trek from Shinjungma to Dharamsala

    The first half of the Limi Calley Trek winds through medium hills. Just like today we head to Dharamsala and break our camps.

  • 6

    Rest Day at Dharamsala

    Today, rest in Dharamsala before heading to high passes such as Nyala Pass 4940m.

  • 7

    Trek from Dharamsala to Talung 4379m via Nyala Pass 4940m

    Today is the Limi Valley trek day where you will reach the highest altitude of the trek. Cross the Nyala Pass and enter the Limi Valley. The first village you come across in the Limi Valley is Talung 4379 m. Overnight at the camp.

  • 8

    Trek from Telung to Gummayac (4803m)

    The journey continues along the elevated road. At the end of the day we arrive at our campsite in Gummauac. Overnight at the campsite.

  • 9

    Trek from Gummayac to Phyalang via Lalung La Pass 4833m

    Today is one of the most important days of the Limi Valley trek. At the beginning of the trek, we climb to the top of the Lalung La pass, from where we can see a wonderful panorama of the Kailash Mansarovar lake and other Tibetan mountains. On the descent, we reach the village of Phyalang, which is very close to Tibet.

  • 10

    Trek from Phyalang to Tholing

    The Limi Trek continues and we reach Tholing at the end of the day. Overnight in camps.

  • 11

    Trek from Tholing to Halji

    Today we arrive in one of the main villages of the Limi Valley, Halji. After arriving in Halji, we will explore the surroundings of this traditional village. Overnight at the campsite.

  • 12

    Trek from Halji to River side camp

    Today after breakfast we start the Trek through the Limi Valley. and at the end of the day we arrive at the River side camp, which lies just below the famous village of Limi-Til. Overnight at the campsite.

  • 13

    Hike to Til and Rest day

    Today after breakfast we leave for Til and explore the village. During the tour of the village, we will visit a monastery whose history dates back to the 8th century. Overnight at the camp near Til.

  • 14

    Trek from Til to Manepeme

    Today's trek takes us to Manepeme - a village named after a part of a spiritual Buddhist prayer. Overnight in camps.

  • 15

    Trek from Manepeme to Hilsa

    The 15-mile trek from Manepeme to Hilsa in Nepal's Himalayan region is a challenging but rewarding journey through rugged mountain terrain, dense forests and scenic valleys. Experienced guides ensure safety and the journey requires both physical and mental strength. It offers a deep sense of accomplishment and connection with nature.

  • 16

    Drive from Hilsa to Lake Mansarovar

    We drive to Lake Mansarovar and reach Horch. We will turn the 102 kilometer lake, it takes 3-5 days. We will visit 8 monasteries around the lake and finally arrive at Chiu Gompa.

  • 17

    Drive from Lake Mansarovar to Darchen

    The morning includes a deep dive in the Mansarovar Lake, where Hindu pilgrims offer water, flowers and money to God. They meditate, recite the names of their gods, perform homas and exchange fortunes. The day is dedicated to spiritual activities, lunch at 14:00 and a night in a guesthouse in Darchen. An excursion to Astapad is also available for interested pilgrims.

  • 18

    Drive from Darchen to Tarboche

    The journey starts at Yamadwar, the gate of the god of death, and continues to Sershong. This then includes a walk to Dirapuk Monastery where some yatris can take a pony and a local porter for 3 days. The first day of Kailash Parikrama involves walking for 5-6 hours with a yak carrying all the equipment.

  • 19

    Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk (4790 meters - 22 kilometers Drive)

    Today's journey includes the Dolma-La Pass, 5636 meters high, with unpredictable weather and potential snow storms. The route includes Darshan Ganesh Kund, Gauri Kund Lake and steep climb to Dormala Pass. After passing Shapje Datok, we continue on a straight road to Zuthulpuk Monastery, where we will stay overnight.

  • 20

    Drive from Zuthulpuk to Saga

    The drive from Zuthulpuk to Saga offers a scenic drive through the stunning Tibetan landscape, starting from the remote village of Zuthulpuk. The route passes traditional Tibetan nomadic camps and green valleys dotted with Buddhist stupas and prayer flags. This unforgettable experience showcases the region's rich cultural heritage.

  • 21

    Drive from Saga to Nyalam

    The 250km drive from Saga to Nylam in Tibet offers a stunning journey through the Himalayan region with its rugged mountain landscape, picturesque valleys and peaceful Tibetan villages. Despite the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, the journey offers an unforgettable experience showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tibet.

  • 22

    Drive from Nyalam to Kathmandu

    The 150 kilometer drive from Nyalam to Kathmandu offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau. Despite the challenging road conditions, it is the highlight of many travelers' trips. It takes approximately six to eight hours depending on weather and traffic and is recommended for experienced local drivers.

Services

Cost Includes

  • Accommodation:

    • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj (usually on a bed and breakfast basis).

    • Tented camping during the Limi Valley trek or basic teahouses/lodges where available.


  • Transportation:

    • Scheduled airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu.

    • Domestic flights: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Nepalgunj to Simikot (and return).

    • Private transportation for sightseeing in Kathmandu.

    • Potentially private vehicles to and from the trek's starting and ending points.


  • Permits:

    • Limi Valley Restricted Area Permit.

    • Humla District Special Permit.

    • Conservation area permits.

    • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card.


  • Meals:

    • Breakfast in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj.

    • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the Limi Valley trek.

    • Sometimes includes tea, coffee, and snacks during the trek.


  • Trekking Staff:

    • Experienced and licensed trekking guide.

    • Porters to carry luggage (usually one porter for two trekkers, with a weight limit).

    • Cook and kitchen staff for camping treks.

    • Salaries, insurance, food, and accommodation for the trekking staff.


  • Equipment (for camping treks):

    • Tents (usually twin-sharing).

    • Sleeping mats.

    • Kitchen and dining equipment.

    • Toilet tent.








  • Other:

    • First aid kit.

    • Support throughout the trekking experience.

    • Government taxes and service charges.

Cost Excludes

    • Visa Fees: Nepal visa fees.

    • International Airfare: Costs of flights to and from your home country to Kathmandu.

    • Meals in Cities: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj (unless specified).

    • Personal Expenses:

      • Drinks (bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages) especially outside of the full board meal plan on the trek.

      • Laundry, souvenirs, phone calls, internet/Wi-Fi.

      • Battery charging for electronic devices.

      • Hot showers (may be available at an extra cost in some places).



    • Travel Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation (including helicopter rescue), and trip cancellation.

    • Trekking Gear: Personal trekking equipment such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, down jackets (these can often be rented in Kathmandu).

    • Tips: Gratuities for the trekking guide, porters, and other staff.

    • Extra Costs:

      • Additional accommodation or meals due to early arrival, late departure, or delays caused by weather, landslides, or other unforeseen circumstances.

      • Optional activities or side trips not included in the itinerary.



    Typical Inclusions for a Kailash Trek/Yatra (when combined):


    • Accommodation:

      • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (before and after the Tibet portion).

      • Guesthouses or basic hotels in Tibet (Kyirong, Saga, Darchen, etc.).

      • Potentially tented accommodation near Lake Manasarovar or during the Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation).



    • Transportation:

      • Transportation within Tibet by jeep, van, or bus, depending on group size.

      • Necessary airport transfers in Kathmandu.



    • Permits and Visa:

      • Tibet Group Visa fee.

      • All necessary Tibet travel permits.



    • Meals:

      • Vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the Tibet portion.



    • Staff:

      • Experienced Nepali tour leader/manager.

      • English-speaking Tibetan guide.

      • Cook and support staff in Tibet.

      • Potentially yaks and yak herders for carrying luggage during the Kailash Parikrama.



    • Other:

      • Oxygen cylinders for emergency use.

      • First aid kit.

      • Sometimes includes a duffel bag, t-shirt, or other small gifts.

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