Hills, Village, Rivers, Waterfall, Terrace, Mountain
Region of Nepal
Region of Nepal
West Nepal
Max. Altitude
Max. Altitude
4000m./13200ft.
Overview
The Limi Valley Trek in western Nepal is one of the finest off-the-beaten-path treks. This remote trek follows the ancient salt trading route and offers unique cultural and natural experiences. It was opened to trekkers in 2002 because of its proximity to the Tibetan border. To protect the fragile ecosystem of the Limi Valley, authorities issue only a limited number of permits each year. This restriction keeps visitor numbers low, ensuring the area’s flora and fauna remain intact for future generations.
Most of the time, Limi Valley Trek pursues unexplored paths that frequently lead to ancient settlements. The nomadic, genuine way of existence has been frozen in time for a long time. On the Limi Valley Hike, authentic Tibetan culture, with its unique language, traditions, and way of life, is clearly visible. Trekkers can explore living museums at villages like Halji and Gombayok, where they can best view ancient Tibet.
The hike up to Gyuo Kharka, at a height of 5150 meters, is the Limi Valley Trek’s primary feature. This offers the chance to see the view that will make you fall in love with nature’s splendor. The stunning beauty of the Himalayas, including Saipal (7031m), Byas Rishi, Api, Kanjirowa, Kanti, and the Gorakh Mountains, can be seen from the summit of this pass.
Background
The Himalayan Peaks of Tibet, which include the holy peaks Mt. Kailash and Gorlamdanda, are where the beauty of nature continues to extend. Lake Mansarovar is a beautiful view from the Acme, located at the base of Mount Kailash.
Trekking to Limi Valley lets you observe rare and endangered plant and animal species. If you’re lucky, you might see any of the trek’s hundreds of herb and animal species, including blue sheep, yaks, wild horses, and snow leopards.
Despite all the hardships the residents of Limi Valley have faced for decades, life looks easy on this intriguing journey, an unconventional camping trek in far-western Nepal.
Cross the two breathtaking high mountain passes, Nyalu La at 4995 meters and Nara La at 4620 meters.
Witness the fantastic views of mountains like Mt. Saipal, Mt. Api, Mt. Kanjirowa, Mt. Byas, Annapurna, Rishi, etc.
Explore the country’s isolated region, experiencing its distinctive lifestyle and unique Tibetan culture.
Walk along the path that follows the Karnali River as it carves through stunning rock formations.
The beautiful landscape of Mount Kailash, which sits on the Tibetan Plateau, is truly breathtaking.
Encounter diverse wildlife and plant life, including blue sheep, snow leopards, jackals, hyenas, musk deer, yaks, wild horses, rhododendrons, edelweiss, and Himalayan blue sheep.
Relax in the rejuvenating waters of the Chugzur hot springs.
What is the level of difficulty for the Limi Valley Trek?
Due to its difficult terrain, high altitude, and steep ascents and descents, the Limi Valley Trek is done in a remote area. It is suggested for seasoned hikers with a high level of physical fitness and endurance.
January
-10°C to -5°C
February
-10°C to -3°C
March
-8°C to 0°C
April
-5°C to 5°C
May
0°C to 10°C
June
5°C to 15°C
July
10°C to 20°C
August
10°C to 20°C
September
5°C to 15°C
October
-3°C to 10°C
November
-8°C to 5°C
December
-10°C to -3°C
Best Time For Humla Limi Valley Trek
The best seasons for trekking in the Limi Valley are spring and autumn. During these times, the weather is clear, sunny, and comfortable for walking. The rhododendron bloom in spring makes the trails even prettier. Additionally, because Limi Valley is located in a rain shadow area, trekking during the monsoon season is also possible. Only experienced trekkers visit Humla during monsoon season.
Winter is not an ideal season for this trek as the trails are surrounded by dense snow, making it almost impossible to trek to this region during that time. Additionally, the temperature can drop as low as -20°C during winter.
17 Days Limi Valley Trekking Day-to-day-Itinerary
Day 1
Fly to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu
Day 1 Facts
Trekking Time Average
45 minutes flight
Accommodation
Lodge in Nepalgunj
Altitude
(200m./660ft.)
Included meals
Lunch, Dinner
Upon landing at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our representatives will meet and drive you to your accommodation. Later in the day, you will take a flight to Nepalgunj, located in the country’s western lowlands. After the hour-long flight, you will have time to explore the town.
Day 2
Fly to Simikot and trek to Dharapuri
Day 2 Facts
Trekking Time Average
45 minutes flight - 12 km /04 hours walk
Accommodation
Lodge in Dharapuri
Altitude
(2300m./7590ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you will board a flight to Simikot, the district headquarters of Humla. It is the starting point of the beautiful Limi Valley Trek. During the 45-minute flight, you will be treated to magnificent views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, your actual trek begins from Simikot to the small settlement of Dharapuri, which sits at 2300 meters. You will traverse several suspension bridges and pass through quaint villages.
Day 3
Trek to Kermi
Day 3 Facts
Trekking Time Average
14km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp at Kermi
Altitude
(2870m./9471ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you’ll begin your walk toward Kermi. This trek will take us through charming pine forests and little towns. After trekking along the Karnali River, we will cross it on a suspension bridge and head to Kermi, a little village well-known for its hot springs. You may take in the stunning surroundings when unwinding in the hot springs.
Day 4
Trek to Yalbung
Day 4 Facts
Trekking Time Average
15km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp at Yalbung
Altitude
(3060m./10098ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
During today’s excursion, you may encounter a few challenging hills along the trail. However, your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountains as you pass through enchanting woodlands. Your destination for the day is Yalbung, a little settlement at 3060 meters above sea level.
Day 5
Trek to Talkot
Day 5 Facts
Trekking Time Average
15km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp at Talkot
Altitude
(3073m./10140ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you will continue your journey to Talkot. The trail offers breathtaking views of the mountains as you pass through lovely valleys. You will arrive at Talkot, a little settlement situated at a height of 3073 meters.
Day 6
Trek to Yari
Day 6 Facts
Trekking Time Average
16km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp at Yari
Altitude
(3663m./12087ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s hike presents a bit more challenge as you ascend the 4620-meter-high Nara La Pass. The terrain is hilly, requiring a certain level of physical fitness. Yet, the breathtaking vistas of the Mountains and the nearby valleys make the effort worthwhile. Your today’s destination is the little settlement of Yari, situated at 3663 meters above sea level.
Day 7
Trek to Hilsa via Nara La Pass
Day 7 Facts
Trekking Time Average
18km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp at Hilsa
Altitude
(3700m./12210ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a brief journey today, you will arrive at Hilsa, a small settlement situated at an altitude of 3700 meters. Along the trail, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the mountains as you pass through picturesque valleys. You will also traverse the Nara La Pass, towering at 4620 meters.
Day 8
Trek to Manepeme
Day 8 Facts
Trekking Time Average
14km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp at Manepeme
Altitude
(3990m./13167ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You will go off on your trip toward Manepeme after breakfast. The trail offers breathtaking views of the mountains while you pass through lovely valleys. You will arrive at the little community of Manepeme, which is 3990 meters above sea level.
Day 9
Manepeme to Til
Day 9 Facts
Trekking Time Average
15km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp at Til
Altitude
(4000m./13200ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a brief journey today, you will arrive in Til, a little community at a height of 4000 meters. The trail offers breathtaking views of the mountains while you pass through lovely valleys.
Day 10
Rest day in Til
Day 10 Facts
Trekking Time Average
Excursion around
Accommodation
Tented camp at Til
Altitude
(4000m./13200ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is a rest day. You can explore the village and surrounding areas, interact with the locals, and learn about their culture and traditions.
Day 11
Trek to Tatopani via Halji
Day 11 Facts
Trekking Time Average
14km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Lodge in Tatopani
Altitude
(3670m./12111ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After leaving Til, we’ll cross a little river to go to Halji hamlet, a stunning old monastery. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the Humla region and features stunning statues and murals. We’ll hike on to Tatopani after touring the monastery. We will pass lovely waterfalls, prayer flags, and breathtaking mountain vistas on the route.
Day 12
Trek to Talung
Day 12 Facts
Trekking Time Average
14km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Campping at Limi River
Altitude
(4370m./14421ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will trek today to reach the Talung village along the Limi River. It is a little, picturesque settlement that is both distant and composed of stone and wood. We will also travel through a little gorge surrounded by high rocks on both sides. Although the trip is somewhat difficult, the breathtaking scenery will make it all worthwhile.
Day 13
Trek to Shinjungma
Day 13 Facts
Trekking Time Average
16km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp in Shinjungma hamlet
Altitude
(3620m./11946ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s hike will take us through alpine meadows and heavily forested areas. We will cross several small streams through the Shey Phoksundo National Park. Wildlife that we might see includes musk deer, blue sheep, and snow leopards. We will spend the night at Shinjungma hamlet, which is located in a lovely valley and offers a stunning view of the mountains.
Day 14
Trek to Kermi
Day 14 Facts
Trekking Time Average
14km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented camp at Kermi village
Altitude
(2670m./8811ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will return to Kermi village today, where we can unwind and recover. We can plunge in the naturally hot water and enjoy the hot springs. We can go to the village and talk to the residents there to learn about their culture and way of life.
day 15
Trek to Dharapuri
day 15 Facts
Trekking Time Average
14km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Tented cmap at Dharapuri
Altitude
(2300m./7590ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After leaving Kermi, we will hike through lovely woodlands and terraced farms to Dharapuri. We will also traverse a number of suspension bridges over rivers. Because the hike will be straightforward, we can take our time and savor the stunning views along the way.
Day 16
Trek to Simikot
Day 16 Facts
Trekking Time Average
16km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Guesthouse at Simikot
Altitude
(2950m./9735ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, we will hike to Simikot, the district of Humla’s administrative hub. A suspension bridge will be used to cross the Karnali River after some tiny communities. When we get there, we will check into a guesthouse in Simikot, where we can take hot showers and eat hearty meals.
Day 17
Fly to Nepalgunj and connection fly to Kathmandu
Day 17 Facts
Trekking Time Average
30 minutes flight to Nepalgunj/ 45 minutes flight to Kathmandu
45 minutes flight to Kathmandu
Altitude
(1295m./4273ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Today, we will fly from Simikot to Nepalgunj and then back to Kathmandu. We will have the chance to reflect on our incredible journey to Limi Valley and the priceless memories we have created. After we return to Kathmandu, we will be transferred to our hotel so that we may rest or explore the beautiful Kathmandu Valley.
Included
Tribhuwan international airport transfer ( Airport + Hotel + Airport )in Kathmandu .
All meals ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with tea/coffee) during the trip.
All camping gear and kitchen utensils during the trek
One experienced, first aid trained, fluent English speaking, local language speaking, friendly and government authorized trekking guide, a cook, kitchen helpers and porters to carry all the food and trekking gear.
Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Simikot and return flights with airport taxes.
All necessary Limi Valley Trekking permits.
Guide and staff’s food, accommodation, salary and insurance etc .
Government tax, vat and office service charges.
Public liability insurance etc.
Not included
Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
Hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, coke, fanta, mineral water, beer, desert, hot shower, hot water, battery charge, laundry, phone bill, bar bill etc.
Personal Travel insurance.
Tips for guide and staff .( Highly suggested).
Book the Trip
Available dates..
Currently, we do not have any scheduled group trips, but you are welcome to embark on the journey on a date that suits you best.
No departure dates found for selected month and year
Need a private date?
The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.
The Limi Valley is in the northwest part of Nepal’s Humla District. It’s a high-altitude valley that borders Nepal and Tibet to the north. The Limi River drains it, a tributary of the Humla Karnali River. The Limi Valley is drained by the Limi River, which flows into the Humla Karnali River. This valley has just three villages: Dzang, Halji, and Til.
These villages are situated at different heights—Dzang is at 3,920m, Halji at 3,700m, and Til at 4,100m above sea level. To reach the Limi Valley, travelers first journey to Simikot, the headquarters of Humla District.
You can reach the Limi Valley from Simikot using two different paths. One route starts by following the Humla Karnali River from Simikot to Hilsa then crossing the river. From there, you ascend the eastern trail to Limi Valley, entering near Til village. This route typically takes 5-7 days to traverse. The other route also starts by following the Humla Karnali River upstream but diverges north at the confluence of the Salli Khola and Humla Karnali rivers. This path takes you over the 4,995m high Nyalu Lagna pass.
Then, it goes into Talung Valley. After a day’s walk, it reaches Limi Valley near Takche, east of Dzang village. Walking this route generally takes 4-5 days.
Can Beginner Trek to Limi Valley?
It’s an ideal spot for those looking for a unique and exciting experience. Yes, a beginner with a strong willpower and a decent fitness can easily overcome this trek. Even though the trek will take numerous days, the majestic views motivate you to keep going. Acclimatization is a must in these cases, as you will be trekking above 5000 meters.
Accommodation and Meal During Limi valley Trek
The Humla Limi Valley trek is one of the least explored regions of Nepal, and it has a very low population. This trek requires total camping as no teahouses or a variety of food options are available. Only a few teahouses in Simikot and some other places provide necessary supplies.
High-quality tents and the kitchen, dining, sleeping, and toilets are provided for accommodation. Essentials like a gas stove for cooking, necessary utensils, towels, hand wash soaps, toilet paper, and dining chairs and tables are also included.
Since there are no teahouses along the trail, you’ll enjoy preparing food with the provided cook. Besides tented camps, rest days are spent in the best available hotels with maximum facilities. Meals include the staple Nepali diet of dal-bhat, vegetable curry, soups, eggs, bread, jam, porridge, herbal tea, ginger tea, coffee, noodles, seasonal vegetables, and salads.
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is the highest altitude on the Limi Valley Circuit route?
The Nara La Pass, which rises 4,620 meters above sea level, is the highest point on the Limi Valley Trek. Apart from this, the three settlements—Dzang at 3,920m, Halji at 3,700m, and Til at 4,100m above sea level—offer diverse perspectives of the region’s altitude variations.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Limi Valley Trek?
On the Limi Valley circuit Trek, altitude sickness can be a risk. It’s crucial to properly acclimatize by ascending gradually and having rest days as needed. Also, if your doctor advises it, you should consume plenty of water, abstain from alcohol and smoking, and take altitude sickness medication.
Do I need a permit to go on the Limi Valley Trek?
Yes, a permit is required to participate in the Limi Valley Trek. A Restricted Area Permit and a TIMS card is required. It can be obtained in Kathmandu from the Nepal Tourism Board or any other trekking agencies.
What is the cost of the permits for the Limi Valley Trek?
On the Humla Limi Valley Trek, permits cost about USD 50 per person per day. Additionally, you must obtain a TIMS card, which costs NPR 2000.
Is it possible to do the Limi Valley Trek independently, or do I need a guide?
Although it is feasible to do the Limi Valley Trek alone, it is advised not to do so for your own safety and convenience. This trek is different as it is a restricted area where very few tourist are permitted to trek. A guide can offer knowledge about the region and its culture, assist with navigation, and facilitate communication with locals.
What should I pack for the Limi Valley Circuit trek?
You should bring walking boots, a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, a headlamp, warm, waterproof clothing, and other trekking equipment. Essential items to pack include extra layers for warmth, a water bottle to stay hydrated, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat for sun protection, and a sturdy backpack to carry your belongings. Having cash on hand for personal costs and tipping your guide and porter is also advised.
We thank our guests for trekking with us, reviewing our services, and making us eligible for the prestigious awards. We also sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment and continuous support of our company. Without their hard work, dedication, and passion, the awards and achievements we have received wouldn’t be possible.
My friend and I were lucky to find Tej online before visiting Nepal. We knew we wanted to do a trek, but we weren’t sure exactly which trek. Tej sent us a bunch of itineraries for different treks and we chose the Manaslu circuit. When we arrived our guide, Kumar, was waiting for us at the airport and Tej was able to get us all our permits for the trek done in less than 2 hours which was great. The manaslu trek was absolutely amazing! We were super happy with our whole trip and we were lucky to be able to make the pass even though we saw dozens of other people who had to turn back because of the weather. We are already looking forward to going back next year at the same time to trek Everest and we will definitely use Tej again!
“Nepal Alternative Trek addressed my needs according to my schedule and agenda. I stayed most of the time at his home-stay, shuttling between home and the places that I wanted to visit. Tej, the boss behind Nepal Alternative Trek, helped to make my stay in Kathmandu comfortable and productive. He walked me to the monasteries that I wanted to visit and even picked me up when I needed a ride back home.
The home-stay is hosted by his wife and I got to experience living with a Nepalese family, sharing their food, space and laughter.
For the home-stay:
1) Meals available upon request
2) Family get together and chats
3) Regular change of bed-sheets and towels
4) Free WIFI
5) Near Swayambhu and Thamel
6) Safe environment
7) Mountainous forest behind home
8) Walking distance to beautiful monasteries
9) Away from hustle and bustle of towns yet easy to get to town
Goal was achieved 4130 meter and 0 degree celsius, Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It was 6 months of preparation. It was challenging target for us. We had dense forest, mountain, and completely wilderness above the treeline, it was windy and terrain . There is a huge support team. Without them it would not be possible. We can do it , we just have to give time and practice. Mr. Gurung Ji, you with your entire 7 of team were wonderful. They were always ready to help us.
Thanks Mr. Gurung ji for all the support, and guidance that made the trip successful. While all of us focused on Mountain, big thing but there were so many beautiful things along the way, stream, flowers, flora, so many birds I took pictures. So, in summary, phenomenal, success and our confidence there. We know, we can do more and higher in next what bigger thing.
8 days non trek city tour and 21days trek to EBC and chola pass
We love nepal and made 3 time visit to this beutiful country and rich culture. This time last year we came with 6 pax and visited Kathmandu , Pohkara and chitwan with a stay of 2 night in each place. We flew to Pohkara and got the van to chitwan and flew to Kathmandu. Tej arranged all transports overland and flights for us. We did not asked for a local guide but it was all smooth and no problem. We are happy with the service provided by Tej and he made all efforts to make us happy. His company performed professional with the very reasonable pricing. We encountered some small problem with the van transporting us back from nagarkot to kathmandu airport. This van was quite small and it came to pick up quite late that we almost missed the flight to pohkara. We told Tej about this and he must take care of this outsourced van company. Anyway the van in pohkara and to chitwan was excellent , big and comfy. So he has corrected the mistake.
Part 2 was our trek to EBC and chola pass for 21 nights. Tej arranged for flight and guide plus porter. For this trekking it was only me and my wife travelling together. We are about 50 years and used the service of 2 porters cause we bought a lot of dry food plus chocolate. We are difficult persons in terms of foreign food. Our guide Ammer and 2 porters are fabulous. They took care of us very well like we are part of their family.
Overall we strongly recommend this company. They are good and not high expensive tag. We will use their service again in June to trek in Langtang. Rocky
We had a fantastic experience on the Annapurna Circuit with Nepal Alternative Treks. Tej, the manager, was helpful, professional and efficient in dealing with our requirements and amendments, the arrangements worked smoothly and the information provided to us was excellent. Our guide Kul was brilliant. He was friendly, knowledgable and experienced and took changes in our itinerary in his stride. Our trekking experience was much better with his help in everything from planning the stages of the route to organising our food and accommodation. Just one warning: he is an ace card player and will probably beat you hands down!
A wonderful & interesting trek overall. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances ( heavy snow fall & Lie ping with a bad cold) we were unable to cross the Ganja la pass. However, our guide Simbir offered us as alternative trek which took us on a difference journey of Nepal. We had the opportunity to visit & stay in many local villages and meet Tamang, Gurung people experience, their lifestyle and culture. We visited our guide’s home town of Chalishgaun and timed it right to join in with Diwali celebrations!
Attempting Everest base camp trekking for me & my group was taking it to the next level. Before this, our limits were Kedarnath, MadMaheshwar & Tunganath with max distances of 18-19 kms spread over 2-3 days. Moreover, these tracks are such that people doesn’t necessarily have to trek. They have the option of ponies. EBC involves a lot for people like us (acclimatization to altitude, strength etc.), but above all, you need someone to provide logistical support, moral support that it can be done. This is where Nepal Alternative Treks does a great job. They organized it very well, guides and porters provided were very reliable and cost is reasonable when you compare to others. They can customize your travel plan according to your need.
A few weeks ago we went on a trip to Nepal, accompanied by a couple of friends who were on their second trip with Nepal Alternative Trek. Our first goal was to trek to the village of Chalish in Ruby Valley. We decided to go with the services of Nepal Alternative Trek to take us up there. We went there partly by jeep, partly walking through the cultivated terraces, meeting the inhabitants of the different communities who worked there.
I must say that the service that Tej offered us was perfect on all lines. First of all, before our departure, months before, Tej always answered our many questions (luggage, temperature, route to be revised, etc.) Always within 24 hours, he answered with a lot of patience.
All the equipment we thought we would need was available at his office.
Our guide Ammar led us to destination with confidence and professionalism. He knew all the trails, and especially all the shortcuts to avoid us having to go up or down too much along our road. He has managed all the difficulties we have encountered: due to personal reasons, we had to change and our itinerary, and our calendar, and he made everything possible. The whole team adapted to our changes. Our guide contacted Tej who orchestrated the changes without us even having to deal with anything.
The porters were attentive and were always in front of our needs.
Our journey continued towards Bandipur with the driver who made us know the various interesting points, from sunrise to sunset, making detours to take us to the most famous places. Then a 2 days stay in Chitwan, and return to Kathmandu again where the driver carried us without calculating from one place to another – God knows that traffic in Kathmandu, Bakhtapur and Patan can be complicated.
Thanks to Tej, and the whole Nepal Alternative Trek team. We will remember forever that amazing experience.
Many thanks to Tej – well organized, Dhan + hal worked Hard, we could not have done it without there Help, they were always there when needed, worked extra to help us when we were sick. Always kind and cheerful
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