Himlung Expedition

High-Altitude Mountaineering in the Nar–Phu Valley

30 days

7126m

4 -8

Hard

Autumn / Spring

Starts in: Kathmandu

Ends in: Kathmandu

Accommodation: Hotel, Lodges & Expedition Camps

Himlung Himal (7,126 m) is one of the most elegant and formative mountains in the Himalaya. Located in the remote Nar–Phu Valley, it offers an authentic expedition experience: a long approach, real isolation, preserved culture, and an ideal environment for technical learning and progressive acclimatization.
This expedition is designed as a solid step into high-altitude mountaineering, combining an approach trek, true Base Camp life, and a well-structured climbing period. It is not only about reaching the summit, but about learning how to move with judgment in big mountains.
With Crest Summit Treks, Himlung becomes a formative, human, and deeply transformative experience.

Highlights

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Summit Himlung Himal (7,126 m)

a spectacular and rewarding 7000-meter Himalayan peak.

himlung-expedition-10
Ideal expedition for climbers seeking their first 7000 m Himalayan experience.
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Explore the remote Nar–Phu Valley, one of Nepal’s most untouched mountain regions.
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Professional Sherpa-led expedition team ensuring safety and high success rates.

Itinerary

1
Arrival in Kathmandu

Airport reception and transfer to the hotel. Rest after the international journey.

1300 m
2
Kathmandu | Preparation, equipment check & welcome dinner

• Full personal equipment check
• General expedition briefing
• Possibility to rent technical equipment in Kathmandu (at the client’s own cost)
• Welcome dinner and official expedition presentation

3
Official expedition procedures

Mandatory briefing at the Nepal Tourism Ministry and final logistical preparations.

4
Kathmandu → Besishahar (≈820 m)

Road transfer. Overnight in lodge.

5
Besishahar → Koto

Road transfer to the entrance of the Nar–Phu Valley.

2675 m
Lodge
6
Koto → Meta

First trekking day in a remote area. Overnight in lodge.

3560 m
7
Meta → Kyang

Steady progress through alpine terrain. Overnight in lodge.

3887 m
Lodge
8
Kyang → Phu

Arrival at the historic village of Phu.

4050 m
9
Phu → Himlung Base Camp

Trek to Base Camp. Camp setup and start of expedition life.

10
Days 10–23 | Climbing and acclimatization period

Days dedicated to the Himlung Himal expedition.

Activities include:

• Progressive acclimatization
• Rotations to high camps
• Technical training and safety systems
• Weather monitoring
• Summit attempt when conditions are favorable

The summit plan always adapts to weather, team condition, and safety priorities.

Expedition Camp
24
Days 24–30 | Descent and return

Day 24 – Base Camp | Camp clean-up and closure
Day 25 – Base Camp → Phu
Day 26 – Phu → Meta
Day 27 – Meta → Koto
Day 28 – Koto → Besishahar → Kathmandu
Day 29 – Kathmandu | Free day / rest
Day 30 – International departure

Hotel / Lodge

Included / Not Included

Not Included

✈️ Flights & Visa
• International flights and airport taxes
• Nepal entry visa fees

🎒 Personal Equipment & Insurance
• Personal trekking and climbing equipment
• Personal travel and high-altitude rescue insurance

🍽 Meals in Kathmandu
• Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu (except the 2 included dinners)

🏨 Extra Accommodation
• Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu due to early return or delays

🫁 Climbing Oxygen
• Personal oxygen bottles, mask and regulator

🚁 Rescue & Medical
• Emergency helicopter evacuation costs

📡 Communication Permits
• Personal radio or satellite phone permits

💰 Personal Expenses
• Drinks, laundry, phone calls, charging batteries, showers

💸 Tips & Bonuses
• Tips for guides, Sherpas and expedition staff
• Summit bonus for climbing Sherpas

⚠️ Unforeseen Costs
• Costs caused by weather delays, flight cancellations or force majeure

📦 Additional Services
• Any service not specifically mentioned in the Included section

Included

🏨 In Kathmandu
• Airport – Hotel – Airport private transfers
• 4 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3★) with breakfast (twin sharing)
• Welcome dinner and farewell dinner in Kathmandu (2 dinners included)
• Expedition briefing and preparation meeting
• Assistance with expedition permits and official documentation

🥾 Trekking Approach
• All ground transportation according to itinerary
• Lodge accommodation during the trekking approach
• Three meals per day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee)
• Experienced licensed trekking guides
• Porters for personal trekking equipment
• National park entry permits
• TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System)
• First aid medical kit carried by expedition staff
• Insurance and wages for all Nepalese trekking staff

🏕 Expedition Services
• Himlung Himal climbing permit
• Fully equipped Base Camp (sleeping tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent)
• Tables, chairs and full kitchen equipment
• Full board meals during the expedition
• Professional expedition cook and kitchen staff
• Heater in the Base Camp dining tent
• Base Camp manager and expedition support staff
• Satellite phone available at Base Camp (calls charged separately)
• Solar panels for charging batteries and lighting
• Emergency oxygen and Gamow bag available at Base Camp
• 1 Climber : 1 Climbing Sherpa guide
• Walkie-talkie communication system
• Group climbing equipment and fixed ropes
• High altitude tents and food for upper camps
• Gas burners and cooking equipment for high camps
• Environmental and conservation fees

Trek details & Safety

Essentials

Difficulty level

Himlung Himal (7,126 m) is considered a technically moderate high-altitude expedition recommended for climbers with previous experience on 6,000 m peaks.

The ascent follows mainly glacial terrain and snow slopes, where climbers use crampons, ice axe, harness, and fixed ropes in certain sections.

Although regarded as one of the more accessible 7,000 m peaks in the Himalayas, the altitude, remote location, and consecutive days at high camps require excellent physical fitness and solid high-altitude experience.

Altitude Awareness

This expedition reaches elevations above 7,000 m, where oxygen availability is significantly reduced.

The program includes progressive acclimatization rotations between high camps following Himalayan expedition protocols.

At these altitudes climbers may experience symptoms such as headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, and increased sensitivity to cold in the hands and feet.

Our high-altitude Sherpa team and mountain guides continuously monitor climbers’ condition throughout the expedition to ensure safe acclimatization management.

Guide & Sherpa support

All treks are led by certified local guides and experienced Sherpa teams who manage the route, daily logistics, and safety throughout the journey. Their deep knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and mountain conditions ensures a safe and authentic Himalayan trekking experience.

Packing list

Packing List for Himlung Himal Expedition

Bags & Packs

  • Expedition duffel bag (90–120 L) – carried by porters or yaks
  • Daypack 35–40 L
  • Waterproof backpack cover
  • Small waterproof pouch for personal items

Clothing – Base Layers

  • 2–3 thermal long-sleeve base layer tops (merino or synthetic)
  • 2 thermal base layer bottoms
  • 3–4 trekking shirts
  • Underwear (4–6)
  • Sports bras (if needed)

Insulation Layers

  • Fleece jacket or mid-layer
  • Warm technical down jacket (mid-layer for high altitude)
  • Expedition down jacket (-20 °C to -30 °C)

Outer Shell Layers

  • Waterproof / windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof pants
  • Durable trekking pants

Footwear

  • Trekking / hiking boots for the approach
  • Double mountaineering boots compatible with crampons
  • Camp shoes or sandals for lodges or base camp
  • 2–3 pairs trekking socks
  • 2–3 pairs warm thermal socks
  • 1 pair of thermal socks reserved for summit day

Gloves

  • Lightweight liner gloves
  • Fleece or softshell gloves
  • High-altitude insulated gloves or mittens

Headwear

  • Warm beanie
  • Sun hat or cap
  • 2 Buff / neck gaiters
  • Balaclava

Technical Climbing Equipment

  • Climbing helmet
  • Climbing harness
  • Crampons
  • Ice axe
  • Ascender (jumar)
  • Belay device (ATC or similar)
  • Locking carabiners (2–3)
  • Safety sling / cow’s tail
  • Mountaineering gaiters

Personal Equipment

  • UV protection sunglasses (Category 4 recommended)
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Water bottles (2 × 1 L)
  • Thermos (highly recommended at altitude)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag (-20 °C to -30 °C)
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Wet wipes / hand sanitizer
  • Personal toiletries
  • Toilet paper (for use during the trek if needed)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Small bags for personal waste
  • Hand warmers for use inside gloves during very cold conditions

Personal Medication (If Required)

  • Personal prescription medication
  • Altitude medication (if prescribed by a doctor)
  • Blister treatment
  • Basic pain relief medication

Optional but Recommended

  • Power bank
  • Camera / GoPro
  • Snacks or energy bars
  • Electrolytes
  • Small repair kit (duct tape, zip ties)

Documents & Money

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Nepal visa
  • Travel insurance covering trekking and climbing up to 6000 m
  • Passport photos
  • Cash (USD or Nepalese rupees)
  • Credit or debit card
  • Copies of important documents

Helpful note: Technical climbing equipment such as crampons, ice axe, helmet, and harness can be easily rented in Kathmandu or arranged in advance through our Sherpa team.

Safety Measures

Your safety is our top priority throughout the trek. Our itineraries are designed to allow proper acclimatization, and our certified guides monitor participants daily for altitude-related symptoms.

Oximetry monitoring

First aid kit

Emergency oxigen

Travel insurance requiered

Important travel information

Important travel information

Himalayan travel takes place in a dynamic mountain environment where weather and trail conditions may vary. For safety reasons, minor itinerary adjustments may occasionally be necessary. Crest Summit Treks always prioritizes safety, comfort, and the best possible mountain experience.

More information

Most travelers need to obtain a tourist visa to enter Nepal. This visa can be easily obtained upon arrival in the country.

The tourist visa can be arranged:

  • On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
  • At major land border crossings into Nepal
  • In advance at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country

Travelers may also complete the visa application form online before arrival, which can help speed up the process at the airport.

To obtain a visa on arrival, travelers must complete the immigration form, present a valid passport, and pay the visa fee.

It is recommended to bring US dollars in cash to pay the visa fee.

In some cases, a passport-sized photo may be required, so it is advisable to bring one with you.

Tourist Visa Fees

  • 15 days: $30 USD
  • 30 days: $50 USD
  • 90 days: $125 USD

Tourist visas are generally issued as multiple-entry visas, allowing travelers to leave and re-enter Nepal during the validity period of the visa.

Indian Citizens

Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. However, they must carry a valid passport or an approved identification document when crossing the border.

Adequate travel insurance is mandatory for all participants joining our treks and expeditions.

Travel insurance is not included in the trip price, and each participant is responsible for arranging their own policy before traveling to Nepal.

We strongly recommend that your insurance policy covers:

  • Medical expenses abroad
  • Emergency helicopter evacuation
  • Mountain accidents
  • Trip cancellation or interruption
  • Loss or delay of luggage

Helicopter evacuations in the Himalayas can be very expensive, especially in remote areas where road access is limited. For this reason, having proper insurance coverage is essential for your safety and peace of mind.

Altitude Coverage

For most treks in Nepal, we recommend insurance coverage for trekking activities up to at least 4,000–6,000 meters, including emergency helicopter evacuation.

For mountaineering expeditions or peak climbs above 6,000 meters, it is mandatory to have insurance that covers high-altitude mountaineering and rescue operations.

Participants must carefully check that their insurance policy covers the maximum altitude of their chosen trip.

Important Information

Participants should carry a copy of their insurance policy and emergency contact numbers during the trek or expedition.

Having appropriate insurance provides safety and peace of mind for both participants and the mountain team supporting the expedition.

Tipping is not mandatory but is a common practice in Nepal and a way to show appreciation for the local team supporting your trek or expedition.

Guides, Sherpas and porters work hard to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey in the mountains, assisting with logistics, equipment and support throughout the route.

As a general guideline, many trekkers choose to tip approximately:

  • Porters: around $8–10 USD per day
  • Guides / Sherpa Guides: around $10–15 USD per day

Tips are usually given at the end of the trek as a gesture of appreciation for the service provided.

The final amount is always at the discretion of each participant and may vary depending on group size and personal satisfaction with the service.

Each participant should carry a small personal first aid kit with basic medications that may be needed during the trek or expedition.

It is important to bring any personal medication prescribed by your doctor, as well as any specific treatments you normally use.

A personal first aid kit may include, for example:

  • Personal medication
  • Basic pain relief medication
  • Medication for digestive problems
  • Bandages or basic supplies for minor wounds
  • Sunscreen and lip protection

We recommend consulting your doctor before the trip if you require specific medication for high-altitude activities.

Our mountain team carries a group first aid kit and essential safety equipment, but each participant is responsible for their own personal medication.

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What Our Adventurers Say

Real stories from the peaks of Nepal

Our past travelers share the highs, challenges, and unforgettable moments that made their Himalayan journey truly extraordinary.

Wayne Storey

Island Peak Climbling

Had a great experience with Pasang on our Everest base camp and Island Peak trek. Very knowledgeable and friendly and great communication skills.

Otávio Marcacini

Everest Base Camp Trekking

Great guide, I strongly recommend! He knows a lot about the culture and knows many people. Also, I had the opportunity to have lunch at the EBC with others sherpas, nice experience… Thanks Pasang for guiding me during the EBC trekking!

Martin legault

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp

Professionnal guide
Big experience
Have a respect every place during the treck
Everything is on control with Pasang.
I recommended a 150%

Stephen Tindall

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp

I can honestly say I cannot recommend Pasang enough, I had the best time ever. Pasang is very knowledgeable and has so much passion about what he does. Throughout my trek I felt safe, and very welcomed. Pasang has become a life long friend, what ever trip you plan with him you will not be disappointed.

Jesen Lodge

Island Peak Climbling

Myself and a pal from Mountain Rescue England and Wales decided to go to Nepal and see the spectacular Himalayan Peaks. They didn’t disappoint. I have done a lot of mountaineering in Europe, Mont Blan, Gran Paradiso Etc. but these are next level…literally. Pasang Tendi was our guy. One of the nicest and hard working blokes you’ll ever meet. Awesome guide! Porters aside!