Koti Himal Expeditions

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a short briefing about the expedition and explore the bustling streets of Thamel, the vibrant heart of Kathmandu.

A scenic flight takes us to Nepalgunj, located in the lowlands of western Nepal. The town serves as a major gateway to the remote northwest. The rest of the day is for rest, local exploration, or preparation for the journey ahead.

An early morning mountain flight takes us to Simikot, the administrative center of Humla. The mountain air is fresh and the views are spectacular. We begin acclimatizing to the higher elevation while exploring the surrounding landscapes.

Our trek begins with a gradual climb above the Karnali River. We pass through terraced fields, pine forests, and traditional villages. Overnight at Dharapori, a charming settlement nestled in the hills.

Today’s trail follows the Karnali River upstream. We pass suspension bridges and monasteries and reach Kermi, known for its hot springs. A dip in the natural pools offers relaxation and rejuvenation.

Leaving the last signs of modernity behind, today’s trail winds through ancient pine forests and along the serene Karnali River. As the trail narrows, nature starts to feel wilder. Herds of blue sheep may be spotted grazing on rocky slopes. By late afternoon, we arrive in Singjungma, a quiet resting place tucked under massive ridgelines — a true escape from civilization.

We begin ascending into high-altitude terrain where greenery gives way to alpine tundra. The path becomes more remote, cutting through rocky outcrops and open wilderness. Tsongsa sits amidst dramatic landscapes — a hidden alpine world untouched by time. Tonight, under a blanket of stars, the anticipation of high passes and ancient valleys begins to build.

Today is a pivotal and breathtaking day of the expedition. We ascend to the Nyalu La Pass, one of the highest points on the trail. The climb is tough but incredibly rewarding — from the top, the views are surreal, with Mt. Kailash, Api, and Saipal glimmering in the distance. After soaking in the view, we descend into the secluded valley of Talung, surrounded by silence, snow, and serenity.

The landscape shifts again as we descend into the Limi Valley, one of Nepal’s most isolated and mystical regions. Ancient Tibetan culture thrives here — expect to see mani walls, stone chortens, and maybe a few shy villagers. In Takchi, we experience the warmth of Limi hospitality, even in the middle of nowhere.

We leave behind the last signs of settlement and step fully into the world of expedition. Arriving at Base Camp, nestled in a rugged valley with panoramic mountain views, there’s a sense of purpose in the air. The team sets up tents, reviews maps, and prepares for the days ahead. Coordinates: 30°12′46″N, 81°49′30″E.

No rush today — just slow movement and deep breaths. We hike up surrounding ridges for acclimatization and return for rest. The base camp buzzes with quiet excitement as everyone gets ready for high-altitude action.

Today is a taste of what’s to come. We ferry gear to High Camp, scouting the route and testing our endurance. The view opens up dramatically, and we get a close look at Koti’s ridgelines and snow faces. After a few hours, we return to Base Camp for one last comfortable night.

This is your mental and physical recharge day. We check gear, adjust crampons and harnesses, and monitor weather windows. The mountain waits — and we’re nearly ready.

It’s go-time. We hike up to High Camp with full gear, taking our time and conserving energy. The camp is perched strategically for the summit push. Stars blaze overhead as we crawl into our tents, dreaming of the summit.

Before dawn, we begin the ascent — roped up, headlamps glowing, axes in hand. The route includes icy ridges, crevasse zones, and moments of pure challenge. As the sun rises, the summit feels closer with every step. Reaching the top of Limi Koti is not just a physical triumph — it’s an emotional high, a rare victory in an untouched Himalayan frontier. After capturing the moment, we descend carefully to High Camp.

These spare days offer flexibility — for bad weather, extra acclimatization, or a second summit attempt. If unused, they turn into well-earned rest days with storytelling, shared meals, and soaking in the magic of the mountains.

With the summit behind us and hearts full, we begin the return journey. The trail back to Takchi feels lighter — every rock and ridgeline now familiar. The landscape that once felt daunting now feels like an old friend. In the village, we’re greeted like returning heroes, with warm smiles and cups of salted Tibetan tea.

Retracing our path, we now notice details we missed before — the subtle chants from distant monasteries, prayer flags fluttering on cliffsides, and the absolute silence of the highlands. Talung, nestled deep in the valley, welcomes us once more for a peaceful night under the stars.

As we descend further, the air thickens and energy begins to return. With every step, the colors of life come back — green valleys, flowing rivers, and perhaps even some wild herbs and flowers dotting the trail. The camp at Singjungma feels like home after all we’ve conquered.

Our final day on foot. With trekking poles in hand and dust on our boots, we walk the last stretch of this incredible journey. The sight of Simikot signals both an end and a beginning — the end of this epic adventure and the beginning of stories we’ll tell for years to come.

It’s time to trade mountain air for city life. Weather permitting, we fly first to Nepalgunj, then back to the bustling heart of Kathmandu. The sudden return to civilization is surreal — traffic, crowds, and Wi-Fi — but our minds still wander back to the snow and silence of Koti.

A well-earned day to relax, explore, or indulge. Visit the ancient sites of Patan, sip coffee in Thamel, or treat yourself to a spa day. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner, reliving summit moments and celebrating not just the mountain, but the journey that brought us together.