Nepal

Kailash and Upper Humla Circuit Trek

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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Best Season: All Year Round

Max Altitude: 5600m

Group Size: Min 2 Pax

Transport: Private Vehicle and Flight

Trip Grade

Difficulty

difficult

Duration:
28 Days

Trip Overview

This trek starts from Simikot which is situated at an elevation of 2910 meters and climbs up to Nara La pass (4530meters) and make a loop back to Simikot via Limi valley through scenic Nyalu La (4950m). This tough but rewarding trek offers the opportunity to meet the friendly villagers of upper Humla. Visit the monasteries that are 400-1000 years oldand experience the unique culture of the past still in practice. Added to this is a scenery of pine-forested Karnali gorge and beautiful Saipal and Nalakankad mountain range. The area untouched by modern changes and believed to be the present form of mythical Shangri-la. (Listed on Steve Razetti’s Top 10 treks in the world.) Travelers have to fly Simikot via Nepalgunj, the regional hub of Western Nepal.

ITINERARY OVERVIEW

Day 01:     Arrival Kathmandu – transfer hotel – tour briefing
Day 02:     Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 03:     Transfer airport – Fly Nepalgunj – transfer hotel
Day 04:     Transfer airport – fly Simikot (2910m) Hotel / camp
Day 05:     Trek Simikot to Dharapori (2300m)
Day 06:     Dharapori to Salli Khola (2700m)
Day 07:     Salli Khola to Tumkot (2920m)
Day 08:     Rest day with exploring the village
Day 09:     Tumkot to Yari village (4100m)
Day 10:     Yari village to Hilsa and cross border o/n at Taklakot (3800 m)
Day 11:     Drive to Manasarovar lake
Day 12:     Drive to Tarchen
Day 13:     Trek to Dirafuk 
Day 14:     Trek to Zuthulfuk via Dolmala Pass(5600 m)
Day 15:     Trek to Tarchen and drive back to Taklakot
Day 16:     Drive to Hilsa exit border and trek to Manipeme
Day 17:     Manipeme to Til, (4100m)
Day 18:     Til to Halji (3600m)
Day 19:     Halji to Jang hot spring (3800m)
Day 20:     Rest day
Day 21:     Jang hot spring to Talung
Day 22:     Talung to Singjungma over Nyalu la pass (4500m)
Day 23:     Singjungma to Langdok Base – About 5 hrs
Day 24:     Langdok Base to Dhinga Laga (3250m)
Day 25:     Dhinga Laga to Simikot
Day 26:     Fly Nepalgunj / Kathmandu
Day 27:     Free day in Kathmandu
Day 28:     Fly back home

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Arrive in the vibrant capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. The hustle and bustle of the city, its colorful streets, and spiritual atmosphere are sure to captivate you. You will be transferred to your hotel, where you’ll receive a full briefing on the trek ahead. Get some rest and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Meals: Breakfast

Max Altitude: 1,400m

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2: Explore Kathmandu Valley (1,400m)

Kathmandu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of historic temples, stupas, and palaces. Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Each of these sites will give you an immersive experience into the spiritual and cultural richness of Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast

Max Altitude: 1,400m

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 3: Fly to Nepalgunj (150m)

Take a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, a gateway to western Nepal. Located in the southern part of the country near the Indian border, Nepalgunj is a bustling town filled with local life. Relax after your flight and prepare for your journey deeper into the Himalayas.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Max Altitude: 150m

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 4: Fly to Simikot (2,910m)

Fly from Nepalgunj to Simikot, a remote mountain village. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Simikot is the gateway to the upper reaches of Humla. The village’s Tibetan-influenced culture and the surrounding peaks provide a stunning backdrop.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: (1-2)hrs optional

Max Altitude: 2,910m

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 5: Trek from Simikot to Dharapori (2,300m)

The trek begins with a descent into the beautiful valley. Today’s journey to Dharapori is marked by lush greenery and the occasional glimpse of remote villages. The local communities here are accustomed to the rugged landscape, and you’ll have an opportunity to witness their daily routines.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 2,300m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 6: Trek to Salli Khola (2,700m)

Today’s trail takes you through charming villages and scenic landscapes. The higher you go, the more you’ll notice the changes in vegetation and culture. The small, peaceful settlement of Salli Khola is your destination for the night, where you can relax and enjoy the mountain serenity.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 2,700m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 7: Trek to Tumkot (2,920m)

As the trek progresses, the terrain becomes more mountainous. Passing through small hamlets, you’ll witness daily life in these high-altitude villages. Tumkot, a quiet and picturesque location, will serve as your base for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 2,920m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 8: Rest Day and Exploration in Tumkot (2,920m)

Take a well-deserved break today. You can explore the village, interact with the locals, and learn about their unique customs. The peaceful surroundings provide a perfect opportunity to recharge before the next leg of your journey.

Trek Time: Free day

Max Altitude: 2,920m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 9: Trek to Yari Village (4,100m)

Today, the landscape becomes more dramatic as you trek to Yari Village. The altitude begins to affect your breathing, so take your time to acclimatize. Yari is a stunning village, located high in the mountains, and offers some incredible views of the surrounding peaks.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 6-7 hrs

Max Altitude: 4,100m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 10: Trek to Hilsa (3,800m) and Cross into Tibet

After crossing the border into Tibet, you’ll continue to the Tibetan town of Taklakot. The culture here is distinctly Tibetan, with monasteries and stupas scattered throughout the town. Relax and enjoy the Tibetan atmosphere as you settle in for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 4-5 hrs

Max Altitude: 3,800m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 11: Drive to Manasarovar Lake (4,590m)

Manasarovar is one of the most sacred lakes in the world. It is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The drive from Taklakot to the lake offers dramatic views of the Tibetan plateau. Upon arrival, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the lake and its surrounding peaks.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 3-4 hrs

Accommodation: Camping

Day 12: Drive to Tarchen (4,570m)

Tarchen, a small Tibetan town at the base of Mount Kailash, is a bustling hub for pilgrims. This is the starting point for the sacred pilgrimage around Mount Kailash. Get a sense of the spiritual energy that surrounds this mountain as you prepare for the trek ahead.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 2-3 hrs

Max Altitude: 4,570m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 13: Trek to Dirapuk (4,950m)

Today marks the beginning of your Kailash Parikrama. Trekking from Tarchen, you’ll head towards Dirapuk, where the views of Mount Kailash become awe-inspiring. The towering peak of Kailash dominates the skyline, and its beauty is unmatched.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 4,950m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 14: Trek to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass (5,600m)

The toughest day of the trek, as you’ll ascend to Dolma La, the highest point on the Kailash Parikrama route. The climb is challenging, but the reward is the incredible panoramic view of the mountains below. After crossing Dolma La, the descent to Zuthulpuk offers beautiful views of the valley.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 7-8 hrs

Max Altitude: 5,600m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 15: Trek to Tarchen (4,570m) and Return to Taklakot

Today, complete the Kailash Parikrama by trekking back to Tarchen. From here, you’ll drive back to Taklakot, where you’ll rest after your long and spiritual journey around Kailash.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 4,570m

Accommodation: Hotel in Taklakot

Day 16: Drive to Hilsa, Trek to Manipeme

After crossing back into Nepal, trek towards the village of Manipeme, nestled amidst high-altitude landscapes. This remote village offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the people who call this region home.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 6-7 hrs

Accommodation: Camp

Day 17: Trek to Til (4,100m)

Today, trek towards Til, a village with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The higher altitude offers a unique experience of Nepali mountain life, with dramatic landscapes and welcoming locals.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 4,100m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 18: Trek to Halji (3,600m)

The trail continues through rugged terrain as you make your way to Halji. The village is surrounded by high-altitude pastures, and you may encounter locals tending to their yaks and sheep.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 3,600m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 19: Trek to Jang Hot Springs (3,800m)

Today’s trek takes you to the rejuvenating hot springs at Jang. After a long day of trekking, relax in the natural hot springs, surrounded by towering peaks.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 3,800m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 20: Rest Day at Jang Hot Springs (3,800m)

Take a well-deserved rest day to soak in the therapeutic hot springs. Spend the day exploring the area, interacting with locals, or simply relaxing.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: Free day

Max Altitude: 3,800m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 21: Trek to Talung(4,200m)

The trek from Jang takes you through forests, pastures, and remote villages, as you make your way to Talung.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 4,200m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 22: Trek over Nyalu La Pass (4,995m) to Singjungma

Cross Nyalu La Pass, a stunning route that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas. The pass is the highest point of the trek, and it marks the final stretch of your journey towards Simikot.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 7-8 hrs

Max Altitude: 4,995m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 23: Trek to Langdok Base(3,600m)

Langdok Base is a peaceful area, and it’s a perfect spot to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 3,600m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 24: Trek to Dhinga Laga (3,250m)

Your trek today brings you closer to Simikot as you pass through rural landscapes and remote villages. Dhinga Laga offers a quiet retreat for a restful evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 6-7 hrs

Max Altitude: 3,250m

Accommodation: Camp

Day 25: Trek to Simikot

Return to Simikot, where you can reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past few weeks.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time: 6-7 hrs

Max Altitude: 2,910m

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 26: Fly to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu

Fly back to Nepalgunj, and then return to Kathmandu. The flights offer a spectacular view of the mountains as you descend back to the city.

Day 27: Free Day in Kathmandu

Spend your final day in Kathmandu exploring any remaining sights, shopping for souvenirs, or simply relaxing.

Day 28: Departure

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, taking with you memories of a lifetime.

Cost Includes

  • Accommodations in Kathmandu twin share with breakfast
  • Twin sharing basis hotel in Nepalgunj 
  • Guide, cook and kitchen support staff.
  • Mules or porters for luggage on the trekking.
  • All meals during the treks, Simikot to Simikot.
  • All camping and cooking equipments.
  • All camping Charges.
  • Clients Airfare Kathmandu / Nepalgunj / and return to Kathmandu.
  • Tibet special permit, visa letters and entrance fees.
  • Transportation in Tibet by new van.
  • English speaking Tibetan guide.
  • Humla restricted area permit fee.
  • All travel expenses for Nepali staffs.
  • All pick up and drop services.
  • DDC tax.
  • All local official donations if any.
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu (Boudhanath, Pashupatinath and Bhaktapur) with tour guide

Cost Excludes

  • Insurance for Clients and Emergency Rescue and medicines and medicals.
  • Sightseeing entrance fees in Kathmandu.
  • Personal beverages.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Domestic access baggage charge (Kathmandu to Nepalgunj weight limit is 20 kg and Nepalgunj to Simikot weight limit is 15 kg).
  • Sleeping bag & mattress during trip.
  • International flights.
  • Flight cancelations & its further more expenses
  • Tips

Accommodation

  1. Kathmandu: Comfortable 3-4 star hotels with modern amenities for relaxation before the trek.

  2. Nepalgunj & Simikot: Basic guesthouses with shared facilities. Rooms are cozy, clean, and offer a simple but warm welcome.

  3. Humla Region: Simple teahouses and inns offering shared rooms and bathrooms. Enjoy home-cooked meals and experience local hospitality.

  4. Tibet (Taklakot & Manasarovar): Basic guesthouses and camps with minimal amenities, but stunning views of Mt. Kailash.

  5. High Altitude Trek: Camping setups and simple shelters for rest during the trek over Dolmala Pass. Experience the wilderness in comfort.

  6. Return to Kathmandu: Stay in comfortable hotels to relax after the trek.


This accommodation summary offers a perfect balance of comfort and authenticity, allowing trekkers to experience both the natural beauty and the local hospitality of the Humla to Kailash Trek.

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