Max. Elevation
Himlung Himal Expedition
Discover the adventure of a lifetime with Himlung Himal expedition, a stunning peak in the Nepalese Himalayas.
Himlung Himal expedition 7126M is considered one of the less difficult and technical in the category of 7,000 meters. The Himlung Himal expedition is less technical and much safer to climb.
| The ascent of a mythical 7,000 in Nepal |
| 1: 1 Ratio climbing sherpa for summit |
| Phu village and beautiful acclimatization trek |
| the successful of the summit Himlung Himal expedition |
Himlung Himal Expedition safety
Safety has always been our top priority at Alpinist. Our team of expert guides is dedicated to leading a fun and successful climb while ensuring safety remains uncompromised. We plan carefully, considering daily weather forecasts and paying diligent attention as we venture into high altitudes. We carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and reliable radio and satellite communication gear throughout the journey.
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Overview
Initially, the Himlung Himal expedition was opened in the year 1992 for tourists for the first time. The peak climbing was completed by the Japanese expedition team members. It is situated in the Khumbu Valley of Solukhumbu district of Nepal. It lies in the same mountain region as the Manaslu and Annapurna peaks between the Nepal and Tibet border.
You will start the expedition by joining the standard trekking route of the Annapurna region. Eventually takes you to the Nar Phu Valley to the Manaslu region, northeast of Annapurana. The Himlung expedition in Nepal travels through the wild, unpopulated regions of the borders between Nepal and Tibet and the mysterious, secret valleys of Nar and Phu in the Himalayas, which were only recently made accessible to travelers.
One of the major attractions of this Himlung himal expedition is the remote high-altitude settlements that reflect Tibetan and Buddhist culture. This will provide you the opportunity to experience their unique culture. You will also witness the panoramic views of majestic mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, Manaslu, Pisang Peak, Gyaji Kang, and Peak 29. The route passes through the varied wildlife of the Annapurna and Manaslu Conservation Areas, adding to the experience of the area's natural beauty.
Therefore Himlung Himal expedition is the ideal choice for you if you are seeking adventure. Bookings are still open for 2025 and 2026. Contact us for further details
Itinerary
Expand AllUpon your arrival in Kathmandu, our local team warmly welcomes you at the airport. You will then be escorted to the hotel, where you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. The itinerary includes a briefing about the trek's progress and presentation, followed by leisure time. If you arrive in the morning, you'll have the entire day at your disposal. This can be used for rest or for those interested, to explore the surroundings freely. It's an ideal chance to deeply experience Nepalese culture and indulge in the local culinary delights.
Transfer to hotel
Final altitude: approximately 1350 m
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: night in the hotel
Have breakfast and then you have the whole day to explore the best Kathmandu Sightseeing spots with your guide. You can visit and explore one of the most famous Shiva temples, Pashupatinath, recognized as the monkey temple; Swyambhunath, the largest Stupa in the world, also called Boudhanath Stupa; and finally the Royal Palace, Kathmandu Durbar Square. The next day, you will begin your trek on the Annapurna Circuit, so you have to check your equipment to make sure that you are ready for your adventure and climb. Have dinner and stay overnight in the same hotel in Kathmandu
Final altitude: approximately 1350 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Night in the hotel
A long day was devoted to the transfer of the group, the local team and the equipment to Koto (2600 m). The rather comfortable journey to Besisahar becomes challenging on the motorable tracks that lead to Koto. Beautiful landscapes of rice fields along the way. Beautiful views of the Himal Chuli (7500 m).
Transfer by jeep 5 hrs
Final altitude: approximately 13,50 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: night in the hotel
A long day was devoted to the transfer of the group, the local team and the equipment to Koto (2600 m). The rather comfortable journey to Besisahar becomes challenging on the motorable tracks that lead to Koto. Beautiful landscapes of rice fields along the way. Beautiful views of the Himal Chuli (7500 m)..
7hrs of walking
Final altitude: approximately 2600 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: night in the hotel
We leave the classic route of the Annapurnas tour to follow the course of the Naar Phu Khola to discover the high valleys of Naar and Phu, which opened to tourism ten years ago. Stage of gradual ascent through beautiful coniferous forests. Beautiful south-facing views of the Lamjung Himal. After a good hour of walking, we cross a small torrent, then the path straightens sharply for the last hour, before reaching the village of Meta where the inhabitants of Naar live during the winter months. The Khampa warriors, originally from Kham (eastern Tibet), settled in Metha after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, before being driven out in 1975 during a Nepalese military intervention. From their passage, there remain some ruins of an old fort, above the village.
4hrs of walking
Final altitude: approximately 3550 m
Meals: Breakfast-lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: night in the hotel
Panorama on Pisang Peak (6092 m), Kang Guru (6990 m), Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II. Continuation of the walk until Jhunum (3695 m), where we cross two torrents. The steep path climbs to the village of Chyakhu.
4hours of walking
Final altitude: approximately 3880 m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: night in the hotel
The terrain softens, and a pleasant path leads us to the Khampa hamlet of Kyang. The inhabitants of the alpine hamlet of Phu come to shelter there in winter. Along the way, a clear view of Annapurna II and IV, the northern Kang Guru glacier and the Juna Himal. We continue hiking on a superb path carved into the rock, then we descend to the waters of the Phu Khola, which we follow for some time. We have to gain altitude again to reach the village barrier and, beyond, the village of Phu itself. Wide view of the summit of Kang Guru (6981 m), the Juna Himal to the east. The habitat here is typically Tibetan. Beyond, the valley continues towards Tibet and the high peaks of Peri Himal (Himlung and Ratna Chuli)
4hours of walking
Final altitude: approximately 3880 m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: night in the hotel
The rest day is essential to acclimatize. Two nights at 4000 meters altitude will not be too much to acclimatize for the climb to the Himlung base camp (4900 m). It is also an opportunity to take time in the most isolated village of this region. To the north, no obvious access to Tibet; to the south, the path has long been complicated. The people of Phu were cut off from the world. The architecture of the village bears witness to this relative isolation: we can still clearly see the old fortifications erected on a rocky outcrop. The monastery is run by a nun. Its visit is not essential, however, the point of view is worth the detour.
From Phu, a few hours of walking make it possible to reach, by undulating slopes and moraines, the base camp Kari Kobler at 4900 meters. It is the new official Himlung base camp and is located on the left bank of the Pangri Glacier. We will do this stage of 800 meters of elevation gain in two days in order to optimize our acclimatization.If the conditions are favorable, we will make our base camp at the French camp which is located on the right bank of the glacier. This camp allows you to avoid making tedious round trips on the glacier to acclimatize and reach the summit. In this case, we will therefore have to cross the glacier and climb the moraine opposite to settle in (1 to 2 hours of additional walking).
4hrs of walking
Final altitude: approximately 4925 m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: night in the Tent Camp
The ascent of the Himlung is carried out via three altitude camps. Here is a brief description of the route:
BASE CAMP CAMP - CAMP 1 (5450 m): Ascent of gentle slopes on hilly mountainous terrain. Arrival at camp 1 located in a very rocky area.2 to 3 hours of walking.
CAMP 1 - CAMP 2 (6000m): This step is the most technical and delicate. We first go up a succession of scree interspersed with spurs. For a few years, the passages of climbers have made it possible to create a correct trace. Then, we will cross a more or less long zone between rocks and glaciers to reach the latter in its less steep part. We will certainly equip part of the route with fixed ropes to facilitate our progression. Then, by a gentler but crevassed slope, we progress roped up to reach a flat area where we can set up camp. The summit is in sight Depending on the conditions, 4 to 6 hours of ascent.
CAMP 2 - CAMP 3 (6250 m): with a magnificent view of the Giajikang and the Himlung, we move across to reach a beautiful flat area. We set up camp and we can observe the final slopes of our objective. 1h30 to 2 hours of ascent.
CAMP 3 - SUMMIT (7126 m): A great day awaits us: 8 to 10 hours of travel in rare oxygen! Departure at night to reach the pass by steep and exposed slopes in crossing, before reaching a less steep zone which allows you to breathe a little. Then, we begin a sustained section of 400 meters at 30/35°. The slope eases gently before a final jump that protects the summit. Descent the same day to camp 3. The next day, from camp 3, we reach base camp.
On this we we will pack and clean our camp to return back
6 hours of walking
Final altitude: approximately 3880m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: night in the hotel
6 hours of walking
Final altitude: approximately 3880m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: night in the hotel
9 hrs Drive
Final altitude: approximately 3880m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch
Accommodation: night in the hotel
Reserve day, free and without a guide.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: night at the hotel
Free time depends on the departure time of your flight and our representative will drop you at the airport, ending your journey in Nepal. We hope to be of service to you again. Thank you and safe travel
Meals: Breakfast
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Plan a Private TripIncluded & Excluded
Included Points
AIRPORT PICKUP AND DROP : Airport - Hotel transfers – Airport (Pick Up and Drop), by private vehicle.
HOTEL IN KATHMANDU: : 4-night hotel in Kathmandu (4-star category) - single room on bed and breakfast plan.
WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office Staff.
PERMITS: : Expedition Royalty and a permit fee from the Nepal Government to climb Mt. Himlung Himal, ACAP, and Nar Phu Valley special
LIAISON OFFICER: : 1 Government Liaison officer with full equipment, salary, and accommodation
GARBAGE MANAGEMENT: : Stool Shipment Transfer and Garbage Deposit fees.
INSURANCE : Medical and Emergency rescue Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
MAP : Trekking and climbing map.
DUFFLE BAG : One Alpinist club Duffle Bag.
MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : Private Transportation from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar Koto and Koto Kathmandu, as per the itinerary.
EXPEDITION STUFFS TRANSPORTATION : All necessary expedition equipment transportation for all Members and Staff from Kathmandu - Besisahar -Koto and Base camp (by Porters / Yak) – While returning: Base camp to Koto (by porters / Yak) and Koto to Kathmandu (by jeep).
MEMBER LUGGAGE : Up to 40 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek to be carried by porters or Yaks
FOOD AND LODGING : 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at the hotel/Lodge during the trek and at the Basecamp. Hygienic and fresh green vegetables, fresh meat, fruits, and soft drinks will be served during the entire expedition using helicopter flights. Well-managed base camp set up for members and Staff.
PORTER : Porters per member up to the Base camp and from the Basecamp (both ways).
BASE CAMP STAFF: Experienced and well-trained Base Camp Cook and kitchen Helpers as required.
STAFF SALARY AND ALLOWANCE : All Nepalese staff and porters' daily wages, salary, equipment, food, and clothing.
BASE CAMP TENT : Each member will have an individual tent in Base Camp.
BASE CAMP EQUIPMENT : Single Tent, foam mattresses and pillow per member, 1 Dining Tent, 1 Kitchen Tent, 1 Communication tent, 1 Toilet and 1 Shower Tent, 1 Staff Tent, 1 Tent for Nepalese base camp staff, Store tents, Tables and chairs, and all necessary cooking gear.
HEATER: : Heater at base camp in each Dining and other necessary camps.
SOLAR/GENERATOR/LIGHT : 1 Solar panel and Generator for lights at base camp, battery charge, laptop and other electronic devices.
TRAINING : Oxygen, Mask Regulator, Ice wall, and gear training at Basecamp by Sherpa Guide
HIGH ALTITUDE CLIMBING SHERPA : 1 government-licensed climbing Sherpa per member (1 Member: 1 Sherpa), during the entire climb from Basecamp to the summit and back, and on each rotation.
ASSISTANCE : Climbing Sherpa to assist in carrying your gear to the high camps.
CLIMBING SHERPA SALARY & ALLOWANCE : Climbing Sherpa Salary, Equipment, Food, and Clothing.
BONUS : Carry Bonus of Sherpas and Route Fixing Charges.
OXYGEN BOTTLE (O2) : Oxygen bottles will be in stock at base camp in case of an emergency (with an appropriate charge).
OXYGEN MASK & REGULATOR : 1 Set of Summit Oxygen masks will be in base camp in case of an emergency.
HIGH CAMP SERVICE (INFRASTRUCTURE AND LOGISTICS) : High Altitude Tent, Necessary cooking EPI gas, cooking pot, High food for a member, Sherpa, and other crews at (C1) (C2) and (C3). Group climbing gears, and fixed and dynamic rope during the climbing period as required
HIGH ALTITUDE TENT : Members will share tents in high camps (2 members: 1 tent).
ROPE FIXING TEAM : The team of experienced Sherpas will fix the rope and the route.
SATELLITE PHONE : Satellite Phone for emergency communication carried by Sherpa, also available for members with an appropriate charge.
WALKIE-TALKIE : Walkie Talkie for communicating from Base Camp to Mountain and Mountain to Base Camp
WEATHER FORECAST : Weather forecast report during the entire expedition.
MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive Medical kit for members and staff.
CERTIFICATE: : Himlung Himal climbing certificate(after climbing Himlung Himal successfully).
Excluded Points
AIRFARE : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
NEPAL ENTRY VISA FEE : The Nepalese Visa fee is USD 125 for 90 Days
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking / Expedition than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition, or domestic flight cancellation (due to any other reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
INSURANCE POLICY : Insurance covering both medical and high-altitude evacuation costs (for the trip cancellation, interruption, high-altitude rescue & air evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.) *Mandatory
PERSONAL EXPENSES : Telephone Calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages (during the trek and in Kathmandu, but we will have soft drinks for members at base camp).
PERSONAL CLIMBING EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items, Bags, Personal Medical Kit, and all kinds of Personal Trekking / Climbing Gear.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
INTERNET SERVICE : Not included during the trek and the expedition.
SUMMIT BONUS : Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa - Minimum 800 USD.
TIPS : Calculate some tips for Basecamp and high camp staff – Minimum 350 USD.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section
Trip Information
Read Details of Himlung Himal Expedition
Your guide, from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure, is responsible for the success of your trip and oversees your team. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, respect his position as the team leader, and above all follow his advice! Often your guide is the only English-speaking member of the team. In the mountains and, especially when during high-altitude travels, your guide is responsible for the safety of the group. The instructions he gives and the remarks he makes to all participants must be carefully followed. The interest and safety of the trekking group must be preserved, even when it may be to the detriment of an individual member of the group.
Your Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:
- The Guide Leader (Sirdar) is responsible for and leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
- climbing sherpa: who fixed the rope and guide you to the summit
- The Cook is responsible for all meals and is on a trek that doesn’t use lodges for meals. (camping trek )
- The kitchen boy is an assistant to the cook. ( camping trek )
- The Assistant Guide is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and set camp.
- The Porter is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid. Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for alpine treks.
YOUR PRIVATE GUIDE IN HIMLUNG HIMAL
The keystone of your success on all of our expeditions, we are systematically on a ratio of one high altitude sherpa per participant. He accompanies you for the key moments of the ascent and during the summit push. He is particularly experienced for high altitudes. He has participated in several expeditions at more than 8,000 meters, successfully leading participants to the summit. We select him for you. He is generally English-speaking. He may not be permanently at your side in the rotations between the camps, his role also being to carry out the portages to set up the camps.
There is a summit bonus for your high-altitude sherpa to be paid on-site in cash after the climb. This bonus is due from the moment you leave the last camp towards the summit during your summit push attempt.
EXPEDITION LEADER IN HIMLUNG HIMAL
His role is important in leading the strategy necessary for success: rotation in the altitude camps, acclimatization of each participant, and study of weather reports to decide on the optimum moment to launch the summit push.
The expedition leader represents the Alpinist Club to the group, . Mainly based at the base camp, he can accompany you to the high-altitude camps to supervise the smooth running of the expedition's logistics. He makes the necessary decisions that may be required. His authority is preponderant and unavoidable. You must respect his decisions as well as those taken collectively.
KITCHEN AND PORTERS TEAM
A kitchen team will be present at the base camp.
There is a team of porters who help us set up the base camp with all the equipment and the kitchen. Beyond that, the team of high-altitude sherpas takes over. They help us in particular in setting up the high altitude camps and in portaging from the base camp.
Each participant will have to take care of carrying their personal belongings and altitude food. The collective equipment is transported by the Nepalese team. Our backpack will be calibrated from 10 to 12 kg.
For unforeseeable reasons at this stage, including weather but also the fitness or lack of fitness of the participants, your guide may have to adapt or even interrupt your program, at any time if he deems it necessary, whether for the whole group or for a few participants, and for the smooth running of your trip. He remains the sole judge and guarantor of your safety.
PHYSICAL LEVEL IN HIMLUNG HIMAL EXPEDITION
This program is designed for participants in excellent physical condition, with endurance experience and strong mental resilience. High-altitude challenges require significant mountain experience, including hiking, trekking, or mountaineering. Participants should know how to use ropes and operate in a roped party, whether alone or with a guide.
TECHNICAL DIFFICULT IN HIMLUNG HIMAL
Experience with high-altitude expeditions and basic mountaineering skills (handling crampons, harness, ice axe, and ropes) is required. The route includes mild challenges, such as snow slopes at 30–35° and glacial passages. Suitable for those with some mountaineering experience who want to progress. Weather and environmental conditions can increase difficulty.
For more preparation, consider our mountaineering courses or expeditions to progressively higher peaks (5,000m to 7,000m).
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU AND DURING THE EXPEDITION
- Hotel In Kathmandu: In Kathmandu, we will provide you with a single room in a hotel
- During the trek: You will stay in the Lodge. Lodges in Nepal are very random in terms of comfort. Lodges can look like a refuge or sometimes a homestay. They are mostly family homes with double, triple or dormitory rooms. Toilets and showers are always separate.
- Base camp: At the base camp, we are in individual tents. A base camp for several weeks must be as comfortable as possible, to allow a good recovery on returning from the high-altitude camps. It must allow us to face a period of bad weather in the best possible conditions. Each participant has their tent with a comfortable mattress. A heated mess tent is the main living area. Tables and chairs are permanently installed there. We also have a shower tent and a toilet tent (solid waste in evacuated barrels)
- High Altitude Camps: During the ascent, at the high camps, we have a high-altitude tent for 2 people, or even 3 people at the last camps.
Hygiene & dry cleaning
- Toilets: The base camp has toilets and toilet paper. Be sure to wash your hands with hydroalcoholic gel (to be taken from your personal pharmacy) after each visit to the toilet. For the higher camps, we recommend that you bring a bottle that you will use to urinate at night to avoid having to go out.
- Daily hygiene: a basin with water and soap is available at the entrance to the mess tent. Water is intended for washing the face and hands, do not drink it.
- Shower: hot water is available (ask in the kitchen). Only take showers in sunny weather to avoid catching a cold!
- Laundry: water (cold) and basin to be requested from the kitchen, bring biodegradable products only.
MEAL KATHMANDU AND TREKKING
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a welcome dinner is provided on the first evening. Similarly, upon return from the expedition, a farewell meal is provided.
In the cities, many small (or large) restaurants allow us to discover the typical local cuisine. Except for Kathmandu, breakfasts and evening meals are prepared by the kitchen team or the lodge cooks and are taken in the lodge dining room or under the mess tent. Depending on the profile of the stages (length of the day's walk and/or presence of water), midday snacks will be served hot or cold in the form of picnics.
Here is a typical one-day menu during the trek:
- Breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, or Tibetan bread or pancakes, or pancakes, butter/jam, tea or coffee
- Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
- Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffee. During the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included. Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
- Water: provide tablets (Hydralazine, Micropur, or another type) to disinfect the water you put in your water bottle, depending on the source and the advice of your guide. It is sometimes possible to buy purified water and refill your water bottle without having to buy bottled water. You can also buy mineral water in the cities (not included in the price) but its ecological balance is poor, as you know. Also, we do not recommend it.
Base camp Meal: All meals are prepared by the kitchen team using local ingredients including rice, pasta, lentils, potatoes, vegetables, eggs, a little meat, etc. They are served to you in a Dinning tent. Non-alcoholic hot drinks such as tea or coffee are offered to you at will. We recommend that you stay constantly hydrated.
High Altitude Camps Meal : At high altitudes, eating can be difficult, and freeze-dried food is usually necessary. While this food might taste fine at lower elevations, it can quickly become unappealing in high-altitude camps.
we will provide freeze-dried dishes and share your preferences. We’ll do our best to match these, depending on available stock. You can also bring up your favorite foods for the expedition.
for higher camp, Each tent is equipped with a stove to melt snow for water, prepare freeze-dried meals, and make hot drinks. Gas cartridges will be provided
Stay Hydration: Bring water purification tablets (like Hydroclonazone or Micropur) to treat water, depending on the source and your guide's advice. Purified water may sometimes be available, reducing the need for bottled water, which is less eco-friendly.
Glacier meltwater lacks minerals, which your meals partly provide. However, relying only on tea, coffee, or plain water can lead to poor hydration, stomach issues, and mineral deficiencies on long expeditions. To avoid this, pack 2–3 tubes of mineral salt tablets (10 tablets per tube) to add to your water bottle.
TRANSFERS / TRANSPORT DURING TRIP
All transfers are provided in private vehicles.
For various reasons, we prefer trekking to reach the base camp: the progression designed for acclimatization allows you to prepare yourself physically and psychologically for the climb. It is also the ideal time to get to know the team and to start building a team spirit and cohesion.
The return is also planned as a trek. That said, the possibility of taking the helicopter on the way back is possible for an additional fee.
GROUP SIZE
The group is composed of 1 to 10 participants maximum. The number of participants is voluntarily limited to allow a better immersion, to not embarrass our hosts, to develop spaces of freedom and to allow a great flexibility of operation. However, the maximum number can be exceeded in the case where the last person who registers wishes to travel with another or several other people. The services will not be modified and the conditions of the trip will be identical as a result.
COLLECTIVE CAMP EQUIPMENT
All logistical equipment is provided, including individual tents at the base camp with mattresses, mess tent, shower tent and toilet tent, as well as all collective and individual cooking equipment. At altitude, tents, stoves with gas cartridges, ropes and anchors.
INDIVIDUAL EQUIPMENT
Personal equipment is not provided. A complete list is provided later in this document. It will be refined with us during the preparation days and up until the time of departure according to your questions.
High altitude sleeping bags, full suits and/or good quality down jackets are expensive items that you may not use often. We can rent you this specific equipment for the duration of the expedition. You must then return the equipment cleaned and in the condition in which it was given to you (deposit required).
SECURITY AND COMMUNICATION
We have at least one Iridium satellite phone that is used only for logistical, weather and security purposes. Under certain conditions, participants may use it. For these private uses, please contact us.
The camps will be permanently connected by radio. Expedition leader, participants and high-altitude sherpas will also have access to this.
The expedition will have a hyperbaric chamber at the base camp, and a complete, lighter pharmacy at the higher camps.
PREPARATION FOR HIMLUNG HIMAL EXPEDITION
Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that requires short periods of high exertion.
MEDICAL CHECK-UP
Being in good health is essential to enjoy your Alpinist Club trip fully. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.
ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS
This trip takes place at high altitudes so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated. Think about it before you go.
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HIMLUNG HIMAL CLIMBING STRATEGY
Location of high altitude camps:
Base Camp: 4900meters
Camp 1: 5400 meters
Camp 2: 6050 meters
Camp 3: 6200-6300 meters
Here is an example of what your ascent would look like, simply for reasons of example. Your expedition guide will specify your acclimatization plan on the mountain and it will primarily depend on the weather and the participants' level of fitness.
First rotation to camp 1 (5400 m)
Camp 1 is located 6 kilometers above the base camp. Nothing difficult but walking on moraine is bit technical and difficult. After cross the Moraine, the slope rises gently to reach a ridge that we follow overlooking the small lake below the camp 1.You will climb there with your guides and set up camp. We spend the night there.
Base camp Camp – camp 1:
Elevation : + 560 m / - 560 m
Walking Hours: 5 to 6 hours of ascent and descent
Second rotation to camp 2 (6050 m), possibly camp 3 (6200 / 6300 m)
We stay overnight at camp 1 (5400m) on this second rotation before continuing our ascent to camp 2 (6050m). Depending on the snow Conditions, the climb from Camp 1 to Camp 2 takes roughly Six hours. Before we can see the glacier, we must climb a very difficult corridor after beginning on a 40° slope. Since we are already over 6000 meters, the ascent is exhausting and lengthy.
A fixed rope makes it easy and secures the route above the crevasses and joins the glacier by a more accessible area, After crossing the glacier, the slope climbs, revealing the Himlung peak. after crossing this slop climb in Glacier we arrive at Camp 2 in a clear location, far enough away from avalanche hazards.
The next day, if the weather allows, we will hike on to Camp 3 (6,200–6,300 m). The route between camps two and three includes a technically easy glacier section but also requires climbing a steep 150-meter vertical section that is more technical. Camp Three is located on a small, open ridge of Himlung.
Elevation gain : + 650 m
Number of hours of walking: 7 to 8 hours of ascent and descent)
Final altitude: approximately 6050 m
Third and final rotation to Camp 3 (6200/6300 m) and Summit Push on Himlung Himal
During the third and final rotation, we typically proceed directly to Camp 2 (6,050 m) and the following day to Camp 3 (6,200–6,300 m). On summit night, we depart from Camp 3 to make the final ascent.
The Climb from Camp 3 to the Summit
The ascent begins with a glacial walk, occasionally slightly downhill, which involves a straightforward but slightly exposed traverse beneath the pass.
A short, steep ascent of approximately 150 meters, with gradients between 50° and 60°, is tackled using fixed ropes to reach the Himlung Pass (6,400 m).
From the Pass to the Summit (7,126 m):
Initially, the slope is gentle, but it gradually steepens, reaching angles of 40° to 45°, though remaining manageable.
The final section features a small rise leading to the summit, often demanding due to hypoxia and strong winds sweeping the face.
Challenges:
The glacier walk between the pass and the summit is strenuous because of steep gradients, low oxygen levels, and frequently deep snow, which can necessitate trail-breaking and significantly increase the effort required.
Scattered crevasses, varying by season, add to the technical demands.
The Himlung Himal Summit Experience
From the summit, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Manaslu range and other towering Himalayan peaks, a fitting reward for the demanding climb.
Returning from Himlung
The descent follows the same route, requiring vigilance on the slopes to maintain secure footing.
The steep section below the pass is navigated using fixed ropes for the rappel.
Depending on the climbers' fitness, the descent may conclude at Camp 2 for the night, or for those in better condition, continue to Camp 1 or Base camp Camp on the same day.
This structured approach ensures climbers maximize their safety and success while making the most of the incredible experience of summiting Himlung Himal.
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Expand AllThe best time to embark on a Himlung Himal expedition is during the pre-monsoon (April to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and optimal climbing conditions.
Himlung Himal is considered a moderately challenging climb. While it's not as technical as some higher peaks, it requires strong physical fitness, prior high-altitude trekking or climbing experience, and basic mountaineering skills. The altitude (7,126 meters) adds to the difficulty
Yes, climbers need several permits to ascend Himlung Himal. These include a climbing permit from the Department of Tourism, as well as Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits. Most expedition organizers will help secure these permits for you.
The full expedition typically lasts 25 to 30 days, including acclimatization days, trekking to base camp, climbing, and return. The exact duration can vary depending on weather conditions and individual pace.
Essential equipment includes climbing gear like crampons, ice axes, harnesses, helmets, ropes, and personal high-altitude clothing. Expedition companies usually provide group gear such as tents, but climbers must bring their own gear. Proper acclimatization and preparation are key for this high-altitude climb.
Himlung Himal stands at 7,126 meters (23,379 feet). To prepare for the altitude, it's crucial to spend adequate time acclimatizing during the trek, stay well-hydrated, and ascend gradually. Prior experience in high-altitude trekking is highly recommended. Some climbers may use medication like Diamox to prevent altitude sickness.
The cost of a Himlung Himal expedition varies depending on the trekking agency but typically ranges between $6,000 to $8,000. This includes permits, guides, food, accommodation, and transportation, but personal gear and travel insurance are often additional.
A solid fitness regime focusing on endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health is recommended for a Himlung Himal expedition. Training should include long-distance hikes, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, or swimming. It’s also helpful to practice hiking with a weighted backpack to simulate conditions.
Like any high-altitude mountain, Himlung Himal has risks such as avalanches, rockfalls, and altitude sickness. However, it’s considered a relatively safe peak compared to others in the Himalayas. Proper preparation, experienced guides, and acclimatization are key to minimizing risks.
A porter can carry up to 20 kg during a Himlung expedition. Make sure to make your backpack as light as possible and carry only your essential items.
The Internet and satellite phones are available during the Himlung Expedition. However, considering the altitude signals are poor. You can communicate with your family and friends and update them about the expedition.
Himlung Himal is not the most difficult mountain to climb but there are many risks related to the climb. The climbers are exposed to risks related to the high altitude and might find themselves in many dangers. Having insurance will cover the amount and will definitely help a lot. It will protect you against financial loss without hampering your expedition.
You need to have all the necessary gear and equipment necessary for the climb. Harness, carabineers, crampons, and long-handle ice axes are a few essential equipment needed for the climb. Make sure to pack your clothing according to the weather. Items such as windproof jacket, t - shirts, hiking boots, and trekking poles must be included in your list.
The Himlung expedition is considered to be one of the safest and easiest climbs under the category of 7,00 meter. However, this high-altitude expedition requires the proper preparation and skills from the climbers. The expedition is considered a moderate climb.
Kari Repo
(19 Mar 2025)October 2024 Himlung Himal expedition. Absolutely great operator. Great food and amazing guides and staff. Logistics spot on. I highly recommend. We had a private group of four and all of us were taken by the commitment and joy that alpinist club members had during that amazing trip.