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Himalayan Outdoor Project

Himlung Expedition

Follow the path of myths to the foot of the sky.

Himlung Expedition: A stepping stone to the giants, on a remote path to 7,126 meters.

Himlung Expedition with Himalayan Outdoor Project (HOP) is your gateway to the world of 7,000-meter peaks a stunning, remote, and achievable first step above 7,000 meters. Rising to 7,126 meters in the Peri Himal on the border between Nepal and Tibet, Himlung Himal offers the perfect blend of cultural immersion and high-altitude mountaineering. Whether you’re an experienced climber looking to test your limits or an adventurer taking your first step into the world of extreme altitude, Himlung Expedition is designed to be accessible. Founded by Anup Gurung a world-class kayaker, IRF instructor, solo paraglider, and enduro rider who has conquered the world’s most extreme waters and peaks and Rajiv Chand, a retired Major from the Nepali Army Special Forces with over 20 years of leadership, discipline, and planning experience, HOP was built on a powerful belief: “We don’t just take people into the mountains we help them discover who they are.” Himlung Expedition is more than a climb; it’s a purpose-driven adventure that empowers local communities and preserves Nepal’s pristine landscapes.

 

Himlung Expedition follows a journey steeped in history and culture, beginning with a drive along the Annapurna Circuit to Koto, then entering the restricted and ancient Nar-Phu Valley home to timeless Tibetan villages like Phu GaonHimlung Himal was first climbed in 1992 by a Japanese team led by Junji Kurotaki, and in 2013 a new, safer route was established. Today, Himlung Expedition offers one of the least-commercialized high-altitude adventures in Nepal. The trek to Base Camp (4,900m) winds through remote settlements, slender gullies, forests, and ancient Gompas, allowing you to immerse yourself in a culture that has remained unchanged for centuries. Himlung Himal is not just a mountain; it’s a journey through time. With HOP, Himlung Expedition ensures that every step is guided by professionals who have dedicated their lives to the mountains.

 

A good level of physical fitness is beneficial for the Himlung Expedition, but HOP’s 4E Principle Education, Experience, Expertise, Excellence ensures that even those with no prior 7,000-meter experience can participate confidently. The climb is graded at Alpine Grade PD+ to AD, making it moderately technical but highly achievableHimlung Himal is often recommended as an ideal first 7,000-meter peak, with prior experience on 6,000-meter peaks like Island Peak or Mera Peak being strongly recommended. The expedition involves three high camps above Base Camp: Camp I (5,400m), Camp II (6,000m), and Camp III (6,350m)Himlung Expedition requires stamina and mental resilience, but HOP’s expert guides provide continuous support, safety briefings, and encouragement every step of the way. Himlung Himal offers a perfect training ground for those dreaming of 8,000-meter peaks. With the right preparation and support, Himlung Expedition is an achievable goal for anyone with determination and a sense of adventure.

 

The highlight of the Himlung Expedition is the summit push from Camp III, where you’ll ascend steep snow and ice slopes of up to 70–80 degrees before standing atop the world at 7,126 meters. On a clear morning, the panoramic views stretch across the Tibetan plateau and the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges a vista earned step by step, breath by breath. Himlung Himal rewards you with a sense of accomplishment that few experiences can match. The descent is a return to earth, to the warmth of a lodge in Phu Gaon, where the profound silence of the heights slowly melds with the gentle rhythm of the valley. Himlung Expedition completes not with conquest, but with a reverent nod to the mountain’s fierce beauty and the quiet knowledge that your journey will live in your bones forever. Himlung Himal stays with you in the quiet moments, in the sudden longing for altitude, in the memory of a ridge that felt like the spine of the world. Choose Himlung Expedition. Choose HOP. Let Himlung Himal redefine what you thought possible and let Himlung Expedition linger in your heart forever.

Himlung Expedition / Himlung Himal

Beyond Borders

Himlung Expedition / Himlung Himal

EXPEDITION OVERVIEW

Here is brief information regarding the expedition, including dates, duration, pricing and more.
  1. MONTH

    September - November
  2. GROUP SIZE

    4 - 14 adventurers
  3. DURATION

    Expedition duration is 30 days
  4. TRANSPORTATION

    We will be travelling via private transportation
  5. DIFFICULTY

    The level will be moderate

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) & Transfer to Hotel

  • Day 2

    Final Gear Check, Permit Preparation and Expedition Briefing

  • Day 3

    Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (800m)

  • Day 4

    Drive from Besisahar to Koto (2,600m)

  • Day 5

    Trek from Koto to Dharapani (1,860m)

  • Day 6

    Trek from Dharapani to Kaga (2,540m)

  • Day 7

    Trek from Kaga to Tilche (3,100m)

  • Day 8

    Trek from Tilche to Phu Gaon (4,080m)

  • Day 9

    Acclimatization Day: Explore Phu Gaon & Ancient Monastery

  • Day 10

    Trek from Phu Gaon to Himlung Base Camp (4,900m)

  • Day 11-12

    Acclimatization & Training at Base Camp (Icefall Practice)

  • Day 13

    Establish Camp 1 (5,400m)

  • Day 14

    Rotation: Climb to Camp 1 and return to Base Camp

  • Day 15

    Rest Day at Base Camp

  • Day 16

    Move to Camp 1

  • Day 17

    Establish Camp 2 (5,900m) and return to Camp 1

  • Day 18

    Return to Base Camp for Rest

  • Day 19

    Rest and Final Preparation for Summit Push at Base Camp

  • Day 20

    Move to Camp 1

  • Day 21

    Move to Camp 2

  • Day 22

    Move to Camp 3 (6,300m)

  • Day 23

    Summit Himlung Himal (7,126m) and Descend to Camp 2

  • Day 24

    Continue Descent to Base Camp

  • Day 25

    Contingency Day (Weather / Reserve)

  • Day 26

    Trek from Base Camp to Koto

  • Day 27

    Drive from Koto to Besisahar

  • Day 28

    Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu & Farewell Dinner

  • Day 29

    Leisure Day in Kathmandu for Rest & Shopping

  • Day 30

    Final Departure: Transfer to International Airport

Brief Information

Cost includes:

  • All airport and hotel transfers in Kathmandu by private vehicle. 
  • 30 days full board on trek and climb with all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and accommodation (teahouse/lodge during trek, expedition tents at base camp and high camps).
  • 4 nights tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast and government taxes. 
  • Round-trip flight: Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu, including domestic airport taxes.
  • Service of an experienced, fluent English-speaking trekking guide and climbing Sherpa, as well as necessary porters.
  • All accommodations, meals, insurance, equipment, and allowances for guides, climbing Sherpas, and porters.   
  • Expedition Royalty and a permit fee from the Nepal Government to climb Mt.Himlung Himal climbing permit, NMA permit to climb Himlung Peak, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Rural Municipality entry permit and fee.
  • Transportation for all arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle as per the above itinerary. 
  • Cultural tour in Kathmandu with local guide, transport but entry fee is extra. 
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) fee. 
  • All applicable government taxes (13% VAT and 10% tourism service charges)
  • Ground handling charges and necessary government taxes. 
  • Farewell and welcome Dinner with the whole trek team. 
  • Himalayan Outdoor Project merchandise (Cap or Hoodie)
 

Cost excludes:

  • Lunch and Dinner whilst staying in Kathmandu. 
  • Entry fee while cultural visit in Kathmandu. 
  • International flights to Nepal. 
  • Bottled drinks (mineral water, any cold drinks, and alcoholic drinks) whilst on trek. 
  • Personal travel and medical insurance (mandatory, must cover emergency evacuation and high-altitude climbing up to 6,200m).
  • Expenses of personal nature such as tips for guide, porter and driver, laundry, bar bill, telephone calls etc.
  • Nepal visa fee for 30 days.
  • Any additional activities not in the itinerary.
  • Any costs arising from itinerary changes, delays, or evacuations due to weather, flight cancellations, natural disasters, or health issues

Things to consider while in Nepal and before coming to Nepal:

  • Roads can be unpredictable and bumpy in Nepal be patient and trust the journey.
  • Forgetting personal medications is risky pack enough for the entire trip as pharmacies are non-existent in these remote areas.
  • There’s little to no internet here disconnect and enjoy the timeless beauty of the wilderness.
  • Drinking untreated water can ruin your adventure. Always use purification methods.
  • Never overpack.
  • Leave footprints not traces.
  • Have healthy mind set to respect local culture.
  • Remote areas mean minimal facilities embrace the adventure over comfort.
  • Switch off everything and soak in the moments.
  • Carry enough cash because sometimes ATMs and other form of payments could not work.
  • Dont forget your permits and all the other required documents.
  • Stay calm in unexpected situations; panicking never helps, and solutions are always around the corner.
  • Don’t rush to the finish line; the magic is in enjoying every step of the journey.
  • Stick with the group; wandering off isn’t just unsafe, it’s unnecessary in such vast landscapes.
 

WHAT TO BRING: 

  • Hat/Cap
  • Beanie/Headband
  • Sunglasses
  • Neck Buff
  • Sunscreen
  • Light Base Layer
  • Insulating Layer (Fleece or Down)
  • Down Jacket
  • Raincoat
  • Gloves (Warm and Lightweight)
  • Trekking Pants (Quick-dry)
  • Thermal Bottoms (Optional)
  • Trekking Boots
  • Camp Shoes/Flip Flops
  • Wool Socks (Multiple Pairs)
  • Head Torch (with Extra Batteries)
  • Water Bottle (Up to 2L)
  • Personal Medications
  • Camera
  • Power Bank/Charger
  • Trekking Poles
  • Snacks/Protein Bars
  • Toilet Paper/Wet Wipes
  • Personal Hygiene Items
  • First Aid Kit (Basic)
  • Map/Guidebook
  • Backpack (Daypack for trekking)
  • Positive vibes

FAQs

I've never climbed a mountain before. Can I join a summit expedition?
  • Yes.
  • Several Himalayan peaks are suitable for first-time climbers who have good fitness and a willingness to learn.
  • Our guides provide instruction, support, and mentoring throughout the expedition.
  • For many guests, a HOP summit expedition becomes the beginning of a lifelong passion for mountaineering.
What is the difference between trekking and climbing?
  • Trekking follows established mountain trails and does not require technical climbing equipment.
  • Climbing involves ascending a mountain summit and may require equipment such as crampons, harnesses, helmets, ropes, and ice axes.
  • Climbing expeditions demand greater preparation, but they also offer one of the most rewarding achievements in mountain travel.
How physically demanding are summit expeditions?
  • Summit expeditions require a higher level of fitness than trekking.
  • You should be comfortable hiking for multiple days, handling steep terrain, and maintaining consistent effort at altitude.
  • Our team provides detailed preparation advice before every expedition to help you arrive ready and confident.
Do I need technical climbing experience?
  • Not always.
  • Many trekking peaks in Nepal are specifically designed for climbers who are new to mountaineering.
  • Our guides teach the skills you’ll need during the expedition and ensure you’re comfortable using equipment before summit day.
  • More advanced peaks require previous climbing experience, and we’ll always advise honestly on what is appropriate for your ability level.
What happens if weather prevents a summit attempt?
  • Mountain weather always has the final say.
  • If conditions become unsafe, our guides may postpone, modify, or cancel a summit attempt.
  • While reaching the summit is the objective, returning safely is the true measure of a successful expedition.
  • This commitment to safety is one of the reasons travelers trust HOP.
Why choose Nepal for your first summit?
  • Nepal is home to some of the world’s best introductory climbing peaks.
  • Combined with experienced guides, breathtaking Himalayan scenery and a rich mountaineering heritage, there is no better place to begin your climbing journey.
  • Standing on your first Himalayan summit is an experience you’ll never forget.