

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 Gaon. Himlung 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 achievable. Himlung 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.
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) & Transfer to Hotel
Final Gear Check, Permit Preparation and Expedition Briefing
Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (800m)
Drive from Besisahar to Koto (2,600m)
Trek from Koto to Dharapani (1,860m)
Trek from Dharapani to Kaga (2,540m)
Trek from Kaga to Tilche (3,100m)
Trek from Tilche to Phu Gaon (4,080m)
Acclimatization Day: Explore Phu Gaon & Ancient Monastery
Trek from Phu Gaon to Himlung Base Camp (4,900m)
Acclimatization & Training at Base Camp (Icefall Practice)
Establish Camp 1 (5,400m)
Rotation: Climb to Camp 1 and return to Base Camp
Rest Day at Base Camp
Move to Camp 1
Establish Camp 2 (5,900m) and return to Camp 1
Return to Base Camp for Rest
Rest and Final Preparation for Summit Push at Base Camp
Move to Camp 1
Move to Camp 2
Move to Camp 3 (6,300m)
Summit Himlung Himal (7,126m) and Descend to Camp 2
Continue Descent to Base Camp
Contingency Day (Weather / Reserve)
Trek from Base Camp to Koto
Drive from Koto to Besisahar
Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu & Farewell Dinner
Leisure Day in Kathmandu for Rest & Shopping
Final Departure: Transfer to International Airport
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