Overview

The Simikot Hilsa Limi Circuit Trek takes you deep into one of Nepal’s most remote regions, covering a remarkable range of climate zones from tropical forests to alpine peaks. Trek along the Karnali River, Nepal’s longest river, as you explore the Limi Valley and experience the cultures and traditions of both Nepal and Tibet.

This off-the-beaten-path trek passes isolated villages inhabited by Khas and Tibetan communities, offering a rare glimpse into ancient lifestyles. Along the route, you can visit monasteries over a thousand years old, encounter local wildlife, and witness the pristine beauty of far-western Nepal’s mountains and valleys. The journey is ideal for adventurers seeking cultural immersion and Himalayan wilderness.

The trek begins with sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley before flying to Nepalgunj. A short flight then takes you to Simikot, where a brief walk brings you to Dharapuri. From here, the trail follows the Karnali River to Kermi, continues past Khyung Monastery in Namkha to Yalbang, and then onward to Tumkot and Yuri, where you visit Chutok and Yangzi Monasteries. Crossing the Nara La Pass (4,560m), you reach Hilsa, the gateway to the Limi Valley.

Within Limi Valley, explore the remote villages of Til, Halji, and Jang. The trek then ascends to Shinjungma via Talung, crossing the Nyalu La Pass (5,001m), before returning to Simikot. The journey concludes with flights back to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu, completing a truly extraordinary expedition.

Experience one of Nepal’s most remote trekking adventures with Eternal Himalaya, combining cultural discovery, wildlife exploration, and Himalayan grandeur in a single unforgettable journey.

Highlights

  • Journey to one of the most remote areas of the country
  • Enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the Limi Valley
  • Cross high mountain passes through the desolate Tibetan landscapes
  • A unique adventure completely off-the-beaten path

Itinerary

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Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu

You will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport where a company representative will come to greet you. Then, you will proceed to your hotel where you can rest. Later, you can also go around the block for explorations. You can go shop for souvenirs or go for experiencing the city atmosphere.

  • Maximum Altitude1300m

The beginning of the journey, today, we tour the UNESCO world heritage sites in the valley beginning from the Swayambhunath From here, we descend down to the Kathmandu Durbar Square. Next up on the tour is the Pashupatinath Temple. The tour finally ends with a visit to the Boudhanath Stupa. All these UNESCO world heritage sites are the cultural symbols of the entire nation.

    We make our way out of the Kathmandu Valley heading towards the Terai city of Nepalgunj. The hour-long flight takes us away from the lush green hills around the valley and towards the Terai flatlands. Touching down at Nepalgunj, we make our way directly to the hotel. You can explore the city for the remainder of the day.

      Today, we make our way to Simikot flying over to the Humla district. The flight takes us to one of the most remote areas of the nation in addition to the beautiful natural scenery. Reaching Simikot, we head down to the hotel ending all our activities for the day. Once again, you are free to head down to the local regions.

        The first day of our trek and we begin our journey making our way towards Dharapuri. Exiting Simikot, the trail ascends through the forested ridge before descending towards Majgaon. Past Majgaon, the trail takes us through a series of ascents and descents. We trek past small settlements continuously to reach Dharapuri.

        • Maximum Altitude2300m

        Exiting Dharapuri, we begin our journey along the banks of the Karnali River. Through fields of buckwheat, maize, and barley, we continue our journey to Kermi. In addition to housing hot water, Kermi is well known for its monasteries. Here, you can visit the Lakiyo Gompa and Lhundrup Choeling Gompa both dating back a hundred years. We tour around the monasteries learning the unique culture and way of life followed in the region.

        • Maximum Altitude2670m

        Heading out of Kermi the trail steeply ascends through the lush green forests to reach the suspension bridge over the Salli River. Past the river, the trail begins its descent through the lush green forests. The picturesque views of the Karnali River and the surrounding landscapes make the trek even more surreal. Often used by traders, the route is more crowded than others as people head to and back from the Tibetan trading hub of Takalkot.

        • Maximum Altitude3020m

        Yalbang is home to the Namkha Khyung Dzong Monastery which, the oldest monastery of the region. Enjoying the tranquil atmosphere around the monastery, we begin our journey to Tumkot. Exiting Yalbang, the journey heads to Yagnar on a fairly leveled trail. Crossing the suspension bridge above the Karnali River, we trek past Muchu to reach Tumkot.

          Making our way out of Tumkot, we begin our ascending journey towards Pani Palbang. The changing attitudes are reflected in the landscapes as we leave behind the tree lines in favor of the desolate Himalayan landscapes. Another hour of the journey takes us to the hamlet of Yari. Depending on our arrival schedule, we can trek to Thado Dhunga which lies half an hour away from Yari.

            Today, we make our way towards Hilsa which forms the Nepalese border with Tibet. Exiting Yari, we head past Thado Dhunga which brings us to a completely desolate Tibetan wilderness. Making our way through the rugged Himalayan wilderness, we begin our slow ascent to the summit of Nara La Pass at an altitude of 4,620m. Enjoying the views of the majestic mountains, we continue our journey past several chortens to Hilsa.

              Heading out of Hilsa, we make our way past an iron bridge. Then, we follow a narrow trail gradually climbing the ridge to meet the main trekking route heading towards Manepeme. The majority of the journey takes us alongside the tranquil Humla Karnali River. We continue the entirety of the journey through the barren Tibetan landscape to reach Manepeme.

              • Maximum Altitude3900m

              Making our way out of Manepeme, we ascend through the desolate trail which leads us to the cave of Ya Yip Phuk. A prominent Buddhist heritage, it is believed that Lotsawa Rinchen Sangpo, one of the great translators of the ancient Buddhist scriptures, meditated here. Continuing our journey, we head past a series of Mani stones and towards the summit of the Lamka La pass. Crossing the mountain pass at an altitude of 4,300m brings us to Til.

              • Maximum Altitude4000m

              Taking our time to tour around Tal, we begin our descending journey towards the banks of the Limi River. Next, we cross the river finding the lush green forests adorned with pine and fir trees. The final stretch of the journey is a pleasant one as we reach Halji. Home to the Rincheng Gompa, the hamlet boasts a rich culture and history associated with the Kargyupa Lineage.

              • Maximum Altitude3660m

              One of the more pleasant days of the journey, we make our way alongside the Limi River for its entirety and pass the Sunkarni Temple. One of the larger hamlets of the Limi valley, Jang boasts an untouched culture and a Tibetan way of life. The village also offers brilliant views of the surrounding landscapes including the Tibetan mountain ranges. Overnight at Jang.

              • Maximum Altitude3930m

              Enjoying the views of Mt. Saipal (7,132m) and Mt. Kailash (6,638m), we head over to Tholing. Perhaps the most enjoyable stretch of the trek, the journey heads in complete solitude avoiding human settlements. Enjoying the beautiful natural landscape, we head past Takchhe to cross the Talun River. Thereon, it is a short trek to Talun Village.

              • Maximum Altitude4370m

              Today, we make our way over to Shinjungma crossing the stunning Nyalu La Pass (5001m) en route. One of the longer days of the travel, the trek heads alongside a series of Mani stones to reach the summit of Nyalu La Pass (5001m). Enjoying the majestic views of the Api and Saipal Himalayan Ranges, we descend to reach the picturesque lake of Selma Tsho. The final stretch of the trek descends all the way to Shinjungma for the night.

                Making a complete circuit alongside the banks of Salli River, we make our way out of Shinjungma. The journey heads alongside the lush green forests adorned with pine and birch trees. Crossing the Karnali River, we make our journey towards the east reaching Kermi. Back at Kermi, we take some time off to soak in the pleasantly hot water springs.

                • Maximum Altitude2670m

                The final day of the trek and we make our way back to Simikot. Leaving Kermi early, we ascend back to Dharapuri and then onto Majgaon. Leaving Majgaon, the trail takes us on a strenuous climb up the hill climbing the ridge above the Karnali River leading to a narrow pass. A short descent from the pass brings us to Simikot.

                • Maximum Altitude2950m

                The final day of the trek and we begin with a lovely flight heading back to the Terai city of Nepalgunj. Bidding goodbye to far western Nepal, we head back to the Terai flatlands before boarding another flight to Kathmandu. Touching down at Kathmandu, we make our way directly to the hotel where a lovely farewell dinner awaits us.

                  Today is your final day in Nepal and our representative will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. We hope that your adventure with us has been a memorable one and wish you all the luck.

                    Cost Details

                    IncludedExcluded
                    • Airport picks up and drop by private vehicle.
                    • 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with bed and breakfast basis.
                    • Kathmandu sightseeing by Private guide and private transportation
                    • Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu flight fare.
                    • Nepalgunj – Simikot – Nepalgunj flight fare.
                    • All ground transportation by private vehicle.
                    • Your standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking.
                    • All necessary paper works, conservation area, and restricted area entry permits.
                    • All accommodations in hotels, lodges/tea houses during the trek.
                    • An experienced Government licensed guide and porters.
                    • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
                    • Farewell dinner with typical Nepali restaurant
                    • All government taxes.
                    • International Airfare
                    • Nepal entry visa
                    • Personal Expenses
                    • Travel and Rescue Insurance
                    • Extra accommodation and food charges in Kathmandu
                    • Tips and gratitude to the guide, porters and drivers

                    Useful Info

                    With the exception of months during the winter season (December-February), the trek can be done throughout the year. This is because the trekking trail lies in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri range. Also, it is a difficult trek and altitude sickness is also a major threat.

                    We, at Eternal Himalaya, will manage all of your permits, transportation, and accommodations services. We have experienced and licensed guides and porters for the trek. As a result, your trek will be safe, easy, and fun.