Trip Overview
Himlung Himal Expedition Overview:
Himlung Himal, standing at an elevation of 7,126 meters (23,386 feet), is a stunning peak situated in the remote Nar Phu Valley of the Annapurna region in Nepal. Himlung Himal offers a challenging and rewarding climbing experience, attracting mountaineers seeking a less crowded expedition in the Himalayas. Here’s an overview of what to expect during a Himlung Himal Expedition:
1. Remote Location: Himlung Himal is located in a secluded region, requiring a trek through the picturesque Nar Phu Valley. The journey begins with a drive to Besisahar and continues through traditional villages, high alpine landscapes, and ancient monasteries. The remote setting adds a sense of wilderness and adventure to the expedition.
2. Technical Difficulty: Himlung Himal is considered a challenging climb, requiring a good level of physical fitness and prior high-altitude mountaineering experience. The ascent involves technical sections, including steep ice and snow slopes, and climbers should be proficient in the use of crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes.
3. Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial for a successful ascent. The itinerary is designed to allow climbers to gradually acclimate to the high altitude, with strategic rest days and gradual ascents. Acclimatization is often done in the Nar Phu Valley and surrounding peaks.
4. Cultural Exploration: The expedition provides an opportunity to explore the unique culture of the Nar and Phu villages, inhabited by people of Tibetan descent. Trekkers encounter ancient monasteries, traditional customs, and warm hospitality, adding a cultural dimension to the adventure.
5. Base Camp and High Camps: The climb involves establishing a Base Camp and multiple High Camps to facilitate the ascent. Base Camp serves as the starting point for the climb and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. High Camps are strategically placed to break the ascent into manageable sections.
6. Summit Day: The summit day is a challenging and exhilarating experience, requiring an early start for the ascent to the summit of Himlung Himal. Climbers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, creating lasting memories.
7. Descent and Completion: After a successful summit, climbers descend following the same route, enjoying the landscapes from a different perspective. The descent allows for reflection on the achievement and the unique experiences encountered during the expedition.
8. Inclusions: Standard Himlung Himal expedition packages typically include services such as airport transfers, accommodation in Kathmandu, trekking and climbing permits, professional climbing guides, climbing equipment, meals, and internal flights.
9. Exclusions: Exclusions may encompass international airfare, travel insurance, personal climbing gear, visa fees, additional accommodation, and other personal expenses. Climbers are usually responsible for obtaining appropriate gear and insurance
Detail Itinerary
Trip Includes
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Airport Transfers:
- Arrival and departure transfers between the airport and the hotel in Kathmandu.
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Accommodation:
- Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the expedition in a standard hotel.
- Tent accommodation during the trekking and climbing phases, including Base Camp and High Camps.
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Meals:
- Full board meals during the trek, climb, and rest days.
- Meals include a variety of local and international dishes to meet nutritional requirements.
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Internal Flights:
- Round-trip flights between Kathmandu and Lukla (if applicable).
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Trekking Permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Restricted Area Permit for the Nar Phu Valley.
- Climbing permit for Himlung Himal.
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Professional Guides:
- Experienced and licensed trekking guides.
- Climbing guides with knowledge of Himlung Himal and technical climbing skills.
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Porter Services:
- Porter services to carry trekking and climbing equipment and personal belongings during the trek and climb.
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Climbing Equipment:
- Group climbing equipment (ropes, ice screws, snow bar, etc.).
- Personal climbing gear may not be included and should be arranged individually.
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Climbing Sherpa:
- A qualified climbing Sherpa to assist and guide during the ascent.
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Climbing Clinic:
- Basic climbing training and instruction at Himlung Himal Base Camp.
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Safety Equipment:
- Group first aid kit.
- Emergency oxygen and high-altitude medical kits.
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Transportation:
- All ground transportation in Nepal as per the itinerary.
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Contingency Plans:
- Contingency days in the itinerary for acclimatization and unforeseen circumstances.
- Helicopter evacuation services (if necessary).
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Certificate:
- Summit certificate upon successful completion of the Himlung Himal climb.
Trip Excludes
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International Flights:
- Airfare to and from Nepal is generally not included in the expedition package.
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Travel Insurance:
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance coverage is usually not part of the package. Climbers are advised to obtain insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and climbing activities.
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Personal Gear:
- Climbing and trekking gear such as boots, crampons, harness, helmet, and personal clothing are typically not provided and need to be arranged individually. Some agencies may offer gear rental options.
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Visa Fees:
- The cost of obtaining a Nepalese visa upon arrival in Kathmandu is not included.
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Vaccinations and Health Expenses:
- Vaccinations and any health-related expenses are usually not covered.
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Meals in Kathmandu:
- Meals in Kathmandu (other than those specified in the itinerary) are not included.
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Personal Expenses:
- Expenses for items such as snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and personal toiletries are not covered.
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Tips and Gratuities:
- Tips for guides, porters, and climbing Sherpas are generally not included in the package.
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Additional Accommodation:
- Any extra accommodation needed due to unforeseen circumstances or changes in the itinerary.
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Additional Services:
- Optional activities or services not specified in the standard itinerary.
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Excess Baggage Charges:
- Charges for excess baggage on domestic flights or other transportation modes.
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Evacuation Costs:
- Costs associated with emergency evacuation by helicopter in case of altitude sickness or other emergencies.
