Max. Elevation
Great Himalayan Trail
Overview
Great Himalayan Trail: A 5-Month Adventure Across Nepal
We begin our journey in Simikot, trekking through the remote Humla region to the beautiful and peaceful Rara Lake. Along the way, we pass through small villages of Chhetri, Brahmin, and Takhuri communities. This part of the trek is at a lower altitude, helping us acclimatize for the high mountains ahead.
Next, we head to the Mugu Valley and into the mystical region oF UPPER Dolpo, known for its ancient monasteries and untouched villages. We continue to Lomothnag, crossing five high passes over 5,000 meters.
We then tackle the famous Sarebung Pass at 6,200 m on the Annapurna Narphu Valley and the Larkya La on the Manaslu Circuit, reaching snowy, glacier-filled landscapes. Villages like Lho and Sama welcome us with Tibetan culture and traditions. As we descend slightly, we pass through Ganesh Himal and cross the Pangsang Pass (3,830 m).
Our next challenge is the remote Rolwaling Valley, where we cross the difficult Langtang Tilman Pass (5,300 m), surrounded by stunning alpine lakes like Tin Phokari and Panch Phokari. If Tilman Pass is too risky, we have a backup route over Gyanja La (5,100 m).
To reach the Everest region, we must climb the technical Tashi Lapsa Pass (5,730 m), requiring mountaineering gear like crampons and ice axes. We then arrive in Thame and continue through the Khumbu region, crossing Renjo La, Cho La, and visiting Kala Pattar (5,545 m) and Gokyo Peak (5,360 m) — with unforgettable views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and more.
The adventure gets even more intense as we take on the challenging Three Passes Expedition: Amphu Laptsa (5,850 m), West Col (6,143 m), and Sherpani Col (6,135 m) — using fixed ropes and rappelling in icy, high-altitude terrain, finally reaching Makalu Base Camp.
From there, we continue on a rare trail to the Lumbasumba Pass, traveling through the Arun Valley near the Tibetan border.
In the final stretch, we trek through diverse cultural villages of Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Tamang, and Tibetan communities. The trail leads us to the majestic Kangchenjunga North Base Camp at Pangpema (5,140 m). After circling the eastern face of this giant mountain, we conclude our once-in-a-lifetime journey across the entire length of Nepal.
Itinerary
Expand AllWe start our adventure in Simikot, trekking through the stunning Humla region to reach the breathtaking Rara Lake. This part of western Nepal is rarely visited, offering a peaceful and unique experience. Along the way, we walk through traditional Chhetri, Brahmin, and Takhuri villages, getting a glimpse of local life. Since this section is not very high in altitude, it’s perfect for helping us adjust before the more challenging stages ahead.
- Number of days: 15 days
- Accommodation: in a tent
- Difficulty: moderate
This stage takes us from the peaceful and little-known areas of Rara Lake and the Mugu Valley, into the remote and mystical land of Dolpo, and finally to the edge of Mustang. We explore ancient monasteries and traditional villages untouched by time. Then, we trek over more than five high mountain passes (all above 5,000 meters) to reach Lo Mothang, connecting us to the famous Annapurna Saribung and Narphu.
- Number of days: 20 days
- Accommodation: in a tent
- Difficulty: difficult
Continue to Sarebung Pass at 600 meters on the Annapurna Narphu Valley, trekking through high mountain glaciers and snowy landscapes. After that, we reach the Tibetan-influenced villages of Phu and Meta where prayer flags, monasteries, and chortens show the local culture.
we continue toward the Manaslu region crossing the Larkye la pass 5163meter. The Manaslu massif includes three big peaks: Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), and Peak 29 (7,871 m), located between the Budhi, Gandaki, and Marsyangdi rivers.
- Number of days: 20 days
- Accommodation: in a Tent + lodge
- Difficulty: difficult
Next, we trek through many villages home to different ethnic groups, enjoying a peaceful journey away from the crowds in a beautiful high mountain setting. After walking around the Ganesh Himal range, we cross the Pangsang Pass at 3,830 meters. From there, we descend to a comfortable altitude below 4,000 meters
- Number of days: 10 days
- Accommodation: in a tent
- Difficulty : moderate
This is a legendary and rarely traveled route. We cross the entire Rolwaling Valley, with the main highlight being the challenging Tilman Pass at 5,300 meters. Along the way, we visit stunning high-altitude lakes like Tin Pokhari and Panch Pokhari. We then reach the Bhote Khosi River, known as the Tibetan River, and the old road that once led to Lhasa.
Since Tilman Pass is difficult and not often used, there is an alternative route through Gyanja La (5,100 meters) if conditions make Tilman Pass too hard.
For detailed daily plans, see the technical sheet: “From Langtang to Rolwaling via Tilman Pass.”
- Number of days : 15 days
- Accommodation: in tents and lodges
- Difficulty: difficult
To get from the Rolwaling Valley to Khumbu via the high road, we have to take a difficult pass that requires technical knowledge and equipment such as crampons, ice axe and harness, the Tashi Lapsa. In a high mountain atmosphere, we flirt with peaks at 6,000 m and more! We arrive in Thame and find the Khumbu lodges. See details and day by day in the technical sheet "The Rolwaling Crossing via Tashi Lapsa".
- Number of days: 15 days
- Accommodation: in tents and lodges
- Difficulty : difficult
At the heart of Sherpa country are the highest peaks in the world. On this itinerary, we will first meet this endearing population, its villages and monasteries, then gain altitude and cross two passes at more than 5,000 meters above sea level, Renjo La, Cho La, and also climb Kala Pattar (5,545 m) and Gokyo Peak (5,360 m). A beautiful immersion in high altitude to reach Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, Cho Oyu and of course, Everest. A very beautiful itinerary where we never take our eyes off the high Himalayan peaks. We sleep in lodges in the villages we pass through. See details and day by day in the technical sheet "Everest by the High Passes".
- Number of days: 15 days
- Accommodation: in a lodge
- Difficulty: difficult
We are setting off on a legendary and difficult-to-organize expedition that brings us closer to mountaineering than trekking. We are committed to "climbing the 3 passes": Amphu Lapsa (5,850 m), West Col (6,143 m), first climbed by Shipton in 1951, and Sherpani at 6,135 m (easier than East Col), which leads to Makalu Base Camp. We sometimes have to use fixed ropes and abseil. We are moving through a glacial and snowy landscape and flirting with the high peaks. See details and day by day in the technical sheet "From Everest to Makalu via Amphu Lapsa and Sherpani Col".
- Number of days: 15days
- Accommodation: in a tent
- Difficulty: difficult to very difficult
We set off on a unique trek from Makalu Base Camp (8,463 m) to Lumbasumba. We progress to the Makalu lookout, which offers a view of Everest (8,848 m) and Lhotse (8,516 m). An extraordinary adventure that takes us to a rare and unique passage: Lumbasumba, the Arun Valley, and the Tibetan border. See details and day-by-day in the fact sheet "From Makalu to Kangchenjunga via Lumbasumba."
- Number of days : 15 days
- Accommodation : in a tent
- Difficulty : difficult
We set off on a wild trek in an exceptional high mountain setting. Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Tamang, and Tibetan villages are dotted along the route. We progress in a beautiful high mountain atmosphere to the North Base Camp of Kangchenjunga (8,586 m) at Pangpema (5,140 m), then after skirting the entire mountain range to the east, the South Base Camp. An extraordinary adventure. See details and day by day in the fact sheet "At the foot of Kangchenjunga on the borders of Nepal."
- Number of days: 15 days
- Accommodation: in a tent or lodge
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 Transfers : Pickup and drop off from Tribhuvan International Airport by private vehicle.
Accommodation in Kathmandu : 3-star hotel accommodation with breakfast on a twin – sharing basis.
Welcome dinner : One welcome dinner in a tourist – standard restaurant in Kathmandu with office staff.
Permits : All necessary paperwork required for national park permits, conservation area fees, and restricted area permits, depending on the chosen GHT sections.
Local Transportation : All ground transportation as per itinerary (private vehicle, jeep, bus, or domestic flights where applicable).
Guide : A licensed, English-speaking professional trekking guide experienced in long-distance trails.
Guide leader (SIRDAR) : Leads the entire team, manages safety and logistics.
Assistant guide : supports the leader and helps clients on the trail and sets up the camp.
Cook : prepares all meals on camping treks.
Kitchen boy : Assists the cook with food prep and carries kitchen equipment and food.
Porter : Carries trekking gear and supplies for the trekking group.
Meals on Trek : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner with tea/coffee during trekking days.
Tented Accommodation & Tea house stay : Teahouse or camping accommodation depending on region (Upper Dolpo, Limi, Makalu–Barun, Kanchenjunga, etc.)
Camping Equipment : Tents, kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, and sleeping mattress, and all kitchen utensils. (for camping sections).
Wages and Insurance : Guide, porter, and crew wages, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
Medical kit : Comprehensive medical kit.
Excluded Points
Airfare : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
Nepal Entry visa fee : The Nepalese Visa is USD 50 for a day.
Lunch and dinner : lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from trekking, then the scheduled itinerary).
Extra night in Kathmandu : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition, or domestic flight cancellation (for any other reason) other than the scheduled itinerary.
Insurance policy : Insurance covering both medical and high-altitude evacuation costs (for the trip cancellation, interruption, high altitude rescue and 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.
Toiletries : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
Filming : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
Internet services : Not included during the trek and the expedition.
Tips : Tips for the staff
Extra : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Trip Information
Trip Details of the Great Himalayan Trail
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.
Read MoreYour 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.
- The Assistant Guide: is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and set camp.
- The Cook is responsible for all meals and is on a trek that doesn’t use lodges for meals.
- The kitchen boy is an assistant to the cook. ( camping trek )
- 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.
Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person:
For Lodge (tea house) Accommodations Trek:15 kg maximum;
Tent Camping Trek: 22 kg maximum; Expeditions/summit ascents: 20 kg maximum. The porters are given a premium wage for carrying loads over 30 kg.
Additionally, the Alpinist Club ensures that insurance is provided for the guide and porters. They are also equipped with specific gear for crossing high-altitude passe.
Accommodations in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are:
Hotel Himalayan Suite: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Accommodation And Meals during the Trek
During the Narphu Valley and Mesokanta La Pass, you will stay in a lodge or Tea House with twin shared bedrooms. Meals are prepared by the Lodge's cook and Served in the dining room for this trek.
At the Mesokanta la pass for 2 nights, we will stay in a tent, and food will be prepared by kitchen ten and served in the dining Tent or your Tent.
Here is a typical one-day menu:
- 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: We provide water purification tablets. and recommended to bring refilling bottles with purified water. Avoid buying mineral water due to its environmental impact.
Physical level in Narphu Valley and Mesokanta la Trek
This program is designed for those who exercise regularly, especially in endurance activities. You only need to carry a daypack with essentials. The trek lasts 18 days, with daily hikes of 6 to 7 hours and altitude changes between 400 m and 1,350 m. The Kangla and Mesokanto la Pass (5,150 m) often have snow later in the season.
Preparation for the Trek
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 fully enjoy your Alpinist Club trip. 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 for you. Think about it before you go.
Safety During The Trek
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. Throughout the journey, we carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and reliable radio and satellite communication gear.
Group size for the Narphu and Mesokanta La Pass Trek
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.
Camping Equipment for Mesokanta La Pass
All logistical equipment is provided, including individual tents at the base camp with mattresses, mess tent, shower tents, and toilet tents, as well as all collective and individual cooking equipment. At altitude, tents, stoves with gas cartridges, ropes, and anchors.
Personal Equipment for the trekking
Personal equipment is not provided, but a complete list will be shared later. We will refine the list with you during the preparation days and up until departure based on your questions.
High-altitude sleeping bags, full suits, and quality down jackets are costly items you may not use often. We offer these specific items for rent during the expedition. You must return the equipment clean and in good condition, with a deposit required.
Security And Communication
We have at least one Iridium satellite phone for logistics, weather updates, and security. Participants may use it under certain conditions—please contact us for private use. All camps are connected by radio, with access for the expedition leader, participants, and high-altitude Sherpas. A hyperbaric chamber will be available at base camp, and a lighter, essential pharmacy will be stocked at higher camps.