Limi Valley


Humla region is one of the most remote areas in Nepal which lies bordering China and India. Simikot is Humla's Headquarters. Humla's geographical position and variety, together with its ethnic and cultural diversity, makes trekking in this area as one of the most fascinating experiences. August and September are perfect time to be there.

Trades between China and Nepal are carried out by means of yaks, dzos, horses and goats, where animals are loaded according to their size and weight. Hiking during the caravan season will make your journey simple unique for the blending of Himalayan landscapes and lively ancient traditions.

The 6 days Humla trek (Simikot-Hilsa) is one of the most famous pilgrimage routes to Mt. Kailash (Tibet). From Simikot to Tumkot, the trail goes along the Humla Karnali narrow valley, in a very green alpine forest, passing by some interesting villages of Bothia and Lama ethnic groups, both of them developed its own architecture.

From Tumkot to Hilsa, the path follows a Humla's tributary valley. Alpine forest is taken over by alpine meadow, barriers and edelweiss, in the context of wide open valley and gently dipping side hills. It's just before Hilsa that the landscape turns dry and barren rocky like Tibetan plateau, to which, this area belongs.

At Hilsa you can go on toward Mt. Kaliash (entering China) or you can go on hiking into Limi valley, Talung, Nyalu Lagna, then moving back to Simikot. This 8 days trek has been recently opened to tourism, but, being a restricted area, a special trekking permit is needed. From Hilsa to Jang you can hike on the Limi's caravan route, often beautifully carved into rock.

Limi villages are among the few places where Tibetan architecture and old monasteries (like Halji's monastery founded in the 10th century) are nicely preserved, where, among friendly and welcoming people, it's possible to have a genuine glimpse of Tibetan culture and its daily life. After Jang the route enters into real high altitude yak meadows and wild mountain with basically no settlements except for a couple summer camps of the yak herd owners. Very often your only companions will be red pandas.

After Landok Lagna , on your way back to Simikot , you return to alpine meadows and forest, barely fields and villages, narrow and deeply cut valleys. Different route options are available, but the most rewarding path is the toughest one. Passing by Dinga Laga and Hepka valley, you can enjoy wonderful view of the Hulma's mountains and pass by Chhetri villages, characterized by dipping roof and windowless houses.