A typical Limi Valley itinerary takes about 16 days from Kathmandu: two days of flights, around 11 days of walking from Simikot through Limi and back or onward, and a spare day. The high points are Nara La at about 4,580 m and Nyalu La at close to 5,000 m.
Flying in
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalganj, then take a morning flight to Simikot, at about 2,950 m. Weather can delay either flight, so a spare day is wise.
Out of Simikot
The route heads north and then west through forest and over the first ridges. Camps are usually between about 2,500 m and 3,500 m in these first days, and the trail follows river valleys.
Crossing Nara La
Nara La, at about 4,580 m, is the first big pass. The climb is long but not technical, and from the top you look into a very different landscape: drier, more open and more Tibetan in character.
The Limi villages
Beyond the pass you reach the Limi villages, with Jang, Halji and Til as the best-known. Most trips spend a day or two here, walking between villages and visiting the monastery at Halji.
Nyalu La and the return
The second pass, Nyalu La, is close to 5,000 m. After it the route turns back towards Simikot or follows a different valley, depending on the plan. Allow spare days for snow or rain.
Spare days
Add at least two spare days. Flights to Simikot are weather-dependent, and passes can be affected by weather. Spare days make the difference between a calm trip and a rushed one.
Daily rhythm
Expect an early start, five to seven hours of walking, and a camp or homestay by mid-afternoon. Evenings are for rest, food and sharing a fire with your crew.
Plan it
Check permits and flights and the best time to go.
