Limi Valley is located in the far western region of Nepal in the Humla district of the Karnali region. The trek takes you up to Hilsa, the last town along Nepal and Tibet (China), and some of the remote villages in the shadow of the Himalayas.
Limi in the Tibetan language means the land between two rivers. Limi Valley is a restricted area, which means trekkers should be in 2 persons to obtain special permits through a legal travel company. Every year, very few trekkers dare to visit this valley, making it the most unexplored and uncrowded trekking trail in Nepal. This trek is the last culturally remaining hidden valley because of the matrimonial relationship and fragile ecosystems.
The starting point of the Limi Valley is Simikot (2,950 m), the headquarters of Jumla district, which is connected only by a direct from Nepalgunj in southern Nepal. The trail goes upstream of the Karnali River, Nepal’s longest river, going past some of the most memorable settlements: Tumkot (3,380 m), Yari (3,700 m), Hilsa (3720 m), Til (4,000 m), Talug (4,370 m), and Shinjungma (3,620 m).
Limi Valley Trek Highlight
- Alternatively, enjoy the scenic drive without anybody
- Fragile ecosystems and matrimonial relations are the major highlights of the trek
- Cross Nara La pass at 4940 m, Trek above the clouds, and capture the most beautiful scenery
- Visit Rinchenling, Kunzum Do-Nag Chodeden monastery and Kailash View Point
- Enjoy the ancient Monastery and villages of Jhang and Halji
The highest point of the Limi Valley Trek is the Nara La pass, which at an altitude of 4940 m makes it one of the high Himalayan passes. The trekking path winds through rivers, villages, barley fields, and a semi-arid desert-like landscape.
The Limi Valley population is around 1,000 people. The Tibetan-origin people have been populated in this area and surely speak the Tibetan language. For them, Nepali is the second language, which they use mainly for trade. The people here follow Tibetan Buddhism. You can learn more about their lifestyles and Buddhist culture by visiting Kunzum Do-Nag Choeden Monastery in Til, Rinchenling Monastery, as well as the ancient villages of Jhang and Halji.
The Limi Valley Trek is a 22-day journey, including your arrival and departure from Nepal. This is the most isolated and rain shadow trekking region with a distinct language, culture, and way of life. If you want to be above the clouds and hide from the rain, then surely the monsoon is the best time for this trek. Many Kailash pilgrims follow this route to Mt. Kailash and Kailash Kora.