3 Parts Trek of the Great Himalaya Trail
lANGTANG VALLEY -MANASLU CIRCUIT - ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT
2024
april 22 to may 25
As part of our campaign to elevate the female guides and porters in Nepal, we are organizing a 3-Part Trek of the 1700 km Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) which is deemed as the longest high altitude trek in the world. The trek begins on April 22 and ends on May 25, 2024. We will be walking continuously on three famous routes of the GHT: Langtang Valley, Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit. The trek is led by the first Nepali female guide who will be trekking the GHT for 140 days beginning February until May of 2024. We’re organizing this 3 Part Trek as a way for you to join us and experience the leadership of female guides and porters in a trekking tourism industry that has yet to normalize the roles of women. To learn more about the GHT campaign and how you can support us via fundraising and sponsorship opportunities, go to this page.
This trek is open to all genders. Come and join a once in a lifetime long distance trek of the best routes on Nepal’s GHT.
Photo credit: Robin Boustead
itinerary
APRIL 22 (Day 1) Arrival in Kathmandu
You can arrive in Kathmandu anytime on the first day. You will be transported to your hotel and have free day to explore the city.
APRIL 23 (Day 2) Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (4,931 feet /1,503 meters)
The drive from Kathmandu offers both good views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang and brief glances of village life in the Himalaya. The first section is sealed road to Trishuli before the precipitous dirt road to the National Park check post and your destination of Dunche to Syabru Besi. It is a 7-hour drive.
APRIL 24 (Day 3) Syabrubesi to Gatlang (7,342 feet / 2,238 meters).
Ascending from Syabrubesi, you will reach a view point where you will get a glimpse of majestic view of Ganesh Himal, Gosainkunda range and Langtang Lirung. After that, you will head downhill toward Gatlang. You will walk through many villages with numerous Buddhist Chortens and Mani walls. You will reach a beautiful Tamang village named Gatlang.
Hiking time: 3 hours
APRIL 25 (Day 4) Gatlang to Somdang (10,689 feet / 3,258 meters)
We will start our trek climbing uphill as we reach the famous sacred Kunda called Parvati Kund, the areas representing Hindu shrine. This trail passes through rhododendron and pine forest leading to Yuri Kharka which has a scenic view during summer and spring seasons. After some time, you descend toward Khurpu Bhanjyang, crossing Somdang river. Finally, you will reach Somdang and have a night stay there.
Hiking time: 5 hours
APRIL 26 (Day 5) Somdang to Pangsang Pass (12,566 feet / 3,830 meters)
This short trek gives the best view point of Manaslu and Ganesh Himal range after Pangsang Pass. You have to climb through more beautiful forest up to a large pasture called Pangsang Kharka. Pangsang hill is a beautiful hill between Somdang and Tipling village. This pass connects with Singla pass, and Ganesh Himal ridge, the Paldor peak and Ganesh Himal rise. This trek offers you to get to know different cultures such as Ghale, Gurung, Tamang and Dalit.
Hiking time: 4 hours
APRIL 27 (Day 6) Pangsang Pass to Tipling (6,200 feet / 1,890 meters)
You will descend from Pangsang to Tipling through the jungle. After descending from Pangsang Pass, you will reach Pansan Kharka where people graze their cattles. Leaving Kharka, you will head toward Tipling, a large settlement of Tamang community. They are very welcoming and friendly.
Hiking time: 5 hours
APRIL 28 (Day 7) Tipling to Lapa Gaon (6,070 feet / 1,850 meters)
Today’s journey is a bit tiring as you need to go up and down. You will trek from Tipling and descend from Serthung, a village known as sister village. After that, you will reach Awal Gaon and Borang Gaon. Afterwards, you need to cross a bridge in Akhu Khola. After crossing the bridge, you need to climb up hill to reach Lapa Gaon. Lapa Gaon is a big village.
Hiking time: 7 hours
APRIL 29 (Day 8) Lapa Gaon to Nauban Kharka (9,022 feet / 2,750 meters)
You will trek uphill from Lapa Gaon to Magne Goth Kharka. There are many up and down after Magne Goth Kharka. You need to pass through a dense jungle. You will see different types of wild animals like monkeys, red panda and deer. You will also see yak grazing during the trek. The Nauban Kharka is in the middle of the jungle. This place is mostly famous for camping.
Hiking time: 6 hours
APRIL 30 (Day 9) Nauban Kharka to Chama Kharka (5,249 feet / 1,600 meters)
You will leave Nauban Kharka after breakfast. Today, you will descend towards Chama Kharka. Your day starts with the sounds of the birds in the middle of the jungle. You will descend along the Richet Khola. You cross it to reach Yarsa. After that, you will continue to descend to reach Chama Kharka.
Hiking time: 6 hours
MAY 1 (Day 10) Chama Kharka to Machhakhola (2,851 feet / 869 meters)
The road is an easy but narrow way. You need to go through Budhi Gandaki - the main destination for the catching a bus back to Kathmandu. Machhakhola is a destination for starting the trek for Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.
Hiking time: 6.5 hours
MAY 2 (Day 11) Macchakhola to Jagat (4,625 feet/ 1,410 meters)
The start of the trek will require some hiking up and down. After ascending along the river and past the cultivated fields and stone steps, you will reach the hot spring in Tatopani village. After enjoying the gushy hot waters and relaxing ourselves a bit, we shall walk through the forest and cross the Budhi Gandaki to reach the ridge of Dobhan. You will cross the Yaru Khola and arrive in Tharo Bharyang by walking through the stone steps. Your destination of Jagat is reached after crossing the west bank of Budhi Gandaki river.
Hiking time: 6.5 hours
MAY 3 (Day 12) Jagat to Deng (5,922 feet / 1,805 meters)
Jagat will impress you with the tidy slate-pave street. After getting our trekking permit and MCAP ticket checked at Jagat, we climb over the hills of Salleri and then pass through the village of Sirdibas. Soon after, we cross over the Ghatta Khola past the water operated mill and through a suspension bridge to reach to the Gurung village of Philim. Philim has the MCAP head office, micro hydropower plant, school supported by Japanese nationals and a health post. The trail turns north above the village and soon passes the village of Ekle Bhatti. We continue on past a narrow gorge, beautiful waterfall, occasional glimpses of wildlife and the smaller settlements to the opposite side of the gorge. After around two hours, we depart from the main trail and proceed further north after crossing a river. Further along the trail and past the dense rhododendron forests, flowers and views of the Ganesh Himal, we cross Dyang river and arrive in Deng village.
Hiking time: 5 hours
MAY 4 (Day 13) Deng to Namrung (8,628feet / 2,630 meters)
Today, you will cross the Budhi Gandaki River several times on suspension bridges. Beyond Deng, we cross the Budhi Gandaki and ascend to Rana village. We further ascend and join the trail of Bhi pass to reach Bhi Phedi and then pass through Mani walls and forests to get to Ghap. The trail from Prok village gives the view of Siringi Himal. The trail further goes upstream next to the river. We cross the river at a spot where river flows into a gorge, and from there the trail becomes easier again. We reach Namrung after a steep climb.
Hiking time: 6 hours
MAY 5 (Day 14) Namrung to Samagaun (11,581 / 3,530 meters)
Today, you will explore the gompas, barley terraces, chortens and Mani walls along the beautiful villages. We pass through the side valley of Simnang Himal with the close view of Ganesh Himal. Through the Sho, Lho and Shyala village we reach the Sama village. Views of Mt. Manaslu, ancient Ribung Gompa shall enrich our trekking experience. Shyala village provides the view of Himal chuli, Peak 29, glaciers and other treks including the Ganesh Himal seen far away. Ahead lies our destination for today, the Samagaun.
Hiking time: 5.5 hours
MAY 6 (Day 15) Acclimatization day in Samagaun
This day is set aside for acclimatization. You will explore the surroundings of the village and hike through the grazing wall towards the Manaslu Base Camp and Birendra Lake. Dense forests, rhododendron and juniper trees welcome us as we move further up to be welcomed by the lake and icefall of Manaslu Glacier. Samagaun is a lovely village that has houses aligned in a row. I't’s the closest village to Manaslu Base Camp. We also visit the ancient Pungyen gompa that provides an extraordinary view of the glacier. There are several folklores that narrate the faith of the locals towards the gompa. We also explore the nearby Sherpa village and have an insider’s view into the local culture and lifestyle.
MAY 7 (Day 16) Samagaun to Samdo (12,664 feet / 3,860 meters)
Today, we continue our journey along the Budhi Gandaki river that has turned north from the village of Samagaun. We move past the trail leading to the Manaslu Base Camp along the Larke La Pass where the Mani walls radiate the faith of the locals. On the way comes the Kermo Kharka and from there we continue by crossing the Budhi Gandaki river. We ascend towards the stone arc where below we find a large white Kani. Finally, we reach the destination of Samdo. Samdo has two hiking options; one hike heads to the back of the Samdo village and the other towards the Gya La pass.
Hiking time: 3 hours
MAY 8 (Day 17) Samdo to Dharmashala (14,632 feet / 4,460 meters)
The mighty Budhi Gandaki river is again our companion of today where we walk down the edge and cross the river moving up the trail. We reach the stone guest house in Larke Phedi or Dharmashala after crossing a couple of streams and witnessing the Larke glacier and the valley of Salka Khola. Today, we do a short walk which leaves us plenty of time for acclimatization. This further enhances our ability to adapt to the altitude and prepare us for the next day’s hike up towards Larke pass.
Hiking time: 3 hours
MAY 9 (Day 18) Dharmashala to Bhimtang (16,929 feet / 5,160 meters)
This is one of the most interesting and challenging days as we climb up to the Larke La Pass. We do an early start as this is a long day. The hike up takes us to the north side of the pass to witness the Larke Peak. You may find blue sheep, marmot, pika and Tibetan snow-cock tracks and snow leopard paw prints if you are lucky. Across the accumulated earth and stones deposited by the glacier, our slow ascent will take us further to the steep and last section of the pass. At the top, we get to see the mountain peaks of Annapurna II, Kang Garu and Cheo. Afterwards, we start our descent and walk past the pastures until we reach Bimtang village in the mist dominated afternoon.
Hiking time: 7 hours
MAY 10 (Day 19) Bhimtang to Karche (8,858 feet / 2,700 meters)
Today, we hike past the pastures of Bhimthang and make our climb over the moraine, through the wooden bridge and the dense forest of rhododendron, pine, juniper, and spruce. The authentic view of the Manaslu , Larke, Nadi and Chuli Himal can be observed on the way. You will pass Hampuk and Sangure Kharka. Following the intersecting glacier, we cross the steel Bailey’s bridge to reach the small village of Karche.
Hiking time: 5 hours
MAY 11 (Day 20) Karche to Dharapani (6,102 feet / 1,860 meters)
Today, on the rocky terrain along the river bed we contour along the sliding hillsides as we descend and reach the village of Tilije. Tilije has the diverse coexistence of Ghale Gurung, Manangis and Chhetri community. This has also created a blend of cultural and architectural elements. Walking down the Dudh Koshi river and Marsyandhi valley, you will cross a suspension bridge and climb a chorten shaped arch before reaching Thoche (Thonje) village. After Thonje village, we will reach Dharapani where our trek ends. (Dharapani is the starting point of the Annpurna Trek)
Hiking time: 4 hours
MAY 12 (Day 21) Dharapani to Chame
Today is wonderful, with plenty of opportunities to soak in hot springs and stroll through mountain villages and forests. The first spring is at Lata Manang where you can also cross the Marsyangdi if the river is low enough. We then head on to Chame where there are yet more hot springs to enjoy!
Hiking time: 6 hours / Highest elevation: 2670 meters
MAY 13 (Day 22) Chame to Pisang
After a pleasant walk through Bhrathang village and its apple orchards, we cross the river again. A short climb to a peaceful pine forest leads into the wide Manang valley. We camp or lodge at the new Pisang village (as the old one is difficult to access on the far river bank beneath the Tibetan Monastery).
Hiking time: 5 hours / Highest elevation: 3300 meters
MAY 14 (Day 23) Pisang to Manang
Although Chame is the District center, Manang is the trading hub. As we approach Manang cultivation increases and we pass through some of the oldest villages in the region. There are plenty of lodges and places to shop in Manang, which also has a Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic - an ideal spot to enquire about the rigors of living and trekking at altitude.
Hiking time: 3 hours / Highest elevation: 3540 meters
MAY 15 (Day 24) Acclimatization in Manang
This is an important acclimatization day. Rest and explore around Manang, a fabulous trans-Himalayan valley and the base for many of the climbing peaks in the area.
Highest elevation: 3540 meters
MAY 16 (Day 25) Manang to Tilicho Base Camp
As we trek towards the pine forest, the path leads us towards Khangsar river. After crossing the river, we will pass Khangsar village and Sri Kharka. A beautiful glimpse of Tilicho peak can be seen from these two settlements. After passing Sri Kharka, we will reach Tilicho Base Camp.
Hiking time: 7 hours / Highest elevation: 4150 meters
MAY 17 (Day 26) Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho lake & back
Today we head towards Tilicho lake which is located in the Manang District. On the way, you will see yak grazing and a high alpine landscape. After some hours of walking, you will reach Tilicho lake. You will spend some time there and thereafter we walk back to Tilicho Base Camp.
Hiking time: 5 hours / Highest elevation: 4150 meters
MAY 18 (Day 27) Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka
Today, the trail passes thin vegetation before reaching Khangsar village. We will ascend to Thorong Khola valley and cross an old bridge. After that, we will witness the pasture for yak grazing called Yak Kharka.
Hiking time: 6 hours / Highest elevation: 4050 meters
MAY 19 (Day 28) Yak Kharka to Thorung High Camp
We will ascend slowly and follow the trail carefully as we cross the river through a bridge reaching Ledar village. After that, we will ascend further to a narrow trail to reach Thorung Phedi. The trail gives us a mesmerizing view of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Mt. Khatungkan. We will continue on to Thorung High Camp from Thorung Phedi.
Hiking time: 5 hours / Highest elevation: 4833
MAY 20 (Day 29) Thorung High Camp to Thorung La Pass to Muktinath
Today is the hardest day on the trek. We first ascend steeply to 4590 meters and then trek along an undulating trail to the flat top of Thorung La Pass (5416 meters). From here, there are stunning views of the Annapurna range to the south and Mukut Himal bordering Dolpo to the West. The trail descends steeply over glacial moraine, which gives way to grassy meadows before we reach Muktinath. This is one of the most important pilgrimage sights for Hindus and is home to many ethnic Tibetans and Buddhist monks who live in monasteries scattered around the valley. The nearby temple with 108 carved spouts from which holy water flows is famous for a fire that miraculously burns in a stream of water.
Hiking time: 8.5 hours / Highest elevation: 5416 meters
MAY 21 (Day 30) Muktinath to Jomsom
Today is a short day of walking to the end of our trek. But before leaving, we will visit the Hindu-Buddhist Pilgrims in Muktinath.
We will drive to Jomsom by Jeep.
Hiking time: 1.5 hours
MAY 22 (Day 31) Jomsom flight to Pokhara
We will take a flight from Jomsom airport. The flight lands in Pokhara after 27 minutes. After reaching Pokhara, we freshen up to enjoy a leisure walk in the street of Pokhara. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
MAY 23 (Day 32) Pokhara to Kathmandu
The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu will bring back the memories. Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Drive time: 7 hours
MAY 24 (Day 33) Kathmandu Sightseeing & Farewell Dinner
You will have a half-day tour to see Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pasupatinath in Kathmandu and a dinner at night.
MAY 25 (Day 34) Fly home
You will be taken to the airport by private service.
OPTIONAL ADD-ON TREK:
EVEREST BASE CAMP (16 days /15 nights)
If you wish to add Everest Base Camp to this 3 Parts Trek of GHT, you can join our set departure date of April 7-22, 2024 which will be prior to the start of the 3 Parts Trek of the GHT. Do note that the EBC trek will be led by a different female guide and set of porters apart from the women doing the 140 days on the GHT.
Learn more and book the EBC trek via this page.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Watch the recording of our trip meeting on GHT & all our treks in Nepal via this link.
TREK STYLE
This is a STRENUOUS trek. Recent hiking and/or backpacking experience is highly recommended. You will need to prepare for a cardio workout and consult with your doctor before joining the trip given the high altitude reaching up to almost 6000 meters / 20,000 feet. You will be required to familiarize yourself with the hazards and risks of high-altitude trekking, and sign a liability waiver and terms & conditions forms. However, this is a supported trek; hence, you only carry a daypack with your essentials (porters are hired to carry your belongings). You will be staying in teahouses each night with one night camping on Langtang trek (tents are included).
pricing
Per person for a group of
1 person: $9720
2-12 persons: $7110
Maximum group size: 12
HOW TO JOIN
You must fill out an application form, participate in a virtual call, and once accepted, send the deposit of $2250. .
The trip balance is due 90 days before the departure date.
For solo hotel and/or teahouse stays, a single supplement fee applies.
Private tours with your date of choice are available upon request. Send us an email via equity@browngaltrekker.com.
Please read the TERMS & CONDITIONS and LIABILITY WAIVER before booking.
Click on APPLY NOW below to join.
Once you submit your application, we will then schedule a call to go over logistics and get to know you a bit better to make sure the trek is suitable for you. Once you are accepted, we will send you an invoice for the trip deposit to secure your spot.
INCLUSIONS
3 nights hotel stay in Kathmandu with breakfast.
City tour in Kathmadu.
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
All teahouse accommodations during the trek.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Guide and porter salaries.
Guide and porter insurances.
Assistant guide salary & insurance for a bigger group.
National Park entry fee.
All trekking permits
First-Aid Kit.
Equipment for staff.
Land transportation and airport transfers.
Trip preparation meetings and resources including gear list.
Online pre-trip consultation & support prior to your trip departure.
EXCLUSIONS
International airfare.
Visa fee.
Laundry and dry cleaning services.
Water, beverages & snacks outside of the itinerary.
Tips for guides and porters.
Internet and phone services.
Travel & medical insurance.
Non-scheduled meals in Kathmandu.
Trekking equipment (available as rentals).
Any other expenses outside of the scheduled itinerary.
GEAR LIST
The gear list will be provided to confirmed participants.
FLIGHTS
International flights are excluded. You must fly to Kathmandu Airport from your home country. Clients must book their own flights and send a copy of their flight itinerary by e-mail to equity@browngaltrekker.com no later than the trip balance due date.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
After making a deposit, you are required to obtain appropriate travel and medical evacuation insurance through Global Rescue. Proof of travel insurance must be provided via electronic mail to equity@browngaltrekker.com no later than the trip balance due date. Failure to obtain travel insurance by the trip balance due date will result in cancellation and no refund of your trip deposit and/or applicable cancellation fees as noted in the Terms & Conditions.
Note: If you opt to buy your insurance from a company other than what we recommend, please ensure that the insurance you purchase covers high-altitude trekking as there is a limited number of companies that provides such type of coverage.
VISA & VACCINATIONS
Please check ahead of time as to the visa requirements. You are responsible for securing your own visa if required. Check the CDC website for up-to-date information on vaccine requirements.
COVID-19 TRAVEL CONDITIONS
Please consult with the U.S. State Department, the CDC website, or the website of your embassy for up-to-date information on travel.
TRIP NOTES
Upon booking, you will receive trip notes that include the recommended gear list and specific trek information.