Simikot Rara Lake Humla-Mugu Trek

Simikot – Rara Lake – Humla-Mugu Trek is a remote and exhilarating journey in far-western Nepal, offered by Nepal New Generation Trek. This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes trekkers through pristine forests, high mountain passes, and isolated villages, offering an authentic glimpse into the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Humla-Mugu region. Highlights include the breathtaking Rara Lake, untouched alpine landscapes, and rugged Himalayan scenery. Perfect for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, adventure, and a truly wild Himalayan experience.
Book Your Trip

Simikot – Rara Lake – Humla-Mugu Trek is one of the most remote and adventurous trekking journeys in Nepal, expertly organized by Nepal New Generation Trek. This trek takes you deep into the far-western Himalayas, combining pristine natural beauty, high-altitude landscapes, and the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of the Humla-Mugu region. It is designed for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, off-the-beaten-path exploration, and an authentic Himalayan adventure.

The trek begins in Simikot, the gateway to the isolated Humla region, accessible by a scenic domestic flight from Nepalgunj. From here, the trail leads through rugged valleys, dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, and remote villages where traditional lifestyles have remained unchanged for centuries. Trekkers traverse high Himalayan passes, glacial valleys, and wide alpine plateaus, experiencing the raw beauty of far-western Nepal.

A major highlight of the trek is Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest and most pristine lake, located in Rara National Park. Surrounded by forested hills and snow-capped peaks, the lake offers breathtaking scenery, tranquil surroundings, and an ideal spot for rest and acclimatization. Beyond Rara Lake, the journey continues into the untouched landscapes of Humla and Mugu districts, where trekkers witness ancient monasteries, chortens, mani walls, and prayer-flag-lined trails, reflecting the deep Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.

The Humla-Mugu section is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and high-altitude wilderness. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot Himalayan blue sheep, musk deer, and a variety of rare birds. Camping in remote locations under star-filled skies enhances the sense of true Himalayan expedition.

Simikot – Rara Lake – Humla-Mugu Trek with Nepal New Generation Trek is perfect for adventurous trekkers seeking an exclusive and authentic off-the-beaten-path experience. It offers an extraordinary combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and high-altitude adventure, making it one of Nepal’s most remarkable hidden trekking destinations.

Region
Nepal
Duration
17 days
Level
hard
Max Altitude
3800 m.
Daily Activity
Daily activities
Season
, April, May, September, October
Starting From
$ 3625
Nepal New Generation Trek Offer 2 +10 people
Book Now
Overview
Itinerary
Date/Cost
Includes
FAQ
Enquire Now
Brief Introduction

Simikot – Rara Lake – Humla-Mugu Trek is a remote and exhilarating Himalayan adventure in far-western Nepal, offered by Nepal New Generation Trek. This trek takes you through some of the most isolated and untouched regions of Nepal, combining breathtaking natural landscapes with the rich Tibetan-influenced culture of the Humla-Mugu area.

The journey begins in Simikot, the gateway to the Humla region, and passes through pristine forests, high-altitude pastures, glacial valleys, and traditional villages where life has remained unchanged for generations. A highlight of the trek is the stunning Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest and most pristine lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and serene alpine scenery.

Ideal for experienced and adventurous trekkers, the Simikot – Rara Lake – Humla-Mugu Trek offers an off-the-beaten-path experience, blending high-altitude adventure, cultural immersion, and the serene beauty of Nepal’s far-western Himalayas into a truly unforgettable journey.

Simikot – Rara Lake – Humla-Mugu Trek – Highlights | Nepal New Generation Trek

  • Explore the remote Simikot and Humla-Mugu regions of far-western Nepal

  • Witness the breathtaking beauty of Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest and pristine lake

  • Trek through high mountain passes, glacial valleys, and alpine meadows

  • Experience authentic Tibetan-influenced culture in isolated villages

  • Visit ancient monasteries, chortens, and mani walls along the trail

  • Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and untouched Himalayan landscapes

  • Observe rare Himalayan wildlife including blue sheep, musk deer, and various birds

  • Camp in remote wilderness areas under star-filled skies for a true expedition feel

  • Off-the-beaten-path trekking for experienced and adventurous travelers

  • A perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure

Itinerary

Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.

Schedule for each day
Days: 1 Arrival in Kathmandu 1,350 m / 4,430 ft and transfer to Hotel.  
After arriving in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal New Generation will pick us up from the airport and take us to our hotel. In the afternoon, we may take a rest or visit Nepal New Generation’s office. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Nepal New Generation. For dinner, you will be served authentic Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the country’s food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu. Included meals:Dinner
Days: 2 Full day guided Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu Valley by private van  
Kathmandu has a special atmosphere during the early morning hours when the city is slowly coming to life yet not too chaotic. It's a great time to walk and explore the streets or have a chai overlooking one of the local courtyards or durbar squares. There are a number of ways you can spend the day given the many incredible sights around the Kathmandu Valley. Later in the evening, head out for dinner at one of the city's great eateries, or your specialist can arrange a home-cooked dinner with a local family.
Days: 3 Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj  
The flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj takes approximately 1.5 hours and is fairly dependable. During the flight we should catch a glimpse of the mountains we will be trekking among in the coming days. Overnight in Hotel.
Days: 4 Flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla 2370m  
Early in the morning flight to Jumla (35 minutes). This is the gateway to the wild northwest and one of the highest rice-growing areas in the world. The unique red rice is tastier than white rice but scorned by most Nepalis. Jumla Bazaar is 10 minutes more from airport, we’ll be exploring Jumla and its surrounding area. Overnight at tented camp.
Days: 5 Jumla to Danphe Langa (3130m)  
Today we start trek after having breakfast, the trail to Rara follows the north bank of Tila Khola, then turn up the other small stream. The Jumla Valley disappears behind the ridge as the trail follows the river, keeping fairly level and passing through fields and pine forests. Now trek begins an ascent up the Padmara Valley and becoming steeper as the climb continues. We have our lunch in proper place. Along the Padmara valley, the canyon becomes very narrow with vertical cliffs on both sides as the trail ascends through a deep forest of pines, spruces and firs. Finally, we arrive in the last village of Padmara and we continue the trek until reaching Danphe Langa. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 5-6 hours
Days: 6 Trek from Danphe Langa to Chautha 2770m/5-6 hours.  
We start walking again after breakfast. The trail descent becomes steep, through forests of firs, birches, walnuts and bamboo. A short stretch of the trail zigzags down to the Sinja Khola, crossing it on a log bridge and follow the river downstream to Nyawer. Then we continue the climb, passing through marijuana fields and over a ridge into a side valley. Now the steep climbs continues for a while and the trail makes a turn into a big valley then descends until reaching Chautha. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 5-6 hours
Days: 7 Trek from Chautha to Dhotu (2380m)  
Today, the rocky trail follows the stream uphill, crossing it as the wooded valley becomes narrower. The climb continues to Bhulbhule where our permit are checked. Above Bhulbhule the trail emerges into an immense treeless meadow and climbs gently but steadily to an assortment of Chortens, cairns and prayer flags atop the Ghurchi Lagna. From here, there are views of the Mugu Karnali River and snowy peaks bordering Tibet. The route descends gently on a broad path to a hut, and then drops precipitously down a rough trail through spruces forests. Follow the direct trail to Rara Lake, which stays more or less leveled through pine forests, and then descend to the Jhyari Khola. Another stretch of easy walking leads to Dhotu. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 4-5 hours
Days: 8 Dhotu to Rara Lake (3040m)  
Today we start our walk by crossing a stream and climbing steep towards Thakuri Village of Jhyari, in a picturesque grove of giant cedars. Then we continue trekking through cedar forests to a huge meadow a top ridge with a great view of Rara Lake. Descends on the northern side of the lake where camping ground is available. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 3-4 hours
Days: 9 Exploring the Rara Lake  
Today we are exploring the largest lake of Nepal. It is almost 13km around the lake and a day devoted to making this circuit is well spent. There are remnants of the now deserted villages of Rara and Chapra on the northern side of the lake, but otherwise it is an isolated region where birds, flowers and wildlife thrive. Rara is Nepal’s largest lake and is surrounded by the protected forests of Rara National Park in the Karnali district. There is an abundance of wildlife in this area including musk deer, leopard, ghoral, tahr, Himalayan black bear, and the rare red panda. The water of the lake is crystal clear and the area is a stunning place of natural beauty. We will spend a rest and acclimatization day here. The Great Himalaya Trail has 2 options in the far west – 1) From Gamgadhi to Simikot and the Yari Valley 2) Cross country from Rara Lake to Kolti and Chainpur and on to the Mahakali Nadi (river) in India. We will travel the Gamgadhi to Simikot and Yari route, as this route travels closer to the centre of the Great Himalaya Range. There is yet to be a crossing found to the Mahakali Nadi, which is further to the west, therefore our finishing point for the GHT is currently Simikot after trekking north to Yari. Stay overnight at tented camp.
Days: 10 Rara Lake to Karnali Riverside Camp  
Leaving our idyllic rest stop at Rara Lake we descend to Gamgadhi, taking a left turn in the bazaar before continuing another 40 minutes to the Karnali bridge. Another 4 hours brings us to Bala and then a further 1.5 hours to Karnali. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: approx. 4 hours
Days: 11 Riverside Camp to Bam (2700m)  
We cross the suspension bridge from Karnali and climb a steep, rocky trail, trending left until we crest a ridge at 2180 metres. We descend to a small river and then another climb brings us through fields and pine forest to a ridge and then a traverse to Bam village. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 5-6 hours
Days: 12 Bam gto Jogimara (3005m)  
We follow a trail which contours around hillsides until we reach a stream at Ghachar. Here we begin a climb to the pass which should take approximately 3.5 hours, from the top it is an easy descent to a pretty campsite by a stream. There is a tea-shop close by which is 15 minutes before reaching Jogimara. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 6 hours
Days: 13 Jogimara to Piplan (1700m)  
We make an easy short ascent from Jogimara to a ridge at 3120 metres before a longer descent of 500 metres to a small stream before climbing again, crossing a landslide area. From here we have views of the lower valley and the village of Rimi. We make a long traverse to Deori, passing by a school before descending to Darma village. Continuing through the village we drop down through a series of steep switchbacks to the main trail by the riverside, and then crossing a suspension bridge over the Humla Karnali and finally a short climb to Piplan. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 7 hours
Days: 14 Trek from Piplan to Apsia Lekh (3200m)  
We continue trekking through the traditional villages of Nimagaon and Korka climbing a series of switchbacks and crossing a basin between ridges before halting at a stream for our lunch break. Climbing once again to the village of Puma we take a right fork and ascend more switchbacks in pine forest to Apsia Lekh. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 7-8 hours
Days: 15 Apsia Lekh to Punkha Khola  
Today we have magnificent views of Saipal and surrounding valleys as we follow a contouring trail to Kallas. From here we descend to the river and then climb an easy trail to a ridge and descend once more to the Rodikot Khola. A further east climb of 1.5 hours brings us to our campsite beside the Punkha Khola. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 6 hours
Days: 16 Punkha Khola to River Camp  
We start with a big climb of 500 metres through steep switchbacks to a kharka at 3512 metres. From here we continue climbing, gaining views north to Simikot and also to the south. We climb to over 4000 metres today before a very steep descent to the Yanchu Khola. We have a few camping options today, and there will more than likely be some livestock grazing in the valley. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 5:30 hour
Days: 17 River Camp to Simikot (2900m)  
Depending on weather conditions today may be a very warm day as there is little shade along the trail. We descend for 15 minutes or so alongside the river before an easy gradient climb to Durpa village and a further descent to the pilgrimage site of Kharpunath. Continuing on another 30 minutes we turn into the Kudila Kola valley. from here we ascend to some teashops and cross a metal bridge before the final set of switchbacks which lead us to Simikot. Stay overnight at tented camp. Walking time: 6:30 hours
Days: 18 Flight from Simikot to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj(1330m)  
This morning we fly to Nepalgunj and to Kathmandu, a thrilling flight over forests, fields and villages, with the Himalaya in the background. On arrival, we transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Days: 19 Buffer day for flight delays or cancellation due to bad weather just for in case and overnight in Hotel.  
Buffer day for flight delays or cancellation due to bad weather just for in case and overnight in Hotel.
Days: 20 Free day in Kathmandu for individual activities.  
On this day, you can proceed to relax and can have another tour of the city or go shopping at the hub of “all things-tourist” at Thamel. Overnight stay at the Hotel. Meals: Breakfast included.
Days: 21 Farewell  
The airport representative from Nepal New Generation Family will transport you to Kathmandu International Airport around 3 hours before your scheduled flight from where you will depart. Meals: Breakfast included.
Reservation & Date
Tuesday
01 Apr 2025
Wednesday
01 Oct 2025
$175 Off
$3625
$3800
10 Seats
Available
Book Now
Services Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu

  • Domestic flights and ground transportation as per itinerary

  • Trekking permits, restricted area permits, and Rara National Park entry fees

  • TIMS card (if required)

  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide

  • Porter service (based on group size)

  • Guide and porter salaries, food, accommodation, and insurance

  • Accommodation during the trek (tea house or camping as required)

  • Three meals per day during trekking (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

  • Camping equipment (tents, dining tents, mattresses, kitchen equipment) for camping sections

  • Cook and kitchen staff for camping trek

  • First aid medical kit

  • Government taxes and service charges

Services Excluded

  • International airfare to and from Nepal

  • Nepal entry visa fees

  • Personal travel and medical insurance (including high-altitude rescue)

  • Extra accommodation and meals in Kathmandu beyond the itinerary

  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, Wi-Fi, charging, and hot showers

  • Alcoholic drinks and bottled beverages

  • Snacks and drinks during the trek

  • Tips for guide, porter, and trekking staff

  • Costs due to itinerary changes caused by weather, health, or unforeseen circumstances

  • Any services not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section

Frequently Asked Questions

The answers to your questions regarding the Nepal New Generation Trek, what this trip entails, and what is needed can be found in the following frequently asked questions. If your question isn't addressed there, don't hesitate to contact us.

The best time to trek this route is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and optimal trekking conditions.

This trek is considered moderately challenging due to its high altitude, remote location, and rugged terrain. It requires good physical fitness, prior trekking experience, and an ability to cope with the demands of a high-altitude environment.

The highest point on the Simikot Rara Lake Humla-Mugu Trek is around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) at the Rara Lake area. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so proper acclimatization is essential.

Yes, you will need a restricted area permit for Humla, a Rara National Park permit, and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. Your trekking agency will assist in obtaining all necessary permits.

No, independent trekking is not permitted in the Humla and Mugu regions. A licensed guide and necessary permits are required for trekking in these areas. It’s recommended to go with an organized trekking group.

Accommodation will primarily be in basic teahouses or lodges along the trail, with camping in more remote areas. You will also stay in hotels in Kathmandu and Simikot.

While the region is remote, it is generally safe to trek if proper precautions are taken. It’s important to trek with an experienced guide, follow a gradual ascent for acclimatization, and have appropriate insurance for emergency situations.

Essential items include warm clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, rain gear, sunscreen, a first aid kit, a water bottle, snacks, and trekking poles. A detailed packing list will be provided by your trekking agency.

The trek typically lasts around 12 to 15 days, depending on the route and the pace of the trek. This includes travel time to and from Simikot.

Electricity is available in some villages, but it may be limited, especially in more remote areas. Internet access is also minimal or unavailable along the trail. It’s best to prepare for a digital detox and enjoy the natural surroundings.

To prepare for high-altitude trekking, it’s important to train your body with endurance exercises, stay hydrated, and acclimatize slowly by following the suggested itinerary. Ensure you have proper gear and consult a doctor before the trek for altitude sickness prevention.