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The first time I traveled to Nepal in 2017, I asked our guide Amber where we should go for our next trip. His answer was swift, Langtang Valley. The area is home to the Buddhist Tamang ethnic group and some of the most awe-inspiring views of Nepal. So that’s where we’re heading, folks. But this isn’t just any trek to Nepal.
This expedition has been meticulously crafted in partnership with Three Jewels Adventures to engage your body and soul. We'll culminate the trip by summiting Yala Peak, a 5,520-meter mountain in the middle of the Himalayas. Yala Peak is a non-technical, straightforward (and in Amber’s words 'small') summit suitable for novice climbers. Our expert guides from the Three Jewels Adventures team will take us to the top to enjoy those classic panoramic Himalayan views you’ve been dreaming of. With a team of experts by your side, you’ll spend this time activating your body by trekking through the Himalayas, rejuvenating your soul in peaceful mountain villages, and stimulating your mind by visiting ancient Buddhist monasteries. This thoughtfully designed itinerary gives you a holistic taste of Himalayan culture you won’t find elsewhere.
What’s more, you’ll walk away with professional photographs. Worried about not being able to enjoy yourself or being fully present? I’ll be focused on capturing all the epic and meaningful moments so that you can stay present in them.
Imagine being surrounded by some of the tallest mountains in the world. Get ready to experience euphoria, joy, peace, contentment, and very sore legs. Let’s go!
Dates
October 19-30, 2023
Cost
$2,950
Size
8 Maximum
A Glimpse Into the Itinerary
Where every day is filled with curiosity.
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal!
Once we arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and get through Immigration, we’ll meet Amber outside for the first time! We’ll have a short drive through Kathmandu to our hotel located in the tourist district of Thamel. It’s a quaint district with narrow, winding streets and a vibrant soul! We’ll check in to the hotel and have some free time to rest or wander. In the evening, we’ll meet back up with Amber and our trekking team for a pre-trek briefing and group dinner. Together, we’ll check all our gear one final time and prepare to depart for the mountains in the morning!
Sleeping Elevation: 4,428 ft.
Accommodation: 4 Star Hotel in the Thamel District (Ramada Encore or similar)
Day 2: Today we road trip from Kathmandu to Langtang Valley!
As there are no flights that go to the Langtang Valley region, we’ll take to the Nepali roads today which is always its own adventure! And it is an incredible way to see Nepal. We’ll depart Kathmandu Valley through the western gateway of Thankot. At a certain point along our drive, we’ll turn towards the Tibetan Border and drive along the Trishuli River. Since most parts of this route are still unpaved, we’ll be driving in Jeeps. We’ll pass through terraced rice fields, traditional villages, markets, and mountainside settlements. We stop at Syabrubesi for the night - the Gateway to Langtang Valley. This is just the beginning of our adventure! The total altitude gain from Kathmandu is about 350 ft.
Drive time: ~7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 4,921 ft.
Accommodation: Local teahouse lodge
Day 3: Trek to Lama Hotel
Our trek begins! Our team will wake you up by 7 AM. After breakfast, we’ll aim to hit the trail by 8 AM. As soon as the trek begins, we officially enter Langtang National Park! The trail stays close to the Langtang Khola river all the way to our destination, Lama Hotel. We’ll be hiking in a lush green forest today, so keep your eyes peeled for wild monkeys, wild bee hives, and various bird species. On the way, we’ll pass teahouses and shops run by locals where we can take breaks and immerse ourselves in Himalayan mountain culture. Approximate altitude gain of 3,150 ft.
Trek time: 7-8 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 8,136 ft.
Accommodation: Local teahouse lodge - Lama Hotel
Day 4: Trek to Langtang Village
Our trek continues through a dense forest along the riverside. BUT today we’ll start to see views of the Langtang Range’s dominant mountain, Langtang Lirung, towering at 23,733 ft. No matter how many pictures you’ve seen, nothing can prepare you for the majesty of the Himalayas staring down at you. After lunch, we’ll begin reaching the Alpine Zone and you’ll notice the trees becoming shorter and thinner. We'll stay overnight in Langtang Village. Approximate altitude gain of 3,200 ft.
Trek time: 6-7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 11,253 ft.
Accommodation: Local teahouse lodge
Day 5: Trek to Kyanjin Gompa
Today’s trek is short and easy! Soon after Langtang Village, we’ll pass Mundu Village which was not affected by the infamous earthquake in 2015. Today’s a day to soak in the views of the peaks that surround you. This short and gradual trek along the basin of the Upper Langtang Valley eventually brings you to the final village, Kyanjin Gompa. This mountain town has several teahouses, an old cheese factory, and an old Buddhist Monastery (Gompa) after which the village is named. After lunch, feel free to rest or visit the nearby monastery and cheese factory. But rest assured that this village and its epic mountain views is one of the pinnacles of this trip. Approximate altitude gain of 1,400 ft.
Trek time: 2-3 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 12,566 ft.
Accommodation: Local teahouse lodge
Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Kyanjin Gompa / Optional Hike to Langtang Glacier
This is a rest day for acclimatization purposes. However, some physical activity is recommended. The massive Langtang Glacier is considered one of the biggest in the Himalayas. You may hike to the glacier and listen to its haunting movements. Or there is also a short climb to a viewpoint right above the village. No effective altitude gain today.
Trek time: 0
Sleeping Elevation: 12,566 ft.
Accommodation: Local teahouse lodge
Day 7: Trek to Yala Peak Base Camp
Today we leave the village behind and head towards the Langtang Valley wilderness. As we climb higher, the view of Langtang Valley down below is breathtaking. The impressive peaks of Langtang Lirung, Naya Kangda, Lenpogang, and several others soar to the sky. The final part of our trek today is rocky as we approach basecamp. And tonight, we camp! Our team will build up our campsite ahead of us. Once settled into your tent, you may take a rest. There will be climbing practice with our guide in the afternoon. Approximate altitude gain of 2,300 ft.
Trek time: 4-5 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 14,865 ft.
Accommodations: Sleeping tent, toilet tent, kitchen tent and food cooked by our own cook staff will be provided.
Day 8: Summit Yala Peak and Return to Base Camp
Our climb today starts early in the morning! We’ll aim to start around 4:30 AM with a target to summit Yala Peak by 10 AM. Our experienced guide leads the trail. Yala Peak is considered easy, nontechnical snow climbing. Depending on the amount of snowfall, sometimes the glacier section of the climb is only on the upper part of the peak. If that’s the case the climb could take as little as two hours. The summit offers 360-degree views of the Himalayas including the 8,027m Mt. Sishapangma in Tibet! Approximate altitude gain of 3,500 ft.
After the summit, we will hike down to our sleeping elevation at base camp for lunch and rest. We will overnight in our tents at basecamp. Soak in being surrounded by the tallest mountains in the world. It’s a magical, transcendent experience.
Trek time: 5-7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 14,865 ft.
Accommodations: Sleeping tent, toilet tent, kitchen tent and food cooked by our own cook staff will be provided.
Day 9: Trek to Ghode Tabela
After breakfast, our team will pack up the camping gear and our return trek to Kyanjin Gompa beings. We’ll continue on past Langtang Village and end the day at Ghode Tabela. Approximate altitude descent of 4,900 ft.
Trek time: 7-8 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 9,965 ft.
Accommodation: Local teahouse lodge
Day 10: Trek to Syabrubesi
Our return trek continues to Syabrubesi via the same trail we started our journey. Approximate altitude descent of 5,000 ft.
Trek time: 7-8 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 4,921 ft.
Accommodation: Local teahouse lodge
Day 11: Return to Kathmandu by Jeep
After breakfast, we’ll hop into Jeeps to take us back to civilization!
Drive time: ~7 hours
Sleeping Elevation: 4,428 ft.
Accommodation: 4 Star Hotel in the Thamel District (Ramada Encore or similar)
Day 12: Kathmandu or Return Home
Today is a free day to either enjoy Kathmandu (we can organize a cultural tour in the city) or you can go ahead and depart for the US today! Either way, this is where we begin our individual journeys home. Some folks need a day to process and take it all in and others just want to head on home. Whatever you choose, know that our week in the Himalayas together was magical and it wouldn’t have been the same without you! Here’s to the first of many adventures together!
Investment: $2,950
LET'S GO!
Langtang Valley is one of the Himalayan treks that does not have constant big climbs and descents. This particular trek is a slow and steady uphill hike to Kyanjin Gompa. Due to the fact that the gains are so gradual on this expedition, altitude effects are minimalized compared to other trekking destinations in Nepal. Considered an easy trek for the region, it's a perfect introduction to trekking!
What’s Included
- Hotel accommodations based on double occupancy (single occupancy surcharge: $150)
- Transfer to and from the airport upon arrival and departure at the destination
- All ground and domestic air transportation in Nepal
- All meals including coffee and tea
- Entrance fees to religious and historical sites
- Professional photographs of your entire trip
- Service charges and tips for the Three Jewels Adventures team
What’s Not Included
- Airfare to and from the trip
- Travel insurance (required, see below)
- Bottled and alcoholic beverages
- Visas if required
- Snacks, personal items, and souvenirs
Travel With Intention
I do all the necessary planning ahead of time, so you don’t have to.
Holistic Planning
From a mindful retreat in a Ghandruk tea house to an action-packed day on the bike, I partner with guides on the ground ensure our trip serves you, all of you – mind, body, and spirit.
Local Connections
I’ve traveled a lot, and with that comes countless cherished relationships with individuals across the globe.
Professional Travel Photography
The good news is – you don’t have to bring your camera! I’ll document the trip so you can stay in the moment.
Happy Campers
You’ll be hard-pressed to find another travel crew as calm and flexible as mine (this is a big deal when exploring!).
Resources Worth a Second Look
The Global Adventure Packing List
This comprehensive packing list outlines everything, yes everything, you’ll need for your next expedition – from clothing and packs to gear recs.
take me to it
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Nepal Travel Guide
A blog post breaking down everything bright and beautiful about Nepal – including all of the must-see destinations.
Read Now
Nepal Told Through My Lens
Take a look through my documentary-style photography of Nepal throughout my years of travel.
Read Now
But First, FAQs
“frequently asked questions”
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This trek is an excellent starting point for trekking in Nepal and beginner climbing. It’s rated as a Grade F (Facile/easy) on the Alpine Grading system. It’s also a great experience and challenge for folks who haven’t been to altitude before as the ascent of this trek over 6 days is gradual. No prior climbing or mountaineering experience is required.
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This is not a photography workshop. Our main focus is small group adventure. BUT I’m always happy to answer any photography questions and provide feedback on your work.
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Not at all. Our trips are for people who value purposeful and intentional experiences. We love what happens when community and friendships develop and deepen on adventures such as these. Bring along a friend or spouse that you’re comfortable with and be open-minded about the friendships that are awaiting you once you arrive!
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We like to keep our trips small and intimate. We want you to be able to get to know your fellow travelers more deeply (whether friends, family or new acquaintances) and we want to get to know you! For this reason, we keep our trips to a maximum of 8 guests, plus staff.
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All are welcome but our trips are geared towards adults. If you’re looking to plan or do the trip with your family, let’s talk about designing a custom itinerary that will accommodate everyone!
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We will need a copy of your passport information and in some cases a copy of the passport photo page (to book domestic airfare in Nepal on your behalf that’s included in the price of your trip). Your passport needs to be valid and not expire for at least 6 months past your return date. We’ll also need a copy of your airline itinerary and a copy of your travel insurance policy sheet. We will provide Visa information depending on the destination, but you are required to obtain your own Visa if the destination country requires it.
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Yes! We highly recommend World Nomads insurance. It’s easy and quick to obtain a quote for the trip and respectively purchase the plan you prefer! We’ll need proof of insurance to finalize your trip.
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You should consult with your doctor first and foremost! But the CDC Travel website has a recommended list of immunizations for all countries.
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We will send you an electronic invoice for the $850 non-refundable trip deposit as soon as you agree to the trip via email response. We accept ACH payments or checks written out to Hilary Lex Treks LLC. Credit card payments can be accepted for an additional 3% fee. We will send a final invoice 45 days prior to departure at which point your trip is fully booked. Don’t forget to let your credit card companies know the dates you’re traveling and all the locations so that you don’t run into any freezes!
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All our trip itineraries are priced based on double occupancy. If you’d like your own room for an additional cost, let us know when you book and we can absolutely accommodate you.
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Yes! We know that determining what and how much to tip can be a stressful thing while you're on vacation. For this reason, all tips for local guides, hotel staff, drivers, and your local host is included in the cost of your trip. If someone goes above and beyond, you're welcome to tip them extra, but it is not expected. As for any free time, we will provide information on local tipping customs so you're comfortable while out on your own.
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We typically build in one free or rest day on each trip itinerary. Half your evenings or afternoons are typically also free for you to explore or rest. Our standard trip will include trekking, hiking or biking in the mornings and the first part of the afternoons with the remainder of the day left for resting, exploring the mountain villages or learning about the local culture and customs.
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Depending on the trip, hikes are moderately challenging to difficult. We’ll do multi-day treks lasting between 3-8 days in elevations that range from 6,000-18,000 feet and we’ll typically be hiking about 4-8 miles per day. If you do not hike regularly at home, we recommend training for this trip by doing some kind of cardiovascular activity a few days a week at a minimum. Those with injuries or other health concerns should consult their doctor.
Based on what you’re interested in and looking to do, we can hone in on the best trip for you. Keep in mind that porters will carry the majority of our gear, so you will only carry a small day pack while on any trek. We can also connect you with our trip doc who can complete a risk assessment with you to ensure you’re in the right physical condition for the respective demands of the trip.
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Altitude sickness most commonly affects people above 8,000 ft. elevation. There may be days of our treks where we will be above that elevation. Your specific itinerary will clearly indicate sleeping elevations by day. You may experience some effects of altitude such as fatigue, headache, nausea, and sleeplessness. Hydration is KEY to preventing altitude sickness. There is a prescription medication called Diamox (Acetazolamide) that can help prevent symptoms by helping you adjust more quickly to higher altitudes. You start taking it 1-2 days BEFORE you begin trekking. It’s something your doctor can prescribe. It’s also available at local pharmacies in Kathmandu.
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We will be sending out a custom packing list for your trip well in advance of your departure.
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At the end of each day, we will email you a selection of five or more photos from the day's activities. Within four weeks of the trip ending you will receive a larger album of images to view on our website. It's important to us to have a photographer along so you can worry less about documenting every moment, allowing you to be more engaged and present in your experience. We take pride in capturing the moment so that you can stay in it.
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A non-refundable $850 deposit is due at the time of registration. The deposit is the only thing that secures your spot! The full trip cost is due 45 days prior to the itinerary start date.
-Cancel more than 45 days prior to start date: full refund minus the $850 deposit
-Cancel less than 45 days prior to start date: no refund unless we can fill your spot, then full refund minus the $850 deposit.
We recommend taking out an all-inclusive travel insurance policy so you are protected in case of anything. If you need to cancel but want to come on a different trip in the same calendar year, we can apply your deposit to another trip.
