Bimthang Trekking

Before we dive into the journey of the trek, we've arranged a guided sightseeing tour for you around Kathmandu. A warm and knowledgeable guide, together with a driver and car, is going to be able to pick you up from your hotel lobby at a pre-arranged time. The tour will cover significant historical sites like the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Boudhnath Stupa, each offering a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage. Following the morning’s explorations and a lunch break, we'll convene at our office. This may be your opportunity to satisfy your mountain guide, who will introduce himself and supply a comprehensive briefing on the trek's itinerary. We'll proceed to pack the duffle bags and conduct an intensive check of all trekking gear to confirm you're fully prepared. Now also allows for any last-minute shopping, ensuring you've got all the essentials for the journey ahead. With preparations complete, we recommend taking the rest of the day to relax and rest up, gearing up for the exciting adventure that awaits.

Embark on a westward journey from Kathmandu to Dumre (400m, 4½ hours), traversing the forested Middle Hills that divide the High Himalayas from the Nepali and Indian lowlands. The route connects Hindu villages and terraced farming communities, intersecting several key rivers from northern ice fields. In Dumre, head north into the Marsyangdi Nadi Valley, continuing on a secondary road to Besi Sahar (760m, 2 hours), the commercial hub. From there, a minor road venture into the hills for another 2-3 hours, passes a new major hydroelectric project and ascends to Syange (1,080m). The road then snakes through a canyon, rising above the river to a ridge and reaching Jagat (1,330m), a village once used as a toll station on the ancient salt route to Tibet. Progress through Chamje (1,410m) to a 'bus stop' near a pedestrian suspension bridge crossing to the east bank, leading to a short walk to Tal. This picturesque village lies in a flat valley, backed by an impressive waterfall and unusual palm trees. The Marsyangdi River meanders peacefully between gabions here. Spend the night in Tal, enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

The journey begins on the old trail that follows the east bank of the Marsyangdi Nadi, sourced from the North Annapurna Glacier. Traverse fields of barley, wheat, and potatoes before embarking on a long, steady climb through pine forests. Cross to the dusty road on the west bank near Karte (1,850m) and ascend to Dharapani (1,960m), a bustling Tibetan town at the confluence with the Dudh Khola. In Thonje, veer northeast, crossing the Marsyangdi Nadi to ascend the narrower Dudh Khola Valley. Cross a suspension bridge to the eastern bank, and later, re-cross to Tilje (2,300m), an attractive, stone-paved Gurung village, for lunch. Continue up the valley through agricultural fields and dense stands of oak and rhododendron, enjoying picturesque views of the river. To the east, views of Manaslu, Nadi Chuli, and Himal Chuli emerge, with Annapurna II visible to the south. The forest becomes denser and shadier as you proceed. The trail ascends to a ridge adorned with flags, below which the river forms an S bend. Descend from the ridge, pass through the hamlet of Karche, and cross a landslide to reach Suti Khola. Spend the night in this serene location.

The trail begins at the Suti Glacier, just northwest of your lodging, one of many glaciers descending from the massive ice giants along the Tibetan border, towering above the Ponkar Lake region. Today’s path zig-zags through a splendid mixed forest in the Dudh Valley, offering a walk that is generally easy but includes some steep sections, particularly the final climb to Sangura Kharka (3,020m), a yak pasture with a new lodge for lunch. Post-lunch, the journey continues up the forest trail to Hompuk (3,430m), a rock shelter and goth (herder's hut). Ahead lies the lower end of the Bimthang Glacier. The trail exits the forest onto the glacier's moraine, descends on loose gravel to cross the glacier, and then ascends more gently on the far side. The path follows the eastern bank, gradually rising to Bimthang, known as the "Plain of Sand." The scenery transforms dramatically, with ice-walled views to the rear framed by forest and barren rock and ice peaks rising tantalizingly above the glacier’s brown wall to the front. Overnight in Bimthang, enjoying the breathtaking surroundings.

After an early breakfast, embark on an exploration of the stunning rock and ice landscape behind the glacier wall. Be aware that clouds often form from late morning, possibly obscuring the views. Head north of the dwellings to a ‘T’ junction. To the right, a 3km trail leads to Dangboche Kharka at the foot of the Larkya La (Victory Peak) and the Manaslu region. Straight ahead, a challenging slippery track over loose dust and gravel ascends the steep side of the moraine and leads to the confluence of three glaciers: clockwise, the Kechakyu, Ponkar, and Salpudanda (with the Suti glacier hidden behind the western Tibikle Panlemu Danda). The medial Nayamlo Tal is nestled between the first two moraines, and the track navigates to and around the larger Ponkar Tal between the central and third moraines. Enjoy the thrilling silence and immense glacial power. The surrounding peaks include, from the west, Kang Garu (6,981m), the Chombi cone (6,704m), the Kechakyu pinnacle (6,358m), Gyalji Kang to the north (7,074m), and Nemjung (7,140m). To the southeast, view Larke (6,249m), the northwest faces of Manaslu (8,163m), and Phungi Himal (6,538m) to the south. After soaking in the majestic scenery, return to Bimthang for the night

The return journey to Goa is predominantly downhill, descending 1,150 meters to a lower and warmer elevation for overnight. Take this opportunity to relish the lush richness of the forest and its diverse fauna, making for a pleasant and scenic trek back.

Beyond Goa, catch the final views of Manaslu, Nadi Chuli, and Himal Chuli; Annapurna II and its satellites remain visible to the south. Trek back to Thonje and Dharapani on the Annapurna Circuit. Descend to Karte, cross the suspension bridge, and follow the old trail to Tal, then down to Chamje overnight.

After an early breakfast, board a jeep for the descent to Besi Sahar, where you'll stop for lunch. Then, transfer to a bus or car for the smooth, tarred road journey back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Having completed the Bimthang Trek, it’s time to journey onwards to your home or next adventure. Our airport team will facilitate your transfer to the international airport for your departure flight. We welcome your feedback and proposals and attempt to enhance our services supported by your insights. Safe travels!

Allow our experts at Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition to help you Plan one of the most Memorable Vacations based on your interests with their in-depth knowledge of the Himalayas, they can craft the journey of your dreams considering your preferred location, time frame, and Budget