GHT Nepal – The Great Himalayan Trail Adventure

Overview of GHT Nepal

The Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) Nepal is widely celebrated as one of the most extraordinary trekking experiences in the world, spanning the entire length of Nepal from the eastern Kanchenjunga region to the far-western Limi Valley and Humla. Stretching over 2,600 kilometers, this high-route trek takes adventurers through towering Himalayan peaks, pristine alpine lakes, massive glaciers, lush rhododendron forests, barren highlands, deep valleys, and villages steeped in centuries of culture and tradition.

Trekking the GHT is more than a journey—it is a transformative adventure. Along the route, trekkers encounter eight of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks, cross challenging high passes, navigate remote wilderness, and immerse themselves in the unique cultural heritage of Nepal’s ethnic communities, including Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung, Magar, and Tibetan-influenced villages.

What sets this trek apart is that it is fully guided and supported by Mountain King Treks. From the moment you begin, our expert team manages all logistics, including tea house and tented accommodations, high-quality kitchen setups, diverse meals during camping, trekking permits, experienced guides, porters, and safety support. While local communities uphold the principle of “Atithi Devo Bhav” – the guest is god and warmly welcome trekkers, the entire journey is professionally organized by Mountain King Treks, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and seamless experience across the most remote and high-altitude regions of Nepal.

The natural beauty along the trail is breathtaking and diverse. Walk along glacier-fed rivers, wander through vibrant rhododendron forests in spring, traverse open alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, and explore stark, windswept highlands in western Nepal. Panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, hidden valleys, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes unfold at every turn, offering endless opportunities for photography, reflection, and awe-inspiring moments.

The GHT offers flexibility to suit a variety of trekkers. Adventurers can choose to complete the full high-route over multiple seasons, experience a half trail covering Nepal’s most iconic sections in a single season, or divide the trek into three seasonal segments, each promising challenging trekking, spectacular landscapes, and cultural immersion.

With Mountain King Treks, your expedition becomes more than a trek—it is a well-curated Himalayan adventure guided by expertise and care. Our philosophy is grounded in the Nepali tradition of hospitality, ensuring that you feel respected, safe, and valued throughout your journey, all while embracing the spirit of “Experience Lifetime Pleasure”. From meticulously prepared meals to professionally managed campsites, and from personalized guidance to thoughtful cultural experiences, we ensure that your Great Himalayan Trail adventure is unforgettable, exhilarating, and fully supported from start to finish.

Whether you are drawn by the majestic mountains, the remote wilderness, or the vibrant cultural tapestry of Nepal, the Great Himalayan Trail offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey, blending physical challenge, personal growth, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. With Mountain King Treks by your side, every step of the trail becomes part of a safe, rewarding, and deeply memorable Himalayan adventure.

Full GHT Nepal – East to Far-West

The Full Great Himalayan Trail of Nepal is a monumental adventure, connecting the country’s most iconic treks and high passes in a continuous east-to-west journey. Trekkers experience diverse landscapes, high mountains, remote wilderness, and rich cultural heritage while being fully supported by Mountain King Treks. The trail spans over 2,600 kilometers, encompassing the most challenging and rewarding sections of Nepal’s Himalayas.

Kanchenjunga Circuit – Begin your journey in Taplejung and trek through traditional villages like Ghunsa and Pangpema. Cross the dramatic Lumba Sumba Pass, all while encountering the vibrant Limbu and Rai communities and their centuries-old traditions. Snow-capped peaks, rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows make this an unforgettable introduction to the Himalayas.
Makalu Base Camp – Trek through untouched alpine landscapes to Makalu Base Camp, one of the most remote and striking regions of eastern Nepal. Cross Sherpani Col and the challenging Amphu Laptsa Pass, surrounded by glaciers, towering peaks, and pristine wilderness. Camping here is an immersive experience, with breathtaking panoramic views at every turn.
Everest Region – Enter the legendary Khumbu Valley, visiting Everest Base Camp and exploring the serene Gokyo Lakes. Hike to Gokyo Ri for iconic Himalayan vistas, and cross the renowned high passes of Renjo-La, Cho-La, and Kongma La. Witness the life of the Sherpa communities, ancient monasteries, and the grandeur of the world’s tallest peaks.
Rolwaling Valley – Trek through remote valleys, cross Tashi Lapcha Pass, and explore the peaceful Rolwaling Valley, experiencing the rich Sherpa and Gurung cultures. The journey is dotted with ancient monasteries, hidden lakes, and panoramic mountain views, providing both adventure and cultural insight.
Langtang Valley – Move into the lush forests and alpine meadows of Langtang Valley, meeting the Tamang and Sherpa communities. Cross Tilman Pass and discover a region of pristine beauty, with cascading rivers, wildlife, and traditional villages along the way.
Ganesh Himal & Ruby Valley – Trek through fertile valleys and scenic meadows in the Ganesh Himal and Ruby Valley, enjoying spectacular views of the Annapurna and Ganesh Himal ranges. This region offers serene landscapes and a chance to connect with the Gurung and Magar communities.
Manaslu Circuit – Venture into the Manaslu region, crossing the famous Larke La Pass. Admire towering peaks, traverse remote villages, and witness Tibetan-influenced culture. This section blends challenging high-altitude trekking with breathtaking scenery and authentic Himalayan life.
Annapurna Circuit – Explore the Annapurna Circuit, including the iconic Thorong La Pass. Visit Muktinath, cultural villages in Manang and Upper Pisang, and enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Experience a rich blend of nature, spirituality, and local culture along this legendary route.
Dhaulagiri Circuit – Traverse the dramatic landscapes surrounding Dhaulagiri, with remote high-altitude villages, sweeping mountain vistas, and alpine meadows. This region challenges even experienced trekkers while rewarding them with breathtaking solitude and Himalayan grandeur.
Upper Dolpo & Rara Lake – Enter the Upper Dolpo region, a remote area influenced by Tibetan culture. Cross high passes, explore pristine alpine lakes like Rara, and walk through villages where traditions have remained unchanged for centuries. This is a land of untouched wilderness and cultural richness.
Limi Valley & Humla – Complete the high-route journey in Limi Valley and Humla, remote and sparsely populated areas offering authentic Himalayan experiences. Cross rugged high passes, navigate isolated valleys, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty and serenity of western Nepal.

Mountain King Treks ensures all permits, paperwork, and logistics are fully managed. Accommodation combines comfortable tea houses and professionally managed campsites, while diverse and delicious meals are prepared by our experienced kitchen team. All camping gear is provided, so trekkers need only bring their personal trekking equipment. With expert guides, porters, and staff support, this journey offers a safe, seamless, and unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

GHT Nepal – Half Trail / One-Season Option

For trekkers who cannot commit to several months but still wish to experience the true spirit of the Great Himalayan Trail, the Half GHT is the perfect choice. This carefully designed version captures the most iconic highlights of Nepal’s Himalayas and can be completed in a single trekking season, usually between spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) when weather and trail conditions are most favorable.

This route still delivers an unforgettable combination of majestic peaks, challenging high passes, pristine valleys, and cultural immersion, making it a true Himalayan odyssey. You will still see many of Nepal’s 8,000-meter giants, experience the vibrant local culture, and cross legendary trails that have drawn trekkers from around the world.

Kanchenjunga & Makalu Regions – Begin in the east with the Kanchenjunga Circuit, crossing the Lumba Sumba Pass into the Makalu region. Trek to Makalu Base Camp, surrounded by glaciers and soaring Himalayan peaks. This section offers raw wilderness, beautiful alpine meadows, and encounters with the Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa communities.
Everest & Rolwaling Valleys – Enter the heart of the Khumbu region, trek to Everest Base Camp, explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, climb Gokyo Ri, and cross the famous passes — Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La. From there, traverse into Rolwaling Valley via Tashi Lapcha Pass, an incredible route linking Everest with remote Sherpa villages in Rolwaling.
Langtang & Manaslu Circuits – Continue to the serene Langtang Valley, cross Tilman Pass, and trek through rhododendron forests and traditional Tamang villages. Then head to the Manaslu Circuit, crossing the dramatic Larke La Pass with panoramic views of Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal range.
Annapurna Circuit Highlights – Conclude your adventure on the Annapurna Circuit, trekking through Manang and Pisang villages and crossing the world-famous Thorong La Pass to reach the sacred site of Muktinath. This section rewards trekkers with some of the most stunning Himalayan vistas and a rich cultural blend of Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan traditions.

Even within a single season, trekkers experience an impressive mix of snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, and authentic Himalayan villages. Mountain King Treks handles all logistics, including permits, camping gear, meals, and experienced guides, so you can focus entirely on enjoying the journey. This one-season GHT adventure is an ideal choice for passionate trekkers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience without committing to multiple years or seasons.

GHT Nepal – Three-Season Option

For many trekkers, the best way to experience the Great Himalayan Trail is to complete it in three distinct trekking seasons, allowing ample time for acclimatization, cultural exploration, and rest between sections. This approach makes the GHT more manageable while still providing the full east-to-west adventure across Nepal, covering every major region step by step.

By dividing the journey into three parts, trekkers avoid weather challenges, reduce fatigue, and have time to recover between expeditions — making the overall experience safer, more enjoyable, and more immersive. Each season covers a significant portion of the trail and can be completed in 6–8 weeks, depending on pace and acclimatization days.

Season One – Eastern Nepal Adventure
Start in the lush, remote east with the Kanchenjunga Circuit, crossing Lumba Sumba Pass into the Makalu region. Trek to Makalu Base Camp, then take on the technical challenge of Sherpani Col and Amphu Laptsa Pass, eventually reaching the Everest region. This season covers Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Everest, ending with visits to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and the three legendary passes — Renjo La, Cho La, Kongma La.

Season Two – Central Himalaya Exploration
Begin from the Everest/Rolwaling connection and cross the dramatic Tashi Lapcha Pass into the Rolwaling Valley. Trek through quiet Sherpa villages, pass hidden glacial lakes, and continue into Langtang Valley, crossing Tilman Pass to enter the Ganesh Himal region. This season concludes with the Manaslu Circuit, including the iconic Larke La Pass, offering breathtaking views of Manaslu and the surrounding peaks.

Season Three – Western Nepal & Remote Wilderness
Start with the legendary Annapurna Circuit, crossing Thorong La Pass and visiting Muktinath before heading into the rugged Dhaulagiri Circuit. Continue westward into Upper Dolpo, crossing several remote high passes and discovering a region deeply influenced by Tibetan culture. Visit Rara Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Nepal, and trek through Humla and Limi Valley to complete the journey in the far west.

This three-season approach allows trekkers to savor each section with the right amount of time, without rushing, and ensures optimal weather conditions for every stage. It is ideal for those who dream of completing the entire GHT but prefer to spread the adventure over two to three years.

With Mountain King Treks, every section is carefully planned with professional guides, porters, kitchen staff, high-quality camping gear, and delicious meals. We manage all logistics, from permits to transportation, making sure your only focus is on enjoying the adventure, culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

GHT Nepal – Complete East-to-West Trekking Highlights

The Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) connects Nepal’s most iconic trekking regions into one epic journey. Here are the major treks you will cover on the full east-to-west adventure:

Kanchenjunga Circuit – Explore the remote eastern Himalayas and cross Lumba Sumba Pass.
Makalu Base Camp Trek – Reach the foot of Mt. Makalu and cross Sherpani Col & Amphu Laptsa Pass.
Everest Region Trek – Visit Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and cross the three high passes.
Rolwaling Valley Trek – A wild and rugged route crossing Tashi Lapcha Pass into the Khumbu.
Langtang Valley Trek – Trek through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and cross Tilman Pass.
Ganesh Himal & Ruby Valley Trek – Experience quiet trails, Gurung villages, and pristine valleys.
Manaslu Circuit Trek – Circumnavigate Mt. Manaslu and cross the Larke La Pass.
Annapurna Circuit Trek – Cross Thorong La Pass, visit Muktinath, and enjoy panoramic Annapurna views.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek – Remote and challenging trail through rugged terrain and hidden valleys.
Upper Dolpo Trek – Cross multiple high passes and visit Shey Gompa and Phoksundo Lake.
Rara Lake Trek – Witness Nepal’s largest and most beautiful lake.
Limi Valley & Humla Trek – The final stretch of the GHT, through far-western wilderness near the Tibet border.

Why Choose Mountain King Treks for GHT Nepal

Mountain King Treks – Best Trekking Agency in Nepal ensures your GHT adventure is safe, unforgettable, and seamless:

35+ Years of Himalayan Expertise: Founded by Govinda Prasad Sapkota, a former porter turned trekking expert.
Safety & Logistics: All permits, paperwork, and emergency planning are expertly handled.
Accommodation & Food: Combination of tea houses and camping, with diverse meals served at camp by our private kitchen team.
Camping Equipment Provided: You only need personal trekking gear.
Nepali Hospitality: Guided by “Atithi Devo Bhav”, you are treated with warmth and care throughout the journey.
Custom Itineraries: Full trail, half trail, or segmented seasonal options.
Experience Lifetime Pleasure: Our slogan embodies the unforgettable journey we provide for every adventurer.

With Mountain King Treks, every trekker enjoys professional support, comfort, culture, and adventure, making your GHT journey a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Trip Facts / Quick Info

Duration: 150+ days (full trail)
Maximum Altitude: 6,200 meters
Trek Grade: Very challenging / high-altitude
Daily Walking: 6–7 hours
Best Season: April–May, June–July, September–November
Accommodation: Tea house & tented camping

Permits and Requirements

Multiple trekking permits for high passes and restricted regions
Guide and porter services recommended
Adherence to Nepal government regulations and conservation guidelines

Trip Facts / Quick Info – GHT Nepal

Duration: Around 150+ days for the Full GHT Nepal, depending on weather, acclimatization, and rest days.
Maximum Altitude: Approximately 6,200 meters (Sherpani Col – one of the highest and most technical sections of the GHT).
Major High Passes:
- Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177 m) – between Kanchenjunga & Makalu
- Sherpani Col (6,135 m) – Makalu to Everest crossing
- West Col (6,143 m) and Amphu Laptsa Pass (5,850 m) – technical glacier crossings
- Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), Kongma La (5,535 m) – Everest Region
- Tashi Lapcha Pass (5,755 m) – Rolwaling to Khumbu
- Tilman Pass (5,320 m) – Langtang to Panch Pokhari
- Larke La Pass (5,106 m) – Manaslu Circuit
- Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) – Annapurna Circuit
- French Pass (5,360 m) & Dhampus Pass (5,240 m) – Dhaulagiri Circuit
- Kang La (5,360 m) & Chharka La (5,050 m) – Upper Dolpo
- Nyalu La (4,995 m) & Nyingma Gyanzen La (5,563 m) – Limi Valley and far west
Trek Grade: Very Challenging & High-Altitude Expedition – suitable for experienced trekkers with excellent fitness and stamina.
Daily Walking: 6–7 hours on average (some days 8+ hours, especially on pass-crossing days).
Best Seasons:
- Spring (March–May) – Rhododendron blooms, clear skies, ideal snow conditions.
- Early Summer (June–July) – Good for eastern sections (Kanchenjunga, Makalu) before monsoon hits.
- Autumn (September–November) – Crystal-clear views, perfect weather for high passes.
Accommodation: Mix of tea houses & tented camping depending on the region. Mountain King Treks provides all camping gear, cooks, and kitchen staff for remote sections.
Permits & Logistics: Restricted-area permits (Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo), TIMS card, national park fees, and full logistics handled by Mountain King Treks.
Support Crew: Experienced guides, porters, cooks, and Sherpa staff to ensure safety and comfort across the entire trail.

Permits and Requirements – GHT Nepal

Trekking the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) Nepal involves crossing several national parks, conservation areas, and restricted regions. This means obtaining a range of permits and fulfilling government regulations. At Mountain King Treks, we make this process completely hassle-free for you. Once you book your GHT Nepal trek with us, our team handles all necessary permits, paperwork, and logistics in advance, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

Key Permits You Will Need:

Restricted Area Permits (RAPs): Required for regions such as Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Manaslu, Upper Mustang, and Upper Dolpo.
National Park and Conservation Area Entry Permits: Sagarmatha (Everest), Langtang, Makalu-Barun, Shey-Phoksundo, Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP).
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): Required for tracking and safety.
Local Rural Municipality Permits: Some regions require special local fees, especially in newly opened trails.

Our expert staff coordinates with the Nepal Tourism Board, local authorities, and national park offices to secure all documents before you begin your trek.

Guide and Porter Requirement

Many restricted regions require that trekkers be accompanied by a licensed guide and a registered trekking agency. Mountain King Treks provides:

Experienced, government-licensed guides
Well-trained porters to carry your gear
Professional cooks and camping crew for remote sections
Emergency communication devices and safety protocols

Adherence to Regulations

Trekking responsibly is part of the GHT experience. Our team strictly follows:

Nepal Government regulations for conservation and safety
Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact
Cultural respect guidelines when visiting monasteries, temples, and remote communities

With Mountain King Treks, you only need to book your trip and prepare your personal trekking gear — we will take care of the rest, from permits to logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan journey.

Food & Accommodation – Lodge & Camping Combined

The GHT Nepal trek is a unique journey that takes you through both popular trekking regions and extremely remote, untouched areas. For this reason, accommodation and meals are a combination of tea house lodging and fully supported camping — giving you the best of both worlds.

Accommodation

Tea Houses / Lodges: In accessible areas like Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, and Manaslu, you will stay in comfortable, family-run tea houses offering twin-sharing rooms with warm bedding.
Tented Camps: In remote sections such as Upper Dolpo, Limi Valley, and parts of Makalu-Barun and Rolwaling, Mountain King Treks sets up twin-sharing expedition-grade tents, complete with foam mattresses, warm sleeping arrangements, and a separate dining tent.
Support Staff: Our experienced crew handles camp setup, kitchen preparation, and dismantling, so you can focus on trekking and resting.

Food & Dining

Mountain King Treks is proud to offer nutritious, freshly cooked meals from our own kitchen team during camping sections. Every meal is prepared with hygiene and variety in mind, ensuring you stay strong and healthy for the challenging trek ahead.

Breakfast: Wake-up tea or coffee served in your tent, followed by a hot breakfast with bread, porridge, eggs, and seasonal fruits.
Lunch: Freshly prepared hot meals with rice, vegetables, lentils, pasta, or noodles, served with juice and fruits.
Dinner: Three-course meals with soup, main course (Nepali, Indian, or Continental), and dessert.
Tea Time: Afternoon tea, coffee, hot chocolate, popcorn, or soup for a relaxing break after trekking.
Energy Boost: We provide energy bars, chocolate, yak cheese slices, mixed nuts, and cookies for extra fuel during long trekking days.

Whether in a lodge or a tent, Mountain King Treks ensures that quality meals and clean, comfortable sleeping arrangements are always ready for you. This attention to detail reflects our slogan — “Experience Lifetime Pleasure” — and our commitment to treating every guest with the spirit of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (the guest is god).

FAQs – GHT Nepal (Great Himalayan Trail)

1. How difficult is the GHT Nepal trek?

The GHT Nepal is considered one of the most challenging trekking adventures in the world. It involves high-altitude trekking, crossing multiple passes above 5,000–6,000 meters such as Sherpani Col, Amphu Laptsa, Tashi Lapcha, Larke La, Thorong La, and several remote Dolpo and Limi Valley passes. Proper fitness, previous trekking experience, and mental preparation are essential.

2. What is the best time to trek the GHT?

The ideal seasons are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) when the weather is most stable and mountain views are clear. Some sections, like Dolpo and Limi Valley, can also be done in early monsoon (June–July) for fewer crowds and lush green landscapes.

3. How long does it take to complete the full GHT?

The full GHT high route takes 150+ days to complete. Many trekkers choose to do it in multiple sections or over 2–3 seasons. Mountain King Treks can customize itineraries to suit your time frame, whether you want the full east-to-west journey, a half-trail adventure, or selected highlights.

4. Do I need permits for every region?

Yes, the GHT passes through multiple restricted areas, national parks, and conservation zones. Mountain King Treks handles all required permits and paperwork, including Kanchenjunga, Makalu-Barun, Everest, Manaslu, Upper Dolpo, and Humla restricted area permits. You only need to book the trip and provide necessary personal documents — we do the rest.

5. What kind of accommodation is provided?

Accommodation is a combination of tea houses and tented camps. In popular regions, you will stay in comfortable twin-sharing lodges. In remote areas, we provide high-quality two-person tents, dining tents, kitchen tents, and toilet tents, ensuring maximum comfort even in the wilderness.

6. What food is provided during the trek?

Meals are freshly prepared by our professional kitchen crew during camping sections, with a wide variety of Nepali, Indian, and Continental dishes. While in tea houses, you can enjoy local and international meals. We also provide energy bars, yak cheese slices, cookies, and hot drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day.

7. Is it safe to trek such a long and remote route?

Safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in first aid, high-altitude response, and emergency evacuation procedures. We include acclimatization days, maintain a steady pace, and have contingency plans for bad weather or health issues.

8. What level of fitness is required?

You should be in excellent physical condition, capable of walking 6–7 hours a day at high altitude with a backpack. We recommend pre-trek fitness training with cardio, endurance hikes, and strength exercises.

9. Can I do this trek solo or do I need a group?

Some sections of the GHT require a registered guide and at least two trekkers for restricted area permits. Mountain King Treks can arrange for you to join a group or organize a fully private trek with guides, porters, and kitchen crew.

10. Why choose Mountain King Treks for the GHT Nepal?

Because we are one of the few trekking companies in Nepal with over 35 years of experience organizing full GHT expeditions. Our founder, Govinda Prasad Sapkota, personally designed these itineraries to ensure safety, cultural immersion, and adventure. With our slogan “Experience Lifetime Pleasure”, we promise professional service, quality equipment, and true Nepali hospitality guided by the principle of Atithi Devo Bhava.

Plan Your Great Himalayan Trail Adventure Today!

Your epic journey through Nepal’s Himalayas begins here. Whether you seek high-altitude adventure, cultural immersion, or a combination of both, Mountain King Treks will tailor your GHT Nepal experience to make it unforgettable.

Mountain Calling! Experience Lifetime Pleasure with Mountain King Treks.

📞 Contact us today to start planning:
📧 mountainkingtreks@gmail.com
🌐 www.mountainkingtreks.com
📱 +977-9841566449