Great Himalaya Trail Trek (GHT) is an extensive network of trails that stretches across the entire Himalayan range, with routes passing through India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. Nepal Nomad Trekking specializes in the Nepal section of this journey, offering a trek from the eastern region of Kanchenjunga to Hilsa in western Nepal. The high route of the GHT follows the highest possible continuous path through Nepal, with an average elevation of 3,750 meters (12,000 feet) and mountain passes reaching heights of up to 6,200 meters (20,300 feet). The entire trek covers 1,400 kilometers (870 miles). Throughout the trek, adventurers will experience an impressive total elevation change of 240,000 meters (800,000 feet), averaging 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) of elevation gain or loss per day. Including rest days, the trek is generally completed in 148 days.
The GHT passes through popular trekking regions such as Kanchenjunga, Makalu Base Camp, Everest, Rolwaling, Langtang and Helambu, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Dolpo, Rara, and Humla Simikot. However, much of the trail takes trekkers into some of Nepal's most remote and untouched areas, offering a unique and lesser-explored perspective on the country’s stunning landscapes and diverse cultures. The combination of high-altitude trekking and venturing off the beaten path makes the GHT an extraordinary and challenging adventure.
Explore all the hidden treasures upheld by the glorious Himalayan region of Nepal in one continuous trek
- GHT trek features demanding high passes like Lumba Sumba Pass (5,178 meters), Sherpani Col, Cho La Pass, Tashi Laptsa, Tilman Pass, Larke-la Pass (5,106 meters), and Thorong-la Pass (5,416 meters). Each of these passes offers spectacular views and a profound sense of achievement.
- The GHT traverses multiple regions of Nepal, including the Kanchenjunga area, Makalu region, Rolwaling Valley, Langtang Valley, Ganesh Himal, Ruby Valley, Manaslu region, Upper Mustang, and Dolpo.
- Trekking through various regions introduces you to diverse ethnic communities, such as the Limbu and Rai in Kanchenjunga, Tamang and Sherpa in Langtang, Gurung and Magar in Ganesh Himal, and the traditional lifestyles of Upper Dolpo and Limi Valley.
- Experience a wide range of landscapes, from lush meadows and fertile valleys to arid, colorful highlands. The trek offers panoramic views of major peaks like Mt. Everest, Annapurna, and Mt. Manaslu.
- GHT takes you through some of Nepal’s most remote and pristine areas, including Upper Dolpo and Rara Lake, offering an escape from more trafficked trails.
- GHT trek features ancient Buddhist monasteries and spiritual sites, particularly in the Limi Valley and Dolpo regions, providing insight into the rich cultural and religious traditions of the Himalayas.
- Discover beautiful high-altitude lakes, such as the turquoise Lake of Gokyo Valley, adding to the trek’s scenic splendor.
- GHT area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like snow leopards and red pandas, especially in the Makalu and Kanchenjunga regions.
When to do the Great Himalayan Trail High Route Trek?
When planning your Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) High Route trek in Nepal, one of the key decisions is whether to travel from East to West or West to East. Seasonality plays a crucial role, as you’ll need a stable weather period of at least 148 days to complete the trek. The best time for a full GHT traverse, lasting 4-5 months, is between March and June, which avoids both winter storms and the monsoon season. The post-monsoon trekking season from October to January is shorter and significantly colder.
Navigating from East to West has its advantages, such as the sun being behind you, which can make orientation easier. Additionally, certain high passes, like those between Makalu and Everest, are slightly easier when heading East to West. However, the West to East route is more suitable for those aiming for a faster trek (under 120 days), or for those wanting to run the route in less time or complete it in stages with a winter break in between.
High Passes, Culture, and Ethnicity on the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT)
Trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp involves crossing the Lumba Sumba Pass (5,178 meters) and exploring the Makalu region. Basic tea houses are available in the Kanchenjunga area, which is predominantly inhabited by the Limbu and Rai ethnic groups. Camping is required for the westward journey from Ghunsa to the Lumba Sumba Pass. This route also includes crossing the Sherpani Col and the Amphu Laptsa Pass, while intersecting with the famous Everest Trek route. Additional highlights of the trek are the Cho La Pass and the Renjo La Pass, along with the stunning turquoise Lake of Gokyo Valley.
Following the descent from the Rolwaling Valley via Tilman Pass, you enter the Langtang Valley, home to the Tamang and Sherpa communities. This part of the trek offers insights into their diverse customs, traditional attire, and languages.
The journey then takes you into the Ganesh Himal region and Ruby Valley, where lush meadows and fertile lands lie against the Annapurna range. In the Ruby Valley, the Gurung and Magar communities are predominant.
In the Manaslu region, the trek follows the Manaslu circuit, crossing the Larke-la Pass (5,106 meters) north of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters). This section provides stunning views of the Annapurna range, Mt. Manaslu, and surrounding peaks.
Crossing the Thorong-la Pass (5,416 meters) connects you with the Annapurna circuit trail, leading to Manang and beyond. The descent offers spectacular views of Upper Mustang, known for its colorful, barren landscape. The trek continues west to Upper Dolpo, one of Nepal’s most remote regions, where encounters with yaks and goats are common, but settlements are sparse.
The route then moves to Rara Lake, a serene location at nearly 3,000 meters, surrounded by forests and snow-capped mountains. The path to Simikot traverses remote villages, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of inhabitants in this economically disadvantaged region.
The trek concludes with the Limi Valley, rich in flora, fauna, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. From Simikot, the trek connects with the final segment of the Great Himalayan Trail, reaching the Hilsa border with Tibet. The return journey to Kathmandu retraces the route via Simikot.
How much does the Great Himalayan Trail Nepal Itinerary Trek Cost?
The Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) is a flexible trekking network that allows for a highly personalized journey, rather than a fixed route. Costs can vary depending on factors such as weather, walking pace, specific interests, and route preferences, including whether you choose to avoid technical passes or spend more time in certain areas.
For a 148 day GHT Nepal itinerary, general cost estimates are as follows: approximately $48,000 per person for a solo trek with full support, and around $40,000 per person for twin-share or group treks with full support for 2024-2025. These estimates cover key expenses such as guides, porters, permits, accommodations, and meals, providing a comprehensive trekking experience.