Simikot Valley
Simikot Valley is the northwestern-most town of Nepal lying in the remotest corner of Karnali zone. Situated at an altitude of 2910m (9547 feet), it serves as the district headquarters of Humla district. It was opened to trekkers in 1993.
Due to its remoteness, people over there do not have access to modern means of living. The main source of livelihoods among locals is agriculture and husbandry. This valley is inhabited by Thakuri communities, further up the valley is home to Bhotias or Tibetan cousins who follow culture and lifestyle similar to Tibetans.
It is a restricted area where there are no guest houses and lodges available. Only the camping trek is possible in this area with a special permit.
The only way to reach this valley is either by walking or flying. The distance from Jumla, the nearest road terminus, to Simikot is 86km. It will take approximately 20 days to reach Simikot from Jumla on foot.
Thanks to a small STOL airport built over there at a height of 2818m. Regular flights now operate between Nepalgunj and Simikot.
This place is an important transit point for tourists and trekkers going to Tibet (China). Hilsa, the border along Tibet and Nepal, is just 50 km away from Simikot. Pilgrims and Trekkers fly into Simikot from Nepalgunj and then proceed to the international border at Hilsa on foot or by helicopter.
Moreover, there are two Community radio Stations: Radio Karnali Aawaz at 94.2 MHz and Radio Kailash at 103.4 MHz.
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