Limi Valley

This is a post about Limi Valley in the far western district of Humla.

Limi Valley is located in the far northwest corner of Humla, and accessible via trails from Simikot and Hilsa in Nepal, or along the border with Tibet. From Simikot, the trail leading west of out town splits to the north at Salli Khola, leading into upper Limi Valley. Continuing west at Salli Khola takes one along the Karnali River and lower Limi Valley. The lower path through Limi Valley parallels the Great Himalaya Trail.

Limi Valley is fairly remote, even by Nepali standards, and requires a special trekking permit for foreigners to enter. Border restrictions are also in place along the extensive Nepal-Tibet border to the north and west, although local Limi Valley residents have a special pass allowing them to travel across the border into Tibet, especially to the major trading town west of Hilsa, known as Taklakot (alt. Purang or Burang) in Purang Country, Ngari Prefecture.

Upper Limi Valley retains strong cultural ties to Tibet, and most residents of the upper valley speak a local “Humli” dialect which is a mix of Tibetan and Nepali. While the area is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhist, signs of the earlier Bön and animist religious practices are still evident, as well as some Hindu practices. Many communities have a mix of religious traditions and practices existing side-by-side, offering a good example of religious syncretism in action.