Important Information

Region
Makalu Region Treks
Duration
16 Days
Max Altitude 3085m
Best Season March - December
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 - 20 people
Transportation Flight - Jeep

The Arun valley is considered one of the deepest valleys in the world. This valley lies between the Sagarmatha national park and Barun valley. This valley offers you an opportunity to experience both the cultural and snow-capped mountain views. It is an alternative route to the Everest Base Camp trek.  The name Arun came from the Arun River which originates from Tibet and finally merges into the Saptakoshi River. When you trek higher altitude, you will witness panoramic views of Mount Everest, Makalu, Baruntse, Lhotse, and Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, etc.

Arun valley trek was popular when there was no airport in Lukla. Now a day it is the least visited trekking destination but a culturally beautiful valley. Travelers can experience the culture of the hilly regions of Nepal through this trek. The ethnic group such as Rai, Limbu, Chetri, Tamang, Brahmin, and Sherpa in typical villages surrounded by terraced hillsides, dense forests, and crystal clear flowing rivers. This trek is based on tea house trek and Himalayan Wander Walkers also organized Camping trek on request.

Getting to Arun valley:

Arun valley trek starts by taking a flight to Tumlingtar. This valley is blessed with an amazing diversity of culture and natural beauty. From Tumlingtar the trek route heads toward the west passing few villages like Gothe Bazaar, Dhobane, Phedi, Sanam, Bung, Gaikharka, and Mangum. The trail finally links with the popular Everest Base Camp trek at Paiya, just below the Lukla.

Variation:

For those who want to revisit Everest Base Camp Trek, the Arun valley trek route can be an option to reach EBC and Kalapathar. The itinerary will be the same as Arun valley in addition to the Everest Base Camp trek. This trek is also possible to start from Hille by flying to Biratnagar.

Outline Itinerary ( 16 Days )

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m)

Arrival in Kathmandu-Transfer to Hotel, Welcome assistance by Himalayan Wander Walkers' representative at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel, rest at the hotel, and briefing about the trip.

Overnight accommodation is set with BB Plan.

Day 2

Sightseeing and Trek preparation

Today after breakfast we will start the city tour to most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. These landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites; including the historic Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swyambhunath), and the world largest Buddhists stupa, Bouddhanath. Briefing regarding the trek with two-way question-answer with the trip leader (The Guide).

Overnight accommodation is in the same hotel as the BB Plan.

Day 3

Fly to Tumlingtar (320m) and trekking to Chyawabesi (280m)

Tumlingtar is a small city in eastern Nepal. In the morning we will board a plane to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu. Located between the twisting Arun and Sabha River in the Koshi zone, it is also the biggest Tar and the deepest valley of Nepal. From there, we will trek uphill the villages and green meadows, and lofty hills and mountains will keep you revitalized throughout the trek.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 4

Trek to Gothe Bazaar (750m)

Today, we pass all the way through the fields and then walk among terraced rice meadows on the shore of the ArunKoshi, eventually, we will swing into the petite village of BalawaBesi (320m). The track moves up into the woods of Sal trees over the Nepali Danda and Bharta villages and then traverses the ridge. We will witness the first glance of the verdant Arun valley. The trail continues through rice terraces, the Rai village called Marduwa at 1500m. Then the moves along the north shore of the IrkhuwaKhola all the way through a steamy scenery of rice terraces and banana farms to Gothe Bazaar.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 5

Gothe trekking to Dhobane (920m)

About two hours past Gothe you’ll reach the village of Durbane. Continuing through the rice terrains along the irrigation channels, you’ll cross to the north bank on a wood-and-steel bridge. We can also see the making of Nepali paper from Lokta plant. There are several places on the way where you can take a dip in the river- the water is cold but not icy and the temperature is almost tropical. Continue uphill through Rai and Sherpa villages, cross large suspension bridges passing the Irkhuwa Khola to Dhobane.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 6

Dhobane trekking to Phedi (1680m)

Pass through the sprawling villages of Tendor and Tallo Phedi with their tidy slate-roofed houses, cutting in and out of the forest. The trail leads upward through terraces lands with rice fields that seem impossibly green, divided by trickling irrigation channels. It passes through damp patches of forest following the south bank. The trail follows the bottom of the fertile rice-growing Irkhuwa valley, crossing the river on a rickety bamboo bridge. Take the path running over the Sanu Khola to Phedi. Visit nearby ruined Stupa and a tiny disused Gompa.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Brakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day 7

Phedi trekking to Gurase (2880m)

The ascent from Phedi is perilously steep, climbing along the spur that divides the Irkhuwa Khola and Sanu Khola. After ascending another 100m from Jaubire, approach the sprawling village of Thulo Fokte (2140m). Crossing a gentle stone path, it’s a pleasant ascent through the forest, with lots of sunny clearings for rest stops. Climbing up towards the forest of oak, birch, and rhododendron you’ll have giddying views of the plunging valley. The trail drops down from the top of the spur to Bilbate (2800m). About 30 minutes further we will reach the tiny stone village of Gurase.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 8

Gurase trekking to Sanam (2850m)

Today we pass through a rhododendron forest dotted with overgrown Mani walls and Stupas. After about a total journey of 2 hrs, we will reach Salpa Pokhari, a wish-fulfilling sacred pool set at 3414m. The area is surrounded by hemlock and fir forests abound with birds and wildlife. The pass is often covered with snow in winter. You can gaze forward across the forest to the distant peak of Solu Khumbu. Reach the open area of loose stones and dwarf rhododendrons above Salpa Bhanjyang and a steep drop to the mainstream. Moving on the path runs across the hillside and through the damp forest to Sanam.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 9

Sanam trekking to Bung (1900m)

The first part of the day is gentle but sustained descend through a forest of rhododendron, brown oaks, and chir pines. Enjoy the paper factory, a teashop, and an old Gompa in the village of Share after passing an enormous rock carved with Buddhist mantras. About two hours from Share, expose to a lush, forested valley ahead of Gudel (1900m). It is another pleasant Rai valley of whitewashed houses and kitchen gardens, almost a mirror image of Bung. Cross the Hongu Khola by a steel suspension bridge at about 1320m. The main trail drops past the village of school through a patchwork of rice, millet, and soyabean terraces to the village of Bung. The bung is also the point that you are officially supposed to pay the Makalu National Park entry fee.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 10

Bung trekking to Surke la (3085m)

As you climb up the hillside, you’ll see the farmland becoming richer and more varied and racks of beans, maize, and other crops drying on the wooden balconies of whitewashed Rai houses. Continuing on the main trail, you’ll enjoy glorious views over the wide, fertile Hongu Valley. Cross the hillside by scattered Mani walls. In the upper valley, a perfect circle of tall juniper trees marks the location of the Khiraule Gompa. You will have soaring views over the surroundings valley passing through the scrubby, burnt forest with the clear hillside. Passing through the valley of Charakot, a steep stone stairway drops to reach Surke La Pass. Spend your overnight here.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 11

Surke La trekking to Gaikharka (2300m)

Today's trail descends steeply onwards from a notch in the cliff wall. The slopes are covered in wispy thickets of bamboo. Today we will pass Najindingma (2650m) village. You will have a view of a clear area of grassland, used as summer grazing by people from surrounding valleys. Another one and a half hours of drop across soggy forests, we will reach Gaikharka. Here you’ll have wonderful views of grassy terraces and scattered farmhouses.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Brakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 12

Gaikharka trekking to Pangum (3173m)

Crossing a humid, ferny forest, the trail continues across the Hinku Khola on a 62m-long, steel cable bridge. You will watch two sparkling waterfalls and the path begins an almost vertical ascent to the valley of Sibuje (2500m), also known as Vasme and Chatuk, for about 2 hrs. Further uphill, you’ll see pocket-sized village Gompa. The trail ascends for an hour through a patchy forest of straggly rhododendrons. We will reach Pangum La pass, enjoying the grand-stand views of Khumbu Himalaya and Mera Peak (6476m). We can also have a short climb to Pangum Gompa for a night's stay.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Brakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 13

Pangum trekking to Puiyan (2680m)

Crossing the final La of the Arun valley, we will trek downhill at first and then up and over Kari La(3145m). After having lunch trail drops downhill, quite steeply in the end to where the Arun Valley path joins the route from Jiri just before Puiyan. The terrain can be frustrating, with the trail diverting into side valleys and being far from a direct line to Puiyan but it is interesting to trek. Puiyan is a nice village overlooking a small tributary of the Dudh Koshi.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Brakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 14

Puiyan trekking to Lukla

From Puiyan it’s reasonably easy to make Lukla with a few hours. We can also make a visit to Kharte La Pass. The trail winds uphill along the Jiri path. Today is a short and easy day trek and also a rest day in the Lukla valley. Spend your night in the hotel enjoying the cultural programs at night.

Overnight stay at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 15

Flight back to Kathmandu

Saying a final goodbye to our porters we return to the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu with a 45-minute flight back to the domestic airport. (It also can be a spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla which makes the Lukla flight delayed and cancel.) In the evening you can have your last night in Nepal enjoying the Nepali cultural dinner show exchanging greetings among friends and with all Nepalese people. You can buy some souvenirs and gifts.

Overnight accommodation is set with BB Plan.

Day 16

Final Departure

We are saying goodbye as your journey to Nepal comes to an end today. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3-4 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Himalayan Wander walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Meal: Breakfast.  

 

Include

Arrivals and departure transport by car (We will collect you from the Kathmandu international airport) and transfer to Hotel.
Half-day sightseeing in Kathmandu (Boudhanath and Pasupatinath) with city guide and necessary transport.
3 nights’ accommodation (2 persons per room) in Kathmandu in a 3* standard Hotel with breakfast.
Kathmandu - Tumlingtar & Lukla – Kathmandu flight tickets.
All land transportations (a private car/bus)
Full Board Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the whole trek.
Government licensed guide and a porter for two people.
Makalu Barun National Park permits and Municipility entry permits.
Group First Aid Kit.
HWW Company Duffle Bag for luggage

Exclude

Meals & drinks during the trek and in Kathmandu (unless stated otherwise under ‘The trip cost includes’)
Personal trekking equipment
Travel/medical insurance
Emergency rescue evacuation
Phone calls
Internet
International air ticket
Tips for your trekking guide & porters at the end of the trek
If you’re forced to extend your trek due to bad weather or natural disaster circumstances, we are not liable to pay any compensation or otherwise be responsible for any expenses you may incur
Anything not mentioned in the ‘includes section’
Nepal entry visa Fee.

Important Information

CHECKLISTS FOR ARUN VALLEY TREK

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in a wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)

Guiding, Food, and Lodging
Trekking in Nepal, all trekking supplies - Teahouse trekking means staying and eating in local lodges. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. The rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We eat at teahouses and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not extensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. It is normal to meet your porter in the teahouse where you will stay overnight. So, pack your necessary things in your own day pack.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES 

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently Asked Question

Although trekking gear is available in Nepal, you are advised to bring your own gear.

Trekking or running shoes, Camp shoes or thongs Socks (polypropylene)

Down or fiber-filled jacket, Jumper or piled jacket, Hiking shorts, Waterproof jackets, poncho or umbrella, Hiking pants, T-shirts or blouses, Underwear, Sun hat

Rucksack, Self Inflating Sleeping Mattress (optional), Water bottle, Torch, batteries, and bulbs