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Nepal
Everest Region
Arun Valley Trek
Starting from $2,500
Starting from $2500.00
The Arun Valley Trek offers an extraordinary journey through one of eastern Nepal's most biodiverse and culturally rich regions, providing a perfect alternative to the more crowded trekking routes of the country. This magnificent trail follows the deep Arun River valley, which cuts through the Himalayan range between Makalu (8,463m) and Kanchenjunga (8,586m), creating a unique ecological corridor with dramatic altitude variations. Trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of four of the world's five highest mountains – Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga – while experiencing an incredible diversity of landscapes, from subtropical forests at lower elevations to alpine meadows and glacial valleys higher up. The cultural tapestry is equally rich, with trails passing through villages of Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Yamphu communities, each with distinct traditions, architecture, and agricultural practices largely untouched by the influence of tourism. The region boasts exceptional biodiversity, including over 650 bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts who might spot red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and snow leopards in the higher reaches. The trek can be undertaken as a standalone adventure or as an alternative approach to the Everest region via the Salpa Pass, offering a quiet, contemplative journey through landscapes that have changed little over centuries. This moderately challenging trek is best experienced during the pre-monsoon season (March-May) when rhododendron forests explode with color, or post-monsoon (October-November) when crystal-clear skies offer the most spectacular mountain panoramas.
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Detailed Information
The Arun Valley Trek represents a journey of exceptional diversity and authentic discovery, offering an experience that has become increasingly rare in Nepal's more popular trekking regions. What makes this trek extraordinary is its perfect combination of biological richness, cultural authenticity, and spectacular mountain scenery, all accessed through a trail that sees relatively few foreign visitors.
The trek follows the course of the mighty Arun River, a waterway with its headwaters in Tibet that carves one of the deepest valleys in the world. This geographic feature creates a remarkable ecological corridor, allowing trekkers to experience multiple climate zones and habitats in a relatively short distance. The journey begins in nearly subtropical conditions, with lush forests filled with orchids, ferns, and bamboo, gradually transitioning to temperate woodlands dominated by massive rhododendrons, and finally to subalpine terrain with views of snow-capped peaks.
The cultural dimension of this trek is particularly special. While Nepal's more famous trekking routes have seen significant changes due to tourism, the Arun Valley remains a bastion of traditional lifestyles. Villages along the way represent a fascinating mix of ethnic groups – primarily Rai and Limbu in the lower regions, with Sherpa and Yamphu communities at higher elevations. Each maintains distinct cultural practices, religious traditions, and architectural styles. Trekkers frequently find themselves welcomed into local homes to share salt tea or the region's famous millet beer, creating meaningful cultural exchanges rarely found on more established routes.
Physically, the trek offers a perfect balance of challenge and accessibility. The trail involves significant daily elevation changes as it moves up and down the valley's contours, but generally avoids the extreme altitudes that make some Himalayan treks prohibitive for many visitors. This middle-ground difficulty, combined with the option to extend or shorten the journey at several points, makes the Arun Valley appealing to a wide range of trekkers.
Perhaps most uniquely, the Arun Valley trek offers a sense of genuine exploration. While following established trails, visitors often experience entire days of hiking without encountering other trekking groups. Views unfold gradually, with each ridge revealing new perspectives on the surrounding landscapes. This creates a journey of discovery that unfolds at a human pace, allowing trekkers to absorb the subtle details of the environment and develop a deeper connection to the land and its people.
The Arun Valley Trek represents a journey of exceptional diversity and authentic discovery, offering an experience that has become increasingly rare in Nepal's more popular trekking regions. What makes this trek extraordinary is its perfect combination of biological richness, cultural authenticity, and spectacular mountain scenery, all accessed through a trail that sees relatively few foreign visitors.
The trek follows the course of the mighty Arun River, a waterway with its headwaters in Tibet that carves one of the deepest valleys in the world. This geographic feature creates a remarkable ecological corridor, allowing trekkers to experience multiple climate zones and habitats in a relatively short distance. The journey begins in nearly subtropical conditions, with lush forests filled with orchids, ferns, and bamboo, gradually transitioning to temperate woodlands dominated by massive rhododendrons, and finally to subalpine terrain with views of snow-capped peaks.
The cultural dimension of this trek is particularly special. While Nepal's more famous trekking routes have seen significant changes due to tourism, the Arun Valley remains a bastion of traditional lifestyles. Villages along the way represent a fascinating mix of ethnic groups – primarily Rai and Limbu in the lower regions, with Sherpa and Yamphu communities at higher elevations. Each maintains distinct cultural practices, religious traditions, and architectural styles. Trekkers frequently find themselves welcomed into local homes to share salt tea or the region's famous millet beer, creating meaningful cultural exchanges rarely found on more established routes.
Physically, the trek offers a perfect balance of challenge and accessibility. The trail involves significant daily elevation changes as it moves up and down the valley's contours, but generally avoids the extreme altitudes that make some Himalayan treks prohibitive for many visitors. This middle-ground difficulty, combined with the option to extend or shorten the journey at several points, makes the Arun Valley appealing to a wide range of trekkers.
Perhaps most uniquely, the Arun Valley trek offers a sense of genuine exploration. While following established trails, visitors often experience entire days of hiking without encountering other trekking groups. Views unfold gradually, with each ridge revealing new perspectives on the surrounding landscapes. This creates a journey of discovery that unfolds at a human pace, allowing trekkers to absorb the subtle details of the environment and develop a deeper connection to the land and its people.
From $2,500
$2,700
Price Varies from Group Size
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Itinerary
Follow our day-by-day Arun Valley Trek itinerary below, carefully designed to maximize acclimatization while showcasing the region's most spectacular viewpoints and cultural highlights.
Arrival in Kathmandu
Our dedicated team member will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, our guide will provide a brief orientation session about your trek and answer any questions you may have. We offer assistance with any last-minute gear purchases at local shops and will handle all logistics for your stay.
- Free time to explore the bustling streets of Thamel
- Visit nearby temples or simply rest after your flight
- For energetic travelers: Quick visit to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
- Enjoy panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley
- Catch your first glimpse of the distant Himalayan peaks
Your Accomodations
Dwarika's Hotel
Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu is a landmark of luxury that combines Nepal’s rich cultural...
View in DetailKathmandu Exploration and Trek Preparation
After breakfast at your hotel, our cultural guide will take you on a guided tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage sites. We'll organize your trekking permits and conduct a comprehensive gear check to ensure you're fully prepared. In the evening, we'll host a welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine where you'll meet your trekking guide and fellow travelers.
- Perfect blend of cultural immersion and trek preparation
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square
- Gain insights into Nepal's rich cultural heritage
- Acclimatize to the local timezone and environment
- Listen to fascinating stories about the mountains from our experienced guides
- Mental preparation for the adventure ahead
Your Accomodations
Dwarika's Hotel
Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu is a landmark of luxury that combines Nepal’s rich cultural...
View in DetailFlight to Tumlingtar, Drive to Khandbari
We'll arrange your early morning transfer to the domestic airport and assist with check-in for the flight to Tumlingtar in eastern Nepal. Upon landing, our team will organize lunch at a local eatery while porters prepare the luggage distribution. Our vehicle will then transport you to Khandbari, the administrative headquarters of Sankhuwasabha district, where we've arranged your first night's accommodation in this region.
- Begin your adventure with a scenic 25-minute flight to Tumlingtar
- Enjoy aerial views of the Himalayan foothills and river valleys
- Experience the dramatic difference in climate and vegetation from Kathmandu
- Drive through rural farmlands and villages to Khandbari
- Get your first taste of the warm hospitality in the Arun Valley region
- Meet your complete trekking crew and finalize preparations
- Explore the busy market town of Khandbari with its mix of cultures
Your Accomodations
Khandbari Homestay
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View in DetailTrek from Khandbari to Chewabesi
After breakfast, our team will brief you on the day's trek and ensure all equipment is properly distributed among the porters. Your guide will lead you through villages and terraced fields, sharing insights about local culture and pointing out flora and fauna along the way. We'll arrange your accommodation in a community-run teahouse in Chewabesi village and provide hot meals featuring local ingredients.
- Begin your trek through the outskirts of Khandbari town
- Pass through terraced rice fields and millet farms tended by local farmers
- Traverse small streams and forested sections
- Experience the diversity of eastern Nepal's ethnic communities including Rai, Limbu and Gurung peoples
- Observe traditional farming techniques unchanged for generations
- Enjoy gentle gradients and well-maintained village trails
- Arrive at the small settlement of Chewabesi, nestled in a picturesque valley
Your Accomodations
Almost Home Guest House & Cafe
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View in DetailChewabesi to Num
Our team will prepare a nutritious breakfast and packed lunch for your journey. Your guide will set a comfortable pace suitable for the terrain, with regular rest stops at scenic locations. We'll arrange your accommodation in Num, a village perched dramatically on a ridge, and ensure hot meals are ready upon your arrival after a full day of trekking.
- Trek through dense subtropical forests rich with orchids and rhododendrons
- Cross several small tributary streams on wooden bridges
- Climb gradually through changing vegetation zones
- Encounter diverse bird species including hornbills and colorful sunbirds
- Pass through small settlements where you can observe traditional village life
- Reach Num perched spectacularly on a ridge
- Enjoy your first views of the deep Arun Valley with the river far below
- Prepare for the significant descent and ascent planned for the next day
Your Accomodations
Sherpa Guest House
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View in DetailNum to Seduwa
Our team will prepare an early breakfast to allow plenty of time for this challenging day. Your guide will carefully monitor the pace on the steep sections, ensuring safety and proper technique on the demanding terrain. We'll arrange your accommodation in Seduwa, where hot drinks and recovery meals will be waiting to replenish your energy after one of the trek's most physically demanding days.
- Begin with a dramatic 860m descent to the Arun River
- Observe the changing vegetation as you drop into the subtropical zone
- Cross the impressive suspension bridge over the powerful Arun River (700m/2,296ft)
- Experience one of the trek's most challenging climbs as you ascend 800m up the eastern side
- Pass through dense forests and terraced hillsides
- Arrive at Seduwa, gateway to Makalu Barun National Park
- Complete park permit formalities at the check post
- Rest and recover after a day of significant elevation change
Your Accomodations
Hotel Lacha Gosi Seduwa
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View in DetailSeduwa to Tashigaon
After breakfast, our team will prepare you for the day's ascent. Your guide will set a measured pace to conserve energy while making steady progress upward. We'll arrange your accommodation in Tashigaon, the last permanent settlement on the trek, and ensure that nutritious meals are prepared to support your ongoing acclimatization.
- Climb steadily through terraced fields and scattered forest
- Pass through numerous small settlements with traditional stone houses
- Cross streams tumbling down from higher elevations
- Visit a small Buddhist monastery with prayer wheels and flags
- Enter the cultural zone of Sherpa influence
- Observe villagers tending crops and grazing livestock on steep hillsides
- Reach Tashigaon, the highest permanent settlement in the valley
- Enjoy magnificent sunset views of the valley you've traversed
Your Accomodations
Makalu Danfe Lodge
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View in DetailTashigaon to Khongma
Our team will prepare a hearty breakfast and energy-dense packed lunch for this demanding day. Your guide will set an extremely measured pace due to the significant altitude gain, and ensure frequent rest stops. We'll arrange your accommodation at the basic lodge in Khongma and prepare warm drinks and high-calorie meals to aid your recovery and acclimatization at this new elevation.
- Begin one of the trek's most challenging days with a relentless uphill climb
- Ascend through rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests
- Experience a significant transition in vegetation as you gain altitude
- Cross numerous streams cascading down from higher ground
- Pause at natural viewpoints to catch your breath and admire the expanding vistas
- Reach Khongma, situated at the edge of a ridgeline
- Witness dramatic changes in temperature as you enter the alpine zone
- Rest and acclimatize in this simple mountain lodge
- Prepare for crossing your first pass the following day
Your Accomodations
Subedi Khongma Lodge
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View in DetailAcclimatization Day in Khongma
Our team will organize a relaxed day to aid your acclimatization at this significant elevation. Your guide will lead an optional short hike to slightly higher elevations following the "climb high, sleep low" principle. Throughout the day, our staff will ensure you remain well-hydrated and properly fed, while monitoring for any signs of altitude sickness and providing educational information about the alpine environment.
- Take a crucial rest day to help your body adjust to the higher altitude
- Join an optional acclimatization hike to a nearby viewpoint
- Learn about alpine flora and fauna from your knowledgeable guide
- Enjoy spectacular views of the lower Arun Valley and distant peaks
- Prepare mentally and physically for the upcoming pass crossing
- Rest, read, and socialize with fellow trekkers
- Organize equipment for the high-altitude portion of your trek
- Witness stunning sunset and sunrise views from this high vantage point
Your Accomodations
Subedi Khongma Lodge
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View in DetailKhongma to Mumbuk via Shipton La Pass
Our team will prepare an early hot breakfast and energy-rich snacks for this challenging day. Your guide will set a careful pace for the ascent to Shipton La, closely monitoring each trekker's condition at this high altitude. We'll arrange your accommodation at the basic lodge in Mumbuk and ensure warming soups and hearty meals are ready upon your arrival after this demanding crossing.
- Begin early for the challenging climb to Shipton La Pass
- Trek through dwarf rhododendron and juniper on the approach
- Experience increasingly stark alpine terrain as you gain altitude
- Reach Keke La (4,170m/13,681ft), your first mountain pass
- Continue across a high plateau to Shipton La (4,125m/13,533ft)
- Celebrate at the pass summit with prayer flags and panoramic views
- Begin your descent toward the upper Barun Valley
- Arrive at the small lodge settlement of Mumbuk
- Rest and recover from your successful pass crossing
Mumbuk to Yangri Kharka
Our team will prepare a nourishing breakfast and packed lunch for your journey. Your guide will lead you through the dramatic high mountain landscape, pointing out significant peaks and sharing information about the unique ecology. We'll arrange your accommodation at Yangri Kharka and ensure that hot meals and drinks are ready to welcome you to this beautiful alpine meadow.
- Trek through the upper Barun Valley with its unique alpine ecosystem
- Cross several small streams originating from high glaciers
- Navigate rhododendron forests and rocky sections
- Witness spectacular views of peak-studded horizons opening up
- Get your first glimpse of Makalu (8,485m), the world's fifth highest mountain
- Observe musk deer, blue sheep and other Himalayan wildlife (if lucky)
- Experience the pristine environment of Makalu Barun National Park
- Arrive at Yangri Kharka's grassy meadows set against towering peaks
- Enjoy the spacious beauty of this high valley
Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka
Our team will prepare energy-rich breakfast and packed lunch for this significant ascent. Your guide will set a measured pace due to the increasing altitude, ensuring proper acclimatization. We'll arrange your accommodation at the basic lodge in Langmale Kharka and prepare hot drinks and nutritious meals to support your adaptation to this high-altitude environment.
- Ascend steadily following the upper Barun Valley
- Trek alongside the rushing Barun River fed by glacial meltwater
- Pass dramatic ice falls cascading from high ridges
- Witness the valley gradually opening into a majestic alpine landscape
- Experience increasing views of the Makalu massif
- Cross boulder fields and glacial moraines
- Arrive at Langmale Kharka with its stone shelters and basic teahouse
- Marvel at the massive mountains now surrounding you on three sides
- Prepare for your approach to Makalu Base Camp
Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp
Our team will prepare a hearty breakfast and energy-dense snacks for this final approach. Your guide will set a deliberate pace appropriate for the extreme altitude, with frequent rest stops. We'll arrange your accommodation at the basic lodge at Makalu Base Camp and ensure that warming drinks and high-calorie meals are ready to support your wellbeing at this extreme elevation.
- Trek through the dramatic upper Barun Valley
- Navigate the stark, glaciated terrain of the upper valley
- Cross glacial moraines and boulder fields
- Feel the presence of massive Himalayan peaks surrounding you
- Pass through Sherson (4,700m), with its stunning views of Makalu's south face
- Experience the unique atmosphere of the high Himalaya
- Arrive at Makalu Base Camp, situated on a rocky shelf
- Marvel at spectacular close-up views of Makalu (8,485m)
- Witness the massive south face of one of the world's most challenging mountains
- Experience the raw power of the high-altitude wilderness
Exploration Day at Makalu Base Camp
Our team will organize a flexible day for exploration around Makalu Base Camp. Your guide will offer options for short hikes to nearby viewpoints for those feeling energetic, while ensuring that no one overexerts at this extreme altitude. Throughout the day, our staff will provide hot drinks and nutritious meals, and be vigilant for any signs of altitude issues.
- Wake to the golden light illuminating Makalu's imposing summit
- Choose from optional exploration activities based on your energy and interest
- Hike to higher viewpoints for even more spectacular perspectives
- Photograph the dramatic glaciers, ice falls, and peaks
- Learn about the history of expeditions to Makalu
- Witness the day's changing light on the mountains
- Reflect on your achievement in reaching this remote location
- Prepare for the beginning of your descent the following day
- Experience the unique tranquility of a night at high altitude
Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka
Our team will prepare an early breakfast and energy-rich snacks for this long day. Your guide will lead you carefully on the descent, protecting knees and ankles on the steeper sections. We'll arrange your accommodation at Yangri Kharka and ensure that restorative hot meals are ready upon your arrival after this significant day of descent.
- Begin your return journey with a long day of mostly downhill trekking
- Experience the remarkable difference in breathing and energy as you descend
- Retrace your steps through the upper Barun Valley
- Pass Langmale Kharka after a few hours
- Witness the changing perspective of the mountains as you descend
- Notice details missed during your ascent
- Cross streams and boulder fields with renewed ease
- Arrive at the relative comfort of Yangri Kharka
- Enjoy the increased oxygen and warmer temperatures
- Reflect on your time at Makalu Base Camp
Yangri Kharka to Mumbuk
Our team will organize breakfast and packed lunch for your journey. Your guide will set a comfortable pace as you retrace your steps through this beautiful valley. We'll arrange your accommodation at Mumbuk and prepare hot meals to welcome you after your day's trek.
- Continue your descent through the pristine upper Barun Valley
- Observe the valley from a different perspective than during your ascent
- Notice wildlife and plant details potentially missed on the upward journey
- Cross small tributary streams
- Take time to appreciate the scale and beauty of this remote region
- Prepare mentally for the pass crossing the following day
- Arrive at Mumbuk for your last night in the upper valley
- Rest and prepare for the challenging pass crossing ahead
Mumbuk to Khongma via Shipton La Pass
Our team will prepare an early breakfast and energy-dense snacks for the pass recrossing. Your guide will set an appropriate pace for the ascent to Shipton La, ensuring everyone's safety and comfort. We'll arrange your accommodation at Khongma and ensure that hot drinks and restorative meals are waiting upon your return to this familiar lodge.
- Begin early for the challenging re-crossing of Shipton La Pass
- Climb steadily back to the high mountain pass
- Cross the series of passes: Shipton La and Keke La
- Experience the alpine environment with fresh perspective
- Descend carefully to Khongma
- Enjoy familiar surroundings after your mountain circuit
- Rest and recover from your second pass crossing
- Prepare for the long descent to lower elevations
Your Accomodations
Subedi Khongma Lodge
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View in DetailKhongma to Seduwa
Our team will prepare a hearty breakfast and packed lunch for this significant descent day. Your guide will set a careful pace to protect knees and ankles on the long downhill sections. We'll arrange your accommodation in Seduwa and ensure that restorative meals await your arrival after this demanding day of descent.
- Begin your major descent back to the lower valleys
- Experience dramatic changes in vegetation and temperature
- Descend through alpine zones into forests of rhododendron, fir, and oak
- Pass through Tashigaon where you'll notice significantly warmer air
- Continue descending to Seduwa
- Complete check-out formalities at the national park checkpoint
- Marvel at the lushness of the lower elevations after the stark high mountains
- Enjoy the increasing oxygen levels and warmer temperatures
- Rest your knees and legs after the long descent
Your Accomodations
Hotel Lacha Gosi Seduwa
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View in DetailSeduwa to Num
Our team will organize an early breakfast to allow ample time for this challenging day. Your guide will set a comfortable pace for the descent to the Arun River and provide encouragement during the subsequent climb. We'll arrange your accommodation in Num and prepare celebratory meals to recognize your completion of the most challenging sections of the trek.
- Descend 800m to the mighty Arun River
- Cross the impressive suspension bridge once more
- Tackle the demanding 860m climb to Num on the ridge
- Notice your improved strength and fitness compared to your first crossing
- Experience the remarkable biodiversity of this river valley
- Reach Num with a sense of accomplishment
- Celebrate having completed the circuit to Makalu Base Camp
- Enjoy your final night in this dramatic mountain setting
Your Accomodations
Sherpa Guest House
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View in DetailNum to Tumlingtar
Our team will prepare breakfast and organize a steady walk down to Chewabesi, where our private vehicle will be waiting. Your guide will lead a comfortable final day of trekking, and our driver will safely transport you to Tumlingtar. We'll arrange your accommodation in Tumlingtar and organize a special farewell dinner with your porters and local team members.
- Begin your final day of trekking to Chewabesi
- Descend through villages and terraced fields
- Board private transportation for the drive to Tumlingtar
- Experience mixed emotions as your mountain journey concludes
- Arrive in Tumlingtar, the gateway town for your mountain adventure
- Enjoy a special farewell celebration with your trekking crew
- Share stories and memories from your remarkable journey
- Present customary tips to your guides and porters
- Prepare for your return flight to Kathmandu
Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
Our team will handle your early check-in for the return flight and manage any potential weather delays. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we'll transfer you to your hotel and assist with luggage. You'll have free time in the afternoon, with optional spa services available to soothe tired muscles. In the evening, we'll host a final celebration dinner at a premier restaurant in Kathmandu.
- Board an early morning flight back to Kathmandu
- Enjoy aerial views of the mountains and valleys you've traversed
- Experience the surreal contrast between remote wilderness and bustling city
- Appreciate luxuries of hot showers, varied cuisine, and soft beds
- Take time for souvenir shopping in Thamel
- Process and reflect on your remarkable achievement
- Share stories with fellow trekkers during a final celebration dinner
- Begin organizing photos and memories from your adventure
Your Accomodations
Soaltee Hotel
Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu is a landmark of luxury that combines Nepal’s rich cultural...
View in DetailDeparture Day
Depending on your flight time, our team will arrange airport transfers and assist with check-in procedures. We'll provide information about departure requirements and help with any last-minute souvenir purchases. Our staff will ensure you depart with all trek certificates, photos, and memories properly secured.
- Conclude your extraordinary Himalayan adventure
- Depart with photographs, memories, and personal growth
- Reflect on completing one of Nepal's most remote and rewarding treks
- Carry memories of pristine wilderness and the mighty Makalu
- Treasure experiences of the journey, culture, and remarkable people
- Take home a transformative experience that provides perspective beyond the mountains
- Begin planning your next adventure in the Himalayas
- Bid farewell to Nepal with a heart full of extraordinary experiences
Services
A complete breakdown of what's included in your package (accommodation, meals, permits) and what's not (gear, flights, insurance).
Includes
- Specialized bilingual guide familiar with the Arun region
- Private Transport where applicable
- Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar
- Daily meals on the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Services of an experienced guide and porter during the trek
- All essential trekking permits, including conservation area fees
- Accommodation throughout the trek (basic teahouses and homestays)
Excludes
- Additional accommodation due to flight cancellations or delays
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance for the trek
- Gratuities for the guides, porters, and trekking support staff
- International flights and entry visa fees for Nepal
- Personal trekking equipment and gear (sleeping bags, jackets, etc.)
- Extra food and drinks beyond the standard meals provided
- Any costs associated with early departure from the trek
Good to Know
Train for hill walking with a focus on sustained daily hiking. Bring a quality sleeping bag as tea houses have minimal heating. Pack for varied climates from subtropical to alpine. Carry sufficient cash as there are no ATMs between Tumlingtar and Khadbari. Respect local customs by asking permission before photographing people or religious sites. Learn basic phrases in Nepali to enhance cultural exchanges. Consider bringing small gifts like school supplies for village children or medical supplies for local health posts.
Wildlife Encounters
- Red panda (particularly in rhododendron and bamboo forests)
- Himalayan black bear (in forested regions)
- Himalayan tahr (wild mountain goats)
- Various deer species including musk deer
- Himalayan langur monkeys
- Over 650 bird species including:
- Impeyan pheasant (danphe - Nepal's national bird)
- Satyr tragopan
- Various eagles and vultures
- Colorful sunbirds and minivets
- Unique butterflies including Kaiser-i-hind and various swallowtails
- Snow leopard (extremely rare sightings in upper regions)
Reviews
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Your queries are answered.
Why is the Arun Valley less visited than other trekking regions?
The region's remote location in eastern Nepal, limited flight connections, basic accommodation infrastructure, and lower marketing profile have kept visitor numbers low. This is precisely what makes it appealing to trekkers seeking authentic experiences away from crowded trails.
Do I need special permits for this trek?
Yes, you'll need the standard Makalu-Barun National Park permit and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. Your trekking agency will arrange these. Unlike some restricted regions, no special limited permits are required, making the paperwork relatively straightforward.
What is the best time of year for this trek?
Mid-October to early December offers the clearest mountain views and stable weather. March to May features spectacular rhododendron blooms but may have hazier mountain views. The monsoon season (June-September) brings leeches and difficult trail conditions, while winter (December-February) can be cold but often clear and quiet.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
Basic teahouses exist in most villages, though they are considerably more rustic than those in popular trekking regions. Expect shared rooms, limited menu options, basic toilet facilities, and minimal or no electricity. In some smaller settlements, homestays with local families may be the only option.
Is it possible to extend or shorten this trek?
Yes, the Arun Valley trek is flexible. It can be shortened by exiting early to Tumlingtar or extended by continuing to the Everest region via Lukla or by incorporating parts of the Makalu Base Camp trek. Your trekking agency can customize the itinerary based on your time constraints and preferences.
How does altitude sickness risk compare to other Himalayan treks?
The altitude risk is lower than on many Himalayan treks as the highest point (Salpa Pass at 3,348m) remains below the 3,500m threshold where altitude sickness becomes more common. However, standard precautions like proper acclimatization and adequate hydration remain important.
Is it possible to trek independently in the Arun Valley?
While permits don't require guided service, independent trekking is challenging due to limited infrastructure, infrequent signage, and the remote nature of the region. Most trekkers opt for at least a guide, if not a full support team including porters.
How reliable is the Wi-Fi and phone connectivity?
Very limited. Larger settlements like Khadbari may have basic cell service, but most of the trek has no connectivity. Some villages have emergency satellite phones. Plan to be disconnected for most of your journey and inform family and friends of your itinerary before departing.
How much should I budget beyond the package cost?
Beyond the package cost, budget approximately $10-15 per day for any additional expenses like snacks, hot showers (where available), or local handicrafts. Prices are generally lower than in more touristy regions but increase in remote areas due to transportation costs.
What unique cultural experiences can I expect on this trek?
The Arun Valley offers exceptional cultural diversity, with opportunities to observe and participate in local festivals if your timing aligns, learn about traditional weaving and agricultural practices, visit remote Buddhist monasteries, and potentially experience shamanic rituals that pre-date Buddhism in the region.
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from $2,500 per adult