Arun Valley Trek
The Arun Valley Trek follows the Arun River through the verdant Arun Valley in Makalu-Barun National Park, situated between Everest (Sagarmatha) and Makalu (8481m — the world's fifth-highest peak). The source of the Arun River is the Tibet Autonomous Region. The trek provides breathtaking views of Mount Everest (Sagarmatha -8848m), Thamserku (6608m), Makalu (8481m), Ama Dablam (6880m), and Makalu-Barun National Park.
The Barun Valley is rich in beauty and contrasting features, such as huge waterfalls tumbling into deep gorges, lush green woods, terraced farmlands, rhododendron forests with pink and red flowers in bloom, and, of course, several snow-capped towering hills. There are an estimated more than 650 kinds of birds and more than 800 types of butterflies, as well as the critically endangered panda and the distinct ethnic groupings of Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu people.
The journey begins with either a flight to Biratnagar and a bus ride to Dharan and Dhankuta/Hille (the regional center of Dhankuta Bazaar) or a bus ride from Kathmandu. Another option is to fly to Tumlingtar, although there are less flights there. The Great Himalaya Cultural Trail is another name for this expedition.
The trail crosses numerous high passes before connecting with the main Classic Everest Trail near Karte at Pangom (2948m).
Annapurna Valley Trek Highlights
The Arun Valley Trek is a relatively lesser-known trekking route in Nepal, offering a unique and diverse experience for trekkers. Here are some of the highlights of the Arun Valley Trek.
Scenic Beauty: The Arun Valley is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. You'll be surrounded by lush forests, terraced fields, cascading waterfalls, and stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.
Less Crowded: Unlike more popular trekking routes in Nepal like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Arun Valley Trek is less crowded. This provides a quieter and more serene trekking experience, allowing you to connect more intimately with the local culture and nature.
Cultural Diversity: The trek takes you through various ethnic villages inhabited by Sherpas, Rai, Limbu, and other ethnic groups. This offers a unique opportunity to experience their traditional lifestyles, practices, and cuisines.
Varied Terrain: The trek encompasses a wide range of landscapes and terrains. You'll pass through lush lowland forests, terraced fields, remote villages, river valleys, and high alpine areas. This diversity adds to the trek's appeal and challenges.
Biodiversity: The Arun Valley is rich in biodiversity. As you trek through different ecological zones, you'll encounter various species of plants, animals, and birds. It's a great opportunity for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Stunning Panoramic Views: While the trek doesn't lead you to the highest peaks, you'll still get breathtaking panoramic views of some prominent Himalayan ranges, including Makalu (the fifth highest mountain in the world) and Everest.
Hidden Gems: The Arun Valley Trek is known for hidden gems such as the remote Barun Valley and the Makalu Base Camp. These areas offer pristine wilderness and a sense of adventure.
Interaction with Locals: Since the trek is less crowded, you'll have more opportunities to interact with the locals. This can provide insights into their daily lives, cultures, and traditions.
Off the Beaten Path: If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path trekking experience, the Arun Valley Trek is an excellent choice. You'll be away from the hustle and bustle of more popular routes.
Adventure and Solitude: The Arun Valley Trek is suitable for trekkers who seek a sense of adventure and solitude. It's a chance to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature.
Remember that trekking in Nepal requires adequate preparation, permits, and a certain level of physical fitness. It's advisable to go through a reputable trekking agency and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Best time for Arun Valley Trek
The best time for the Arun Valley Trek in Nepal is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. These periods offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions. Here are the details of these two main trekking seasons.
Spring (Pre-Monsoon): March to May
Spring is one of the most popular times for trekking in Nepal, including the Arun Valley Trek. The weather is relatively stable, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming rhododendron forests. The views of the Himalayan peaks are generally excellent during this season. The temperatures gradually warm up as you move into May, making it a pleasant time for trekking.
Autumn (Post-Monsoon): September to November
Autumn is another prime trekking season in Nepal and is considered the best time for the Arun Valley Trek. The weather is clear, with dry conditions and excellent visibility of the mountains. The temperatures are moderate, neither too hot nor too cold, making it comfortable for trekking. The post-monsoon period brings lush vegetation and vibrant landscapes after the monsoon rains, enhancing the overall trekking experience.
During these seasons, the Arun Valley Trek offers the best combination of pleasant weather, clear mountain views, and vibrant natural surroundings. It's important to note that while these are the primary trekking seasons, trekking can still be undertaken in other months as well. However, the winter months (December to February) can be quite cold at higher altitudes, and the monsoon season (June to August) can bring heavy rainfall and difficult trail conditions.
Duration : 15 days | Activity : Trekking/Hiking | Trip Date : Flexible |
Private Trip : Available | Group Trip : Available | Stay : Tea House/ Hotel |
Program Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival In Nepal.
Day 2 - Fly to Tumlingtar(4,10m) 45 minutes
Day 3 - Trek to Chiyabesi(2,80m) 5 hours.
Day 4 - Trek to Tabular(600m) 6 hours.
Day 5 - Trek to Dobhane(6,00m) 6 hours.
Day 6 - Trek to Salpa Phedi(1,565m) 5 hours.
Day 7 - Trek to Guranse(2,990m) 6 hours.
Day 8 - Trek to Sanam(2,600m) 6 hours.
Day 9 - Trek to Bung(1,800m) 6-7 hours.
Day 10 - Trek to Gaikharka(2,500m) 6 hours.
Day 11 - Trek to Pangom(2,846m) 6 hours.
Day 12 - Trek to Puiyan(2,640m) 7 hours.
Day 13 - Trek to Lukla (2,860m) 4 hours.
Day 14 - Flight time from Lukla to Kathmandu.
Day 15 - Departure from Nepal.
Include/Exclude
Price Includes
- All necessary ground transfers.
- All necessary accommodations as per the itinerary.
- Tea House accommodations during the trek.
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking.
- All necessary paper works.
- All necessary trekking permits.
- Experienced and First Aid-trained trekking guide.
- Strong, helpful porters.
- Comprehensive medical supplies.
- Trekking map.
- Insurance of all local team.
- Warm clothing and trekking gear for staff.
- Sleeping bag and trip duffle bag.
- Trekking certificate issued by us.
- Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Price Excludes
- Nepal Visa fee.
- International flights.
- All meals not mentioned in inclusions.
- Personal expenses not stipulated.
- Optional add-ons.
- Gratuities.
Guest Reviews
Lisa G
My dad and myself did plan to trek the Annapurna Circuit from Jagat to Jomsom and booked the trip via Raj and Getaway Nepal Adventure. While organizing everything in advance went smooth from the very beginning, we were amazed by the organisation of the whole trip once we arrived in Nepal - starting with a pick-up service in Kathmandu airport, also wisely chosing our guide and our porter (Manisha and Dai) which both were a perfect match to accompany us on our trekking. Both were very thoughtful and we felt like a companionship from the very beginning, but also very professional when it came to all concerns regarding the hike, like proper acclimatisation, the daily hike and everything besides. Overall organisation has been extraordinary and there hasn't been anything where Raj was not able to support (even after the trip has finished).
This really has been a once-in-a-lifetime trip and we were so happy to have this with Manisha and Dai. If ever planning to do a trekking in Nepal again (and we would love to do soon) we definitely would book with Raj again and his company one more time.
Aussie Couple
Raj and his team are awesome. Especially after seeing how other travel companies in Nepal have functioned, not only are they on top of everything, but the guides and porters working with the company are treated really well. The morning we were meant to leave for Lukla, the plane kept getting delayed. By 9 am our guides had a chopper organised to take us, where we later chatted to people who only got on one at around 2 pm and ended up hiking in the dark. We also saw multiple porters carrying more than one duffle bag, however, this company limits it to one, for the wellbeing of the porters. I cannot recommend this company enough.