Arun Valley Trek – 15 Days

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the bustling capital city of Kathmandu. After check-in, you can take time to rest and recover from your journey or step out to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub filled with trekking shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

In the evening, you will attend a detailed pre-trek briefing where your guide will explain the route, altitude considerations, safety measures, and daily expectations. This is also a great time to check your gear, ask questions, and mentally prepare for the adventure ahead. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

After an early breakfast, you will head to the domestic terminal for a scenic flight to Tumlingtar. This short yet spectacular flight offers panoramic views of rolling green hills, winding rivers, and distant Himalayan peaks. As you leave the Kathmandu Valley behind, you will notice a transition into eastern Nepal’s lush and less-explored landscapes.

Upon arrival, you will immediately feel the warmer, subtropical climate compared to Kathmandu. After settling into your lodge, you can take a short walk around the area, interact with locals, and observe daily life in this quiet town. Your guide will also ensure that all trekking arrangements are in place for the next day’s journey. Overnight stay in Tumlingtar.

Today marks the official beginning of your trekking adventure. Leaving Tumlingtar, the trail descends gradually toward the banks of the Arun River, one of Nepal’s major river systems. You will walk through terraced farmlands, small settlements, and subtropical forests rich in biodiversity.

The route includes crossing suspension bridges and following riverside paths, offering a peaceful and scenic experience. Along the way, you may encounter local farmers, children walking to school, and traditional houses that reflect rural Nepali life. The trail is relatively gentle, making it a comfortable introduction to multi-day trekking. You will reach Chiyabesi, a small and quiet village surrounded by greenery, where you will spend the night.

After breakfast, the trail begins to gradually ascend as you move deeper into remote terrain. The path winds through dense forests, narrow ridges, and occasional open sections that provide views of the surrounding hills. The environment becomes quieter and more isolated, offering a true off-the-beaten-path experience.

You will pass scattered villages where traditional farming and livestock rearing remain the main livelihoods. The trek involves a mix of uphill and downhill sections, requiring steady pacing and endurance. By late afternoon, you will arrive at Tabular, a peaceful settlement with limited facilities but a serene natural setting. Overnight stay in Tabular.

Today’s journey continues along forested trails and river valleys. The route includes several suspension bridge crossings, adding both excitement and scenic variety to the trek. The sound of flowing rivers and the presence of dense vegetation create a tranquil atmosphere throughout the day.

As you move further into the region, you will notice fewer settlements and a stronger sense of remoteness. The trail remains moderately challenging, with gradual ascents and descents. You will arrive at Dobhane, a small settlement typically located near the meeting point of two rivers. This peaceful stop offers a perfect place to rest and recharge for the next day’s climb.

Today marks a transition toward higher elevations as you begin a more consistent ascent. The trail climbs steadily through forests filled with diverse plant life and occasional clearings that reveal stunning hillside views. The air becomes cooler and fresher as you gain altitude.

You will pass small villages where you can observe traditional lifestyles that have remained unchanged for generations. The trek requires a steady pace, as the elevation gain becomes more noticeable. By the end of the day, you will reach Salpa Phedi, which serves as a base point before crossing into higher mountain terrain. Overnight stay in Salpa Phedi.

This is one of the more physically demanding days of the trek as you gain significant altitude. The trail ascends through dense rhododendron forests, which bloom beautifully during spring, creating a colorful and vibrant landscape. The terrain becomes steeper and more rugged, requiring determination and proper pacing.

As you climb higher, the vegetation begins to change, and you may start to see panoramic views of surrounding ridges and distant peaks. The cooler temperatures and thinner air remind you that you are entering high-altitude territory. You will reach Guranse, a high-altitude settlement surrounded by forests and mountain scenery. Overnight stay in Guranse.

After the challenging ascent of the previous day, today’s trek offers a more balanced experience with gradual descents and gentle climbs. The trail follows scenic ridgelines and forest paths, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

You will pass through culturally rich settlements where you can interact with locals and learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and connection to the land. The journey is both visually rewarding and culturally enriching. By late afternoon, you will arrive at Sanam, a charming mountain village known for its peaceful environment and welcoming community. Overnight stay in Sanam.

Leaving the peaceful village of Sanam, the trail descends gradually through a mix of dense forests, terraced farmlands, and scattered settlements. This is a longer trekking day with varied terrain, requiring steady endurance and careful footing, especially on steeper downhill sections.

As you move deeper into inhabited regions, you will encounter the warm hospitality of local Rai communities, known for their rich cultural traditions and strong connection to agriculture and land. The trail offers occasional views of distant ridges and valleys, making the journey visually engaging despite its length. By late afternoon, you will reach Bung, a larger village with basic amenities and a vibrant rural atmosphere. Overnight stay in Bung.

Today’s trail begins with a steady ascent as you leave the lower villages behind and gradually enter higher alpine terrain. The path winds through dense forests, small grazing lands, and open ridges where yaks and livestock are often seen. The air becomes noticeably cooler and fresher as altitude increases.

This section of the trek is less populated, offering a more remote and peaceful trekking experience. You will experience the raw beauty of eastern Nepal’s untouched landscapes. By the end of the day, you will reach Gaikharka, a quiet grazing settlement surrounded by natural beauty, often used by herders during seasonal migration. Overnight stay in Gaikharka.

Today involves a challenging yet rewarding ascent through rugged Himalayan terrain. The trail climbs steadily through forested hills and rocky ridges, offering panoramic views of valleys and distant mountain ranges. The route is physically demanding but highly scenic, especially as you gain elevation.

As you approach Pangom, you will begin to notice strong Sherpa cultural influence in the architecture, monasteries, and lifestyle of the local people. Pangom is a culturally rich settlement known for its traditional houses, prayer flags, and spiritual atmosphere. This is a great place to experience authentic Himalayan mountain life. Overnight stay in Pangom.

The trail today continues through dense forests, ridgelines, and remote mountain paths. The route involves both ascents and descents, requiring consistent energy and focus. As you move closer to the Everest region, the trail becomes more defined and slightly busier with trekkers.

You will pass through peaceful landscapes filled with rhododendron forests, moss-covered trees, and occasional open viewpoints. By afternoon, you will reach Puiyan, a small settlement with basic lodges that serves as a connecting point for trekkers heading toward Lukla and Everest Base Camp routes. Overnight stay in Puiyan.

Today is a relatively shorter and more comfortable trekking day as you make your final approach to Lukla. The trail gradually ascends and passes through a mix of forested sections, stone steps, and small villages. You will notice an increase in trekking activity as you near the main Everest trail system.

Reaching Lukla is a major milestone, as it is the gateway to the Everest region and one of the most famous trekking hubs in the world. The town is lively, filled with lodges, cafes, and trekkers from around the globe. This is your final night in the mountains, offering a chance to celebrate the completion of your long journey from Tumlingtar.

Early in the morning, you will take a scenic mountain flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. This flight is considered one of the most spectacular in the world, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and winding Himalayan ridges.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, souvenir shopping, or optional sightseeing in the city. Many trekkers use this time to rest, reflect on their journey, and enjoy a comfortable evening after days in the mountains.

On your final day, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. Our team will assist you with departure arrangements and ensure a smooth transfer.

As you leave Nepal, you carry unforgettable memories of remote valleys, cultural encounters, high mountain passes, and the unique connection between the Makalu and Everest regions. This marks the end of your Himalayan adventure.