Overview
Arun Valley is one of the deepest valleys in the world, nestled between the Everest and Makalu trekking areas (Sagarmatha National Park and Makalu-Barun National Park). It is a thrilling trek in Eastern Nepal, a suitable alternative to those who would like to see the Everest region peaks, but do not want to deal with the dangerously high altitude. The valley formed by the powerful Arun Koshi (River) makes for some incredibly trekking through diverse landscapes. Depending on when you take the trek, it’s quite possible that you won’t see another trekker for several days.
The trails lead to the base camp of Makalu (8463 meters/27,766 feet), the 5th highest mountain in the world. The Arun Valley Trek is characterized by remote villages, lush terraced hillsides, dense jungles, and jaw-dropping Himalayan peaks. We pass through numerous local villages, most of which are of Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa ethnicity. They welcome us with open arms and show us their warm hospitality. Interactions with locals are more genuine on the Arun Valley Trek than others, simply because the area sees few trekkers.
The journey starts with a pleasant flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar before beginning the memorable journey. We hike along the Arun River and through rural farmlands. The trail climbs up and up, through verdant, mixed forests (the rhododendrons are spectacular in the spring!). Cross a few high passes for jaw-dropping mountain views, including Mount Everest (8848 meters/29,029 feet), Lhotse (8516 meters/27,940 feet), and many more. You will be in awe staring at not one or two, but several of the highest mountains in the world in one sweeping glance.
Eventually, the trail meets up with the Jiri trail and follows to Lukla, known as the most airport in the world, and the arrival/departure point for Everest region treks. Say “see you later” to the mountains and take a scenic flight from there takes us back to Kathmandu. We’ll have a delicious farewell dinner in the evening for you and celebrate a successful and memorable trek.
Our Arun Valley Trek is a camping journey. Where there are guesthouses, we can stay there upon your request. Otherwise, we will be camping outside under a tent. Our skilled chef will prepare the meals and we will be sleeping under the bright stars and towering peaks.
Trip Highlights
The spectacular isolated trail through the remote Arun Valley
Tent camping – sleep underneath a beautiful starry sky
Views of Makalu (8463 meters/27,766 feet) and Everest region peaks
A moderate trail, perfect for trekkers of all skill levels
Spend time with the welcoming Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa locals
Trip note
Accommodation
All our packages include accommodation in the cost. This accommodation is included during the set itinerary. While in Kathmandu, we provide a 2-3 Star hotel for you. During the trek, our guides will pick the best lodge for you to stay in based on their experience as well as room availability. All the accommodations will be twin-shared basis. In the mountain, Shower and toilet will be on Sharing basis. During high trekking season, you may have to share a room with a same-sex trekker from another group. Our company provides you a sleeping bag, two person tents with comfortable mattress for outdoor camping trek. Our Guide will try to set up your camp with a spectacular view.
Food
Nepal has a wide variety of food and it is easy to cater to your needs. If you are a vegetarian/vegan, gluten or lactose free, we are able to work around that if you let us know ahead of time. During your time in the hotel in Kathmandu, your breakfast is included. Lunch and dinner must be covered on your own. On the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided. For teahouse treks, we can order typical Nepali food, continental ,Italian , Tibetan and Indian at teahouses. While camping, we will prepare the meals for you. After our trek, we will have a celebration/pre-departure traditional Nepali meal in Thamel.
Guide & Porters
A government-licensed guide will lead the trek. All our guides have tremendous experience on the trails and are passionate about the trekking industry. Our guides and porters are dedicated to making your experience of trekking in Nepal a memorable one. If there is any worry during your trek, our guides will address it. Your safety is our number one priority. For groups of more than six people, there will be two guides. For teahouse treks, there will be one porter for every two trekkers. For camping treks, we will need more porters in order to carry the food, kitchen equipment, tents, etc.
Acclimatization/Fitness/Experience
As many of our treks lead us high into the Himalayas, it is necessary to let our bodies sufficiently get used to the altitude. Our treks have acclimatization days built into the itinerary. It is best to take it slow to prevent altitude sickness. The level of fitness necessary for our treks varies depending on the trek. On average, expect to walk an average of 5-6 hours per day while on the trial. Generally, the treks can be done with an average level of fitness. More important than fitness or experience is one’s personal determination and positive attitude toward finishing and enjoying the trek.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend having travel insurance before going on a trek. We do our best to take care of you, but something can happen that is out of our control. In case of medical emergency, leading to a helicopter evacuation, it is best to have insurance. You are unable to obtain medical insurance in Nepal and must do so in your home country. Be sure that your insurance covers accidents abroad and high in the mountains.
Best Time to Travel
The peak seasons for traveling in Nepal are during the Spring (March to May) and the Autumn (September to November). These times provide the best scenery and clearest skies, but of course they are a little more crowded than the off-season. It is possible to trek during the Winter (December to February), but you will face cold temperatures. It is also possible to trek during the monsoon season (June to August), though the views will likely be covered by clouds and there is a high chance of rainfall.
Domestic Flights
Insert a cushion of a couple of added days on your travel schedule, advised as a margin of security for your flight from Nepal. We advise that you schedule an extra two days cushion in your itinerary. Breeze Adventure can arrange activities with your additional days in Kathmandu.
