The Arun Valley Trek route lies in the heart of the Makalu region—a hidden gem blessed with a stunning mix of natural beauty and rich indigenous culture. Nestled between two Himalayan giants—Mt. Everest (8,848 m), the tallest in the world, and Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), the fifth highest—this valley is a paradise for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
With towering peaks, lush forests, rivers, and terraced fields, the Arun Valley feels like a world apart. What truly makes it special, though, are the peaceful trails winding through traditional Rai and Sherpa villages. Their warm hospitality, timeless traditions, and the serenity of untouched landscapes turn every step of the journey into something deeply personal and heartwarming
If you’re ready to challenge yourself, walk a path rich in history, and soak in the true spirit of the Himalayas, the Arun Valley Trek is an adventure like no other. Join Himalayan Gateway Trek on a 14-day journey, where every step reveals a new story, a breathtaking view, and a deeper connection to the land and its people. This isn’t just a trek—it’s an experience you’ll carry with you long after the trail ends.
Arun Valley Trek Highlights
- Fly to Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Lukla to Kathmandu.
- Trek between Mt. Everest (8,848 m) and Mt. Makalu (8,463 m) for an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
- Stay in Rai, Sherpa, and Limbu villages and experience warm hospitality and rich traditions.
- Escape the crowds and enjoy peaceful, less-traveled trails in eastern Nepal.
- Walk through Makalu Barun National Park, rich in unique flora and fauna.
- Opt for the cultural path to experience local festivals, rituals, and daily mountain life.
- From dense forests and terraced hillsides to high alpine meadows.
Benefits of Trekking with Himalayan Gateway Trek
- Free transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport to the hotel during arrival and vice-versa on departure.
- Easy booking and reservation system.
- Online trip briefing after booking confirmation.
- Trek with experienced local guides who prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
- Enjoy transparent, fair pricing with no hidden costs, ensuring value for your money.
- Stay in local teahouses and connect with the local people to immerse yourself in their culture.
- Multi-channel communication (Email, WhatsApp, Facebook, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom)
- Support for local communities and businesses.
- Personalized itineraries tailored to your pace and interests.
- Warm, responsive customer service before and during your trek.
- Himalayan Gateway Trek promotes eco-friendly and responsible trekking, working closely with local communities to ensure that tourism benefits the region while preserving the environment.
Comprehensive Arun Valley Trek.
The Arun Valley Trek is a serene and culturally rich Himalayan journey that leads trekkers through one of Nepal’s most diverse and lesser-known regions. Located between the iconic peaks of Mt. Everest (8,848 m) and Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), this trek offers a perfect blend of untouched natural beauty, vibrant cultural encounters, and peaceful mountain trails far from the crowds.
Ideal for those who crave an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience, the Arun Valley route begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a gentle ascent through a mosaic of lush farmlands, terraced hills, and traditional settlements. The trek winds through remote villages like Chepuwa, Gothe Bazaar, and Seduwa, home to indigenous Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa communities who still preserve their ancient customs and warm hospitality.
As you make your way deeper into the valley, the landscape unfolds into a stunning variety of terrain—dense rhododendron forests, swaying suspension bridges, cascading rivers, and wide alpine meadows with panoramic views of the Himalayan giants. Unlike other high-altitude treks, the Arun Valley offers a gradual acclimatization profile, making it accessible to trekkers with moderate fitness levels.
What makes this trek truly unique is its cultural richness. Along the way, you’ll witness traditional rituals, local festivals, and the everyday rhythm of life in the hills. Staying in teahouses and village homes allows for an immersive connection with the people and places you encounter.
The trek typically spans around 14–16 days, offering a balanced mix of nature and culture without the intensity of extreme altitudes. While it doesn’t climb as high as some of Nepal’s more rugged routes, the views of Everest, Makalu, and the surrounding peaks are nothing short of spectacular.
The best time to do the Arun Valley Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the skies are clear, the landscapes are vibrant, and the trails are at their best.
For trekkers seeking more than just mountains—for those who want meaningful encounters, quiet trails, and a deeper connection with Himalayan life—the Comprehensive Arun Valley Trek with Himalayan Gateway Trek offers a journey that’s as enriching as it is unforgettable.
Arun Valley Trek Itinerary Details
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport (1,400m) and transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, our friendly team from Himalayan Gateway Trek will be there to greet you with a warm welcome and take you to your hotel.
Once you arrive, you’ll receive a warm welcome, with staff presenting you with traditional flower garlands. They will assist you with the check-in process and make sure you’re comfortable. Afterward, you can relax and get ready for your adventure the next day. In the evening, walk around Thamel and have dinner whenever you like.
At the Himalayan Gateway Trek, we are excited to begin this journey with you and ensure a memorable experience throughout your stay in Nepal.
Day 02: Flight from Kathmandu (1400m) to Tumlingtar and trek to Kartike (523m).
After breakfast, take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (approximately 45 minutes), which offers stunning views of the eastern Himalayas. Upon arrival at Tumlingtar, your trek begins with a descent towards the Arun River. From Tumlingtar, you’ll trek to the village of Kartike. The trail is relatively easy, passing through terraced fields, small villages, and riverside paths, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the rural landscape.
The trek to Kartike takes around 3–4 hours, giving you a relaxed pace to adjust to the journey. Upon arrival, settle into a simple lodge or homestay in Kartike and enjoy a cozy evening with the local community.
Day 03 : Trek from Kartike (523m) to Gothey (1,128m).
After a warm breakfast in Kartike, begin your trek towards Gothey (1,128m). The trail follows a gentle ascent along the banks of the Arun River, passing through rural villages, terraced fields, and forests. The trek takes around 5–6 hours, with several stops for rest and to enjoy the stunning scenery.
Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages where locals will greet you with smiles and traditional hospitality. Upon arrival in Gothey, settle into your lodge or guesthouse for the night. You’ll have time to relax and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this remote village.
Day 04 : Trek from Gothey (1128m) to Salpa Phedi (1,680m).
After breakfast in Gothey, begin your trek towards Salpa Phedi (1,680m). Today’s journey will be a steady climb through dense forests of rhododendron and oak, offering shade and occasional glimpses of the surrounding mountains. The trek takes around 5–6 hours, and the final stretch to Salpa Phedi offers a stunning view of the surrounding valleys.
Upon reaching Salpa Phedi, you’ll be welcomed by the serene atmosphere of this quiet village, where you can rest and enjoy the peaceful environment. Settle into your lodge or guesthouse for the night, and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared with local ingredients.
Day 05 : Trek from Salpa Phedi (1680m) to Gurase Bhanjyang (2,500m).
After a hearty breakfast at Salpa Phedi, your trek today will take you towards Gurase Bhanjyang (2,500m). The trail starts with a steady climb through dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo, offering glimpses of the beautiful mountain landscape.
The trek takes approximately 6–7 hours, with the last part being a bit steeper. Once you reach Gurase Bhanjyang, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. This peaceful location is a perfect spot to rest for the night, surrounded by the natural beauty of the region.
Day 06 :Trek from Gurase Bhanjyang (2,500m) to Sanam (2,850m).
After a hearty breakfast in Gurase Bhanjyang, we begin today’s trek towards Sanam (2,850m). As we trek, we’ll enjoy glimpses of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Mount Makalu and other Himalayan giants looming in the distance. Today’s trek is moderate in difficulty, with gradual ascents and a few steeper sections as we make our way through the forested slopes.
The trail is well-maintained and passes through small traditional villages where you’ll get a chance to interact with the local Rai and Sherpa communities. You may see locals working the land and can learn more about their agricultural practices, which have remained largely unchanged for generations. After trekking for about 5–6 hours, we’ll reach Sanam, a quiet and picturesque village perched at 2,850m.
Day 07 : Trek from Sanam (2850m) to Bung (1,900m).
After breakfast in Sanam, we begin our descent toward Bung (1,900m), a small village nestled along the Arun River. The trail takes us through rural settlements, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe the local way of life. The villagers here, mainly Rai and Sherpa, rely on farming, and their simple homes dot the landscape. As we make our way down, you’ll be treated to views of the Arun River below, which flows through a deep gorge, framed by towering mountains.
The trek is expected to take about 5–6 hours, with plenty of opportunities for rest and to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Along the way, we’ll stop at waterfalls and cross suspension bridges, adding an adventurous touch to the day’s journey.
Day 08 : Trek from Bung (1,900m) to Gai kharka (2,300m).
Today’s trek is less physically demanding as we follow a gentle ascent from Bung (1,900m) to Khiraule (2,400m), taking around 3–4 hours. In Khiraule, we’ll visit a locally well-known monastery, a peaceful place offering a moment of reflection and spiritual connection to the region’s cultural heritage. After spending some time here, we continue our journey, ascending towards Surkhe (3,085m).
As we trek higher, we’ll be treated to amazing views of the Inkhu Khola Valley and its surrounding peaks, with the landscape gradually changing as we climb. After several more hours of trekking, we reach Gai Kharka, where we’ll rest for the night. The views of the valley below and the quiet village atmosphere make this a perfect place to unwind after a day of trekking.
Day 09 : Trek from Gai kharka (2,300m) to Panggom (2,850m).
Today’s trek begins with a descent towards the Inkhu Khola (river), offering a beautiful view of the flowing waters below. After crossing the river, we face a very steep climb up to Sibu (3,942m), where we’ll be treated to some truly spectacular mountain vistas. Once we reach Sibu, we’ll begin our descent towards Panggom, a picturesque village perched at 2,850m.
Along the way, we’ll pass the Hillary School, established by Sir Edmund Hillary to support the education of the local children in this remote region. The school stands as a testament to the lasting impact of the famous mountaineer’s contributions to the area. The final stretch to Panggom offers a much-needed break from the climbs, with the trail gradually leading us into the village.
Day 10 : Trek from Panggom (2,850m) to Painya (2,730m).
Today’s trek begins with an ascending journey through lush forests of rhododendron and oak, leading us towards the village of Paiyna. The trail gradually ascends along a ridge, and after a steady climb, we reach the top of Kari La (3,145m), a natural vantage point offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Kusum Kanguru (6,367m), Thamserku (6,608m), and Kangtega (6,685m).
After taking in the views, we begin our descent, gradually making our way down the ridge and crossing a wooden bridge above the Paiyna Khola. The trail then continues towards the village of Paiyna, where we’ll spend the night.
Day 11 : Trek from Painya (2,730m) to Phakding (2610m).
After breakfast in Paiyna, we continue our trek towards Phakding (2,610m), a village situated along the Dudh Koshi River. Today’s trek is a gradual descent, offering a more relaxed pace after the past few days of challenging climbs. The trek will take around 5–6 hours, passing through lush forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak.
The trail winds through small villages where we can interact with the local Sherpa communities and observe their traditional way of life. As we approach Phakding, the scenery opens up to views of the Dudh Koshi Valley and the towering peaks in the distance. Upon reaching Phakding, we’ll settle into a local teahouse or lodge, where we can relax and enjoy a warm meal.
Day 12 : Trek from Phakding (2610m) to Lukla (2860m).
On the final day of our trek, we make our way from Phakding (2,610m) to Lukla (2,860m), a short but scenic trek of about 3–4 hours. The trail follows the winding path along the Dudh Koshi River, gradually climbing up towards Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Along the way, you’ll pass through more traditional Sherpa villages, with opportunities to interact with the locals and witness their unique mountain lifestyle.
As we approach Lukla, you’ll notice the landscape becoming more open, with views of the Khumbu peaks looming in the distance. Lukla itself is a bustling town with its famous Tenzing-Hillary Airport, marking the end of the trek.
Day 13 : Fly from Lukla (2860m) to Kathmandu (1400m).
After an early breakfast in Lukla, we head to the airport for our scenic flight back to Kathmandu (1,400m). The flight from Lukla is famous for its stunning aerial views of the Himalayan range, offering one last chance to admire the towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, from above. The dramatic descent into Kathmandu gives you a bird’s-eye view of the lush valleys and terraced fields of Nepal, making it a truly memorable experience.
Upon landing in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to rest, explore the city, or shop for souvenirs in the vibrant markets of the Thamel district.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a celebratory dinner, reflecting on the incredible adventure we’ve shared in the Himalayas, and toasting to new friendships and unforgettable memories
Day 14 : Departure to home
On the final day of your journey, you will be transferred to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to do some last-minute shopping or explore the city.
As you leave Nepal, you’ll take with you unforgettable memories of your incredible trek through the Arun Valley Trek with Cultural Route.
What is included in this trek package?
- Airport transfer on arrival and departure by private vehicles
- Two nights’ standard accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu in a twin-sharing basis including 2 breakfasts.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, the main course) during the trek.
- One highly experienced Sherpa Teams’s government-licensed, English-speaking local guide covering meals, flight, insurance, accommodations, and equipment for the guide.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- All the necessary documents such as Makalu Barun Nationalpark permit fee and TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
- Trekking lodges or tea houses during the trek
- An assistant guide for the group of 8 pax or above
- Flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Lukla to Kathmandu including applicable departure taxes
- Seasonal available fresh fruits every evening after dinner.
- Sherpa Teams' Certificate of appreciations after the successful trek
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Teams’s complimentary free hiking T-shirt
- Oximeter to measure your oxygen and Pulse level during the trek in the mountain, it’s very useful for all the trekkers to be aware of the high altitude sickness.
- Emergency rescue operation assistance in arranging in case of complex health conditions (funded by your Travel Insurance)
- All government, Local taxes, and official Expenses
What is excluded in this trek package?
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Extra nights accommodation and meals before and after the trek
- International airfare
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- Travel insurance - insurance has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation
- Personal cloths and trekking equipment
- Additional cost, the itinerary modifications or delay caused by out of management control due to the weather condition, illness, change of government policies, strikes, and physical condition, etc.
- Gratitudes to the guides and staffs (Recommended by Nepali culture )
- Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the Price "inclusive section" of this program
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Fleece beanie
- Sun glasses
- Chap stick / Sunscreen
- Face mask or Scarf
- Hand towel
- Wind stopper / waterproof top and bottom
- Cold weather down jacket below waist
- Fleece jacket and trouser
- Trekking trouser
- T-Shirts(short or long sleeves) dry fit is better
- Polypropylene thermal tops and bottom, at least 2pairs,
- Wind stopper and fleece gloves
- Socks and under wears
- Trekking boot
- Snow Gaiter (optional)
- Runners / Snickers for camps
- Head torch
- Personal medical kit
- Water Bottle/Camel Pak
- Trekking / Ski pole (optional. Handy for anyone with knee problem)
- Spare batteries for Camera and flash light. Check charging facility along your journey
- Day pack Minimum25L with side pocket for water bottle
Best Season
The ideal time for the Arun Valley Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, enjoy pleasant temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and vibrant greenery across the landscape. Autumn brings clear skies, fresh mountain air, and minimal rainfall, offering optimal trekking conditions with panoramic views of the towering peaks, including Mt. Everest and Mt. Makalu.
Trekking Duration & Difficulty
The Arun Valley Trek spans 14–16 days, making it a moderate trek suitable for trekkers with basic fitness and some experience in multi-day treks. The trail varies from easy sections to challenging ascents, with moderate altitudes and a gradual climb. The highest point on the trek is around 3,800 meters, so trekkers are less likely to face severe altitude sickness. Good physical fitness and preparation for long daily walks are recommended.
Transportation
Our guided trek package includes all necessary transportation, ensuring a hassle-free journey. You’ll begin with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a drive to Seduwa, where the trek starts. At the end of the trek, we will arrange your return to Kathmandu via the same route, providing you with a smooth and comfortable travel experience throughout.
Typical Daily Schedule
Each day begins with a hearty breakfast around 6:30–7:00 AM, followed by 5 to 7 hours of trekking through varied terrain. From forest paths and ridge trails to rivers and cultural villages, you’ll encounter a rich variety of environments. Along the way, we’ll stop at local teahouses for meals and rest. Evenings are spent in simple but comfortable lodges or homestays, where you can relax and immerse yourself in the local culture, sharing stories with fellow trekkers.
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation on the trek will be in local teahouses or basic mountain lodges, with simple but cozy rooms and shared facilities. In more remote areas, camping may be required, and we will arrange all necessary logistics. Meals will include three daily servings of nutritious, locally prepared food, offering a mix of Nepali and international dishes to keep you energized on the trail.
Permits & Entry Fees
To trek in the Arun Valley, the following permits are required and are included in the package:
Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit
Restricted Area Permit (for foreign trekkers)
Trekking Support & Safety
Your safety and comfort are our top priority. The package includes a licensed, English-speaking guide with extensive knowledge of the region. Porters will carry up to 15 kg of your luggage, allowing you to enjoy the trek without the extra load. Our team is equipped with a first aid kit, pulse oximeter, and emergency oxygen if needed. In case of any medical or altitude-related emergencies, we have 24/7 support and will coordinate immediate evacuation if necessary.
Note to Travelers :
We organize private treks for groups of at least two people and do not add anyone in your group. Contact us via Call/WhatsApp/Viber at +977 - 9861197727 or email himalayangatewaytrek@gmail.com You can also use our Free Trip Planner.
