BARUN VALLEY TREK
BARUN VALLEY TREK
Spectacular scenery and diverse landscapes will leave you breathless. Cascading waterfalls, deep gorges, lush vegetation and arid rocky moonscape type terrain at higher altitudes are waiting for you. The 46km long Barun Valley is a picturesque remote location at the base of Mt. Makalu (8481m) – the world's fifth-highest peak.
It is entirely within the boundary of the Makalu Barun National Park, a 1500 sq.km sanctuary in the eastern region of Nepal. It extends all the way to Sagarmatha National Park (Mt Everest National Park). Its lower reaches are in a sub-tropical terrain in the Arun River extending all the way to the Tibetan plateau. The Barun River, a tributary of the Arun River, flows through the valley and in winter becomes a glacier. The indigenous Limbu people refer to the Barun River as Chukchuwa.
Mt.Makalu is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas region and lies19 km southeast of Mount Everest. Its unique four-sided pyramid shape, once seen will never be forgotten. On either side are two secondary and equally impressive peaks. The entire area falls within two regions, SoluKhumbu and Sankhuwasavha and is a protected region. The snow-capped peaks of Mt. Makalu (8463m), Mt. Chamlang (7319m) and Mt. Baruntse (7129m) are clearly visible throughout the trek.
The Makalu Barun area is abundant with unique flora and fauna, such as the colorful Rhododendron trees with their pink flowers and wild orchids. If you are lucky you may also glimpse the elusive snow leopard, red panda, wild pigs, musk deer, yak, and the Himalayan Thar. The area is also home to more than 420 species of birds, some only found in Nepal.
The Barun Valley trek begins at Tumlingtar and passes through numerous villages along the Barun River Valley and crosses some high altitude passes like Shipton La Pass (4220m), Keke La Pass I(4150m) and to the dark blue Kalipokhri Lake. The highest elevation on this trek is to Makalu Base Camp (5000m).
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking has been established for more than 40 years and has an excellent reputation. Our goal is to continue to make it better!
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
On arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be met by a representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking who will take you to your 3-star hotels. You can rest at your hotel or stroll around Thamel and do some last-minute shopping and take in the sights.
Day 2 : Sightseeing in Kathmandu & trek preparation day
Today your guide will take you to a number of historical and holy places in Kathmandu Valley. You will visit the World Heritage-listed Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath) and the Buddhist temple of Bouddhanath. We will also today go over the itinerary and meet with our trek leader. We will stay overnight in a hotel.
Day 3 : Fly to Tumlingtar (518m) & drive to Chichira (1980m) Duration: 5-6 hours
Today we will spend about three to four hours travelling, starting out by flying to Tumlingtar followed by a road trip to the Gurung settlement of Chichira where we will stay the night
Day 4 : Trek from Chichira to Num (1560m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
We will start relatively early as we have a six to seven-hour trek ahead of us. The trail takes us through some quaint and distinctly different villages with views over forests and mountains until we reach Num situated high on a ridge. We will stay here overnight.
Day 5 : Trek from Num to Seduwa (1500m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we descend and pass by the terraced fields and through the forest until we reach the Barun River. After crossing and re-crossing the river we will enter the Makalu Barun National Park where we have to register and obtain a permit. We then continue until we reach Seduwa where we will stay the night.
Day 6 : Trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaon (2100m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our four to five hour trek begins by following the trail down to Kasuwa Khola (river) and then across the hills passing through rice fields until we reach the eye-catching village of Tashi Gaon and great views of the Himalayas. We will stay here overnight.
Day 7 : Trek from Tashi Gaon to Kahuma Danda (3500m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail today begins with a climb to Chipla Village perched on top of the ridge. We then head through the forest until we reach Kharka Village (2900m) and further on to the village of Unshisha. We then climb stone stairs until we reach Dhara Kharka, a small grazing land at the top of the ridge. We then descend to Kahuma Danda Village where we stay the night.
Day 8 : Rest day at Kahuma Danda (3500m)
Today we have a rest day where we can catch up on laundry and explore the surrounding area and absorb the natural beauty of the place. We stay here overnight.
Day 9 : Trek from Kauma to Mumbuk (3570m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
On the trail today we get to see the twin peaks of Chamlang, Peak 6, and Peak 7. From the top of the ridge, we ascend a stone path arriving at a small lake. Continuing on we reach Kike La Pass (4127m). After the pass, we head down through a rhododendron forest to Mumbuk Village where we stay the night.
Day 10 : Trek Mumbuk to Nehe Kharka (3750m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail and trek today of about six to seven hours leads down a steep descent through a narrow valley and then crosses the Barun Khola (river) near Tamatan Kharka. We follow the river bank until we reach the summer settlement of Yangri Kharka.
Day 11 : Trek from Nehe Kharka to Sherson (4600m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today the trail takes us across a wooden bridge over the Barun River and then trek across a rocky river bed and past a prayer wall until we arrive at Sherson where we can see the lower Barun glacier and the soaring splendid Mt. Makalu. This is the lower base camp of Mt. Makalu. There are some amazing views from here of Makalu’s south face and Mt. Baruntse (7220m). We will set up camp for the night at Sherson.
Day 12 : Trek from Sherson to Makalu Base Camp (5000m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we head to the highest base camp in the world. We cross an area strewn with boulders before reaching the base camp situated on the west bank of the river. From here we have awesome views of Makalu’s south face, Mt Everest, Baruntse, Peaks 6 & 7 and Lhotse. This is surely a highlight of the journey.
Day 13 : Eplore Makalu Base Camp (4870m)
Today we can soak up the feeling of having journeyed to such a high altitude and take in the sights around Makalu Base Camp. It is a harsh arid rocky terrain with Barun Glacier just above it. From here we can see the south face of Makalu and a panorama view of Mt.Everest and Mt. Lhotse. We will stay the night at Makalu Base Camp.
Day 14 : Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Nhe Kharka (3000m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we return on the same trail back to Nhe Kharka where we will stay the night.
Day 15 : Trek from Nhe Kharka to Mumbuk (3570m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Heading through Rhododendron and pine forest we head to Mumbuk ,arriving in time to see the sunset over the mountains. We will stay here overnight.
Day 16 : Trek from Mumbuk to Kauma (3470m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Leaving Mumbuk, we trek across the Shipton La Pass and descend to Kauma Village where we stay the night.
Day 17 : Trek from Kauma to Tashi Gaon (2070m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we descend to Tashi Gaon arriving in plenty of time that will allow us to relax and unwind from being at higher altitudes.
Day 18 : Trek from Tashi Gaon to Balung (760m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today heads through cultivated fields and then reaches the Ipsuwa Khola (river). Here we cross a suspension bridge and break for lunch.
Day 19 : Trek from Balung to Pukuwa (1520m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
We have a short trek today, firstly arriving at the Rai village of Walung (880m) and then cross the Apsawa Khola (river) and climb up to Chhayang Village, another Rai settlement. From here we head to Parangbu Village and on to Pukuwa (550m) where we will camp the night.
Day 20 : Trek from Pukuwa to Bumling (370m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head to the village of Tome and then further down into the Arun Valley along the banks of the Sankhuwa Khola (river) and finally to the Chhetri village of Bumling where we stay the night.
Day 21 : Trek from Bumling to Tumlingtar (460m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
On our final day trekking, we follow the river downstream to where it meets the Arun River and walk along its east bank past Chyawabesi Village and then climb back up the Tumlingtar plateau and head to the hotel where we will stay overnight.
Day 22 : Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu.
Today we have a scenic flight back to Kathmandu and can look back at the mountains that have been home for over two weeks. After we arrive at Kathmandu we can either relax at our hotel or wander around Thamel to do some final shopping. Tonight Sherpa Expedition & Trekking will provide a farewell dinner to celebrate the completion of this exhausting trip to Makalu Base Camp.
Day 23 : Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Your adventure comes to an end today – but your memories will last a lifetime! Our company representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to reminisce and plan your next adventure and opportunity to explore the most magnificent mountains of Nepal.
SERVICES
Costs included in your package.
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Three night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodation /Tent camp accommodation during the trek.
- camping equipment and tents such as Two Men Tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Table, Chairs, Mattresses, Hot Water Bags, Inner Sheet and etc.
- National Park / Conservation Area Permit Fees (For Sagarmatha National Park & Makalu Barun Conservation Area).
- Kathmandu Valley sightseeing by car/Jeep
- Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu flight with private airport transfer and domestic airport tax.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Tumlingtar to Chichira transportation by Bus
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- 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 Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch, and dinner.
- 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.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- 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)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees($30 USD per person)
- Excess baggage of more than 15 kg for Tumlingtar flight.
- 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.
EQUIPMENTS
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.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may not find comfort and better quality teahouses -During the trek, We sleep in the very simple tea house/tent and our guides will pick the best Camping site with a nice view of the Himalaya.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these mountain regions are potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpas started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We do not have to use public transportation or local buses during the trek. Our only flights are from Kathmandu, Tumlingtar and back to Kathmandu.
Physical fitness
Barun Valley Trek is a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus!. We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Barun Valley Trek?
The Barun Valley Trek is a remote and less explored trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. It takes you through the beautiful Barun Valley, which is a part of the Makalu-Barun National Park. The trek offers stunning views of Mount Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world, and allows you to experience the unique biodiversity and culture of the region.
How long does the Barun Valley Trek take?
The Barun Valley Trek usually takes around 16- 28 days to complete. This includes trekking to the Barun Valley and returning back to the starting point. The duration can vary depending on your fitness level, acclimatization needs, and itinerary.
Is the Barun Valley Trek difficult?
The Barun Valley Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and long walking hours. While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is recommended to have a good level of physical fitness and some experience of trekking in high-altitude regions.
What is the best time to do the Barun Valley Trek?
The best time to do the Barun Valley Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. However, it is important to check the weather forecast and consult with local trekking agencies for the current conditions before planning your trip.
Do I need a permit for the Barun Valley Trek?
Yes, you will need permits to trek in the Barun Valley. You will need a Makalu Barun National Park permit, which can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the Makalu Barun National Park entrance gate in Num. Additionally, you will also need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, which can be obtained in Kathmandu.
Is it necessary to hire a guide and porter for the Barun Valley Trek?
While it is not mandatory to hire a guide and porter for the Barun Valley Trek, it is highly recommended. A guide can provide valuable information about the trail, help with navigation, and ensure your safety. A porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek with less weight and enjoy the journey more comfortably.
What are the accommodation and food options during the trek?
Accommodation during the Barun Valley Trek is basic and mostly consists of teahouses or guesthouses along the trail. These provide simple rooms with shared facilities such as bathrooms and toilets. The teahouses also serve meals, including local and international cuisine. It is advisable to carry some snacks and water purification tablets with you, as the availability of food and water may be limited in some areas.
Are there any altitude sickness risks on the Barun Valley Trek?
Yes, there is a risk of altitude sickness during the Barun Valley Trek, as you will be trekking to high altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly, which means taking rest days and ascending gradually. It is also recommended to stay hydrated, eat well, and consult with your guide or trekking agency for any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Can I do the Barun Valley Trek solo?
Yes, it is possible to do the Barun Valley Trek solo. However, as mentioned earlier, it is highly recommended to hire a guide for safety and navigation purposes. Traveling with a guide also ensures that you have someone to assist you in case of any emergencies or difficulties during the trek.
What should I pack for the Barun Valley Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Barun Valley Trek include comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothing, a down jacket, a sleeping bag, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a first aid kit, water purification tablets, trekking poles, and a good quality backpack. It is also advisable to carry some cash, as ATM facilities may be limited along the trail. Additionally, pack appropriate gear for variable weather conditions and consult with your guide or trekking agency for any specific equipment requirements.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 3 Reviews
Jacqueline Meijer
United States
November 2, 2023
A Trek of Serenity and Solitude
I recently completed the captivating Barun Valley Trek with the support of Shera Expedition, and it was a trek of serenity and solitude. This trekking company's professionalism and dedication were evident throughout the journey. Their experienced guides led me through pristine landscapes, allowing me to immerse myself in the peacefulness of the region. Shera Expedition's attention to detail, combined with the breathtaking beauty of Barun Valley, made this trek a rejuvenating experience that I will always cherish.
Donna VanMetre
United Kingdom
September 8, 2023
A Trek of Adventure and Discovery
Me and my friend embarked on an unforgettable journey to the mesmerizing Barun Valley with Shera Expedition. This trekking company's commitment to customer satisfaction was exceptional. Their knowledgeable guides took us through remote and untouched landscapes, introducing us to the region's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Shera Expedition's attention to detail and personalized approach made this trek a truly remarkable adventure for both of us.
Rosalia Plesko
Canada
September 1, 2023
A Mesmerizing Journey into the Heart of Nature
Recently, we had the incredible opportunity to complete the Barun Valley Trek with Shera Expedition, and it was an awe-inspiring journey into the heart of nature. This trekking company's expertise and professionalism were evident from the start. Their experienced guides led us through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to glacial valleys, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Shera Expedition's impeccable service and attention to detail made this trek an unforgettable experience for all of us.
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