Have Questions? Talk to Expert (Binod)
The Arun Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most underrated trekking routes, offering breathtaking landscapes, remote Himalayan villages, and a chance to experience the untouched beauty of the eastern Himalayas. This trek takes you through the pristine Arun Valley, located between Sagarmatha (Everest) and Makalu-Barun National Parks, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
For 2025/26, Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks is offering group join trekking packages, fixed departure dates, solo trek options, couple treks, and customized itineraries for those who wish to embark on this thrilling journey. This detailed guide provides everything you need to know, from costs to permits, accommodations, food, and trekking essentials.
Unlike the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Arun Valley Trek remains relatively unexplored, ensuring a peaceful and immersive experience. Key highlights include:
✔️ Stunning views of Everest (8,848m), Makalu (8,463m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Kanchenjunga (8,586m)
✔️ Exploration of the unique Rai and Sherpa cultures
✔️ Walk through dense forests, alpine meadows, and traditional villages
✔️ Less crowded trail for a true wilderness experience
✔️ Ideal for trekkers who want to explore Nepal beyond the mainstream routes
For those who prefer group trekking, we offer fixed departure dates for the Arun Valley Trek in 2025/26. Group treks are an excellent option as they:
✅ Reduce costs by sharing expenses
✅ Allow you to meet like-minded trekkers
✅ Provide a fun and social trekking experience
| Departure Date | Availability | Group Size | Duration | Cost per Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 10, 2025 | Open | 4-12 People | 14 Days | $1,350 |
| April 5, 2025 | Open | 4-12 People | 14 Days | $1,350 |
| May 15, 2025 | Open | 4-12 People | 14 Days | $1,350 |
| September 10, 2025 | Open | 4-12 People | 14 Days | $1,350 |
| October 5, 2025 | Open | 4-12 People | 14 Days | $1,350 |
| November 8, 2025 | Open | 4-12 People | 14 Days | $1,350 |
| March 15, 2026 | Open | 4-12 People | 14 Days | $1,350 |
Note: If you have your own group, we can arrange private departures as well.
Solo trekking offers ultimate freedom and a personalized experience. However, Arun Valley is a remote region, and hiring a guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation.
✅ Solo Trek Cost: Starting from $1,550 per person (includes permits, transportation, food, accommodation, and a guide)
✅ Recommended for: Experienced trekkers who prefer solitude
✅ Guide Requirement: A professional guide is highly recommended for safety
For couples looking to enjoy the wilderness and romance of the Himalayas, we offer customized couple treks with private guides and personalized itineraries.
✅ Couple Trek Cost: Starting from $950 per person
✅ Includes: Private guide, accommodations, meals, permits, and transportation
✅ Best for: Couples who want a semi-private trekking experience with flexibility
Trekking permits are mandatory for the Arun Valley trek, as it falls under Makalu-Barun National Park and other restricted areas.
| Permit Type | Cost (Per Person) |
|---|---|
| Makalu-Barun National Park Permit | $30 |
| TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) | $20 |
| Local Municipality Permit | $30 |
| Total Permit Cost | $80 |
Note: Permit costs are subject to change by Nepal Government.
Arun Valley Trek starts from Tumlingtar, which is accessible via flights or road transport.
Note: Flights are faster (1 hour), while the bus takes around 12-14 hours.
Hiring a professional guide or porter can enhance your trekking experience by ensuring safety, navigation, and local insights.
| Service | Cost (Per Day) |
|---|---|
| Guide | $30 - $35 |
| Porter | $20 - $25 |
| Porter-Cum-Guide | $22 - $28 |
| Female Guide | $30 - $35 |
Note: A porter carries up to 20-25kg, so one porter can be shared by two trekkers.
Arun Valley Trek follows a teahouse trekking system, meaning trekkers stay in small local lodges.
✅ Accommodation Cost: $5 - $15 per night (Basic teahouse rooms)
✅ Food Cost: $5 - $10 per meal (Dal Bhat, noodles, momo, fried rice, etc.)
✅ Drinking Water: Bottled water costs $1-$3 per liter; purifying water with tablets is recommended
The best seasons for Arun Valley Trek are:
🍁 Spring (March-May) – Blooming rhododendrons, clear views, moderate temperatures
🍂 Autumn (September-November) – Best weather conditions, crystal-clear skies, and comfortable trekking temperatures
🚫 Monsoon (June-August) – Heavy rainfall, leeches, and slippery trails
❄️ Winter (December-February) – Extremely cold and snow-covered trails
Since Arun Valley Trek involves altitudes over 4,000m, AMS is a concern.
✔️ Headache
✔️ Dizziness
✔️ Nausea
✔️ Loss of appetite
✅ Acclimatize properly
✅ Drink plenty of water
✅ Avoid alcohol and smoking
✅ Take Diamox if necessary
✅ Trek slowly and listen to your body
✔️ Base layers (moisture-wicking)
✔️ Insulating layers (fleece/down jacket)
✔️ Waterproof jacket and pants
✔️ Thermal gloves and socks
✔️ Trekking poles
✔️ Sleeping bag (-10°C recommended)
✔️ Headlamp with extra batteries
✔️ Water purification tablets
✔️ First-aid kit
✔️ Snacks and energy bars
✔️ Sunscreen and lip balm
✔️ Personal hygiene items
Join Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks for an unforgettable journey through the hidden beauty of Arun Valley. Whether you prefer solo, group, or couple trekking, we offer customized trekking packages to match your needs.
📩 Contact us today to reserve your spot!
🌍 Website: himalayanadventureintl.com
📧 Email: info@himalayanadventureintl.com
📞 WhatsApp: +977-9803526139
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime trekking adventure in Nepal’s untouched paradise! 🏔️✨
If you are looking for a remote and less-traveled trekking destination in Nepal rich in biodiversity, culture, and majestic Himalayan views, the Arun Valley Trek is a perfect option. Situated between the Everest and Makalu-Barun National Parks, the Arun Valley Nepal is the deepest valley in the world and remains a hidden gem for adventurers.
This guide by Himalayan Adventure International Treks provides everything you need to know: Arun Valley trek cost, itinerary, Arun Valley map, trekking services, what to pack, and more, including details on Arun Valley Rudraksha, Barun Valley, and Hinku Valley exploration.
Arun Valley is located in the eastern region of Nepal, stretching across parts of Sankhuwasabha and Bhojpur districts. It lies between the towering mountains of Mount Everest (8,848m) and Makalu (8,481m).
✅ Arun Valley location: Eastern Nepal
✅ Arun Valley district: Sankhuwasabha & Bhojpur
✅ Arun Valley altitude: Ranges from 435 meters (Tumlingtar) to 4,200 meters (Salpa Pass)
✅ See more on Arun Valley Wikipedia or check the Arun Valley Nepal map for trekking routes and nearby attractions.
Arun Valley trekking is a culturally immersive and ecologically rich route that connects the mid-hills with the high Himalayan region. This off-the-beaten-path trail introduces trekkers to a blend of Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tamang cultures. The trek passes through lush green hills, alpine meadows, terraced farmlands, and rhododendron forests with panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Baruntse.
It's ideal for trekkers seeking a non-touristy and authentic Himalayan experience.
The Makalu Arun Valley trail is part of the extended trek route that begins from Tumlingtar and leads toward Makalu Base Camp.
You can also connect to Barun Valley and Hinku Valley via the high passes, making this trek highly customizable.
The Arun Valley Nepal map displays multiple entry and exit points including Tumlingtar, Num, and Kartike.
Wondering how do I go to Arun Valley? Here's a breakdown:
Flight to Tumlingtar: The easiest way to reach Arun Valley is a short 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar.
Drive Option: Alternatively, you can take a long road journey (14-16 hours) via Hile or Leguwa to Tumlingtar.
From Tumlingtar, the trekking trail begins with a gradual ascent toward the Salpa Pass and eventually connects with Makalu and Everest regions if desired.
⏱️ How long is the Arun Valley trek from Kathmandu to Kartike?
The trek from Kathmandu to Kartike (exit point) can take around 14-18 days depending on your pace and itinerary.
Here is the standard 15-day Arun Valley Trek itinerary by Himalayan Adventure International Treks:
Pickup from Tribhuvan International Airport
Briefing and hotel check-in
Scenic mountain flight and short drive to starting point
Easy walk through rural villages and riverside trails
Entering deeper into Arun Valley with views of farms and hills
Forested trail filled with rhododendron and wildlife
Cross the stunning Salpa La with Himalayan vistas
Explore Rai villages and ancient monasteries
Home of Arun Valley Rudraksha trees and traditional Rai culture
Visit the famous Monastery of Khiraule
Connect to Makalu Arun Valley trail
Beautiful alpine landscapes and yak pastures
Join the Hinku Valley route toward Mera Peak (optional)
High altitude meadow crossing
Final ascent with glorious views, descend to Lukla
Note: Itineraries can be customized based on your interest, pace, and side trips to Makalu Base Camp or Barun Valley.
Trekking costs vary by region, logistics, and service level. A remote trek like Arun Valley typically costs more than teahouse treks like Annapurna or Langtang due to limited infrastructure.
Here’s a breakdown of the average Arun Valley trek cost with Himalayan Adventure International Treks:
| Expense Item | Cost (USD) per person |
|---|---|
| Trekking Permit & TIMS | $60–90 |
| Round-trip Flights (Kathmandu–Tumlingtar) | $434–448 |
| Guide (Licensed) | $30–35/day |
| Porter (Optional) | $25–30/day |
| Accommodation (Lodge/Tent mix) | $5–15/day |
| Meals (3 per day) | $20–30/day |
| Transportation (Jeep if needed) | $40–60 (one-time) |
| Company Service Fee | $300–400 |
| Total for 15 days | $1,300–$1,800 |
Group discounts and tailor-made packages are available.
Due to diverse elevation (from 500m to over 4,600m), pack smartly:
Down jacket (for high altitude)
Waterproof shell jacket
Fleece jacket
Thermal innerwear (2 sets)
Hiking trousers and shorts
Moisture-wicking T-shirts
Gloves, beanie, buff
Woolen socks, sun hat
Durable trekking boots (broken-in)
Daypack (30–40L)
Sleeping bag (-10°C rated)
Trekking poles
Sunglasses, sunscreen
Headlamp with spare batteries
Reusable water bottle or bladder
Toiletries & quick-dry towel
Medications (altitude pills, antibiotics, etc.)
Energy bars/snacks
Camera, power bank
Passport copy, permits
Wondering what to do in Arun Valley? The possibilities are vast:
Explore ethnic Rai and Sherpa villages
Participate in local festivals and dances
Visit Khiraule Monastery and learn about Buddhist traditions
Spot red pandas, musk deer, and Danphe (national bird)
Explore Barun Valley for alpine flora and hidden waterfalls
Collect and learn about Arun Valley Rudraksha – sacred beads found in the region
Ideal for nature photographers, botanists, and spiritual retreats
Peaceful environment with meditation spots near waterfalls and forests
These interconnected valleys offer a multi-dimensional trekking experience:
Deep gorges, rich in agriculture, cultural diversity
Gateway to Makalu, Salpa Pass, and more
Part of Makalu-Barun National Park
Rich in rare flora and fauna
Ideal for ecology lovers
Trail to Mera Peak (6,476m) – Nepal’s highest trekking peak
Remote alpine meadows and Sherpa culture
With Himalayan Adventure International Treks, you can combine all three valleys for an epic 20–25 day Himalayan circuit.
It ranges from 435m (Tumlingtar) to over 4,600m (Zatrawala Pass).
The trail includes Tumlingtar → Salpa La → Gudel → Khiraule → Hinku Valley → Lukla, with options to extend to Makalu Base Camp and Barun Valley.
The trek reaches a maximum of 4,600m at Zatrawala Pass, making acclimatization important.
The Sham Valley trek in Ladakh (India) is shorter and easier, costing $400–$600. In contrast, Arun Valley trekking is longer and more remote, costing around $1,300–$1,800.
As a local and experienced trekking company, Himalayan Adventure International Treks provides:
✅ Government-licensed guides
✅ Ethical porter hiring and insurance
✅ Customizable itineraries
✅ Eco-friendly and culturally respectful travel
✅ 24/7 support and expert planning
The Arun Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets—a place where ancient culture, natural biodiversity, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes come together. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an explorer looking to step off the popular trails, the Makalu Arun Valley trail offers unmatched adventure and solitude.
👉 Plan your unforgettable journey with Himalayan Adventure International Treks and explore the majestic Arun, Barun & Hinku Valleys in the most authentic way possible.
📩 Contact us today for a free consultation and customized trekking quote.
© 2011 - 2025 All rights reserved. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. Developed By : Xenatech Nepal
Plan Your Trip Now 
