Barun Valley of Nepal

Barun Valley is one of the least explored trekking trails of Nepal that lies in the Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal. Situated on the lapse of the Makalu mountain, which is also the fifth highest mountain of the world, it is one of the least developed trekking trails of Nepal. Marvellous views of the Makalu mountain ranges along with other ranges can be seen throughout the trek.

Barun valley lies inside the Makalu Barun National Park of Nepal which covers an area of 1,500 square kilometers. Similarly, Makalu Barun National Park is extended over Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha district. In the northern side of the national park, it shares its border with Qomolangma National Nature Preserve of Tibet. Similarly, Sagarmatha National Park of Nepal lies on the western border. Meanwhile, eastern part of the Makalu Barun National Park is attached to Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and Saune Ridge to the South.

It is believed that this pristine land on earth was inhabited by the Mewahang, Kulung, Yamfu, Kirat and Rai community in the ancient time. You can still find Kirat and Rai communities around the area. You can also find about the Barun Valley in the ancient religious Buddhist book Seven Shangri-la (Nghe-Beyul Khimpalung). It describes Barun Valley as mystical and spectacularly beautiful evergreen places where no one gets old.

It is also written that, in case of great cataclysm, life will remain only in these seven areas of the world. In those books, some areas of Makalu-Barun region are also mentioned as one of Beyul. Almost all the area of Makalu Barun region is uninhabited. Above all most parts of this region is covered by grassland which is also known by the name Kharka. There are few areas where tented camp accommodation is possible around the Barun Valley of Nepal.

Barun Valley lies on the Shadow of Mt. Makalu. One of the most famous Trekking trails, Makalu Base Camp Trek goes through the Barun Valley of Nepal. In addition, it is also believed that the mystical Yeti is found in the Barun Valley of Nepal. Many of the researchers such as Daniel Taylor have been to Barun Valley in search of the Yeti but no one has seen it yet; only the footprints of Yeti are found as of now. Similarly, Beautiful snow capped mountains, lush forests, high waterfalls, deep george etc are the main attractions of Barun Valley.

Makalu Mountain

With an altitude of 8,485 meters above sea level Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world. Similarly, it is the fourth highest mountain of Nepal which is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas. Although Situated between Everest and Kanchanjunga, It is one of the least explored peaks among the 8,000 meters peaks of Nepal.Makalu is derived from the Sanskrit word Maha and Kala. It is the name of the hindu god Shiva  which translates as Big Black in english. Mt. Makalu lies inside the Makalu-Barun National Park and conservation area. Makalu was first submitted on may 15, 1955 by Lionel Terry and Jean Couzy.  It is also the only 8,000 meters peak in Nepal which is not climbed in winter.

Makalu Barun National Park

With an area of 1500 square kilometers Makalu Barun National Park was established in 1992 A.D. Despite its remoteness and unexplored areas Makalu Barun National Park offers some of the most amazing Himalayas scenarios. Along with the endangered and rare species of flora and fauna this national park holds the fifth highest peak of the world too. 315 species of butterflies, 43 species of reptiles and 16 species of amphibians are found in Makalu Barun National Park.

Photo By: Sunil Shrestha

In addition, 78 species of fish are also found in this national park. Activities such as Trekking, fishing, Mountain View, Butterfly Watching, Bird Watching and Mountain climbing are famous in Makalu Barun National Park. Similarly some of the famous trekking routes such as Makalu Base Camp Trek and Ganesh Himal Trek along with other treks goes through Makalu Barun National Park.

Barun River

Part of the Koshi river Barun river is a tributary of Arun river. Originated from the Barun Glacier of Mt. Makalu the river freezes in the winter. Similarly, it outburst flood during summer times because of the overflow of the water through the glaciers. Also known by the name Chukchuwa in local Kirati language the area is inhabited by Yakkha and Limbu mostly. You will be crossing and walking on the bank of Barun river several times throughout your trek. It is also said that Barun valley was formed by the Barun River.

Barun valley of Nepal lies inside the Makalu Barun National Park. This national park is popular for the off the beaten trekking trails as well as the rare flora and fauna. Besides the Barun valley there are also few other trekking trails and places to visit during your trek to Barun valley.

Arun Valley

The deepest valley of Nepal Arun Valley is one of the untouched as well as the unexplored trekking trails of Nepal. Located in the Makalu region of Nepal, it is very close to the Everest region of Nepal. Arun Valley gets its name because of the Arun river that passes by the valley.

One of the unimaginable areas of Nepal, Arun valley is better known for its culture as well as nature. It is one of the major places of Nepal for bird watching as well as to enjoy the beautiful scenario. Similarly, Marvellous views of the Makalu mountain can also be seen from Arun valley.

Mera Peak Base Camp

Mera peak is the highest trekking peak of Nepal that sits at an elevation of 6,000 meters above sea level. First climbed by the British Army officer Jim Roberts and Sen Tenzing Sherpa in 1953, It has become one of the popular mountains to climb for the trekkers who are willing to experience the expedition in Nepal. Basic skill of using ice axes and crampons are required to successfully climb the Mera peak. Mera Peak is not a technically challenging peak but you will need to use some technical climbing equipment during the final push. Upon reaching the top 360 degree views of the mountain ranges can be seen including the Everest and the Makalu.

Makalu Base Camp

Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Makalu Barun National Park of Nepal. Situated at an elevation of 5,250 meters above sea level marvellous views of the mountain ranges can be seen including the Everest, Makalu and the Lhotse. It is one of the ideal destinations around the Makalu Barun region to explore some of the marvellous views of the mountain ranges as well as to experience the tradition and culture of the locals. Opened in 2016, Makalu Base Camp trek is one of the least explored tea house treks of Nepal.

Salpa Pokhari

Salpa Pokhari is one of the unexplored areas of Nepal situated in the Solukhumbu districts of Nepal. Situated at an elevation of 3,443 meters above sea level it is one of the major tourist attractions near the Barun valley of Nepal. Besides the natural beauty, Salpa Pokhari also offers some of the unique culture as well as the tradition. Because of that it has a high potential of attracting the locals as well as the international travellers. This untouched area also has several monuments, temples as well as the monasteries nearby. Besides that the festivals, high hills, rivers as well as the local festivals.

Thulo Pokhari

Thuro Pokhari is one of the popular high altitude lakes of Makalu Barun National Park of Nepal. It is situated in the Khongma village of the Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal. The english translation of the Thulo Pokhari is “a large lake”, which sits at an elevation of 4,080 meters above sea level. Thulo Pokhari is also the origin of Ipsuwa khola. Above all, Thulo Pokhari is considered as one of the sacred lakes of Nepal situated at such a high altitude.

Barun Pokhari

Barun Pokhari is yet another high altitude lake that lies at an elevation of 5,250 meters above sea level. It is one of the highest altitude lakes of the Makalu Barun National Park of Nepal. Similarly, it is also listed as one of the high altitude lakes of Nepal and in the world. Few minutes of walk from the South Makalu Base Camp will take you to the Barun Pokhari. Above all, it lies beneath the Makalu mountain and marvellous views of the mountain ranges can be seen from the lake. Besides that, the lake is frozen during the winter season of the year.

Dudh Pokhari

Dudh Pokhari or Kunda is a Milky lake that lies at an elevation of 4,600 meters above sea level inside the Makalu Barun National Park of Nepal. One of the holy lakes of Nepal, Dudh pokhari is located in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. This icy cold lake is one of the untouched and unexplored areas of Nepal. Besides that, it lies on the base of Numbur himal and you can also explore the Thubten Choling Gompa after exploring the Dudh Kunda.

Shiva Dhara

Shiva Dhara is one of the sacred pilgrimage sites inside the Makalu Barun National Park of Nepal. Situated beside the dome-like cave of about 500 feet, Shiva Dhara is one of the most sacred taps of lord shiva. Numerous pilgrims trek to this tap to bathe on a full moon day.

It is believed that Shiva dhara used to be the bathing place of Lord Shiva and Parvati. But as of nowadays it has become a sacred religious site covered in snow almost throughout the year.

One of the least explored areas of Nepal, Barun valley offers various activities. The most popular thing to do during your visit to Barun valley is to taste the local cuisines. Besides that you can also experience the warm hospitality of the sherpas and learn their tradition as well as the culture. Similarly you will also get to explore some of the vintage monasteries during the trek.

Trekking off the trekking trails is one of the most popular adventure activities for the adventure junkies. These trekking trails are sure to give you one of the best memories of your life. Besides that, Mera Peak climbing is one of the most popular adventure activities done around the Makalu Barun National Park. Mera peak lies at an elevation of 6,000 meters above sea level and is one of the popular mountains for expeditions for beginners. Most of the expedition team try climbing the Mera Peak before scaling Mount Everest or other mountains above 8,000 meters.

Entirely inside the Makalu Barun National Park, Barun Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys of the world. A hidden gem of Nepal, Barun Valley is situated at the base of Mt. Makalu. Arun Valley is one of the untouched parts of Nepal.

It is one of the most secure places for some of the endangered animals of the world. Many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna  have sheltered at Barun Valley which is undisturbed by the human kind. A mythical species named Yeti is also believed to be found in Barun Valley which makes it unique from the rest of the other valleys of the world.

• Marvellous views of the snow capped mountain ranges
• Beautiful natural landscape
• High waterfalls
• Untouched and unexplored trekking trails
• Culture, lifestyle, flora and fauna
• Warm hospitality of the locals

The Barun Valley Trek starts from Kathmandu. One of the least explored valleys lies in Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal. Due to its less popularity you will find very less travellers compared to other trekking routes of Nepal. Inside the Makalu Barun National Park which covers an area of 1,500 square kilometers you can witness one of the rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival

You will take a flight to Nepal. Upon Landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu you can get your on arrival visa if you don’t have a visa for Nepal. Some of the nationals don’t need a visa, whereas most of the foreigners need to apply for a visa to Nepal. Be sure to check the visa formality of Nepal that can be done through your country.

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

On this day you can just roam around and visit some of the UNESCO world heritage sites inside Kathmandu valley. Some of the nearest places that we recommend are Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudha Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square etc. Kathmandu sightseeing day tour is one of the popular activities that can be done on this day. Besides, visiting the heritage sites you can also use this day as your trek preparation day. You can do some shopping for your trekking gear as well as to get a trekking permit for Barun National Park.

Day 03: Flight to Tumlingtar, Drive to Num

You can take a flight or drive to Tumlingtar. You can take a domestic flight to Tumlingtar from Tribhuvan Airport and it will take 30 minutes to reach. After you arrive at Tumlingtar airport you can take a drive to Num. It will take about 6 hours to reach Num. Tumlingtar is 500 km away from Kathmandu and it will take about 14 hours to reach Tumlingtar from Kathmandu.

Day 04: Trek to Seduwa

You will walk through dense forest and terraced farms which will take you to the Arun river. After crossing the river you will start ascending the other side. Offering a bit of shade the forest is quite hot. Walking through the Makalu Barun National Park you will reach Seduwa. But before that you need to walk along the rocky path and tiny terraced fields of corn and Barley. Seduwa village is situated at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level.

Day 05: Trek to Tashi Gaon

You will pass through different human settlement areas as well as streams before reaching Tashi Gaon. situated at an altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level you can have breathtaking views of the mountain ranges. You will have to ascend most part of the day to reach Tashi Gaon from Seduwa village.

Day 06: Trek to Khongma Danda

You will ascend through forests to a stream and then onto a ridge. From here the trail gets even steeper and passes a Kharka and finally follows a series of rough stone stairs and small lakes ascending to the top of the ridge. Upon reaching Unshisa, you enter Makalu Barun National Park. From here it’s a short way down to Khongma Danda which is situated at an elevation of 3,500 meters above sea level.

Day 07: Trek to Dobate

Climb towards the summit of the Shipton la pass which takes a few hours to reach. After the lake, Kalo Pokhari, passes over Keke La at 4,170m. You can see the marvellous views of Chamlang, Peak 6 and Peak 7. After crossing the Keke La pass, you will descend through the beautiful valley to Dobate. Dobate is situated at an elevation of 4,170 meters above sea level.

Day 08: Trek to Yangle Kharka

You pass through the rhododendron forest which leads to the Barun River and the upper reaches of the valley. You should be very careful during the first two hours of the trek as the trail is steep and arduous. On your way, you may come across yaks grazing in the field. We then take a pleasant walk, slowly gaining altitude until you arrive at Yangri Kharka situated at the base of the valley at an elevation of 3,557 meters above sea level.

Day 09: Trek to Dobate

Trekking along the free-flowing Barun River, you will pass alpine forests, rocky ridges, and a few small streams to finally reach Dobate. You will relish the beauty of nature while descending to Dobate. On your way, you may come across some yaks, snow pigeons, and blue sheep.

Day 10: Trek to Khongma Danda

You will trek with steep climbs from Dobate to Mumbuk (Nambuk) and through a forest of firs and rhododendrons. You will then cross the Keke La, Tutu La (Shipton’s Pass) and Kauma La en route. Next, you will descend to Khongma Danda again which is situated at an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level.

Day 11: Trek to Tashi Gaon

Tashi Gaon is situated at an elevation of 2,100 meters above sea level. The trek continues with frequent long and steep descent cutting through the hillsides. The trail takes you through thick forests and finally makes it to the indigenous Sherpa village of Tashigaon.

Day 12: Trek to Seduwa

You will  retrace your steps as you exit the Makalu Barun National Park and descend down to the Barun River. After that you will cross the hillside and come across villages and settlements. Similarly, now you will move downwards to reach Seduwa situated at an elevation of 1,500 meters above sea level.

Day 13: Trek to Num

You will now leave Seduwa and trek through lush forests towards Num. The trail goes up and down and passes through dense forests and Sherpa villages as you move downwards. Finally you will reach Num situated at an elevation of 1,560 meters above sea level.

Day 14: Drive to Tumlingtar

Again you retrace your footsteps to Chichira from where you can savour the glorious vista of Mount Makalu for the last time. The final return leg of the trek will see you overnight at Tumlingtar.

Day 15: Flight/Drive to Kathmandu

Today, you fly back to Kathmandu after your long trek in the mountains. You can rest and relax throughout the day at a hotel or get in touch with your loved ones.

Day 16: Departure

You will take your flight back to your destination. The flight will take off from Tribhuvan International Airport. Similarly, you have to reach the airport 3 hours before your flight departure time.

Barun Valley is one of the untouched as well as the unexplored trekking trails that lies inside the Makalu Barun National Park of Nepal. It is one of the hidden shangrila of Nepal where no humans live.

The maximum height of the Barun Valley trek is 3,600 meters above sea level. Because of that there is still little chance of getting altitude sickness during the trek.

There are no lodges or the teahouse after Tashigaun because camping is required for the Barun Valley Trek of Nepal. You need to carry the tented camps and enough food and water after Tashigaon.

The trail is also very rough and only few trekkers pass by this trail during a calendar year. Only the extreme adventure seekers are suggested to go on a trek for the Barun Valley. Besides that previous hiking experience is also required before going on a Barun Valley Trek.

Barun valley trek requires permits from Nepal government. Two types of permits a trekker must obtain, one is national park permit and another is TIMS permit. Find out the prizes of these permits:

Barun Valley lies in the Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal. It is one of the hidden gems of Nepal yet to be explored. Marvellous views of the Makalu mountain ranges can be seen during the Barun valley trek of Nepal. Although being one of the beautiful places of Nepal, it is also one of the remote parts of the Eastern Nepal. There are two ways through which you can reach Barun Valley from Kathmandu. Roadways and Airways are the two ways through which you can reach Barun Valley.

By Flight

It will take about 30 minutes to reach Tumlingtar through flight. You will get on the flight from Tribhuvan Airport. During your flight you can have scenic views of the mountain ranges such as Mt. Everest, Ganesh Himal, Makalu and Mt. Kanchanjunga. However you need to take a drive from Tumlingtar to Num before starting your trek. By the airways you can save a lot of time and we recommend you to travel through the airway.

Photo By: Sunil Shrestha

Besides that, you can also take a flight to Lukla and move towards the Barun Valley of Nepal. Similarly, you can also move towards the Barun Valley after completing the Everest Base Camp trek or any other trek in Everest region.

By Road

Similarly, Tumlingtar is 500 km away from Kathmandu and it will take about 14 hours to reach by road. Another road goes from Kirtipur and meets Hetauda city. But both of the routes meet at Bardibas and from there they can take the same road to Tumlingtar. After reaching Tumlingtar, the way to Num village is the same.

March to May is one of the best time to visit Nepal as well as to go on a trk for Barun Valley of Nepal. It is one of the ideal months to explore these hidden gems of Nepal. During these months of the year the weather is clear and marvellous views of the snow capped mountain ranges can be seen almost throughout the trekk.

Besides that, you will have a wonderful view of the jungles as the blooming rhododendrons along with other flowers enhance the beauty of this place. Another best time to explore the Barun Valley of Nepal is during the months of September to November.

The weather is clear and due to the high visibility marvellous views of the gigantic peaks as well as the landscape and the valleys can be seen during these months of the year. Besides that, these months of the year are also ideal for bird watching as well as to witness some of the rare species of wild animals.

The monsoon season starts from the early June months of the year. Similarly, it lasts until early September. Because of that these months of the year are not suitable to explore the Barun valley of Nepal. During these months of the year about 70% rainfall occurs in the Barun Valley of Nepal.

Barun Valley is one of the least explored and untouched trekking trails of Nepal. During most parts of the trek you will have to spend the night at tented camps. Similarly, while staying at the local tea house or the lodges only the basic facilities are available throughout the trek. Here is the list of things that you should carry for your Barun valley trek.

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