Question 1

How difficult is the Arun Valley Trek?

Accepted Answer

The Arun Valley Trek is rated moderate to hard. Expect long daily walking hours (5–8 hours), significant elevation gain and loss, and trails that are sometimes remote, narrow, and not well-marked. The steepest sections are between Seduwa and the Khongma La pass. Previous trekking experience — ideally at altitude — is strongly recommended. Those who are relatively fit with good endurance will manage well with our pacing system.

Question 2

Do I need any special permits for the Arun Valley Trek?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You will need a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and a Makalu-Barun National Park entry permit. Both are arranged and included in our package price. There are no restricted area permits required for the standard Arun Valley route, though the Makalu Base Camp extension may require additional documentation.

Question 3

What is the best season for the Arun Valley Trek?

Accepted Answer

The two optimal windows are March to May (spring) and October to November (autumn). Spring offers rhododendron blooms and generally clear morning skies, though afternoons can bring cloud build-up. Autumn is widely regarded as the best overall time: post-monsoon skies are crystal clear, mountain views are at their sharpest, and trail conditions are excellent. Winter trekking is possible at lower elevations but high passes may be snowbound. Monsoon season (June–September) brings leeches and trail hazards but also extraordinary green landscapes.

Question 4

How do I get to the start of the trek?

Accepted Answer

The standard approach is a short domestic flight from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport to Tumlingtar (approximately 45 minutes). Flights operate daily with Tara Air and Summit Air. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Kathmandu to Hile or Dharan (12–16 hours) and then a local jeep to Tumlingtar — a more economical but tiring option. Our package includes the domestic round-trip flights.

Question 5

Is altitude sickness a serious risk on this trek?

Accepted Answer

AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is a real concern above 3,000m. Our itinerary includes two planned acclimatisation days to mitigate this risk. We advise all trekkers to consult their doctor about Diamox (acetazolamide) before departure. All our guides are trained in altitude sickness recognition and first response. Our emergency protocols include descent procedures and an emergency oxygen cylinder on every trek. The maximum standard altitude of 4,200m (or 4,870m with the base camp extension) means most healthy, acclimatised adults manage without problems.

Question 6

What kind of accommodation is available on the trail?

Accepted Answer

Lower sections of the trail have simple but comfortable teahouses offering twin or dorm rooms, dal bhat and basic western meals, and cold-water washing facilities. As you enter the national park, teahouses become more rustic — expect wooden rooms, thin mattresses, and outdoor facilities. In the high Barun Valley, accommodation is camping only, with tents and sleeping bags supplied. We emphasise that you should calibrate expectations accordingly — this is a wilderness trek, not a luxury resort experience, and that’s precisely its appeal.

Question 7

Can I see wildlife on the Arun Valley Trek?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Makalu-Barun National Park is one of Nepal’s most biodiverse protected areas. The lower zones are home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and a remarkable variety of bird species including Satyr tragopan and blood pheasant. Trekkers regularly spot musk deer in forest zones and blue sheep (bharal) on high rocky slopes. Snow leopard sightings are rare but not unheard of at altitude. The park’s botanical diversity is equally extraordinary — Makalu-Barun contains the world’s highest-altitude rhododendron forests.

Question 8

Is the Arun Valley Trek suitable for solo trekkers?

Accepted Answer

Solo trekking without a guide in the Makalu-Barun area is not recommended. Trail signage is minimal, rescue infrastructure is extremely limited, and the remoteness of the terrain makes a licensed guide not just practical but essential for safety. Nepal regulations also currently require trekkers to be accompanied by a registered guide. We offer solo traveller packages that match individuals with small groups, allowing you to experience the trek’s solitude without compromising safety.

Question 9

What should I know about Leave No Trace on this trek?

Accepted Answer

The Arun Valley’s pristine environment is its greatest asset, and we operate under strict low-impact principles. We prohibit the use of single-use plastics on trail, pack out all non-biodegradable waste, and use established campsites only. Trekkers are asked to use biodegradable soap and shampoo, avoid cutting vegetation for fires, and respect cultural customs including dress codes in villages and around religious sites. Our guides will brief you in detail before departure.