Call
Message
Send Email

Arun Valley Trek with Everest Base Camp - A Unique Trekking Experience

Arun Valley Trek with Everest Base Camp - A Unique Trekking Experience
Arun Valley Trek with Everest Base Camp - A Unique Trekking Experience

Trip Facts:

Destination
Arun Valley/ EBC
Group Size
Max People: 1-10
Region
Mt. Everest Region
Trip Duration
22 days
Activities
Flight/ Trekking/ Sightseeing
Culture
Sherpa, Rai, Gurung , Tamang
Meals
B/B in Kathmandu & full board (B/L/D) during trekking
Accommodation
Hotel/ Tea House / Lodge
Max Elevation
5,550 Meters
Best Month
Spring / Autumn
Trip Grade
Moderate / Adventure
Trek Starts / Ends
Kathmandu, Nepal
Transportation
Flight/ Private Vehicle

Overview

The Arun Valley Trek with Everest Base Camp (EBC) presents an extraordinary trekking experience, seamlessly combining the unexplored beauty of Arun Valley with the iconic Everest Base Camp Trek. Starting with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, trekkers embark on a journey following the Arun River, nestled between the majestic peaks of Everest and Makalu. The route offers breathtaking views of Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse, winding through lush landscapes and showcasing the grandeur of the Himalayas. This trek promises a varied and challenging adventure for those eager to explore two distinct trekking regions in Nepal.

As trekkers delve deeper into the Arun Valley, they discover a region that, despite its growing popularity, remains largely unspoiled. The trek traverses picturesque landscapes and diverse ecosystems, home to unique flora and fauna. Before reaching the renowned Khumbu region, adventurers have the chance to immerse themselves in Nepal's rich cultural diversity. The trek provides an opportunity to engage with various ethnic groups, including the Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, Gurung, Tamang, Newar, Chhetris, and Brahmins. This cultural immersion enriches the journey, offering a deeper understanding of local traditions and customs.

The cultural encounters along the Arun Valley and EBC Trek add a compelling dimension to the adventure. Trekkers can witness and participate in traditional rituals, festivals, and daily life in remote villages. The warmth and hospitality of the local people provide a unique insight into Nepalese culture, making the trek not just a physical challenge but also a culturally enriching experience. This blend of natural beauty and cultural depth makes the trek a holistic journey through the heart of Nepal.

The trek concludes at Lukla, where trekkers reflect on their epic adventure encompassing both the lesser-known Arun Valley and the famous Everest Base Camp. The journey offers stunning mountain views and an exploration of the region's natural and cultural diversity. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor to Nepal, this extended trek with the Himalayan Dream Team promises an extraordinary experience, combining the best of both worlds and leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Trip highlights:

  • Discover the cultural richness of Kathmandu by visiting iconic landmarks such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Pashupatinath.
  • Experience the thrill of getting up-close to the world's highest mountain, Mt. Everest, with a hike to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of 8,000-meter peaks, including Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Pumori, and Changtse from the highest point of the trek at Kala Patthar (5,550 meters).
  • Witness the majestic Khumbu Glacier, the highest glacier in the world, and the dramatic Khumbu Icefall.
  • Visit the charming villages and towns of Tumlingtar, Chewabesi, Gudel, Phakding, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche in the Arun, Dudh Koshi, and Imja River Valleys.
  • Engage with the Rai, Bahun, Chhetri, and Kumal tribes in the low altitudes of the Arun Valley, the world's deepest valley.
  • Marvel at the panoramic views of Mera Peak, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Chamlang along the scenic Arun Valley trail.
  • Spot unique wildlife in the subtropical plains of Makalu Barun National Park and the temperate highlands of Sagarmatha National Park.
  • Explore Namche Bazaar, the ancient trading hub of Khumbu, and visit landmarks like Khunde Hospital, Namche Monastery, and Everest View Hotel.
  • Immerse yourself in Sherpa culture at Dawa Choeling Gompa/Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Khumbu region.
  • Enjoy a thrilling and scenic flight from Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla back to Kathmandu.

How much does this trip cost ??

Just mail us for the price! The cost of this trip depends on the size of your group. At Himalayan Dream Team, we also understand that every traveler has unique needs and preferences. Therefore, we tailor each trip to meet your specific requirements, ensuring a personalised and unforgettable experience. For instance, you want a budget or comfort lodge during the trek, shared or individual bathroom. 

Prepare for an incredible journey customized to your interests, whether you're seeking a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious escape. We handle all the planning and logistics, allowing you to relax and immerse yourself in the experience. Focus on creating lasting memories while we take care of every detail, making your dream trip a reality.

Join us for an extraordinary adventure, knowing that everything is arranged to suit your desires. Let Himalayan Dream Team make your travel dreams come true.

Arun Valley Trek with Everest Base Camp - A Unique Trekking Experience Itinerary

Details Outline

Upon arriving at Kathmandu airport, a team member will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. In the evening, join us for a delightful dinner at one of the city's renowned restaurants, where you'll have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and discuss the exciting EBC with Arun Valley Trek adventures ahead.

Food
Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Highest Altitude
1335 m

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

  • Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Our first stop is the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu. This sacred site is a beautiful symbol of faith for both Buddhists and Hindus.
  • Pashupatinath Temple: Next, we visit Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and cremation site. Here, you can witness and photograph traditional Hindu rituals along the Bagmati River, immersing yourself in the local spiritual life.
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square: After a delicious lunch, we head to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic site showcasing stunning Newari architecture. Enjoy a photo session with locals in traditional attire or Hindu holy men (Sadhus), perfect for capturing unique and memorable portraits.
  • Vegetable and Spice Markets: End the day with a visit to the bustling vegetable and spice markets. Capture dynamic street photography of vibrant colors, energetic atmosphere, and diverse faces, providing a glimpse into everyday life in Kathmandu.
Food
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel
Highest Altitude
1400 m
Walking Hours
5/6 hrs

After breakfast, we'll head to the domestic airport for our flight to Tumlingtar in eastern Nepal, the starting point of our trek through the Arun Valley. Enjoy a scenic flight over terraced fields, hills, and traditional villages, with Himalayan peaks like Chamalang and Makalu visible in the distance. The landing is an exciting experience with a sharp turn and steep descent onto a grassy field.

Our trek through the Arun Salpa Valley begins, offering 'old-style' trekking through the middle hills of eastern Nepal. This region is rich in ethnic diversity, with shamanistic religions, Buddhism, Hinduism, traditional villages, green terraced fields, and small riverside trails. As we trek along a small road through lively villages and colorful tea houses, we encounter locals and mule trains carrying cardamom, the area's biggest cash crop.

We cross a suspension bridge over the wide Arun River and follow the river closely, passing terraced rice fields, buffaloes, thatched huts, and villagers working in the fields. After a lunch break at Chewa Besi, we continue to Kartiki Ghat, crossing another suspension bridge to reach the main village known for its bees and honey.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Tea House
Highest Altitude
315 m

We begin the morning with a gentle walk to the picturesque village of Balwa Besi, where we cross a sparkling stream on a wooden bridge. The climb then takes us past local teahouses offering fresh bananas and oranges, through a lush tropical forest, and past charming thatched huts. As we ascend to a high viewpoint above the Arun River, the trail can be slippery if damp. Leaving the beautiful Arun Valley behind, we climb 600 meters, contouring around hillsides until we reach the small village of Marduwa, surrounded by terraced rice paddies and fruit trees.

Continuing through scenic hamlets, clusters of traditional mud-brick houses, and terraced fields, we stop for lunch near Nepali Danda, a spot with historical significance to the local Chettri caste. After lunch, we follow the main trail, which winds through more rice paddies and banyan trees. The forest thickens as we ascend and then descend a muddy trail to the Irkhuwa River, crossing two bridges, including a long suspension bridge. The riverside trail offers the chance to see locals threshing rice and the vibrant blue kingfishers fishing in the river.

Finally, we reach a small teahouse perched on a ridge where sweet bananas and tangerines are often available. A short descent brings us to Gothe Bazaar, a bustling village home to Gurung and Rai communities. This local hub for Nepali porters offers a welcoming atmosphere and the chance to enjoy delicious local pumpkin soup, making it a perfect end to a rewarding day of trekking.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Tea House
Highest Altitude
685 m
Walking Hours
4/5 hrs

Leaving Gothe Bazaar, we trek along the bank of Benkhuwa Khola, passing through lush rice paddy fields and groves of citrus fruits and bananas. The trail is easy and crosses a bridge to the north river bank. You'll come across a paper factory producing traditional Nepali paper from the Lokta plant, a key income source for the local Rai and Sherpa communities. Continuing north, we arrive at Dobhane for an overnight stay.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Tea House
Highest Altitude
1800 m
Walking Hours
5/6 hrs

Our trek begins with a walk through rice terrace fields and small settlements into a subtropical forested trail. We continue to Tendo village, featuring a school and a flat land used as a campsite. The trail is mostly flat with occasional riverside descents. Passing through Tallo Phedi villages with slate-roofed houses, we head to the south bank of the Irkhuwa valley. After crossing a bamboo bridge over Sanu Khola, we reach Salpa Phedi, inhabited by the Rai community. Explore the nearby stupa and gompa before settling in for the night.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Tea House
Highest Altitude
3000 m
Walking Hours
5/6 hrs

Starting with a steep ascent from Salpa Phedi, the trail reaches the confluence of Irkhuwa and Sanu Khola rivers. As we climb higher, the landscape transforms, and we pass through rhododendron forests to Thulophokte, a Sherpa settlement. Here, we visit the Chochen gompa and admire Mani walls with Buddhist carvings. Reaching Salpa Pass offers stunning views of Mt. Dudh Kunda and Makalu. After a 2-hour descent, we reach Sanam and continue through the forest to Siare. Finally, we descend to Gudel, a large village inhabited by the Kulung tribe, with mesmerizing views of Mt. Chamlang and Mera Peak.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Tea House
Highest Altitude
2400 m
Walking Hours
6/7 hrs

We begin by crossing a bridge over the Hinku River, flowing from Mera Peak. Continuing, we reach Bung village, 54 km south of Mt. Everest, known for its fertile rice fields. Passing through farmlands and small settlements, we arrive at Khairaule village, where we pass a school and cross an iron bridge. The trail ascends through stone steps into a beautiful rhododendron forest. Along the way, we encounter a small stupa and mani walls before reaching Charikot. Here, the trail diverges; while the northeast path leads to Panch Pokhari, we take the western route to Surkie La Pass. At the top, colorful prayer flags and mani walls greet us. We then descend through a rhododendron forest into the yak grazing pasture of Gai Kharka.

 

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
2450 m
Walking Hours
5/6 hrs

Today's trek leads us towards the Dudh Koshi River Valley, involving several ascents and descents. We follow the Hinku Khola River northward and cross the relatively easy Pangmum La Pass. Enjoy stunning views of Kusum Kanguru and Mera Peak before descending to the village of Kharte, where we will spend the night.

 

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
2600 m
Walking Hours
6/7 hrs

We enter the Dudh Koshi Valley, heading towards Phakding. Along the way, enjoy your first views of snow-capped peaks such as Khumbila, Sherpa, Gyachen Kang, and Kusum Kangaru. Descend along the main Jiri trail to Puiyan, a beautiful settlement at the foot of a towering hill and gateway to the Mera Peak trek. Following the Dudh Koshi River, we ascend to Chauri Kharka, known as the breadbasket of the Khumbu region. Eventually, we join the trail to Phakding, passing mani walls and stone steps, and settle into a teahouse for the night.

Food
Breakfast / Lunch/ and Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
2610 m
Walking Hours
5/6 hrs

We start early, trekking along the Dudh Koshi River through a scenic pine forest towards the small village of Benkar. Enjoy breathtaking views of Thamserku peak towering above the valley. Cross a long suspension bridge shared with donkeys and mules carrying trade goods.

Continuing to Monjo, take in views of Khumbila peak. Monjo is the gateway to Sagarmatha National Park, where you'll need to show your permits and purchase an entrance ticket at the checkpoint. Descend to the river and cross a suspension bridge to Jorsale village, where you catch your first distant glimpse of Mt. Everest.

After lunch in Jorsale, the trek continues through a steep forested area until reaching the confluence of the Bhote Koshi and Dudh Koshi rivers. Before arriving at Namche Bazaar, the trail ascends to Tope Danda, a vantage point offering expansive views of Namche town. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, head to a tea house, relax, and enjoy some local butter tea.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
3440 m
Walking Hours
6/7 hrs

Namche Bazaar, the bustling hub of the Khumbu region, is a key meeting point for trekkers and mountaineers. This vibrant town is filled with locals and traders, especially on Saturdays when a lively market takes place. With numerous ATMs, cyber cafes, shops, bakeries, and restaurants, you can enjoy a taste of home with pizza and espresso.

On your acclimatization day, enjoy a hearty breakfast before opting for a hike to nearby attractions. Visit the renowned Khunde Hospital, established by Sir Edmund Hillary, and explore Namche Monastery to delve into Buddhist heritage. Hike to the Everest View Hotel for stunning, close-up views of Mt. Ama Dablam and Mt. Everest. This day offers a perfect blend of rest and exploration, preparing you for the trek ahead.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
3440 m
Walking Hours
3/4 hrs

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we take the northern trail towards Tengboche village. Walking along the sandy Dudh Koshi river trail, we ascend past a flight of stone steps. Throughout the route, enjoy mesmerizing views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, and Nuptse, some of the highest peaks in the world.

Continue trekking through a lush forest towards a suspension bridge over the Phunki Tenga river. Passing a rocky trail, we encounter a zig-zag path where you may see Himalayan Griffons nesting in the high cliffs above. A steep route through a rhododendron-clad forest leads us to an Army checkpoint. This area is known for sightings of rare musk deer and blood pheasants. A final steep climb brings us to the village of Tengboche.

Upon arrival, settle down at a tea house and then visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. The monastery offers breathtaking views of Ama Dablam towering behind it. Known locally as Dawa Choling Gompa, the monastery complex includes paintings, statues, shrines, stupas, mani walls, and prayer wheels. A visit to Tengboche Monastery provides a deep insight into the ancient architecture and heritage of the Buddhist religion and the Sherpa community.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
3870 m
Walking Hours
5/6 hrs

Leaving the serene village of Tengboche, we ascend to higher elevations, passing the Milingo nunnery. Crossing the trail to the stunning Imja Khola gorge, we reach Pangboche village, known for its ancient Pangboche Monastery, the oldest in the Khumbu region. This area is home to mountain goats navigating the rugged cliffs. Continuing along the Lobuche river trail, we pass through Sombare village. As we approach Dingboche, the climate changes noticeably, so ensure you are well-covered during the windy evening. Overnight stay in Dingboche.

 

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4410 m
Walking Hours
5/6 hrs

Today is dedicated to acclimatization in Dingboche to adapt to the increasing altitude. After a hearty breakfast, consider a hike to Nagarjun Hill, crossing the 5,000m mark. This short hike starts with a steep climb on loose rocks but rewards you with magnificent views of Mt. Ama Dablam and the Imja glacier from the top. After capturing some photos and enjoying the panoramic vistas, return to Dingboche for a well-deserved rest. Overnight stay in Dingboche.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4410 m
Walking Hours
3/4 hrs

We start the trek by heading towards the foot of the Khumbu Glacier, the highest and largest glacier in Nepal. Stop for lunch in Dugla village, then tackle the steep zig-zag climb to Thukla Pass, known for its memorial stupas honoring mountaineers who lost their lives on Everest, including Scott Fischer and his team from the 1996 expedition, featured in the movie "Everest." The trek continues to Lobuche, one of the highest Sherpa settlements with lodges and tea houses for overnight accommodation.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4910 m
Walking Hours
5/6 hrs

We leave Lobuche early, trekking towards Gorak Shep. This challenging hike starts before dawn, with temperatures dropping and the trail becoming tougher. Gorak Shep was the original base camp for the 1952 Swiss Expedition. After dropping our belongings at a tea house, we head to Everest Base Camp. The trek is rugged with loose stones and icy slopes but rewards us with awe-inspiring views of the Khumbu glacier and Khumbu Icefall. Although the peak of Mt. Everest isn't visible from here, the surrounding 8,000m peaks provide a dramatic backdrop. After plenty of photos, we retrace our steps to Gorak Shep

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
5140 m
Walking Hours
7/8 hrs

Today, we hike to Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek at 5,550m. This viewpoint offers the best views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks like Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Pumori. After soaking in the panoramic vistas and taking photos, we return to Gorak Shep to gather our belongings and trek down to Pheriche. The downhill trek is easier as we descend to lower altitudes. Pheriche is known for its potato and buckwheat farming. 

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4240 m
Walking Hours
6/7 hrs

Following the Imja River, we trek back towards Tengboche, bidding farewell to the views of Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, and Mt. Everest. The trek is easier and faster, reaching Namche Bazaar by the afternoon. Here, you can enjoy a warm bath and relax in the local cafes and bakeries

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
3440 m
Walking Hours
7/8 hrs

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we trek along the Dudh Koshi riverside to Jorsale village. The views of Mt. Everest gradually fade as we approach Phakding village. Walking through lush green forests and stone steps, we reach Pasang Lhamu Memorial Gate, the entrance to Lukla. Lukla, known for its small airport, serves as the gateway to the Everest region. Spend your last night in Khumbu by interacting with locals, enjoying locally brewed drinks, and savoring authentic delicacies. Celebrate with the Himalayan Dream Team staff who made this trip memorable, sharing stories and reflecting on the incredible journey you've completed together.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
2840 m
Walking Hours
6/7 hrs

After our mountain journey, we take an early flight to Kathmandu. When we get there, we can relax or shop for souvenirs. If we feel like it, we can also explore other parts of Kathmandu today with the help of our guides, who can assist with both shopping and sightseeing.

Food
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel
Highest Altitude
1335 m

After breakfast or lunch, depending on your flight time, we will transfer you to the international airport or if you leave by evening you can put your luggage at the Hotel and enjoy the city one final day.

If you're interested in extending your stay in Nepal, you might want to consider pre-booking a day's sightseeing tour in the Kathmandu Valley or a multi-day excursion to the wildlife reserve at Chitwan. For further information, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office.

Food
Breakfast

Not satisfied with this itinerary?

If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preference and specification.

Service Included on Trip Cost

Cost Includes

  • Transfer from and to the international airport in Kathmandu
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu with private transport, entry fees monuments and temples and guide
  • Hotel with breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Teahouse/Lodge or tents accommodation during trekking
  • 3 meals a day during trekking (B+ L+ D)
  • All necessary staff with certified experienced English speaking climbing and trekking guide(s), cook, porters to carry luggage, other helpers as per requirement
  • All equipment and local transport according to program
  • Sleeping bag, duffel bag
  • Flight ticket from KTM/Tumlingtar/Lukla/KTM
  • All National Park Permits / TIMS card
  • Private transport

Cost Excludes

  • International flights
  • Nepal visa fee for 30 days and 2 passport sized pictures, see: Nepal Visa
  • Lunch and dinners not mentioned in program
  • Personal insurance and helicopter rescue in case of emergency
  • Extra costs in case of unforeseen changes in the planned program (e.g. weather conditions)
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for local staff
  • Other then which not mention in includes section

Arun Valley Trek with Everest Base Camp - A Unique Trekking Experience Altitude Profile

FAQs

What is the Arun Valley to Everest Base Camp trek?

This trek combines the serene and culturally rich Arun Valley with the iconic route to Everest Base Camp, providing a comprehensive exploration of the region's landscapes and Sherpa culture.

The trek typically takes about 22 to 27 days, depending on the chosen route, speed of hiking, and days allocated for acclimatization.

The best times to embark on this trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is clear and stable.

Key highlights include the biodiverse Arun Valley, traditional Sherpa villages, the Tengboche Monastery, and, of course, the Everest Base Camp itself.


This trek is considered challenging due to its duration and the high altitude. It is better suited for intermediate to experienced trekkers.

You will need the Sagarmatha National Park permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit. A TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card is also required.

Accommodations are primarily in teahouses, which offer basic amenities and communal dining, although options in the Arun Valley may be more rustic compared to those nearer Everest Base Camp.

While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide is highly recommended for navigation, safety, and to enrich your understanding of the local culture and environment.

Essential items include good quality trekking boots, layers of thermal clothing, a waterproof jacket, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a sun hat, and a sturdy backpack. Don't forget a first aid kit and necessary medications.

To manage altitude sickness, ascend slowly to allow your body to acclimatize, stay hydrated, eat a carbohydrate-rich diet, and consider carrying altitude sickness medication as recommended by a doctor.
 

The food on the trek will mainly consist of local Nepalese cuisine like dal bhat (rice and lentils), as well as simpler international dishes such as pasta and soup.
 

Yes, charging facilities are available in most teahouses for a small fee. It's advisable to bring extra batteries or a portable charger as backup.

The daily cost can vary from $30 to $60, depending on your spending on meals, accommodations, and other services.
 


Common risks include altitude sickness, cold weather, and rough terrain. Ensuring proper gear, acclimatization, and guidance can mitigate these risks.

The journey usually starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a drive or hike to the starting point of the trek in the Arun Valley.

  • Best Price Guaranteed
  • No Booking Fees
  • Group Discount Available
  • No hidden cost

Response Time 3 Hours , Response Rate 100%

Similar Trips

Enjoy the popular trekking and tour packages in Nepal Himalayas. 2024.