Arun Valley to Everest Trek | Epic Himalayan Expedition

Arun Valley to Everest

The Arun Valley to Everest Trek is an epic, long-distance expedition that bridges two distinct geographical and cultural regions of Nepal. Starting in the deep, tropical Arun Valley, the lowest valley in the world, the trek slowly ascends through lush, humid jungles and isolated Rai and Limbu villages. You will cross the challenging Salpa Pass (3,350m) to enter the Solukhumbu region, where the climate and culture transition dramatically to alpine environments and Sherpa traditions. Eventually joining the main Everest trail, the trek finishes with the spectacular high-altitude climax of Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. This is an adventure for those who want a true, exhaustive Himalayan crossing.

Arun Valley to Everest Trek

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

Starting the trek in the deep, biologically diverse Arun Valley.

Crossing the challenging and remote Salpa Pass (3,350m).

Witnessing a massive transition in climate, flora, and culture along the route.

Experiencing absolute solitude in the first half of the trek.

Culminating the journey at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

Arrival Day

• Welcome upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
• Private transfer to hotel; trek briefing, document check, and gear preparation.
• Free evening to explore vibrant local markets in Thamel.

Scenic Flight & Trek Elev: 457 m

• Trail route: Fly to Tumlingtar and trek to Kartike Ghat (457 m).
• Fly to the hot, low-altitude Arun Valley and begin walking along the Arun River.
• Arrive at Kartike Ghat; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 775 m

• Trail route: Trek to Gothe Bazaar (775 m).
• Walk through tropical terrain, crossing rivers and passing thatched-roof villages.
• Arrive at Gothe Bazaar; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 1,680 m

• Trail route: Trek to Salpa Phedi (1,680 m).
• Ascend steadily towards the base of the pass, entering cooler, terraced farmlands.
• Arrive at Salpa Phedi; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

High Pass Crossing Elev: 3,350 m / 2,850 m

• Early pre-dawn start to cross Cross Salpa Pass before afternoon high winds.
• Challenging high-altitude ascent rewarded with breathtaking summit panoramas.
• Steady descent to valley floor; celebratory dinner and overnight at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 1,965 m

• Trail route: Trek to Gudel (1,965 m).
• Descend through dense rhododendron and oak forests to the large Rai village of Gudel.
• Arrive at Gudel; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,540 m

• Trail route: Trek to Kiraunle (2,540 m).
• Cross the Hongu Khola and climb steeply up the opposite side of the valley.
• Today is the ultimate challenge.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,770 m

• Trail route: Trek to Sibuje (2,770 m).
• Cross the Surke La pass and descend into the rugged terrain leading to Sibuje.
• Arrive at Sibuje; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,850 m

• Trail route: Trek to Pangum (2,850 m).
• Trek through deep forests and enter the traditional Sherpa village of Pangum.
• Arrive at Pangum; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,730 m

• Trail route: Trek to Painya (2,730 m).
• Cross the Pangkongma La pass, with distant views of the Khumbu peaks, and descend to Painya.
• Arrive at Painya; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,610 m

• Trail route: Trek to Phakding (2,610 m).
• Join the main, bustling Everest Base Camp trail south of Lukla and continue to Phakding.
• Arrive at Phakding; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 3,440 m

• Trail route: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m).
• Enter Sagarmatha National Park and climb the steep hill to Namche Bazaar.
• Today is the ultimate challenge.

Acclimatization Day

• Active acclimatization hike to elevated ridge viewpoints around in Namche.
• Breathtaking 360-degree mountain panoramas and exploration of local culture.
• Restful afternoon, hydration, and leisurely walk around the settlement.

Trekking Day Elev: 3,860 m

• Trail route: Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m).
• Trek along scenic ridges and through forest trails to reach the beautiful village of Tengboche, home to the region's largest Buddhist monastery.
• Arrive at Tengboche; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,410 m

• Trail route: Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m).
• Ascend above the tree line into the high alpine valley of Dingboche.
• Arrive at Dingboche; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Acclimatization Day

• Active acclimatization hike to elevated ridge viewpoints around in Dingboche.
• Breathtaking 360-degree mountain panoramas and exploration of local culture.
• Restful afternoon, hydration, and leisurely walk around the settlement.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,940 m

• Trail route: Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m).
• Cross the Thukla pass and follow the Khumbu glacier moraine.
• Arrive at Lobuche; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 5,364 m

• Trail route: Trek to EBC (5,364 m) and return to Gorak Shep.
• Reach Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep to sleep.
• Arrive at Gorak Shep; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 5,545 m

• Trail route: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and descend to Pheriche.
• Early morning climb for Everest views, then a long descent.
• Today is the ultimate challenge.

Trekking Day

• Trail route: Trek to Namche Bazaar.
• Retrace your steps down the valley, descending back to Namche Bazaar for a comfortable overnight stay.
• Arrive at Namche Bazaar; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day

• Trail route: Trek to Lukla.
• The final day of walking back to the airstrip.
• Arrive at Lukla; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Scenic Flight

• Trail route: Fly to Kathmandu.
• Morning mountain flight to Kathmandu.
• Arrive at Kathmandu; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Departure Day

• Leisure breakfast at hotel; free time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
• Optional exploration of Kathmandu's historic Durbar Squares.
• Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.

Arun Valley to Everest Trek

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.
Standard teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS, National Park Fees).
A comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful trek.

Exclusions

International flight airfare.
Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory).
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters).
Tips for guide and porters (customary but not mandatory).

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits do I need for the Everest region?

You need two main permits: the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. Both are arranged on the trail by our guide, and the fees are included in your package.

How do we handle flight delays or cancellations at Lukla Airport?

Lukla Airport operates on visual flight rules, meaning flights are regularly delayed or cancelled due to fog or high winds. We include buffer days in our itineraries. In case of extended delays, we can coordinate helicopter flights (subject to availability and extra charges, often covered by travel insurance).

What is the highest altitude reached in the Everest region?

For standard Everest Base Camp treks, the highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters (18,192 ft), which offers the best views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Acclimatization is key to enjoying this trek safely.

What are teahouses like in the Khumbu (Everest) region?

Teahouses in the Everest region are relatively well-established. Most offer shared rooms, heated communal dining areas, and menus featuring traditional Dal Bhat, soups, noodles, and pancakes. Hot showers and device charging are available for a small fee.

Is internet and Wi-Fi available on the Everest trail?

Yes, cellular data (Ncell/NTC) works up to Tengboche/Dingboche. Beyond that, you can purchase prepaid Wi-Fi cards from 'Everest Link' which work at most teahouses along the trail, though speeds can vary.

How much cash should I bring on the Everest trek?

While Namche Bazaar has ATMs, they are frequently out of cash. We recommend carrying around 2,000 to 3,000 Nepalese Rupees (approx. $15–$25 USD) per day in cash to pay for extras like Wi-Fi, battery charging, hot showers, snacks, and tipping guides/porters.

Do I need comprehensive altitude travel insurance?

Absolutely. Your travel insurance policy must cover trekking up to 6,000 meters and include emergency helicopter evacuation. Evacuations from the remote Khumbu region can cost upwards of $5,000 USD.