Trekking through the lush Arun Valley
Nepal Region

Arun Valley to Everest Trek

Difficulty Strenuous
Duration 23 Days
Max. Altitude 5,545m
Best Season Spring and Autumn
Lodging & Meals Tea House/Lodge & Camping

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
Arun Valley to Everest Trek
Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

01

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

02

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

03

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

04

Experiencing absolute solitude in the first half of the trek.

05

Culminating the journey at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

1
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Hotel transfer and extensive trek briefing. Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative who will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax, recover from your flight, or take a peaceful stroll through the vibrant streets of Thamel, getting a first taste of the colorful Nepalese culture.

2
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Fly to the hot, low-altitude Arun Valley and begin walking along the Arun River. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

3
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Walk through tropical terrain, crossing rivers and passing thatched-roof villages. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

4
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Ascend steadily towards the base of the pass, entering cooler, terraced farmlands. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

5
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

A steep climb to cross the Salpa pass, entering the Solukhumbu district, and descending to Sanam. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

6
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Descend through dense rhododendron and oak forests to the large Rai village of Gudel. We begin our return journey, descending to lower altitudes. With every step, the air becomes thicker and warmer, and we walk through lush forests and traditional villages, reflecting on our incredible achievements in the high mountains while enjoying the easier hiking.

7
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Cross the Hongu Khola and climb steeply up the opposite side of the valley. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

8
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Cross the Surke La pass and descend into the rugged terrain leading to Sibuje. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

9
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Trek through deep forests and enter the traditional Sherpa village of Pangum. We trek along well-established trails in the Khumbu, passing through dense pine forests and crossing high suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. The dramatic landscape features views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Everest peaking over the ridges.

10
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Cross the Pangkongma La pass, with distant views of the Khumbu peaks, and descend to Painya. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

11
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Join the main, bustling Everest Base Camp trail south of Lukla and continue to Phakding. We make our way to the base camp or high camp, stepping into a high-altitude wilderness surrounded by towering glaciers, ice falls, and massive rock walls. The air is cold and crisp, and the camp buzzes with the excitement of the upcoming summit push or pass crossing.

12
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Enter Sagarmatha National Park and climb the steep hill to Namche Bazaar. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

13
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Rest and acclimatization day in Namche. A vital day dedicated to rest and acclimatization to allow our bodies to adapt to the thinner mountain air. We take a gentle, scenic hike to higher viewpoints, maximizing our altitude adaptation before returning to the lodge. Staying active while resting is key to a successful journey.

14
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Trek to the famous Tengboche Monastery. The path leads us past ancient stone prayer walls (Mani stones) and small chortens, where we follow the local tradition of passing them clockwise. The trail winds through vibrant Sherpa settlements, showcasing their unique lifestyle and hospitality.

15
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Ascend above the tree line into the high alpine valley of Dingboche. We climb steadily along the glacial valleys, observing the thinning vegetation as we enter the alpine zone. The towering presence of Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam accompanies us, providing a grand backdrop to our steps.

16
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

A second acclimatization day with a high-altitude hike. We follow the rushing Dudh Koshi River, ascending rocky trails and navigating occasional steep climbs. The crisp mountain air and the rhythmic sounds of yak bells create an immersive Himalayan trekking experience.

17
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Cross the Thukla pass and follow the Khumbu glacier moraine. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

18
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Reach Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep to sleep. We make our way to the base camp or high camp, stepping into a high-altitude wilderness surrounded by towering glaciers, ice falls, and massive rock walls. The air is cold and crisp, and the camp buzzes with the excitement of the upcoming summit push or pass crossing.

19
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Early morning climb for Everest views, then a long descent. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

20
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Return to Namche Bazaar. We begin our return journey, descending to lower altitudes. With every step, the air becomes thicker and warmer, and we walk through lush forests and traditional villages, reflecting on our incredible achievements in the high mountains while enjoying the easier hiking.

21
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

The final day of walking back to the airstrip. We trek along well-established trails in the Khumbu, passing through dense pine forests and crossing high suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. The dramatic landscape features views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Everest peaking over the ridges.

22
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Morning mountain flight to Kathmandu. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

23
Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Transfer to the airport for departure. Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative who will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax, recover from your flight, or take a peaceful stroll through the vibrant streets of Thamel, getting a first taste of the colorful Nepalese culture.

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

The best seasons are the pre-monsoon (Spring: March to May) and post-monsoon (Autumn: September to November). During these times, the weather is generally clear, offering the most spectacular mountain views and stable walking conditions.

While previous experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. You should have a reasonable level of physical fitness and be able to walk 5-7 hours a day over varied terrain. We highly recommend cardiovascular exercises (like running or cycling) a few weeks prior to your arrival.

Our itineraries are carefully designed with built-in acclimatization days. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and carry a medical kit, including a pulse oximeter. If mild symptoms occur, the guide will monitor you closely and may advise resting. In severe cases, we will coordinate an immediate helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu.

Accommodation along the main trekking routes consists of 'teahouses'—local lodges that provide both food and a place to sleep. The rooms are generally simple, clean, and equipped with twin beds, foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets. Most teahouses have shared bathroom facilities, and hot showers are usually available for an extra small fee. As for food, the menus are surprisingly extensive! You can expect traditional Nepali meals like Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and curries) which provides excellent energy for trekking. You will also find a variety of Western, Tibetan, and Indian dishes including pasta, pizza, noodles, soups, pancakes, and eggs. We highly recommend eating freshly cooked vegetarian meals at higher altitudes for better digestion.

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is strictly mandatory for all our trekkers. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters depending on your specific route), medical emergencies, and most importantly, emergency helicopter evacuation. In the remote Himalayas, if you suffer from severe altitude sickness (AMS) or physical injury, a helicopter is the only way out, and these evacuations can cost several thousand dollars. Please ensure you carry a printed copy of your insurance policy with you, as our guides will need to verify it before the trek begins.

Staying hydrated is critical for acclimatization; you should aim to drink 3 to 4 liters of water every day. While you can buy bottled mineral water at lower elevations, we strongly discourage this to protect the fragile Himalayan environment from single-use plastic waste. The best and most sustainable method is to bring two reusable 1-liter water bottles (Nalgene or similar). You can fill these with tap or stream water and use water purification tablets or a SteriPEN. Alternatively, every teahouse sells boiled water which is 100% safe to drink and is highly recommended during the cold mornings and evenings.

Yes, technology has reached the Himalayas! You can buy a local SIM card (Ncell or NTC) in Kathmandu, which provides decent 3G/4G coverage in the lower regions of the trek. As you climb higher, mobile networks become patchy or non-existent. However, almost all teahouses along the popular routes (like Everest and Annapurna) now offer Wi-Fi access for a small daily fee. In the Everest region, you can purchase an 'Everest Link' prepaid Wi-Fi card. Keep in mind that connection speeds are shared among many trekkers and can be slow, especially during bad weather, so it's a great opportunity for a digital detox!

The mountains operate almost entirely on a cash economy. While there are a few ATMs in major hubs like Namche Bazaar or Jomsom, they are notoriously unreliable, often running out of cash or suffering from network outages. You must withdraw enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in Kathmandu before starting your trek. Since your meals, accommodation, and permits are included in your package, you only need cash for personal expenses. We recommend budgeting around $15 to $20 USD (in local currency) per day to cover extras like hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi, snacks, tea, coffee, and tipping your guide and porters at the end of the trip.

If your trek involves a domestic flight (such as to Lukla or Jomsom), the strict weight limit is 15 kg (33 lbs) total per person, which includes both your checked duffel bag and your carry-on daypack. Our packages include porter service, with one porter assigned to carry the gear for two trekkers. Your porter will carry up to 20-25 kg total (10-12 kg of your gear). We provide you with a durable company duffel bag for this purpose. You will only need to carry your personal daypack (around 30-40 liters) containing your daily essentials: water, snacks, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, and warm layers.

Mountain weather in the Himalayas is notoriously unpredictable, and flights to remote airstrips like Lukla are operated strictly on visual flight rules (VFR). Even in peak seasons, flights can be delayed for hours or sometimes cancelled for consecutive days due to high winds or low visibility. If this happens, our team in Kathmandu will work tirelessly to reschedule your flight for the next available window. We highly recommend scheduling 1 or 2 extra 'buffer days' at the end of your trip in Kathmandu before your international flight home. In severe cases, chartered helicopters may be an option to bypass flight cancellations, but this comes at an additional cost usually covered by your travel insurance.