Barun Valley Trekking.

The most popular trek among trekkers is the Barun Valley Trekking. The trek to Barun Valley offers challenging yet rewarding experiences. This park was established in the year 1992, and it covered an area of 1,554 square kilometers. Barun Valley Trek is one of the most unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences in the heart of Nepal’s Makalu-Barun National Park. It is known to offer fabulous views of scenery, the presence of rich flora and fauna, as well as exploration in a largely unexplored Himalayas area. Besides, the surrounding valley of Barun is encircled by the third-highest mountain in the world, Mt Makalu.

Location and Geography of Barun Valley

Location: Barun Valley is located in the eastern part of Nepal and indeed inside the Sankhuwasabha district. The Barun Valley also occupies the area under the boundary extension of Makalu Barun National Park from the Arun River. A far-flung area that bounds this valley lies between massive Mt. Makalu, in the world -third in order. Barun Valley is a highly inaccessible area far-off region, the paradise remains untold or untouched by so many, both trekkers as well nature lovers.

Geography: Barun Valley  is surrounded by the third-highest mountain in the world: Mt. Makalu, besides other peaks and mountains like Baruntse and Chamlang, etc., in all directions. The areas have varied scenery with luscious jungles, alpine meadows, rocky terrain, and even glaciers. And if you go downhill, you will find subtropical forests. You will find even high alpine meadows and glaciers at the higher places also.

Why Choose Barun Valley Trek?

Unspoiled Beauty: The valley of Barun is a haven for nature lovers, comprising dense forests, crystal-clear rivers, and breathtaking mountain vistas. The towering peaks of Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse provide a majestic backdrop for your journey.

Cultural Immersion: This is the main home of a few Sherpa villages in the Barun Valley that give an insight into their culture and tradition, not to mention their way of life. A chance to interact with the people, understand their Buddhist religion, and experience their hospitality.

The valley has rich wildlife, like Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, red pandas, and numerous bird species. You would wish to catch such elusive creatures in the eye as you trek through the rugged terrain.

Difficult yet Rewarding: The Barun Valley trek is averagely demanding, requiring good physical fitness and the will to embrace the elements. The outcome, however, has been enormous, with impressive scenery, a sense of accomplishment, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Highlights of Barun Valley Trek

• Trek to the base camp of Mt Makalu.
• Scenic view of Mount Everest, Mount Baruntse, Mount Chamlang, Mount Makalu, and Mount Lhotse.
• See views of various types of rare and exotic flora and fauna during the trek
• Trek through Makalu Barun National Park.
• Get indulged in the culturally rich and traditionally extravagant lives of the Rai, Limbu and Sherpa.

How do I get there? 

Barun Valley is a remote region of Nepal. It offers breathtaking views of the Makalu mountain range. Here are a few ways to reach Barun Valley.

1. By Air: We are going to enjoy a fantastic flight from Kathmandu towards Tumlingtar. The closest Airport is Tumlingtar from where one would take either public transportation or opt for hiring a taxi and reach Num which typically is the departure place for this trek.
2. By Road: We can reach Kathmandu by a long-distance bus up to Khadbari. Sandkhuwasabha’s district headquarters is in the town of Khadbari. You would then be able to hire a vehicle and reach either Seduwa or Num. Once more you could continue your trekking right from Khadbari also.

Barun Valley trekking trails

There are many trekking routes that could be enjoyed both by novices and experienced trekkers. A few of the popular trek routes of Barun Valley treks include:

1. Makalu Base Camp: It is one of the strenuous treks, taking someone to the base of the third tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu. It will take about 12-15 days from both of the places-number or Seduwa. Picturesque mountain scenarios and landscapes are seen.
2. Barun Valley Trek: It is pretty moderate in terms and takes one to such a cut-off valley. This is a 10-12 days long trek. One can start with Seduwa as the starting point of this trek. The main attractions available with this trek include Makalu Base Camp, Barun Glaciers, Makalu La Pass, and Barun Lake.
3. Makalu Base Camp Circuit: It is a classic trek that starts from either Num or Seduwa. The duration it takes to complete the trek can almost be 18 to 20 days. Major highlights in the Makalu Base Camp trekking trail are Makalu Base Camp, Makalu La Pass, Barun Lake, Barun Glacier, and Kongma La Pass. Best Time for the Trek

Best Time to Trek

The best months to leave would be spring, from March through May, or autumn, from September to November. In these seasons, you can enjoy the clear sky, temperature, and good weather; this is perfect trekking and a time for sightseeing time.

Monsoon is not a favorable season for trekking. Rain can be a bit too torrential. Floods and landslides are highly probable as the continuous heavy rainfalls do not abate.

Heavy snowfall on the trails of winter makes the tracking of the trail difficult. Due to this most of the trekkers are not interested in trekking in winter seasons.

Note: Barun Valley is the only trek on which trekking is not undertaken in winter seasons.

Flora and Fauna of Barun Valley

A variety of flora and fauna would have been found in the Barun Valley, different species of plants, and animals are to be watched within Barun Valley.

Fauna: These are the animals that nature lovers see in the domain of this valley. You may spot such rare Himalayan species as red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and the white-winged wood duck. If birding appeals to you, you will be delighted by its diversity of species like eagles, vultures, and pheasants.

Flora: The lower reaches of the Barun Valley are covered with thick, sub-tropical forests, with flowers like rhododendrons, magnolias, and orchids. As you ascend higher, you’ll come across fine alpine meadows, rhubarbs, and juniper bushes. The highlight of the valley is the dense Barun Valley Rhododendron Forest that starts coloring into vibrant colors during the spring.

Entry Fee and Permits:

he following are the permits that should be issued for the Valley Trek:

• Makalu National Park and Conservation Area Permit
  Nepalese people: NPR 100  (USD 1) per person 
  SAARC citizens: NPR 1,500 (USD 15) per person 
  Foreign people: NPR 3,000 (USD 30) per person 
• Makalu Rural Municipality Permit
  NRS 2000 which is approximately USD 20.

Trek Outline Itinerary

A typical Barun Valley trek itinerary spans 15 to 18 days, allowing enough time to explore the region’s highlights.

1st Day: Kathmandu to Tumlingtar by bus -20/22 hrs.
2nd Day: Drive to Num 1,500 m / 4,921 ft- 04/5 hrs.
3rd Day: Trek to Seduwa 1,493 m/4,898 ft – 04/5 hrs.
4th Day: Trek to Tashi Gaon 2,100 m/6,889 ft- 04/5 hrs.
5th Day: Trek Kohma Danda 3,500 m/11,482 ft- 05/6 hrs.
6th Day: Rest day at Kohama Danda for acclimatization.
7th Day: Trek to Mumbuk 3,400 m/11,154 ft – 06/7 hrs.
8th Day: Trek to Nehe Kharka 3,750 m/12,303- 05/6 hrs.
9th Day: Trek to Langmale Kharka 4,410 m/ 14,468 ft – 05/6 hrs.
10th Day: Trek to Makalu Base Camp 4,870 m/ 15,978 ft – 06/7 hrs.
11th Day: Explore Makalu Base Camp.
12th Day: Trek to Yangre Kharka 3,645 m/11,958 ft – 06/7 hrs.
13th Day: Trek to Mumbuk 3,400 m/11,154 ft – 05/6 hrs.
14th Day: Trek to Kohma Danda 3,500 m/11,482 ft – 05/6 hrs.
15th Day: Trek to Tashi Gaon 2,100 m/6,889 ft- 04/5 hrs.
16th Day: Trek to Num 1,500 m/4,921 ft- 04/5 hrs.
17th Day: Drive back to Tumlingtar-04/6 hrs.
18th Day: Drive back to Kathmandu- 20/22 hrs.

Conclusion

For an explorer who is looking for a journey less traveled yet incredibly rewarding in terms of unspoiled landscapes, rich cultural immersion, and wildlife interactions, this trek is an unforgettable experience. If one is ready to take on a road that few adventure enthusiasts tread, then the perfect destination lies ahead for this piece of uncharted section of the Himalayas: the Barun Valley. Your partner for this exciting trip, Happy Mountain Nepal, awaits your arrival and assures that your visit will be full of fun and without any hitch.Your adventure partner, Happy Mountain Nepal is waiting for your arrival and will make sure your trip will be enjoyable and hassle-free.

FAQs

1. Where is Barun Valley located?

Barun Valley is located in the eastern part of Nepal, within the Sankhuwasabha district, and is part of the Makalu-Barun National Park. Moreover, it lies in the shadow of Mt. Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world.

2. How difficult is the Barun Valley Trek?

The trek is moderately challenging, requiring good physical fitness and experience with high-altitude trekking; moreover, it involves steep ascents, rugged terrains, and long trekking days.

3. What is the best time to trek to Barun Valley?

The best seasons for the trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) because these periods offer clear skies, pleasant weather, and vibrant landscapes. However, winter and monsoon are not recommended due to harsh conditions.

4. How long does the Barun Valley Trek take?

The trek typically takes 15 to 18 days; moreover, this includes acclimatization and exploration days, depending on the itinerary and pace.

5. What permits are required for the trek?

You need the following permits:

• Makalu-Barun National Park Permit
  • NPR 100 for Nepalese
  • NPR 1,500 for SAARC citizens
  • NPR 3,000 for other foreigners
• Makalu Rural Municipality Permit: NPR 2,000 (~USD 20).

6. What wildlife can be seen in Barun Valley?

The valley is home to rare wildlife such as red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and numerous bird species, including eagles and pheasants.

7. What makes Barun Valley unique?

Barun Valley is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and rich biodiversity; moreover, it offers the chance to explore a remote, off-the-beaten-path destination surrounded by towering peaks like Mt. Makalu.

8. What should I pack for the trek?

Essential items include:

• Trekking boots
• Warm clothing and rain gear
• Sleeping bag
• First aid kit
• Water purification tablets
• Trekking poles
• Snacks and energy bars

9. Are there any cultural experiences on this trek?

Moreover, trekkers get to visit Sherpa and Rai villages, offering an opportunity to experience their rich traditions, Buddhist culture, and warm hospitality.

10. How do I reach the starting point of the trek?

You can either:

• Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and then drive to Num (the usual starting point), or
• Take a long-distance bus to Khadbari and subsequently hire a vehicle to reach Num or Seduwa.