Arun to Hungku Valley Trek is an exciting trek to the deepest gorge of the Eastern region (Makalu region) in Nepal. This trek takes you to Arun Valley perched in between Sagarmatha National Park and Makalu Barun National Park. Arun Valley, Hunku Valley, lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, spectacular views of lofty mountains, Panch Pokhari, Hinku and Hunku river, Salpa Pass, and picturesque village are some of the notable highlights of the trek.
The trail bestows breathtaking views of mountains like Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, and Makalu. This trekking region is blessed with natural beauty and cultural diversity. Rai, Sherpa and Limbu ethnic group are the inhabitants of this region. That means you will indulge in their enticing culture and gain insight into their unique lifestyle.
Its remoteness and secluded solidarity attract few enthusiastic trekkers every year. Arun to Hungku Valley trek route is less-crowded and leads up the old trail beneath the Everest and Makalu mountain ranges. You will cross the Hinku, and Hunku river valleys and two 3000m passes. Much of the trek involves walking through rhododendron forests, desolate landscapes, and mountain trails. The trek is considered a challenging trek, which is within the capability of experienced trekkers.
The unique and well-designed itinerary of this adventure takes you to two prominent landmarks: Lukla, and top of Mera Peak. Your adventure begins with a scenic flight to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu. Ghote Bazaar, Ghorase, Khiraule, Cholam Kharka, Khola Kharka, Thangnag, Khare, Kathe Khola, Lukla, and Tumlingtar, are the popular resting ground for your trek.
Arun to Hungku Valley Trek with Mera Peak Climbing Route
The journey starts with a 35-minute flight to Tumlingtar. You will start trekking from Tumlingtar to Katike. The trail gradually ascends, after walking for a couple of hours, you will arrive in Katike your first resting ground of this trek. Your guide will manage your food and bedroom; rest assured that he will manage the best.
The next day, you will wake up early, eat light breakfast and start trekking, heading to Ghote Bazaar. You will pass through terraced rice pastures on the coast of the Arun Koshi, and the north shore of the Irkhuwa Khola. Before reaching Ghote Bazaar, you will walk pass banana farms.
You will continue the trail to Salpa Phed, Ghorase, and Gudel. The descent takes place under a thick forest carpet. You will pass several chortens and mani walls. You will definitely be elated to find rocks printed with Buddhist mantras.
En route to Khiraule from Gudel, you will follow the steep uphill over scree stairs, and reach the village of Sanam. The trail encompasses descents over scree. Shortly, you will arrive in Khiraule. On your way to Cholam Kharka, you will walk through the forested trail. It will take you around 6 hours to reach Cholam Kharka.
Leaving Cholam Kharka, you will descend towards Panch Pokhari, a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It commands magnificent views of surrounding peaks. From there, you will descend to Khola Kharka.
Furthermore, the trail continues to Kathe and Thangnag. Walking on grazing grounds in the Upper Hinku valley will be a pleasant experience. You will cross a single plank bridge and arrive in Thangnag. On the 12th day of the trek, you will reach Khare, and continue to High Camp. At High you, you will prepare to scale Mera Peak.
You will start early and follow the footstep of your mountaineering leader. From atop Mera Peak, you can admire breathtaking views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Chamlang, Makalu, Baruntse, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Kangtena, Ama Dablam and surrounding peaks.
After spending quality time, you will descend back to Base Camp. On the 17th day, you will retrace your steps to Thangnag, Kathe Khola, and Zatrawala Pass. Leaving Zatrawala Pass, you will head to Lukla, to catch a flight to Kathmandu.
Arun to Hungku Valley Trek with Mera Peak Climbing Difficulty
This is a 19-day trek ideal for experienced trekkers. It would be best if you were physically fit and mentally determined for this trek. It is a difficult to challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers.
The highest elevation of this trek is 6476m at the top of Mera Peak. The trek demands 5-6 hours trekking hours every day, and on a challenging day, you must trek for 8-9 hours.
