SALPA-ARUN TREK(Lukla Solukhumbu to Tumlingtar Nepal)EXPERIENCE THE SUMMITING OF MANY BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAINS IN ONE GO
Chirping birds, gentle noise of stream, fragrance of pine trees, spectacular views of rhododendron forest, shrubs, and bushes on the Salpa-Arun trail provides you a different experience than that of trekking in a busy routes where the number of tourist is more than local people. A very few tourists discover the fascinating Salpa-Arun River route, home to Kulung and Sherpa ethnic people with traditional customs, that haven't changed for centuries. Trekking in Salpa-Arun route provides an alternative approach to the Khumbu region trek. The Salpa-Arun region is particularly known for it’s magnificent terraced field, 14 different species of rhododendron and rare bird species. Indigenous people of this region use natural resources – bamboo, nettle and daphne to create houses, household utensils, jewelry, clothing, and even paper. Salpa-Arun region has almost everything a traveler could wish for - colorful fairs and festivals, beautiful mountain views and vibrant local culture and their way of life. The Salpa-Arun river route is based on these intrinsic treasures. It closely follows the jagged geography of the Himalaya (it would be good to name the peaks that this route covers), crossing high ridges and descending into the deep gorges of several major rivers that drain the world's highest terrain. Starting from the Lukla airstrip, you will trek alongside local people through forests and villages. From Salpa Pass (3,414), follow the left trail that leads to the Sacred Salpa Pokhari (lake) where local Shamen worship their Guru (religious teachers) once in a year in the month of June/July. From here, it takes 3 hours to climb Shiluchho Peak (4156m). You may wish to spend at least half an hour on the top of this rocky peak from where you can see a fabulous mountain views. After climbing Shiluchho, you descend to the tropical banks of the Arun River at near sea level. Along the route, you can spend your evening in simple village lodges and eat simple Nepali food. The trail ends at the airstrip of Tumlingtar where flights back to Kathmandu are available.
SEASONS TO CHOOSE SALPA-ARUN TRACK Salpa-Arun Track offers the flavor of both cultural and natural trips. This unique route offers unexplored yet significant cultural and natural sites with beautiful mountain scenery and green valleys. April and May is the best season for those who prefer to see the whole jungle with 19 different species of rhododendron and varieties of native and rare birds. February-March and Sept-November are the seasons for cultural and religious festivals.
10 DAYS SALPA-ARUN TREKKING Name of the trek : Salpa-Arun Trek
Trek starts from : Lukla, 35 minutes flight from Kathmandu
Trek ends at : Tumlingtar, Sankhuwasabha
Trek grade : Moderate
Highest access : Salpa pass (3414 m), Shiluchho peak (4156m) if you climb
Culture : Different community with majority of Kulung Rai, Sherpa, Tamang, Brahmin and Chhetri
Type of trek : Lodge trek and camping
DAY 1
LUKLA TO PUIYAN
Time (excluding rests): 4.5 hours_____________________________________________________________________________________
There are three ways for Salpa-Arun track
a) Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and end the trek reaching Tumlingtar
b) Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and end reaching Lukla or Phaplu
c) Fly from Kathmandu to Phaplu and end up reaching Tumlingtar. This guide book follows the trail no. a (From Lukla to Tumlingtar).
Most trekkers begin the Salpa-Arun River trek at Lukla (2840m), the world's busiest mountain airport. We suggest you to make this an easy day, finishing at Puiyan. Lukla to Puiyan is reasonably easy. If you want to carry on, you may bypass some of the route described and stay on the main trail to Bupsa or Khari Khola.
If you've just stepped off a twin otter from Kathmandu, it can be pleasant to take a moment and enjoy the mountain fresh air. Thereafter, explore Lukla picking up any last minute shopping such as umbrella, extra batteries, rain coat and plastics for your porters, etc. Just below Lukla, the trail drops and joins the path from Chaunrikharka and climbs up, sometimes steeply through the village of Surke to regain most of the elevation lost while crossing the ridge known as Paiya pass. The trail approaches Puiyan village, nestled on top of a valley above Dudh Kosi. Puiyan (2770m) is a village with around 50 households of Sherpa and Tamang communities. There are eight to ten hotels and lodges in Paiyan scattered along the trail. People grow potatoes, wheat and maize. You may try some tongba, a brew common to most of eastern Nepal, made from fermented millet, served in a brassware vessel or bamboo vessel and sipped through a bamboo straw. Or you may try rakshi (local whisky), you should not try both at a time – if you do, you may have a headache next day.
Trek starts from : Lukla, 35 minutes flight from Kathmandu
Trek ends at : Tumlingtar, Sankhuwasabha
Trek grade : Moderate
Highest access : Salpa pass (3414 m), Shiluchho peak (4156m) if you climb
Culture : Different community with majority of Kulung Rai, Sherpa, Tamang, Brahmin and Chhetri
Type of trek : Lodge trek and camping
DAY 1
LUKLA TO PUIYAN
Time (excluding rests): 4.5 hours_____________________________________________________________________________________
There are three ways for Salpa-Arun track
a) Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and end the trek reaching Tumlingtar
b) Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and end reaching Lukla or Phaplu
c) Fly from Kathmandu to Phaplu and end up reaching Tumlingtar. This guide book follows the trail no. a (From Lukla to Tumlingtar).
Most trekkers begin the Salpa-Arun River trek at Lukla (2840m), the world's busiest mountain airport. We suggest you to make this an easy day, finishing at Puiyan. Lukla to Puiyan is reasonably easy. If you want to carry on, you may bypass some of the route described and stay on the main trail to Bupsa or Khari Khola.
If you've just stepped off a twin otter from Kathmandu, it can be pleasant to take a moment and enjoy the mountain fresh air. Thereafter, explore Lukla picking up any last minute shopping such as umbrella, extra batteries, rain coat and plastics for your porters, etc. Just below Lukla, the trail drops and joins the path from Chaunrikharka and climbs up, sometimes steeply through the village of Surke to regain most of the elevation lost while crossing the ridge known as Paiya pass. The trail approaches Puiyan village, nestled on top of a valley above Dudh Kosi. Puiyan (2770m) is a village with around 50 households of Sherpa and Tamang communities. There are eight to ten hotels and lodges in Paiyan scattered along the trail. People grow potatoes, wheat and maize. You may try some tongba, a brew common to most of eastern Nepal, made from fermented millet, served in a brassware vessel or bamboo vessel and sipped through a bamboo straw. Or you may try rakshi (local whisky), you should not try both at a time – if you do, you may have a headache next day.
DAY 2
PUIYAN TO PANGOMTime (excluding rests): 5 hours
There are a few ways to get through the day to reach Pangom (2850m). You may take a high route, leaving the tourist highway a few hundred meters past the last lodge. Because of the nature structure of the trail with lot of bumps and slopes, it will be a lot further to Pangom than it may appear on your map, with no ‘flat' all day. You have to walk through in and out of small canals and cross several streams but you will have an opportunity to see some great views of a less populated and peaceful landscape.
The alternative way of getting to Pangom is to continue on the main trail until you reach a junction in the forest just before a big descend to Bupsa. Take a side trail heading uphill for Kharte then climb on, passing the Gauri Shankar hotel and finally joining the high trail mentioned above. Otherwise stick with the main trail as far a Khari Khola then head west up Khari Valley towards Pangom passing a monastery along the way. Despite appearances, local people recommend that the high trail up the landslide from Puiyan is the shorter, easier and most interesting route overall. If approaching from Jiri, either leave the main trail at Khari Khola or use the trail above Bupsa. Both Sherpas and Khaling Rais inhabit the settlement of Khari Khola at the base of this heavily terraced valley. When you reach Pang Gompa, there are some interesting Mani walls just below the settlement. This Sherpa settlement has many lodges as well as a Gomba. There is a paper factory in the village and you may have a chance to see Nepali paper making processes, if it is operational. Also a small hydroelectric project nearby might be worth a visit. When you wake up in Pangom with hot tea or coffee, you will have an astounding view of Numbur and Katang to the northwest. These peaks are sacred to the Gurung community living in the areas to the south
PUIYAN TO PANGOMTime (excluding rests): 5 hours
There are a few ways to get through the day to reach Pangom (2850m). You may take a high route, leaving the tourist highway a few hundred meters past the last lodge. Because of the nature structure of the trail with lot of bumps and slopes, it will be a lot further to Pangom than it may appear on your map, with no ‘flat' all day. You have to walk through in and out of small canals and cross several streams but you will have an opportunity to see some great views of a less populated and peaceful landscape.
The alternative way of getting to Pangom is to continue on the main trail until you reach a junction in the forest just before a big descend to Bupsa. Take a side trail heading uphill for Kharte then climb on, passing the Gauri Shankar hotel and finally joining the high trail mentioned above. Otherwise stick with the main trail as far a Khari Khola then head west up Khari Valley towards Pangom passing a monastery along the way. Despite appearances, local people recommend that the high trail up the landslide from Puiyan is the shorter, easier and most interesting route overall. If approaching from Jiri, either leave the main trail at Khari Khola or use the trail above Bupsa. Both Sherpas and Khaling Rais inhabit the settlement of Khari Khola at the base of this heavily terraced valley. When you reach Pang Gompa, there are some interesting Mani walls just below the settlement. This Sherpa settlement has many lodges as well as a Gomba. There is a paper factory in the village and you may have a chance to see Nepali paper making processes, if it is operational. Also a small hydroelectric project nearby might be worth a visit. When you wake up in Pangom with hot tea or coffee, you will have an astounding view of Numbur and Katang to the northwest. These peaks are sacred to the Gurung community living in the areas to the south
Tips :- If you want to greet people – Say “Tashi Delek” to Sherpas and “Sewakey” to Kulung.
DAY 3
PANGOM TO NAJINGDINGMA
Time (excluding rests): 6 hours
PANGOM TO NAJINGDINGMA
Time (excluding rests): 6 hours
Day three is relatively not easy, surmounting Satu pass, the first of the three passes on the trek and crossing the Inukhu valley - a big descend followed by the inescapable ascent. There are a couple of trail options but it is recommended that you end up the day reaching Najingdingma, a small hamlet just below the second pass, Surki
From the village, climb a little further to Pangom pass (3173m), also known as Satu La from where some great views can be expected in all directions, if the weather is favorable. To the north is Mera peak at the head of the Hinku valley. Passing a small chorten (stupa) at the pass, make an easy cross along the ridge until you reach Bhasme (2700m), also known as Shibuche after about an hour. The trail diverts downwards through the village where there is a simple lodge and a small shop. The trail continues down a ridge but soon weaves almost vertically all the way down to the river far below.
From Bhasme there is a second less obvious trail that descends into the valley further to the north then climbs to the east side of the valley to Cherem, a Sherpa village with not more than 30 households. Make sure you are on the correct trail. It is usually possible to stay in Cherem, but it is the people of this village that operate the lodges in Najingdingma on the main route. Cherem is little out of the way but if you are interested in local culture and religion, you may visit this local gompa. If you choose not to stay in Cherem, it would be easy to continue on to Boksom or double back over Surki pass to Najingdingma.
When you reach the bridge at the base of the valley, there is a good spot for lunch or a snack at the river side of Inkhu, also known as Hinkhu. Take care on the edge of the drop to the river – the rocks very slippery. From the bridge, the trail turns to the right for a short distance and comes to some hamlets at Gaikharka (2300m). Gaikharka literally means cow pasture - Rai and Gurung people from further down the valley occupy the pastoral farms and bring their livestock to graze here seasonally. Continue climbing the Surki La ridge through some beautiful open forests, crossing occasional streams. After perhaps 2 hours of climbing, the trail eventually enters a large clearing; climb a little higher again to reach a small hamlet of Najingdingma (2650m). There are two Sherpa lodges with bamboo thatched roofs which makes an interesting sleeping quarter.
DAY 4
NAJINGDINGMA TO BUNG
Time (excluding rests): 7 hours
From Bhasme there is a second less obvious trail that descends into the valley further to the north then climbs to the east side of the valley to Cherem, a Sherpa village with not more than 30 households. Make sure you are on the correct trail. It is usually possible to stay in Cherem, but it is the people of this village that operate the lodges in Najingdingma on the main route. Cherem is little out of the way but if you are interested in local culture and religion, you may visit this local gompa. If you choose not to stay in Cherem, it would be easy to continue on to Boksom or double back over Surki pass to Najingdingma.
When you reach the bridge at the base of the valley, there is a good spot for lunch or a snack at the river side of Inkhu, also known as Hinkhu. Take care on the edge of the drop to the river – the rocks very slippery. From the bridge, the trail turns to the right for a short distance and comes to some hamlets at Gaikharka (2300m). Gaikharka literally means cow pasture - Rai and Gurung people from further down the valley occupy the pastoral farms and bring their livestock to graze here seasonally. Continue climbing the Surki La ridge through some beautiful open forests, crossing occasional streams. After perhaps 2 hours of climbing, the trail eventually enters a large clearing; climb a little higher again to reach a small hamlet of Najingdingma (2650m). There are two Sherpa lodges with bamboo thatched roofs which makes an interesting sleeping quarter.
DAY 4
NAJINGDINGMA TO BUNG
Time (excluding rests): 7 hours
Today you have to cross the second major pass and descend into the increasingly populated Hongu valley. It is generally an easy and a very interesting day trekking. Increasingly populated Hongu valley. It is generally an easy and a very interesting day trekking.Today you have to cross the second major pass and descend into the
Leaving Najingdingma, cross a small stream then make a sharp climb to reach Surki La, also known as Sipki La (3085m), a notch in the ridge above Najingdingma in about 50 minutes. This rocky and sometimes muddy ridge during summer can be slippery. From the pass itself it is worthwhile making another small climb up to a path to a lookout that offers a panoramic view of the backside of the very peaks you have been admiring from Khumbu. You would also see Panch Pokhari, meaning Five Lakes, at a distance of two days walk further north along the ridgeline.
After the viewpoint, come back to the main trail and descend from the pass from the right. The path winds through spots of thick forest into the Hongu Valley. Bears are known to wander the Upper Hongu - note that Nepal's bears do not hibernate during winter, so walk in a group and chat loudly to avoid sudden confrontation with aggressive Himalayan black bears.
In 1992, a fire thought to have started in Najingdingma destroyed a huge area of forest in the Upper Hongu. From here, there is a junction after a short distance below the pass - turn left for Chheskam and right for the direct trail to Bung. The majority of people of the Upper Hongu are from Kulung ethnicity.
You will pass a series of old mani walls and from a large stupa, one can look down the valley to see Boksom Gompa nestled within a ring of tall trees a short distance below. Take the downhill path to a small lodge, and then make a detour off the main trail to visit the gompa itself (also known as Chambaling Gompa). In 2001 the gompa seemed all but deserted but it may have undergone some recent refurbishment since then. It's an impressive and a peaceful spot, completely surrounded by a ring of mani stones and now mature junipers. It takes about 2 hours to reach this gompa from the pass It's another few hours walk before reaching Bung, a typically large Kulung Rai village tumbling down a steep hillside and covering an elevation range of perhaps 500m from top to bottom. In fact, Bung is the largest village of the Salpa-Arun trekking area. Follow a trail through a gully into Bung and head downhill. There are some shops and lodges in Bung. Stop in middle Bung for the night and here you have to show your Makalu-Barun park permit. You can see Gudel village high above on the ridge opposite. Enjoy the landscape view with Tongba or local whisky or coffee. Or observe Kulung Rai’s cultural dance with small donation, if you are interested
After the viewpoint, come back to the main trail and descend from the pass from the right. The path winds through spots of thick forest into the Hongu Valley. Bears are known to wander the Upper Hongu - note that Nepal's bears do not hibernate during winter, so walk in a group and chat loudly to avoid sudden confrontation with aggressive Himalayan black bears.
In 1992, a fire thought to have started in Najingdingma destroyed a huge area of forest in the Upper Hongu. From here, there is a junction after a short distance below the pass - turn left for Chheskam and right for the direct trail to Bung. The majority of people of the Upper Hongu are from Kulung ethnicity.
You will pass a series of old mani walls and from a large stupa, one can look down the valley to see Boksom Gompa nestled within a ring of tall trees a short distance below. Take the downhill path to a small lodge, and then make a detour off the main trail to visit the gompa itself (also known as Chambaling Gompa). In 2001 the gompa seemed all but deserted but it may have undergone some recent refurbishment since then. It's an impressive and a peaceful spot, completely surrounded by a ring of mani stones and now mature junipers. It takes about 2 hours to reach this gompa from the pass It's another few hours walk before reaching Bung, a typically large Kulung Rai village tumbling down a steep hillside and covering an elevation range of perhaps 500m from top to bottom. In fact, Bung is the largest village of the Salpa-Arun trekking area. Follow a trail through a gully into Bung and head downhill. There are some shops and lodges in Bung. Stop in middle Bung for the night and here you have to show your Makalu-Barun park permit. You can see Gudel village high above on the ridge opposite. Enjoy the landscape view with Tongba or local whisky or coffee. Or observe Kulung Rai’s cultural dance with small donation, if you are interested
DAY 5
BUNG TO SANAM Time (excluding rests): 7 hours
BUNG TO SANAM Time (excluding rests): 7 hours
Make a difficult climb out of Hongu, and then continue the first stage of the ascent to Salpa Bhanjyang. This more remote section of the route makes a brief return into the Sherpa-country with plenty of beautiful waterfalls and woodlands.
One might take a couple of attempts to find the correct route down to the bridge below without ending up in someone's veggie patch or pigpen. To avoid this, take a left at a junction towards the base of Bung, then bend right through the bamboo thickets to cross the bridge (1280m) over the Hongu Khola. Enjoy the last downward steps of the day. Albeit travelling in the reverse and the easier direction, Tilman wrote of this "appallingly deep valley" in Nepal Himalaya: “This is arguably the hardest climb of the trek and it will take at least 3 hours to reach Gudel from Bung, barely a kilometer in distant.”
If you make it up the hill you'll find the good folks of Gudel (1950m) to be friendly and welcoming. Keep climbing through the village along a water channel and past a few water mills to a junction at the schoolyard. Make a right turn passing several lodges. It may be possible to camp overnight in the schoolyard, if you wish.
There is a nice viewpoint on a peninsula a short climb above Gudel after which the trail turns into a new valley, gradually climbing eastwards into a more remote country. From the peninsula, one can gain an impressive view of the intensely populated Hongu area. When in bloom, the white flowering magnolia on the opposite side of the Libung valley provides you an impressive view. Note the solid but open fronted stone shelters on the Gudel-Arun route built for porters who won't quite make it home for the night. Watch out for a bad tempered dog at the Sherpa village of Share. You are always welcome to visit the Nimtsola Gompa if you can find the keeper of the key - Please make a small donation. The lama will use the donation money for lighting butter lamp on Tsechu puja on special puja every month (Lamas perform Padmasambhawa’s puja on the 10th of every month of the Tibetan calendar to accumulate merits for both for this life and next life of every sentient being).
Sanam (2850m) sitting above the Lidung Khola is sparsely populated by Sherpas. There are at least 4 lodges in this village which catches an amazing view of the morning sun in good weather. Beware of dogs and late night drinking sessions.
DAY 6
SANAM TO SALPA POKHARI
Time (excluding rests): 5hours
If you make it up the hill you'll find the good folks of Gudel (1950m) to be friendly and welcoming. Keep climbing through the village along a water channel and past a few water mills to a junction at the schoolyard. Make a right turn passing several lodges. It may be possible to camp overnight in the schoolyard, if you wish.
There is a nice viewpoint on a peninsula a short climb above Gudel after which the trail turns into a new valley, gradually climbing eastwards into a more remote country. From the peninsula, one can gain an impressive view of the intensely populated Hongu area. When in bloom, the white flowering magnolia on the opposite side of the Libung valley provides you an impressive view. Note the solid but open fronted stone shelters on the Gudel-Arun route built for porters who won't quite make it home for the night. Watch out for a bad tempered dog at the Sherpa village of Share. You are always welcome to visit the Nimtsola Gompa if you can find the keeper of the key - Please make a small donation. The lama will use the donation money for lighting butter lamp on Tsechu puja on special puja every month (Lamas perform Padmasambhawa’s puja on the 10th of every month of the Tibetan calendar to accumulate merits for both for this life and next life of every sentient being).
Sanam (2850m) sitting above the Lidung Khola is sparsely populated by Sherpas. There are at least 4 lodges in this village which catches an amazing view of the morning sun in good weather. Beware of dogs and late night drinking sessions.
DAY 6
SANAM TO SALPA POKHARI
Time (excluding rests): 5hours
Today you will be walking through one of Nepal’s best forests. After climbing gently up for 3 hours from Sanam, you will reach Salpa pass from where you can see spectacular views of Sankhuwasabha and Kanchenjunga landscapes.Today you will be walking through one of Nepal’s best forests. After climbing gently up for 3 hours from Sanam, you will reach Salpa pass from where you can see spectacular views of Sankhuwasabha and Kanchenjunga landscapes mountain view from ShiluchhoBefore you start your day, ensure you fill up on fluids as there may be water shortages until you reach Salpa pokhari (3460) for lunch. The trail from Sanam to Salpa pass (3414m) goes relatively flat for a while, crossing the Lidung Khola and climbs though a wonderful forest valley covered with hanging moss. The climb turns east again and becomes relentless on well formed but seemingly endless stone steps. Eventually the fir, spruce, hemlock and rhododendron forests thin to open out towards a large chorten at the pass itself after about 3 hours climb. A tea stop at the summit may be open - if so expect a glass of milk tea and enjoy the landscape views. The pass will be snowbound during winter months - if so, local traffic may not be enough to keep the route open, and it may be difficult to find the route after snowfall. As the pass summit is exposed with no guaranteed accommodation for quite some distance, it is highly advised not to under estimate or attempt a crossing in low visibility or in bad weather. Back to the northwest, the peaks of Katang and Numbur may still be visible in clear weather.
Follow the left path that gently climbs toward Salpa Pokhari (lake) which is sacred to both the Animist and Hindu followers. If you can figure out the dates, don’t miss the festivals and fairs that takes place twice annually. After lunch hour, it is usually cloudy and visibility becomes very low in the mountain regions.
Salpa pokhari area is a big pastureland where Rais and Sherpas bring their livestock during summer. The area will be full of yaks and sheep – do not miss to see local man or lady milking Chauri (female yak). You can also buy fresh milk, curd, butter, cheese of Chauri that taste much delicious than the one you have tasted in cities.
Follow the left path that gently climbs toward Salpa Pokhari (lake) which is sacred to both the Animist and Hindu followers. If you can figure out the dates, don’t miss the festivals and fairs that takes place twice annually. After lunch hour, it is usually cloudy and visibility becomes very low in the mountain regions.
Salpa pokhari area is a big pastureland where Rais and Sherpas bring their livestock during summer. The area will be full of yaks and sheep – do not miss to see local man or lady milking Chauri (female yak). You can also buy fresh milk, curd, butter, cheese of Chauri that taste much delicious than the one you have tasted in cities.
DAY 7
SALPA POKHARI TO SHILUCHHO PEAK AND BACK TO SALPA POKHARI
Time (including rest): 6 hours
SALPA POKHARI TO SHILUCHHO PEAK AND BACK TO SALPA POKHARI
Time (including rest): 6 hours
Today you will climb a sacred peak, Shiluchho. Climbing this peak will reward you a panoramic views of mountains. Be careful, while climbing up and climbing down from the peak
As usual, after your breakfast, start climbing Shiluchho peak (4156m). This rocky peak named “Shiluchho” is very sacred from both Animism and Hinduism perspectives. “Shilu” stands for …… and “Chho” for ….. which literally means “……….”. People believe that if you pray here with full presence of your heart and mind for someone dead or alive, they will be relieved from any obstacle that they might be facing due to their bad karma. Or you can also pray for yourself and your family members – all your wishes will come true!
Once you reach the top of Shiluchho after an easy three hours climb from Salpa pokhari, you will feel as if you are watching one of the world's most beautiful gardens from the top of a huge natural tower. A range of spectacular mountain views (Mt. Everst, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Kailash, Mt. Gauri Shankar, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Nuptse, Mt. Mera Peak, Dudh Kunda, Charpate, ) can be captured from just a single place.
Once you reach the top of Shiluchho after an easy three hours climb from Salpa pokhari, you will feel as if you are watching one of the world's most beautiful gardens from the top of a huge natural tower. A range of spectacular mountain views (Mt. Everst, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Kailash, Mt. Gauri Shankar, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Nuptse, Mt. Mera Peak, Dudh Kunda, Charpate, ) can be captured from just a single place.
TIPS: As a traveler, you have important roles to play. Often travelers want to be responsible but are not aware of the issues and the code of conduct. The tips we have provided in this brochure/guide book are not intended to be exhaustive but to highlight a number of issues and provide advice that will help you to:
· Ensure your own personal safety
· Show respect to the local customs and values.
· Follow rules and regulations
If you are unsure or concerned about anything, ask your coordinator/guide/local host and follow their advice at all times. They are experienced professionals and are there to ensure that you enjoy your trek and not bother or disturb others or the wildlife you have come to enjoy.
Giving money and sweets randomly does not help in the long-run and only perpetuates the underlying problem. If you are able, make a donation to a local community development organization in the area you have visited. Channel this through your guide and it will go to the right hands and follow the correct process.
Buying handicraft will support local economy. The money they earn from the sale of handicraft is mostly spent for their children to attain education.
· Ensure your own personal safety
· Show respect to the local customs and values.
· Follow rules and regulations
If you are unsure or concerned about anything, ask your coordinator/guide/local host and follow their advice at all times. They are experienced professionals and are there to ensure that you enjoy your trek and not bother or disturb others or the wildlife you have come to enjoy.
Giving money and sweets randomly does not help in the long-run and only perpetuates the underlying problem. If you are able, make a donation to a local community development organization in the area you have visited. Channel this through your guide and it will go to the right hands and follow the correct process.
Buying handicraft will support local economy. The money they earn from the sale of handicraft is mostly spent for their children to attain education.
DAY 8SALPA POKHARI TO DOBHANE Time (excluding rests): 7 hours
Today’s trek will see a drop in elevation from 3460m to 1560m. Follow the newly constructed trail crossing forested area that joins the main trail on a small plateau and finish the day at Dobhane (river confluence).
From Salpa Lake, climbing down to Phedi, a village situated at the base of the ridge will be taxing on the joints and muscle and thighs - your knees may be complaining a little by this point so take it easy as there is a lot of elevation to lose to reach Dobhane. Be sure to appreciate the view before you continue the descent - you should be able to make out the Milke Danda, a large ridge across the Arun to the east and possibly even the Kanchenjunga far to the northeast.
Keep heading east - you might come across steep trails, and be sure to take a moment to gather your breath at one of a series of resting places along the way. These are formed from moss-covered stone neatly dug into the bank, perhaps with a mantra or dedications carved on a stone or on a plank on the backrest, and are quite unlike others found further west. This route from the Arun over Salpa pass has long been used by porters from villages such as Gudel, Bung, Chheskam, to supply salt and ration from Dharan.
At Jau Bari there are two lodges, you may have some tea and snacks before descending further down to Phedi and appreciate the views of terraced fields to the south.
Salpa Phedi (1680m), another large Rai village lies at the base of the ridge and is situated at the confluence of the Sabu Khola and the larger Irkuwa Khola. There are two lodges here, one Rai and the other operated by a Sherpa family. Both the lodges are situated side by side at the base of the village. Although Phedi itself is a bit of a chicken pit, the surroundings and the grounds of the lodges are quite pleasant and it may be tempting to stop here. Feel free rest and relax the day in the sun under the rest place or down by the river. You may notice that the temperature has risen sharply since the descent from the pass. If in spring, stop to appreciate the variety of flowers and the butterflies at this altitude.
You will at some point have to cross the river on rickety bamboo bridges. Watch your footing and try to be confident as you cross the torrent on the slippery bamboo trunks. Be sure to unfasten hip and chest straps on your backpack before attempting to cross.
Dhobane lies at the river confluence of Tumlung Khola and Irkhuwa Khola. You must cross Tumlung Khola to reach Dobhane village. You will find minimal food and lodging facilities in this village. It is also possible to make your way to a point further south on the Arun and the village of Nepaledanda via a route through the hills to your south, however it is recommended that you stay the night in Dobhane because finding the route and getting lodging may be difficult to come by.
Keep heading east - you might come across steep trails, and be sure to take a moment to gather your breath at one of a series of resting places along the way. These are formed from moss-covered stone neatly dug into the bank, perhaps with a mantra or dedications carved on a stone or on a plank on the backrest, and are quite unlike others found further west. This route from the Arun over Salpa pass has long been used by porters from villages such as Gudel, Bung, Chheskam, to supply salt and ration from Dharan.
At Jau Bari there are two lodges, you may have some tea and snacks before descending further down to Phedi and appreciate the views of terraced fields to the south.
Salpa Phedi (1680m), another large Rai village lies at the base of the ridge and is situated at the confluence of the Sabu Khola and the larger Irkuwa Khola. There are two lodges here, one Rai and the other operated by a Sherpa family. Both the lodges are situated side by side at the base of the village. Although Phedi itself is a bit of a chicken pit, the surroundings and the grounds of the lodges are quite pleasant and it may be tempting to stop here. Feel free rest and relax the day in the sun under the rest place or down by the river. You may notice that the temperature has risen sharply since the descent from the pass. If in spring, stop to appreciate the variety of flowers and the butterflies at this altitude.
You will at some point have to cross the river on rickety bamboo bridges. Watch your footing and try to be confident as you cross the torrent on the slippery bamboo trunks. Be sure to unfasten hip and chest straps on your backpack before attempting to cross.
Dhobane lies at the river confluence of Tumlung Khola and Irkhuwa Khola. You must cross Tumlung Khola to reach Dobhane village. You will find minimal food and lodging facilities in this village. It is also possible to make your way to a point further south on the Arun and the village of Nepaledanda via a route through the hills to your south, however it is recommended that you stay the night in Dobhane because finding the route and getting lodging may be difficult to come by.
DAY 9
DOBHANE TO BALUWA BESI
Time (excluding rests): 6 hoursToday’s walk begins along the pleasant banks of Irkhuwa River to meet the Arun, the first major river east of the Dudh Koshi. The only real obstacle will be crossing and re-crossing the river on bamboo bridges, a precarious endeavor that is best undertaken one person at a time.
Today’s walk begins along the pleasant banks of Irkhuwa River to meet the Arun, the first major river east of the Dudh Koshi. The only real obstacle will be crossing and re-crossing the river on bamboo bridges, a precarious endeavor that is best undertaken one person at a time.
By 8 in the morning, the Arun valley can be a sauna, so make sure you take plenty of drink stops. The heat can be oppressive throughout the year, so get your walking done early in the day. Consult your map and locate the major point ahead where the Irkuwa Khola meets the Arun. The general idea is to keep heading southeast by climbing up and around this hill, gradually turning south. There seems to be much confusion between all guidebooks, maps and local advice as to the most correct route over this hill. You may find yourself heading through someone's back yard and open fields. So, it would be advisable to keep asking any locals you meet on the trail to Kartike Pul or Tumlingtar. Please ask in Nepali “Tumlingtar jaaney baato koon ho?”(Which is the way to Tumligntar?). Pass a large chautaara (Tree shade) with pipal trees then climb through the Chhetri village of Charlissay. The trail might pass a Nepali style Ferris wheel near the top at approximately 915m, then heads downward again and turns south. A house in a meadow at Majuwa may offer accommodation. The villages in this area are a mix of Rai, Brahmin and Gurung.
The mighty Arun will appear quite suddenly strong and silent like a green snake running southward in the valley below. The path winds on through sub tropical woodland down to the village of Baluwa Besi meaning, “sandy place at low altitude” on the right bank of the Arun. This is a pleasant walk early in the morning. Take the path through the rice paddies, shortly arriving at Kartike Pul (Khatteghat). If you are keen to continue, cross to the left bank of the Arun over the long suspension bridge here. From here on it’s an easy walk on relatively flat ground all the way to Tumlingtar and beyond. On a ridge, a short distance to the south of Kartike Pul is the village of Dingla , popular for the source of rudaraksha seeds, held to be auspicious to Hindus throughout the sub-continent and often used for beads for necklaces by Sadus (Hindu sages).
Where possible you may find it a refreshing change to walk barefoot on the sandy beach along the riverside to arrive shortly at Chyawabesi, a village of Brahmin community where there are several small lodges. Now that you have hit the Arun, you might even find a little fish on the menu.
DOBHANE TO BALUWA BESI
Time (excluding rests): 6 hoursToday’s walk begins along the pleasant banks of Irkhuwa River to meet the Arun, the first major river east of the Dudh Koshi. The only real obstacle will be crossing and re-crossing the river on bamboo bridges, a precarious endeavor that is best undertaken one person at a time.
Today’s walk begins along the pleasant banks of Irkhuwa River to meet the Arun, the first major river east of the Dudh Koshi. The only real obstacle will be crossing and re-crossing the river on bamboo bridges, a precarious endeavor that is best undertaken one person at a time.
By 8 in the morning, the Arun valley can be a sauna, so make sure you take plenty of drink stops. The heat can be oppressive throughout the year, so get your walking done early in the day. Consult your map and locate the major point ahead where the Irkuwa Khola meets the Arun. The general idea is to keep heading southeast by climbing up and around this hill, gradually turning south. There seems to be much confusion between all guidebooks, maps and local advice as to the most correct route over this hill. You may find yourself heading through someone's back yard and open fields. So, it would be advisable to keep asking any locals you meet on the trail to Kartike Pul or Tumlingtar. Please ask in Nepali “Tumlingtar jaaney baato koon ho?”(Which is the way to Tumligntar?). Pass a large chautaara (Tree shade) with pipal trees then climb through the Chhetri village of Charlissay. The trail might pass a Nepali style Ferris wheel near the top at approximately 915m, then heads downward again and turns south. A house in a meadow at Majuwa may offer accommodation. The villages in this area are a mix of Rai, Brahmin and Gurung.
The mighty Arun will appear quite suddenly strong and silent like a green snake running southward in the valley below. The path winds on through sub tropical woodland down to the village of Baluwa Besi meaning, “sandy place at low altitude” on the right bank of the Arun. This is a pleasant walk early in the morning. Take the path through the rice paddies, shortly arriving at Kartike Pul (Khatteghat). If you are keen to continue, cross to the left bank of the Arun over the long suspension bridge here. From here on it’s an easy walk on relatively flat ground all the way to Tumlingtar and beyond. On a ridge, a short distance to the south of Kartike Pul is the village of Dingla , popular for the source of rudaraksha seeds, held to be auspicious to Hindus throughout the sub-continent and often used for beads for necklaces by Sadus (Hindu sages).
Where possible you may find it a refreshing change to walk barefoot on the sandy beach along the riverside to arrive shortly at Chyawabesi, a village of Brahmin community where there are several small lodges. Now that you have hit the Arun, you might even find a little fish on the menu.
DAY 10
BALUWA BESI TO TUMLINGTAR
Time (excluding rests): 4.30 hours
BALUWA BESI TO TUMLINGTAR
Time (excluding rests): 4.30 hours
Despite the relatively short trek down to Tumlingtar, you might again benefit from an early start. The heat builds quickly once the sun gets up and the morning mist makes this the most pleasant part of the day - so get the walking done early and the remainder can be given over to snoozing and perhaps a swim.
Despite the relatively short trek down to Tumlingtar, you might again benefit from an early start. The heat builds quickly once the sun gets up and the morning mist makes this the most pleasant part of the day - so get the walking done early and the remainder can be given over to snoozing and perhaps a swim.
Despite the relatively short trek down to Tumlingtar, you might again benefit from an early start. The heat builds quickly once the sun gets up and the morning mist makes this the most pleasant part of the day - so get the walking done early and the remainder can be given over to snoozing and perhaps a swim.
The trail wanders alongside the Arun through the steaming jungle, sometimes diverting across sandy beaches. There may also be a higher route along the river used during monsoons. The trail you follow today is one of the major routes to many villages, and it can at times be crowded with porters. To avoid the heat of the day, porters here are sometimes known for walking during the night. You will have the chance to watch monkeys in the surrounding forest or sometimes along the trail. The Arun River can be quite turbulent at times and has been known to capsize the occasional long boats ferrying passengers between shores. If you desire for a dip you might be better off avoiding the strong currents that occur at some point on the Arun, and choosing a quieter spot in a side stream. There are numerous tea stalls that serve Nepali tea and dal bhat. Along the Arun there is a possibility of getting some more exotic fruit such as papaya or pineapple during summer.
As you continue walking from Baluwa Besi, please stop and rest for a few minutes in shades wherever you find them along the trail, as the heat after mid morning will be very challenging. After several kilometres across the flat plateau you will reach Tumlingtar (487m) where there are at least 7 simple hotels. Unfortunately, most of the hotels have little desirable atmosphere. The airstrip is a paddock at the southern end of the town and some of the larger hotels in Tumlingtar. Take-off and landings here can be bumpy. The village was traditionally a centre for potters of the Kumal (or Kuhmale) caste, but nowadays you can see some vehicles driving on muddy road. The surrounding plantations are general of rice and corn.
If you arrive early in the day you may well be able to get a seat on a flight the same day. These days, getting flight tickets from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu has become less problem since at least four different agents have regular flights to Kathmandu. From Tumlingtar, the 45-minute flight to Kathmandu usually routes south to clear the larger ridges and afternoon cloud, before heading west over more barren middle-hill countryside towards the capital. Expect a little culture shock on account of a sudden return to the horns and exhaust crowd of Thamel - You'll soon be wishing you'd stayed in the peace and quiet of the Salpa-Arun a little longer.
As you continue walking from Baluwa Besi, please stop and rest for a few minutes in shades wherever you find them along the trail, as the heat after mid morning will be very challenging. After several kilometres across the flat plateau you will reach Tumlingtar (487m) where there are at least 7 simple hotels. Unfortunately, most of the hotels have little desirable atmosphere. The airstrip is a paddock at the southern end of the town and some of the larger hotels in Tumlingtar. Take-off and landings here can be bumpy. The village was traditionally a centre for potters of the Kumal (or Kuhmale) caste, but nowadays you can see some vehicles driving on muddy road. The surrounding plantations are general of rice and corn.
If you arrive early in the day you may well be able to get a seat on a flight the same day. These days, getting flight tickets from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu has become less problem since at least four different agents have regular flights to Kathmandu. From Tumlingtar, the 45-minute flight to Kathmandu usually routes south to clear the larger ridges and afternoon cloud, before heading west over more barren middle-hill countryside towards the capital. Expect a little culture shock on account of a sudden return to the horns and exhaust crowd of Thamel - You'll soon be wishing you'd stayed in the peace and quiet of the Salpa-Arun a little longer.
Hill Development and Conservation Group Nepal (HDCG Nepal)Hill Development and conservation Group Nepal (HDCG Nepal) is a village based Nepali non-governmental organization. It was initiated by some motivated youths of Solukhumbu district of Nepal to help the underprivileged people of the society especially the people of Bung, Chheskam and Gudel Village Development Committees. HDCG Nepal works in affiliation with the Social Welfare Council of Nepal, it functions as a not for profit organization and is not based on any particular religion, ethnicity, or political party. It currently works with other non-governmental organizations in remote mountain areas to improve livelihood, to create awareness of sustainable conservation practices, and to restore natural and cultural assets of the indigenous communities.
VISION
The vision of this organization is to contribute to an environmentally and economically sound Nepal where the remotest hills and mountain communities are equally integrated as active players and beneficiaries in the process.
MISSION
To conserve and develop hills and mountain environment and culture through improved social status and livelihood.
OBJECTIVES
· To conserve environment through facilitating and implementing alternative sources of energy.
· To build local capacities for natural resources management and provide opportunities to work and earn their livelihoods.
· To support advocacy on critical issues faced by hills and mountains indigenous communities through outreach, awareness and education programs.
· To support improved access to health, infrastructure facilities to the hills and mountain communities.
Currently, HDCG Nepal has been implementing “Salpa-Arun Track: A Sustainable Tourism Promotion” project with financial support from the Development Marketplace of Nepal. With the objectives to conserve environment and improve livelihood of the community along the Arun to Mera peak route, a tourism management committee has been formed and operational. Constitution with clear roles and responsibilities of each member of the tourism management committee was developed and handed-over to the committee. A cook and lodge management training was organized in which 27 hoteliers were trained. The training focused on how they could cook using locally available resources.
A Trail maintenance work that benefits people from Bung to Sanam and Sanam to Shiluchho has been recently accomplished through this grant. The maintenance of this trail also provides an alternative route for trekkers who wish to enjoy lush forest and terraced field
A kitchen garden training was organized which included 17 participants from Bung, Chheskam and Gudel VDCs and trained on various seasonal and off-seasonal vegetable production. The participants were provided with both theoretical and practical knowledge on kitchen gardening techniques. Information on types of diseases in vegetable production and its possible solutions using locally available resources were provided during the training. Local clubs have been trained and given the responsibility to monitor this specific activity so that it can continue after the project.
Other than the above mentioned, the HDCG Nepal has implemented various programs and activities related to conservation and education, micro enterprise through natural resources, health and sanitation, and basic infrastructure development in the Salpa-Arun region.
VISION
The vision of this organization is to contribute to an environmentally and economically sound Nepal where the remotest hills and mountain communities are equally integrated as active players and beneficiaries in the process.
MISSION
To conserve and develop hills and mountain environment and culture through improved social status and livelihood.
OBJECTIVES
· To conserve environment through facilitating and implementing alternative sources of energy.
· To build local capacities for natural resources management and provide opportunities to work and earn their livelihoods.
· To support advocacy on critical issues faced by hills and mountains indigenous communities through outreach, awareness and education programs.
· To support improved access to health, infrastructure facilities to the hills and mountain communities.
Currently, HDCG Nepal has been implementing “Salpa-Arun Track: A Sustainable Tourism Promotion” project with financial support from the Development Marketplace of Nepal. With the objectives to conserve environment and improve livelihood of the community along the Arun to Mera peak route, a tourism management committee has been formed and operational. Constitution with clear roles and responsibilities of each member of the tourism management committee was developed and handed-over to the committee. A cook and lodge management training was organized in which 27 hoteliers were trained. The training focused on how they could cook using locally available resources.
A Trail maintenance work that benefits people from Bung to Sanam and Sanam to Shiluchho has been recently accomplished through this grant. The maintenance of this trail also provides an alternative route for trekkers who wish to enjoy lush forest and terraced field
A kitchen garden training was organized which included 17 participants from Bung, Chheskam and Gudel VDCs and trained on various seasonal and off-seasonal vegetable production. The participants were provided with both theoretical and practical knowledge on kitchen gardening techniques. Information on types of diseases in vegetable production and its possible solutions using locally available resources were provided during the training. Local clubs have been trained and given the responsibility to monitor this specific activity so that it can continue after the project.
Other than the above mentioned, the HDCG Nepal has implemented various programs and activities related to conservation and education, micro enterprise through natural resources, health and sanitation, and basic infrastructure development in the Salpa-Arun region.
Contact
Hill Development and Conservation Group Nepal
Bung, Solukhumbu
P.O. Box: 7851
Contact person: Baga Man Kulung
Executive Treasurer Mobile: +977-9849235245
email : bmkulung@gmail.com
Hill Development and Conservation Group Nepal
Bung, Solukhumbu
P.O. Box: 7851
Contact person: Baga Man Kulung
Executive Treasurer Mobile: +977-9849235245
email : bmkulung@gmail.com
