Makalu and the Arun Valley
Treks to and around the fifth highest peak in the world!
In eastern Nepal, the Arun Valley cuts a deep gorge through the heart of the Himalaya. In the remote high mountain region of its tributary, the Barun, glaciers spill off mighty Makalu, the fifth highest peak in the world.
We offer the chance to trek to Makalu base camp, crossing the Shipton Pass to isolated valleys nestled in among these awe-inspiring mountains. The shorter Arun Valley trek includes a classic ridge walk with wonderful views, a visit to our monastery project, and an ascent into the wilderness of the Makalu-Barun conservation area, returning along the lush and tropical valley floor.
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ARUN VALLEY (13 days, max altitude 4,300m)
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This mainly low altitude trek is centred on the Arun Valley, in eastern Nepal. The sub-tropical valley floor of the mighty Arun River is in places densely forested, contrasting with the terraced slopes higher up, which are farmed by villagers of diverse tribal groups. High pastures typify the upper slopes, which border on the Makalu-Barun National Park, an important conservation area for many threatened species.
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After several days on the Makalu trail from Tumlingtar we explore an area that is completely off the normal trekking route. Following yak herders’ paths we journey to a plateau from where the stunning wall of Chamlang and other major Himalayan peaks may be seen. After several days in the wilderness, we reach the Buddhist village of Walung, where CAN built and funds a health post and we are guaranteed a warm welcome here.
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MAKALU and SHIPTON LA (25 days, max altitude 5,150m)
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The approach to Makalu’s base camp is reminiscent of early Himalayan expeditions, taking trekkers through a wild and sparsely inhabited region that is seldom seen by outsiders. The stark beauty of Makalu, the world’s fifth highest mountain, 8463m, its glaciers and awesome granite south face can all be fully appreciated on this trek.
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On the approach route, several days are spent in the lush and dramatic scenery of the Arun Valley before we trek over the Shipton La, a tough pass which offers sensational views of Makalu and Chamlang. We enter the Makalu-Barun National Park, which is known for its abundant bird populations and varied but elusive animals, among them snow leopard, forest leopard, red panda, grey wolf, Himalayan black bear and musk and barking deer.
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Making our way up the valley, we reach first the low base camp, where we acclimatise for a day before ascending to the high base camp near the foot of the Chago Glacier. A free day in the area allows those who have fully acclimatised the chance to climb a 6170m peak which affords wonderful views of the whole region.
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For more detailed information and accurate prices, please contact one of our team using the button below:
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IMPORTANT INFO
GROUPS AND INDIVIDUALS
CAT specialises in providing standard and bespoke treks for groups, typically couples, parties of families and friends, and school, college and Scout parties. We are also happy to provide trips for clients travelling alone.
DATES TO SUIT YOU
Simply select the dates that suit you within the trekking time windows indicated above.
LAND ONLY PRICES
The prices and dates in this list are all LAND ONLY. They do not include international flights. We recommend you search for flights yourself to get the best value. If you have any queries, please contact us.
MINIMUM NUMBERS
Our standard trip prices shown above are based on a team of 4 trekkers. Treks can be booked for larger and smaller parties, or individual trekkers. Please contact us directly for more information.
SINGLE ROOM/TENT SUPPLEMENT
The single supplements apply if you request a single tent or single hotel room for your trip. Please contact us if you require more information and accurate pricing.
