Barun Valley Nepal: Ultimate Guide to Trekking, Maps & Shiva Dhar

Barun Valley Nepal

The Barun Valley lies in the Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal, just below Mount Makalu, and is part of Makalu Barun National Park. It is famous for its beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity, and far-flung trekking routes. It consists of high peaks, forests, and even rare wildlife resources: red pandas and snow leopards. The valley is the home of indigenous Sherpa and Rai communities, which offer cultural experiences. It is popular for various treks, like the Makalu Base Camp trek, but emphasizes sustainable tourism and conservation. The untouched land of Barun Valley provides excellent opportunities for adventure and nature lovers.

Barun Valley Trek Guide

Overview

The Barun Valley Trek is a remote and challenging adventure in eastern Nepal, offering a raw Himalayan experience away from crowded trails. It is part of the Makalu Base Camp Trek and traverses the Makalu Barun National Park.

• Duration: 18–22 days (typically).
• Difficulty: Strenuous due to altitude (up to 5,000m), long days, and remote terrain.
• Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) for rhododendron blooms, or Autumn (Sept–Nov) for clear skies.

Key Highlights

• Dramatic Landscapes: Lush forests, terraced farms, glacial valleys, and views of peaks like Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse.
• Biodiversity: Spot rare wildlife like red pandas and snow leopards (rarely seen).
• Cultural Encounters: Pass through Rai, Sherpa, and Limbu villages with traditional lifestyles.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path: Minimal crowds compared to Everest or Annapurna routes.

Itinerary Snapshot

1. Start: Fly to Tumlingtar (460m), then drive/trek to Num or Chichila.
2. Ascend: Trek through Seduwa, Tashigaon, and Khongma Danda (3,500m).
3. Highlights:
   • Cross Shipton La Pass (4,216m) for panoramic views.
   • Reach Makalu Base Camp (5,000m) and explore the Barun Glacier.
4. Return: Descend via the Arun Valley or fly out from Tumlingtar.

Logistics

• Permits:
  • Makalu Barun National Park Permit (~NPR 3,000).
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
  • Restricted Area Permit (if entering Upper Barun Valley).
• Accommodation: Basic teahouses in lower regions; camping may be required at higher altitudes.
• Guides/Porters: Recommended due to remoteness and trail complexity.

Challenges

• Altitude: Risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) – proper acclimatization is critical.
• Weather: Unpredictable, with cold nights and potential snow at higher elevations.
• Facilities: Limited amenities – carry cash, snacks, and essentials.

Why Choose This Trek?

Ideal for adventurers seeking solitude, raw nature, and a physically demanding challenge. Combines cultural immersion, biodiversity, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas.

Tip: Train for endurance, pack light but warm, and hire an experienced guide for safety.

Shiva Dhara - A Sacred Waterfall in Barun Valley, Nepal

Shiva Dhara is a sacred and picturesque waterfall located in the Barun Valley of Sankhuwasabha District, Nepal. It is a significant religious and natural site, revered by both locals and visitors.

Yeti Barun Valley

This is a legendary animal reported to exist in the Barun Valley and other remote Himalayan regions. Locals and trekkers report sightings of huge footprints and shadowy figures in the snow. The dense forests, deep gorges, and isolated terrain of the valley make it an ideal setting for such legends. Sherpas and native tribes believe that the Yeti is a kind of guardian spirit of the mountains, while other scientists say such sightings could only be misidentifications of any other wild animals, like bears. Whatever it is, there is no strong evidence to date, but mystery attracts explorers and researchers alike to Barun Valley.

About Shiva Dhara

• Location: Situated in the Barun Valley, part of the Makalu Barun National Park, near the village of Seduwa.
• Religious Significance: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a pilgrimage site for Hindus, especially during the festival of Maha Shivaratri.
• Natural Beauty: The waterfall cascades from a great height, surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic Himalayan landscapes.

How to Reach

1. Starting Point: Begin your journey from Tumlingtar (accessible by flight from Kathmandu).
2. Trekking Route:
   • Trek through villages like Num, Seduwa, and Tashigaon.
   • The trail passes through dense forests, terraced fields, and traditional settlements.
3. Difficulty: Moderate trekking, suitable for those with basic fitness levels.

Highlights

• Spiritual Experience: A serene spot for meditation and prayer.
• Scenic Views: Surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Barun Valley and views of Mount Makalu.
• Cultural Immersion: Interact with local Rai and Sherpa communities.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Pleasant weather and blooming rhododendrons.
• Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies and ideal trekking conditions.

Shiva Dhara is a hidden gem in the Himalayas, combining spirituality, nature, and adventure.

Nestled in the Makalu Barun Valley of Sankhuwasabha district, eastern Nepal, this pristine Himalayan valley lies adjacent to Mount Makalu (8,485m). The Barun Valley location coordinates 27°42′N 87°09′E, forming part of the Makalu-Barun National Park.

Barun Valley Trek: Adventure of a Lifetime

The Makalu Barun Valley Trek is a 18-22 day journey starting from Kathmandu to Barun Valley via Tumlingtar. Key highlights include:

• Dramatic views of Makalu and Everest
• Shiva Dhara Barun Valley - sacred waterfall
• Unique biodiversity with 3,000+ plant species
• Authentic Sherpa and Rai cultural experiences

Check the official Barun Valley trek map for route details.

where is barun valley located

Barun Valley is located in the eastern part of Nepal, in the Sankhuwasabha District of the Makalu Barun National Park. It lies near Mount Makalu (8,485m), the fifth-highest peak in the world. Accessible via trekking from Tumlingtar, it's known for its stunning landscapes, biodiversity, and remote Himalayan beauty.

7 Fascinating Barun Valley Facts

1. Part of UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate area
2. Home to the mysterious "Yeti Barun Valley" legends
3. Contains 87 snow leopards (2023 survey)
4. Features 7 distinct Barun Valley valleys
5. Only 2,000 annual visitors due to restricted permits
6. Base elevation: 1,800m; Highest point: 5,000m
7. Contains the Makalu Barun Valley Shiva Dhara pilgrimage site

Key Attractions in Barun Valley, Nepal

Shiva Dhara Waterfall

The sacred Shivadhara Barun Valley waterfall is believed to have healing powers, flowing year-round from glacial sources.

Makalu Base Camp

Makalu Base Camp is a breathtaking trekking destination in Nepal, leading to the foot of Mount Makalu (8,485m)—the world's fifth-highest peak. This trek is perfect for adventure seekers looking for a remote, less crowded, and challenging experience in the Makalu Barun National Park.

Key Highlights:

• Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of Mount Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, and Kanchenjunga.
• Diverse Landscapes: From lush forests and terraced fields to high-altitude glaciers.
• Rich Biodiversity: Home to rare species like the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan black bear.
• Cultural Experience: Encounters with local Sherpa and Rai communities, experiencing their traditions and hospitality.

Trek Details:

• Duration: 14-20 days (depending on itinerary and acclimatization)
• Starting Point: Tumlingtar (accessible by flight from Kathmandu)
• Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
• Difficulty: Challenging (High-altitude trek with rough terrain)
• Max Elevation: Makalu Base Camp (4,870m / 15,978ft)

This trek is ideal for those seeking a raw and untouched Himalayan adventure away from commercial trekking routes like Everest or Annapurna.

Western gateway to the beautiful Barun Valley, offering panoramic Himalayan views.

Hotels and Resorts in Barun National Park

Due to the remote nature of Makalu Barun National Park, accommodations within the park are limited. Most trekkers stay in basic tea houses and lodges that offer essential amenities. However, here are some available options:

Accommodation Options:

• Tea Houses and Lodges: Basic rooms with shared facilities available along trekking routes.
• Camping: Many trekkers bring their own tents and stay at designated camping spots.
• Guesthouses in Tumlingtar: The nearest town with proper hotels before starting the trek.

Hotels and Guesthouses Near Barun National Park:

• Makalu Lodge – A simple tea house near trekking routes.
• Num Tea House – Offers basic lodging for trekkers before heading deeper into the park.
• Hotel Makalu in Tumlingtar – A comfortable hotel for trekkers arriving from Kathmandu.
• Everest View Guesthouse – Located in Khandbari, providing better amenities before the trek.

For those seeking better accommodations, it's recommended to stay in Tumlingtar before heading towards the park. Booking through trekking agencies is advisable to secure lodging during the trek.