Sankhuwasabha Valley (also known as Barun Valley) is a region located in eastern Nepal. It is named after the Sankhuwasabha District, which is one of the seventy-seven districts of Nepal. The district was formed after splitting the original Bhojpur District in 1981.
Quick Facts
| Location | 56900 |
| Altitude | 4,870 meters (15,978 feet) |
| Major Inhabitats | Sherpas, Rais, Limbus, Tamangs |
| Trek difficulty | Challenging |
| Trek days | 10 to 14 days |
| Best time to visit | spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) |
| Permits | Makalu Barun National Park entry permit Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card |
Sankhuwasabha is known for its beautiful landscapes, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife. The valley is surrounded by the eastern part of the Himalayas and includes various mountain peaks, including Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world.
Makalu Barun National Park, established in 1992, is a significant protected area in the region, covering a vast expanse of unique flora and fauna, glaciers, and high-altitude terrain. The park is home to various wildlife species such as the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan tahr.
The region also attracts trekkers and adventure enthusiasts due to its challenging trekking trails and stunning natural beauty. The trek to the Makalu Base Camp is one of the most popular treks in the area, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayas and an opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions of the ethnic communities residing in the region.
Major Attractions
Stunning Himalayan Landscapes: Barun Valley is surrounded by some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Makalu (8,485 meters/27,838 feet), the fifth-highest mountain on Earth. The valley offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude terrain, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Rich Biodiversity: The region is home to diverse flora and fauna, with lush green forests and alpine meadows. The Makalu Barun National Park, which encompasses the Barun Valley, is known for its conservation efforts and for protecting rare and endangered species like the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and various species of birds.
Remote and Less Crowded: Compared to popular trekking regions like the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Barun Valley Trek is relatively less frequented by trekkers, offering a more secluded and peaceful trekking experience. It is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a closer connection with nature.
Cross-Cultural Experience: Along the trek, you can encounter various ethnic communities, including Sherpas, Rai, Limbu, and others. You can experience their unique cultures, traditions, and hospitality, gaining insights into their daily lives and traditional practices.
Challenging Trekking Trails: The trekking trails in the Barun Valley are demanding and require a good level of physical fitness. Trekkers pass through rugged terrains, steep ascents and descents, and high-altitude conditions, making it a rewarding adventure for experienced trekkers.
ALSO READ: Khumai Danda: An Easy Trek to Breathtaking Views
How to Reach Barun Valley
Flight: If you are traveling from abroad, you’ll need to book an international flight to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city. From Kathmandu, you need to take a domestic flight to Tumlingtar Airport (TMI). The flight duration is approximately 50 minutes.
Drive to Chichila: Once you arrive in Tumlingtar, you’ll need to take a private or public vehicle to Chichila. Chichila is the starting point of the Barun Valley Trek, and the drive from Tumlingtar takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Start the Trek: The actual trek starts from Chichila. From here, you’ll follow the trail that leads to the Barun Valley. The trekking generally takes around 10 to 14 days round trip to reach the Makalu Base Camp and return to Chichila.
Trekking Permits: This includes the Makalu Barun National Park entry permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Tumlingtar
