Arun Valley with Mera Peak

Trip Overview

Journey Through Arun and Hunku Valleys to Mera La

A scenic flight takes us from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, where our trek begins with a descent into the deep gorge of the beautiful Arun Valley. This lush, green oasis is rich in birdlife, offering a vivid contrast to the high mountain landscapes that lie ahead. In these early days, we journey through the Arun and Hunku Valleys, gradually approaching the majestic Mera Peak.

Our route to Mera La leads us through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests that separate the two valleys. Along the trail to Panch Pokhari, we pass through a picturesque Sherpa village and visit the serene Kirong La Buddhist Monastery—a peaceful cultural highlight. The enchanting Panch Pokhari (Five Lakes) lies on the way to the Hunku Valley, and from there, the trail descends to the Hunku River—a remote and truly wilderness-filled section of the trek. The mountain views here are nothing short of spectacular. To the east, we glimpse Kangchenjunga and Jannu Himal; to the north, the towering Hunku and Hongu ranges dominate the skyline.

The trail continues to Thangnag (4,366m) and then ascends to Khare (5,108m), where we set up base camp at the foot of the glacier that leads to Mera La (5,415m). Here, we spend a few days resting, exploring the surrounding area, and acclimatizing to the altitude. For our return, we descend south through the Hunku Drangka Valley before turning west to cross the Zatrwa La Pass, eventually reaching the mountain airstrip at Lukla Bazar. The next day, we take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, where we'll transfer to our hotel and conclude this extraordinary Himalayan adventure.

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