Bhairav Kunda Trek: Nature’s Untouched Paradise

The Bhairav Kunda Trek, situated near the Nepal-Tibet border in the Langtang Region, blends nature, culture, and spirituality in the Himalayas.This trek pays homage to the holy lake “ Bhairav Kunda” dedicated to the wrathful form of Lord Shiva.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 13 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Hard
  • Best Season Spring and autumn
  • Max. Altitude 4240 m
  • Accommodation Deluxe Hotels & Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast,lunch, dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

The Bhairav Kunda Trek, situated near the Nepal-Tibet border in the Langtang Region, blends nature, culture, and spirituality in the Himalayas. This trek pays homage to the holy lake “ Bhairav Kunda” dedicated to the wrathful form of Lord Shiva. Offering close-up views of Nepalese and Tibetan Himalayas, the trek involves cultural exploration among the Newar and Sherpa communities. Despite its proximity to Kathmandu, the trail remains serene, providing an opportunity to experience pristine nature.

Beginning with a short stay in the Kathmandu Valley, the trek commences with a drive to Jalbire, where the journey unfolds. The route not only showcases snow capped mountains like Madiya, Phurbi Ghhyachu, Dorje Lakpa, and Jugal Himal but also allows observation of Newari culture in Jalbire. Passing through rhododendron forests and rural settlements, the trek leads to the holy Bhairav Kunda lake, a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Pilgrims visit the lake for a holy bath, seeking spiritual purification. Devotees of Lord Shiva also worship in the nearby temple. On the return journey, the trek traverses Buddhist villages, Sherpa houses, and terraced fields, adding a diverse flavor. With a moderate difficulty level, the best seasons for this trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).

Bhairav Kunda Trek

Bhairab Kunda Trekking Highlights 

1. Marvel at Langtang, Jugal Himal, and Rolwaling ranges with snow-capped peaks.

2. Hike to the sacred Bhairab Kunda for spiritual ambiance and panoramic vistas.

3. Explore Tamang villages with warm hospitality and vibrant traditions.

4. Wander through vibrant rhododendron forests, witnessing a burst of colors during spring.

5. Navigating varied terrain in the Langtang Valley for an adventurous trek.

6. Encounter Himalayan tahrs, vivid pheasants, and playful langurs along the trek.

7. Unwind in natural hot springs near Larcha against a stunning mountain backdrop.

Best time for Bhairab Kunda Trek

The best time to trek the Bhairab Kunda Trek is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Langtang Region, which includes the Bhairab Kunda Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Ganesh Himal.
  • Flora: The rhododendron and pine forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: Though this is a popular trekking season, the Bhairab Kunda Trek trails remain less crowded than other treks in the Langtang Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Bhirab Kunda Trek  this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Though autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Bhairab Kunda Trek trails are less crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations for Bhairav Kunda Trek

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Bhairab Kunda Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Bhairab Kunda. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

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Upon arriving in Kathmandu, the mesmerizing Himalayan experience unfolds! The Himalayan Trek team welcomes you warmly as you disembark, transforming into your dedicated guides for an extraordinary journey. Rest assured, they expertly handle every detail, from your flights to seamless transfers, offering a wealth of local knowledge and contagious enthusiasm to address any queries. Prepare to be spellbound by the vibrant allure of the Himalayas, where each step unveils stunning valleys, and the warmth of Nepali hospitality envelops you like a refreshing mountain breeze. Your adventure begins now – embrace it wholeheartedly, letting Nepal work its enchanting magic on you!

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In Kathmandu, engage in a rich cultural experience and contemplative moments. Witness the sunrise casting a saffron glow on Swayambhunath, explore the historical intricacies of Durbar Square, and find tranquility amid the ancient gongs of Boudhanath at dusk. The city pulses with excitement and anticipation for your upcoming trek, resonating beneath your sun-kissed skin. As Kathmandu envelops in dusk, retreat to your sanctuary, where dreams of snow-capped peaks and prayer flags guide you towards the majestic mountains. Tomorrow marks the commencement of your journey.

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Embark on a transformative journey on Day 3 of your Kathmandu adventure, transitioning from the cityscape to the serene mountain valleys. Enjoy a scenic 6-7 hour drive from the vibrant capital to Jalbire, your gateway to the Himalayas. Traverse picturesque villages and lush rice paddies, witnessing vibrant rhododendron forests and snow-capped peaks along the way. Each bend in the road reveals a new breathtaking vista, creating a captivating tapestry of nature’s finest threads. Jalbire, nestled in this verdant splendor, welcomes you with charming simplicity, providing a tranquil introduction to mountain life. As the sun sets, casting long shadows across the valley, settle into your cozy abode with anticipation for the upcoming trek. Tomorrow, the mountains await your exploration.

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The trek to Chanaute is a moderate 4-5 hour journey, following a well-defined trail through rhododendron forests, farmland, and small villages. The elevation gain is gradual, reaching approximately 1,350 meters at Chanaute. Along the way, you can admire stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, catch glimpses of local wildlife, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Sherpa people. Some highlights of the trek include crossing traditional suspension bridges, visiting a hidden waterfall, and enjoying a steaming cup of yak butter tea at a local teahouse.

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Our day commences with an early start as we embark on a lengthier and more challenging trek to Khani gaon, a Newari village. The journey is expected to last 6-7 hours, offering picturesque views of villages, terraced fields, and crystalline streams. The campsite provides an opportunity to admire stunning mountain views. Spent the night at the tented camp in Khani gaon.

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The focus of today is to discover the charming village of Khanigaon and relish the scenic mountain vistas. The name “Khanigaon” is derived from “Khani,” meaning “source of mines,” and “Gaon,” meaning “village.” This settlement was established by people from Bhaktapur after the 18th-century battle between Bhaktapur and Gorkha. Explore Dalle Pokhari, engage with the local Newar community, savor their cuisine, and immerse yourself in their native dialect. Spent the night at a tented camp in Khani gaon.

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Following breakfast, we will ascend steeply through a stunning rhododendron forest and pass occasional grazing pastures, offering glimpses of nomad dwellings for cattle. This presents an excellent opportunity to capture the scenic beauty of the rhododendron forest while observing a variety of beautiful birds and numerous wild animals. The overnight accommodation will be at a tented camp.

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Today’s trek presents a more challenging ascent, lasting approximately 5-6 hours. However, the delightful scenery of pine and rhododendron forests will enhance the overall hiking experience. Upon reaching Pati, you can unwind in the dedicated rest houses constructed for pilgrims, providing an opportunity to appreciate the majestic mountain views. These rest houses cater to individuals embarking on a sacred pilgrimage to Bhairav Kund during auspicious times according to the Hindu calendar. The overnight accommodation will be at a tented camp.

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The trek today involves an initial uphill hike for one hour, followed by a leisurely stroll to reach Bhairav Kund. This sacred site holds significance for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, as well as Shamans who traditionally bathe in the lake during the full moon of June or August, believing it purifies them of sins. A temple by the lake is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Spend the night at a tented camp by Bhairav Kund.

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In the morning, you depart for Sherpagaon. Following a 1.5-hour hike to the summit, To maximize the experience of witnessing the sunrise from Bhairav Kund top, our trek will commence early. This vantage point offers stunning panoramic views of Langtang, Jugal Himal, Rolwaling, and the Tibetan Range. Following our descent from Bhairav Kunda, we will enjoy breakfast before embarking on an approximately 6-7 hours trek to reach Sherpa Gaon. The overnight stay will be at a tented camp in Sherpa Gaon.

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Day 11: Trek to Larche for geothermal relaxation amidst snow-capped peaks. Ascend through juniper forests, spot Himalayan tahr, and reach the charming village. Enjoy a soak in a natural hot spring, surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas. Explore Larche, try local delicacies, and retire to a cozy guesthouse as the sun sets. Day 11 promises a blend of physical challenge, geothermal indulgence, and cultural immersion in the Himalayas.

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Following breakfast, we undertake a picturesque 6-hour drive back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel for refreshment and rest. The overnight stay is at the hotel, where we also partake in a farewell dinner.

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The culmination of your Bhairab Kunda Trekking Expedition evokes a mix of emotions! We’ll seamlessly transfer you to the airport, ensuring a comfortable three-hour pre-flight window. Guiding you through the intricate beauty of the Himalayas has been a privilege, and the echoes of prayer flags and mountain breezes will linger with you post-departure. We trust that the Himalayan magic has left a lasting impression, and we eagerly anticipate your potential return for more remarkable adventures in this captivating landscape. Farewell, fellow trekker, and may your future paths lead you back to experience the enchantment of Nepal once again!

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek, including the drive from Kathmandu to Jalbire.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Langtang National Park and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as extra sightseeing in Kathmandu, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu or outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

The Bhairav Kunda Trek is a journey that takes you to the holy Bhairav Kunda Lake, dedicated to the wrathful form of Lord Shiva, located near the Nepal-Tibet border in the Langtang Region. It combines elements of nature, culture, and spirituality, offering close-up views of Nepalese and Tibetan Himalayas.

Bhairav Kunda Lake is considered a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims visit the lake for a holy bath, seeking spiritual purification. Devotees of Lord Shiva also worship in the nearby temple.

The trek spans over 13 days and has a moderate difficulty level. It involves hiking through various terrains, including forests, villages, and steep ascents.

The best seasons for this trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is favorable, offering clear views of the mountains and comfortable trekking conditions.

Throughout the trek, travelers have the opportunity to interact with the Newar and Sherpa communities, experiencing their culture and hospitality. The trek passes through traditional villages, allowing for cultural exploration.

Accommodation during the trek is primarily in tented camps, providing a close connection with nature. Additionally, there are dedicated rest houses at certain points along the route, offering basic amenities for trekkers.

Highlights of the trek include passing through rhododendron forests, crossing suspension bridges, visiting hidden waterfalls, and witnessing panoramic mountain views. The trek also offers the opportunity to relax in natural hot springs and explore charming Himalayan villages.

To prepare for the trek, it is recommended to engage in physical fitness activities and endurance training. Additionally, it’s important to pack appropriate clothing, trekking gear, and essentials for high-altitude hiking.

While trekking through culturally significant areas and visiting sacred sites like Bhairav Kunda Lake and temples, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and religious practices. Visitors should dress modestly and seek permission before taking photographs in certain locations.

Upon returning to Kathmandu, travelers can expect to relax and unwind in their hotel accommodations. The trip concludes with a farewell dinner, providing an opportunity to reflect on the journey and bid farewell to fellow trekkers and guides.