Jugal Himal Trek - Itinerary, Price and Location

Are you looking for an unforgettable trekking experience in Nepal? Then the Jugal Himal trek is definitely for you. This trekking route takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Nepal, from snow-capped peaks to fertile valleys and rural farmlands. This trek is easygoing and can be hiked by anyone with a reasonable fitness level. In this blog post, we'll discuss the itinerary, price, and location of the Jugal Himal Trek so that you can decide if it's right for you. Let's get started!

Routes and Itinerary for Jugal Himal Trek

Jugal Himal is the nearest mountain to the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. It lies 140 kilometers northeast of the capital city. The easiest route to get to Jugal Himal is to sort out your way from Kathmandu to Chautara in Sindhupalchowk.

From Chautara, you will hike to Syaule, Kamikharka Danda, Hile Bhanjyang, and finally, reach Panch Pokhari. You can go through the following breakdown of the itinerary for the Jugal Himal Trek:

Kathmandu to Chautara

Chautara lies 82 kilometers (50 miles) northeast of Kathmandu. To reach the spot, you should take a bus or private rented vehicle from the capital city and embark on your journey via Arniko Highway. It usually takes around 3 to 5 hrs to reach Chautara from Kathmandu.

Chautara to Syaule

To reach Syaule, you will need an extra few hours from Chautara. It's the start of your trek after you get off the long bus journey. Along the hike, you will pass across beautiful villages like Gaurati and Ghunsa.

Trek to Kami Danda

Kami Danda sits at an altitude of 2,985 meters (9,793 feet) above sea level, and it is your next destination from Syaule. It takes around 5 to 6 hours to reach the place, and on the way, you can view the scenic beauty of Sano Okhreni and Ratnaule villages.

Photo: Jugal Himal View

Kami Danda to Chyochyo Danda

Situated at an altitude of 3,440 meters (11,286 feet), Chyochyo Danda comes after passing the dense rhododendron forests and up and downhill trail. Many trekkers set up camp in Chyocho Danda and stayed overnight there. You can either share camps with the groups or take your camping tools for convenience. It takes 6 to 7 hours to reach Chyocho Danda from Kami Danda.

Trek to Hile Bhanjyang

Your hike through the forest continues beyond Chyochyo Danda. You will be welcomed by the Oak forests on the way and also reach the large Gompa there. Standing at 3,720 meters (12,204 Feet), Hile Bhanjyang is one of the viewpoints of the majestic mountains around the region.

Hile Bhanjyang to Nosyampati

Reaching Nosyampati from Hile Bhanjyang takes around 6 to 7 hours. You should be prepared to walk through the rocky terrain as you hike on the trail leading to Chang Samarphu. After that, you need to walk uphill to reach Nosyampati. The beautiful scenery of mountain ranges waits for you there.

Nosyampati to Panch Pokhari

You might have already heard of Panch Pokhari, one of the most visited places in Sindhupalchowk - it is located at an altitude of 4,010 meters (13,156 feet). First, you must take a trail leading you toward Lauribina Bhanjyang, and then, you must walk for a few hours to reach the place.

On average, it takes around 7 to 8 hours to reach Panch Pokhari, a group of five lakes. The view of mountain peaks like Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Gauri Shankar is the most attractive insight of this place.

Photo: Panch Pokhara

Panchpokhari to Mahathang And Temathang

Remember to gear yourself up for this trek phase since you need to walk both up and downhill. Although it takes 6 to 7 hours to reach Mahathang from Panchpokhari, places like the old Tibetan Refugee Camp and also Chhandy Gomba will quench your tiredness with curiosity.

From Mahathang, you will be walking downhill to the altitude of 2,180 meters (7152 feet), where Temathang is located. Be sure to groom with the local Sherpa culture here.

Temathang to Ambakharka and Bakhang Gompa

To reach Ambakharkha, you must pass Nimadui village and cross Nyasam Khola on the route. You will get to the place after a trek of around 6 hours from Temathang.

From Ambakharka, you will set up your next journey to Bakhang Gompa, which is at an altitude of 2400 meters (7874 Feet). During your trip from Ambakharka, you will experience the beauty of Goludanda and Chakang villages and the people's lifestyle there.

Bakhang Gompa to Kathmandu

Your next stop from Bakhang Gompa is Kathmandu, the end of your Jugal Himal trek. You will get jeep service from there.

Overview of Jugal Himal Trek And Location

The hike to Jugal peak is moderate, taking about 12-18 days to complete. The trail passes through rural villages and provides beautiful views of the Himalayan mountains. There are also opportunities to visit ancient Buddhist monasteries along the way. This is an excellent trek for anyone looking for an outdoor hiking holiday in Nepal. Located in the Sindhupalchok district, the Jugal Himal is 6,095 meters above sea level. 

This camping journey will be unforgettable for any visitors as you are surrounded by the majestic mountain range that frames the border between Nepal and Tibet. Likewise, Five Holy Lakes, also known as Panch Pokhari, is a not to miss location as it is considered a sacred pilgrimage site by Hindu people. Each lake is named after a different aspect of Lord Shiva, the Hindu God. From the holy hike of Panch Pokhari, travellers can get a sight of mountains like Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), Phurbi Chhyachu (6,837m), and Madiya (6257m) mountains view including Rolwaling and Jugal mountain itself. 

Jugal Himal base camp is at an elevation of 3,800 meters above the sea. Your journey continues through the Indrawati river valley to the Five Holy Lakes (Panch sacred lakes) at the most extreme height of 14,000 feet. 

This journey will offer you a unique insight into the ancient and raw culture of a remote corner of Nepal as if you've stepped back in time for many years. Historically, this route served as an old shipping lane between Nepal and Tibet. As we continue, we will have the privilege of engaging with individuals from the Tamang community. 

Although relatively easy, this trek offers a unique perspective on the region's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage and can be completed anytime throughout the year. Few trekkers choose this trek because of a shortage of lodges or other shelter facilities. While other treks like EBC or ABC are mainly about tea-house treks, this combines both camping and Tea-house treks.

It is an excellent option for those trekkers wanting to walk in silent nature accompanied by views apart from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Remote traditional Tamang villages between the high Himalayas are a rare opportunity to learn about local people's ancient culture and traditions. 

Likewise, The courteous and friendly reception offered by the locals provides a sense of belonging and familial warmth. The journey towards Bakhang Gompa is adorned with the picturesque vistas of Tibetan monasteries, where one can behold the serene presence of Lamas. 

Only some camping trekkers visit here because lodges or other shelter facilities are unavailable. This trek is memorable for trekkers who prefer to meet only a few other tourists or spend time in crowded villages.

Price of the Jugal Himal Trek

Photo: Trekking path during Jugal Himal Trek

The price for the Jugal Himal trek with a reputable travel company based in Kathmandu, Nepal, can range anywhere between $1350 to $1750. The Final cost will depend on your preference - from the number of hikers to the levels of services selected. 

Moreover, you will get certain concessions if you travel in a group rather than solo on this trek. We understand the importance of a personalized and private adventure. This approach allows for a more immersive and fulfilling experience on your hikes. If you prioritize customization, flexibility, and deeper exploration, a tailored journey that caters to your specific needs and preferences will be the ideal choice. 

When it comes to the Jugal Himal trek, the standard package price for a 12-14-day trek ranges between $1000 to $1598 for two people. 

However, You can adjust the itinerary and pricing to suit your preferences. 

Best Months for Jugal Himal Trek

The suitable time to tackle this journey is during the fall and spring seasons, specifically from September to December and March to May. As the monsoonal rainfall decreases from September to December, the atmosphere is infused with cloudless blue skies, affording trekkers a breathtaking panorama of the majestic mountain summits. 

The temperature also becomes milder, creating ideal conditions for a comfortable trekking experience. Furthermore, the post-monsoon season marks the arrival of the rhododendron forests, infusing a deep shade into the natural vista. 

March to May is also suitable for the Jugal Himal trek, as the warmer temperature encourages daytime trekking, and the clear skies offer a picturesque setting for photography enthusiasts. Furthermore, the green vegetation of the forest during this period enhances the overall aesthetic look of the trek.

Jugal Himal Trek is a perfect choice if you want to combine hiking with a bit of culture. You will savor the beauty of the Himalayan ranges to the local Sherpa culture and cuisine.