Jugal Mountain Range: north east from Kathmandu Valley. It is one of the shortest remotetrekking destinations at a distance of 145 kilometers from Kathmandu. There are a total of 14Peaks (majority of them are unclimbed) of above 6,000m in the Jugal Mountain Range.The trekking trail offers you a panoramic view of Phurbaghechyu 6,637m., JugalYangri Peak6,535 m, Gyalzen Peak 6,151 m, DorjeLakpa 6,966 m, GumbaChuli, Langpogang West 6,979m, Bhairav Takura 6,799 m, Jugal 1, Jugal 2, Jugal 3, Jugal 4 and Jugal 5 in Jugal Range. The trek takes you through lush green fields, dense forests, winding roads, water falls, alongsidethe running Balefi river of Sindhupalchok district.
You will trek through quaint villagesuntouched by the modern world. Residents of these villages comprise of people from the Tamang, Sherpa, Newar, Gurung, Brahmin and Chettri communities.This trek offers you the experience of Nature, Culture and Adventure that best befits Nepal. Onecan also explore the caves in Ne-Pemachhal3,500m. where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) isbelieved to have meditated in the 8th century by the Buddhists and the locals alike. Interestingly,you can use the same base camp as the gateway to reach 6 other Peaks of above 6,000 m
Accommodation: Home stay | Drive: 6-7 hrs | Distance: 119 KM | Altitude: 2200 m
The day is the start of the adventure. After breakfast, we depart towards Tembathang by four-wheel jeep, an off-road express through Dolaghat Sunkoshi River. We will have a lunch stop and then continue on a winding dirt road to Tembathang (2200m). Tembathang is a Sherpa Village with pure Sherpa culture, about 150 houses, some stupas, and Mani walls. It is a beautiful settlement of Sherpa people. These people encourage trekkers to stay in their home instead of camping outside. They are very eager to showcase their unique culture and tradition. Animal husbandry, especially yak rearing, is the main occupation here.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 100 m | Time: 5-6 hrs | Distance: 8 KM | Altitude: 2636 m
Chhendang is a beautiful and wide place. There is an old monastery which was damaged in the earthquake and is currently under reconstruction. This area is of great religious significance and is very attractive for camping due to its vast, scenic landscape.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 900 m | Descent: 90 m | Time: 5 hrs | Distance: 8 KM | Altitude: 3500 m
The steep-sided and wooded valley of Ne-Pemachhal is a pilgrimage and meditation site, celebrating the belief that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) visited here in the 8th century. Trekking through narrow and exposed trails, we reach Tongsyup Gufa, a historical meditation spot for Buddhist monks, and then continue along a more level path to our camping place at Ne-Pemachhal.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 1100 m | Descent: 1100 m | Time: 6 hrs | Distance: 7 KM | Altitude: 4400 m
Before approaching Jugal Himal Base Camp, we visit GyapKharka (4400m), a stunning viewpoint on the north side of Ne-Pemachhal Valley. The hike is steep but rewarding, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and the Jugal Glacier. After enjoying the views, we return to Ne-Pemachhal for the night.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 500 m | Descent: 100 m | Time: 3-4 hrs | Distance: 5 KM | Altitude: 3900 m
The trekking route is easy and scenic, with the river on the left side and mountains visible all around. Palmothang is a peaceful side-valley at the foothill of Phurbaghechyu Mountain. We set up camp here and spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying the serene surroundings.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 1000 m | Descent: 200 m | Time: 5-6 hrs | Distance: 4 KM | Altitude: 4700 m
The route is technical in some sections, so careful trekking is required. Basecamp Yangkharka is a beautiful and safe area between Phurbaghechyu and surrounding glaciers. Passing a small glacial lake, we reach the spectacular basecamp for the Jugal peaks, gateway to several notable summits.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 200 m | Descent: 200 m | Time: 3 hrs | Distance: 2 KM
A day for acclimatization. Walk around the basecamp and Jugal Glacier, enjoy the surrounding peaks, and prepare for the summit attempt the next day.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 900 m | Descent: 900 m | Time: 5 hrs climbing & 3 hrs descent
Summit Jugal Trekking Peak, an untouched trekking peak with breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other Himalayan giants. Although considered easy, the summit requires full climbing gear for safety and success.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 1900 m | Time: 7-8 hrs | Distance: 9 KM
After enjoying the morning views of the peaks, we begin the descent along the steep riverside trail, passing through Palmothang and the forested areas to reach Ne-Pemachhal, a peaceful and scenic campsite.
Accommodation: Camping | Ascent: 90 m | Descent: 900 m | Time: 4-5 hrs | Distance: 8 KM
Descend through the valleys and forested terrain to reach Chhendang, where we camp for the night amidst the serene natural surroundings.
Accommodation: Home stay | Ascent: 200 m | Descent: 970 m | Time: 5-6 hrs | Distance: 8 KM | Altitude: 2200 m
Return to Tembathang, the Sherpa village with traditional culture and architecture. Spend the night in a home stay and interact with local residents, who are eager to share their lifestyle and traditions. Yak rearing is a primary occupation here.
Accommodation: Hotel | Drive: 5 hrs off-road, 2 hrs on paved road | Distance: 119 KM
We walk to the roadhead at Nesam Khola and board our transport for the 6-7 hour drive back to Kathmandu. Stop for lunch along the way, arrive in the late afternoon, check in at the hotel, freshen up, and enjoy a celebratory dinner in Thamel.
Packing the right gear makes a big difference to your trekking experience. To keep things easy and comfortable, one porter is assigned for every two trekkers. Each porter carries a maximum of 22 kg, so the luggage allowance is 11 kg per trekker.
We recommend sharing a duffle bag (60+ liters) with your trekking partner for porter use. You should also carry a small daypack (20–30 liters) for valuables, documents, water, and daily essentials. Any extra luggage can be securely stored at your hotel free of charge during the trek.
While personal preferences may vary, the following packing list will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable on the trail.
Note: We can provide a used (non-waterproof) duffle bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag if you do not have your own.