The trekking trail offers you a panoramic view of Phurbaghechyu (6,637 m), Jugal Yangri Peak (6,535 m), Gyalzen Peak (6,151 m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m), Gumba Chuli, Langpogang West (6,979 m), Bhairav Takura (6,799 m), Jugal 1, Jugal 2, Jugal 3, Jugal 4, and Jugal 5 in the Jugal Range.
The trek takes you through lush green fields, dense forests, winding roads, and waterfalls, alongside the running Balefi River of Sindhupalchok District. You will trek through quaint villages untouched by the modern world. Residents of these villages are comprised 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. One can also explore the caves in Ne-Pemachhal at 3,500 m, where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) is believed 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 above 6,000 m!
Accommodation: Homestay
Drive: 6–7 hours
Distance: 119 km
The adventure begins after breakfast with an off-road jeep drive from Kathmandu via Dolalghat, following the Sunkoshi River. After a lunch stop on the way, we continue on winding dirt roads to reach Tembathang (2,200 m). Tembathang is a traditional Sherpa village with around 150 houses, stupas, and Mani walls. The locals warmly welcome trekkers into their homes, offering an authentic cultural experience. Yak rearing and animal husbandry are the main livelihoods of the villagers.
Accommodation: Camping
Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 100 m
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
The trek begins with gradual ascents through forested trails and open landscapes. Chhendang is a wide and scenic area of religious significance. An old monastery, damaged during the earthquake, stands here and is currently under reconstruction. The vast open terrain makes this an excellent and peaceful campsite.
Accommodation: Camping
Ascent: 900 m | Descent: 90 m
Trekking Time: 5 hours
Distance: 8 km
We enter the beautiful and steep-sided valley of Ne-Pemachhal, a sacred pilgrimage and meditation site believed to have been visited by Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) in the 8th century. Passing narrow and exposed trails, we reach Tongsyup Gufa, a historic meditation cave, before crossing a tributary stream and arriving at our campsite.
Accommodation: Camping (Ne-Pemachhal)
Ascent: 1,100 m | Descent: 1,100 m
Trekking Time: 6 hours
Distance: 7 km
A steep ascent leads us to Gyap Kharka, a stunning viewpoint on the north side of the Ne-Pemachhal Valley. Passing Bumpasherpu (4,200 m), we traverse high slopes to reach the viewpoint. From here, we enjoy breathtaking views of the Jugal Glacier and surrounding peaks, with Phurba Ghechyu (6,637 m) dominating the skyline. Return to Ne-Pemachhal for the night.
Accommodation: Camping
Ascent: 500 m | Descent: 100 m
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 5 km
A pleasant and relatively easy trek through forest trails with river views. Palmothang lies at the foothill of Phurba Ghechyu Mountain. The open campsite offers beautiful surroundings, and the afternoon is free for rest and relaxation.
Accommodation: Camping
Ascent: 1,000 m | Descent: 200 m
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 4 km
Today’s trek includes some technical sections requiring careful footing. We pass a small glacial lake below Phurba Ghechyu and continue along the glacier edge to reach Yang Kharka. This spectacular base camp is surrounded by major Jugal peaks and serves as the gateway to Phurba Ghechyu, Jugal Yangri, and the Jugal Himal range.
Ascent/Descent: 200 m
Walking Time: 3 hours
Distance: 2 km
A rest and acclimatization day to prepare for the summit. Short walks around base camp and the Jugal Glacier help with altitude adaptation while enjoying the dramatic mountain scenery.
Accommodation: Camping
Ascent: 900 m | Descent: 900 m
Climbing Time: 5 hours ascent, 3 hours descent
We attempt the ascent of Jugal Trekking Peak, an untouched and scenic trekking peak. From the summit, we enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and numerous Himalayan giants. Although considered a trekking peak, full climbing equipment is required. After summiting, we descend back to base camp.
Accommodation: Camping
Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 1,900 m
Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
Distance: 9 km
After enjoying the peaceful base camp atmosphere, we begin a long descent via steep riverside trails. Passing Palmothang and forested sections, we reach Ne-Pemachhal for the night.
Ascent: 90 m | Descent: 900 m
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 8 km
Accommodation: Homestay
Ascent: 200 m | Descent: 970 m
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 8 km
We return to the welcoming Sherpa village of Tembathang. Enjoy a final evening experiencing local culture, traditions, and warm hospitality.
Accommodation: Hotel
Drive: 5 hours off-road + 2 hours paved road
Distance: 119 km
A short walk brings us to the roadhead at Nesam Khola, where our vehicle awaits. After lunch en route, we arrive in Kathmandu by late afternoon. In the evening, enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner in Thamel.