Complete Jugal Himal Trekking Guide
Jugal Himal Trek
Jugal Himal Trek

Everything You Need To Know About Jugal Himal Trek
 Jugal Himal Trek falls in the north east part of Kathmandu Valley.Himalayan range such as Dorje Lakpa, Madiya and Phurbi Chhyachu also reside in this part. Jugal Himalaya Region shares its area with high crossing passes, spectacular mountain view, picturesque village, lush deep forests with beautiful Panch Pokhari and Bhairab Kunda lake, mesmerizing display of wild flower, an abundance of wildlife and of course friendly local people. Jugal Himal is like the neighbouring mountain to the northeast from Kathmandu. Trekking in this region is filled with excitement and mesmerizing views of the luxurious lush forests and culture of the Tamang Villages.

Main Highlight Of The Trek

  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Chautara.
  • A cool walk amidst the pines, magnolia, oak and rhododendron forests of Langtang region.
  • Visit the holy pond of Panch Pokhari
  • Wonderful views of Jugal Himal range, Rolwaling range, and Gosainkunda.
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna-Ganesh, Langtang, and Manaslu
  • Trek in solitude in an off-the-beaten-path.
  • Quaint villages and friendly locals along the way.

What to expect from the Trek?

During the Jugal Himal Trek one can expect to be camping as well as have some home-stays.

Basically, the trek starts after a scenic drive to Chautara. From Chautara, one will be passing through picturesque villages like Kami Kharka, Choyocho Kharka, and Namismpatti . Through the way the sight of rolling green hills will keep one excited. Most of these villages have people following the Tamang and Sherpa culture. One will also get the chance to  visit some small Buddhist monasteries which helps one to  learn about the local traditions, culture, and rituals.

Then trek through the lush rhododendron forests along the way and  will also get to see some exotic flora and fauna of this region.

After which  crossing the wonderful Laurebinayak pass on the way. Also get to some ridges that offer some fantastic views of the mountains along the way. Then get to gaze upon the wonderful mountains like Jugal Himal range and Rolwaling range including Annapurna, Ganesh, Manaslu and Langtang.

Minimum and Maximum Time frame of the Trek?

Well this generally depends upon the trekker preference if the trekkers are physically fit and can manage a 5-7 hours trek daily up the mountains then he/she can normally complete the trek in 10 days. As this journey is not so strenuous and one can compact it for a shorter trek which eventually hikes up the trekking hours per day. So, if you are someone who hasn’t had much experience of trekking and want to trek enjoying each and every moment at the region then a 14 days time frame would be appropriate as it gives you the proper time to acclimatize and enjoy the scenic beauties of the trek.

Budget Required For Jugal Himal Trek

Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally the cost ranges from anywhere around  US $900 to US $1600. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.

Necessary Permits Required

The necessary permits required for trekking to Jugal Himal are :

  1. Langtang National Park Entry Permit
  2. TIMS (Trekkers Information Management system card)

Necessary Documents for Permit?

You just need your passport details, Langtang National Park Entrance Permit,two photos and you also need to fill up a short form to obtain the permit. All these fees are payable in local currency only.

How is Jugal Himal on each Season?

Although it is possible to trek on Jugal Himal throughout the year on any given seasons but the best time to visit the mountain is in the Spring and Autumn.As during the autumn season, the weather tends to be relatively stable with mild to warm days and cold nights. And during Spring the weather is quite clear and the peaks are often visible and the temperature is warm and just ideal for a trek.

Spring Season(April-May):

The spring months are probably the most popular in the region as a whole. You might be caught in the occasional snow showers if you catch the end of the winter season, but the weather should be largely stable and dry- perfect for trekking and high altitude climbing.

Autumn Season(September-November):

Clear days are characteristic of this popular trekking period. Although colder days(and colder nights) are to be expected, this is a small price to pay for the wonderful vistas and perfect views of the region peaks. And added bonus of trekking during this time is the option to choose some other, less well-known routes in the area that still offer amazing views but without the hustle and bustle of the more popular routes.

Winter Season(Dec-Feb):

The region during this period can best be described as being very cold but still is trekkable. The days will be shorter and there is a lot more snow, thus routes that involve crossing big passes like the three passes trek are usually closed.The weather will be fairly stable and dry, meaning it is entirely possible to trek  in these months.One can expect the temperature to be as cold as -30degree Celsius at night higher up the route.

Summer Season/Monsoon Season(June-August):

Summer may sound like the prime time to visit Jugal Himal, but it is also monsoon season during which the mountain can receive large amounts of rainfall. During the monsoon season, the mountain peak is, more often than not, shrouded in mist. Although a trek is doable during this season, it is quite difficult as the slippery trails, leeches and the lack of mountain views are just about enough reasons in off-putting most trekkers from trekking.

Jugal Himal Trek Difficulty

Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari trek is a moderate trek in the Langtang region of Nepal.It’s not a plain walking surface and like most typical treks in Nepal there’s a lot of going up and down. The distance you cover does not require super fitness, the altitude does however make it tough. And also having a strong mind set is also very important while trekking in these parts of the mountains. Jugal Himal Trek is influenced by; your pack weight, a porter can make it much easier and season, if you’re cold and miserable then it is definitely harder.

To sum it up you will be walking 5 to 7 hours a day for 16 days, with a resting day or two for acclimatization. If you are reasonably fit you should be able to do this to carry your own backpack.

Tipping Guide/Porter

In Nepal tipping is not mandatory but it is expected as major earning or saving funds is the tips for the guide/porter. Tipping is based on the experience you had with your trekking team. It totally depends upon how you felt about the services and overall hospitality that was provided to you so if you are satisfied you can tip them accordingly.

Necessity of Insurance:

While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delays, and cancellations.

Insurance Policy:

Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland.

Preventing Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too quickly. It is wise to climb slower to prevent it. As, it is very common on the Everest Base Camp trek and can happen to anybody, irrespective of how old or fit you are or if you have previous trekking experience. So, here are some ways to prevent Altitude Sickness:

  1. Hydration– Drink plenty of water, its very important to stay hydrated.
  2. Trekking Pace– Walk at your own pace, take your time, don’t go too fast.
  3. Eat carbs– It’s not often we’re told to eat extra carbohydrates but when you’re at higher altitudes, you need more calories.
  4. Avoid Alcohol– Alcohol,cigarettes and medications like sleeping pills can make altitude sickness symptoms worse. So, avoid it.
  5. Medication– Taking acetazolamide(Diamox)two days before the trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Acetazolamide is a medication typically used to treat glaucoma. But is also used to prevent altitude sickness.

Alternatives to Jugal Himal Treks?

Apart from Jugal Himal  trek there are other plenty trekking options that one might like to consider as the Langtang region is itself is a very beautiful and adventurous place. Here are some few of the best trekking alternatives apart from Jugal Himal Trek.

  • Ganesh Himal(Ruby Valley Trek)
    • Newly explored trekking trails
    • Amazing views of the central Himalayas of Nepal
    • Ruby mines in the mountains
    • Unique and rich cultures of Tamang and Gurung people
    • Natural hot spring
    • Beautiful waterfalls, gorges, stone mills, and suspension bridges
  • Ghorepani Poonhil Trek
    • Moderate and the most popular short trek of Nepal
    • Ghandruk village and the stunning views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre
    • Ghandruk museum which showcases traditional Gurung equipment, tools, and weapons
  • Langtang Valley Trek
    • Chance to delve into Tibetan-influenced culture
    • View of Mt. Langtang Lirung, Langshisha, Ganja La Pass
    • Diverse flora and fauna
    • Friendly and amazing people
    • Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, and Buddhist temples
  • Annapurna Base camp
    • Visit Annapurna and Machhapuchhere base camp
    • Scenic hike across typical Gurung villages
    • A hot bath in natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda
    • Adventure lodge to lodge trek to the Annapurna region.
    • Splendid views of Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, Mt Fishtail and Annapurna I
    • Spectacular glacier and mountain views from Annapurna Base Camp
  • Everest Base Camp
    • Trek to the foot of breathtaking Everest, the world’s highest mountain.
    • Set out on challenging hikes to Kala Pattar (18,192′), Nangkartshang Peak (16,672′). and Everest Base Camp (17,590′).
    • Explore Sherpa villages and the ancient Thami and Tengboche monasteries.
    • Visit a school established by Sir Edmund Hillary in the mountain village of Khumjung.
  • Gokyo Valley
    • Trek to Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo RI
    • Visiting All of the high valleys of the Khumbu with extra time
    • Soaring views of the most popular mountains in Nepal
    • Cultural Wonders of Everest Region

Required Equipment

This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Also, understand that the items listed below will vary a little according to the season and the trek duration. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by your porter but you are required to carry a day-pack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own. We also suggest that you pack what is necessary.

Important documents and items:

  • Valid passport, 2extra passport size photos, airline tickets
  • Separate photocopies of passport, visa form( easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
  • Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines(bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler’s checks, etc.

Head

  • Bandana or headscarf, also useful for dusty conditions
  • Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Prescription sunglasses (if required)

Upper Body

  • Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
  • Light and expedition weight thermal tops
  • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket
  • Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable

Hands

  • 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
  • 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
  • 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)

Lower Body

  • Non-cotton underwear briefs
  • 1 pair of Hiking shorts
  • 1 pair of Hiking trousers
  • 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
  • 1 pair of fleece or wool trousers
  • 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric

Feet                                                                     

  • 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
  • 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
  • 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, “broken-in”)
  • 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
  • Cotton socks (optional)
  • Gaiters (winter only), optional, “low” ankle high version

Sleeping

  • 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)
  • Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)

Rucksack and Travel Bags

  • 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
  • 1 large duffel bag
  • A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables should have good shoulder padding
  • Small padlocks for duffle-kit bags
  • 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)

Medical

  • Small, personal first-aid kit. (simple and light)
  • Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
  • 1 skin-blister repair kit
  • Anti-diarrhea pills
  • Anti-headache pills
  • Cough and/or cold medicine
  • Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
  • Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are a respiratory depressant.
  • Water purification tablets or the water filter
  • 1 set of earplugs
  • Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies

Practical Items

  • 1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing-repair kit
  • 1 cigarette lighter, 1 small box of matches
  • 1 compass or GPS(optional)
  • 1 alarm clock/watch
  • 1 digital camera with extra cards and batteries
  • large Ziplocs
  • 2 water bottles (1 liter each)
  • 1 small folding knife
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • 4 large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks

Toiletries

  • 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
  • Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Female hygiene products
  • Small mirror

Personal Hygiene

  • Wet wipes (baby wipes)
  • Tissue /toilet roll
  • Anti-bacterial handwash

 Extras/Luxuries

  • Reading book
  • Trail map/guide book
  • Journal and pen
  • iPod
  • Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble, playing cards (to help you pass the time at tea- houses and/or camps)
  • 1 modest swimsuit
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
  • Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)
  • Lightweight   (in case your tea houses provide you with pillows) or use your own stuff as a pillow

So, if the above mentioned things are taken into proper consideration than you will have a wonderful time trekking in the most spectacular region. Carry all the necessary permits as mentioned above take all the precautions and there’s no way you are not going to have a wonderful time.

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