Sailung Trek

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About the Destination

The Sailung Trek, part of the Indigenous Peoples Trail, is a scenic and culturally rich trek in central Nepal. It offers panoramic Himalayan views—from Everest to Dhaulagiri—while passing through diverse ethnic villages of Sherpa, Tamang, Thami, and Majhi communities. This off-the-beaten-path route combines natural beauty with deep cultural immersion in a peaceful hill landscape.

Location

Nepal

Region

Off The Beaten Trails

Max Elevation

3,146 m
Highest Point Reached During the Trek.

Duration

12 days

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge/Homestay
Typical lodges or teahouses during the trek

Best Seasons

Spring and Autumn

Group

Min. 1 Pax

Difficulty

Easy-Moderate

Start Point

Kathmandu

End Point

Kathmandu

Permit

No Required
A permit is required for this trek.

Food

Included
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are typically included

Highlights of the Sailung Trek

  • Cultural Diversity: Visit villages of Tamang, Newar, Sherpa, Thami, Yolmo, and Majhi communities, learning about their traditions and festivals.
  • Stunning Views: Enjoy views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Annapurna, and Kanchenjunga.
  • Authentic Homestay Experience: Stay in local homes, enjoy home-cooked meals, and engage in cultural activities.
  • Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Trek through rhododendron forests, river valleys, and terraced farmlands, away from the crowds.
  • Spiritual Significance: Explore Hindu and Buddhist temples, stupas, and monasteries along the trail.

Trip Summary

Sailung Trek, also known as the Indigenous Peoples Trail, is one of Nepal's most rewarding and culturally rich trekking routes. It offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic homestays and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of one of the most culturally diverse regions of the country. The scenic trail ranges in elevation from 533 meters to 3,146 meters, making it a relatively low-altitude trek suitable for a wide range of trekkers.

Bound by the majestic Thulo Sailung peak (3,146 m) to the north, the tranquil aqua-blue Sun Koshi River to the south, and the fast-flowing Tama Koshi to the east, this trail presents a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. The trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas—stretching from Dhaulagiri and Annapurna in the west to Numburchuli and Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, in the east. On clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Everest.

As you journey through the trail, you'll gain invaluable insights into the lives, traditions, and cultures of several Indigenous communities including the Tamang, Newar, Sherpa, Thami, Yolmo, and Majhi. Both Hinduism and Buddhism are widely practiced, reflected in the region’s temples, stupas, monasteries, and shrines dedicated to various deities.

What sets the Sailung Trek apart is the authentic homestay experience. Guests stay in private homes in traditional villages—far removed from commercialized tourist routes. While basic, the accommodations are clean and comfortable, and host families are trained in hygiene and food preparation. Visitors live as the locals do and are warmly welcomed as part of the family.

These homes reflect the simplicity and warmth of rural life. In addition to the peaceful and serene surroundings, guests are treated to traditional music and folk dances performed by local men and women in colorful attire. The focus is on genuine cultural exchange—visitors often take part in local activities such as cooking classes, traditional weddings, and cultural celebrations.

The Sailung Trek allows visitors to discover the real Nepal—its untouched countryside, its people, and its traditions. Unlike heavily commercialized trekking routes, this trail passes through largely uninhabited areas, ensuring a peaceful experience with few other trekkers along the way.

Targeted international visitors include repeat travelers to Nepal, soft trekkers (including adults and children), mediators, researchers, students, backpackers, and short-term holidaymakers. Targeted domestic visitors include university and college students, cultural researchers, religious pilgrims, and short-term travelers seeking a meaningful escape.

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive Kathmandu

Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation

Day 03

Drive from Kathmandu to Mudhe Bazaar (2,460 m), then trek to Deurali (2,298 m)

Day 04

Trek from Deurali to Khola Kharka (2,600 m) via Sailung Hill (3,146 m)

Day 05

Trek from Khola Kharka to Surkey (1,842 m)

Day 06

Trek from Surkey to Doramba (2,054 m)

Day 07

Trek from Doramba to Khandadevi (1,986 m)

Day 08

Trek from Khandadevi to Hiledevi (1,980 m)

Day 09

Trek from Hiledevi to Lubughat (820 m)

Day 10

Drive from Lubughat to Kathmandu (1,350m)

Day 11

Rest and Buffer Day in Kathmandu

Day 12

Drive to Kathmandu Airport for Your Departure

Note

Have your own ideas or special requirements? We're more than happy to tailor the itinerary to match your schedule, interests, and travel preferences. Let us help you create a personalized adventure that’s truly yours.

Sailung Trek Map and Elevation

Map and Elevation data coming soon...

Price Includes

Price Excludes

Packing List for the Sailung Trek

This ultimate gear guide is designed to help you prepare smartly without a smartphone, and with no fluff, just essentials. Here’s what you’ll need across documents, clothing, equipment, and more.

Clothing

  • Thermal underwear (top & bottom)
  • Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3)
  • Thermal or wool socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Underwear (quick-dry)
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Lightweight wool sweater
  • Insulated jacket (-10°C to -20°C)
  • Waterproof shell jacket with hood
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Lightweight hiking pants (2 pairs)
  • Windproof softshell (optional)
  • Warm hat, sun hat, buff or neck gaiter
  • Gloves (liner + insulated)
  • Sleepwear and casual evening clothes

Footwear

  • Waterproof trekking boots (broken-in)
  • Camp shoes or sandals
  • Wool trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
  • Sock liners (optional)

Bags & Packing

  • Duffle bag (60–80L for porter)
  • Daypack (25–35L with rain cover)
  • Backpack rain cover
  • Garbage bags / bag liners
  • Packing cubes or dry bags (optional)

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C rated)
  • Sleeping bag liner

Personal Hygiene & Toiletries

  • Biodegradable soap & shampoo
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper
  • Lip balm (SPF) & sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Nail clippers, tweezers
  • Razor (optional)

Trekking Essentials

  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp (extra batteries)
  • Water bottles (2 x 1L Nalgene)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Dry snacks (energy bars, trail mix)
  • Pocket knife (optional)
  • Altitude sickness meds (Diamox)
  • Blister treatment (moleskin, Compeed)

First Aid & Health

  • Personal first aid kit
  • Prescription medications
  • Electrolyte powder
  • Basic cold/flu medicine

Electronics & Miscellaneous

  • Power bank
  • Charging cables
  • Travel adapter (Nepal types C, D, M)
  • Phone / camera
  • Offline maps or trekking guide app
  • Notebook, pen
  • Copies of passport & permits
  • Extra passport photos
  • Cash (Nepali rupees)

Documents & Permits

  • Passport (original)
  • Travel insurance with high-altitude coverage

Sailung Trek FAQ

Overview & Essentials

Arrival & Visa

Health & Safety

Weather & Temperature

Accommodation & Facilities

Packing & Gear

Reviews

5.0

Based on 1 reviews

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Profile of Axel & Andrea
Axel & Andrea
5/5
Before booking, we had several email exchanges with Mr. Binod Thapa and were impressed by his fast, detailed replies. He organized our entire four-week Nepal trip—hotel in Thamel, a Kathmandu tour, the Sailung trek, and Chitwan National Park. Everything ran smoothly, and we had nothing to worry about. The trekking...

All Inclusive Price

$985

per person (varies with group size)

Group Discounts

  • 2–3 pax$1185/pp
  • 4–7 pax$1150/pp
  • 9–11 pax$1085/pp
  • 12+ pax$985/pp
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