Sankhuwasabha (संखुवासभा)

Makalu-Barun National Park is a spectacular, globally significant wilderness reserve spanning 1,500 square kilometers. It encompasses Mount Makalu (8,485m, the fifth-highest mountain in the world) and is celebrated for its extreme altitude variations, ranging from tropical forests at 430m to permanent glaciers. The park's crown jewel is the pristine Barun Valley, a deep, glacial-cut gorge framed by vertical rock cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and lush alpine meadows. KCA protects exceptional biodiversity, including over 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 species of birds, and rare wildlife like the snow leopard and red panda.

The Arun Valley is historically recognized as the deepest valley in the world, carved by the mighty trans-Himalayan Arun River as it snakes between the massive mountain blocks of Everest and Kanchenjunga. The valley is a critical ecological corridor, supporting unique species of birds, butterflies, and rare medicinal plants. The valley features a rich cultural mosaic, inhabited by diverse ethnic groups like the Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Kumal. Travelers can trek through the lush tropical forests, visit remote riverside villages, and observe the construction of major hydropower projects like the Arun-3, which symbolise cross-border energy trade.

Tumlingtar is a unique, flat plateau town situated on the banks of the Arun River, acting as the vital aviation gateway to the entire Sankhuwasabha district. The town hosts the Tumlingtar Airport, which operates regular domestic flights connecting this remote mountain region directly with Kathmandu and Biratnagar. The town features a warm, subtropical climate, serving as the primary starting point for all trekking expeditions into the Makalu-Barun National Park. Nearby lies the sacred Manakamana Temple, situated on the banks of the Arun River, which draws pilgrims seeking spiritual blessings and scenic river views.

Num is a picturesque mountain village perched on a steep ridge overlooking the dramatic Arun River canyon. The village serves as the crucial physical gateway and starting trailhead for treks heading into the core of the Makalu-Barun National Park, serving as the transition point between roads and footpaths. The approaches from Num descend steeply down to the Arun River bridge before climbing into the remote forests of Chichila and Sedua. Travelers experience rugged, challenging trails, passing through traditional Sherpa and Rai farming hamlets, watching grazing yaks, and experiencing the raw, untamed wilderness of eastern Nepal.

Khandbari Bazaar is the bustling administrative headquarters and main commercial capital of Sankhuwasabha district, recognized as one of the most prosperous and well-organized hill towns in eastern Nepal. The town is situated on a scenic ridge, enjoying a pleasant, temperate climate throughout the year. The bazaar acts as the primary trading market for the entire Arun Valley, famous for the trade of organic large cardamom, medicinal herbs, and hand-woven 'Allo' (giant nettle) fabrics. It is a vibrant cultural melting pot where Rai, Limbu, and Newar traders gather, offering comfortable hotels and markets for travelers.