Dharma Hill Trek 12 Days: Scenic Trails & Best Cultural

Highlights of Dharma Hill Trek 12 Days

Dharma Hill Trek boasts excellent panoramic views.
Highest point of the area, Kurima, is together with the excellent Ghyangkharka Peak (3612m),
Reaches high up to the grand Dharma Danda Trek 12 Days 3550m.
Travels on remote, undiscovered trails far from the standard tourist’ trails.
Join a peaceful sherpa paradise and mountain nature. Escape the tourists.
Experience the vibrant way of life and time-honoured customs of diverse ethnic groups including the Sherpa, Rai, Chhetri, Brahmin, Tamang and Magar people, and Cultural Immersion with each of which has its own heritage, explore an irresistible landscape with lush rhododendron forests, pristine lakes, bubbling rivers, an Unspoiled Wilderness, and varied exclusive flora and fauna, constituting a genuine natural sanctuary.
Stand in awe in front of some of the planet’s highest peaks, including Mt. Everest (8848m), Mt. Lhotse (8516m), Mt. Makalu (8563m), and Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m), three of the most daunting, awe-inspiring 8000 m peaks. + Himalayan behemoths. Unforgettable Mountain Scenery.

Trip Overview

Embark on an Uncharted Adventure to Dharma Hill Trek in the Lower SoluKhumbu Region, Off the Beaten Path, New Trekking Trails.

Escape the crowds and witness the pristine charm of the Lower SoluKhumbu with the exciting 12-day Dharma Peak, or Dharma Danda Trek, Dharma Ridge Trek, and Dharma Hill Trek. 12 days fantastic trek will lead you deep into the very interior of the Lower SoluKhumbu District of Nepal, off the trekkers track and the trekking experience is a true one that is fantastic and will surround you with the vibrant cultures and ancient traditions of the Rais, Chhetries, Brahmins, Tamangs, Sherpas, and Magars. Also referred to as the Lower Everest Eco Trek, the trek offers a glimpse into a world seldom visited by foreigners.

By starting from Salleri or Phaplu via jeep is one option and then the other one is Kathmandu local jeep to Salleri or Phaplu and then 12 days Dharma Hill Trek, the thrill begins amidst scenic sloping fields and emerald-green valleys, will traverse the fabled Dudh Kosi River, which we fondly hold (Milk River) and twist through an quilted topography of inspiriting villages each with a bountiful past.

As you ascend, admire the high ridges of Dharma Hill Summit which we think refer to as “Suke Danda” or Dharma Danda, and at the same time enjoy dramatic views of some of the globe’s most beautiful mountain landscapes, such as towering Mount Everest (8,848m), Mount Lhotse (8,516m), and Mount Makalu (8,483m/27,832ft, and which is refers to 5k highest peak in the world, and Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), which is standing between Nepal and Sikkim.

The journey offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the untouched glory of this offbeat destination, with ancient civilizations in full bloom and the grandeur of nature rendering you speechless. The best months to travel for this unforgettable journey are September-December (autumn) and March-May (spring).

Besides the 12 days of Dharma Hill Trek, Hill Sherpa Trek offer a series of other special, off-the-beaten-path tours in the Lower Solukhumbu of the Everest region of Nepal, including the (PK) Pikey Peak Trek at the high elevation of (4,065m./13,337ft. Panch Pokhari (4100m. / 13,452ft. Which is the name of the fifth lake, and Arun Valley Salpa Pass Trek, the elevation (3350m./10,991 feet. These trekking tours offer guarantee of a serene and idyllic experience, far from the masses of mass tourism in the remote region of Nepal.

Homestay in the villages of the region offers a unique chance to engage with the hardy families of the region, learning about their traditional lifestyle in the midst of the rugged, remote regions of Nepal. Phaplu Village is the ideal location to start the trek, where you begin your journey to this remote paradise.

Dharma Hill Trek 12 Days Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Pick up / transfer to Hotel

Welcome to Nepal – Your Adventure Begins the Moment You Arrive

Dharma Hill journey to the Himalayas begins as soon as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. With a smile and a warm welcome, one of our representatives will be standing at the arrival terminal, ready to make your entrance into Nepal as comfortable and effortless as possible.

You’ll ride in comfort to your 3-star boutique hotel, central Kathmandu. Check in and relax awhile, or take a burst of energy to explore the friendly chaos of old city streets. Wade through thronged bazaars, unearth hidden temples, or linger over a cup of masala chai in a neighborhood tea house a glimpse of Nepal’s rich cultural legacy.

This is not a usual layover. It’s the gentle start to an epic journey, a chance to breathe in the Himalayan air, let the world outside in, and arrive completely in the present moment.

Duration

30 minute drive

Max Altitude

1300 m.

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 02: Drive to Nele Bazaar from Kathmandu

The trip begins in lively capital city of Kathmandu, Nepal, and travels east into SoluKhumbu district by jeep. The road is well-cemented as you begin, and later it gets progressively tougher, more rugged roads, as you near the mountain regions.
The road is rather smooth, but a little way down the hill, the hill is steeper and rocky with winding or unsealed sections of road. The ride can be bumpy, so it is best to prepare for a little bit of a bumpy ride.

The trip is picturesque with stunning vistas of the green rolling hills, terraced fields, and shimmering rivers. Further up in the mountains, you have a glimpse of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trip is a modest view of the area’s natural beauty. You will also be traveling through several local villages where you can see the mountain people living their daily lives.

The majority of the locals in this area are Sherpas and Rai people, which gives you an excellent look at their traditions and culture.

Before you reach Nele Bazaar, you will find yourself in a small village at the heart of the SoluKhumbu region. The village itself makes for a wonderful place to start your trek, with the peaceful and calm atmosphere, and the fact that you could visit the neighboring local culture first before heading into your trek.

Duration

9-10 hours drive

Max Altitude

1995 m.

Activity

Driving

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 03: Trek to Suke (Hill) Danda from Nele Bazar

The 5–6 hour trek from Nele Bazaar to Suke Danda (2,290m) unfolds like a living postcard, offering a breathtaking prelude to the majestic SoluKhumbu Valley—a journey where every step immerses you deeper into Himalayan splendor. Climbing through forests of bright flowers and cascading terraces, it is punctuated by attractive villages, giving a glimpse into the rhythms of everyday life.

The trail gradually goes uphill, and the views of the surrounding valleys and hills of Solukhumbu Nepal are panoramic. By the time you reach Suke Danda, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the distant peaks and the tranquil landscape, so this compensates for a serene and rewarding part of your trek.

Duration

5-6 hour walk

Max Altitude

2,290m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 04: Trek to Kurima village from Suke Dada (Suke Hill 2,550m.) Trekking via beautiful Hills and sherpa village.

Day 4 is a trek from Suke Danda to Kurima Village (2,550m), a 5-6 hour walk via stunning landscapes. The trek passes through lovely hills with stunning vistas of surrounding valleys and mountains. You get glimpses of stunning Sherpa villages along the way, and the people and culture there are something you’ll inevitably be exposed to.

The route weaves along stepped fields, woodland so thick that light has barely a hope of penetration, and ancient villages made of stone, giving you a true feel of rural life in the Himalayas. Stop over at Kurima to revel in peace and spectacular views of mountains all around it, surrounding the village. The day delivers a wondrous combination of uninhabited natural scenery and penetrative cultural roots.

Duration

5-6 hours walk

Max Altitude

2550 m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 05: Trek to Chitre from Kurima

Day 5, you trek from Kurima to Chitre (2,400m), a 5-6 hour trek via the stunning scenery of the SoluKhumbu region. The trekking route passes through dense forests, large terraced fields, and picturesque rural villages, getting you up close to the region’s awe-inspiring scenery.

Providing unparalleled glimpses into actual mountain existence. Hiking up, you’ll traverse vibrant rhododendron groves, which in the spring burst forth in stunning colors. The quiet hike also gets you to feast on stunning views of the peaks, valleys, and rivers surrounding you, for a serene and rewarding day. At Chitre, you are welcomed by a peaceful environment, perfect for resting before continuing your adventure.

Duration

5-6 hours walk

Max Altitude

2400m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 06: Trek to Ghyangkharka 3612m via Dharma Peak from where we'll see the unforgettable views.

Day 6 is the day you trek from Chitre to Ghyangkharka (3,612m) through Dharma Peak (3,750m), a 6-7 hours trek with stunning views and scenery. The trekking trail winds through diverse landscapes like alpine meadows and forested country before arriving at the summit of Dharma, finally.

At the summit, you will be welcomed by memories of spectacular view of nearby Himalayan giants like Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The white peaks, narrow gorges, and arid landscape in panoramic view will provide you with an experience that you shall never forget. Once you have had your fill of view, you will descend to Ghyangkharka, a serene village where you can relax and enjoy the serene environment. This day is a wonderful mix of adventure, breathtaking views, and lovely mountain scenery.

Duration

5-7 hours walk

Max Altitude

3750m/12,303ft.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 07: Trek to Sanyam Sherpa village from Ghyangkharka.

Day 7: Take an unforgettable 5–6 hour trek from Ghyangkharka to the picturesque Sherpa village of Sanam, on a track that winds through breathtaking Himalayan scenery and rugged mountain life.

As you wander through actual Sherpa villages perched amidst time-worn forest and carved-off landscapes, at every step a sense of internal draw towards the rich cultural landscape of the destination is revealed.

The tall forest sways along the beat of tradition, and expansive views of rolling hills and wider valleys soothe the soul.
This day offers more than a hike – it’s an opening to the essence of SoluKhumbu, where natural beauty is coupled with Sherpa tradition’s embracing hospitality. An exquisite combination of tranquility, exploration, and introduction to one of the Himalaya’s least spoiled and culturally rich areas.

Duration

5-6 hours walk

Max Altitude

2590m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 08: Trek to Bung from Sanyam Sherpa village with beautiful Rai's Village.

Day 8: Trek from Sanam Sherpa Village to Bung (1,800m) for 5-6 hours via stunning scenery that will mesmerize you.

The trail goes through the bustling Kulung Rai village, where you can observe the unique culture and traditions of the Rai people. While walking down the slope, the path offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, extensive terraced fields, and dense green forests, thus creating a quintessentially breathtaking landscape The leisurely walk through the secluded Villages offers an astounding mix of pure cultural experiences and awe-inspiring natural scenery.

Upon arrival at Bung, you are offered a peaceful atmosphere that makes it just the right spot to sit back and reflect upon the trip.

Duration

5-6 hours walk

Max Altitude

1800m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 09: Trek to Sotang Bazaar from Bung.

Day 9: 5–6 hour walk from Bung to Sotang Bazaar (1,630m), a beautiful walk through some of the SoluKhumbu’s lowest and most scenic countryside.

The highway twists through villages from the fairy tale, and emerald wood, where time is static and the rhythm of mountain life is stripped bare before you. Along it, vistas of wooded ridges and valleyed-up country roll to the horizon, bringing moments of peace and awe.

As you drive into Sotang Bazaar, the road leads you into the heart of a bustling hill town—ample local color, tranquil beauty, and the comforting rumble of everyday life. Isolated in the hills, Sotang is a peaceful refuge, the perfect place to rest and reflect after a day of being besieged by culture and nature.

Duration

5-6 hours walk

Max Altitude

1630m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 10: Drive to Pattale Bazaar from Bung by local jeep.

Day 10, you will be driven from Bung by local jeep for 6 hours to Pattale Bazaar (2,837m). Scenic drive, winding along the rugged mountain roads of the Solukhumbu district with lovely views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and typical villages.

As you travel through the countryside, you’ll navigate rolling terraces, wooded areas, and villages, each step further into the heart of the region’s dense rural existence.

The ride can be rough and tiring, but it is a wonderful opportunity to see the changing landscape of the region as you climb. At Pattale Bazaar, you will be greeted by breathtaking mountain views, including those of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Pattale Bazaar is a peaceful mountain bazaar, and it is a wonderful peaceful center to relax and soak up the regal atmosphere while deciding on the next part of your trek or travel.

Duration

6-7 hours drive

Max Altitude

2840m.

Activity

Driving

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 11: Short Hike to unforgettable Pattle Viewpoint, then return to Kathmandu by local jeep.

Pattale Viewpoint is a stunning, off-the-tourist-trail site within the Solukhumbu district, with panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan summits.

Situated at about 2,840 meters above sea level, it offers a stunning vista of some of the world’s most iconic mountains, including Mount Everest (8,848m) and the tallest peak of our world, whose towering summit can be viewed from the viewpoint of Pattale. Mount Lhotse (8,516m) Its sister peak, Lhotse, the fourth highest peak in the world and a visual feast in all its glory.

Mount Makalu (8,481m) The fifth highest peak in the world, with breathtaking views from the vantage point. Going up to an altitude of 8,586 meters, the third highest peak in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga stretches east, contributing to the awe-inspiring panorama of the Himalayas.

Duration

7-8

Max Altitude

1300 m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 12: Departure from international Airport Nepal

We’ll drop you at the airport by private car then farewell. Hopefully, you enjoyed yourself during your holiday and Nepal trip. NAMASTE.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Includes & Excludes

What is included?

Airport pickup and drop-off by private car
3-star hotel twin sharing room accommodation (2 N in Kathmandu with breakfast)
Kathmandu to Salleri – Kathmandu by jeep
Hill Sherpa Trekking first aid kit by guide
Water purification tablets for tap water
Nepal government tax and company’s official charge
All trekking permit
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner 3 meals in a day
Complementary daily fresh fruit after dinner
Accommodation, local tea house, homestay
Government-licensed holder, speaking English, and experienced guide
All staff wages, food, drinks, accommodations, transportation, and insurance
One strong sherpa helper for carrying your baggage (1 porter for 2 clients)
Helicopter service will be covered by your travel insurance in the event of an emergency.
Down jackets, duffel bags, sleeping bags, and trekking poles are provided by Hill Sherpa Trekking but should be returned after the trek (if you need them).
An oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen level (AMS) (acute mountain sickness)
provides assistant guides (if groups are larger than 6 people).
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides trip certificates (after completing the trip).
Complementary sun block cap of Hill Sherpa Trekking

What is excluded?

International airfare tickets
The Nepal entry visa fee and visa will be obtained on arrival at the international airport in Kathmandu.
Additional accommodations, food, and drinks in Kathmandu (if staying an extra day)
Any kind of dessert, sweet item, chocolate, cake, special coffee, pie, pudding, mineral
water, bar bills, or any extra personal expenses
During the trek, hot showers, mobile, camera, power bank, any battery charging, Wi-Fi Internet,
Kathmandu sightseeing, entrance fees
Your personal medical and travel insurance
Personal first aid kit
maximum baggage weight of more than 15 kg, including hand carry
Tips for Guides and Porters

Note:

We also operate private trips.

Trip Information of Dharma Hill Trek 12 Days

Best seasons for 12 Days Dharma Hill Trek

There is no single best time to undertake the 12 Days Dharma Hill Trek, as it varies with the seasons and appears differently throughout the year. Nevertheless, for the ideal conditions, spring and autumn are regarded as the best seasons for this trek. Both seasons offer themselves the finest weather, clear skies, and spectacular scenery, so they are the top choice for the majority of trekkers and visitors based on experience and personal interest.

During spring, (March- April – May)

The landscape comes alive, with dense rhododendron forests and a carpet of wildflowers greeting you along the path. The trek is a refreshing escape in lush greenery, while the post-monsoon weather guarantees crystal clear skies to take in each breathtaking view. Additionally, Temperatures are pleasant, perfect for trekking, and the longer days of the season provide you with ample daylight hours to absorb the beauty of nature surrounding you.

Spring is a cool and scenic experience on the Dharma Hill trek, with the landscape covered with full-bloomed lush green and multi-colored blossoms. Autumn, though, brings about a stunning transformation, as the old, dry leaves give way to the new, and the surroundings are filled with deep, warm hues. The trek is colorful and scenic, and the good weather of the season provides the year’s best visibility, allowing you to imbibe the total majesty of the views.

(September – October – November)

The skies are generally clear, and visibility of the mountains around, including the Himalayas, is at its best, it is peak trekking season, so anticipate well-trodden paths and established tea houses along the trail, the weather is cool but not freezing, providing ideal trekking conditions.

The Difficulty of the Dharma Hill Trek 12 Days

The Dharma Hill Trek is a newly crafted trail offering an excellent opportunity to witness the Everest and Khumbu highlands without embarking on a longer trek. Perfect for those with limited time, this simple trek is a wonderful way to witness the area’s stunning vistas and culture. The trek is a rewarding experience with moderate difficulty and is perfect for first-time trekkers and families with kids.

Accommodation, Food, and Drink for the Dharma Hill Trek

You will enjoy a comfortable stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, which is a perfect retreat of relaxation before your trekking excursion. You will be staying in local homestays, tea houses, or lodges throughout the trek, providing you with a real experience in the midst of the locality. For your convenience, we will pre-book all the accommodation so that you have a comfortable bed to retire to every night of the trek.

As with all treks in the region, accommodation will typically be in twin-sharing rooms. Note that the accommodation on this trek is not as standardized as the rooms in more frequented trekking zones, and the facilities will vary. If you would prefer to have a private room, i.e., a single room, we can arrange this for you at an additional expense, but it is restricted in the villages we will be staying in. Single rooms are hard to come by, so it is not very probable that you will have a room completely to yourself during the trek.

Transportation for Dharma Hill Trek 12 Days

Your trip begins with a comfortable private jeep ride from Kathmandu to the starting point of the trek. While the ride is generally comfortable, the road becomes rough and bumpy as you approach the starting point of the trek. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel, where you will spend the night before the trek begins.

At the end of your trek, we will pick you up from Bung and bring you back to Kathmandu. Once the trekking part of your journey is complete, we will bring you to the international airport to catch your return flight home. All the transportation from Kathmandu to the trek, airport pick-ups, and your return are fully covered by the Dharma Hill Trek 12 Days, New Trekking Route package in lower Solukhumbu within the Everest region.

For other people who would prefer another alternative, there is a flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu, which is a shorter and scenic way of reaching the trek starting point. Bear in mind that the alternative can be a bit pricier, but it is a suitable choice for people who would wish to save on traveling time.

Equipment List

General Information

The company provides feather sleeping bags but should be refunded after the trek.
Feather down Jacket but should be refunded after the trek.
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides a duffle bag during the trek but should be refunded after the trek.
The windproof and waterproof thin layered jacket
Mostly recommend for Daypack bag 35 ltr.
Headlamp & extra batteries during the trek

Daily Use Essentials

A Sun Black Cap & warm hat
Sunglasses 100% snow UV protection
A muffle (full-cover mask)
Sunscreen (30+ to 60 SPF depending on age)
A pair of thin & warm gloves
A pair of Trekking poles
Water bottle & filter
Water purified tablets
lips guard

Upper Body Essentials

Fleece hat
A pair of t-shirts
Thermal tops
Sports bras for ladies
windproof & fleece jacket
waterproof jacket
lower-body

All Lower Body

waterproof trouser
warmer & fleece trousers
A pair of Comfortable trekking pants
Extra comfortable sports pants
A pair of sports shoes
Thermal underwear
A pair of comfortable waterproof trekking boots
Pair of light sandals
Some Thick (woolen) socks
Sock liners
Light shoes

Personal Medical and First Aid Kits

Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for AMS)
Adhesive bandages and pocket masks
Non-stick pad W/ Adhesive
ibuprofen & paracetamol tablets IP
Some Assorted adhesive bandages
Warps, splints, wound coverings butterfly bandages
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Moves in case sprain any body
pain-relief medication
Sinex, & Eye Drops, etc.
Gauze sponge
Saline solution

(Note: first aid kits & medicine will be carried with our company’s guide during the trekking However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit)

Important Things

passport size photos with original passport copy
Flight details (to pick you up & transfer to hotel)

Extra Essential Things

Energy gel or dry foods (that’s your desire)
A power bank is most important for a backup device (if you have a camera, chargers, extra batteries, and memory card)
Most important for lady’s essentials things (if you are ladies)

Addons & Options for Dharma Hill Trek 12 Days

Addons

Price

Flight to Phaplu from Kathmandu one way

US$
200

Upgrade to 4 star Hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights

US$
240

Upgrade to 5 star hotel in Kathmandu

US$
360

Sightseeing in Kathmandu ( group size 4)

US$
100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dharma Hill Trek new trekking trail?

Yes, of course, the Dharma Hill Trek in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal is a relatively newer trekking route that has been promoted in recent years to help explore areas of the Everest region that are less frequented by tourists. The trek focuses on providing an alternative experience while still offering incredible views of the Himalayas and cultural experiences with the Sherpa communities.

Is available any tea house during this trek?

Yes, tea houses are a popular and well-established feature on trekking routes in the Solukhumbu region, which is home to the Everest region. While the Dharma Hill Trek is less developed than some of the more famous routes because of the new trekking trail, there are likely homestay and local tea houses in the key villages along the way, providing food, shelter, and the opportunity to enjoy traditional Nepali hospitality.

As always, the availability and quality of tea houses vary depending on the season and the specific villages along the route.