Activity Overview
Shiva Dhara Trek is a sacred pilgrimage route located in the Makalu Rural Municipality of Sankhuwasabha District in eastern Nepal. It leads to Shiva Dhara (4310m), a holy site at the base of Mt. Makalu (8463m), the world’s fifth highest mountain. This place is believed to be where Lord Shiva and Parbati once bathed. A massive stone cliff with a hole in it and a stunning 500-foot waterfall makes this spot spiritually and naturally beautiful.
Every year, pilgrims visit Shiva Dhara to take a holy bath under the waterfall, hoping to wash away their sins and receive blessings. The 15-day trek begins from Num village, which is reached by a 4-hour jeep or bus ride from Khandbari. The trek goes down to the Arun River, crosses a suspension bridge, and climbs up through Seduwa and Tasigaun the last village on the route. From there, the trail passes Khongma, Shipton La, Dobato, and Yangle Kharka. After staying in Yangle, you hike up a steep and rocky path to reach Shiva Dhara. You can take a holy bath, visit Parbati Cave, and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings before returning to Yangle for the night.
The trail is tough and remote, but basic teahouses are now available along the way. You’ll need a local, experienced guide and porter to help complete the trek safely.
Highlights
- A spiritual journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and sacred trails.
- Visit Shiva Dhara a 500 foot tall waterfall flowing from a cave believed to be created by Lord Shiva’s Trishul.
- Experience the natural beauty: waterfalls, forests, caves, and high mountains.
- Stand 8 feet from the powerful waterfall stream after a short prayer, the water may shift and fall directly on your head, believed to be a blessing from Lord Shiva.
- Ideal for those seeking spiritual peace, natural wonder, and a quiet path far from crowded tourist routes.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (30 minutes), then drive about 13 km to Khandbari. Check into your hotel, meet your porter/guide, and spend the evening planning and packing for the 15-day Shiva Dhara Trek.
Day 2:
After breakfast in Khandbari, take a 4-hour jeep ride to Num. From there, descend to Chamla Kharka and begin your trek. Cross the Arun River via a suspension bridge and hike uphill to Seduwa for an overnight stay. Register your TIMS card and pay the Makalu Barun National Park entrance fee.
Day 3:
Trek uphill from Seduwa to Tasigaun, which takes about 4 to 6 hours. Pass through Chyaksedanda and reach Tasigaun in the evening. Stay overnight at a local teahouse.
Day 4:
Begin your ascent to Khongma Danda, stopping at Danda Kharka for lunch. Continue uphill through Chipla and Unishisha before reaching Khongma. Be aware of early symptoms of altitude sickness and rest at a teahouse overnight.
Day 5:
Trek from Khongma to Dobato, crossing three high passes: Ghenguru La, Shipton La, and Keke La. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of peaks like Chamlang, Peak 6, and Peak 7. Spend the night at a teahouse in Dobato.
Day 6:
Descend to Yangle Kharka, passing through Phematang and crossing a suspension bridge over the Barun River. The trek takes around 4 to 5 hours. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Yangle Kharka.
Day 7:
Take a rest day at Yangle Kharka to acclimatize and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Stay in the same teahouse and prepare for the climb to Shiva Dhara.
Day 8:
Start early and trek uphill past Nghe Kharka to reach Shiva Dhara. Bathe in the sacred waterfall, visit Parbati Gupha and other religious sites, and enjoy the serene environment. After exploring, return to Yangle Kharka for the night.
Day 9:
Trek back from Yangle Kharka to Dobato, a journey that takes about 4 to 6 hours. Rest overnight at a familiar teahouse in Dobato.
Day 10:
Continue your return trek from Dobato to Khongma. The walk takes around 4 to 6 hours. Rest for the night at a local teahouse.
Day 11:
Hike downhill from Khongma, stopping at Tasigaun for lunch. Continue your trek to Seduwa and stay overnight at a teahouse.
Day 12:
Walk down to the Arun River, cross the suspension bridge, and hike up to Chamla Kharka. Take a reserved jeep back to Khandbari, a journey of about 5 to 6 hours. Say goodbye to your porter/guide and meet with MAST staff for trek feedback.
Day 13:
Explore the Khandbari area and visit local markets, schools, hospitals, or social projects. You may also take part in volunteer work if you are interested. Use the day to relax and connect with the local culture.
Day 14:
Drive from Khandbari to Tumlingtar and catch a flight back to Kathmandu. If time permits, buy local souvenirs like Allo clothes, Rudraksha beads, or woolen blankets before leaving.