The Budi Ganga Valley Trek is a 9-day adventure into Nepal’s remote Far Western region, traversing the Bajura, Doti, and Achham districts along the Budhi Ganga River to the sacred Badimalika Temple. This trek blends spiritual significance, pristine natural beauty, and cultural immersion in a region visited by fewer than 500 trekkers annually, offering solitude compared to crowded routes like Everest or Annapurna. Perfect for adventurers seeking an authentic Himalayan experience, it features lush forests, terraced farmlands, traditional villages, and stunning views of Saipal Himal (7,031m) and Api (7,132m).
Starting with a flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi and a drive to Silgadhi, the trek follows the Budhi Ganga River through rhododendron and oak forests, waterfalls, and streams. Highlights include the confluence of the Budhi Ganga and Malagadh rivers, a spiritually significant site, and the Badimalika Temple (4,200m), dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, offering panoramic Himalayan views. Visit villages like Jadanga and Budha Krodh, home to Brahmin, Chhetri, and Thakuri communities, for a glimpse into local traditions and hospitality.
This moderately challenging trek involves 5-7 hours of daily hiking on rugged, sometimes steep terrain, reaching a maximum elevation of 4,200m. With limited tea houses, the itinerary includes five nights of camping, with Nepali meals (dal bhat, dhido, vegetables) prepared by an expert trekking cook. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer clear skies and vibrant flora, while winter snow and monsoon rains (June-August) make trekking less ideal. Hairy Yak Adventures provides experienced, government-licensed guides, porters, and permits (Bajura Restricted Area Permit: $20-$30, TIMS card: $10-$20). Arrive in Kathmandu a day early for a briefing and to explore UNESCO sites like Pashupatinath Temple. This trek is a unique journey into Nepal’s wild west, blending adventure, spirituality, and cultural discovery.
Trek to the sacred Badimalika Temple (4,200m), a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, with breathtaking Himalayan views.
Explore the remote Far Western region, with pristine landscapes and rare peaks like Saipal Himal (7,031m) and Api (7,132m).
Immerse in Brahmin, Chhetri, and Thakuri cultures through visits to traditional villages like Jadanga and Budha Krodh.
Witness the scenic confluence of the Budhi Ganga and Malagadh rivers, a spiritually significant site.
Traverse diverse landscapes, from lush forests and terraced fields to high-altitude meadows and streams.
Starting from $900 per person (based on 3-4 pax group size).
All land transport and flight tickets (Kathmandu to Dhangadhi and return).
Bajura Restricted Area Permit ($20-$30) and TIMS card ($10-$20).
Tea house accommodation in Silgadhi and Dhangadhi; camping for five nights with three meals daily (Nepali meals like dal bhat, dhido, vegetables; tea/coffee included).
Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide and expert trekking cook.
One porter for every two to three participants (max 15kg per person; additional cost for solo trekkers).
Guide, cook, and porter wages, equipment, insurance, and other staff facilities.
Complimentary sleeping bag, trekking poles, and duffel bag (returnable).
Comprehensive first aid kit with oximeter and emergency arrangements.
All program activities as per the itinerary on a full-board basis.
Hotel accommodation, lunch, and dinner in Kathmandu and Dhangadhi.
Travel insurance (must cover helicopter rescue evacuation in emergencies).
Personal expenses (e.g., soft/hard drinks, tips, souvenirs).
All bar bills.
Items of a personal nature (e.g., personal trekking gear beyond provided items).
Costs or delays due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., landslides, weather, illness, flight cancellations).
Panoramic vistas of Saipal Himal (7,031m), Api (7,132m), and surrounding Himalayan peaks from Badimalika Temple.
Scenic trails along the Budhi Ganga River, with lush forests, waterfalls, and vibrant rhododendron blooms in spring.
Stunning views of the confluence of the Budhi Ganga and Malagadh rivers, a spiritually significant site.
Picturesque terraced farmlands and traditional villages set against rugged Himalayan terrain.
Ideal for moderately experienced trekkers seeking a remote, less-touristed adventure with spiritual and cultural significance.
Moderately challenging due to altitudes up to 4,200m, 5-7 hour hiking days, and rugged terrain; some trekking experience is recommended.
Not suitable for beginners or those with serious health conditions due to remote locations, limited facilities, and camping requirements.
Perfect for adventurers craving solitude, cultural immersion, and Nepal’s untouched Far Western landscapes.
Train 2-3 months with cardio (running, cycling), strength exercises (squats, lunges), and hikes with a 10-12 kg backpack to build endurance.
Practice hiking on uneven terrain to prepare for steep ascents, descents, and rocky paths.
Pack sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing (moisture-wicking base, fleece, waterproof jacket), and a sleeping bag rated for -10°C to -15°C for high-altitude nights.
Include trekking poles, a headlamp with extra batteries, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and water purification tablets or a filter.
Keep your 50-60L backpack to 10-12 kg; porters (cost ~USD 20/day, one per two trekkers) can carry up to 25 kg, but minimal gear enhances comfort.
Pack compact clothing and toiletries for 9-11 days; camping gear (tents, mats) is provided but check with the operator.
Drink 3-4 liters of water daily; use purification tablets or a filter for river/stream water, as bottled water is unavailable.
Monitor for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness); carry Diamox and descend if symptoms worsen.
Plan rest days at 3,000-3,500m to adjust to altitudes up to 4,200m.
Ascend gradually to minimize AMS risk; follow guide recommendations for pacing.
Carry ample Nepali Rupees (NPR) from Kathmandu or Dhangadhi; no ATMs beyond Silgadhi.
Expect no mobile coverage in most areas; a satellite phone is recommended for emergencies.
Bring a solar charger or power bank; charging is limited or unavailable during camping.
Carry spare batteries for headlamps; conserve power.
Contact: Hairy Yak Adventures
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
Badimalika Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, is a major Hindu pilgrimage site believed to grant prosperity and spiritual enlightenment, attracting devotees annually.
Limited tea houses along the remote Budhi Ganga Valley route necessitate camping in areas like Jadanga, Budha Krodh, Bhito, and Triveni, with tents and meals provided.
You’ll interact with Brahmin, Chhetri, and Thakuri communities in villages like Jadanga and Budha Krodh, observing their traditional lifestyles and hospitality.
The trek is moderate, with 5-7 hours of daily hiking on steep, rugged trails up to 4,200m, suitable for trekkers with basic fitness and some hiking experience.
Expect lush rhododendron and oak forests, waterfalls, the Budhi Ganga River confluence, and Himalayan views of Saipal and Api peaks, especially from Badimalika.