Mundum Trekking Trail: A Cultural and Natural Odyssey in Eastern Nepal
The Mundum Trekking Trail, also known as Mundhum Trek, is a recently opened cultural trekking route in the serene mountains of eastern Nepal. This trail offers an immersive experience into the rich culture of the Kirat Rai people, the indigenous inhabitants of the eastern hills and mountains of Nepal. The trek was officially opened to trekkers in January 2018.
The Significance of the Mundum Trekking Trail
The name 'Mundum' is deeply intertwined with the cultural practices of the Kirat people residing in the region. Mundum is the religious scripture of the Kirat people, guiding their social and cultural life. As the trail winds through the settlements where the Kirat people have lived for centuries, trekkers get an intimate look at their unique culture and lifestyle. The trek is named to highlight the cultural richness of the region, in addition to the breathtaking natural beauty and mountain vistas.
Journey Through the Kirat Rai Cultural Trail
The Mundum Trek route traverses several indigenous ethnic villages, taking adventurers through the settlements of the Kirat people. This cultural trail reaches an elevation of 4,200 meters at the Silchung Peak viewpoint. The untouched route starts from Diktel Bazar and passes through the picturesque settlements of ChaKhewa, Dhotre, Maiyung, RawaDhap, Salpa Bhanjyang, Silchung, Hakule, Hanspokhari, and finally ends at Bhojpur.
Highlights of the Mundum Trekking Trail
Nepal is renowned for its majestic mountains, and the Mundum Trek does not disappoint in this regard. The trek offers stunning Himalayan views, verdant valleys, and lush forests. Trekkers will pass through beautiful villages along the trail, each offering a glimpse into the cultural wonders of the Kirat Rai and Limbu people. The trek also provides views of five of the 8,000-meter peaks: Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Shishapangma, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Other peaks in the Himalayan range further enhance the allure of the Mundum Trek.
Accommodation and Meals on the Mundum Trekking Trail
The Mundum Trekking Trail primarily offers camping accommodations. However, a mix of accommodations, including hotels and basic tea houses, are used. All meals, except those in Kathmandu, are included in the trek. Accommodations in Diktel are tea houses, while Bhojpur and Salpa Pokhari offer standard hotels. The rest of the accommodations are tented camps, with kitchen staff from Trekking Trail Nepal preparing fresh, quality meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Best Time to Trek the Mundum Trail
The best time to embark on the Mundum Trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. The spring months of March, April, and May are ideal for those who enjoy warm weather, fresh green leaves, and blooming flowers. The autumn months from September to December offer a chance of light snow and are perfect for those who enjoy hiking on the ridge trail of Mundum in chilly weather.
Physical Fitness Level for the Mundum Trekking Trail
The Mundum Trekking Trail is classified as an easy to moderate level trek. The maximum elevation reached is 4,200 meters above sea level. Basic physical fitness and the stamina to walk about 6-8 hours each day are sufficient to complete the Mundum trek. There is no risk of High Altitude Sickness on this trek.
Communication, Electricity, and Internet on the Mundum Trekking Trail
As a recently launched trekking route, the Mundum Trekking Trail does not have the same facilities as more established treks like the Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Cellular reception is available in some parts of the trekking trails, but data is weak. Electricity is not available in most camping places, so trekkers are advised to pack a small solar charger for their personal gadgets. There are no internet services on the Mundum Trekking Trail.
The Mundum Trekking Trail is a unique trekking experience in eastern Nepal. It offers a deep dive into the culture, religion, and lifestyle of the Kirat and Rai people, along with splendid views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Kangchenjunga. This trek is a worthwhile adventure for those seeking a peaceful cultural trekking experience.
