Kathmandu: A six-day exploratory trek to Jugal Base Camp has been successfully completed under the “Jugal Is Open” campaign, an initiative led by local youths to promote tourism and sustainable development in the Jugal region of Sindhupalchok.
Returning to Sukute after the expedition, members of the Guardians Group, led by Jugal-6 resident Prabin Shrestha, described the journey as both physically demanding and deeply rewarding. Despite trekking for 10 to 12 hours a day through challenging terrain, Shrestha said the breathtaking landscapes and unique experience of reaching Jugal Base Camp made every hardship worthwhile.
According to Shrestha, there are two main routes to reach the base camp. Travelers can drive up to Tembathang via Dipu before continuing on foot, while the traditional monastery route requires trekking from lower elevations. Although the latter is more demanding, he believes it offers a more adventurous and attractive experience for trekking enthusiasts.
The expedition was organized by a 12-member team of The Jugal Guardians under the slogan “Jugal Is Open,” with support from Ishwor Gubhaju, General Secretary of the Sindhupalchok Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and coordination from the Jugal Rural Municipality. The team returned to Sukute on Sunday and arrived in Kathmandu on Monday.
Team member Gaurav Shrestha shared that the journey began from Koteshwor on May 27 and highlighted the region’s rich culture, language, and traditions as key attractions. Traditional performances such as Khanduke Selo and Lalungba dance added a unique cultural dimension to the trek. He also noted that a homestay currently under construction near the monastery area could become a major attraction for future visitors.
Another participant, Bikram Tamang of Jugal Rural Municipality-3, emphasized the need for detailed documentation of trekking routes leading to Jugal Base Camp. He said information such as distances, travel times, and route conditions would be valuable for future trekkers and help establish the destination as a well-managed tourism product.
Local resident Gorgen Lalungba Lama pointed out that mobile network coverage currently extends only up to Dipu, creating communication challenges for visitors traveling to higher elevations. He also highlighted the lack of accommodation facilities, hotels, and proper sanitation management along the route.
Campaign coordinator Ishwor Gubhaju described the six-day, five-night expedition as a significant milestone for tourism development in the region. The team successfully reached the Jugal View Point, situated at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters above sea level, which they believe can now serve as the official Jugal Base Camp destination.
“Despite being one of the closest Himalayan regions to Kathmandu, Jugal has remained largely unexplored. This campaign is an important step toward bringing the Jugal Himal area into Nepal’s mainstream tourism map,” Gubhaju said.
The team has urged local authorities to allocate budget for tourism infrastructure, including accommodation facilities, expansion of telecommunications services, trail improvements, sanitation management, and other essential amenities. Members expressed confidence that the collective efforts of local youths can transform Jugal into one of Nepal’s emerging trekking destinations and contribute to long-term economic prosperity through tourism.
