Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
Exploring
theTourism
Possibilities
ofDolpa
THE RUBY
Valley TREK
Ganesh
Himal Region
TAAN
DiscoveringTourism Destinations
& Trekking
Trails in Nepal
LOWER
MANASLU ECO
TREK-Gorkha
LumbasumbaPass
Kanchenjunga
& Makalu
www.taan.org.np
TAAN
& TrekkingTrails
in Nepal
TAAN
Strengthening
the Trekking
Tourism Industry
I
Exploring
theTourism
Possibilities
ofDolpa
Team Leader
Mahendra S. Thapa
Trekking Agencies'
Association of Nepal- TAAN
Introduction
Dolpa is one of the most interesting trekking destinations
of Nepal for many reasons. First of all, with an area of 7,889
sq. kilometers, it is the largest district of Nepal, and yet
one of the most sparsely populated. Its topography is very
interesting. It contains the deepest lake of Nepal, Lake
Phoksundo, which also happens to be the deepest lake of
high altitude in the world. Dolpa is one of the few Nepali
districts that is behind the Himalayan mountains, due to
which it gets very little rain. Hence, most of the hills are
bare with little vegetation. Harsh weather combined with
high hills makes this area one of the most inhospitable in
Nepal, and yet the barren and majestic hills lend it a rare
beauty that is absolutely mesmerizing.
Due to the harsh living conditions,
few people live or travel in these
areas. As a result, the people of
Dolpa are part of a very isolated
culture found in specific pockets
of northern Nepal. This is a land
where life still revolves around
horses, mules, and yaks, people still
wear traditional attire and jewelry,
waters are still divided on the basis
of a dice game, and the remains of
the dead are given to wild vultures.
Even today, much of Dolpa is
restricted area for tourists, which
contributed to the preservation of
unique culture of Dolpa.
Some of the attractions of this route
are: Dho Tarap, a human settlement
at the highest altitude in the world,
Shey Gumba, religiously the most
important Gumba in Nepal, and
lake Phoksundo, the deepest lake of
high altitude in the world.
Yarsagumba
Upper Dolpa is one of the few
remaining sources of Yarsa Gumba,
an exotic half plant, half animal
that is considered a powerful
aphrodisiac. Every year, in MayJune, the Shey Phoksundo National
Park opens its doors to the seekers
of Yarsagumba. Local villagers travel
in droves to great heights to seek
this elusive plant that is found only
in high altitudes under specific
weather conditions. At a diminutive
Trekking in Dolpa
The months of March to September
are good for embarking on this trek.
After September, it starts snowing
heavily, and trekking is possible
only with heavy duty equipment.
From November it is completely
impassable. The best time is from
March to May, as it may rain in June
and July.
Communication
Travelers may lose communication
at many stretches of the journey.
Satellite phones work in any place,
but are expensive. Phone networks
which are popular in other parts
of the country do not work well
here. Ncell works in big towns like
Trekking Agencies'
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High Altitude
Any height more than 3,000 meters
above sea level is considered to be
high altitude. During Dolpa trek,
travelers frequently go above 3,000
meters and there are several passes
of more than 5,000 meters. Hence,
travelers should be well prepared for
Altitude of
Waling time
Destination from O to L
(in meters)
Walking
time from
L to D
Max altitude
of the day
(in meters)
Juphal
Kageni
Chhepka
2,491
3 hrs
3 hrs
2,491
Chhepka
Rechi
Chunuwar
3,130
3.5 hrs
2 hrs
3,130
Chunuwar
View Tower
Ringmo
3,647
2.5 hrs
1 hr
3,715
Ringmo
Choklapuk
Ruktang
3,594
4.5 hrs
2.5 hrs
4,026
Ruktang
Pack Lunch
Base Camp
4,677
4 hrs
2 hrs
4,677
Base Camp
Pack Lunch
Shey Gumba
4,354
2.5 hrs
4.5 hrs
5,352
Shey Gumba
Namgung Gumba
Saldang
4,085
7 hrs
4 hrs
5,120
Saldang
Namdo
Rhakyo
4,151
2 hrs
4.5 hrs
4,151
Rhakyo
Pack Lunch
High Camp
4,850
3 hrs
3 hrs
4,850
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High Camp
Takshi
Dho Tarap
4,090
5 hrs
1 hr
5,107
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Dho Tarap
Lang
Tangum
3,586
3 hrs
5 hrs
4,090
12
Tangum
Laini Odar
Lashikyap
2,718
5 hrs
2 hrs
3,586
4 hrs
13
Lashikyap
Shahar Tara
Dunai
2,095
3.5 hrs
14
Dunai
Juphal
2,250
4 hrs
2,718
2,250
Day l1
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Day l2
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Day l3
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Phoksundo Lake
With a maximum depth of 145 m,
Phoksundo is the deepest lake in
Nepal and also the deepest lake
found at such a great altitude in
the world. It is a freshwater lake
completely devoid of any animal
life. The lake is fed by streams that
originate from the Himalayas, and
hence its water is very cold. It is
famous for its deep aquamarine
blue color, but at close observation,
it can be seen that the lake changes
color with according to the amount
of ambient light. It takes on a whole
range of shades from deep green,
shimmering silver, to its usual deep
blue and gray.
Day l4
From this onwards we enter
Upper Dolpa, as Ringmo village
is the boundary between Lower
and Upper Dolpa. We started out
by walking on a rocky precipice
over the Phoksundo lake. The
precipice offers different angles
to view all three corners of
Phoksundo lake. The precipice
is also the site of a dramatic
scene in the popular French
movie Himalaya. The road climbs
and dips to the level of the
lake, where we crossed several
shallow streams on foot. We
encountered many streams that
empty into the Phoksundo lake.
After walking for about two
hours, the road swerves to the
left, after which the first corner
of Phoksundo is obscured from
view and we only get to see the
last corner. The track goes up to
a height of 4,085m, after which
it steadily descends through a
dense pine forest. After walking
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Day l5
On the fifth day, the route is very
unique. We crossed Pisten River
over and over again without
bridges. The river flows inside a
gorge, and alternately embraces
each side of the gorge. As a
result, we have to either walk
through the river or due to which
we have to walk on the dry side.
The walk is uphill but not steep.
The water ranges from shallow to
knee deep, and the current is very
swift. Sandals are recommended
for entire day. Several waterfalls
fall into the river from both sides.
Day l6
This day was the most arduous day
of the trek, since we crossed our
highest pass on this day. The road is
inclined steeply, interspersed with
short stretches of gradual inclines.
The final few hundred meters are in
a sandy mountain, where our feet
slid at every step. Altitude sickness
may take hold at this point, and
travelers should be well prepared
for that.
After crossing the pass, the other
wide offers a spectacular view of
light sand colored mountains. The
monsoon rains in Nepal come from
clouds which travel northwards
from the oceans in the south. But
most of them disperse their water
in Southern Nepal, as they cannot
cross the tall Himalayan mountains.
Hence, some places in Nepal which
are behind tall mountains do not
get much rainfall. Dolpa is one of
them. The results of little moisture
can be seen in these parts, where
the mountains are bare and sandy,
and the vegetation is very sparse.
We had packed lunch on this day.
After walking downhill from the
pass for about four hours, we get to
Shey Gumba. From a religious point
of view, Shey Gumba is considered
the most important of all Gumbas
in Nepal. It is almost a Mecca for
Buddhists. Though the building
itself is modest, the statues in the
The legends
of Shey Gumba
Once upon a time, the people were
making a Gumba in Digarji. The
people would build all day, but
every night demons would come
and destroy whatever was made
in the day. The Gumba could never
be completed. The people finally
decided to ask Guru Rimpoche for
advice. The Rimpoche suggested a
most secluded place that demons
would never be able to get at.
That place was Shey, which is
surrounded by tall mountains of
more than 5,000 meters on all
sides, and is almost inaccessible
for outsiders. The villagers came to
Shey and built their Gumba, but
even the gods were reluctant to
stay in such an inhospitable place.
Once the villagers installed the
gods and went back home, they
found that the gods had already
flown back, and had arrived at their
village before them. The villagers
went back to Shey Gumba again.
This time they shackled the gods
with iron chains, and that is how
Shey Gumba came to be.
The Shey Gumba is also said to
be commissioned by the king
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Shey Festival
Every twelve years, in the year of
the dragon according to Tibetan
calendar, Shey Gumba holds a
festival. Though the Gumba has
a ceremony in September every
year, there is a major ceremony
every twelve years. This festival
is celebrated grandly by inviting
Rimpoches from other surrounding
Gumbas. Buddhists from all over the
world flock to this festival. During
this festival, devotees make a
rotation of Crystal Mountain.
Day l7
On this day we crossed the second
pass of the journey. From Shey
Gumba the path is muddy at first.
We walk on the side of a hill on a
mild incline. There are also some
stretches of steep incline. After
walking for about three hours, we
get to a gorge with a shallow river.
We walk uphill along the river shore,
then we climb a short stretch of
steep incline. The final stretch takes
us almost horizontally on a dark,
sandy mountain.
After crossing the pass is a steep
downhill trail. Though the hills are
barren without greenery, there
are all kinds of wildflowers in red,
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Day l8
We start this day from Saldang with
mild inclines and declines. We walk
along a gorge where the bottom
is populated with green fields of
local barley. We pass several villages
on the way, and the mountainside
is dotted with little chhortens, or
Buddhist shrines. Many of them
are hard to access. Lunch was
at Namdo, a small village with a
school and communication facility.
We had to cross a knee deep river
twice to reach the camping spot.
The campsite was at a river shore a
few miles out of Rhakyo. It was on
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Day l9
On this day we prepared to cross
our last pass of. We walked up a
mild incline along a river inside a
gorge. We crossed the river at some
points. For a long stretch, the track
was almost horizontal along a river
shore, but towards the end, the
incline became steeper. On this day
we left valleys and villages behind,
and the scene went back to barren
Day l10
On this day we crossed the last pass
of the journey. The road from High
Camp to Jengla Pass is steeply uphill
with stones and boulders on the
road. Since we camped at a great
height, in the morning we were
able to cross the pass very soon,
at about one and a half hours. The
road going down from the pass is
gradually descending at first, and
then becomes almost horizontal.
On the left are barren ridged hills
that look as if they are carved out of
individual rocks. Each ridge in the
hills is of a different color, red, ochre,
or green. They look like parallel
waves from afar. On the right, where
we walk, there is more greenery. A
river, which will later join the Bheri,
flows in between.
Day l11
From Dho Tarap, we walk in a windy
gorge that is almost horizontal.
Even though the sun is shining,
the wind makes warm clothes
necessary on this section of the
trail. We follow the same rive as
yesterday. We walk on a high,
bare precipice and watch the river
pass through narrow gorges. The
river constantly changes shape,
becoming wide and shallow in
some places and deep and narrow
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Day l12
The trail starts with a mild incline,
but takes us to a height of 3,800
meters. The river sets our course as
it whistles far below. From this day
we see growing vegetation. The pine
forests go from scarce to dense in a
matter of hours, and there are two
spectacular waterfalls on this stretch
of the road. This stretch of the road
is very cold due to the wind. Also,
the gorge is made up of almost
perpendicular hills, which allow for
only a few hours of sunlight.
Day l13
The track led us through a gentle horizontal walk through dense vegetation.
There are lots of village on the way, notably a group of separate villages
near each other that are called Tarakot, Tarabagar, Shahar Tara and Tuppo
Tara. From Tarakot we walk along the shore of the river. The road sometimes
climbs to the top of the hill, and sometimes dips to the level of the river.
Lunch was at Shahar Tara, one of the intermediary villages which was directly
on our way. Camping was at Dunai, the headquarter of Dolpa, a large town
with electricity, health center and communication facility.
Day l14
The last day of the trek led us uphill again. We had to get to Juphal, because Juphal
is the only city in Dolpa with an airport. The road from Dunai is a wide motorable
road up to Kalagauda. We walk on this road horizontally for approximately two
hours. Then there is a steep uphill stretch for about two hours, as Juphal is situated
at a considerable height than Dunai. Finally, we arrive at Juphal airport on top of
town. From here we can take a plane to Nepalgunj or Surkhet.
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Itinerary of Extended
Upper Dolpa Circuit
For travelers who cannot get enough of the adventures and cultures of
Dolpa, there is a longer route that takes them through several villages. This
is an opportunity for travelers to soak in more of the culture of Himalayan
tribes, and to challenge their physical capacity. Apart from many small
settlements, there are two major villages in this route: Bhijer and Tinje. There
are also two extra passes that will test the travelers stamina. This track is full
of alpine forests, interspersed with bare mountains. The itinerary of extended
Upper Dolpa Circuit is as follows.
Day Place of
Lunch (L)
Destination (D)
Origin (O)
Altitude of
Waling time
Destination from O to L
(in meters)
Walking
time from
L to D
Max altitude
of the day
(in meters)
Juphal
Kageni
Chhepka
2,491
3 hrs
3 hrs
2,491
Chhepka
Rechi
Chunuwar
3,130
3.5 hrs
2 hrs
3,130
Chunuwar
View Tower
Ringmo
3,647
2.5 hrs
1 hr
3,715
Ringmo
Choklapuk
Ruktang
3,594
4.5 hrs
2.5 hrs
4,026
Ruktang
Pack Lunch
Base Camp
4,677
4 hrs
2 hrs
4,677
Base Camp
Pack Lunch
Shey Gumba
4,354
2.5 hrs
4.5 hrs
5,352
Shey Gumba
Namgung Gumba
Saldang
4,085
7 hrs
4 hrs
5,120
Saldang
Namdo
Rhakyo
4,151
2 hrs
4.5 hrs
4,151
Rhakyo
Pack Lunch
High Camp
4,850
3 hrs
3 hrs
4,850
10
High Camp
Takshi
Dho Tarap
4,090
5 hrs
1 hr
5,107
11
Dho Tarap
Lang
Tangum
3,586
3 hrs
5 hrs
4,090
12
Tangum
Laini Odar
Lashikyap
2,718
5 hrs
2 hrs
3,586
4 hrs
13
Lashikyap
Shahar Tara
Dunai
2,095
3.5 hrs
14
Dunai
Juphal
2,250
4 hrs
2,718
2,250
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Itinerary of Lower
Dolpa Circuit
The Upper Dolpa circuit is a tough one with many passes of more than 5,000
meters. Travelers can also choose a less taxing and popular route that takes
them through scenic Phoksundo lake and Numa La pass. This trek is less
expensive than the Upper Dolpa trek, because Upper Dolpa charges an entry
fee of $ 500 for ten days of trek.
This stretch contains two passes very close to each other: Numa La and Baga
La. Hence, there are steep inclines and declines close to each other. Numa La
Pass is the highest point of this stretch, which may contain snow even in the
month of August. From then to Dho Tarap, the road gradually declines. Most
of the road is full of tall, barren hills with little vegetation. The itinerary for
lower Dolpa is as follows:
Day Place of
Lunch (L)
Destination (D) Altitude of
Origin (O)
Destination
(in meters)
Waling time
from O to L
L to D
Walking
time from
(in meters)
Max altitude
of the day
Juphal
Kageni
Chhepka
2,491
3 hrs
3 hrs
2,491
Chhepka
Rechi
Chunuwar
3,130
3.5 hrs
2 hrs
3,130
Chunuwar
View Tower
Ringmo
3,647
2.5 hrs
1 hr
3,715
Ringmo
Maduwa
Bagala Fedi
4,115
2 hrs
4 hrs
4,115
Bagala Fedi
Bagala Bhanjyang
Gyambo
4,631
4 hrs
2 hrs
5,214
Gyambo
Numa La
Modo Gumba
4,080
4 hrs
3 hrs
5,524
Modo Gumba
Thaksi
Dho Tarap
3,944
1 hr
3 hrs
4,080
Dho Tarap
Lang
Tangum
3,586
3 hrs
5 hrs
4,090
10
Tangum
Laini Odar
Lashikyap
2,718
5 hrs
2 hrs
3,586
11
Lashikyap
Shahar Tara
Dunai
2,095
3.5 hrs
4 hrs
2,718
12
Dunai
Juphal
2,250
4 hrs
2,250
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Jumla Alternative
Since our flight was cancelled for two days in a row, we decided to fly to
Jumla and trek to Dolpa from there. This turned out to be a wonderful
decision, since it provided a welcome diversion for us, and a better
option than waiting in Nepalgunj airport.
Jumla is a wonderful alternative
because of its convenience. Jumla
has a well constructed airport
and the flights are regular from
Nepalgunj. As a result, Jumla is well
stocked on any kind of provisions,
and most shops offer competitive
prices. This offers an enormous
advantage to travelers and trekking
companies as well, because travelers
do not need to stock up on food,
vegetables or trekking equipments
for coming to Jumla, and they can
save up on transportation fees.
Also, there are many motorable
roads in Jumla, which provide the
perfect setting for mountain biking.
Culture
Day Place of
Lunch (L)
Destination (D) Altitude of
Origin (O)
Destination
(in meters)
Waling time
from O to L
L to D
Walking
time from
(in meters)
Max altitude
of the day
Khalanga
Gutthichaur
Manisanghu
2,770
7 hrs
2.5 hrs
2,987
Manisanghu
Chotro
Nauligoth
3,553
2.5 hrs
6.5 hrs
3,913
Nauligoth
Chaurikot
Kaigaun
2,600
2 hrs
5.5 hrs
3,615
Kaigaun
Ghodakhor
Liku
2,426
7.5 hrs
3.5 hrs
3,841
Liku
Tripurakot
Dunai
2,095
2.5 hrs
6 hrs
2,426
Day l1
The trek starts from Khalanga, the
headquarter of Jumla and the site of
its only airport. Khalanga is home to
Chandan Nath temple, which used
to be the Kuldewata (family deity) of
erstwhile Baise Chaubise kingdoms.
Even the famous Muktinath of
Jomsom is said to be a division of
Chandan Nath.
From Khalanga the road follows
Tila River upstream. There are many
wide valleys, fields, villages and
water mills on the way. There are
also many hotels to snack at. The
road is mostly horizontal, but there
are inclines in between. We started
descending from a maximum
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Day l2
Day l3
The road from Nauligoth starts on a
downhill note. Through the day, the
road goes both up and downhill.
There are forests all along the way
and white and blue flowers that
grow wildly in grass. Also, there
were many villages on the way
like Balang, Jhyakot, and Majhkot.
Jhyakot is a pretty developed village
with a medical shop, school, and
laptops for all students. On this day
Bheri River comes in sight.
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Day l4
Day l5
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Other Tourism
Possibilities:
Mountain biking
There are many motorable roads on
our trek route. The first of them is from
Jumla to Maurikot. The road is slightly
uphill at first and hen steeply uphill
near Maurikot. Also, after crossing
Balangra pass, it is feasible to ride to
DUnai via Ghodakhor and Likhu.
Even in Upper Dolpa, it is possible
to ride mountain bike from Shey
Gumba to Saldang in two days. This
is a single track over 4,000 meters
above sea level. It is also possible
to ride bike from Saldang to Rakyo
and carry the bike up to Jeng La
pass, which is 5100 meters above
sea level. After crossing Jeng La
Pass, bike riding is possible again
at Takshi, which is an almost flat
village. Riders can go as far as
Sisaul via Dho Tarap. Lastly, from
Tarakot there is a motorable road
upto Dunai that is appropriate for
mountain biking.
Rafting
Rafting experts in our team
identified several rivers in which
rafting is viable. Tila River in Jumla is
one of them, where locals have tried
successfully tried rafting. In fact,
local entrepreneurs here seemed
very keen on starting rafting in Tila.
Thuli Bheri River in Dolpa has
several rapids, and there have been
successful rafting attempts from
Tarakot to Chisapani.
Golfing
Gutthichaur is a place seven hours
away from Jumla. It is a broad valley
at the bottom of mountains full of
pine trees. Since the ground is more
or less flat with gentle slopes, it is the
perfect location for a golf course.
Snow boarding
and ice skating
Snow boarding and ice skating are
popular activities in winter. Though
Nepal has lots of appropriate
locations for these activities, they
have not been fully utilized. There
are several well known lakes in
Jumla like HUdke Daha, Bishtaji
Daha, etc. Many of them freeze in
winter, providing a perfect location
for snow boarding and ice skating.
Hot spring
Two hours from Khalanga is a
hot spring that is famous for its
medicinal properties. National as
well as international tourists can be
attracted to this site.
Conclusion at Local
Interaction Program
We held an interaction program
with local officials and townspeople
of Dunai. Representatives of local
government bodies, trade unions,
political parties, and media were
present at the meeting. The meeting
was moderated by Ravindra Shahi,
program coordinator of GHT at
Dolpa. The meeting started off with
the question of the future of tourism
in Dolpa. TAAN president Mahendra
Singh Thapa was of the opinion that
Airport
Lack of Infrastructure
Local officials conjectured that
tourists hesitate to come to Dolpa
because of the lack of infrastructure
like hotels, electricity, etc. TAAN
President countered that with the
increase of tourist flow, locals would
automatically start investing in
infrastructure. He gave the example
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Roads
The local officials expressed their
concern that the roads of Dolpa
trekking routes are not well
maintained. They complained that
the budget to build roads is often
sidetracked, due to corruption
and other issues. TAAN President
informed them that TAAN is ready
to help Dolpa construct better
roads. For that, the local VDCs
should contribute 25%, and the
rest of the budget would come
from TAAN and Tourism Ministry.
Tourism Ministry has a department
for infrastructure development. If
properly utilized, this department
can assist in construction projects.
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Provision of half
revenue to Dolpa
In many popular tourist destinations
like Manaslu and Solukhumbu, half
of the revenue from tourism goes
to the local bodies. Till date, this
has not been happening in Dolpa.
TAAN president promised to lobby
for this issue, citing the example of
Manaslu were successful lobbying
has directed half the revenue to
local bodies.
At the end, TAAN President affirmed
his commitment to improving
tourism in Dolpa, and asked for
Dolpa residents support in future
steps. He suggested that Dolpalese
should keep their rivers clean and
build septic tanks, as rafting is
one of the major possibilities for
Dolpa. The local residents of Dolpa
expressed their happiness that they
would get a chance to be heard in
the central government through
TAAN. They expressed that TAAN
would be able to market Dolpa for
them as they had been lacking in
that aspect.
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LOWER
MANASLU ECO
TREK-Gorkha
Team Leader
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Introduction
Gorkha, place from where unification of Nepal was started by King
Prithvi Narayan Shah, is the first capital of Nepal. There are several
places of historical and archaeological importance in the district.
Blessed by nature splendor and land marked by plethora of historic,
religious, ecological and cultural importance it has every potential to
be featured as one of the favored touristic destinations of the country.
However, number of tourists coming to this region is limited. Besides
the Manaslu circuit trek, Lower Manaslu route offers moderate trekking,
historical tour, pilgrimage tour, agro tourism and community based
home stay. The locals are also committed towards development and
promotion of tourism in the district.
In Marcha/April 2012 Trekking
Agencies Association of Nepal
(TAAN) in financial association
with GHTDP/SNV organized a
research trip to explore new tourism
possibilities in Gorkha district.
The team identified new trekking
routes and sub-routes linking
already popular religious, cultural
points like Manakamana and Kalika
temples.
The exploration team documented
history, geography, and culture
of the place it visited during its
nine days trek. The place it visited
are as follows: Manakamana
Temple, Bakyaswari Mahadeva,
Siddha Lakhan Cave, Tinmane
Village, Ghairung Baskot, Bungkot
(Kaule Bhangar), Gorkha Bazaar,
Sirandanda, Ghyachok, Barpak,
Basukang, Laprak, Choyabhanjyang,
Nambai Kharka, Sambai Kharka,
Dharche Danda, Tallo Thotneri, Sita
Cave and Ghyampesal.
Geography and
Demographic
Distribution of Gorkha
District
Gorkha district (27'15'- 28'45'
N latitude and 84'27'- 84'58' E
longitude) is extended between
the altitudes 228m to 8163m asl.
It covers an area of 3610 sq km
and is bordered by Dhading in the
east, Lamjung in the west, Tibet
(China) in the north and Tanahu and
Chitwan in the south (CBS 2001).
According to CBS 2001, the total
population of Gorkha district is
2,88,134 (134407 male and 153727
female); including seventy two
ethnic groups of which Gurungs
(22.29%), Brahmins (17.93%),
Chhetris (12.08%) and Magars
(11.35%) are major ethnic groups
and total number of household
is 58923. Average lifespan is 54.0
years, per capita income is Rs.
6985.00 and human development
index is 0.308 (CBS 2001).
Laprak
Ghyachchowk
Sirandada
Sambe Kharka
Dharche Danda
Bhachhek
Nyauli Kharka
Tallo Thotnery
Chanaute
Bhaluswara
Deurali
Sangu
Khanchowk
Khoplang
Bazar
Dhungagade
Bhanjyang
Rampur
Kaulebangar
Tinmane Bhanjyang
Jhakri Gupha
Baskot
Manakamana
Successful implementation of
government policy depends
on active participation of local
people and improved modes
of infrastructure. However, lack
of knowledge and awareness
towards the aesthetic and cultural
significance of prevailing tourism
products, insufficient tourism
investments and dearth of technical
know-how and weak promotional
activity are some of the major
challenges to prosper tourism
industry in the region.
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Recommendations
The team after exploring various
places of Lower Manaslu region has
following recommendations:
I. Since most of the villages are
offering home stay facility,
orientation and training
courses on home stay facility
management to the operators
of home stay facility should be
organized.
II. Many historical and religious
relics such as Sita cave, 17th
century temple the artifacts of
Martyr Lakhan Thapa, forest
around Dharche Danda and
others should be conserved and
preserved.
III. Tourism infrastructure such as
sign boards along the trekking
route depicting information
about the direction and altitude
is mandatory.
IV. Provide awareness training and
encourage locals to preserve
their culture.
V. Educate people about
sustainable tourism.
Conclusion
The team studied history,
geography, and culture of
aforementioned places along the
Lower Manaslu Trekking Route and
successfully gathered information
required for the preparation of
guide book, a trekking route map
and a video documentary. The effort
put up by the team of identifying
new tourism opportunities will
help to flourish tourism in Gorkha.
Lastly, this kind of exploration trip
is recommended for the country
like Nepal where many places with
great tourism potential is yet to
be explored and has gained no
attention from the government.
This initiative of TAAN and GHT will
definitely help to contribute to the
ever growing tourism industry of
the country.
Day to Day
Itinerary
information for
the Trekkers
Day l1
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Day l2
Day l3
Gorkha excursion
Gorkha Palace
Gorkha Museum
Gorkhanath Cave
The cave of Gorakhnath is situated
about 10 m below the palace. The
cave is believed to be the shelter
of Gorakhanath Baba (great sage)
after whom the district obtained
its name. The sage was the guide
of Shah Dynasty who blessed and
provided his precious guidance to
the dynasty for the unification of
nation.
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Day l4
Day l5
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Day l6
Day l7
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Day l8
Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre,
Lamtang, Himalchuli, Buddha
Himal, Sarang Peak, Malkunti Peak,
Babu Himal, Sringi Himal, Ganesh
I, Ganesh II and Ganesh III among
many others.
The eight day of the journey ends
at Tallo Thotnery, a village enriched
with Gurung culture. No commercial
lodging facility is available but
tourists have an option for home stay
where they will share local highlights
(Gurung dance and local delicacies).
The place also offers major attractions
such as: Sita Cave situated in the
southwest and Olajung Danda.
Day l9
Day l10
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THE RUBY
Valley TREK
Ganesh
Himal Region
Team Leaders
Saroj Neupane
Rajendra Subedi
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Introduction
Dhading, Gorkha, Rasuwaa and Nuwakot districts are at the
geographical center of Nepal and lie at the heart of the nations history.
It is from these hills that Gorkhahillsmen, led by Prithvi Narayan Shah,
set out to unite Nepal in the late 1700s. Since then, Gorkha soldiers have
received international fame for their bravery and skill as warriors.
Although near to both Kathmandu
and Pokhara, the Ganesh Himal
Region has remained a well-kept
secret to all but Nepals most avid
trekkers. The unexplored area is
concealed between the popular
destinations of LangtangNational
Park and the Mansaslu Conservation
Area Project.
Wildflowers flourish, and waterfalls
embellish the lush hill scenery
in a land blessed with wideranging geographical, cultural and
biological diversity.
Sensational viewpoints feature the
sublime Himalaya to the north.
Most prominent is the Ganesh
Himal Range, a family of peaks
among the most attractive of the
entire Himalaya. The Ganesh massif
is named in honor of Hindu deity
Ganesh, son of Shiva and Parvati.
Selected viewpoints in the area
offer immense panoramas !
Most rewarding are the cultural
attractions including magnificent
Ganga Jamuna, twin waterfalls,
Kalo, Seto and Ganesh kunda, hot
spring and Tripurasundari temples
and especially the hospitable
people that inhabit the region. The
QUICK FACTS
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Route 01
aking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive journey
from Kathmandu reaches Shyabru Besi, gateway to the Langtang Valley at the
confluence of the Bhote Kosi and Langtang Rivers. Mesmerizing scenic driving
and passing through Trisuli Bazaar, Ramche Gaon and Dhunche Bazaar makes you
scenic driving. Narrow and bit adventurous zig zags road but amazing landscape
along the way driving will make you good start day drive of the trek.
Day l2
dirt track zig-zags to the west up to Bahun Danda Pass and then down to the
Tamang settlement of Gatlang, a cornerstone village on the Tamang Heritage
Trail or hike to Gatlang by way of Chawatar. Gatlang is a Tamang village with
unique customs and craftsmanship in a magnificent setting. Above lies Parvati
Kund, popular during Janai Purnima when thousands of pilgrims are attracted to
the sacred pond and nearby temple.
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Gatlang Village
Day l3
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Day l4
Day l5
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Day l6
Day l7
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Route 02
aking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive journey
from Kathmandu reaches Shyabru Besi, gateway to the Langtang Valley at the
confluence of the Bhote Kosi and Langtang Rivers. Mesmerizing scenic driving and
passing through Trisuli Bazaar, Ramche Gaon and Dhunche Bazaar makes you full
of fun driving. Narrow and bit adventurous zig zags road but amazing landscape
along the way driving will make you good start day drive of the trek.
Day l2
dirt track zig-zags to the west up to Bahun Danda Pass and then down to the
Tamang settlement of Gatlang, a cornerstone village on the Tamang Heritage
Trail or hike to Gatlang by way of Chawatar. Gatlang is a Tamang village with
unique customs and craftsmanship in a magnificent setting. Above lies Parvati
Kund, popular during Janai Purnima when thousands of pilgrims are attracted to
the sacred pond and nearby temple.
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Day l3
Day l4
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Day l5
Day l6
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Day l7
Day l8
After breakfast trek most of the way down to Jharlang Phedi walking 2
hours passing paddy terraces and surrounding landscapes. Passing through
suspension bridges, breath taking views of Ankhu khola and Chyamchyat as
well as Ri village other side of the river finally reach at Darkha gaon. This village
is mix culture of Brahmin people and Tamang as well as Dalit.
Day l9
After breakfast trek all the way down to Darkha Phedi taking 45 minutes down
hill walk and then take sharing local Jeep with other people and the arrive in
Dhading Besi after 3-4 hours rough and tough zig zags road drive. Crossing
through Ankhu Khola as well as Kimdang phedi villages, Katunje village and
Jyamrung village will make you breath taking scenic driving having fabulous
landscape surroundings. From Dhading change another bus and drive back to
Kathmandu taking 3 hours driving.
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Route 03
Day l2
dirt track zig-zags to the west up to BahunDanda Pass and then down to
the Tamang settlement of Gatlang, a cornerstone village on the Tamang
Heritage Trail or hike to Gatlang by way of Chawatar. Gatlang is a Tamang village
with unique customs and craftsmanship in a magnificent setting. Above lies
ParvatiKund, popular during JanaiPurnimaa when thousands of pilgrims are
attracted to the sacred pond and nearby temple.
Day l3
The trail ascends through pine and rhododendron forest to a lunch point of Yuri
Kharka before continuing to Khurphu Bhanjyang and then dropping down to
the Somdang River, border between Rasuwaa and Dhading districts.
Asprawling mining compound, no longer functioning, lies a few hours to the
north upriver and locals are appealing to the government to re-open it. The hike
passes through a scenic valley featuring the 200 m Chukarma Waterfall. The
former mine leaves a lot be explored and is the site of a 1.4 km tunnel bored
into the mountain to extract zinc, copper, tin, crystal and even highly-prized
rubies.
Day l4
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Day l5
Day l6
Day l7
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hulo Dhunga is a camp site with views of waterfalls tumbling down across
the valley. Flora and fauna abound in the Ganesh Himal region. Wildlife
includes musk deer, jharal a type of goat, wild boar, langur, leopard, pheasant
and partridge. Vegetation includes bamboo, rhododendron and juniper
among abundant wildflowers.
Day l8
he trail continues steeply with occasional jaw-dropping views of the snowy peaks.
Continue through seasonal grazing areas to eventually drop into an immense
green meadow and splendid camp site known as Nojet Kharka.
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Day l9
Exploration Day/viewpoint
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Sundari - Kathmandu
Day l17 Tripura
(1310m/4323ft) 2 hrs hike, 5-6hrs drive
Enjoy breakfast at Tripura Sundari before the short, downhill hike to Khahare
Bazaar where bus service to Kathmandu is easily arranged.
Route 04
aking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive
journey from Kathmandu reaches Shyabru Besi, gateway to the
Langtang Valley at the confluence of the Bhote Kosi and Langtang
Rivers. Mesmerizing scenic driving and passing through Trisuli Bazaar,
Ramche Gaon and Dhunche Bazaar makes you scenic driving. Narrow
and bit adventurous zig zags road but amazing landscape along the
way driving will make you good start day drive of the trek.
Day l2
dirt track zig-zags to the west up to Bahun Danda Pass and then down to
the Tamang settlement of Gatlang, a cornerstone village on the Tamang
Heritage Trail or hike to Gatlang by way of Chawatar. Gatlang is a Tamang
village with unique customs and craftsmanship in a magnificent setting. Above
lies Parvati Kund, popular during Janai Purnima when thousands of pilgrims
are attracted to the sacred pond and nearby temple.
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Day l3
Day l4
Day l5
fter breakfast trek all the way down to Ada Khola khola taking about 35
minutes walk and then ascend uphill to Shertung village about an hour
walking. Finally arrive at Shertung village which is inhabitant of Tamang people
as well as Newar and Dalit. Trek continue to Kalga Danda from where you will
see the magnificent Ganesh Himal ranges mountain views and Chalish village
and surrounding landscape. Trek to Awai little one village of Tamang community
where have lunch and trek continue to Borang gaon. From Awai to Borang is
quite easy walking most of the way down hill passing through paddy terraces
and suspension bridge.
Day l6
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Day l7
Day l8
fter breakfast trek all the way down to Maur Khola cross suspension
bridge (1 hours walking) and uphill trek about 2 hours. Finally arrive
Archale, take lunch and trek continue to Marpak in 3 hours walking. This is a
beautiful mountain view point little bit of Annapurna ranges. Mt. Manaslu
ranges and Ganesh Himal ranges too. It has surrounding sites view including
Khaniyabas, Sat Dobato, Kimdang Phedi, Katunje, Rinne, Ankhu Khola and
little bit of Salyantar.
Day l9
ost of the day will pass through mix culture villages, paddy terraces
and breath taking hill terrain views. After walking 5-6 hours finally
get to Katunje village and over night at local tea shops. Katunje is Bhramin
majority village and this is another mountain view point from where you will
enjoy the best sun rise and sun set view experience including breath taking
mountain views of the Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Langtang ranges.
Day l10
fter breakfast, walk a bit uphill track and trek down to Dhading Besi
(2 hours) the district head quarter of Dhading district, enjoy village
city experience , take lunch and 3 hours Prithivi high way drive back to
Kathmandu.
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Route 05
aking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive
journey from Kathmandu reaches Shyabru Besi, gateway to the
Langtang Valley at the confluence of the Bhote Kosi and Langtang
Rivers. Mesmerizing scenic driving and passing through Trisuli Bazaar,
Ramche Gaon and Dhunche Bazaar makes you scenic driving. Narrow
and bit adventurous zig zags road but amazing landscape along the
way driving will make you good start day drive of the trek.
Day l2
dirt track zig-zags to the west up to Bahun Danda Pass and then down
to the Tamang settlement of Gatlang, a cornerstone village on the
Tamang Heritage Trail or hike to Gatlang by way of Chawatar. Gatlang is a
Tamang village with unique customs and craftsmanship in a magnificent
setting. Above lies Parvati Kund, popular during Janai Purnimaa when
thousands of pilgrims are attracted to the sacred pond and nearby temple.
Day l3
Day l4
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Day l5
ave a look the best sun rise view and magnificent 270 degrees mountain
views, take breakfast and then trek to all the way down to Lapdung village.
Passing through himalayan pine tree, fir and amazing rhododendron forest thick
jungle along the way arrive and have lunch at Laptung village. After lunch turn
right side and passing Phyang village, paddy terraces and surrounding landscape
finally arrive in Linju Village. This area has not developed so much yet for tourism
however in the initiation of Ganesh Himal Tourism Development Committee
(GHTDC) locals have small community lodge/house where trekkers or visitors can
have local basic meals.
Day l6
Linju - Chalish
(1674m/5505ft) 4-5 hrs
Day l7
Day l8
fter breakfast trek to Ludo Danda and reach at Rachyat village. Its bit
hilly valley walking so walking carefully with local guide will be safe.
Pass through Lapchyat village of Gurung and Kupchyat of Tamang village
finally you get to Lapa gaon. It is one of the biggest village in this region and
has big community of Tamang people live. Lapa gaon also have beautiful
Tamang culture and occasionally you will be shown their culture show
performance. Lapa has two basic lodges but other lodges are processing to
build for comfort of coming tourist.
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Day l9
ake breakfast and then trek all the way down to Ankhu khola (1
hours walking) cross suspension bridge, bit uphill walking and finally
arrive at Ukhum for lunchl. After lunch trek continue to Lishne jungle, cross
suspension bridge, passing through Chhapchyat village you finally get to
Jharlang village (Ungul). One of the best and panoramic mountain view
point of the area. This is Tamang village and belongs nearly more than 200
houses.
Shaman dance
Day l10
fter breakfast trek most of the way down to Jharlang Phedi walking 2
hours passing paddy terraces and surrounding landscapes. Passing through
suspension bridges, breath taking views of Ankhu khola and Chyamchyat as well
as Ri village other side of the river. Finally reach at Darkha gaon. This village is
mix culture village of Brahmin people and Tamang as well as Dalit.
Day l11
fter breakfast trek all the way down to Darkha Phedi taking 45 minutes
down hill walk and then take sharing local Jeep with other people and arrive
in Dhading Besi after 3-4 hours rough and tough zig zags road drive. Crossing
through Ankhu Khola as well as Kimdang phedi villages, Katunje village and
Jyamrung village will make you breath taking scenic driving having fabulous
landscape surroundings. From Dhading change another bus and drive back to
Kathmandu taking 3 hours driving.
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Route 06
Day l1
Kathmandu Bhalche
(1850m/6105ft). 6-7 hrs drive
aking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive
journey from Kathmandu reaches Bhalche Gaon after driving
approximately 5 hrs. This is also the gateway to the Langtang Valley at
the confluence of the Bhote Kosi and Langtang Rivers. Mesmerizing
scenic driving and passing through Trisuli Bazaar and Betrawati makes
you scenic driving. Narrow and bit adventurous zig zags road but
amazing landscape along the way driving will make you good start day
drive of the trek. You will even able to start your trek on the same day
but due to bit rough and tough driving spending a night in Bhalche
will give you excellent acclimatization day.
Day l2
fter breakfast trek bit uphill and have breath taking views on the back
of Bhalche village. Trek continue passing thorough high tropical jungle
and mesmerizing jungle views as well as surrounding landscape. Arrive
in Thulo Kharka and stop for lunch after lunch trek continue to Rupchet
where you will find beautiful camp site and yak huts. It has amazing mother
goddess blessing hillside views and its mysterious periphery views.
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Day l3
Day l4
ake breakfast and then just after walking 30 minutes down hill you
arrive in Chalish the most stunning hospitality village of the area
where majority of Gurung people and small portion of Dalit people live
together. Trek continue to Tatopani (hot spring) where you enjoy half of
day taking bath and have lunch. This is probably the best hot springs in
the area but tourist infrastructure has not developed yet (lodge, meals
etc) however taking pack lunch from Shertung village or from Chalish
village will be much better. After lunch trek all way up to pristine Tamang
village named Neber. Just from side of the village you will see the breath
taking Ganesh Himal view just like your face and mirror (so close view).
Enjoy high valley village stay with locals at their local house.
Day l5
Day l6
ake breakfast at the same place and then trek a bit down hill and
right turn to Chyamchyat village. Front side Jharlang area and down
in the gorge Ankhu khola view lure any tourist walking on this way but
its a hilly terrain track walking so careful walking is highly recommended.
Passing through local villages, paddy terraces and little bit of jungle
finally arrive at Kutawal village where stop for lunch and trek continue
via Tawal to Ri Gaon. Ri village has a big community of Tamang people
and Dalit. Local houses is good enough for night shelter and community
lodges are building soon by the locals for the trekkers.
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Day l7
Ri Gaon Phulkharka
(1210m/3993 ft) 5 hrs
Today is quite easy walking of the day. Passing most of the Bhramin
villages and dalit village as well as paddy terraces more open valley
views finally make you arrive in Phulkharka gaon where big community
of Brahmin people live. Lunch along the way and dinner at night staying
with local guest house will fine as it has developed already in this area
for both domestic and international tourist. Tourist standard food and
accommodation has to develop yet but comparatively much better.
Shinchronized Shertung
Day l8
rek to Ankhu khola side and innumerable villages along the way
make you another interesting trekking of the day but due to bit low
valley walk in summer it will be bit hotter. Lunch at Ringne river side in
local restaurant and trek continue uphill to Jyamrung Durbar/danda
which is historically popular and says that king of the Jyamrung used to
live. Centuries old palace still can be seen. This is the best spot for the sun
rise, sun set and the massive mountain views of the Langtang ranges,
Ganesh himal ranges and Manaslu ranges. Over night at local house.
Day l9
un rise view, take breakfast and then trek via Todke danda to Dhading
Besi walking about 2 hours mesmerizing Dhading Besi views and its
surrounding views. Dhading Besi is the head quarter of Dhading district
where government administration offices are based. Take lunch and 3
hours bus drive back to Kathmandu via Prithivi highway.
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Route 07
Kathmandu Bhalche
(1850m/6105ft) 5-6 hrs drive
Taking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive journey
from Kathmandu reaches Bhalche Gaon after driving approximately 5-6
hrs drive. This is also the gateway to the Langtang Valley at the confluence
of the Bhote Kosi and Langtang Rivers. Mesmerizing scenic driving and
passing through Trisuli Bazaar and Betrawati makes you scenic driving.
Narrow and bit adventurous zig zags road but amazing landscape along
the way driving will make you good start day drive of the trek. You
will even able to start your trek on the same day but due to bit rough
and tough driving spending a night in Bhalche will give you excellent
acclimatization day.
Day l2
fter breakfast trek bit uphill and have breath taking views on the
back of Bhalche village. Trek continue passing thorough high tropical
jungle and mesmerizing jungle views as well as surrounding landscape.
Arrive Gongga and stop for lunch after lunch trek continue to Rupchet
where you will find beautiful camp site and yak hut. It has amazing
mother goddess blessing hillside views and its periphery views.
Day l3
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Day l4
Day l5
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Day l6
Day l7
Day l8
Exploration Day/viewpoint
Day l9
Day l10
Take breakfast and then visit Ganesh Himal Base camp(try) and then trek
continue to Ganesh Kunda which another holy and secret lake of the area
where in September hundred of Jhakri (shamans) get together and even
locals participate and celebrate. Ruby mines available in this area and
precious herbs available.
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Day l11
Trek all the way down to Neber gaon, rest a bit, enjoy looking around
the village sites, take lunch and then trek continue river bank walk and
through dense jungle finally arrive in Tatopani (hot spring) and enjoy taking
fantastic hot bath. It has a bathing pool and 3 taps. Relax and rejuvenate the
body, mind and spirit. Rest of the day enjoy river bank camp in cool air.
Day l12
Day l13
Steeply up the hill to the west in a tall, blue pine forest with
rambling rhododendron is Magne Goth, and nearby is a large
boulder, location of ruby extraction.
Day l14
Day l15
Day l16
Salangkot Katmandu
(1310 m/4323ft) 6-7 hrs drive
Finally after breakfast drive dirt road to Dhading Besi and continue
drive back to Kathmandu 6-7 hrs scenic and bit adventure driving.
Salangkot to Dhading is seasonal road drive so specially in
monsoon you may not able to drive instead walk about a 6-7 hrs to
Dhading Besi, to catch bus to Kathmandu.
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Route 08
aking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive
journey from Kathmandu reaches Shyabru Besi, gateway to the
Langtang Valley at the confluence of the Bhote Kosi and Langtang
Rivers. Mesmerizing scenic driving and passing through Trisuli Bazaar,
Ramche Gaon and Dhunche Bazaar makes you full of fun driving.
Narrow and bit adventurous zig zags road but amazing landscape
along the way driving will make you good start day drive of the trek.
Day l2
Day l3
Day l4
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Day l6
Day l7
rek down hill to Tatopani (hot srping where enjoy your half of
the day bath and the trail onward follows stone steps built by
Kadoorie Agri Aid Association and British Gurkhas of Nepal. Both
organizations are active in this area and responsible for building
many water taps, bridges and improved trails. Pass through Tir on
the way to welcoming Racyat and Kapur villages. Finally arrive in
Kupchyat village over night in camp/local house of Tamang village.
Day l8
rek to Khading village where you will see the big community
of Gurung people having their own beautiful culture. While you
will be waiting your lunch explore Khading gaon and after lunch
trek down to Lapa Gaon which is a big Tamang village of the area
where you will enjoy having Tamang culture experience.
Day l9
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Day l10
Day l11
Day l12
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Route 09
Day l1
Kathmandu Bhalche
(1850m/6105ft) 5-6 hrs drive
aking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive
journey from Kathmandu reaches Bhalche Gaon after driving
approximately 5-6 hrs. This is also the gateway to the Langtang Valley
at the confluence of the Bhote Kosi and Langtang Rivers. Mesmerizing
scenic driving and passing through Trisuli Bazaar and Betrawati makes
you scenic driving. Narrow and bit adventurous zig zags road but
amazing landscape along the way driving will make you good start day
drive of the trek. You will even able to start your trek on the same day
but due to bit rough and tough driving spending a night in Bhalche
will give you excellent acclimatization day.
Day l2
fter breakfast trek bit uphill and have breath taking views on the
back of Bhalche village. Trek continue passing thorough high tropical
jungle and mesmerizing jungle views as well as surrounding landscape.
Arrive in Gongga and stop for lunch after lunch trek continue to Rupchet
where you will find beautiful camp site and yak huts. It has amazing
mother goddess blessing hillside views and its periphery views.
Day l3
fter breakfast trek all the way hill top near Singla Pass (4050m) having
the best almost 270 degrees panoramic mountain views of Langtang
ranges, massift Ganesh himal ranges, Mt. Manaslu ranges and little bit of
Annapurna ranges. Enjoy the best views and then trek continue to Mojyat
Kharka where in monsoon and sometimes in spring also shepherd keeps
their cattle like goats, sheep, cows and buffalos too but its seasonal. After
crossing dense of jungle walking about 5-6 hours in the main jungle finally
reach at Pangsang Pass. Today is really an adventure walking full of fun
having flora and fauna experience and green, quiet and scenic trek but
without local guide or your expert guide who has been this route only
possible otherwise there is chance to lose the way. Compass with you,
good trek map (Taan and GHTDC made map will be very useful) and dry
fruit is highly recommended unless you have pack lunch from Rupchet.
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Day l4
fter breakfast trek down hill to Paikutang pass and then trek
continue to Lari. Passing through beautiful hill edge walking and
mesmerizing magnificent mountain views of Langtang ranges will
make you full of fun trekking. Finally reach at Lari where zinc mines
can be seen and sources of various herbals. No village and no human
habitats but refreshing and isolated camp site.
Day l5
rek most of the uphill and after walking 4 hours finally arrive in
Paldor Peak. It is said and believe that you should not make angry
to God making unnecessary pollute the area and not too much noise.
You be quiet, enjoy walking around being patience mother goddess
mountain will bless you to have successful trip.
Day l6
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Day l7
Day l8
Day l9
Day l10
Day l11
Day l12
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Day l13
Day l14
rek all the way down to hot spring (2 hours) take lunch and enjoy
couple of hours taking hot spring bath. After lunch trek continue via
Gobre gaon all the way to Borang walking about 3 hours. It is a Tamang
community village and just under the big rocky hill.
Day l15
rek to Ukhum, Lishne khola cross suspension bridge and having lunch
in Percho trek continue passing paddy terraces, Dungre khola just
right bank of the dungre khola there is another hot spring but walking
trail I to hot spring is quite difficult so until and unless better trail is built
trekkers are not encourage to visit. Pass Bhogteni village and finally
arrive in Darkha Vaillage.
Day l16
fter breakfast trek all the way down to Darkha Phedi walking
around 45 minutes downhill. Then you can share local Jeep
with other local people and then arrive in Dhading Besi in 3-4 hours,
which is a rough and tough zig zags road drive. Crossing through
Ankhu Khola as well as Kimdang phedi villages, Katunje village and
Jyamrung village will make you breath taking scenic driving having
fabulous landscape surroundings. From Dhading you can get a
regular bus service to Kathmandu, which takes around 3 hours.
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Route 10
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Somdang - Gotlang
(2337m/7690ft) 5- 6 hrs hike
The trail ascends through pine and rhododendron forest to a lunch point
of Yuri Kharka after passing to Khurphu Bhanjyang and then dropping
down to the Gotlang village. On the way visit Parvati Kunda which is quite
popular pilgrimage center for both Hindus and Buddhist. Gotlang is a well
known Tamang village of the area where community lodges are available.
Day l8
Take breakfast, trek to Chawatar, Bahundanda and after a dirt track walk
down hill finally arrive in Syabru Besi and over night at Lodge.
Day l9
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Kanchenjunga
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Introduction
Lumba Sumba Trek is one of the new trekking routes identified and
explored by Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) in 2012. A
20-member team, including support staff, led by Rana Bahadur Khadka,
1st vice-president of TAAN, explored the route in April. Lumba Sumba
Peak (5200m) is the major attraction of this route. Offering some of the
most spectacular Himalayan landscapes, this trekking route is home to
different ethnic groups like the Limbus, Sherpas, Rai, Gurung, Magars,
Newars and Tamangs.
The trek runs through
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
(KCA) in the eastern Himalaya.
Trekkers can explore the traditional
farming practices and see different
birds and wildlife species, including
the endangered snow leopard and
red panda, from the route. There are
a number of high mountain lakes
in Olangchung Gola. Through this
route, we explore two of Nepals
best preserved protected areas
the Kanchanjunga Conservation
Area and the Makalu Barun National
Park. Through the route, one can
also trek to the base camps of Mt
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he trek in the next three days will pass through complete wilderness.
As the trek is in complete wilderness, it is better to hire a local Sherpa
to avoid getting lost. However, piles of stones along the way act as
sign posts, showing us our direction. The trek passes through pine and
rhododendron forests. After a walk of two and half hours, we reach a
place called Jadak (3636m) for lunch. A walk of three hours on snowy
track will take us to our camping site at Upper Langmale (3893m).
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Day l8
Day l9
his would be the most difficult yet most memorable day of this trek.
This day the trek will pass through the Lumba Sumba Peak (5200m).
It is better to start early as it will be difficult to cross the peak after noon.
The trek climbs a bit up and again runs down. It is better to take packed
lunch, as there are no good camping sites around. After a walk of about
four and half hour from Pass Camp, we climb the Lumba Sumba Peak and
descend down to Chaurikharka (4594m) for nights stay.
Day l10
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Day l11
he eleventh day trek runs along the banks of Chujung Khola. The trail
offers panoramic view of peaks in the Makalu range. On the way you see
lot of small bushes and bamboo groves the best habitat for red panda. If
you are lucky, you can see this endangered species. It is better to carry packed
lunch, as it is difficult to find drinking water along the trail. After a walk of
about six-hours from Thudam, we reach Kharka (2877m) for the nights halt.
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Day l13
Day l14
he trek on the 14th day runs along the banks of Arun River. After
a walk of about two and half hours from Hatiya, we reach the
confluence of Arun and Barun rivers. After having lunch near the river
confluence, the trek progress toward Gola our destination for the day.
A walk of around two and half hours after lunch takes us to our camping
site at Gola. Gola is a very small village with only 12 houses. Sherpa, Rai
and Tamang people reside here.
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Day l15
Day l16
his is the last day of our trek. A walk of about two and half hours from
Gadhi takes us to Num. From Gadhi, the trek is about an hour downhill
till the Arun River. After crossing the river, an uphill climb of about one
and half hour takes us to the Num village (1572m). As Num is linked with
motorable road, we can hire a vehicle to Khandbari (1022m) the district
headquarters of Sankhuwasabha district. A drive of around 4-5 hours on
dirt road takes us to Khandbari. From Khandbari, buses are available to
Dharan or Biratnagar. Or you can take a vehicle to Tumlingtar airstrip and
fly directly to Kathmandu.
Acknowledgement
Hundreds of people have contributed one thing or the other to produce
this meaningful book. Committed leaders of TAAN executive committee,
TV crews, photographers, cartographers, writers, trekking guides, porters,
associates, numerous local peoples of respective areas, their local/cultural/
religious dances, costumes, unforgettable hospitality incredible!!
Beside the list below, there are many unseen Heros , who have contributed
a lot in making TAANs mission beautiful and successful. TAAN always
remembers you all decent people walking hand in hand with TAAN.
Taplejung Exploration Team:
Rana Bahadur Khadka Team Leader
Hari Bhattarai Writer
Durga Ghimire & Rameshwor Ghimire Geographers
Rameshwor Maharjan Photogrpher
Shanta Nepali - Videographer
Divas Gurung Photographer
Suman Tamang Tamang - Cook
Malpa Lama & all the assiciates involved in the team
Upper Dolpa Exploration Team:
Mahendra Singh Thapa Team Leader
Devendra Dangol Operation Manager
Shanta Nepali Program Producer
Shubham Pradhan Camera Person
Prakash Khadka Photographer
Sewa Bhattarai Writer
Durga Ghimire Geographer
Shyam Kumar Rai Union Representative
Bhagawat Shri Neupane Union Representative
Ram Chandra Dhungana Union Representative
Ananda Singh Rawal Local Expert
Shantaram BK Guide / Cook
Jit Bahadur Basnet Himalayan Supporter
Gopal BK Himalayan Supporter
Jhar Singh Pun Himalayan Supporter
Dhan Bahadur BK Himalayan Supporter
Navin Basnet Himalayan Supporter
Bhupendra Khatiwada Himalayan Supporter
Lokendra BK Mule Driver
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www.taan.org.np