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Nepal: Rhododendron Remote Trek
In remote eastern Nepal, nestled in the foothills of the Himalaya, the Milke Danda region nurtures some of the world’s most spectacular rhododendron forests. There are over 16 different species of rhododendron to be found in the trek area, and the forests should be in full bloom in late April, the one time of year this trek is run. Although the rhododendron is under siege throughout the greater Himalayas, this area is still relatively unsettled and untrekked, and efforts are under way to have it declared a national park. The trek is designed to explore the many aspects of rhododendrons and cloud forests, but the dramatic setting and fascinating villages makes this appropriate for anyone wanting a stimulating two week walk in Nepal. Trail grades are steep when crossing river valleys, and at times very difficult, but the distances between camps are never more than a 6 hour walk. Highest camp is at 11,200 feet, and altitude should not pose a problem for trekkers. Detailed ItineraryDay 1: Arrive Kathmandu airport. Transfer to the Kathmandu Guest House (KGH). Arrival briefing and afternoon walkabout. Day 2: Full day sightseeing of Kathmandu and Patan, including visits to both Durbar Squares and Pashupatinath. O/N KGH. Day 3: Morning pre-trek briefing. Afternoon free to get any last minute things for the trek. O/N KGH. Day 4: Early morning free. 10am transfer to domestic terminal and flight to Biratnaghar. We then take a bus to the trek start point at Basantapur. Begin 13 days of trekking in the Milke Danda region. Short trek to campsite (7,400ft, 2,265m). Trekking with campsites at the following places: Day 5: Chauki Forest (8,260ft). A short walking day to Chauki. Some of this day’s walk is along ridge trail with spectacular views of Mt. Chamlang, Makalu, Peak 6, and other Himalayan giants. Begin entering temperate forest and encountering Rhododendron Arboureum species. Excellent campsite surrounded by rhododendron forest. Day 6: Explore Chauki Forest. Mainly two different species of rhododendron here. Day 7: Guphapokhori (9100 ft). Walk along the ridge with Kanchenjunga also coming into view. Up about 500 feet along easy trail with great mountain and valley views. Camp is near interesting village with a variety of ethnic groups (Sherpa, Chetri, Tamba etc. ). Day 8: Lampohori / Sukepokhari (9,700ft). Continue on Milke Danda ridge with views of Tamber and Arun valleys. Excellent campsite in meadow surrounded by forest. Day 9: Dolley Pokhari (11,200ft). Today’s walk passes through Rhododendron forest with a vast diversity of species. At least 16 different species of Rhododendron are found here, including R. Arboureum, R. Hodgsonii, R. Thomsonii, R. Barbateum, R. Griffithianum and etc. Day 10: Dolley Pokhari (11,200ft). Day to explore and revel in the majesty of the mountains and rhododendron forest. Day 11: Giddhe (11,000ft). Carry along ridge with fine views. Chance for hike up to 12,100 feet. Day 12: Giddhe (11,000ft). Rest day. Chance for a hike up to 12,100 feet for a great panoramic view of the Eastern Hamalayas. Day 13: Dolley Pokhari (11,200ft). Return to Dolley Pokhari. Day 14: Baghkor (apx 7,000ft). Descend 4,000 feet through more rhododendron and oak forest. Day 15: Chainpur (apx4,800ft). Continue on down to the village of Chainpur, famous for its brass work. Lots of time to explore the bazaar. Camp just past the village. Day 16: Return to Tumlingtar. And last evening of dancing and goodbyes. Day 17: Fly from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu, and transfer to Kathmandu Guest House. Day 18: Day free in Kathmandu to relax. Overnight at the Kathmandu Guest House. Day 19: Transfer to airport for flight home. PLEASE NOTE: Owing to fluctuations in blooming dates caused by a multitude of factors (bloom dates vary from year to year, and within each year, owing to species and altitude) we cannot guarantee they will be at peak bloom during the trek. We do our best to maximize time spent with species most in bloom, and this can lead to adjustments in the itinerary, including additional rest and exploration days. SynopsisTrip Grading: Length: 19 days from Kathmandu
(Trips start two days earlier and ends one day later from North America. ) Land cost: $2265us International Airfare: Apx. Apx. $1500us from CDA Single supplement: $160us Included in the Price: 14 days full-service trekking including all meals and major equipment; 5 nights accommodation in Kathmandu; flight to/from Tumlingtar, internal transportation to and from trek starting and ending points; airport transfers for group flights as noted; full day sightseeing of Kathmandu; services of an experienced Sherpa sirdar, cook, porters, and local guides. Services of an experienced English speaking Nepali guide with knowledge of both the region and Rhododendrons. (Meals are not included in Kathmandu only). Departure taxes not included. Tipping is customary in Nepal and at the discretion of the travellers. When trekking, we usually suggest to budget $5-$8 per trekker per day. So with a 14 day trek, put aside apx $85 (in Nepalese Rupees) to distribute amongst the staff on your trip. Generally guide and cook get the most, porters less. |
