Great Himalaya Trail 28 Days (First step)

Today's itinerary includes a full day of sightseeing at the UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in the Kathmandu Valley. You will visit Pashupatinath, Baudhanath Stupa, Monkey Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, accompanied by your own private guide and transportation via car. Our knowledgeable guide possesses a deep understanding of the city's rich cultural heritage, allowing for a more meaningful and insightful

After having breakfast, proceed to the Domestic airport for your flight to Bhadrapur. The flight duration will be approximately 40 minutes. Bhadrapur is situated close to the India-Nepal border. Upon arrival, arrange for a vehicle to transport you to Taplejung, a renowned district headquarters in Sankhuwasabha, Nepal, known for its Rai and Limbu ethnic communities.

During the journey, make a stop at Kanyam, a picturesque hillside viewpoint adorned with lush tea farms. Take in the scenic beauty of the tea plantations as you drive through them. You will spend the night at a guesthouse in the area. The drive from Bhadrapur to Taplejung will take approximately 4 hours.

 Today, we will continue our journey towards Lelep after enjoying a hearty breakfast. Upon reaching Lelep, we'll encounter the KCAP checkpoint where we'll complete the necessary permit formalities, allowing us to enter the Kanchanjungha Conservation Area Project.
Following this, we'll savor a delicious hot lunch before embarking on a trek that will lead us to Sekhathum, situated along the picturesque Ghunsa River. This part of the trek is estimated to take around 2.5 hours.

As the day comes to a close, we'll find accommodation at a local tea house where we can relax and recharge for the adventures that await us.

Starting today, we're embarking on our trekking adventure. After a hearty breakfast, we'll set our course for Amjilosa, following the scenic Ghunsa Khola route. Along the way, we'll come across a charming Nepali-style house nestled in the tropical surroundings near Ghayabari. While Ghayabari is a traditional route, we're taking a shorter, more adventurous path, which will lead us through a lush jungle. Our destination for the day is Amjilosa, where we'll set up camp or tea house. On this leg of our journey, we'll have the opportunity to catch glimpses of Tibetan settlements. The trekking today will take approximately 4 to 5 hours. 

We are walking to Gyabla to follow the edge of the Ghunsa Khola through the Jungle. This area Jungle has bamboo, rhododendrons, and oaks with many bushes. We are going to be closer to the mountain and able to see some parts Kanchenjunga range. When you are close to the Gyabla have to climb up steeply. Gyabla itself is a very nice village where has to gust house there is only two guest house. When we climb 200 meters up from Gyabla able to see a very nice view and a big settlement. Walking hour 4 to 4 ½. 

 We will continue along the Ghunsa Khola riverbank through a jungle area. After approximately four and a half hours of walking, we will reach the Phole village. This village marks the first Tibetan refugee settlement after Walunchung Gola but nowadays all people have escaped. We will enjoy a delicious local meal of Dhal Bhat for lunch here. Phole village is also known for its collection of very old statues, wooden Gombas, many Chortens, and Tibetan prayer flags.

After our lunch break, we will continue our trek through the jungle, and along the way, we will come across a significant landmark - the site of a helicopter crash that occurred on September 23, 2006. We will also need to cross the Ghunsa Khola River. Upon crossing the river, we will arrive at a large settlement with a welcoming guest house. It's important to remember that we should present our trekking permits here. The total walking time for today's journey is expected to be around 4 to 5 hours. Ghunsa means summer place. 

Today, we are dedicating our day to preparing our bodies for the upcoming altitude increase. Our plan involves a 4 to 5-hour hike aimed at acclimatizing ourselves. Along the way, we'll have the opportunity to enjoy a stunning view of a vast meadow with mountains. For lunch, we'll indulge in a packed meal amidst nature's beauty. Later in the evening, we'll explore the village and its surroundings. Our activities may include a visit to the Gumba and a chance to interact with the local community, learning about their way of life and traditions.

As we continue our trek towards the mountain, we'll find ourselves gradually ascending through the enchanting Juniper jungle area. Today's journey will span approximately 5 hours, and while we won't have a hot lunch en route, we'll be treated to breathtaking landscapes and stunning mountain vistas.

Upon our arrival at Khambachen, we'll be greeted by a panoramic view that encompasses the Chulima Himal range to the north, as well as Mera Peak, Januu Himal, Ghabur Peak, Nyukla Lachung, Chang Himal, and many other majestic peaks on the west side. Khambachen is a charming village nestled in a wide valley, inhabited by Tibetan Settlements and the warm-hearted Sherpa community.
Tonight, we'll find comfortable accommodation at a guesthouse in Khambachen, providing us with a well-deserved rest and a chance to soak in the beauty of this remarkable place.

After breakfast, our journey commences with a breathtaking mountain vista reflecting like a mirror. We'll take a leisurely stroll, ascending gradually, while keeping our eyes peeled for yaks and other wild animals grazing in the area. Along the way, we may encounter some small buses.

As we continue our ascent, we'll reach Rantang, a spot with a charming small tea shop where we can take a break and savor a cup of tea. Once we've completed the uphill section, the terrain will open up into a wide, flat landscape, offering us a panoramic view of Lonak. There, we'll find a tea house to rest and refresh.
This trek is expected to last for approximately 5 to 6 hours, during which you'll have ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the stunning mountain scenery. As night falls, a delicious dinner will be served to cap off the day's adventures.

In the early morning, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast before embarking on our journey towards the Kanchenjunga base camp at Pang Pema, which sits at an elevation of 5146 meters. The estimated trekking time to reach this destination is between 3 to 4 hours. However, it's worth noting that the path to Pang Pema has undergone changes due to recent landslides. To navigate this challenge, we had to traverse above the landslide area and then descend back to the original trail. This part of the journey added an extra 3 to 4 hours, making the total trekking time around 7 to 8 hours.

In the event that we were unable to return on the same day, we were prepared to spend a night at Pang Pema. This would give us an opportunity to seek advice from the local residents, who are well-acquainted with the changing landscape caused by annual landslides. It's a harsh reality that the path to Pang Pema transforms each year due to these natural occurrences.

As we continued our trek, the breathtaking scenery unfolded before our eyes. After approximately 30 minutes, we were treated to the awe-inspiring sight of the world's third-highest mountain, Kanchenjungha, surrounded by a multitude of pristine, snow-covered peaks. Pang Pema itself held a special place in the hearts of climbing guides, as it was a repository of countless memories and experiences in the realm of mountaineering.

As usual, we wrapped up our morning routine and embarked on a trek down to Ghunsa. This leg of the journey was set to span a total of 8 hours. We planned to make a pit stop for some tea at Khambachen before continuing our trek towards Ghunsa. Starting tomorrow, we would take on a more self-sufficient approach, as we'd be responsible for our own camping gear. Our team would now include our very own cook, who would prepare meals, and we'd be setting up our own tents.

Today marked the last day of our tea house trekking adventure. From this point forward, we were ready to fully embrace the camping experience. Our cook would ensure we enjoyed hot, delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Upon reaching Ghunsa, we looked forward to indulging in a hot shower and staying at a comfortable hotel. Dreams of finding the perfect camping spot for the upcoming days filled our minds. 

You'll start by crossing the Ghunsa River Bridge, which is likely a key landmark in the area. After crossing the Ghunsa River Bridge, you'll encounter a second bridge, Instead of crossing the second bridge, you'll take a right turn. This implies that you'll be walking alongside the Ghunsa River initially. you'll be following the Namgo River. This suggests that your path will be alongside or close to this river. The terrain gradually climbs as you follow the Namgo River. This ascent may require some effort as you make your way to the camp.

The estimated travel time from Ghunsa to the Nango La camp is 5 to 6 hours. This can vary depending on your hiking pace and the terrain conditions. Upon reaching the camp area, you'll find a picturesque and beautiful spot. It seems like this campsite is fairly remote, as there's no mention of other settlements, and only one porterhouse is mentioned. Once you're at the camp, you'll have the flexibility to explore the surrounding area with hiking opportunities. The region is likely filled with stunning natural landscapes and trekking routes indicating that it offers scenic views and a serene environment.

This morning, you'll be greeted with a refreshing cup of tea and warm water to start your day. Our dedicated team will be busy preparing a delicious breakfast for everyone. While enjoying your hot breakfast, please take some time to prepare your backpack for the day ahead.

As we savor our breakfast, our team will begin the process of packing up our camping gear. Once everything is ready, we'll embark on our trek. Our destination for today is Nango Pass, standing tall at 4,776 meters above sea level. The initial part of our journey will involve ascending, with the landscape primarily consisting of moraine.

We'll break for a hearty-packed lunch on our way. After successfully crossing the pass, we'll have the pleasure of indulging in some hot beverages. Following our refreshments, we'll continue onwards toward our final campsite for the day.

If luck is on our side, we might even have the incredible opportunity to witness a yak caravan traveling to or from Tibet. The scenery will be stunning, and the area promises to be picturesque. Today's trek will last approximately 6 to 7 hours, offering us a truly memorable adventure.

As usual, like yesterday morning, our trekking adventure today will lead us down to Ramite. Along the way, we'll traverse a path lined with small bushes and bamboo. This area is known for its rich biodiversity, including the elusive Red panda and other wildlife.
Upon reaching Ramite, we'll enjoy a hot and hearty lunch to refuel for the journey ahead. Our next destination is Olangchun Gola, a place steeped in historical significance. While I'm not entirely sure about the current state of affairs, it's likely that Olangchun Gola houses an ancient monastery Dikichling Gumba one of the second old Monastery in Asia and a precious mantra book written in gold ink. We'll have the opportunity to explore and learn more about this, but please be aware that access to these sacred artifacts may be restricted.

Furthermore, it's worth noting that the Kanchenjunga area is home to the largest Tibetan refugee camp or settlement in the region. The older generation of Tibetans living here may still find it challenging to converse in Nepali, preferring to maintain their Tibetan heritage and cultural connections.
Overall, our trek promises both natural beauty and cultural insights as we immerse ourselves in this remarkable region.

Today, we're taking a well-deserved rest day in Olangchung Gola to prepare for our upcoming trek to Lumbasunba Pass. After a delightful breakfast, we have a couple of options to make the most of our day. We can either catch up on some laundry or use this opportunity to connect with the local community and gain insight into their way of life. In Olangchung Gola, you'll find a small health post, a primary school, the KCAP office, and the Border Police office.|
As the evening approaches, I plan to visit an ancient Tibetan-style monastery. This monastery holds significant historical importance, boasting the preservation of old lippy books that were delicately written with precious gold ink. Please note that access to these precious books during our visit may be uncertain. Nevertheless, it promises to be an intriguing experience.
Later in the evening, we'll gather for a hearty dinner and take the time to reflect on our plans and preparations for the upcoming trekking adventure.

Trekking from Olangchung Gola to Upper Lamnale promises an exhilarating adventure through the untouched wilderness of Nepal's Eastern Region. The trail begins with a gradual ascent from Olangchung Gola and meanders through enchanting alpine forests in the beginning. Along the way, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayan giants, with the majestic Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak, gracing the horizon. As you traverse this scenic path, it offers prime opportunities for bird enthusiasts and wildlife enthusiasts to spot the rich local fauna. The trek also unfolds panoramic mountain panoramas, leaving you in awe of the grandeur of nature. Expect this unforgettable journey to take around 5 to 6 hours to complete.

We will begin our trek from Upper Langmale after breakfast, embarking on a gradual ascent. Today's goal is to climb approximately 800 meters in elevation to reach our campsite. After about three hours of trekking, we will arrive at Panchetar, a serene grassy area designated for camping. As we continue along the path following the Tamur River, we might even have the opportunity to spot wild animals such as blue sheep and snow leopards.

Following our lunch break at Panchetar, we'll trek for another three hours before reaching our campsite, which sits at an elevation of 4,700 meters. This location is truly breathtaking, with stunning mountain vistas and picturesque landscapes.

After leaving the pass camp, we will continue our trek for approximately 3 hours until we reach the summit of Lumbasumba Peak. Today's journey takes us through an elevation of around 5,000 meters, so it's crucial to maintain a slow pace and breathe steadily. Upon reaching the summit, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of prominent mountains, including Mt. Kanchenjungha, Mt. Makalu, and the Kunbhakarna mountain range. From this vantage point, we will bid farewell to Taplejung district and enter Sankhuwasava district as we begin our descent.

During our descent, keep an eye out for the Himalayan thar, which can often be spotted in this region. The trek today will take a total of 6 to 7 hours, and our destination is Chaurikharka, which translates to "summer-time yak staying place." This campsite is situated at an elevation of 4595 meters.

Today, we embark on a trek of nearly 1,000 meters downhill to reach Thudam. Our path winds through a lush jungle adorned with towering pine trees and vibrant rhododendron forests. The lower altitude invigorates us, providing a welcome change from the high altitudes we've been navigating. We anticipate a six-hour journey before we arrive in Thudam.

Thudam is a quaint, remote village comprising approximately 25 houses. The inhabitants are predominantly Bhote, and their primary language is Bhote rather than Nepali. Their livelihood revolves around the gathering of herbs and timber, which they sell in Tibet, along with their trusty yaks. Today, we're fortunate to savor locally sourced potatoes, which promise to be a delicious treat.

As we approach the village, we decide to establish our own camp in close proximity. The altitude here stands at 3,571 meters, offering a picturesque setting for our rest and exploration.

Today, we are embarking on a challenging trek through a dense jungle, constantly descending down steep hills. Finding a suitable spot for lunch will be a bit tricky due to the presence of water problems. Our path predominantly takes us through a bamboo forest, where we must tread carefully, mindful of the aged bamboo obstructing our way. After a demanding six-hour hike, we will reach Kharka, an isolated location devoid of any villages or houses. Here, the only accommodation available is yak houses, but fortunately, there is a suitable camping area where we can pitch our tents. In the evening, we'll enjoy a hearty homemade dinner prepared by our cook.

Today, our journey takes us to the enchanting Chyamtang Sherpa village, where we'll encounter lush bamboo jungles along the trek. We'll pause for a well-deserved lunch break during our approximately 6-hour walk. As we ascend, we'll find ourselves in a high-altitude agricultural region, offering the opportunity to purchase fresh, locally-grown organic produce. The Sherpa people here cultivate a variety of crops, including potatoes, barley, millet, and a range of vibrant green vegetables. Chyamtang is the perfect place to savor the flavors of authentic Nepali cuisine made from these organic ingredients. This charming village is home to around 30 Sherpa households and sits at an elevation of 2229 meters, promising a truly memorable experience.

The journey from Chyamtang to Hatiya typically spans 5 to 6 hours, allowing us to explore various small villages along the way. After approximately 2 and a half hours of walking, we can take a break for lunch in Gimber village. This village is notable for its reliable water supply and offers a chance to engage with the local community, the majority of whom belong to the Bhote ethnic group. Bhote people are renowned for their mountaineering skills and have a strong presence in Nepal's climbing community. Hatiya serves as the gateway to the classic Makalu trekking route and also features a checkpoint for travelers.