Pathibhara Devi Trek

Overview

The Pathibhara Devi Trek is a 9-day pilgrimage and adventure journey to the revered Pathibhara Devi Temple, perched at 3,794m in Nepal’s Taplejung district, within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Known as Mukkumlung in Limbu culture, this sacred site is a significant Shakti Peeth, believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes, such as granting children or prosperity. Both Hindus and Buddhists venerate the goddess, attracting pilgrims from Nepal and India, including former Nepalese royalty. This trek, seeing fewer than 1,000 visitors annually, offers a serene alternative to crowded routes like Everest or Annapurna, blending spirituality, cultural immersion, and stunning Himalayan vistas.

The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a scenic drive through Ilam’s tea gardens to Taplejung. The trail follows the Tamor River, passing through Limbu, Rai, and Tibeto-Mongoloid villages like Deurali and Phedi, with opportunities to explore local culture and monasteries. The route features dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, home to diverse wildlife (red pandas, Himalayan black bears) and birds (Himalayan Monal). From Pathibhara Hill, trekkers enjoy panoramic views of Kanchenjunga (8,586m, world’s third-highest peak), Kumbhakarna (7,710m), and other Himalayan peaks, as well as waterfalls like Sawa Pokhari and Timbuk Pond, best seen in spring or autumn.

This trek is moderately easy, ideal for beginners with basic fitness, involving 5-6 hours of daily hiking on well-marked trails with some steep sections, reaching a maximum elevation of 3,794m. The itinerary is tea house-based, with basic accommodations and Nepali meals (dal bhat, vegetables) provided, though facilities near the temple are rudimentary. Spring (March-June) and Autumn (September-November) offer clear skies and vibrant flora, while winter may bring snow, and monsoon (July-August) obscures views. Hairy Yak Adventures provides government-licensed guides, porters, and permits, including the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (NPR 2,000/$16) and Restricted Area Permit ($20/week, minimum two trekkers). Essential gear like sleeping bags and trekking poles is provided (returnable). Arrive in Kathmandu one day before for a briefing and to explore UNESCO sites like Pashupatinath Temple. This trek offers a unique blend of spiritual fulfillment, cultural richness, and Himalayan beauty.

Cost Includes

• All land transport and flight tickets (Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and return).
• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (NPR 2,000/$16) and Restricted Area Permit ($20/week).
• Tea house accommodation throughout the trek with three meals daily (Nepali meals like dal bhat, vegetables; tea/coffee included).
• Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide and porters (one porter for every two to three participants, max 15kg per person; additional cost for solo trekkers).
• Guide and porter wages, equipment, insurance, and other staff facilities.
• Complimentary sleeping bag, trekking poles, and duffel bag (returnable).
• Comprehensive first aid kit with oximeter and emergency arrangements.
• All program activities as per the itinerary on a full-board basis.

Cost Excludes

• Hotel accommodation, lunch, and dinner in Kathmandu and Bhadrapur.
• Travel insurance (must cover helicopter rescue evacuation in emergencies).
• Personal expenses (e.g., soft/hard drinks, tips, souvenirs, hot showers, battery charging).
• All bar bills.
• Items of a personal nature (e.g., personal trekking gear beyond provided items).
• Costs or delays due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., landslides, weather, illness, flight cancellations).