Overview

The Pathibhara Limbu Cultural Trek is one of Eastern Nepal’s most enriching journeys, offering a deep dive into the ancient traditions, rituals, and warm hospitality of the Kirat and Limbu communities. This trek combines culture, pilgrimage, and Himalayan scenery, making it a meaningful experience for trekkers seeking more than just mountain views.

A major highlight of the trek is the visit to the sacred Pathibhara Temple in Taplejung—an important pilgrimage destination revered by both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. Located inside the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, the route is filled with rich biodiversity, pristine forests, and impressive panoramas of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m)—the world’s third-highest peak.

This journey passes through vibrant ethnic villages where trekkers experience authentic Limbu culture, traditional architecture, local cuisine, festivals, and welcoming hospitality. Guided by experts from Eternal Himalaya Adventure, you will walk through peaceful sub-tropical forests, serene river valleys, charming settlements, and scenic ridgelines.

The trek begins with a cultural tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites around Kathmandu Valley. A short flight to Biratnagar and a drive to Basantapur mark the official start of your adventure. The trail continues through Chauki, Gupha Pokhari, Dobhan, Suketar, and toward Phedi, before finally reaching the revered Pathibhara Temple. After exploring the holy site, you descend through Gadi Danda, return to Suketar, drive to Ilam, and conclude with a flight back to Kathmandu.

Whether you seek spiritual peace, cultural exploration, or a scenic Himalayan experience, the Pathibhara Limbu Cultural Trek delivers a perfect blend of all three. This is one of Nepal’s most rewarding and culturally significant treks—ideal for travelers wanting a deeper connection with Nepal’s heritage.

Highlights

  • Exploring the major UNESCO world heritage sites of the Kathmandu valley
  • Visit Gupha Pokhari and enjoy the serenity around the lake vicinity
  • Observing the views of Kanchenjunga and Everest ranges
  • Visit the holy Pathibhara temple and pray in its premises

Itinerary

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Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel

You will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport where a company representative will come to greet you. Then, you will proceed to your hotel where you can rest. Later, you can also go around the block for explorations. You can go shop for souvenirs or go for experiencing the city atmosphere.

  • Maximum Altitude1300m

Today we shall head out to explore the major UNESCO world heritage sites of the Kathmandu valley which includes Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. After visiting these sites, we shall have our lunch and then we will head out to Kathmandu Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square. These destinations have been a part of Nepalese culture and architecture. Overnight in Kathmandu.

    A quick morning flight awaits us today. Hop on a plane and head to Biratnagar. It is a major city in the Terai region and the temperature here is pretty high. Upon arrival in Biratnagar, collect your stuff and head out to Basantapur. The drive is short. Basantapur was once the starting point for Makalu Base camp trek. Overnight in Basantapur.

      From Basantapur, we need to advance towards Chauki. The trek lasts for about 5 hours and on a clear day, we can see the looming Kanchenjunga mountain ranges. The trek heads northeast and passes Deurali. Next, the trail continues along the Tinjure Danda and rocky paths to reach Chauki. It is a small settlement where the inhabitants are mostly Chhetri people. Overnight in Chauki.

      • Maximum Altitude2700m

      We shall head to one of the major highlights of this trek today. We will be heading towards the Gupha Pokhari along the Mangalbare Danda. There are a few pounds around the Gupha Pokhari which forms a lake system with Siddha Pokhari and Marga Pokhari. The lake has high religious and cultural importance as well. From the pond vicinity, we can see amazing views of Kanchenjunga and Everest ranges. There are several species of plants and animals inhabiting that area as well. Overnight in Gupha Pokhari.

      • Maximum Altitude2900m

      The road from Gupha Pokhari sees a drastic decrease in altitude when it leads to Dobhan. Be ready for some downhill climbing as you pass Deurali Bhanjyang and Chitre. The trails initially stop at Gorja Gaon. Later, we need to walk on the banks of Dobhan River and arrive at Dobhan village. The people of Rai and Limbu community live in these parts. Overnight in Dobhan.

      • Maximum Altitude645m

      From Dobhan, the road goes to Suketar. As you walk, the Vegetation transcends from greenery to huge pastures. You cross the Tamor River and reach Nageshwari before reaching Phunglung. From here, you head to Taplejung and continue on a thickly inhabited trail to arrive at Suketar. As the trek will be relatively shorter one, you can explore around the area. Overnight in Suketar.

      • Maximum Altitude2420m

      Our objective for the day is to head towards Phedi which is a small settlement just south of the Pathibhara Temple. The trail sees a gradual increase in altitude along the forested trail. Leaving Suketar, the trek crosses the Deurali Pass (2600m), you head to Lalikharka. Further, you trek north towards Phedi. The people here are mostly Brahmin and Chhetri. Overnight in Phedi.

      • Maximum Altitude3190m

      We shall visit the Pathibhara temple today. It is religious for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is considered as one of the Shakti Peeth and pilgrims flock this site annually. Pilgrims offer animal sacrifices and donate gold and silver to the Goddess. The Kanchenjunga range can be observed from here. You will explore the temple premise for the rest of the day and enjoy the surreal ambiance. Overnight in Pathibhara Temple.

      • Maximum Altitude3794m

      We shall make our way from the Pathibhara temple to Gadidanda today. The road is a combination of numerous downhill twists so be sure to walk carefully. We arrive at Gadidanda during the day. The people here belong to Chhetri community and this village comprises of small teahouses and lodges. Overnight in Gadidanda.

      • Maximum Altitude1890m

      Heading out of Gadidanda, you head to Takure. Then, you continue along the ridgelines of the Birne Danda to settle at Lapsibote. The trail then heads southwest towards Taplejung. Continuing east along the paved road, you reach Suketar. At Suketar, you can enjoy the culture and traditions of the people inhabiting the village. Overnight in Suketar.

      • Maximum Altitude2420m

      From Suketar, we shall now drive towards Ilam. The roads in Terai are straight and flat. Ilam is the tea capital of Nepal. You can see tea plantation in huge quantity there. Be sure to buy some local tea here. Here, you can choose to indulge in a short hike too. Overnight in Ilam.

        Enjoy a delicious breakfast and catch a ride that takes you to Bhadrapur. It is a major city in Jhapa. It is quite hot here so be careful. From Bhadrapur, a quick plane ride takes us to Kathmandu. Be sure to shop for souvenirs and, at night, the company will host you a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.

          Today is your final day in Nepal and our representative will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. We hope that your adventure with us has been a memorable one and wish you all the luck.

            Cost Details

            IncludedExcluded
            • Airport picks up and drop by private vehicle.
            • 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with bed and breakfast basis.
            • Kathmandu sightseeing by Private guide and private transportation
            • Kathmandu – Biratnagar flight fare.
            • Bhadrapur – Kathmandu flight fare
            • All ground transportation by private vehicle.
            • Your standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking.
            • All necessary paper works, conservation area, and restricted area entry permits.
            • All accommodations in hotels, lodges/tea houses during the trek.
            • An experienced Government licensed guide and porters.
            • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
            • Farewell dinner with typical Nepali restaurant
            • All government taxes.
            • International Airfare
            • Nepal entry visa
            • Personal Expenses
            • Travel and Rescue Insurance
            • Extra accommodation and food charges in Kathmandu
            • Tips and gratitude to the guide, porters and drivers

            Useful Info

            March to May during spring season and September to November during the autumn season are the best times to do the trek. These seasons ensure that the trails are pleasant and visibility of the scenic vistas is also great. The trek is a fairly easy one as the trails are easy to walk on.

            At Eternal Himalaya, we provide you the best transport and lodging services. Further, we have experienced guides and porters for this trek. We also organize other trips in Nepal, if you are interested.