A new trekking route between Kabeli and Khaksewa rivers offers an indepth experience of the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the Limbu people who are dominant in this region. The 4-5 day Limbu Cultural Trail Trek starts from Phungling and passes through Suketar, Lalikharka, Kande Bhanjyang, Simbu, Phungphung, Phumpe and Mamanke. The Limbu Cultural Trails end in Mamankhe where more than 95 percent of the population is Limbu (Mabo). From Mamankhe one has the option of either joining the Kanchenjunga trail or retracing the route back to Phungling.

Thick and wide range of cardamom farms lie along the Limbu Cultural Trail. In addition is the unique Himalayan flora and fauna, and untouched natural landscapes. The Limbu communities in different villages perform cultural dances Dhaan Naach, Chyabrung Naach for visitors. Accommodation and meals are offered in local houses. This provides opportunity to discover the are and the people. Tasting the local tongba (alcoholic beverage) and sukuti (dry meat), interacting with the people and participating in their regular activities, and hiking along unrefined trails crossing ridge and gully offers some of the best of Himalayan experiences.

PATHIBHARA TRAIL

Pathibhara Devi shrine (3794 m) is a popular pilgrimage destination for trekking. This trek starts from Suketar (2840 m) about 2 hours walk from Phungling Bazaar. Both Hindus and Buddhists worship Pathibhara with equal reverence. Hindus throng the temple during special celebrations, while Buddhists living in the vicinity light lamps at the temple on full moon nights.

The Goddess at Pathibhara is believed to fulfill the long cherished dreams of her devotees, like sons for those without sons, and wealth for the poor. The story of the temple goes back to the time when hundreds of sheep were said to have disappeared from the place where the temple stands today. Legend has it that when the shepherds prayed to get their sheep back, they had a vision of the Devi herself who asked them to sacrifice a few of the sheep to get back their lost ones. It is said that when they did as they were asked by the Devi, the lost sheep were found, and from then onwards started the worship of Pathibhara Devi.

The Pathibhara pilgrimage may take 4 to 5 days and the best time to visit is from March to June and September to November. Pilgrims can also visit monasteries situated in Olangchungola and Lungchung, the waterfall at Sawa and the pond of Timbuk, during autumn and spring every year. The forest ecosystem along the trail offers diversity of wildlife, birds, flowers and butterflies. Most of the Kanchenjunga range can also be seen from here.

Duration of trekking : 6 days
Grade : Moderate
Type of Trek : Camping / Teahouse
Recommended season : Spring / Autumn / Winter
Trekking starting point : Kathmandu / Suketar
Trekking ending point : Suketar / Kathmandu
Maximum height : 3794 m.