ILAM, Dec 24: A team of experts has explored a new trekking trail to Kanchanjunga Base Camp in Taplejung district from Pashupatinagar -- a marketplace near Nepal-India border in Ilam district.

It took the team, which also included an expert from The Great Himalaya Trail, 19 days to complete the reconnaissance work. Among others, the team studied probable camping sites, elevation, trail condition, availability of food and lodges, climate and topography, among others. 

The recce trip was organized in the initiation of Mechi Hilly Areas Tourism Infrastructure Development Committee.   

Keshab Dharaule, executive chairman of the committee, said that the team studied road connectivity and condition, lodgment conditions, day-to-day trekking route, altitude, climatic condition, communication services and available cuisines, among others. "Our report also includes the prospects and challenges of this route," Dharaule added.

Trekking guide Keshari Gurung, Hemraj Bastola of Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA), Taindra Chapagai of the committee and Sameer Mainali of The Great Himalaya Trail, among others, were in the team.

The trekking trail starts from Pashupatinagar and progresses through Tumling, Kaal Pokhari, Charrate, Torifule, Bhanjyang, Gairi Dhada, Phadahe Medhu, Timbu Pokhari, Shiva Nagi, Naya Thorini, Tseram, and Ramche, and to the Southern Base Camp of Kanchanjunga. It then traverses Thoramnagar, Yampudin and Khewa before ending at Hapu Khola.

“Although thousands of tourists come to eastern region of Nepal, tourism potential of the region is yet to be exploited to the fullest. Hopefully, we can generate income opportunities for the local people with this trail," a hopeful Dharaule told Republica.

 
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