The Timbung Pokhari trek usually flies from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, drives into Taplejung, and then walks via Kali Khola Gau and a high camp at Bikhe Chaur to the lake at about 4,335 m. Operators sell it as a trek of about 14 days including travel, with only a few of those days on foot.
Route in brief
Kathmandu to Bhadrapur by air, a long off-road drive to Betainee, a short hike to Kali Khola Gau, a night at the high camp at Bikhe Chaur, the lake day, and back by the same route. Another account puts the walk at about two days from Chyangthapu.
Sample itinerary from one operator
- Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur and drive to Tharpu
- Day 4: Off-road drive to Betainee (about 2,000 m) and hike to Kali Khola Gau
- Day 5: Trek to Bikhe Chaur (about 3,675 m), tent camp
- Day 6: Trek to Timbung Pokhari and return to Bikhe Chaur
- Day 7: Trek down
- Day 8: Kali Khola Gau
- Days 10 to 12: Betainee to Illam, Bhadrapur and the flight to Kathmandu
Altitudes
The lake is at about 4,335 m. Some operators quote 4,250 m. Bikhe Chaur is about 3,675 m and Betainee about 2,000 m in the operator itinerary above. Other operators name different camps, so treat every altitude as approximate.
Lodging
Expect lodges or homestays in the villages low on the route, and tents at Bikhe Chaur. Services at the lake are minimal.
Plan it
Read Timbung Pokhari facts and legend or permits, difficulty and season.
