Gupha Pokhari
In Nepali: गुफा पोखरी
Gupha Pokhari is a cluster of lodges beside a small pond on the ridge trail between Basantapur and Taplejung, at nearly 2,900 m. At sunrise the whole eastern Himalaya is laid out across the horizon, from Kanchenjunga to Makalu and Everest.
It is a natural overnight stop on the Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale walk and the old trail towards the Kanchenjunga region. In spring the surrounding forest is full of flowering rhododendron.
What to see and do
Walk to the small viewpoint hill above the lodges for sunrise, when Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Chamlang and the Everest group line the northern sky. Visit the pond's small shrine and wander into the surrounding rhododendron and fir forest.
Good to know
Lodges here are basic but welcoming; it gets cold at night. Fog often rolls in by midday, so make the most of the morning. The site can be reached as part of a longer ridge trek or by a rough road for part of the way.
Quick answers
- Where is Gupha Pokhari?
- Gupha Pokhari is in Tehrathum district, Koshi Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Gupha Pokhari?
- About 2,890 m (9,482 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Gupha Pokhari?
- For a 5-day trip from Biratnagar, about NPR 23,000 (≈ US$170) per person on a budget, or NPR 42,000 (≈ US$310) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 13,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Gupha Pokhari?
- Plan 3 nights there for the trek; with travel from Biratnagar and back, about 5 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Gupha Pokhari?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- Do I need a guide for Gupha Pokhari?
- Not required, but a local guide is recommended on this route.
- When is the best time to visit Gupha Pokhari?
- March–May; October–November
- How do I get to Gupha Pokhari?
- About 2 days' walk from Basantapur. It is about 95 km (straight line) from Biratnagar.
- What is Gupha Pokhari called in Nepali?
- गुफा पोखरी
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