Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale

Trek & trailPahadHidden gem1 min read

In Nepali: टिन्जुरे–मिल्के–जलजले · Also known as: TMJ · Rhododendron capital · टिन्जुरे मिल्के जलजले

Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale, Tehrathum
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Nepal's 'rhododendron capital': a high ridge walk through forests that blaze red, pink and white in spring.

The Tinjure, Milke and Jaljale ridges run north from Basantapur in Tehrathum towards Taplejung and Sankhuwasabha, between about 2,500 and 4,000 m. More than two dozen species of rhododendron — Nepal's national flower — grow here, and in March and April the forest is a mass of colour.

A trail follows the ridge past Chauki, Mangalbare and the lakes of Gupha Pokhari, with Kanchenjunga, Makalu and on clear days Everest on the horizon. Simple lodges and homestays make it an easy, uncrowded trek of four to seven days.

Route at a glance

A typical route starts at Basantapur and follows the ridge north through Chauki, Mangalbare and Gupha Pokhari, with side trips to viewpoints on Tinjure Danda, before descending towards Taplejung or continuing towards the Milke and Jaljale highlands. Some routes link with Pathibhara Devi.

What to see and do

Beyond the rhododendrons, the ridge offers wide views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Everest, and passes Limbu and Rai villages, herders' camps and small shrines. It is a good walk for birdwatchers and plant lovers.

Good to know

Lodges and homestays are simple; carry some snacks. The ridge can be misty in the afternoons. The bloom varies with altitude — lower forests flower first in March, higher ones into April and May.

Quick answers

Where is Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale?
Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale is in Tehrathum district, Koshi Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
What is the altitude of Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale?
About 3,000 m (9,843 ft) above sea level.
How much does it cost to visit Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale?
For a 7-day trip from Biratnagar, about NPR 36,000 (≈ US$265) per person on a budget, or NPR 57,500 (≈ US$425) 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 19,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
How many days do I need for Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale?
Plan 5 nights there for the trek; with travel from Biratnagar and back, about 7 days in all.
Do I need a permit or ticket for Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale?
No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
Do I need a guide for Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale?
Not required, but a local guide is recommended on this route.
When is the best time to visit Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale?
Late March–April for rhododendron bloom
How do I get to Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale?
Start at Basantapur, about 3 hours by road from Dhankuta. It is about 91 km (straight line) from Biratnagar.
What is Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale called in Nepali?
टिन्जुरे–मिल्के–जलजले
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