The Guerrilla Trail Trekking
offers a remarkable journey through the heartland of post-conflict territory. The
route winds its way through the remote but spectacular villages and valleys in
West Nepal that saw some of the bloodiest moments in Nepal's recent history. The
region folded with low population density at the epicenter of Nepal’s ten years
long conflict (1996-2006) and homeland of many revolutionaries. It was on the trails
of The Guerrilla Trek where once revolution was planned, ignited and launched,
eventually toppling the 239-year old crown and achieving a popularly elected
Maoist-led-government. It includes areas where the rebels carried their wounded
fellows along the mountains in search of safety places. The people along these
trails are clear evidence that Nepal’s hills are now an abiding place of immense
peace. You are invited to experience the land and its inhabitants for yourself.
The Nepali Civil War
“People’s War” was an armed conflict between government forces and Maoist
fighters in Nepal which lasted from 1996 till 2006. The war was launched by the
Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) on 13 February, 1996 with the aim of
overthrowing the Nepalese monarchy and establishing a ‘People’s Republic State’.
It ended with the Comprehensive Peace Accord signed on 21 November 2006 after
claiming more than 15,000 lives. By choosing to travel in this area you
will not only be spreading tourism wealth to lower income people but also
traveling in a secluded, majestic, yet overlooked region. The armed conflict is
long over and locals, former guerrillas and police in Rukum and Rolpa, the ones
in the thick of the combat, will extend its heart to welcome you.
As it is away from the mass
tourism highway the Guerrilla Trek provides a chance to meet people of Nepal
largely unaffected by commercialization and regulation of the travel industry. It
details a trail divided into three sections in western Nepal over rugged
mountains, caves, villages, rivers and paddy fields along the route where thousands
of Maoist guerrillas once dug trenches and ambushed the army. Its natural scenery is simply
breathtaking. You also come across so many diverse cultures. Many ethnicities
enrich the route including Kham Magar, Bahun, Chhetri, Dalit, Gurung, Magar, Newar
and Thakuri people. The Kham-speaking Magar culture is unique to northern Rolpa
and eastern Rukum. These Magar have distinguishing customs and a distinct
language of the Tibeto-Burman family. Today they make up a new, intriguing
trekking trail that weaves around the landmark events of that era.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Day 01: Kathmandu-Pokhara 830m
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu Airport, our representative
will greet you and after completion of custom formalities transfer you to
domestic terminal for connecting flight to Pokhara. As you board on small
aircraft, 25minutes flight is awesome experience. If weather permits, the clear
views of snow-capped mountains are visible. At Pokhara Airport you are again greeted
with great views of the Himalayas including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre,
the five peaks of Annapurna and others. After check in, you can go on street of
Lakeside or walk along the beautiful lake with majestic Himalayas on
background. In the evening upon your reception we will organize a welcome
dinner at excellent restaurant where you enjoy Nepalese cultural dances with
fine meal where you also meet your trekking leader/guide.
Day 02: Pokhara
After breakfast in the morning we walk through the Raniban
Jungle to World Peace Stupa, located at excellent vantage point from where you
can observe the entire views of Pokhara Valley, Lake Phewa and Annapurna range
following Manaslu and Dhaulagiri range.Then we gently descend down to the lake
Phewa and catch a boat to cross the lake. Afternoon is free and preparing time
for the trek. In
the evening before sunset there will be a pre-trip discussion where you can
meet your trekking guide, crew and other participants of this trek. We brief you about regarding your trek further provide the
opportunity to ask questions you may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Clear
your confusion without any hesitation. And also be sure that you have your
document fulfilled.
Day 03: Pokhara-Beni-Darbang 7/8hrs drive; 1070m
We take private or public vehicle to Beni which takes
4/5hrs. On March 20, 2004 it was attacked by Maoist in which battle they
incurred 109 causalities and over 200 injuries. 200 policemen were on duty, 20
died, and 34 were captured and released for bounty, a nearby army unit suffered
15 losses. From here another vehicle will be arranged for ahead journey to
Darbang that takes approximately 3hrs and road is dirt.
Day 04: Darbang-Takam 3hrs; 1675m
We officially kick off for the trek start and the day with
gradual ascend with intermittent short but steep ascents trek to Takam. It is
first day of our trek which contains pleasant walk. First we cross the Myagdi
River to the northwest and catch an inspiring albeit brief glimpse of snowy
peaks. Head north pass Devisthan in 15minutes. The Dhaulagiri range begins to
peak over high hills as we advance to Phedi. Cross dang Khola on a suspension
bridge and begin a steep climb with excellent preliminary views of the mountains
along the way to Dharapani. Another 45minutes trek takes us to Takam.
Day 05: Takam-Moreni 5hrs; 2275m
It is another pleasant trekking day which passes through the
village of Machhim, Muna and Lumsung. The
trails is gradual ascend and descent with some short steep ascend as previous
day. Along the trail we see western portion of the Dhaulagiri range. Spend the afternoon
here exploring the area, reading or playing games or just relaxing.
Day 06: Moreni-Gurjaghat 7-8hrs; 3015m
We will get up early morning today as we going to cross over
the Jaljala Pass (3414m). Approaching
pass vegetation thins out and the mountain vistas arise astonishingly beside us.
We will spend some time on the pass for taking pictures and getting glimpse of
high Himalayas. We'll then descend out of the chilly wind into the Dhorpatan
Valley over a good trail to Gurjaghat magnificent place which will be
extravagantly covers in flowers in summer.
Day 07: Gurjaghat-Dhorpatan/Bhujikhung 6-7hrs; 3015m
From Gurjaghat (3070m) make our way to Dhorpatan Hunting
Reserve. We trek along the Uttarganga River, beautiful wide alpine valley
forests covered with oak, pine, rhododendron, juniper and other local
vegetation. Dhorpatan is a point where trails from Baglung, Beni, Rolpa and
Rukum meet. There is an airstrip. We can see apple orchard, wheat, buck wheat,
maize and mostly potatoes growing in terraces. One of the most significant
features about this place is that anyone can go for hunting by paying certain
fees to the Government authority, as Dhorpatan is the only area for hunting in
Nepal. From here trail climbs gently above the airstrip. Camp near the stream
on the pastures is absolutely fantastic.
Day 08: Dhorpatan/Bhujikhung-Thankur 7hrs; 3175m
Today is arduous trek over the Phalgune Pass. As we climb
higher the view below opens up into spectacular Himalayan panorama. The pass is
marked by small cairn. Astounding western range of Dhaulagiri massif including
Dogari, Churen, Pyutha Hiunchuli, etc. are now just in front you. After
struggling for couple of hour in the thin air the view is absolutely
breathtaking. We spend about an hour or
so on to enjoy the view, rest and take photographs of the magnificent mountains
and landscape. We will then descend gradually towards northwest into the valley
before eventually the rote opens and reveal the depth and desolation of the
layers and folds of Rukum's craggy high hills.
Day 09: Thankur-Pelma 7-8hrs; 2425m
We are entering the Kham territory today. The trail descend
along the Sai Khola(River) for about an hour and quarter before the crossing suspension
bridge. Ahead the trail climbs steeply towards ridge top then becomes level.
The easy trail along the ridge leads us to Kayam. The trail beyond Kayam climbs
gently to the ridge before traversing long the rocky slope. Finally trail drops
to Pelma village. It is the first village where you can see flat roofs that are
interconnected to neighbor's homes.
Day 10: Pelma-Maikot 6hrs; 2015m
We descend for half an hour before crossing the river and
ascend to the Pelma's sister village Yamakhar. It is the place where trail
splits for Dolpo region. Still we ascend through open terrain till the top to
right and then trail drops into next valley. We pass through the couple of
village before steep ascend to top from where strikingly beautiful Maikot village
can be seen to the west that perched on the hilltop. The village lost 23lives
during the conflict. Trail ahead descends pleasantly to Maikot for one hour.
Day 11: Maikot-Dharamshala(Pipaltung) 6-7hrs; 2005m
Soon we stepped out from the village trail drops steeply
down to the Sani Bheri for about an hour. After crossing the Sani Bheri, it is
fairly pleasant trek towards the Okhma Village through beautiful village of
Ghara, Mayang and Dimurgaira. Last 40minutes till Pipaltung/Dharamshala trail
climbs gently. Camping at this one of conflict highlight spot is excellent.
Day 12: Dharamshala-Upallo Sera 3-4hrs; 2190m
It is easy day today. The trail climbs uphill for about
40minutes till it reaches to top then detour along the slope towards the Birgum
village. As we reach Birgum trail becomes more level and cluster of Taksera
village appear in the edge of the valley. It is good chance for making laundry
and rest before big up and down trail ahead.
Day 13: Upallo Sera-Lukum 6hrs; 2095m
The trail today is mostly steep up and down that examine our
stamina. After breakfast in the morning we ascend above the village. Soon trail
disappear in the mixed temperate jungle where deer and many different birds
come on sight. Pyutha Hiunchuli appears majestically as we approach ridge. From
here picturesque village of Lukum can be seen far below ahead in the valley.
After making pack lunch break, we descend towards Lukum. It is another Kham
Magar dominant village consisting more than 200 households.
Day 14: Lukum-Thawang 5-6hrs; 1975m
Although we are going to do again up and down, trail is
easier than previous day. The trail drops below village to cross the river and
starts climb along another river valley. As we ascend towards the top virgin
peak of Sisne will appear. Leaving Rukum district behind cross through the
stony gate, now we are in Rolpa district. Ahead it is pleasant walk down along
the Mungri River till trail becomes level for an hour before Thawang. The
painting of Marx, Engels, Lenin, Stalin and Mao greet us at the entrance of the
village. Thawang is unique village for its unity. The whole village never
divided in the history. We can see the enthuasiasm and development activities
among the villagers after heavy effect by the conflict.
Day 15: Thawang-Jelbang 9hrs; 1635m
It is another big day today. The trail climbs gently along
the Thulokhola valley before long steady climb to famous Jaljala Meadow (Pass).
Famous Funtibang village and Balidan Commune villages are on opposite side of
river. The view today is astounding as we ascend another highlight spot Jaljala(3090m).
From the top you can see wide range of high Himalayan views including Dhaulagiri
(8,167m) and Annapurna (8,091m) beside Sisne and Pyutha Hiunchuli. In the
initial days of fight Maoist had made this place as safe shelter and training
center. Then trail drops long down to the beautiful village of Jelbang.
(As it is long walk,
we can revise itinerary by make night stop at Jaljala meadow instead long
descend to Jelbang or stop at Sukulbang)
Day 16: Jelbang-Sulichour
6hrs; 830m
Leaving Jelbang behind fondly, we gradually descend to
Rulbang for 40 minutes where road is under construction and stretching further
towards the Jelbang. Ahead trail goes along the road. Occasionally jeeps for
Sulichaur are available here. Further trail passé through several villages and
Sal forest.
Day 17:
Sulichour-Kathmandu Approx. 14hrs road journey; 1365m
We will get private vehicle for this long drive. If anyone
interested in Jungle Safari, relaxing activity in Bardia National Park or
Chitwan National Park can be combined after trek.
Day 18: Kathhmandu
Noting but RELAX! You definitely deserve the good rest
probably visit spa. You can do some shopping and visiting some historical
places.
Day 19: Kathmandu
After breakfast, your tour guide will lead you to your
today’s trip places according to the schedule. Here we visit some of the most historical
and spiritual attractions such as biggest Buddhist shrines in the world-
Boudhanath Stupa, the famous Hindu temple in the country Pashupatinath and
Bhaktapur Durbar Square, etc. which listed in UNESCO Heritage Site and perfect
example of ancient beautiful craftsmanship, religious practice of both Hindu
and Buddhist. And remember, in the evening we will be hosting a fantastic celebration
dinner together for successful completing your trek to Guerrilla Trail Trekking!
Day 20: Departure
We are saying 'SEE YOU AGAIN' as today comes to an end of
your adventure trip! Trade emails with travel companions and organize the
photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing.
Approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight we will take you to the
airport for further destination.
Please always feel free to ask details if anyone liked we can discuss and make plan together. We are happy to answer promptly and discuss about the suitable itinerary and style of trek according your time and interest.
Contact
Email: hank8000@gmail.com
guerrillatrailtrekking@gmail.com
Cell No.
Cell No.
Some Photos!
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| Painting of Communist leader at the gate of Thawang Village. |
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A wooden bridge over Uttar Ganga River, Dhorpatan Valley!      |
