Chintaphu Trek is an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nepal, offering a serene and less crowded trekking experience compared to its famous sister route, Sandakphu. Standing at 3,633 meters (11,929 feet), Chintaphu provides stunning views of not only Kanchenjunga but also Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse, especially during the clear skies of October.
Trek Summary
- Height: 11,929 feet (3,633 meters)
- Basecamp: Maimazua
- Best Time to Travel: Late March to April for rhododendron blooms, and October for clear mountain views
Route and Itinerary
- Siliguri to Maimazua via Pashupatinagar
- Travel via Mirik to Pashupatinagar on the Nepal border.
- Drive a Nepali car for four hours to Maimazua in the Ilam district.
- Accommodation: Daju Homestay in Maimazua.
- Maimazua to Garuwalivhanj
- Distance: 12 km by Land Rover.
- Enjoy the scenic route and stop by a small holy tank.
- Stay overnight in Garuwalivhanj.
- Garuwalivhanj to Chintaphu
- Distance: 3 km trek.
- Start trekking with a guide and porter.
- Optional: Stay overnight at Chintaphu Trekkers Hut to witness sunrise and snow-capped peaks.
- Return Journey
- Descend to Garuwalivhanj and stay overnight.
- Return to Maimazua the next day and spend the night.
- Head back to Siliguri via Pashupatinagar, stopping at Sourini and Gopaldhara tea gardens.
Alternate Routes
- Manebhanjan Route
- Manebhanjan -> Lamedhura -> Tumling -> Jaubari -> Mabu -> Maimazua -> Garuwalivhanj -> Chintaphu (6 km from Garuwalivhanj).
- Dhotre Route
- Manebhanjan -> Dhotre -> Tonglu -> Tumling -> Sandakphu -> Garuwalivhanj (12 km difficult trek) -> Chintaphu (6 km from Garuwalivhanj).
Preparation and Packing List
- Backpack
- Trekking Pole
- Raincoat or Poncho
- Sunhat and Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and Cold Cream
- Trekking Shoes and Sandals
- Trekking Pants and T-shirts
- Woolen Sweater and Down Jacket
- Ear Cap and Gloves
- Socks (3-4 pairs)
- Lip Gel
- Basic Medicine and Bandages
- Toiletries (Brush, Paste, Shampoo)
- Power Bank, Mobile, Charger
- Optional: Camera, Extra Battery, Extra Card
- Sleeping Bag (if staying overnight at Chintaphu)
Environmental Responsibility
- Avoid littering and carry non-perishable waste back to designated disposal areas.
- Aid fellow trekkers and locals as much as possible.
Travel Tips
- Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits before starting your trek.
- Health: Carry health insurance and stay hydrated.
- Local Delicacies: Try organic tea, homemade ghee, and local pulses at the homestays.
Highlights of Chintaphu Trek
- Stunning views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse.
- Rhododendron blooms in spring.
- Sacred sites like Maipokhri.
- Tranquil villages and local hospitality.
The Chintaphu Trek offers a unique and enriching experience for those looking to explore less-traveled paths and enjoy the natural beauty of Nepal. This short yet fulfilling trek is perfect for those with limited time but a great desire for adventure and stunning vistas.
