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Join Ollit Expeditions on the Chintaphu Trek - Rhododendron Trail, a breathtaking journey through the Eastern Himalayas, exploring the southern part of the Singalila Ridge, which forms the natural border between India and Nepal. This slow-paced, immersive expedition is designed for those who seek more than just a trek—it’s an opportunity to deeply connect with mountain landscapes, history, culture, and local communities.

 

Taking place in April, during the peak rhododendron blooming season, this trek offers an enchanting experience of walking through vibrant forests adorned with shades of red, pink, and white blossoms. As you traverse the trail, you will be rewarded with unparalleled views of Kangchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, some of the world's highest peaks.

 

This journey is not just about the landscapes; it’s about the stories that unfold along the way. Our highly qualified mountain guides will bring the region to life with engaging storytelling sessions on Himalayan history, culture, and geography. Through immersive interactions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the terrain, the people who call these mountains home, and the significance of their traditions.

 

Every evening, the adventure continues off the trail, as you stay in tea houses and homestays, experiencing the warmth of mountain hospitality and home-cooked meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. You’ll have the opportunity to engage with local families—learning their way of life, helping in the kitchen to prepare meals, and exchanging stories by the fire. These simple yet profound moments foster authentic connections and make the journey all the more meaningful.

 

Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a traveler seeking cultural immersion, this trek is a perfect blend of Himalayan beauty, local traditions, and wilderness exploration.

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Day 1: Arrival and Journey to Joubari

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Your journey begins as you arrive at Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station, where the team will welcome you.

 

Enjoy a scenic 5-6 hour drive to Joubari, passing through the charming town of Manebhanjan, the gateway to Singalila National Park. En route, stop for a delicious lunch. Settle into a tea house in Joubari, offering stunning views of Kangchenjunga and Everest. Enjoy a warm, home-cooked dinner and prepare for the adventure ahead.

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Arrival at Bagdogra or NJP Railway Station

Drive to Joubari (5-6 hours) via Manebhanjan

Stay in a cozy tea house with panoramic views

 

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

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Day 2: Descent to Jamuna Village

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After a hearty breakfast, begin your trek with a gradual descent through dense forests and charming trails.

Pause for a tea break at Gairibas, soaking in the crisp mountain air before continuing the descent to Jamuna Village, known for its traditional homes and warm hospitality.

 

Experience authentic village life by staying in a homestay, where you’ll interact with the locals and enjoy a traditional meal.

 

 

• Gentle descent through forests and trails​

• Tea break at Gairibas

• Stay in a homestay, experiencing local culture

 

Trek Duration: 4-5 hours

 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 3: Trek to Maimazua

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The day’s trek takes you through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and lush forests.

The route is mostly gentle, with a moderate uphill stretch towards the end. You’ll pass tea gardens, small waterfalls, and breathtaking landscapes, making this a visually stunning day.

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Upon reaching Maimazua, check into a village guesthouse and enjoy an evening of cultural exchange with the locals.

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• Trek through tea gardens and forest trails

• Pass waterfalls and terraced fields

• Stay in a traditional guesthouse in Maimazua

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Trek Duration: 5-6 hours

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Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 4: Ascent to Goruwalebhanjan

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Begin the trek with a gradual ascent through rhododendrons and pine forests, where the trails burst into vibrant colors during the blooming season.

 

The uphill stretch is gentle and manageable, offering ample time to admire the beauty of the landscape.

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Arrive at Goruwalebhanjan, a tiny settlement nestled in nature, where you’ll stay in a cozy guesthouse.

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• Scenic uphill trek through rhododendron forests

• Witness the stunning blossoms in full bloom

• Stay in a peaceful guesthouse in Goruwale

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Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

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Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 5: Summit Chintaphu and Return to Maimazua

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Start early with a warm cup of tea before heading to Chintaphu Top (3,500m), the highest point of the trek.

From the summit, witness a breathtaking sunrise over Kangchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. On a clear day, the view is truly awe-inspiring.

 

Visit a sacred lake at the summit before descending back to Goruwale for lunch, then continue to Maimazua for the night.

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• Sunrise trek to Chintaphu Top (3,500m)

• Panoramic views of four of the world’s highest peaks

• Stay in a guesthouse in Maimazua

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Trek Duration: 6-7 hours

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Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 6: Trek to Deorali and Visit Maipokhari Lake

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• Embark on a beautiful descent towards Deorali, passing through forested trails and tranquil meadows.

• Upon arrival, take a short excursion to Maipokhari Lake, a peaceful, sacred water body surrounded by thick vegetation.

• Spend the evening unwinding in a guesthouse in Deorali, enjoying the fresh mountain air.​

• Trek through forests and open landscapes

• Visit the serene Maipokhari LakeRelax at a guesthouse in Deorali​

 

Trek Duration: 4-5 hours

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Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 7: Drive to Thulung via Ilam and Pashupati

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After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 4-5 hour drive through Ilam, Nepal’s tea capital, where you’ll pass sprawling tea estates.

Stop at Pashupati Market, a lively trading hub at the India-Nepal border, before arriving at Thulung, a picturesque mountain village.

 

Spend the night in a homestay, enjoying a farewell dinner with your hosts.

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• Drive through Ilam’s tea gardens

• Explore the bustling Pashupati Market

• Stay in a traditional homestay in Thulung

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Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Day 8: Departure

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Enjoy a relaxed morning and a final breakfast before departing for Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station.

 

Bid farewell to the Himalayas, carrying cherished memories of the Chintaphu Trek - Rhododendron Trail.

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• Return journey to Bagdogra or NJP

• Final reflections on the incredible adventure

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Meals Included: Breakfast

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