Tinjure Milke Jaljale Trek (TMJ Trek)

Highlights of Tinjure Milke Jaljale Trek

• Explore the stunning natural beauty of Tinjure Milke Jaljale Trek, known as the rhododendron capital of Nepal, and ridge, covered in dense rhododendron forests.
• Immerse yourself in the rich Limbu culture of the area.
• Wonder at the breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks of Makalu and Khumbu from Tinjure and Milke Danda’s ridgelines.
• Visit scenic Himalayan lakes like Gupha Pokhari and Pannchakanya Pokhari.
• Wander through the bustling Basantapur flea market.

Overview of Tinjure Milke Jaljale Trek

The TMJ area, encompassing Tinjure, Milke, and Jaljale is spread across three districts within Province 1: Tehrathum, Sankhuwasabha, and Taplejung. This hidden gem offers a picturesque journey through expansive Himalayan meadows, awe-inspiring mountain vistas, and captivating sunrise and sunset panoramas.

Renowned as the ‘rhododendron capital‘ of the country, the TMJ region was designated as a rhododendron conservation area back in 1998. Conservationists have identified a remarkable diversity, with 31 distinct species of rhododendrons thriving in this area.

Explore the beautiful Tinjure, Milke, and Jaljale forests for an unforgettable trek into nature. Spanning 30 kilometers in eastern Nepal, these forests are decorated with lush, deciduous floral paintings that paint the landscape in mesmerizing shades of different colors. Each meter of the trail shows you unparalleled beauty and tranquility.

Regrettably, the once-thriving rhododendron forests spanning 8,874 hectares in the TMJ area face depletion. The invasion of roads, transmission lines, overgrazing, excessive firewood usage, and flower plucking for juice, are contributing to the shrinking of this precious natural treasure.

Ethnicity, culture, and heritage

The Tinjure Jaljale Milke Trek offers a rich cultural experience. This region boasts a diverse mix of ethnicities, cultures, and religions, with over ten distinct ethnic groups each with their unique traditions, languages, and religious practices. The Rai and Limbu communities make up the majority here, celebrating festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, Baishake Purnima, Lhosar, Pushe Mela, Baisakhi Mela, and Fagu Mela, which add vibrancy to the area.

In these regions, unique cultural dances like the Chandi dance of the Rai and Dhan Nach, and Chyaprung dance of the Limbu are exclusively performed. The area boasts numerous religious and cultural landmarks. Temples such as Sabhapokhari, Guphapokhari, Singhadevi, Siddhakali, Gaunkhuridham, and Pathibhara hold significant religious importance. Legend has it that Lord Mahadev resided in Guphapokhari, and another tale involves Bhimsen’s stone, linked to the Pandavas of the Mahabharata.

Floral diversity

The region owns a rich variety of plants, with a particular abundance of rhododendrons. There are over 250 plant species, including more than 31 types of rhododendrons. Among the notable tree species are Common yew, Swertia chirayita, Chinese guger, Castanopsis indica, chir pine, East Himalayan fir, Nepalese alder, various Juniperus species, Magnolia doltsopa, Quercus semecarpifolia, and Lyonia ovalifolia.

The Future of Tourism on the TMJ Trail

With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural value, the TMJ area holds immense promise for tourism offerings. Its diverse natural landscapes boast unique rhododendron forests, rare wildlife, and stunning views of iconic peaks like Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Kumbakarna.

The local population reflects a vibrant mix of ethnic groups, adding to the area’s cultural richness. Positioned along the route to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and the Makalu Barun National Park, it is a vital link for tourists and wildlife.

Thanks to road improvements, notably the Biratnagar-Dharan-Basantapur route, accessing the destination has become convenient for visitors from both near and far. The blooming rhododendrons in spring and the winter snowfall offer natural attractions that appeal to tourists, both domestic and international. Expanding the range of tourism experiences available is key to drawing high-quality visitors to the area.

Outline Itinerary of Tinjure Milke Jaljale Trek (TMJ Trek)

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Basantapur (2,200m) via Dharan
Day 02: Trek from Basantapur to Chauki (2,700m)
Day 03: Trek from Chauki to Ghupha Pokhari (2,930m)
Day 04: Trek from Gupha Pokhari to Milke Dada
Day 05: Exploration around Milke Danda (3,124 m)
Day 06: Trek from Milke Danda to Bhalukhop
Day 07: Trek from Bhalukhop to Jaljala
Day 08: Trek from Jaljala to Chainpur
Day 09: Trek from Chainpur to Phapung
Day 10: Trek from Phapung to Tumlingtar
Day 11: Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu, evening farewell in typical Nepali culture