Pilgrims on a Pathibhara yatra often have a spare day in Phungling, either built in for weather or because the climb went faster than planned. This drive uses it well. We head down from the ridge into the Tamor valley, where terraces of rice, millet and maize step down to the river and houses are painted in the ochre and white typical of the eastern hills.
On the way we stop at a village to see farming life, cross a long steel suspension bridge on foot over the Tamor, and eat lunch at a simple riverside place serving dal bhat and fresh fish when available. The views back up to Phungling and across to the Pathibhara ridge show how high the town sits above the valley.
Road conditions on the valley roads change with the seasons, so the exact route is decided on the day by our driver. The trip is not suitable during the monsoon from June to September, when landslides are common.
Good for
- Families
- Seniors
- Pilgrims
- Photographers
Questions travellers ask
Is the Tamor valley drive safe?
In the dry season with an experienced local driver, yes. Roads are narrow and partly unpaved. We do not run this drive in the monsoon or after heavy rain.
How long is the drive?
About 4 to 5 hours return including stops and lunch. It can be shortened if anyone feels car-sick.
Can we combine it with Pathibhara?
Yes, as a spare-day activity after the temple climb or when bad weather delays a helicopter shuttle.
