Basantapur (Tehrathum)
Basantapur (Tehrathum)
Basantapur is set up in the enchanting surrounding of mountains and greenery. Offering excellent respite from city life, the diverse landscape includes terraced fields as well as plain land, which are covered by different types of vegetation. The mixed pastures, hills of colorful rhododendron and jasmine, beautiful sunrise and sunset, friendly people and rich Limbu culture offer additional appeal. Basantapur at 2200 meters, also hosts trekkers on the way to Mt. Kanchenjunga in Taplejung and the popular Teenjure Mike-Jaljale Trail.
Access
Basantapur is in Tehrathum District of Koshi Zone. It can be reached via Hile in Dhankuta district. Buses are available at Central Bus Station, Gangabu, in Kathmandu. Another option is to fly to Biratnagar and drive over to Hile Bazaar. Buses are available from Hile Bazaar to Basantapur.
Accommodation and Facilities
Budget hotels and moderate accommodation facilities are available in Basantapur Bazaar. There are many small hotels and restaurants in the area to cater to local passers by camping sites are also available for trekkers. Other facilities are also available in Basantapur Bazaar.
When to Visit ?
The best time to visit is autumn and spring, between October and December or from February to April. The weather is cool and temperate here most times of the year, which makes Basantapur ideal for visit anytime. Summers are pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10-20 degree Celsius, while winters are not extreme even though temperatures could sometimes fall below 0 degree.
Predominant Culture
Ethnic groups that reside in the area Gurung, Rai, Limbu, Tamang, Brahmin and Chhettri. Most of the people are farmers by occupation. In the surrounding areas of Basantapur, Limbu culture is predominant.
Places to visit
Teen Jure Danda is at 3,066 meters from where one can see magnificent views of sunrise and sunset, and majestic view of mountains. 34 varieties of rhododendron are found here. Teen Jure Danda is about half and hour away from Basantapur Bazaar.
Mike Danda
Mike Danda on the way to Taplejung is another popular rhododendron forest. At 2905 meters, Mike Danda provides a closer view of the Kanchenjunga and Kumbhakarna mountains in addition to the scenic beauty of sunrise and sunset. It falls on the trekking trail between Taplejung and Basantapur Bazaar.
Pattek Dana
Pattek Dana at 2500 meters, is equally beautiful for sunrise, sunset and a wide view of the Himalayas including Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga. Pattek Danda is ideal for short trek and is also a good area for picnic. There is a popular Kali temple 2 hour-walk west from Basantapur Bazaar. Pattek Danda, about 3 kilometers away from Basantapur, can also be reached via Chitre that is 15 minute drive away. From here Pattek Danda is 30 minute trek away.
Gupha Pokhari
Gupha Pokhari is a natural pond that lies on the trekking trail to Taplejung from Basantaur. Picturesque view of mountains, sunrise and sunset can be seen from here. This pond is culturally significant and is also a good resting place for trekkers to Taplejung.
Marg Pokhari
Marg Pokhari is another natural pond on the lap of the hills. The pond holds religious value and scenic beauty. It is situated at a height of about 2600 meters. The pond has contributed to keep the surroundings green. Marg Pokhari watershed area has a dense forest that habitats popular species of rhododendron and precious plants. Marg Pokhari is on the way to Basantapur from Sindhuwa, which is 5 kilometers from Basantapur Bazaar.
Sukrabare Bazaar
Sukrabare Bazaar in Hammarjung VDC, a weekly fair showcases mixed culture of the settlements. Majority of the inhabitants here are Limbus. Thus, it is an ideal place and time to experience the rich Limbu culture. The village is popular for traditional weaved Khadi. The village can be reached via Sindhuwa Bazaar which is another popular area of Basantapur.
Panchakanya Pokhari
Panchakanya Pokhari is another popular tourist site. Also known as Chhathar Pokharai, Panchakanya Pokhari is approximately 2 hour walk further down from Sukrabare Bazaar. Among many ponds, the biggest pond that lies in the area is Panchakanya.