Pathibhara Devi

Pathibhara Devi stands on a bare summit above the forests of Taplejung. Hindus and the Limbu (who call the hill Mukkumlung) both honour the goddess here, and pilgrims walk up from Phungling or the road-head at Kafley Pati to offer prayers for wishes to be fulfilled. The climb takes most people a day each way.

On a clear morning the top has one of the finest mountain views in the east: Kanchenjunga close by, Jannu, and Makalu and Everest far to the west. A cable car to the summit has been under construction; check locally, as it has been controversial with Limbu organisations.

What to see and do

The climb itself is part of the pilgrimage: a stone trail winds up through rhododendron and oak forest, past rest houses and small shrines, with prayer flags and bells tied along the way. At the top, the goddess is worshipped at a simple open shrine surrounded by thousands of bells and tridents left by devotees.

Many pilgrims set off before dawn to reach the summit for sunrise, when Kanchenjunga, Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and the peaks of Sikkim catch the first light. The ridge also gives a wide view south over the green hills of Taplejung and Panchthar.

Good to know

The top is at nearly 3,800 m, so walk slowly and watch for altitude symptoms, especially if you drove up quickly from the lowlands. Snow can cover the trail in winter. Offerings of animals are made at the goddess's shrine by some devotees; photography of rituals should be done respectfully. Basic lodges and tea shops are available at Kafley Pati and along the trail, busiest during Dashain, Nawaratri and the Mangsir season.