These two treks in far-eastern Nepal can be conveniently combined using Ilam as a base. They can also be easily undertaken either before or after a visit to Kosi Barrage. The trail south of Ilam (1300m) runs through subtropical forests to Sunischare (150). From Ilam the trek runs north above the Mai Kola valley and then cuts north-east across the valley to damp temperate forests close to the Indian border. This area is little visited by foreigners and there are only a few lodges mainly catering for local people. You can sometimes find accommodation in village houses, but camping is recommended. It is a good idea to bring a supply of Western food from Kathmandu, especially for meals during the day. Most people living north of the East-West Highway in this area do not speak English. A guide and porters are especially useful in these treks as they can look after camping equipment and find water while you are bird watching. The treks are not strenuous and the routes are easy to follow.

Time to visit

The treks can be undertaken between October and May. The end of February and March is one of the best period to visit Hange Tham and the upper Mai valley as many species are preparing to breed and later on in the spring low cloud and rain reduce bird watching time. May is the best time to see purple Cochoa and late-arriving summer visitors. April is probably the best month to do the Ilam to Sunischare trek as most breeding birds have arrived and a variety of migrants are passing through on their way to the hills.

Birds

Many forest species typical of the eastern foothills and adjacent lowlands can be seed between Ilam and Sunischare. Those of the eastern Himalayan forests are found when trekking above Ilam to Hanga Tham and the upper Mai valley. The Mai valley is the only place in Nepal where Hill Prinia and Purple Cochoa are known to occur.