The Tamur, Nepal's wild and east bend river the snows of Kanchenjunga feed a challenging less known relative of the Sun Koshi. The Tamur combines one of the best short Himalayan treks, offering amazing mountain views, with an exhilarating new river expedition. Picking up our team of sprightly porters at Basantapur we trek through ancient moss-covered rhododendron forests and sunlit meadows. As we crest the 10,000-foot pass above the sacred lake at Gupha Pokhari, we are greeted by stunning views of the Kanchenjunga massif, Makalu and Everest.

At Dobhan three tributaries of the Tamur join their forces, combining the racing rivers of the high mountains to the north. Steep canyon walls enclose the river and the rapids are powerful and continuous. In the middle section the river opens up and there are beautiful white sandy beaches. The last few days, where the river turns back to the west, are phenomenal. Towering waves leap skyward, with seemingly endless rapids surging through steep canyon walls. Small fishermen's villages line the confluence of every major tributary, while wild monkeys watch from the jungle as we drift past. Local people are a fascinating collage of tribes and castes that have perfected the brewing of their local drink, Tungba, to a fine art.