Kanchenjunga Trekking is a restricted trekking area in Nepal. This trek is a perfect opportunity to explore the untouched and unspoiled highland wilderness. During the Kanchenjunga Trek, you will reach the base camp of world’s third highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga.
Kanchenjunga trek is an isolated trek situated in the north-eastern part of Nepal. The trek begins with a short flight to Bhadrapur. From there we will drive to Ilam and then to Taplejung.
Taplejung is the point where you begin your actual trek. We trek through Taplejung, Mitlung, Chiruwa, Sakathum, Amjilassa, Gyabla, Gunsa, Khambachen, Lhonak, and finally to the Northern Base Camp of Kanchenjunga.
From the Northern Kanchenjunga base camp, we will trek through Khambachen and back to Gunsa. From there we’ll pass through Selele Kharka, cross Sele Le pass and trek back to Tseram. From Tseram, we’ll trek through Ramche to the Sothern Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. From there, we’ll trek back to Torntan, Yamphudin, Kheswa, and to Taplejung. From Taplejung, we’ll drive to Bhadrapur and fly to Kathmandu from there.
The Kanchenjunga massif displays wonderful and exotic views of snow giants above and below 8000 meters. You can see Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and many other peaks during the Kanchenjunga circuit trek.
You can enjoy the amazing landscapes and topography during Kanchenjunga trek. This trek is full of alpine grasslands, sub-tropical forests and low river valleys. Walking across beautiful waterfalls, thickets of rhododendron and amazing mountain vistas is a great feeling.
The trek passes through Kanchenjunga Conservation Area that houses diverse species of flora and fauna. There are chances of seeing wildlife such as Snow Leopard, Musk deer, Red Panda, etc while trekking. You might also see some threatened species of birds like Impedance Pheasant and Red-billed blue magpie.
While trekking, you will see the amazing valleys and traditional villages. The local people are hospitable. The isolated communities are not affected by modernity. You will see the diverse local groups preserve their amazing culture and traditions.
This trek is a combination of teahouse and camp trekking. At places like Lhonak, Northern Base Camp, Khambachen, Gunsa, Selele Kharka, Tseram you should stay in your tents for overnights. Whereas in other places, there are lodges and teahouses for stays.
The teahouses en route aren’t well faciliated. They provide basic facilities for foods and stays. Food and accommodation are expensive than in other treks due to remoteness of the place. Carry extra hand cash to pay for extra services like hot shower, wifi, extra blankets, etc.
Highlights of Kanchenjunga Trekking
- Mount Kanchenjunga 8586 meters, the third highest peak in the world
- The blend of traditional Nepali and Tibetan culture
- Wild, remote, and unspoilt nature including amazing landscapes, forests, rivers and waterfalls
- Exploring around the northern and southern base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga
- Kanchenjunga glacier, Yalung Glacier and many others
- Crossing the Sele Le Pass
- Remote picturesque villages and the local ethnic groups
- The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, diverse wildlife such as Snow leopard, Musk deer, Red panda, etc.
Best Season to Trek in Nepal
Autumn (September, October, and November) and Spring (March, April, and May) are the best time for Kanchenjunga trek. This time is perfect for trekking, touring, and mountaineering in Nepal.
Weather in the Kanchenjunga region mostly remains stable and clear during these times. During the best time, there are least chances of rainfall, snows, or bad climate. The beautiful weather enhances beautiful and unobstructed views of the distant surrounding vistas. The temperature is also moderate which is suitable for trekking.
Kanchenjunga Trek is possible in any time of the year. However Summer (June, July, and August) and Winter (December, January, and February) are less popular seasons to trek. Summer receives heavy monsoon rain in Kanchenjunga region. Winter is colder with freezing temperatures at nights.
Trek Difficulties During Kanchenjunga Trekking
- This is a high altitude trek with higher risks of altitude sickness. You will trek up to an altitude of 5143 meters at the Kanchenjunga base camp.
- This trek is a 28 days trek. Trekking in the entirely isolated trekking trail far from modernity can be difficult. There are some trekkers who feel exhausted in the middle of the trek. Make sure you can do it before you choose to trek.
- Trekkers must walk for 6 to 7 hours a day on average during the trek. Walking for such long hours over rugged and different terrain is difficult for beginners. Practice some exercises and strength training starting a month before you go.
- Inadequate gear might bring difficulties to your trek. So, get informations on packing lists before trekking to Kanchenjunga. Pack what is mandatory. Remember! You’ll need gear for camping also.
- This is a high altitude trek with uncertain weather and climatic variations. Be prepared to encounter any sorts of weather changes while trekking.
