The Kanchenjunga Trek is a challenging but worthwhile trek in Nepal’s eastern Himalayas. Through secluded communities and verdant woodlands, the walk passes. The third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and other peaks in the area, like Mt. Jannu and Mt. Makalu, are visible from high-altitude passes. The walk typically begins at Taplejung and passes through several towns before arriving at the base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga. These towns include Mitlung, Chirwa, and Suketar.
The route then turns towards Kanchenjunga’s base camp, which provides a close-up view of the mountain and its glaciers. After that, the trek continues into the remote valleys and steep peaks of the Kanchenjunga region.
It usually takes two weeks to 20 days to accomplish the trek, which is considered challenging. One should remember that the journey is not suggested for beginners because it requires scaling steep inclines and traversing high-altitude passes. Therefore, for anyone who wants to climb the Kanchenjunga trek, it would be great if they have prior experience. For high-altitude trekking, it’s crucial to be in good health and have previous experience.
The finest months to hike the Kanchenjunga are April through June and September through November. With sunny skies and relatively mild temperatures, these months offer the finest weather for the walk. It’s the ideal time to trek during these months because the monsoon season has ended, and the snowfall hasn’t begun yet.
Beginning your trek, you will pass through verdant forests and isolated settlements, allowing you to observe the local way of life and customs. You’ll pass through various environments on the hike, including alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and terraced farms. The Himalayan black bear, red panda, and snow leopard are just a few of the many species of animals you may expect to witness along the journey.
As you ascend, your route will take you through rocky terrain and high-altitude passes. The scenery will also change as you do so. The view of Mount Kanchenjunga, which can be seen from several locations during the route, is the hike’s high point.
From here, you will also have the opportunity to see other peaks in the region, such as Mt. Jannu and Mt. Makalu.
Although the walk is challenging, the benefits are worth it. You will see the Himalayas’ unmatched natural beauty along the trip and the local people’s culture and traditions. Aside from observing a variety of species up close, standing at the foot of one of the tallest mountains on the planet will be thrilling.
To sum up, the Nepali eastern Himalayas’ Kanchenjunga Trek is both difficult and rewarding. The third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and other nearby peaks, like Mt. Jannu and Mt. Makalu, are beautifully visible from there. Typically, the walk begins in Taplejung and proceeds through inaccessible communities, verdant woods, and elevated continues.
Best Time for Kanchenjunga Trek
The months of April through June and September through November are ideal for the Kanchenjunga Trek. Due to their clear skies and moderate temperatures, these months offer the most excellent conditions for the trek.
The best months for hiking inside the region are April and May, also regarded as the prime trekking season there. The best time to trek is when the weather is nice during the day and the monsoon season has passed. Rhododendron forests are blooming this season, bringing color to the surroundings.
As the monsoon season ends and the weather, September, and October are also excellent for trekking. The best mountain views are available thanks to the bright skies, which also offer excellent visibility.
It’s crucial to remember that the trail might become difficult to traverse during the winter months owing to excessive snowfall. Additionally, the track can get muddy and slippery during the rainy season, making it hazardous to travel.
How Difficult is the Kanchenjunga trek?
Due to its high elevation and rough terrain, the Kanchenjunga trip is considered a challenging walk. It’s advised to have previous trekking experience, and intense physical fitness is needed. Due to the altitude and the trek’s remote location, the trail features several steep climbs and descents and can be physically taxing. The right equipment, a trustworthy instructor, and adequate adaptation are vital.
It’s important to remember that safety is the most crucial factor, and it’s best to speak with a professional guide or trekking agency if you have any concerns about the ability to finish the trek. Other than that, several factors help your stay fit and healthy during the challenging hike. Some of those factors are: building up your physical fitness, adapting to the weather, taking the help of a professional guide, and making a proper plan before the journey begins.
Furthermore, you should also remember proper hydration and nutrition and keep a slow pace while going on the Kanchenjunga trek. As it is one of the most dangerous trekking routes, your body might need help if you try to go very fast. Therefore, maintain a steady pace and keep your body full of nutrition and water.
Food and Accommodation during the trek
Due to the trail’s journey through remote, mountainous areas, the Kanchenjunga trek has few accommodations and eating options. You would be staying in teahouses, which are simple lodges that provide basic lodging.
The tea houses usually include a typical residence hall, sleeping area, and bathrooms. Furthermore, they may serve simple food like dal bhat, a traditional Nepali dish consisting of rice and lentil soup.
It’s essential to remember that teahouses may not have electricity or running water, and amenities like daily showers may not be provided. One must carry any necessary toiletries, medications, and winter clothing and be ready for life necessities.
20-day Itinerary for the Kanchenjunga Trek:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung (1,820m)
Day 4: Trek from Taplejung to Chirwa (1,270m)
Day 5: Trek from Chirwa to Sekathum (1,650m)
Day 6: Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,500m)
Day 7: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)
Day 8: Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m)
Day 9: Acclimatization day in Ghunsa
Day 10: Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m)
Day 11: Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (4,785m)
Day 12: Trek from Lhonak to Pangpema/Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,160m)
Day 13: Explore Pangpema/Kanchenjunga Base Camp
Day 14: Trek from Pangpema/Kanchenjunga Base Camp to Lhonak (4,785m)
Day 15: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,595m)
Day 16: Trek from Ghunsa to Sele La (4,290m)
Day 17: Trek from Sele La to Cheram (3,870m)
Day 18: Trek from Cheram to Tortong (2,995m)
Day 19: Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080m)
Day 20: Trek from Yamphudin to Taplejung and drive to Bhadrapur and fly back to Kathmandu
