Kanchenjunga Trek

Introduction

Walking your way through undisturbed natural trails and peaceful Buddhist villages while admiring the view of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586 m); trekking in the Kanchenjunga region is a memory you will cherish forever.

Kanchenjunga  lies in the northeast corner of Nepal, connecting Nepal with India through Sikkim and with China through the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR). The region is famous for its profound trekking trails which offer an authentic display of Nepalese culture and traditions. A unique mountain ecosystem with a blend of mountain habitat is what makes this region so precious for Nepal. Likewise, the magical geographical diversity of the region provides a perfect contrast for the survival of diverse kinds of flora and fauna.

Travelers from all over the world marvel at the breathtaking mountain peaks, and lush uncharted forests that cover the region. Exotic fauna play hide and seek with you with the cool forest breeze, giving you a sense of wonder and excitement in the Kanchenjunga region. Moreover, all these hallmarks are brilliantly accommodated within the glorious Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

The rural villages perfectly depict the culture and lifestyle of people residing in the hills and highlands of Nepal. Buddhist prayer flags adorn the trekking trails giving you a sense of peace and belongingness. The wonders of the Kanchenjunga Trek are a memory that will last with you for a lifetime.

Key Features of Kanchenjunga Region Trek

Spectacular mountain Landscapes

This region is most famous for the range of mountains that surround the hills including the third highest peak in the world; Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m). Along with Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586 m), four other peaks form a majestic range celebrated as The Five Treasures of the Snow. With numerous peaks higher than 7000m residing in this area, it is a land of adventures for people who enjoy peak climbing.

The panoramic view of snow-capped mountains is one of the specialties of the Kanchenjunga Trek. From, Oktang Monastery and Yalung Base Camp to the southern part of this region, you can relish spectacular mountain peaks including Kokthang (6148 m), Rathong (6682 m), Kabru Range, Kanchenjunga range, Januu (7711 m), and many more. The view doesn’t end there as the northern Kanchenjunga Base Camp-Pangpema (5143 m) is equally rich in the case of mountain sights. Mountains likeKanbachen (7802 m), Rating (6700 m), Nepal Chuli (7177 m), Kirat Chuli (7362 m), and other mountain peaks. Apart from these vantage points, the views of these Himalayas can be enjoyed from most parts around the Kanchenjunga region.

Exotic Flora and Fauna

The dense alpine forests and rhododendron trees along with the natural trails give you a chance to experience the wilderness of Nepal in Kanchanjungha Trek. Most of this region is filled with lush forests and very little habitation in small villages, so there is no scarcity of unchartered territories shrouded in mystery and magic. As such, there is no lack of diverse geography ranging from cultivated lands, forests, pasture lands, rivers, and high altitude lakes as well as glaciers.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area which falls under the Kanchenjunga region protects many species of flora and fauna. It is home to over 250 species of endangered animals and birds. Animals like snow leopard, red panda, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, etc. Exotic birds like snow cock, blood pheasant, and red-billed chough will follow you around in the forests, welcoming you to their beautiful homes.

Natural Ambience

Being one of the less-visited mountain regions in Nepal, pristine nature is one of its specialties of Kanchanjungha Trek. Mostly covered in dense forests and high pastures that have not yet been fully explored; gives a picture of its natural beauty. Whether it is high mountains or lower dense forests, there are always places to discover in the Kanchenjunga region.

What adds to its uniqueness is the remoteness of the area.  It is mostly covered in small villages with little population and is one of the least densely populated parts of the country. Still, in touch with the traditional lifestyle, small mud houses, and a simple cuisine made from scratch mirrors the lifestyle of most of the village regions of Nepal. It can truly be taken as a gateway from the busy city life to enjoy solitude in the peaceful village and beautiful nature. As such, the Kanchenjunga Trek  is naturally charming along with the sublime aesthetics of its landmarks.

Priceless Cultural Monuments

Hidden in the lap of mountains, Kanchanjungha Trek  is no stranger to the unique and diverse culture of Nepal. Ancient Buddhist monasteries, stupas, Gumbas, and Hindu temples that are scattered throughout the Kanchenjunga region make it a holy site for pilgrimage activities. Being one of the less explored regions of Nepal, these monasteries still stand in solitude, away from the prying eyes of the modern era. One such heritage is the Lumba Sumba Monastery which sits in the western part of the region and guarantees insight into ancient culture and history.

Likewise, the Pathibhara Temple is a holy pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists from all around the world. The temple is famous for granting the wishes of those who request with the purest of hearts. It is also one of the most respected holy places for the Limbu people.

People and Culture

A connection between the three countries, namely, India, China, and Nepal is what you get to experience in this region. Most of the people living in this region follow Tibetan Buddhism, passed on by the neighbors at Tibet. The small villages with traditional houses and people going on with their daily life with little to no influence of the modern culture are something you will experience only in this region. The long history of the influence of Tibetan Buddhism shows itself in Bon religion as well as many other ethnic groups like Sherpa, Limbu, and Rai who live in this region.

The opportunity to travel in solitude in one of the most rural places of Nepal and also to experience their traditional lifestyle and friendliness will make sure you relish the genuine social norms and practices. Walking on the off-road tracks and getting a taste of the rich culture of the Kanchenjunga region is truly an experience you should share with your loved ones.

Key Activities in Kanchenjunga Region

There are a variety of things you can enjoy in the Kanchenjunga region ranging from base camp treks to peak climbing. The off-beaten trails of this region are a perfect experience for thrill-seeking trekkers. Being one of the less-visited sites, it is one of the best places to enjoy trekking in peace as the nature trails are also less crowded, adding more to its natural ambiance.

One of the experiences you shouldn’t miss in this region is the trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp, standing at the height of 5143m. The marvelous unobstructed view of Kanchenjunga (8586m) along with Mt. Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), and Makalu (8481m) along with breathtaking natural treasures like waterfalls and glaciers will greet you on the trip.

For peak climbing trips, Bokta Peak Climbing falls is one of the best peak climbing experiences in Nepal. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, Lumba Sumba Trek, Selle Pass Trek, and Milke Dada Trek are some of the famous treks in the region. Exploring the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, you will be able to walk through its rugged trails and indulge in bird watching.

Different Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and temples also await your arrival including the Pathibhara Temple which is visited by hundreds of pilgrims every year. You can enjoy cultural treks as well which will give you the taste of both, Nepali cultural as well as natural diversity.

Best time to visit Kanchenjunga Region

Starting from late September to Mid-December, autumn is the best time for trekking in the Kanchenjunga region. The skies are clearer, giving you the perfect view of the tall mountain ranges, huge glaciers, and shining lakes. Likewise, the trails are also dry and easy to climb making them more enjoyable.

Another ideal season to travel to the Kanchenjunga region would be during spring from March to May. The rhododendrons are in full bloom during this time, and cool breezes will accompany you as you explore the region.

Monsoons are less than ideal to travel since the rainfall poses a significant challenge to trek in the Kanchenjunga region. The difficulty level increases because of the possible dangers of landslides and the manifestation of leeches which are a hindrance to an enjoyable trek.

The months to avoid are from late December to early March which is the season of winter. The higher altitudes are unbearably cold and it is also difficult to find accommodations as most of the tea houses are closed. During this time, you will meet rarely any people in the higher altitudes as many migrate to lower lands. The deep snow that covers the trekking trails makes it extremely difficult to properly trek.

Conclusion

All in all, the Kanchenjunga region is a perfect place to experience the diverse nature of Nepal and the rich cultural diversity. The un-explored forests and rural villages with their traditional mud-houses will surely be a unique experience. Moreover, the off-beaten trails and the isolated trekking trails also offer a lot more than just adventure. Adding the exciting visit to the Kanchenjunga region to your inventory for the next time you visit Nepal will for sure be a remarkable decision.