Kanchenjunga Trek 18 days package itinerary

The Kanchenjunga Trek in Nepal offers adventurers a unique opportunity to explore the remote and breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. This challenging trek takes you along the stunning Kanchenjunga Base Camp trail, guiding you to the base of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. In this piece, we will delve into the natural wonders, historical significance, and practical aspects of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, providing you with a comprehensive view of this incredible journey.

The Kanchenjunga trek is a part of Nepal’s Nature trails trekking. This trek leads you on a panoramic hike to Kanchenjunga’s North and South Base Camps, making it the only trekking route that reaches the Kanchenjunga Base Camp of the world’s third-highest mountain. Situated in the remote Taplejung District, the Kanchenjunga base camp offers one of the most rewarding treks in the Nepalese Himalayas, following Nepal’s mountainous border with India’s Sikkim-Darjeeling and Tibet.

The Kanchenjunga trekking route opened to foreigners in 1988, granting access to this pristine region. Mount Kanchenjunga Himal stands at 8586 meters above sea level, ranking as the world’s third-highest peak. The Kanchenjunga conservation area, established in 1997, covers a land area of 2,035 km. Until 1852, the Kanchenjunga Trek was believed to be the highest mountain in the world. On May 25, 1849, a British expedition led by Joe Brown and George Band successfully summited Kanchenjunga. The cost to summit Kanchenjunga is approximately $23,800 per person for a 50-day itinerary, reflecting the challenges and expenses associated with climbing a mountain of 8,586 meters above sea level.

In the past, adventurers accessed the Kanchenjunga base camp only through camping and organized treks. Nowadays, visitors can stay in tea houses and experience homestay treks. However, accommodations and meals in this area are not as good as those offered on the Annapurna base camp and Everest trek.

Several villages inhabited by the Sherpa community in the Kanchenjunga area have preserved their own traditional cultures and languages, speaking their mother tongue. The remaining inhabitants of the Kanchenjunga area include Rai, Limbus, Tamang, and Gurungs.

Kanchenjunga Trekking Trails

The Kanchenjunga trek itinerary begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and a drive to Taplejung. You can reach Ghunsa from Ranipul via Sekathum and Amjilesa in two days. There is now a large town in the Ghunsa Valley. North Pangpe Base Camp can be reached in three days via Khambachen and Lonak from Ghunsa. The summit is located at an altitude of 5,140 meters.

You can reach the base camp of Faktanglung (Kumbhakarna) Himal from Khambachen. Selele Pass provides access to both Base Camps. The Oktang South Base Camp is located at a height of 4,750 meters. Through Torengdin, Cheram, Ramjer, and Yamphudin, you can reach South Base Camp. It is possible to consider this region to be a virgin destination due to its geographical isolation.

The development of this area as a conservation area began in 1998 BS. It was handed over to the local community in October 2006 BS and covers an area of 2,035 square kilometers. There are four conservation areas within this area: Olangchung Gola, Lelep, Tapethok, and Yamphudin. As a result of its diversity, it is also important. Mountains, Sherpa lifestyles, Yak settlements, essential herbs, and the region’s natural beauty make it a pleasant place to visit. There is nothing better than wandering around nature for a few days while taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Kanchenjunga base camp trek length

It requires great fitness to complete the Kanchenjunga trek (220 km), which takes three weeks between walking with a backpack. Many of the paths are rocky, and there are a few long hills as well. It may be necessary to use short ropes around the base camps when traversing rocky terrain. The purpose of these is to assist people over short, rocky sections. However, climbing skills are not required for the trek, 

Wildlife Hub

Khambachen and Lonak are wildlife hotspots of the region, with many mountain animals living there. You can see groups of Blue sheep, Himalayan Thar, and Himalayan birds, Danphe, Monal, and Chilime.

There are about 303 species of migratory and native birds in Kanchenjunga, according to a book published by the Kanchenjunga Area Conservation Council. Two species of birds are critically endangered worldwide. Besides the 266 lakes, the area has several glacial ponds as well.

The book also mentions seven snake species, four lizard species, 15 amphibian species, and 21 fish species. Bitter fish are native to the region. Furthermore, there are 83 species of insects and 844 species of flowering plants in the area. Moreover, Chauri (Yak), one of the jewels of the Himalayas, can also be found here.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek takes you through terraced fields, picturesque villages, and green forests, along a ridgeline of Rhododendron forests, Chauki, and Gupha Pokhari. The most beautiful place to see rhododendrons blooming in the spring is Gupha Pokhari. The trail is relatively easy, and the highest pass is Sinen-La at 4,646 meters; during Sinen-La, there are mostly ascents and descents.

Toilets in Kanchenjunga trek

During your Kanchenjunga trek, you should not expect comfortable toilets (western toilets). Only some hotels have western toilets, and most teahouses have pan toilets with no toilet paper. Bring your toilet paper or buy it from the same tea house.

Temperature

Kanchenjunga trekking ultimate distance is 5065 m in height at Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, so you can expect minus temperatures at North Base Camp during your Kanchenjunga trek. Ensure that you have the type of equipment listed in the blog for your Kanchenjunga trek, such as a sleeping bag for -25C. Remember, a quality sleeping bag makes your trip, and a poor sleeping bag makes your trek.

The Nepal wilderness trekking Guide team’s Guide and porters are very familiar and experienced with the Kanchenjunga trekking trail. Our primary goal is to make the trek a lifetime memory for our customers/ trekkers.

Ghunsa Town

Gunsa is a small village on the way to Kanchenjunga south base camp and the Kanchenjunga guest house, run by Mr. Himali Chungdak, was a wonderful experience. His family was very accommodating to us and his guest house was a wonderful experience. The place had a hot shower and charging facility, fancy hotels, warm hospitality, a variety of foods, clean bathrooms with western sanitation, and a pharmacy set up by the YANGJUM sherpa. Usually, trekkers rest here before reaching base camp.

The best time to do the Kanchenjunga Trek

The best time to trek Kanchenjunga base camp is during the spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November). During these times, the weather and temperature are more conducive to trekking. As a result, you will be able to trek comfortably.

Kanchenjunga Trekking is possible throughout the year. During the monsoon season, however, the frequent rainfall complicates the trek. It is very cold in the region during the winter months. Therefore, Kanchenjunga trekking is possible during off-seasons, but it is very difficult.

The Kanchenjunga Trek is a great choice for experienced trekkers looking for a challenging and off-the-beaten-path adventure. It’s important to be physically fit and mentally prepared for the rigors of this trek, as well as to have the proper gear and equipment. It’s also advisable to go with a reputable trekking agency or guide to ensure your safety and make the most of your experience.

Information about Kanchenjunga trekking

There is a requirement for TIMS cards. The Kanchenjunga restricted area trekking permit costs US $10 per person per week; the Kanchenjunga conservation fee is Rs 3000. It is only possible to obtain a permit if you are traveling with at least two other people on an organized trekking excursion.

Kanchenjunga is often described as an organized, camping-only trek, but this isn’t completely accurate. Almost all villages along the route have very basic accommodation available (usually a room in a private house). A few basic tea houses with dorm-style rooms can be found beyond the last villages.

All accommodations are more suited to porters and herders than trekkers, but you’re welcome to stay. A camping trek organized by an organization is the best option, at least for the moment. You will need porters from Kathmandu since there aren’t many near trailheads.

Getting to and from Taplejung requires either a flight or a long bus ride from Kathmandu to Biratnagar or Bhadrapur. Both have frequent transport links to Ilam, where tea is produced, and from there less frequent connections to Taplejung. You will need a full 24 hours to travel from Kathmandu to the trailhead by plane, bus, or private vehicle. Suketar also has an airport but recently not running. 

Ethnic Diversity of the Kanchenjunga Region:

Rai and Limbu: Indigenous to the Kanchenjunga area, the Rai and Limbu communities showcase vibrant cultures. They embrace distinct languages, music, dance, and festivals, rooted in their deep bond with nature through farming practices and rituals.

Sherpa: Renowned globally for mountaineering prowess, Sherpas hold a unique Tibetan-Buddhist culture. Monasteries, prayer flags, and traditional attire are integral. Their warmth extends through hospitality and contributions to trekking and mountaineering.

Tamang: Originally from Tibet, Tamangs thrive in the Kanchenjunga region. Influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, their festivals, clothing, and practices reflect this heritage. Colorful dances and intricate handicrafts define their community.

Gurung: Prominent in Kanchenjunga, Gurungs boast bravery from serving in British and Indian armies. With a unique language and culture, their festivals and traditional attire stand out.

Yakthung (Lepcha): Lepchas, also Yakthung, are Sikkim’s original inhabitants. Their script, language, and indigenous beliefs define them. A culture aligned with nature underscores their practices.

Tibetan Influence: Proximity to Tibet enriches the Kanchenjunga region with Tibetan culture and Buddhism. Prayer flags, monasteries, and rituals are common, weaving a tapestry of influences.

Festivals and Traditions: Kanchenjunga hosts diverse festivals, uniting communities. Celebrations like Losar, Lhosar, and Tihar honor religious and cultural heritage, fostering togetherness.