Trekking in the Kanchenjunga region is a wonderful experience, as the region offers wild, off-beaten trails, pristine natural beauty, rich culture, and up-close views of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-tallest peak. If you plan to trek in the Kanchenjunga region of Nepal, knowing certain things about the region would undoubtedly help you.
What Does the Region Comprise?
The Kanchenjunga subrange of the Himalayas lies both in Nepal and India. In the context of Nepal, the Kanchenjunga region refers mainly to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. On the east, the protected area adjoins the Khangchendzonga National Park of Sikkim, India, and, in the north, the Qomolangma National Natural Preserve of Tibet.
The Kanchenjunga Main (8,586 m) is the highest peak in the Kanchenjunga massif. The peak is located in both Nepal and India.
Trekking Routes from Nepal’s Side
There are two base camps of Kanchenjunga in Nepal. They are the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,140 m) in Pangpema and the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4,610 m) in Ramche. The Kanchenjunga Trek can be done to either the north or south base camps in Nepal. A circuit trek combining both base camps is also an option. The circuit trek is possible both clockwise and counterclockwise. Because of the longer acclimatization time and higher elevation, the clockwise approach is the better option.
Prepare Well for the Challenging Trek
Kanchenjunga region is one of the most challenging regions for trekking in Nepal. This is due to its remote position, off-the-beaten-path trails, multiple high passes, and longer trekking duration. Kanchenjunga treks are thought to be more difficult than Manaslu treks. Trekking in the Kanchenjunga region is more difficult than trekking in Everest or the Annapurna. On the other hand, it is full of amazing experiences and achievable with proper preparation and knowledge.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is more challenging than Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek and Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek.
Choose a Professional and Experienced Guide
As Kanchenjunga Trek is one of the most difficult treks in Nepal, choose your guide wisely. Also, the area doesn’t receive many trekkers. There could be numerous guides who haven’t visited the area yet. You should ensure that the guide you’ve hired has been to the region and is familiar with the trails.
Experience Culture Different from Everest and Annapurna Regions
During the Kanchenjunga Trek, you will be able to see a different side of Nepal. This region’s culture and lifestyle vary from those of Annapurna and Everest. Limbu is the most dominant ethnic group in this region. Limbus are culturally rich, having their own distinct language, costumes, ornaments, dances, and traditions. Their traditional Dhaka clothes and gold ornaments are particularly well-known. Other prominent ethnic groups in this region include the Lepcha, Rai, Tamang, and Sherpa.
Farming is the Major Occupation in this Region
Trekking in the far-eastern part of Nepal hasn’t been as popular as in the northeast (Everest region) or in the west (Annapurna region). The region is still remote with its untouched beauty. Hence, tourism is not a major occupation here. The residents in this region make a living by farming. During the Kanchenjunga Trek in Nepal, you’ll pass by gorgeous terrace fields of potato, wheat, barley, and buckwheat harvests.
Adventure of Ascending Beautiful Himalayan Passes
Trekking in the Kanchenjunga region takes you across stunning passes such as Sine Lapche La Pass, Mirgin La Pass, Sinion La Pass, and Sele La Pass. Each pass offers beautiful views of several peaks from different angles. Some passes are challenging, while others are easier. Sele La Pass is regarded as the most challenging pass in the region.
Possible Side Trips
During trekking in the Himalayas, base camps are often the major destinations. But there may be hidden gems in and around the region. Side trips can add significance to the trek. Here are some suggestions for side trips during the Kanchenjunga trek in Nepal:
- Trekking to Nupchu Pokhari and Jannu Base Camp from Khambachen village
- Trip to Ghunsa Viewpoint and Dudhpokhari from Ghunsa Village
- Trip to Timbung Pokhari from Yamphudin Village
- Ilam exploration (before starting the trek)
- Hike to Pathibhara Temple
