Trekking in the vicinity of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, takes you from 1820 m (Taplejung) to 5140 m (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp at Pangpema). Due to this vast altitude variation, the weather in the Kanchenjunga region is variable and, at times, unpredictable. We can, however, understand the weather patterns at different altitudes in the Kanchenjunga region during different seasons.
Overview of Weather in the Kanchenjunga Region
During the year, the lower regions of Kanchenjunga are often warmer, while the upper regions are generally frigid. Even during the most stable seasons, weather at higher elevations can be unpredictable. The temperature in the upper regions can drop to -25ºC or lower.
Weather in Spring
Spring is one of the best seasons for a Kanchenjunga trek. It lasts from March until May in Nepal. Overall, the weather for the Kanchenjunga Trek during spring is mild, pleasant, and consistent, with no significant rain, snowfall, or storms. With rich green vegetation and spring flowers, the ambiance along the trails is lively. Clear blue skies and crisp mountain air make the walk more pleasurable.
March
- It is the first month of spring.
- Days become warmer and longer, especially in the lower regions.
- Higher elevations are still chilly, although not as cold as in winter.
- The effect of late winter may still be felt in early March.
April
- The days continue to get warmer and longer in April. Yet, it does not get too hot.
- The temperature is moderate and pretty stable.
- Weather problems such as heavy rain or snow are almost nonexistent during Kanchenjunga Trek in April.
May
- It is the time of late spring. The skies are mostly clear blue, with only a few bits of cloud sometimes.
- The days get warmer and longer than that in April, particularly in the lower regions.
- Yet, in the upper regions, the temperatures are moderate and perfect around this time.
- The sun can be very strong during the day, and it is common to see dazzling sunlight across Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
Weather in Summer Monsoon
Summer in Nepal is accompanied by monsoons. Lower regions are especially prone to the hot and humid weather of the summer monsoon. When it rains, it usually pours heavily, increasing humidity and decreasing temperature. When it is not raining, it is extremely hot, but the visibility is spectacular, with sunshine and beautiful skies. Even though it rains heavily, it does not usually rain all day every day. For the most part, mornings in the Kanchenjunga region have pleasant weather.
June
- It is considered the hottest month in Nepal.
- From mid-June onwards, the monsoon begins.
- However, rainfall is not frequent.
July
- July is considered Nepal’s wettest month.
- Because of the frequent rains, the weather is cool and the air is clean.
August
- August also gets a lot of rain, almost as much as July.
- Heavy rain causes the trails to become muddy and slippery.
Weather in Autumn
Autumn has the best weather for trekking in Kanchenjunga and throughout Nepal. In general, the weather is most stable during the autumn, with no weather-related issues such as heavy rain or storms. The temperature is also moderate, neither too hot nor too chilly. It can get a little chilly in the early mornings and at night. The days are dry and clear, with excellent visibility.
September
- The monsoon effect is still present in early September.
- The weather becomes ideal for trekking from mid-September on, with consistent and mild temperatures.
October
- October is the best month for trekking throughout Nepal.
- The majority of October days in the Kanchenjunga region have stable, pleasant, and clear weather.
November
- It is the last month of the autumn season. Early November has ideal weather for trekking.
- As winter approaches, temperatures on the Kanchenjunga trail begin to fall in the last week of November.
Weather in Winter
The temperature in the lower sections can be bearable, but it is extremely cold in the higher mountain areas during peak winter, with heavy snowfalls. During this season, the circular route across Sele La Pass can be extremely difficult. Even if the nights are cold, the days usually have mild and stable temperatures. The visibility of the mountains and skies is equally exceptional.
December
- It is the first month of the winter season in Nepal.
- Snow begins to fall in the Kanchenjunga region.
January
- January is the coldest month in Nepal. There are often heavy snowfalls.
- The temperature is normally below the freezing point.
February
- It is the final month of winter.
- Even if the days are getting warmer, the evenings remain frigid.
- By February, the weather significantly improves in the lower regions of Kanchenjunga.
