Even if you have travelled or hiked in Nepal or researched trekking there, it is simple to forget about the Kanchenjunga circuit walk. Why? Due to the fact that there are a lot of wonderful, well-known, and iconic hiking routes that dominate the market and review sections of every travel website. You are acquainted with the Everest base camp, right? Annapurna circuit, what do you think? Yes, you and hundreds of others are among the numerous individuals who are familiar with or have travelled along these magnificent trails. Why aren’t you familiar with the Kanchenjunga circuit?
Nepalese mountain ranges
The Kanchenjunga Trek is situated in eastern Nepal, near to the borders of Tibet and Sikkim (India). This suggests that it is both secluded and brimming with Buddhist culture. Despite this, it is not one of the most popular Nepalese hikes. The reason for this is that it is located in a remote area and needs a relatively long trek to reach (Three weeks).
What to Expect During Your Ascent of Kanchenjunga
From both the north and south base camps, there are breathtaking mountain vistas, particularly of Kanchenjunga base camp trek.
Due to the fact that there are few or no other hikers on the trail, you will feel as though the entire world is yours to explore.
The accommodations are basic, reflecting the culture and agricultural character of the neighbouring areas. All of the meals, on the other hand, are created from scratch using mostly organic regional ingredients.
When To Trek Kanchenjunga
The time of year you pick to go hiking will have a substantial impact on your adventure. The following are the particulars:
October and November are great months for this activity. At lower heights, the temperature is not intolerably high, while at higher elevations, it is not intolerably low.
April and May are frequently considered the second-best months for travel. On the trail’s lower stretch, rhododendrons are currently in full bloom. The temperature and humidity may be uncomfortable at lower elevations.
From June through September: It is strongly advised that you do not go hiking during this season. There is a chance of landslides occuring on the trail’s lower segments due to the rain. It is forecast that the most of the day will be cloudy.
From December to March: This season is referred to as winter. Snowfall will prevent travel via the Sele Le Pass. The northern and southern base camps have made the decision to close their teahouses. Winter is not a nice time to visit, in my opinion.
Comparing the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek to Other Expeditions
In a nutshell, it is remote, there is a variety of landscapes, the mountains are spectacular, and you feel as though you are on a walk from decades ago. However, the journey is longer than those that are more well-known, and the starting point is located a considerable distance from Kathmandu. Nevertheless, these two factors are not always disadvantages!
Kanchenjunga Trekking Permits and Cost
According to the following table, the total cost of the licences is USD 60 per individual.
It takes between 18 and 22 days to complete the Kanchenjunga circuit, which requires a Restricted Area Permit (Kanchenjunga RAP) that is valid for 14 days. The 2-week pass will cost you $40, which is equivalent to $20 per week.
Beyond the mountain peaks, you will encounter not only a rich biodiversity but also a breathtaking cultural diversity, as previously mentioned. The trail traverses several wildlife habitats, including leopards, gorals, musk deer, blue sheep, yaks, Himalayan black bears, serows, and snow leopards. A variety of trees, including the rhododendron, make the area more visually appealing.
