Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of fascinating journey to the remote Himalaya of Nepal that is strictly untainted and unspoiled region. This adventurous trekking takes you to the far-eastern region of Nepal. Kanchenjunga is the third highest peak in the world and is easily accessible from Nepal and Sikkim, India. Kanchenjunga lies in three countries i.e. India, China (Tibet) and Nepal but the most popular trekking route is via India and Nepal.
Due to its relative inaccessibility and remoteness, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is one of beaten off trekking in Nepal and you will encounter very less travelers throughout the journey. It is in fact the hidden treasure of Nepal. Many believes that western region is wild and adventurous and it is true to some extent but some aspect of Kanchenjunga trekking (eastern region) is unmatchable to western. If you want to savor the beauty of Kanchenjunga and experience unique geography, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek would be the great option for you.
Apart from its beauty, colorful villages and unique tribe living in the region highlights the trek. The cross cultural privilege, interaction with locals and witnessing their lifestyle offers deep insight of the region. Those who are keen in exploring secluded region along with exploring pristine nature can go for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.
Getting to the Starting Pont
By Road Way:
The starting point is accessible via road way. Board a bus at Kathmandu and drive east-south to Biratnagar. It is long and exhausting journey but landscapes seen during the drive is rewarding. Overnight at Biratnagar and next day, drive 8-10 hours to Taplejung, the starting point of the trek.
By Air way
Skipping a roadway saves your time and energy but it is quite expensive. You can take a mountain flight from Kathmandu to Suketar and begin the trek. But we recommend you to take a short flight to Biratnagar and drive same day to Taplejung to begin the trek next day.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking Mode
Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp can be arranged in Teahouse mode these days. However, we recommend you to go for camping trek for more adventure. Limited resources for accommodation and food may badly affect the pleasure of the trek.
Comfortable sleep every night, 3 hygienic meals per day cooked by expert Sherpa is highly recommended.
Guides and Porters
As Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is restricted area trekking in Nepal, you must accompany the registered guide for entry permit.
Depending on the size of the group, one or two guides will lead the trek. One Sherpa cook with helper, 2-3 porter per guest to carry the necessary logistic will accompany the group of trekkers to Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
Trek Highlights:
The breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga from the North Base Camp at Pang Pema (5,140m), stunning Kanchenjunga Glacier, sharp ridges of Chang Himal (6,800m) soaring above Kanchenjunga glacier, panoramic Taple Shikhar, The Twin Mountain, Pyramid Peak and Tent Peak are the major highlight of the trek. Likewise, Mt. Kumbhakarna, the vertical white mass soaring above the Mt. Khabur and Mt. Phole offers the rarest view during the trek. Moreover, the enthralling beauty of Rathong and Kabru Dome Peak and the magnificent Yalung Glacier adds more charm to the trek.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek also offers the great trekking in the remote corner of Nepal through the alpine woodlands that comprises bamboo, bright red rhododendron, oak, chestnut, pine and juniper trees. Trekking along the deep valley of rivers formed from the glacier of Himalayas and exploring the torrent flow of these river while walking through the narrow suspension bridges is a sheer adventure. Moreover, beautiful passes like Dhupi Bhanjyang (2540m), Lamite Bhanjyang (3410m), Deurali Bhanjyang (3,800m) and Miring La (4,663m) is one of wonderful experience during the trek. KBC trek also provides ample opportunity to witness alpine wildlife and floral species. Wildlife includes endangered snow leopard, musk deer and blue sheep.
Protected Areas
Kanchenjunga region holds three distinct eco-region: The eastern Himalayan broad-leaved, coniferous forest (the eastern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows and the Terai-Duar Savanna and grasslands. The whole landscapes is protected under the conservation area of Bhutan, China, India and Nepal and comprised 14 protected areas in 6,032 km2.
Nepal- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
Sikkim, India: Kanchendzonga National Park, Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary
Dargeeling, India: Jore Pokhri Wildlife Sanctuary, Singalila National Park
Bhutan: Torsa Strict Nature Reserve
The protected area of Kanchenjunga is home to numerous rare flora like rhododendron and orchids and endangered faunal species like snow leopard, Asian Black Bear, Red Panda, White-Bellied Musk Deer, Blood Pheasant and Chestnut-breasted patridge
Unique Experience
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is also the great opportunity to experience the culture and lifestyle of highland Nepalese communities like Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Gurung and Tamang. Exploring the ancient monasteries, hospitality of locals and challenging hike over Yalung Glacier and walking through high mountain passes offers the life-time experience for trekkers.
Martin Wynn
