Best Time for Kanchenjunga Trekking
If you are interested in traveling through the Himalayan region, Kanchenjunga Trek is one of a kind. This trek is the king of the off-beaten trekking route in the Nepali Himalayas. This is the most rewarding Himalayan adventure for trekkers searching for a peaceful time away from the busy trails of popular trekking regions.
Kanchenjunga Trek takes you through the off-beaten-track Himalayas, and as you approach the base of the world’s third-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga Mountain, 8,586 meters high.
Yes, it is worthwhile to try to learn about the wonders of the Himalayan territory in its natural state, but when is the best time for Kanchenjunga Trek?
If you are planning to do this trek, you may be wondering about the best time to do it. The answer to your curiosity is also quite simple: it is all relative to the type of experience you want. In other words, the best and perfect time for enjoying any of the Himalayan adventures in the Himalayas is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
It is also possible to do this trek even during the off-season. But this requires a lot of preparation. Hence, continue reading the article to learn more about the right time and schedule of the Kanchenjunga Trek.
Table of Contents
The Best Seasons for Kanchenjunga Trekking
Spring (March to May)
The march to late May can be regarded as the best time to trek to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp in Nepal. Such months are ideal for hiking since the climate is moderate, especially after the winter season. You will have opportunities to appreciate beautiful scenarios of the majestic Himalayas that, at some points, appear to be very close since the skies are clear when you are on the trail.
Among the attractions, one can name the multitude of rhododendrons, especially in the lower parts of the track in March–early April. These beautiful flowers provide a rather beautiful and even somewhat fairytale environment that adds to enjoyment.
Yes, highly promising, as great weather, fabulous wildflowers, and cool mountain views make spring not only the season of trekking but also the spirit of nature.
Also, a smaller number of trekkers at this time offers a great way to appreciate the natural beauty and embrace the local civilization nearby in total harmony.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is also defined as the third quarter of the year between September and November. The monsoon season is from April to June, but the best season and the most important month for tourism is from September to November, especially for trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal, such as Kanchenjunga.
Post monsoons, the place looks refreshing and green, and the beauty of the hills is very inviting to the trekkers. The trails are bordered by scenic views of snow-dusted mountains and attractive deep valleys that add to the beauty of the exercise.
This season is a little bit cool compared to other seasons, and the chance of rain is low, so this season is good for trekking. It brings great rewards with a clear sky where the trekkers can view the long-range view of the Himalayan range.
Also, it is the season of the harvest, and you may come across farmers working on their fields and thus get a rather rural insight. The reason for having a splendid view, a pleasant climate during the trek, and a nice cultural interface makes the autumn season the best season.
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Off-Season Trekking: What to Expect
Monsoon (June to August)
Even though the best time is during the high seasons, that does not, in any way, prevent trekkers from doing the Kanchenjunga Trek during the off-season. The three months of June, July, and August are recognized as monsoon or off-season for trekking in Nepal.
The continuous rainfall affects the mood of the exploring and might influence the itinerary plans to a certain level. However, determined and hardcore trekkers are only the ones looking forward to this season to trek.
Winter (December to February)
Trekking is relatively difficult between December and February when winter is experienced throughout the Kanchenjunga region with snowfall that is very harsh. Many teahouses in the alpine areas remain closed during this time because of the terrible weather experienced. They can provide very few places to sleep. Specifically, Selele Le Pass is blocked by deep snow and ice, making it slippery for travelers while trekking.
However, before setting out for your journey, ensure that there is accommodation available. Usually, there are options for check-ins at Ghunsa; however, options for staying in a place may not be great, so it might be a good idea to book in advance. In Sherpaguan too, it is better to check the availability in the Cheram and Ramche sections, as these places act as focal points for trekkers attempting the trek during the winter season.
That being said, winter can also be beautiful, especially if you get to see snow; it is much different than the oranges and reds of spring and the golds and browns of autumn. However, only the professionals should attempt this season of the year with the correct equipment that is required.
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Other Factors to Consider
There are several factors that one should consider very carefully. If the factors and circumstances are underestimated, you will be in guaranteed trouble in the upcoming days of the journey. Some of the factors one should not miss out on are:
Picking a suitable season for trekking
Not only for Kanchenjunga but for other treks like Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, it is very important to choose an appropriate season. However, the best time for the Kanchenjunga trek is the autumn months of October and November along with the spring months because the weather is more stable than in other seasons.
The things you pack for the trek
You should focus on the items you are going to bring in the Kanchenjunga trek. Don’t pack things that you are not so sure about. However, pack only the things that play an important role which makes your trek a bit comfortable for you. Pack things like Thermal Layers, Trekking Boots, Water Purification Tablets, Energy bars, First Aid kits etc.
Trekking solo or with a guide
You can trek solo on the Kanchenjung trail but at the same time, you have to hire a trek guide. Trekking solo is not allowed in this area. However, trekking with a guide is also very beneficial to you, as s/he will provide important assistance in the whole trek and ensure your safety.
Choosing a better travel company and itinerary
This has to be on the top of the list as choosing a better package and the correct trekking company play all the crucial roles to make your journey hassle-free. Always choose an itinerary that goes slow and steady and with proper acclimatization days ensuring trekkers’ safety.
High Altitude risks
You are going to trek beyond 5000 meters hence high altitude risks are common yet risky things that one should stay away from. A steady pace and hydration yourself time to time are a must that an individual should keep in mind.
On the other hand, always choose a trekking company with proper acclimatization day which will help one’s body to be familiar with the high altitude so one does not have to go through altitude sickness.
FAQs
How long is the Kanchenjunga trek?
The trek is around 14-20 days long, depending upon the package, trekking company, and itinerary one chooses.
Is the Kanchenjunga trek very difficult?
The Kanchenjung can be considered one of the most challenging yet adventurous treks in Nepal. The difficulty depends upon the duration the trek takes to accomplish; the steep ascends and descends. Without proper precautions and instructions, it will be very hard for a beginner-level trekker to tackle all those things that may and will come up during the trek.
What is the peak timing for the Kanchenjunga Trek?
The best time for the Kanchenjunga trek is autumn and spring due to the clear weather and breathtaking scenarios that the trail offers.
What types of foods and accommodations will we be offered during the trek?
During the whole trek, we cannot expect high-class, luxurious hotels, but what we will do is stay overnight at a teahouse. A teahouse is a place that will offer us the basics, such as food and shelter, which will be more than enough in that range.
What permits are needed for the Kanchenjunga Trek?
You will not be able to trek in the Kanchenjunga region without Kanchenjunga Trekking permits. So, the permits you will need in order to go to Kanchenjunga Trail are the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (KCAP), Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Entry Permit, and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card.
Final Say
The Kanchenjunga Trek is quite an opportunity to embrace the major attractions of the Himalayas and remain unnoticed by fellow travelers. It is best to do this trek during the early spring and early autumn since the weather is less volatile and the colors of the landscapes are more prominent. During the spring, the plants of rhododendrons blossom to welcome visitors, while during the autumn season, the monsoon is followed by green views at its best.
Nonetheless, even if there are off-peak seasons, all those months possess their individual feelings. Monsoon treks ensure that one is warm while there is only the sound of one’s footsteps on the trek. Much as winter might be friendly with snow and trekking closures, it promises trekkers a pristine winter wonderland if only they were not hard enough to get there.
In all cases, though, planning is an important factor that defines your experience at the park. Altitude changes should be considered by travel assignment, gear should be selected correctly, and a guide should be hired for safety reasons as well as friendly advice. Finally, what makes the Kanchenjunga trek a beautiful trip but also a great cultural experience, which is very interesting for any trekking lover.
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