Located in the remote part of the far east of Nepal, Kanchenjunga is the least visited trekking destination In Nepal. Despite being in remote areas it is like a hidden gem, anyone who visits this place will be amazed by the beauty and the scenery that will remain in their memories forever.
Similar to the popular treks like Everest base camp, Annapurna base camp, and Langtang valley trek, trekking in the Kanchenjunga is equally adventurous and fascinating. Renowned worldwide as the world’s third-highest mountain in the world, this trek offers you everything that you seek while trekking. From stunning views of the mountain peaks, diverse landscapes, lush hills, forests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and various species of plants and animals, Kanchenjunga has it all.
Before lacing your boots for this beautiful trek there are certain things that you need to know in advance. This trek is not as easy as you think. Starting your trek from the Taplejung you will spend more than two weeks in the remote mountain region. So you need to understand well the difficulties that you might face while heading for this trek.
With the right plan and preparation and with assistance from a registered trekking agency( Third Eye Adventure) and with the support of the guide and porter, this trek will not be as difficult as it seems. So today here we will discuss in detail the Kanchenjunga trek difficulty and its solution to make your journey comfortable and memorable.
Kanchenjunga Trek poses several types of difficulty. Let’s dive into details on several challenges so that you can understand them before embarking on this trekking journey.
For the itinerary check here: 24 Days Kanchenjunga Trek
What Are The Kanchenjunga Trek Difficulties?
Altitude Challenges
The high altitude is one of the primary difficulties of the Kanchenjunga Trek. During this trek, you will be walking above the 5000m. As you ascend to elevations exceeding 4000 meters the air becomes thinner, leading to lower oxygen levels.
This can result in altitude-related issues like altitude sickness for some trekkers. Also during this trek, you need to walk every day for around 4-6 hours in difficult terrain. So this trek demands a good level of physical fitness as well as mental fitness.
Weather Changes
The Kanchenjunga Region is infamous for its erratic weather. Sometimes trekkers need to face sudden weather changes from sunny skies to sudden snowstorms. You can expect sudden temperature fluctuations from moderate daytime temperatures to freezing temperatures. So trekkers should be ready for the sudden change in weather conditions and prepare accordingly.
Trekking Distance and Long Duration
The Kanchenjunga trek has a minimum duration of two weeks. During this trek, you will be covering roughly 200 kilometres. The duration of the trek varies depending on the transportation and the itinerary you choose. Trekkers need to be fully prepared to handle the difficult terrain including uphill and downhills.
On average you need to walk 10-11 km daily to complete the trek in around two weeks. Therefore, trekkers should be physically prepared to walk for extended periods and handle difficult terrain, including steep ascents and descents.
Teahouse
The lodge or guest house in the mountain region is called a teahouses. Tea houses are simple lodgings with minimum amenities offering basic facilities like wifi, beds, toilets, food, and electricity.
They look simple yet they will give you the cultural experience cause most of the tea houses are run by the local family. Trekkers need to adapt themselves with minimum basic facilities in the tea house.
Physical Fitness
The Kanchenjunga trek is a strenuous type of trek compared to other famous treks such as EBC and ABC. Even though technical climbing skills are not required, trekkers should be able to walk for long periods of time at higher altitudes. So it’s better to have the Pre-trek training that combines cardiovascular and strength workouts to improve the trekker’s endurance and overall experience.
Remote Location with Limited Services
Trekkers should be prepared for limited services and resources in the Kanchenjunga Region. Access to medical facilities may be limited. Therefore it will be a good idea to carry the basic first aid kit as well as any essential prescriptions for the trek. And most importantly only begin your trek after having travel insurance.
Trail Conditions
The trekking routes of Kanchenjunga can be uneven, rugged, rocky, or steep. It might be difficult for the first-time trekker trekking in the mountain region of Nepal. Trekkers should be prepared for terrain differences such as loose gravel and exposed rocks. Proper trekking/hiking footwear with ankle support shoes is required for walking on uneven trails and stability.
Check also: Latest Trekking Rule in Nepal For 2023 and 2024
How To Prepare Yourself For The Kanchenjunga Trek?
Preparation for the Kanchenjunga depends upon your level of expertise. If you are a regular trekker or climber, trekking in Kanchenjunga might not be difficult for you. But if you are a new joiner or a first-time trekker in the mountain region then proper planning and preparation is required for the successful trek. Let’s see how you can prepare for this beautiful trek.
Physical Fitness and Mental Preparation
Taking on the popular Kanchenjunga trek is an incredible journey that is a bucket list for many people. However, this trek is not like a casual hiking trail. Due to its high altitude, extreme conditions, and demanding terrain, this trek demands physical and mental preparation. Appropriate physical training and mental readiness are keys to a successful and safer Kanchenjunga adventure.
Physical Fitness
Proper fitness provides the endurance for the Kanchenjunga trek while minimising injury and altitude sickness risks. You can do the pre-training 2-3 months before joining the trek, focusing on the following things:
Cardiovascular Endurance: Focus on doing everyday aerobic activities for 1-2 hours such as brisk walking, jogging, running, swimming, cycling, or using cardio machines like treadmills, ellipticals, or stationary bikes.
Leg and Core Strengthening: You need to have a strong leg for this trek so to increase the strength of your legs you can do Squats, lunges, planks etc. You can also join a gym and train under the professionals so that you won’t hurt your body.
Mental Preparation
More than having a strong leg power trekkers need to have, mental stamina and courage to summit Kanchenjunga. Here are the things that you can do to prepare mentally.
Yoga: Joining yoga also helps to maintain both body and mind. So you can practise doing some regular yoga at home or at a teaching centre.
Meditation: Doing meditation is a powerful tool to maintain your mental health. Doing meditation will not only improve your health but also to deal with the problems that arise during the trek, manage stress, enhance focus, reduce fear, and help to improve good quality sleep.
Staying positive: Every trekker needs to fill in their mind with positive things. When things go tough with strong motivation and determination you need to push yourself to achieve your dream. Always know your true inner self and your ability to push the limit during the challenge.
Choosing The Best Time
Trekking to Kanchenjunga in spring is amazing. Colorful rhododendron flowers decorate the forest areas which make the trek path scenic. The clear view of the sky and the magical view of the amazing tall mountain peak make the journey incredibly adventurous.
Also, the less perception of rainfalls helps to maintain the good condition of the trail path. good, but some parts can be crowded. The perfect and stable weather conditions make it easier for trekkers during the day hike. Spring is the perfect time for this unforgettable journey but due to the crowd in the tea house being peak season, it’s better to book the trek early.
Autumn is another popular season for the Kanchenjunga trek. The average temperature during the autumn is 14 degrees Celsius to a maximum temp of 20 degrees Celsius during sunny days. The clear weather with crisp and moderate temperatures makes hiking comfortable.
Also in autumn, the big festivals of Nepal fall like Dashian and Tihar. During the month of autumn, trekkers will not only get a chance to immerse themselves in an adventurous journey but also explore the rich culture and traditions of Nepal.
Winter at Kanchenjunga is extremely freezing. The snowy trails make it more challenging and there is a high risk of avalanches, frostbite and other cold-related diseases. You can expect very few people trekking during this month. So the trail path will be peaceful. You will need warm gear and equipment to be ready for icy conditions.
If the sky remains clear you can get stunning views of the snowy mountain peaks. You can capture the perfect view of the mountains and landscape. If you are heading for the Kanchenjunga trek in Winter better head early in December.
Usually, we suggest you avoid trekking to Kanchenjunga from June to September due to unpredictable and risky monsoon weather. Heavy rainfall, landslides, muddy trails, and limited teahouse services make it unsafe. It’s better to plan your journey when there will be stable weather and safer trekking conditions.
similar article: What is the Best Time To Trek in Nepal? And Why?
Always Trek With Local Licence Guide
After the new updates trekkers trekking in Restricted areas, Conservation areas, or National Parks must hire a guide with you. Also, you cannot get the Tims card without hiring a licensed Guide. This is for your safety purpose because in case anything happens to you during the trek, your guide will help to provide assistance and support to you.
While hiring the Guide make sure to choose the local license Guide.
The local Guide will have in-depth knowledge of trekking trails, and cultural and traditional insight. Their expertise in this field will help make your journey more memorable and adventurous.
Learn To Deal With Altitude Sickness
Although altitude sickness can happen to anyone while doing the Kanchenjunga Trek we need to be self-aware about its symptoms, precautions, and readiness to change plans. Here are the things that will help to avoid and deal with altitude sickness.
Altitude sickness is also commonly known as Acute Mountain sickness(AMS). Generally, it happens when our body cannot adapt to the high altitude due to low levels of oxygen present in the air. The first symptoms that you can see are Headaches, nausea, dizziness, exhaustion, and difficulty sleeping. So if you detect any of these symptoms you need to follow the preventive measure.
Acclimatization
Acclimatization is also one of the key factors which help to avoid altitude sickness. Trekkers should not skip the acclimatization day to finish the trek by rushing. Skipping the acclimatization means you are most likely to have altitude sickness or arise other problems during the trek. Always follow the itinerary provided by the trekking agency as it is carefully prepared to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
Let’s check the benefits of proper acclimatisation
- Altitude Sickness Prevention
- Improves Oxygen Utilization
- Improves Physical Performance
- Lowers the Risk of High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and Cerebral Edema (HACE)
- Helps to Promote Mental Well-Being
- Prepare and deal with unfavourable weather conditions and shifting weather patterns.
Adequate Hydration
Trekkers need to stay hydrated all the time and also make sure that they are drinking pure water. You can use the reusable drinking water bottle and avoid smoking and drinking. Dehydration will increase the chance of altitude sickness so drink enough water during the trek.
Choose The Right Gear And Equipment
Having the right gear and equipment is essential for your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Depending upon the season you choose to trek pack the gear and equipment wisely. Make sure that the clothing items fit all the seasons as you never know the mountain weather can change time.
Make sure to pack all the things correctly and don’t overpack the stuff.
- Organise the list
- Focus on packing essential items first
- Be mindful of weight restrictions
- Choose a Layer of Clothing that suits all weather conditions
- Avoid packing duplicate items or unnecessary
- Use Packing Cubes or Compression Bags
- Check the weather forecast for the duration of your trek and pack accordingly.
- Leave some space for souvenirs
- Before finalising your packing, review your gear and clothing
Related article: Nepal Trekking Packing List
Choose The Right Itinerary
Trekkers need to choose the itinerary that fits them. There are different trekking routes so depending on the duration, difficulty, and scenic highlights choose wisely. Do not attempt to shorten the itinerary in areas where there are insufficient days allocated for acclimatization.
Do Proper Research Before Booking.
Read well about the itinerary days thoroughly. Make a communication with the trekking agency about your preferences, priorities, and expectations. You can also take suggestions or feedback from others so that your journey will be comfortable, memorable, and more adventurous.
Some Extra Tips
- Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated all the time.
- Bring lightweight, energy-rich snacks like nuts, dried fruits, granola bars, and chocolate to fuel your body during long days of trekking.
- Apply sunscreen to avoid sun damage and wear UV protection glass.
- Don’t push yourself beyond your limits.
- Respect the natural environment and local communities
- At the higher altitude, the night’s temperature is significantly so make sure to keep your body warm by wearing proper clothes.
- If you have any pre-existing medical conditions consult with the doctors before heading for the Kanchenjunga trek
- Choose the best time to make the trekking journey more memorable and adventurous.
Final Say
If you are planning for an adventure around the world’s third-highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga, located in the eastern region of Nepal, prepare well before heading on this trip. This trek is best for all people whether you are a mountain expert or a beginner, the stunning views will amaze you. Make sure to maintain a good level of physical stamina and mental preparedness.
Pack your backpack and tie your shoes, the mountain is calling you to be explored. Let the dream come true by booking with us. You can contact or message us on WhatsApp for a booking.
