How to plan your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

If you’re planning a trek to Kanchenjunga, Nepal, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek could be the experience of a lifetime. This trek takes you through a mix of steep climbs, remote mountain villages, and stunning Himalayan scenery.

Here’s how to plan your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:

Step 1: Choose a Tour Company

It’s best to book your trek with a reputable tour operator. We recommend the Kanchenjunga Circuit 14-Day Trek offered by Mount Adventure Holidays. This tour includes airport and hotel pick-ups, meals during the trek, hotels in Kathmandu, travel and rescue insurance, and more. You can book this tour through Viator at this link.

Step 2: Decide on Your Trekking Season

The best time to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. However, if you’re an experienced trekker, you can do this trek in the winter months too (December to February).

Step 3: Train for the Trek

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging trek that requires a reasonable level of fitness. Therefore, you must train for this trip by doing cardio exercises such as jogging, cycling or hiking.

Step 4: Get Your Permits

Before you begin your trek, you need to obtain two permits: the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (CAP) and the Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card. Your tour operator will help you get these permits.

Step 5: Pack for Your Trek

Your tour operator will provide you with a detailed packing list, but some essential items include:

• Warm sleeping bag and liner
• Warm clothes and waterproof gear
• Good hiking boots
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Insect repellant and first aid kit

Step 6: Trekking Itinerary

Here’s the day by day itinerary of the 14-Day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 2: Fly to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung
• Day 3: Trek to Chirwa
• Day 4: Trek to Sekathum
• Day 5: Trek to Amjilosa
• Day 6: Trek to Gyabla
• Day 7: Rest day at Gyabla
• Day 8: Trek to Ghunsa
• Day 9: Rest day at Ghunsa
• Day 10: Trek to Kambachen
• Day 11: Trek to Lhonak
• Day 12: Trek to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga Base Camp) and back to Lhonak
• Day 13: Trek to Ghunsa
• Day 14: Trek to Amjilosa
• Day 15: Trek to Taplejung
• Day 16: Drive to Bhadrapur and fly back to Kathmandu
• Day 17: Departure

Step 7: Additional Information

The tour includes hotel pick-ups from your hotel in Kathmandu or from the operator’s office, depending on your preference. The tour operator also offers the option of renting trekking equipment if you need it.

The tour is not advisable for travelers who have back problems or are not in good physical shape. It’s also not wheelchair accessible. Service animals are allowed, and infant seats are available.

Step 8: Cancellation Policy

If you cancel your tour up to 24 hours in advance, you can receive a full refund. But, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, you won’t receive a refund.

Conclusion

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging yet rewarding trek that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and remote village life. By following the steps outlined above, you can plan a successful trek and create memories that will last a lifetime.

An Insider’s Guide to the Hidden Gems of Darjeeling

Darjeeling, located in the northern part of West Bengal, is a beautiful and picturesque town nestled in the Himalayas. Famed for its rolling hills and tea plantations, Darjeeling has long been a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. However, there is much more to this town than tea and breathtaking views. In this insider’s guide, we will take you off-the-beaten-path and show you the hidden gems of Darjeeling that only the locals know about.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While there are certainly some fantastic tourist sites in Darjeeling, why not stray a little further off the beaten path? A must-visit spot is the Japanese Peace Pagoda. This place is a true hidden gem in Darjeeling, and not many visitors make their way up the steep hill to take in the magnificent views. Another wonderful place to visit is the Lloyd Botanical Garden, which is a beautifully maintained garden that displays an array of local flora.

Dining Spots: From Street Food to Hidden Restaurants

Darjeeling has a diverse culinary scene that juxtaposes traditional Nepalese, Tibetan, and Indian flavors. Be sure to sample the local specialty, momos, a type of steamed dumpling typically filled with chicken, pork, or cheese. Thukpa, a traditional Tibetan noodle soup, is also worth trying out. For those who prefer to dine in restaurants, Darjeeling has a range of delightful eateries. Glenary’s Bakery and Cafe is a Darjeeling institution, offering an array of delicious pastries, cakes, and coffee. Keventer’s, located in the center of town, is one of Darjeeling’s earliest cafes, providing fantastic views of the Kangchenjunga while you dine.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals, and Music

Darjeeling is renowned for its musical heritage, and there are various traditional music events throughout the year. The Darjeeling Carnival, celebrating the town’s 203rd founding anniversary, is also worth checking out for live performances and a parade through the town. A visit to the Ghum Monastery, the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Darjeeling, is another culturally enriching experience worth adding to your list.

Local History: Fascinating and Intriguing Tales

Apart from being the land of tea, Darjeeling has many interesting historical stories. Take a stroll around the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway station, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can learn about the railway’s history and even take a short toy train ride. Another must-visit spot is the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where you can view photographs and memorabilia from the first successful ascent of Mount Everest.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: A Unique and Unforgettable Experience

For those looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, a hike to Sandakphu is highly recommended. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest. Another off-beat experience is the Darjeeling Ropeway, a cable car ride that gives visitors a panoramic view of the town.

In conclusion, Darjeeling is a fascinating town with much more than just tea and breathtaking views. With a plethora of hidden gems, diverse culinary experiences, a rich cultural history, and captivating stories, the town offers something unique for every traveler. Take some time to escape the crowds and seek out the secrets of Darjeeling – you won’t be disappointed.