I class myself as an experienced trekker especially when it comes to Nepal. I have completed the Everest Base Camp trek and also the Upper Mustang Trek. I am now in the process of planning my next one which is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, I never take my preparation lightly and always research extensively. I do this over a period of several months by researching online, reading books and chatting to several other experienced trekkers who have already completed it.
So I wanted to share with you all the information I have collected in preparation for the trek, I could have written endless amounts but I wanted to give you the key points. I hope they help you and also inspire you to try the trek out for yourself.
How To Get There
If you’re pondering of the best way to get to your starting point which is Yuksom, here is everything you need to know:
By Road – The best way to travel by road is in a private or shared jeep transfer. Most people travel from Geyzing, 45 kilometres from Yuksom, and will take you around 5 hours. One thing to note is that after 1pm you will find it very hard to get a shared jeep so your only option will be the more expensive private option.
By Train – The closest station to Yuksom can be found in New Jalpaiguri which is about 150 kilometres away. From there you can grab a taxi or hop on a bus.
By Plane – The closest airport to Yuksom is Bagdogra, it’s about 160 kilometres away. From here the best option is that you take a taxi.
The Best Time To Visit Kanchenjunga
There are fixed times which are best to visit the Base Camp. There are two windows which are classed as the best times to visit; mid-March to end of June, and mid-September to mid-November. Always avoid trekking when the monsoon season is in session because the conditions are really not ideal then.
The Highlights Of The Trek
Here are the main highlights of the trek:
- See sweeping panoramic views of several neighbouring mountains. Such as; Kotang, Frey Peak, Ratong, Kabru Dome and much more.
- Meet many local people from tribes along the Kanchenjunga range. The locals here are super friendly, welcoming and make sure you have a great time.
- It is the 3rd highest mountain range on the planet, so when you complete this you really get a sense of achievement and pride.
- Spend a lot of your time in nature surrounded by some of the world’s most scenic views.