Encircling the world’s third-highest peak, the Kanchenjunga is often known as the most fulfilling and yet challenging trek that takes you to explore the far Eastern region of Nepal. For any Himalayan trekking enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this trek is also an escape from a fast-paced environment, where you will spend your time among the tranquility of the least explored routes.
But before you plan to explore this unspoiled region, sit back, take time, and ask; What is the best time to embark on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek? That is because the timing is everything, as it can either make or break your trip’s outcome. Here is the ultimate guide to Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.
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Here, when you travel through this region and hit those off-beaten trails, the scenery, experience, and cultural encounters will completely change depending upon the time of the year. In general, we recommend trekkers to hit this journey during the peak seasons, which are Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November).
However, having said that the ideal time to scale the Kanchenjunga Trek depends on individual preferences on whether they are more drawn to the snowy or blossoming trails. Additionally, it is equally important to understand what you are signing up for when you trek during a certain season.
Altogether, it is crucial to know both the pros and cons of the trek during different seasons and observe if it matches your individual style of travel. Hence, stick further to this article to find out which season is your ideal time to embark on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.
Best Time For Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
While the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is still doable but challenging all year round, you should seriously consider the season you plan to visit in. This particular trek mostly takes place at higher altitude levels and hence, in some seasons this trail gets much more demanding than those residing in the lower altitude level.
Yet again, each season adds a unique charm to the route of the Kanchenjunga Trek, magnifying its beauty to a glorious level.
Spring (March, April, and May)
Known as the queen of the seasons, Spring brings crystal clear blue skies and blossoming flowers all along the trails of the Kanchenjunga Trek. It is a magical season to travel as the region will be brimming with life.
During this season, you can expect stable weather conditions, unobstructed views of the majestic Himalayas, and blooming flowers. In the first month of the season, you will see the trail transition from a long cold winter as the snow gradually starts melting away. Soon, you will find added momentum in the rivers and waterfalls. Furthermore, everything starts gaining color with a fresh perspective and trekkers can enjoy the mild temperature.
From March to May, you will experience slight changes in the temperature as the days start getting warmer. The average daytime temperature in March ranges between 2 to 13 °C, April (6 to 16 °C), and May (9 to 18°C). Similarly, the average nighttime temperature in March ranges between -15 to -5 °C, April (-5 to 0°C), and May (up to 5°C).
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek in Spring Season
Likewise, March marks the awakening of nature after cold sleep with lush green forests, the start of cultivation in terraced fields, and the blooming of rhododendrons and wildflowers. By April, the forests will be in full bloom with vibrant colors of the rhododendron varieties, and with May coming, the weather will start to get warmer, leaving out the signs for early summer.
Overall, spring is the best season with a higher chance of coming across the wildlife of the region due to the fewer bushes that hinder your views in the forest. If you are lucky, you may get to encounter animals and birds like musk deer, Himalayan monal, Himalayan black bear, red panda, blue sheep, and many more.
Lastly, some of the trekking highlights for the season are as mentioned below.
Comfortable and moderate temperature.
Higher probability of encountering wildlife in the region.
Vibrant forests with varieties of rhododendrons, wildflowers, and lush greenery.
Opportunity to be a part of celebrations such as Holi, Tiji, Maha Shivratri, Nepali New Year, Bisket Jatra, and Buddha Jayanti.
Autumn (September, October, and November)
After the heavy rainfall for months, the weather starts to get more stable and the air gets much more refreshing. Due to the lower precipitation rate, the season is much more favorable for higher-altitude treks with impeccable panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Likewise, throughout the season, you will find the air to be much refreshing with cool winds which get stronger by the end of November.
Moving on, similar to Spring, the Autumn season is also filled with rich vibrant colors - but this time as an indication of a break in nature with its hues of yellow, gray, and crimson. As this season displays a different color to its surroundings, it is also known as the photographer’s paradise.
As much as the environment gets soulful, the trek is also equally comfortable with moderate temperatures throughout the day. Usually, the average daytime temperature in September ranges between 11 to 19 °C, October (6 to 16 °C), and November (1 to 11°C). Similarly, the average nighttime temperature in September ranges between 10 to -5 °C, October (5 to -10°C), and November (-5 to 15°C).
View from Pangpema Base Camp, Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Overall, as this post-monsoon season sets in, you will experience perfect visibility and dry trails. Since Autumn is right after the heavy Monsoon season, the weather gets much clearer than during the Spring, making it the best season of the year to visit for Himalayan sightseeing.
During this lovely adventure, you will find yourself amid the festive atmosphere as the biggest festival of the Nepalese hits.
Lastly, some of the trekking highlights for the season are as mentioned below.
Vibrant and colorful environment.
Stable weather, moderate temperature, bright sunshine, and blue skies.
Cultural celebration of Dashain and Tihar.
Optimal trekking conditions with little to no probability of occurrence of natural calamity.
Ripened crops in the farm field.
Upgraded backdrop with colorful fall foliage for photography.
Winter (December, January, and February)
As soon as the Winter sets in, the cold creeps into the weather marking the beginning of heavy snowfall. The Kanchenjunga Trek during Winter is more demanding due to plummeting temperatures. Well, the temperature during this season can drop as low as -20°C.
With Winter, the trails get icy due to snow patches making it risky with loads of accidental slips. Not to mention, some routes in the higher elevation may become inaccessible due to the blankets of snow covering the trail.
It is a point of concern for the trekkers as with the limited lodges, they need to be prepared to stay in temporary shelters and carry their own necessities. In addition to that, if you are to travel during this season, always keep a buffer period in case you face issues due to heavy snowfall.
However, this season brings you to a magical white kingdom surrounded by starry nights, clear glaciers, and thick snow. If you are up and fit to take on this challenging journey, this trek will reward you with a thrill and experience that will last you a lifetime.
Heading to Selele La Pass
Moreover, scaling the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek during the Winter is not for everyone. We do not recommend this trek to anyone at this time because this demanding trek asks for experience as well as strong physical and mental determination.
After months of clear skies, the Monsoon or Summer season during Kanchenjunga Trek brings dark clouds filled with rain. During these months, you will experience continuous heavy rainfall and occasional thunder.
If you are making plans during this season, we ask you to think again! The continuous rain makes the trail muddy and slippery which results in a hard time navigating the trekking route. On the bigger side of the problem, it brings landslides with a higher risk of blocking your trail. Furthermore, you will have obstructed views of the Himalayas which will limit your experience as well as your picture.
However, if this news does not dampen your mood but makes you feel excited with the thought of a challenging trail on the bay, we welcome you. The average daytime temperature in June ranges between 11 to 20 °C, July (12 to 20°C), and August (12 to 20°C). Similarly, the average nighttime temperature in June is around 15°C, in July (15 to 5°C), and in August (5 to -5°C).
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek in pre-summer
One of the best parts of this season is when the rain ends. You will feel the fresh breeze, clean surroundings, and lush greenery. Here, this rainfall will bring the water bodies to their full glory unlike during any other season.
Similar to trekking in the Winter season, the Monsoon / Summer season brings its own set of challenges. Indeed, the Kanchenjunga trail during Summer poses high threats and we do not recommend it.
So, below are some alternative treks to embark on for an equally thrilling journey.
Choosing a season to embark on the Kanchenjunga Trek is much more than comfort at times. Before making a decision, it is better to ask yourself several basic questions. A few questions, to begin with, can be: What am I looking for with the trek? How much difficulty will I be able to handle? What am I expecting to do during the trek? What is my budget?
While these may seem like simple questions, they will help you ease your decision process. Additionally, with each season bringing its own charms and challenges, sometimes, confusion to make a quick decision is quite normal - which is why we are here to help you figure it out.
Weather And Climate Conditions
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is meant to be a soulful adventure for most trekkers and hence, weather and climatic conditions are a primary reason to consider. Almost every other trekker goes on this journey to emphasize the feeling of being surrounded by the Himalayas under clear blue skies and no one would love it when they get robbed of the outcome.
Therefore, if you are after those mesmerizing views, Spring and Autumn are your best bet. Likewise, you should understand that the weather and climate conditions at various points of the trek will be entirely different. For instance, the weather conditions at the lowest point of the trek Taplejung (1820 meters), and the Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5143 meters) will be different.
Additionally, the higher you climb, the weather gets unpredictable and you should be prepared for that. While the peak season of Spring and Autumn will bring you a comfortable journey with the moderate temperature, it is a totally different scenario during the off-season.
During the Winter, the temperature will go as low as -20°C with the probable risk of facing an avalanche. Similarly, the Monsoon season does not have a harsh temperature but due to the continuous rainfall, and the risk of landslides every other day, it makes the journey much more challenging.
Here’s the question on top of this factor. Are you looking for a comfortable and scenic Kanchenjunga Trek or a thrilling adventure along the foothills of Mount Kanchenjunga?
Fitness Level And Experience
The journey to the foothills of Mount Kanchenjunga is a long and strenuous trek that requires you to walk around 6-7 hours every day (approximately 14-15 km a day). But what level of physicality is required to complete this trek?
Here’s a simple answer to it. If you are someone with a good level of fitness with your exercise routine daily and have a calm and composed mental strength, you are all set to go. However, if you have never exercised or even gone out on a shorter journey, we ask you to give yourself some time by taking on shorter and easier treks before you plan this one out. Some of the short and beginner-friendly treks you can join with us are Khopra Danda Trek, Pikey Peak Trek, Gokyo Valley Trek, etc.
You can also participate in exercises such as jogging, running, stretching, swimming, and skipping.
Most part of this trekking trail is composed of rugged terrains and rocky paths. Also, keep in mind that this route is one of the least explored with limited facilities and off-beaten tracks.
Not to mention, the constant risk of high altitude sickness.
One of the important things to note here is; that no matter your physical fitness or experience level, everyone can fall victim to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Some of its symptoms gradually start with mild headaches, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Now, without panic, you should understand that hydration is a major key to keeping altitude sickness at bay. However, even after some time, you still are suffering from it, descending is the only safe option.
Last and most important, keep your mental health as clean as your physical health. To calm your mind, you can try yoga or meditation.
Desired Level Of Challenge
It is a clear-cut vision that the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is not a piece of cake for every trekker. The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Difficulty does not only reside with its landscapes or the season. The added reason that this trek is organized in a remote area with no access to modern facilities whatsoever makes it tougher.
As most of the trekking duration takes place at a higher elevation, access to basic facilities can be a challenge. Yes, you will find several tea houses scattered along the trail however, every service you will get is mild.
During this trek, you should have the mentality to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. There will be no wifi and no phone signals. Additionally, basic amenities such as heating are also not available in your rooms. Generally, the heater is only found in the common dining space of the tea houses. Hence, if you are traveling during Winter, the journey only gets tougher.
Furthermore, do not expect high service with your food, drinks, and showers as well. As the tea houses are located in high altitudes, they have basic food items such as Dal Bhat Tarkari (Rice Lentils and Curry), Thukpa, Thenduk, Momo, Tibetan bread, Chapati, Pasta, Noodles, and potato dishes.
Cost And Availability of Flights And Accommodation
It is indeed true that the cost and availability of the flights and accommodation during the Kanchenjunga Trek depends on the season that you are traveling in. At times, you will have to pay higher during the peak seasons of Spring and Autumn.
Even though there are limited teahouses spread across the trail, you will not be required to carry essential items to camp. Often there will be a huge crowd of trekkers during Spring and Autumn, due to the favorable trekking conditions during these months and the unobstructed views of the Himalayas.
Hence, booking accommodation and flights at the last minute will be a hassle which is why we recommend you book in advance. For smooth booking and information, you can always contact us! We will make sure that even your last-minute check-in will not be a hassle on your trip.
Now, when it comes to the Summer and Winter seasons, the case is the exact opposite. The conditions of the trails are muddy and slippery posing great difficulty in navigating the track, hence, not many trekkers plan their journey in Monsoon. Similar to that, the Winter season brings heavy blankets of snow and obstructed views. Oftentimes, the tea houses in the higher elevation are closed during off seasons reducing the available number of accommodations.
Moving on, you will also face several challenges on flights during off-seasons. Due to heavy rain in the Monsoon and thick fog in Winter, the flights might get delayed or canceled. Therefore, if you are planning for the Kanchenjunga Trek during off season, be sure to add a buffer period to your itinerary.
Essential Tips For Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek In Different Seasons
Essential Gear And Clothing For Each Season
Packing for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek can be tricky as you will be required to pack as lightly as possible while carrying all the essentials for this journey. Therefore, you will need to figure out what works for the trek and what is necessary.
During the Kanchenjunga Trek, you will need to bring technical equipment depending upon the season as well. Moving on, since the weather conditions at higher elevations can get highly unpredictable, the secret to a successful trek is to understand the packing lists for each season.
Here are the suggested gear and clothing for the Kanchenjunga Trek.
Clothing
Breathable underwears
Hiking trousers (woolen or fleece)
Waterproof shell pants & jackets
Quick-drying shirt
Fleece wind-breaker jacket
Down jacket
Gloves (woolen / fleece)
Footwear
A well-worn water-proof trekking boots with good ankle support.
Camp shoes and slippers
Gaiters (for Winter)
Moisture-wicking socks (thin & lightweight)
Added Items
Sleeping bag (-15/20°C)
Medium rucksack (50–70 liters (3000–4500 cubic inches))
Waterproof rucksack cover
Personal medicine
Sun hat
Sun protection cream
Lip Guard
Wet wipes
Towels
Nail Clipper
Female hygiene products
Handwash
Soap bar
Chargers
Adapters
Binoculars
Camera
Satellite phone
Acclimatization Tips During The Trek
Trekking itself is a strenuous journey and with the addition of thinner-than-normal air, it gets more challenging. Everyone does suffer a little while trekking in a high altitude however, we should work to minimize as much as we can to create a successful journey.
Before you start the Kanchenjunga trek, you should understand that the altitude acclimatization process takes time. While high altitude can be a tough task, it will also be rewarding. Below are some of the basic tips to adapt to the elevation during the trek.
Drink as much as you can (at least 3 liters a day)! The key to staying out of trouble during the trek is to be hydrated at all times.
Do not hurry to scale a long route in a day. There is no need to run and keep the attitude of “Go big or go home” at bay. A sudden change in altitude without further warnings often results in bigger problems.
Before calling it a day at a new altitude, go for a hike, enjoy the view, and climb down to the resting point. In this manner, your body will adapt to the altitude much better giving you a good night’s sleep. So, always hike higher and sleep lower!
Avoid alcoholic beverages and smoke at all costs, especially at higher altitudes.
Do not be hard on yourself. If you think you have reached your limit then so be it. You can always bail on the journey and come back later with a much fitter body.
Health & Safety Considerations
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is an exhilarating adventure that takes place surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayas. However, its high altitude location and rugged landscapes pose a never-ending risk, which is why every single step must be well-planned to be well-executed.
Here are some key tips to make your journey a success!
Acclimatization is Crucial
There is no doubt that high altitudes can get pretty scary and difficult to scale and only a few trekkers get the rewarding glimpse once conquered. But nothing comes easy and you should trek with that mentality.
To minimize any effect of high elevation in your body, you must be aware of your surroundings and your capability. Always maintain a slow pace and take one step at a time. Keep a buffer time in your itinerary during the acclimatization day.
Safety is The Top Priority
It is important to maintain both the thrill and safety during your trek. Hence, always trek with an experienced guide who has an understanding of emergencies and medications in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Most importantly, before your trek, do a whole body checkup and consult a doctor. Make sure you are fit and fine and always carry your personal medications if you are prescribed to any. In addition to that, make sure you carry a small first aid kit with basic medication items such as bandages, band-aid, aspirin, betadine, and so on.
Travel Insurance is A Must
It is only a wise decision to buy travel insurance before you embark on the Kanchenjunga trek. Here, you will get multiple policy options which even include covering the cost of emergency helicopter rescue, so make sure you buy the best possible option.
However when we plan for a certain journey, we only tend to look at the bright side and at times, no matter how conscious you stay, some unforeseen circumstances may arise. Hence, having your travel ensured will cover all the expenses for your safety and emergency diagnosis. Additionally, if you are looking for one, the two most important things to check is the altitude level the insurance will cover if the policy pays you upfront in case of emergency.
Prepare For The Extreme Weather
The weather in the Himalayas is extremely unpredictable. A bright sunny day might suddenly turn gloomy, especially during the Summer and Winter seasons. Hence, you must always dress up in layers to easily adjust to the changing climate.
Not to mention, it is important to keep yourself regularly updated with the weather forecast. Additionally, make sure you carry waterproof covers for your bags and belongings.
Permits Required During Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
To ensure a smooth and lawful journey to the restricted area of Kanchenjunga, you will need to obtain permits. Additionally, you should understand that you can not go solo trekking at Kanchenjunga. You will be required to have at least a partner and an experienced government-licensed guide with you.
If you are looking for a group or an experienced guide to embark on this trek, feel free to contact us!
Now, you will require two major permits to enter the Kanchenjunga region which are the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP) and Restricted Area Entry Permit (RAP) alongside the TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System).
The KCAP will cost you NRs 2000 (1 USD = NRs 133.65) with no time restrictions and you can get this permit from the Nepal Tourism Board or the local trekking agencies in the city. Likewise, the RAP will cost you USD 20 per person per week. You can get this permit from a registered trekking agency.
Moving on, the TIMS card costs NRs 1000 for SAARC countries and NRs 2000 for international countries. Similarly to other permits, you can also get this from the trekking agency.
Conclusion
Choosing a suitable season can profoundly change your Kanchenjunga Trek giving you a lifetime experience in this remote region. Each season has its own set of charms and challenges that follow.
While Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the most popular with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, it gets crowded. Likewise, the Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to February) are way less crowded but the route gets much more challenging.
Whether you are more drawn to the crisp and fresh air of Autumn or the vibrant blooms of Spring, planning during these seasons will provide you with the finest beauty of Kanchenjunga.
So, book your trip for the unforgettable journey to Kanchenjunga while its beauty is at its prime. The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is not all about its landscapes, wildlife, or scenery, but the soulful adventure of one of the epic treks in the Himalayas.
With careful planning and preparation with us, we believe that you can do it!
Rajesh, known as Raj, is the founder and owner of Nepal Trekking Experts, as well as the company's main guide. He was born and raised in the mountain region of Manaslu and has a deep and abiding connection with the culture and nature of the Himalayan mountains. With more than 20 years in the trekking industry, from working as a porter and guide right through to his present role as the head of the company, Raj has the knowledge base and wealth of experience to customize and organize treks that fulfill each and every requirement for a successful journey, including permits, equipment, clothing, medical supplies, and safety, as well as a familiarity with the fitness levels and experience required for each of the treks on offer in our portfolio. Having traveled most of the trails available in Nepal he has a deep affinity and connection to the broad spectrum of people and their cultures, as well as a deep appreciation for the various religions, history, flora and fauna of the mountain regions and their scattered valleys.
