Kanchenjunga base camp Trek is one of the highest treks that takes you to an altitude of 17,000 ft.
This trek can be enjoyed by intermediate to pro trekkers as it is moderate-difficult. The trail takes you through dense forests, meadows, snow-clad summits, and secluded regions with steep climbs on moderate to rough terrain.
The trek is difficult because you will cover a distance of 90 kilometers in 11 days. The base camp of the trek is Yuksom, Sikkim and the nearest railway head is New Jalpaiguri.
The Bagdogra airport is at a distance of 160 kilometers from Yuksom. Due to staggering heights, mobile network services have no signals.
The best time to experience this trek is around the Summer season- May to June as the temperatures reach up to 25°C in Yuksom and 15°C at Dzongri.
These conditions make the weather comfortable to travel long distances as snow doesn’t hinder the trail.
After mid-September, temperatures fall as winters start to kick in, leading to excessive snowfall. Hence, no trek is allowed during this time.
Drive from Bagdogra Airport/NJP to Yuksom (5,670ft)
Transfer from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station to Yuksom in 7 hours.
Witness the beauty of the Himalayas and Teesta River as you ascend the road.
Arrive in Yuksom at 5670 ft and check in the hotel to rest overnight.
You should be physically fit as you ascend and descend hills multiple times to cover 90 kilometers in Kanchenjunga base camp trekking.
Since the trek reaches a height of 17,000 ft, oxygen is less at this altitude. You should perform altitude acclimatization to be comfortable and fit.
Practice the technique of ventilation as atmospheric pressure drops at such high altitudes with reduced oxygen inhalation.
The sudden drop in oxygen may cause discomfort like headaches, hypoxic conditions, vomiting, and other health problems. So, carry medicines and take necessary measures to avoid these.
Make sure to train yourself well before the trek as it is a long journey with moderate to difficult level trails.
Visit a doctor before the trek to test your fitness level and other mandatory checkups.
Avoid planning to trek during monsoons and winters as the trail is inaccessible and blocked.
Carry cash with yourself as there is no ATM or UPI facility beyond Yuksom.
There would be no mobile phone network after Yuksom. Hence, you should inform your family and dear before going on the base camp trek.
Have adequate sleep of 7-9 hours during the days of your trek as moving restlessly would hinder your journey keeping you uncomfortable.
Carry a 35-40 liter backpack for keeping all the necessary items.
Legend says that a mountain deity known as Dzö-nga, meaning 'Kangchenjunga Demon' lives in these mountains. In 1952, a British group of mountaineers spotted a strange creature, which locals referred to as the ‘Kangchenjunga Demon’.
According to the people of Sikkim, Nepal, and Tibet, there is a hidden valley on the slope of Kanchenjunga base camp trek mountain, which makes the visitor immortal. This valley is known as ‘Beyul Demoshong’ to Tibetan monks, who once went with 300 people to open its so-called doors.