September 2019 - NEPAL TREKKING AND TRAVEL BLOG

September 23, 2019February 17, 2020

Dashain: Beloved Festival Of Nepal

Last Updated on February 17, 2020 by Treks Planner Nepal

Most would agree that October and November are the best months to visit Nepal. Not only does the cool and clear post-monsoon weather offer unrivaled trekking opportunities and beautiful panoramic views of the Himalayas, but this is also when the biggest festival in Nepal i.e “Dashain” is celebrated. It is one of the most important Hindu festivals which is celebrated all over Nepal delightfully. This festival usually falls in the month of September or October and is actually celebrated for 15 days. It starts from bright lunar fortnight (Shukla Paksha) and ends on the day of the full moon (Poornima) according to the Nepalese annual calendar. Hindus greatest festival, Dashain honors a great conquest of the gods over the evil demons. The symbol of power, Goddess Durga is worshiped during this festival. Colorful kites in the clear sky, crowded city shops blasting Dashain Dhun and young people in the countryside queuing up for their turn on the Ping (a traditional Nepali swing) all mark the beginning of the immensely sacred festival called Dashain.

All governmental and private organizations and educational institutions announce 5-10 days of Dashain vacation allowing their staff to celebrate the festival with their families and friends, which is one of the major essences of Dashain. During the fifteen days of festivities, the most significant days are the first, seventh, eighth, ninth and the tenth. The first nine days of Dashain are called Navaratri; Nava meaning nine and Ratri meaning Night. Some people also refer to Dashain as Navaratri.

Although people share different mythological tales behind the celebration, Dashain has always been regarded as a festival of victory over evil. One of the victory stories according to the Hindu myths reveals that a demon named ‘Mahisasur’ who spread horror was killed by Goddess Durga. And, the first nine-day of Dashain represent the constant battle between vice and virtue. And, the tenth day signifies the triumph of good over evil. Another Hindu legend ‘Ramayana’ discloses that Dashain symbolizing the triumph of Ram (vice) over Ravan (virtue) with the blessings of Goddess Durga.

To help you make sense of this special festival season, we’ve put together a complete guide to the most significant days of Dashain.

Day 1: Ghatasthapana

Ghata (pot) Sthapana (establishing) marks the beginning of the festival. On this day, a Kalasha (pot) is filled with holy water and covered with cow dung and later sown with barley seeds. All the while a Puja (worshipping and offering to God) is performed. The auspicious time to perform the ritual is determined by astrologers. The room where the Kalasha is established is called ‘Dashain Ghar’- Dashain Home. The pot is kept isolated from sunlight and Puja is performed every evening until the day of Vijaya Dashain (the 10th day of Dashain). After a few days, the barley seeds will sprout into yellow-green buds called Jamara. Jamara is an essential part of the offering on the day of Vijaya Dashami, (see day 10) along with the Tika (a mix of vermillion powder, rice, and curd) that is put on the foreheads of younger family members by their elders.

This year, the first day of Dashain fell on September 29 (13th Ashoj 2076 in the Nepali calendar).

From this day, people are busy visiting all the temples of Goddess Durga, especially in the morning hours. People living away from home return to their families with gifts. Luxurious feasts, family gatherings, kite flying, and playing cards is the customary way to celebrate Dashain.

Day 7: Fulpati

During Fulpati, the royal Kalasha filled with holy water, banana stalks, Jamara, and sugar cane tied with red cloth is carried by Brahmans from Gorkha (original home of Shah Dynasty) to Tudikhel on a decorated palanquin under a gold-tipped and embroidered umbrella. Hundreds of government officials gather together in national dress to witness the event. There is a splendid parade by the Nepalese Army followed by a celebratory firing of weapons lasting for 10-15 minutes. After the event, the Fulpati is taken to Basantapur Hanuman Dhoka (also called Dashain Ghar), the ancient seat of Nepal’s kings. In the past, Jamara was brought to the royal family, but since the abolishment of the monarchy in 2008 the offering of Fulpati is taken to the residence of the Prime Minister.

This year, Fulpati is in 5th October 2019 (19th Asoj 2076).

Day 8: Maha Asthami

On this day, temples of Goddess Durga are drenched with the blood of sacrificed buffaloes, goats, ducks and pigeons. The sacrifices are performed throughout the country to appease the fierce Goddess Durga. This day is called Kal Ratri (Black Night). At midnight, a total of 54 buffaloes and 54 goats are sacrificed in the Dashain Ghar. After the blood has been offered to Durga, the meat is taken home, cooked, offered to the household Gods and distributed among the family members as Prasad (food blessed by divinity).

Today more and more Hindus have condemned these traditional practices as inhumane acts in the name of religion and while still a common practice, animal sacrifices have seen a declining trend over the years.

Maha Ashtami, this year falls on 6th October 2019 (20th Asoj 2076).

Day 9: Maha Navami

The ninth day of Dashain, Maha Navami is also the last day of Navaratri. On this day, official military sacrifices are held in the Kot – the courtyard of Hanuman Dhoka. Mostly black buffaloes are slaughtered to honor and seek blessing from Durga. The Taleju temple at Hanuman Dhoka is opened for the public only once a year on this day. The temple is therefore crowded with thousands of people coming to pay their respect to the Goddess. Even foreigners are allowed to witness this celebration.

On this day, Vishwa Karma – the God of creativity is also worshipped with the belief that all things responsible for our living should be kept happy. So, all factories, vehicles, machinery instruments are worshipped. Worshipping vehicles on this day is believed to hinder accidents throughout the year.

This year, Maha Navami falls in7th October 2019 (21st Asoj 2076).

Day 10: Vijaya Dashami

On the day of Vijaya Dashami, Tika is prepared and together with Jamara is administered on the forehead of younger relatives by the elders. Along with the Tika, the elders also give ‘Dakshina’ – a small amount of money, which is one of the exciting parts of Dashain for children and youngsters. Family members who live away from home return to their families to receive the Tika. Like all good holidays, the Tika is accompanied by a lavish feast. This continues to be observed for five days until the Purnima, the full moon.

The last day of the festival is Kojagrata – ‘who is awake’ Purnima which falls on the full moon day. It’s the day for rest and revitalization from the hectic activities of the festival. The Hindu Goddess of wealth, Laxmi, is worshipped on this day. It is believed that Goddess Laxmi descends on earth and showers wealth and prosperity to everyone who is awake throughout the night. To prevent oneself from falling asleep, people keep themselves busy, usually by playing cards.

The Tika day this year is in8th October 2019 (22nd Asoj Kartik 2076).

Enjoy the festive season and Happy Dashain to you all!

Kids enjoying the sun as the sunsets to mark the end of the day

September 20, 2019February 17, 2020

Scenic Hike: Lakuri Bhanjyang

Last Updated on February 17, 2020 by Treks Planner Nepal

Kathmandu valley offers many popular hikes and among those Suryabinayak to Lakuri Bhanjyang hike is one of the popular ones. These hikes offer solace from all the hustle-bustle of the Kathmandu city and refresh one’s mind. This is sort of cityscape from all the hustle-bustle. As the hike goes past the beautiful Ranikot Village that commands the majestic mountain panorama during the clear days. It takes about 3hrs to hike from Suryabinayak to Ranikot. Another additional 1 hour is added for ascending towards the Lakuri Bhanjyang. It’s a small hilltop near the Kathmandu Valley that provides a splendid view of the valley with the wonderful; views of Himalayas. The route or trail towards this fantastic place is just less crowded and very scenic. One can enjoy the beautiful views of the countryside, terraces and the day to day life of the locals inhabiting the area.

Why Lakuri Bhanjyang Hiking?

Explore the new hiking route in Kathmandu.
Be away from the hustle-bustle of Kathmandu.
Experience rural life.
Enjoy the great view of the Himalayas.

Route:

Take a bus towards Suryabinayak from Kathmandu
Walk from Suryabinayak Bus Station to Surbinayak Temple (Approx 20-30 minutes)
From temple take the right turn and head towards the Army Barrack (Approx. 20 minutes)
Follow the trail until reaching Tarkeshowr Mahadev Temple (Approx. 30 minutes)
From Temple climb the Hill towards Pilot Baba Ashram (Approx. 45 minutes)
Then head the trail towards Ranikot (Approx. 45 minutes)
From Ranikot take a right turn and follow the trail towards Lakuri Bhanjyang (Approx. 1 hour)
And then finally descend down towards the Lamatar (Approx 1.5 hr)
Take a bus that goes to Lagankhel

September 19, 2019January 20, 2022

Everything You Need To Know About Everest Base Camp

Last Updated on January 20, 2022 by Treks Planner Nepal

As the world’s highest mountain sits upon the Mahalangur section of the Himalayas, the mountain’s summit straddles the border separating China and Nepal. Reaching 298,029 feet(8,848 meters) above sea level, one can assume to be the king of the mountains and overcoming the king has always been the holy grail of mountaineers. Every year, people from all over the world visit Nepal just to soak in the beauty of this magnificent construct of nature. As the Everest attracts experienced mountaineers as well as less-seasoned climbers and has been on the list of every climber either they be professional or seasonal. And the most popular among all the treks is the one to Everest Base Camp.

Everest Base Camp(EBC)

Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most searched and preferred trekking destinations by the trekkers around the world and this trekking could be a combo of both adventure and challenge for you. Everest base camp trek will walk you downhill through the forest of rhododendron, magnolia, and pine. Ahead lie small settlements and flat trails with pleasant alpine vegetation, monasteries, colorful prayer flags and so does the valley, which is so beautiful that you are bound to click your camera. Another beauty is the Dudh Kosi River, a glaciated river, which is as white as milk and which you cross often by the high suspension bridges that will make the trek livelier.

How to get to the Base Camp?

Primarily most of the trekkers take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to reach EBC but due to the rehabilitation work being carried out and domestic and international flights being disrupted the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has notified the airlines to reroute the flight to Lukla from Manthali Airport of Ramechhap.

Another way of reaching EBC is through a highway drive to Jiri/ Salleri heading toward the off-beaten trail taking you to the Salleri for Everest Trek. This is for those who enjoy slow travel and the bonus for slow traveling is until you get to Lukla, are less crowded, have spectacular views, and wonderful insights into the Solu Sherpa culture.

Minimum and Maximum Time frame of the Trek?

Well, this generally depends upon the trekker preference if the trekkers are physically fit and can manage a 7-9 hours trek daily up the mountains then he/she can normally complete the trek in 10 days. But this journey is very strenuous as it takes a 16 days trek(Max) and compacts it for a shorter trek which eventually hikes up the trekking hours per day. So, if you are someone who hasn’t had much experience of trekking and wants to trek enjoying each and every moment at the region then a 14 days time frame would be appropriate as it gives you the proper time to acclimatize and enjoy the scenic beauties of the trek.

Budget Required For Everest Trek

Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally, the cost ranges from anywhere around US $900 to US $1800. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.

Necessary Permits Required

Update: Oct 1st 2018 TIMS Card is no longer valid for Everest Base Camp Trek

With decentralization, a new permit system has been implemented on Everest Region. You will no longer require a Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card. With lots of controversy and dispute, this new local entry permit has completely replaced the old trek permit in Khumbu.

The necessary permits required for trekking to EBC are :

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit(New one)
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Necessary Documents for Permit?

You just need your passport details for Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality and Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Permit. You will need two photos for the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project Entry Permit and you also need to fill up a short form to obtain the permit. All these fees are payable in local currency only.

How is Everest Base Camp on each Season?

Although it is possible to trek on Everest throughout the year on any given seasons but the best time to visit Mount Everest is in the Spring and Autumn. As during the autumn season, the weather tends to be relatively stable with mild to warm days and cold nights. And during Spring the weather is quite clear and the peaks are often visible and the temperature is warm and just ideal for a trek.

Spring Season(April-May):

The spring months are probably the most popular in the region as a whole. You might be caught in the occasional snow showers if you catch the end of the winter season, but the weather should be largely stable and dry- perfect for trekking and high altitude climbing.

Autumn Season(September-November):

Clear days are characteristic of this popular trekking period. Although colder days(and colder nights) are to be expected, this is a small price to pay for the wonderful vistas and perfect views of the region peaks. And added bonus of trekking during this time is the option to choose some other, less well-known routes in the area that still offer amazing views but without the hustle and bustle of the more popular routes.

Winter Season(Dec-Feb):

The region during this period can best be described as being very cold but still is trekkable. The days will be shorter and there is a lot more snow, thus routes that involve crossing big passes like the three passes trek are usually closed. The weather will be fairly stable and dry, meaning it is entirely possible to trek the classic route to Everest Base Camp in these months. 0One can expect the temperature to be as cold as -30degree Celsius at night higher up the route.

Summer Season/Monsoon Season(June-August):

Summer may sound like the prime time to visit Mount Everest, but it is also monsoon season during which the mountain can receive large amounts of rainfall. During the monsoon season, the Everest peak is, more often than not, shrouded in mist. Although a trek is doable during this season, it is quite difficult as the slippery trails, leeches and the lack of mountain views are just about enough reasons in off-putting most trekkers from trekking.

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The trek to Everest Base Camp is approximately 130km, so you need to walk 15km per day for about two weeks. It’s not a plain walking surface and like most typical treks in Nepal, there’s a lot of going up and down. The distance you cover does not require super fitness, the altitude does, however, make it tough. And also having a strong mindset is also very important while trekking in these parts of the mountains. Everest Base Camp Trek is influenced by; your pack weight, a porter can make it much easier and season, if you’re cold and miserable then it is definitely harder.

To sum it up you will be walking 5 to 8 hours a day for 16 days, with a resting day or two for acclimatization. If you are reasonably fit you should be able to do this to carry your own backpack.

Tipping Guide/Porter

In Nepal tipping is not mandatory but it is expected as major earning or saving funds is the tips for the guide/porter. Tipping is based on the experience you had with your trekking team. It totally depends upon how you felt about the services and overall hospitality that was provided to you so if you are satisfied you can tip them accordingly.

Is Internet/Electricity Available in the Everest Base Camp Region?

One can buy internet as there is a service called Everest Link through which one can get certain data package for a certain amount of money and after the purchase of the data pack one can get access to the internet in most parts of the region. But be warned that the signal often goes down and you will lose signal depending on where you are on the trail. As the elevation also factors in good signal strength of the mobile and internet signals.

As for electricity for charging electrical devices, there is proper electricity in Lukla, Phakding, Namche, and Tengboche. You can charge your batteries with solar devices in Pheriche, Labuche and Gorakshep. However, it is better to charge as much as possible till Tengboche and have enough back up for further up as charging facilities depends upon weather higher up.

Some Hotel facilitates charging in the room itself without extra cost. While in other they charge 300 to 400 per battery per hour.

Necessity of Insurance:

While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delays, and cancellations.

Insurance Policy:

Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland.

Preventing Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too quickly. It is wise to climb slower to prevent it. As, it is very common on the Everest Base Camp trek and can happen to anybody, irrespective of how old or fit you are or if you have previous trekking experience. So, here are some ways to prevent Altitude Sickness:

Hydration– Drink plenty of water, it’s very important to stay hydrated.
Trekking Pace– Walk at your own pace, take your time, don’t go too fast.
Eat carbs– It’s not often we’re told to eat extra carbohydrates but when you’re at higher altitudes, you need more calories.
Avoid Alcohol– Alcohol, cigarettes, and medications like sleeping pills can make altitude sickness symptoms worse. So, avoid it.
Medication– Taking acetazolamide(Diamox)two days before the trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Acetazolamide is a medication typically used to treat glaucoma. But is also used to prevent altitude sickness.

Alternatives to EBC Treks?

Apart from EBC trek, there are other plenty of trekking options that one might like to consider as the Everest region is itself is a very beautiful and adventurous place. Here are some few of the best trekking alternatives apart from EBC.

High Passes Trek
- Crossing Three High Himalayan Passes
- Incredible Exploration of Gokyo Region
- Breathtaking Himalayan View
- Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar Trekking
Island Peak
- Wonderful View of The Mt. Everest
- Cultural Wonders of Everest Region
- Tengboche and Pangboche Monasteries Exploration
- Peaceful yet adventurous walk all throughout the trip

Gokyo Valley
- Trek to Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo RI
- Visiting All of the high valleys of the Khumbu with extra time
- Soaring views of the most popular mountains in Nepal
- Cultural Wonders of Everest Region

So, if the above-mentioned things are taken into proper consideration than you will have a wonderful time trekking in the most spectacular region. Carry all the necessary permits as mentioned above take all the precautions and there’s no way you are not going to have a wonderful time.

September 19, 2019February 17, 2020

Indra Jatra: The Festival Of the Rain God

Last Updated on February 17, 2020 by Treks Planner Nepal

*Living Goddess kumari being escorted around the city streets during the celebration of Indra Jatra*.

The most enthralling and loved festival of the Newar community in the Kathmandu Valley falls in the month of September which is celebrated for eight days.

“As the name suggests Indra Jatra being the festival of the rain god and also the king of heaven. It is also believed to be the day for thanking the Lord Indra for the rain.”

The festival takes off every year from the day of the Bhadra Dwadasi to Ashwin Krishna Chaturdasi. It begins with the erection of a wooden(Linga) pole made of pine at Basantapur Square in front of the Old Hanuman Dhoka Palace. The very first day of the festival is also noted by the Newars as a day to remember the family members who passed away during the past year by offering small oil lamps placed along a traditional route canvasing all the parts of the old city. It is presumed to have been commenced during the reign of Mahendra Malla. Accompanied by the rare display of the deity Akash Bhairav, represented by a massive mask spouting Jaad and Raksi(Nepali Local Liquor). Kumari, the Living Goddess, along with Ganesh and Bhairav is taken out in a procession through the main streets of Kathmandu in their chariots. Masked Dancers, known as Lakhay also take to the streets almost every evening accompanied by loud drums. And also with the Lakhay, a wooden construct of the Lords Elephant takes to the street known as Pulunkisi or Tana-kisi. Each night on the platform of the temple of the Living Goddess, there is an enactment depicting the ten early incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Besides these, various dances are held on the open stages of the city called dabu. There is a display of Swet Bhairava as well as various deities of the city.

The procession consists of:

Majipa Lakhey

Pulukishi

Sawan Bhaku

Ganesh (Chariot)

Kumar (Chariot)

Kumari (Chariot)

The story behind the Jatra:

Indra’s mother needed parijat, a type of flower, for some religious ritual so Indra disguised as a human being came to the earth to fetch them. But, he was immediately identified when he was to steal the flowers so the people caught him and tied him with ropes. As the statue of the great deity himself is still worshipped in Maru Tole in Kathmandu. This image is also put on display with others in different parts of the city during the Indra Jatra festival.

Indra Jatra being an interesting festival is celebrated for the whole week as people enjoy various traditional dances and witness the chariot of Goddess Kumari, Lord Ganesh and Lord Bhairav being pulled through the older parts of the Kathmandu city. A day has been added to the original seven days of celebration and on that day known as Nanicha yaa, the chariots are pulled through Naradevi, Nhyokha, Ason, Indrachwok and Hanuman Dhoka. This extra day of chariot pulling was introduced by King Jaya Prakash Malla in 1765 B.S.

The famous Akash Bhairava bust is displayed and it is decorated with flowers in the valleys most famous Indra Chwok. This Akash Bhairava’s head is related to the Mahabharata story. Some believe it to be the head of the first Kirat King Yalamber. In Indra Chowk, every night different groups gather and sing bhajans and hymns.

One most important activity of the Indrajatra is to offer wick lamps on clay dishes in the name of family members who died in a year, on the way to going around the town of that time. This is called Upaku-wonegu. People observe this tradition even today. Therefore, some people believe that the main purpose of celebrating Indrajatra at the time of Licchavi was to make special offerings to the souls of deceased loved ones before observing a big festival called Dasain.

During Indra Jatra, there are a variety of performances including the dances of Sawa Bhakku Bhairav from Halchowk, Majipa Lakhey from Majipat, Devi Nach and Yeravat Hatti (Pulukisi) from Naradevi, Mahakali and Kathi Maka Nach from Bhaktapur. All the dances take place around the Hanuman Dhoka area. The Dasavatar or the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu is also staged every night.

A legend has it that the first Malla king brought with him the Goddess “Taleju” – a Hindu Goddess. The Malla kings used to have direct talks with the Goddess “Taleju”. Due to the misdeed of one of the Malla kings, the Goddess refused to have one-on-one talks with the king. However, several years of penance, the Malla king succeeded to persuade the Goddess to appear in person. The Goddess agreed to appear as the Living Goddess Kumari. So, both “Taleju” and “Kumari” are the same Goddess, only a different name for a different faith.

The Linga (Yasingh) is pulled down signaling the end of the Indra Jatra festival. It is taken to the confluence of Bagmati and Bishnumati in Teku to be put to rest.

The end of the Indra Jatra festival heralds the beginning of Dashain and Tihar celebrated with great enthusiasm not only in the Kathmandu Valley but throughout the country.

*The statue of Swet Bhairav as people are struggling to dink homemade alcohol poured out from the mouth of the idol as a blessing.*

September 10, 2019October 11, 2019

A Complete Guide for Mt. Kanchenjunga Trek

Last Updated on October 11, 2019 by Treks Planner Nepal

Mt. Kanchenjunga is the third highest in the world at 8,598m, it sits spanning the Nepal/Sikkim border only a few miles from Tibet, the name Kanchenjunga means ‘five great treasures of snow’ i.e. Silver, Gold, Precious Stones, Grain, and Holy Scriptures, which hints at the spectacular mountain views that await. This route was opened to trekkers in 1988, though people have trekked in the area in connection with mountaineering expeditions since the turn of the century. Mt. Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world at 8,596m it sits across the Nepal/Sikkim border and is only a few miles from Tibet. This trek offers magnificent views of Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga.

The trail climbs from the intensively cultivated hillsides of the Nepal Midlands, populated by the Rai and Limbu tribes. This trek will take you through gorgeous Rhododendron forests and picturesque villages. You will see a collection of wildlife and trek over high mountain passes offering mind-blowing views. On completion of this outstanding trek, undoubtedly you will be left with a bundle of wonderful memories.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Weather

Since the route of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek goes across the diverse climate zones, it is a bit difficult to predict weather conditions in this trail. The lowest altitude of this trekking route is at Taplejung which is at the altitude of 1820 m above sea level. And the Kanchenjunga Base Camp, our destination of this trek stands tall at an altitude of 5140 m above sea level. This causes a drastic change in temperature.

There is no uniform weather conditions at different altitudes even in the same season. Climate and weather vary in different altitudes but you can somehow figure out the pattern of climatic conditions in different altitudes in different seasons.

Winter Season(Dec-Feb)

November, December, January, and February winter in Nepal. Early winter is one of the best times to trek Kanchenjunga Base Camp other than Autumn. It is quite cold at high altitudes but the views of the landscape are crystal clear in this period of time. The lodges will be closed in this season in Pangpema and Ramche. So, you will have to camp at these rest stops. The temperature may drop to minus 30 degrees or more. That’s why, you must be prepared with all the winter gear, equipment, and clothes that will protect you from the cold. In late winter, the temperature begins to rise. The heavy snow deposits start to meltdown and flowers start to bloom everywhere at the lower altitudes.

Autumn Season(Sep-Nov)

The perfect season to trek in Kanchenjunga Base Camp or any other place in Nepal is in the autumn season. The weather in the trekking route will be perfect with not much wind or clouds. It will neither be too hot nor too cold. Autumn is also the time of the year when a lot of festivities take place. You could score some special local delicacies too. Taking part in the local culture and festival is an experience not to be missed.

Summer Season/Monsoon Season(June-August)

June, July, and August are the months of summer in Nepal known as monsoon or rainy season. It is super-hot in the lower regions at this time of the year, especially in the eastern regions of the Terai and Hilly regions of Nepal. The month of June is the pre-monsoon period and the temperature decreases during the downpours and rises on sunny days. Clouds will most likely cover the majestic views of mountains and different landscapes. But when the clouds clear up, you will be stunned by the view. Trekking in monsoon in Nepal can be a unique adventure in itself. If one is willing to go for trekking in the Kanchenjunga region, one is strongly recommended to do so. Just be sure to take precautions and safety measures.

Spring Season(March-May)

The month of March brings spring in Nepal and continues up until May. In the early spring, the weather is close to perfect and temperatures at high altitudes are still cold but not as cold as in winter. The weather in the lower regions of the trekking trails is also perfect. The tea houses and lodges start to open in the alpine zone that was closed during winter due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. You don’t need to have all your camping gear while trekking in this season. You can easily cross the Sele La pass without difficulties. Late spring provides the blooming of colorful flowers in the entire lush green forest. Green hills and the white snow-capped mountain views are incredibly stunning. Very few traces of clouds can be seen in the sky.

Kanchenjunga Trek Equipments Checklist

Lots of people trekking in the Kanchenjunga area are on their first high alpine trek. In order to help those with less experience in choosing suitable equipment for trekking in high alpine areas we have listed a summary below. If trekking in Kanchenjunga is going to be your once in a lifetime experience, then there is no need to purchase expensive items of equipment. A lot of expeditions leave their equipment in Nepal and there are several shops in Kathmandu that will sell or rent you almost any piece of equipment that you would need.

Duffle bag/Rucksack
Day backpack
Down jacket
Sleeping bag
Head accessories(sun hat, sunscreen, warm fleece hat)
Hand(light gloves, thick warm gloves, waterproof outer gloves)
Feet(camp shoes, lightweight boots, thick woolen outer socks, inner socks)
Upper Body(t-shirts, lightweight thermals, fleece jacket, Windstopper/Waterproof jacket)
Lower Body(hiking shorts, fleece or thermal pants, waterproof shell pants, undergarments, and lightweight inner thermals, lightweight hiking pants)
Toiletries(toilet paper, toothbrush, and paste, small towel, soaps, nail scissors)
Personal Hygiene(wet wipes, normal dry tissue, handwash)
General Accessories(Headlamp, small combination for a backpack, first aid kit, bottles, trekking poles)
Extra(iPad,tablets,indoor games,guidebook and map, binoculars)

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Itinerary Details

Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world is situated in the eastern region of Nepal Border. It is engulfed with mesmerizing natural beauty and authentic Buddhist culture and still, it remains off the beaten trek in Nepal. Only about 2,000 tourist hikes Kanchenjunga compared to 30,000 tourists hiking in Everest Base Camp every year.

The trekking region of Kanchenjunga is filled with rhododendron and bamboo forests and offers a panoramic view of mountains and is home to some of the ethnic communities of Nepal, such as Rais and Limbus and its trekking trail is off the beaten in nature. Trekking in this region means doing one of the longest treks in Nepal, as well as walking in the far northeastern region in Nepal.

The main highlights of the Kanchenjunga region trek are Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, Yalung Glacier, and an altitude of 5,143 m, alpine forest, and quaint villages, Pangpema, including a panoramic view of Kanchenjunga and neighboring peaks.

Below we have given the 24 days of a summarized itinerary for your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure day. The following itinerary guides you to the base camp from the Northside and also covering the Southside as well. This route is easier and preferred route to the base camp.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Drive to Suketar(Drive: 28 hrs)

Day 03: Suketar to Mitlung(Trek: 7/8hrs, Altitude: 921 meters)

Day 04: Mitlung to Chhiruwa(Trek: 6/7hrs, Altitude: 1270 meters)

Day 05: Chhiruwa to Lelep(Trek: 5/6hrs, Altitude: 1940 meters)

Day 06: Lelep to Amjilosa(Trek: 5/6hrs, Altitude: 2510 meters)

Day 07: Amjilosa to Ghunsa(Trek: 6/7hrs, Altitude: 3595 meters)

Day 08: Acclimatize Day in Ghunsa

Day 09: Ghunsa to Khangpachhen( Trek: 4/5hrs, Altitude: 4100meters)

Day 10: Khangpachhen to Lhonak(Trek: 4/5hrs, Altitude: 4785 meters)

Day 11: Lhonak to Kanchenjunga Base Camp/ Return to Lhonak( Trek: 6/7hrs, Altitude: 5143 meters)

Day 12: Lhonak to Khangpachhen

Day 13: Khangpachhen to Ghunsa

Day 14: Ghunsa to Lumba Samba (Trek: 4/5hrs, Altitude: 4206 meters)

Day 15: Lumba Samba via Sele La Pass to Ramche(Trek: 7/8hrs, Altitude: 4580 meters)

Day 16: Ramche to Yalung Base Camp (South Side)/Return to Ramche(Trek: 6/7hrs, Altitude: 4500 meters)

Day 17: Ramche to Anda Phedi(Trek: 4/5hrs, Altitude: 3370 meters)

Day 18: Anda Phedi to Yamphudin( Trek: 4/5hrs, Altitude: 2080 meters)

Day 19: Yamphudin to Mamankhe or Phumphe Danda(Trek: 4/5hrs, Altitude: 1785/1858 meters)

Day 20: Phumphe danda or Mamankhe to Kade Bhanjyang(Trek: 4/5hrs, Altitude: 2129 meters)

Day 21: Kade Bhanjyang to Illam(Drive: 4/5hrs)

Day 22: Illam to Bhadrapur(Drive: 2hrs)

Day 23: Fly back to Kathmandu(Flight: 1/2hrs)

Day 24: Departure day

Kanchenjunga Trek Difficulty

You don’t have to be an experienced mountaineer or trekker to finish the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. On the other hand, it doesn’t mean that Kanchenjunga trek is as simple as walking or running in a park. An adequate level of physical fitness and training needs to be done if one really wishes to complete Kanchenjunga Trek smoothly. From our previous experiences with clients let us break down some of the basic training you can do at home or at the park nearby as part of the preparation.

Running in the park: At least one month before the date of departure a minimum of 5-8 km a day. It will dramatically help breathing and blood circulation in addition to building up your thigh and torso muscles.

Swimming: Holding your breath and swimming helps to store oxygen that will ease short breathing in the high altitude.

Yoga or Aerobic: Give some time doing yoga, stretching your body, jogging to tone up your body and muscles, etc.

Gym: If you plan hiking with a loaded backpack, we suggest extra exercise, especially leg Squat, Leg press, Deadlift, Leg extension, Wall sits, Leg curl, etc.

So, with proper training and preparation, one can challenge oneself on this once in a lifetime trek to the less touristic region where exploration of the villages and Himalayan culture of primitive Rai, Limbu and Sherpa communities and also the wilderness is a true joy. And also one can immerse oneself in the rich flora and fauna of the region which will leave anyone speechless. With the right preparation, the journey to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp will be a memorable adventure that one cannot miss.