When Is Best Time Trekking Kanchenjunga?

I did a pre-monsoon trek around Kanchenjunga circuit in May 2016.  The weather in the month of May is supposed to be hot, not rainy! But due to some bad weather coming from the Bay of Bengal it was raining quite hard during my trip.

The Kanchenjunga Trek starts from Bhadrapur (close to sea level) and reaches the highest point at the snowbound Pangpema at 5,160 meters. It is very hard to find the actual balance in term of view, temperature, and micro climate along the trail.

Sele Le Pass is almost impassable during the winter from mid December to early March. There are also many landslides between Ghunsa and Pangpema so it is not recommended to trek during the monsoon as rain will make landslides worse.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for trekking around Kanchenjunga.

See more details below:

1. Late December to Early March

Extreme cold! Teahouses in the upper reaches will be closed. Sele Le Pass will be hidden under snow, and it will be very hard to find the trail. Check in Ghunsa about the availability of accommodation in Khambachen and Lhonak. Also, while in Yamphuding on the south side, check accommodation will be available in Cheram and Ramche.

Level of Difficulty

There will be snow on the ground making everything slippery. So you will need proper winter shoes, gaiters, to tackle the fresh snow. Obviously warm, appropriate clothes from thermal underwear to down jacket. With fewer visitors at this time its harder to find the trail around Sele La Pass and most teahouses will be closed. You can request them to open for you. This time is best for the more adventurous and perhaps those who are used to snow conditions although fit first time snow men (and women) are most welcome!

2. March to Late May

This is one of the best times to be anywhere in Nepal and it is the perfect time for trekking in Kanchenjunga. Skies should be clear and the views spectacular!

Level of Difficulty

There should be no snowfalls or rain to worry about, which tend to make the trek more arduous. With a certain level of fitness, this time is good for everyone who wants to trek in this region.

3. June to Mid September

Rainy! There will be a lot of leeches, which are annoying but not dangerous. Skies will be clouded over when it rains, but blue with fluffy white clouds when it is not. Everything will be washed clean and sparkling!

Level of Difficulty

Walking in the rain always brings its own difficulties. The trail underfoot can be slippery and if you don’t have the right rain gear, moral can be poor. Existing landslides become treacherous and new landslides can develop at any time. Make enquires from locals about the trail between Khambachen and Ghunsa, also check the trail between Torongding and Yamphuding when you walking. Best to be prepared for these landslide hotspots.

4. Late September to Mid December

Again this is a very good time to go, particularly when the landscape will be washed clean by the monsoon rains and there is an extra freshness in the air.

Level of Difficulty

As in the spring, this is a good time for everyone, with a good level of fitness, to enjoy Kanchenjunga.

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Article by Pradeep Guragain

Pradeep is the co-founder of Magical Nepal. He was born and bred in Nepal and is a seasoned hiker and rider.

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