Best Time for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
The Optimal months for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek are October, November, and December during the Autumn Season. Similarly, the best time for the Kanchenjunga Trek Nepal is also during the spring season, which lasts from March to April and May.
Trekking adventures in Nepal can be done in any season. However, as this trek takes you to an elevation above 5,000m, you should consider the season of your visit. In this Eastern Himalayan region, the off-beaten trails, scenery, and landscape change depending on the time of the year.
Regardless, each season adds its own unique charms and enhances the natural aesthetic of Kanchenjunga Trek Nepal. Here is what you can expect if you travel during the peak seasons of autumn and spring.
Autumn season (October, November and December)
During these months, the landscapes are at their peak beauty, adorned with colorful rhododendrons and wildflowers. The autumn season brings a refreshing aura as the monsoon rain cleanses the region, leaving it rejuvenated and vibrant. You will experience optimal weather and optimal temperature conditions, averaging around 15°C to 20°C. Keep in mind that the temperature can drop drastically to -10°C at higher elevations. Trekking to Kanchenjunga in Autumn is also the perfect opportunity to experience local festivals, including Dashain and Tihar.
Spring season (March, April and May)
The spring season arrives in Nepal after winter, and the region slowly transitions from its winter landscape, gradually covering itself with blooming vegetation. The picturesque flowers along the lower parts of the Kanchenjunga trek route enhance the journey and make it magical. Snow will melt from the terrain, and the skies will be clear, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains. The weather during this time of the year is also stable, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C. It can drop up to -15°C at higher elevations.
Note: The weather might change drastically at higher elevations, and you must be prepared accordingly. We advise you to be flexible if you face delays and cancellations due to weather events in this journey.
How Difficult is Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is rated as "moderately difficult." In this thrilling Himalayan expedition, participants must walk at least 8 hours daily through varied terrains. The region you will be hiking in is very remote and has limited access to modern facilities, which makes the trek even more challenging. In general, the difficulties are multifaceted, but to give you an idea, here is a breakdown of the problematic factors of the trek.
- Altitude: You will ascend to an elevation above 5,000m, and the reduced oxygen levels can directly affect how your body functions.
- Distance and duration: The Kanchenjunga expedition is approximately 170 to 300 km, depending on the route you take. You will have to cover the distance, typically between 22 and 26 days, which can be physically demanding for beginners.
- Weather: As you ascend to higher elevations, you must deal with unpredictable weather conditions such as rain, snow, and windstorms. We advise you to pack accordingly to keep yourself safe and comfortable.
- Terrain: Most of the trails are steep and rocky, covered with ice and snow. Travelers will need to be comfortable walking on these terrains and prepared to make steep descents and ascents.
- Remoteness: The trek takes you through the remote parts of Nepal, with limited access to resources. So, you must be prepared to accommodate yourself with basic facilities and amenities at the teahouses.
Is Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Suitable For You?
It requires a good level of health, physical fitness, and preparation to enjoy the adrenaline-pumping hike to Kanchenjunga. The trek is not suitable for those who do not have prior experience of long-distance hiking in high-altitude regions. If you are new to trekking or have done it before, consider the following factors to evaluate yourself before embarking on this journey.
- Participants must have the strength and endurance to complete long days of hiking on steep terrains.
- You will hike to altitudes up to 5,160 meters, and the increased elevation could lead to altitude sickness.
- As the trek requires at least 24 days, you should be prepared to spend the time in remote and secluded areas.
- This trek is unsuitable for beginners and requires a certain level of experience. If you are still interested in the trek, plan and prepare accordingly for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Note: If you are still not convinced and think the trek might not suit your comfort level, it is best to consider other short and easier trekking options, such as the EBC trek or the ABC trek.
Altitude Sickness During Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
The highest point of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is at the north base camp (5,140m). As you ascend higher along the trail, you will begin to experience the low oxygen level in the atmosphere. In some people, it could lead to illnesses such as altitude sickness. The early signs of the medical conditions include:
- Dizziness, lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Insomnia
If the illness is not evaluated and treated early, it could develop into serious conditions like high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). To prevent this, you need to ascend to a lower elevation and seek medical help. Here are some other preventive ways to treat altitude sickness.
- Avoid rapid ascent and walk at a slow and gradual pace.
- Take regular breaks in the trek and get at least 8-10 hours of sleep.
- Stay hydrated and drink 2-3 liters of water every day.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and excessive consumption of caffeine.
- Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet rich in carbohydrates.
- Spend an extra day for acclimatization if you need to.
- Take medications such as Diamox under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Note: If your condition does not come back to normal, we will arrange a swift emergency helicopter evacuation to the nearest healthcare facility.
How to Prepare Physically for the Trek
Hiking on the Kanchenjunga Circuit trail is a challenging experience that requires a moderate fitness level. Trekkers also must have the dedication and mental grit to spend the days walking up rough terrains. If you do not prepare yourself for this journey, you won't be able to enjoy the experience and put yourself at risk. So, we advise you to train at least 3 months before the trek and consider the following factors for the preparation:
- Focus on cardio exercises such as jogging, brisk walking, running, and cycling.
- Develop core muscles by indulging in squats, situps, skipping ropes, and jumping jacks.
- Enhance your core flexibility and mobility by swimming, yoga, stretches, and aerobics.
- Examine your body to help prevent health complications during the high-altitude hike.
Extending the Trip
You can extend your stay with us if you want to experience more of Nepal after the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Nepal. You can make requests and include additional tours that interest you, and we will make the arrangements. Some of the popular treks you might be interested in include Everest Base Camp Trek, Gokyo Valley Trek, and Annapurna Circuit Trek.
