Before starting a Kanchenjunga trek, consider these crucial tips and safety precautions:
Acclimatization: Gradually acclimate to higher altitudes, avoiding rapid ascents.
Physical Fitness: Ensure good physical condition through regular exercises and training, as Kanchenjunga trekking is demanding.
Weather Awareness: Himalayan weather is unpredictable; Nepal Sanctuary Treks team check forecasts and prepare for changes.
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, rest, and avoid alcohol/smoking to prevent altitude sickness. Nepal Sanctuary Treks plans itineraries with ample rest days to aid in acclimatization.
Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene with hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
Equipment: Have essential trekking gear: poles, hiking boots, warm clothing, sleeping bag, and backpack.
Insurance: Obtain proper trekking insurance covering emergency evacuation and medical expenses.
The weather in Kanchenjunga can change unexpectedly. It’s important to be ready for that, no matter the season. Here’s a look at what weather you might experience throughout the year:
Month
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
Weather Conditions
January
-5 to 7
30 to 50
Cold and dry
February
-3 to 9
30 to 50
Cold and dry
March
2 to 13
50 to 100
Mild and dry
April
6 to 16
100 to 150
Mild and dry
May
9 to 18
150 to 200
Warm and dry
June
11 to 20
200 to 250
Warm and wet (monsoon season)
July
12 to 20
300 to 350
Warm and wet (monsoon season)
August
12 to 20
300 to 350
Warm and wet (monsoon season)
September
11 to 19
200 to 250
Mild and wet (monsoon season)
October
6 to 16
150 to 200
Mild and dry
November
1 to 11
50 to 100
Cold and dry
December
-3 to 8
30 to 50
Cold and dry
Note that temperatures and rainfall can vary based on the location and elevation in the Kanchenjunga region. Check the weather forecast before trekking and pack accordingly.
The tea houses along the trek are generally basic and don’t offer luxury amenities. Wi-Fi is available in only a few tea houses. Showers are typically bucket showers, and squat toilets are commonly used.
Drinking water straight from taps or streams in Kanchenjunga is unsafe. It’s best to use a water purifier or SteriPen. Mineral water is scarce and can be costly on the trail. To help reduce plastic waste, bring a refillable water bottle. Teahouse lodges offer boiled water for a nominal fee.
Nighttime temperatures in the area can reach as low as -10°C (14°F), while daytime temperatures are generally warm. The temperature variations may occur based on the specific month.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is challenging, requiring excellent fitness due to steep paths, rocky terrain, narrow trails, and altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters. Daily walks are 8-9 hours, and altitude sickness is a significant concern.
However, with proper training, preparation, and the right gear, it can be a fulfilling experience. It’s crucial to book with a sustainable and reliable trekking company offering experienced guides. This trek is meant for experienced and fit trekkers, involving remote, rugged terrain, high mountain passes, and altitude challenges.
Lasting at least three weeks, the trek demands physical and mental stamina, with cold weather at high altitudes. Despite its challenges, it’s a rewarding journey. Ensuring thorough preparation and fitness is essential. For a secure and enjoyable trip, consider reaching out to the travel experts at Nepal Sanctuary Treks.
In the Kanchenjunga region, the food is similar to other trekking areas in Nepal, featuring potatoes, rice, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Teahouses provide both Nepalese and Western options, such as Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, and momos. Breakfast options include cereals, bread, and eggs. It’s best to avoid meat dishes due to concerns about freshness.
Tea house trekking is popular in Kanchenjunga. Every stop has tea houses for meals and lodging. Some places offer rooms with attached toilets, while higher up, rooms are basic but clean and toilets and showers are outside. Rooms typically have 2 beds, some 3 to 4. Facilities in teahouses during the Kanchenjunga Trek include beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms, varying with altitude and location.
In the Kanchenjunga region, internet, electricity, and phone connections are limited and unreliable. Some lodges may offer Wi-Fi or 3G service, but coverage ends beyond certain points. Electricity is intermittent, often provided by solar or hydro power. Bring a power bank and spare batteries. Mobile phone reception is weak in many areas, so NTC or Namaste SIM cards are recommended, with satellite phones being the most reliable for emergencies. Be prepared for limited connectivity during your trek.
Two permits are essential: the Restricted Area Permit and the Conservation Area Permit. These permits are only granted when there are a minimum of two trekkers. Valid Kanchenjunga trekking permits are mandatory for all trekkers embarking on a journey to the Kanchenjunga region, comprising the Restricted Area Permit and the Conservation Area Permit.
Annapurna Base Camp teahouses offer twin shared rooms with two single beds, basic bedding, thin plywood walls, and no in-room heating. Bringing your own sleeping bag is highly recommended for warmth and hygiene, especially at higher altitudes like Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) and ABC, where nights can be very cold.
Bathrooms are usually shared and may feature Western or squat toilets. Some lower villages, such as Ghorepani and Chhomrong, may offer attached Western-style bathrooms, but these are rare higher on the trail.
Hot showers are generally available for an extra cost (NPR 150–500 / $1–$4 USD). At higher elevations, hot water may be limited or unavailable due to frozen pipes or reliance on solar power.
Teahouses also include a communal dining hall, often heated by a wood-burning stove in the evenings. This area serves as the main social hub and is usually the only place to charge devices for an additional fee.
Tips for Annapurna Base Camp Teahouses:
Bring a warm sleeping bag for cold nights.
Carry cash in small denominations for showers and charging devices.
Expect basic facilities at higher elevations.
Nepal Sanctuary Treks, a Travelife Certified top trekking agency in Nepal for the ABC trek, plans your itinerary, books teahouses in advance, and ensures a safe, comfortable experience.
The ABC Trek Difficulty & Preparation guide helps beginners and moderately fit trekkers plan for a safe Himalayan adventure. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4,130 m, so altitude sickness can occur above 2,500 m, especially between Deurali and ABC.
The trail includes thousands of steep steps, including over 3,300 steps to Ulleri, long climbs around Chhomrong, forest paths, and rocky sections. Trekkers typically walk 5–7 hours daily, covering 10–15 km per day over 7–12 days.
No technical skills are required, but proper physical and mental preparation is essential. Focus on cardio, stair, or hill training, set achievable goals, rest as needed, dress in layers, stay hydrated, and maintain a balanced diet.
With the right preparation, trekkers can enjoy a safe, rewarding, and unforgettable ABC experience in the Annapurna Himalayas. Read More.
In case of a medical emergency, helicopters can be used for evacuation from higher altitudes to Kathmandu with better medical facilities. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance that covers emergency evacuations.
ABC Trek Drinking Water Tips are essential for a safe and healthy trek. While the Annapurna Base Camp trail has many water sources, it’s important to purify water before drinking. Use water purification tablets, filters, or Chlorine Dioxide to remove bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
Many teahouses offer boiled water for a small fee, but it may not always be fully safe. If tablets leave a strong taste, add electrolytes or flavored drink mixes. Using a water purifier is the most reliable way to stay hydrated and healthy during your trek.
Yes, you can rent or purchase trekking gear in Kathmandu or Pokhara, including items like sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles. Make sure to check the quality and condition of rented equipment. For instance, sleeping bags are available for rent at rates ranging from USD 1 to USD 1.50 per day. For more information, please contact [email protected].
