The magnificent Kanchenjunga, sometimes known as Kangchenjunga, is the world’s third tallest peak with an elevation of 8,586m and one of the most beautiful mountains. Mt Kanchenjunga, which is surrounded by Nepal, Sikkim, and Tibet, was first climbed in 1955 but has since been deemed holy. The Tibetan term Kanchenjunga means “The Five Treasures of the High Snow,” according to Wikipedia. The riches reflect God’s five receptacles, which are gold, silver, jewels, grain, and sacred texts. There are several walking paths in and around Kanchenjunga that take you through wooded woods and tranquil farmland.
The peak, also known as Sewa Lungma in the native Limbu tongue, is highly revered in Sikkim’s Kirat religion. Four of Kanchenjunga’s five peaks may be seen from several locations in Darjeeling and Gangtok. Tiger Hill is one of the greatest places in Darjeeling to get a fantastic glimpse of the summit.
History
According to the history of Kanchenjunga, until 1852, it was regarded the highest mountain in the world. Based on several readings and observations after the Great Trigonometric Survey of India in 1849, Mount Everest was named the tallest peak. In 1856, Kanchenjunga was formally relegated to third position. The mountain is revered by the people as a holy site and the home of the Gods; some even hold that a yeti (Himalayan monster) by the name of Nee-gued still prowls its slopes. Climbers have been barred from the peak since 2000.
Attractions of Kanchenjunga Peak
- Magnificent views of the Mera Peak, Mount Jannu, and Mount Kanchenjunga, among many others.
- The picturesque distant settlements in the Kanchenjunga area and their way of life.
- The Sikkimese and Nepalese populations’ blended cultures.
- A tour of the two Kanchenjunga Base Camps.
- Encounter with crossing glaciers.
- The lovely Rhododendron woodland and the greenery of the high mountains.
- The encampment of Tibetan refugees along the Kanchenjunga Trekking Routes.
- Unique and threatened species, such as musk deer, snow leopards, and blue sheep, may be found in the Kanchenjunga protected area.
Kanchenjunga as a Holy Peak
The area around Kangchenjunga is thought to be the home of the mountain god Dzo-Nga, also known as the Kangchenjunga Demon, a sort of yeti or rakshasa. When a British geological team observed a bipedal monster in 1925, they dubbed it the “Kangchenjunga Demon” after asking locals about it.
Names of Kanchenjunga
Kangchendzonga, Khangchendzonga, and Kanchenjunga are just a few of the other spellings. However, the preferred spelling is Kangchenjunga. In reference to its five summits, the native name Kanchinjnga means “five gems of the high snow.” Senjelungma or Seseylungma is its name in Limbu because it is thought to be the home of Yuma Sammang, a goddess. It is referred to as Gangchhendzonga in Tibet.
Area around Kanchenjunga
Rocks and ice make up around 65% of the terrain. 14.1% of the area is forested, followed by complete shrubland at 10.1%, grassland at 9.2%, and agricultural land at 1.6%. It features snow-covered rocky landscape. Alpine vegetation covers the region. Many endangered creatures may survive thanks to the greenery and the rough terrain.
The Rais, Limbus, and other locals prevent encroachment on the land by working together with the government to safeguard it. Even though Kanchenjunga has a lot of rough, steep slopes, the region is rich in culture, nature, and life itself, drawing plenty of travelers to the peak.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
The most thrilling trip is to Kanchenjunga Base Camp as it is the highest mountain in the world, rising to a height of 8,586 meters and straddling the borders of Nepal, Tibet, and India. It provides breathtaking vistas of landscapes and valleys where you may experience nature at its finest. The route leads from Darjeeling to Chaurikhang and Rathong Glacier via Yukhsang, Bakkhim, Phedang, Dzongri, and Bikhbari. The journey is a true experience, with panoramic views of mountain ranges, lush, deep forests, a variety of flora and animals, tribal communities, and yaks grazing along the way.
Best Time to Visit Kanchenjunga
Snowy and difficult weather conditions may be found at Kanchenjunga. Kanchenjunga often has wintertime lows of 15 degrees. So, the best seasons to see the magnificent peak are spring and fall. Summer rainstorms increase the risk of avalanches and landslides.
Difficulty of Mt. Kanchenjunga
The ground is rougher and more treacherous. There are certain days that call for strenuous trekking that might last up to 8 hours. Glaciers make the going treacherous and difficult. Landslides and avalanches may occur during the wet and winter months.
Going There
Rail: Yuksom is located roughly 150 kilometres from the nearest railroad station, New Jalpaiguri.
Road: Several significant cities, notably Siliguri, are easily reachable by road from Yuksom, the base camp for Goecha La. It is located around 140 kilometers distant and acts as a gateway to Sikkim and its main city Gangtok.
This trip to Kanchenjunga is not for the faint of heart. It is a test of one’s resolve and perseverance. There are many obstacles on the way. However, the trip is one of the most daring and exciting ones yet because to the biodiversity, scenery, and experience. The journey is healthy despite all of the difficulties. There is much beauty in nature there.
-by: Kusum Kharel for Land Nepal
