Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest summit, rises dramatically above the rolling emerald countryside north of the hill station of Darjeeling, India. Although separated by a mere 46-miles (74-km) as the eagle flies, Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling are functionally in different worlds. The serene, forgiving lush lowlands contrast sharply with the majestic and forbidding icy summits.

Stretching northward and embracing the southern arc of Kanchenjunga, the tea plantations near Darjeeling give way imperceptibly to the spice plantations of Nepal and Sikkim. The relief in elevation from 235-ft m.s.l. at Biratnagar Nepal on the terai, the plains along the Indian border, to the main summit block at 28,208-ft (8595-mtr) m.s.l. is one of the greatest in the world.

Major Trekking routes in Kanchenjunga

Kanchenjunga North and South Face Base Camp
This wonderful trek begins and ends at the small airstrip at Sukhetar [Taplejung], which lies in the remote north east corner of Nepal. It takes you through fascinating villages and pristine forests to the awe-inspiring South Face Base Camp at Ramche, before crossing the Mirgin La to the north side of Kanchenjunga and the Pang Pema base camp.

The magnificent mountain views, traditional villages, cascading mountain rivers and scarcity of other trekkers combine to make this trek a glorious and unforgettable experience

Kanchenjunga South Face Base Camp
This trek approaches the South Face base camp of the World's third highest peak, Kanchenjunga [8598m.] which lies in the eastern frontier of Nepal. The trek begins right after landing at a STOL airstrip at Taplejung and takes you through fascinating villages and pristine forests to the awe-inspiring South Face Base Camp at Ramche at 4360 meter, before crossing to the north side of Kanchenjunga via the Mirgin La, the highest pass at 4663 meter. Glacial excursion around Ramche is truly an unforgettable experience. The return trek via Ghunsa is easier as most of the path passes along river valley.

Darjeeling-Batast-Tonglo-Sandakphu-Return:
This is a 6/7 days moderate trekking from Maneshanjang, which is 26-km by road from Darjeeling and ideal for views along a standard trail. A popular trekking route from Darjeeling, this trek takes one to Sandakphu and Phalut from where one can have breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and Mt. Everest.

Kalimpong Treks:
Another adventurous high altitude trek done in Darjeeling is in the Kalimpong region from Relli, Pankhasari, and Neora to the highest point in the areas, Rochella at 3,400m. From here it is a steady descent to Tangta, Jhalang along the foothills to Samsing. Trekkers can enjoy the natural panorama of exotic varieties of Himalayan flora, bird, and wildlife that can be seen along this route.

Darjeeling/Gangatok-Pemanyangtse-Yoksum-Dzongri:
The most popular trek in Sikkim is from Yuksom to Dzongri and Goccha La for superb views of Kanchenjunga. Two peaks in Dzongri area of West Sikkim, Thingchen Khang and Jopunob, have been declared 'Trekking Peaks', which means they are free of royalty payment.