Travel Information of Makalu & Kanchenjunga Region

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March-May) – Ideal for rhododendron blooms, pleasant temperatures, and active wildlife.

• Autumn (October-November) – Offers crystal-clear views, stable weather, and excellent trekking conditions.

Permits Required:

• Makalu Barun National Park Permit – NPR 3,000 per person

• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit – NPR 2,000 per person

• Restricted Area Permit (for Kanchenjunga) – USD 10 per person per week

• TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) – NPR 2,000 per person

Getting There:

• Makalu Region: The trek begins from Tumlingtar, accessible by a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu followed by a jeep ride to Num, the starting point of most Makalu treks.

• Kanchenjunga Region: Access is via Taplejung or Suketar, reached by flights from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur or Biratnagar, followed by jeep travel to the trailhead.

• Alternative overland routes involve long bus rides but are less common due to difficult road conditions.

Accommodation:

• Basic teahouses are available along the main trekking routes, but they become increasingly sparse in higher elevations.

• Camping is essential for many sections, especially on technical crossings or in remote areas of both regions.

Altitude Considerations:

• The Makalu Base Camp trek reaches 5,100m (16,732ft), requiring careful acclimatization.

• Kanchenjunga's base camps reach similar elevations of around 5,000m (16,400ft).

• High passes like Sherpani Col (6,100m/20,013ft) in Makalu and Mirgin La (4,646m/15,243ft) in Kanchenjunga demand mountaineering experience and proper equipment.

Connectivity:

• Minimal to no mobile coverage beyond the lower villages in both regions. Satellite phones are recommended for emergency communication.

• Limited electricity – solar charging is available in some teahouses, but power banks are highly recommended.

Guided Trekking Requirements:

• Both regions require trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide.

• For Kanchenjunga, a minimum of two trekkers is required by government regulations.

Experience Nepal's eastern wilderness—where towering peaks, pristine forests, and authentic cultural encounters await the adventurous traveler willing to venture beyond the well-trodden paths.