Take the path less travelled. If you want to avoid the crowds of trekkers, trek through Taplejung in the Kanchenjunga region to enjoy remarkable views of towering Himalayan peaks, one of which is the 3rd highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m). Walk through verdant green hilltops, through resplendant rhododendron forests, remote villages and discover cultures that are unique to this region. You will be walking in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area that covers 2,035 sq. km. including two peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga.This is one of the most beautiful areas in the country in far-eastern Nepal bordering India in the east and the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China in the north. Alpine grasslands, rocky outcrops, dense temperate, sub-tropical forests, and low river valleys make up the area.
The rich cultural heritage of Taplejung is reflected in the Buddhist gompas (monasteries) such as the 400-year old Diki Chhyoling Gompa of Olangchungola which has a life size statue of Avalokiteshwara. A butter lamp at the altar has been burning here uninterrupted since the construction of the gompa. The waters of a small stream outside the gompa continuously spin twelve prayer wheels with the prayer “Om Mane Padme Hum” inscribed on them.
Tourist facilities are available in Phungling Bazaar and Suketar. Trekkers in this region take camping equipment like tents and food along as lodging facilities are inadequate. Trekkers can make use of lodges, teashops and campsites that are available en route to Kanchenjunga and Pathibhara.
Trekking in eastern Nepal especially the Kanchenjunga treks are rewarding as the culture and landscape is unique to this region and few other trekkers are encountered along the way. These treks are typically two weeks long and established campsites are available for camping, as lodges along these routes are not always open.
