Mount Kanchenjunga (8586 m), third highest mountain in the world after Everest and K2 (in Pakistan), stands astride the eastern border between Nepal and the Indian State of Sikkim. After landing at Sukhetar (Taplejung) airport after a short flight from Kathmandu, the trek trail onwards is somewhat different from the utter ruggedness of the Everest region but equally delightful. The vast area below this sacred mountain is stunningly beautiful with more than eight glaciers plus snow-melt rivers while the actual sight of the peak itself is unforgettable. One travels through villages of the Kiranti people who, though somewhat similar in appearance to the Sherpas of the Khumbu, have a completely different culture, religious beliefs and language. The names of the places you will pass through reflect the language and ethnic origins of the Kirantis. The altitudes as you proceed rise gradually until you reach the Kangchenjunga Base Camp and Glacier at 5150 meters at Pangpema. Return along part of the same trail before heading south from Ghunsa (3795 m) until you reach back to Sukhetar (Taplejung) for your flight back to Kathmandu.
