Introduction to Kanchenjunga Trek
Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world, situated in the eastern part of Nepal bordering India. The Kanchenjunga circuit trek is one of the most popular and challenging treks in Nepal, attracting adventure enthusiasts from around the world. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, beautiful landscapes, and an opportunity to experience the unique culture of the people living in the region. However, planning a trek to Kanchenjunga requires careful consideration of the cost involved.
Permit Cost
To trek in the Kanchenjunga region, trekkers need to obtain a special trekking permit from the Nepalese government. The permit cost for Kanchenjunga trek is relatively high compared to other treks in Nepal due to its remote location and restricted area status. The permit cost varies depending on the number of days you plan to spend in the region.
For the first 7 days, the permit cost is USD 10 per person per day, while for the next 7 days, the permit cost is USD 20 per person per day. After 14 days, the permit cost increases to USD 30 per person per day. In addition, trekkers need to obtain a separate permit for entering the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
Guide and Porter Cost
While it is possible to trek in the Kanchenjunga region without a guide or porter, it is highly recommended to hire them for a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience. The cost of hiring a guide and porter depends on the duration of the trek and the services you require.
On average, the cost of hiring a guide ranges from USD 20 to USD 30 per day, while the cost of hiring a porter ranges from USD 15 to USD 20 per day. It is important to note that these costs do not include their accommodation, food, and transportation expenses. Therefore, it is customary to cover these expenses for your guide and porter during the trek.
Accommodation and Food Cost
The cost of accommodation and food on the Kanchenjunga trek varies depending on the type of accommodation you choose and your food preferences. Tea houses are the most common form of accommodation on the Kanchenjunga trek, offering basic amenities such as a bed, blanket, and shared bathroom facilities.
The cost of accommodation in a tea house ranges from USD 3 to USD 7 per night, depending on the location and facilities. Food is usually available in the tea houses and ranges from local Nepali cuisine to western-style dishes. The cost of meals varies depending on the type of food and the location, but on average, trekkers can expect to spend around USD 20 to USD 25 per day on food.
Transportation Cost
The Kanchenjunga trek starts and ends in the town of Taplejung, which can be reached by a domestic flight from Kathmandu or a long drive from the city. The cost of a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Taplejung ranges from USD 200 to USD 250 per person, while the cost of a private jeep ride from Kathmandu to Taplejung is around USD 400 to USD 500.
Miscellaneous Costs
There are a few other miscellaneous costs that trekkers should keep in mind when planning a trek to Kanchenjunga. These include travel insurance, visa fees, and equipment rental costs. Travel insurance is highly recommended for all trekkers and can cost anywhere from USD 50 to USD 100 per person for a 30-day trek.
Visa fees for entering Nepal can range from USD 30 to USD 125, depending on the duration of your stay. Equipment rental costs, such as renting a sleeping bag, down jacket, or trekking poles, can add up to around USD 2 to USD 5 per day.
Conclusion:
The total cost of a trek to Kanchenjunga can vary depending on the duration of the trek, the number of people in the group, and the services required. However, as a rough estimate, the cost of a 20-day trek to Kanchenjunga for a single person can range from USD 1500 to USD 2000, including all the necessary permits, guide and porter services, accommodation, food, transportation, and miscellaneous costs.
It is important to keep in mind that these costs are subject to change and may vary depending on the season and the availability of services. Therefore, it is recommended to research and plan the Kanchenjunga trek well in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience without breaking the budget.
