Kanchendzonga National Park
Overview - Kanchendzonga National Park
The Kanchendzonga National Park resides in the northern and western regions of the eastern state of Sikkim. Basing its name on the Kanchenjunga Peak, the third highest at 8586 meters, it is also known as the Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve. One of the very few national parks at such a height, this park has made its mark on the UNESCO World Heritage site for the same reason. Spread over 1784 sq. kms., the name literally means, “abode of the Gods”. Legend says, religious masters have hidden holy texts and treatises across the park, which are destined to be discovered by treasure revealers from all the sacred spots. One of the famous festivities of Sikkim, Pang Lhabsol, is a thanksgiving celebration in honor of the presiding deity – Kangchendzonga.
Situated in an ecological hotpot of Himalayas, Sikkim, this park is a virgin home to over 600 species birds and a delight to travelers. The area encompasses pristine glaciers, lakes and lush valleys.
Best Time to Visit Kanchendzonga National Park
The temperature in Khangchendzonga National Park varies from -3 to 16-degree Celsius. The best time to visit this park will be April and May. Snowfall will be in full swing during the winter making the terrain a little difficult to cope with.
Highlight Species - Kanchendzonga National Park
- Green-billed Malkoha
- Bonelli’s Eagle
- Spot-bellied Eagle Owl
- Golden-throated barbet
- Red-billed Leothrix
- Blood Pheasant
- Himalayan Monal
- Satyr Tragopan
- Barred Cuckoo-Dove
- Mountain Hawk Eagle
Types of Safaris - Kanchendzonga National Park
Walking Safaris : The varying terrains of Kanchendzonga are best explored on foot. One can get up close and personal with wildlife at such a height. While on walking safaris, keep an eye out for not only colorful birds, but also Red Pandas, and if you’re really lucky, even Snow Leopards!
Famous trekking routes:
- Yuksom – Tshoka – Dzongri
- Thangsing – Lam Pokhari – Kasturi Orar – Labdang – Tashiding
- Bakim – Dzongri – Thangsing – Samuteng – Goechala
- Dzongri – Rathong – Khangerteng
How to reach Kanchendzonga National Park
By Air : The nearest air head is Bagdogra Airport at a distance of 122 kms from the Gangtok (capital of Sikkim). The park is a 04 hour drive from Gangtok. Bagdogra is well connected with major cities in India, like New Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati and even Kolkata.
By Train : The nearest Railway Station is New Jalpaiguri Station, which is a 04 hour drive from Gangtok. Another 50 kms drive from Gangtok is the Kanchendzonga National Park.
By Road : Nearest highway to Khangchendzonga is the 92 km long National Highway 31A, which connects Sevok in Darjeeling to Gangtok. The nearest town is Yuksom in the West and Chungthang in the North. The Nearest city to the National Park is Gangtok. There are regular bus services available from Gangtok to Bagdogra (4 hours ride).
- Distance from Darjeeling to Khangchendzonga National Park: 66 kms
- Distance from Gangtok to Khangchendzonga National Park: 45.9 kms
- Distance from Yuksom to Khangchendzonga National Park: 34.3 kms
- Distance from Chungthang to Khangchendzonga National Park: 32.5 kms
- Distance from Lachen to Khangchendzonga National Park: 23.6 kms
