Kanchenjunga West

Kanchenjunga West is a summit in the Himalayan range at 8,505 meters elevation, rising between Nepal and India with steep rocky faces. Multiple glaciers and valleys surround the peak, creating different approaches to the mountain.

The summit remained largely unexplored until 1955 when a British expedition established multiple camps for the ascent. This effort marked a turning point in exploring the Kanchenjunga massif and drew international attention to the range.

Local Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu communities maintain traditional practices with spiritual ceremonies that take place before expeditions. These customs shape how visitors experience and respect the mountain.

Climbers typically begin from Suketar airport and need two months of preparation and acclimatization. The southeast ridge route demands technical climbing skills and should only be attempted with experienced guides.

The mountain features two distinct base camps: one on Kangchenjunga Glacier to the north and another on Yalung Glacier to the south. Each approach offers different views of the terrain and requires separate climbing routes.

Location: Taplejung District

Elevation above the sea: 8,505 m

GPS coordinates: 27.70520,88.13670

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:42