Khangchendzonga National Park

Khangchendzonga National Park, also known as Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve, is a protected sanctuary situated in the state of Sikkim, India. To protect the high-altitude ecosystem of the state, Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) was established in 1977, spanning the North, West, and South Sikkim districts. Located between 27°30′ to 27°55′ N latitude and 88°02′ to 88°37′ E longitude, the park covers 1,784 square kilometers, which represents about 25% of the state’s geographical area.

Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2016, it proudly holds the title of first “Mixed Heritage” site in India, blending exceptional natural beauty with profound cultural significance. Further elevating its global stature, the park is also part of the prestigious UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme, highlighting its critical role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Geo-physical Features of Khangchendzonga National Park

Spanning an extraordinary vertical sweep of over 7 kilometers, from 1,220 meters to the lofty heights of 8,586 meters, the Kanchenjunga National Park boasts a stunning array of ecological zones, each with its own dramatic characteristics. The Montane Forest Zone, ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 meters, is a lush, verdant realm filled with dense forests of broad-leaved trees and vibrant temperate shrubs. Ascending higher, the Subalpine Zone, from 3,500 to 4,000 meters, presents a rugged, awe-inspiring landscape of stunted conifers and resilient shrubs thriving in the harsh, cold climate.

Above this, the Alpine Zone, spanning from 4,000 to 5,000 meters, features expansive, windswept meadows and stark, rocky terrain, where only the hardiest of plants endure the severe conditions. The Subnival or Higher Alpine Zone, at 5,000 to 5,500 meters, is a breathtaking, icy expanse dominated by glaciers and snowfields, with minimal vegetation clinging to life. At the summit, the Glacial Zone, above 5,500 meters, is a pristine, frozen frontier, where the landscape is a relentless field of ice and snow, and life is scarce. Each of these zones contributes to the park’s remarkable and diverse ecological landscape, creating a dynamic and beautiful environment.

At its heart lies the Khangchendzonga Massif, crowned by Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), the world’s third-highest peak, alongside a constellation of other majestic summits such as Kabru North, Talung, Pandim, Rathong, and Siniolchu. The park also boasts the expansive Zemu Glacier, stretching 26 kilometers as the largest glacier in the Eastern Himalaya, and 73 glacial lakes, each a pristine jewel in its high-altitude setting.

Khangchendzonga National Park: Flora and Fauna

This national park is an integral part of the greater Khangchendzonga landscape, providing vital biological connectivity with the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area in Nepal, Barsey and Maenam Sanctuaries in Sikkim, and Singalila National Park in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. This interconnected landscape supports the movement and genetic diversity of various species, ensuring their long-term survival. The park harbors four species of endangered mammals: the elusive snow leopard (Uncia uncia), the charming red panda (Ailurus fulgens), the agile wild dog (Cuon alpinus), and the unique particolored flying squirrel (Hylopetes alboniger). Recognizing its significance for avian biodiversity, the BNHS-BirdLife International declared Khangchendzonga National Park as an “Important Bird Area” in 2004.

Situated within the Himalayan global biodiversity hotspot, KNP shelters a staggering diversity of flora and fauna, including numerous endemic, rare, and threatened species. It hosts nearly half of India’s bird species, such as the Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Himalayan Monal, and Fire-tailed Myzornis, with over 550 species recorded.

The park is also home to one-third of India’s flowering plants, including Rhododendrons, Orchids, and Blue Poppy, thriving in its subtropical forests and krummholz (stunted forests) zones.

These habitats support a rich assemblage of mammals, including the elusive Snow Leopard, charismatic Red Panda, Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, and endemic species like the Himalayan Black Bear and Tibetan Wild Ass. The park’s diverse habitats serve as critical havens for these species, affirming its status as a cornerstone of Himalayan biodiversity conservation.

Cultural Landscape in and around Khangchendzonga National Park

KNP, beyond its ecological significance, holds profound spiritual and cultural importance for the indigenous Lepcha and Bhutia communities of Sikkim. The name “Kanchenjunga,” derived from Tibetan, translates to “The Five Treasures of the Snow,” symbolizing the five repositories of God – gold, silver, gems, grain, and holy books.

For the Lepcha people, who are the original inhabitants of the region, Khangchendzonga is revered as a sacred mountain embodying the abode of their guardian deity, Teyongsi Samba. The mountain is central to their religious beliefs and cultural practices, deeply ingrained in their folklore and rituals. The Lepchas traditionally worship Khangchendzonga to seek blessings for prosperity, fertility, and protection from natural calamities.

Similarly, for the Bhutia community, descendants of Tibetan immigrants who settled in Sikkim centuries ago, Khangchendzonga holds spiritual significance as one of the holiest mountains in Tibetan Buddhism. It is regarded as a sacred site associated with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the revered Buddhist master who introduced Buddhism to the region. Bhutia monasteries and prayer flags dot the landscape around the park, reflecting their spiritual connection to the mountain and its surroundings.

Moreover, the cultural heritage of these communities is intricately linked to the natural landscapes within Khangchendzonga National Park. Traditional practices of yak herding, medicinal plant collection, and sustainable agriculture continue to thrive, embodying a harmonious relationship between humans and nature that has endured for centuries.

How to Explore Khangchendzonga National Park

Khangchendzonga National Park spans across Mangan and Gyalshing districts and is divided into distinct zones — Core, Buffer, and Transition. While tourism primarily occurs in the Transition Zone, visitors can venture into the Buffer Zone through short and long hikes and explore the Core Zone via well-known trekking routes.

In some areas, motorable roads and human settlements directly border the Core Zone, offering convenient access points. Additionally, a few motorable places are situated within the Buffer Zone, providing unique opportunities to experience the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife habitats up close. This arrangement ensures that visitors can enjoy both the natural beauty and cultural richness of Khangchendzonga National Park while adhering to conservation guidelines that protect its fragile ecosystem.

Buffer Zone 1 (North Sikkim)

Entry Point 1: Muguthang in Lhonak Valley

The route from Thangu Village to Muguthang via Kala Patthar is renowned for its stunning high-altitude landscapes. This area offers breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks and verdant valleys. The motorable road runs along the border of the core zone, providing easy access to trekkers and travelers.

• Trekking Route to Kanchendzonga Base Camp: From Muguthang, trekking routes lead to the Kanchendzonga Base Camp, venturing deep into the core zone. These treks are ideal for adventure enthusiasts and offer a chance to witness the pristine beauty of the Himalayas up close.

Entry Point 2: Lachen

The villages in Lachen, such as Zema, Yathang, and Thangu Village, are situated just outside the core zone. In some cases, the road passes through the core zone, particularly beyond Lachen after crossing the Zemu Chu Bridge.

• Lamo Andong View Point: At the confluence of the Lachen and Zemu Chu rivers, the road briefly enters the core zone, offering spectacular views of Lamo Andong Peak from the Lamo Andong View Point before exiting near the start of Zema Village.
• Trekking Route to Green Lake: From Yathang Village, trekking routes lead to Green Lake, passing through the core zone. Green Lake Trek is one of the most scenic treks in the region, providing an opportunity to explore diverse flora and fauna and offering panoramic views of the majestic Khangchendzonga and surrounding peaks.

Buffer Zone 2: Dzongu Region (North Sikkim):

Dzongu, located in North Sikkim, is a hidden gem ideal for tourists seeking to explore the buffer and core zones of Kanchenjunga National Park. This region is uniquely positioned in the transition zone of the park and offers a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Key villages such as Lingza and Tingvong are motorable and lie just at the boundary of the core zone, offering easy access for visitors.

• Sakyong and Pentong: Further into the park, Sakyong and Pentong, reachable via footpaths from Lingza, serve as entry points to the core zone of the park. These paths meander through lush forests and offer glimpses of the rich biodiversity that Khangchendzonga National Park is famous for.
• Tholung Monastery: From the village of Bay, a moderate 5 to 6-hour hike leads to the historic Tholung Monastery, located within the buffer zone. This monastery is not only a place of spiritual significance but also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Trek to Kishyong Lake: For those seeking more adventure, a strenuous trek from Tholung Monastery will lead to Kishyong Lake (or Kishong Lake), nestled deep within the heart (Core Zone) of Khangchendzonga National Park. This lake trek is a journey through dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrains, providing trekkers with an immersive experience of the park’s untouched wilderness.

Buffer Zone 3 (South & West Sikkim)

Entry Point 1: Phamthang (South Sikkim)

Phamthang, situated in the Transition Zone, is accessible by vehicle from Borong in the South Sikkim district.

• Trek to Panch Pokhari: This village marks the start of the trek into the core zone of the park, leading to the sacred Panch Pokhari (Five Holy Lakes) and extending to the base camp of Mt. Narsing, the highest peak in South Sikkim.
• Scenic Drive: The journey from Borong to Phamthang offers a scenic drive through diverse landscapes, gradually transitioning into the lush environments of the Buffer Zone.
• Sada Village: Along the route, trekkers pass through Sada, another village located above Phamthang and closer to the Buffer Zone’s border, which serves as an important waypoint for acclimatization and preparation.

Entry Point 2: Dhupidara (West Sikkim)

Dhupidara village in West Sikkim marks the entry point to the Khangchendzonga National Park in Buffer Zone 3.

• Trekking Routes: Dhupidara offers trekkers a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region, starting several trekking routes from this point.
• Rungdung Waterfall: The trek includes key highlights such as the Rungdung Waterfall, renowned for its scenic beauty and refreshing ambiance.
• Nyaythang Village: Continuing on, trekkers reach Nyaythang, situated right inside the buffer zone of KNP. This serene spot is perfect for rest and acclimatization.
• Lhari-Rinchen-Nying Phug (Heart of the Gods Cave): The trek culminates at the Lhari-Rinchen-Nying Phug or Lahringphu Cave, a spiritually significant site featuring seven caves, each with unique religious and historical importance.

Buffer Zone 4 (West Sikkim)

Entry Point 1: Yuksom

Yuksom, a historic village in West Sikkim, serves as a prominent entry point to the Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) Buffer Zone 4. Known as the gateway to the park, Yuksom is rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Trekking Route to Goecha La:

The most popular trekking route from Yuksom leads to Goecha La Pass. This trek provides stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga and other high peaks. The journey takes trekkers through the lush forests of the buffer zone, across alpine meadows, and into the core zone of KNP. Key villages and landmarks en route include:

• Sachen: The first camping site, surrounded by dense forests.
• Bakhim: Known for its rhododendron forests and scenic views.
• Tshoka: A small Tibetan settlement, offering a beautiful monastery and breathtaking views.
• Dzongri: A high-altitude meadow, providing panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
• Thansing: The last major campsite before Goecha La, located in an open valley.
• Lamuney: The final campsite before the summit push to Goecha La.

HMI Base Camp Trek:

The HMI (Himalayan Mountaineering Institute) Base Camp Trek starts from Yuksom and passes through various locations with breathtaking views of the surrounding areas like Sachen, Tshoka, and Dzongri.

• Training and Exploration: This trek is famous for close-up views of many mountains in the Rathong Valley and provides access to HMI’s base camp, which is known for its mountaineering courses.
• Additional Highlights: Trekkers can visit Rathong Glacier and two sacred lakes – Dudh Pokhari and Baley Pokhari.

Cultural Heritage: Yuksom is the first capital of Sikkim and home to several historical sites, including the Norbugang Coronation Throne, Tashiding Monastery, and Dubdi Monastery, offering a blend of cultural exploration and natural trekking.

Entry Point 2: Uttarey

Uttarey, a serene village in West Sikkim, acts as a less-trodden entry point to the KNP Buffer Zone 4. Known for its tranquility and natural beauty, Uttarey offers a more secluded experience for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

• Trekking Route to Singalila Ridge: From Uttarey, trekkers can embark on the Singalila Ridge trek, which traverses the buffer zone and provides stunning vistas of the Everest and Kanchenjunga ranges. This route also offers a chance to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
• Eco-Tourism: Uttarey is developing as an eco-tourism hub, with initiatives to promote sustainable tourism and preserve the natural environment. Visitors can explore local culture, traditional farming practices, and community-based tourism activities.

Entry Point 4: Tashiding

Tashiding, a picturesque village and significant religious site, serves as another entry point to the KNP Buffer Zone 4.

• Trekking Route to Yuksom: The trek from Tashiding to Yuksom is a shorter route that provides an immersive experience of the region’s cultural and natural landscapes. The trail passes through dense forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages.
• Spiritual Significance: Tashiding Monastery is one of the most revered monasteries in Sikkim, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The annual Bumchu Festival, celebrated here, is a major event that showcases the local culture and religious traditions.