Singalila Ridge to Kangchenjunga

The Singalila Ridge rises steadily form the steamy lowlands of the Indian plains the whole way to the majestic, icy vastness of Kangchenjunga, at 8,586m the world's third highest peak.

This route joins the middle section of the ridge, winding through superb high forests and banks of rhododendron and azalea, providing glimpses of the high Himalayas. As the ridge ascends, you emerge from the trees, and enjoy marvellous views, from Everest and Makalu to the west, to Kangchenjunga itself in the north-east.

This central section of the ridge is currently (2012) closed to visitors as a result of the sensitivity of the border with Nepal, which the path runs beside. PLEASE LET US KNOW IF THIS SITUATION CHANGES. Many people currently do a combination of the Lower Singalila Ridge and Goecha La.

The trail then drops off the Singalila Ridge, crossing a series of tough ridges above deep gorges, with ever closer views of the high peaks of the Singalila Ridge, rising to the huge, snowy mass of Kangchenjunga itself.

At Dzong Ri you join the popular circuit from Yuksom to your final destination, the 4,940m Goecha La pass. The views from this section of the Kangchenjunga massif, and the vast barrier of the Greater Himalayas, are stupendous.

The path then drops to the magnificent deep gorge of the Prek Chu River, climbing eventually to the snowy Goecha La, with its incredible views of Kangchenjunga. The path returns down the Prek Chu through deep, damp forest to the road head at Yukson.

You may stay in simple huts on the lower reaches of this walk, but thereafter you will need to be entirely self-sufficient until you join the popular Yuksom Circuit.

See our Kangchenjunga / Singalila page for further detailed information, including practicalities