Kangchenjunga — Attraction in Benxung

Kangchenjunga, also spelled Kanchenjunga, is the third highest mountain in the world. It rises with an elevation of 8,586 m (28,169 ft) in a section of the Himalayas called Kangchenjunga Himal delimited in the west by the Tamur River, in the north by the Lhonak Chu and Jongsang La, and in the east by the Teesta River.3 It lies between Nepal and Sikkim, India, with three of the five peaks (Main, Central, and South) directly on the border,4] and the remaining two (West and Kangbachen) in Nepal's Taplejung District of Province No. 1.[5]

Until 1852, Kangchenjunga was assumed to be the highest mountain in the world, but calculations based on various readings and measurements made by the Great Trigonometrical Survey started by the British infantry officer William Lambton came to the conclusion in 1849 that Mount Everest, known as Peak XV at the time, was the highest. Allowing for further verification of all calculations, it was officially announced in 1856 that Kangchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world.[6]

Kangchenjunga was first climbed on 25 May 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band, who were part of the 1955 British Kangchenjunga expedition. They stopped short of the summit in accordance with the promise given to the Chogyal that the top of the mountain would remain intact. Every climber or climbing group that has reached the summit has followed this tradition.

Kangchenjunga is the official spelling adopted by Douglas Freshfield, Alexander Mitchell Kellas, and the Royal Geographical Society that gives the best indication of the Tibetan pronunciation. Freshfield referred to the spelling used by the Indian Government since the late 19th century.[3] Alternative spellings include Kanchenjunga, Khangchendzonga and Kangchendzönga.[8[10]

The brothers Hermann, Adolf and Robert Schlagintweit explained the local name 'Kanchinjínga' meaning “The five treasures of the high snow” as originating from the Tibetan word "gangs" pronounced [kaŋ] meaning snow, ice; "chen" pronounced [tɕen] meaning great; "mzod" meaning treasure; "lnga" meaning five.[11]

Local Lhopo people believe that the treasures are hidden but reveal themselves to the devout when the world is in peril; the treasures comprise salt, gold, turquoise and precious stones, sacred scriptures, invincible armor or ammunition, grain, and medicine.[12]

Kangchenjunga's name in the Limbu language is Senjelungma or Seseylungma, and is believed to be an abode of the omnipotent goddess Yuma Sammang.

The main ridge of the massif runs from north-northeast to south-southwest and forms a watershed to several rivers.[16] Together with ridges running roughly from east to west they form a giant cross.[3] These ridges contain a host of peaks between 6,000 and 8,586 m (19,685 and 28,169 ft). The northern section includes Yalung Kang, Kangchenjunga Central and South, Kangbachen, Kirat Chuli, and Gimmigela Chuli, and runs up to the Jongsang La. The eastern ridge in Sikkim includes Siniolchu. The southern section runs along the Nepal-Sikkim border and includes Kabru I to III.[1] This ridge extends southwards to the Singalila Ridge.[21] The western ridge culminates in the Kumbhakarna, also known as Jannu.[1]

Four main glaciers radiate from the peak, pointing roughly to the northeast, southeast, northwest, and southwest. The Zemu glacier in the northeast and the Talung glacier in the southeast drain to the Teesta River; the Yalung glacier in the southwest and the Kangchen glacier in the northwest drain to the Arun and Kosi rivers.[22] The glaciers spread over the area above approximately 5,000 m (16,000 ft), and the glacialized area covers about 314 km2 (121 sq mi) in total.[23] There are 120 glaciers in the Kanchenjunga Himal, of which 17 are debris-covered. Between 1958 and 1992, more than half of 57 examined glaciers had retreated, possibly due to rising of air...

Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, is a mesmerizing peak located in the eastern Himalayas, straddling the border of Nepal and India. Revered for its breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance, this majestic mountain offers an awe-inspiring experience for mountaineers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts.

As I embarked on my journey towards Kangchenjunga, the surrounding landscapes unfolded like a captivating painting. The lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and rhododendron forests created a vivid tapestry of colors and textures. The region's rich biodiversity was evident as I encountered rare species of flora and fauna along the way, including the elusive red panda and the vibrant Himalayan orchids.

Kangchenjunga, meaning "The Five Treasures of Snows" in Tibetan, consists of five distinct peaks, each standing tall and proud. The awe-inspiring sight of these majestic snow-capped giants commands respect and reverence. The ethereal beauty of Kangchenjunga changes with the shifting light, creating a mesmerizing play of shadows and reflections that is truly enchanting.

For mountaineers, scaling Kangchenjunga is a formidable challenge, demanding great technical expertise, physical stamina, and a deep respect for the mountain's unpredictable nature. The steep ridges, treacherous icefalls, and unpredictable weather conditions test the limits of human endurance. Only a select few have had the privilege of reaching the summit, conquering this legendary peak with unwavering determination and skill.

For trekkers, the region surrounding Kangchenjunga offers a multitude of trails that weave through pristine landscapes, remote villages, and ancient monasteries. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, in particular, takes adventurers on a journey through breathtaking alpine meadows, high passes, and hidden valleys. The warm hospitality of the local communities, their rich cultural traditions, and the breathtaking panoramas provide a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Kangchenjunga and its surrounding region are also known for their spiritual significance. The mountain is revered by the local communities as a sacred deity, and its majestic presence exudes a sense of tranquility and serenity. The monasteries that dot the landscape offer a sanctuary for reflection and spiritual introspection, allowing visitors to connect with the profound spirituality that permeates the region.

It is important to note that Kangchenjunga is a protected area, and visiting requires adhering to strict regulations and permits to ensure the preservation of its fragile ecosystem. Engaging experienced guides and porters who are well-versed in the region's challenges and customs is essential for a safe and responsible journey.

In conclusion, Kangchenjunga is a true gem of the Himalayas, a testament to the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature. Its majestic peaks, pristine landscapes, and spiritual significance create a profound connection with the natural world. Whether standing in awe of its majesty, trekking through its captivating trails, or immersing oneself in the local culture and traditions, Kangchenjunga offers an unforgettable experience that leaves an indelible mark on the soul. A visit to this enchanting throne of the snows is an opportunity to witness the sublime beauty and power of the mountains, reminding us of our place in the grand tapestry of the...

Kangchenjunga (Nepali: कञ्चनजङ्घा; Hindi: कंचनजंघा; Sikkimese: ཁང་ཅེན་ཛོཾག་), also spelled Kanchenjunga, is the third highest mountain in the world, and lies partly in Nepal and partly in Sikkim, India.3] It rises with an elevation of 8,586 m (28,169 ft) in a section of the Himalayas called Kangchenjunga Himal that is limited in the west by the Tamur River, in the north by the Lhonak Chu and Jongsang La, and in the east by the Teesta River.[1]

Mount Kangchenjunga lies about 125 km (78 mi) east-south-east of Mount Everest.[4] It is the second highest mountain of the Himalayas. Three of the five peaks – Main, Central and South – are on the border between North Sikkim and Nepal.[5] Two peaks are in Nepal's Taplejung District.[6]

Kangchenjunga Main is the highest mountain in India, and the easternmost of the mountains higher than 8,000 m (26,000 ft). It is called Five Treasures of Snow after its five high peaks, and has always been worshipped by the people of Darjeeling and Sikkim.[7]

Until 1852, Kangchenjunga was assumed to be the highest mountain in the world, but calculations based on various readings and measurements made by the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India in 1849 came to the conclusion that Mount Everest, known as Peak XV at the time, was the highest. Allowing for further verification of all calculations, it was officially announced in 1856 that Kangchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world.[8]

Kangchenjunga was first climbed on 25 May 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band, who were part of a British expedition. They stopped short of the summit in accordance with the promise given to the Chogyal that the top of the mountain would remain inviolate. Every climber or climbing group that has reached the summit has followed this tradition.[7] Other members of this expedition included John Angelo Jackson and Tom Mackinon.Kangchenjunga is the official spelling adopted by Douglas Freshfield, Alexander Mitchell Kellas, and the Royal Geographical Society that gives the best indication of the Tibetan pronunciation. Freshfield referred to the spelling used by the Indian Government since the late 19th century.[3] There are a number of alternative spellings including Kangchendzönga, Khangchendzonga, and Kanchenjunga.[10[12]

The brothers Hermann, Adolf and Robert Schlagintweit explained the local name Kanchinjínga (Tibetan: གངས་ཆེན་མཛོད་ལྔ་, Wylie: gangs chen mdzod lnga, Sikkimese IPA: [k̀ʱɐŋt͡ɕʰẽd͡zø̃ŋɐ]) meaning "The five treasures of the high snow" as originating from the Tibetan word (following IPA given in Sikkimese) gangs /k̀ʱɐŋ/ meaning "snow, ice"; chen /t͡ɕʰẽ/ meaning "great"; mdzod /d͡zø/ meaning "treasure"; lnga /̃ŋɐ/ meaning "five". It means "The Five repositories or ledges of great snow" and is physically descriptive of its five peaks.[13] Local Lhopo people believe that the treasures are hidden but reveal to the devout when the world is in peril; the treasures comprise salt, gold, turquoise and precious stones, sacred scriptures, invincible armor or ammunition, grain and medicine.[14]

Kangchenjunga's name in the Limbu language is Senjelungma or Seseylungma, and is believed to be an abode of the omnipotent goddess...