Kanchenjunga Region: Lies in eastern Nepal close to the Nepal-India border. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world looms majestically over this isolated region. Popular trekking trails in the region include the trails to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek, and a loop of both the base camps known as Kanchenjunga Circuit. Revered by the Buddhist Sherpas and Lepchas living in the foothills of Kanchenjunga, the five summits of the Kanchenjunga Massif are regarded as the “five treasures of the snow”. In the lower hills, you will find villages of the Rai, Limbu, and Gurung communities. They rely on terrace farming, weaving, and sheep rearing for sustenance. Limbu women from this region are known for their expertise in weaving “Dhaka,” Nepal’s traditional textile. While trekking through the region one gets to experience diverse landscapes, from lush rhododendron and pine forests in the lower hills to the treeless alpine tundra in the higher reaches. The region also has a rich wildlife population. Snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and blue sheep inhabit the dense jungles and mountainous slopes. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project was established in 1998 to protect the endangered species found in this region.
Makalu Region: Lying in the Mahalangur Himalayas in eastern Nepal, Makalu Region is an unexplored gem. Filled with virgin forests, rich wildlife, massive glaciers, and majestic mountains, the Makalu Region is rarely explored. Only a handful of trekkers and climbing groups make it to this region each year. The region is home to Mount Makalu,the fifth-highest mountain in the world, and the Makalu Barun National Park. The national park shelters some of the endangered wildlife and plant species found in the Himalayas. In the lower hills of Makalu Region are villages of indigenous mountain tribes – Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu. As there are fewer visitors in this region the amenities available are quite basic. The walking trails in the Makalu Region lie off the beaten path. If you want to experience real wilderness trekking then it is to this region that you must head. The Makalu Base camp Trek, which is the most popular trek in the region. Makalu Barun National Park. The pristine alpine meadows and glaciers of the Barun Valley are a feast for the eyes. The trek culminates at the base camp of Mount Makalu, where one can enjoy the spectacular views of Makalu, Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Lhotse Shar. The isolated Makalu Region offers a great alternative for those looking for an adventure away from the popular and crowded trails.