Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest summit, rises dramatically above the rolling emerald countryside north of the hill station of Darjeeling, India. Although separated by a mere 46-miles (74-km) as the eagle flies, Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling are functionally in different worlds. The serene, forgiving lush lowlands contrast sharply with the majestic and forbidding icy summits. Stretching northward and embracing the southern arc of Kanchenjunga, the tea plantations near Darjeeling give way imperceptibly to the spice plantations of Nepal and Sikkim.

The relief in elevation from 235-ft m.s.l. at Biratnagar Nepal on the terai, the plains along the Indian border, to the main summit block at 28,208-ft (8595-mtr) m.s.l. is one of the greatest in the world.

Trekking Grade: Moderate/High Altitude .