Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Highlights of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

  • Wild and wonderful as it offers wilderness Experience.
  • Confronting Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m) is the 3rd highest mountain in the world.  
  • Popular but yet less touristic and peaceful environment. 
  • Lush green rhododendron forest, native vegetation, high alpine passes, and typical agriculture. 
  • Beautiful view of Mt. Makalu, the 5th highest mountain in the world. 
  • The ethnic diversity of cast and group of Nepal like Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu.
  • Exploration of both Kanchenjunga North and south base camps.
  • Explore the wilderness and immerse yourself in the rich flora and fauna of the region.
  • Abundant wildlife species like musk deer, snow leopard, blue sheep.
  • Special experience of glacier walks rather than normal walks on routes. 

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Overview

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a fascinating and challenging trek in the northeastern part of Nepal. Trekking to Kanchenjunga base camp is a strenuous trek in Nepal that takes a long period of 26 days. Unexplored mountain region and pristine beauty of Kanchenjunga is wonderful and worth exploring. The wilderness of the remote beauty of the Northeastern Himalayan terrain is kept beauty that fascinates every trekker with the beauty it has to offer.

Mount Kanchenjunga is the third highest peak in the world with an altitude of 8586 m standing amid the border of Nepal and India. It offers the spectacular beauty of the mountains residing in the amazing settlement. The mountain beyond 7000 m. can be explored during the trek. The trekking further encompasses the wonderful culture and traditions of the local people with diverse cultural practices. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is ideal trekking for those people who wants to explore the pristine beauty of the mountains and the Himalayas with some cultural essence and unspoiled natural beauty.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek does not only offer the unspoiled Himalayan beauty but also the geographical and natural variations. The tropical to Alpine climate and amazing flora and fauna lying in the diverse terrains is another part to explore. The traditional rural settlement of ethnic groups and people makes this trek more fascinating. You can explore the village settlements of Rai, Limbu, Sherpa and Gurung people who have their very distinct and unique practices.

Toddling around the Kanchenjunga region is one of the most fascinating things that you can do in the eastern Himalayas of Nepal. The trekking area of Kanchenjunga is protected by KCAP (Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project). So, before trekking in this region, you need to obtain some trekking permits and project area permits.

Our Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek offers the astounding experience in the core Himalayan region in eastern Nepal. The trekking experience further extends to the beautiful panoramic Himalayas and the picturesque beauty alongside the wonderful cultural spectrums in the rural settlement. The trekking is challenging in terms of the altitude variation and the accommodation facilities along the trek. This trek is not so recommendable for the newbies as a previous experience can help to halt the unnecessary mountain altitude troubles. Also, previous experience in trekking helps to make the longer trek convenient. However, trekking in this region does not need any expert technical knowledge as there are not any difficult technical passes and glaciers along the trek.

This trek is an excellent opportunity to explore the hidden mountain panorama, variations of the landscapes, alpine grasslands and subtropical flora and fauna, glacier moraine, low river valleys, and amazing mountain slopes. The Kanchenjunga area is also a wonderful habitat to some of the rare and endangered species which includes musk deer, Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, wild boar, red panda and more.

Mount Kanchenjunga is an excellent place to explore the mountain beauty. This is unexplored pristine and unspoiled by the movement of humans. The literal meaning of Kanchenjunga in Tibetan is ‘five treasures of the great snow’. The five treasures are regarded as silver, gold, precious stones, holy scriptures, and grains. The major highlight of the trekking is Kanchenjunga Conservation Area spread in an area of 2035 m encompassing the beautiful forest, lakes, and mountains. The altitude of KCA ranges from 1200 to 8586 m. and boasts many birds and rare and endangered wildlife.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek starts with a flight to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu valley. From Bhadrapur, a drive will take you to Ilam. The major villages you will explore during the trek are Lali Kharka, Khesewa, Mamankhe, Yamphudin, Tortong, Cheram, etc. These places offer excellent natural beauty and the pristine culture and traditions of the local people. Furthermore, during the trek, you will get an opportunity to explore the Mountains and monuments, culture influenced by the Tibetan Buddhism practices and vintage monasteries along with the mindblowing flora and fauna of Kanchenjunga conservation area.

The Cheram village is one of the popular villages in the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek. You will be exploring Cheram village, Ramche and Gumsa village along the trail. The wonderful Yalung Ri Base Camp and some monasteries during the trek are amazing to experience during the trek. The further trail will take you to Pang Pema and Kanchenjunga Base camp. The mindblowing panorama of Kanchenjunga is spectacular from Pang Pema village. The returning trail passes through Kambachen and Suketar. From Suketar, you will have a drive to Bhadrapur from where you will get a flight back to Kathmandu valley.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is one of the best long treks in Nepal. It is a wonderful trek that offers the inclusive experience of the mountains, flora and fauna, Himalayas, rivers, valleys, and amazing culture and traditions. This trek is a difficult and long trek but worth a lifetime experience in Nepal.

Detailed Itinerary

  • DAY 1

    Kathmandu Arrival, Transfer to Hotel

    Your Arrival Time (?) Our office representative will meet and greet you at Kathmandu Airport and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.

    At 06:00 PM: In the evening we will meet for a coffee and will brief you the details of your trek program.
    Elevation: 1,350M

    Meal: Not Included.

  • DAY 2

    Sightseeing Around Kathmandu Valley And Trek Preparation

    At. 10:00 AM: You will visit for a full day sightseeing of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Pashupatinath. Besides sightseeing, you can do the required shopping for your trek.
    Elevation: 1,350M

    Meal: Breakfast Included.

  • DAY 3

    Flight to Bhadrapur and drive to illam

    At 07:00 AM: It will take almost 45 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur offers astonishing views of the entire trek of Kanchenjunga region. A private vehicle will take you to a scenic drive to Birtamod. On the way, you will see beautiful mountain and enjoy the spectacular landscape with fantastic scenery. Further drive to Illam.
    Elevation: 3,636M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 4

    Drive to Suketar and Trek to Lali Kharka

    At 07:00 AM: The Tamur River flows through the district. The area is famous for Kanchenjunga the third highest mountain in the world. In the afternoon we start with an easy 2- to 3-hour walk along the ridgeline to Lali Kharka, a grazing area.
    Elevation: 2,276M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 5

    Trek to Khesewa

    At 07:00 AM: After traversing the hillside a short way, we descend to the village of Pakora along the Phewa Khola, crossing a suspension bridge before beginning the steep climb up towards Kunjuri. Lunch will be taken somewhere below Kunjuri. The afternoon’s walk takes us on a short distance over the crest of the ridge to Khesewa. We get our first views of Kanchenjunga and should be able to clearly make out the south and main summit along with Yalung Kang.
    Elevation: 2,120M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 6

    Trek to Mamankhe

    At 07:00 AM: Today the path covers steep hillside through terraced fields high above the Kabbeli Khola. There are some ups and downs crossing side valleys but there are many shady spots to rest. After lunch, we pass the village of Anpan, before descending to cross the Kashawa Khola and finally, we climb again through terraced fields to the village of Mamankhe.
    Elevation: 1,920M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 7

    Trek to Yamphudin

    At 07:00 AM: The walk starts with an easy climb to Yamphudin along a track which contours the hillside above the Kabeli Khola. The path has several ups and downs as we cross the ridges and stream beds that make up the valley sides. Generally, the route is flat and the river eventually becomes level with the trail, a couple of hours before Yamphudin. At last, we can stop to bathe in one of the clear pools within this beautiful river. It is truly an idyllic spot. After lunch by the river, we complete the day’s walk to Yamphudin, the most remote settlement in this area and the last village we will see until we reach Ghunsa. It is a charming place tucked away beneath the ridge of Deurali Danda that we cross next.
    Elevation: 2,080M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 8

    Trek to Tortongn

    At 07:00 AM: Leaving villages behind we trek through pleasant forest. A steep descend to the river an interesting bridge across the Omje Khola. From the 3,230 m pass, we see Jannu, definitely closer! We descend across some steep and exposed areas before entering the forest again. The sharp descent through beautiful forest continues down into the valley of the Simjua Khola. Across the interesting-looking and challenging wooden bridge is Tortongn, a place with numerous rock shelters amid towering conifers. The steep hills make today tough trekking.
    Elevation: 3,010M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 9

    Trek to Cheram

    At 07:00 AM: Today we follow the river through a more beautiful forest, the conifers giving way to the rhododendron forest. The valley climbs fairly steeply, with the day progressing the trees become more stunted and scattered, giving us glimpses of the snow-capped giants ahead and the massive snout of Yalung Glacier. Just before Tseram, the towering heights of Kabru and Rathong peak start to peep over the moraine.
    Elevation: 3,870M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 10

    Acclimatization day at Cheram

    At 07:00 AM: Make fit yourself for the further journey. This day is for acclimatization. Physiologically prepare yourself for adaptation to changes in climate or environment. We recommend you to stay active even in a rest day as it is better than being idle while on a trekking journey.
    Elevation: 3,870M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 11

    Trek to Ramche

    At 07:00 AM: This is a shorter day’s walk up the final 600m to Ramche where the trail to Kanchenjunga South turns dangerous. You will climb alongside the moraine through scrub junipers up a stream to a lake at Lapsang, keep climbing to another lake and a big meadow at Ramche. The scenery is magnificent as we ascend past the snout of Yalung Glaciers into a series of ablation valleys. A frozen lake, clear streams and views of Koktang, Rathong and Kabru are the highlights of this stroll.
    Elevation: 4,620M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 12

    Hike to Yalung Ri Base camp and back to Ramche

    At 07:00 AM: Following the valley round to see the stunning south face of  Kanchenjunga and Jannu. We get across the Yalung Ri Glacier and continue by a sweeping curve, at Oktang, suddenly we are confronted with the southern wall of the mountain. This vast ridge forms a cirque over 15 km long, nowhere less than high and with three main summits of Kanchenjunga and This extended part will take you to the high altitudes. The crossing of high passes requires good weather, and of course perfect logistic support. Yalung Glaciers and a series of valleys, A frozen lake, clear streams and magnificent views are the highlights of this day.
    Elevation: 5,400M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 13

    Trek to Sele la via Mirgin La

    At 07:00 AM: We trek down the valley, passing the turnoff to the high and challenging Labsang La route to Ghunsa and the north side of Kanchenjunga. This pass is rough and dangerous, especially for porters so we take the more southern set of passes, beginning with the Mirgin La. After an initial steep climb and several false summits, we reach Mirgin La. Apart from the magnificent Jannu on the horizon are Makalu, Gyakung Kang, Everest, Lhotse and Chamalang. To the south, it is possible to see down to the Terai, a panorama worth the effort.
    Elevation: 4,480M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 14

    Trek to Ghunsa

    At 07:00 AM: Today you will trek to Ghunsa. The trail mostly passes through the dense forest of rhododendron and juniper with moss all around. This trek takes you through villages where you can explore Monastery also can experience spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
    Elevation: 3,475M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 15

    Trek to Kambachen

    At 07:00 AM: Gradually the trail ascends to the south of the Ghunsa Khola and crossing floodplains while emerging on a pasture situated at the north side of the river. A steep climb to a slope from where it crosses a slide and then descends to Lakepo. A short climb from here to the village of Kambachen.
    Elevation: 4,040M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 16

    Trek to Lhonak

    At 07:00 AM: Today you will trek to Lhonak. You will trek through rocky fields and large boulders on the hillside along the riverbank. You can view Ramtang Glacier ahead. Walking ahead leads you to the Kanchenjunga Glacier. From here you can explore beautiful mountain vistas all around.
    Elevation: 4,790M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 17

    Trek to Pang Pema

    At 07:00 AM: The main Kanchenjunga peak is only visible from Pang Pema, which is the base camp for expeditions on Kanchenjunga. From Lhonak, the trail gradually ascends across the plain but soon gets steeper as it follows the moraine. Pang Pema is at a height of 5,140 m.
    Elevation: 5,140M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 18

    Explore around Kanchenjunga Base Camp and Return to Kambachen

    At 07:00 AM: A climb of 200 m or 300 m on a morning hike up a ridge, north of Pang Pema, provides a great vantage point with views of Kanchenjunga, Wedge Peak, the Twins and Tent Peak. As usual, the descent goes faster and you can reach Kambachen the same day.
    Elevation: 5,143M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 19

    Trek to Ghunsa

    At 07:00 AM: After breakfast we will start our journey towards Ghunsa.During our trek we entering the forested path along the south bank of Ghunsa Khola. We also pass through several Mani walls and Chortens along the way. We also trek through several scree slopes and some glacial moraines
    Elevation: 3,415M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 20

    Trek to Amjilosa

    At 07:00 AM: Today you will trek to Amjilosa. It’s a challenging trail from Phale to Amjilosa. You will cross one suspension bridge next to Sekathum and immediately enter into dense forest ascending the steep trail. The trail turns into descending nature and leads to another river that you need to cross again via another bridge. You will hike up all the way to Solima village and descend again. After descending down from Solima village you again need to follow some tricky trail that consists of other uphill and downhill section all the way up to Amjilosa.
    Elevation: 2,460M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 21

    Trek to Chiruwa

    At 07:00 AM: After a short climb, we begin the steep descent that will take most of the day. We reach the joining of the Tamur and Ghunsa Khola. We cross the Simbu Khola, which originates from Kanchenjunga’s south base camp. It is pleasantly warm at these low altitudes and cardamom grows freely in the moist shaded forest. Crossing numerous small tributary streams we reach Chhirwa, a village set among large boulders.
    Elevation: 1,240M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 22

    Trek to Phurumbu

    At 07:00 AM: Today you will trek to Phurumbu. You will trek downhill. It is entirely downhill trail. Lower sections of Kanchenjunga consist of the fertile valley along with beautiful pastureland and several villages throughout the trail. On the way, you will explore the village and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
    Elevation: 1,900M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 23

    Trek to Suketar

    At 07:00 AM: Traversing in an out of minor valleys, we pass through a succession of picturesque villages on our way to Suketar, reaching around late afternoon.
    Elevation: 2,420M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 24

    Drive to Bhadrapur

    At 07:00 AM: You will be taken to a scenic drive to Birtamod which is a lively Terai town in eastern Nepal. Along the way you will notice the climate getting warmer with a landscape that is different from the mountains and the hills. Further drive to Bhadrapur.
    Elevation: 2,420M

    Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 25

    Fly Back to Kathmandu

    At 07:00 AM: Enjoying your last glimpse of the mountains you have recently visited one last time on the 30-minute Scenic flight back to Kathmandu. In the evening we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant
    Elevation: 1,350M

    Meal: Breakfast and Dinner Included.

  • DAY 26

    Departure

    You will be free until your flight time; we will drop you at Kathmandu Airport 3 hour before your flight.

    Meal: Breakfast Included.

Cost Inclusion

  • All arrival and departure at Kathmandu airport as mentioned.
  • Private transfer (Bhadrapur/Suketar/Bhadrapur) as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Flight (Kathmandu/Bhadrapur/Kathmandu) as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • 2-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per the trek itinerary.
  • Daily breakfast throughout the trip.
  • Lunch and Dinner from trek start day to trek end day.
  • All necessary paper works. (National Park Entry Permits and TIMS Card)
  • English speaking licensed trek guide.
  • Porter during the trek. (Can carry 20KG Baggage of 2 people)
  • Lodge or Tea house accommodation during the trek.
  • One local SIM card (returnable) during your stay.
  • All government and local taxes.
  • Guide and Porter’s salary, food and accommodation during the trek.
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by your traveller’s insurance company.
  • Sleeping bag, duffle bags and trekking route maps – if necessary.
  • Farewell Nepali dinner on your last night.

Cost Exclusion

  • Personal expenses.
  • Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Nepal visa cost. (You will require 2 passport size photos and 30 USD)
  • International flight ticket.
  • Travel health insurance. (Recommended)
  • Tips for the guide, porter and driver.
  • Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.
  • All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Hot shower/batteries charge/heater during the trek.
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in including section.

Starting Price: USD 3550 per person

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