| Trip code | KBCT-34 |
| Package name | Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek |
| Duration | 28 Days |
| Max. elevation | 5140 Meter |
| Level | MODERATE |
| Transportation | private vehicles, flight tickets, and public bus |
| Accomodation | Three Star Hotel in Kathmandu; Tea house Lodge, and Camping Accommodation during Trek |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Ilam-Sukhetar-Lali Khark-Khesewa-Bhanjyang-Mamankhe-Yangphudin-Chitre-Simbua Khola-Tseram-Ramche-Lapsang-Ramche-Tseram-Tamo-Ghunsa-Kangbachen-Lhonak-Pang Pema/Kanchenjunga Base Camp-Pang Pema-Kangbachen-Phole-Amjilassa-Tapethok-Phoram-Suketar-Fickal or Bhritamod / Bhadarpur-Kathmandu |
| Cost | USD 2,985 per person |
Hiker Himalaya Treks presents Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek for full 28 days trip, starting from the capital Kathmandu. Where you will have the opportunity to observe local cultures by visiting most of the world heritage sites, before departing for trekking.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is one of the longest adventures around Nepal Himalaya, covering more than three weeks of exciting walks. Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s 3rd highest and 2nd tallest mountain of Nepal, stands high at 8, 586 m / 28, 169 feet.
The main peak of Mt. Kanchenjunga gets a few mountaineers to climb from various national expeditions, the first ascent by British Expedition on May 25th, 1955. Mt. Kanchenjunga, located in the Far East at the end of Nepal Himalaya, straddles the border between Nepal and Sikkim. A small northeast state of India, but the trek and mountaineering expeditions are popular and mostly done from Nepal. Due to its accessibility to reach the starting point of the walks either by taking a short flight or by the overland journey.
Mt. Kanchenjunga, although the world's highest peak, gets fewer trekkers than other popular trekking areas of Nepal. As it is situated on remote corners of the Himalayas range and takes more days to visit both base camps. Where adventure takes you around Kanchenjunga, a full circuit trekking towards South and North Base Camps.
The only treks where one can visit two base camps of one mountain range in a single journey. This makes the walk more exciting to experience, following the mid-hills trails through lovely farm villages and within a dense forest. Then finally entering into an arctic zone of ice and glaciers, an adventure that leads you to dramatic diversity of landscapes.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking begins with a sweeping panoramic flight from Kathmandu to reach Nepal Far South East around warm lowlands. Which is known as the Terai belt, and then taking a drive to reach the starting point of the walk. Drive takes you to cooler hills past Ilam town, famous for tea and its vast tea garden with scenic views of Kanchenjunga.
On reaching Taplejung in Sukhetar, the adventure begins heading due North-East towards Mt. Kanchenjunga South Base Camp at Oakthang. Trek leads through several farm villages and into beautiful woodland of tall rhododendron and pine tree lines then vegetation stops. As you reach into mountainous areas within remorseless fields of ice and glaciers of Yarlung and Kanchenjunga peaks.
Enjoying great times on completing the first part of the journey, then the adventure continues towards Kanchenjunga North Base Camp at Pang-Pema. On the highest point of the trek at 5, 143 m / 16, 874 feet high. Walks lead to cross smaller passes to Ghunsa village, a nice mountain settlement populated by highlanders of eastern Nepal.
The Sherpa and Bhotia tribes are interwoven with Tibetan Buddhism and fascinating culture, spending time in this lovely village. As the adventure continues towards North-East where tree lines disappear entering a glaciated valley at Lhonak and Pang-Pema, our final destination.
Enjoy a spectacular panorama of the massive and huge Kanchenjunga range with Wedge, Janu, and Kabru peaks. Kanchenjunga pronounced as ‘Kanchendzonga’ means five jewels referring to its adjoining peaks relating to five basic elements. After achieving our goal and final highlights, heading down to Ghunsa and then on an alternative route toward low-farm villages.
Slowly our walk comes to an end on reaching Sukhetar, as the drive takes you to Bhadrapur town airport. Then on a scenic flight to Kathmandu, after a most memorable adventure of a lifetime experience on the Kanchenjunga base camp trek.
This is the time when a walk is exciting along with scenic views of peaks and the forest alive with wildflowers in full bloom. Rhododendron flowers of various species from tall trees to the bush.
Next, the best season is autumn/fall from September to November, days are clear and fine, but short sunlight hours. Cold from evening and night time till morning could get snowed in sometimes around higher areas from 2,500 m onwards.
Height is important when hiking in Nepal. Kanchenjunga is a high-altitude trek. So, you should be aware of Altitude Sickness, its causes, symptoms, and prevention measures. Drink plenty of water, and walk slowly. The risk of landslides is low in Annapurna. You have to be really careful while doing those things. Injuries can occur while ascending or descending. Come on!
Since there are few teahouses in remote areas, you may have to camp at some points along the trail. We will take care of all the food and accommodation, so you don't have to worry about logistics. The toilets in these tea houses are squat style and they are located outside. Wifi, charging, hot water, and some other low-lying teahouses are also available but at an additional price.
These tea houses offer "Dal Bhat", a typical Nepali dish, including rice, lentils, pulses, pickles, vegetables, and more. At breakfast, you will find bread, toast, boiled eggs, and oatmeal. Apart from this, there are hot beverages like tea, hot beverages, garlic soup, coffee, and some other dishes like Momo, Charmin, Noodles, and Thukpal are also found in some tea houses. You can also get snacks including protein bars, dry fruits, and granola bars during your trek.
You can do things like cycling, hiking, running, swimming, and more. Habits are required to maintain proper physical strength and endurance on trails. Mental fitness will give you the positive attitude you need during your trek.
The cost of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area permit is around Rs. 3000,$30 per person for foreign nationals, N.R. 1000, $10 for SAARC citizens, and NRs per person. It is free for Nepalis and for children under 100 and under 10 years of age.
As the trails of this trekking pass through Fantanglung Municipality, Mikwakhola Municipality, and Sirijunga Municipality of Taplejung District (Province 1), you need special trekking permission. This hiking permit costs USD 30 per person/week. However, this is only for the first four weeks. After the first four weeks, it will cost you USD 25 per person/week. TIMS (Tracking Information Management System) permission is not required if you have a restricted area or special trekking permission.
While trekking along this route, we will learn about the culture and traditions of the eastern part of Nepal. They will always welcome you with warm hospitality and the area is inhabited by Sherpas who are rich in culture and traditions. While trekking along this route, we will learn about the culture and traditions of the eastern part of Nepal.
Important Items: Airline tickets; Valid passport; 2 extra passport size photos; Photocopy of your passport; Insurance paper; Dollars, Pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying at restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks and to purchase your own drinks and gifts; Credit Card (Visa/ Master Card) for withdrawing cash from cash machines if needs.
For Head: Sun Hat; Bandana or head scarf; Headlamp with extra batteries; Sun Glasses with UV protection.
For Upper Body: Shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves); Lightweight thermal tops; Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater; Wind Cheater jacket; Down Jacket
For Lower Body: 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms; 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers; 1 pair of waterproof shell pants and 1 pair of hiking trousers.
For Hands: 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves and 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
For Feet: 2 pairs of thin inner socks; 2 pairs of poly or wool socks; 1 pair of Hiking boots (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support); 1 pair of running shoes and/or sandals.
Other Useful Items: 1 sleeping bag (good to -25 degrees C or 35 degrees F); Rucksack and Travel Bags; 1 large duffel bag, A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables; Small padlocks for duffel- bags; 2 large waterproof rucksacks covers (optional).
Medical: Your daily taking medicine if any; small personal first aid kit; Aspirin, plasters (band-aids); Sunscreen; lip balms; Anti-diarrhea pills; Anti-headache pills; A cough and/or cold medicine; Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide; Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin.
Digital camera; 2 water bottles (1 liter each); disposable rubbish sacks; Toiletries: 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel; Toothbrush/paste; Multi-purpose soap; Deodorants; Nail clippers; Face and body moisturizer; Tissue /toilet roll; hiking poles, snack food (chocolate/ biscuits); umbrella; reading book or pack of cards (for leisure time during trekking).
Note: If any items are not available in your hometown you can buy them in Trekking Store in Kathmandu before you on trekking
Upon arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed and then transferred to your respective hotels by our staff. Then after relaxing at your hotel, you can head out to the streets of Thamel in the evening. At night, you will be offered a warm welcome dinner with a Nepali meal and drinks.
In the morning, you will head to the domestic airport and fly towards Bhandrrapur which will take around 45 minutes. Throughout the flight, you will be offered amazing views of snow-capped mountains including Mt. Everest, Makalu & Mt. Kanchenjunga. You will then join the trekking staff and take an exciting drive to the mid-hills at Illam which is particularly famous for its tea gardens. It is located close to the border of Darjeeling in North East India. You will stay at a lodge for the overnight stop.
Early in the morning, you will drive to Sukhetar which will take around 4 hours. Eventually, you will begin your trek from here on towards Lali Kharka. You will follow the scattered mid-hill villages and finally reach Lali where you will take an overnight stop.
You will then cross farmlands and terraces to a populated area uphill. Along the way, you will pass the settlement of Bhramin, Chettri, and Kirat Rai communities. You will walk slowly downhill towards the Phewa Khola.
After that, you will cross the Pokora village and then climb towards Kunjari village to the forest of Khesewa Bhanjyang village for an overnight stop. From this village, you can observe the striking views of Yalung Kang peak and Kanchenjunga which is a feast for your eyes.
After having breakfast, you will be heading to the Mamankhe. You will cross a stream and then head downhill along the river, to reach a high hill. Then, climb into a forest to Lopoding village and eventually head towards a small village named Fun Fun. This point offers panoramic views of the Khumbakarna Himalaya range along with the Yalung and Mt. Kanchenjunga.
You will then take a downhill path passing farm fields, and then climbing for an hour to a crest at Pompe Dhada. Pompeo offers views of Mt. Jannu. After walking downhill to Kheswa Khola, and crossing a bridge, you will reach Mamankhe village for an overnight stop.
After having breakfast, you will head to Yangphudin. Take a gentle climb, skirting around the ridge that leads to Dekadin village. You will then head to the bank of Kabeli Khola (stream) with a climb of 300 meters high above the river, which eventually takes you to the mountain path.
After that, take a descend on stone steps towards Kabeli Khola and finally end the day at Yamphudin.
After having breakfast, walk along Kabeli Khola, and cross the tributary stream of Omje Khola. Then begin your climb towards the Dhupi Bhangyang. It opens up to a vast open grassland, and then a steady downhill trail takes you to the deciduous forest of Omje Khola.
You will be walking along the rhododendron-covered forest, before finally arriving at an exposed ridge and lands to Chitre, which is a small settlement with few huts.
You will take the path that leads to the Ramite Bhanjyang with a steep climb into the forest of magnolias, rhododendron, and bamboo trees line. Eventually, you will head towards Ramite which is an isolated spot with the shelter of a small hut. Finally, you will reach Ramite Bhanjyang at 3,430 meters. The views of Mt. Jannu, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Khumbhakarna, and Kabru peaks will spend a chill down your spine. You will take a downhill trail that leads to the riverbank of Simbua Khola overnight.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek gets even more exciting as you reach the elevation of 3770 on this day at Tseram. The hike to Tseram starts with the upstream path of Simbua Khola which leads to a forested area. After that, you will reach a spot at Wahta that has a small hut.
From here on, you will cross a small stream leading to a shrine that is situated in the middle of a forest. The serpent shape shrine is one of the holiest in the area. As you leave the woodland area, you will take a sharp climb to Tserem for an overnight stop.
On this day, you will head towards Ramche by taking a descent to the Simbua Khola. After which you will climb atop a hill to reach Yalng Bara. Then after reaching Lapsang you will head up to Ramche in around 5 hours.
This day has been set aside for resting at Ramche. This is also necessary since you will have climbed to an elevation of around 4360m. Acclimatizing your body against possible altitude sickness is a must. On this day you can also take a hike to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.
This base camp offers views of the high-standing and mesmerizing Yalung Glacier and Mt. Kanchenjunga South Peak. The hike to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp takes around 2 hours to reach. You will also be offered the grand views of Talung and Kabru Peak.
On this day, you will head back to Tseram. The long descent will take you back to the tree lines along the route to Tseram where you will stay overnight.
You will begin the downhill walk towards Yalungbar. After a short climb, you will cross a river into woodland, that heads uphill to reach two small ponds to cross three passes of Mirgain La, Tamo La, and Sinon La. Due to the passes, this day is often regarded to be considerably more challenging.
After having done the steep climb, you will be offered views of Kabru peak and Mt. Kanchenjunga. From the Mirgin La and Sinon La, you will continuously have views of Mt. Makalu, Mt. Baruntse, and Chamlang peaks in the North West direction.
After all of that is over, the walk descends slowly to Tamo La at 4,500 m. After that, you will have amazing views of Khumbhakarna Himalaya where you will stay overnight at camp.
On this day, you will head to the North Kanchenjunga Base Camp which is the highlight of the entire trek. You will take the path that passes an alpine forest, and the walk continues to Ghunsa River. The lovely gentle trail then takes to Ghunsa village which is inhabited by Bhotia people of Tibetan origin. The houses there are built with stones and have a small farm village.
After having early morning breakfast, you will take a steep climb along the river bank overlooking waterfalls to reach the grazing area of Yaks. The walk then leads to the Ghunsa River and into a lush rhododendron and pine forest.
You will eventually take a climb to Rambuk Kharka where you will be welcomed with the views of Khumbukarna Himal, Janu Himal, and other mountain ranges. Upon leaving the forest and tree lines, you will enter the dry and barren land with only a handful of junipers and Burberry bushes.
You will walk along a large landslide area with the fantastic vistas of Khumbakarna's Himal. Your camp at Kangbachen will overlook Mt. Sharphu at 7,070 meters and Mt. Janu North Face with Wedge peak.
Early in the morning, you will rake a lovely walk following above the river for an hour and head towards the North East. You will then head to the glacial river and climb on a boulder that leads to a rocky moraine. Eventually, you will pass the Ramtang Kharka and head to the Kanchenjunga glacier.
You will then cross the meeting point of Lhonak and Kanchenjunga glacier. Upon reaching Lhonak, you will set camp for an overnight stop with views of Mera, Nepal Peak, and Wedge Peaks.
After having breakfast, you will take a walk that leads to Pang Pema which is the North Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The views of the northern side of the gigantic Mt. Kanchenjunga stand right ahead of you.
For that, you will take a walk and climb high above the river with panoramic views of Kirat Chuli, Nepal Peak, Taple Sikhar, and Givegela Chuli. You will reach the highest elevation of the entire Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek at Pang Pema at 5065m.
This day has been reserved for taking a rest at Pang Pema. Since you will have crossed an elevation of 5000m, there might be difficulty caused due to altitude sickness.
From this point, you will be offered views of Kanchenjunga, Kumbhakarna, Makalu, Cholotse, Sharpu, Drohma, Nepal Peak, and a range of other snow-capped mountains.
On this day, you will take head towards Kangbachen after having a wonderful time at the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. You will take a long descend with a few short climbs, and retrace your steps back to Kambachen where you will set camp.
After having breakfast, you will head to Phole from Kangbachen. You will pass through several farm areas and small villages to cross Ghunsa Khola. Eventually, you will walk through the alpine forest to reach Phole which is a small Sherpa settlement.
On this day, you will trek from Phole to Amjilassa. You will pass the forests of bamboo and rhododendron and into the Gybala village. After that, head into a dense forest then reach a grassland and into the Sherpa village of Amjilassa where you will set camp for overnight.
On this day, you will take a descend into the open grassland towards Ghunsa and Sekathum villages. Along the way, you will cross the cold and swift-flowing Ghunsa and Simbhu rivers and follow the Tamur river to reach Tapethok village eventually. Tapethok is inhabited by the Limbu (Subba) Kirat ethnic tribe people.
After having breakfast, continue on the shore of the Tamur River and head to Chiruwa village. You will be walking through several farm villages and climbing into cool, serene woodland of rhododendrons, oaks, and pine trees. Eventually, you reach Phoram village where you can take an evening stroll around.
On this day, you will begin your walk towards Suketar. Along the way, you will pass numerous remote rural villages and woodland. You then walk uphill for a few hours and eventually reach Taplejung village at Suketar. This is the last day of your trek in the Kanchenjunga region.
On this day you will take a bus ride in the morning and head towards either Fickal or Birtamod/Badarpur. You will drive around the warmer regions of Nepal and towards Bhadrapur for your last overnight stop before flying back to Kathmandu.
After you take your breakfast, you will head out for a domestic flight to Kathmandu. Along the way, you will reminisce about the memorable adventure in the Kanchenjunga region. Upon reaching Kathmandu you will be transferred to your respective hotel. You can take a rest and enjoy some Nepali meals.
This day has been reserved for any contingency that might occur throughout the trek or any flight delays. On this day, you can also go on a sightseeing tour around Kathmandu valley.
There are a lot of culturally and architecturally adorned areas in Nepal. You can visit the Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur Durbar squares or temples like Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, and Boudhanath. At night you can enjoy yourself near the pubs and clubs of Thamel along with your friends in Nepal.
This marks the end of your amazing Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek in Nepal. Our staff will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport for homeward bound. Along the way, you can make further plans for your next trip to Nepal in the Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Annapurna regions of Nepal.