Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking

Highlights

  • An adventurous trek that traverses around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchanjunga, Makalu
  • A restricted area trekking, perfect for experienced trekkers looking to level up their game in the Himalayas
  • Witness stunning mountain views and diverse landscapes throughout the trek
  • Trek from sub-tropical forests and ascends to ice fields & glaciers
  • Have intimate encounters with the locals and get to understand their Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage
  • Explore ancient monasteries, gorgeous alpine lakes, and cross a high mountain pass
  • Witness the stunning Kanchanjunga glacier and icefall

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is situated in the eastern part of Nepal. “Kang-chen-zod-nga”, means “Five Great Treasuries of the Snow”, but in fact it has seven major summits.Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is considered as one of the longest trekking destinations compared to other trekking destinations in Nepal. This trekking route was supposed to be opened during the late 80’s. Stand in 8586m tall, Mt. Kanchenjunga is the third tallest mountain in the world. It is second tallest after Mt. Everest in Nepal. Well, if you are to explore the hidden, isolated beauty of Nepal then Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek could be the one. Make sure you’ve got enough of your vacation as the journey will be quite tiring but adventurous.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking provides you the opportunity to explore the higher Himalayas, pristine rhododendron, chestnut and oak forests, tropical jungles, and other wildlifes. The region is home for Red Panda and various endangered species of birds. The trek starts along the bank of Tamor River. It is one of the tributaries of Saptakoshi. Passing through different remote villages you will be able to know about the lifestyle and culture of the local people. You will be pleased with the hospitality Nepalese offers. Passing through the alpine grasslands to the higher terrain and crossing the Mirgin-La pass at 4725m, you will have an incredible view of  Mt. Makalu, Everest, Chamlang and finally the Kanchenjunga Peak at the tip of your nose. This region is protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project. You need to follow the rules and regulations maintained by the Government of Nepal.  Spring-Autumn could be the best time to explore the nature at its best.

This trek provides the opportunity to view cardamom farming in the lowest altitude. Trekkers can enjoy the panoramic view of the mountains and Yalung glacier at the higher altitude. The trek style is tented camp trek. You will have the high altitude trekking. Approximately 4-6 hours walking per day needs to be done. The best season for this trek is March to May. Another best time for this trek is October and November.

Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trekking is often regarded as quite challenging. You must be physically fit and mentally prepared so that you don’t miss any of the beauty offered by the Kanchanjunga region. And for this, Nepal Pioneer Trek is with you provide all the necessary facilities and trainings from the Sherpas who have been to the base camp many times.

Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

Upon on your arrival at the Tribhuban International Airport one of our staff will be there to warm greeting you with beautiful garland that is our respect and the culture to welcome to the new stranger. After welcoming you our staff will transfer to you to the hotel. After your long journey on a plane, you may get tired, so be fresh then our manager will come to meet you to the hotel and talk about the plan of your trip details.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1300m

Today, our manager will come to meet you at the hotel at 10.00 AM. He will brief about the trip in detail, introduce with the guide and provide you all the documents. You will be free in the afternoon and manage your time for trek preparation. Our guide will meet you at your hotel at six O’ clock in the evening then take you for well come dinner. After having dinner, drop you to the hotel and stay over night.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Max. Altitude: 1300m

Today you will fly from Kathmandu to Biratnagar. Depending upon the availability of flying options to Suketar from Biratnagar you will be presented with either of the two possibilities listed below:

If there is availability of flight to Suketar you spend the night in Biratnagar and fly to Suketar the next morning.

If there are no flights available to Suketar you drive to Phidim and spend the night there.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 81m

If you spent overnight in Biratnagar the previous day you will directly fly to Suketar this day and spend the night there. But, if you spent your night in Phidim you will be driving to Suketar. Either way you spend overnight at Suketar.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2420m

We officially kick start the day with a downhill walk to Mitlung. The trails throughout the lower sections of the Kanchenjunga region pass through fertile valleys with beautiful pastures and small villages. We then cross Hangdewa River and walk alongside the raging Tamor River. As we gradually head in a northerly direction the trail steepens after a few hours before a final descent of 350 meters on a muddy trail to Mitlung. We spend the night there.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 921m

The trail ascends and descends steadily as we make our way towards the village of Sinwa. We continue trekking downhill until we reach Tawa. At Tawa, we ascend to some heights and cross the suspension bridge at Thiwa. We pass a beautiful rural landscape along the way and reach Chirwa, a beautiful Limbu village with few lodges, tea shops etc. We spend the night at Chirwa.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1270m

The trek from Chirwa to Sukathum passes through varied landscapes such as cardamom fields and dense forests. We trek uphill for some time, then descend to the lush green fields below and continue trekking along the Tamor River passing through a dense forest. It’s both uphill and downhill treks until crossing the Ghunsa River after which we reach Sukathum and spend the night there.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1576m

Trekking from Sukathum to Amjilosa is challenging. After crossing the suspension bridge outside Sukathum we enter a dense forest, ascend the steep trail, descend and cross the river again. We also climb a gorge from the bottom and pass by Solima village and descend again to the level of the river. All in all, this day’s trekking is rather tough. Therefore, it is advisable to be very careful, especially while walking the trail that passes the gorge. We later follow a tricky trail which goes both uphill and downhill until reaching Amjilosa where we spend the night.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2308m

We start trekking from the river bank, pass through a dense forest of bamboo, fir and rhododendrons eventually reaching a small stone house by the river. We then climb uphill crossing a few small bridges along the way. Here, we get to enjoy the company of stunning waterfalls that originate from the mountains. After yet another short uphill walk we reach the Tibetan settlement to Gyabla.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2730m

We descend down the river and notice the valley as it slowly opens up before reaching Phale, a Tibetan refugee settlement where it is possible to purchase handicrafts and homemade rugs from locals. After purchasing a few souvenirs we travel through conifer and pine forest and reach the Sherpa village of Ghunsa where we spend the night. This place is known for its hydroelectric plant and the fact that more than 20 prominent conservationists met a tragic end in a helicopter crash.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3595m

We take care to spend time acclimatizing around Ghunsa before continuing our next day’s trek. We recommend you to stay active even in a rest day as it is better than being idle while on a trekking journey. Therefore, we take a short hike towards the Laspsan La monastery through the lush green forest. Come back with Ghunsa by afternoon and relax.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3595m

From Ghunsa we trek further north along the river bank, which presents us with magnificent mountain scenery. We pass through meadows full with beautiful wild flowers, rhododendron and pine forests. We cross a bridge at Rampuk Kharka, continue past the waterfall and cross the tricky section of the landslide. After crossing the landslide area, we begin to see the spectacular view of Mt. Jannu. Further exploring and tackling the tricky mountain trail we finally arrive at Kambachen and spend the night.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4050m

We take another day for acclimatization at Kambachen which is reserved to accommodate participants in high altitude and also to observe if anybody in the group has any symptoms of altitude sickness. The overall idea for this day is to relax- take a bath and/or explore the Nuphchu Khola Valley area. We spend another night at Kambachen.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4050m

Today will be another challenging day and an early start is needed. We trek through rocky fields and large boulders on the hillside along the riverbank and arrive at a waterfall. We then cross a bridge to Ramtang monastery. We then come across a landslide section which we must pass through at a steady pace before descending to the river and finally arriving at Lhonak.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4780m

We trek along the Kanchenjunga Glacier to spend a night at Pangpema, Kanchenjunga base camp on the north side. We urge you to be careful around the rockier sections as they are prone to landslides. After a short while you reach Pangpema, a flat grassy base camp. Climb a little higher and enjoy the splendor of Jannu, Kanchenjunga and Chang Himal.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5388m

We retrace our path to Lhonak and continue down the valley to Ramtang Monastery. The return journey offers a different perspective of the mountains Kanchenjunga, Taple Shikhar, Gimmigela, and Mera Peak among others. Due to the descending nature of this trek we will reach Kambachen by evening and spend the night there.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4050m

It’s essentially the reverse of our Day 12 trek. We descend to Ghunsa from Kambachen which means that we get to enjoy the beautiful forests along with a backdrop of impressive mountain scenery. Overnight at Ghunsa.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3595m

It’s a steep trek upward from Ghunsa to Sele-Le. Upon reaching Sele Le we climb through a dense forest of moss, rhododendron and juniper. Lunch will be served in an appropriate place with the availability of water. We spend the night in Sele Le.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4290m

We do an uphill trek and enjoy the mesmerizing south side view of Jannu Himal and Makalu (the world’s 6th highest mountain). Today is a strenuous trekking day as we cross several passes- Sinion La, Mirgin La and Sinelapche Bhanjyang. We then make a steep descent to Cheram and spend the night there.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3870m

We ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier and walk alongside the Simbuwa Khola, pass through Lapsang village and reach Ramche. While there, we walk further up the valley or ascend a ridge for a tremendous view of blue sheep. We then follow the stream before climbing on the moraine top until confronted by Kanchenjunga’s southern face. We walk further ahead for a glimpse of the Jannu Himal. We can even consider continuing to Oktang Monastery. Descend and spend the night at Cheram.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4580m

As we descend to Tortong we first encounter two trails. One trail is the one we took while descending down from Sele Le. However, we ignore this route and descend further down to the trail alongside the Simbuwa Khola. We enjoy the lush rhododendron forest along the way.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2995m

While descending from Tortong to Yamphudin we pass through Lasiya Bhanjyang which involves walking up through the trees and area of landslides. The terrain changes after every monsoon, but by the middle of October it should be stable with a route through. Walking further down, we reach the village of Yamphudin, a village inhabited by Sherpas, Limbus and Rais

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2080m

We descend from Yamphudin, cross the bridge at Samekham and continue following the Kabeli Khola. We pass through Mamankhe which houses the Limbu Museum and Cultural Center. We then cross the bridge over Khaksewa Khola and ascend through the cardamom forest, pass by a few villages and descend further down to Yangpang. Overnight at Yangpang.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1007m

Instead of going back to Taplejung we descend down to Thorpu. By opting for Thorpu we will not only be saving us time, but will also get to enjoy the landscape of a different route. While descending to Thorpu we pass through some really beautiful terraced villages, where the people are very interested to see you. We spend the night in Thorpu and enjoy the hospitality of the villagers.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1500m

We are most likely to drive from Thorpu 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. The town boasts a number of good accommodation facilities therefore we spend the night in Birtamod.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 300m

The drive to Bhadrapur from Birtamod is only of short distance. We fly back to Kathmandu from Bhadrapur Airport. Upon arriving in Kathmandu you can take a rest and relax throughout the day in your hotel or if you are interested in taking souvenirs for your loved ones, you can shop around the tourist area of Thamel. Nepal Pioneer Treks will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner for the successful completion of your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1300m

Today is your final departure. Our driver will drop you to the airport for the departure to your home. We wish you had a nice and safe journey back home.

  • Meals: Breakfast
Includes/Excludes
Includes
  • Two nights accommodation in Kathmandu with twin sharing at tourist standard hotel (Bed and Breakfast)
  • All Ground and air transportation. Pick up and drop.
  • Full board meal 3 times a day (B+L+D) during the trek days including tea & coffee (served in a cup).
  • English speaking trekking guide who has been authorized by the Nepal government and necessary number of porters (According to the group size) with their insurance, salary, accommodation, and meals.
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu with Cultural show. (Ethnic music and dance)
  • All the necessary official documents, TIMS Permit, Trekking Permit, Special Permit etc.
  • Sleeping bags and down jackets if necessary.
  • First Aid kit.
  • Trekking Route map.
  • Insurance of Guide and Porters.
  • All required local and government tax.
Excludes
  • Nepal Visa fee and International flight.
  • Meal except for Breakfast in Kathmandu.
  • All personal expenses such as bar bills, water, extra tea/coffee, snacks, battery re-charge, laundry service, etc.
  • Personal clothing and gears.
  • Tips to guide and porters.
  • Cost raised by flight cancellation, emergency rescue charges, landslide, weather, political unrest, illness, re-routing etc which are not under our control.
  • Monument entrance fees.
Additional Information

Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek best time

Like any other trekking route in Nepal, the best time to do the Kanchenjung trek is in spring and autumn. Because the Kanchenjung region is situated in the rain shadow area, you can do this trek during monsoon season too. You may face rainfall at the start of the journey, but there is no rainfall above tree line. 

Trekking in spring (March to early May) lets you see rhododendrons and junipers blooming all over the place. The fragrance of teeming vegetation and the warm weather is fantastic. The days slowly begin to get longer, and the temperature ranges between 15°C to 23°C. 

Trekking in autumn (October to November) lets you be part of the biggest festival in Nepal. There is festivity in the air, and the cities are well-decorated with bazillions of lights. The weather is stable and mild, like in spring. The mountain views are crystal clear, and the temperature ranges between 10°C to 15°C. 

Kanchenjung Base Camp trek accommodation

You will stay overnight in tea houses along the Kanchenjung Base camp trekking route. Tea houses are a very basic kind of accommodation operated by villagers. You get shared rooms and a washroom. Better carry a sleeping bag for more comfort and warmth. Single rooms are available only if you inform us priorly and pay extra. You will get to experience the mountain lifestyle during the Kanchenjung Base Camp trek. 

Meals

The Kanchenjung trekking route offers Nepali and Tibetan meals mostly. The teahouses at the start of the trek have several western dishes like burgers, pasta, sandwiches, oat, etc on the menu. With the progress of the trek, you will mostly get dal bhat, momo, thenduk, Tibetan bread, soup, porridge, etc. Our Kanchenjung trek package includes three meals a day, and all meals are given as per the menu of the tea houses.

It is better to carry your favorite snacks for the trek. There is also decent availability of beverages. Boiled drinking water is provided in the teahouses free of cost. For additional safety, you can use a water purification tablet. 

Group/private joining

We have a few fixed departures for the Kanchenjung Base Camp trek 2023 that you can join as a solo traveler and trek with other fellow trekkers from all around the world. Or you can do a private Kanchenjung Base Camp trek with your loved ones. Trekking in a big group reduces the per-head cost of the package.

Travel Insurance

It is better to have travel insurance if you are thinking of doing the Kanchenjung trek. The Upper Mustang is a very remote area with not good hospital. The trail has no access to any medical facility. In case of any medical emergency, we have to air evacuate to a hospital in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Without travel insurance, it gets very challenging for us to provide rescue promptly. Therefore, we kindly request to buy travel insurance that covers air evacuation.

FAQs
  • You will reach at 5388m while you are doing Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek.

  • This trek is located Eastern part of Nepal.

  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek takes 27 to 30 days. You can explore more time if you like.

  • Sure, this is our great pleasure to provide you the best services for your particular trip.We can arrange guide and porter.

  • This is most important documents so that please do not miss to carry it while you are travelling to mountain region in Nepal.

You Make Also Like
Similar Packages