Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Trip Facts
Accommodation:	Standard to Deluxe Hotel's Options in Kathmandu & Tea Houses During Trek
Grade:	Challenging
Max Altitude:	5,200 m/17,060 ft
Transportation:	Private Vehicle/Flight
Meals:	As Mentioned In The Itinerary
Group Size:	2 to 15 People
Duration :	27 Nights/28 Days

Highlights of The Trek

Trek to The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area with World's Third Highest Peak Kanchenjunga at 8,586 m
Step Into North Base Camp, Pangpema at 5,200 m and South Base Camp, Oktang at 4,610 m
Admire Views of Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Makalu, Kumbakarna (Jannu Peak) and many Peaks
Trek Into High Passes of Sele La Pass at 4,720 m, Sinion La Pass at 4,440 m and Mrigin La Pass at 4,480 m
Visit Buddhist Monasteries, Gompas and witness Tibetan Culture
Kanchenjunga is a home for Endangered Wildlife like Leopard and Red Panda
Witness the Culture of Sherpa, Gurung, Rai and Limbu people in the Eastern Part of Nepal
Trek through the Isolated Villages, Farm Lands and Barren Landscapes
Enjoy the Eastern Villages of Ilam, Kanyam, Phidim, Suketar..
Visit Sacred Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu
Pay Homage to living goddess, Kumari in Kathmandu Durbar Square
Enjoy Nepali Food, Hospitality and Culture

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival (1,350 m/4,430 ft)

Day 02: Visit Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square

Day 03: Fly to Bhadrapur (40 Minutes) and drive to Ilam-3 Hours

Day 04: Drive to Taplejung (1,422 m/4,665 ft) - 5/6 Hours

Day 05: Trek to Mitlung (921 m/3,022 ft)-5/6 Hours

Day 06: Trek to Chiruwa (1,270 m/4,167 ft)-5/6 Hours

Day 07: Trek to Sekathum (1,579 m /5,180 ft)- 6 Hours

Day 08: Trek to Amjilosa(2,308 m/7,572 ft)-5 Hours

Day 09: Trek to Gyabla (2,760 m/ 9,055 ft) - 5 Hours

Day 10: Trek to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,795 ft)-5 Hours

Day 11: Acclimatization Day at Ghunsa

Day 12: Trek to Khambachen(4,100 m/13,452 ft)- 5/6 Hours

Day 13: Trek to Lhonak (4,750 m/15,584 ft)-5/6 Hours

Day 14: Trek to Pang Pema, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,200 m/17060 ft) - 8 Hours

Day 15: Trek back to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,795 ft)-6 Hours

Day 16: Trek to Sela La High Camp (4,100 m/13,451 ft) - 4/5 Hours

Day 17: Cross Sele La Pass (4,720 m/15,486 ft), Mirgila Pass to Tseram (3,900 m/12,795 ft)-6/7 Hours

Day 18: Trek to Ramche (4,580m/15,026ft)- 4 Hours

Day 19: Day visit to South Base Camp (Oktang) and Yalung Glacier (4,500 m/14,764 ft)-6/7 Hours

Day 20: Trek to Torangden (2,995 m/9,826 ft) - 7 Hours

Day 21: Trek to Yamphuden(2,080 m/6,824 ft)-7 Hours

Day 22: Trek to Phumphe(1,860 m/6,102 ft)-6 Hours

Day 23: Trek to Kande Bhanjyang (2,120 m/6,955 ft) - 6 Hours

Day 24: Trek to Lali Kharka (2,220 m/7,283 ft)-6 Hours

Day 25: Trek to Suketar (2,420 m/7,940 ft)-4 Hours

Day 26: Drive back to Bhadrapur (8 Hours)

Day 27: Fly back to Kathmandu

Day 28: Departure from Kathmandu

Overview

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek takes us in North Eastern Part of Nepal to the Base Camp of World’s Third Highest Mountain. Kanchenjunga Mountain (8,586 m) forms of Five Summits hence called ‘Five Treasures of the Great Snow’. This Crystal Clear Mountain in Nepal shares the border with Sikkim in India and is one of the most breathtaking mountains. Trek in Kanchenjunga Region is a journey on a less crowded path rewards us with a unique insight into the rural Nepalese lifestyle of Hindu and Buddhist people; Sherpa, Gurung, Rai and Limbu people in the Eastern Part of Nepal. We trek to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area which covers area of 2,035 sq km is a home of many Flora and Fauna. This region has pristine Forests, Alpine Meadows and High-Altitude Wetlands are home to the endangered Snow Leopard and Red Panda, the vulnerable Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard and Assamese Monkey. During this incredible trek, we get opportunity to relish the panoramic views of Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Makalu and many others.

Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp starts with city flight to Bhadrapur and we drive to Ilam and to Taplejung. From Taplejung, we commence our trek by descending to Mitlung and follow the trail to Kanchenjunga Northern Base Camp called Pang Pema at an altitude of 5,200 m. On the way back, we return to Ghunsa and head right to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp called Oktang (4,610 m) crossing Sele La Pass at 4,720 m. We make a day trip from Ramche to South Base Camp and to Yalung Base Camp (4,500 m). On our way back from Ramche, we descend steep to Tseram leaving alpine landscape behind and cross several ridgelines with incredible views back up to the Himalayas. Then we continue to our trek starting point at Taplejung through dense forests, farm lands, and several villages. Then we drive to Bhadrapur for flight back to Kathmandu.

The best season for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is Autumn and Spring. During our trek, we stay at tea houses/lodges which have been recently developed. This trek can be customized. If you have shorter days and want to explore only North Base Camp, we can trek to Ghunsa and to North Base Camp and follow the same way back to Taplejung. We don’t need to cross Sele La Pass which takes us to Ramche, South Base Camp and Yalung Base Camp. If you are considering South Base Camp only, we follow the same way which we are taking from Ramche on our way back to Taplejung.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival (1,350 m/4,430 ft)

After arriving at Kathmandu International Airport, our office representative welcomes you with Garland and takes you to hotel in Kathmandu. In the evening, we will have briefing on trek and equipment check by our Trek Manager and Trek Guide. Then, we will take you for dinner to make you introduced with Nepalese food habits and Culture.

Accomodation: Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Meals: D

Activity Duration:

Day 02: Visit Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square

After breakfast, we will take you for guided tour of Kathmandu city. We will begin with Pashupatinath Temple which is famous Hindu Temple of Lord Shiva at the bank of holy Bagmati River. After this, we continue to Boudhanath Stupa, which is giant Stupa in Asia and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu. Then, we drive to Kathmandu Durbar Square where Nepalese Kings used to get Throne. Interesting places to see here are Taleju Temple, Statue of Kal Bhairabh and Hanuman, Temple of Jagannath (Erotic Temple) and Kastamandap Temple from which Kathmandu got its name. We visit Kumari Temple and pay homage to the living goddess, Kumari and also walk around the Freak streets which was famous during Hippie Era in 60's and 70's.

Accomodation: Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Meals: B

Activity Duration:

Day 03: Fly to Bhadrapur (40 Minutes) and drive to Ilam-3 Hours

After breakfast at hotel, we drive to Domestic airport for scenic flight to Bhadrapur. Bhadrapur is a city in eastern part of Nepal close to Indian border. From airport, we drive to Ilam on Private Jeep through hilly roads. We make several stops on the way and especially at Kanyam which is famous for tea gardens and view point. Ilam is the Nepal’s largest tea plantation area and one of major tourist destination among domestic tourists. This town is famous for tea orchards, cheese and view points for Sunrise, Sunset and mountains.

Accomodation: Overnight at Lodge in Ilam.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 04: Drive to Taplejung (1,422 m/4,665 ft) - 5/6 Hours

From Ilam, we drive to Taplejung which is our trek starting point. We drive along the beautiful countryside views and pass through Phidim. We make several stops to stretch our legs. Taplejung is one of the most beautiful areas in eastern Nepal, with a spectacular landscape, Himalayan peaks of heights above 7000 meters and a wide range of flora and fauna.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Taplejung.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 05: Trek to Mitlung (921 m/3,022 ft)-5/6 Hours

This is the less touristic area and we walk downhill on quiet trail through lush mid forested hills, several traditional villages and pass through rice fields, terraced farms. Then we continue following the Tamor River to Mitlung. We cross Suketar Airport on the way to Mithung.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Mitlung.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 06: Trek to Chiruwa (1,270 m/4,167 ft)-5/6 Hours

Today we walk along the Tamor River and cross Limbu and Tamang Villages of Sinwa, Tawa and Porke. We walk on landslide debris area. Then our trail descends until Thiwa Khola and crosses wooden bridge. After few Ups and Downs, we arrive at Chiruwa Village.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Chiruwa.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 07: Trek to Sekathum (1,579 m /5,180 ft)- 6 Hours

Today our trek begins following the Tamur River and climbs steep before descending to the Simbua Khola which comes from Yalung Glacier on South Base Camp. Then our trail crosses a ridge and joins the steep and narrow Ghunsa Khola valley before arriving Tibetan village of Sekathum. We cross several villages of Taplethok, Tamewa, Hellok and Lelep.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Sekathum.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 08: Trek to Amjilosa(2,308 m/7,572 ft)-5 Hours

We walk along with Ghunsa Khola and enter the deep gorge. We walk for around 1 hour along riverbed and cross several bridges over khola. Then the trail steeply climbs to Ghaiya Bari and goes on hanged trail across a breathtaking slope. In after a while, we get to the Tibetan village of Amjilosa.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Amjilosa.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 09: Trek to Gyabla (2,760 m/ 9,055 ft) - 5 Hours

Today, we trek through forested trail filled with rhododendrons and bamboo, before ascending to Gyabla. There is no any village on the trail. We also come across a big waterfall on the opposite side of the river on our way to Gyabla. Then we climb steep ascent and we descend to Gyabla. Once we reach Gyabla, we feel the change in climate from hot to cool.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Gyabla.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 10: Trek to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,795 ft)-5 Hours

Today we walk alongside of Gunsa River and through forests. Then we officially enter Kanchanjunga Region as we see prayers flag and big rock making natural entrance. We get to Phere village where we visit Gompas and continue our trail to Ghunsa. Ghunsa is a Tibetan village and have old Gompa dated back 17th/18th century.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Ghunsa.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 11: Acclimatization Day at Ghunsa

This day is a must extra day as we are climbing altitude. We walk to a small hill which gains us 400 m and walk around Ghunsa village. We can see Tibetan life style and visit many monasteries.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Ghunsa.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 12: Trek to Khambachen(4,100 m/13,452 ft)- 5/6 Hours

After a day rest at Ghunsa, we begin our trek through forested path along the south bank of Ghunsa Khola and pass several Mani walls and chortens. After we cross the bridge, the trail climbs and we walk on steep slopes and reach Tibetan settlement of Khambachen which rewards us with the view of north face of Jannu (Kumbhakarna) Mountain.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Kambachen.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 13: Trek to Lhonak (4,750 m/15,584 ft)-5/6 Hours

We climb through exposed rocky fields to the Ramtang Village and cross North West of Kanchenjunga Glacier. Ramtang is a high Tibetan pasture camp. We walk on beautiful pasture and pass a large stone huts to the Lhonak Village. From Lhonak, we will have beautiful view of Wegde Peak, Mera Peak, Nepal Peak, Twins and many others.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Lhonak.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 14: Trek to Pang Pema, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,200 m/17060 ft) - 8 Hours

Today, we trek to the Pang Pema, the other name of North Base Camp. We walk along the glacier on the northern ridge. From the base camp, we see the magnificent view of Mt. Kanchenjunga along with other peaks between Nepal and Sikkim and Nepal and Tibet. Then we return back to Lhonak.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Lhonak.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 15: Trek back to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,795 ft)-6 Hours

We return back to Ghunsa passing Khambachen following the same trail.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Ghunsa.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 16: Trek to Sela La High Camp (4,100 m/13,451 ft) - 4/5 Hours

Today we trek to Sela La High Camp along steep rocky trail through forests of birch, pine and rhododendron. From high camp, we see magnificent view of Jannu, Nyukla Laching and other peaks.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Sela La High Camp.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 17: Cross Sele La Pass (4,720 m/15,486 ft), Mirgila Pass to Tseram (3,900 m/12,795 ft)-6/7 Hours

Today we trek to the other side of the hill as we are going to the south base camp and cross two passes of Sele La, Mirgila Pass and Sinion La marked by many prayers flag. From these passes, we see the jaw dropping views of Yalung Glacier, Jannu Mountain, Makalu, Baruntse, Kanchanjunga and many other peaks. We descend down to Tseram for overnight.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Tseram.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 18: Trek to Ramche (4,580m/15,026ft)- 4 Hours

Today is a short day as we are staying at Ramche. We walk passing by moraines of Yalung glacier and ascend to Ramche also known Ram Chaur. During the trail, we come across a lake and a meadow where we might see blue sheep grazing. In Ramche, we may visit small monastery.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Ramche.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 19: Day visit to South Base Camp (Oktang) and Yalung Glacier (4,500 m/14,764 ft)-6/7 Hours

Today we visit Kanchenjunga south base camp. The view is magnificien as we ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier into the series of ablation valleys which give us relatively easy walking. A frozen lake, clear streams and views of Koktang, Rathong and Kabbru are the highlights of the journey. After we cross Oktang, we get the panoramic views of Jannu, Kanchenjunga and other many peaks all around. Then we walk back to Ramche and enjoy Sunset over majestic mountains.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Ramche.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 20: Trek to Torangden (2,995 m/9,826 ft) - 7 Hours

Today we trek down to Torangden. We descend down with beautiful scenery and herds of blue sheeps in the grassy slopes. We further descend through the moraines of Yalung Glacier, cross Lapsang, Tseram and arrive at Ana Phedi. Then we further descend through dense forest of Rhodhodendro and bushes. During our trail, we pass many chortens, monasteries, streams, waterfalls and arrive at Torangden.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Torangden.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 21: Trek to Yamphuden(2,080 m/6,824 ft)-7 Hours

Today we have a long steep ascent through mossy forest. Then we continue and cross Lamite Pass at 3,500 m and our trail descend quite steeply before we cross a small river. Our trail goes on cultivated land and reaches Yamphuden. It is a mixed village of Sherpa, Gurung, Rai and Limbu people.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Yamphuden.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 22: Trek to Phumphe(1,860 m/6,102 ft)-6 Hours

Our trail goes high above the river to Manakhe and continues to Phumphe by following the trail into a side canyon and cross a stream on a long suspension bridge before climbing to Phumphe village.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Phumphe.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 23: Trek to Kande Bhanjyang (2,120 m/6,955 ft) - 6 Hours

We begin our trek and cross a series of valleys passing several villages.The trail continues up to Kande Bhanjyang.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Kande Bhanjyang.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 24: Trek to Lali Kharka (2,220 m/7,283 ft)-6 Hours

Following the trail, we traverse a ridge to reach the Limbu village of Khunjari. Then we go down to Pha Khola. From here the path ascends through Shimu village to Thenbewa and continues through a forest to Lali Kharka.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge in Lali Kharka.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 25: Trek to Suketar (2,420 m/7,940 ft)-4 Hours

Today is a relatively short day as we follow the trail onto a ridge and then descend gradually to the airfield at Suketar. In the evening, you may treat all the crew members.

Accomodation: Overnight at Tea House/Lodge Suketar.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 26: Drive back to Bhadrapur (8 Hours)

After breakfast at hotel, we drive back to Bhadrapur on the same road. We make several stops on the way to stretch our legs.

Accomodation: Overnight at Hotel in Bhadrapur.

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration:

Day 27: Fly back to Kathmandu

We fly back to Kathmandu by morning flight. After arriving at Kathmandu, we transfer you to hotel and full day on your own. In the evening, we host a grand dinner to celebrate our Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Accomodation: Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Meals: B D

Activity Duration:

Day 28: Departure from Kathmandu

Breakfast and free time until we transfer to airport before 3 hours of your flight time.

Accomodation:

Meals: B

Activity Duration:

Cost Info

Cost Includes:

Garland welcome, arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu with office representative.
3 nights in Kathmandu with breakfast inclusive of taxes and service charges.
1 night in Bhadrapur, 1 night in Ilam and 1 night in Taplejung with all meals in local lodge/hotel.
21 Nights/22 Days All inclusive Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek with breakfast, lunch and dinner and tea/coffee each time in meals in local tea houses/lodges.
Kathmandu/Bhadrapur/Kathmandu flight with necessary transfers.
All Necessary permits for trekking to Kanchenjunga Region.
Bhadrapur/Ilam/Taplejung and Suketar/Bhadrapur by Private Jeep.
Meals as indicated in the Itinerary.
English Speaking Trek Guide with a reliable team of porters (2:1 Ratio) and additional Sherpa as per the group size.
Insurance for Guide, porters and Sherpa with their meals, accommodation and daily allowances.
First Aid Kit and Duffel Bag.
Kathmandu full day sightseeing with English Speaking Tour Guide with all applicable entrance fees.
Welcome and Farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
Bottle Drinking water in vehicle for sightseeing drives and transfers.
All drives, sightseeing and transfers by Deluxe Vehicle as per the group size.
24/7 hours Assistance.

Cost Excludes:

International Airfare to/from Kathmandu.
Nepal Visa fees on Arrival at airport (USD 50/- for 30 Days).
Meals other than breakfast in Kathmandu except welcome and farewell dinners.
Bottle drinking water, hot beverages, charges for hot shower, mobile/camera charges during the trek.
Personal nature of expenses like tips, bar bills, laundry and personal expenses.
Cost may arise of natural calamities, flight cancellation, illness, hospitalization, tour cancellation, blockade etc.
Cost for Emergency Helicopter Evacuation Charges in case of emergency.
Other than in our include section.