Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Trip Fact:
  • Duration 16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • DestinationNepal
  • Max Altitude5364m
  • AccommodationGuest houses/lodges during the trekking
  • MealsBreakfast in Kathmandu and All meals during trekking
  • Trip Start/EndBhadrapur
  • Group Size1-20 pax
  • Best SeasonMarch, April, May, September, October and November are the best months.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek (Introduction)

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is an extra ordinary adventure in the eastern Nepal. This journey leads you to the base of one of the world’s highest mountains. It is a journey to the off beaten path along with dense forests, high mountain passes, and peaceful villages.

Trekking to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp offers a candid sight into undamaged and remote landscapes. This trekking journey is exploration of the local culture and traditions. Trekking to its base camp takes you to one of the untouched landscapes by the modern development.  

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Nepal is an awe-inspiring journey to the foot of the third-highest mountain in the world Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters). Going for this trek is the perfect choice for natural enthusiasts and adventure-seeking trekkers.

Trek Kanchenjunga is one of the most thrilling adventure through the unpaved area of Nepal. Trekking to this region offers one of the unique and less crowded experience compared to other famous trekking routes in Nepal.

Highlights of the Kanchenjunga base camp trek in Nepal

  • Beautiful rhododendron and other wild flowers blooming all over the trekking trail.
  • A chance to soak into the nature with less crowed trails and teahouses.
  • Enjoy the thrill of mountain from moderate to challenging level.
  • Wonderful mountain views.
  • Discovering the hidden treasure of mountains.
  • Warm hospitality of locals.
  • Views of sunrise and sunset over beautiful mountains.
  • Exploration of the rich cultural heritage.
  • Physical endurance test.

What are the things to Know about Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?  

Two Base Camps

The third highest mountain of the world Mt. Kanchenjunga has two base camps i.e. south base camp & north base camp. Trekking to both Base Camp starts from Nepal whereas north base camp is more famous among the trekkers as it is more accessible and has better infrastructures. Let’s discuss briefly about these two base camps:

South Base Camp: The southern base camp of the famous Kanchenjunga mountain is located near the border of Nepal and India around Yalung glacier. The altitude of this base camp is around 4,700 meters. The exact location of this base camp is often debated however, the trek to southern base camp starts from Taplejung in Nepal. The trek to south base camp goes through villages like Yamphudin, Ramche and Tortang.

Trekkers can see amazing mountain views of Kanchenjunga south, Koktang, Kabru, Kathong etc while trekking to south base camp. The southern base camp is lest visited and remote compared to the northern base camp.

North Base Camp: The northern base camp also known as Pangpema is located in the Nepal. The altitude of north base camp is approximately 5,143 meters. The north base camp trek is well-known among trekkers compared to the south base camp trek. This trek journey starts from Taplejung and goes through villages like Ghunsa, Pangpema, and Lhonak. Trekking to the north base camp offers an awe- inspiring views of peaks like Wedge, Twins, Tent, and south Kanchenjunga. This is a challenging journey to the mountains in Nepal due to its high altitude and remote landscapes.

Permits needed for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking route lies in the restricted areas so; you will need various trekking permits. You can only get these permits through the registered trekking company in Nepal. Details about the permit cost and its importance are given below:

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit: Trekkers must have the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit in order to complete the trek to base camp. The trek passes through the conservation area which is protected region. You can get this trekking permit from Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu and an entry point of the conserved area.  The cost for this permit is NPR 3000 per person. 

Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit: It is mandatory to get Kanchenjunga Restricted Area permit to trek in this region. The trekking trial falls through the restricted area making it compulsory to get this permit. The restricted area permit can be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu and registered trekking agency in Nepal. the cost for this permit varies according to seasons.  

Trekkers Information Management System Card: Obtaining the TIMS card is first step to trek in Nepal as you cannot trek without this permit. You can get this trekking permit from Nepal Tourism Board at Kathmandu. If you are an independent trekker the permit will cost USD 20 per person and USD 10 if you are with agency.

Travel Insurance

Traven insurance is key factor for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek as this trek goes through remote and high altitude places. The travel insurance covers the cost for emergencies, unexpected situations, and medical issues.  As the trek reaches altitude over 5000 meters the risk of altitude sickness which requires emergency medical evacuation might be easy with travel insurance. You should be careful while choosing a travel insurance policy as it should be used during any type of difficult situations. The ravel insurance should help to cover the following:

Medical Expenses: The travel insurance covering hospitalization cost, medical emergencies and treatment for altitude sickness is more reliable.

Trip cancellation/delay: It should include reimbursement for cancelled or delayed flights and even trek.

Helicopter Evacuation: This is one of the most important coverage for high altitude trek. The insurance should cover the cost of evacuation from the altitude areas up to 6,000 meters and more.

Lost or stolen properties: Make sure to purchase the policy covering for lost or stolen belongings. You might lose your valuable belongings while trekking so, it is better to be careful in advance.

Best Season for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Hike

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking in Nepal is a dream adventure for many trekkers. It is best to visit this trekking region during the Peak reasons like Autumn and Spring. The weather conditions during the autumn and spring are great with best visibility of mountains throughout the year.

Autumn and Spring is best time with clear skies, beautiful scenery, and better trail conditions. These seasons avoid the hotness of summer and extreme coldness of winter. The weather is cool and clear during the autumn with less chance of rainfall whereas spring has mild weather with beautiful flowers blooming all over the trekking trail.  You can enjoy trekking during the spring and autumn seasons without any fear and comfortably.

While trekking during Winter and Monsoon is best in Nepal it is best to avoid trekking during Winter and Monsoon. Winter brings extreme coldness and slippery trekking trails. The temperature during the winter is freezing especially at higher evaluations. Whereas Monsoon brings heavy rainfall in almost every parts of Nepal. The risk of disasters like floods and landslides making it risky and challenging. So, it is better to avoid monsoon and winter season for safety reasons.  

Foods and Accommodation During the trek

The Kanchenjunga base camp trekking is remote and adventurous journey in Nepal. The food and accommodation while hiking in this region are more basic compared to popular treks like the Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna Base Camp trek. Let’s look in detail about the foods and accommodation during the trekking voyage:

Foods: You will get simple and hearty food in this region. The food in this region are common dishes like dal bhat, noodles, soups, pasta, and Tibetan bread. Even if this is remote area you can get snacks like chapatti, pancakes and boiled eggs providing enough nutrition for your journey. You can enjoy healthy and hygienic dishes even at higher altitudes. It is better to avoid non-veg items during your journey as they are rare and might not be fresh. But as you climb to higher altitude the varieties of items might be very few at high cost. It will be good if you carry some high energy snacks like energy bars, chocolate, and nuts.

Accommodation: You will find basic tea houses run by locals along the trek. The rooms during the trail are simple with twin beds, blanket, and a mattress. The services like hot shower and electricity at mountains may be limited. Some tea houses might offer hot shower service with high cost.

Difficulties during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is one of the most adventurous and challenging journey into the Himalayas of Nepal. The trek goes up at the evaluation of more than 5000 meters which rises the risk of altitude sickness. The duration of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is longer including longer hours of walk. The facilities and services in this region are rare and limited as it is one of the remote region of Nepal.

The weather conditions at this trekking region is unpredictable as it can change quickly. There is a high chance of strong winds especially at higher altitude making it challenging to trek. You might get culture shock while trekking in this region as people in this region have their own unique traditions and customs. It might be difficult to communicate with locals as most of them cannot speak in English.

Why Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking in Nepal with us?

The Dream Heaven Adventures is an experienced and registered trekking company in Nepal. with our professionalism and communication skills we are sure to make your trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp more enjoyable and safer. We have a professional team for your support in case of emergencies.

Our guides and porters are expert in trekking into the mountains of Nepal with many years of experience. We offer you a budget friendly trek package the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. We are committed to your service and safety. We have a great contact with hotels and flight arrangement office ensuring you a hassle free trekking journey to the mountain region. We design trip plan according to your preferences and wish. Whether you are an experienced trekker or beginner, with our support we are sure to make your Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek safe, memorable, and unforgettable.

Itinerary

The first day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek starts with a domestic flight to Bhadrapur. You will be enjoying an amazing scenic flight to one of the industrial towns of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Bhadrapur, you will rest for a while and begin your dive journey to Illam.

You will be traveling through the Mechi highway enjoying the lush landscapes. It will take 5-6 hours to reach the beautiful city Illam. You will see the beautiful views of rivers and forests while travelling.   Illam is famous place in Nepal for its high quality tea production and beautiful landscapes.  Upon your arrival at Illam you can enjoy and click pictures at the beautiful tea farm and explore the beauty of this wonderful place.

  • Hotel
  • Lunch/Dinner

The second day is all about a scenic drive from Illam to Taplejung. The distance between Illam and Taplejung is 150-170 km which takes 5-6 hours of drive. You will enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan views, terraced farms, and lush green valleys while travelling to Taplejung.

This is one of the scenic yet challenging journey in the eastern part of Nepal. When you reach Taplejung the famous starting point of the Kanchenjunga base camp trekking in Nepal, you can explore the culture and warm hospitality of Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu community. You will be residing at this beautiful village for a night.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

You will be heading towards the beautiful village located in the northeastern part of Nepal. The journey to Sekathum usually takes 6 hours of scenic drive. It might be tiring as the roads are unpaved, narrow, and steep in some sections.

Upon arriving at Sekathum you will explore the surrounding area and traditional lifestyle of Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa people. This is a remote and peaceful village offering an experience of rural life in Nepal. You will be staying at the Sekathum village before starting your walking journey.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

On the fourth day of your trekking journey you will be heading to Amjilosa. This is also your first day of your official walking journey. You will be walking for 6-8 hours to reach Amjilosa village. The trekking trail to reach this small village is steep and rocky with forested sections and river crossings.

After arriving at this beautiful village you can explore the surrounding areas and observe the beautiful mountain views. After a long and tiring day you will be able to relax and soak yourself into the rich culture and untouched nature of the Kanchenjunga region.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

The fifth day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Hike is all about trekking through the forests and small settlements before reaching Gyabla. You will be walking for 6-7 hours to reach Gyabla village.

The Gyabla village is a beautiful village offering the beautiful mountain views, glimpse into local lifestyle, and unique culture and traditions. You will be staying at a basic tea house for a night and prepare for the journey the next day.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

You will be trekking to Ghunsa on your sixth day of trekking journey. It takes 5-6 hours to reach Ghunsa from Gyabla. It includes ascending through forests and along rivers. Amazing mountain views and Himalayan landscapes can be seen while trekking to Ghunsa.

Upon arriving at the village Ghunsa you can explore the Tibetan influenced villages along with various stupas and monasteries. You can also observe the views of various snow-capped mountains. You will spend a peaceful time in this village surrounded by deep forests, alpine meadows and various towering peaks.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2520m

You will be resting or taking a break at the beautiful village Ghunsa on your seventh day of trekking voyage. You will be exploring the Ghunsa village and rest today. As trek goes to higher altitude, your body needs time to adjust to the climate. So, you will spend another day at Ghunsa village for acclimatization process. Let your body rest for a day in order to continue your journey the next day without feeling exhausted. Acclimatization is also very crucial in order to avoid the risk of altitude sickness.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2730m

Your destination for the eighth day is Kambachen. You will be walking through the pine and rhododendron forests. The trekking trail to Kambachen is rocky and it might be challenging as well as enjoyable to trek through the untrodden path. It will take 4-5 to reach the Kambachen village.
You will be able to see the breathtaking views of mountain peaks like Kumbhakarna and Kanchenjunga. This is a remote and peaceful place to soak into the beauty of nature. You will be resting at a tea house with all the basic facilities and simple meals at his beautiful place.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

The Kambachen is situated at an altitude of 4,100 meters. As you go to a higher altitude the risk of altitude sickness also rises so, in order to avoid its chance, it is necessary to acclimatize properly. The ninth day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is all about exploring the Kambachen area and resting for a day. This will be your second acclimatization day at the Kanchenjunga Base Camp.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3995m

The 10th day of Nepal Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is a journey to Lhonak a small village at an altitude of 4,780 meters. The trekking duration to Lhonak is 4-5 hours. You will see the beautiful views of the Himalayan peaks like Kanchenjunga, Janak, and many more while trekking to Lhonak village. It will be an amazing adventure while passing through the massive Kanchenjunga glacier and the Ghunsa River.

When you reach Lhonak, you will get a chance to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas in one of the most remote and least visited regions of Nepal. You will be residing at the tea house in Lhonak and preparing for the next day.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

This is one of the most awaited days of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. You will trek to the base camp of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga. You will pass through the Lhonak Glaciers Moraines and beautiful rhododendron forests.  Trekking to the base camp will be an adventurous and thrilling journey, as you will have to pass through icy areas, rocky boulders, and glacial deposits.

Passing through various challenges you will reach the foot of the giant mountain Kanchenjunga. You will see views of various mountain peaks from an altitude of 5,143 meters. After observing the scenery from the base camp you will trek back to Lhonak and stay overnight.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

You will start your return journey to Ghunsa marking the ending to the point. It will take 6-7 hours to descend to Ghunsa through the diverse terrain. Walking through the rugged terrain and exploring the beauty of nature you will finally arrive at Ghunsa and accommodate at the tea house.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

The 13th day of the trek is also about the return journey from the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. Descending to Amjilosa while passing the village like Gyabla you will see wonderful views all along. After completing several ascends and descending you will finally reach the Amjilosa village for an overnight stay.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

After having breakfast at Amjilosa you will head towards Sekathum. You will descend to Sekathum while observing the beautiful Himalayan views and surrounding areas. It will take 4-5 hours of descent before finally reaching Sekathum. You will be residing at the tea house in Sekathum and preparing for the journey ahead.

 

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

On the second last day of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you will walk to Taplejung exploring through the hilly terrains. After exploring the way to Taplejung from Sekhathum on foot you will drive to Bhadrapur enjoying the beautiful scenery. You will be staying at the Bhadrapur the night before your trek finally ends.    

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

This is the last day of your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. After having breakfast at Bhadrapur you will take a domestic flight to Kathmandu. Upon arriving at Kathmandu you can enjoy the rest of the day exploring and buying souvenirs. Take time to reflect on the journey to the foot of one of the highest mountains in the world.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast/Dinner

Cost Details

Includes

  • Car/van/hiace transportation for airport pickup and drop-off.
  • Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu flight ticket.
  • Land transport by jeep/hiace/bus as required.
  • Accommodation in Tea House during the trek.
  • All meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • An experienced English-speaking and Government-licensed Trekking guide, including salary, insurance, flight, food, and lodging.
  • Trekking porter(s) on a 1 porter for 2 trekkers basis, including salary, insurance, flight, food, and lodging.
  • All necessary paperwork, trekking permits, and TIMS card.
  • A comprehensive medical kit will be available.
  • All trekking equipment for the field staff.

Excludes

  • Your Hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Provision of travel and rescue insurance.
  • All personal expenses, including laundry services, battery recharging, bottled water, and hot showers.
  • Tipping for guides and porters.
  • Exclusion of all types of beverages, including hot water, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks.
  • Any additional expenses not explicitly mentioned in the inclusive costs.

Good to Know

Packing list for the Kanchenjunga Trek

Clothing

  • Warm jackets
  • Water and windproof jackets
  • Water and wind proof trousers
  • Long sleeve t-shirts
  • Quick dry t-shirt
  • Comfortable underwear

Foot Wear

  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Sandals
  • Cotton socks
  • Gaiters

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Soap
  • Sanitizer
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • Wet tissues
  • Quick dry towel
  • Toilet paper

Other Essentials

  • Head lamps
  • Sleeping bags
  • Trekking poles
  • Power banks
  • Trekking bag pack
  • Extra batteries

Documents and Money

  • Nepal entry visa
  • Trekking permits
  • Passport and photos
  • Sufficient Nepali cash

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