Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

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Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
  • Duration 19 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5143
  • Group Size 2-6
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time March-May, Septmeber-November

About Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is located in the eastern part of Nepal, borders Sikkim and Tibet, and the trail goes around the lap of the “3rd Highest Mountain in the World” Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m). The third highest mountain in the world and is also popularly known as the “Five Treasures of the Great Snow” i.e. Gold, Silver, Precious Stones, Grain, and Holy Scriptures. The famous Kanchenjunga is situated in North-East Nepal and is bordered by Sikkim, India. Since the mountain partly lies in Nepal and partly in India, the view of Kanchenjunga can be seen from India, Bhutan, and Tibet. This region offers rewarding trekking through lush, low-lying valleys up through incredible forests and into the high alpine pastures and glaciers at the foot of Kanchenjunga. Along the way, you’ll pass through Hindu and Buddhist villages whose culture includes Chhetri, Rai, Limbu, Gurung, Sherpa, and Tibetan. The route to base camp offers variations in landscapes from alpine grasslands to sub-tropical forests, low river valleys, glacial moraine, and rocky scree slopes. Throughout the trekking, trekkers get to relish the stunning panoramic view of the massive mountain peaks such as Lhotse (8516m), Everest (8848m), Kanchenjunga (8586m), Makalu (8481m), and many others. The Kanchenjunga region is inhabited by a mixed community of Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, and Gurung, which provides an opportunity for trekkers to understand their culture and lifestyle. This trek is suitable for those with limited time but some guests need a long holiday to keep their mind in tune. To grab the trip pleasure and make it precious, you can join the trip of TOP OF THE WORLD ADVENTURE.

Trip Highlights

  • World Heritage Site Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Temple.
  • Fine Art and Gallery of Hindu and Buddhist Culture in Patan.
  • Splendid views over the majestic mountain Kanchenjunga.
  • Walk along the less touristic section.
  • Look out into the forests.
  • Visit the magnificent remote Kanchenjunga area villages.
  • The high mountain passes in Kanchenjunga are challenging.

Overview of the Tour
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek may be your ideal journey if you want to experience one of Nepal's most unexplored and breathtaking trekking routes. After a picturesque flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, this epic journey continues with a drive to Taplejung, the serene entry point to the Kanchenjunga region. From there, the journey meanders through remote villages inhabited by hospitable communities such as the Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa, as well as deep valleys and old rhododendron forests.

You will frequently walk for hours without seeing another group, which is what makes this trek unique in terms of its sense of isolation. And at the trail's end? Two base camps, the South and the North, were tucked away beneath the formidable Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak. Far from the usual route, it's an adventure into unadulterated, untamed beauty.

Bookings are now being accepted for departures in the spring, summer, and fall of 2025.

Why Opt for the Trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp?

  • This is not your typical hike in the Himalayas. Kanchenjunga is an excellent choice for those seeking a genuine wilderness experience away from the crowded Everest or Annapurna trails.
  • The scenery is unearthly. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Everest as you hike past towering Himalayan giants like Jannu and Makalu, as well as icy glaciers and hidden alpine meadows. It's not just about the scenery, though.
  • The human connection is what makes this trek so unique. Every smile and shared cup of tea feels sincere as you travel through villages where traditional ways of life are still practiced. The views are as rewarding as the cultural diversity.
  • Yes, the trek is difficult. However, you will never forget the feeling of accomplishment you get when you arrive at the foot of Kanchenjunga, encircled by snow-capped peaks and silence.


Trek Price & Benefits
The size of your group, the length of your trip, and the level of comfort you desire will all affect the cost of your trek.

Included in our standard package are:

  • Accommodations at teahouses along the route
  • All required licenses
  • Domestic flights and transportation
  • Meals while trekking
  • Experienced, certified guides


Do you need a bit more comfort? Wherever possible, we can set up upgrades to more cozy lodges.

For a customized itinerary and up-to-date prices, send an email.
 

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Starts from: Kathmandu Ends to: Kathmandu
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As soon as your plane hits the tarmac of Tribhuvan International Airport, our office's representative and driver will be on standby to meet and greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel for the 18 days trek in Nepal to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The representative will help you check-in to your designated hotel, and after going to your rooms and refreshing, you will be briefed about your daily activities. The rest of your time is free to move around the neighborhood and get familiar with your surroundings.

  • Max Altitude: 1300 m
  • Meals: Dinner
  • Accommodation: Kathmandu

After an early breakfast, you will catch early morning scenic flight to Bhadrapur. After landing, you will take a jeep ride to Ilam enjoying the view of beautiful landscapes. Ilam is Nepal’s largest tea plantation area and serves as a major tourist area even for domestic tourists. You will then head towards Taplejung in private transportation. Driving along the beautiful countryside view, you pass through Phidim to reach Limbu village of Taplejung. Overnight in Taplejung.

  • Max Altitude: 300 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge

Your trek starts from today. After having breakfast, you will trek through the Limbu and Tamang villages of Sinwa, Tawa, and Porke. You will also pass over old landslide debris and boulder, and strewn river deposits, before descending to Thiwa Khola. You will then cross a wooden bridge to reach Sinwa. Stay overnight at Sinwa.

  • Max Altitude: 980 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Trekking through the villages of Taplethok, Tamewa, Hellok, and Lelep, you will move alongside Tamor River and descend towards Simbu Khola, which emerges from the Yalung Glacier. You will then trek through steep and narrow Ghunsa Khola valley to finally arrive in Sukathum. Overnight in Sukathum.

  • Max Altitude: 1576 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Moving with the flow of Ghunsa Khola, you will head towards Amjilosa walking through steep uphill on exposed terrain. Relishing the amazing landscape view and crossing several bridges over Ghunsa Khola. You will walk through forested trail filled with Rhododendrons and Bamboo, before ascending to Gyabla. You will also come across a big waterfall on the opposite side of the river on your way to Gyabla. Making a steep ascent and then a descent, you will arrive in Gyabla. Overnight in Gyabla

  • Max Altitude: 2730 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Leaving behind the beautiful Gyabla village, you will trek towards Ghunsa through a broad meadow. You will then climb a small hill and descend to cross the river to reach the Tibetan village of Ghunsa with wooden houses, a micro hydropower plant, school, and a health post. Overnight in Ghunsa.

  • Max Altitude: 3415 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, you will begin your trek entering the forested path along the south bank of Ghunsa Khola and passing several Mani walls and Chortens along the way. Overnight in Khambachen.

  • Max Altitude: 4050 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You will also trek through several scree slopes and some glacial moraines to reach the Tibetan settlement of Khambachen from where you can get the stunning view of the north face of Jannu (7710m). Overnight in Khambachen.

  • Max Altitude: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Leaving behind Khambachen, you will follow the trail on the left side of Kanchenjunga Glacier. You will hike along a high plateau to reach the campsite of Lhonak. From Lhonak, you can see the panoramic view of massive mountain peaks like Yougde Peak (6802m), Mera Peak (6364m), Nepal Peak (7177m), Twins (7350m), and many others. Overnight in Lhonak.

  • Max Altitude: 4780 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, you will head towards Kanchenjunga Base Camp following the trail along the glaciers on the northern ridges. The camp is also known as Pang Pema from where you will get the mesmerizing and spectacular view of Mt Kanchenjunga (8586m) along with the skyline filled with snow-capped mountain ranges bordering Nepal-India and Nepal-Tibet. Stay overnight at Lhonak.

  • Max Altitude: 5143 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today’s trek descending to past Lhonak and Khangpachen while walking on the moraines of Kanchenjunga Glacier and Kumbhakarna Glacier, you will arrive in Ghunsa. Overnight in Ghunsa.

  • Max Altitude: 3595 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

To reach the High Camp, you will trek along a steep rocky trail through a forested area filled with Birch, Pine and colorful Rhododendron. You will cross over two passes on your way to Tseram, the highest pass being the Sele La (4480m) and Sinion La (4660). Upon reaching the top of the passes, you will be rewarded with an amazing view of Yalung Glacier, Jannu (7710m), Makalu (8481m), Baruntse (7129m), Kanchenjunga (8586m), and many other mountain ranges along the Sikkim border. You will then descend to Tseram for an overnight stay.

  • Max Altitude: 3870 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Passing the moraines of Yalung Glacier into an ablation valley, you will ascend towards Ramche. You will also come across a lake and a meadow where you can spot the blue sheep grazing on the grassy hills. You will visit the small monastery in Ramche, in the evening. Overnight in Ramche.

  • Max Altitude: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Passing the moraines of Yalung Glacier into an ablation valley, you will descend towards Yamphudim. Yamphudin is a village inhabited by a mixed community of Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, and Gurung. Overnight in Yamphudin

  • Max Altitude: 2090 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast, you will start your trail to Hapukhola and it will take 8 hours to reach there. It is a pleasuring walk through the nature. Stay overnight at Hapukhola.

  • Max Altitude: 1400 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast, you will drive from Hapukhola to Ilam. After arriving in Ilam, you will take a walk through the village and stay overnight in Ilam

  • Max Altitude: 800 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast, you will drive to Bhadrapur and then take flight to Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu you will take rest at our hotel or stroll in the streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a farewell dinner hosted by TOP OF THE WORLD ADVENTURE to celebrate the successful completion of your 8 days trekking. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude: 1300 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today after having breakfast, you will visit the Kathmandu Valley in private vehicle. You will have lunch and visit UNESCO Heritage site in Kathmandu Valley like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath Temple, Swyambhunath (Monkey Temple), etc. Our guide will explain about the history, culture, etc. about the places you visit. At the same time you can visit to Thamel shop for some last minutes shopping. Overnight stay at Kathmandu Hotel.

  • Max Altitude: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Kathmandu Hotel

Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today. Our representative will drop you off at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home, you will have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal and say farewell to Nepal and its amazing people, mountains and nature. Until the next time.

  • Max Altitude: 1300 m
  • Meals: Breakfast
Still Confuse?

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Route Map

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Altitude Graph

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu.

  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Bhadrapur – Kathmandu.

  • Lodge/Tea house accommodations during the trek.

  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.

  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit and Restricted Area Permit.

  • All necessary paperwork and permits.

  • First aid kit and necessary equipment.

  • Government taxes and official expenses.

Excludes

  • International airfare to and from Nepal.

  • Nepal visa fees.

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.

  • Personal trekking equipment and gear.

  • Travel insurance (mandatory).

  • Tips for guides and porters.

Add-ons and Options

Upgrade your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek experience with better accommodations and services. This add-on focuses on making your trek more comfortable and luxurious. 

  • Luxurious Upgrade: Better teahouses, gourmet meals, and porter service.
  • Dedicated Porter: Each trekker has a dedicated porter to carry their luggage, allowing for lighter daypacks.
  • Cultural Add-on: Attend  cultural performance with costumes and music
  • Photography Focus: A photography guide goes along with the trek, offering advice and itinerary adjustments for the best photos.

Additional Info

Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp Requires Permits

The following permits are required in order to trek in the Kanchenjunga region:

1. Permit for Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCAP)
Necessary to enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, which is protected.

2. Permit for Restricted Areas (RAP)
Necessary for the trail's sections that are located in restricted areas.
Only authorized trekking agencies are able to issue it.

All required permit fees and help obtaining them are included in our trekking package.

Trek Difficulty to Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Considered challenging and isolated, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is appropriate for seasoned hikers looking for a wilderness experience.

Principal Difficulties:

  • Time frame: usually 18–24 days

  • Areas that are remote and isolated and have few emergency services

  • Numerous elevated mountain passes surpassing 4,500 meters

  • Weather that is unpredictable at high elevations

Trekkers need to be ready for:

  • 6–8 hours a day of hiking

  • Steep incline and decline

  • Trails that are rocky and prone to landslides

  • Insufficient or nonexistent coverage of mobile networks

it is imperative to have prior trekking experience and be physically fit. We have rest and acclimatization days on our schedule.

Sickness at Altitude

Long-term exposure to elevations above 3,000 meters raises the risk of altitude sickness.

To lower the danger:

  • Gradually ascend and take days off

  • Every day, consume three to four liters of water

  • Steer clear of alcohol and tobacco

  • Take preventative medicine (after seeing a physician)

  • Keep an eye on your health and go down if your symptoms get worse

Trained in first aid, our guides are equipped with an oximeter and basic medications. In order to help avoid altitude problems, acclimatization days are included.

Typical Signs and Symptoms

  • A headache

  • Feeling queasy

  • Weariness

  • Lightheadedness

  • Appetite loss

  • Having trouble falling asleep

  • Breathlessness

Immediate descent is essential if symptoms worsen or continue.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek FAQs

This trek is considered moderately challenging and is best suited for experienced hikers. Expect long days of 6-8 hours of walking on rocky, steep trails, often above 4,000 meters altitude. The remoteness and high mountain passes add to the difficulty, so being physically fit and having prior trekking experience is important.

The trek reaches up to 5,143 meters at Pangpema, with the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp even higher at 5,388 meters. Altitude sickness is a real risk above 3,000 meters, so our itinerary includes acclimatization days, and our guides carry oxygen meters and first aid kits. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, ascending slowly, and listening to your body are key.

The best times to trek are March to May and September to November when the weather is generally clear and mild. However, at high altitudes, weather can be unpredictable—expect cold nights, possible snow, and rapid changes. Layered clothing and proper gear are essential to stay comfortable.

You’ll pass through remote villages inhabited by diverse communities like the Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Gurung. Each village offers a glimpse into unique traditions, languages, and lifestyles. From welcoming smiles to sharing a cup of tea, the warmth and genuine hospitality of the locals make the journey truly special.

All meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included while trekking and served at teahouses along the route. You’ll enjoy traditional Nepali dishes and simple, hearty food to keep your energy up. Vegetarian options are usually available, but if you have special dietary needs, please let us know in advance.

Packing smart is key! Bring layered clothing for variable weather, sturdy trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag, rain gear, sun protection, a hat, gloves, and a refillable water bottle. Don’t forget personal medications, a headlamp, trekking poles, and a camera to capture those stunning views.

The trek passes through isolated areas with limited emergency services and spotty mobile coverage. That’s why we emphasize trekking with experienced guides who are trained in first aid and equipped with medical supplies. We also plan rest and acclimatization days to keep everyone safe and healthy.

Absolutely! We offer upgrades such as stays in more comfortable lodges, gourmet meals, dedicated porters to carry your luggage, cultural performances, and even photography guides to help capture the best shots. Let us know if you want to personalize your trip.

Yes, trekking here requires two permits: the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit and a Restricted Area Permit for certain sections. These permits are included in our package and handled by our team, so you don’t need to worry about the paperwork.