Kanchanjanga Base Camp Trek

Name: Kanchanjanga Base Camp Trek
Brand: Orbit Alpine Adventure
Price: 1995 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (3 reviews)

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Recommended by 99% of travelers

Duration

17 Days

Trip Grade

Moderate

Country

Nepal

Maximum Altitude

5,043m/16,545ft

Group Size

2-17

Starts

Kanchenjunga

Ends

Kanchenjunga

Activities

Trekking

Best Time

Autumn and Spring

Highlights

Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Suketar
Remote Villages of Lumbus and Sherpas
Diverse flora and fauna of Kanchanjanga Conservation Area
Reaching the base camp of the world’s third highest peak, Mt. Kanchanjanga
Tranquil trails going past lush forests and Himalayan valleys
Gorgeous view of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Table Shikhar, Gimmigela Chuli, Pyramid Peak and Kirant Chuli
Experience of crossing Selele La Pass (4,480m), Mirgin La Pass (4,663m), Sinion La (4,660m), etc.

In modest terms, Kanchenjunga, often pronounced as "Kang-chen-zod-nga," translates to "Five Treasures of Snow" and is made up of seven different peaks. Unlike famous trekking destinations like Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek sees far smaller numbers of visitors each year, fascinating adventurers who pursue endeavors beyond the beaten path. Standing at 8,586 meters, Kanchenjunga ranks as the third uppermost peak worldwide, offering spectacular scenery and rivers to go with its royal presence in eastern Nepal.

Trekking in the Kanchenjunga area presents a noteworthy challenge. It's rated as energetic on the challenging scale, yet the gratifying experience it offers is supreme in Nepal. Trekking and climbing excursions in this area increased in popularity from the last half of the twentieth century. Though, it wasn't until 1988 that the Nepalese government formally opened this peak to international climbers, permitting them to discover this new escapade.

The trek will take you through the original vegetation and ethnic villages settled by Rai and Limbu groups, among others. Historically, the inhabitants of this remote area traded crucial items like salt, food, and clothing with Tibet. Currently, these communities often travel to eastern Nepalese towns like Jhapa and Ilam to get everyday goods and services.

As the eastern entrance to The Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) in Nepal, the Kanchenjunga region boasts a variety of flora and fauna. During your trek, you may encounter blue sheep, musk deer, mountain bears, and numerous other wildlife species. Along the way, you'll also be treated to superb views of iconic peaks such as Everest, Chamlang, Makalu, and, of course, Kanchenjunga itself. As you climb to higher elevations, the path takes you through mountain fields, thick subtropical forests, and winding valleys, offering a truly captivating natural experience.

Ghunsa Peak

To embark on this journey, you'll first fly from Kathmandu to either Biratnagar or Bhadrapur, then drive to Basantapur or Suketar. Along the drive, you'll see various organic regions, displaying the geographical prosperity of this route. Passing over approximately three weeks, the trail wanders through awesome sceneries and diverse lands until you reach the northern base camp. Following sightseeing of this extraordinary region, you'll trek ahead to Taplejung and catch a flight back to Kathmandu. If you have an extra day, consider a Kathmandu Day Tour to Chandragiri Hills for wonderful views and a peaceful escape from the city. If you want to venture to the south base camp and at the regal Yalung Glacier, provisions must be made with us before your departure.

A visit to Kanchanjanga is a formidable trek into the grandeur of an eight-thousander of Nepal. The best time to visit Kanchanjanga is from spring to midsummer and in autumn. Orbit Alpine Adventure has proposed 17 days’ itinerary for an epic trek to Kanchanjanga Base Camp. The other popular trekking packages in Kanchenjunga region are Kanchenjunga Selele Pass Trekking, Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking Bokta Peak Climbing and Kanchenjunga Milke Danda Trekking. For more details and appropriate itinerary, contact us via email, phone call, WhatsApp or online booking services.

A trip to Kanchenjunga explains the glory of one of Nepal's high eight-thousands’. The ideal times for sightseeing in Kanchenjunga are from spring to midsummer and in autumn. Orbit Alpine Adventure offers a complete 17-day itinerary for a memorable trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Moreover, we provide other popular trekking packages in the region, including Kanchenjunga Selele Pass Trekking, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking with Bokta Peak Climbing, and Kanchenjunga Milke Danda Trekking. For additional details and appropriate itineraries, reach out to us via email, phone call, WhatsApp, or our online booking services.

Trip Gallery

Kanchanjanga Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Day-to-DayExpand all

Day 01:

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft)

As soon as you arrive at the Kathmandu Airport, the representative receives and transfers to the hotel.

Max Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft Meals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: Three Star Hotel

Day 02:

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

The tour guide of Orbit Alpine Adventure takes you around the UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in Kathmandu Valley. Out of seven such cultural and religious sites, you will visit Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa (the Monkey Temple) and Bouddhanath Stupa. In the evening, the trekking guide assisting you throughout Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek will give you all details about the trip.

Max Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Three Star Hotel

Day 03:

Fly to Suketar (2,420m/7,940ft) and Trek to Mitlung (921m/3,022ft) -3 Hours

Today, you fly from Kathmandu Airport to Suketar Airport in the morning. Enjoying the magnificent sights of the landscapes, snowcapped peaks and high altitude villages, you reach there in about 40 minutes. From Suketar, you follow the trail that goes downhill through dense forests and small villages.

Max Altitude: 921m/3,022ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 3 Hours

Day 04:

Trek to Chhiruwa (1,246m/4,088ft) - 6 Hours

You begin the trekking today by walking through the Limbu villages nearby the dense forests inhabited by diverse wildlife and vegetation. On the way, you come to see some clustered houses and terraced farmlands including some small Himalayan streams, you go past Tawa Village.

Max Altitude: 1,246m/4,088ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6 Hours

Day 05:

Trek to Sukethum (1,585m/5,200ft) -6 Hours

Following the trekking track that goes uphill and downhill, you proceed towards Sukethum for the night station. You have to walk for about six hours through terraced fields, small human settlement areas, small rivers and rivulets, natural waterfalls. Witnessing the amazing landscapes, which are bare as well as green, you move ahead into Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project from Tapethok checkpoint.

Max Altitude: 1,585m/5,200ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeashouseDuration: 6 Hours

Day 06:

Trek to Anjilosa (2,395m/7,858ft) -6 Hours

After breakfast, you start the journey walking along the rugged trail that goes past some bamboo forests close to some Sherpa Villages. Finally, you reach Anjilosa, a Nepali Sherpa Village highly influenced by the Tibetan culture and tradition. You can have wonderful vistas of the entire Ghunsa Khola Valley from here.

Max Altitude: 2,395m/7,858ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6 Hours

Day 07:

Trek to Gyala (2,730m/8,957ft) -5 Hours

Although today’s trekking is shorter, the trail is quite challenging as it goes uphill and downhill. The trail penetrates through the dense forest of rhododendron, birch, brown oak and bamboo trees. By leaving the terraced fields cultivated with seasonal crops and ethnic villages, you reach Gyalba (also called Kyapra).

Max Altitude: 2,730m/8,957ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 Hours

Day 08:

Trek to Ghunsa (3,427m/11,243ft) -7 Hours

By following the banks of the Ghunsa Khola that flows through lush forests of rhododendron and fir trees, you move ahead. Leaving terraced fields with seasonal crops and vegetables, you reach Phole Village. Here, you can have a look at a small wooden monastery that protects Buddhist relics and ancient paintings. Moving ahead through lush woodlands and cultivated farmlands, you reach Ghunsa that is the largest human settlement area en route Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek. The prayer flags of this remote high altitude village indicate the impression of Tibetan Buddhist rites and rituals in Nepalese territory.

Max Altitude: 3,427m/11,243ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 7 Hours

Day 09:

Acclimatization Day

In order to prepare yourself against Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) such as altitude sickness, you spend a day here around Ghunsa. Explore the local monastery believed to be related with Khampa Dzong Monastery at the edge of the village. From here, you can enjoy the splendid view of the snowcapped peaks of Kanchenjunga Himalayan Ranges. Or you can hike towards the Yamatri Khola and a lake made by the deposits of the Yamatri Glacier. If you are lucky, you may have the glimpses of antelopes and other animals in Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project.

Max Altitude: 3,427m/11,243ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

Day 10:

Trek to Khanpachen (4,080m/13,386ft) -6 Hours

For some sections of the trail goes past some lush forests of larch and juniper trees along the Ghunsa Khola. Then, it goes uphill towards the barren landscapes showing some natural waterfalls and the Khumbhakarna Glacier. Finally, you reach Khanpachen or Kambachen Village where you can see some species of wild birds like eagles and falcons.

Max Altitude: 4,080m/13,386ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6 Hours

Day 11:

Trek to Lhonak (4,780m/15,682ft) -5 Hours

Today, the trekking trail leads you through the stony banks of the mountain stream. By going past the moraine of the Kanchenjunga Glacier, you reach Lhonak village at the edge of the Lhonak Glacier. From here, you can enjoy the stunning view of the snow-clad peaks and wonderful landscapes.

Max Altitude: 4,780m/15,682ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 Hours

Day 12:

Trek to Pangpema (5,043m/16,545ft) - 4 Hours

After breakfast, you move ahead following the track that goes past the barren plain and moraine rift. Walking for about four hours along the icy trail, you reach Pangpema also known as Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. After keeping your backpack at the huts there, you move uphill towards the northern side.

From Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143m), you can have the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Table Shikhar, Gimmigela Chuli, Pyramid Peak and Kirant Chuli. This is how; your dream to reach the third highest peak of the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m) comes true! After enjoying the staggering vistas as long as you can, you trek down to Pangpema for the night station.

Max Altitude: 5,043m/16,545ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 4 Hours

Day 13:

Trek Back to Kambachen -7 Hours

To enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise view of the Kanchenjunga and other peaks, you descend towards Kambachen via Lhonak and Ramtang. As the trail is downhill and comfortable, you can easily arrive Kambachen in seven hours from the base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga.

Max Altitude: 4,080m/13,386ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 7 Hours

Day 14:

Trek Back to Ghunsa- 4 Hours

Walking along the Ghunsa Khola bank that passes through the lush forests inhabited by diverse species of birds, you arrive Ghunsa. En route, you can enjoy the mountain scenery and scattered villages.

Max Altitude: 3,427m/11,243ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 4 Hours

Day 15:

Trek to Selele La (4,480m/14,698ft) -6 Hours

After having breakfast, you begin the journey by following the other trail than you had walked a few days earlier. Walking along the dense forests of rhododendron and juniper trees, you reach Selele La Pass (4,480m). As the trail goes along the deserted land, you had better walk with your group to prevent from wild animals. Selele La Pass is one of the high

Max Altitude: 4,480m/14,698ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6 Hours

Day 16:

Trek to Tseram (3,870m/12,697ft) via Sinion La (4,640m/15,289ft) - 5 Hours

The voyage of the day is quite challenging and remarkable as you are going to cross a few high passes. You walk past Tamo La (3,900m), Sinion La (4,660m), Mirgin La (4,663m) and Sinelepche La (4,724m). Following the trail that goes along the thick Himalayan forests, you come to meet the main trail of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. To reach the south base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga, you have to go across Lapsang La Pass (5,160m). Lapsang Lat is the highest pass of the entire Kanchenjunga region.

Max Altitude: 4,640m/15,289ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 Hours

Day 17:

Trek to Tortong (2,995m/9,826ft) -5 Hours

After having breakfast, you move downhill from Tseram by following the trail that goes past some lush high altitude forests. By crossing the Simbuwa Khola, you reach Tortong, a stopover during Kanchenjunga trekking region.

Max Altitude: 2,995m/9,826ft Accommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 Hours

Day 18:

Trek to Yamphudin (2,080m/6,824ft) -6 Hours

Today, you follow the trail that goes along the rhododendron forests enjoying the magnificent Himalayan views. You walk along the banks of the Amji Khola and crossing the Lassiya Bhanjyang, you reach Yamphudin for the night station.

Max Altitude: 2,080m/6,824ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6 Hours

Day 19:

Trek to Phumphe Danda (1,858m/6,096ft) -6 Hours

Following the Kabeli River banks and crossing over some suspension bridges, you reach Mamankhe, a stop during Kanchenjunga trek. Moving ahead along the Khasewa Khola and crossing the wooden bridges, you walk past some cultivated lands. In the end, you reach Phamphe Danda for the night station.

Max Altitude: 1,858m/6,096ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6 Hours

Day 20:

Trek to Kunjari (1,700m/5,756ft) -5 Hours

In the beginning, the trail ascends towards a higher ridge and then descends towards Yangpang. Before reaching Yangpang, you come to walk across thick woodlands and a natural waterfall. Following the trail that goes past the Nadewa Khola banks and then a few small waterfalls, you reach Khesewa. Thereafter, the trail leads you up to Sinchuburi Bhanjyang (pass) of 2,240m and descends to Kunjari.

Max Altitude: 1,700m/5,756ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 Hours

Day 21:

Trek to Suketar (2,420m/7,940ft) -7 Hours

This is the last day of walking during Kanchenjunga trekking package and also the walk is quite longer. The trail leads you across the Phawa Khola and then Tambewa Village across a suspension bridge. Walking past the terraced fields up to Lali Kharka and then lush forests, you reach Surke Danda (2,580m). Following the off-road track from here, you reach Suketar for the night station. Enjoy roaming around Suketar as you are going to leave this region the following morning.

Max Altitude: 2,420m/7,940ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 7 Hours

Day 22:

Fly Back to Kathmandu – 40 Mins

After breakfast, you take a scenic flight from Suketar to Kathmandu Airport. Then, the team member transfers you to the hotel. In the remaining time, you can go shopping around the Thamel Bazaar. In the evening, we cordially invite you for a farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant around Thamel.

Max Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft Meals: Breakfast, farewell DinnerAccommodation: Three Star HotelDuration: 40 Mins

Day 23:

Departure Transfer

Today, 23 days’ Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking itinerary is over. We hope you enjoyed a lot during the journey with our friendly and helpful trekking guide.The representative of Orbit Alpine Adventure accompanies you up to the Kathmandu Airport as per your flight schedule.

Meals: Breakfast

Cost Details

Includes

Costs related to all airport and hotel transfers. Domestic flights and airport departure taxes.
3 nights in a hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
A full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu valley including tour guide and entrance fees
19 nights in local lodges/teahouses during the trek with Meals (Breakfast ,Lunch and dinner )
Welcome and farewell dinners
All accommodation and meals during the trek
Experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide) and Sherpa porter (1 porter for 2 trekkers) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
Down jacket and sleeping bag (on hire) and trekking map.
All permits and necessary paper work (National park permit, TIMS )
First aid kit.
All taxes, be it local or government.

Excludes

Visa fee for Nepal (bring accurate USD cash and 2 passport size photographs)
nternational airfare to and from Kathmandu
All conservation area and cultural heritage site entrance fees
Excess baggage charges
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from trekking than the scheduled itinerary)
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
Tips for guides and porters.

Kanchanjanga Base Camp Trek FAQs

Q1Where is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is positioned in Province No. 1 of Nepal, in the eastern part neighboring Sikkim, India. It serves as the easternmost starting point of the 1,700 km long Great Himalayan Trail, adjacent to the Makalu region trekking. This journey offers a supreme journey around the third highest peak in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), opening the unexplored valleys of the Kanchenjunga region. Despite passing through high Himalayan passes, the prizes of this trek are valued memories that last a lifetime. Dip yourself in the natural wilderness of the far-off Nepalese Himalayas, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Q2How far is Kanchenjunga Base Camp from Kathmandu?

Kanchenjunga Base Camp marks the start of the Great Himalayan Trail in eastern Nepal. The hike from Kathmandu to reach the base camp classically spans from 18 to 27 days. The length differs based on factors such as daily walking hours, chosen routes, and accessible time for exploration in Nepal.

Q3Can I do a solo Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

No, solo trekking is not allowed for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek. You must be part of a group with at least two members, go together with a registered guide and porter.

Q4Why should I do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

Embarking on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek offers an off-the-beaten-path venture towards the world's third uppermost peak. To dip yourself in the spectacular scenery of snow-capped peaks, green forests, and remote high-level villages, this walk is a must. Understanding the authentic rural lifestyle, sightseeing Tibetan Buddhist villages, and exploring their rich cultural heritage. If you're looking to escape the packed trekking routes of the Nepalese Himalayas, this isolated trek is a perfect choice for you to flavor.

Q5What type of food and accommodation facilities are found during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

In the past, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking characteristically intricate full camping preparations. However, in recent years, teahouses have been traditional at all the stopping points along the way. These teahouses offer basic facilities together with food and lodging services. It's vital to note that as the stops are located in remote areas without road access, comfortable conveniences are not available.

Q6Do I need to hire a guide and a porter for trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp?

It's important to procure the help of a certified guide and porter for your expedition to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Given that this walk falls within a constrained area in Nepal, you're obligated to travel in a group of at least two individuals going together with a registered trekking guide and porter. Their skill becomes priceless in situations such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or directing the correct trail. Additionally, the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project protects a variety of endangered animals, which could pose a hazard, further highlighting the requirement for expert support.

Q7What are the permits required for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

For the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, you need thefollowing permits: