Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Highlights
- Encounter diverse species of wildlife, including Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Pheasant, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, Musk Deer, etc.
- Traverse through several beautiful rivers like Ghunsa, Yamtari, Sumbung, Saekang, Witness the majestic 150-meter-high waterfall on the way to Amjilosa
- A more adventurous trekking route leads to Kanchenjunga North BC at a greater altitude of 5,143m than in the Kanchenjunga South BC (4,610m Spend wonderful walking around the foothills of the world’s third highest peak Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586)
- Stunning mountain views, including the north face of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Kanchenjunga West from the Kanchenjunga North BC/ Pang Pema
Overview
Explore the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area at the far eastern end of Nepal Himalaya by joining our Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek program. Kanchenjunga (8598m), the world’s third-highest mountain, is certainly one of the most impressive massifs in the Himalayan range, rising majestically from the borders of Nepal and Sikkim and the network of villages inhabited by Rai, Limbus are the cultural pictures painted on the mountainous canvas.
Cascading waterfalls into gorges, lush rhododendron forests, dramatic mountain vistas, communities that abound in folklore, white snow peaks which rise majestically along with the third highest peak in the world, Mt Kanchenjunga, all combine to make Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek trail a paradise for trekkers who love to trek off the beaten path.
We fly to Suketar from Kathmandu. Sometimes in the unavailability of flights, we journey through Nepal’s tea country, Illam embarking on a scenic drive to Taplejung, one of the gateways to the Kanchenjunga Conservation region.
Trekking through lively Rai and Limbu villages, lush rain forests, fields of cardamom, and patchworks of farmland with traditional mud-brick houses, we head south into an alpine world of forests, Himalayan peaks, sparkling streams, and mountain lakes. Beyond the tree line, the landscape changes again as the Kanchenjunga (8598m) and Jannu (7711 m) massifs exhibit some of the most impressive high mountain scenery on earth.
From Tseram, after a courageous conquest over the Sinelapcha, Mirgin, Sinion La, and Selele La, we penetrate the northeast through remote seasonal Tibetan settlements of Ghunsa and Khangpachen. We follow the Kanchenjunga glacier to the spectacular north Kanchenjunga base camp at Pang Pema.
We retrace through the village of Ghunsa, Phale, and Gyabla, Amjilosa, and Chiruwa (Thiwa). Finally, we divert from the major trail to pay homage to the Hindu Goddess Pativara. After two days of walk through forests, villages lined with cardamom, and rice paddies, we reach Pativara temple. Finally, we drop down to Talplejung, Skuketar airport, and fly back to Kathmand
Activity: Kanchenjunga treks
Nature of the trek: Lodge to lodge trekking
Trek distance: 90 Kilometers/56 miles (Suketar to Kanchenjunga Base camp to the town of Taplejung)
Start / End point: Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu, Lodge/Teahouse during the trek
Included meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu, all meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
Group size: Min. 02 and Max. 12 (for single, we offer you a private package)
Best season: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)
Activity per day: Approximately 5-6 hrs walking
Transportation: Private transportation (Airport-Kathmandu hotel, Taplejung-Bhadrapur, Kathmandu hotel-airport), and flight (Kathmandu-Suketar, Bhadrapur- Kathmandu)
Major attractions: Kathmandu, Phungphung Danda, Yamphudin, Tseram, three passes (Sinelapcha, Mirgin and Sinion La), Ghunsa Gompa, Ghunsa Gompa, Suketar, Pathivara, Ilam (Phidim), and Bhadrapur
- Day 1 - Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (KTM) Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Our airport representative will welcome you and explain the program further. There are no planned activities for the day, so check into the hotel. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
- Day 2 - Kathmandu (1,338 m/4,390 ft): Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
We start a guided tour to several medieval and spiritual sites in Kathmandu, also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kathmandu valley is a synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist temples, stupas and statues, and is often the site of festivals and other ceremonies.
We visit Pashupatinath, a very sacred temple complex for Hindus worldwide on the banks of the holy Bagmati river. Here, monkeys run up and down the steps of the burning ghats, and saddhus draped orange and saffron sit serenely meditating. Next, we visit historic Durbar Square, a compound of temples, ancient palaces, and architecture.
Next, we walk the stone steps up to a hilltop where the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) with its whitewashed stupas and its unique fusion of Buddhism and Hinduism exist for centuries. Next, we visit the Buddhist shrine (BouddhaNath), one of the large Stupas in the world.
The prominent Buddha eyes of Boudhanath Stupa attract Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. Later after the sightseeing program, we will introduce you to your trekking guide and have a small pre-trip meeting. You can also take an opportunity to hire/buy any last-minute trekking equipment or bargain for your souvenirs at the many stores.
You are advised to pack your things and be set up for your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking adventure that will begin tomorrow. Accommodation: City Hotel. Included Meal: B
- Day 3 - Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and Drive to Mitlung (921m/3,021ft) through Taplejung- 45 minutes flight and 7 to 8 hours drive
Today you’ll fly to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu and drive along the countryside, passing through Taplejung until you reach Mitlung. Along the way, you’ll also catch the lovely view of green hills, rice terrace fields, streams, rivers, etc.
Overnight stay in Mitlung.
- Day 4 - Drive from Mitlung and to Sukethum and Trek to Amjilosa (2,510m/8,240ft) - 3 to 4 hours drive and 5 to 6 hours trek
After breakfast, you’ll first drive to the Tibetan village of Sukethum, which is also the starting trekking point of this trip. En route, you’ll pass through small, captivating settlements of Sinwa, Tawa, Thiwa, Chiruwa, Taplethok, Temewa, Hellok, etc. Further driving along, the bankside of the river, such as Tawa, Thiwa, Sisuwa, and Ghatte Khola you’ll reach Sukethum.
After a brief stopover, you’ll begin your trek with an uphill climb along the Ghunsa Khola. En route, you’ll cross several bridges and come across small villages of Jongim, Ghaiyabari, Solima, and Lowagaon. Crossing the bridge, you enter the lush forests. Once you arrive in Amjilosa, you can explore the village and connect with the locals.
Overnight stay in Amjilosa.
- Day 5 - Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m/8,960ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Start your day with a power-pack breakfast and proceed towards Gyabla (Kyapra). Further, the trails lead through the forested area and reach a flat ridge. Today, you’ll encounter very few human settlements so you can enjoy the pristine trekking trail with enchanting views of snowy peaks. Trekking for a few hours, you arrive in this small village of Gyabla. Here most of the people follow the culture and lifestyle influenced by Tibetan.
Overnight stay in Gyabla
- Day 6 - Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,600m/11,810ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek
With today’s trek, you’ll reach the important landmark, Ghunsa Village. It is the famous stopover place for acclimatization during Kanchenjunga Trek. Start your trek by climbing the forested ridge, then cross the Ghunsa river. First, you’ll reach Pahle/Phole (3,240m), a small refugee settlement where you can find local carpet factories. Further walking along the forested trail, you’ll reach Ghunsa village. But before reaching Ghunsa, just a mile ahead on the left section, you’ll notice the course that leads to Nango La (4,795m). That route takes you to the ancient village of Olangchun Gola (3,191m).
Overnight stay in Ghunsa.
- Day 7 - Acclimatization Day at Ghunsa
Today you can either rest or explore the beautiful landscape of Ghunsa village. You can hike to the nearby ridges and enjoy the alluring views of Kumbhakarna Peak (7,711m), also known as Januu Peak. Next, you can interact with the locals and learn about rural lifestyles, culture, and traditions. Further, visit some ancient monasteries where you can learn about Buddhist culture highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.
Overnight stay in Ghunsa
- Day 8 - Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,100m/13,450ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek.
Today you’ll head further north along the riverbank. The impressive mountain scenery will accompany you and come across meadows filled with beautiful colorful flowers. After crossing the forest trail, you’ll cross a bridge at Rampuk Kharka and continue until you arrive at a waterfall. From here, you’ll cross the tricky section of a landslide area. After this part, you’ll get a glimpse of the magnificent view of Mt. Jannu. Continue to walk on the mountain trail till you arrive at Kambachen.
Overnight stay in Kambachen.
- Day 9 - Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (4,790m/15,715ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Today you’ll trek towards Lhonak one step closer to Pang Pema. After breakfast, you’ll begin your hike through rocky fields and large boulders. Gradually you’ll hike along the hillside and arrive at the waterfall. After crossing a bridge, you’ll reach Ramtang (4,370m), where you can visit Ramtang Monastery.
Further, walking for a couple of hours alongside the splendid Kanchenjunga Glacier, you’ll reach Lhonak. This tiny settlement near a dry lakebed offers astonishing mountain views, including Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mera Peak, Nepal Peak, Wedge Peak, etc.
Overnight stay in Lhonak.
- Day 10 - Trek from Lhonak to Pang Pema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp) (5,143m/16,880ft) and back to Lhonak- 8 to 9 hours trek
Today you’ll hit the trail that leads to Pang Pema/ Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. Finally, your dream will come true. Wake early and head towards the base camp. This trail to the base camp is a favorite amongst the trekkers as it offers an incredible scene of the north face of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest peak. This panorama is one of the best you’ll encounter on this trip.
Once you arrive at the base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga, you’ll admire the stunning mountain vistas, including Januu and Chang Himal, which will leave you spellbound. Explore the surroundings and enjoy the surreal views of snow-capped mountains above the massive Kanchenjunga Glacier. You can click photos and celebrate your success. Later you’ll trek back to Lhonak.
Overnight stay in Lhonak
- Day 11 - Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,600m/11,810ft)- 6 to 7 hours trek
After spending a wonderful time at the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, you’ll retrace the path to Ghunsa village. Walking again along the isolated trail, you’ll reach Ghunsa village through Kambachen. On the way, you’ll relish the view of the dramatic alpine landscape and mountain vistas.
Overnight stay in Ghunsa
- Day 12 - Trek from Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2,510m/8,240ft)- 7 to 8 hours trek
Start your day with breakfast and depart from Ghunsa village. Taking the earlier route, you’ll pass through Gyabla village and continue your walk along the hillside. Trek continues and passes through small pastures, water streams, and forested areas. Once you arrive at Amjilosa, you can take a rest.
Overnight stay in Amjilosa.
- Day 13 - Trek from Amjilosa to Sukethum and Drive to Taplejung (2,420m/7,932ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek and 5 to 6 hours drive
Begin the day with breakfast and a walk around the gorgeous environs of the place before setting off on the descending trek to Sukethum. You’ll cross several bridges and descend to the Sukethum. Passing the same small settlements on the earlier trail you took while starting this trek, and you’ll reach the Sukethum. Enjoying the panoramic Himalayan views, you’ll again drive towards Taplejung.
Overnight stay in Taplejung
- Day 14 - Drive from Taplejung to Bhadrapur and fly back to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - 5 to 6 hours drive and 45 minutes flight
Early morning, you’ll have breakfast and start driving towards Bhadrapur. Afterward, you’ll take a domestic flight to Kathmandu. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can freshen up and explore the surroundings. You can even do last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel.
Overnight stay in Kathmand
- Day 15 - Departure day
Your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek concludes today after breakfast. If you’re flying home today you will be transferred to the airport. You may opt to choose some of the other trip and adventure in Nepal if you have more days to spend as holiday. Included Meal: B
- Airport and hotel transfers as per itinerary in private vehicle
- Three night twin sharing accommodation in deluxe Kathmandu Suite Home or similar hotel in Kathmandu
- Guided city tour in Kathmandu including private vehicle
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
- Best available teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Staff– one professional, knowledgeable and friendly English speaking trekking leader along with assistant guide (6 trekkers : 1 assistant guide) and porters (2 trekkers : 1 porter) including their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, transportation, and accidental insurance
- Kathmandu – Taplejung Kathmandu flight or Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu flight and transfer to Taplejung ( by public vehicle
- Duffle bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket for use during the trek
- T – shirt, trekking map and trip achievement certificate
- First aid medical kit
- TIMS, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit
- All government taxes & office service charge
- International airfares
- Meals not specified in the ‘Meal Inclusions’ in the itinerary’
- Added night/s accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, delayed departure, early return from mountain (due to any cause) than the programmed itinerary Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from mountain than the programmed itinerary)
- Drinking water and other beverages
- Personal expenses such as phone calls, bar bills, laundry, battery recharge, hot shower, extra porters, etc)
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Tips for guides and porters (tip is expected but not mandatory)
- Temple/monument Cultural, Religious & Historic sites entry fees
Important Information
Group tours are unavailable for this trip, however, you can opt for the private trip. The private trips are available on any date of your choice at any time of the year. Let us know about your preferred travel dates and we shall organize it as per your convenience. Get in touch with your query now.