Explore the remote and off-the-beaten path of the Everest Region while en route to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.
Walk through the diverse landscapes of subtropical forests, highland pastures, and mountainous landscapes.
Witness the spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Trek past popular glacial lakes, remote valleys, villages, ancient monasteries, and stupas.
Immerse yourself in the culture, traditions, and local customs of the diverse ethnic communities of Rai and Limbu.
21 Days Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek takes you into the remote wilderness of the Everest region. Its untouched and serene nature is perfect for you looking to escape from bustling city life. Our 21-day Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek package will let you fully explore this remote route's nature, landscapes, and culture.
The trek to the base camp of the world's third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga (8,586m), offers an infinite variety of landscapes, cultures, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. During the trip, you will walk on the lowlands of Nepal, passing terraced fields with colorful villages and green forests. Similarly, you will come across low river valleys, rocky slopes, and glacial moraine.
Firstly, the trek enters into a ridgeline of rhododendrons. As the trail gains altitude, you will see gorgeous views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. These are among the world's five highest mountains, making the trek rewarding. Then, the trial starts with approaching the Yalung glacier & crossing a series of passes, and the views become more magnificent. Then, the trail reaches Pangpema (4800m), the base camp for the Kanchenjunga expedition. Nowadays, we can start our trip by flight to Bhadrapur and then drive to Taplejung.
Best Time To Trek To Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Are you planning on trekking to Kanchenjunga and wondering what the best season to explore would be? The primary season for trekking in Nepal is spring and autumn. These two seasons are perfect if you want to enjoy the beauty of the trekking route with clear views and mild temperatures. Learn more about them in brief.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. The weather is favorable, with clear skies. It falls during the pre-monsoon season, so there is a low chance of rainfall. The vegetation also comes to life during spring. The forests become luscious green, and the rhododendron forests are in full bloom.
It is also the best time to enjoy eastern Nepal’s diverse flora and fauna. The wildlife also becomes active at this time. If you are lucky, you get a chance to witness the wildlife. However, note that it can get cold in the mornings and nights at higher elevations.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is a peak trekking season in Nepal. The weather is stable, and the visibility is excellent. Autumn falls in the post-monsoon season. Thus, the dust gets washed away by rain, and the view is clear. Similarly, the air is clear and crisp.
The autumn season also falls in the harvest season. Moreover, the biggest Nepali festivals also fall in this season. So, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere while trekking on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp route. There is also a low chance of rainfall.
Length and Terrain of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Covering a distance of 220 kilometers, the trekking trail is quite strenuous. It’s a long and challenging trek that takes around 21 days. The journey takes you through diverse terrains, starting with lush subtropical forests filled with rhododendrons, bamboo, and oak trees. As you ascend higher, you will see wide-open meadows with pretty flowers.
As you continue higher, the terrain becomes more rugged, with rocky paths and moraines leading to the base camp. The final step involves navigating steep slopes and glacier crossing. Reaching the Kanchenjunga Base Camp, you will notice the stunning panorama of the surrounding peaks. The base camp itself is a cool place to hang out. It’s rocky, and there’s usually some snow around. You can spend time soaking in the awe-inspiring views.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Difficulty
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp route goes through the remote areas of the East region. The remoteness and the difficult terrain pose significant challenges. You have to be ready for frequent ascending and descending. Similarly, some sections of the route are steep and rocky. You also have to cross several rivers and walk over glaciers en route.
Another difficult part of the trek is its long duration. The trek typically takes 20 to 25 days to complete. During these periods, you have to hike an average of 7 to 8 hours a day; on some days, you even have to walk around 8 to 9 hours. It is physically and mentally demanding. Thus, it is highly recommended that you take physical training beforehand to prepare for the trek.
As you move to high elevations, there is the risk of altitude sickness. The oxygen level drops, making it easy to get sick. The weather conditions also become a little unpredictable. So, you should prepare proper clothing, equipment, and gear before starting the journey.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a challenging journey. Physical and mental preparedness are crucial. Proper equipment and gear are important in trekking safety and comfort.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek – 20 Days Itinerary
Day 01:
Arrival and transfer to hotel
Arrival and transfer to the hotel. After some refreshments, we will invite you for a typical Nepali dinner.
Day 02:
Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley
After breakfast, a sightseeing visit in Kathmandu Valley, including Kathmandu Darbar Square, Swayambhunath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa & Pashupatinath Temple.
Day 03:
Fly to Bhadrapur and drive to Tapalejung
Trek Duration
8/9hrs drive
Flight Hours
1hrs
Highest Altitude
1820m
In the morning, around 7 am, I fly to Bhadrapur and drive further to Tapalejung. We stop for a tea garden visit in Kanyam Ilam on the way. And further, drive to Tapalejung.
Day 04:
Drive to Sekathum and trek to Ithari
Trek Duration
4hrs drive and half hour trek
Highest Altitude
1650m,
After breakfast, we drive to Sekathum and go downhill to Mitlung. After Thiva Khola, along the bank of the Tamor River, you will enter the Kanchenjunga conservation area. Our route will pass through scenic pastures and small villages. We cross the Hungdewa Khola and the raging Tamur River on the way. Then we drive uphill for some time then descend to the village of Sinuwa. Continue to Tawa and then to Sekathum. From Sekathum, we trek about half an hour to Ithari to find the final accommodation for this day. On this day, we cannot use electricity in the lodge.
Day 05:
Trek to Amjilosa
Trek Duration
5/6hrs walk
Highest Altitude
2460m
Today is going to be a tough day. Cross the river and ascend the steep trail. You’ll encounter a very narrow trail this day as you follow the Ghunsa Khola. The narrow trail means that you must concentrate and be cautious while walking. As you walk further, you will pass a settlement where yaks are kept for their livelihood. After lunch, you will reach where the mobile network works throughout the day. In Amjilosa, you will also not be able to use electricity. There are two normal Lodges in Amjilesha.
Day 06:
Trek to Gyabla
Trek Duration
6 hours walk
Highest Altitude
2730m,
On this day, we trek to Gyabla. The trail leads mainly through forests and waterfalls that you will encounter along the way. You will feel extremely close to nature as you’ll see no villages during this day trek. The beautiful forests and waterfalls. Between Amjilesha and Gyabla, there is one tea house in Thyangyam where we have lunch. You will be partially connected to the mobile network throughout the day, but you can use electricity in the Gyabla area. There are two lodges and a homestay in Gyabla.
Day 07:
Trek to Ghunsa
Trek Duration
5/6hr walk
Highest Altitude
3430m
From Gyabla, you will have to walk through the route of forest in the morning and reach Phale village, where you will have lunch. The village is Tibetan and serves as a center for winter settlement for people in Ghunsa. The village is also home to the only monastery in this region. After a one-and-a-half-hour ride from Phale, you will reach Ghunsa. The houses in Ghunsa have beautiful wooden designs and are mostly decorated with colorful prayer flags. There are a couple of gompas in this region as well. Ghunsa has a health post, police station, school, tourist check post, and monastery. Here you get a mobile network facility and electricity facility. There are nine lodges and homestays in Ghunsa.
Day 08:
Trek to Kambachen
Trek Duration
5 hrs walk
Highest Altitude
4150m
You may worry about finding a permanent human settlement as there is no form of permanent human settlement at an altitude higher than Ghunsa. But you are likely to encounter seasonal settlements of yak herders. On your way to Khambachen, you will walk through trails that are not as clear as other trails in this region. But your efforts will be rewarded because the view in this region is breathtaking. You will stay at Khambachen, which is a grand glacial valley. If you are lucky, you can spot animals and birds like blue sheep, ibex, hyrax, vultures, kites, and eagles in this region. The view of the Kanchenjunga massif and Jannu Himal from Khambachen is astounding.
Day Day 9:
Explore around Khambachen
You can stay in Khambachen for one day and reach the Jannu base camp in the morning. Khambachen provides access to Jannu Base Camp, which travelers can reach in about 3 hours. The Kirat Limbu community worships Jannu Himal as a sacred religious heritage. At the base camp of Phaktanglung Himal (Jannu), the community has constructed a religious temple and Patipauwa. However, this area has no access to mobile networks or electricity. Khambachen hosts four hotels for visitors.
Day 10:
Trek to Lonak
Trek Duration
6 hrs walk
Highest Altitude
4790m
On this day trek, you will follow the trail on the left side of the Kanchenjunga glacier. You will also find Khandu Falls in the middle, and there is also a tea shop, Ramdang, where we can see the Yalung Khang West peak (8077m). After trekking along a high plateau, you will reach the Lhonak. Lhonak is near a dry lake bed; you will see simple houses in this region. You can view large mountains like Wedge Peak, Mera Peak, Nepal Peak, Kirat Chuli, and Twins. Electricity and access to the mobile network are not available here. There are five lodges and campsites in Lhonak.
Day 11:
Hike to Pang Pema Base Camp (5,140m, 4hrs) and trek back to Lhonak
Trek Duration
8-9hrs walk
Highest Altitude
5,140m
On the 11th day, you will reach the highest point of your trek. On this day, you will also follow the trail along the glaciers on the northern side of the Kanchenjunga base camp for nearly four hours. The Kanchenjunga base camp is also known as Pang Pema. We must hike as early as possible to increase your chances of viewing the mountains. You can get impressive panoramic views of mountains like ten Peak and pyramid peaks, Kanchenjunga I (8586m), Kanchenjunga II (8482m), and Kanchenjunga III (8476m) and other peaks including Drohmo Peak (6881m). Access to mobile networks and electricity is not available.
Day 12:
Trek to Ghunsa
Trek Duration
6/7hrs walk
Highest Altitude
3430m
You will retrace your step back to Ghunsa from Lonak. You will essentially follow the same trail that you came from. Along the way, you can enjoy the mountains the way you did while climbing your way.
Day 13:
Trek to Sele Le
Trek Duration
5hrs walk
Highest Altitude
4290m
From Ghunsa, you will follow a trail through thick orchards of rhododendrons, bridges, and pine forests. The trail is uphill and is fully covered with snow in varying degrees depending on weather and seasons. You must clothe yourself better to face cold weather conditions. On this day, we only have lunch after reaching Sele Le. Access to a mobile network and electricity is not available. There are two lodges in Sele Le.
Day 14:
Trek to Tseram via Mrigenla Pass
Trek Duration
7/8hrs walk
Highest Altitude
3870m
This will be a challenging day for you as you must climb a steep hill to reach Mrigenla Pass. On this day, you will have to cross a height of 4670m. This is the best spot for viewing Janu Himal, known as Khumbakarna (Phaktanglung). You will also see mountains like Makalu, Baruntse, Mera Peak, Lumbha Sumbha, and Everest(Chomolungma). The rest of the trail will take you along ridges. Then, you will finally descend to Tseram. Before descending, you can also view the South face of Kanchenjunga, Kabru, and the Himalayan range. You will spend the night in a large flat meadow at Tseram. There is no access to mobile networks and electricity here. There are three lodges in Tseram.
Day 15:
Trek to Tseram to Ramjer via Oktang Yanglung Glacier
Trek Duration
8/9hrswalk
Highest Altitude
4730m
You will start your trek early in the morning and reach Ramjer, where you will have lunch. After lunch, you will head out to Oktang (4730m.) This is widely considered the best viewpoint for Kanchenjunga’s south-face view. During this walk, you will follow a trail alongside Yalung Glacier. You will walk alongside a moraine through juniper forests to a beautiful lake at Lapsang. The lake is at an altitude of 4530 meters. You will walk along a valley on the northern side. You will get to see all the peaks that are on the Indian border, like Kokthang (6147m.), Rathong(6679M.), and Kabrus.
Day 16:
Trek to Torngden
Highest Altitude
3000m
This day will be a slight trekking day as you descend through rhododendron forests flowing through Simbhu Khola. You will reach Torangden, where you will have an overnight stay. Phone and electricity service are not available here. There are 2 Lodges in Torngden.
Day 17:
Trek to Bhote Gaun(Yamphuding) via Lashe or Jhoreni
Trek Duration
7/8hrs walk
Highest Altitude
2020m
From Torongden, travelers can reach Yamphuding via either Lashe Bhanjyang or Naya Jhoreni. If one chooses the Lashe route, it takes about 4 hours to reach Lashe, but the journey might be interrupted due to landslides. There is only one tea shop available in Lashe. Yamphudin, or Bhotegaon, is reachable after a 4-hour walk from Lashe. Accommodation and food facilities are good in Bhotegaon. Upon reaching Lashe, travelers can access a mobile phone network and electricity.
Option:
You can also reach Yarphudin by walking through the trails of new Jhoreni from Torogden without using this Laşhe route. To do so, you have to spend one more day in Jhoreni. To Jhoreni we have to trek via Kasturi Danda. There is a hotel in Jhoreni that provides accommodation and food. You can use your phones here, but access to electricity will only be available after you reach Yamphuding the next day. (Depending upon your trekking speed, we also can do this trip in 1 day)
Day 18:
Drive to Birtamod from Yamphuding
Trek Duration
10 hours drive
Birtamod is a lively Terai town in eastern Nepal. It is just half an hour from Bhadrapur Airport, where we will fly to Kathmandu tomorrow. Since there are some good accommodations here, we will stay overnight at Birtamod.
Day 19:
Flight back to Kathmandu
Flight Hours
35min
Day 20:
Free day in Kathmandu
This is a day off for you. You can rest well from your travels and reminisce about all the beautiful memories you have created. Today, you can also explore Kathmandu Valley’s beauty and some places you haven’t visited before.
Day 21:
Transfer to the international airport
This is the last and final day of your trek. Our team member will pick you up according to your flight schedule. They will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport and wave goodbye. Have a safe travel.
Staff insurance, wages, equipment and local transport
Accommodation in hotel and lodge
Arrival and transfer transport from to international in Kathmandu
Sightseeing with cultural guide, and private transport in Kathmandu
Private transport to trek starting point and from ending point to hotel
Domestic flight ticket and airport taxes
What is excluded?
Personal expenses and tips for staff
Monument entrance fees during sightseeing in Kathmandu valley
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Nepal visa fees
Personal insurance and helicopter rescue in case of emergency
International flight ticket
Sleeping bag while trekking
Extra porter or transport incase of accident or any emergency
Personal Medicine
Essential Information
Physical Fitness and Preparations
It’s important to be physically fit and carry essential backpacks, as the area is remote and has little access to medical help. To prepare for the trek, you can train at home with a pack on by going on long walks, doing some leg exercises in the gym, and swimming for cardiovascular fitness. Get a health and dental check before starting this long journey.
As you approach Base Camp, the exposure to altitude will make walking harder and increase the likelihood of altitude sickness. That’s why it’s necessary to saunter and allow for rest days. Also, the temperature during the trek varies depending on the altitude and time of day. Between 1000m to 3500m altitude, the nights are usually around 5ºc, and days can rise to 25ºc. Similarly, higher elevations above 2500 can range between 15ºc to -20ºc at night. Thus, you need to have a good section of clothing and packing essentials to protect against the cold and high altitude.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Permit
If you are trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp, you must get a Special Restricted Area Permit (SRAP) and a Kanchenjunga Conservational Area Project Permit (KCAP).
Special Restricted Area Permit (SRAP):
The trekking trail to the KBC passes through two restricted areas, Thapethok and Yamphuding, so you must get this permit. Only a legitimate Nepali trekking agency can acquire this permit.
The cost is US$20 per person per week for the initial four weeks.
Afterward, each additional week costs US $25 per person per week.
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit( KCAP):
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp is within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Thus, you must also get this permit. You can obtain it at the National Park check post during trekking. You can obtain this permit and submit your application at the Bhrikutimandap Tourism Service Center in Kathmandu or get it at the checkpoint.
Nepali citizens: NPR 100 per person.
SAARC citizens: NPR 500 per person (about $5).
Foreign nationals: NPR 2000 per person (about $20).
Kanchenjunga Trek Cost
Wondering how much budget you need to allocate for your trekking adventure in Kanchenjunga Base Camp? The cost mainly depends on duration, route chosen, accommodation, guide, transportation, etc. On average, you can pay between $1700 to $2500 for your 21-day Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. Here is the breakdown of cost:
Permit: $100 – $150
Guide and Porter: $900 – $1200
Accommodation: $300 – $500
Food: $200 – $300
Transportation: $100 – $200
Miscellaneous: $100 – $150
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek difficult?
Yes, Kanchenjunga Base Camp is a challenging trek. The trail goes through a remote area of east Nepal and is physically demanding, with steep uphill and downhill climbs and crossing several rivers along the way. The high altitude also further adds to the route’s difficulty.
Can beginners do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp route is tough and not for beginners. Its high altitude, long duration, and rugged terrain make it physically demanding. Even experienced trekkers find it challenging.
What kind of accommodations are available?
Tea houses, lodges, and guesthouses are available along the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek route. These accommodations usually have shared bathroom facilities. Note that at higher elevations, the accommodations only provide basic facilities.
Do I need a permit for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?
You’ll need three permits for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek: a TIMS Card, a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit, and a Restricted Area Permit. Our package includes all three permits.
Is there a risk of acute mountain sickness?
There is a risk of acute mountain or altitude sickness during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. As you move to higher elevations, the risk of acute mountain sickness increases. It’s essential to be aware of this potential danger and take necessary precautions.
How much does it cost to trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp?
The cost of Kanchenjunga Base Camp depends on several factors, such as duration, accommodation, meals, and more. However, you can generally expect to pay between $1700 and $2500 per person for this trek.
Is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek difficult than the Everest Base Camp Trek?
While both the Everest Base Camp and Kanchenjunga Base Camp treks reach similar elevations, the Kanchenjunga trek is more challenging. It’s less traveled and takes over 20 days compared to Everest Base Camp.
Can you trek Kanchenjunga Base Camp without a guide?
No, you cannot trek Kanchenjunga Base Camp without a guide. Per the new rule implemented in April 2023, you must hire an experienced guide from a reputable company if you are trekking to a restricted area.
How can I reach the Kanchenjunga base camp?
To reach Kanchenjunga Base Camp, you should fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. Upon Landing, take a jeep to Birtamod and a bus to Taplejung. Now, your actual trek starts from Taplejung.
How high is the Kanchenjunga Mountain Base Camp?
Kanchenjunga’s base camp sits at 5,160 meters. It lies beneath the world’s third-highest mountain, which reaches 8,586 meters.
Why Travel to Kanchenjunga Base Camp with Himalayan Leaders?
Are you planning the Kanchenjunga Base Camp? Booking your Kanchenjunga Base Camp with the Himalayan Leader is wise for several reasons. We are a government-registered company with the mission of customer satisfaction. Wondering what advantages you get exploring with us? Do not worry. Embarking your journey with us provides you with numerous benefits. We are a group of experienced team. Our well-trained guides ensure a safe and well-guided tour.
Furthermore, you will receive full assistance from accommodation and meals to transportation throughout the journey. Thus, you can focus on soaking in the beautiful scenery. With our commitment to responsible tourism and safety, you can embark on this adventure with peace of mind. Also, we offer you all the packages at the most affordable prices. With the best amenities provided, an experienced team, and affordability, booking with us can be the best choice for you.
Packing List for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Trekking to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp requires the best preparation and planning. Providing off-the-beaten-path, you must also have the proper set of gear and equipment. This proper set of essentials helps you to make a safe and enjoyable trekking adventure. But what set of equipment is essential? Here is the packing list you need if you are trekking to this remote destination:
Clothing:
Insulated jacket
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Fleece or thermal layers
Moisture-wicking base layers
Hiking pants
Quick-drying trekking shirts
Warm hat and gloves
Comfortable hiking boots or shoes
Woolen socks
Towel
Miscellaneous:
Head torch
Binoculars
Solar charger/Power bank
Pocket/Swiss knife
Reading materials
Camera
Watch
Hiking poles
Trekking pole
Backpack
Toiletries:
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Soap or body wash
Shampoo and conditioner
Moisturizer and lip balm
Personal hygiene products
Personal Care:
Travel towel
Sunblock cream and moisturizer
Personal water bottle
Dry bag
Electronics:
Adaptor and plugs
Spare batteries
Headlamp or Flashlights
Medical Supplies:
Medicine and First Aid Kit
Personal medications
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