Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Q: How difficult is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is considered challenging.Here’s why: Long trekking days (6–8 hours daily) High altitude (up to 5,143m at Pangpema) Remote trails with limited facilities Rocky and steep terrain High passes like Sele La (4,290m) This trek is recommended for experienced trekkers or those with strong physical fitness.

Q: What is the best time to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

The best trekking seasons are: Spring (March–May) Rhododendron forests bloom Clear mountain views Mild temperatures Autumn (September–November) Stable weather and clear skies Best visibility of Kanchenjunga range Avoid: Monsoon (June–August): Heavy rain & landslides Winter (December–February): Snow blocks high passes

Q: How long is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

The classic route covering both North & South Base Camps takes:20–24 days If you choose only North Base Camp, it can be 16–18 days.If you choose only South Base Camp, it’s usually 14–17 days.

Q: Do I need permits for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

Yes. You need three permits: Restricted Area Permit (RAP) — mandatory Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) Local Trekking Permit (Rural Municipality) Solo trekking is not allowed.You must trek with a licensed guide and at least two trekkers (or pay a “ghost permit” for one missing trekker).

Q: What is the accommodation like during the trek?

Accommodation varies by region: Lower altitudes: Basic teahouses with private rooms Higher altitudes: Simple wooden rooms, shared toilets Limited heating WiFi available only in a few villages (paid) Expect very basic yet authentic Himalayan lodge services.

Q: Is there mobile network or WiFi?

Mobile network: Available in lower regions, weak or none in high-altitude areasWiFi: Available in Ghunsa and a few lodges (paid)Charging: Solar-based charging (extra cost) Be prepared for a digital detox during most of the trek.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and rewarding trekking experiences. This trek offers the unique opportunity to visit both the North Base Camp (Pangpema) and the South Base Camp (Oktang) of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), the world’s third-highest peak.

Travelers will experience untouched wilderness, alpine valleys, high passes, and remote Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa villages, making it a culturally immersive journey. With the option to fly Kathmandu ↔ Suketar (Taplejung), the trek is completed in 20 days without skipping any trekking sections.

Included/Exclude

Cost Includes

Domestic flight: Kathmandu → Bhadrapur → Kathmandu
All ground transportation
All trekking permits (KCA permit + Restricted Area Permit)
Licensed trekking guide and porter
All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
All accommodation (tea houses/lodges)
Guide/porter insurance
Sleeping bag & duffel bag (returnable)
First-aid kit
Government taxes & service charges

Cost Excludes

International flights
Nepal visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory for high-altitude trekking)
Personal expenses (snacks, hot shower, WiFi, charging)
Alcoholic & soft drinks
Tips for guide and porter
Trekking gear & equipment
Emergency evacuation (if required)

Accomodation
Tea House or Lodge During Trek
Tour Availability
Availability
Wifi
Availabe
Maximum Altitude
Pang Pema (5140m/ 16,863ft)
Guide
Guided
Language
English
Transportation
Bus, Taxi
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner During Trek
Arrival City
Kathmandu
Departure City
Kathmandu

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Overview

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s last remaining untouched Himalayan adventures. Known for its remote trails, pristine landscapes, rich Limbu & Rai culture, and dramatic snow peaks, this trek takes you to both the North (Pangpema) and South Base Camp (Oktang) of the world’s third-highest mountain Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m).

If you’re searching for an off-the-beaten-path trekking experience, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is perfect for you.

Tour Highlights

Trek to the base camps of Kanchenjunga, the world’s 3rd highest peak
Explore one of Nepal’s most preserved and remote trekking regions
Walk through dense forests, rhododendron valleys, and high alpine terrain
Stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), Yalung Kang, and many more
Rich cultural experience with the Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan communities
Fewer trekkers peaceful and pristine mountain trails
Explore the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to red pandas, musk deer & snow leopards
Visit both North & South Base Camps for a complete experience
Epic suspension bridges, waterfalls, glaciers & high passes

Day 01 :

Fly to Bhadrapur (91m) & Drive to Taplejung (2,420m)

Flight Duration: 45 min
Drive Duration: 8–9 hours

You begin the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek with a scenic flight to Bhadrapur. After landing in Jhapa, a private jeep drive takes you through Ilam’s tea gardens and hilly roads all the way to Taplejung. Overnight stay at a guesthouse.

Highlights:

Tea gardens of Ilam
Local Limbu culture
First views of rolling hills

Day 02 :

Taplejung → Chiruwa (1,270m)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Today’s trek descends gradually through villages, terraced farmlands, and cardamom plantations. The trail follows the Tamor River, leading to the riverside village of Chiruwa.

Highlights:

Cardamom fields
Tamor River valley
Rai & Limbu settlements

Day 03 :

Chiruwa → Lelep (1,860m)

Trek Duration: 6 hours

You will enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area today. The trail crosses suspension bridges, small waterfalls, and lush forest sections before reaching Lelep village.

Highlights:

Entry to protected conservation area
Forest walk with birds and butterflies
Beautiful riverside camps

Day 04 :

Lelep → Amjilosa (2,510m)

Trek Duration: 5 hours

A steep climb through bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forests awaits. You will see waterfalls, narrow cliffs, and small settlements. Amjilosa is a small Tibetan-style village.

Highlights:

Dense forest adventure
Steep & dramatic sections
Tibetan cultural influence

Day 05 :

Amjilosa → Gyabla (2,730m)

Trek Duration: 5 hours

One of the most beautiful forest trails of the trek. The trail passes through wild forests home to Himalayan animals like red pandas (rare sightings), monkeys, and birds.

Highlights:

Rhododendron forest (best in spring)
Hidden waterfalls
Peaceful, undisturbed nature

Day 06 :

Gyabla → Ghunsa (3,595m)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Today you trek through a deep gorge before the trail opens into wide pastures and flat lands. Ghunsa is a large Sherpa village with monasteries, prayer flags, and wooden houses.

Highlights:

Beautiful Sherpa village
Monastery visit
First real Himalayan atmosphere

Day 07 :

Acclimatization in Ghunsa

Trek Duration: 2–3 hours (acclimatization hike)**

To prepare for higher altitude ahead, you will hike to a ridge nearby for panoramic views of Jannu Himal. Return to Ghunsa for the night.

Highlights:

Acclimatization hike
Mountain views
Relaxed cultural day

Day 08 :

Ghunsa → Kambachen (4,050m)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

A rugged trail takes you through pine forests, rocky paths, and landslide-prone zones. As you ascend, the air becomes thinner and the mountain views begin to expand.

Highlights:

Stunning view of Jannu (Kumbhakarna)
Alpine terrain
Remote landscapes

Day 09 :

Kambachen → Lhonak (4,780m)

Trek Duration: 5 hours

Trek through glacial moraines, icy rivers, and windy sections. Today’s trail is open and offers magnificent mountain views.

Highlights:

Dramatic high-altitude valley
Massive glaciers
Cold but rewarding terrain

Day 10 :

Lhonak → Pangpema (5,143m) – Kanchenjunga North Base Camp → Return to Lhonak

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours round trip

This is one of the biggest highlights of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. You hike to Pangpema, the North Base Camp, offering the closest view of the massive Kanchenjunga North Face.

Highlights:

View of Kanchenjunga (8,586m)
Glacier views
One of the highest points of the trek

Day 11 :

Lhonak → Ghunsa

Trek Duration: 7–8 hours

A long but mostly downhill trail back to Ghunsa. Take your time on rocky sections.

Highlights:

Alpine valley landscapes
Quiet mountain environment

Day 12 :

Ghunsa → Selele Base Camp (4,290m)

Trek Duration: 6 hours

A steep climb through forests and rocky ridges leads to Selele Base Camp. This area is quiet and remote.

Highlights:

Mountain ridges
Peaceful campsite
Preparation for next day’s pass crossing

Day 13 :

Selele → Cross Sinon/Sele Pass → Cheram (3,870m)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

Today you cross high mountain passes (Sele La & Sinon La). Expect cold winds, but views of Makalu, Everest, and Baruntse can appear in clear weather.

Highlights:

High passes
Breathtaking Himalayan panorama
Mixed terrain

Day 14 :

Cheram → Ramche (4,580m)

Trek Duration: 4 hours

A gentle climb through the Yalung Valley with views of Rathong and Kabru peaks. Ramche is a beautiful open valley with stunning scenery.

Highlights:

Wide alpine fields
Yalung Glacier view
Peaceful high-altitude setting

Day 15 :

Ramche → Oktang (4,730m) – Kanchenjunga South Base Camp → Return to Cheram

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours round trip

One of the most iconic moments of the trek. The viewpoint at Oktang (South Base Camp) gives close views of Kanchenjunga South, Yalung Kang, and the Yalung Glacier.

Highlights:

South Base Camp
Glacier & icefall views
Iconic Kanchenjunga panoramic wall

Day 16 :

Cheram → Tortong (2,995m)

Trek Duration: 7 hours

Descend through forests and river valleys. Beautiful woodland scenery along the way.

Highlights:

Rhododendron forest
Quiet wilderness trail

Day 17 :

Tortong → Yamphudin (2,080m)

Trek Duration: 7 hours

A mix of uphill, downhill, and forest trails. Yamphudin is a cultural village inhabited by Sherpa, Rai & Limbu groups.

Highlights:

Cultural experience
Beautiful farmland
Overnight in a warm village

Day 18 :

Yamphudin → Drive to Kanyam

Drive Duration: 7–8 hours

Leave the trekking trail and drive through hilly roads to Kanyam famous for tea gardens, peaceful resorts, and greenery.

Highlights:

Green tea fields
Scenic eastern Nepal drive

Day 19 :

Drive Kanyam → Bhadrapur

Relaxed drive through the plains of Jhapa. Enjoy a warm climate and last night’s rest before flying out.

Highlights:

Terai landscape
Comfortable travel day

Day 20 :

Fly from Bhadrapur → Kathmandu

Flight Duration: 45 min

Your journey to both North & South Kanchenjunga Base Camps officially ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand all

How difficult is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is considered challenging.
Here’s why:

Long trekking days (6–8 hours daily)
High altitude (up to 5,143m at Pangpema)
Remote trails with limited facilities
Rocky and steep terrain
High passes like Sele La (4,290m)

This trek is recommended for experienced trekkers or those with strong physical fitness.

What is the best time to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

The best trekking seasons are:

Spring (March–May)

Rhododendron forests bloom
Clear mountain views
Mild temperatures

Autumn (September–November)

Stable weather and clear skies
Best visibility of Kanchenjunga range

Avoid:

Monsoon (June–August): Heavy rain & landslides

Winter (December–February): Snow blocks high passes

How long is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

The classic route covering both North & South Base Camps takes:
20–24 days

If you choose only North Base Camp, it can be 16–18 days.
If you choose only South Base Camp, it’s usually 14–17 days.

Do I need permits for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

Yes. You need three permits:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP) — mandatory
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
Local Trekking Permit (Rural Municipality)

Solo trekking is not allowed.
You must trek with a licensed guide and at least two trekkers (or pay a “ghost permit” for one missing trekker).

Is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek safe?

Yes, but safety depends on:

Hiring an experienced guide
Proper acclimatization
Weather conditions
Staying hydrated
Avoiding risky shortcuts

The region is remote, meaning evacuation can take time, so travel insurance is mandatory.

What is the accommodation like during the trek?

Accommodation varies by region:

Lower altitudes: Basic teahouses with private rooms
Higher altitudes: Simple wooden rooms, shared toilets
Limited heating
WiFi available only in a few villages (paid)

Expect very basic yet authentic Himalayan lodge services.

What kind of food is available on the trek?

Typical menu includes:
Dal Bhat (main energy source)
Noodles, pasta, fried rice
Soups
Eggs
Potatoes
Tea & hot drinks
Limited bakery items in Ghunsa.

Food becomes more limited and expensive as altitude increases.

Is there mobile network or WiFi?

Mobile network: Available in lower regions, weak or none in high-altitude areas
WiFi: Available in Ghunsa and a few lodges (paid)
Charging: Solar-based charging (extra cost)

Be prepared for a digital detox during most of the trek.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Duration

Group Size

Tour Type

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Included/Exclude

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Overview

Tour Highlights

Tour Plan

Included/Exclude

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Map

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Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Duration

Group Size

Tour Type

Included/Exclude

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Overview

Tour Highlights

Tour Plan

Included/Exclude

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Map

Write a Review Cancel reply

Write a Review Cancel reply

Need any support for tour & travels ?

Ready to Get Started With Vacations!

Pages

Newsletter

I agree to all terms and policies

Contact

Contact Us

Email Address

Visit office

Write a Review
Cancel reply

Write a Review
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