Trip Facts

  • Duration:28 Days
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
  • Max Altitude:5,140 meter
  • Min group size2
  • Best TimeFebruary to May and September to December
  • Holiday typeTrekking

About Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Acknowledging the beauty and grandeur of the Kanchenjunga region, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek package is intricately designed to give you the very best of its thriving culture and way of life. What’s fascinating about trekking in the Kanchenjunga region is that it is not as easy as other treks, and it demands the very best of your abilities. There are certain things that need to be considered to make this trek a success. The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek accentuates adventure and thrill as it reaches both the north base camp & south base camp

Mt. Kanchenjunga is the world’s third-highest peak, and it is located in the eastern part of Nepal, more specifically in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The mountain has an elevation of 8,586 meters and has been a major hub for climbers and trekkers who love challenges. The reason behind Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek's increasing popularity lies in the fact that this region possesses a certain mysterious aura that isn’t found elsewhere. 

The quaint settlements in these parts practice Tibetan Buddhism, which is relatively different from what we are used to. Also, the extreme isolation has contributed to the conservation of rare flora and fauna, which form a part of its delicate ecosystem. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking route is isolated and rarely visited by trekkers. The region is very remote, and the tourist infrastructure is very low compared to other base camp treks like EBC and ABC. 

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek 28 days offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains like Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Mt. Jannu (7,710 m), Sobithongie (6,670 m), Kabru (7,353 m), Tent Peak (7,365 m), Twins (7,350 m), etc and numerous others along with glaciers, waterfalls, and streams. The journey takes you far away from the comfort of the modern city and tests your endurance while letting you relish jaw-dropping landscapes. 

Why go on Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek with Adventure White Mountain?

Our 28 days Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek package has all the things needed for a safe and smooth venture, from ample acclimatization days to full support from our crew members. Similarly, we have the best Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek cost in the market and incredible service. Trekking with us will make the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek hassle-free for you. 

The booking is open for the upcoming seasons. You can also custom create a Kanchenjunga Trek itinerary if you wish. For information, contact us at +977 9851154520. Some of our other adventurous off-beat trekking packages in the Himalayas that might fascinate you are mentioned below:

Upper Mustang Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek,Three High Passes Trek, and Manaslu Circuit Trek

 

Trip Highlights

  • Trek in one of the restricted areas of Nepal with abundant exotic flora & fauna
  • Challenging trek, perfect for adventure lovers 
  • Less crowded and off-the-beaten trekking route
  • Explore the two base camps of the third highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga
  • Witness a very distinct lifestyle and ancient cultural heritage of the locals
  • Come across old monasteries and stupas
  • The trail is full of waterfalls, dense forests, remote villages, gorges, etc
  • Enjoy jaw-dropping mountain landscapes and stunning glaciers

Itinerary

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Upon your arrival in Kathmandu a staff of Adventure White Mountain will receive you and drive you to the hotel. Later you can stroll in the streets of Thamel, a primary destination for visitors. Stay overnight in the hotel.

    On this day you visit Kathmandu, also known as city of temples with our guide. Basically there are four major touring sites in Kathmandu. They are: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa and and Bauddhanath Stupa. Later, you will be given a brief about your trek. Stay overnight in Thamel.

      After breakfast, we catch a flight to Biratnagar. It is around 50 minute flight from Kathmandu. Biratnagar is second largest town of the country. From Biratnagar we drive north to reach Hile. It is around two hour drive. Here we stay for the night.

        Today you will take a gradual uphill walk for around six hours. After breakfast, we pass through terraced fields and pastures to arrive at Baruntse Dada. We go further following the ridge of Tamor River to arrive at a hill. Shidua Danda is located on the top of the hill. Here we setup our camp for the night.

          We begin our trek after breakfast. At first we cross forests to reach Chitre from where you get nice views of Mt. Makalu and Mt. Chamlang. We walk further deep inside rhododendron forests and this will bring us at Door Pani village. Here we will spend the night in a camp.

            Today we walk further through rhododendron forests in a gentle climb. We follow few ups and downs to arrive at a village called Tongise Phedi and pass through grasslands with Mt. Makalu ahead of us. We arrive at Mongol Bahari Pass from where the Kanchanjangha range starts appearing gradually and the scenic beauty of snow-capped peaks will capture your heart. From Mongol Bahari Pass we descend gently to reach Gupha Pokhari and set up camp for the night.

              Today we will cross a pass located at an altitude of around 3,300 meters. From here the trail descend through thick forests and bring us to Gurjagaun. Nesum is the next stop where we will stay for the night.

                The trek to Taplejung begins with a gentle drop passing through terraced paddies and arriving at Doban. Further the trails leads us to Tamor River followed by Taplejung Bazaar, is one of the oldest bazaars of the country and of the eastern region. We will spend the night in Taplejung.

                  On this day we will see a Limbu village and scattered Limbu settlements. The Limbu are inhabitants of this area with their own culture and traditions. Locally brewed wine is commonly used in any occasions and rituals of Limbu. With their own language, they are the descendant of Kirati warriors. At the end of the day we arrive at Chiruwa where we stay for the night.

                    Along the trek, we cross Tapethko followed by Simbuwa Khola. This river originates from a glacier called Yalung. The trek continues until we reach Ghunsa Khola Valley and further to Sakathum. At the banks of Ghunsa River we set up our camp for the night.

                      In the morning we follow our steep and narrow trail. Walking is a bit tough today because of the rough path so you need to be a bit careful. Later, we descend the trail and arrive at the village Amjilassa where we spend the night.

                        Today we follow the steep path from Ghunsa Khola to reach Kyapar. The beauty of Kyapar is its terraced farmlands. It looks so beautiful that you wish to stay here forever. The village is sparsely populated, where we stay for the night.

                          Today we take a downhill walk until we come to the right bank of Ghunsa Khola. Moving on to Phere, our trail passes through rhododendron forests and through some hillocks. We then descend to arrive once again at Ghunsa Khola. We cross the river and arrive at Ghunsa village where we will stay for the night.

                            Today you will encounter beauty - one of Jannu glacier. It is one of the most beautiful sceneries along the trek. We keep on walking until we get view of Mt. Jannu itself. Later, we descend along the trail to arrive at Khambachan and stay overnight.

                              Today you will acclimatize to adjust body temperature with increasing altitude. This rest is essential to avoid altitude sickness. We recommend you to take very short hikes around the place and visit the village.

                                The trail today will bring us at the edge of Kanchanjangha Glacier. First we cross Lhonak Glacier to arrive at Lhonak village from where the view of Mera Peak will drive you crazy. Mera Peak, one of the popular peaks of Nepal can be seen in all its beauty. Amid awe and wonder, we set up camp at Lhonak for the night.

                                  Pang Pema is a Base Camp of Kanchanjangha. All climbers to the mountain has to halt here before climbing this third highest peak of the world. It takes around four hours to arrive at Pang Pema from Lhonak. It is an uphill and tough walk. In the sandy plain of Pang Pema we setup our camp for the night.

                                    Today it gets more exciting and thrilling as we mentally prepare ourselves before crossing either of the passes - Lapsang-La the high pass or Mirgin-La the low pass. The decision will be based on the weather condition but generally we go for the high pass. We then set up camp for the night.

                                      Today we will take a day of rest at High Camp. While you will enjoy the mountains a lot, we will also plan for next day’s travel. Stay overnight at the High Camp.

                                        Today it is a wonderful journey to Ramche. It is mostly a downhill walk until we arrive at the valley of Simbuwa Khola before reaching to Ramche village. We will set up camp at Ramche for the night.

                                          Today we arrive at Yalung glacier. After crossing this glacier and heading towards a popular chorten at 5000 m, we will bask in the beauty of Mt. Kanchanjangha. Later we will descend to reach Tseram where we stay for the night.

                                            Today it is mostly a descending trek. Comparatively it is an easy trail but you need to walk carefully so that the steep drop of the trail does not hamper your muscles. As we cross beautiful rhododendron forests, we arrive at Torontam where we stay for the night.

                                              A multi-ethnic village, Yamphudin is inhabited by Sherpa, Limbu, Rai, and Gurung people. We will stay for the night in this village.

                                                Starting with a descending trail, we first arrive at Kabel Khola where we get refreshed and spend some time. From here our climbing begins until we arrive at Ponphe. We stay at Ponphe for the night.

                                                  We begin our trek by trekking uphill and later, walking downhill. We then arrive at the village of Phun. Further, we cross Gurung village at Vanjyang followed by Limbu village at Khunjari. When are are at the banks of Pha Khola, we set up camp for the night.

                                                    On this day we will get back to Taplejung. It is mostly a descending trail before we arrive at this town of traders. We stay overnight at the picturesque town.

                                                      In the morning, we get on a public or private vehicle to Biratnagar, from where catch a flight to Kathmandu. If you feel like it, you can stroll around, or later join us for a typical Nepalese dinner hosted by us.

                                                        After breakfast or according to your flight schedule, our staff will take you to the Airport on time thank you for booking your trip with us see you again Namaste !

                                                          What's included

                                                          Included

                                                          • 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
                                                          • 24  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.

                                                          Excluded

                                                          • Visa fee for Nepal (bring accurate USD cash and 2 passport size photographs)
                                                          • International 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.

                                                          FAQs

                                                          Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas. The trek is difficult in terms of terrain, elevation, and facilities. 

                                                          Yes, you can trek to Kanchenjunga with us. To book the trek, contact us or send us an inquiry through our website.

                                                          Our Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek itinerary is 28 days long. You can do this trek in fewer days as well by only trekking to one base camp or following a different route. Overall, it takes around 26 to 30 days to trek to both base camps. These also include your arrival and departure from Kathmandu.

                                                          Yes, anyone can go to Kanchenjunga, but there are a few requirements. The traveler entering Kanchenjunga must have previous trekking experience if he or she is embarking on a trekking venture because the trail is too challenging for a beginner trekker. Similarly, the traveler also has to trek in a group of two people and must trek with a registered local travel company. You cannot travel alone or obtain a restricted area permit on your own or with the help of independent guides. 

                                                          From Kathmandu, you can trek to both bases of Kanchenjunga. First, you have to reach the starting point of the trek, which is Hile. Fly to Biratnagar and then drive to Hile on the same day. Some trekkers also prefer starting their trek from Bhadrapur, 45 minutes flight from Kathmandu. And then change two vehicles to reach Taplejung.

                                                          Mt. Kanchenjunga is situated on the border between Sikkim India and eastern Nepal. This mountain is part of the great Himalayan range.

                                                          Useful Information

                                                          Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek best time 

                                                          Weather is a crucial factor that determines the nature of a trek. Unlike other trekking routes, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek sees less traffic during the spring and autumn seasons. During these seasons, the trek is a bit easier due to fewer chances of rainfall and avalanches. 

                                                          During winter, the temperature sees a drop of up to -11 degrees Celsius on the base camps. Whereas, at the lower elevations, the temperature fluctuates around 5-8 degrees Celsius. 

                                                          The temperatures during the morning and night are the coldest and are relatively warmer during the day. Most of the trail is covered in snow throughout the year, which sees an increase in volume during winter. The road becomes treacherous during monsoon due to landslides and floods. 

                                                          Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek difficulty

                                                          As we have previously stated, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is unlike any other trek out there. A typical trek in the Kanchenjunga region is bound to exceed 20 days. The trails are demanding as they are extremely isolated and difficult. On average, the trail sees an increase in elevation by at least 400 meters daily. There are two base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga- north and south. 

                                                          If you make the trek from the north, the highest point you’ll reach is the Pang Pema base camp. It sits at an elevation of 5,143 meters. From the southern side, the highest point in Ramche. It sits at 4,610 meters. We trek to both base camps.

                                                          To reach these heights, you need to walk along the glacial moraines and paths that are incredibly steep. Be prepared to walk for more than 6 hours a day and that too through rocky cliffs & steep uphill paths. Similarly, you also have to be mindful of altitude sickness and deal with almost no modern facilities. 

                                                          What should I carry during the Kanchenjunga trek?

                                                          Before you head out on this milestone journey, you must carry the required essentials to make this trek a success. Carrying unnecessary items will only make this trek difficult and cumbersome. So be sure to pack your necessities carefully. Let’s take a close look at the essentials that are needed to make this trek a success. 

                                                          The clothes that you need to carry are down jackets, innerwear, caps, hiking socks, trekking trousers, windcheater, and hiking boots. Personal hygiene items like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, moisturizer, shampoo, and towel are also mandatory. For first aid, carry Diamox tablets, antibiotic gel, and bandages. We'll provide you with a packing checklist as well during the booking. 

                                                          Charging Facilities and WiFi

                                                          There are huge electricity problems in these rural areas, and power shortages are a common thing. You need to pay extra bucks if you want to use electricity. To escape this, you can carry a power bank with you.

                                                          Only a minor part of the Kanchenjunga region has a phone signal, and only some camps have satellite signals. You can find WiFi facilities in some teahouses, but they cost a fortune. Before you head out, you can purchase an internet package. We prefer that you choose Ncell. 

                                                          Accommodation

                                                          There are tea houses for overnight accommodation on the reeking routes of the Kanchenjunga region. Not many tea houses are built because only a handful of trekkers visit this part of the Himalayas every year. Therefore, the few counted teahouses on the way suffice the need. 

                                                          The tea houses are simple accommodation. You get a twin sharing a room with a communal washroom. The tea houses are not warm enough, and you may feel cold at night even using the provided blanket. So, we highly recommend you trek with a nice sleeping bag.

                                                          If you wish, you can also do a camping trek.

                                                          What will I eat during the Kanchenjunga trek?

                                                          We give you three meals a day during the trek. In Kathmandu, you get breakfast and farewell/welcome dinner. The meals on the trekking route are quite simple and limited. The staple meal option is dal Bhat which comes with veggies and some other side dishes. It's the freshest option on the menu that not only keeps you healthy but also is delicious and filling. 

                                                          Some other dishes like mashed potatoes, momo, noodles, Thukpa, Thenduk, porridge, soup, bread, and may be available too. Similarly, it's better to carry your favorite snacks while trekking instead of hoping to buy them on the route. 

                                                          Permits to do trekking in the Kanchenjunga region

                                                          Kanchenjunga region is a restricted area, and in comparison to other regions, you’ll find that the laws here are very strict. To explore it, you’ll need:

                                                          • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP)
                                                          • Restricted Area Entry Permit for Yamphuding and Tapethok VDC

                                                          The cost of KCAP is Nrs.2000 per person, and this permit does not have time limitations. The RAP costs USD 10 per person, and it remains valid for a week only. To apply for the permit, you’ll need a minimum of two trekkers, and the permit can only be processed through a travel agency that is registered in Nepal. 

                                                          Child policy

                                                          Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a very difficult trek, and trekking with kids might be very challenging for both guardians & the kid themselves. It is not impossible, but strong on-field crew support and proper preparation are required. For more info, talk to our team members. 

                                                          Personal expenses 

                                                          The Kanchenjunga region is isolated, so there are instances in which you might have to pay a bit extra to avail certain goods and services. You have to pay for charging your electronic devices, using wifi, etc. Similarly, nothing soothes the soul like a hot water shower in the Himalayas. However, in these parts, it comes with a hefty price tag. 

                                                          The alternative for hot showers is wet wipes, which although not similar to a shower, get the job done. Porters and guides will accompany you throughout the trek, and you need to pay tips to them too. Then there are charges for international flights, shopping, travel insurance, etc that you have to bear.

                                                          Insurance, Rescue, Evacuation

                                                          Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek demands necessary travel insurance because of the region's isolation and no proper medical service along the way. Travel insurance is our last resort to provide medical assistance to our guests while trekking. We need documents of travel insurance covering airlift and medical bills at the time of booking. 

                                                          Our guides are well trained to handle adverse situations in the Himalayas. They are trained in providing first aid and remote survival. So, if any media emergency occurs, the team leader will give you the first aid and see what other assistance is needed.