Book Now

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek -22 Days

53 reviews in TripAdvisor
233 reviews in Google
6 reviews in TrustPilot
Trip Facts
Duration
22 Days
Difficulty Level
Strenuous
Region
Kanchenjunga
Maximum Altitude
5143 m
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Group Size
Max-12
Accommodation
Tea house/Camping
Trek Distance
5-6 hrs per day
Activities
Trekking
Season
(March to May) and (September to November)

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of the most beautiful and challenging treks in the far eastern region of Nepal. This Trekking route reaches Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5143 m) and takes you very close to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4610 m) from where you can have beautiful mountain and Glacier views. It is a 22-day off-the-beaten-path trek that takes you through the remote villages, lush forests, high-altitude passes, and stunning landscapes of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, straddles the border between Nepal and Sikkim.  A trek to Kanchenjunga is a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, taking you deep into remote Himalayan valleys and offering a rare opportunity to experience both the southern and northern base camps of this majestic mountain.

The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear. The trek offers an opportunity to explore the pristine natural beauty of the region, with stunning views of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and glaciers. 

This Kanchenjunga trek begins with a visit to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, located at Ramche (4,580 meters). This serene alpine haven serves as an overnight stop for trekkers. From here, a short day hike leads to the stunning Oktang Viewpoint (4,730 meters), where you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the south face of Mount Kanchenjunga and the sweeping Yalung Glacier.

After a successful visit of the southern approach, the trek winds its way through high mountain passes and traditional villages toward Kanchenjunga North Base Camp at Pang Pema (5,143 meters). Nestled beneath towering ice walls and surrounded by raw Himalayan beauty, Pang Pema offers unmatched views of the north face of Kanchenjunga and the awe-inspiring

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Highlights

  • Trekking to the base camp of the third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m).
  • Reach the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143 m) along with a chance to get a closer look at Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4,610 m).
  • Stunning views of the mountains including Mt. Makalu (8,485m) and Mt. Everest (8,848m).
  • A restricted and remote area trek in Nepal.
  • Exploring the unique culture and lifestyle of ethnic communities like Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa.
  • Crossing the high-altitude passes of Lapsang La Pass (5,160m) and Sele La Pass (4,290m).
  • Walking through lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo.
  • Visiting the remote and traditional villages like Ghunsa, Kambachen, and Lhonak.
  • Wildlife sightings of Himalayan thar, musk deer, and snow leopard.
Off beaten path
Price Per Person
US$1900
US$2300
Book This Trip
Need Help ? Contact Us
Hello, how may I help you?
Panchanga Adhikari
Panchanga Adhikari
+977 9860617338

Photo Gallery

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek -22 Days Short Itinerary

Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary

1DAY

Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (1,300 meters)

Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative from Hiking bees and transferred to your hotel. You can rest or explore the city, depending on your arrival time.

Meals
Welcome Drinks
Max Altitude
1,300m (4,265ft)
2DAY

Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung(1,820m) via Ilam tea garden

On the second day of our Kanchenjunga Trekking journey, You will take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and then drive to Taplejung via Ilam tea garden with a view of the Kumbhakarna range, which takes approximately 7 hours. We will stay overnight there in a Tourist Lodge.

Meals
B,L,D
Duration
7Hrs drive
3DAY

Hike from Taplejung to Chiruwa (1,720m)

After an early morning breakfast, We will start our trek one-hour walk down through the local village with different types of trees and lush forests we will reach to Mitlung and have our lunch at Sinwa. After lunch, we walk through a small local market that leads to the small forest which gradually heads up to Chiruwa, We stay overnight in the lodge,

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
1,820m (5,971ft)
Distance
14-15 Km
Duration
6Hrs
4DAY

Trek from Chiruwa to Lelep(1,750m)

This day is an easy day, From Chiruwa we gradually start heading up with a beautiful natural atmosphere via cardamom farms and seasonal planting crops. We reach Lelep at the end of the day and stay overnight there in a guesthouse.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
1,750m (5,741ft)
Distance
12-13Km
Duration
6Hrs
5DAY

Hike from Lelep to Amjilosa(2,308m)

After breakfast, 30 minutes walk down to Sukethum we start heading upwards to Lama tar. this day is quite a hard day than the previous day, walk up continues along the river and jungle to Amjilosa, and stay overnight there.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
2,308m (7,572ft)
Distance
12-13 km
Duration
6Hrs
6DAY

Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla(2,730m)

From this day we will walk up short and slowly due to the high altitude. as usual, the schedule starts through the forest and river with different sounds and noises of birds and animals. We reach Gyabla and stay overnight.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
2,730m (8,956ft)
Distance
10 Km
Duration
5-6Hrs
7DAY

Hike from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3595m)

After morning breakfast, we walk down through the jungle and gradually head up to Phale, If lucky you may have chances to see bears and other wild animals, this day is an easy day for Ghunsa.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
3,595m (11,794ft)
Distance
10Km
Duration
6Hrs
8DAY

Acclimatization Day at Ghunsa (3595 meters)

Today is a rest day in Ghunsa to acclimatize and explore the village and its surroundings.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
3,595m (11,794ft)
9DAY

Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4050m)

After breakfast, we gradually head up followed by the rivers and green forest for 3-4 hours, we hike along the snow-capped mountain view to Kambachen and stay overnight in a guesthouse.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
4,050m (13,287ft)
Distance
11.5Km
Duration
5-6 hrs
10DAY

Trek from Kambachen to Lonak(4780 m)

This day walk hike up along the riverside, exploring the beautiful view of waterfalls and mountains.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
4,780m (15,682ft)
Distance
9-10 Km
Duration
4-5Hrs
11DAY

Hike from Loank to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5143 m) and back to Lonak

On this day, we start our trek after early morning breakfast, Walking for 3-4 hours gradually upwards we reach Kanchenjunga's north basecamp ( 5143 meters) from where we can have a glance at breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You will then retrace your steps and trek back to Lhonak for the night.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
5,143m (16,873ft)
Distance
15Km
Duration
7-8 Hrs
12DAY

Trek from Lonak(4780 m) to Ghunsa(3595 m)

You will retrace your steps and trek back to Ghunsa, where you can rest and relax.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
4,780m (15,682ft)
Distance
19-20 Km
Duration
7-8Hrs
13DAY

Trek from Ghunsa to Selele (4,290 m)

You will cross the Sele La Pass and trek through rhododendron forests to reach Tseram, a small village situated in a beautiful valley.

We spend the night in Selele at a guesthouse.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
4,290m (14,074ft)
Distance
10Km
Duration
6-7 hrs
14DAY

Trek from Selele camp to Cheram (Tseram) (3871 m)

After breakfast 2 hours climb up to Selele la( 4646 meters) pass with a panoramic view of the mountains, after the pass you will walk gradually down on rocky path with a south part mountain view,

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
3,871m (12,700ft)
Distance
11-12 Km
Duration
8 Hrs
15DAY

Trek from Tseram to Ramche (4,580 m) and back to Tseram

Today, you will trek to Ramche, where you can see stunning views of Yalung Glacier and the surrounding mountains. If possible we will reach Oktang ( depending upon the situation), After exploring the area, you will trek back to Tseram for the night.

Today, You can glance at the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp closely. This is the nearest we will be going towards the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
4,580m (15,026ft)
Distance
14-15 Km
Duration
6-7 Hrs
16DAY

Trek from Ramche to Tortong (2,995 m)

The trail descends through rhododendron forests to Tortong, where you can rest and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
2,995m (9,826ft)
Distance
14-15Km
Duration
7-8Hrs
17DAY

Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080 m)

Today's trek takes you through small villages up to Lasiya Bhanjyang and lush forests to reach Yamphudin, where you can rest and relax.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
2,080m (6,824ft)
Distance
16-17 Km
Duration
8 Hrs
18DAY

Trek from Yamphudin to Khebang (1,910 m)

Today we walk 1 hour down from Yamphudin through the local village and cardamom farm, this day we will see typical villages and culture, We reach Khebang And stay overnight.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
1,910m (6,266ft)
Distance
12Km
Duration
6 Hrs
19DAY

Trek from Khebang to Hapukhola

After breakfast, we start our journey to Hapukhola from Khebang where we walk through villages and a small pine forest local market . Today we stay at a guest house in Hapukhola.

Meals
B,L,D
Distance
10-12 Km
Duration
5-6 Hrs
20DAY

Drive from Hapukhola to Bhadrapur

On this day, we catch an early morning vehicle (Private) from Hapukhola and reach to Bhadrapur.

Meals
B,L,D
Duration
8 hrs drive
21DAY

Flight to Kathmandu from Bhadrapur

We catch an early morning flight to Kathmandu from Bhadrapur. You can walk around and explore Kathmandu if you wish. In the evening we will have a farewell dinner (Funded by Hikingbees) at a typical Nepali-style restaurant.

Meals
B,D
22DAY

Departure from Kathmandu

This is the day of farewell where you accomplish the journey and leave for your home. Three hours prior to your boarding time, our staff will receive you from your hotel and drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport. We really enjoyed hosting you. Many thanks for having us and safe travels returning home.

Meals
B
Max Altitude
1,300m (4,265ft)
Distance
5 Km drive
Still Confuse?
No worries — our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
Customize Trip

Cost Details

Trip Includes

  • All kinds of transportation services, notably private vehicles and airport shuttles (Flight to Bhadrapur and back to Kathmandu).
  • Two nights' lodging plus breakfast at a 3-starred Kathmandu hotel.
  • Tea house accommodation throughout the hike.
  • Breakfast, day meal, and supper are all included in the full board hike package.
  • One incredibly skilled, accommodating, and kind guide plus one porter (1 porter for two individuals), and all of the staff's meals, lodging, and so on.
  • All the costs of trekking staff including insurance, wages, and equipment.
  • Administrative fees and governmental taxes.
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) and trekking permits
  • All the necessary equipment (Down Jacket, Duffle Bag, Sleeping Bag).
  • First-aid supplies include an oxygen meter to check pulse rate.
  • Emergency Rescue Arrangement service which will be funded by your travel insurance.
  • Supplementary oxygen can, in case of emergency.
  • Seasonal fruits as dessert after dinner.
  • Certificate of Trek completion.
  • Hikingbees t-shirt.
  • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali kitchen.
  • Hot bag for a goodnight's sleep.

Trip Excludes

  • Your entrance visa and international travel costs.
  • Meals not listed in the "Daily food Inclusions".
  • Personalized hiking kit.
  • Traveling insurance.
  • Drinks, snacks, water as well as other individual needs and expenses.
  • Tips for trekking staff and guide
  • personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and internet.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek -22 Days Departure Dates

Essential Information

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Difficulty:  

First thing that comes to mind before trekking to Kanchenjunga is How difficult is the KBC trek?

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a strenuous, adventurous, and high-altitude trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina. The trek involves long hours of walking, steep ascents and descents, and high-altitude passes. The maximum altitude you will reach during the trek is 5,143 meters at the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. With multiple days involving 8+ hours of trekking and a high chance of altitude sickness, this trek is categorized as a challenging trek in Nepal.

Although the trek is considered to be difficult, the challenges can be mitigated with the proper team, preparation, and acclimatization. Several factors impacting the difficulty of the trek are:

  • Weather Challenge
  • Ice and Snow
  • Altitude Sickness
  • Duration of the trek
  • Availability of services

There are basic-level teahouses and homestays for the accommodation; however, please don't expect it to be facilitated like the ones you find in the Everest Trek or the Annapurna Trek. You may not find all the amenities contributing to the difficulty of the trek.

Best Time for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:  

The best time to trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp is from March to May (Spring) and from September to November (Autumn). 

Spring (March, April, May)

The spring season is a perfect time to trek to Kanchenjunga as you get a fresh, vibrant, and colorful scenery all around. As the snow slowly melts, the Himalayas welcome you with their clear sky and majestic appearance. The temperatures tend to be perfect for trekking, offering a pleasurable outdoor experience.

Along with great weather, Spring also welcomes a lot of festivals in Nepal. You can plan your schedule accordingly and get a chance to get a glance at a few of the major festivals like Tiji festival, Dumji, Ghode Jatra, Shivaratri, and Holi (festival of Colors).

Autumn (September, October, November)

Another best time for trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp is the Autumn season, as the monsoon rain slowly fades away, the weather becomes clearer, and temperatures get milder. You get clear panoramic views of the mountains, and new flowers start to bloom. The lush green forest starts its new cycle, offering different shades of yellow, red, and green.

Along with that few of the biggest festival lies during this season. You can have an opportunity to experience and even celebrate festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Yartung. These festivals are multi-day celebrations, and chances of you seeing them are very high. The locals are friendly, and some may invite you to join them as well.

Other Seasons: Winter and Monsoon

Winter (Dec to Feb), although the weather conditions are cold, you get some of the best views while trekking. The mountains will be covered in snow, but trekking in such extreme conditions requires adequate preparation and a proper team.

During monsoon (June-August), the trail can be slippery, and the views are obstructed by clouds. which can make the trekking experience not very worthwhile, but if you enjoy walking in chilled weather, enjoying the scenery and fresh air, then you may opt for this hike during the monsoon.

Suggested Preparation for Kanchenjunga Trek:  

To undertake the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, you should have a good level of physical fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months before the trek. Some of the suggested preparations include: 

Physical Preparation:

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a physically demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months in advance. Some of the physical preparations you can do include:

  • Regular exercise: Start doing cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to improve your endurance and stamina. 
  • Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses to build leg muscles and increase your overall strength. 
  • Altitude training: You can train your body for high altitude by doing stair climbing, hiking, or trekking on nearby hills or mountains. 

Mental preparation:

Mental preparation is equally important as physical preparation. You should be mentally prepared for the challenges of the trek and be positive and determined throughout the journey. 

  • Research: Research about the trek, its challenges, and the culture and customs of the region. This will help you to have realistic expectations and avoid culture shock.
  • Meditation: Meditation helps to calm your mind and improve your mental strength. You can start with short meditation sessions and gradually increase the duration and frequency.
  • Positive Attitude: Having a positive attitude helps you to overcome challenges and enjoy the journey. You should focus on the beautiful scenery and the experience rather than the difficulties.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek can be customized according to your needs and preferences. Although this trekking itinerary is of 22 days, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek can be completed within 14 - 28 days, depending on the time, health, weather, and various other factors.

This trek is more than just a journey to two base camps; it's a deep immersion into the heart of eastern Nepal’s wilderness, where nature remains untouched, and every step brings you closer to the soul of the mountains.

You may also check other trekking packages in this region such as Kanchenjunga North Base Camp- 16 days or Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek with Nango la Pass- 20 days.

Know these essential information about the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek -22 Days, before you head for the trek. These extra information will provide you a picture about what to expect and get prepared for your journey. Please feel free to read the information below and if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

If you are still unsure if this trek is for you then email or WhatsApp us. We will get back to you within 24 hours to answer any more questions.

Transportation for Kanchenjunga Trek

To get to the Kanchenjunga region for trekking, among the various ways, the usual and best way is to fly from Kathmandu Airport to Bhadrapur, then travel by road (Bus/jeep) to Taplejung, which is considered as the major starting point of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. From Taplejung, you'll begin your trek. 

Here's a detailed breakdown of how to reach the starting point of the Kanchenjunga trek:

Fly to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu: 

The Kanchenjunga Trek journey starts with a flight from Kathmandu; many trekkers fly to Bhadrapur in eastern Nepal. As this city lies in near proximity to Taplejung, the main gateway for the trek.

Flying to Bhadrapur instead of driving from Kathmandu tend to be much quicker and efficient.

The domestic flight takes about 1 hour to reach Bhadrapur airport from Kathmandu, and cost between $120-$200 USD one-way.

  • Duration: 1 hr
  • Cost: $120 - $200 (one-way)
  • Airlines: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines

Although there are flights departing everyday, you can expect flight delays during monsoon or winter, if weather is not in perfect conditions.

Drive from Bhadrapur to Taplejung:

Upon reaching Bhadrapur you can catch a bus/jeep to Taplejung.

Private jeeps are often arranged beforehand by the agencies, so we can directly start our drive to Taplejung from the airport, but public options are available at a place called Chaurali, so we take a drive uptown there first by a taxi. Private jeeps tend to be comfortable and reliable. whreas, public buses are uncertain and can be a hectic ride to Taplejung.

The road drive to Taplejung will take around 8-9 hours. 

A private jeep from Bhadrapur to Taplejung can cost around $150-$200, while a shared vehicle may be around $15-$25 USD.

Shared Jeeps and Buses

  • Cost: $15 - $25 per person
  • Duration: 8 - 9 hours
  • Pros: Affordable and social, with locals traveling the same route.
  • Cons: Less comfortable, crowded, and dependent on road conditions.

Private Jeep Hire

  • Cost: $150–$200 for a full jeep
  • Duration: 7 - 8 hours
  • Pros: Flexible stops, more comfortable, and faster.
  • Cons: Expensive for solo travelers, best for groups.

Extended Drive Bus/Jeep to Sekathum

Although the Taplejung used to be the popular starting point for Kanchenjunga Trekking, nowadays you can drive all the way up to Sekathum.

The route from Taplejung to Sekathum (a village where the trek starts) takes about 5 hours on graveled roads. 

Since the distance covered is more the cost will be slightly more depending upon the situation.

Direct Drive from Kathmandu to Taplejung/Sekathum

For budget travelers or those wanting a road adventure, buses and jeeps travel directly to Taplejung or Sekathum from Kathmandu. You can opt for a public local bus/ shared jeep or get a private jeep.

Although this option is cheaper, this involves 1 and half days of drive, However you may see some scenic views during your drive.

  • Duration: 20 - 28 hours
  • Cost: $25 - $40 (by bus) to Taplejung
  • Cost: $500 (private jeep) to Sekathum
  • Experience: Long, bumpy, but scenic with stunning landscapes.
Permits Required for Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp

There are a few permits and documents you need to have before you head on a trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Please make sure you acquire these permits.

  • Kanchenjunga Restricted Permits ($20 per person/per week).
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) are ($30 per person).
  • Original passport with a valid Visa for the restricted area permits.
  • Travel Insurance, with an emergency high-altitude heli evacuation

For detailed info:  Kanchenjunga Trek Permits

How to Prepare for Kanchenjunga Trek?

There are a few things that you can do to be prepared for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. Some of the major preparation tips are:

  • Gain pre-trekking experience
  • Regular workout and exercise
  • Gain navigation skills
  • High altitude acclimatization
  • Proper team and equipment
  • Knowledge about the landscapes and environment

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek -22 Days FAQs

General
What is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a trekking route in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, located in eastern Nepal. It takes you through stunning alpine forests, high-altitude landscapes, and the remote villages of the region, all while providing spectacular views of the world's third highest peak, Kanchenjunga (8,586m).

This trek takes you to both the Base Camps of Kanchenjunga i.e North Base Camp and the South.

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

The best time to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is from March to May and September to November when the weather is generally clear and dry, and the temperatures are mild.

How long is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is typically a 21-day trek, although this can vary depending on the itinerary chosen and the pace of the trekker.

Need Help? Call Us+977 9860617338