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Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek -22 Days
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek -22 Days
- Home
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Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek -22 Days
Tour Overview
Location
Taplejung
Duration
22 Days
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Max Group Size
12
Best Time
(March to May) and (September to November)
Per Day Walk
5-6 hours
Tour Description
Quick Info
- Geography: Himalaya
- Location: Kanchenjunga Region
- Level of Difficulty: Challenging
- Duration of Trip: 22 Days
- Average Walking Duration: 5-6 hrs per day
- Max Altitude: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp ( 5143 m)
- Starting/Ending Point: Kathmandu
- Ethic People: Gurung, Tamang, Magar, Chettri
- Accommodation: Tea house/Camping
Trek Overview
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 Glacier.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Difficulty:
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.
How to prepare?
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
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:
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:
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Regular exercise: Start doing cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to improve your endurance and stamina.
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Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses to build leg muscles and increase your overall strength.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Tour 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.
Detailed Itinerary
Trek Duration:
7Hrs drive
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Distance
14-15 Km
Highest Altitude
1,820m
Trek Duration:
6Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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,
Trek Distance
12-13Km
Highest Altitude
1,750m
Trek Duration:
6Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Distance
12-13 km
Highest Altitude
2,308m
Trek Duration:
6Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Distance
10 Km
Highest Altitude
2,730m
Trek Duration:
5-6Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Distance
10Km
Highest Altitude
3595m
Trek Duration:
6Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Highest Altitude
3595 m
Meals:
B,L,D
Today is a rest day in Ghunsa to acclimatize and explore the village and its surroundings.
Trek Distance
11.5Km
Highest Altitude
4050m
Trek Duration:
5-6 hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Distance
9-10 Km
Highest Altitude
4780 m
Trek Duration:
4-5Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
This day walk hike up along the riverside, exploring the beautiful view of waterfalls and mountains.
Trek Distance
15Km
Highest Altitude
5143 m
Trek Duration:
7-8 Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Distance
19-20 Km
Highest Altitude
4780 m
Trek Duration:
7-8Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
You will retrace your steps and trek back to Ghunsa, where you can rest and relax.
Trek Distance
10Km
Highest Altitude
4,290 m
Trek Duration:
6-7 hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Distance
11-12 Km
Highest Altitude
3871 m
Trek Duration:
8 Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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,
Trek Distance
14-15 Km
Highest Altitude
4,580 m
Trek Duration:
6-7 Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Distance
14-15Km
Highest Altitude
2,995 m
Trek Duration:
7-8Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
The trail descends through rhododendron forests to Tortong, where you can rest and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Trek Distance
16-17 Km
Highest Altitude
2,080m
Trek Duration:
8 Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
Today's trek takes you through small villages up to Lasiya Bhanjyang and lush forests to reach Yamphudin, where you can rest and relax.
Trek Distance
12Km
Highest Altitude
1,910 m
Trek Duration:
6 Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
1 hour walk 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.
Trek Distance
10-12 Km
Trek Duration:
5-6 Hrs
Meals:
B,L,D
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.
Trek Duration:
8 hrs drive
Meals:
B,L,D
On this day, we catch an early morning vehicle (Private) from Hapukhola and reach to Bhadrapur.
Meals:
B,D
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.
Highest Altitude
1300M
Trek Duration:
5 Km drive
Meals:
B
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.
Tour Includes
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All kinds of transportation services, notably private vehicles and airport shuttles (Flight to Bhadrapur and back to Kathmandu).
Tour Excludes
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Your entrance visa and international travel costs.
Gallery Section
Frequently Asked Questions
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a strenuous trek and requires a high level of physical fitness and stamina.
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).
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.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is considered a difficult trek due to its high altitude, remote location, and rugged terrain. Trekkers should have previous trekking experience, good physical fitness, and be prepared for long days of walking and camping in sometimes challenging conditions.
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.
To trek in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, you will need a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit and a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card. These permits can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
Accommodation on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is primarily camping. Trekkers can expect to stay in comfortable tents provided by the trekking agency, with basic facilities such as sleeping mats and blankets.
Altitude sickness is a potential health risk associated with the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. Trekkers should acclimatize properly and stay hydrated throughout the trek. It is also recommended to carry a first aid kit and any necessary medication with you.
Food on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is primarily locally sourced and freshly prepared by the trekking crew. You can expect to have a variety of Nepali and international dishes such as dal bhat, noodles, pasta, soups, and vegetables.
Trek Map
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Additional Information
How much does the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Cost?
The cost for trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp can vary based on several factors. On average, the cost can range from $1700 to $2,500 per person for a 17 to 24-day trek. The cost mostly varies depending on the kind of service chosen.
Kanchenjunga Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026
Hiking Bees efficiently organizes Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, and we are currently accepting bookings for 2025, 2026, and 2027. Our Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek cost starts from USD 1850 per person for a group of three or more people.
Check our group price for the trek:
No. of person | Price | Make an Inquiry |
2-2 pax | $1900 per person | Plan your Trip |
3-5 pax | $1850 per person | Plan your Trip |
6-12 pax | $1800 per person | Plan your Trip |
For larger groups and special requirements such as additional days, extra porters, and better accommodations, you may directly contact us via WhatsApp.
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