Permits for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Introduction

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of the most challenging treks, situated in the Taplejung District of Koshi Province in eastern Nepal. It offers stunning views of the world's third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m/28,169 ft) and other peaks in the same range, such as:

• Yalung Kang (AKA Kanchenjunga West, 8,505 m/27,903.54 ft)
• Kangchenjunga Central (8,482 m/27828.08 ft)
• Kangchenjunga South (8,494 m/27867.45)
• Kangbachen (7,903 m/25928.48 ft), etc.

If you're planning to go on this adventure in 2025, then you need to learn about what kind of permits are required for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek first.

As a result, today, you'll know about all the approvals needed for foreign tourists to enter the region in detail in this blog. With those permits, you won't only enjoy the views of the peaks in the Kanchenjunga Range.

But also get the chance to encounter some endangered wild species, such as the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard. This is because the entire trekking route lies within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

At the same time, you will also learn about the local culture of one of Nepal's ethnic groups, the Kirat (Rai and Limbu). So, if you're also interested in learning about others' culture and religion, along with enjoying nature, then I say without a shadow of a doubt, this trek is ideal for you.

The trek normally takes 22 days to complete. Currently, the trail doesn't have a huge number of hikers compared to the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, etc.

Therefore, it's recognised as off-the-beaten path despite offering a heavenly view of Nepal's Himalayas. However, it is best for those who prefer a quiet place to stroll around rather than the famous destination.

During the journey, you will visit the north and south base camps. From the north base camp, you'll witness a closer look at Mount Kanchenjunga (Main), whereas from the south base camp, you will enjoy the view of Kanchenjunga South. This trek is also known as the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, as it covers both base camps, and you don't follow the same trail to conclude the journey.

So, these are some basic details about the Kanchenjunga Trek for you. Below, in the sections, the permits, costs, and paperwork are all explained.

Permits Required For The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

There are two types of permits that you'll be required to obtain for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. They are listed below:

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) Permit

As I have already mentioned earlier that the trail is within the boundary of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Thus, it is needed to enter the protected area. It can be obtained either at the entry gate of the conservation area or at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Kathmandu, and it has a one-month validity period.

Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

The region is considered a restricted area by Nepal's government in order to protect the endangered wildlife and local culture. Therefore, to enter the area and begin the trek, you should obtain SRAP. It must be applied by the local trekking agency that is legally documented and approved by the government.

What Is The Cost Of The Permits Required For The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

The cost of the permits required for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is different for locals and foreigners. Please refer to the table below for the total cost of KCAP and SRAP.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit	Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit
NPR 100 per person for Nepalese. Approximately Npr.1000 per person for SAARC Nationals. Approximately Npr. 3000 per person for foreign citizens.	USD 20 per person per week for the first four weeks. USD 25 per person per week for each additional week.

Needed Documents For The Kanchenjunga Trek Permits

Several basic documents are required to apply for the permits for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. They're as follows:

• Two passport-size photos for KCAP.
• Original passport and its copy.
• The passport expiry date must not be any near during the Nepal visit.
• The Nepal tourist visa must be valid for several days after the RAP's expiration date.

Things To Consider For The Kanchenjunga Trek Permit

Here are some aspects that you should consider when applying for the required permits for the Kanchenjunga Trek and during the adventure listed below:

When Applying For Permits

• Kids under 10 won't be charged a permit fee.
• The permit is only applicable to you and your single trip. It won't be refunded if your trek is cancelled for any reason.
• The permit costs include TAX and other government fees.
• You must go through the local tour operator to apply for the required permits.

During The Trek

• You must follow the rules of the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973, when you finally step inside the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
• You must carry the permits with you during your journey because you'll be asked to show them at a checkpoint.
• You may only enter the restricted and conservation areas marked on your permit.

How To Get The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Permits

As you already learned now that the trail falls within the restricted area, which means you can't enter the place on your own. You must go through a local trekking agency, and we at Hiking Bees will be more than happy to help you organize the trek and permits for trekking to Kanchenjunga

We're reliable local trekking agency and can arrange your Kanchenjunga Trek program according to your preferences. We look after everything from your permit and paperwork to accommodation to transportation. You don't need to worry about your permit work now.

We'll provide you with an experienced guide and also a porter, if you require. But just know that there must be alleast two people in your group, excluding the guide and porters.