Kanchenjunga Base Camp journey

Duration: 22 Days   |   Based on 1 Review
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trip Style: Hikking and Trekking
  • Transport: Private Vehicle / Aeroplane
  • Food: Full Board Plan
  • Accommodation: Hotel + Tea House
  • Group Size: 1-15
  • Max Elevation: 5,150 m./16,892 ft.

Mt. Kanchenjunga is the third-highest Mountain in the world. It rises with an elevation of 8,586 m (28,162 ft) in a section of the eastern Himalayan region of Nepal.  Delimited in the west by the Tamor River, East by Teesta River, north by Lhonak, and South with Sikkim (India).  

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Highlights

  • Enjoy the third-highest mountain with five treasures of snow.
  • Scenic view of Kanchenjunga and Mt. Makalu
  • Visits the North and South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga as well as crosses a high pass called Sele Le. This trek has been described as one of the finest trails in Nepal.
  • The mountain views are truly sensational; you will see Wedge Peak (6,750 m, 22,140 ft.), Mera (6,344 m, 20,800 ft.), Nepal Peak (6,910 m, 22,664 ft.), the Twins (7,351 m, 24,111 ft.), and Jannu (7,710 m, 22,288 ft.) Koktang (6,147 m/20,162 ft.), Rathong (6,679 m/21,907 ft.), Kabrus (all over 7,000 m/22,960 ft.), and of course the five peaks of Kanchenjunga, all over (8,000 m/26,240 ft.)
  • It would appeal to anyone who is looking for a challenging trek in a remote region of Nepal visited by fewer other trekkers. This is a culturally interesting journey with a day exploring Kathmandu and then while on the trek, you will see Rais, Limbus, Sherpas, and Tibetans.
  • Experience the culture and customs of Bhote, Limbu, and Tibetan tribes.

What you can Experience on Kanchenjunga Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp treks through a remote local village and beneath a high snow-capped mountain, The way to its base camp is the most untouched trekking region of Nepal.   The word Kanchenjunga comes from a Tibetan word referring to “Five great treasures in the snow.” This symbolizes its five peaks: gold, silver, precious stones, grain, and Holy Scriptures. Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,585 m/28,162 ft.) is the world’s third-highest peak, making this trek route even more intriguing. Kanchenjunga is towards the far-eastern part of Nepal, protected under the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (2,035 km/1,263 miles). The conservation area hosts several species, such as impedance Pheasant, Shy Dragon, Snow leopards, Black bears, Red Panda, and many more. If you are seeking peace in nature, this route will be perfect for you. Popular for its remoteness, the trek was once a forbidden region and only opened for trekkers in 1988. So there are fewer trekkers in the Kanchenjunga area and plenty of wildlife and natural heritage.


This route encompasses Himalayan coniferous forests, alpine shrubs, meadows, and grasslands. It's a restricted trekking area, so you need a highly experienced trekking guide and at least 2 trekkers to obtain the necessary permits for the Kanchenjunga trek. Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,150 m) is a teahouse trek and less crowded, remote, and wilderness, where you can experience traditional Nepali cultures and lifestyles, from Rai and Limbus to Tibetan Buddhist villages and foods.


Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Route

There is a scheduled flight every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from Kathmandu to Taplejung (Suketar) in the morning operated by Sita Air. On the way back, take a jeep to Bhadrapur, and fly back to Kathmandu. As for the trekking route, please follow the given itinerary, which is carefully produced by our experts, who have been on the Kanchenjunga trek several times and lately in 2024. The 19-day trek can be customized if you would like to have a little shorter trek, Please contact us for the customized trek itinerary.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp journey is 19 days long and a challenging Great Himalayan Trek (GHT) part around Mt. Kanchenjunga, visiting both North and South Base Camp. It is a long trek, going deep into the remote mountain valley on Nepal’s border with Sikkim and Tibet. The route starts by approaching the north side of Kanchenjunga, where you can see views of Tent Peak, Nepal Peak, and Cross Peak, and then as Kanchenjunga Base Camp itself becomes visible. After Pangpema the trek returns to Ghunsa and then crosses the Sele Le Pass, 4,580 m/15,022 ft. Over the south side of Kanchenjunga. Over this pass, visit the yak pastures of Ramche and Oktang, where there are impressive views of the southwest face of Kanchenjunga. If you have made your itinerary, kindly let us know, and we will customize it as per your requirements. For more information, please contact us 

Outline Itinerary

Open All Days Close All Days
Day 01: Kathmandu International Airport and transfer to your Hotel 1,300 m./ 4,265 ft./30 min drive

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu International Airport, our dedicated airport representative will warmly greet you and assist you to your design hotel in Kathmandu.

  • No Meals
  • Hotel
  • 1,350 m./ 4,265 ft.

Today is a free day to prepare for your trek and make sure you have your trekking gear. Later in the afternoon, you will meet your dedicated trekking team for a detailed briefing of your entire journey. Overnight in the Kathmandu Hotel.

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel
  • 1,300 m./4,265 ft.

Today, we have a short and iconic flight from Kathmandu domestic airport to Bhadrapur (Chandragadhi Airport). It takes around 45 minutes. Our next chapter will start from here, as we will have a local jeep to Taplejung or Illam. This is the gateway to the Kanchenjunga base camp. Ilam is a vibrant and fascinating place for the tea garden. You can enjoy your drive through the magnificent views of the surroundings, which have many terraces. Spend the night at a Guest House with local food.

Note- If you want to drive further to Taplejung, also doable. It could be shorter for the next day drive.

  • Full board plan
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 1,627 m./5,336 ft.

After enjoying our breakfast, we'll start the next leg of our journey by catching the local jeep, Still, you could have a lifetime of experience on our off-road ride towards our destination, Sekathum. While the typical trekker opts for a walk from Illam/Taplejung to Sekathum. The scenic drive will take us through various villages along the Tamor Nadi, including Mitlung, Chirwa, Thapethok, Lelep, and others. Along the way, we'll pass through the Kanchenjunga National Park entry point, where our permits will be scrutinized before we are granted permission to proceed towards Sekathum. Spend the night at the guest house.

  • Full board plan
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 1,650 m./5,412 ft.

Following a two-day drive, our hiking expedition kicks off with a hearty breakfast in Sekathum. Embarking on the thrilling journey through the Himalayas, we'll ascend along the Ghunsa Khola/river, crossing numerous bridges and hiking through lush forests. The trekking trail will lead us past quaint settlements like Jonggim and Ghaiyabari before arriving at Amjilosa. Get ready for an adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayan region. Spend the night at the guest house.

  • Full board plan
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 2,498 m./8,193 ft.

Today, we trek through the lush green rhododendron and bamboo forest. You will have a beautiful waterfall view just opposite the river. The trails go on a on a steep ascent which is quite tough, and you will be in Gyabla. We have a restful overnight at the guest house.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 2,730 m./ 8,950 ft.

Departing the picturesque and vibrant village of Gyabla, our journey goes towards Ghunsa village. The trekking trails are getting gentle uphill, and descending coming across the river. Finally, when we reach the Tibetan village of Ghunsa, we will be warmly welcomed by the local people. Ghusa is a fascinating village with a micro hydro plant, a health post, and beautiful wooden houses. You will enjoy your night at the guest house.

  • Full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 3,450 m./11,750 ft.

As our journey gets higher, of course, we need to get good rest and acclimatize ourselves to digest and adjust to the high altitude. Today, you will hike up the opposite side of the Ghunsa River with a gain of about 400 m. Take your time to return and try to enjoy the views. It is always suggested to hike a couple of hundred meters up and spend the nigh low alleviation. In the late afternoon, you can explore the Ghunsa village and learn about the culture and tradition of Buddhism. Spend the night at the Guest House.

  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 3,450 m./11,750 ft.

Our journey continues along the south bank of the Ghunsa river, You will enjoy walking, keeping Mani walls and Chortens on your right-hand side for the spiritual aspect. As you follow your way through glacial moraines, you will have breathing landscapes offering rocky slopes, and a mix of forested paths, and you will witness the impressive Jannu mountain 7,710 m. Coming across the Khambachen, you will have a lifetime of experience with the Tibetan settlement and their lifestyle. It is always suggested to stay hydrated and well-acclimatized. Overnight at the guest house.

  • Full Board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 4,050 m./13,400 ft.

Start your day from Khambachen, and follow the left side of the Kanchenjunga glacier. Today, you can enjoy the day with breathtaking views of many majestic peaks including Wegde Peak 6,802 m, Mera Peak 6,364 m. and Nepal Peak 7,177 m. The journey be much more interesting with the stunning views of the region. Spent a pleasant night at Lhonak.

  • Full Board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 4,800 m./15,650 ft,

We are embarking on an incredible journey towards Kanchenjunga base camp fallow, the northern side of glaciers with stunning views. This is quite a challenging day for the walking. You will encounter the towering peak of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Once you reach KBC, you will have some time to enjoy the surroundings. You can return to Lhonak for a comfortable overnight stay at the guest house.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 5,143 m./1,600 ft.

After a lifetime of experience in the Kanchenjunga base camp, and Lhonak. We are returning to Ghunsa we will still have different angles of stunning views. As we are descending Lhonak and Khambachen and walking on the Kanchenjunga moraine. Once you reach Ghunsa, you will have a great chance to interact with the local people. Ghunsa is a charming and vibrant village for a comfortable stay.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 3,450 m./11,750 ft.

Our journey is challenging and rewarding through the diverse landscapes to the Highest pass, Sele La (4,400 m). This is rocky and steep uphill through the forest. You can witness towering peaks including Makalu 8,481 m./27,825 ft. Barunche 7, 162 m. and Kanchenjunga 8,586 m. Spent the night at Sele La at the guest house.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 4,400 m./12,150 ft.

Today is challenging and rewarding through the diverse landscapes to Highest Pass, Sele La 4,400 m. and Sinion La 4,660 m. This is rocky and steep uphill through the forest. You can eyewitness towering peaks, including Makalu (8,481 m./27,825 ft.)Barunche 7, 162 m. Nyukla Laching 6,670 m, Temachunggi 6,060 m, and Jannu 7,710 m. Reaching the top of the passes offers breathing views of the Yalung glacier. The trekking trail is ascending to Tseram and spent the night at the guest house.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 3,900 m./12,500 ft.

Your journey is continuous to Kanchenjunga base camp through Ramche stop for a good lunch at the guest house. It will take around an hour to reach to Kanchenjunga south base camp. Spending your time there, with the best views of the Tibetan prayer flags with the stunning mountain peaks. Return to Ramche and spend the night at the guest house.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 4,600 m./13,640 ft.

Start your day early in the morning and hike up to Oktang to view the south face of Kanchenjunga. Many climbers also take this route for their expeditions. Today, you can see the jaw-dropping views of different mountains and landscapes. Later in the afternoon, return to Ramche for the overnight stay.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 4,750 m./14,650 ft.

The journey is quite easy and smooth today, mostly downhill in the deep gorge. The last part is steep, and mostly we will be inside the jungle, with no tea house available for many hours until reaching the Tortong. So, we  suggest keeping some chocolate bars and sufficient water with you.  Spend the night at the guest house.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 3,000 m./6,825 ft.

After finishing your breakfast, we the initial part, but after the first section, the trail ascends and steep uphill last section. You will stop to have lunch at Lasiya Bhanjyang crossing the landslide-prone area. Afterward, the trail goes downhill to Yamphudin. Spend the night at Yamphudin at the guest house.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 2,100 m./6,425 ft.

After the lifetime of the journey, You are in the alpine zone to the lowland to Khebang. You could have different views of the hillside with lots of terraces. Today you will conclude your trek to Khebang full of fun. Overnight at guest house.

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 1,900 m./6,260 ft.

This is the last day of your long journey. It is a pleasant and smooth hiking day. Khebang trek to Hapu Khola, you will enjoy the tea garden and greenery of the surroundings, where you can have lunch and jeep drive to Kanyam (Ilam) 

  • full board
  • Guest House/Tea House
  • 1,500 m./4,920 ft.

Drive to Bhadrapur about 70 km. It is a pleasant and smooth journey with the vibrant landscape of surroundings. It is a 45-minute iconic flight, Buddha Air and Yeti Air operate every day scheduled flights. Upon your arrival at the domestic airport in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel by private transportation.

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

This is the last day of your lifetime of experience, Journey onward to your next adventure. Global Adventure Trekking arranges your transportation to the Kathmandu International Airport. We always wish you a safe and sound journey.

  • Breakfast

What's included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off on your arrival
  • Kanchanjunga special permit.
  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System).
  • A three-night hotel in Kathmandu (a tourist category hotel) includes breakfast.
  • Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu regular flight ticket.
  • All grounded transportation is as per the itinerary.
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area permit
  • Well-trained and highly experienced GAT's guide
  • A porter for every 2 clients 
  • 20-night basic teahouse or guesthouse accommodation with full board meals.
  • All the food, lodging, and salary of the Sherpa Guide.
  • Seasonal fruits
  • Company T-shirt
  • Duffel bag and sleeping bag, if needed (refundable)
  • Insurance of Nepalese Staff.
  • Farewell dinner in a Nepalese typical restaurant.
  • Gov't tax and VAT.
  • Nepalese visa fee, Visa can be obtained on your upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Visa cost 30 USD, 50 USD, and 125 USD for 15, 30, and 90 days respectively.
  • Excess baggage charge(s). if more than 15 kg.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled Itinerary.
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
  • International flight tickets.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.).
  • Tips for field staff
Request a Private Date

Dear Clients, We do not plan any scheduled departures for the Kanchenjunga Trek because this is not a common trek like Everest and Annapurna. Kindly write us back with your preferred departure date, and we will plan a trip according to your desire.

Useful Info

Accommodations during the trek:

We seek to offer our clients comfortable and clean private accommodations. We always make sure that you can sleep well. We always provide you with the best available lodge/tea house during the trek. Most nights, there will be a warm dining room with comfortable chairs. Normally, you will have electricity in a few places Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking trip, there may be a few nights where there is no running hot shower or electricity. A bucket of hot water will be offered for an additional cost.

Hotel in Kathmandu- The accommodation in Kathmandu is a clean and comfortable hotel in a quiet location beside Thame. There are 24 hrs hot and cold showers with TV. Air-conditioned, Telephone in the room, and private balcony. However, if you required a star-category hotel to upgrade the hotel in Kathmandu, please let us know. We will upgrade the hotel for an additional cost. While on the trek, there is a simple mountain guesthouse and it is not as comfortable as Annapurna and Everest region accommodation. However, we try our level best to serve you the best local guesthouse along the trek. 

Electricity

On the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking, Electricity is available in most of the places en route. In some places like after Ghunsa and over a pass may not have it because of the cold and snowfall from season to season.

Travel transport

Global Adventure Trekking uses private cars/Hice for land transport and Flight, as per the availability.

Food: Nepal is famous for its typical food Dalbhat. It contains a lot of Iron which is good for everyone. “Dal Bhat power is 24 hours”

Mostly our Kanchenjunga Circuit trekking destination offers various hygienic and fresh food like Nepalese, Continental, Tibetan, and Indian. People always have warm and delicious food during this trek. Most offered foods are

Breakfast- Toast, Any style of eggs, Tibetan bread, Pancakes, Chapattis, Muesli, Oat porridge, Tea, and coffee

Lunch- Fried noodles/Chowmin, Fried rice, Fried potatoes, Noodle soup, Dal Bhat, Thukpa, Sherpa stew, Mo:Mo,

Dinner- Macaroni, Spaghetti, Pizza, Dal Bhat, Spring rolls, Fingers chips.

These are the most served food in Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.

Client Reviews

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Kat, United Kingdom

Amazing Remote Trek We Made It

We made a 20-day trek to the south and north side of Kanchenjunga. We highly recommend this trek and Global ...

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