: The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek takes you to the base of the world’s third-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters). Located in eastern Nepal, the trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. You'll pass through lush rhododendron forests, remote villages, and high-altitude deserts, offering an authentic and off-the-beaten-path trekking experience. The trek allows you to explore both the south and north base camps of Kanchenjunga, providing stunning views of surrounding peaks like Makalu, Lhotse, and Everest. The trail is relatively less crowded, making it a serene adventure into Nepal’s wild eastern region.
Duration
16
Difficulty Level
Challenging
Trip Start and End
Kathamandu to Kathamandu
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Trip Area
Eastern Region
Max Elevation
5,143 meters
Per Day Walk
10km - 15km
Group Size
2-12 people
Accomodation
Tea Houses / Lodges
Reach the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Trek through lush subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts, offering a variety of landscapes.
Explore dense rhododendron forests, especially in the spring when they are in full bloom.
Experience breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, and even Mount Everest from different points on the trek.
Visit traditional villages like Lali Kharka, Ghunsa, and Taplejung, where you can interact with the local Rai and Sherpa communities.
Explore the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to diverse wildlife like the red panda, snow leopards, and various species of birds.
The sight of the majestic Everest and its surrounding peaks offers a backdrop for romance like no other.
Engage with the Sherpa culture, gaining insights into their traditions and Buddhist practices, enriching your journey with spiritual depth.
Savor the taste of local dishes, each a delightful fusion of traditional ingredients and mountain freshness.
Every challenge overcome and every laughter shared becomes a precious memory, etching this trek into the story of your lives.
Standing together at Everest Base Camp, you’ll feel a sense of shared triumph that only such a formidable quest can provide.
A detailed description of the itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel, and rest. You can explore local attractions like Durbar Square and Thamel if you arrive early. In the evening, attend a trek briefing.
Fly from Kathmandu to Suketar, the gateway to the Kanchenjunga trek (30-40 minutes). After arrival, explore Suketar and acclimatize to the altitude.
Trek from Suketar to Lali Kharka (9 km, 5-6 hours). This scenic trek takes you through terraced fields and dense forests of rhododendron and pine.
Trek from Lali Kharka to Kande Bhanjyang (10 km, 6-7 hours). This trail passes through lush forests, offering views of the surrounding peaks.
Trek to Ghunsa (12 km, 6-7 hours). This is a beautiful village with traditional houses, and you will get a glimpse of the local Rai culture.
Acclimatization day in Ghunsa. You can explore the village, visit the local monastery, and hike to higher altitudes for a few hours to aid your acclimatization.
Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (12 km, 6-7 hours). As you ascend, enjoy spectacular views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, and other peaks.
Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (8 km, 5-6 hours). Lhonak offers great views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Trek to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (12 km, 6-7 hours). The views here are stunning, offering close-up views of Kanchenjunga and its surrounding glaciers.
Spend the day at the North Base Camp. You can explore the area, enjoy the breathtaking views, and take photographs of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks.
Trek back from Lhonak to Ghunsa (15 km, 6-7 hours). Retrace your steps down to the village, enjoying the changing scenery as you descend.
Trek from Ghunsa to Amjilosa (12 km, 6-7 hours). This day will see you descending into the lush green valleys with impressive forest coverage.
Trek from Amjilosa to Chirwa (13 km, 6-7 hours). As you descend, the environment becomes warmer, and you'll pass through rural villages and terraced fields.
Trek from Chirwa to Suketar (18 km, 7-8 hours). This is your last day of trekking before returning to Suketar, where you started the trek.
Fly from Suketar back to Kathmandu (30-40 minutes). Upon arrival, you can rest and relax in Kathmandu or explore the city further.
You will have extra time in Kathmandu to rest after your trek. You can take optional sightseeing tours to places like Patan, Bhaktapur, Nagarkot, or go shopping for souvenirs.
➤ Trekking Boots – Sturdy, comfortable boots with good ankle support for the rugged terrain.
➤ Warm Clothing – Layered clothing, including a down jacket, thermal base layers, and a fleece jacket for cold temperatures.
➤ Sleeping Bag – A high-quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures (preferably down-filled).
➤ Trekking Poles – Essential for stability, especially in steep and rocky terrain.
➤ Water Purification – Water treatment tablets or a portable water purifier to ensure clean drinking water during the trek.
A detailed description of Trip FAQs
The trek is considered moderate to difficult due to its high altitude, rugged terrain, and long days of walking. Proper preparation and acclimatization are essential.
The best time to trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, and the views are clear.
Yes, you will need the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit and the Restricted Area Permit, both of which are arranged through the trekking agency.
Yes, with proper planning, acclimatization, and a certified guide, the trek is safe. The risks of altitude sickness are present, so gradual ascents and staying hydrated are important.
Accommodation is mostly in basic teahouses with shared rooms. In some places, you may get single rooms, but most of the time, you will be sharing with fellow trekkers.
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