Mt. Kanchenjunga, 8586m is the third highest mountain in the world. The untouched Kanchenjunga ranges stand as the border of Nepal, Tibet, and Sikkim in the Taplejung region. Kanchenjunga trekking is the best way to know the cultural richness and uniqueness of the region. The trek lies in the isolated area of far-eastern Nepal near Sikkim in the Taplejung district.
Basically, there are two base camps of Kanchenjunga. They are Kanchenjunga Northern and Southern Base Camp. This is a restricted trekking region so, you cannot go solo treks in this region. There must be at least two people in the trekking group. And a licensed trekking guide must accompany you during the trek.
To trek into this region, you need two different permits. The Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area permit. With these permits, you will get to see best views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Yalung Kang peaks above 8,000m. Whereas, the peaks above 7,000m are Jahnu Himal, Jonsong, Kabru, Tent Peak, Kambachen, etc.
During the trek, you will pass through Tamor valley, Arun valley, many glaciers, snowy rivers, and icefalls. You also get to visit various high altitude settlements which include Walungchung in Tamur and Kangbachenga in Ghunsa valley.
Kanchenjunga is the land of diverse flora and fauna. On your trekking way, you might encounter the unique orchids and rhododendrons in the world. This trekking region offers a good exploration of the tropical forests of rhododendron, oak, and chestnut. And, diverse wildlife and vegetation.
Buddhist culture and religion are predominant in the region. Ethnic groups like Limbu, Rai, Gurung, and Sherpa dominate the region. Their unique and solitary culture, tradition, and lifestyle gets you closer.
Highlights of the Kanchenjunga Trekking
- Reside at the base camp of world’s third highest mountain, Mt. Kanchenjunga
- Visit the less explored land of mystery at the challenging mountain passes and rhododendron forests
- Get closer with native tribes at serene villages around high mountains
- Explore the abundant wild flora and faunas. Kanchenjunga Conservation area is among the unspoiled conservation area.
- Get the fascinating mount panorama with a variety of tropical forest of rhododendron and bamboo forests
- Enjoy scenic mountain view, colored flowers, wild coniferous wood, Buddhist monasteries, and remote valleys along Mirgin la pass
| Trek Days | Itinerary | Altitude | Trek/Travel Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,338m, Kathmandu | - |
| Day 02 | Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation | 1,338m, Kathmandu | - |
| Day 03 | Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Illam | 1,000m, Ilam | Kathmandu-Bhadrapur: 40-45 minutes, 3-4 hours of drive towards Illam. |
| Day 04 | Drive to Taplejung and Trek to Mitlung | 921m, Mitlung | 5 hours of drive and 4 hours of trek |
| Day 05 | Trek from Mitlung to Chirwa | 1,270m, Chiruwa | 6-7 hours |
| Day 06 | Trek to Sekathum | 1,600m, Sekathum | 5-6 hours |
| Day 07 | Trek to Amjilossa | 2,510m, Amjilossa | 6-7 hours |
| Day 08 | Trek to Gyabla | 2,730m, Gyabla | 5-6 hours |
| Day 09 | Trek to Ghunsa | 3,595m, Ghunsa | 5-6 hours |
| Day 10 | Day rest at Ghunsa for acclimatization | 3,595m, Ghunsa | - |
| Day 11 | Trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen | 4050m, Khambachen | 6-7 hours |
| Day 12 | Acclimatization day at Khambachen | 4050m, Khambachen | - |
| Day 13 | Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak | 4,500m, Lhonak | 5-6 hours |
| Day 14 | Trek to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga Northern Base Camp) | 5,140m, Pangpema | 6-7 hours |
| Day 15 | Trek back to Ghunsa | 3,595m, Ghunsa | 7-8 hours |
| Day 16 | Trek to High Camp | 4,100m, High Camp | 5-6 hours |
| Day 17 | Trek to Tseram via Mirgin La Pass | 3,800m, Tseram | 7-8 hours |
| Day 18 | Trek to Ramche via Oktang (Kanchenjunga Southern Base Camp) | 4,580m, Ramche (4,730m, Oktang) | 7-8 hours |
| Day 19 | Trek to Tortong | 2,980m, Tortong | 7-8 hours |
| Day 20 | Trek to Yamphudin | 2,080m, Yamphudin | 7-8 hours |
| Day 21 | Trek to Mamanke | 1,810m, Mamkanke | 5-6 hours |
| Day 22 | Trek to Kesuwa | 2,100m, Kesuwa | 5-6 hours |
| Day 23 | Trek to Lalikharka | 2,220m, Lalikharka | 6-7 hours |
| Day 24 | Trek back to Taplejung (Suketar) | 2,300, Suketar | 3-4 hours |
| Day 25 | Drive back to Bhadrapur | 91m, Bhadrapur | 11 hours of drive |
| Day 26 | Fly back Kathmandu and farewell dinner in the evening | 1,338m, Kathmandu | 40-45 minutes of flight |
| Day 27 | Final Departure | - | - |
Upon your arrival, our representatives will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. And they will transfer you to the hotel.
As you have the whole day to spend, you can fully utilize them. In the evening, you may visit the city and try varieties of Nepalese cuisine in different cafes and restaurants.
Also, on this day you will get to know our entire trekking team and guides. Also, you will get a clear and complete briefing about our entire trip. You will get your required travel permits and TIMS card. Make sure you have all the necessary documents like original passport, copies of passport-size photos, and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy.
Kathmandu is the landmark of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Though we may not visit all of them, we will visit major centers including Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Your sightseeing trip will start after breakfast in the morning. You will visit the places in a private vehicle and with our professional tour guide. The stupas, temples, gumbas, and other shrines you visit are artistically constructed. They all have their own unique and interesting tale to explain. Thus, all of them are significant from cultural and historical aspects.
You also get to explore every nook and corners of Thamel and Basantapur on foot, by bicycle or rickshaw.
If you have to do some last minute trek-shopping, this is the day for you. You can shop your gears in the leisure time after the visit.
Max. Altitude: 1,000, Illam
Travel Duration: 40-45 minutes of flight and 3-4 hours of a drive towards Illam
Accommodation: Local Lodge
Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur is the fastest and smartest option. You will catch an early morning flight to Bhadrapur.
Then, you will go to Illam for overnight stay through a jeep from there. You will enjoy the beautiful landscapes and a large farm of tea plants. This is a good chance to explore the tea gardens and Himalayan cheese of Illam.
Max. Altitude: 921m, Mitlung
Travel Duration: 5 hours of drive
Trek Duration: 4 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Today, you will drive to Taplejung from Illam in a private vehicle. You will pass through the beautiful countryside village like Phidim, a Limbu village, on your way at Taplejung.
Taplejung is the central hub of this region and a good route to start this trek. There are multiple routes to reach the camp. And the route from Mitlung is one of them. So, you will head to Mitlung.
The trekking route to Mitlung will take you into mid hills and several villages. You will walk along farmlands of wheat, rice, tea, cardamom, coffee, etc. You pass by some slippery areas. Got to be careful at those paths. Continuing the trail, you trek along the shore of Tamor river to reach Mitlung.
Max. Altitude: 1,270m, Chiruwa
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Within about 7 hours of paths and passes, we reach Chirwa. The narrow paths go through deep and green forests. Along with, the villages of Sinuwa, Tawa, Porke will be on your track. The area has local Limbus with the history of being the Kirati warrior. After crossing the wooden bridge of Thiwa Khola, you arrive at Chirwa.
Chirwa is a small village with few lodges and camping sites. This place is full of greenery with different agricultural fields. Here, you can find some local shops too.
Max. Altitude: 1,600m, Sekathum
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
The trails for this day resembles with the earlier day. From Chirwa, you will pass through villages like Lelep, Taplethok, Hellok, and Tamewa. From Tapethok, the restricted area starts in an authentic manner. Tapethok is a Chhetri village. Also, it is the checkpoint for all your permits.
You then move close towards Tamor and descend to Simbuwa. Simbuwa is a river originating from Yalung Glacier. It outreaches from Tamor to Olangchung Gola. On the way, the fields with cardamom-farming are also seen.
Then you will meet the river Ghunsa and its wooden steep bridge that opens up to the Ghunsa valley. After walking for a few hours, you finally arrive in Sekathum. This is a Tibetan village where you get the first glimpse of local high peaks.
Max. Altitude: 2,510m, Amjilossa
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
This day has a somewhat mixed trail. The trails consist of semi-plains of Ghunsa Khola and exposed steep uphills.
In the beginning, you walk trek through a normal flat path. There might be slippery trails in this region. Thus, you must walk with the sturdy boot with good grip.
Crossing river bridges over Ghunsa and a steep climb will take you to Amjilossa. Before reaching the village you will reach the small villages of Ghaiyabari and Solima. You will pass through various plateaus and gorges too. Amjilossa is a Tibetan village with scare settlements.
Max. Altitude: 2,730m, Gyabla
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
The day’s trek also starts with walking on the flat trails. Then, you follow the ascending trail through the dense jungle before you reach Gyabla. The forests have varied types of rhododendron, orchids, brown oaks, and bamboo.
Passing through the diverse pastures and waterfalls will add further beauty to your trek. As you walk further, mountains get closer. And the trail through the spectacular waterfalls takes you to Gyabla village.
This village has a great influence of Tibetan lifestyle and culture.
Max. Altitude: 3,595m, Ghunsa
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
On this day, along with the forested ridges you cross through Gunsa river. You pass through the terraces of potato fields, wheat, barley, and buckwheat. Leaving the beautiful Gyabla, you climb a small hill on the way to Ghunsa.
Within the halfway, there is a Tibetan village; Phole. That will be your relaxing and lunch spot for the day. You can determine the change of vegetation along the way. And at Phole, you can explore local carpet factories run by ladies. Furthermore is a gorgeous monastery stands right along the way.
You descend and cross several rivers to reach Ghunsa. Ghunsa is the village influenced by the Tibetan Buddhist culture. You will see chortens and couple of gompas.
Ghunsa is also the capital of Kanchenjunga region. Thus, you will get good basic facilities like communication, meal & accommodation. There is also a school and health post. Ghunsa village has a micro hydropower plant too.
Max. Altitude: 3,595m, Ghunsa
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After walking for 7 days and reaching above 3,000 meters, you will take a day rest. Ghunsa is the best place for acclimatization. The facilities available in this village are good and also the altitude is perfect.
You will visit nearby ridges this day. You even walk through the broad meadow at Ghunsa. You will join a short hike along the river area. The small hike will gain 400m of altitude. You will enjoy getting closer to Jannu Peak.
You will explore the exquisite places and get back to the tented area. As Ghunsa is also an ancient village, there are many mysteries to explore. There are also monasteries preserving Buddhist culture and customs.
Max. Altitude: 4,050m, Khambachen
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
There is another drastic rise in altitude this day. Along the steep trail, you will see Mani wall, prayer flags, and chortens. More steep slopes will be there. You will also pass through glacial moraines and plateaus.
As you cross several rivers, you should be careful with their wooden bridge. You will make a gradual way up along the riverbank of Ghunsa. After a while, you reach a grass field called Rampuk Kharka. And, then a short walk takes you to your final destination of the day- Khambachen.
Khambachen is another Tibetan settlement with the stunning view of mountains. You get the clearest view of North-Jaanu (7,710m) along with Jaanu glacier.
Max. Altitude: 4,050m, Khambachen
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Kambachen, at 4,050m, is the perfect stop for acclimatization along with exploration. You will further encounter increasing altitudes on upcoming days. So, you must take a day rest here.
Kambachen is quite a remote area. But, you might see many rare wild species there. Some of them are blue sheep, ibex, mountain goat, hyrax, and marmots. Birds like an eagle, kites, and falcon are also visible.
From this villages, you will catch a clearer glimpse of Kanchenjunga, Khanbour, Nango Ma, and Jannu mountains.
This day, you will gain the elevation of over 750m towards Lhonak and descend back to Khambachen. You can also go up to the point of Nupchu Khola. Though this would be a short walk.
You may even climb the upper ridges lying within the remote villages. From there, you will have closer views of scenic surroundings and massifs.
Max. Altitude: 4,500m, Lhonak
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
You will be gaining more altitude this day where the trail is full of upward slopes. And the Rhododendron and azaleas take all over the paths.
You will pass across northwest moraines of the Kanchenjunga Glacier. The wide glacier starts at 4,240 meters, Ramtangat. The way can be tricky as the area is landslide affected area. You need to be alert about any type of rockfall indication.
Moving further, you will reach the high campsite (plateau) of Lhonak. Here, you have the panoramic view of massive peaks above 7000m. You would again be in the lap of high peaks and grassy fields.
Lhonak is by the side of a dry lake and resembles an open gritty plain. Here, the facilities are basic too.
You will have the terrific mount views from all the directions. Kanchenjunga ranges along with Mera Peak, Nepal Peak, Wedges peaks are much closer and clearer.
Max. Altitude: 5,140m, Pangpema
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
So, the ultimate day trekking to Kanchenjunga Northern Base Camp (Northern) comes. A walk of few hours from Lhonak will take you the highest point of the Northern Base Camp; Pangpema.
The world-famous gigantic mountain ie Kanchenjunga is vivid from Pangpema. The panorama of the surrounding peaks will simply awestruck you. All the large mountains right at the top; closer and better! And that mesmerizing view of the perpetual Mt. Kanchenjunga!
The mountain ranges also stand as the hallmarks of the Indo-Nepal as well as Nepal-Tibet border.
Moreover, there is a pretty mountain glacier where water flows throughout. The northern ridges are full of glaciers. On the trail, the fascinating view of avalanches come up. That will amaze you in an obvious way.
It is difficult to find space for accommodation here. It is because of the remoteness and the maximal altitude. Thus, the plan may change sometimes. Otherwise, you will overnight at the Kanchenjunga Northern Base Camp.
Max. Altitude: 3,595m, Ghunsa
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After the northern view, you will trek further for the southern base camp of Kanchenjunga. The moraines of Kanchenjunga Glacier and Kumbhakarna Glacier will accompany you. To walk to the South Camp you have to retrace your footsteps towards Ghunsa. You will walk back through the same trail encountering Kambachen.
Max. Altitude: 4,100m, High Camp
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
This day could be the most challenging trek-day of all. There will be a steep rocky trail through green forests. Trees of birch, pine, and oaks will welcome you. At the time of snowfall, the snow covers them all the time.
Then comes the steep rocky trail that will take you to Sele La Pass at 4,290m. At the pass, the views are fantastic. You can also see the High Camp, your camping spot for the today.
With tough ascents and descents, you will reach High Camp. The surroundings of High Camp are fantastic. As the name suggests, High Camp is at definite altitude within the woods. There is also a small lake.
Amazing view of Jannu, Nyukla Laching, Tamachunggi can be observed. The view of Mount Makalu is better.
Enjoy the spectacular glimpse of snow-capped mountains and ridges!
Max. Altitude: 3,800m, Tseram
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Another difficult day comes by as you cross the high passes along the way. The highest passes are Mirgin La Pass, Lapsang La Pass, Sine Laplace La, and Sinion La.
First of all, you will cross the Sinion La pass at 4,440m. Later, you cross the Mirgin La Pass (4,480m) and the Lapsang La Pass (5,160m). Thes passes will link you more with the southern parts of Kanchenjunga. Atop of passes, Yalung glacier looks very beautiful.
There, you will also view Jannu (7710m), Yalung, Makalu-Barun, Kanchenjunga, Kabru, and other ranges. The peaks along the Sikkim border are visible too.
After all these passes, you will get to Tseram. Tseram is a small village above the Simbuwa river. There are few stone roof houses and hut there. This settlement will have a magnificent view for sure.
Max. Altitude: 4,580m, Ramche (4,730m, Oktang)
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
The trek moves forward towards the Southern Base Camp. Following the trail, through different villages, you will walk to Ramche from Oktang gaining the elevation of 300m.
Oktang represents the Southern Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. You get to explore the place for certain hours. The major highlight here is the Kumbhakarna Glacier. This impressive piece refreshes the surrounding more.
The magnificent views of mountains are another worthy fact here! Amazing view of impressive peaks like Rothang and Kabru are much clearer. There are numerous mini frozen lakes along the way. These are good treats for your eyes.
You may encounter blue grazing sheep along the meadows. Also, on the trail lies Ramtang and Okatang Monasteries. You can rest and even meditate here after you tiring walk.
Max. Altitude: 2,980m, Tortong
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Along with the forested trail, you cross several landslide areas towards Tsento Kang. This is a farmland shed at 3,360m. You will encounter the Buddhist shrine on the way. You will see varieties of pine and rhododendron as you walk along Simbua Khola.
You will walk past Lapsang and Tseram at Anda Phedi with moraines and glacier views on the way. The dense forest paths, bushes, streams, ponds, Chortens, monasteries, and waterfall on the way to Tortong will keep you enticed.
The forest of mixed rhododendrons & pine adds colors to your journey.
Max. Altitude: 2,080m, Yamphudin
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
The beginning of the trail goes along the shore of river Simbua. You cross the jungle way
As you descend to Amji Khola. And then cross forestlands like Lasiya Bhanjyang and Dhupi Bhanjyang.
Then comes the zigzag paths along corn and barley fields. The ridges of Yamphudin are at 1,690m. You also walk along Imja Khola. This is the toughest section of the trek. You will even pass the landslide-prone areas. Thus, you should walk with good cautiously on such a difficult trail.
With the mixed community, Yamphudin represents great unity. You will experience the culture of Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, and Gurung.
Max. Altitude: 1,810m, Mamanke
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
After Yamphudin, your next stop is Mamanke. You will start with cross high paths above the river. Then you reach the day spot; Mamanke. You will stay in the tented camp there. The descent can be a bit tricky here. You must make a good use of your trekking poles!
Max. Altitude: 2,100m, Kesuwa
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
From Mamanke, the trail crosses several narrow alleys and tracks. You have to pass a stream on a long suspension bridge. That takes you to Ponphe village. There, you take an inclined climb after your lunch.
You will enjoy the view along Kabeli Khola. The forests, villages, and the Himalayan vistas will accompany you. You will also go through Kande Bhanjyang to reach Kesuwa. Kesuwa is your camping spot for the day.
Max. Altitude: 2,220m, Lalikharka
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp
The trail includes a ridge along the village of Khanjari. Khanjari is a complete Limbu village. From Khanjari, you will descend to Pha Khola and cross Phumphe danda from Kesuwa.
From there, you reach Shimu village and then to Thenbewa. The long walk through the forest will take you to Lali Kharka. Lali Kharka is the camping spot for you that day.
Max. Altitude: 2,300, Suketar
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Tented Camp/Guesthouse
Leaving back Lali Kharka, you will descend for about 3 hours. Then, you will retrace your ways towards Pha Khola. Then, you re-encounter the villages like Shimu and Thenbewa. Crossing several ridges and rivers, you will finally be back to Taplejung.
At Taplejung, either you will rest in the tented camp or any local guesthouse. The choice is yours!
Max. Altitude: 91m, Bhadrapur
Travel Duration: 11 hours of drive
Accommodation: Local guesthouse
This will be 11 hours of drive from Taplejung. You will be retracing the ways you trekked before. The drive will be scenic as you will see lush green vegetation along the countryside. Upon reaching Bhadrapur, you will transfer to the local guesthouse. There, you will enjoy the fine dining.
The drive is about 190 kilometers from Taplejung to Bhadrapur. You will travel across many narrow ranges and get to fully enjoy the lovely scenes around. This will definitely be a rewarding trip this day.
When you get back to Bhadrapur, you will reside in a fine guesthouse.
Max. Altitude: 1,338m, Kathmandu
Travel Duration: 40-45 minutes of flight
Accommodation: Hotel
There is the option of flight at Bhadrapur airport. You can enjoy the aerial view of high mountains. The views are the best in the clear weather. You will leave for the flight in the afternoon.
You will be back to Kathmandu within an hour. Thus, you will have enough time to stroll around the city. You can buy souvenirs and have a complete celebration time.
While you will share about your trekking experience in the evening dinner with our team.
Overnight at the finest hotel in Thamel.
This is the final day in the ‘Land of Himalayas’. You will head to the International Airport for your final departure. According to your schedule, our airport representatives will drop you there. You will make your journey to your homeland with millions of memories.
If you want to extend your journey, we will be more than happy to customize the itinerary. Also, if you have any type of query regarding this or any other trekking routes, just feel free to contact us.
