Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trekking

ratingbased on 1 review
  • Duration18 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5143 m.
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Group Size 2-20
  • Best Season March to May & September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
2 - 3 paxUS$1490
4 - 6 paxUS$1390
7 - 10 paxUS$1345
11 - 15 paxUS$1295
16 - 20 paxUS$1245
Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trekking Highlights
  • Lesser known and least visited trekking routes in Nepal
  • A famous Ilam tea garden
  • Explore the preserved Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
  • Trekking to the third-highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga, at an elevation of 8586 meters, gives breath-taking vistas of the peaks of Kanchenjunga I, II, and III, as well as Kumbhakarna, Ramtang, and Makalu.
  • Wander through marshes at high altitudes and alpine meadows in the most unexpected settings to discover the least frequented region of the country.
  • Observe the area's abundant fauna, which includes red pandas and musk deer.
  • On scenic mountain flights between Kathmandu to Bhadrapur
  • Staying in a local homestay in the Himalayas will let you observe the peculiar, well-preserved customs, traditions, and ways of life of the Rai and Limbu ethnic groups.

Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek Overview

The world's third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga (8598 meters), is only surpassed by Everest and K2. It is without a doubt one of the most spectacular massifs in the Himalayan range, majestically rising from the borders of Sikkim and Nepal (India). The region is accessible from both Nepal and India, and it is inhabited by isolated mountain settlements of Tibetan and Limbus people. The official start of our trek is in Taplejung, Nepal. The Short Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek is considered to be the least explored, less popular, unspoiled, undeveloped, but surprisingly beautiful and rewarding trek in Nepal. The trail climbs above canyons, valleys, and remote villages to reach the third-highest mountain's north face. You may walk the isolated trails that wind beneath this massive mountain for days without coming across anyone. As you stroll through the isolated alpine region of far eastern Nepal, it is a voyage of absolute calm.

 We pass through rural Limbu, Rai, and Tibetan communities on our walk in the northeast. Native to Kanchenjunga, the Limbu people speak a Tibetan dialect and practice a synthesis of Hindu, Buddhist, and animist beliefs. This challenging hike offers the full Himalayan experience along with vast vistas, narrow valleys, and rushing rivers. As we make our way uphill toward the glaciers and high alpine meadows, we hike for days through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests. At Kanchenjunga Base Camp (KBC), Pang Pema marks the conclusion of our round-trip trek (5140 meters). Over 16 Himalayan peaks, including Tharpu Chuli (Tent Peak) (5663 meters), Jannu (7710 meters), Kabru (7412 meters), Everest (8848 meters), and Makalu (8586 meters), are visible in this stunning panorama. On the trip, it's possible to see wild pheasants, red-billed blue magpies, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and even red pandas. We trek over the Kanchenjunga moraine, where you will be encircled by a 360-degree view of the towering Himalayas, to get to our ultimate goal, the stunning Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

We conclude our hike in the middle highlands of eastern Nepal, which are incredibly less crowded and home to some rare natural gems, before boarding a flight back to Kathmandu via Bhadrapur. The 18-day Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek is perfect for anyone looking for a trip that is actually off the beaten path and offers some of the least-traveled trekking terrains in Nepal. Moreover, if you are unsatisfied with the Short Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek, then you may consider the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek or combining both Base Camp (Kanchenjunga Circuit) Trek too. For more details, why not get in touch with our local specialists right away? We are ready to help you 24/7.

Moreover, if you are not satisfied with Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, then you may also have a look at Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, and many more packages.

Useful Information

Make sure you have proper trekking gear before starting your trek

Medical kit and personal insurance

Respect the local culture and ask for permission while taking photos or videos of locals Listen to your guide and be aware of altitude symptoms

It is better to avoid alcohol and smoking above 3000 m.

Consume at least three liters of water per day

Save nature and flora and fauna

A government-registered agency and a trekking guide are mandatory

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 Star Hotel

One of our representatives will greet you at the airport for the transfer to your hotel, where there will be time to relax. We set up a welcome meeting with your guide at a convenient time, depending on your arrival at our office. There are no other activities planned for today. Depending on your arrival schedule, you will have time to get around the bustling bazaar; the hotels we use are normally situated in the lively Thamel area.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 Star Hotel

Free day for trekking preparation and sightseeing.

  • Max. Altitude:1820m/5971ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Following a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Bhadrapur. The 45-minute flight takes you to Bhadrapur, where the scenery and weather are very different from those in Kathmandu. This region's people have different accents, skin tones, and cultural traditions than those in Kathmandu. It truly feels as if you've been transported to another universe. The highway connects Bhadrapur and Taplejung, passing through beautiful tea estates. During this 8-9-hour drive, you will encounter three distinct weather conditions: hot, cold, and snowy. The scenery changed from flat to lush hills to rocky terrain, which would be a lovely experience.

  • Max. Altitude:1750m/5741ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

By traveling along the Tamor Nadi, passing through a number of bridges and communities, we will eventually reach in Sekathum.

  • Max. Altitude:2308m/7572ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

A series of impressive suspension bridges leads us back and forth across the Ghunsa Khola to Jaubari, then across another bridge to the narrow trail leading up the steeply sided slopes to Amjilosa and its yak pasturelands.

  • Max. Altitude:2730m/8957ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

After passing numerous waterfalls and the dispersed settlements that were peacefully tucked away in the valley below the mountains, we continued upward through the densely forested area with mature oak and dense rhododendron trees. As we gently travel in the direction of Gyabla, eagles soar lazily above us, yaks graze solemnly in lush meadows, and occasionally, indications of animals can be seen among the trees or high on the hills.

  • Max. Altitude:3595m/11795ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The morning is spent walking steadily to the Tibetan village of Phole, and then we make the steady climb to the picturesque town of Ghunsa and its superb view of the surrounding countryside.

  • Max. Altitude:3595m/11795ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Today is a designated rest day to help the body acclimate to the high altitude, and Ghunsa is perfectly suited to the task by virtue of its scenic alpine surroundings and points of cultural interest, including the local gompa.

  • Max. Altitude:4050m/13287ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Emerald green forests concede to the frost-browned vegetation of the alpine regions of the Kanchenjunga region as we climb steadily to the upper glacial valleys on our path, with mighty Jannu standing before us in all its glory as we trek through the scenic landscape towards Khambachen.

  • Max. Altitude:4050m/13287ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Another highly recommended acclimatization day that provides an unbeatable side trip while also contributing to your successful adaptation to the elevation to reach the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

  • Max. Altitude:4780m/15682ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

A day of astonishing views as we trek into the heartland of the towering Kanchenjunga massif, gradually ascending to the base of the mountain's forbidding glacier and on past snow-fed waterfalls and occasional glimpses of highland wildlife such as blue sheep perched high on the slopes. If there's snow about and we're extremely fortunate we might even sight the light footprints of the region's most mysterious creature, the enigmatic snow leopard.

  • Max. Altitude:4780m/15682ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The day's first order of business is the steady climb to the lofty and isolated outpost of Pangpema, where we pause for lunch before heading out on the final push to the trek's ultimate goal of Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The fluttering colors of the prayer flags eventually guide us into the site at the very threshold of the towering peak, with magnificent panoramas of the surrounding region's snow-capped peaks providing the icing on the cake on the day's journey. After spending suitable time at the base to appreciate the views and celebrate the achievement we head back down to Lhonak. A day of astonishing views as we trek into the heartland of the towering Kanchenjunga massif, gradually ascending to the base of the mountain's forbidding glacier and on past snow-fed waterfalls and occasional glimpses of highland wildlife such as blue sheep perched high on the slopes. If there's snow about and we're extremely fortunate we might even sight the light footprints of the region's most mysterious creature, the enigmatic snow leopard.

  • Max. Altitude:3595m/11795km.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Returning by the same route to Ghunsa, we gain a different and refreshing perspective of the region's beautiful scenery.

  • Max. Altitude:2308m/7572ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

After breakfast, we return from Ghunsa to Amjilosa, passing through beautiful forest, pastures, ridges, streams, and breathtaking White Mountains views. Ghunsa to Amjilosa is a six-and-a-half-hour trek. To reach Gyabla, the first section of the journey follows a pleasant road through the jungle. The majority of the trail climbs and descends on steep terrain. Amjilosa is known as a honey town, and honey can be found in nearly every home. We'll spend the night at the teahouse after that.

  • Max. Altitude:1820m/5971ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The final day of the hike declines once it reaches Sekathum. After collecting memories, savoring the cool breezes, mingling with locals, traveling through the villages, and cruising along the verdant roads, we will arrive in Taplejung, where we will spend the night in a respectable tea house.

  • Max. Altitude:300m/984ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

We reach in Bhadrapur for the night after an almost 12-hour jeep ride.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast

Enjoy the short mountain flight then relax in Kathmandu.

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

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    Note

    Above itinerary is just a guideline. If you are not satisfied, please feel free to customize your own and contact us.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport picks up and drops off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included (twin share basis)
    • All necessary trekking permits for Kanchenjunga, and TIMS card
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • Fresh fruit each day if and when available
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency t-shirt, trekking map, and sleeping bag
    • Government-registered first-aid-trained first-aid trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First aid kit
    • Return flight between Kathmandu and Bhadrapur
    • Bhadrapur to Taplejung/Sekathum and Sekathum/Taplejung to Birtamod/Bhadrapur by local jeep
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax/VAT
    • Certificate of achievement if needed
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing fees (temples, monasteries, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
    • Tips to staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trekking map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:SundayOct 01, 2023
    End:WednesdayOct 18, 2023
    PriceUS$1490
    StatusGuaranteed
    Start:SundayOct 15, 2023
    End:WednesdayNov 01, 2023
    PriceUS$1490
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the group departure dates? Aside from that, we organize private trips or any special dates you prefer. Let's talk to our local specialist now.

    Photos & Videos
    1Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Best experience in the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

      A very successful trekking with the guys from Nepal Trekking Experts. They took care of everything. We just followed them and admired the beautiful and remote places of north-eastern Nepal. Completely unspoiled area, very diverse. From rhododendron forest to completely rugged nature. The beautiful peaks of Janu, Khambachen and at the end the third mountain of the World - Kanchenjunga. Highly recommended for those who are looking for lesser known region, very remote, basic but unspoiled and a unique nature and culture!

      A
      Andrzej WoztowiczJul 24, 2022Poland
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