Kanchenjunga Trek

Explore the Far East Nepalratingbased on 9 reviews
  • Duration24 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude Kanchenjunga Base Camp 5388 m
  • Group Size 2-20 People
  • Best Season March to May & September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
2 - 3 paxUS$1790
4 - 6 paxUS$1695
7 - 10 paxUS$1645
11 - 15 paxUS$1595
16 - 20 paxUS$1545
Highlights
  • 30 minutes flight, if chosen, offering stunning views of the Himalayas,  including Mt. Everest
  • Abundant wildlife species such as blue sheep, musk deer, snow leopard, and black bear
  • Amazing panoramas of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, and other nearby Himalayan giants, as well as distant views of the eastern faces of Makalu and Everest
  • Walking on Yalung Glacier
  • Terraced fields and pristine rhododendron, pine, and bamboo forests
  • The warmth and hospitality of the Rai & Limbu people
  • The option to explore both base camps at Kanchenjunga

In the far east of Nepal, bordering the Indian state of Sikkim, lies the world's third-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga (8586m), standing in almost complete isolation from the other major peaks of the Himalayas. The restricted area has only been open for exploration since 1988, and the Kanchenjunga trek is now considered among the premier routes for those seeking a rarely traveled and highly challenging adventure through one of the last unspoiled wilderness regions of Nepal. During the Kanchenjunga trek, you will notice that it's home to elusive snow leopards, the Himalayan black bear, and the Assamese macaque, as well as an unforgettable landscape of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and verdant forests of rhododendron and bamboo. During the Kanchenjunga trek, you will notice the sparse population scattered throughout the mountains is made up of the warm-hearted Rai and Limbu people, with a culture that traces back to Tibetan origins and a unique belief system based on an amalgamation of Buddhist, Hindu, and animist principles.

Starting with a flight or drive to Bhadrapur/Suketar, the trek climbs through the scenic and cultivated foothills into the great mountain stronghold of peaks such as Rathong, Kumbhakarna, Jannu, and of course Kanchenjunga, offering some of the Himalaya's most awe-inspiring and majestic scenery en route to South Base Camp (5143m). Until recently the trek was only possible through the considerable effort of carrying in all the necessities of life such as food and camping equipment, but with the advent of tea houses along the trail in response to its growing popularity, the logistics of the exercise have become considerably easier.

The Kanchenjunga trek is a journey for the trekker with a sense of adventure, a desire to explore trails less traveled, and the determination and conditioning to tackle the challenges of a physically demanding route through one of Nepal's most remote regions. Nepal Trekking Experts is the perfect agency to arrange your trek through the area, including additional options such as a visit to the isolated northern base camp. So why not get in touch with us and know all the details about Kanchanjunga Trek's difficulty and equipment list and see what we can do to set you on the path to this intriguing journey in the eastern Himalayas? 

Feel free to go through our other packages like Manaslu Circuit Trek, Everest Three High Passes Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek and more.

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

Welcome at airport and transfer to the hotel by private car/jeep

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

Free day for trekking preparation and sightseeing.

  • Max. Altitude:1000m/3281ft.
  • Meals:Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

If the weather is clear, a short and scenic flight takes us to Bhadrapur, where we drive Ilam tea garden (Phikkal Bazaar) is the best way to avoid Birtamod's very busy and bustling city while relaxing on top of the lush, cool, and almost paradise tea garden.

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

Terraced rice fields and tea plantations serve as a serene backdrop as we head out past Gompas and prayer wheels on the long jeep drive to Taplejung.

  • Max. Altitude:1270m/4167ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Our trek starts today with a hike through layered landscapes and lush jungle fringed by distant views of the ever-present Himalayas, passing by the riverside village of Siwan and the suspension bridge that leads us across to Chirawa, the day's destination.

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

With permits checked at the regional park office, we head into the conservation area that protects the Kanchenjunga region and forge ahead over a bridge and through the scenic sub-tropical landscape until we reach Lelep.

  • 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

Onwards and up through the thickly forested region of dense rhododendron and venerable oak trees,  past myriad waterfalls and the scattered villages lying quietly below the mountains in their peaceful valley. Eagles soar lazily above us, yaks graze solemnly in green pastures, and occasional signs of wildlife come into view among the trees or high on the slopes as we slowly make our way toward Gyabla.

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

  • 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 unrivaled side trips and contributes to successfully reaching Kanchenjunga 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.

  • Max. Altitude:3595m/11795ft.
  • 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:4480m/14698ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

A precipitous trail leads us through woodland towards a trailhead of striking mountain views, including the mysterious Makalu sitting in isolation on the far horizon.

  • Max. Altitude:3870m/12697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The trail takes us on a challenging roller coaster hike today, an undulating passage over two passes, firstly Sinion La (4646m) and then Mirgin La (4470 m).  Everest and Makalu add to the extraordinary panorama before us as we hike through the region until the path gradually leads down to our rest stop at Cheram.

  • Max. Altitude:4580m/15026ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Ultimately this is our final destination of Exploring Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Our trail leads out through woodland until we clear the tree line and approach the moraine field of Yarlung Glacier, with Jannu, Kanchenjunga and other peaks in the area soaring high above us in the valley. After exploring South Base Camp then we will descend to Ramche for overnight.

  • Max. Altitude:2995m/9826ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

We descend markedly today, leaving behind the alpine regions and dropping down into the lush surrounds of the lower foothills with their dense forests of rhododendron and pine. The rushing waters of the Simbuwa Khola become our steady companion as we continue down until we reach Tortong.

  • Max. Altitude:2080m/6824ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Another day of hiking on an undulating trail, our path taking us along tree-lined slopes and grass-green pastures hanging precariously to existence on the steep inclines. Our arrival at Yamphudin brings us back to the main road running through the region.

  • Max. Altitude:1915m/6283ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

After the experience and thrill of the alpine heights the terraced fields, peaceful villages, and vivid colors of the lower ranges make for a relaxing hike as we slowly wind our trek down to its conclusion.

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

A long day sees us make the bumpy ride to the main road, then turn towards Birtamod.

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

A short drive takes us to Bhadrapur airport, where we pick up our return flight to Kathmandu in plenty of time to relax, unwind, and perhaps celebrate the trek with friends over dinner.

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

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    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

    Route MapDownload Map
    Kanchenjunga Trek map
    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complementary airport pick up and drop off
    • Complementary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included (twin share basis)
    • All necessary trekking permits for Kanchenjunga, TIMS card, etc.
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • Fresh fruit each day if and when available
    • Complementary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, sleeping bag if needed
    • Government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First aid kit
    • Return flight between Kathmandu and Bhadrapur
    • Bhadrapur to Taplejung, Hapu Khola 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
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • 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
    Dates & Availability
    Start:WednesdayMar 29, 20234 people confirmed
    End:FridayApr 21, 2023
    PriceUS$2190
    StatusLimited

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

    Photos & Videos
    Useful Information

    Make sure you have proper trekking gear before starting the trek

    Medical kit and Personal Insurance

    Respect the local culture and ask for permission while taking photos/videos of local

    Listen to your guide and be aware of altitude symptoms

    Better to avoid alcohol and smoking above 3000m

    Drink at least 3 liters of water per day

    Save the nature and flora fauna

    Government registered agency and trekking guide is mandatory

    9Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Look no further, you have found your guiding company!!!

      Nov 2022

      Nepal Trekking Experts is absolutely phenomenal and I have only the best things to say about them. I have been to Nepal a few times now and have traveled with a few different companies. All said and done they are number 1 on my list for recommendations and they are by far my favorite guiding company experience.

      Rajesh the owner is absolutely wonderful, so responsive, and very helpful. He is completely genuine in wanting to fulfill your dream trip and he always helped with whatever our questions and requests might have been. All together Nepal Trekking Experts helped us organize and plan the absolute trip of a lifetime for two months in Nepal and two back to back long treks. Everything went smoothly and any travel issues were immediately sorted. Raj was amazing, our guide Ram was amazing, porter (and soon to be guide) Chhwang was amazing. Raj greatly values customer satisfaction and your travel experience and this is clearly evident through his company structure and the team he has chosen. Raj and Nepal Trekking Experts deliver the best, hands down.

      The company is top tier, easily accessible, responsive, genuine, and well organized. This is your guide company, you need look no further. I will recommend Nepal Trekking Experts to friends and family for years to come. Even now as I am writing this I am flooded with only the best memories and am smiling ear to ear. It is because of our top notch experience with this company that our memories and photos will bring nothing but joy to our hearts for years to come. Thank you Nepal Trekking Experts for fulfilling the absolute trip of a lifetime!!!

      D
      DylanFeb 06, 2023United States
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Fantastic Experience - Very Highly Recommended!

      I completed the Tsum Valley and Manaslu trek back in 2017 and had a great experience with Nepal Trekking Experts who organised the trek. 5 Years later and I returned to Nepal looking to complete another trek. I looked no further than Nepal Trekking Experts and the ever enthusiastic and helpful Rajesh and eventually decided upon the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek, visiting North and South base camps. Rajesh always responded quickly to emails and is a mine of information on trekking in Nepal. Rajesh did warn us that the original return flight date from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu may need to be rescheduled due to the general election on the 20th November and provided various options for amending the trek accordingly. Three of us set off with our guide Ram and proceeded as scheduled from Taplejung for the first 2 days. Then, one of the group had to drop out due to an injury, but his repatriation to Kathmandu was expertly handled by Rajesh and Ram and the remaining two of us were able to continue as scheduled. Early on in the trek, Ram also discussed with us the options for picking up a day to account for the general election and we were able amend the itinerary to take account of this. Ram really showed himself to be an excellent guide and also a great human being. He has a very detailed knowledge of the area and was happy to share his knowledge with other guides and trekkers who lacked such expertise. One particular highlight was attending an early morning puja ceremony in Phale and visiting the wonderful Phale monastery. This would not have been possible without Ram and most other trekkers missed out on this experience. Another suggestion from Ram was to hike to Oktang from Cheram and return to Cheram on the same day rather than spending a very cold night in a very basic lodge in Ramche. This was definitely the correct decision for us because not only did we visit Oktang, but the descent to Tortong the following day was made much shorter. During the trek, I mentioned to Ram about rescheduling the return flight to Kathmandu and he told me that Rajesh had already rebooked the flights for the 19th as a result of all domestic flights being cancelled on the 20th. This is typical of Nepal Trekking Experts who are able to resolve any issues before questions are even asked! I would very much recommend using the services of Nepal Trekking Experts for organising any treks or other activities. Rajesh is trustworthy and extremely well informed and will give you very good advice depending upon your interests and abilities. Ram is a superb guide who made the trek so very special.

      T
      Tim FulcherNov 27, 2022United Kingdom
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