Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

238 reviews in TripAvisor

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek explores the eastern part of Nepal, which is overflowing with Buddhist culture and diverse flora and fauna. It is the trek for true adventurous hearts willing to get uncomfortable and ready to accept challenges.

Trip at a Glance
Duration27 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
?
DurationNepal
Maximum Altitude5,143 m
AccommodationHotel/Tea House
Starts/EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeMarch to May and September to November

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is also called the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, so do not get confused. The Kanchenjunga Circuit borders Tibet and Sikkim (India). The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is a restricted part of Nepal that demands a special permit from the government of Nepal to enter. Unlike the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek, the 26-day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is rarely visited by trekkers. The trail is unspoiled and less crowded. 

The Kanchenjunga means five great treasures in the snow: gold, silver, grain, holy scriptures, and precious stones. Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) is the third highest mountain in the world, and the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek takes you to the north (5,160 m) and south (4,780 m) base camps of this giant mountain. The region was long prohibited from entering for foreign travel and only opened in 1988. And thanks to that, to this date, Kanchenjunga is thriving in natural heritage and wildlife.

If you wish to experience authentic Nepali culture and village lifestyles unhampered by the modern world, then this trek is perfect. As it is a teahouse trek, the services are very limited and basic. The locals mostly follow Tibetan Buddhism and are descendants of Tibetans. Their houses are built of stones that are not found anywhere else. You visit ancient monasteries and stupas decorated with colourful prayer flags along the way. 

Things to experience on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

  • No crowds and unspoiled scenery
  • Reach the north and south base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
  • Experience the rich cultural heritage of Tibetan Buddhists.
  • Pass by beautiful remote villages and lush forests.
  • Come across a range of flora and fauna.
  • Witness diverse landscapes.
  • Enjoy surreal mountain views.
  • Off-beat trails, steep paths, and crossing many gorges
  • Trek in the restricted area of Nepal

Views during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking

During the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking, you see breathtaking mountain views of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), Mt. Everest (8,489 m), Mt. Baruntse (7,162 m), Mt. Jannu (7,710 m), Mera Peak (6,476 m), etc. The trek offers diverse scenery, from verdant valleys to rocky hills, frozen streams, and stunning glaciers.

How difficult is the Kanchenjunga base camp Trek route?

Many trekkers don't know about the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Route because of the other iconic treks in the Himalayas. This 27-day off-the-beaten trail amidst high Himalayan mountains, streams, and remote villages is only for experienced trekkers who are physically strong and can go without the internet for multiple days. The terrain is rough and steep. It is an off-beat trek. There were a lot of long walks and numerous ups and downs throughout the trek, so this trekking is graded as strenuous. 

How do you prepare for the trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp?

Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp requires serious preparation. You walk 7 to 8 hours daily on a rough path, so stamina, core body strength, and mental preparation are also needed. Hit the gym, do cardio, and do muscle training. 

What do we offer in our Kanchenjunga circuit trek package 2024?

We offer the best Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package 2024 at an affordable price. Our itinerary has multiple rest days. You trek with a friendly guide who can speak your language. Likewise, our service standards, attention, and safety guarantees allow guests to trek with us hassle-free. 

Itinerary

This is our standard and recommended itinerary. If this itinerary doesn’t suit you, we customize your trip per your interest and timeframe. Click here for the Tailor-Made program. 

Trip PlanExpand all

We welcome you at the international airport on your arrival day. Our team will escort you to the hotel in a private vehicle. The remaining day is free. You can rest and stroll in Thamel. Later in the evening, you meet with our manager who briefs the program and reach out your needs. 

Accommodation: Breakfast
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

After breakfast, we load our luggage and drive to the domestic airport. We take an early morning flight to Bhadrapur. From here, we drive to Phidim, enjoying the beautiful scenery and countryside views.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Today is another long day that involves a scenic drive to Taplejung. The route we follow during the drive passes by Suketar. It's an impressive drive.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

We begin our trek today. It's a gradual walk from Taplejung to Chiruwa. The trail ascends along foothills via small remote settlement areas.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Following the Tamur River, we steeply ascend and then descend to Sumbua Khola. Further, we cross a ridge and continue trekking through the steep, narrow Gunsa Khola valley to reach Sukethum. It's a Tibetan village with fantastic views of the snow-capped mountains like Jannu.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

The trail today is gorgeous. We begin the day trekking along the Ghunsa Khola river bank. Gradually the trail becomes rugged, and we get to see the rocky landscape. Before reaching Amjilose, there is an uphill climb. It is a small village resided by Sherpas and migrated Tibetans.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

The trail goes through dense forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. The scenery and people begin to resemble more Tibetan. Along the way, we may come across sheep, yaks, and goats. We walk by verdant forests and cross a wooden bridge to reach Gyabla.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

We leave Gyabla and continue walking through the forests. The trail reaches Phale village, an old Tibetan refugee camp not used as a winter settlement village. From here, the trail moves towards the big Ghunsa village, where we can find a health post, police station, telephone, internet service, etc.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Before moving further, we spend a day in Ghunsa and rest. We ascend to an ancient monastery located on a ridge. The views of Jaanu Peak from here are phenomenal. Later in the day, we explore Ghunsa village and take our time to mingle with locals.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

We gradually ascend, following the south bank of Ghunsa Khola. The trail passes through pine & rhododendron forests. There are many mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags on the way. The final ascent is steep along the scree slope to Khambachen.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Another rest day to acclimatize our body before we climb further. Today, we hike to the north base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga. The views of snow-capped mountains are breathtaking. We'll have a lot of time to unwind and enjoy the serenity of the Himalayas.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Today, we walk on exposed rock fields to Ramtang village. The trail then crosses the northwest of the Kanchenjunga glacier and passes by large stone huts. Soon we reach Lhonak village. The views of Mera Peak, Twins, Wedge Peak, etc, are seen on the way.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

The trail continues to the moraine of the Kanchenjunga glacier. We ascend to the north base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga today. The fluttering Buddhist prayer flags along the way with the backdrop of stunning mountain scenery are heavenly. Reaching this point is a huge achievement. We spend some time here and descend to Lhonak to spend the night.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Following the same route back, the trail descends to Khambachen. We walk by stony huts and walk by the glacial path. The trail then continues through lush forests.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

We trek and reach Gyabla. The rail goes by rhododendron forests, and we follow an uphill steep path to Sele La pass. At Sele Le, two small teahouses offer some basic services. The trail further crosses Mirgin La pass. The views of mountains like Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Baruntse, and others are outstanding from these passes to reach Ghunsa.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Today, we cross Sinion La Pass (4,450 m) and Sinelapche La Pass (4,830 m). It's another long day with a breathtaking mountain panorama. After crossing the passes, we descend to Tseram to spend the night. It's the only settlement area on the route this day.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

We pass by the nose of the glacier and trek towards an ablation valley. The trail offers views of Koktang, Rathong, and numerous 7,000 meters above peaks. Before reaching Ramche, we walk by a lake, meadow, and stone houses. If the time allows, we can hike to Boktoh's viewpoint.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Another ablation valley, Oktang, offers a sensational view of Mt. Kanchenjunga's south face. It's a gradual walk today with great scenery. This hike will help us acclimatize. We spend the night in Ramche village. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

After breakfast, we begin trekking, following a downhill route that goes through the rhododendron forest to Toronto. Further, we climb up via the mossy forest and continue ascending towards Lamite Bhanjyang. This place offers an incredible perspective of the Jannu and Kanchenjunga mountains.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

It's a relatively short trek day, however we descend over 1,000 meters. The first part of the route drops steeply to Imja Khola. We cross the Dubi pass and further descend for a couple of hours to reach Yamphudin.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Leaving Yamphuding, we continue trekking on a steep downhill route to the Kabeli Khola River. The trail crosses a log bridge and reaches Mamanke village. From here, walk along a side canyon and cross a stem over a long suspension bridge. The final part of the route steeply ascends to Phonphe.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

After breakfast, we ascend to a ridge where two tea houses are located. The trail further crosses a series of valleys and small villages. We descend to Bhanjyang and cross a ridge before descending to Khunjari.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

It's the last of our trek. Most of the trail is an uphill climb. We pass by Suketar on the way to Taplejung.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

After breakfast, we hop on the jeep and begin driving towards Bhadrapur. The drive will be comfortable and offer wonderful landscapes. We spend the night in Bhadrapur.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

We fly back to Kathmandu today. The flight is short and scenic. The remaining day is leisure. You can go shopping and rest. 

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Our airport team will escort you to the airport per your flight departure time. They will also help you in check-out.

Meals: Breakfast
If above program doesn't meet your requirementsReach our travel experts.
Customize Trip
Cost Includes
  • All grounded transportation as per itinerary by private car
  • Three nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu, inclusive of breakfast
  • Kathmandu – Bhadrapur  – Kathmandu round flight ticket inclusive of domestic taxes
  • Full board meals with tea and coffee prepared by our expert cook
  • One highly experienced English-speaking & friendly trekking guide and required porter, including their expenses
  • Kanchenjunga special permit fee and other necessary permits
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking map
  • Nepal Gateway Company T-Shirt 
  • Local fresh fruit
  • First aid kit
  • Evacuation assistance, if needed
  • Government taxes
  • Office service charge
Cost Excludes
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Your travel insurance – Compulsory
  • Nepal entry visa.
  • Your international flight ticket to/from Kathmandu
  • Your personal nature expenses, equipment and medical kit
  • All kinds of hot and cold drinks and alcoholic beverages in trekking
  • Hot shower, internet and phone call unless it is free
  • Tipping to field staff (Tipping is not mandatory but expected)
Good To Know

Altitude Sickness in Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking 

Because Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is a high-altitude venture, there is a chance of altitude sickness. This sickness is also widely known as acute mountain sickness, and it is faced by trekkers if their bodies do not acclimatize while trekking. 

If you follow our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek itinerary, the risks of altitude sickness are very low. Our itinerary is professionally designed and includes ample rest days and many small hikes.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Permit Cost

You need two permits for this trek: the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP) and the restricted area permit (RAP). Our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek cost includes both permit costs.

  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP) fee: Rs. 2000 per person
  • Restricted area permit (RAP) fee: USD 10 per person each week

Best Time for Trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp

The best times to Trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp are spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November). At these times, forests bloom with a range of floras, and the trail becomes very impressive. The suitable conditions make the journey fabulous, and the clear sky presents fantastic views. 

Wildlife and Vegetation in Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Nepal

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Nepal ranges from the lowlands of Terai to coniferous forests, grasslands, and meadows. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is famous for its exotic wildlife, such as the red panda, royal Bengal tiger, Himalayan bear, musk deer, snow leopard, etc. The region is home to a variety of rhododendrons and 69 varieties of orchids. Along the way, you see pine, bamboo, fir, and hemlock forests. At high elevations, more pines and junipers are found.

Last Minute Booking for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Package 2024

Please call or mail us to book the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Package 2024 at the last minute. We do our best to make all the arrangements and organize the trek. You have to be available in Kathmandu on the day the trek begins. Payment of 100% of the package cost is mandatory for last-minute bookings. If you cancel the last-minute booking, there will be a particular cancellation charge, and we refund the rest of the money. 

Travel Tips for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking Route

Accommodation: It's a tea house trek. Carry a warm sleeping bag. The washroom is generally shared. Small twin-shared rooms are primarily available. 

Food: The food options on this trek are quite limited. You can get Nepali and Tibetan dishes. The upper part of the trail has more Tibetan meals, such as thenduk, Tibetan bread, momo, thukpa, etc. Carry snacks and bars to munch while trekking. 

ATM: No ATM on the trekking route. You have the last chance to withdraw money in Kathmandu to use while trekking. Budget USD 12 to USD 15 each day.

Charging: We do not recommend charging your device heavily during the trek, as it costs extra money. Instead, carry a solar charger and spare batteries.

Luggage: Porters carry duffel bags. One porter can carry up to 20 kg, which is divided between two trekkers. Trekkers can also use a day pack during the trek.

Personal Expenses: Our trek package does not cover souvenir shopping, additional snacks and beverages expenses, tipping, etc. Keep some money on you to pay for these things. 

Travel Insurance: Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking requires travel insurance. If you have to get travel insurance in your home country, ensure that it covers helicopter rescue and medical bills. 

Tipping: Freely tip if you are happy with our staff members. There's no limit to tipping.

FAQs

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is very difficult. If you are a new trekker, then do not go on this, or it will become a nightmare for you given the height, terrain, and isolation of the region.

Yes, you can trek to Kanchenjunga from Nepal. We have an adventurous trekking package that explores the north and south base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

We have a 27-day long Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek or Kanchenjunga base camp trek. Approximately, we cover 220 km during the trek. The itinerary and number of days may differ from one travel company to another.

You can expect sick mountain views, gorgeous waterfalls, lush forests, picturesque villages, and very simple accommodations & food from Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.

To do Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you have to contact a local Nepali trekking company. You cannot trek solo or with an independent guide because of the restricted area. The travel company will get the permits for you and arrange the trek.

As we said earlier, solo trekking is not allowed in the Kanchenjunga area. The uneven topography and exotic flora & fauna of the region have made it a restricted area in Nepal. Rarely do travelers trek in this region.

If you are a novice trekker or not physically & mentally ready to endure the challenges of the journey, you should avoid Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

Traveler’s Experience with Us?
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

We had a wonderful time on the Kanchenjunga circuit trek. Two base camps and a high mountain pass made for some truly spectacular scenery away...

read more +
Monika Fazekas- United Kingdom
June 11, 2023
Monika Fazekas
Did not find the right trip? No worries!
Let us help you plan your next mountain holiday.