Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek (North & South)
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek (North & South) is challenging trek on rarely trodden trails to the foothill of Himalayan giant, Kanchenjunga.
This trek approaches to the Eastern Nepal where the world’s third highest peak Kanchenjunga (8,598m) dominates the skyline. Mt. Kanchenjunga, one of the world’s most challenging peaks to climb, geographically lies on the Nepal-Sikkim (India) border. Treks in the eastern Nepal are fully organized camping based trek which includes 3 square meals per day cooked by our trained Sherpa cooks. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek begins right after a flight to Biratnagar followed by the drive to Phidim.
As the trek begins, we follow the glacial rivers; Tamur and Ghunsa and finally get to the origins of these rivers on the northwest side of Kanchenjunga. On arrival we know we are in a different world; beautiful and untamed. 3,600 alpine magnificence where the peaks such as Pyramid Peak,Jannu, The Twins and the mighty Kanchenjunga (8,586m) offer eye feasting views. The latter half of the trek is dramatically enchanting as it traverses the southern side of the mountain via Mirgin La Pass (4,663m). The trek also highlights the cultural encounter in the remote villages dominated by the ethnical tribes including Rai, Limbu and Sherpas. Kanchenjunga National Park, the home to elusive snow Leopard is paradise for wildlife lovers as well.
Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu.
Day 02: Sightseeing tour of Boudhanath, Pashupatinath andPatan
Day 03: Fly Kathmandu to Biratnagar and drive to Phidim
Day 04: Trek to LaliKharka (2,220m)
Day 05: Trek to Keswa (2,100m)
Day 06: Trek to Mamanke (2,000m)
Day 07: Trek to Yamphudin (1,650m)
Day 08: Trek to Lamite jungle camp (2,920m)
Day 09: Trek to Torontan (3,080m)
Day 10: Trek to Tseram (3,750m)
Day 11: Trek to Ramche (4,360m)
Day 12: Ramche – Exploration
Day 13: Trekking beyond the Mirgin La
Day 14: Trek to Gunsa (3,475m)
Day 15: Trek to Khambachen (4,040m)
Day 16: Trek to Lhonak (4,790m)
Day 17: Trek to Pang Pema (5,140m)
Day 18: Rest day at Pang Pema
Day 19 – Day 20: Retreat trek to Gunsa (3,430m)
Day 21: Trek to Kyapra (2,300m)
Day 22: Trek to Sakathum (1,600m)
Day 23: Trek to Chirwa (1,180m)
Day 24: Trek to Phurumba
Day 25: Trek to Taplejung and Drive to Phidim
Day 26: Drive to Biratnagar and Evening flight to Kathmandu
Day 27: Depart Kathmandu
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time. A representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel. At the hotel, you will be briefed about your daily activities.Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Sightseeing tour of Boudhanath,Pashupatinath andPatan
Kathmandu is the historical and cultural heart of Nepal and has been a popular destination for tourists ever since Nepal opened its door to visitors. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence. There will be a guided tour to the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal Boudhanath and after that to the most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva;Pashupatinath. We take a tour to Patan or Lalitpur (The City of Artisans), which is 5km away from Kathmandu. We walk through Patan Durbar Square, and delight in the architectural wonders of Malla era. Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple and Golden Temple are the major attractions at the square.Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Biratnagar and drive to Phidim
From Kathmandu we take a flight to Biratnagar. On reaching Biratnagar, we will drive to Phidim, our trek starting point. 3-4 hours of drive will bring us to Phidim. Overnight stay in Phidim.
Day 04: Trek to LaliKharka (2,220m)
Today, our trek begins and for the next three weeks, we will be wondering in the places dominated by beautiful and wild nature. We head to LaliKharka with the trekking crew. On the trail, we walk by rich pastures and pristine settlements. After several descents for 3-4 hours, we arrive at LaliKharka. Overnight stay in LaliKharka.
Day 05: Trek to Keswa (2,100m)
As we traverse along the steep route to Pokhara village, fascinating terraced farmland unfolds soon after crossing a suspension bridge above the PhawaKhola. The route further leads to Kunjari where we halt for lunch. After lunch, we continue following the trekking trail. We get to see dense forests and sometimes a small village located on a hill, as we progress along the trail. On skirting along a gently sloping mountain path, we reach Tambawa and later Bhanjyang, where we spot several teahouses. At this point, we can capture mesmerizing sight of Kanchenjunga glowing against the sun. After having trekked for 5-6 hours, we conclude the day’s trip.Overnight stay in Keswa.
Day 06: Trek to Mamanke (2,000m)
Leaving behind the terraced fields of Keswa, we follow an adventurous route to NandevaKhola. After crossing the river, we trudge along the glaciated mountain passes. Further ahead, the route winds through dense forest and the village of Loppoding. We come across shady areas where we can rest for a while after strenuous trekking. The sinuous trail then takes us to the right bank of the KabeliKhola. After a while, terraced fields reappear and the village of Anpan comes into view. We continue ascending till we reach PonpeDhara. There are shady spots on the way where we can have a brief rest. As we proceed along the trail, we see several hamlets and terraced fields stretch along the crest of the ridge. There is a rest area where we can pause for a while to bask in the fascinating sight of Mt. Jannu. We continue our descent along the winding path, as we pass through the village of Anpan and terraced fields along KhangwaKhola. We arrive at a suspension bridge. We cross the bridge and continue descending the undulating mountain passes till we reach the village of Mamankhe. Overnight stay in Mamanke.
Day 07: Trek to Yamphudin (1,650m)
Beginning with an easy climb, the walk to Yamphudin is along a trail which contours the hillside above the KabeliKhola. We cross the ridges and stream beds that make up the valley sides and the trail eventually becomes level with the river a couple of hours before Yamphudin. Along the way, we can stop to bath in one of the many clear pools in this beautiful river. It is a truly idyllic spot and after lunch by the river, we complete the day’s walk to Yamphudin. Yamphudin is the most remote settlement in this area and the last habitation we will see until we reach Gunsa. Needless to say, it is a charming place tucked away beneath the ridge of the DeoraliDanda, which we must cross next. Overnight stay in Yamphudin.
Day 08: Trek to Lamite Jungle Camp (2,920m)
Beyond Yamphudin, the trail ascends a steep spur before dropping again to cross the OmjeKhola. Walking through a beautiful and dense forest, we stop for lunch in a meadow atop this spur, which commands fine views of the valley beyond Yamphudin to the south and of the OmjeKholaValley and DeoraliDanda to the north. A steep descent to the river brings us to our campsite in a clearing in the Lamite forest. Overnight stay at Lamite Jungle Camp.
Day 09: Trek to Torontan (3,080m)
From our campsite, we ascend steeply for 3 hours through dense forest to the crest of the DeoraliDanda. From the top, Mt Jannu is clearly visible. After crossing the pass, we descend across some fairly steep and exposed scree slopes before re-entering the forest, where we will stop for lunch. After lunch, a steep descent takes us down into the valley of the SimbuaKhola and after crossing an interesting wooden bridge, we arrive at Torontan. This campsite lies amongst the towering fir trees of what is now a mainly coniferous alpine forest. Overnight stay in Torontan.
Day 10: Trek to Tseram (3,750m)
This morning, we follow the right bank of the river, passing through pine and rhododendron forests. The trail is fairly steep and as the day progresses, the trees become sparser and more stunted, giving us glimpses of the snow-capped giants ahead and massive snout of the Yalung Glacier. Just before Tseram, the towering heights of Kabru and Rathong peep over the moraine.We camp at Tseram, where night-time temperature plummets, reminding us that we are really gaining height.Overnight stay in Tseram.
Day 11: Trek to Ramche (4,360m)
Relatively short days walk today to our next camp at Ramche. The scenery is magnificent as we ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier and into a series of ablation valleys. A frozen lake, crystal clear streams and views of Kokthan, Rathong and Kabru are the highlights of this walk into Ramche which is situated on a broad, flat ablation zone.Overnight stay in Ramche.
Day 12: Ramche – Exploration
Leaving our camp at Ramche, we take a packed lunch and set off very early for our first close encounter with Kanchenjunga. Following the valley around its sweeping curve, we come across the vast southern wall of the mountain. The ridge forms a cirque which is over 15 kms long and not less than 7500 m high. Along this ridge lies the three main summits of Mt Kanchenjunga at 8,420m, 8,586m and 8,474m. These three summits, jutting out into the sky presents a really grand sight. Proceeding further on towards Oktang (4630m), we descend onto the glacier and cross it to a point below Talu from where we can see the panoramic view of the mountains in the area. Especially impressive is the eastern part of Khumbakarna Glacier flowing from the east face of Jannu (Kumbhakarna being the local name for Jannu). We then return to our camp at Ramche. Overnight stay in Ramche.
Day 13: Trekking beyond the Mirgin La (4,663m)
Leaving our campsite, we trek down the valley, passing the small settlement of Lapsang, before turning off towards the Mirgin La Pass we must cross in order to reach Gunsa and the north side of Kanchenjunga. As we descend from the Mirgin La, you can see the views of Mt Jannuwhich are simply magnificent. Our campsite will be somewhere beyond the pass. Overnight stay in Mirgin La.
Day 14: Trek to Gunsa (3,475m)
A steep descent from our campsite brings us to Lamba Sumba Kharka where there are more splendid views of the awesome south west face of Jannu. From here, the going is easy. Descending on an excellent trail to the village of Gunsa, where we camp in the fields by the river. Gunsa is a Tibetan village with a tiny gompa and prayer flags fluttering atop the wooden houses. It comes as a welcome sight after the rigorous walk of the previous days and provides an excellent opportunity to visit a strange local hostelry and sample the ‘Tongba’ (alcoholic beverage fermented out of millet). Overnight stay in Gunsa.
Day 15: Trek to Khambachen (4,040m)
The trail ascends gently through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, passing many mani walls and chortens. You stop for lunch by the river at RampakKharka. After lunch there is a steep climb before descending to the summer village of Khambachen. The views of Mt Jannu or Kumbhakarna from here are excellent. Overnight stay in Khambachen.
Day 16: Trek to Lhonak (4,790m)
The trek up to Lhonak via Ramtang village is not too strenuous and despite the increase in altitude, you are able to walk on easily, enjoying the breathtaking views of the valley and mountain peaks. Your lunch stop is at Ramtang, from where the incredible fluted summit of Wedge Peak first becomes visible. During the afternoon Nepal Peak, the Twins, Mera and the White Wave all come into view. Then you arrive at Lhonak, situated high above the Kanchenjunga Glacier opposite to the Wedge Peak. Overnight stay in Lhonak.
Day 17: Trek to Pang Pema (5,140m)
A leisurely 3 hours walk from Lhonak takes you up to Pang Pema. The trail follows the moraine before finally reaching Pang Pema, the North Face Base Camp, which is in a sheltered spot, directly opposite the towering north face of Kanchenjunga. This is one of the most spectacular places in the world and is a fitting climax to this unique trek.Overnight stay in Pang Pema.
Day 18: Rest day at Pang Pema.
Today is a rest day, but for the more energetic ones, there are several diversions lined up for the day. One is to ascend the lower slopes of Drohmo for panoramic views of Kanchenjunga and its adjoining peaks. Another possibility is to continue up the increasingly difficult terrain on the right flank of the glaciers for alternative views of the more remote peaks around the Jongsang La Pass. Overnight stay in Pang Pema.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 19 – Day 20: Retreat trek to Gunsa (3,430m)
For the next 2 days, you retrace your steps to Gunsa, passing through Ramtang and Kham. Overnight stay in Gunsa.
Day 21: Trek to Kyapra (2300m)
From Gunsa, you take the route out of the mountains that follows the beautiful Gunsa and TamurKholas. The trail passes through spectacular forests of rhododendron, conifer, birch and oak. The valley sides here are steep and the trail follows the river as it cascades downwards. You pass through Kyapra, the last of the Tibetan villages, and an hour or so further on, you reach a spot called Tang. Overnight stay in Kyapra.
Day 22: Trek to Sakathum (1,600m)
Heading for the village of Sakathum, your route follows an undulating trail for the first couple of hours until you reach Amjilasa. From here, there is a long steep descent from which you can see the GunsaKhola Valley stretched out before you. You then reach Sakathum.Overnight stay in Sakathum.
Day 23: Trek to Chirwa (1,180m)
Leaving Sakathum, you head to Chirwa. En route you meet the confluence of two rivers; SimbuaKhola and GunsaKhola. At this point, you get to witness the most magnificent view of the two rivers uniting into TamurKoshi. On following the trail along TamurKhola, many other small tributary streams come your way. After trekking for about 4-5 hours, you enter into the pristine village of Chirwa. Overnight stay in Chirwa.
Day 24: Trek to Phurumba
The route further leads to cultivated land and rich pastures. On reaching Mitlung, you halt for a healthy lunch. Then the trail zigzags through the path of steep stones. After climbing for about 4 hours, you come to the valley of Phurumba. Overnight stay in Phurumba.
Day 25: Trek to Taplejung and Drive to Phidim
As we leave the valley, we continue ascending along the ridge for about 3 hours to Taplejung village. We can wander around the village getting familiar with village life, cultural richness, customs and village people. Thereafter, 2 hours of drive will bring us to Phidim where our trek concludes officially.Overnight stay in Phidim.
Day 26: Drive to Biratnagar and Evening flight to Kathmandu
3-4 hours of drive from Phidim will bring us to Biratnagar and then we take a flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to the hotel upon arrival. Leisure day in the evening. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 27: Depart Kathmandu
Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. Or if you prefer to stay longer, you can go for short tours such as Wildlife Safari at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, Mountain biking, etc. You can contact us for further information.
T-house/Camping Trek includes accommodation in lodge, guide, porters and all meals
USD …. per person on twin sharing – minimum of 2 participants
Note: Single room supplement charge is applicable for Kathmandu Hotel only. During trek, as per the availability we shall provide single/double or dormitory room. In case of special requirement, we shall provide single with an additional room surcharge during trek.
• Airport Pick and Drop by private vehicle
• 3 nights’ accommodation at 3 star hotels in Kathmandu on twin/double sharing with breakfast
• Guide sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with inclusive of monuments entry fees.
• Accommodation during trek available everyday en-route (T-House and Hotel)
• All meals during trek in Local Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
• English speaking local expert guide (ratio: – 2 guide: 4/5 member, 3 guide: 10/15 member)
• Local porters during trek (ratio: – 1 porter = 2 member)
• Kanchenjunga Area Permit
• Trekkers’ Information Management System fees (TIMS)
• Flight Kathmandu/Biratnagar/Kathmandu (domestic flight)
• Ground transportation/Airport transfers with an escort by Private Vehicle/Tourist bus
• Equipment clothing for porter & staffs
• Insurance for all staff & porters
• All applicable government tax
• Nepal visa – Multiple Entrée 30 days – USD 40
• International flight
• Lunch & dinner during Kathmandu Hotel stay
• Extra baggage charges (All together only 15 kg is allow for porter)
• Personal gears & clothing (available on hire in Kathmandu)
• Tips for guides, porter, any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation/road block due to any reason, table drinks, snacks while walking
• Any other tours, transfer and service other than mentioned above
• Your insurance and medical Expenses