Kanchenjunga Base
Camp Trek
Trip Overview
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a challenging and spectacular 25-day Himalayan expedition in eastern Nepal. Beginning from Taplejung and concluding in Kathmandu, the trek explores remote villages, lush forests, glacial valleys, and high-altitude alpine landscapes surrounding Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world’s third-highest peak. Highlights include trekking through rhododendron and pine forests, crossing suspension bridges, navigating mountain passes, and visiting the Kanchenjunga Glacier and Base Camp. This trek offers unparalleled panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Kumbhakarna, and other towering peaks. Along the way, trekkers experience rich Tamang, Limbu, and Sherpa cultures, traditional teahouses, and the pristine wilderness of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
Kanchenjunga Base
Camp Trek Highlights
- Kanchenjunga Base Camp: Witness awe-inspiring views of the third-highest mountain in the world and surrounding peaks
High-Altitude Adventure: Trek up to 5,143m at Pangpema with glacial landscapes, moraines, and alpine terrain
Remote Villages: Experience authentic Nepali culture in Taplejung, Ghunsa, Yamphudin, and other traditional settlements
Diverse Flora and Fauna: Traverse rhododendron, pine, and alpine forests; spot Himalayan pheasants, red pandas, and other wildlife
Multiple Passes: Cross several scenic mountain passes, including Sele La (4,290m), offering panoramic views
Glacier and Valley Trekking: Explore Yalung Glacier, Kanchenjunga Glacier, and pristine alpine valleys
Acclimatization and Safety: Carefully paced trek with rest and acclimatization days at Cheram and other high points
Scenic Diversity: From lowland farmland and rivers to rugged high mountain terrain, waterfalls, and alpine meadows
Extended Adventure: 25-day itinerary allows deep exploration of eastern Nepal’s untouched landscapes
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will complete immigration and customs formalities. A representative from Himalayan Glacier will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, you’ll be treated to a welcome dinner where you can enjoy authentic Nepalese cuisine and receive a brief introduction to the country and its culture. Overnight stay at hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu | Meals: No MealToday is dedicated to exploring the cultural richness of Kathmandu. You will visit four significant sites, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa—along with the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square. After the sightseeing tour, you’ll meet your trekking team for a detailed briefing on the upcoming journey. Overnight stay at Yatri Suites and Spa in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu | Meals: BreakfastAfter breakfast, you’ll take a scenic 45-minute flight to Bhadrapur, located in eastern Nepal. From there, a long but scenic drive of approximately 9 hours will take you through picturesque hills and terraced landscapes to Taplejung, the starting point of your trek. Overnight stay in a local hotel or teahouse.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerYour trekking adventure begins today as you hike through a forested trail with occasional ascents and descents. The path offers serene natural beauty and glimpses of rural life as you make your way to Lalikharka. Expect lush greenery, fresh mountain air, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerToday’s trek starts with a descent to Phundrawa followed by an uphill stretch to Yangpang. The trail continues to Phumphe Danda and climbs gradually to reach the village of Khesewa. You’ll pass through small rural settlements, forests, and cultivated fields along the way.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerThe trail descends and then gently rises along Kabeli Khola, leading you through thick forests, waterfalls, and small streams. The route offers impressive views of distant Himalayan peaks and passes by traditional villages before reaching Mamankhe.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerFollowing the Kabeli Khola, today’s trail takes you across a suspension bridge and through terraced fields and forested hills. You’ll pass a stunning waterfall before reaching the small settlement of Yamphudin, surrounded by lush hills and quiet terrain.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerThis long and scenic trekking day follows paths used by locals, weaving through meadows and terraced farmland. You’ll trek alongside the Amji Khola and cross Lassiya Bhanjyang Pass, eventually reaching the peaceful and forested village of Tortong.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerA relatively short but steadily ascending trek today leads you through rhododendron forests along the Simbuwa Khola. The trail opens up to the scenic Lalung Valley, revealing views of the Yalung Glacier and the towering Tuplung Peak as you reach Cheram.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerTo aid in acclimatization, today is reserved as a rest day in Cheram. You may relax at your lodge or take a short hike to explore nearby viewpoints offering impressive sights of Kabaru and Rathong peaks. This break prepares you for the higher altitudes ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerToday’s trek follows a beautiful glacial valley to the snout of the Yalung Glacier. You’ll ascend gradually, enjoying stunning vistas of surrounding peaks, and pass the small settlement of Lapsang before reaching Ramche.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerYou’ll head further up the valley to reach Yalung Base Camp via Oktang, walking along moraines and glacial streams. The viewpoint here offers unforgettable views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Jannu Himal. After soaking in the grandeur, you’ll return to Cheram for the night.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerToday’s trail crosses four mountain passes—Sinelapche Bhanjyang, Mirgin La, Sinion La, and finally, Sele La. The route is lined with prayer flags and alpine views. It’s a day of adventure and elevation as you reach the remote campsite at Sele La.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerA gentle descent through forests of birch, pine, and rhododendron brings you to Ghunsa. This picturesque village is known for its wooden houses, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and scenic surroundings.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerFollowing the river trail out of Ghunsa, you’ll pass alpine meadows and cross a few challenging landslide sections. The dramatic landscapes and increasing mountain views, particularly of Mt. Jannu, add to the thrill as you arrive in Kambachen.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerToday’s trail navigates rocky paths, boulders, and occasional waterfalls. After passing Ramtang Monastery and descending to the river, you’ll reach the wide and remote valley of Lhonak, close to the Kanchenjunga Glacier.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerA spectacular day as you trek beside the Kanchenjunga Glacier toward the Base Camp. Panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and neighboring giants await. After spending time at the base, you’ll descend to Pangpema for the night.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerYou will retrace your trail back from Pangpema to Lhonak through the familiar rugged terrain and glacial surroundings, enjoying the shifting light on the mountains.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerThe return journey continues as you descend from Lhonak back to Ghunsa. The downhill trail allows you to enjoy new perspectives on landscapes already visited.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerToday’s descent follows forest trails with cascading waterfalls and changing flora. You’ll gradually lose altitude as you walk toward the charming settlement of Amjilosa.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerTrekking through traditional villages, rice terraces, and lush landscapes, you’ll follow the Tamor River toward the lowlands. The cultural and natural scenery make this a memorable part of the descent.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerToday marks the final leg of your trek. You’ll walk through fertile farmland and small hamlets before arriving back in Taplejung, reflecting on your mountain adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerYou will take a long and scenic drive back from Taplejung to Bhadrapur, transitioning from alpine landscapes to the lower, warmer plains of eastern Nepal.
Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerA morning flight brings you back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for souvenir shopping, relaxation, or further exploration. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your trek.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu | Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAfter breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, carrying with you the incredible memories of the Kanchenjunga adventure.
Meals: BreakfastWhat’s Included
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Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis on BB Meal Plan (pre- and post-trek)
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Accommodation in local tea houses/lodges during the trek
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All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
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Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
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Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
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Necessary Trekking Staffs
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All necessary trekking permits (Everest National Park Entry Fee and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Fee)
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Private ground transportation as per itinerary (including to/from trek trail head)
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Domestic Flights as per the itinerary
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Insurance for guide, porter and trekking staffs involved.
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Farewell dinner at a local Nepali restaurant
What’s Not Included
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International flights and Nepal visa fees
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Personal trekking gear and equipment
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Travel and medical insurance (including emergency evacuation)
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Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
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Tips for guide, porter, and drivers
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Personal expenses: beverages, snacks, laundry, phone/internet, etc.
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Additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., weather delays, landslides, political strikes)