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25 Days

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.

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Kanchenjunga Base
Camp Trek Highlights

REGION
Kanchenjunga Region
MAX ALTITUDE
5,143 meters (Pangpema)
ACTIVITY
Trekking
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    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

Day 1Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

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 Meal
Day 2Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation (1,350m/4,429ft)

Today 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: Breakfast
Day 3Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Taplejung (1,442m/4,731ft)

After 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 Dinner
Day 4Taplejung to Lalikharka (2,265m/7,431ft) – 4–5 hours Trek

Your 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 Dinner
Day 5Lalikharka to Khesewa (2,120m/6,956ft) – 5–6 hours Trek

Today’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 Dinner
Day 6Khesewa to Mamankhe (1,785m/5,857ft) – 5–6 hours Trek

The 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 Dinner
Day 7Mamankhe to Yamphudin (2,080m/6,824ft) – 4–5 hours Trek

Following 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 Dinner
Day 8Yamphudin to Tortong (2,995m/9,827ft) – 7–8 hours Trek

This 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 Dinner
Day 9Tortong to Cheram (3,870m/12,697ft) – 2–3 hours Trek

A 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 Dinner
Day 9Rest and Acclimatization in Cheram (3,870m/12,697ft)

To 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 Dinner
Day 11Cheram to Ramchaur (Ramche) (4,580m/15,027ft) – 3–4 hours Trek

Today’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 Dinner
Day 12Ramche to Yalung Base Camp via Oktang and Return to Cheram – 3–4 hours Trek

You’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 Dinner
Day 13Cheram to Sele La (4,290m/14,075ft) – 6–7 hours Trek

Today’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 Dinner
Day 14Sele La to Ghunsa (3,595m/11,795ft) – 2–3 hours Trek

A 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 Dinner
Day 15Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m/13,288ft) – 5–6 hours Trek

Following 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 Dinner
Day 16Kambachen to Lhonak (4,778m/15,677ft) – 5–6 hours Trek

Today’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 Dinner
Day 17Kanchenjunga Base Camp and Overnight at Pangpema (5,143m/16,874ft) – 6–7 hours Trek

A 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 Dinner
Day 18Pangpema to Lhonak (4,778m/15,677ft) – 3–4 hours Trek

You 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 Dinner
Day 19Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,595m/11,795ft) – 6–7 hours Trek

The 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 Dinner
Day 20 Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2,308m/7,573ft) – 5–6 hours Trek

Today’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 Dinner
Day 21 Amjilosa to Chirwa (1,270m/4,167ft) – 6–7 hours Trek

Trekking 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 Dinner
Day 22Chirwa to Taplejung via Mitlung (1,442m/4,731ft) – 7–8 hours Trek

Today 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 Dinner
Day 23Taplejung to Bhadrapur (2,419m/7,937ft) – 9 hours’ Drive

You 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 Dinner
Day 24Flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft)

A 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, Dinner
Day 25Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, carrying with you the incredible memories of the Kanchenjunga adventure.

Meals: Breakfast
Talk to an Expert
Rajani Kapali
Tour Manager
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What’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)