Kanchenjunga North-South Base camp Trek 23 Days

USD $1875/Person
Trip Code : TTHKBT-01
Accomodation : Includeds
Duration : 23  Days
Grading : Moderate grading info
Max Altitude : 5143
Activity : Treking
Starts at : Taplejung
End at : Birtamod
Best Season : Mar-May & Sep-Nov.

Overview

KANCHENJUNGA TREK OVERVIEW:


Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, is found in eastern Nepal, not far from the Sikkim/India border. Kanchenjunga is revered by the Nepalese as a sacred mountain of great spiritual significance. The name "Kanchenjunga" in the local language translates to "five riches of snow" in reference to the mountain's five peaks.

The first successful climb of Kanchenjunga was made in 1955 by a British team. Although it is still regarded as one of the Himalayas' more challenging peaks to climb, Everest has grown in popularity as a mountain climbing and trekking destination.

In addition to being well known for its extensive biodiversity, Kanchenjunga is home to a variety of flora and wildlife. There are many native settlements in the area that have a long history of living in harmony with the mountain and its environs. These people have a diverse cultural history.

KANCHENJUNGA TREK LOCATION:


Kanchenjunga is located at 27° 42' 19" N, 88° 08' 59" E and has a longitude and latitude of 88.15° E and 27.70° N, respectively. It is situated approximately 125 km (78 miles) east-northeast of the Nepalese city of Taplejung and 120 km (75 miles) southeast of the Indian city of Gangtok.

KANCHENJUNGA HEIGHT:


Kanchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world, rising 8,586 m (28,169 ft) above sea level.

KANCHENJUNGA PHYSICAL FEATURES:


The Main Peak of Kanchenjunga is the mountain's highest point, and it is followed by four other summits. These peaks go by the names of North Peak, Central Peak, South Peak, and West Peak. The mountain's lower slopes are covered with lush forests, whereas its highest points are covered in snow and ice. It is also recognized for its diverse fauna, with a variety of species of animals and plants living there.

KANCHENJUNGA CLIMBING ROUTE:


There are various climbing routes on Kanchenjunga, but the North-East Ridge, South-West Face, and West Pillar are some of the most popular routes to reach the summit. Only expert climbers take the hardest and least frequently utilized route, the West Pillar.

PERMITS:


Climbers need a Nepalese government permit in order to ascend Kanchenjunga. A passport, a visa, and climbing certificates are some of the paperwork required for the lengthy authorization application process. You also need to hire a licensed Nepalese trekking company and pay the appropriate taxes and fees.

Permits & Entrance Fee

KANCHENJUNGA TREK REQUIRED EQUIPMENTS:


A sizable amount of specialized gear, such as high-altitude climbing gear, warm clothing, tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment, is needed to climb Kanchenjunga. A first-aid kit, as well as medical supplies and enough food and supplies for the entire climb, must also be brought. You can click on "equipment" for more information.

OTHER NECCESARY INFORMATION:


Additionally, climbers should be cautious of the dangers of ascending Kanchenjunga, such as avalanches, frostbite, and altitude sickness. It's critical to be well-versed in high-altitude climbing techniques and to gradually acclimate to the high altitude. Additionally, climbers need to be equipped for severe weather and knowledgeable about basic first aid and emergency response techniques.

TRIP HIGHTLIGHTS

  • Submerge yourself in local myth and folklore surrounding the mystical Kanchenjunga demon.
  • Seldom frequented terrain requiring high physical endeavor.
  • Chance of getting a glimpse of the ever-elusive snow leopard.
  • The unique experience of glacier walks rather than normal walking along the Yalung Glacier route.
  • The Kanchenjunga range has many endangered flagship species such as snow leopard, Asian black ear, red panda, white-bellied musk deer, blood pheasant, and chestnut-breasted partridge.
  • The Kangchenjunga boundary landscape is shared by Bhutan, China, India, and Nepal.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu and Transfer to hotel.


Arrive at Tribhuvan International airport in Kathmandu. Our representative will greet you and he/she will drop you at your hotel. Little walk around the town and overnight.

 

Day 2: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation


Half day visit major world heritage sites of Kathmandu such as Royal Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath temple, Syambhunath, and Boudhanath stupa etc.  Introduce with Guide and Porters, Permits preparations  and Getting ready for the next day trek. Overnight at the hotel. 
 

Day 3: Take an early morning flight to Bhadrapur, then drive to Taplejung (1820 m, 12 hrs).


Take 45 minute morning  flight with good views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Kanchenjunga. The highway connects  from Bhadrapur to  Taplejung through beautiful tea garden. During this 8-9-hour drive, you will encounter three distinct weather conditions: hot, cold, and snowy. The scenery changed from flat to lush hills to rocky terrain, which would be a lovely experience.
 

Day 4: Drive from Taplejung to Sekathum (5 hrs, 1750 m).


After Breakfast in Taplejung,  we are gonna  travel by jeep along the bank of Tamor River crossing  several bridges, and small settlements  with different  local communities then reach Sekathum.  If you are interested  or have time left, we can walk a little bit further to make the next day way shorter.
 

Day 5: Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2308 m, 5-6 hrs walk)


After having breakfast in Sekathum, we start our trek which leads us back and forth across the Ghunsa Khola to Jaubari, Crossing  several  impressive suspension bridges  the narrow trail leading up to the steeply sided slopes to Amjilosa that's the place the restricted  zone  starts in Kanchenjunga region.

Day 6: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2730 m, 5 hrs)


After breakfast in Amjilosa,  we will start our trek  by passing numerous waterfalls and the dispersed villages that are peacefully tucked away in the valley below the mountains, we  will continue upward through the densely forested area with mature oak and dense rhododendron trees. As we gently travel in the direction of Gyabla, we will  stop in some teahouses for lunch and continue our trek to Gybla, during  this trekking part, we will have the opportunity  to see  many different birds and wild animals.  Reach at Gyabla then overnight stay there.

 

Day 7: Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3595 m, 5-6 hrs)


After breakfast, we will start our trek  by  walking steadily to the Tibetan village of Phole, and then we make the step climb to the  town of Ghunsa and its superb view of the surrounding countryside and also Ghunsa known as the Capital of Kanchenjunga Region.

Day 8: An acclimatization day, Explore the surrounding of Ghunsa and Kanchenjunga Conservation area.


We will spend an extra day in Ghunsa to  acclimate  the high altitude . We can spend the day  in its scenic alpine surroundings and points of cultural interest, including the local

Day 9: Trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen (4050 m, 5-6 hrs)


From Ghunsa, we trek further north along the  green forest and through the bank of the river  which presents us with magnificent mountain scenery. We pass through meadows filled with beautiful wildflowers as well as the colorful rhododendron trees. We cross a bridge at Rampuk Kharka, continue past a waterfall and cross the tricky section of a landslide, we begin to see the spectacular view of Mt. Jannu. Further exploring and tackling the tricky mountain trail we finally arrive at Kambachen and spend the night.

Day 10: Another acclimatization day in Khambachen (4050 m, 5-6 hrs)


Another highly recommended acclimatization day that provides an unbeatable side trip while also contributing to your successful adaptation to the elevation to reach the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. Which is crucial to our successful journey to the North Base Camp, also offers breathtaking side trips around.

Day 11: Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak (4780M 4-5 Hours)


After breakfast in Khambachen,  we start our day walking through rocky fields and large boulders on the hillside along the riverbank and arrive at a waterfall. We then cross a bridge to Ramtang monastery. If there's snow about and we're incredibly fortunate we might even sight the light footprints of the region's most mysterious creature, the enigmatic snow leopard. After 5 hours walk reaches to Lhonak and rest.

Day 12: Hike to the north Base Camp of Kanchenjunga (5143m) and return back to Lhonak


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 to 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. 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.

Day 13: Hike to the north Base Camp of Kanchenjunga (5143m) and return back to Lhonak


 

From Lhonak, we trek toward the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Our trail is alongside the gigantic Kanchenjunga Glacier. After passing Pangpema, we descend towards the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The view from the base camp is extraordinary. Mt. Kanchenjunga, Jannu Himal, and other Himalayan peaks are ours to admire. We descend back to Pangpema to spend the night.
At Base Camp, we stand in awe of the surrounding mountains and drink up the atmosphere completed by Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind. We sit here for some time enjoying the tranquillity and a hot drink and snacks! We return to Lhonak for the night.
 

Day 14: Trek Lhonak to Ghunsa (6 hrs)


After Breakfast we start trekking over pebbles and moraine we reach Kambachen Village for lunch before heading east along the Tamor River. Now the vegetation is greener as we again return to Ghunsa where we spend overnight.

Day 15: Ghunsa to Sele Le Camp (5 Hrs)


Today after breakfast at the hotel in Ghunsa,  A precipitous trail leads us through woodland towards a trailhead of striking mountain views, which takes us through a forest and along a grassy ridge from where we can see Ghunsa and Phole villages as well as the mysterious Makalu sitting in isolation on the far horizon.

Day 16: Selele Base Camp to Cheram via Sinon La (4,450m) and Mirgin La (4470m) Pass (8 hrs, 3870m)


We start our day earlier in the morning compared to the last few days, It's a bit challenging roller coaster hike day. This morning towards the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Crossing the Sinon La pass (4,450m) and then Mirgin La (4470m). From the pass scenic views of Mt Everest, Makalu and extraordinary panorama Kanchenjunga and its valley appear in front of your views. We descend along a small trail to Cheram, the only settlement we find on this route. We gonna stay overnight here.


Day 17: Day Trip to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp and back to Cheram. (7-8 Hours)


Ultimately this is our final destination for exploring Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.  Today we trek to Ramche where we stop for lunch before walking on for around 40 minutes to reach Kanchenjunga South Base Camp which is right on the edge of the Yarlung glacier, the prayer flyers decorate the base camp more nicely. after exploring the south base camp, we return the way we came from and overnight at Cheram.

Day 18: Cheram to Torongding (5 hrs, 2995m)


Today we descend markedly downhill through a Simbuwa Khola gorge leaving behind the alpine regions. But the final section is a steep uphill over an area prone to landslides and through forests of rhododendron and pine. There are no settlements until we reach Torongding, where there are a few teahouses.


Day 19: Torongding to Yamphuding (7-8 hrs 2080 m)


After breakfast,  another day of hiking on an undulating trail, we head off downhill and then it turns to a steep and long uphill hike. We pass through  Lasiya Bhanjyang where we can stop for lunch. Then the trail leads a steep downhill through more forests until we reach the big village of Yamphuding which brings us back to the main road running through the region.

Day 20: Yamphuding to Khebang (1915M, 6 Hrs)


The walking after the experience and thrill of the alpine heights is easier now we are back at a lower altitude. Slowly we trek down passing through some interesting villages and terraced fields on the way and get arrive at Khebang for the overnight camp.

Day 21: Khebang to Birtamod by drive (12 Hrs)


After the beautiful adventure of Kanchenjunga, a long day drives towards Birtamod via a bumpy ride to the main road, overnight at Birtamod.

Day 22: Drive 45 minutes to Bhadrapur then fly back to Kathmandu.


According to the flight schedule, We leave from Birtamod two and a half hours before the flight time. A short drive takes us to Bhadrapur, and from there catch a return flight to Kathmandu. Relax with good food and drinks in the evening.

Day 23: Final Departure or explore more side trip


If you have more days in Nepal, can explore some side city tours,  Chitwan wildlife park, Pokhara, paragliding, River rafting, and many more, otherwise a final departure to the airport.

What's included

  • Airport picks up and drops off by Car, jeep, Hiace, or Bus. Depends on the number of arrives.
  • Complimentary welcome or farewell dinner according to the suitability of our client’s time.
  • Beginning two nights stay on arrival in Kathmandu in a tourist standard hotel with breakfast included (twin share basis)
  • Two-way Flight Ticket from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and back for the clients and a guide.
  • Bhadrapur To Taplejung drive and way back from Khewang to Bhadrapur by Jeep.
  • All necessary trekking and restricted area permit & fees, (Entry Permit, Kanchenjunga conservation area permit, Kanchenjunga Restricted area special permit, and TIMS cards).
  • All accommodations during the trek in local teahouses.
  • An experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed, first aid-trained Kanchenjunga special trekking guide and assistant guide (6 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
  • Expert Kanchanjunga local porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Duffel bag, (to be returned after trip completion), complementary trekking maps. If needed down jacket and sleeping bag will be provided in rent.
  • Staff costs include their salary, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and accommodation.
  • Rescue arrangements if necessary.
  • Basic First-aid kit (carried by your trekking guide)
  • All government and local taxes for Trekking, Agency service charges,s and government tax/vat.
  • Achievement Certificate

What's not included

  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than in the scheduled itinerary
  • Personal insurance covers medical, emergency evacuation, loss, or theft of property.
  • Personal gear and equipment.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, Wifi, etc
  • Entry fees and costs for sightseeing (temples, monasteries, etc)
  • Tips and gratitude were provided to the guide and porter.

Good to Know

CLIMATE OF KANCHENJUNGA               

The sub-tropical monsoon is often predictable and pleasant in the Kanchenjunga region. About halfway between June and the third week of September comes the monsoon season. This time period accounts for 80% of rainfall, and the rest of the year is dry. The ideal seasons for trekking, peak-climbing, expeditions, and other activities are spring and fall. The four to six seasons that have been assigned to it are as follows.
 

​BEST TIME FOR KANCHENJUNGA TREK

The autumn, from September to November, is the ideal season for Kanchenjunga treks. There are lower chances of rain during this time, which allows for clear views of the Himalayas. In a similar vein, the spring months, from March to May, are ideal for trekking to Kanchenjunga. At this time of year, the lush woodland is covered in lovely vegetation. While trekking, it provides you with a fantastic experience. Late December, January, and February are the least popular times of year to hike up Kanchenjunga. The Sinion La (4646 m) and Mirgin La (4470 m) passes are hazardous when there is a lot of snow on the ground.

HOW LONG TREK GOES FOR?

The expedition generally depends on your interests and the destinations you want to see. On your trek, you can plan day hikes, cultural excursions to nearby communities, and leisurely downtime. The hike will depend on your vacation.

Two paths make up the Kanchenjunga circle. One goes counterclockwise from south to north, and the other is from north to south (clockwise). Selecting a route is a crucial choice before beginning your Kanchenjunga adventure because each has advantages and disadvantages. The anti-clockwise route is quicker, but the longer clockwise route means that you will have enough time to acclimatize.

18 Days for North base camp Trek and 24 days  for both base camp

CAN I TREK SOLO?

In Kanchenjunga, solo hiking is prohibited. You must hike in a pack or with a companion. If you can't find a hiking companion, Contact us.

WHY DO I NEED GUIDE AND PORTER FOR KANCHANJUNGA TREK?

You require a special permit from the immigration department of the Nepali government to enter the restricted area known as the Kanchenjunga Trek. During your Kanchenjunga trip, your guide and porters are crucial. The many trekking pathways are known to guides. Not only that, but guides also describe the locals' traditions and ways of life. Even during peak season, the guide will reserve your lodging and everything else in advance. With guides, you can communicate effectively with locals. On the other hand, you can also employ guides who double as porters, carrying your luggage while also providing guiding services.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING DURING KANCHENJUNGA TREK

You should include some essential trekking equipment for the Kanchenjunga trip. Here are some additional details that you can learn by contacting us.

IS THERE ANY ATMS FACILITIE AVILABLE DURING KANCHENJUNGA TREK?

The region surrounding Kanchenjunga lacks an ATM. In Birtamod and Bhadrapur, ATM services are available before and after the trek but not during it. Thus, before beginning the walk, you must have adequate cash with you from Kathmandu.

MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

Mountain sickness is another name for altitude sickness. The biggest issue for all mountain hikers is mountain sickness. During the Kanchenjunga hike, trekkers may occasionally experience several sorts of sickness, including:

  • AMS – Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a relatively common illness that causes symptoms such as a hangover, nausea, headache, dizziness, and vomiting, among others.
  • HAPE – High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) is fluid in the lungs that poses a threat to one's ability to breathe.
  • HACEHACE, or High Altitude Cerebral Edema It causes fluid in the brain, which is a separate sort of altitude sickness.

Therefore, the most harmful and potentially fatal forms of mountain sickness are HAPE and HACE. The patient must receive treatment as soon as possible; otherwise, they risk dying. AMS is a common kind of mountain sickness, unlike HACE and HAPE.

WHAT TYPES OF FOOD WILL BE AVILABLE?

The national dish of Nepal, DAL-BHAT, which consists of rice, dal, and veggies, will be served, along with pasta, soups, potatoes, bread, fruits, and eggs. When possible, we'll use locally sourced, fresh products. We'll provide portions that are adequate for your caloric requirements. Please let us know if you have any particular dietary requirements.