Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is a magnificent trek as Kanchenjunga itself is an awesome place! There is nothing like what we will witness just below the looming Mountain Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters). This area is declared as a gift of the Earth – full of alpine grasslands, rocky outcrops, dense temperate and sub-tropical forests. Geographically located in north-eastern Nepal, along with the Nepal India border in the Himalayas, this enchanting area offers an excellent display of flowering glory including rhododendrons, orchids, and lilies. A trip to this region would not be complete without a visit to the spectacular Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The 2,035 square Kilometers has a rich diversity of wildlife including snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and red panda. Pheasant, red-billed blue magpie, shy drongo are the major birds found here.
This Kanchenjunga tent trek (Long) has been designed by Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition for those who want to spend month’s holidays in Nepal. Many trekkers describe Kanchenjunga as the finest trekking route in Nepal since it is a long trek going deep into the distant mountain ranges on Nepal’s border with Sikkim and Tibet. The trail takes us to the area around Kanchenjunga where we can see a wide range of scenery from green, tropical jungle through to rhododendron, chestnut and oak forests and then at higher altitudes into the alpine zone. Most part of this area is inhabited by Sherpas who have different culture and tradition from those of Solukhumbu district. Rais, Chhetris, Brahmans are other ethnic groups found in this region, and we will witness their cultures are revealed in the monasteries, temples, prayer wheels and mani walls. So Kanchenjunga is a breath-taking trekking destination which will better our wildest dreams!
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu(1337m)
Day 03: Fly Kathmandu to Suketar (1 hour) walk to Lali Kharka (2266m) 2 -3 hours
Day 04: Lalikharka to Khesewa (2125m) 4-5 hours
Day 05: Khesewa to Mamangkhe (1786m) 5-6 hours
Day 06: Mamangkhe to Yamphudin (1692m)4- 5 hours
Day 07: Yamphudin to Chitre (2925m) 5-6 hours
Day 08: Chitre to Tortong (2980m) 6 -7 hours
Day 9: Tortong to Cheram (3868m) 6- hours
Day 10: Cheram to Ramche (4610m) 4-5 hours
Day 11: Rest day in Ramche (4610m) – Exploration
Day 12: Ramche to Mirgin- La (4645m) 6-7 hours
Day 13: Mirgin- La to Ghunsa (3415m) 4-5 hours
Day 14: Ghunsa to Khambachen (4145m) 4-5 hours
Day 15: Khambachen to Lhonak (4792m) 5-6 hours
Day 16: Lhonak to Pang Pema (5140m) 4-5 hours
Day 17: Exploration Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5280m) and walk to Lhonak
Day 18: Trek to Ghunsa (3415m) 5-6 hours
Day 19: Ghunsa to Kyapra (Gyabla) (2726m) 5-6 hours
Day 20: Kyapra to Sekathum (1650m) 5-6 hours
Day 21: Sekathum to Chirwa (1185m) 4-5 hours
Day 22: Chirwa to Phurumba (890m) 3-4 hours
Day 23: Phurumba to Taplejung (2420m) 5-6 hours
Day 24: Taplejung to Suketar to Kathmandu (1-hour flight)
Day 25: Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu or Bhaktapur (1401)Sightseeing 3-4 hours
Day 26: Departure from Kathmandu (1337m)
Our Guest’s security is of dominant concern to Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition. Please understand that the HV Treks trekking leader has the authority to adjust or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is found prudent. Unfavorable circumstances may occur during the trek. Such as dangerous weather conditions, the condition of a group member, natural events like landslides, can force changes in the itinerary. All efforts will be made to keep to the planned itinerary. The HV Treks leader will try his/her best to ensure that the trip goes smoothly and according to plan, but please be ready to be flexible if necessary. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is capable, experienced, and prepared to give a 24-hour emergency response to an accident or condition that requires attention or evacuation.
The Airport is at high-altitude and flights in or out are prone to delays due to weather conditions. In the wetter, cloudy months, flights are sometimes delayed or canceled until next day or when the weather permits. Guests should please make sure their timetable for the trip allows for these possible delays.
Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition requires that trekking and expedition guests have Insurance Policies. A Travel Insurance Policy should cover the cost of emergencies (including altitude sickness), injuries, and evacuations. Please, it is essential to bring your Travel Insurance Policy, or copies of your pertinent existing insurance coverage with you to Nepal. HV Treks will require a copy for our office records. We, as well, advise you to inform your existing insurance agent/company of your itinerary, including trekking, climbing, and hiking, and insure your current policy provides sufficient coverage.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
You are welcomed to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal renowned for historical monuments, Hindu Temples, and Buddhist Stupas/Monasteries. We meet our guests at the Tribhuvan International Airport. A representative will be waiting with a Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition placard with our guests’ names displayed. After dropping luggage at the hotel, guests are taken for a short sightseeing tour. In the evening, guests are invited to a Welcome Dinner at a Nepali restaurant.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu(1337)
A local guide will be available. According to your wishes, the guide will escort you for sightseeing. Sightseeing may include the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupati, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square, and the Swoyambhunath areas. Starting after breakfast, usually at 9.00am, the exploration of Kathmandu Valley can continue until 5.00pm. Lunch and dinner, you will be responsible for.
Day 03: Fly Kathmandu to Suketar (1hour) walk to Lali Kharka (2266m) 2-3 hours
These days there is a direct flight from Kathmandu to Suketar thrice a week. Hence, after having breakfast, we have a flight to Suketar today for about an hour. Other trekking crews along with all the trekking gears will have been already in Suketar by bus except the trekking leader. The trekking leader (guide) will be flying along with the clients.
When we are flying in the aircraft we can enjoy the panoramic sights of great Himalayas of Nepal including Mt. Everest (8,848m), Mt, Makalu (8,463m), Mt, Cho Oyu (8153m), Mt. Lhotse (8,501m) and Mt. Lhotse Shar (8,393m), Kanchenjunga, Gaurishankar, Ganesh, Langtang etc. We stay in Biratnagar and make all the preparations for the forthcoming journey.
After getting Sukhetar we will hike around the Sukhetar village and after refreshment, we head to LaliKharka with the trekking team. On the trails, we walk by rich pastures and pristine settlements. After several descents for 2-3 hours, we will arrive at LaliKharka.
Day 04: Lalikharka to Khesewa (2125m) 4-5 hours
This morning, from our camp, we will see the entire day’s walk in front of us. After crossing the hillside for a short distance, we will descend to the village of Pokhara on the Phawa Khola and cross a suspension bridge before beginning the steep climb towards Kunjari. The afternoon’s walk then takes us up over the crest of the ridge to our campsite at Keswa. From here, you get your first views of Mt Kanchenjunga along with Mt Yulung and the other Himalayas.
Day 05: Khesewa to Mamangkhe (1786m) 5-6 hours
Today we walk from Keswa through pleasurable terraced fields and cross a steep mountainside high above the Kabeli Khola and then we will cross several villages like Funfun and continue along a cool path to Apan. During today’s trekking, we get our first distant views of Jannu (7710m), one of the most remarkable peaks in the region. Ultimately we reach the affluent village of Mamangkhe where we spend the night. We can visit the Limbu museum and culture center here. Also, we see a tourist information board.
Day 06: Mamangkhe to Yamphudin (1692m)4-5 hours
After having breakfast in the early morning at the camp, our trek begins with an easy climb towards Yamphudin. The path goes through hillside above the Kabeli Khola, ridges and stream beds. Along the way, we can stop to bathe in one of the many clear pools in this beautiful river. It is a peaceful countryside. We then head to Yamphudin which is most remote human settlement in this region. This is a village where the tribes like Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Gurung live. The check post of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) lies here.
Day 07: Yamphudin to Chitre (2925m) 5-6 hours
After Yamphudin, the path ascends to cross the Omje Khola. We will walk through a beautiful and dense forest and w have fine views of the valley beyond Yamphudin to the south and of the OmjeKhola Valley and Deorali Danda to the north. Then we head to Chetre our campsite.
Day 08: Chitre to Tortong (2980m) 6-7hours
From Chitre, we cross Laslya (Lamite) Bhanjyang pass (3415m) and then we will ascend steeply for 3 hours through dense forest to the top of the Deorali Danda which is the best destination for Mt. Jannu and then we descend to the valley of Simbua Khola and after crossing the bridge we will get Tortong.
Day 9: Tortong to Cheram (3868m) 6 -7 hours
In the early morning after having breakfast at camp, we will follow the path along the river and the path passes through the pine and rhododendron forests then we have a steep climb to reach the Tseram where we can see astonishing views of the snow-capped Himalayas and huge Yalung glacier. Tseram is a beautiful campsite on an almost flat lawn, so evenly that it looks like it was built. Against the mountain slope, you see the steep path to the Mirgin and Selele La, one of the possible routes to Ghunsa. A helipad spot is here in Cheram for the emergency rescue.
Day 10: Cheram to Ramche (4610m) 4-5 hours
Today we have a short walk in comparison to other days. We will move ahead to our Ramche. As we ascend we have clear views of Yalung glaciers, series of ablation valley, Kokthan, Rothong and Kabru are the highlights of today’s walk. For the afternoon we reach Ramche our base for visiting the southern viewpoint. We set up camp in a majestic landscape of high mountains. In the afternoon lazing around, good to get used to the altitude; or a stroll in the neighborhood. We can have luck to see blue sheep in this area.
Day 11: Rest day in Ramche (4610m) – Exploration
Today is a rest day at Ramche. We can hike around the Ramche. If we hike around the Ramche, we can see our first close encounter with Kanchenjunga, Khumbakarna Glacier flowing from the east face of Jannu and then we will return to our camp at Ramche, we may see the blue sheep on the slopes, the only place in Nepal south to avoid the high Himalayas chain. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition tour leader will manage for the visit to the different places today.
Day 12: Ramche to Mirgin- La (4645m) 6-7 hours
Leaving our Ramche campsite, we trek down the valley, passing the small settlement of Lapsang, then Sinelapche Bhanjyang, a pass (4645m) before turning off towards the Mirgin La – the pass we must cross in order to reach Gunsa and the north side of Kanchenjunga. As we descend from the Mirgin- La, the view of Mt Jannu is simply outstanding. With clear weather the views north and westward unsurpassed.
Day 13: Mirgin- La to Ghunsa (3415m) 4- hours
Today we have a steep descent but easy from the campsite that brings us to Lamba Sumba Kharka where there are more fabulous views of the awesome southwest face of Jannu. Descending through an excellent trail in the midst of rhododendron forests finally we come at Ghunsa, a famous Buddhist village of the region that looks very different from the villages that we previously encountered. The wooden houses are inhabited by people with mongoloid appearance. The supplies for our trekking ahead are added here. We are now on the north side of the Kanchenjunga chain. Today it is only three hours walk after lunch so that we have time to look good in this remote village around. There is also a Buddhist monastery where we can go to visit. Check post and office of KCAP lies here.
Day 14: Ghunsa to Khambachen (4145m) 4-5 hours
Today, we follow the path towards the northern base camp of Kanchenjunga through the beautiful pina and rhododendron forest. First a piece along the river, then over the bridge. The last real trees stand just beyond Lapuk Kharka the coming days, the scenery is pure alpine. A little further is a magnificent waterfall. Then we climb a lot and after something to descend, we reach Khambachen. Along the way, there are constantly the magnificent views of the Mt. Jannu and Kumbhakaran.
Day 15: Khambachen to Lhonak (4792m) 5-6 hours
From Khambachen, the trek goes up to Lhonak via Ramdang village where a summit of Wedge peak will be visible. We can walk on the trail easily enjoying with the breathtaking views of the valley and mountains despite the increase in altitude. On the way, we will get the views of Nepal Peak, Twins peak, Mera and the white wave. Finally, we will reach Lhonak crossing over the river through the bridge consists of two wobbly logs also getting fun with the scenery on the way. Lhonak is an odd plain, in the autumn, often it is foggy and in the presence of special light, it seems as if we are camping by the sea.
Day 16: Lhonak to Pang Pema (5140m) 4-5 hours
Today, we walk to the highest point of the trip, Pang Pema at 5100 m, near to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp (KBC). Along and across the moraine run two routes. In autumn, the hillsides are full of blue sheep; there must also live snow leopards. Then, after two weeks of tension, there is finally the moment we see the highest peak of the Kanchenjunga massif. The view of the mountain seems so close. Besides the Kanchenjunga itself, we get weather permitting magnificent mountain panoramas presented: Wedge Peak, Yalung Kang, Chen Kamba, Nepal Peak etc.
Day 17: Exploration Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5280m) and walk to Lhonak
In the early morning after having breakfast, we move towards the North Base Camp (5280m) to Lhonak and it takes approximately six hours. Here we can enjoy the snow-capped mountains and Kanchenjunga glacier. There are gorges of mountain glacier through which water flows all the time. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition tour leader will arrange for the visit to the different places today. During the middle of the day, the scene of falling avalanches may mesmerize us completely. We trek back to the campsite of Lhonak for the night.
Day 18: Trek to Ghunsa (3415m) 6-7 hours
From Lhonak we will trek to Ghunsa which takes around seven hours. The trails follow the descending path crossing the jungle along the Khambachen River. Somewhere we can see the Mani walls and prayer flags hanging over the tree. Finally, we will reach again Ghunsa where we spend the night.
Day 19: Ghunsa to Kyapra (Gyabla) (2726m) 5-6 hours
From Ghunsa, we will trek up to Kyapra that passes through the beautiful Gunsa and Tamur Kholas, spectacular forests of rhododendron, conifer, birch, and oak. The valley sides here are steep and the trail follows the river as it flows downwards. We reach and stay at Kyapra, the last of the Tibetan villages. Gompa, Chyorten, and temples are the places of interest here.
Day 20: Kyapra to Sekathum (1650m) 5-6 hours
Today for heading to the village of Sekathum, our route follows an undulating trail for the first couple of hours until we reach Amjilossa, a Sherpa village. From here, there is a long steep descent from which you can see the Gunsa Khola Valley stretched out before us. Helipad spot lies here too.
Day 21: Sekathum to Chirwa (1185m) 45- hours
Leaving Sekathum, we will head to Chirwa today; on the way to Chirwa we meet the confluence of two rivers, Simbua Khola and Gunsa Khola at Tamur Kosi. We walk on the trail along Tamur Khola, many other small tributaries and streams come on our way. After trekking for about 4-5 hours we enter the pristine village of Chirwa.
Day 22: Chirwa to Phurumba (890m) 3-4 hours
This day we follow the path to Phurumba by crossing the cultivated terraced land and rich pastures. Then our trail zigzags through the path of steep stones. After climbing for about 4 hours we come to the valley of Phurumba.
Day 23: Phurumba to Taplejung (2420m) 5-6 hours
From Phurumba, we will move towards to Taplejung village through the ascending path for about 3 hours. After reaching Taplejung village we see village life, cultural richness, and custom and local people. Thereafter leisurely ascends of about 2 hours, we finally reach the airstrip at Suketar where we will conclude the trip of the day.
Day 24: Taplejung to Suketar to Kathmandu (1-hour flight)
In the early morning, we fly to Kathmandu. At Kathmandu airport, Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff will receive and take us to the designed hotel. In the evening we have free time for refreshment and shopping.
To be noted: The flight from Suketar to Kathmandu takes place thrice a week and sometimes the flight may be canceled due to the adverse weather condition. In such cases, we may have to pay extra charge US $ 250-$350 for the plane charter so that we will not miss our flight to our home country from Kathmandu.
Day 25: Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu or Bhaktapur (1401m) Sightseeing 3-4 hours
This day is free too. If you wish, a sightseeing trip to the ancient temple/king’s seat of the world heritage site of incredible Bhaktapur can be arranged. The tour lasts 4 hours and will cost an additional upcharge. In the evening, a Farewell Dinner is given by Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition.
Day 26: Departure from Kathmandu (1337m)
Today, we check the list of all necessary documents and goods of our guest. We confirm the flight tickets before 72 hours of departure flight. We advise our guest to put passport and tickets at their handbag for convenience. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff representative will take our valuable guests to the airport (3 hours prior to your flight) and bid goodbye.
Number of participants
Minimum number of participants: 4
Maximum number of participants: 12
Max Altitude: 5140 meters
Best Season: Sep – Nov and Mar-May
Difficulty Level: Moderate
December, January, and February
It is called the winter season in Nepal. It is a season for snowfall in mountain region above 4300m in Nepal. So trekking is possible below 4500m during this period. This season is noted for occasional snowfall at higher elevations in the Himalayas. Though it gets colder in a night, often it offers the clear day / blue sky and relatively fewer trekkers on the trail. Sunrise and Sunset are seen very clear and beautiful in this season. So tourist who wants to pass short holidays during this period Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes to see a splendid view of nature. During this period, we arrange a family tour to experience natural beauty with short hikes and cultural tour. It is suitable for homestay tour through which different rituals and culture can be experienced during this period. The famous homestay like Sailung Timal homestay,Timal homestay, Tamang Heritage Homestay, Ghalegaon Homestay are the special places to visit. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges a tour for these places.
March, April, and May
It is spring season which is known as trekking season in Nepal. A smooth wind and gentle breeze are felt all over the country. Sunny days and clear weather are the supportive factors for trekking in this season. Presence of a cloud can be seen in the sky during this season. So a short rainfall can be felt during this period. It is the season of an expedition and climbing high peaks in Nepal. So many tourists from different parts of the world come to climb peaks above 7000m in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and journey for climbing during this period. Peak climbing period can be in length up to June so Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges attractive programmes during this period. This period offers plenty of opportunities for clear mountain views. It is also the time for flowers to blossom, and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendrons – coat the mountainsides with its colorful beauty throughout the spring.
June, July, and August
It is rainy season in Nepal. As it is the season of heavy rainfall. it is also known as the crops harvesting season in Nepal. In this season, trekking is slightly difficult in Nepal. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Trekking in the rain-shadow (places are out of reach of the rain clouds because of the high mountains) areas north of the Himalaya like Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection. However, Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and trek during this period in dry areas. We arrange treks and tour in dry areas like Mustang, Upper Dolpa, Leh Ladakh (India) and Tibet.
September, October, and November
Moderate temperatures, clear sky with outstanding views, making it a great time to do any of our treks. Occasional short storms may dump snow at high altitudes. This is the season of feast and festivals. This is also known as the special season for flowers in Nepal. Marigold is popular and found best in this season. Temples and holy places are visited during this period. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath are celebrated during this season. Long national holidays are offered for this festival for civil workers. This season is known as the king of the season. No rainfall, sunny days and moderate temperature are the most favorable factors of this season for treks and tours in Nepal. Every kind of treks and tours can be done during this period. So many tourists come to see beautiful Nepal in this season. Many trekking routes are full of tourist during this season. Peaks 6000m to 7000m is the best destination for climbing in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes tourist to feel the splendid view of the nature of Nepal in this season.
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Please understand that the items listed below will vary according to the season and the duration of the trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 12 kg. Your gear will be carried by your porter and you will be required to carry your own day-pack (with your valuables and things of immediate importance to you). We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary. Our list of equipment is prepared on the basis of our long experience. The Himalayan Vacation Trek & Expedition Team leader will check your gear to ensure you have all the necessary equipment at the start of the trek. If necessary, the HVTreks’ guide will request additions of necessary equipment when and where it is available.
Important documents and items
Head
Upper Body
Hands
Lower Body
Feet
Sleeping
Rucksack and Travel Bags
Medical
-Note: In the larger towns and cities of Nepal, pharmacies have available common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Western/foreign brand name products and prescription drugs are not. We suggest you bring the pharmaceuticals you use in enough quantity.
Practical Items
