The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek lasts 13days, including 18 days of challenging and unforgettable trekking through some of Nepal’s most beautiful landscapes.
Introduction to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
The base camp itself is situated at Ramche (4,610m), which is reached by following the trail through the Yalung Glacier, stopping a while at the viewpoint for Kabru, and Rathong peaks, which are part of the ridge that extends south from Kanchenjunga. In fact Kabru is the southern-most 7,000m peak in the world. From Ramche it is possible to hike to a ridge that offers views of the magnificent Kanchenjunga South Face and, a little ahead, views of the south face of Mount Janu, Nyukla Lanchung and other awe-inspiring Himalayan peaks can also be seen from here.
The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek offers views of sensational snow-capped mountain peaks plus a landscape of subtropical lowlands, rhododendron and alpine forests, and spectacular glaciers. Protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and the Sacred Himalayan Landscape initiative of the World Wild Life Fund (WWF), there is an abundant variety of wildlife including the elusive snow leopard, the Asian black bear, and red panda, to name just some of the more rare mammals. Bird lovers may get the chance to see the golden-breasted fulvetta, snow cock and blood pheasant, among others.
For those with good fitness and experience, a desire to see the third highest mountain in the world after Everest and K2, and an interest in nature, this is an inspiring trek
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Highlights
– Sleep on the lap of the third highest peak in the world, Kanchenjunga (8586 meters)
– Ascend to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp to catch stunning views of Kanchenjunga’s South Face.
– Learn something about the lifestyle and culture of the local peoples of this area – the Limbu.
– Walk through Kanchenjunga Conservation Area with the possibility of catching sight of many magnificent animals.
– Hike through the subtropical lowlands, and alpine forests of rhododendrons and magnolia.
– Fly into the lowlands of Nepal, situated near the Indian border, and get a brief insight into life on the Terai.
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (Flight) and Drive to Fikkal/Kanyam Fikkal/Kanyam – 1,500 m / 4,921 ft – 5-6 hrs
Your early morning flight to Bhadrapur takes around 45 minutes. Depending on the actual departure time you can have breakfast in your hotel in Kathmandu or you can grab something at the airport, or in Bhadrapur on arrival.
Your adventure starts with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, which takes about 45 minutes. You can have breakfast at your hotel, at the airport, or after you arrive. From Bhadrapur, you will drive through rolling hills and green tea fields to reach Fikkal or Kanyam, famous for its beautiful tea gardens. Once you arrive, you can walk around the tea estates and enjoy the fresh air.
Day 2: Drive from Ilam to Taplejung Taplejung – 1,800 m / 5,905 ft – 4-5 hrs
After breakfast in the tea hills you will continue your scenic drive deeper into the eastern part of Nepal. The first leg takes you to Taplejung, a bustling hill town that is the gateway to Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
The road winds through forests and rural settlements, giving you glimpse of local life and culture.From Taplejung you will drive to Yamphuding, a remote village where your trekking adventure starts.
This village is surrounded by beautiful terraced fields and traditional houses. The drive today helps you cover a big distance so you can start your trek fresh tomorrow.
Day 3: Taplejung to Yamphuding Yamphuding – 2,080 m / 6,824 ft – 6 hrs
Your trekking starts from Taplejung at 1,800 m / 5,905 ft, following a gentle trail that winds through terraced fields and traditional Limbu and Rai villages. You will pass through mixed forests of bamboo, rhododendron, and cardamom plantations, crossing small streams along the way. Villagers can be seen working in their fields, and you’ll get glimpses of their daily rural life and unique culture.
The trail is mostly gradual but can be slippery and muddy after rainfall, so good trekking shoes are a must. You’ll cross several suspension bridges over the Tamor and Kabeli rivers and walk through shaded forest sections alive with birdsong. By late afternoon, you will reach Yamphuding at 2,080 m / 6,824 ft, a large village surrounded by hills and farmland. Here you will spend the night in a local teahouse, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and warm hospitality of the villagers.
Day 4: Yamphuding to New Jhoroni New Jhoroni – 2,700 m / 8,858 ft – 6 hrs
Your trekking starts with a gradual trail that passes through mixed forests and small streams. You will see traditional houses and villagers working in the fields. The region is home to diverse ethnic groups like Limbu and Rai and you will see their unique culture along the way.
The trail is mostly gentle but can be muddy in some places, especially after rain. You will cross suspension bridges over rivers and walk under the shade of rhododendron and bamboo forests. By late afternoon you will reach New Jhoroni, a peaceful spot where you will spend the night surrounded by nature sounds.
Day 5: New Jhoroni to Cheram Cheram – 3,870 m / 12,696 ft – 7 hrs
Today’s walk takes you deeper into Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The trail climbs gradually through lush forests of rhododendron, oak and pine. In spring these forests are filled with blooming flowers making the walk even more magical.
As you gain altitude you will start to see glimpses of the snow-capped peaks ahead. Small streams and waterfalls accompany you along the trail and you might spot birds or even signs of wildlife. After a steady day’s hike you will reach Cheram, a beautiful village surrounded by mountains. Overnight in Cheram.
Day 6: Gyabla to Ghunsa Ghunsa – 3595 m / 11794 ft – 4 hrs
The landscape is much as it was yesterday – pastures, forests, relatively wide and easy trails, and great mountain views!
Having said that, the altitude has risen quite a bit today, so we recommend you maintain a steady, not too fast, pace. And please monitor your body for any sign of altitude related problems such as headache and/or difficulty breathing.
As for Ghunsa village, where you will stay tonight, it is the largest settlement in the area with a health post, police station and an office belonging to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area people. There are also better facilities at the teahouses, including internet access. Time to catch up with friends online and describe the beauty surrounding you.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day Ghunsa – 3595 m / 11794 ft – 4 hrs
Due to the rise in altitude, and the fact you are going to go even higher, there is an acclimatization day here at Ghunsa.
Take the opportunity to have a relaxed late breakfast, but remember, acclimatization does not equal a ‘lazy day’. The best way to acclimatize is to keep moving!
Therefore, we suggest you do short hikes (remember to tell the guide where you are going and ask his advice) around the area and village. We have been told there may be some shops open in this busy village so check them out and let us know what you find!
Day 8: Ghunsa to Kambachen Kambachen – 4100 m / 13451 ft – 4 hrs
Today the trail will be more uneven and rocky than earlier, and there are a few landslide prone areas to pay attention to as you walk through a glacier valley. But the forests of pine and rhododendron are familiar friends now, as are the waterfalls and small rivers. Once again the altitude is rising making this relatively short hike seem even more challenging.
Mt Jannu is the peak most on display today and you may be lucky to get some stunning sunrise and sunset views of this mountain.
Day 9: Acclimatization Day Kambachen – 4100 m / 13451 ft – 4 hrs
Because of the high altitude, you will take another acclimatization day here in Kambachen. You can take a short 2- or 3-hour hike to a ridge that offers stunning views of Kanchenjunga. This is a great way to acclimatize and prepare for a trip to the high North Base Camp.
Day 10: Yamphuding to Fikkal Fikkal/Kanyam – 1,500 m / 4,921 ft – 5-6 hrsvernight in Fikkal
Your trekking adventure comes to an end as you leave the trails behind and begin the drive back to Fikkal. The journey winds through hills, forests and farmlands giving you one last chance to enjoy the natural beauty of eastern Nepal.
In Fikkal you can relax and rest after the long days of hiking. Take a short walk through the tea gardens if you wish or simply enjoy a hot meal and a comfortable bed. Overnight in Fikkal
Day 11: Fikkal to Bhadrapur and Fly Back to Kathmandu Bhadrapur – 91 m / 299 ft – 45 min
After breakfast you’ll drive to Bhadrapur Airport passing through tea estates and rural landscapes. From Bhadrapur you’ll take a short domestic flight back to Kathmandu.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can rest and reflect on your incredible Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek. This once in a lifetime trek will leave you with memories of majestic mountains, remote villages and the warm people of eastern Nepal.
Plan Your Trip
WHATS A INCLUDED
14 nights’ accommodation in mountain teahouses
3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu (Bodhi Boutique or similar)
Kathmandu Bhadrapur Kathmandu Flight
Bhadrapur Taplejung and Khamdime Bhadrapur local bus
Guide for 15 days
Kanchenjunga conservation area permit
Restricted area permit
15 x breakfast, 14 x lunch and 14 x dinner while on the trek
Vegan
One Porter for 15 days USD 380
Private Jeep USD 430 (Optional)