Kanchenjunga Trek

Duration: 18 Days | Trip Photos | Trip Map

Destination: Nepal
Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
Transport: Private Vehicle / Aeroplane
Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel + Teahouses + Lodges
Group Size: Minimum 2 Pax (USD 200 extra for solo traveller)
Max Elevation: 5140m

Kanchenjunga Trek is an incredible journey to the foothills of Mt Kanchenjunga and heavenly Eastern Nepal. Being the third highest peak in the world, Mt Kanchenjunga (8,586m) has been dragging mountaineers and trekkers from all around the globe. It is no surprise that the majestic peak also attracts you.

Kanchenjunga has five peaks and is shared by India and Nepal. The Kanchenjunga Main, Central, and South lie on the border, and the Kangbachen and Kanchenjunga west lie entirely in Nepal. This trek will ultimately be on Nepal’s side. You will get to see and explore the beauty of the land of Nepal. Read detail on Where Kanchenjunga is Located?

This adventure to the home of Kanchenjunga is an excursion of 18 days. Beginning in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, the trip will progress through the unexplored side of Nepal. It is a trek for avid trekkers who like to explore the world's tranquil, remote, and off-the-beaten corners.

The explorers of the British Expedition in May 1995 explored a trail to reach

Oktang (Kanchenjunga South Base Camp) and Yarlung Glacier. And this Kanchenjunga Trek follows the same route. You will walk through the exciting path to reach Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4,780m) and Kanchenjunga North Base Camp(5,190m). Check more on how to reach Kanchenjunga.

The whole trek is a sheer experience for trekkers. Starting the tour with a scenic flight and drive, trekkers reach the beginning point of the walk. Then, trekkers travel across beautiful villages of various ethnic people in the region. The tour offers you a look into their lifestyle and culture. As the trek progresses, trekkers traverse via the lush Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, an affluent site of flora and fauna.

Many rivers, streams, waterfalls, ponds, and glaciers come along on this walk. The best thing about the trek is good things keep coming at you. Scenic mountain passes and magnificent snow-clad peaks are just some of the good things. The notable peaks of the trek are Kanchenjunga series, Yalung Kang, Kirat Chuli, Kabru, Pathibhara, Gimigela, Doma, Faktanglung and more. Likewise, the important mountain passes of the trek are Miring La, Selele Pass, and Tamo La. You will touch numerous other attractive hilltops and ridges.

As said earlier, Kanchenjunga Trek is a complete trekking package. It is ranked as a moderate to difficult trek; thus, it is only for avid and experienced trekkers. It requires good preparation, experience, and immense enthusiasm to do this adventure. If you feel like you have all of them, we are here to help you on unraveling this journey.

Why Choose Kanchenjunga Trek?

Peaceful Trail

The home of Kanchenjunga is not a crowded region. It is a tranquil region that only attracts peace lovers. Unlike Everest Trail or Annapurna Trail, Kanchenjunga Trail lets you peacefully talk to yourself and nature.

Full of natural adventures

Kanchenjunga Trek is a sublime trail for adventure lovers. The not-so-developed path has all sorts of excitement. Glaciers, mountain passes, uphills, dense woods, endangered species, rivers, mountain base camps, and more. What you are going to get is never sure on this trek.

Novel experience

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is about exploring the unexplored side of Nepal. This part of Nepal is not experienced by many. The beauty and madness of the trek are forbidden things for the world. This is the trek if you want to share something novel.

Culture and Lifestyle

Nepal is a country rich in culture. And Kanchenjunga Region proves that quite nicely. The trek embarks you on the journey to experience the mixture of Tibetan, Indian, and Nepalese cultures and living styles. The region’s higher parts are remote and less developed. You can learn something on this trek that you cannot learn elsewhere.

Mountain Vistas

Kanchenjunga Trek is also about awe-inspiring mountains. The trek consists of multiple mountain shows at various mountain passes, hilltops, ridges, and base camps. You’ll have some of the best mountain sights of your life. Along with the third highest peak in the world, you will catch pictures of Mt Jannu, Mera Peak, Rathong Peak, Janu Peak, and many more.

When is the best time for Kanchenjunga Trek?

When to walk Kanchenjunga Trek? Well, the answer is simple. Do it when everything is alright. That would be the Autumn and Spring seasons, the best times to explore Nepal’s higher corners. The seasons are just perfect for venturing into the Kanchenjunga region.

Autumn(September, October, November) is a stable time to visit eastern Nepal, the home of Mt Kanchenjunga. It is dry weather with minimal precipitation level. There are fewer chances of rainfall and snowfall during Autumn. You can glance at landscapes, valleys, and peaks without any disturbance. The weather is also quite ideal and warm. Plus, it is the time of grand festivals in Nepal.

Likewise, Spring(March to May) is another ideal time for Kanchenjunga Trekking. It is the season of colorful flowers and surroundings. Everything is blossoming in this season, especially Rhododendron flowers. Also, the temperature is mild and bearable except during night and morning hours. The precipitation level is shallow, meaning fewer rainfall chances and a dry trail.

How Difficult is the Kanchenjunga Trek

Kanchenjunga Trek is not for newbies. It is one route that takes you to the wild, remote, and high parts of Nepal. The trek is long and challenging as you have to spare 21 days for the entire trip. Kanchenjunga Trekking is rated moderate to difficult for its high-altitude trekking and trail nature. Check more on Kanchenjunga trek difficulty.

The trek is an adventurous journey through the rugged, remote, isolated region. The walk begins from an altitude of 900m and reaches a pinpoint of 5,143m. You will cross numerous uphills, ridges, glaciers, rapid descents, and mountain passes. On average, you must trek for 6-8 hours and 10-12kms. Some of the days are even longer.

Trekkers with enough experience, expertise, and preparation can only overcome this trek. Thus, Kanchenjunga Trekking is not a trek for beginners. It is about the ultimate trekking experience in the Himalayas. The conditions can be totally against you at times. You have to sleep in tented camps on some days. Choose this trek only if you can endure such situations. Be well prepared!

Can you do the trek?

You can do the Kanchenjunga trek. However, you must be in good shape, have enough experience, and have excellent preparation. As said in the earlier section, Kanchenjunga Trek is a rough and demanding journey for beginners.

The trek involves a strenuous walk, long days, high altitude trekking, unfavorable weather conditions, and remote circumstances. We do not think a beginner with no prior trekking experience in the mountains can ever complete this trek. We might be wrong, but it is strictly not for novices.

Therefore, if you have walked in the mountains before, experienced high altitudes, and know how to deal with mountains, you are the right fit for this adventure. You also need to do some good cardio and strength training. You got the answer, right?

How to prepare for Kanchenjunga Trek

Kanchenjunga Trek needs some trekking to complete it. The trekker has to be well prepared before the trek date. How they can prepare is confusing. You can focus on Cardiovascular training, Strength Training, and mental training.

Firstly, cardiovascular training is a must for any high-altitude trek. The training makes your lungs and overall cardio system excellent. With a good cardiovascular level, your body can easily supply oxygen to your body, even in high areas. For that reason, cardio training is the first to look at while preparing for Kanchenjunga Trek. Some popular cardio exercises include running, jogging, hiking, cycling, swimming, and hill climbing. Make a strict plan of 2-3 months and act on it.

Likewise, Kanchenjunga Trekking demands trekking with solid strength. Strength will be required for walking, climbing, and crossing the trek's rugged, steep, and downhill. As you know, you have to walk for 7-8 hours on demanding trails. Thus, do workouts that make your back, shoulder, arm, feet, and entire body. Focus on building stamina and endurance level. The training can include pull-ups, bridges, squats, deadlifts, biceps curls, planks, etc.

Lastly, you need a mind that does not easily give up. A committed mentality is a must for an arduous journey. With such a mentality, you will push yourself on the trek when you don't feel like it.

In this way, you can prepare for Kanchenjunga Trek. Leave everything else to us; we will manage!

Is this trek for Beginners?

No, this trek is not for beginners. Rated as Moderate to Difficult Trek, Kanchenjunga Trek is strictly for experienced and well-prepared trekkers. The tour is a long journey of 21 days in which you have to cross several high mountain passes, reach two base camps, and more. A beginner will have huge problems on this trek. Thus, this trek is not for beginners but experienced trekkers.

Why is Acclimatization necessary?

Acclimatization is a process of becoming accustomed to something new. On Kanchenjunga Trek, the high areas and their altitudes will be unique for you and your lungs. In such a case, your body will need some to get used to the new conditions.

With time, your body will know the high areas and become friendly.

Otherwise, the altitude can get against you, and you might incur altitude sickness. Therefore, acclimatization is necessary for any high-altitude trek. It is the best way to avoid mountain sickness.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Phidim (1,365 m) - 04 hrs

Day 02: Drive to Taplejung and Trek to Sinuwa (980m) - 6 hrs

Day 03: Sinuwa to Tapethok (1,380m)

Day 04: Tapethok to Amjilosa (2,310m)

Day 05: Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)

Day 06: Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m)

Day 07: Acclimatization Day at Ghunsa

Day 08: Ghunsa to Khambachen (4,000 m) - 06 hrs

Day 09: Khambachen to Lhonak (4,780 m) - 06 hrs

Day 10: Trek to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,065 m) return back to Lhonak

Day 11: Lhonak to Khambachen (4,050m)

Day 12: Khambachen to Phaley (3240 m)

Day 13: Phaley to Amjilosa (2,310m)

Day 14: Amjilosa to Tapethok (1,380m)

Day 15: Tapethok to Sinuwa (980m)

Day 16: Sinuwa to Taplejung

Day 17: Drive to Bhadrapur - 03 hrs drive

Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu

Highlights

Fly over the Himalayas, watching Mt Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and more.
Land in eastern Nepal, an unfrequented home of Mt Kanchenjunga.
Explore the fascinating landscapes of the region.
Walk and breathe in the lush forest of oaks, firs, birch, rhododendron, and other vegetation.
Enjoy the serene walk through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and encounter its flora and fauna.
Trek on a remote, virgin, and tranquil trekking trail of Nepal.
Experience the distinct culture, lifestyle, and hardship of locals.
Pass by breathtaking waterfalls, traditional hamlets, electric rivers, vibrant meadows, frosted glaciers, and more.
Climb Kanchenjunga North Base Camp(5,065m) and Kanchenjunga South Base Camp(4,780m).
Grasp glorious snow-clad mountains from multiple ridges, passes, and hilltops.
Catch jaw-dropping peaks such as the Kanchenjunga series, Kokthang, Kabru Range, Januu Himal, Mera Peak
Pay spiritual visits to the monasteries and shrines of the region.
Get an impression of Indian, Nepalese, and Tibetan lifestyles in one single trek.

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Phidim (1,365 m) - 04 hrs
Flight duration: 45 minutes
Drive duration: 4 hrs
Overnight: Phidim
Here we begin! The Kanchenjunga trip will start with a short panoramic flight to Bhadrapur. Bhadrapur is a multicultural city in Eastern Nepal. During the 45 minutes of the flight, you will get to enjoy impressive displays of Mt Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other peaks. Some of the world’s greatest mountains will not be too far.
Your aircraft will slowly find the runway of Bhadrapur Airport for a smooth landing. Upon arrival at Bhadrapur and getting your things together, you’ll join a 4-hour drive to Phidim. The drive will take you through the beautiful plainlands of the area. After being in motion for most of the day, you’ll reach Phidim to rest and refresh. If time allows, you will explore Phidim bazaar in the evening. You can meet and interact with the lovely locals of the town while exploring it.
Day 2 Drive to Taplejung and Trek to Sinuwa (980m) - 6 hrs
Trek duration: 6-7 hrs
Overnight: Sinuwa
Sinuwa altitude: 980m
Today we’ll leave the hotel early in the morning and take a shuttle to drive to Taplejung. Taking the quickest way via Mechi Highway, we’ll drive past many remote villages and tropical forests, which provide great scenery along the road.
With the highway famous for its picturesque vista, you can see lush green hills and rapid streams, offering a gorgeous view. The duration of the drive is almost 9 hours. After arriving at Taplejung, we’ll begin the trek through steep hills that walk past streams and mountain ridges.
We’ll pass many remote villages along the way and travel through the farms before heading down to Tamur River. The trail ascends from the other end, so the last few hours of the trek will be a bit tiring. But once we reach the village, you can relax yourselves at the lodge.
Day 3 Sinuwa to Tapethok (1,380m)
Trek duration: 7 hrs
Overnight: Lodge
Tapethok altitude: 1,380m
Kande Bhanjyang altitude: 2100mThe trek from Sinuwa begins with a gentle walk on a flat terrain passing by a swift stream and along the steep ridges. After walking through some remote settlements and rice fields, we’ll descend the Tamur River. The trail from the other end ascends upstreams, making the way-out-of-the village.
In a little while, we’ll arrive at the beautiful village of Sniuwa, where many trekkers stop to have lunch. After leaving the village, the trail runs through a landslide-prone area before sloping downhill to Thiwakhila.
It’ll then cross a wooden bridge and follow the contour of the terrain that heads to Chiruwa. We’ll continue trekking along the bank of the Tamur River for about an hour or so before it finally turns to Tapethok. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Day 4 Tapethok to Amjilosa (2,310m)
Trek duration: 6 hrs
Overnight: Lodge
Amjilosa altitude: 2,310m
After some well-deserved rest & breakfast, we’ll begin our journey to Amjilosa. It starts with a quick ascent up the hill and a gentle walk to Sakethum. We’ll have lunch at the village to fuel up and finally make the way to Amjilosa. The trek will take about 6 hours, with trails weaving through Jaubari.
There’s only one teashop here where trekkers can relax and have snacks. We’ll arrive at Amjilosa in the late evening, so we won’t have much time to explore the village. Overnight at the teahouse.
Day 5 Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)
Trek duration: 6-7 hrs
Overnight: lodge
Gyabla altitude: 2,730m
The trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla is a 4-hours walk, which may not seem a lot, but it is quite difficult. The trails on this section are bumpy, with many narrow, steep lanes. Before reaching the village, we’ll follow the trail through bamboo and oak forests.
When you arrive at Gyabla, you’ll unfold many secrets and the region's spectacular beauty. You’ll find the main village hidden by the ridge to the west of a lodge, where we’ll spend the night.
Day 6 Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m)
Trek duration: 6-7 hrs
Overnight: Lodge
Ghunsa: 3,595m
The trek to Ghunsa begins with a gentle walk through the forest full of rhododendron, pine, and oak. From here, the trail passes a Tibetan village called Phaley, which was initially a refugee camp. It’s now the main settlement in the northern part of Kanchenjunga. There are many lodges and teahouses in Ghunsa, providing accommodation to trekkers.
Day 7 Acclimatization Day at Ghunsa
We’ll spend a day acclimatizing at Ghunsa to avoid altitude sickness. To make the most of our time, we’ll hike to the viewpoint west of the village at 4,000 meters. It’s a five-hour walk to the altitude with mostly steep and challenging terrains. The whole idea is to trek high and sleep low to
You can see Sele Pass and Pang Pema as we get along the journey. The view from the hilltop is even more gorgeous and breathtaking. You can watch the beautiful Kanchenjunga mountain and Khunsa River Valley. After spending quality time at the standpoint, we’ll descend the trail and come right back to Ghunsa.
Day 8 Ghunsa to Khambachen (4,000 m) - 06 hrs
Trek duration: 6 hrs
Overnight: Khambachen
Khambachen altitude: 4000m
The walk will now direct towards Khambachen, starting with a walk to a river. From the river, you will gradually walk upwards, enjoying waterfall views. You may also meet the local yak herders along the walk. Ahead, the path will reach the banks of Ghunsa. You will cross the river to enter a pine and rhododendron forest.
Likewise, you will have a gradual uphill hike to Rambuk Kharkas. There you can enjoy great landscape views. From there, you will move ahead to cross a small landslide of glaciers. In this way, the trek will keep on, and mountains will also appear in the backdrop. Descending slowly through bushes of juniper, you will reach Khambachen. Camping at Khambachen.
Day 9 Khambachen to Lhonak (4,780 m) - 06 hrs
Trek duration: 6 hrs
Overnight: Lhonak
Lhonak altitude: 4780m
From the campsite of Khambachen, you will walk on a trail that runs just over a river. You will enjoy walking by the side of the river for an hour. Then going further east, the route will descend to the river. And from the banks, you will take a course upwards to rocky boulders. En route, you will also cross the terminal moraine of Kanchenjunga Glacier.
After some more walking on the terminal moraine, you will reach Ramtang Kharkha and Kanchenjunga Glacier. Overlooking Mera Peak, Wedge Peak, and others, you will get to Lohank for the night.
Day 10 Trek to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,065 m) return back to Lhonak
Today, you will not leave Lhonak. But you will hike up to Pang-Pema, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. It will be an important day of the Kanchenjunga Trek as you reach the northern base camp of Kanchenjunga. The day will start with a gradual climb over the hill. You will see Nepal Peak, Givegela Chuli, Kirat Chuli, and Taple Shikhar.
The path will get steeper and rocky as you reach the boulder site. In a bit, you will walk through grassy slopes to a glacier path of the base camp area. If lucky, you will also find herds of blue sheep grazing around. The whole vicinity will be a treat to your eyes and heart. Enjoy mountain sights from the base camp to the fullest, and you will head back to Lhonak’s camp.
Day 11 Lhonak to Khambachen (4,050m)
Trek duration: 6-7 hrs
Overnight at Lodge
Khambachen altitude: 4,050m
We’ll have a strong start on the trail after the time at base camp. So after finishing breakfast, well quickly descend the trail through rough and rocky terrain. The route follows a gentle slope down the hill to Lhonak and makes strides to Ramtang monastery
As we walk the trail to Kambachen, you can enjoy the marvelous view of Kanchenjunga, Sobi, Ghabur, and Phale. After walking the trail for 6-7 hours, we’ll finally arrive at this beautiful village in the north of Ghunsa. Overnight stay in a lodge.
Day 12 Khambachen to Phaley (3240 m)
Trek duration: 5-6 hrs
Overnight: Lodge
Phaley altitude: 3240 m
From Khambachen, we’ll retrace the steps back to Phaley. The trek is mostly downhill and takes just about 6 hours. The trail paves its way through lush green pine forests and cascading waterfalls, which provide a spectacular view. There are not many human settlements on the trail, so we may not have regular breaks. However, we do will get to relish the incredible beauty of high hills and mountain slopes while hiking over the trail.
Day 13 Phaley to Amjilosa (2,310m)
Trek duration: 6-7 hrs
Overnight at: Hotel/Lodge
Amjilosa altitude: 2,310m
After breakfast, we’ll continue walking down the trail to Amjilosa. Leaving the village behind, we’ll pass numerous streams and tributaries before arriving at the village. The trail will have us walk through conifer and birch forest, which provides a beautiful setting. The trail passes Gyabla village and runs along the hills to reach Amjilosa, where we’ll spend the night.
Day 14 Amjilosa to Tapethok (1,380m)
Trek duration: 7-8 hrs
Overnight: Hotel/Lodge
Thapethok Altitude: 1,380m
The day starts with a warm breakfast followed by a short and easy walk down to Tapethok. We’ll make our way through the remote villages of Sakethum and Phembu, which is a four-hour walk. After halfway through, we’ll stop at Phembu to have our lunch and further continue the journey. The trek from here is downward sloping, with most of them walking through lush green forests.
Day 15 Tapethok to Sinuwa (980m)
Trek duration: 7 hrs
Overnight: Hotel/lodge
Sinuwa altitude: 980m
We’ll start our trek to Sinuwa after a hearty breakfast. First, we’ll follow the trail along the Tamur River, which heads to Chiruwa. After reaching the village, we’ll walk down the trail to the river and cross the wooden bridge. The trek continues along and to Thiwakhola, leading to the relics and blocks. After passing the course, we’ll descend the valley that goes all the way to Sinuwa.
Day 16 Sinuwa to Taplejung
Trek duration: 7 hrs
Overnight: Japantar
Waking up to the beautiful morning of Kanchenjunga, you can appreciate the beauty of Kanchenjunga until we pack our bags and get ready for the trek. We’ll begin the hike with an easy walk along the downstream that heads to Tamur River. Passing the rice fields and terrace farms, we’ll approach the rural settlement. Soon, the trail descends the steep ridge and run through green hills, before arriving at Taplejung. Overnight stay at guesthouse.
Day 17 Drive to Bhadrapur - 03 hrs drive
Trek duration: 3 hrs
Flight duration: 45m
Overnight: Kathmandu
Kathmandu altitude: 1400m
With a morning drive, you will reach Bhadrapur, the place from where the journey in Eastern Nepal started. You will enjoy 3 hours of scenic drive from Illam to Bhadrapur.
Day 18 Fly back to Kathmandu
You will go to Bhadrapur Airport to join a flight to Kathmandu. Joining the flight, you will fly back to Kathmandu, overlooking the Himalayas. Reaching Kathmandu safely, you will get back to your hotels. This is how the Kanchenjunga Trek will conclude.

What to Expect

What's included

Round trip flight fare (Kathmandu - Bhadrapur - Kathmandu)
All land transportation as per itinerary
Standard meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
Government license holder guide
Strong and helpful porter with proper equipments (1 porter for 2 people)
Salary, food, accommodation and insurance for guide and porters
Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
Special Trekking Permits and Conservation Area Permits
Comprehensive first aid kit
Government taxes and official expenses

What's not included

International airfare and taxes
Nepal entry visa fee
Your Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu
Entrance fee in the heritage sites during city tour.
All the expenses of personal nature
Any kind of drinks and desserts during the trek
Tips to guide and porter (Tipping is expected)

Request a Private Date

Useful Information

How challenging is the Kanchenjunga Trek?

Kanchenjunga Trek is a moderate to difficult trek. It involves high-altitude trekking, steep climbing, and glacier walking. Plus, the trail is remote as well. You have to trek for around 5-8 hours on the trek. Hence, Kanchenjunga Trek is a challenging trek only for experienced trekkers.

What are the best times and low times for Kanchenjunga Trek?

The best times for the trek are Autumn and Spring. The weather is favorable for trekking in these two seasons. Likewise, the low times for the trek are Winter and Monsoon. Due to unfavorable conditions, the seasons are quiet times.

What are the permits necessary for Kanchenjunga Trek?

Trekkers Information Management Systems(TIMS) and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit are required for the trek. You can get the permits from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.

Is it compulsory to have travel insurance for Kanchenjunga Trekking?

Yes, Travel insurance is a must for the trek. The insurance should cover your emergency injuries, evacuation, and costs.

How are the accommodations during Kanchenjunga Trek?

Kanchenjunga Trek is a not-so-developed trekking trail. Except for some places, you have to use tented camps as shelter. It is more like a camping trek than a tea house trek. The lodges available on the walk are basic. Sleeping bags will be the bed on tour.

How are foods during the trek?

Your kitchen staff will make the meals. The kitchen staff you will have are experienced ones. You can expect edible and hygienic food on the trek.

What are the facilities for drinking water on the trek?

Boiled and filtered water will be available on the trek.

How can I avoid altitude sickness during the trek?

Enough acclimatization, hydration, gradual walking, rest, medication, and preventive precautions can help you avoid mountain sickness during the trek. Better knowledge about mountain sickness is a must.