Journey through one of Nepal's last great wilderness regions to both the North and South Base Camps of Kanchenjunga, crossing remote mountain passes, visiting traditional Himalayan villages and enjoying breathtaking views of the world's third-highest mountain
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, spectacular and rewarding wilderness treks, taking trekkers deep into the eastern Himalaya beneath the towering presence of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the third-highest mountain in the world. Located within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area near the borders of India and Tibet, the trek combines dramatic mountain scenery, pristine forests, traditional villages and an authentic Himalayan experience far from the crowds found on Nepal’s more popular trekking routes.
The route follows ancient trails through lush subtropical valleys, rhododendron and bamboo forests, and remote Rai, Limbu, Sherpa and Tibetan-influenced settlements before ascending into a spectacular high-altitude wilderness of glaciers, alpine meadows and towering snow-capped peaks. Unlike many Himalayan treks, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek offers a genuine sense of exploration, with fewer trekkers, untouched landscapes and exceptional biodiversity.
A major highlight of the trek is reaching both the North and South Base Camp regions of Kanchenjunga. At Pang Pema (5,144m), trekkers are rewarded with unforgettable close-up views of the immense north face of Kanchenjunga, while the journey to Oktang offers stunning perspectives of the Yalung Glacier and the mountain’s southern flanks. Along the way, trekkers cross high mountain passes, visit ancient monasteries, experience traditional mountain cultures and discover some of Nepal’s most dramatic Himalayan scenery.
Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a genuine Himalayan expedition-style adventure, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek offers solitude, wilderness, cultural immersion and exceptional mountain views. With its remote trails, rich biodiversity and spectacular views of Kanchenjunga, this is an unforgettable journey into one of the Himalaya’s most pristine trekking regions.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal and passport collection for permit processing
Day 2: Trek briefing and preparation in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung (1,820m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 4: Drive from Taplejung to Sukethum (1,579m), approx. 5 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Sukethum to Amjilosa (2,308m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 8: Acclimatisation day in Ghunsa with village and monastery visits.
Day 9: Trek from Ghunsa to Khangpachen (4,050m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 10: Trek from Khangpachen to Lhonak (4,780m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 11: Day hike to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pang Pema, 5,144m) and return to Lhonak, approx. 7 hours.
Day 12: Trek from Lhonak back to Ghunsa, approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 13: Trek from Ghunsa to Selela (4,290m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 14: Trek from Selela to Cheram (3,870m) via Mirgin La Pass (4,700m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 15: Trek from Cheram to Ramche (4,580m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 16: Day hike to Oktang South Base Camp (4,730m), overnight at Ramche or Cheram.
Day 17: Trek from Ramche/Cheram to Tortang (2,995m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 18: Trek from Tortang to Yamphuding (2,080m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 19: Rest day and exploration of Yamphuding village.
Day 20: Trek from Yamphuding to Mamanke (1,785m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 21: Drive from Mamanke area to Ilam, approx. 8 hours.
Day 22: Drive to Bhadrapur and fly back to Kathmandu.
Day 23: Departure
Note: The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, trail conditions, transportation schedules or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal and passport collection for permit processing
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, passports will be collected to process the Kanchenjunga restricted area permits. The remainder of the day is free to relax and recover from your journey.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Trek Briefing and Preparation (B)
Today is dedicated to final preparations for the trek. You will meet your guide for a comprehensive briefing covering the route, permits, safety procedures, altitude awareness and equipment checks. There will also be time for any last-minute shopping or gear rental.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Taplejung (1,820m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
An early morning flight takes you across Nepal to Bhadrapur in the eastern lowlands. From there, a scenic drive through tea gardens, river valleys and hill settlements leads to Taplejung, the gateway to the Kanchenjunga region.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 4: Drive from Taplejung to Sukethum (1,579m) | Approx. 5 Hours (B L D)
Today’s off-road journey follows rugged mountain roads into increasingly remote terrain. The drive passes traditional villages, terraced hillsides and dense forests before reaching Sukethum, where the trekking adventure begins.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 5: Trek from Sukethum to Amjilosa (2,308m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Following the Ghunsa Khola upstream, the trail passes through subtropical forests, waterfalls and steep-sided river gorges. The route features suspension bridges and dramatic scenery before reaching the small Tibetan-influenced settlement of Amjilosa.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 6: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
The trail continues through beautiful forests of bamboo, rhododendron and pine while gradually gaining altitude. Wildlife sightings are possible in this biodiverse conservation area before arriving at the traditional village of Gyabla.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 7: Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route climbs steadily through forests and open valleys with increasingly impressive mountain scenery. The landscape becomes more Tibetan in character as you approach Ghunsa, one of the largest settlements in the region, known for its monastery, prayer flags and traditional stone houses.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8: Acclimatisation Day in Ghunsa (B L D)
A vital acclimatisation day allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. Explore the village, visit local monasteries and enjoy short hikes around the surrounding hills while taking in spectacular mountain views.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 9: Trek from Ghunsa to Khangpachen (4,050m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
The trail ascends through alpine forests and glacial valleys beneath towering Himalayan peaks. Magnificent views of Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and surrounding mountains dominate the landscape throughout the day.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 10: Trek from Khangpachen to Lhonak (4,780m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
Entering the high alpine zone, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic with glaciers, moraines and rugged mountain terrain. The route offers extraordinary views of surrounding peaks before reaching the remote settlement of Lhonak.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 11: Day Hike to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pang Pema, 5,144m) and Return to Lhonak | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
One of the highlights of the trek, today’s hike leads to Pang Pema, the North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. Standing beneath the immense north face of the world’s third-highest mountain is an unforgettable experience. The panorama includes Kanchenjunga, Wedge Peak, Nepal Peak and numerous surrounding giants before returning to Lhonak.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 12: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Retrace your route down the valley, descending through glacial landscapes and alpine terrain before returning to the relative comfort and greenery of Ghunsa.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 13: Trek from Ghunsa to Selela (4,290m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the main valley, the trail climbs steadily through rhododendron forests and high mountain terrain towards Selela, a spectacular high camp with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 14: Trek from Selela to Cheram (3,870m) via Mirgin La Pass (4,700m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
A challenging but rewarding day crossing high mountain passes decorated with colourful prayer flags. The route offers exceptional views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Everest on clear days before descending to Cheram in the Yalung Valley.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 15: Trek from Cheram to Ramche (4,580m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
The trail follows the Yalung Glacier valley through increasingly rugged terrain. Towering mountains dominate the skyline as you approach Ramche, an important staging point for the South Base Camp excursion.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 16: Day Hike to Oktang South Base Camp (4,730m) (B L D)
Today’s excursion leads to Oktang, one of the finest viewpoints in the Kanchenjunga region. Here, the immense south face of Kanchenjunga rises above the Yalung Glacier, creating one of the most spectacular mountain panoramas in Nepal. After enjoying the scenery, return to Ramche or Cheram.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 17: Trek from Ramche/Cheram to Tortang (2,995m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
The trail descends through forests, alpine meadows and river valleys. The return journey offers a different perspective on the dramatic landscapes explored earlier in the trek.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 18: Trek from Tortang to Yamphuding (2,080m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Continue descending through forests and traditional settlements. The warmer climate and increasing vegetation create a striking contrast to the high alpine landscapes of recent days.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 19: Rest Day and Exploration of Yamphuding (B L D)
Today provides an opportunity to relax and explore this traditional mountain village. Learn about local culture, interact with residents and enjoy the slower pace of life in eastern Nepal.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 20: Trek from Yamphuding to Mamanke (1,785m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
The trail follows terraced hillsides and traditional villages inhabited by diverse ethnic communities. The route offers fascinating cultural encounters alongside beautiful countryside scenery.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 21: Drive to Ilam | Approx. 8 Hours (B L D)
Leave the mountains behind and travel through eastern Nepal’s famous tea-growing region. Ilam is renowned for its rolling tea gardens, green hills and pleasant climate.
Overnight in a hotel.
Day 22: Drive to Bhadrapur and Fly to Kathmandu (B L)
After breakfast, drive to Bhadrapur Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, celebrating the completion of one of Nepal’s most rewarding wilderness treks.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 23: Departure (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your trip.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, trail conditions or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Map
Additional Information
Permit information: To obtain the Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit, we require your original passport at least two working days before departure.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1-night post-trek in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- Porters
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
21 Days
Annapurna Region
Strenuous/Difficult
