Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek - North and South
Trip overview
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek - North and South, in full
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek - North and South itinerary, cost, map, permits, altitude, difficulty, best time, route details and complete trekking guide with Real Himalaya.
Your trip at a glance
- Destination
- Kanchenjunga Region
- Duration
- 26 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Max elevation
- 5143 m
- Group size
- 2-16 people
- Activities
- Trekking
Day by day
Detailed itinerary
- 1
Arrival in Kathmandu at Tribhuvan International Airport
Namaste and welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you are greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel in Thamel. The lively streets of the capital, filled with prayer flags and bustling markets, prepare you for the Himalayan journey ahead. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and trek briefing.
- 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation
Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural treasures of Kathmandu Valley. Visit UNESCO sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Later, meet your guide for a gear check and finalize permits for the Kanchenjunga trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
- 3
Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and Drive to Ilam
A scenic flight brings you to Bhadrapur, in Nepal's eastern Terai. From here, a jeep drives you uphill to the tea gardens of Ilam, a charming hill town surrounded by rolling green slopes and misty ridges. Overnight in a teahouse.
- 4
Drive from Ilam to Taplejung and continue to Sekathum
The day begins with a long jeep drive through winding mountain roads, passing through Taplejung before descending into the Tamor River valley. By evening, you arrive in Sekathum, the trailhead of your trek. Overnight at a riverside lodge.
- 5
Trek towards Amjilosa via Sekathum
The trek begins along the roaring Ghunsa Khola River, with suspension bridges and waterfalls marking the trail. Gradually, you ascend through bamboo and rhododendron forests, reaching the small Sherpa village of Amjilosa, perched on a hillside.
- 6
Ascend to Gyabla
Today's trail climbs through dense rhododendron and oak forests alive with bird calls. The path is steep but rewarding, leading to Gyabla, a village surrounded by terraced fields and rolling hills. Overnight in a cozy teahouse.
- 7
From Gyabla, Ascend to Ghunsa
The landscape begins to open into wide valleys with yak pastures. Arriving at Ghunsa, the largest Sherpa village in the region, you are welcomed with prayer flags, wooden houses, and a friendly community. Ghunsa is the cultural heart of the Kanchenjunga trek.
- 8
Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa
A full day is reserved for acclimatization. You may hike to nearby ridges for views of Jannu Himal (7,710 m) and surrounding peaks. In the village, you can visit the monastery and experience Sherpa traditions.
- 9
Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen
The trail follows the river upstream through pine forests and past mani walls. Gradually climbing above the tree line, you reach Kambachen, a yak-herding settlement set against stunning views of Jannu Himal.
- 10
Moving towards the Lhonak from Kambachen
Crossing rocky moraines and glacial rivers, you move deeper into the high Himalayas. The dramatic scenery includes towering ice cliffs and glacial valleys. By evening, you arrive at Lhonak, a remote grazing area with breathtaking mountain panoramas.
- 11
Hike from Lhonak to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, 5,143 m) and Return to Lhonak
This is one of the most rewarding days of the trek. A gradual climb brings you to Pangpema (North Base Camp), directly facing the mighty Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), the world's third-highest peak. After savoring the views, return to Lhonak for the night.
- 12
Descend from Lhonak to Ghunsa
Retracing your steps, you descend back through glacial valleys to Ghunsa. The walk is easier, and the comfort of the Sherpa village offers rest after days in the high Himalayas.
- 13
From Ghunsa, Hike to High Camp
Leaving Ghunsa, you climb steadily toward the Sele La ridge. Tonight's camp is in the wild alpine zone, surrounded by rugged peaks.
- 14
Cross Sele La Pass (4,290 m) and Trek to Tseram
A challenging but spectacular day as you cross the Sele La Pass. From the ridge, views stretch across Makalu, Everest, and Kanchenjunga. Descending, you reach Tseram, a yak pasture in a wide valley.
- 15
Ascend from Tseram to Ramche
The trail climbs gradually along the Yalung Glacier, with peaks towering on either side. You arrive at Ramche, a spectacular campsite beneath the towering Kanchenjunga South Face.
- 16
Day Hike to Oktang (Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, 4,750 m) and Return to Ramche
Today you hike to Oktang, the South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga, facing the massive southern wall of the mountain. The view of Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks is unforgettable. Return to Ramche for the night.
- 17
Descending from Ramche to Tortong
Descending along rhododendron forests, you follow the river back into greener valleys. Overnight in Tortong, a settlement surrounded by thick alpine woods.
- 18
Descending from Tortong to Yamphudin
The trail drops steeply through forests and crosses suspension bridges. Arrive at Yamphudin, a mixed Limbu and Sherpa village, where diverse traditions blend in warmth and hospitality.
- 19
From Yamphudin, Descending to Khebang
A gradual descent brings you to Khebang, where terraced fields and Limbu culture dominate the landscape. Overnight in a local teahouse.
- 20
Moving towards the beautiful Tea Garden - Kanyam
Walking through tea estates and rolling hills, you reach Kanyam, another scenic tea-growing area. The landscape feels gentle and lush after days in high altitudes.
- 21
Scenic Drive from Kanyam to Bhadrapur & fly to Kathmandu
A long but scenic jeep drive takes you downhill to Bhadrapur, in Nepal's lowland Terai. Evening flight to Kathmandu and transfer to the Hotel in Kathmandu. Overnight in a hotel.
- 22
Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
A final celebration with your trekking team, sharing memories of the mighty Kanchenjunga and your adventure into one of Nepal's most remote regions.
- 23
Final Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. As you leave, the memory of Kanchenjunga's towering peaks, Sherpa villages, and sacred landscapes stays with you forever. Thank you for choosing Real Himalaya. For any queries, contact us at +977 985-1026840 www.realhimalaya.com Speak to an Expert Gokul Thapa +977-9851026840 View Dossier Online