Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek 20 days

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Description

 

 

 

 

Kanchenjunga Trek Nepal

 

 

Activities

 

16 days of remote trekking

Explore traditional Limbu villages and Buddhist settlements

Visit Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema – 5140m)

Scenic mountain flight to/from Bhadrapur

Experience the biodiversity of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area

 

Accommodation

 

3 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (with breakfast)

14 nights in local teahouses/homestays during the trek

1 night in local lodge at Taplejung

1 night in Bhadrapur

 

 Meals

 

19 breakfasts,

 16 lunches,

 17 dinners included during trek

 

 Trek Difficulty

 

Challenging (Level 5) – Demands high-altitude trekking experience, good fitness, and mental endurance. Two acclimatization days are built-in.

 

🌄 Trip Overview

The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek takes you deep into the eastern Himalayas of Nepal, reaching the remote Pangpema Base Camp (5140m) beneath the world’s third-highest peak. This off-the-beaten-path journey reveals pristine wilderness, glacial valleys, and ancient cultures. Trekking through dense forests, dramatic gorges, and high mountain settlements like Ghunsa and Kambachen, this adventure is both a physical and cultural exploration of Nepal’s least-touched region. Ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking solitude and raw Himalayan beauty, the Kanchenjunga trek offers unmatched scenery and an authentic mountain experience in the shadows of the giant peaks.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

 

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in and some rest, you’ll receive a trek briefing. Depending on arrival time, you may explore nearby markets like Thamel and enjoy welcome dinner  traditional Nepali cuisine. This first day is a gentle introduction to the country’s culture and a chance to rest before the trek.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: Dinner 

 

Day 2: Trek Permit Preparation & City Sightseeing

 

Today, we handle your Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit and Conservation Area entry documents. Meanwhile, enjoy a guided city tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. This cultural immersion complements your remote trekking experience ahead. Final trek preparations and gear check are done in the evening.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast

 

Day 3: Flight to Bhadrapur (91m), Drive to Taplejung (1820m)

 

Take a scenic flight to Bhadrapur in eastern Nepal, followed by a full-day drive through tea gardens and lush hills to Taplejung. This bustling hill town is the starting point of the trek and a cultural melting pot of eastern ethnic communities. Overnight at a local lodge.

Accommodation: Local lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 4: Trek to Chirwa (1185m) – 5 to 6 hrs

 

We begin trekking by descending through subtropical forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. Crossing the Tamor River via a suspension bridge, we reach Chirwa, a Limbu settlement with wooden houses and cardamom farms. The trek offers glimpses of rural life in the eastern hills.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 5: Trek to Sermanthang (1650m) – 6 hrs

 

Today’s trail follows the Tamor River upstream, passing dense forest, bamboo groves, and small streams. We ascend steadily to Sermanthang, a peaceful settlement surrounded by rich vegetation. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter local villagers and mule caravans transporting goods.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 6: Trek to Amjilosa (2498m) – 6 to 7 hrs

 

A challenging but rewarding day as we ascend steeply through lush forests and rocky trails. Passing cascading waterfalls and remote shelters, we reach Amjilosa, a Tibetan-influenced hamlet nestled in the high hills. The landscape shifts as the terrain becomes more alpine.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 7: Trek to Ghunsa (3415m) – 6 to 7 hrs

 

We continue climbing through rhododendron and pine forests with views of snow-capped peaks. After crossing a few wooden bridges and traversing narrow gorges, we arrive at the beautiful Sherpa village of Ghunsa. This is a key acclimatization stop and cultural highlight.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa

 

To prevent altitude sickness, we spend a day acclimatizing in Ghunsa. You may take a short hike to nearby ridges or visit the local monastery. Explore the village and interact with the welcoming residents who rely on yak herding and seasonal trade.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 9: Trek to Kambachen (4145m) – 6 hrs

 

Climbing higher, the trail takes us along the river and across moraines. We pass through pine forests and pastures before arriving at Kambachen, a windswept settlement surrounded by rugged cliffs and glaciers. The views of Jannu (7710m) are awe-inspiring.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 10: Acclimatization Day in Kambachen

 

Another crucial acclimatization day. You can explore nearby ridges or hike to a glacier viewpoint above the village. Resting here allows your body to adjust to the thinner air before pushing to even higher elevations.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 11: Trek to Lhonak (4792m) – 5 to 6 hrs

 

We move above the tree line today. The terrain is rocky and barren as we traverse landslide-prone areas with caution. Crossing icy streams, we reach Lhonak, a remote outpost beneath towering peaks. Be prepared for cold winds and dramatic landscapes.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 12: Trek to Pangpema (5140m), Return to Lhonak – 7 to 8 hrs

 

A highlight of the trek – the final push to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema). The trail follows the glacier, revealing jaw-dropping views of Kanchenjunga (8586m), Nepal’s highest point. After soaking in the majestic panorama, we return to Lhonak.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 13: Trek to Ghunsa (3415m) – 7 hrs

 

We retrace our steps down the glacial valleys, moving through Kambachen before descending to Ghunsa. The drop in altitude brings warmer air and renewed energy. It’s a long day, but familiar landscapes and the comforts of Ghunsa await.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 14: Trek to Amjilosa (2498m) – 6 to 7 hrs

Descending through pine and rhododendron forests, we make our way back to Amjilosa. The descent provides a different perspective of the gorge and river valleys we climbed earlier. Overnight in this quiet mountain village.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 15: Trek to Chirwa (1185m) – 6 hrs

 

We drop back to lower altitudes, returning to warmer temperatures and lush vegetation. The trail passes by farms and traditional houses. Chirwa feels more vibrant after the high mountains, offering a chance to enjoy local hospitality.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 16: Trek to Phurumbu (1549m) – 5 to 6 hrs

 

An easy walking day through Limbu settlements, cardamom fields, and forested trails. You’ll enjoy the changing climate and landscape. The region is rich in birdlife and local culture. We overnight in Phurumbu.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 17: Trek to Taplejung (1820m) – 4 hrs

 

Today marks the final day of trekking. We gradually ascend back to Taplejung, marking the completion of our circuit. Celebrate the achievement of reaching the remote Kanchenjunga Base Camp with the team.

Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 18: Drive to Bhadrapur (91m) – 8 to 9 hrs

 

We drive through scenic hills and tea plantations on the return to Bhadrapur. This long journey is a chance to reflect on your adventure, enjoy the lowland scenery, and prepare for the return flight.

Accommodation: Hotel in Bhadrapur

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 19: Flight to Kathmandu (1400m)

 

After breakfast, take a short scenic flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu, marking the end of your Himalayan journey. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for check-in and a well-deserved rest. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore nearby attractions, or enjoy a final stroll through Thamel’s vibrant streets. This day offers time to reflect on the incredible experience of trekking through the remote corners of the Kanchenjunga region.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast

 

Day 20: Final Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. We hope the memories of Kanchenjunga and Nepal stay with you forever.

Accommodation: None

Meals: Breakfast

 

Inclusions

Airport Transfers
• Pickup and drop-off at Tribhuvan International Airport in a private vehicle

Hotel Accommodation
• 3 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
• 1 night in a local hotel in Bhadrapur before return flight

Trek Accommodation
• 14 nights in local teahouses/homestays during the trek
• 1 night in a local lodge in Taplejung after the trek

Meals
• 19 breakfasts, 16 lunches, and 17 dinners during the trek
• One welcome dinner in Kathmandu

Transportation                      
• Domestic flights: Kathmandu–Bhadrapur–Kathmandu (including airport taxes)
• Private Jeep drive: Bhadrapur to Taplejung and return

Permits & Documentation
• Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit
• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit
• All local taxes and government paperwork

Trekking Support
• Licensed and experienced English-speaking trekking guide
• Required number of porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
• Staff insurance, equipment, salary, and meals

Others
• Comprehensive trek briefing and gear check in Kathmandu
• First aid kit and oximeter carried by guide
• Nona Getaways duffel bag and trekking map

Exclusions

• International flights to/from Kathmandu
• Nepal visa fees (visa on arrival)
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Bhadrapur
• Extra nights’ stay due to early return, weather delays, or personal reasons
• Personal expenses (e.g., snacks, drinks, hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi)
• Travel insurance ( Mandatory must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
• Tips for guide and porter
• Any additional services not listed under

2 Reviews

Cherie S. Cullen

Belly Wave

20 Mar, 2023 . 4:00 Pm

5.0

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Nicolas Shai

Nicolas Shai

20 Mar, 2023 . 4:00 Pm

5.0

Nam vel lacus eu nisl bibendum accumsan vitae vitae nibh. Nam nec eros id magna hendrerit sagittis. Nullam sed mi non odio feugiat volutpat sit amet nec elit.

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