Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek

The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek is an exhilarating and demanding 19-day adventure that immerses you in the breathtaking wilderness of eastern Nepal. As you embark on this incredible journey, you'll be captivated by the stunning vistas of the majestic Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain, which towers magnificently against the skyline, its snow-capped peaks glistening in the sunlight. Along the way, you'll encounter a rich tapestry of landscapes featuring lush green valleys, vibrant alpine meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers, and serene forests teeming with diverse wildlife. Your adventure begins in the idyllic lowlands of Taplejung, where you will gradually ascend through charming villages that offer a glimpse into the lives of the local people and their authentic Tibetan culture. Each step brings you closer to the awe-inspiring Himalayan scenery, with panoramic views that will leave you breathless. The trek’s highest point at Pangpema (5,143 meters) rewards you with an unforgettable sight of the surrounding towering peaks and serene glaciers. To ensure a comfortable acclimatisation to the altitude, the trek incorporates two essential rest days, allowing your body to adjust while you take in the stunning surroundings. Whether you opt for teahouse lodge trekking, where you can enjoy warm hospitality and local cuisine, or camping trekking under the brilliant starlit sky, this exceptional journey will etch itself into your memory as an experience of a lifetime.

Trip Highlights

Spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks.
Cultural experiences in traditional villages such as Ghunsa and Amjilosa.
Challenging high-altitude trekking through rugged terrain.
Opportunity for acclimatisation with rest days at key points like Ghunsa and Kambachen.
Remote and unspoiled landscapes, from dense forests to barren glacial valleys.

Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek Itinerary (19 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,324m)

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to the hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu.
Trek briefing and meet your guide and fellow trekkers.
Free time to explore Kathmandu’s cultural sites.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Fly to Bhadrapur (91m), Drive to Taplejung (1,820m)

Scenic flight to Bhadrapur.
Drive through lush hills and tea plantations to Taplejung.
Overnight at a guesthouse in Taplejung.

Day 3: Drive from Taplejung to Sekathum (1,650m)

Off-road drive through terraced fields and remote villages to Sekathum.
Official start of the trek.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Sekathum.

Day 4: Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,510m)

Trek along the riverbanks, crossing suspension bridges and dense forests.
Experience the first mountain village at Amjilosa.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Amjilosa.

Day 5: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)

Gradual climb through a gorge with waterfalls and mossy forests.
Visit a picturesque Tibetan refugee village.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Gyabla.

Day 6: Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m)

Descend briefly before climbing through juniper forests and passing Phole village.
Explore Ghunsa, the largest village in the area.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Ghunsa.

Day 7: Acclimatisation Day at Ghunsa

Hike to a nearby ridge for views of Jannu and Kumbhakarna peaks.
Relax in Ghunsa or visit the local monastery.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Ghunsa.

Day 8: Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m)

Trek through pine forests and rocky riverbeds, gaining altitude.
Enjoy views of Jannu Himal and moraines.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Kambachen.

Day 9: Acclimatisation Day at Kambachen

Option for a side trek to Jannu Base Camp for stunning views.
Alternatively, rest and explore the surroundings.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Kambachen.

Day 10: Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m)

Trek across rocky fields and glacial moraines toward Lhonak.
Enjoy breathtaking views of towering peaks.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Lhonak.

Day 11: Trek to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp – 5,143m) and Return to Lhonak

Hike to Pangpema, the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, and take in panoramic views.
Return to Lhonak after visiting the base camp.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Lhonak.

Day 12: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa

Retrace steps back down to Ghunsa.
Enjoy the descending altitude and greener landscapes.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Ghunsa.

Day 13: Trek from Ghunsa to Amjilosa

Continue descending through alpine forests and yak pastures.
Reach Amjilosa via the Ghunsa Khola valley.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Amjilosa.

Day 14: Trek from Amjilosa to Sekathum

Final trekking day with sharp descents through the forest and river crossings.
Return to Sekathum to complete the trek.
Overnight at a teahouse lodge in Sekathum.

Day 15: Drive from Sekathum to Taplejung

Jeep drive back through mountain roads to Taplejung.
Relax and enjoy local hospitality.
Overnight at a guesthouse in Taplejung.

Day 16: Drive from Taplejung to Bhadrapur

Scenic drive back to Bhadrapur, passing through tea gardens and hills.
Overnight at a hotel in Bhadrapur.

Day 17: Fly from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu

Morning flight back to Kathmandu.
Transfer to the hotel and enjoy free time to shop or relax.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 18: Buffer Day in Kathmandu

Use this day for sightseeing or in case of delays.
Visit cultural sites like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 19: Final Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
End of the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek.

What's Included

Included in our package

Airport transfers on arrival and departure.
All internal flights and drives are as per the itinerary.
Teahouse lodgings during the trek.
Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
Services of an experienced trek leader, guide, and porter.
Trekking permits and entry fees.
Comprehensive first aid kit and emergency rescue arrangements.

What's Not Included

Not included in our package

International airfare and visa fees.
Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Personal expenses (laundry, snacks, tips, etc.).
Drinks and beverages (alcoholic or non-alcoholic).
Any additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

Gear List

Clothing

Warm jacket (down or synthetic).
Trekking shirts (quick-dry).
Waterproof and windproof jacket.
Trekking pants and shorts.
Thermal inner layers for colder regions.
Hat, gloves, and scarf.

Footwear

Trekking boots (well-broken-in).
Camp shoes or sandals.

Accessories

Sunglasses (UV protection).
Hat or cap for sun protection.
Trekking poles (optional but recommended).
Water bottle and hydration system.

Toiletries & Health

Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).
Sunscreen and lip balm.
Personal medication and first-aid kit.
Hand sanitiser and wet wipes.

Electronics & Documents

Camera and memory cards.
Power bank (for recharging devices).
Passport, permits, and travel insurance details.
Travel journal and pen.

Tips & Considerations

It’s important to stay hydrated and well-nourished during the trek.
Follow the acclimatisation schedule strictly to prevent altitude sickness.
Pack light, but ensure you have all essentials for a high-altitude trek.
Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing to prevent chafing.
Ensure your footwear is well broken in to avoid blisters.

Reach Out to Us!

Book your Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek now and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the Himalayas! Whether you want to customise your itinerary or need additional advice, we are here to help. We ensure that every trip can be tailored to your specific preferences, making your trek as unique as your travel style.