
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek- 25 Days
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a hidden gem in the remote east of Nepal, where the world’s third-highest mountain rises above quiet villages and pristine landscapes. It’s a journey for those seeking an authentic Himalayan adventure, rich with culture, nature, and serenity far from the crowds.
Nepal
25 Days
Moderate
5,140 m/16,863 ft
Feb-May, Sep-Dec
Hotel & Tea House
1 - 12
Kathmandu
USD 4550
Trip Highlights
- Journey to Nepal’s secluded eastern Himalayas, near the world’s third-highest mountain
- Splendid view of River valley and isolated village
- Hike in the remote Eastern Nepal on blood rushing trail admire magnificent Mt. Kanchenjunga
- Enjoy a quiet, rewarding adventure away from popular tourist trails
- High altitude passes along with hospitable Far Eastern Tibetan culture
- Discover traditional villages, unique culture, and beautiful alpine landscapes
- Experience a rich natural environment famous for its cardamom farms and medicinal herbs
- Take on a challenging yet enriching trek ideal for nature lovers and thrill-seekers
//php the_title(); ?> Trip Overview
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is located in the far eastern part of Nepal and is home to the world’s third-highest mountain. The trail begins along the Tamor River, passes by the Lhonak Chu and Jongsang La, and is bordered to the east by the Teesta River. Situated on the eastern Himalayan border with the Indian state of Sikkim, Kanchenjunga is also known as Kumbhkaran Langur. Its name comes from the Tibetan word “Kanchen Dzonga,” which means “the Five Treasures of the Great Snows”-Kanchenjunga Peak, Kanchenjunga West, Kanchenjunga South, and Kambachen.
Each of these five treasures is said to represent the gods with gold, silver, gems, grain, and holy books. The Kanchenjunga trekking area is a restricted zone, and only registered travelers are allowed to explore its remote and pristine landscapes. A journey to Kanchenjunga offers a unique blend of the rich cultural heritage of eastern Nepal and its breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path adventure surrounded by diverse landscapes, Kanchenjunga is an ideal choice. In addition to its allure for adventure seekers, the area is famous for its traditional orthodox tea and rich biodiversity, including the cultivation of cardamom and other medicinal herbs.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,428 ft)
- Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation
- Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur (2,420 m/7,938 ft) and drive to Taplejung: 45 min flight and 5 hrs drive
- Day 4: Taplejung to Lalikharka (2,265 m/7,431 ft): 4-5 hrs
- Day 5: Lalikharka to Kasewa (2,120 m/6,955 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 6: Kasewa to Mamankhe (1,785 m/5,856 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 7: Mamankhe to Yamphudin (2,080 m/6,824 ft): 4-5 hrs
- Day 8: Yamphudin to Tortong (2,995 m/9,826 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 9: Tortong to Cheram (3,870 m/12,697 ft): 2-3 hrs
- Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Cheram
- Day 11: Cheram to Ramche (4,580 m/15,026 ft): 3-4 hrs
- Day 12: Ramche to Yalung Base Camp and back to Cheram: 3-4 hrs
- Day 13: Cheram to Sele La (4,290 m/14,074 ft): 6-7 hrs
- Day 14: Sele La to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,794 ft): 2-3 hrs
- Day 15: Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050 m/13,287 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 16: Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780 m/15,682 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 17: Kanchenjunga Base Camp: 6-7 hrs
- Day 18: Pangpema to Lhonak: 3-4 hrs
- Day 19: Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,475 m/11,400 ft): 6-7 hrs
- Day 20: Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2,308 m/7,572 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 21: Amjilosa to Chirwa (1,270 m/4,166 ft): 6-7 hrs
- Day 22: Chirwa to Taplejung via Mitlung (921 m/3,020 ft): 8-9 hrs
- Day 23: Drive to Bhadrapur: 9 hrs
- Day 24: Fly to Kathmandu
- Day 25: Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,428 ft)
After arriving, an Ama Adventure representative will welcome you at the airport. You will be transferred to the hotel, where you can relax and explore the nearby surroundings.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation
After breakfast, you will head towards Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this ancient stupa is one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal. Believed to have been self-created, it holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley, surrounded by prayer flags, shrines, and playful monkeys that give the site its nickname
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur (2,420 m/7,938 ft) and drive to Taplejung: 45 min flight and 5 hrs drive
An early morning flight takes us from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. From there, we drive for about nine hours through picturesque hills and forests until we arrive in Taplejung, the starting point of our adventure
Max Altitude :
Bhadrapur (2,420 m/7,938 ft)
Trip Duration :
45 min flight and 5 hrs drive
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Taplejung
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 4: Taplejung to Lalikharka (2,265 m/7,431 ft): 4-5 hrs
The trail to Lalikharka is a mix of gentle ascents and descents, winding through beautiful forests. We soak in the crisp mountain air as we make our way to this charming village.
Max Altitude :
Lalikharka (2,265 m/7,431 ft)
Trip Duration :
4-5 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Lalikharka
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 5: Lalikharka to Kasewa (2,120 m/6,955 ft): 5-6 hrs
Today, we descend to Phundrawa before tackling a steep climb towards Yangpang. The trail then gradually leads to Phumphe Danda, followed by another short ascent to the picturesque village of Kasewa. Overnight in Kasewa.
Max Altitude :
Kasewa (2,120 m/6,955 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Kasewa
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 6: Kasewa to Mamankhe (1,785 m/5,856 ft): 5-6 hrs
After breakfast, we set out towards the Kabeli Khola, making our way through serene forests and crossing a small stream. The trail offers beautiful mountain views and picturesque rural villages before arriving in Mamankhe.
Max Altitude :
Mamankhe (1,785 m/5,856 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Mamankhe
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 7: Mamankhe to Yamphudin (2,080 m/6,824 ft): 4-5 hrs
Today’s route leads us uphill along the Kabeli Khola, rewarding us with captivating views of the ridges and a picturesque waterfall. We cross a suspension bridge and continue past tiny settlements until reaching Yamphudin.
Max Altitude :
Yamphudin (2,080 m/6,824 ft)
Trip Duration :
4-5 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Yamphudin
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 8: Yamphudin to Tortong (2,995 m/9,826 ft): 5-6 hrs
We walk along a trail that passes terraced farms and green meadows, with the towering Himalayan peaks as our constant companions. The route takes us alongside the Amji Khola, across the Lassiya Bhanjyang Pass, and finally to Tortong.
Max Altitude :
Tortong (2,995 m/9,826 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Tortong
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 9: Tortong to Cheram (3,870 m/12,697 ft): 2-3 hrs
A beautiful walk by the Simbuwa Khola takes us to Cheram. The trail winds through lush forests and the picturesque Lalung Valley, with Tuplung Peak rising in the background and the Yalung Glacier drawing closer. Overnight in Cheram.
Max Altitude :
Cheram (3,870 m/12,697 ft)
Trip Duration :
2-3 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Cheram
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Cheram
Today is a rest and acclimatization day. Spend the day exploring nearby areas, strolling to vantage points for panoramic views of Kabaru and Rathong peaks, or simply relax and soak in the tranquility of the mountains.
Max Altitude :
Cheram (3,870 m/12,697 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Cheram
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 11: Cheram to Ramche (4,580 m/15,026 ft): 3-4 hrs
A short but rewarding walk takes us closer to the Yalung Glacier. We pass through a beautiful valley surrounded by Himalayan giants, walk by the tiny settlement of Lapsang, and arrive in Ramche for the night.
Max Altitude :
Ramche (4,580 m/15,026 ft)
Trip Duration :
3-4 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Ramche
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 12: Ramche to Yalung Base Camp and back to Cheram: 3-4 hrs
Today’s journey takes us closer to the heart of Kanchenjunga, following a stream and climbing along a moraine until the mighty southern face of Kanchenjunga appears before us. We visit Oktang Monastery and walk further towards Yalung Base Camp, surrounded by spectacular views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, and other Himalayan giants. Afterward, we return to Cheram for the night.
Max Altitude :
Cheram (3,870 m/12,697 ft)
Trip Duration :
3-4 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Cheram
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 13: Cheram to Sele La (4,290 m/14,074 ft): 6-7 hrs
Today’s challenging trail takes us across four mountain passes: Sinelapche Bhanjyang, Mirgin La, Sinion La, and Sele La. Prayer flags flutter in the wind as we make our way across this high-altitude wonderland.
Max Altitude :
Sele La (4,290 m/14,074 ft)
Trip Duration :
6-7 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Sele La
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 14: Sele La to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,794 ft): 2-3 hrs
We make our descent towards Ghunsa, winding through forests of rhododendron, birch, and pine. The trail arrives in Ghunsa, a picturesque village adorned with rustic wooden homes and colorful prayer flags.
Max Altitude :
Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,794 ft)
Trip Duration :
2-3 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Ghunsa
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 15: Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050 m/13,287 ft): 5-6 hrs
Today’s trail leads us along the riverbank, past colorful meadows and through dense forests. After crossing the landslide area and a suspension bridge at Rampuk Kharka, we finally arrive at Kambachen, treated to awe-inspiring views of Mt. Jannu.
Max Altitude :
Kambachen (4,050 m/13,287 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Kambachen
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 16: Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780 m/15,682 ft): 5-6 hrs
We set out early for a challenging walk across rocky terrain and landslide sections, with rewarding sights of a nearby waterfall and a picturesque monastery. After a final descent, we arrive in the serene village of Lhonak.
Max Altitude :
Lhonak (4,780 m/15,682 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Lhonak
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 17: Kanchenjunga Base Camp: 6-7 hrs
Today is the highlight of the journey as we walk alongside the massive Kanchenjunga Glacier to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The panorama of towering peaks, including Kanchenjunga and Jannu, is simply breathtaking. After a memorable day, we return to Pangpema for the night.
Max Altitude :
Pangpema (5,143 m/16,873 ft)
Trip Duration :
6-7 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Pangpema
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 18: Pangpema to Lhonak: 3-4 hrs
We retrace our steps from Pangpema to Lhonak, surrounded by the serene beauty of the mountains.
Max Altitude :
Lhonak (4,780 m/15,682 ft)
Trip Duration :
3-4 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Lhonak
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 19: Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,475 m/11,400 ft): 6-7 hrs
Today we make our way down from Lhonak, following the trail we came by, and arrive back in Ghunsa for a well-deserved rest.
Max Altitude :
Ghunsa (3,475 m/11,400 ft)
Trip Duration :
6-7 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Ghunsa
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 20: Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2,308 m/7,572 ft): 5-6 hrs
We continue downhill towards Amjilosa, passing picturesque forests, colorful prayer flags, and quaint villages. The sights and sounds of the Himalayan wilderness accompany us throughout the day.
Max Altitude :
Amjilosa (2,308 m/7,572 ft)
Trip Duration :
5-6 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Amjilosa
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 21: Amjilosa to Chirwa (1,270 m/4,166 ft): 6-7 hrs
Today’s trail takes us across suspension bridges and through forests adorned with prayer flags. We pass the tiny settlement of Solima and walk alongside the Ghunsa and Tamor Rivers, arriving in Chirwa for the night.
Max Altitude :
Chirwa (1,270 m/4,166 ft)
Trip Duration :
6-7 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Chirwa
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 22: Chirwa to Taplejung via Mitlung (921 m/3,020 ft): 8-9 hrs
We make our way from Chirwa to Taplejung, winding through the lush forests and picturesque farms of Mitlung. The sights and sounds of rural life accompany us until we arrive in Taplejung.
Max Altitude :
Mitlung (921 m/3,020 ft):
Trip Duration :
8-9 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Taplejung
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 23: Drive to Bhadrapur: 9 hrs
Today, we drive from Taplejung to Bhadrapur, traveling across beautiful hills and valleys.
Trip Duration :
9 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Bhadrapur
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 24: Fly to Kathmandu
A short flight brings us back to Kathmandu, where we reunite for a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of the Kanchenjunga Circuit.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m/4,264 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 25: Departure
Today is the final day of your journey. An Ama Adventure representative will drop you at the airport, wishing you a safe journey and hoping to welcome you back for another adventure soon.
Meals :
Breakfast
Gallery
What is included //php the_title(); ?>
Accommodation
- 3 nights in a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu, 2 night in a 4-star hotel in Taplejung, 1 night in a 4-star hotel in Bhadrapur on a twin/double-sharing basis with breakfast
- 18 nights in guesthouses during the trek (twin-sharing)
Meals & Drinking Water
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
- One hot drink per meal and seasonal fruits
- Farewell dinner on the final night in Nepal
- Purified drinking water throughout the trek (via water filter or purification tablets)
Transportation
- All airport transfers (international & domestic) by a private tourist vehicle
- One-way flight between Bhadrapur an Kathmandu
Guide & Support Staff
- Licensed, experienced, English-speaking trekking guide (2 guides for groups of 7 or more)
- Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- All staff’s wages, accommodation, meals, insurance, gear, and medication
Permits & Entry Fees
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Nar Phu region
Health & Safety
- Comprehensive first aid kit
- Daily health checks with a pulse oximeter to monitor altitude-related symptoms
Extras & Souvenirs
- Trekking map, duffel kit bag, sun hat, Buff (neck gaiter), and a trip completion certificate
Administrative
- All government taxes and administrative fees
What is Excluded
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- International airfare and airport departure taxes
- All kinds of beverages (including bottled and boiled water)
- Travel insurance- must include high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Tips for the trekking staff and driver (optional but appreciated)
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Any other expenses not listed under the “Inclusions” section
- Nepal Entry Visa
Trip Departure
We organize both solo and group trips to help make your adventure a lifetime memory, shared with people from all over the world. Once your trip is confirmed, we guarantee all group departure dates, even if only one person has signed up for the trek. Before you make your final booking, we always confirm the current number of members in your group.
Difficulty Level
This trek is suitable for individuals with above-average physical fitness. There is no need for special technical skills, making it accessible to beginners and hikers. However, the trek does reach high altitudes and requires a significant level of physical exertion. Despite hiking for 5 to 6 hours a day, you will gain substantial elevation.
Dates & Prices
All listed departures are guaranteed. If these dates don’t work for you, we can arrange a trip that fits your schedule. Just let us know your preferred timing and the kind of journey you’re looking for, and we’ll help you plan a custom trip to your chosen destination.
Meals
During the trek, we’ll enjoy a mix of local Nepali food and popular international dishes such as Tibetan, Continental, Italian, and Indian. Breakfast and dinner will be served at the tea houses or lodge menus where we stay overnight, while lunches will be provided en route to our next destination. During the trek, all meals are included. In Kathmandu, breakfast is provided, and farewell dinners will be arranged for our guests.
Accomodation
In Kathmandu, we will stay at Hotel Manaslu, and in Taplejung and Bhadrapur, our accommodation will be at comfortable 4-star hotels. During the trek, we’ll stay in local teahouses. All accommodations are on a twin-sharing basis. A single room can be arranged on request for an extra cost of USD 290. While we’ll book the best available tea houses, please note that the facilities may be quite basic compared to the more developed routes. Single rooms are generally available in Kathmandu, Taplejung, and Bhadrapur but they might not be possible to find during the trek.
Weather Information
The Kanchenjunga region sees a wide range of temperatures due to its high altitude. In spring (March-May), days are mild, reaching up to 15 °C, while nights can drop to -10 °C. Autumn (September-November) offers crisp, clear weather, with days around 10–12 °C and nights as low as -15 °C. Winter (December-February) is harsh, with temperatures falling to -25 °C or lower and heavy snowfall common at higher elevations.
Important Notes
Your safety is our top priority while traveling with Ama Adventure. We request flexibility if needed due to various circumstances:
Your trip leader has the authority to change all itineraries based on local conditions and their judgment.
We reserve the right to modify the itinerary in case of medical considerations, unexpected weather conditions, natural disasters, etc.
Our leader and crew always strive to make your trip comfortable and ensure that it runs according to plan, but we request you to be prepared to be flexible if needed.
Packing List
Here is a suggested packing list to help you prepare for the trek. You’ll need warmer layers during colder months. Ama Adventure provides a 75-liter duffel bag at the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu-yours to keep. Sleeping bags and down jackets are available to rent in Kathmandu for USD 35 each.
General
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag
- Heavy/medium down jacket (-20 degrees)
- Rain jacket and pant
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap
- Synthetic Knitted hat/Beanie
- Woolen hat
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Scarf/Neck Gaiter/Buff (highly recommended)
- Insulation
- Long underwear top
Torso
- Moisture-wicking base layers- lightweight for warmer seasons, thermal for colder months
- Two short-sleeve and two long-sleeve trekking shirts made of quick-dry technical fabric
- Windproof and waterproof outer shell or jacket
- Warm fleece jacket or pullover for added insulation
Lower Body
- Thermal base layers- lightweight for warm months, heavier for cold conditions
- Two pairs of durable hiking pants
- Comfortable pants for relaxing inside teahouses
- Waterproof and windproof shell pants for protection against rain and wind
- One pair of hiking shorts (ideal for lower altitudes and warm days)
Hands
- Liner gloves made of wool or technical fabric for warmth and flexibility
- Insulated outer gloves with a hard shell- ideal for wind and cold at higher altitudes
Feet
- Warm socks made of wool or technical fabric
- Hiking socks (several pairs recommended)
- Optional liner socks (e.g., silk) for added comfort and blister prevention
- Waterproof trekking/hiking boots- well broken-in before the trek
- Ice Cleats or Micro Spikes (recommended from November to March for icy trails)
- Comfortable casual shoes or sandals for teahouse use
- Gaiters- lightweight for dust or heavier ones for snow in cold months
Undergarments
- Quick-drying, moisture-wicking underwear (technical fabric recommended)- adjust quantity based on personal preference
- Sports bras (for women)- supportive and breathable
- Pajamas or comfortable sleepwear for chilly nights in the mountains
First Aid Kits and Medications
Note: Guides carry medications and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are highly recommended.
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Antiseptic or soothing ointment
- Personal medications (for altitude, allergies, pain relief, etc.)
Other Essentials
- Valid passport
- Extra passport-sized photos (for permits or emergency use)
- Airline tickets (leave a copy with our office in Kathmandu)
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or UV water purifier
- Lightweight towel
- Pillowcase (for hygiene in teahouses)
- Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, etc.)
- Toilet paper (2 rolls minimum)
- High-protein snacks (nuts, energy/protein bars)
- Waterproof/dry bags to protect documents and valuable
Optional
(These can enhance your comfort during the trek and are widely available in Thamel, Kathmandu)
- Guide Book
- Power bank or spare batteries
- Hand sanitizer
- Energy Bars
- Dry Shampoo
- Outlet Adapter
- Whistle (for safety/emergency use)
- Thermos (to carry hot water/tea during cold days)
- Yaktrax especially for fall and early spring season
- Camera and mobile phone (for capturing memories)
- Pillowcase (for hygiene in teahouses)
- Trekking Poles (highly recommended for stability)
- Pee bottle or pee funnel (especially useful for women at high altitudes)
Tip: Thamel is full of gear shops where you can purchase or rent trekking essentials at a reasonable price once you’re in Kathmandu.
Documents and Logistics
- Flight Information
- Original Passport
- Photocopy of Passport
- Passport size photo for Tims and permit (4)
- Medical Insurance Card
- Airline tickets (leave a copy with our office in Kathmandu)
Dates of Trip
Group Discount Prices
Frequently Asked Questions
Traveler Reviews
