Moderate
Trip Grade
Autumn, Spring
Best Time
Min: 2, Max: 10+
Group Size

Kanchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet) above sea level. It is located in the eastern Himalayas, on the border between Nepal and India. The mountain is part of the Kanchenjunga Himal, a mountain range that includes several other peaks over 7,000 meters (22,966 feet) in elevation. The name “Kanchenjunga” means “Five Treasures of Snows” in the local Sikkimese language, referring to the five peaks that make up the mountain. The mountain is considered sacred by the local people and climbing is not allowed on the main summit, although an adjacent peak called Yalung Kang has been climbed. Kanchenjunga is a popular destination for mountaineers, with several routes leading to the summit. In 1955, a British expedition made the first successful ascent of the mountain.

Trip Overview:

The Kanchenjunga Trek is a popular trekking route in the eastern Himalayas, that takes you to the base camp of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. The trek is known for its stunning scenery, including high mountain passes, glaciers, and beautiful lakes. The trek starts in Taplejung, a town in eastern Nepal, and takes about two weeks to complete.

The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Taplejung, followed by a drive to the starting point of the trek. From there, the trek follows a series of trails through the beautiful Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The trek passes through several small villages, offering a chance to experience the local culture and lifestyle. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged, with high mountain passes and glaciers. The final destination is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp, which offers stunning views of the mountain and surrounding peaks.

The Kanchenjunga Trek is considered to be a moderate-to-challenging trek, with daily hikes of up to 7 hours. It is important to be in good physical condition and to have some previous trekking experience. The trek is best done from October to November and March to April when the weather is generally clear and dry.

Trip Highlights:

  • A two-week trek through the beautiful Kanchenjunga Conservation Area in the eastern Himalayas
  • High mountain passes with stunning views of the surrounding peaks
  • Beautiful lakes and glaciers, including the Yalung Glacier and the Tamur River
  • Cultural experiences and the opportunity to interact with the local Sherpa people
  • Stunning views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks from the Kanchenjunga Base Camp
  • A moderate-to-challenging trek that tests your endurance and physical fitness.

Outline Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Day 3: Drive to Suketar (2,200 meters)

Day 4: Trek to Lali Kharka (2,850 meters)

Day 5: Trek to Tetang (2,850 meters)

Day 6: Trek to Yamphudin (1,880 meters)

Day 7: Trek to Sele Le (2,700 meters)

Day 8: Trek to Amjilosa (2,820 meters)

Day 9: Trek to Gyabla (2,730 meters)

Day 10: Trek to Ghunsa (3,500 meters)

Day 11: Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa

Day 12: Trek to Kambachen (4,050 meters)

Day 13: Trek to Lhonak (4,780 meters)

Day 14: Trek to Pang Pema (5,140 meters)

Day 15: Acclimatization Day in Pang Pema

Day 16: Trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (5,400 meters)

Day 17: Acclimatization Day in Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Day 18: Trek to Yalung Base Camp (4,700 meters)

Day 19: Acclimatization day in Yalung Base Camp

Day 20: Trek to Ghunsa (3,500 meters)

Day 21: Trek to Yamphudin (1,880 meters)

Day 22: Trek to Taplejung (1,850 meters)

Day 23: Drive to Biratnagar (100 meters)

Day 24: Flight to Kathmandu

Day 25: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Day 26: Departure from Kathmandu

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel

On the first day of your trip, you will arrive in Kathmandu and be transferred to your hotel. You will have the rest of the day to rest and acclimate to the altitude.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

On the second day, you will have the opportunity to explore the cultural and historical sights of Kathmandu. You will visit the famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, as well as the ancient Durbar Square.

Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur and drive to Suketar (2,200 meters) by Jeep

On the third day, you will begin your journey to the Kanchenjunga region by driving to Suketar, a small town located at an altitude of 2,200 meters. The drive will take approximately eight hours and will take you through beautiful countryside and small villages. Upon arrival in Suketar, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the town.

Day 4: Trek to Lali Kharka (2,850 meters)

On the fourth day, you will begin your trek to Lali Kharka, a village located at an altitude of 2,850 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Upon arrival in Lali Kharka, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the village.

Day 5: Trek to Tetang (2,850 meters)

On the fifth day, you will continue your trek to Tetang, a village located at an altitude of 2,850 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Upon arrival in Tetang, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the village.

Day 6: Trek to Yamphudin (1,880 meters)

On the sixth day, you will continue your trek to Yamphudin, a village located at an altitude of 1,880 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Upon arrival in Yamphudin, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the village.

Day 7: Trek to Sele Le (2,700 meters)

On the seventh day, you will continue your trek to Sele Le, a village located at an altitude of 2,700 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Upon arrival in Sele Le, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the village.

Day 8: Trek to Amjilosa (2,820 meters)

On the eighth day, you will continue your trek to Amjilosa, a village located at an altitude of 2,820 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Upon arrival in Amjilosa, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the village.

Day 9: Trek to Gyabla (2,730 meters)

On the ninth day, you will continue your trek to Gyabla, a village located at an altitude of 2,730 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Upon arrival in Gyabla, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the village.

Day 10: Trek to Ghunsa (3,500 meters)

On the tenth day, you will continue your trek to Ghunsa, a village located at an altitude of 3,500 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Upon arrival in Ghunsa, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the village.

Day 11: Acclimatization day in Ghunsa

On the eleventh day, you will have a day of rest and acclimatization in Ghunsa. You can spend the day exploring the village and visiting the nearby monasteries, or you can take a short hike to a nearby viewpoint to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Day 12: Trek to Kambachen (4,050 meters)

On the twelfth day, you will continue your trek to Kambachen, a village located at an altitude of 4,050 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Upon arrival in Kambachen, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and prepare for the next leg of the trek.

Day 13: Trek to Lhonak (4,780 meters)

On the thirteenth day, you will continue your trek to Lhonak, a village located at an altitude of 4,780 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Upon arrival in Lhonak, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and explore the village.

Day 14: Trek to Pang Pema (5,140 meters)

On the fourteenth day, you will continue your trek to Pang Pema, a village located at an altitude of 5,140 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Upon arrival in Pang Pema, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and prepare for the next leg of the trek.

Day 15: Acclimatization Day in Pang Pema

On the fifteenth day, you will have a day of rest and acclimatization in Pang Pema. You can spend the day exploring the village and visiting the nearby monasteries, or you can take a short hike to a nearby viewpoint to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Day 16: Trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (5,400 meters)

On the sixteenth day, you will continue your trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, located at an altitude of 5,400 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Upon arrival at Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and prepare for the next leg of the trek.

Day 17: Acclimatization Day in Kanchenjunga Base Camp

On the seventeenth day, you will have a day of rest and acclimatization in Kanchenjunga Base Camp. You can spend the day exploring the base camp and taking in the stunning views of Kanchenjunga, or you can take a short hike to a nearby viewpoint to see even more breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Day 18: Trek to Yalung Base Camp (4,700 meters)

On the eighteenth day, you will continue your trek to Yalung Base Camp, located at an altitude of 4,700 meters. The trek will take approximately six hours and will take you through forests and along the banks of the Tamor River. Upon arrival at Yalung Base Camp, you will check into your guesthouse and have the rest of the evening to rest and prepare for the next leg of the trek.

Day 19: Acclimatization day in Yalung Base Camp

What is included?

  • Airport transfer by Royal Mountain Trekking office representative in a private vehicle
  • 3 nights’ accommodation at Tourist Standard Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast on twin sharing basis
  • 12 nights’ accommodation at well and comfortable Mountain Lodge available en-route during the trek (Few nights’ at during trek with attached bathroom/toilets)
  • English speaking, First Aid and Eco-trained local trekking guide, Assistance guide after 5 trekkers, porters (2:1)
  • All the expenses for guide and porters along with Insurance
  • Domestic Airfare for Kathmandu/Lukla/Kathmandu
  • Sagarmatha National Park Fees and Khumbu Permit
  • Exclusive medical kit bag, Duffle Bag, Trekking T-shirt, Adventure Certificate
  • Sleeping Bag and Down Jacket during Trek- must return back after the trek
  • All government and local taxes as applicable

What is not included?

  • Nepal Visa – (Cost- US$- 30 for 15 days & $- 50 for 30 days)
  • Lunch & evening meals while in Kathmandu and Pokhara (Except welcome/farewell dinner)
  • Travel insurance
  • Cost of personal nature expenses, Beverages (Mineral water or coca-cola), cost of extra meals, snacks, phones bills, Internet, WiFi, laundry etc.
  • Cost incurred during emergency, evacuations
  • Tips for Guide/porter/driver
  • Anything other than not mentioned in “Service Includes”

Difficulty

The Kanchenjunga trek is a challenging trek that takes you to the base camp of the third highest mountain in the world. The trek is suitable for experienced trekkers who are physically fit and have a good level of endurance.

Best Time

The best time to embark on the Kanchenjunga trek is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons, when the weather is dry and the skies are clear, providing the best conditions for trekking and mountain viewing.

Weather

During the trek, you can expect to experience a range of weather conditions, from warm and sunny to cold and snowy, depending on the altitude. It is important to come prepared with the proper clothing and gear to protect yourself from the elements.

Insurance

It is also important to have adequate travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and any potential medical emergencies that may arise during the trek.

Permits

To embark on the Kanchenjunga trek, you will need to obtain a trekking permit from the Nepal Tourism Board. The permit can be obtained through a local trekking agency or through your tour operator. The permit is required for all trekkers entering the Kanchenjunga region and must be carried with you at all times during the trek.

How long does the Kanchenjunga Trek take?

The Kanchenjunga Trek typically takes around 18-21 days to complete, depending on the route you take and your pace. The trek starts and ends in the town of Taplejung, and the route includes several rest days to allow for acclimatization to the high altitude.

What is the highest altitude reached on the Kanchenjunga Trek?

The highest altitude reached on the Kanchenjunga Trek is around 5,100 meters (16,700 feet) at the base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga. The trek involves several days of gradual ascent, allowing trekkers to acclimatize to the high altitude.

What is the accommodation like on the Kanchenjunga Trek?

Accommodation on the Kanchenjunga Trek is basic and consists of guest houses or lodges in the villages along the route. These lodges usually have shared bathrooms and provide simple meals. Some trekkers may also opt to camp, in which case they will need to bring their own camping equipment.

What should I pack for the Kanchenjunga Trek?

Here are some items you should consider packing for the Kanchenjunga Trek:

  • Warm and waterproof clothing, including a jacket, fleece, and thermal layers
  • Trekking shoes and a spare pair of socks
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Water bottle and purification tablets
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Personal toiletries and medication

 Do I need a guide or a porter for the Kanchenjunga Trek?

It is recommended to hire a local guide or porter for the Kanchenjunga Trek, as they are familiar with the route and can provide valuable information about the local culture and customs. A guide can also help you navigate the difficult terrain and assist you in case of any emergencies.

Are there any vaccination requirements for the Kanchenjunga Trek?

There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for the Kanchenjunga Trek, but it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and make sure that your routine vaccinations are up to date. It is also a good idea to get vaccinated against common illnesses such as hepatitis A and typhoid, as well as getting a flu shot. Make sure to bring any necessary medications with you on the trek.

Tour Reviews

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April 22, 2024

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May 12, 2024

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