Your Adventure is Around the Corner
Trip Code
AWTE-KT09
Destination
Nepal
Trekking Duration
22 Days
Grade
Strenuous content here
Altitude
5,143m
Activity
Trekking
Best Season
SEP-Dec and FEB-MAY
Accomodation
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Transportation
Flight /Jeep
Region
Off The Beaten Treks
Start / End Point
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Group Size
4 - 20
The Kanchenjunga Trek is one of the most remote, beautiful, and culturally immersive treks in Nepal. It takes adventurous trekkers through the pristine landscapes of Eastern Nepal to the base of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters)the third-highest mountain in the world. The trek is part of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, a biodiversity hotspot and a hidden treasure for those seeking solitude, dramatic mountain scenery, and authentic cultural encounters.
This trail traverses wild terrain through a variety of landscapes: from lush, terraced farmlands and tropical forests in the lowlands to icy glaciers, alpine grasslands, and barren high mountain passes near the base camp. The trail leads trekkers to both the North (Pang Pema) and South Base Camps, offering unforgettable views of towering peaks like Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Yalung Kang, and the distant Makalu and Everest ranges.
Along the way, trekkers will pass through isolated villages inhabited by the Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan Buddhist ethnic groups. These communities preserve their age old traditions, reflected in their attire, stone houses, monasteries, and daily lifestyle. Visiting these remote villages offers an authentic experience of rural Himalayan life far removed from the modern world.
This challenging journey demands good physical fitness, prior trekking experience, and mental stamina due to its remote location and longer duration. Proper acclimatization is essential as the trail crosses multiple high passes and approaches altitudes above 5,000 meters. But for those ready for the adventure, the Kanchenjunga Trek offers unmatched beauty, wildlife, cultural richness, and spiritual solitude in one of Nepal’s most spectacular wilderness areas.
The best time to trek in the Kanchenjunga region is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable, with clear skies and excellent mountain visibility. Temperatures are comfortable during the day, though the nights can be cold at higher elevations.
Spring offers the added bonus of blooming rhododendrons, orchids, and magnolias turning the forests into a colorful paradise. Autumn is preferred for its crisp, dry conditions and expansive views of the surrounding peaks. These seasons ensure safer trail conditions and enjoyable trekking weather.
Arrive in Kathmandu, where you’ll be greeted by a representative and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day relaxing or exploring vibrant areas like Thamel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and receive a briefing about the trek.
| Accomodations Hotel in Kathmandu |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Highest Altitude 1350m | |
| Start Point Kathmandu | |
| End Point Kathmandu | |
| Mode of Transportation Public Transportation |
Enjoy a guided city tour, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Use the afternoon to finalize permits and do last-minute shopping for your trek.
| Meals B | |
| Accomodations Hotel in Kathamndu |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 700km | |
| Trek Duration 40min-1hrs Flight , 8-9 hrs Drive | |
| Highest Altitude 2420m | |
| Start Point Kathmandu | |
| End Point Taplejung | |
| Mode of Transportation Flight , Private Transportation |
Take a morning flight to Bhadrapur and then embark on a scenic drive to Taplejung (around 8-9 hours). This marks the starting point of the trek.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 9-10km | |
| Trek Duration 5-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 921m | |
| Start Point Taplejung | |
| End Point Mitlung |
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 11-13km | |
| Trek Duration 6-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 1270m | |
| Start Point Mitlung | |
| End Point Chirwa |
Trek through traditional Limbu villages, crossing several suspension bridges and walking along the Tamor River. The trail includes small climbs and descents through forested areas.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 16km | |
| Trek Duration 6-8 hrs | |
| Highest Altitude 1660m | |
| Start Point Chirwa | |
| End Point Sekathum |
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 7-9km | |
| Trek Duration 5-6 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 2510m | |
| Start Point Sekathum | |
| End Point Amjilosa |
Today’s trail becomes steeper and more remote. You’ll pass through bamboo forests, narrow gorges, and cascading waterfalls. Amjilosa is a small Tibetan settlement.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 8km | |
| Trek Duration 5-6 hrs | |
| Highest Altitude 2730m | |
| Start Point Amjilosa | |
| End Point Gyabla |
Continue ascending through forest trails filled with rhododendron and bamboo. You’ll begin to notice more Tibetan Buddhist influence as you approach Gyabla.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 12km | |
| Trek Duration 5-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 3415m | |
| Start Point Gyabla | |
| End Point Ghunsa |
The trail leads to the beautiful village of Ghunsa, inhabited by the Sherpa community. You’ll walk through lush forests and get your first views of snowy peaks. Ghunsa has relatively better facilities and is an excellent spot to rest.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Highest Altitude 3415m |
Take a day to rest and acclimatize. Optional hikes to nearby ridges offer panoramic views and help with altitude adjustment. Explore monasteries and interact with locals.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 10km | |
| Trek Duration 5-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 3680m | |
| Start Point Ghunsa | |
| End Point Kambachen |
As you ascend beyond the treeline, the trail becomes more alpine. Cross moraines and enjoy spectacular views of the Jannu Himal. The path is rocky and can be affected by landslides.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Highest Altitude 3680m |
Another important acclimatization day. You can take a hike to the Jannu viewpoint or Nupchu Khola valley. The rest helps you prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 13-15km | |
| Trek Duration 7-8 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 4400m | |
| Start Point Kambachen | |
| End Point Lhonak |
A challenging but stunning walk over glacial moraines. You’ll cross several small streams and pass through rugged landscapes as you reach the remote settlement of Lhonak.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 14km Round Trip | |
| Trek Duration 9-10 hrs | |
| Highest Altitude 4400m | |
| Start Point Lhonak | |
| End Point Lhonak |
This is the highlight of the trek. Begin early to hike to Pangpema, the North Kanchenjunga Base Camp, for incredible views of the massive north face of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Return to Lhonak by afternoon.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 22km | |
| Trek Duration 9-11 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 3415m | |
| Start Point Lhonak | |
| End Point Ghunsa |
Retrace your steps back to Ghunsa, enjoying the views from a different perspective. Descending at altitude can be quicker but still requires caution.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 7-8km | |
| Trek Duration 5-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 4200m | |
| Start Point Ghunsa | |
| End Point Sele Le |
Climb steeply through pine and rhododendron forests toward Sele Le. This remote trail takes you away from the usual route and over high passes, offering solitude and mountain views.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House or Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 12-14km | |
| Trek Duration 7-9 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 3870m | |
| Start Point Sele Le | |
| End Point Cheram |
A long and rewarding day. Cross the Sinion La (4,660m) and Mirgin La (4,480m) passes, offering panoramic vistas of Mt. Makalu, Jannu, and Kanchenjunga. Descend to Cheram.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 14-16km Round Trip | |
| Trek Duration 6-8 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 3870m | |
| Start Point Cheram | |
| End Point Cheram |
Hike to Ramche and then continue to Oktang, the southern base camp viewpoint. This area offers jaw-dropping views of the Kanchenjunga massif and surrounding peaks. Return to Cheram for the night.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 10-12km | |
| Trek Duration 6-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 2995m | |
| Start Point Cheram | |
| End Point Tortong |
Descend through lush forests, passing monasteries and yak pastures. Enjoy the change in landscape and climate as you continue downward.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 18-20km | |
| Trek Duration 7-9 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 2080m | |
| Start Point Tortong | |
| End Point Yamphudin |
A long and varied descent through terraced fields and forested areas. Arrive at Yamphudin, a culturally rich and vibrant village.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 700km | |
| Trek Duration 40min -1 hrs Flight, 8-9 hrs Drive | |
| Highest Altitude 1400m | |
| Start Point Yamphudin | |
| End Point Kathmandu | |
| Mode of Transportation Flight, Private Transportation |
Drive back to Bhadrapur and take an evening flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, enjoy your final evening in Nepal with a farewell dinner and celebration of your adventure.
| Meals B | |
| Accomodations Hotel in Kathmandu |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 10km | |
| Trek Duration 30min Drive | |
| Highest Altitude 1400m | |
| Start Point Kathmandu | |
| End Point Airport |
After completing an unforgettable trekking adventure, it’s time to say goodbye to Nepal. You will be transferred to the airport for your departure or can choose to extend your stay for further exploration.
| Meals B |
Accommodation on the Kanchenjunga Trek ranges from basic teahouses in lower villages to tented camps in higher, more remote areas. While facilities are minimal, they offer warmth, food, and shelter. Rooms are usually shared, and hot showers are rare at higher altitudes.
Local meals like dal bhat, noodles, tsampa, and momos are common. Breakfasts typically include porridge, toast, and tea. Due to remoteness, food availability is limited at higher altitudes, but the quality remains nutritious. Bring energy bars and snacks for extra fuel.
Both are mandatory and checked at various points. A minimum of two trekkers is required to obtain the Restricted Permit.
To confirm your booking, a 10% deposit is required. Please provide passport copies, a photo, insurance details, and flight info. Remaining payment is accepted upon arrival in Nepal via cash, card, or bank transfer.
It’s a strenuous trek suited for experienced hikers with good fitness levels.
Yes, this is a restricted region—trekking with a licensed guide is mandatory.
Pang Pema (North Base Camp) at 5,143 meters.
In remote sections, yes. Some teahouses exist, but camping is necessary above Ghunsa and Sele La.
Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov).
No, This is one of the Least-traveled Treks in Nepal.
Sparse mobile signal, very limited Wi-Fi only in lower villages.
Yes, with a guide, acclimatization, and proper precautions.
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