The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is an adventure that takes you to both the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain at a towering 8,586m. This trek is quite remote and demands a good level of fitness and some trekking experience. Even though it's in an isolated area, you can still get a glimpse of local life and visit Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries.
During this trek, you'll encounter a variety of landscapes, from rivers and waterfalls to lush meadows and forests filled with rhododendron, birch, and pine trees. Plus, you'll get to see the impressive Yalung Glacier. Of course, the majestic mountains are your constant companions on this journey.
Kanchenjunga is situated in the far eastern part of Nepal, near the border with Sikkim, a small Himalayan state in northeastern India. Surprisingly, until the mid-1800s, people believed that Kanchenjunga was the highest peak in the world.
For many years, this region was off-limits to trekkers, but it opened up in the mid-1980s. Now, the area is protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, and you'll need a special trekking permit to explore it. These rules have helped protect the unique plants and animals in the area.
In addition to the main Kanchenjunga peak, there are four other summits higher than 8,000m, with Kanchenjunga West (Yalung Kang) at 8,505m being the most prominent. You'll also encounter about twenty peaks that are over 7,000m, including Kambachen (7,903m), Janu (7,710m), Jongsong (7,483m), Kabru (7,353m), Tent Peak (7,365m), and the Twins (7,350m).
Moreover, there are many other peaks above 6,000m. This region is known for its five major glacial systems. Some flow into Sikkim, like Zumu, Talung, and Rathong, while the Kanchenjunga and Yalung glaciers in the west feed into the powerful Tamor River in Nepal.
The Kanchenjunga trek offers an incredible experience where you venture deep into the remote and less-traveled Himalayan mountains and valleys. The addition of the Great Himalayan Trail to the trekking map has led to more teahouses along the route. This is positive for local communities, but it's also an excellent time to explore Kanchenjunga before it becomes a highly popular trekking destination.
So, what permits are necessary for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, and what are the associated costs and requirements?
When preparing for your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, it's essential to obtain the necessary permits and adhere to specific criteria. Here's what you need:
Make sure you fulfill these permit conditions and have them sorted before commencing your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. This will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of this remarkable region.
The Kanchenjunga region is a treasure trove of wildlife and natural beauty, as highlighted in a book from the Kanchenjunga Area Conservation Council. It's home to around 303 bird species, some of which are critically endangered, and boasts 266 lakes and glacial ponds, enhancing its charm.
The region also houses diverse wildlife, including seven snake species, four lizard species, 15 amphibian species, and 21 fish species. Notably, you'll find the native bitterfish here. The area is teeming with life, featuring 83 insect species and an impressive 844 species of flowering plants.
The presence of Chauri, the Himalayan Yak, adds to the region's allure, and the mountainous landscapes and Chauri settlements offer breathtaking visual experiences. Due to its proximity to India and China, the region holds strategic importance. George Band and Joe Brown made history by conquering Kanchenjunga Himal on May 25, 1955. Despite its natural beauty and historical significance, the region sees relatively few climbers and visitors.Fascinating Insights about Kanchenjunga Trekking
The best times for Kanchenjunga Trekking are spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November). These times provide the most suitable weather and comfortable temperatures for trekking.
While it's possible to go trekking in the Kanchenjunga region throughout the year, the monsoon season brings frequent heavy rainfall, making the trek more challenging. In contrast, the winter season in the area is extremely cold. Trekking in the off-seasons is doable, but it's notably tougher.
Kanchenjunga Trekking is a demanding and lengthy expedition that can push your physical and mental limits. It's essential to get ready for the tough aspects of this challenging journey.
The trek isn't a breeze; it involves several steep and often dangerous uphill and downhill sections. This is no place for taking risks, so it's crucial to stay cautious and prioritize your safety.
You should prepare for long and strenuous days, where you might end up walking for 8 to 9 hours on specific parts of the trail. This requires excellent physical fitness and strong mental resilience. Consider a thorough training routine before your trek to ensure you can comfortably manage daily walks of 7 to 8 hours.
One thing to watch out for is the risk of landslides in certain areas, particularly during the rainy season and winter. Stay alert and be ready to adjust to changing conditions along the trail.
Trekking through challenging terrain can leave you feeling tired and low on energy, which is entirely normal. To counter this, having energy bars or chocolates in your backpack can be a lifesaver, offering the boost you need to keep moving forward.
When navigating glaciers and demanding landscapes, exercise extreme caution. These areas present a higher risk of injury due to the hazardous terrain. Your safety should be your utmost concern in these sections.
Your Kanchenjunga trekking journey is a significant endeavor that comes with its share of difficulties and rewards. With proper preparation and the right mindset, you'll be well-equipped to overcome the challenges of this incredible adventure and fully appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.
Welcome to Nepal! When you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will be there to welcome you and take you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After you've had some time to rest and freshen up, we'll all meet up in the evening for a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu. During this dinner, we'll also give you a briefing about your upcoming trip. You'll be spending the night at the hotel.
After breakfast the day will start to our guided trip to cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley; including visits to the pilgrimage sites of Hindus Pashupatinath temple, the world biggest Bouddhanath Stupa, visit Swoyambhunath Stupa also known as monkey temple and historical Kathmandu Durbar Square with temple, unique architectures and Kumari (living goddess) in central Kathmandu. Evening pre-trip discussion and introduce with our fellow trekking staff for your adventure trip.
After your breakfast, our guide will come to your hotel and bring you to the airport. The short flight to Bhadrapur gives you a chance to enjoy fantastic views as you fly over the Kathmandu Valley, beautiful hills, and the famous Nepalese mountains – like a free mountain flight! When you arrive in Bhadrapur, we'll keep going with our trip by driving to Ilam, the heart of Nepal's tea plantation area.
After breakfast, we take a 4-hour drive through beautiful fields and hills, arriving at our overnight stop, Taplejung. Following a hearty lunch, you can explore this fascinating town renowned for its many Buddhist gompas.
One of these gompas stands out with an astonishing sight - it has maintained a continuous burn of butter lamps for four centuries. Next to the gompa, a serene stream keeps prayer wheels in motion, endlessly sending the sacred mantra "om mane padme hum" to the skies.
Today, our real trek begins, and it's going to be quite a long day of mostly walking downhill. The journey promises stunning natural scenery and plenty of adventure. But don't worry, not too far into our trek, we'll reach the beautiful village of Sinwa, right by the peaceful Tamor River. It's an excellent place to take a break, enjoy the surroundings, and even chat with the friendly locals. After this rest, we'll carry on with our adventure, full of energy and determination. So, be prepared for an exciting day of trekking and exploration!
Today, we're in for another long day of hiking, around 7 hours on the trail. As we pass through Tapethok, we officially enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. This is where our permits will be carefully checked to make sure everything is in order for our journey. We'll then continue across a suspension bridge, which adds some excitement to our day, and start our ascent toward Lelep. Along the way, we'll be treated to not only a test of our physical endurance but also incredible views of lush landscapes and opportunities to engage with the local culture. It's a day that promises a mix of experiences and stunning natural beauty, so get ready for an adventure-packed day of trekking!
Today's trek brings us a wonderful mix of waterfalls and thrilling suspension bridges. What makes it even more exciting is that we're about to reach the very first Sherpa village of our journey, where we'll spend the night. This village, Amjilosa, has a special feature – it's mainly bustling when yaks and sheep graze in the nearby pastures, and only a few families live here all year round. This adds a unique cultural touch to our adventure as we get to see how life revolves around the seasonal rhythms of the land. It's a great opportunity to soak in the natural beauty and local traditions of the area. So, gear up for a day of trekking that's not only visually stunning but also culturally enriching.
After breakfast, we venture into various forests filled with pine, bamboo, rhododendron, and oak trees. As we progress, you'll notice that both the villages and the locals begin to adopt a more Tibetan-like way of life.
The path is shared with yaks, sheep, and goats, providing a rural atmosphere. You'll also spot a variety of colorful birds in the vicinity. Following a satisfying lunch, we continue our journey, passing through thick forested areas. Eventually, we'll reach a sturdy wooden bridge, which leads us to Gyabla, where we'll spend the night. This day offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural insights, marking the start of an exciting trekking adventure. Get ready for a thrilling day!
Today, our journey leads us through captivating forests and brings us to Phale Village, a place with a remarkable history. It was established decades ago as a Tibetan refugee camp, providing sanctuary to those fleeing the Chinese communist regime. Today, Phale is a winter settlement village and an intriguing destination to explore. You'll have the chance to visit the village and discover various handicrafts available for purchase. Later, we'll continue our trek to Ghunsa, the largest village in the region. Here, you'll find essential facilities like a police station, a health post, and the Kanchenjunga Conservation Office. Moreover, Ghunsa offers telephone and internet services, introducing a touch of modern connectivity to our remote adventure. Get ready for a day brimming with cultural experiences and the convenience of contemporary amenities.
We've reached higher ground and have more elevation to conquer, so it's important to take a break and get used to the higher altitude in Ghunsa. This village is a gateway to experiencing the local culture, with a monastery to visit and a beautiful ridge to climb.
The ridge offers beautiful views of Jannu Peak, which are definitely worth the 5-hour round trip. We recommend this climb to help your body acclimatize to the altitude. We'll provide you with a packed lunch for the journey. It's a day to appreciate the culture and nature of Ghunsa while getting ready for even higher altitudes. So, get ready to explore and acclimatize.
Today, we get to admire the impressive Jannu Himal mountain. We climb up a gentle slope and find ourselves in a beautiful glacier valley. This peaceful place might even let us spot rare animals like blue sheep and the majestic snow leopards if we're lucky. We continue our journey, passing a charming waterfall and entering an area where landslides can occur. We need to be extra careful in this potentially risky area. The day is all about enjoying beautiful views and perhaps glimpsing some of the Himalayas' most extraordinary wildlife. So, get ready for a day of adventure where every step gets us closer to the region's natural wonders.
Today is another day to acclimate ourselves to the high altitude in preparation for our visit to the North Base Camp. You can choose to climb another ridge, and from there, you'll be rewarded with beautiful views of the magnificent Kanchenjunga.
Today, we will mostly walk on rocky terrain from the Kanchenjunga Glacier. We'll be climbing uphill over large rocks, enjoying beautiful views on both sides.
This region is also home to snow leopards, so we'll be on the lookout for this rare animal. It's an area where yaks graze during the summer, but there are no villages on our route. Get ready for a day of trekking on rough ground and the chance to spot a snow leopard.
After a satisfying breakfast, we continue our journey, walking over the rocky terrain of the Kanchenjunga Glacier, steadily climbing uphill. When we finally reach Base Camp, we're greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the towering mountains all around us. The view is made even more special by the colorful Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind. We take a break here, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and sipping on a hot drink while munching on snacks. It's a truly serene and unforgettable experience. Later, we head back to Lhonak, where we'll spend the night. This day is all about towering mountain views and a peaceful break in the heart of the Himalayas. So, prepare for a memorable adventure!
Continuing our trek, we traverse pebbly terrain and rocky moraine until we reach Kambachen Village, where we'll pause for a satisfying lunch. Later, we change our direction, moving eastward alongside the winding Tamor River. During this part of our journey, you will observe the surroundings becoming progressively greener and more lush, creating a refreshing change of scenery. Finally, we find ourselves back in Ghunsa, our place of rest for the night. Returning to Ghunsa provides an opportunity to reacquaint ourselves with the village and immerse in the local culture once more. This day offers a mix of landscapes, showcasing various terrains, vegetation, and cultural interactions, making it a day filled with enriching experiences. Prepare for another remarkable day of trekking!
Today's journey takes us through a forest and along a grassy ridge. From here, we get amazing panoramic views of Ghunsa and Phole villages below, and in the distance, we can see the majestic Mt. Makalu on the horizon. It's a day filled with beautiful scenery and distant mountain views.
This morning, we set off early for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Our path includes crossing two high mountain passes: the Sinion La pass at 4,450 meters and the Sinelapche La pass at 4,830 meters.
These passes provide towering views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the nearby valley. After descending, we follow a narrow path that takes us to Cheram, which is the only village along this route. We will stay in Cheram for the night.
Today, our trek leads us to Ramche, where we'll take a break for lunch. Afterward, we continue for about 40 minutes to reach the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. It's situated right on the edge of the glacier and decorated with colorful Tibetan prayer flags. We then head back to Cheram to spend the night.
Today's path primarily heads downhill through a stunning gorge. However, as we near the end of our journey, we face a steep uphill climb through a forest that's prone to landslides. This part of the route is devoid of any settlements until we eventually reach Torongding, where you'll discover a few teahouses for a break and some refreshments. This day combines both thrilling descents and challenging ascents, making it a diverse and beautiful trek. Get ready for an adventure filled with natural beauty and demanding terrain.
After a hearty breakfast, we start by going downhill, but the journey soon turns into a tough, long uphill climb. On our way, we cross a section prone to landslides as we head towards Lasiya Bhanjyang. This area has a single teashop where we can stop and have lunch.
We then continue, descending steeply through beautiful forests, immersing ourselves in the natural surroundings. Eventually, we arrive at the large village of Yamphuding. This part of the trek involves a mix of uphill challenges, peaceful forests, and the lively atmosphere of village life. So, be prepared for a day with various terrains and cultural experiences, as we continue our extended adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.
At this lower altitude, walking gets easier. We pass through interesting villages and beautiful terraced fields. Our day's journey ends in Khebang, where we'll spend the night.
On the 20th day of your Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, you will go from Khebang to Khamdime. You'll begin your day in Khebang and walk along a path that connects these two places. The distance you cover can vary, and the trail will include forests, hills, valleys, and chances to meet local villagers. The duration depends on how fast you walk and the trail's conditions, but plan on several hours of hiking.
During this part of the trek, you'll enjoy beautiful scenery, pass through villages, and have opportunities to interact with the locals and their culture.
Today, we're in for a long road trip. It's a chance to think about all the amazing things we've seen and give our tired legs a break. When we get to Bhadrapur in the evening, we can have a good dinner, maybe even a beer, and relax in a comfortable hotel for the night.
Today, after breakfast, we will fly to Kathmandu. Our driver will pick you up from the airport and then transfer us to the hotel. We will stay in Kathmandu.
On the 25th day of your trip, it's time to bid farewell to Kathmandu. This marks the conclusion of your journey in Nepal. Begin your day by checking out from your hotel in Kathmandu and head to the airport for your departure. You'll be flying out of Kathmandu, and this day is primarily focused on the logistics and process of leaving the city and returning home or continuing your travels to the next destination.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its remote location and rugged terrain. It requires a good level of physical fitness and previous trekking experience.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek usually takes around 20-25 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and the pace of the trek.
The best time to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is generally clear and stable during these times, offering better visibility and comfortable trekking conditions.
Yes, you need a special permit called the Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit to trek in the Kanchenjunga region. You also need to obtain the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
Yes, there are teahouses and lodges available along the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek route. However, the infrastructure is less developed compared to other popular trekking regions like Everest or Annapurna, so be prepared for more basic accommodations.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek offers towering views of the world's third highest peak, Kanchenjunga, along with breathtaking landscapes, remote villages, and diverse flora and fauna.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp is located at an elevation of approximately 5,143 meters (16,873 feet) above sea level.
While it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to hire a guide and/or porter for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. They can provide valuable assistance, ensure your safety, and help carry your backpack, allowing you to fully enjoy the trek.
Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek due to the high elevations. It is important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body. If you experience severe symptoms of altitude sickness, it is crucial to descend to a lower altitude.
Yes, it is possible to combine the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek with other treks in the region, such as the Three Passes Trek or the Makalu Base Camp Trek. However, it would require more time and careful planning.
The cost of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek can vary depending on factors such as the duration of the trek, the services included (guide, porter, accommodation, meals), and the trekking agency you choose. It is recommended to contact local trekking agencies for specific cost details.
Yes, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is suitable for solo trekkers. However, it is always safer to trek with a guide or in a group for better support and safety.
Here's a list of essential trekking gear and equipment for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:
Keep in mind that the gear and clothing you require can change depending on the time of year and the path you take. It's crucial to stay warm and comfy while also trying to keep your backpack as light as you can. Make sure to check the current weather conditions and talk to us about any special needs or recommendations.
