A Complete Facts About Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Nepal

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is nominated as the best mountain environment for trekking located at the Far East part of Nepal. Kanchenjunga (8,586m) is the third highest mountain in the world which straddles its border to Nepal, Tibet and Sikkim (India). Trekking in Kanchenjunga is more than just an adventure, the region is believed to be the adobe of patron deity.

Kanchenjunga Himal lies about 125 km east of Mt. Everest and is the 2nd highest peak of Nepal. Three out of five peaks lies at the border of Nepal and North-Sikkim.  Tibetan believes it as the “Five Treasures of Snow” after its five highest peaks and has also been worshipped by the people of Nepal and India.

The array of great peaks is highly glaciated and forms five major glaciated systems. Zemu, Talung and Ranthong at the east feed the water system of River Tista (India) and Kanchenjunga and Yalung glaciers forms the main sources of River Tamur at Nepal side. Kanchenjunga is subjected with the high level of precipitation which causes intense glaciation.

Trekking around the base camp of Kanchenjunga is nothing but a step closer to the gigantic mountain along with the pristine forest of rhododendron, orchids, pine and magnolia. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek finally leads you to the area of the alpine region where dwarf shrubs thrives and the temperature is extreme.

Information about Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Route

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu (1,300m)

Day 02: Sightseeing of Kathmandu valley and preparation for trek

Day 03: Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (91m) and drive to Illam (3,636m)

Day 04: Drive to Suketar (2,420m) and trek to Lali Kharka

Day 05: Trek to Kande Bhanjyang (2,130m)

Day 06: Kande Bhanjyang to Phumpe Danda (1,858m)

Day 07: Phumpe Danda to Yamphudin (1678m)

Day 08: Yamphudin to Amji Khola (2,400m)

Day 09: Amji Khola to Torongton (2995m)

Day 10: Torongton to Tsheram (3870m)

Day 11: Acclimatization and rest day at Tseram

Day 12: Tseram to Ramche (4615m)

Day 13: Ramche to Tseram (3870m)

Day 14: Tseram to Shele La (4290m)

Day 15: Shele La to Gunsa (3475m)

Day 16: Gunsa to Khambasen (4225m)

Day 17: Khambasen to Lhonak (4815m)

Day 18: Lhonak to Pangpema (5150m)

Day 19: Acclimatization and rest day at Pangpema

Day 20: Pangpema to Khambachen

Day 21: Khambachen to Phale (3140m)

Day 22: Phale to Amjilosa (2510m)

Day 23: Amjilosa to Chiruwa (1270m)

Day 24: Chiruwa to Mitlung (921m)

Day 25: Trek to Taplejung

Day 26: Flight back to Kathmandu

Major Highlights of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

• Amazing circuit trek around Kanchenjunga Base Camp, world’s third highest peak
• Best view of Kanchenjunga range including Kanchenjunga South. Oktang is the best view point of the trek.
• Wilderness trekking experience in untouched and unexplored region like Gunsa and Phale
• The best view of Kanchenjunga North from Pangpema Base Camp known as Kanchenjunga North Base Camp
• Great cross-cultural privilege and experience of warm hospitality of ethnic people living in remote corner of Nepal

Difficulties of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Trekking to the base camp of Kanchenjunga is categorized as strenuous trail in Nepal. There are certain criteria that determines which difficulty level is strenuous. Trekkers need to walk for 6 to 7 hours daily for several days. Usually, trekkers start their Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking from north side and trek through Sele Le Pass and descend to the south section.

Trekking in lower belt of Kanchenjunga Base Camp is easy that concerns walking through pristine forest and vegetation. Ghunsa on North section is pretty good with some occasional difficult portion mostly slippery nearby the area of waterfall. The trail further encounters rugged route with frequent landslides on the region of Kambachen and Lhonak. Rest part of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trail route is quite good in comparison to other technical passes of the region.  

The trail from Yamphuding to Cheram, trekkers have to walk long as some stops on Bhaise Kharka and some on Tortong. There is no availability of Teahouse in between Yamphuding and Tortong, so most of trekkers manage to reach Tortong after long walk through dense forest and thick bushes. In Short, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is difficult in comparison to other wilderness trekking region of Nepal.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Cost

The cost of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek varies according to the accommodation, mode of trekking i.e. camping or teahouse, transportation used, size of group, number of trip days and other many factors. It is restricted area trekking so you must accompany trekking agency of Nepal that costs around 1,500 to 4,000 USD.

Note- You must hold enough cast as there is no availability of ATMs in trail expect at Kathmandu.

Do I need TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking?

You don’t need any TIMS card for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. As long you hold special trekking permits, TIMS is not necessary for trekking in any restricted area of Nepal. But TIMS is important if you connect your Kanchenjunga Trip with Everest or Annapurna Base Camp Trek trip.

Trekking Permits for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

As, Kanchenjunga region falls under the restricted area of Nepal- you need to know that Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek cannot be done by yourself. As per government law, it should be organized by registered trekking agency of Nepal that makes arrangement of all you accommodation, transportation, safety, meals and other necessities.

You need to accompany at least one registered guide or porter and take a two trekking permits to enter Kanchenjunga region. Also you must be in at least 2 people group. One trekking permit have the validity of a month and other is restricted area permit for four weeks.

Where can I apply for Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking permit?

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek permit is issued from the trekking department of Nepal Immigration office in Maitighar, Kathmandu. It is not issued from TAAN or Nepal Tourism board but other permits like ACAP, MCAP and Everest permits are issued here.

Documents are necessary to obtain Kanchenjunga Trekking Permits

• Original passport with at least 6 months of validity date and Nepal entry visa stamp
• Two passport size photo
• Travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation up to 6,000m

Health, Fitness Level, Experience, Training and Safety for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is perfect for you, if you are content of walking 5-6 hours daily on rugged terrain of hill. A person with moderate fitness level and high determination can join in the trail to the base camp of Kanchenjunga.

Proper acclimatization and slow pace is the most to make your body adopt according to varied altitude. You don’t need any technical skills and previous mountaineering experience for this trail. You must go through physical training prior the trail as it is enduring remote area trek for more than three weeks.  Cycling, jogging, swimming, running and leg cardio are the best form of training that helps you gain the stamina.

Best Season to go for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking is possible to conduct throughout the year however autumn (Sep-Nov) and spring (Marc-May) are the considered as the best seasons for trekking. During these seasons, visibility is clear with moderate temperature perfect for trekking.

Trekking in autumn (October to November)

October to November are the best time of the year for Kanchenjunga trekking with clear blue sky and get mountain views. Adding to weather, great festivals of Hindu add more perk to these seasons. The temperature can be hot during days but nights are usually moderate with no rains.

Trekking During Spring (March to May)

Spring is the season of flower in Nepal. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking Trails are decorated with beautiful flowers especially rhododendron making it a haunting paradise during spring. Temperature is mildly warm at lower elevation and moderate a higher elevation with best view of mountains and surrounding landscapes.

Complete Gear List of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

The following gear list might help you with your packing. It is important to minimize the gear weight while participating any sort trekking adventure in Nepal. The rucksack should not be more than 15 kg in Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek trail.

You must carry following gears:

Wearing

• Hiking boots and woolen socks
• Trekking trousers and pants
• Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants
• Towels
• Casual shirts and T-shirts
• Fleece jackets or jumper
• Thermal gloves
• Warm Hat
• Sleeping bag and down jacket

Accessories & other items

• Camera
• Power Bank and Charger
• Extra Batteries
• Head Lamp
• Sunscreen
• Anti-bacterial hand-wash
• Water bottle with purifier
• Trekking poles

 Medical

• Blister kit
• UV protection glass
• Aspirin with bandages and plasters
• Topical antibiotic cream
• Iodine tablets
• Diamox or acetazolamide
• Immodium or Lomotil for diarrhea
• Pepcid or Zantac for heartburn
• Antibiotic – Ciprofloxacin or Leavaquin
• 1 set of ear plug
• Stomach antibiotic

Note- We recommend you to rent all the expensive gears at rental shop of Kathmandu. Your trekking agency will make your all arrangements from gear to equipment, food to accommodation and transportation to sightseeing from your arrival at Kathmandu to time to say farewell at the end of the trek.  

Everest Annapurna and Manaslu are Best Trekking Routes

Annapurna, Everest and Manaslu are the Best Trekking Routes in Nepal

With eight of ten highest peaks in the world, Nepal offers huge opportunities for trekking, hiking mountaineering and many other adventurous activities in some of exotic locations. This Himalayan kingdom unveils many natural panorama and ancient culture that have been remained intact and hidden from outside world. Due to its diversity in geography and elevation, Nepal is dream come true destination for those seeking an adventurous climbing and trekking in Himalaya.

Annapurna, Everest, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Langtang are the best and most sought trekking tours in Nepal. Among them, Annapurna, Everest and Manaslu are known for its peculiar nature and majestic beauty. These regions are the most crowded and appreciated trekking destination in Nepal. Normally, it takes around 2-4 weeks for comprehensive trek in Himalaya of Nepal. We are hopeful that the snapshots attractions of these popular trekking region of Nepal help you widen the knowledge and choose the suitable trekking holiday.  

1. Everest Base Camp Trek

World’s most adventurous destination- every trekkers and climbers have dream to stand next to Mt. Everest (world’s highest peak). Normally it takes 2-weeks to accomplish EBC trek. Proper arrangement of trekking and logistic gear prior the trek is highly recommended for successful trekking in Everest. Well-designed itinerary with critical acclimatization and accompanying medial-expert guide is also highly suggested.

Everest Base Camp (5,335m) displays some of finest aroma of nature along with massif Everest, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, Lhotse, Nuptse and multiple neighboring peaks. Moreover, the fascinating culture and unique lifestyle of Sherpa entice the heart of every travelers. Everest Base Camp falls under the territory of Sagarmatha National Park in Khumbu region. It is the southern gateway to Everest and many climbers take Everest Base Camp as the resting and acclimatizing point for summit ascend and descend to Lukla.

Trekking to Everest starts after small airstrip from Kathmandu to Lukla. It takes around 30 minutes of scenic and adventurous flight to reach Lukla. The dramatic landing at Lukla airport is starting point of adventure. The trekking trail starts from Lukla and goes through scenic town Phakding all the way to Namche bazaar. After one day of acclimatization halt, the trail goes through different villages like Dingboche, Gorakhshep and finally reach Everest Base Camp. Several hours of further hike takes you to Kalapathar (5,550m), the vantage point of Everest.

Everest Base Camp Trekking Route

Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,810) and trek to Phakding

Day 02: Trek to Namche bazaar

Day 03:  Acclimatization at Namche bazaar

Day 04: Trek to Tengboche (3860m)

Day 05: Trek to Dingboche (4,220m)

Day 06: Acclimatization at Dingboche

Day 07: Trek to Lobuche (4,910m)

Day 09: Trek to Gorakshep (5,180m) and Everest Base Camp (5,335m)

Day 10: Trek to Kalapatthar (5,545m) an trek back to Lobuche

Day 12-14: Trek back Lukla passing en route Tengboche and Monjo (2,835m)

2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is one of classical teahouse trekking route in Annapurna region. It is one of best trekking region in Nepal after Everest where more than 40,000 travelers visit every year. Annapurna Base Camp is located in central region and falls under Annapurna Conservation Area. Trekking in Annapurna region is highly rewarding as the region is blessed with both natural and cultural diversity. Annapurna Sanctuary, Modi Khola, quaint villages and astounding Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges are its major attractions. 

Normally, 2 weeks of trekking is enough to complete this whole trip. You need some extra days for acclimatization and rest. You are highly recommended to accompany an expert guide with extensive knowledge of medicine and locations. Moreover, you need to get prepared for strenuous hiking of 5-7 hours a day.

Annapurna Base Camp at (4,130m) unveils the majestic beauty and some of stunning peaks in the world that includes Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna (I, II, III, and IV), Dhaulagiri and several neighboring peaks. Annapurna Base Camp trekking also allows trekkers to interact with local to get to know about their way of living and culture. You will be surprised to discover people still following ancient culture and traditions. While comparing to Everest Base Camp trek, it is quite easy however you need to be physically and mentally sound to accomplish the task successfully.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Route

Day 01: Fly to Pokhara (900m), drive to Nayapul (1,000m) and trek to Tikhedhunga

Day 02: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m)

Day 03: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) and trek to Tadapani (2,600m)

Day 04: Trek to Chomrong (2,100m)

Day 05: Trek to Dovan (2,500m)

Day 06: Trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)

Day 07: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)

Day 08-11: Trek back to Nayapul crossing en route Bamboo and Jhinu Danda and drive back to Pokhara  

3. Manaslu Base Camp Trek

Comparing to Everest and Annapurna, Manaslu Base Camp trek is fairly less-crowded and less sought trail, however its unique nature and geography makes it one of best trekking destination in Nepal. Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is also popular trekking trail in the Manaslu region.

Nestled in northern Himalayan range in the Gorkha District, Mt. Manaslu is the 8th highest peak in the world. Climbing and trekking in this region are not as popular as other base camps, but it is widely known for remote and beaten off trail. Manaslu Base Camp trekking is untouched natural paradise and remote valley trail in Nepal. Trekking to Manaslu Base Camp was official opened for foreigner in 1992 so this is highly preserved region in terms of culture and tradition where people still speaks ancient dialects. Since this restricted area, you need to obtain special trekking permits to enter the area.

The stunning mountains view, rich cultural heritage, adventurous trail, incomparable beauty and bio-logical diversity are the central of attractions of the trail. According to local mythology, MANASLU means “Spirit Mountain” that refers the benevolent of strong deity.

On the trekking route to Manaslu, you will discover many smiling cultural people whose origin belongs to Tibet and they still follow their ancient culture. Also known as Manaslu Circuit trek, the trail takes you to Sera Monastery at Shey Gompa that unfolds the ancient beauty along with close-up view of Mt. Manaslu. Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal are few peaks that consistently dominates the whole trek. The trekking route of Manaslu trail is so wonderful with dense forest of fern, bamboo, colorful rhododendron and waterfalls and aqua-blue green lakes with cotton white beaches.

Manaslu Base Camp Trekking Route

Day 01: Drive to Sotikhola (530m) from Kathmandu (1,300m)

Day 02: Trek to Machhakhola (930m)

Day 03: Trek to Yaru Besi (1,130m)

Day 04: Trek to Philim (1,590m)

Day 05: Trek to Deng (1,860m)

Day 06: Trek to Ghap (2,135m)

Day 07: Trek to Namrung (2,630m)

Day 08: Trek to Lho (3,180m)

Day 09: Trek to Sama Gaon (3,225m)

Day 10: Trek to Samdo (3,860m)

Day 11: Acclimatization at Samdo

Day 12: Trek to Dharamshala (4,460m)

Day 13: Cross Larklya pass (5,235m) and trek to Bhimthang (3,610m)

Day 14-15: Trek to Tilche (2,300m) and Dharapani (1,960) and drive to Besishar (730m)

Why Nepal is Famous for Trekking Holidays?

Trekking Holidays in Nepal means multi-days walking journey. Generally, trekkers walk for 6-7 hours per day for several hours staying overnight at different place every night. Trekking concerns to walking to those trail routes where there are no accessibility of road transportation or it allows you go through short-cut or go over passes. There are many exotic locations ideal for trekking scatter all over the world. Trekking is usually done for unique experience of natural panorama and taste of different culture.

With eight of ten highest peaks in the world, Nepal offers numerous trekking opportunities with many exotic locations. The diversity of topography and elevation makes it a perfect route for adventurous hiking and trekking activities. From an easy and short days hike to extremely challenging multi-day trek, trekking holidays in Nepal has always something to offer for all level of trekkers. For novice, Nepal trekking presents low-elevated short days hike but the reward is always incredible. For experienced trekkers, Everest Base Camp Trek, Upper Dolpo trek, Upper Mustang Trek and Manaslu circuit trek are few to name challenging treks.

The prime attractions of trekking holidays in Nepal are always its lofty mountains and unique culture still existing in remote corner of Nepal. The mountains and its majestic surrounding are also known as natural playground for those seeking challenging and adventurous sport in exotic location.

Home to Mt. Everest (8,848m), Nepal boasts dramatic geography that starts low from 150m at Terai to highest point of earth with in 200km distance. From tropical forest to alpine forest and green flat land to magical tree-less barren land, all shelters within 200km distance. These forests are home to numerous rare and non-rare flora and faunal spices. Moreover, Nepal houses many spiritual, cultural and religious centers at different locations from remote Himalaya to semi-developed hilly region and developed cities. The cultural people living in remote Himalaya and friendly people are always curious to welcome you.

Trekking holidays in Nepal flourishes the rural villages and its people. Namche bazaar is the burning example of how tourism impact the remote town of Nepal. These all shows that trekking in Nepal is more than just mountains and natural landscapes.

Nepal offers extensive range of trekking and hiking choices that suits every level of trekkers. Here I have tried to present some choices of trekking destination depending upon length.

Long Trekking Holidays Destination in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest (8,8848m) - the world highest peak, every trekkers have dream to stand at the foothill of Everest. Everest Base Camp Trekking is one of the best trekking destination in Nepal that takes you to the wild vicinity of mountain range through some of world’s exotic trekking route. Trekking to Everest is more than just adventure and fun. You feel like conquering the world and the reward is just unimaginable. The friendly people and their warm hospitality, en route stunning forest of rhododendron and dominant view of massif mountain range captivates the heart of every trekkers. Everest Base Camp (5,365m) displays the great landscapes including the gigantic mountain range like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama-Dablam and more. It also unfolds the last remnant of pristine forest and quaint culture.

Everest Base Camp lies at Sagarmatha National Park in Khumbu region. Everest Base Camp trekking starts after small airstrip from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway of Everest. You can also choose to take a drive to Jiri and trek all the way to Lukla. It is traditional route of Everest Base used by Sir Edmund Hilary. Normally, it takes 2 weeks of strenuous walking to reach base camp. Everest Base Camp Trek is ideal for those who have enough time in Nepal and not recommended to elderly people and those who are physically weak.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Probably one of busiest trekking route in Nepal, Annapurna base camp trek boasts the finest aroma of nature along with the magnificent mountain ranges and Himalayan culture. The mountain peaks displayed during the trail is Annapurna (8,167m), the 10th highest peak in the world and first ever 8,000m+ summited peak. Additional peaks includes Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m) and more.

The elevation of trek varies dramatically starting low from 730m to 5,414m at Throng La Pass. The trail goes through arid valley of Upper Mustang (home of Tibetan-Buddhist), down to the Hindu pilgrimage site of Muktinath and Kali Gandaki valley, the deepest gorge of the world, before heading back to Pokhara, the starting point of the trek. So this trek is very much adventurous trekking holidays in Nepal that focuses both natural and cultural exploration.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

After Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp trek, Manaslu is another popular and most sought trekking holiday destination in Nepal. Despite its increasing in popularity, this region has remain one of unexplored and untouched trekking region in Nepal. Trekking to Manaslu circuit was officially opened in 1992, so this region remain highly protected in terms of culture and ancient tradition. The dominating view of Manaslu and enticing culture are the major attraction of the trek. If you love to hike through beaten-off trail and seek to unfold the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal, Manaslu circuit is most recommended trek in Nepal.

Short Trekking Holidays Destination in Nepal

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

If you have just 5 to 7 days in Nepal but still want to capture the Himalayan panorama and alpine scenario then Ghorepani Poonhill trek is the best option for you. It falls inside Annapurna region and renown for stunning sunrise view and extra-ordinary glimpse of massif Himalaya range. Annapurna (I, II, III, IV), Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchre and Hiuchuli are few mountain displayed from Poon-Hill. Moreover, staying overnight at Ghorepani allows you to discover the unique culture and tradition of Gurung community.

Nagarkot Changunarayan Trek

Nagarkot Changunarayan Trek, probably the shortest treks in Nepal is very close to capital city Kathmandu but still manage to provide you the best view of Dhaulagiri to the west and Kanchenjunga through Everest in the east. The main attraction of the trip is no-doubt the stunning sunrises that embellishes the entire skyline covered with panoramic mountain rage.

Nagarkot-Changunararyan trail also offers great cultural experience with encounters of traditional ethic people and their culture. The ancient structure of the Bhaktapur Darbar Square, 55 windowed Palace and other historical monuments shows the cultural significance of Newari people and their culture. This trip is great amalgamation of culture and nature along with fascinating trekking in holidays in Nepal.

Ghandruk Cultural Trek

Ghandruk Cultural Trek is fasicanting, easy and comfortable treks in Nepal with a maximum of 6 hours of trekking a day. With zero risk of altitude sickness and problems, this trek is best suited for families with children and elderly people. This trek covers incredible mountain scenery, stunning landscapes and fascinating culture of Gurung community. The houses of villages in Ghandruk are traditional and people are very hospitable. It is said that every house in Ghandruk is museum as it shows ancient arts, tradition and culture