Upper Mustang Tours & Travels

About Kanchenjunga base camp trekking

Mount Kanchenjunga base camp trek Nepal is a real off-the-beaten-path adventure into the soul of Himalayas. It’s a chance to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Nepal. KBC trail passes through the remote villages inhabited by Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan communities of eastern Nepal. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to experience their unique traditions, hospitality, and way of life.

Kanchenjunga trekking offers an amazing view of pristine landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, rich cultural heritage and a true sense of wilderness. And of course, the views of Kanchenjunga and its neighboring peaks are simply jaw-dropping. This means you’ll encounter unspoiled trails, tranquil landscapes and a sense of solitude that is hard to find elsewhere.

There are two major routes to explore the base camp of world’s third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga Nepal (8,586 meters). We offer trek to KBC covering both North Base Camp (Pangpema, 5,143 m) and South Base Camp (Oktang, 4,730 m). The sight of these giants glowing with sunrise is nothing short of magical and the ultimate reward for your efforts and a moment you’ll cherish forever.

• Reach the base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga 8,586 m / 28,169 feet, the third highest peak of the world.
• Encounter verity of flora, fauna and birds on natural habitat in Kanchenjunga conservation area.
• Explore Deurali, Temples, Monasteries, Mani walls, Prayer flags and Chortens on the way to KBC route.
• Visit Kanchenjunga north base camp at 5,140 m & south base camp at 4,610m crossing Sele la, Mirgin la, Sinelapche pass.
• Witness the unspoiled nature, waterfall, amazing landscapes, lush forests, rivers, vibrant hamlets and terraced farmlands.
• Interact with local ethnic groups of people like Rai, Limbu and Sherpa, know their culture, tradition & way of life.
• Get the glimpse of rural Nepal, Kanchenjunga glacier, Yalung glacier, glacial lakes and Tibetan refugee camp in Taplejung.
• Feel the peace and tranquility during Kanchenjunga base camp journey on off the beaten path in eastern Nepal.
• Witness wonderful view of Kanchenjunga massif, Yalung Kang, Kangbachen, Mount Kumbhakarna, Kabru and many other peaks of Himalayas.

• Day 1 : Arrival day in Kathmandu, Nepal

  Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be met by our representative and transfer you to hotel. As soon as we reach hotel, representative will give you a synopsis of plan and program agreement.  After a short rest & relax, you can explore the city and its cultural heritage.
  Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4593 feet.

• Day 2 : Flight to Bhadrapur then drive to Ilam

  The first day of adventure start with morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. It takes around 45 minutes to reach Bhadrapur airport. From Bhadrapur guide arrange private vehicle to go to Ilam Nepal. Road distance from Bhadrapur to Ilam is about 84 kilometers / 52 miles. It takes about 3/5 hours to reach Ilam by driving in Mechi highway. Along the road you will get an opportunity to see many tea estates, villages, rolling green hills and great mountain view including Mt. Makalu and Kanchenjunga etc. Drive from Bhadrapur to Ilam is relatively easy because the road is paved and in good condition but winding through hills. We advise all to prepare for motion sickness. Ilam is famous for its lush tea gardens.

• Day 3 : Drive to Taplejung 1820 meters / 5971 feet

  The day begins with drive towards Taplejung, the gateway to the Kanchenjunga base camp trek Nepal. Ilam to Taplejung journey is a scenic and exciting. The road is mostly hilly terrain and winding, with mix of paved and gravel roads. Ilam to Taplejung road distance is 152 kilometers / 95 miles in Mechi Highway. It takes 5 to 8 hours depends on road conditions, weather and the mode of transportation. Driving route offer eye-popping landscapes, local people, culture and towering foothills of the Himalayas. This journey pass via Phidim, the headquarters of Panchthar district and finally reach Taplejung “the gateway of Kanchenjunga trek” a small town in eastern Nepal.

• Day 4 : Drive to Sukethum 1650 meters / 5413 feet

  After breakfast, we will move towards Sukethum by jeep. The drive from Taplejung to Sukethum in Nepal is a scenic but challenging journey primarily due to rugged terrain and narrow mountain roads, through the Himalayan foothills. Taplejung to Sukethum road distance is 35 kilometers, it takes 3 to 4 hours. As soon as we leave Taplejung jeep descends towards the Tamor river, cross pristine landscapes, small streams and lush forests to enter Kanchenjunga national park.
  Finally, we reach Sekathum village at an altitude of 1,650 meters, the KBC trek start point. Taplejung to Sekethum parts offer stunning views of river valley, surrounding hills, terraced fields and ethnic villages like Mitlung, Chhiruwa, Tapethok, Lelep etc.

• Day 5 : Trek to Amjilosa 2498 meters / 8195 feet

  Sukethum to Amjilosa trek involves steep ascents and descents, river crossing, navigating through dense forests and rocky terrain. Walking trail winds along the Ghunsa Khola, river fed by Kanchenjunga glacier. As you ascend, the air becomes cooler and the views more extensive.
  Amjilosa village situated at an altitude of 2498 meters, is home to Tibetan and Sherpa communities. It is one of the best place to insights into the unique culture and traditions of these people. The trek to Amjilosa is part of Kanchenjunga north base camp trek and Kanchenjunga circuit trek in eastern Nepal.
  Trekking distance from Sukethum to Amjilosa is 12.5 kilometers. It takes 5 to 6 hours by foot. The trek from Sukethum to Amjilosa is a challenging but rewarding experience in peaceful atmosphere. KBC trip offers a glimpse into the pristine beauty of Kanchenjunga region, rural Himalayan life, peace and tranquility in eastern Nepal.

• Day 6 : Trek to Gyabla 2725meters / 8940 feet

  Amjilosa to Gyabla trek route pass along Ghunsa Khola valley making small ups and downs. This section of Kanchenjunga circuit trek takes you deeper into the remote and untouched landscapes, allow you to witness the raw splendor of Himalayas. Gyabla is a small village of Kanchenjunga region in Taplejung district of Nepal.
  Amjilosa to Gyabla trek distance is 8.5 kilometers and typically takes around 5 to 6 hours. It is a remote and scenic route that takes you through lush forests, waterfalls, mountain scenery, suspension bridges, traditional villages. Trail offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local. This village is part of Kanchenjunga national park, known for its rich biodiversity, including exotic bird species, red panda, musk deer and even the elusive snow leopard etc. Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla is a relatively short but challenging one. Enjoy the peaceful and less crowded route in Nepal.

• Day 7 : Trek to Ghunsa 3415 meters / 11204 feet

  Gyabla to Ghunsa trek distance is about 11.5 kilometers / 7.1 miles. It is a moderate walking trail normally takes around 5 to 6 hours to cross depends on the route and pace. The trail meanders through lush forests of rhododendron, pine, bamboo and alpine meadows. As you ascend, the valley opens up, revealing breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks of Himalayas.
  Ghunsa is a beautiful Sherpa village with Tibetan influence. The village provides a glimpse into a traditional way of life and culture where prayer flags flutter in the wind and the aroma of incense fills the air. Ghunsa is the gateway of Kanchenjunga trek in Nepal to explore both base camp (North and south) as well as the base camp of Mount Kumbhakarna.
  Ghunsa is a key stop for trekkers to acclimatize before venture towards Kanchenjunga’s base camps. The trek to Ghunsa offers a unique and remote Himalayan experience for nature lovers.

• Day 8 : Rest day at Ghunsa for acclimatization and exploration
• Day 9 : Trek to Kambachen 4050 meters / 13287 feet

  Hiking to Kumbhakarna (Jannu) base camp 4540 meters / 14895 feet

• Day 10 : Trek to Lhonak 4792 meters / 15721 feet
• Day 11 : Trek to Pangpema visit Kanchenjunga North base camp 5143 meters / 16873 feet

  Trek back to Kambachen 4145 meters / 13599 feet

• Day 12 : Trek to Ghunsa 3415 meters / 11204 feet
• Day 13 : Trek to Selele La Camp 4290 meters / 14074 feet
• Day 14 : Trek to Tseram 3868 meters via Sele La 4645 meters / 15239 feet
• Day 15 : Trek to Oktang visit Kanchenjunga South base camp 4,730 meters / 15518 feet

  Overnight at ramche

• Day 16 : Trek to Tortong 2980 meters / 9776 feet
• Day 17 : Trek to Yarsang 2145 meters / 7037 feet
• Day 18 : Trek to Zero Point 1750 meters / 5741 feet then drive to Taplejung

  Today is your final day of this journey, we walk abbot two hours to reach zero point to catch the jeep to Taplejung Bazaar. The road distance is 30 kilometers and takes time 2 to 3 hours. This part of the trek provides an opportunity to observe nature, culture and typical way of life in the Himalayan foothills.

• Day 19 : Drive to Biratnagar 80 meters / 262 feet and Flight to Kathmandu

  via Tamor Corridor

• Day 20 : Airport transfer to depart Nepal

  Embark on your final day of journey! Three hours before the scheduled flight, we will escort you to international airport for final departure.
  “Have a safe flight! May your journey be free from stress and bring you home safely.”

• Airports pick up on your arrival day by private vehicle
• Kathmandu sightseeing as per the itinerary
• Round trip flight from Kathmandu - Bhadrapur - Kathmandu
• Transportation from Bhadrapur to Taplejung trek start point
• 3 meals (Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) 4 cups of hot drink each day on choice
• Normal tea houses / camping tent accommodation during KBC trekking period
• Professional English speaking guide trained by government of Nepal
• Experience trekking staffs (2 guest = 1 porter basic) to carry your backpack
• All necessary paperwork, special permits, TIMS and local taxes
• Travel and rescue arrangements if require
• Drop you to airport by private vehicle to depart Nepal

• Visa fees / international airfare to and from Kathmandu
• Hotel, Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
• Personal expenses phone calls, mineral water, bar bills, hot shower, battery recharge, extra porters & gears etc
• Tips for guides, porters (Tipping are expected but not mandatory)