Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek - 16 Days

Trekkers heading to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp
At a Glance
  • Duration16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max Altitude 5140m
  • Group Size 2 - 20 Person
  • Start City Kathmandu City
  • End City Kathmandu City
  • Trip Type Private and Group Joining
  • Activity Trekking and Hiking
  • Best Season March - May and September - December
Trip Highlights
  • Unbelievable views of, Kanchenjunga I, II, III, Kumbhakarna, Ramtang and Makalu.
  • Spending time with Rai and Limbu communities and seeing their unique, well-preserved way of life
  • Visiting Yalung, Jhinsang, and Kanchenjunga Glaciers
  • Having the remote trail all to yourself for most of the journey – a most peaceful feeling
  • Observe the plentiful wildlife in the area – including the Red Panda and Musk Deer.

Many people consider the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek to be the most splendid of the Kanchenjunga treks. The trail climbs above valleys, gorges, and all settlements to reach the north face of the third-highest mountain in the world – Kanchenjunga(8,586 meters/28,169 feet). Along the remote trails beneath this behemoth of a mountain, it is possible you will walk for several days without seeing another trekker. It is a journey of pure peace as you wander through the remote alpine country of far eastern Nepal.

This adventurous trail offers the full-package Himalayan experience. We hike through wide valleys, narrow gorges, and rushing rivers. Ascending through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, we walk for days among the glaciers and high alpine pastures. Our out-and-back trail ends at Kanchenjunga Base Camp (KBC) Pang Pema (5140 meters). Here, we have a jaw-dropping view of over 16 Himalayan peaks, including Everest (8848 meters), Makalu (8481 meters), Jannu (7710 meters), Kabru (7412 meters), and Tharpu Chuli (Tent Peak) (5663 meters), among many more.

To begin our memorable 16-day excursion, we take a night bus to Birtamod and drive to Suketar the following day. We trek through the lowlands and past terraced agriculture. Along the way, we visit Rai, Limbu, and Tibetan villages. These groups speak their own dialect and practice different religions and customs than most Nepali people. They greet us with their superb hospitality. Try a cup of Tongba, locally made hot millet wine. As you slurp the first cup down, you get more and more refills of hot water, which is soaked up by the fermented millet. Before we know it, we are in a desolate area, too high for any vegetation to live.

As for wildlife on the trek, we may encounter the impedance Pheasant, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, Himalayan black bear, Musk Deer, and even the Red Panda. Oh, and keep your eyes out for the legendary Yeti, known to have been roaming around the region.

We have listed this trek as a ‘camping trek’ because accommodations/general facilities on this trek are limited. During the main tourism months, most teahouses are open. It is up to you whether you would rather camp or stay in a teahouse. We will discuss these logistics with you.

NOTE: If you would like to skip the night bus and fly to Biratnagar and take a shorter drive to Suketar, we can arrange this for an additional cost.

Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather.  During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer.  Depending on the time of the year that you make the trek, teahouses may not be open.  We will give you the details before you book your trek. The Kanchenjunga North Trek requires moderate fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. Breeze Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Itinerary

Expand all Collapse all

Welcome to Nepal! A representative from Breeze Adventure will welcome you our hotel.  We will prepare you with information and gear for your trek. Overnight at hotel.

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast

Have breakfast and start sightseeing around Kathmandu in a private vehicle.  We will see several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  We will learn about each site’s historical, religious, and cultural significance. We will make the special trekking permit for the Kanchenjunga Trek.

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast

After having early breakfast, we will drive to the domestic airport and fly to Bhadrapur for about an hour. We’ve got a long drive today. Once, we land at Bhadrapur, we will catch a jeep and drive to Ranipul. It’s best to be well-rested before we begin the trek. You will the gorgeous views on the drive. We pass villages and their surrounding agricultural fields. It’s a picturesque scene. Overnight in a guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 1550
  • Time: 10 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Transport: Flight | Jeep

We have our first mountain breakfast and start to train our sore legs after two days long drive. The trail leads us into the Ghunsa Valley via the Ghunsa River. The narrow trail weaves along the north bank of the river, going up and down on mellow hills. Today we pass couples of the little village and get to observe the real local lifestyle of the Kanchenjunga region. While we walking on the trail we can see a big black cardamom field. This area is located in the shadow of two giant mountains so it is very suitable for the black cardamom fiend. We can try some of it along the trail which makes us refresh. Make a final ascent to Amjilosa, a small village with scattered houses and campsites. Overnight in a teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 2490m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 16km

It’s a short hiking day today as we make the climb through the Ghunsa Valley. Today you will probably begin the feel the mountains getting closer. We hike in forests of bamboo, rhododendrons, and oak as we pass waterfalls and pastures. A final grim incline brings us up to Gyabla, where there are plenty of nice campsites. Overnight in a teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 2730m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 14km

After breakfast, we begin today’s journey to Ghunsa. A steep drop takes us down into a ravine, and then we slowly ascend and hike through yak pastures and potato fields in Phole (3210m). Keep trekking up through fields and forests to reach Ghunsa. Here, set up camp in a field by the river. Ghunsa is a Tibetan village with a tiny Gompa and prayer flags blowing in the wind atop houses. It’s a charming village with a welcoming atmosphere. In the evening, we can sample the local Tongba (millet wine) in one of the teahouses – a delightful treat, which also can help us stay warm at night. Overnight in a teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 3595m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 14km

By now, you have probably been experiencing some side effects of the high altitude. Make sure to stay hydrated and take it slow (especially if you are not feeling well). Ghunsa is a sweet place to relax for the day. Take a walk to the gompa above the village or hike up to the Sele le pass. Ghunsa is the biggest village on this trek where we can buy some needed stuff for the upcoming days. E.g.. TP paper, Tissue paper, dry food, etc..Overnight in a local teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 3595m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 2 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 5km

From Ghunsa, we trek further north along the river bank with spectacular alpine scenery. We pass through meadows off beautiful wildflowers, eventually hiking through rhododendron and pine forests. We cross a bridge at Rampuk Kharka and continue past a waterfall. After crossing the landslide area, we begin to once again see Mt. Jannu, this time with a new perspective. Further exploring and tackling the tricky mountain trail will eventually lead us to Khambachen. The tree lines are over from this village. We can see just little Juniper bushes along the trail. Overnight in a local teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 4050m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 15km

Another acclimatization and exploration day does us well. In Khambachen, we can see awesome views of Khabur (6332m), Phole (6645m), Jannu ( Kumbharna) (7710m) and 6 series of Sarfu Himal ( 6410, 6015…..)all before our eyes blinking. Here are two options for our day hike. We can go to Nupchu Pokhari where we can have an awesome view of all the high Himalayas view with a peaceful pond. Another option is to hike up to the Jannu ( Khumbarnakarna) viewpoint, which offers an awesome view of Mt. Jannu, Phole and many more. In the evening we will hike up the ridge to the north of the village for the best views of these towering peaks. Overnight in a local teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 4050
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 4 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 11km

Today will be another challenging day so an early start is necessary. We trek through rocky fields with large boulders on the hillside.  Hugging the riverbank, we arrive at a waterfall. We then cross a bridge to Ramtang.  After a couple more hours, we arrive at Lhonak. Lhonak is a beautiful little town located at a big ground and surrounded by mountains. Overnight in a local teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 4780m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 14km

From Lhonak, we trek towards the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, a highlight of our trek. The trail hugs the massive Kanchenjunga Glacier. Because we are at such a high altitude, we take it slow today, arriving at our destination after just 3 hours. After having our lunch with an amazing view of mt. Kanchenjunga we hike up to Dormo Ri (5830m) north of Pang Pema for a once-in-a-lifetime view. We have a panoramic view of numerous iconic Himalayan peaks. Pang Pema is located at the lap of Mt. Kanchenjunga glacier and there is just a basic local teahouse. They serve basic food for us and tented camp. We head back to Pang Pema . Overnight in a tented camp.

  • Max Altitude: 5140m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 3 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 6km

After a successful trek to Kanchenjunga North Base camp, we begin our retreat trek to Khambachen. We have our breakfast with an awesome view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and back to the trail to Ghunsa. After walking 3 hours from Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, we will stop at Khambachen for lunch. Then we head to Khambachen to enjoy the cool Himalaya breeze, waterfalls, and Himalayan views. Overnight at guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 4050m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 7 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 20km

Wake up with a beautiful sunrise view on Mt Januu ( Kumbhakarna), Sobi, Ghabur, and Phole! Have breakfast and head to Ghunsa village via pine forest and beautiful waterfalls. After walking for 4 hours from Khambachen, we arrive at Ghunsa village and have lunch. Then we can explore the beautiful and cultural Ghunsa village. Overnight at a guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 3595m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 15km

Wake up with a very nice smell of the burning Juniper leaves and have our breakfast. All the villagers burn the juniper leaf early morning while they are doing their regular puja ceremony at home. We pack our bags and head to the trail for Amjelosa. Today we walk mostly downhill except for two uphills, nearby Gyabla and before Amjilosa. The trail follows the bamboo forest all the way to Amjelosa. After walking 6 hours from Ghunsa we will arrive at a little village Amjilosa. Overnight in a local guesthouse.

  • Max Altitude: 2730m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 7 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 17km

Wake up with a cool Himalayan breeze and have our breakfast. Then we walk downhill for about 2 hours and follow the Ghunsa River and black cardamom field all the way to Ranipul by enjoying the last day of our Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek. Overnight at a guesthouse.

  • Max Altitude: 1550
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 15km

Have our breakfast and say good buy to the beautiful Kanchenjunga North Base Camp and the mountains. We will drive to Bhadrapur for 9/10 hours. 

  • Max Altitude: 91m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Time: 9/10 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Transport: Jeep

Today we will fly back to Kathmandu. Once we have our breakfast, we will drive to Bhadrapur airport and fly for about an hour to KTM. Then we will drive to Thamel Hotel and explore Thamel, buying some souvenirs for our friends or family members. In the evening, we will enjoy a farewell dinner organized by Breeze Adventure at a typical Nepalese restaurant.

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Transfer to the International airport for the departure. Thank you so much for choosing us as your travel partner in Nepal Himalayas. We look forward to organizing another lifetime adventure for you in the future.

  • Meals: Breakfast
Cost Details
What's Included
  • Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.
  • Two nights in a 2-3 star hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included.
  • All transportation for the trek.
  • Kanchenjunga Trekking Permit
  • Local guest house/teahouse accommodation in the mountain.
  • Government-authorized, experienced guides and porters
  • Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guides and porters
  • Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • All equipment (sleeping bag, warm layers, etc.)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Maps
  • Service charges and government taxes
  • Post-trek celebration dinner in Kathmandu
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Meals in Kathmandu (besides breakfast)
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.
  • Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
  • Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of the itinerary
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
Group Discount Prices
Number of peoplePrice per person
2 pax
US$1850
3 - 5 pax
US$1750
6 - 10 pax
US$1650
11 - 20 pax
US$1550

Essential Information

Accommodation

Kanchenjunga North Base Camp package includes accommodation in the cost. This accommodation is included in the set itinerary.  While in Kathmandu, we provide a 2-3 Star hotel for you.  During the trek, our guides will pick the best lodge for you to stay in based on their experience as well as room availability. The accommodations will be very basic in the mountains. All the accommodations will be on a twin-shared basis. In the mountain, the Shower and toilet will be on a shared basis. During high trekking season, you may have to share a room with a same-sex trekker from another group. 

Food

Kanchenjunga region has a wide variety of food and it is easy to cater to your needs.  If you are a vegetarian/vegan, gluten or lactose-free, we are able to work around that if you let us know ahead of time.  During your time in the hotel in Kathmandu, your breakfast is included.  Lunch and dinner must be covered on your own.  On the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided.  For teahouse treks, we can order typical Nepali food, continental, Italian, Tibetan, and Indian at teahouses. All the food will be cooked by the local cook by using local vegetables so the taste would be very local.

Guide & Porters

A government-licensed guide will lead the trek.  All our guides have tremendous experience on the trails and are passionate about the trekking industry.  Our guides and porters are dedicated to making your experience of trekking in Nepal a memorable one.  If there is any worry during your trek, our guides will address it.  Your safety is our number one priority.  For groups of more than six people, there will be two guides. For teahouse treks, there will be one porter for every two trekkers.

Acclimatization/Fitness/Experience

As many of our treks lead us high into the Himalayas, it is necessary to let our bodies sufficiently get used to the altitude.  Our Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek has two acclimatization days built into the itinerary. It is best to take it slow to prevent altitude sickness.  The level of fitness necessary for our treks varies depending on the trek.  On average, expect to walk an average of 5-6 hours per day while on the trail.  Generally, the treks can be done with an average level of fitness.  More important than fitness or experience is one’s personal determination and positive attitude toward finishing and enjoying the trek. 

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend having travel insurance before going on a trek.  We do our best to take care of you, but something can happen that is out of our control.  In case of a medical emergency, leading to a helicopter evacuation, it is best to have insurance.  You are unable to obtain medical insurance in Nepal and must do so in your home country.  Be sure that your insurance covers accidents abroad and high in the mountains. 

Best Time to Travel

The peak seasons for trekking to Kanchenjunga region are during the Spring (March to May) and the Autumn (September to November).  These times provide the best scenery and clearest skies, but of course, they are a little more crowded than the off-season.  It is possible to trek during the Winter (December to February), but you will face cold temperatures.  It is also possible to trek during the monsoon season (June to August), though the views will likely be covered by clouds and there is a high chance of rainfall and landslides.

Note:

Please be assured that Breeze Adventure manages our treks to the highest standards. Your safety and satisfaction are our priority. We will support you to the best of our abilities with any issues that may arise. We will work with you to ensure you get the most from your trek and visit Nepal

Similar Trips
You May Also Like