Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek - 9 Days

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Hotel in the high Himalaya with an amazing views
At a Glance
  • Duration9 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max Altitude 4730m
  • 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 - June and September - February
Trip Highlights
  • Highlights of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek:
  • Scenic flight to Bhadrapur and drive through Ilam tea gardens
  • Trek through remote and untouched Himalayan villages
  • Visit to traditional Limbu and Rai communities
  • Diverse landscapes: alpine meadows, glaciers, and deep forests
  • Exploration of Ramche and Oktang viewpoint
  • Reaching KBC South and an amazing view of Mt. Kanchenjunga
  • Panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and surrounding peaks
  • Stunning vistas of Jannu and Khumbakarna Glacier
  • Rich biodiversity: rhododendrons, bamboo forests, rare wildlife
  • Overnight stays in authentic local teahouses
  • Quiet, off-the-beaten-path trekking experience
  • Historic trade route walk to Ranipul
  • Waterfalls, rivers, and serene natural beauty throughout
  • Cultural immersion and traditional Himalayan hospitality

About Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is among Nepal’s best treks for adventure freaks. Exploring the south face of Kanchenjunga at 8,586 meters, the world’s 3rd largest mountain is already a blessing. Camping trek in the stunning wild meadows in the mountains landscapes is already a very big challenge. This shorter and lower Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek to the desolate mountain country of the Yalung Glacier is very thrilling. 

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp route first takes you to Biratnagar in the eastern lowlands of Nepal. On another flight to Suketar, we officially begin our trek to Kanchenjunga. Now, we walk to villages such as Mitlung, Chirwa, and Sekathum. Camping in the wild forest, we walk further into Arun Valley before getting to Kambachen. Firstly, we reach Kanchenjunga's north base camp in Pangpema before getting to the High Camp.

Exploring more of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, we reach Mirgin La Pass for the most stunning views of Koktang, Rathong, and Kanchenjunga. This is going to be the most rewarding and adventurous section of Trekking in Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Walking down, we pass Lamite Bhanjyang, and Yamphudin before getting to Suketar airport. 

Breeze Adventure writes the details of this Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek for your comfort. 

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek has been rated “Moderate to Difficult” in terms of distance and remoteness. We will be trekking in the remote mountain region for more than 3 weeks (6 to 7 hours daily), and that’s not a Joke. Further, the trek begins from Suketar at 2419 meters and climbs up to 4730m. At such a height, the chances of altitude sickness cannot be ignored. However, the hard work pays off and you will have one of the best times of your life. 

Best Time for Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek 

Kanchenjunga South Trek is possible during any time of the year. However, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) is the best season for the Kanchenjunga Trek. During the Spring, colorful rhododendrons are blooming all around. In the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer. In monsoon and Winter, we recommend tea house trekking in Kanchenjunga. A thick layer of snow and the slippery path makes this the hardest month for the walk. You should know if the tea houses operate while you trek. 

Last words, 

Breeze Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Itinerary

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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 Suketar. 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: 2420m
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Time: 10 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Transport: Flight | Jeep

We drive from Phidim to Yamphudin, passing through winding mountain roads and picturesque landscapes. The journey offers stunning views of hills, forests, and traditional villages. As we ascend and descend along the rugged terrain, the remoteness of the region becomes more apparent. After several hours on the road, we arrive at the quiet village of Yamphudin, nestled deep in the mountains.

  • Max Altitude: 2080m
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 14km

Above Yamphudin, facilities are few and far between. We’ve planned well, though, and have plenty of provisions. From Amje Khola, it’s a relentless climb, though the trail is well-maintained. At Chitre, we may see some grazing yaks, a very sweet sight. Continuing, we pass a teeming forest, with draping Spanish moss, which looks like it is out of a movie. There is a little here, and we stop for our quick lunch. Then we continue hiking through the mysterious forest until we break into an opening, cross a suspension bridge, and head on a gentle uphill to Tortong. Overnight in a teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 2995m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 8 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 19km

We begin our gradual climb to Tseram for 3-4  hours after breakfast from Tortong. Our trail is right at the side of the Simbuwa Khola. We enjoy walking within the beautiful Lalung Valley and have Tuplung Peak accompanying us for the most part of today’s journey. We pass through thick rhododendron forest and enjoy the magnificence of the Yalung Glacier. After reaching Cheram village we have our lunch and hike up to a lake for 1-2 hours. The little lake and the view of the mountains, Yalung Glacier are an amazing part of the day. If the weather is clear, we can have an awesome sunset view of the Himalayas. Then we head down to Tseram. Overnight in a teahouse.

  • Max Altitude: 3870m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 3-4 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 12km

We begin our short trek after breakfast. From Tseram, we ascend for a little while before reaching the start of the Yalung Glacier.  It is a beautiful walk on a path through the valley. Savor the views of several Himalayan peaks as we pass through the small settlement of Lapsang before reaching Ramche. Ramche is the last teahouse on the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek. It is located on the wide ground. If there is a big group of people we have to spend our night in a tent enjoying the stars and the Himalayas at night. Overnight in a teahouse/ Tented camp.

  • Max Altitude: 4580m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 14km

After trekking all the way up here, why not reward ourselves with a full day to explore this untouched, peaceful wilderness? Yes! Today is our much-anticipated excursion to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp!

We start early with packed lunches, heading off for an unforgettable, up-close encounter with the mighty Kanchenjunga. As we follow the valley’s sweeping curve, the massive southern wall of the mountain comes into view — a jaw-dropping sight!

Towering above us are Kanchenjunga’s three majestic summits: 8,420m, 8,586m (the main peak), and 8,474m, each piercing the clouds with dramatic grandeur. We continue toward Oktang, descending onto the glacier and carefully crossing it to reach a breathtaking viewpoint below Talu.

From here, a panoramic vista of pristine peaks unfolds, including a spectacular view of the eastern arm of the Khumbakarna Glacier, flowing from the awe-inspiring east face of Jannu (Mt. Kumbhakarna).

After soaking in this once-in-a-lifetime scenery, we return to Ramche for lunch, then retrace our steps along a stunning trail back to Tseram, hearts full, cameras full, and memories made for a lifetime.

  • Max Altitude: 4730m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 6-7 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 17km

From here, we follow an ancient trade route once used by Indian traders journeying to Tibet, a historic path from a time before roads connected Nepal, India, and Tibet. Generations ago, this was a bustling business trail. Although it fell into disuse with modern infrastructure, local communities and the government have recently revived and improved it, making it a shorter and more scenic route to Ranipul.

By taking this trail, we avoid the long descent to Yamphudin and save several trekking days, a welcome bonus! The path begins with a short uphill section before gradually descending through peaceful, untouched forests. The walk to Yartang takes around 5–6 hours. Along the way, we stop for lunch, surrounded by tranquil nature — a truly serene experience for our final trekking day on the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek.

Our journey ends at Ranipul, a quiet village by the Tamar River, where we spend the night in a cozy local teahouse, reflecting on the incredible adventure we've just completed.

  • Max Altitude: 1550m
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 16km

We wake up and have a tasty celebratory breakfast in the teahouse. The hiking part of the trek is over – it’s bittersweet. We have a scenic drive through rolling terraced hills and quaint villages until we reach Taplejung, where we stop for lunch. After our quick lunch, we continued our drive to Bhadrapur. Overnight in a hotel.

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

We will have breakfast and drive to the Bhadrapur airport for our flight to Kathmandu. The flight to Kathmandu offers an awesome view of Nepalese villages and mountains. Once we land at Kathmandu airport, we will drive to Thamel Hotel have a good rest, and explore around Thamel. 

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast
Cost Details
What's Included

  

  • All needed transportation for the trek.
  • Kanchenjunga Trekking Permit
  • Local guest house/teahouse accommodation in mountain (and in Birtamod).
  • 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 charge and government taxes
  • Post-trek celebration dinner in Kathmandu

      

    What's Not Included
    • International airfare
    • Meals and Accommodation in Kathmandu 
    • 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 itinerary
    • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
    Add-Ons & Options

    Enhance Your Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek with Exclusive Services:

    Private Porter Service: Opt for a private porter at an additional $250.00 cost. On this plan, you will get your private porter who will carry only your trekking gear and will walk with you during the trekking. 
    Flight from/to Bhadrapur: Opt for the flight to and from Bhadrapur instead of a long bus drive from Kathmandu. On this plan, you will fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to the trekking starting point Taplejung. Also, after the trek, you will drive to Bhadrapur and fly back to Kathmandu by plane. It cost $ 200 one way.

    Essential Information

    Weather and Temperature

    Weather at 4500m+ above sea level is very freezing and unstable. March to May is very pleasant with a daytime temperature of about 8 °C and nights are about 3°C– 4°C on average. June- August receives rainfall above 600mm. Nights without rainfall are quite warm. Right after summer, the Autumn Weather in Kanchenjunga gets quite stable.

    In September, the temperature is about 10 °C. But November and December get colder. The winter temperature in Kanchenjunga can drop up to -7 °C. Nights with snowfall up to 100cm can be freezing. However, the trail gets dry by late February.

    People, Culture, and Religion

    In the charming Limbu villages, we meet the friendly Rai, Limbu, and Tibetan villagers. We might enjoy the Tongba, the hot millet wine from the locals, and learn about their unique lifestyle. These ethnic groups speak their own dialect Gurung Launagage. Influenced by Indians in the east and Tibetans from the south, their culture differs from the rest of the country. People of Kanchenjunga celebrate the festivals as Loshar (celebrated in May), Maghi Sankranti (January), and Buddha Jayanti ( also in May). 

    Accommodation during this Trek

    Kanchenjunga South Camp trek has been listed as a ‘camping hike’ as accommodations/general facilities on this trek are limited. It is up to you whether you would camp or stay in a teahouse.

    During the peak months, most teahouses are open and they serve clean rooms and good food. Lodges in Kanchenjunga South Camp do make your stay comfortable, but the true thrill of mountain adventure is available during the camp trek. You will literally be living under the stars in the mountains. Sounds fanatic, doesn’t it?

    Food and Beverage during the Trip

    The tea houses serve warm healthy food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will have a menu with limited national and international foods you can choose from. Camping trek in Kanchenjunga means eating whatever you carry. You will mostly be having Nepalese Dal Bhat that keeps you charged during the trek. You might make a special request for the food of your choice so that the team from Breeze Adventure can serve you accordingly. Locally grown fresh vegetables might be available in the villages. 

    Trekking Trail on Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

    The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek route is definitely remote and hard to conquer. But since we encounter many local villages on the way, we experience safety and homeliness. The hospitable locals are always glad to welcome you into their lives. This recently built trekking trail is mostly raw and yet to be built. But your guide shall help you find the way and keep you safe on the route to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. However, trekking solo is not recommended as you might get lost on the way.

    Transportation before and after the Trek

    There are many transportation options for Kanchenjunga trekking. Firstly, we can take a night bus to Biratnagar and drive to Lalikharka. Alternatively, you can drive to Taplejung and then take a short Jeep ride to the starting point. While this cheapest option, driving 14-16 hours before the trek might be very hectic. Thus, You can fly to Biratnagar and then drive to Lalikharka. Or, you can fly all the way to Suketar from Biratnagar and save yourself from the long walk. This domestic flight is arranged by Breeze Adventure at an additional cost. 

    Guides and Porters

    You are recommended to have a licensed trekking guide during the journey. A trekking guide will help you pack the trekking gear, get the permit, and find the route of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. Similarly, you need to hire a porter since you have to carry a lot of personal items and food items for the trek. If you are going on the camping trek, you might need more than one porter and also a cook (optional). Since Breeze Adventure already has a professional team, you don’t need to worry about anything. 

    Acclimatization on Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

    Acclimatization Days help your body cope with decreasing oxygen levels. It’s also your opportunity to savor the true Himalayan beauty while your body recovers from the trek. As per the Itinerary, we have the rest day at Ramchen, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. But we might add a couple more acclimatization days as per your need. Sometimes, we might also stop due to poor weather. 

    Clients Reviews

    TripadvisorTrustpilotGoogle
    • Oktang – A Sacred Panorama

      The moment I reached Oktang Viewpoint, I forgot about the long days, sore legs, and cold nights. The view of Kanchenjunga’s South Face is indescribable—massive, spiritual, and humbling. You can feel why this mountain is sacred to locals. Breeze Adventure timed our arrival perfectly with the weather. The whole team was professional and deeply respectful of the mountain’s energy. I’d seen many photos before, but nothing compares to standing there in person. That view changed me. If you’re a trekker who wants mountains with meaning, this is the place.

      M
      Marley DPoland,May 09, 2025
      TrustPilot
    • Raw Beauty and Quiet Trails

      Just completed the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek with Breeze Adventure, and it was everything I hoped for—raw, remote, and incredibly peaceful. Unlike other treks in Nepal, we often had the trail to ourselves. Dense forests, cascading rivers, and terraced hills led to high mountain plateaus. Oktang Viewpoint was unreal—standing before Kanchenjunga’s massive south face took my breath away. The silence up there is something I’ll never forget. Breeze Adventure made the logistics smooth, and our guide’s local knowledge added so much to the experience. If you crave isolation and Himalayan grandeur, this is the trek.

      R
      Rowan JUnited States,May 02, 2025
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    Price Per PersonUS$1290US$1800(All-Inclusive Price)
    We Offer Group Discount
    Number of peoplePrice per person
    2 pax
    US$1299
    3 - 5 pax
    US$1199
    6 - 20 pax
    US$1111
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