Overview

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 villlages as Mitlung, Chirwa, Sekathum. Camping in the wild forest, we walk further into Arun Valley before getting to Kambachen. Firstly, we reach Kanchenjunga 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, 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

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. 

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 their unique lifestyle. These ethnic groups speak their own dialect as Gurung Launagage. Influenced by Indians in the east and Tibetan from the south, their culture differs from the rest of the county. People of Kanchenjunga celebrate the festivals as Loshar (celebrated in May), Maghi Sankranti (January), and Buddha Jayanti ( also in May). 

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 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. 

Weather and Temperature

Weather in 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 in. Nights with snowfall up to 100cm can be freezing. However, the trail gets dry by late February. 

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

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 life. 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 in the route to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. However, trekking solo is not recommended as you might get lost in 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 gears, 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 helps your body cope with decreasing oxygen level. 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. 

Last words, 

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

Trip Highlights

Astonishing views of Kanchenjunga, Kabru, Rathong and Talung.

Get to know about the Rai and Limbu communities and try some cups of Tongba

Scenic drives to Lalikharka and from Ranipul through the beautiful middle hills

Peace and quiet on the empty Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trail – allowing you to forget about all your worries off the trail

Have a chance to see the abundant wildlife on the trail, including the Red Panda and Blue Sheep

Eye-popping view of the south face of Kanchenjunga from Yalung Glacier

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 01: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and night bus to ilam.
  • Day 02: Drive from ilam to Taplejung and Lalikharka. (2420m).
  • Day 03: Lalikharka to Khesewa (2120m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 04: Kheseuwa to Pumpe Dada (1785m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 05: Trek from Pumpe Dada to Yamphudin (2080m), 2-3 hours.
  • Day 06: Trek from Yamphudin to Tortong (2995m), 7-8 hours.
  • Day 07: Trek from Tortong to Tseram ( Cheram) and hike up to Lake (3870m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 08: Trek from Tseram to Ramche and explore Yalung Glacier, (4580m), 7-8 hours.
  • Day 09: Rest day for exploration around Ramche and Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, (4730m)
  • Day 10: Retreat trek from Ramche to Tortong,(2995m).
  • Day 11: Trek from Tortong to Ranipul, (1550m) 6-7 hours.
  • Day 12: Drive from Ranipul to Taplejung (4 hours) and Taplejung to ilam (4 hours), (1150m).
  • Day 13: Drive from ilam to Kathmandu.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and night bus to ilam.
    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. In the evening, we take an overnight bus to Illam. Overnight on the bus.
    • On the way to ilam
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • In the Bus
    • 300m
  • Day 02: Drive from ilam to Taplejung and Lalikharka. (2420m).
    We’ve got another long drive today. Catch up on any rest that you might have missed the night before. It’s best to be well-rested before we begin the trek. If you slept well the night before, just soak in the gorgeous views on the drive. We pass villages and their surrounding agricultural fields. It’s a picturesque scene. Overnight in a guest house.
    • Lalikharka
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Teahouse
    • 2420m
  • Day 03: Lalikharka to Khesewa (2120m), 6-7 hours.
    After a tasty morning meal, we descend through millet and rice fields until we reach a suspension bridge over the Phawa Khola (1430 meters). We continue to a small Gurung settlement called Sinchebu Bhanjyang (2240 meters) and maybe stop for a snack or tea here. It’s a special moment here actually, as we catch our first glimpses of Kanchenjunga and Kyabru. Take some deep breathes and admire these wonderful mountains. Continue over the pass and descend to Khesewa. Overnight in teahouse.
    • Khesewa
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Local teahouse
    • 2120m
  • Day 04: Kheseuwa to Pumpe Dada (1785m), 6-7 hours.
    We begin our day after a nice breakfast. We pack up and head to the trail, hiking through mixed forests on a relatively flat path, towards the Kabeli Khola. A series of small waterfalls puts a smile on our faces. We head north, stopping for lunch at Yangpang with awesome views of Mt. Jannu. We end the day with a steep uphill climb for about 20 minutes up to Pumpe Dada. Overnight in a teahouse.
    • Pumpe Dada
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Local teahouse
    • 1785m
  • Day 05: Trek from Pumpe Dada to Yamphudin (2080m), 2-3 hours.
    Today’s trek will be mostly uphill on an easy trail that mostly follows alongside the Kabeli Khola. Throughout the hike, we admire the beautiful ridge beyond the stream. We follow a few switchbacks up the valley and then descend under rocky cliffs, on rubble from past landslides. After walking for some time, we cross a small suspension bridge and pass through small settlements before reaching Yamphudin. It’s quite an easy day today, as we have a long day ahead of us. Overnight in a teahouse
    • Yamphudin
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Teahouse
    • 2080m
  • Day 06: Trek from Yamphudin to Tortong (2995m), 7-8 hours.
    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.
    • Tortong
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Teahouse
    • 2995m
  • Day 07: Trek from Tortong to Tseram ( Cheram) and hike up to Lake (3870m), 6-7 hours.
    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 at 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 on the Himalaya. Then we head down to Tseram. Overnight in a teahouse.
    • Tseram
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Teahouse
    • 3870m
  • Day 08: Trek from Tseram to Ramche and explore Yalung Glacier, (4580m), 7-8 hours.
    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 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 by enjoying the stars and Himalaya at night. Overnight in a teahouse/ Tented camp.
    • Ramche
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Local Teahouse/ Tented Camp
    • 4580m
  • Day 09: Rest day for exploration around Ramche and Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, (4730m)
    After walking all the way up to here! why don’t we have an extra day to explore in this untouched and peaceful nature! Yes, we have a full excursion day around Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. We take a packed lunch and set off very early for an up-close encounter with the majestic Kanchenjunga. We follow the valley around its sweeping curve, to the vast southern wall of the mountain. Along this ridge exist the three main summits of Kanchenjunga at 8420 meters, 8586 meters, and 8474 meters. These three summits jut out into the clouds, providing an amazing scene. Keep going towards Oktang, descend onto the glacier and traverse it to a point below Talu, where we get a panoramic view of more pristine mountains. Especially impressive is the eastern part of Khumbakarna Glacier flowing from the east face of Jannu. We then return to our camp at Ramche.
    • Ramche
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Local Teahouse/ Tented Camp
    • 4730m
  • Day 10: Retreat trek from Ramche to Tortong,(2995m).
    Head back down on the same trail to Tseram, where we stayed just nights before. It’s a bit long but an easy day so let your feet walk as your eyes enjoy the scenery. Overnight in a teahouse.
    • Tortong
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Teahouse
    • 2995m
  • Day 11: Trek from Tortong to Ranipul, (1550m) 6-7 hours.
    From here we follow the ancient trade market route from India to Tibet! The old Indian generation used to use this route for their business When there was no road connection between Tibet, Nepal, and India. But this trail was not used for a long time after the road development in Nepal, Tibet, and India. Then now, the support of the local people and the government has developed the ancient trail to Ranipul which makes easier and shorter for all the trekkers. We can save several days and skip the long downhill walk to Yamphudin by taking this route to Ranipul. The trail goes a bit up in the beginning and then we walk mostly on the downhill to Ranipul. We have our lunch on the way and head to Ranipul for 4 hours. Walking into the very quiet forest would an amazing moment on our last trekking day on our Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. Ranipul is a little village nearby the Tamor River. Overnight in a local teahouse.
    • Ranipul
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Teahouse
    • 1550m
  • Day 12: Drive from Ranipul to Taplejung (4 hours) and Taplejung to ilam (4 hours), (1150m).
    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 continue our drive to Ilam. Ilam is a beautiful town on the hill with beautiful tea garden. Overnight in a hotel.
    • ilam
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Teahouse
    • 1150m
  • Day 13: Drive from ilam to Kathmandu.
    Though we feel tired, from the weeks and weeks of trekking, we have a special kind of energy from accomplishing such an impressive journey. It has been an unforgettable trip and we are happy to have you along! A long day’s drive brings us back to Kathmandu, where we have a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight in a hotel.
    • Kathmandu
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • 2/3 Star Hotel
    • 1400m

Cost Details

Cost Includes

  • Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.
  • Three 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 mountain (and in Birtamod).
  • Government-authorized, experienced guide 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

Cost Excludes:

  • 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 itinerary
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
Rated 5/5 based on 5 reviews
  • noimage
    By , France

    Amazing Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek!

    We were 5 personal groups. Mr. Kishwor replied to all our questions based on the trip very quickly with the correct information. He knows every place on this trail. Also, he told that he designed this trail first! This is the perfect trek for all age groups. Thank you to our guide Dawa and the porters. They were really knowledgeable and helpful. We had such a peaceful time during this trip. The local culture, Himalayan views, and peaceful trekking trail made our trip so special! Thank you Kishwor for organizing this beautiful trip for us. We will be back in Nepal soon for Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek! See you soon!

    We were 5 personal groups. Mr. Kishwor replied to all our questions based on the trip very quickly with the correct information. He knows every place on this trail. Also,…

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  • noimage
    By , Germany

    Beautiful Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek!

    While we were looking for an off-beaten trekking trail in Nepal we found Kanchenjunga south Base Camp Trail. Mr. Kishwor ( Manager of Breeze Adventure) gave us very single details we need for the trek. He is such a knowledgeable person. He manage our 15 days Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek and it was awesome! Love the wilderness and beautiful Himalayas of Kanchenjunga. Special thanks to our guide and porters who made our trip successful. We highly recommend Breeze Adventure Team for this beautiful trek.

    While we were looking for an off-beaten trekking trail in Nepal we found Kanchenjunga south Base Camp Trail. Mr. Kishwor ( Manager of Breeze Adventure) gave us very single details…

    Read More
  • noimage
    By , Germany

    What a wild and beautiful trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp!

    We found Breeze Adventure on google for Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. Mr. Kishwor gave us all the needed information for this trek and we booked with this company. Kishor, We found this even much more beautiful and peaceful this trek, and thank you very much for the pre-information for the trek. Our guide Mr. Sushant and the porters were very helpful and friendly entire the trip. We enjoyed this trek a lot. We highly recommend Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek with Breeze Team. Thank you all for your help. See you again for the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek!

    We found Breeze Adventure on google for Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. Mr. Kishwor gave us all the needed information for this trek and we booked with this company. Kishor,…

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  • noimage
    By , Italy

    Love Peaceful and Beautiful Kanchenjunga south Base Camp Trek!

    What a trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp! Best trek ever I did n Nepal! I have done EBC, Abc, and Annapurna Circuit but I found that Kanchenjunga is the most peaceful, beautiful, and cultural trekking trail in Nepal. Thank you Kishwor for your advice. We enjoyed every moment of this trip. Our guide and porter were very good. The view of Mt. Kanchenjunga from South Base Camp was awesome. I highly recommend this trek to those who are looking for a peaceful and beautiful trekking trail in Nepal. 

    What a trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp! Best trek ever I did n Nepal! I have done EBC, Abc, and Annapurna Circuit but I found that Kanchenjunga is the…

    Read More
  • noimage
    By , Canada

    Loved Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek!

    We found Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek really beautiful. Breeze Adventure managed our trip very well. Everything went perfectly. Even the weather was great entire our trip. Thank you to all for the amazing trip. We highly recommend Breeze Adventure Company.

    We found Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek really beautiful. Breeze Adventure managed our trip very well. Everything went perfectly. Even the weather was great entire our trip. Thank you to…

    Read More