Overview

After Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters/28,169 feet) is Nepal’s highest mountain. In fact, this colossal mass of rock and ice is the third tallest in the world.  Cradled between Nepal and Sikkim, India, our 27-day Kanchenjunga Trek takes you through some of Nepal’s least developed areas. This marathon of a trail passes through all sorts of landscapes, combining both the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek and Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek.

The trail provides of a bit of everything, as we traverse of raging rivers, climb along wide valleys and terraced rice fields, culminating in a prolonged excursion far above the treeline, where we reach 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.

During the journey, we move from tropical jungles to rhododendron and oak forests, and eventually into the alpine zone, where little to no vegetation exists. 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. Who knows, maybe they’ll share or story or two about the elusive Yeti, as well as a couple of cups of Tongba, locally made hot millet wine. As for wildlife on the trek, we may encounter Impedance Pheasant, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, Himalayan black bear, Musk Deer, and even the Red Panda.

Before beginning the trek, we take a night bus to Birtamod and drive further to Suketar the following day. We then walk on the lowlands, hiking past terraced agriculture fields and charming villages up to a ridgeline full of rhododendron forests. Gaining elevation, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Kanchenjunga (four of the world’s five tallest mountains) make their presence known. We are filled with glee while sharing their beautiful presence. Their sheer size will have your eyes wide open, and you may never forget the first moment you see these mountains.

We reach Yalung Glacier and cross a series of passes, and suddenly the views become more incredible. The trail reaches Pang Pema (5140 meters), the base camp for Kanchenjunga climbing expeditions.  Soon after, we cross the Lapsang La Pass over to the south side of Kanchenjunga. On our descent, we stop at the yak pastures of Ramche, where there are views of the southwest face of Kanchenjunga, considered to be one of the most beautiful mountain massifs in the world. This view will leave you with an everlasting memory.

NOTE: If you would like to skip the night bus and fly to Biratnagar and take a shorter drive to Suketar, we can change the package to cater to your needs.

Trip Highlights

Unbelievable views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga (four of the five tallest mountain peaks in the world!)

Spending time with Rai and Limbu communities and seeing their unique, well-preserved way of life

Visiting Yalung, Zemu, 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, Musk Deer and Snow Leopard

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel.
  • Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and night bus to Birtamod.
  • Day 03: Drive from Birtamod to Suketar (2420m).
  • Day 04: Suketar to Lali Kharka (2265m), 5-6 hours.
  • Day 05: Lali Kharka to Kesuwa (2120m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 06: Kesuwa to Mamankhe (1785m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 07: Mamankhe to Yamphudin (2080m), 2-3 hours.
  • Day 08: Yamphudin to Tortong (2995m), 7-8 hours.
  • Day 09: Tortong to Tseram (3870m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 10: Tseram to Ramche (4580m), 5 hours.
  • Day 11: Rest day for exploration around Ramche and Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
  • Day 12: Ramche to Mirgin La (4480m), 7-8 hours.
  • Day 13: Mirgin-La to Ghunsa (3595m). 3-4 hours.
  • Day 14: Ghunsa to Khambachen (4050m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 15: Khambachen to Lhonak (4780m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 16: Lhonak to Pangpema (5140m), 4-5 hours.
  • Day 17: Rest day for exploration around Pang Pema and Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
  • Day 18: Retreat trek to Khambachen, 7-8 hours.
  • Day 19: Khambachen to Ghunsa, 5-6 hours.
  • Day 20: Ghunsa to Kyapra (2730m), 6 hours.
  • Day 21: Kyapra to Sakathum (1580m), 6-7 hours.
  • Day 22: Sakathum to Chirwa (1180m), 5-6 hours.
  • Day 23: Chirwa to Phurumbu (1542m), 6 hours.
  • Day 24: Phurumbu to Suketar, 4-5 hours.
  • Day 25: Drive from Suketar to Birtamod.
  • Day 26: Drive from Birtamod to Kathmandu.
  • Day 27: Transfer to airport for your final departure from Nepal.

Trip note

Accommodation

All our packages include accommodation at the cost.  This accommodation is included during 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 based on their experience as well as room availability. All the accommodations will be a twin-shared basis. In the mountain, Shower and toilet will be on Sharing basis. During high trekking season, you may have to share a room with a same-sex trekker from another group.  Our company provides you with a sleeping bag, two-person tents with comfortable mattress for outdoor camping trek. Our Guide will try to set up your camp with a spectacular view.

Food

Nepal 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.  While camping, we will prepare the meals for you.  After our trek, we will have a celebration/pre-departure traditional Nepali meal in Thamel. 

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.  For camping treks, we will need more porters in order to carry the food, kitchen equipment, tents, etc.    

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 treks have 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 trial.  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 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 traveling in Nepal 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.

Note

 Please be assured that Breeze Adventure manage 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. From time to time domestic flights may be delayed due to weather conditions. It is often worthwhile to include a day or two extra in your schedule to be used in the event of a delay, or if you require a little extra time during the trek. We will work with you to ensure you get the most from your trek and visit Nepal.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel.
    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.
  • Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and night bus to Birtamod.
    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 Birtamod. Overnight in the bus.
  • Day 03: Drive from Birtamod to Suketar (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.
  • Day 04: Suketar to Lali Kharka (2265m), 5-6 hours.
    After breakfast, we head out on the trek. It’s a short, easy day today as we pass rich pastures and beautiful settlements. The trail winds down through tropical forests and crosses a dirt road several times before reaching Lali Kharka, which has several lodges to stay at. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 05: Lali Kharka to Kesuwa (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 Kesuwa. Overnight in teahouse.
  • Day 06: Kesuwa to Mamankhe (1785m), 6-7 hours.
    We begin our day after a nice breakfast. We pack up and head tothe trail, hikingthroughmixed 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 45 minutes up to Mamankhe. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 07: Mamankhe 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 ateahouse.
  • Day 08: 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 teahouse here, but 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.
  • Day 09: Tortong to Tseram (3870m), 6-7 hours.
    We begin our steady climb to Tseram after breakfast. 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. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 10: Tseram to Ramche (4580m), 5 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. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 11: Rest day for exploration around Ramche and Kanchenjunga 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 8420meters, 8586meters, and 8474meters. These three summits jut out into the clouds,providing an amazing scene. Keep going towards Oktang, descend onto the glacier andtraverse 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. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 12: Ramche to Mirgin La (4480m), 7-8 hours.
    Leaving our campsite, we make our way down the valley, passing the small settlement of Lapsang, before making a diversion towards Mirgin La - the pass we must cross in order to reach Ghunsa and the north side of Kanchenjunga. As we descend from the Mirgin La, the views of Mt Jannu are simply stunning. Overnight in a tented camp.
  • Day 13: Mirgin-La to Ghunsa (3595m). 3-4 hours.
    Today’s a relatively short day, but we’ll be exerting a lot of energy. Still, the amazing views make it all worth it. A steep descent from our campsite brings us to Lamba Sumba Kharka where there are even more awesome views of the Jannu’s southwest face. From here, the trail is easy. We finish the day with a descent on thewell-maintained trail to Ghunsa.Here, set upcamp in a field by the river. Ghunsa is a Tibetan village with a tiny Gompaand 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 tented camp.
  • Day 14: Ghunsa to Khambachen (4050m), 6-7 hours.
    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 Kambachen. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 15: Khambachen to Lhonak (4780m), 6-7 hours.
    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 Monastery. After a couple more hours, we arrive at Lhonak. Overnight at guest house.
  • Day 16: Lhonak to Pangpema (5140m), 4-5 hours.
    From Lhonak, we trek towards the Kanchenjunga 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. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 17: Rest day for exploration around Pang Pema and Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
    Today is not only a well-deserved rest day, but it is also in the itinerary so we can explore the marvelous surroundings of Pang Pema. There are several options for day hikes. We can go to the lower slopes of Drohmo and see panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, or we can hike on the difficult terrain of the glaciers for a nice perspective of the even more remote peaks in the region. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 18: Retreat trek to Khambachen, 7-8 hours.
    We have an early wakeup call to hike up a ridge north of Pang Pema for a once-in-a-lifetime view. We have a panoramic view of numerous iconic Himalayan peaks. We then pack our bags and begin our descent. Though it took us two days to reach this point, the descent is always faster so we make it one. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 19: Khambachen to Ghunsa, 5-6 hours.
    Retracing our steps from Day 14, we head back to Ghunsa. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 20: Ghunsa to Kyapra (2730m), 6 hours.
    From Ghunsa, we take the route out of the mountains,following the flowing Ghunsa and Tamur Kholas. The pathgoes through verdant forests of rhododendron, conifer, birch and oak. The valley sides are steep, and the trail follows close to the river as it cascades downwards. You pass through Kyapra, the last of the Tibetan villages, and an hour or so further on, you reach a spot called Tang. We can stop at either one. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 21: Kyapra to Sakathum (1580m), 6-7 hours.
    Heading for the village of Sakathum, our route follows an undulating trail for the first couple of hours until arriving to Amjilasa. From here, it is a long steep descent from which you can see the Ghunsa Khola Valley stretched out before you. Not too long after, we reach Sakathum. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 22: Sakathum to Chirwa (1180m), 5-6 hours.
    Leaving Sakathum, wemake our way to Chirwa. On the way, we reach a confluence of two rivers,the Simbua Khola and Gunsa Khola. At this point welay our eyes on the most marvelous view of the two rivers uniting into Tamur Koshi. Continuing along the trail by the Tamur Khola, many other small tributary streams come into view. After trekking for about 7 hours, we enter into the charming village of Chirwa. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 23: Chirwa to Phurumbu (1542m), 6 hours.
    We notice that the settlements start to get bigger as we make our descent and the trail is full of lush vegetation. We pass through several villages before reaching Sinwa. From here we continue our descent and cross a bridge over the Sisne Khola. We move through another village and cross another suspension bridge, this time over the Yaphre Khola to reach Phurumbu. Overnight in a teahouse.
  • Day 24: Phurumbu to Suketar, 4-5 hours.
    Our Kanchenjunga Trek ends today, and we look forward to a well-deserved break after we reach Suketar. As we leave the valley in the morning, we continue ascending along the ridge for about 3 hours to Taplejung village. Feel free to wander around the village and talk to some locals.Thereafter, take your time ascending for about 2 hours, until reaching Suketar where we conclude the day. Overnight in a guest house.
  • Day 25: Drive from Suketar to Birtamod.
    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 Birtamod, where we stay for the night. Overnight in a hotel.
  • Day 26: Drive from Birtamod 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.
  • Day 27: Transfer to airport for your final departure from Nepal.
    Transfer to Tribhuvan Airport. Thank you for choosing Breeze Adventure as your trekking guide! We look forward to your next adventure with us.

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 guesthouse/teahouse accommodation in the 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.)
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Cost Start From:

US$ 3750

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