Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek - 18 days

How to reach Kanchenjunga Base Camp?

The trek to Kanchenjunga is marked as one of the challenging adventures in the Himalayas, and it can also be considered a long, demanding, strenuous journey, with navigation via an isolated section. There are two base camps that you can explore, either the southern one (Oktang View Point) or the northern one (Pang Pema), of the mountain range, where the total duration, difficulty, cost, and exploration highlights set themselves apart. Whereas one can reach both the base camps north and south, by opting for this trek, which is also known as the "Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek", it is essentially the same, whether you call it a circuit or a base camp hike.

There are two ways to trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp in Nepal, south to north and north to south, where the starting walking trail point is marked at Taplejung, after a flight to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu, and then, a jeep drive to Birtamode, and then, finally, the air or road transportation ends after a bus ride to Taplejung

In contrast to the southern one, the North Base Camp is quite difficult to undertake, with 6-7 hours of daily pace hike, and covers more isolated, rugged, and remote trailheads, more focused on the mountain views, glaciers, and the thundering Kanchenjunga Range, attaining the highest elevation at Pang Pema (5140 meters), which is also, the highest point of the adventure. Whereas the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is more on the easier side, comparatively, it unveils the pure Nepalese and authentic Tibetan culture at Yamphuding and Mamangkhe, reaching the vantage point of Oktang View Point, followed by Cheram and Ramche.

Exploring both of the base camps is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the untamed beauty of wildlife, culture, nature, and lifestyle of locals, with the majestic vista of himalayan peaks, glaciers, wetlands, and alpine valleys, without missing any highlighted attractions, which is why we offer this package, with gradual ascent, crafted by our pro expert teams.

What is the best time for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking?

Thinking about any expedition, the first and foremost thing one should look for is choosing the right season. Especially, to the wilderness and remote areas where the trek lasts for more than 2 weeks, yes! Kanchenjunga takes you through the conservation area to an altitude of more than 5000 meters. So, we must consider the best span of the year to avoid any kind of hassle that might come forward. Thus, to make it a successful voyage, the ideal seasons for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek are Spring and Autumn, where the weather and climatic conditions are more stable, offering dry terrains, clear views of himalayan peaks, and moderate, humid temperatures to comfortably settle in, or proceed with the long-duration adventure

What to expect in Spring (March to May)?

There is no doubt that spring offers one of the finest seasons for any expedition, as it falls after the end of winter, we can trail along the Kanchenjunga circuit with perfect temperature, blending with good weather conditions. The path is covered with blooming rhododendrons, oaks, and other wildflowers, where landscapes are adorned by greenery offering a crisp, vibrant tone to the route. Due to the lower chance of heavy rain/snowfall, the views of mountains and glaciers can be seen clearly without any gloominess, making our journey one hundred per cent worth it.

What to expect in Autumn (September to November)?

Autumn is supposedly another best season to do the Kanchenjunga Trek, just like spring, it offers an impeccable climatic condition with long golden sunny hours of days. As it is a harvesting season, the lower trails of the Kanchenjunga region are covered with a lustrous shade in the terraced fields. Moving to a higher altitude, we can clearly witness the peaks covered with snow in the crystal clear sky.

Besides, the main festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, fall in between these months, and we can get to learn how they are celebrated in the remote areas in the authentic form, adding a meaningful touch to our expedition. If you are someone who loves to explore nature with the rich tapestry of celebrations in the Himalayas, then the hike in the Autumn season won’t disappoint you.

Is undertaking this trek during off seasons (monsoon and winter) doable?

Trekking in the Kanchenjunga region, during the off-seasonal time, is not suggested, due to the high cloud bursts, making the terrain slippery, the temperature dropping massively, and the snowy pathway to commence, making the hike more challenging than it actually is. Starting from June till the very last of August, the himalayas, experiences high level of precipitation (rainfall and snowfall), which makes the forested area muddy and treacherous, having a high possibility of natural hazards such as landslides, and even minor injuries, due to trail conditions.

Whereas, in the wintertime (December, January and February), the humidity takes a massive drop to sub-zero levels, and the routes are covered with snows upto 3 meters, due to which the route gets closed, delaying your adventure, for your safety, as it can get really wildly streneous, at these span of the year.

Hence, this trek is only suggested during the peak seasons of Spring and Autumn, due to the stability in weather, climate and a moderate temperature; however, experienced hikers can commence on the adventure in the winter season, as well, with proper prior preparations, planning and packing comprehensively. Meanwhile, the monsoon season is not highly recommended due to the heavy level of precipitation, even for those having experiences and high altitude knowledge.

What is the temperature and weather in the Kanchenjunga Area?

The Kanchenjunga region experiences a massive shift in the weather and climatic conditions at the highlands, changing at every season and elevation, with the genuine fact of remaining unstable, and transitioning every second. During the Spring season, the weather tends to be quite stable, with the daytime temperature ranging from 5 to 18 degrees Celsius, especially in the lower lands, such as Taplejung and Birtamode, at the start of the adventure. Whereas, at the mid-altitude, as the trek proceeds, the elevation ranges from 2 to 15 degrees Celsius, and falls to -5 to -12 degrees Celsius at night, near the base camp. The trail is blooming with rhododendrons, and the sunlight lasts longer, offering hikers a time to gradually ascend and enjoy the iconic vantage points and highlighted corners without speeding the walking trail.

Autumn, on the other hand, marks another ideal season, where the weather remains stable and has a very low chance of precipitation as well, as this season comes after the conclusion of the monsoon, offering clear visibility of the mountains and landscapes, with a dry route to commence, making the overall trip quite easy to navigate. The temperature is expected to range from 5 to 18 degrees Celsius, at lower elevation, and might reach upto 15 degrees Celsius at mid elevation, and drops to -5 to 0 degrees Celsius at nighttime, having moderate humid at day, and cosy warm nights to get settled in.

Meanwhile, the season of monsoon experiences a heavy level of precipitation, maximum level of cloud cover, and high humidity, exceeding 23 degrees Celsius, and 4 to 12 °C, making the route slippery, muddy, and full of leeches, hiding the views at the same time. That is why we suggest this season, which must be ignored. Whereas, in winter, the Kanchenjunga Circuit experiences, including all the himalayan trailheads, experience the coldest time of the year, with the temperature dropping to even -22 degrees Celsius, at higher altitudes above sea level, with snowy pathways, and freezing cold climate, which is suggested for only experienced hikers.

With such rapidly changing weather conditions, one must check the weather reports time to time, before starting the hike, every single day, which will be done by our experienced guides, assisted by you. All you have to do is follow the lead and pack the gear and essentials accordingly.

How hard is the Kanchenjunga Trek?

The trek to Kanchenjunga isn't a luxury trip filled with a standard level of facilities, such as strolling around the park, known as a wilderness journey in the Himalayas that traverses through every terrain that exists, such as land-prone areas, rocky pathways, snowy trails, and not to forget dense forest! A basic fitness level is required for this Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek as circulating the whole mountain by reaching both the north and south base camps, which isn’t an easy task.

One of the most concerning parts of this Kanchenjunga Trekking is AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), as soon as we reach Ghunsa, the altitude reaches over 3000 meters. It is when you get to feel the effect of rising altitude due to the thinning air that some mild symptoms, such as losing appetite, sleep, vomiting, and a little difficulty in breathing, are quite expected. However, we’ve set this itinerary carefully with proper acclimatisation days that help to gradually adapt to the rising high altitude, which minimises the risk of altitude sickness, so do not panic! Worrying about AMS. Even if such conditions occur, make sure to inform our guide that they are medically equipped, experienced, and know how to handle such critical situations.

Besides, physical exhaustion is another factor that makes this trek strenuous is the minimal facilities. The tea houses are run by locals with basic amenities. Moving to the upper region, you can feel the remoteness of the trek having thin areas of tea houses in between. It might be frustrating for some if they haven’t done any remote hikes before and are unaware of what the Himalayas life is supposed to be like. But, as the day passes, the body and mind get used to the remoteness and isolated area, and that's when the charms of authenticity get all boasted up and make our trip truly fascinating.

Know more about the Kanchenjung Circuit Difficulty Level, where we've provided an overview of a complete guide, on the challenges, and preparation tips, for the hassle-free adventure.

What are the Training and Preparations required for trekking to Kanchenjunga?

Well! We all are aware of how tough this trek can get as spending in the wilderness area for 18 days is something where one must push their limits. As the journey is both physically demanding and mentally daunting, of course! There are certain things to consider beforehand before starting the KanchenjungaTrekking.

Gradual ascent with proper acclimatisation

Having said that, “it is always better to make a slow move rather than rushing and failing, just like that. Everyone has their own pace of walking, don’t we? Considering this thing in mind, we’ve set this itinerary to exceed 2 weeks with a moderate pace of walking, so that even the beginners can match up the hike without panicking and over-pushing themselves. Please remember that “Consistency is the key” Just take time to ascend along the guide without trembling your leg. 

If this sounds like a bit of fast track expedition, then you can consult with our experienced team and tailor the package to match your comfort and time duration. No one can estimate your fitness level except you; make sure to discuss beforehand and prepare accordingly.

Build your Core Strength and Endurance Level

Heading to the Himalayas is not a stroll around parks; it surely is full of roller coaster rides. No matter how pro a hiker you are, without any pre-preparation leveling up your stamina to at least 20% up is crucial. No one wants to feel tired and give up the expedition after spending thousands of dollars, do we? So, please make sure that you are engaged in some sort of physical strengthening activities such as running on the roadways or treadmill, cycling in the hills or gym, or even doing ups and downs by the staircase, and if possible, make sure to carry 8-9 kgs of backpack in the process. It surely helps us to navigate 5-6 hours per day through rugged terrains with a load of our wearing gear.

Focus on your 3 P’s (Persistence, Perseverance, and Patience)

While trekkers are always focusing on levelling up their stamina, being mentally prepared and strong is always being overlooked. During the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, passing by a remote mountain area is a big deal, as we will by far exceed the height of 3000 meters. But let us tell you that the calmness the mountains bring after succeeding in the dream after long days/months of patience and discipline is the biggest achievement anyone could ever get. At the higher altitudes, especially while navigating to the base camp, we might just want to give up in between due to the windy air and cold temperature, it is where our persistence and perseverance level get tested. 

Just take one thing in mind before and during the expedition, " For now, this climb of Mount Kanchenjunga is the only ultimate goal, and keep your eyes on the peak like a hawk. Get some research and create a positive mindset that will surely make your trek easier than it is.

What kind of tea houses and foods are available during the Kanchenjunga Trekking?

As the tea houses are run by none other than the locals themselves, they are quite basic, with limited amenities. In the lower section, the rooms are facilitated by an attached washroom with many other facilities such as a hot water shower, laundry, wifi, and electric sockets within the bedroom area. Whereas moving to the upper trails, the facility gets limited, for instance, for the wifi and charging up the phone, you must go to the dining area by paying $2-3 dollars. 

In some sections of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek route, there is no availability of network and electricity, as they are powered by natural solar energy, i.e., the usage of solar panels. So, please make sure to carry two power banks to charge the gadgets. For comfort, we’ll provide you with one sleeping bag (for each person) even though the lodges provide blankets and comfortable pillows. Just to ensure comfort and prevent the coldness of high altitudes, they will be given beforehand.

For the food, the menu will be provided by the tea houses, with a wide range of options available. You just have to choose it, and the meals will be prepared accordingly. For breakfast, from Tibetan bread and roti to French toast with hot chocolate and coffee are available. For lunch and dinner, please have some nutritious and fulfilling food such as “Dal Bhat”, which can be refilled and has a wide variety. If it doesn’t cater to your taste, then make sure to have ginger soup or carry dry ginger that will help you avoid altitude sickness and warm up the body at the same time. 

Washroom, Communication and Amenities Facilities at the trekking trail of Kangchenjunga

Located in the isolated and most remote section of the Himalayas, the route of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek has a mere standard of facilities, compared to any other popular trekking route in Nepal, which makes the hikers question even basic needs. However, as the route has been well maintained in recent days, it is much more well-facilitated, which is focused on catering for the needs and preferences of every hiker. The higher you hike, the more rapidly the amenities take a massive shift, due to the remoteness.

• Washroom: On the lower trekking trail, the bathrooms are well maintained, more on the western side, with flush-style and even pan sitting styled available at the tea houses, with sharing toilets, due to limited lodges. Whereas, as you ascend higher, the toilets are more on the squat side, so we suggest you carry the toiletries items, such as wet wipes, toilet rolls, and hand sanitiser, to maintain hygiene throughout, as the availability of water is still scarce and cold at the bathrooms.
• Communication: To communicate, the facilities of WIFI and telephones are available at the tea houses, in the dining area, where you have to pay a certain amount of money, $2-$6, charged by the lodges, as it is generated by solar energy. For more feasibility, consider carrying a SIM Card, for direct call, and even use datapack, at lower to mid altitude, to connect with home and us.
• Amenities Accessibility: Even though the trail is considered an isolated region, other amenities at the accommodations, such as laundry services and hot showers, are available in buckets, where you have to pay, according to L (litres to litres). Whereas the charging sockets are only available in the dining area, and not attached to the room, consider carrying extra batteries and power banks for more flexibility.

Permits required

The permits will be checked at the Kanchenjunga National Park checkpoint, so it is impossible to take this journey without permits.  But, there is nothing to worry about as we arrange all the necessary permits in Kathmandu before your arrival.

The government has set 2 major rules: acquiring a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) can only be possible if you are trekking through a registered trekking agency like Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition must trek along with at least one other person, and that doesn’t include the guide and porter. 

There are only two permits required for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek mentioned below:

• Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit: USD 20$, NPR 2000/- per person
• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit: USD 30$, NPR 3000/- per person

Solo or Group Joining

Trekking to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp solo/ alone is not allowed. It has been mandatory to trek along with at least two trekkers in a group, excluding the count of the guide and the porter. Required trekking permits are not granted by the government of Nepal if there’s no one along with you.

So, you might be a bit concerned about what can be done if you are alone and do not have a travel partner to trek with. We got you! You can join us on our fixed departure date for the years 2026 and 2027, where many solo trekkers have already signed up. That way, there won’t be any problem in attaining the permits, and also have a group of team members to hike along in the remote areas. 

There will be a maximum of 6 individuals in the group, with an experienced guide and assistant guide being fully medically equipped. If you want an alone trip, then we can arrange 1 travel partner for you. 1 porter can be shared between 2 hikers (max. 22 kg loads). For more queries, please WhatsApp or email us; we are available 24/7 to guide you.