The Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp trek is an exciting Himalayan adventure. Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a scenic 9-hour drive to Taplejung. Anticipation builds as you cross winding roads, excited for spectacular sceneries and rich cultural experiences ahead.
The trip begins with a scenic 5-hour drive from Taplejung to Sekathum. As you walk from Sekathum to Amjilasa, the various lands reveal luxurious sceneries, highlighting the exceptional beauty of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Each step takes you deeper into this spectacular region.
The succeeding days combine exciting treks with peaceful moments. Travelling around from Amjilasa to Gyabla and onward to Ghunsa, the scenery changes to mountainous fields, rhododendron forests, and Sherpa villages. An adaptation day in Ghunsa extends your cultural connection, with a voluntary hike to Ghum Sa Ri offering all-around peak sights.
The walk continues to Kambachen and Lonak, each step approaching the immense Kanchenjunga. The 8-hour trek to the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp offers a close encounter with the magnificence of this Himalayan colossal. Walking down through Ghunsa to Selele Camp, then Cheram and Ramche, the walk offers peacefulness and natural beauty. A day hike from Ramche to Oktang View Point reveals the mesmeric Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, creating eternal memories.
The Kanchenjunga base camp trek passes through Tortang, Hellok Khola Ranipull, and Ranipul, showcasing Kanchenjunga's various backgrounds. The final steps take in a 9-hour jeep journey to Illam or Taplejung, followed by flights to Bhadrapur and Kathmandu.
Kanchenjunga, a traditionally rich region in Nepal, features various ethnic groups like the Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu, each conserving exclusive traditions. Locals withstand themselves through agriculture, herding, and traditional crafts, booming in harmony with the exciting mountain terrain.
Sherpas wear the elegant "Topi" hat, while Rai and Limbu societies display exciting traditional outfits. Our journey may happen at the same time with their energetic festivals: Sherpa Dumje, Rai Sakela, and Limbu Ubhauli, filled with joy, dance, and religious ceremonies, offering a striking cultural immersion along the walking path.
During the Kanchenjunga trek, we come across natural beauty, cultural richness, and exclusive experiences, nurturing a deep connection with the mountains that vibrates within, indicating the adventurous essence to travel further.
Trekking to Kanchenjunga in different seasons
For the Kanchenjunga South and North Base Camp trek, the perfect times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the climate is steady, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and promising trekking environments, making the most of the satisfaction of the trip.
During spring, exciting rhododendron blooms decorate the sceneries with intense colours, pleasing to the eye the trekking experience. The mild weather confirms relaxed conditions and exceptional visibility of the Kanchenjunga Mountain range.
Autumn, across from September to November, offers crisp and clear days with constant weather, perfect for trekking. The unhindered views of the Himalayan summits during this time make it flawless for journey.
It's suggested to avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to hefty rainfall, leading to slippery paths. Likewise, winter (December to February) brings extreme cold, making walking less promising.
Global warming has markedly affected the Kanchenjunga region, making weather outlines impulsive and varying snow and ice conditions along traditional walking ways. Glacial retreat and amplified risks of snow slip and landslides are detected. In spite of these changes, walking in the off-season is still possible due to the improved circumstances.
Kanchenjunga Trek Starting Point: A Journey from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur
You can also enjoy a Kathmandu day tour go to see UNESCO sites like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Durbar Square.From the lively streets of Kathmandu, explorers board on a picturesque flight to Bhadrapur, an active town in southeastern Nepal. The flight offers spectacular aerial views of the royal Himalayas, setting the tone for the venture ahead. The Kanchenjunga trek starts with a journey from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur.
On arrival in Bhadrapur, tourists are greeted by warm hospitality and exciting local culture. They prepare for the exciting 9-hour drive to Taplejung, the entrance to the Kanchenjunga region on The Great Himalayan Trail. The drive is filled with eagerness, as each mile brings them closer to the original sceneries awaiting to be revealed.
Means of Transportation for Kanchenjunga Trek
Throughout the Kanchenjunga trek, tactical transportation choices are important to confirm a smooth journey to the initial point of this Himalayan adventure.
Flight: The Kanchenjunga journey often starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. This beautiful aerial journey offers magnificent views of the Himalayas, setting the character for the adventure in advance.
Ground Transportation: Upon arrival in Bhadrapur, explorers go on a thrilling 9-hour drive to Taplejung, the initial point of the trek. This journey passes through winding roads, offering sights of rural life and various sceneries along the way.
Foot Travel: Once in Taplejung, the primary mode of transport becomes foot travel. Trekkers cross through rocky terrain, dense forests, and remote villages, dipping themselves in the natural beauty and enlightening richness of the Kanchenjunga region.
Porters and Pack Animals: Porters and pack animals such as mules or yaks may support in carrying supplies and equipment throughout the journey. Their presence eases logistics and boosts the complete trekking experience.
Local Vehicles: During the trek, trekkers may come across suspension bridges across roaring rivers and use local jeeps or buses for longer allocations between trailheads. These local vehicles offer suitable transportation options and add to the adventure of the trip.
Accommodations, Facilities & Food During the Kanchenjunga Trek
The Kanchenjunga trek involves planning for accommodations, facilities, and culinary experiences, enhancing the challenging yet gratifying trip through the Himalayas.
Accommodations
During the trek, explorers often stay in tea houses for elementary lodging. In remote areas with partial tea houses, camping is essential. Expect rural accommodations, prioritising the spectacular scenery over extravagance.
Facilities
Tea houses offer important facilities like shared dormitories, basic bedding, and common dining areas. Some have common bathrooms, while others offer attached ones. Hot showers and charging amenities are usually accessible for an additional cost. Camping services provided by trekking agencies include tents, sleeping bags, and essential equipment, with movable toilets and dining tents for ease.
Food
The food experience throughout the Kanchenjunga trek combines local essences with important nutrition. Tea houses offer a variety of menu including Nepali, Tibetan, and international dishes, even though the taste of international food may differ. Common items include dal bhat, noodles, soups, and organic seasoned vegetables. Camping spots have experienced cooks providing balanced meals.
Special nutritional needs can be lodged with prior notice. Conveniences and food options differ with height and remoteness. Trekkers should accept local hospitality and flavour the exclusive culinary experiences of Kanchenjunga while being supple in their expectations.
Necessary Permits and Documents for Kanchenjunga Trek
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Kanchenjunga
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) Entry Permit
- Trekkers’ Health Certificate
- Passport and Visa
- TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
- Emergency Contacts
- Travel Insurance
Kanchenjunga Trek Packing List
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Insulating layers (fleece jacket, down jacket)
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell
- Trekking pants/convertible pants
- Thermal underwear
- Waterproof gloves and hat
- Warm socks and hiking boots
- Comfortable camp shoes/sandals
Equipment
- Backpack (50-70 liters)
- Sleeping bag (rated for low temperatures)
- Sleeping pad/mattress
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sun hat and scarf/buff
Personal Items
- First aid kit (including altitude sickness medication)
- Water purification tablets/filter
- Personal toiletries and hygiene products
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent
- Toilet paper and hand sanitizer
Accessories
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
- Portable charger/power bank
- Trekking map and guidebook
- Notebook and pen
- Travel documents (passport, permits, insurance)
- Cash and credit/debit cards
- Multi-tool or knife
Optional
- Lightweight towel
- Trekking umbrella or rain poncho
- Duct tape and repair kit for gear
- Snacks and energy bars
- Portable oxygen canister (for high altitude)
- Compression sacks/dry bags for organizing gear
Important Notes
- Pack light and only bring necessities to avoid needless weight.
- Layer clothing for adaptability in fluctuating weather conditions.
- Double-check gear and equipment before departure to confirm everything is in working order.
- Be prepared for fluctuating temperatures and weather conditions, including cold nights and possible rain or snow.
- Consult with your trekking agency or guide for any precise references based on your trekking route and duration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What are the floras and faunas found in the trek?
The Kanchenjunga trek entitlements a variety of flora and fauna. Flora contains rhododendron forests, mountainous meadows, and luxurious vegetation. Fauna sightings may include the subtle snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and various bird species such as the colourful Himalayan Monal and pheasants.
What are the mountain views able to see during this trek?
During the Kanchenjunga trek, explorers are treated to magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga Massif, including the royal peaks of Kanchenjunga, Yalung Kang, Kabru, and Jannu, among others.
How high is Kanchenjunga's north and south base camp?
The North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga is positioned at an altitude of about 5,143 meters (16,873 feet), while the South Base Camp is situated at around 4,120 meters (13,517 feet).
What should I do if I get altitude sickness during the Kanchenjunga trek?
If you experience altitude sickness during the Kanchenjunga trek, it's vital to walk to a lower altitude, rest, hydrate, and try to find medical attention if signs continue or worsen.
Do I need a guide and porter on the Kanchenjunga North and South Base camp trek?
Yes, having a guide and porter on the Kanchenjunga base camp trek is highly suggested for navigation, safety, and help with logistics, letting trekkers to focus on appreciating the trip.
What age group of people can trek Kanchenjunga north and south base camp trek?
The Kanchenjunga trek is appropriate for individuals of variable ages, generally ranging from teenagers to seniors. However, explorers should be physically and mentally fit and ready for the challenges of high-altitude walking.
Does my insurance cover emergencies that occur in the Kanchenjunga area, if necessary, in an emergency case?
It's important to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for emergencies in the Kanchenjunga area. Complete travel insurance with emergency withdrawal coverage is highly suggested for trekking.
What is the geographical structure of Kanchenjunga North & South base camp trek region?
The Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp trek region features rocky land, luxurious forests, mountainous meadows, glacial valleys, and high peaks, offering a variety of and overwhelming geographical scenery to sightsee.
Is spring water okay to drink if I see it during the trek?
While spring water may seem clean, it's sensible to treat or cleanse it before drinking to stop waterborne illnesses. Boiling, filtering, or using water cleansing tablets are optional methods.
