Overview

One of Nepal’s most rewarding and challenging treks, Mt. Kanchenjunga lies on the eastern border of Nepal. This trek attracts adventurous trekkers who have the time and desire to explore remote, spectacular Himalayan environments. Once accessible only by demanding camping expeditions, more affordable tea house routes now provide passage through stunning alpine vistas, ancient forests filled with biodiversity, and traditional mountain villages, offering deep cultural immersion in the heart of the towering Kanchenjunga range.

Trip Features

  • Duration: 23 Days
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Start/End Point: Kathmandu
  • Group Size: 2 - 15 persons
  • Max altitude: 5140m

Trip Includes

  • International arrival and departure transfers in a private vehicle
  • Experienced, knowledgeable guide and porter to assist on trek
  • Accommodation in comfortable tea houses throughout the trek
  • All meals during trekking on full board basis including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Necessary salary and insurance coverage for all staff involved
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit ensuring protected-area compliance
  • Use of kit bags (duffle bags) for porters
  • All government taxes, fees, and permits including Restricted Area, TIMS and Trekking Permits

Trip Excludes

  • International flights to/from Nepal and Nepal entry visa fees
  • Accommodations and meals in Kathmandu city
  • Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and personal snacks
  • Costs of visiting museums, monasteries, or additional sightseeing of extra places
  • Private trekking gear, equipment, and personal expenses
  • Travel insurance and costs of emergency rescues including evacuation
  • Personal communication expenses including phone charging, internet
  • Laundry services, gratuities / tips, and other miscellaneous costs

Note : This trek reaches high altitudes and demands excellent physical condition, proper acclimatization, and mental resilience. Thorough preparation and awareness of associated risks are essential for a safe and rewarding adventure.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!

Arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city that serves as your gateway to Nepal’s mountains. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel where you can relax and recover from your journey. Later, explore Kathmandu’s bustling streets and take in the mix of ancient temples and modern culture, soaking up the atmosphere that sets the tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Explore Kathmandu, Evening Trek Briefing

Spend the day visiting some of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites or shopping for trekking gear. In the evening, attend a comprehensive briefing on your Kanchenjunga trek, where guides will provide important information about your route, safety, and cultural expectations, helping you prepare mentally and physically for the adventure.

Day 3: Arrive Taplejung, Trek to Mitlung (996m)

Take a morning flight or drive to Taplejung, the starting point of the trek. Begin your journey trekking to Mitlung, a traditional village nestled amid lush hills. The walk introduces you to rural life in eastern Nepal, with welcoming locals and picturesque mountain views that build anticipation for the days ahead.

Day 4: Trek to Chiruwa (1,270m)

Continue uphill through terraced fields, quaint farmhouses, and thick forest. The trail to Chiruwa is scenic and peaceful, filled with the sounds of nature and occasional glimpses of local wildlife. The village itself offers a comfortable base surrounded by spectacular landscapes.

Day 5: Trek to Sekathum (1,660m)

The trail steepens slightly as you journey toward Sekathum. This Sherpa-inhabited village is known for its tranquil environment and traditional architecture. Here, you can experience Sherpa culture firsthand and enjoy stunning panoramic mountain views.

Day 6: Trek to Amjilossa (2,510m)

Today’s trek leads you higher into the mountains, passing through dense rhododendron forests and crossing pristine streams. Amjilossa is a scenic settlement offering incredible vistas of snow-capped peaks and a welcome rest after a demanding day on the trail.

Day 7: Trek to Gybala (2,730m)

The ascent continues as you approach Gybala, a remote village with breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga’s eastern face. You’ll find quiet trails, traditional stone houses, and the serenity of nature unspoiled by modern development.

Day 8: Trek to Ghunsa (3,595m)

This day takes you further into alpine terrain as you arrive at Ghunsa, an important Sherpa village rich in culture and nestled among towering peaks. Ghunsa is a gateway to more challenging sections ahead and offers a glimpse into the traditional lifeways of Himalayan mountain communities.

Day 9: Acclimatization day

Rest and acclimate to the high altitude in Ghunsa. Use this day for gentle walks to nearby viewpoints, interacting with locals, or simply relaxing in preparation for the more demanding margins of the trek.

Day 10: Trek to Khambachen (4,100m)

Ascend through alpine meadows and moorland, arriving at Khambachen, a remote hamlet offering breathtaking mountain views and a true sense of isolation in nature’s grandeur.

Day 11: Acclimatization day

Take another day to rest and acclimate for your body at this altitude. Spend time exploring the area, observing high-altitude flora and fauna, or enjoying Tibetans spirituality found in this region.

Day 12: Trek to Lhonak (4,785m)

Trek higher into the wilderness, passing glaciers and pristine terrain to reach Lhonak. This high camp is a scenic highlight, providing spectacular views of the massif and opportunities to experience the dramatic Himalayan environment firsthand.

Day 13: Trek Pang Pema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp)

Ascend to Pang Pema, near the North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. Stand amongst towering glaciers, icefalls, and the immense eastern faces of the Kanchenjunga peaks. This is a true reward for the journey so far.

Day 14: Rest / Pang Pema day hike

Rest and enjoy optional day hikes around Pang Pema, exploring surrounding valleys and enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of some of the world’s highest mountains.

Day 15: Trek to Khambachen

Begin the descent following your ascent route back towards Khambachen. Reflect on your journey while soaking in the beautiful alpine environment once more.

Day 16: Trek to Ghunsa

Continue descending to Ghunsa, with time to re-acclimate to lower altitude and enjoy the vibrant Sherpa culture.

Day 17: Trek to Sele La camp (4,130m)

Ascend towards Sele La camp, approaching the challenging Sele La pass with stunning high mountain scenery, glaciers, and crisp mountain air.

Day 18: Trek to Cheram, over Sele La (4,720m)

Cross the Sel La pass, taking in spectacular mountain vistas, before descending to the village of Cheram.

Day 19: Trek to Ramche (4,610m)

Trek through dramatic alpine valleys to Ramche, a high-altitude trekking hamlet surrounded by snow-covered peaks and rugged terrain.

Day 20: Day hike to Oktang (South Base Camp)

Take a challenging day hike to Oktang, the South Base Camp area, providing sweeping views of magnificent glaciers, ridges, and Himalayan summits.

Day 21: Trek to Tortung (2,980m)

Begin your descent to Tortung village, passing through mixed forests and terraced farmland, approaching more populated areas.

Day 22: Trek to Yamphuding (1,692m)

Continue descending along winding trails to Yamphuding, a welcoming village with cultural sites and rich traditions.

Day 23: Trek to Mamanke (2,000m)

On your final trek day, head to Mamanke, where you prepare to transfer back to Taplejung or Kathmandu, concluding your unforgettable expedition.