What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (USD 20 per week for first 4 weeks), TIMS Card, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 5143m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Permit Operator Check.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Packages Enough Acclimatization, Safety Support Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Australian Budget Everest Base Camp Flights Insurance Tips Gear.

What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (USD 20 per week for first 4 weeks), TIMS Card, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 5143m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Permit Operator Check.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Packages Enough Acclimatization, Safety Support Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Australian Budget Everest Base Camp Flights Insurance Tips Gear.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Transportation
Flight / Private Vehicle
Group Size
Max 12
Maximum Altitude
5143
Accomodation
Star Hotel, Tea House
Fitness level
Moderate to High
Arrival on
Kathmandu
Departure from
Kathmandu
Best season
Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
Guiding method
Live Personal Trekking Guide
Tour type
Trekking
Language
English
Meals
Includes (BLD)
Permits
Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (USD 20 per week for first 4 weeks), TIMS Card, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390).
Destinations
Eastern Nepal Region
Activities
Hiking, Trekking
Trip Type
High Altitude, Nature Friendly
Difficulty
Hard

Map

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a 22-day journey into Nepal’s far eastern Himalaya, where the world’s third-highest mountain rises in solitary grandeur along the borders of Nepal, India, and Tibet. This restricted-area trek takes you far from the crowded trails of Annapurna and Everest, into a region where forests of rhododendron and pine give way to glacial moraine, prayer-flag-draped chortens, and the deep silence of the high mountains. You will reach Pangpema (North Base Camp, 5,143m) and the dramatic Yalung Glacier viewpoint (South Base Camp, 4,500m), traversing a landscape that changes daily from subtropical river canyons to alpine tundra. Trekkers pass through Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa villages, where traditional farming and herding life continues much as it has for centuries. The trail is wild, the infrastructure basic, and the rewards immense: unobstructed sunrise views of Kanchenjunga massif, Jannu, Kabru, and Rathong, with a real sense of being at the edge of the inhabited world.

Highlights

Sunrise over Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world's third-highest peak, from Pangpema North Base Camp.
Cross the Yalung Glacier viewpoint at South Base Camp, surrounded by 7,000m peaks.
Trek through Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa villages rarely visited by foreign travelers.
Walk pristine forests of rhododendron, oak, and birch in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
Spot rare wildlife including red panda, blue sheep, and the Himalayan black bear.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative meets you and transfers to your hotel in Thamel. Evening welcome dinner with trip briefing.

Day 02 :

Fly to Bhadrapur & Drive to Illam

Morning flight to Bhadrapur in the eastern Terai, followed by a scenic drive through tea gardens to Illam, known for its rolling green hills.

Day 03 :

Drive to Taplejung

A long but spectacular jeep ride climbs through the Tamor River valley to Taplejung, the district headquarters and trailhead for Kanchenjunga.

Day 04 :

Trek to Sekathum

Begin trekking along the Tamur River, crossing suspension bridges and passing Limbu villages before reaching Sekathum at the confluence of the Tamur and Ghunsa rivers.

Day 05 :

Trek to Amjilosa

Climb steeply through dense forest of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. Reach the small Tibetan settlement of Amjilosa.

Day 06 :

Trek to Gyabla

Continue up the Ghunsa Khola through forest, crossing the river several times. The trail opens briefly at Gyabla, partially rebuilt after a 2011 flood.

Day 07 :

Trek to Ghunsa

A gentler day through pine and birch forest brings you to Ghunsa, a prosperous Sherpa village with a monastery and the last proper lodges before the high country.

Day 08 :

Acclimatization in Ghunsa

Rest day with an optional hike toward the opposite ridge for first views of Jannu (7,710m). Monastery visit in the afternoon.

Day 09 :

Trek to Kambachen

Climb gradually through scattered settlements and prayer-flag-draped terrain to Kambachen, the last village before North Base Camp.

Day 10 :

Acclimatization in Kambachen

A short hike toward Ramtang (4,240m) helps acclimatization. Magnificent views of Wedge Peak, Nepal Peak, and the Jannu north face.

Day 11 :

Trek to Lhonak

Cross a high glacial valley with moraine fields and intermittent views of Kanchenjunga. Reach the windswept settlement of Lhonak beside a glacial lake.

Day 12 :

Trek to Pangpema (North Base Camp) & Return to Lhonak

Early start for the gradual climb to Pangpema (5,143m), the North Base Camp. Sunrise paints Kanchenjunga, Chang Himal, and Taple Shikhar in golden light. Return to Lhonak.

Day 13 :

Trek to Ghunsa

Long descent back to Ghunsa, retracing steps through Kambachen.

Day 14 :

Trek to Sele Le Base Camp

Climb steeply through forest and open meadows to the Sele Le high camp area, where tents are set up for the night.

Day 15 :

Cross Sele La & Sinion La to Tseram

Cross two high passes (Sele La 4,290m, Sinion La 4,665m) with sweeping views south to Yalung Glacier, then descend to Tseram in the valley below.

Day 16 :

Trek to Ramche

Continue up the Simjua Khola valley through rhododendron forest to Ramche, a small grazing settlement and base for the South Base Camp excursion.

Day 17 :

Excursion to Yalung South Base Camp & Return to Ramche

Hike up the Yalung Glacier to the South Base Camp viewpoint (4,500m). Views of Kanchenjunga's south face, Kabru, and Rathong are extraordinary. Return to Ramche.

Day 18 :

Trek to Torongden

Begin the long descent, crossing the Simjua La (4,200m) and dropping into warmer forest toward Torongden.

Day 19 :

Trek to Yamphuding

Continue descending through Limbu and Rai villages, the air warming as you re-enter cultivated land.

Day 20 :

Trek to Mamangkhe & Drive to Taplejung

Final short walk to Mamangkhe, then a 4-hour jeep ride back to Taplejung for a hot shower and celebration dinner.

Day 21 :

Drive to Bhadrapur & Fly to Kathmandu

Long drive down to Bhadrapur airstrip and afternoon flight back to Kathmandu. Evening farewell dinner.

Day 22 :

Final Departure

Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight, or extend your stay with a Chitwan safari or Bhutan extension.

Things to Carry for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Headwear

Warm fleece or wool beanie hat (essential for cold mornings)
Sun hat with wide brim for UV protection
Neck gaiter or buff (multi-purpose for dust, wind, cold)
Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3 or 4)
Ski goggles for high-altitude passes and snow

Upper Body Layering

2x merino wool base layers (long sleeve)
1x mid-layer fleece jacket
1x soft shell jacket for wind and light rain
1x hard shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex)
1x down jacket rated to -25C (we provide rental for USD 20)

Lower Body

2x trekking pants (quick-dry, one convertible)
1x thermal bottom layer for cold nights
1x rain pants (Gore-Tex)
2x merino wool underwear
1x swimwear (for hot springs)

Hands

1x thin liner gloves (merino or fleece)
1x insulated waterproof gloves
1x expedition mittens for passes above 5,000m

Footwear

1x sturdy trekking boots (broken in for 50+ km, waterproof)
1x camp shoes or sandals for evenings
4-5x pairs merino wool trekking socks
2x pairs liner socks
Gaiters for snow, scree, and mud

Sleeping Gear

1x 4-season sleeping bag rated to -20C (we provide rental for USD 30)
1x sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece)

Trekking Equipment

1x trekking poles pair (essential for descents, we provide rental for USD 15)
1x headlamp with spare batteries (200+ lumens)
1x 20-30L day pack
1x large duffel bag 80-100L (we provide free)
1x dry bag for electronics
1x water bottle or hydration bladder (2L minimum)

First Aid & Health

Personal prescription medications (with doctor’s letter)
Diamox for altitude sickness (consult your doctor)
Ibuprofen and paracetamol
Imodium for stomach issues
Rehydration sachets (ORS)
Blister treatment (Compeed, moleskin)
Antiseptic wipes and bandages
Lip balm with SPF 30+
Sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring 2 tubes)
Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and wet wipes

Electronics

Camera with extra batteries (cold drains fast, bring 2-3 spares)
Power bank (20,000mAh minimum)
Universal power adapter (Nepal 220V, Type C/D/M)
Headphones
eReader or book

Documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity, 4 extra passport photos)
Travel insurance certificate (covering trekking to 5143m)
Flight tickets
Credit cards and USD cash
Emergency contacts

What We Provide (Rental)

4-season sleeping bag (rental USD 30 with deposit)
Down jacket (rental USD 20 with deposit)
Duffel bag for porter carriage (free, you keep it)
Trekking poles (rental USD 15)
First-aid kit, pulse oximeter, emergency oxygen
Water purification tablets
Satellite phone on remote treks

Related Packing Guides

Read our detailed packing guides: Australian Budget Everest Base Camp Flights Insurance Tips Gear, Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek Gear Checklist, Everest Base Camp Trek Gear Rental Kathmandu, Nar Phu Valley Trek Teahouses Or Camping Gear.

Note: Pack light. Porter weight limit is 15kg per trekker. Layers are key for mountain weather. We send a detailed seasonal packing list after booking.

Know Before You Book – Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Information

Trip Name: Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek – 22 Days
Duration: 22 days
Difficulty: Hard
Maximum Altitude: 5143m
Group Size: Max 12

Difficulty & Fitness

This trek is rated Hard. Hard treks involve 6-8+ hours of walking daily at high altitude. Previous high-altitude experience strongly recommended. The maximum altitude is 5143m. You need a fitness level of Moderate to High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises.

Read our difficulty guides: Saipal Base Camp Difficulty Vs Popular Nepal Treks, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Operators Real Experience.

Best Time to Go

Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.

Read our seasonal guides: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Photography Season, When Book Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Spring Autumn.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Luxury lodges (where available) offer heated ensuite rooms. 3-star or higher hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) included during treks with tea and coffee. Vegetarian options widely available.

Food and water guides: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Teahouse Or Camping, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Lodges Or Camping.

Transportation

Transport: Flight / Private Vehicle. Domestic flights (where applicable) are weather-dependent – build 1-2 buffer days into your schedule. Private ground transport uses comfortable AC vehicles.

Flight and transport guides: Australian Travelers Flights Rest Days Annapurna Base Camp, Lukla Flight Delays Ama Dablam Base Camp Itinerary.

Required Permits

Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (USD 20 per week for first 4 weeks), TIMS Card, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (NPR 3,390). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos after booking. Permit fees are included in your trip cost.

Permit guides: Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Permit Operator Check, Permits Required Before Booking Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek.

Altitude Safety

Maximum altitude is 5143m. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness is a real risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. Walk slowly, stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol above 3,500m, report symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.

Altitude safety guides: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Packages Enough Acclimatization, Safety Support Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek.

Training & Preparation

Read our training guides: Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Week Training, Details Prepare Makalu Base Camp Trek Quote.

Insurance Requirement

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our treks and tours. Your insurance must cover trekking to 5143m altitude (for treks), emergency helicopter evacuation up to USD 10,000, emergency medical treatment, and trip cancellation. We recommend World Nomads, IMG Global, or Allianz Adventure plans. Bring a printed copy of your insurance certificate.

Insurance guides: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Insurance Needed, Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek Travel Insurance.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple sanctums. Walk clockwise around stupas and chortens. Ask permission before photographing people. Use your right hand for eating and passing items. Say namaste (palms together) as a greeting.

Culture guides: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Villages Culture, Api Base Camp Trek Villages Culture.

Booking & Payment

To confirm your booking, a deposit is required (50% for helicopter tours). The balance is due 30 days before departure (7 days for helicopter tours). We accept bank transfer, credit card (4% surcharge), PayPal. Free cancellation up to 60 days before departure. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation. Contact us for current pricing and availability.

What is Not Included

International airfare to/from Kathmandu, Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days), travel and rescue insurance (mandatory), personal trekking gear and clothing, hot showers and device charging on trek, alcoholic beverages, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, tips for guide/porter/driver (recommended 10-15% of trip cost), and any costs from unforeseen events like weather delays.