Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of eastern Nepal’s finest and craziest mountain treks. It’s an incredible adventure hiking with dramatic landscapes and amazing mountain scenery that will fill your heart with joy. The trek is quite scenic and adventurous, with sweeping hills, mountain ridges, and river valleys.
But, trekking Kanchenjunga isn’t as relaxing as it scenes. Its trails can be relentless and don’t let you go off easily without drawing a few strings of challenges. The rugged hills and rocky terrains can be too much for some trekkers, but once it’s done, they’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking view of Kanchenjunga.
You’ll have to walk the trail that starts 750km away from Kathmandu at Taplejung Bazaar and passes through many villages and towns to arrive at the camp. It runs through rugged hills and forests before heading up to the camp. Most of these parts of Kanchenjunga Base Camp are remote, with only a few teahouses and sparse human settlements.
Still, they’ll give you a close look into the lifestyle and culture of the people in the region. You’ll get to see unique nature and biodiversity while on the journey to the camp. After almost a week on the trail, you’ll finally arrive at Kanchenjunga North Base Camp and enjoy the splendid view of the mountain.
Since the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek has plenty of difficulties, you must come with the preparation. You have to spend a good few days planning and researching before heading off to the trail. Trekkers will have to bring required equipment and supplies, including a first-aid kit, food, and snacks, to make the travel easier.
You might be interested in our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package.
Best Time for Kanchenjunga Trek
As long as the trekkers are fit and in good condition, they can trek the base camp whenever they want. However, if you want to do it the right way and make the most of a trip, it’s wiser to hike in the shoulder season between September and November and April to June.
The region enjoys a moderate climate during these months. There’s sunshine all day long, and the atmosphere is nice and pleasant. Like a typical autumn climate, the weather is warm at the beginning of the season and cold by the end.
It’s hot and dry in September here at Kanchenjunga. Temperatures are generally above 12 Degree Celsius in the daytime. Meanwhile, the weather in October is warm and pleasant, but the temperature gradually drops at the end of the month. You can witness the temperature dropping up to -5 Degree Celsius by November.
Spring in Kanchenjunga is full of transition. It’s initially cold here, with temperatures dropping below freezing. But as the season draws nearer to June, the weather becomes hot and balmy. Most of its days are sunny with clear blue skies.
You can expect the temperatures to range between 0 and -3 Degree Celsius; the weather may seem a lot like winter in March. You’re also likely to see snowfalls at higher altitudes, but it’s not to worry about as all the snow is gone by early April.
The leaves start to fall off the trees in the earliest November, and it’s all gone by the winter. Most trekkers are in a rush to revert from the camp rather than trekking it. So, if you want to avoid the crowd but still like to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of Autumn, then November is the month to trek.
Monsoon and winter are two seasons that share similar weather as November in terms of unpredictability and severeness. The weather is harsh in winter, with extreme temperatures and snowfall, which increases the risk of hypothermia. Mornings and evenings in winter are frigid and foggy, hindering the view.
The weather in monsoon is equally troublesome as you’ll encounter heavy rainfall, which makes the trail slippery. Walking the trail becomes unsafe as the trail weaves through landslide-prone areas. The atmosphere after rain is, however, nice.
It’ll provide you with a crystal clear view of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
There’s more greenery in the season, but you’ll have to find the right time to get on the trail and enjoy the stunning views.
Highlights of Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek
- Aerial view of vivacious towns and beautiful cities
- Stunning glimpses of Kanchenjunga, Mera, Ramthang, and Jannu
- Discover the rich history, culture, and lifestyle of people in the eastern region
- Explore the famous historical sites and attractions in Kathmandu City
- Catch glimpses of varied wildlife and bird in Kanchenjunga
Detailed Itinerary for Kanchenjunga North Base Camp
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Our staff will pick you up from inside the arrivals at Tribhuvan and then walk you to your car. From there, the journey gets underway right away. After about 15 minutes of the ride, the staff will drop you at the hotel. Take the keys from the reception and get some rest till then we’ll let you know the further plans.
Day 02: Free and Arrangement day
It would be such a pity not to see the real Kathmandu while in the city. Therefore, to give you a quick look into the city, we’ll bring you to major tourist sites which can be seen in one day. We’ll take you to visit the most historical site in Nepal, Kathmandu Durbar Square. It’s one of the most known prehistoric monuments that are worth visiting.
Apart from the museum, Kathmandu has many other great sights. As a city of cultural and religious landmarks, it has many sacred temples like Pashupatinath and Boudhanath, reflecting Nepal’s diversity and multiculturalism.
Our guided tour includes a stop at Swyambhunath. It’s to provide you with the best shots of Kathmandu city and its thriving towns. After exploring the most happening places in the city, we’ll drive you back to the hotel in the evening.
Day 03: Fly to Bhadrapur, Drive to Phidim
Phidim Altitude: 1,756m / 5,761ft
Driving Hours: 4 hrs
Overnight at: a hotel
We have an early morning flight to Bhadrapur, so prepare yourself ahead of the plane ride. You’ll be picked up from the hotel and driven to the airport, where the passengers board the flight. The trip will be as long as 45 minutes and comes with a view of lush green hills and vibrant towns.
Following the arrival at Bhadrapur, we’ll drive to Phidim, which takes around four hours. Located 150.5 km away from the town, it’s one of the most scenic places. Phidim is a quintessentially beautiful town with beautiful surroundings and landscapes.
Day 04: Drive to Taplejung
Taplejung Altitude: 1,820m / 5,971ft
Walking Hours: 8 hrs
Overnight at: the hotel
After breakfast, we’ll leave the town and take a ride to Taplejung. This will ease the travel time and make it more convenient for us to reach the village. We’ll spend almost an entire day driving via Mechi Highway in the shuttle.
We’ll travel to several parts of the region, including Illam, which provides a lovely view. The trip shall be long, but not tedious and boring, especially with all the splendid scenery outside. You’ll see lush green hills and beautiful farms throughout the journey and even in the village. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Day 05: Trek to Chirwa
Chirwa Altitude: 1,200m / 4,167 ft
Walking Hours: 6-7 hrs
Overnight at: the guesthouse
We’ll start the day with a warm breakfast and some stretches before heading out on the trail. After coming out of the village, we’ll hike an old trail running along the east bank of the Tamur River and cross a small farm village of Mitlung. As the trail rises up, we’ll slow our pace until it descends to beautiful Sinwa village.
From here, the trail ascends uphill and crosses the suspension bridge at Tawa in order to move closer to Chirwa. After walking a few miles more and passing the Chirwa River, we’ll arrive at this small Limbu village.
Day 06: Trek to Amjilosa
Amjilosa Altitude: 2,520m / 8,268ft
Walking Hours: 8-9 hrs
Overnight at: the guesthouse
Leaving Chirwa, we’ll head to our next destination, which begins with a short walk to the north of the village. Trekking along the bank of Tamur River, the trail leads us to Tapethok, where we’ll meet a checkpoint to verify the permit.
Some times later, we’ll cross Simbuwa Khola and then leave for Tamur River. After a few ups and downs along the trail, we’ll arrive at the Limbu village of Sakathum. During the journey, the trail passes the suspension bridge at the confluence of Ghunsa Khola and Tamur River and climbs steep hills.
After grabbing lunch at the village, we’ll make a final ascent to Amjilosa on a rugged trail. The trail will take us up the stone stairs and through the village of Ghaiyabari before weaving the way through a narrow gorge. After walking some tricky trails and ascending Solima, we’ll arrive at Amjilosa. Being tired to death, we’ll head straight to the guesthouse.
Day 07: Trek to Gyabla
Gyabla Altitude: 2,730m / 8,957ft
Walking Hours: 4-5 hrs
Overnight at: the guesthouse
After a tough walk to Amjilosa, we can sigh relief today as the trek to Gyabla is a little easier, taking just about four hours. It starts with a steep walk along the Ghunsa Valley and into the dense forest full of oaks and bamboo. The trail of the hillsides will bring us closer to the mountain and provide stunning views of gushing waterfalls and green pastures.
However, you’ll have to be more careful on the trail, especially while climbing Kyapart. After spending more than an hour on the trail, we’ll finally arrive at Gyabla. It’s a small village in the middle of terraced hills, which accommodates hikers and visitors. We’ll spend the night here as well before moving to our next destination.
Day 08: Trek to Ghunsa
Ghunsa Altitude: 3,595m / 11,794ft
Walking Hours: 5 hrs
Overnight at: the guesthouse
It’s time to challenge ourselves with a 3,500 meters elevation brink. The day begins with a quick descent into the gorge and through the rhododendron forest. Soon, the path goes past the little town and into the forest before descending stone steps. After an hour’s trek, we’ll finally arrive at the small village of Ghunsa. Though the trail on this section is challenging, it’s still well-marked. You can climb them without any training and in less than five hours.
Day 09: Acclimatization day at Ghunsa
It’s our first acclimatization day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. So, to make the most of it, we’ll hike to the Lpasan La Monastery and take a tour of the village. We’ll spend most of the day climbing rugged hills and rocky terrains that go all the way up to the monastery.
After reaching the viewpoint, you can explore nature to your heart’s content. You can take a look around the camp and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Since there’s no rush, you can go at a slow pace and take the time you need. We’ll return to Ghunsa in the afternoon and have our lunch before taking a walk through the village.
Day 10: Trek to Kambachen
Kambachen Altitude: 4,050m / 13,287ft
Walking Hours: 4hrs
Overnight at: the guesthouse
After a nice day off at Ghunsa, we should now return to the trail and start hiking Kambachen. The initial trek along the south bank of Ghunsa Khola is less challenging and restful. It offers you an incredible sight of several chortens and mani walls with spectacular scenery of surrounding mountains.
As the trail inclines, you can see the north face of Jannu and its dramatic landscapes. After crossing the glacial moraines and steep slopes, we’ll finally arrive at Kambachen. It’s a small Tibetan settlement in the pastureland of Kanchenjunga, surrounded by towering mountains. We’ll spend the night in the village.
Day 11: Acclimatization Day
Another acclimatization day at Kanchenjunga Trek has been planned to help you adapt to the low air pressure at a higher altitude. We’ll put the day to good use and explore the major tourist sites in the region. After morning breakfast, we’ll get in front of the trail heading to Nupchu Khola. We’ll gently ascend the terrain from Kambachen, which provides a breathtaking view of Mt Jannu and its nearby snow peaks. After resting for a while and enjoying the view, we’ll retrace the steps to Kambachen and get some rest.
Day 11: Trek to Lhonak
Lhonak Altitude: 4,750m / 15,583ft
Walking Hours: 5 hrs
Overnight at: the camp
The walk from Kambachen to Lhonak is 5 hours long and begins with a trek through azalea and rhododendron forests. We’ll hike along the lateral moraine and past a seasonal yak herder camp. After an hour of trek, we’ll arrive at a rocky terrain that passes through a landslide area.
From here, the trail climbs a wide rocky field and crosses the northwest moraines of Kanchenjunga Glacier. Soon, we’ll start noticing mount Kanchenjunga and its jagged mountains. After reaching the camp, you can take as many shots of Mera Peak, Wedge Peak, and Twins as you want. Overnight stay in a tented camp.
Day 12: Trek to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Altitude: 5,100m
Walking Hours: 8 hrs
Overnight at: a camp
You’ll have breakfast in Lhonak before gearing up to make a long and steep ascent to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. The trek kicks off with a continuous ascent up the hill and to the mountain. We’ll hike the trail north of Pang Pema and ascend steeps. After gaining an elevation of 200 to 300 meters, we’ll finally end up at Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.
It’s not the longest walk, but the trail to Kanchenjunga Base Camp is quite tiring and strenuous. Some of its routes pass through landslide-prone areas, which are risky and challenging.
The extreme variation in landscapes will provide you with a beautiful backdrop. You can see the glistening mountains and glaciers while wandering around the camp. It’s one of the best spots to watch shimmering Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks. We’ll put up the tent to spend the night in the camp.
Day 13: Trek back to Ghunsa
Following an early morning breakfast, we’ll descend the trail crossing Khambachen down the base. Soon we’ll steer the rugged trail that passes through forests and steep slopes. Climbing down the trail, you’ll see plenty of remote settlements, giving you a quick glimpse of the lifestyle in the region.
You can find traces of ancient Tibetan culture in these villages of Kanchenjunga. After walking for a good few hours, we enter a tropical forest that heads to Ghunsa Village. The hike is not too intense, but you’ll still have to be careful as the trail can be slippery.
Day 14: Trek to Amjilosa
After a good sleep and breakfast, we’re ready to begin our trek to Amjilosa. Starting with a downhill trek for two hours, we’ll then follow the Ghunsa river and cardamom field. On the way, you can smell the stench of Juniper and pines.
We’ll descend for most of the trek except in Gyabla and before Amjilosa. The trail in this section of Kanchenjunga can be tricky, so you’ll have to pay more attention to the trail. After the trek of 7 hours, we’ll arrive at Amjilosa, a small village in the eastern region. We’ll spend the night in a guesthouse at Amjilosa.
Day 15: Trek to Tapethok
The journey from Amjilosa starts with an easy walk downhill through the dense forest and hills. We’ll travel a dirt road taking over 4 hours to finish. On the journey, we’ll pass several remote villages and towns of Kanchenjunga. We’ll lose most of the previously gained elevation by climbing down the hills.
After reaching the village, you’ll see quite a few small teahouses providing accommodation to hikers. They are quite affordable and convenient to stay in, so many travelers prefer to stay here.
Day 16: Trek to Mitlung
Mitlung Altitude: 921m / 3,021ft
Walking Hours: 6 hrs
Overnight at: the guesthouse
It’s the second last day of the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek. So, what better to start the day than the delicious breakfast of Tapethok and some fresh air? After fueling up, we’ll head towards the trail that descends steep slopes. To close the gap, the trail runs to Mitlung, taking about 5 hours.
The trek is relatively easier this time, but we still have to keep our heads straight. Mitlung is a beautiful small settlement near Malbanese and Nakla. There are plenty of teahouses in the village that provide accommodation to hikers.
Day 18: Trek to Taplejung
The trails from Mitlung to Taplenjung are the friendliest of all hikes in Kanchenjunga. They are mostly downhill and relaxing, with some astounding views that’ll blow your mind. But before that, we’ll descend the trail through the village of Lelek and leave the main Kanchenjunga trail.
From here, the trail drops down to Tamor River and runs along the terraced fields. After following the trail through the remote village of Olagchun Gola, we’ll make further descent to Taplejung and finally call it off a day.
Day 19: Drive to Bhadrapur
Time to say goodbye to Kanchenjunga and take the high road heading to Bhadrapur. We’ll drive on the highway for about 8 hours, so you might worry about being bored or worn out. But, don’t fret, as the journey will keep you occupied by providing an impressive view of beautiful water streams and waterfalls. You can see rolling hills and valleys all along the way until entering the town of Bhadrapur. Tonight we’ll stay in a hotel in the city.
Day 20: Flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu
After having the last breakfast of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, we’ll leave for the airport in Bhadrapur. After 15 minutes of drive, we’ll be ready to board the flight and enjoy the aerial view of the city. The flight will take us to the valley, hovering above wide meadows and bustling cities. Following our arrival at the airport, our staff will transfer you to the hotel, where you can have a rest.