Kanchenjunga Trek

We will begin our adventure with a short flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, situated in the lowlands of Southeast Nepal. During the 45-minute scenic flight, we will enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. Upon landing at Bhadrapur airport, near the Indian border close to Darjeeling, we will meet up with our trekking crew and porters. From there, we will embark on a picturesque drive through hills and valleys adorned with tea gardens to reach Ilam town. This charming hill town is popular for its tea plantations and offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range.

After breakfast in Ilam, we will drive to Sukhetar in the Taplejung district, the starting point of our Kanchenjunga Trek. The journey will take us through lush landscapes and scattered villages. Upon reaching Sukhetar, we will commence our trekking adventure. We will trek through farmlands and gentle hillsides, arriving at Lali Kharka village, nestled at an altitude of over 2,260 meters. Here, we will settle in for our first night of camping.

Our trek continues with a scenic trail leading to Khesewa-Bhanjyang village. We will descend through terraced fields and pass by traditional mid-hill villages inhabited by Brahmins, Chettris, and Kirat tribes. Trekking through Tembawa village, we will cross the Phawa Khola river and ascend to Pokora village. From there, we will make a steep climb to Kunjari village before entering cool forests and reaching Khesewa-Bhanjyang village, where we will camp overnight.

We will begin our day with a descent through agricultural areas adorned with rice and millet fields. Crossing Nandeva Khola and navigating through a forest, we will ascend to Lopoding village. Continuing our trek with occasional ups and downs, we will pass Fun Fun village, offering stunning vistas of the Khumbakarna Himalayan range and glimpses of Yalung and Mt. Kanchenjunga to the north. Our path will lead us through farm fields, followed by an uphill climb to Pomppe Dhada, where we wil see views of Mt. Jannu. Descending to Kheswa Khola and crossing a bridge, we will finally reach our overnight campsite at Mamankhe village.

The morning will see us embarking on a gentle climb, skirting around ridges until we reach Dekadin village. We will continue alongside Kabeli Khola, gradually ascending 200-300 meters above the river bed. Trekking along winding paths and crossing small streams, we will descend to Kabeli Khola before climbing through farm fields and villages. After a rewarding walk, we will arrive at Yangphudin overnight.

Today, our journey continues along Kabeli Khola, where we will cross a tributary stream of Omje Khola and ascend to Dhupi Bhangyang. From here, we will traverse wide open grasslands before descending steadily through deciduous forests to Omje Khola. Trekking through rhododendron forests and reaching a ridge, we will arrive at Chitre, a small settlement with a few huts where we will spend the night.

Following a pleasant morning in Chitre, we will trek towards Ramite Bhanjyang, climbing steeply through alpine forests rich with magnolias, rhododendrons, and bamboo trees. At Ramite Bhanjyang (3,430 meters), we will enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Jannu, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Khumbhakarna, and Kabru peaks before descending to the banks of Simbua Khola for our overnight camp.

Starting early, we will follow Simbua Khola upstream along the mountain flank, surrounded by lush forests. Passing through Wahta, a solitary hut serving as a shelter, we will cross a small stream leading to a shrine amidst the forest. Continuing along the riverbed, a short climb will bring us to Tseram (3,770 meters) for our overnight stay, where we will soak in panoramic views of Yalung Glacier, Kabru (7,353 m), and Talung (7,349 m) peaks in the northeast direction.

We will start our morning at Tseram with a descent back to the banks of Simbua Khola. From there, we will ascend to Yalung Bara, marked by a solitary stone hut, signaling the transition beyond the tree line. The trail leads towards the Yalung Glacier ablation area, offering stunning views of Kabru, Rathong, and Kokthang peaks. We will halt here for the night, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas.

Today will be a rest day at Ramche for necessary acclimatization. We will hike to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, a two-hour trek offering panoramic views of Yalung Glacier and Mt. Kanchenjunga South Peak. This spot marks the historic route of the first British expeditions to Mt. Kanchenjunga in 1955. After soaking in the marvelous panorama of Talung and Kabru peaks, we will return to Ramche for the night.

We will trek back to Tseram, retracing our steps with a long descent through lush forests, marveling at the changing scenery along the route. The trail winds through verdant valleys and past picturesque villages, offering glimpses of local life in these remote mountain regions. As we descend, we will also enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes, with towering peaks looming in the distance. It will be a peaceful trek back to Tseram, where we will rest and prepare for the challenges ahead on our journey towards Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

From Tseram, our trek will lead us downhill to Yalungbar and then uphill to cross a river. We will traverse through woodlands and ascend for an hour to reach two small ponds. Continuing over Mirigain La, Tamo La, and Sinion La, we will see grand views of Kabru peak and Mt. Kanchenjunga. Descending from Sinion La, with views of Mt. Makalu, Mt. Baruntse, and Chamlang peaks to the northwest, we will finally descend to Tamo La at 4,500 m. Here, we will enjoy superb views of Khumbhakarna Himalaya before descending further to our overnight camp.

Our journey continues towards Ghunsa, our final destination before North Kanchenjunga Base Camp. We will begin with a pleasant walk, descending steeply for an hour through rhododendron and pine forests. Following the Ghunsa River, we will trek on a gentle trail to reach Ghunsa village. Here, we will experience the hospitality of the Bhotia people, with their stone-built houses and neat farmsteads nestled in this tranquil Himalayan setting.

We will start our morning with a steep climb along the river bank, passing by beautiful waterfalls and reaching a grazing area where yaks and cattle roam freely. Continuing past Ghunsa River, we will enter dense rhododendron and pine woodlands before ascending to Rambuk Kharka. From here, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the Khumbukarna Himal and Janu Himal ranges.
Leaving the forested areas behind, we will trek through a dry, barren landscape dotted with juniper and Burberry bushes. As we navigate uphill across a large landslide area, we will see fabulous vistas of the Khumbakarna Himal. Our day will conclude with a descent to our overnight camp at Kangbachen, overlooking majestic peaks like Mt. Sharphu and the North Face of Mt. Janu with Wedge Peak in the backdrop.

We will trek towards Lhonak, beginning our day with spectacular views. Following the river bank for an hour, we will then head northeast, descending towards a glacial river. After crossing boulder-strewn terrain and passing Ramtang Kharka, a place frequented by cattle herders, we will reach the expansive Kanchenjunga glacier. Our path will lead us to Lhonak, where we will rest for the night amidst striking views of Mera Peak, Nepal Peak, and the Wedge Peaks.

Today’s journey takes us to Pang Pema, the North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. We will ascend above the river, soaking in superb views of Kirat Chuli, Nepal Peak, Taple Sikhar, and Givegela Chuli. Continuing towards our highest point on this adventure, Pang Pema, at 5,065 meters, we will set up camp for two nights to fully appreciate the grandeur of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

After breakfast, we will indulge in a well-deserved rest at Pang Pema, allowing us to recharge and explore the local surroundings further. We can opt for a hike to nearby viewpoints or simply relax amidst the serene Himalayan backdrop. This pause in our trekking schedule not only aids in acclimatization but also offers ample time to absorb the majestic vistas that surround us, including the towering peaks of Kanchenjunga and its neighboring giants.

Leaving Pang Pema behind, we will begin our descent towards Kangbachen. This trek back will offer new perspectives as we revisit familiar landscapes, enjoying the ever-changing play of light and shadow on the Himalayan peaks. The journey involves navigating through diverse terrain, from alpine meadows to lush forests, all while reminiscing about the awe-inspiring sights we’ve witnessed. Upon reaching Kangbachen, we will settle in for the night, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories gathered during our time at Kanchenjunga’s North Base Camp.

We will start our day with a descent from Kangbachen, enjoying the memories of the high-altitude landscapes. The trail will lead us through several farm areas and small villages, crossing over Ghunsa Khola along the way. Continuing through alpine forests, we will eventually reach Phole, a charming Sherpa village where we will set up camp for the night.

Our journey continues downhill, returning to lush green vegetation and dense forests of bamboo and rhododendrons. Passing through Gybala village, we will navigate steep climbs and descents until we arrive at the serene open grasslands near Amjilassa, a small Sherpa village. Here, we will spend the night surrounded by peaceful natural surroundings.

Today’s trek takes us back to lower elevations, where warmer climates prevail. We will follow a winding trail that descends through open grasslands to Ghaiya Bari and Sekathum villages. Crossing the Ghunsa and Simbhu rivers, we will follow the Tamur River to reach Tapethok village, inhabited by the Limbu (Subba) and Kirat ethnic tribes. This picturesque village will be our resting place for the night.

Continuing along the Tamur River, our trek passes through Chiruwa village and further into the heart of rural life. Passing several farm villages, we will ascend into cool, serene woodlands filled with rhododendrons, oaks, and pine trees. As we leave the forest behind, we will reach Phoram village. It is a moderate-sized settlement where we will spend the afternoon exploring its natural beauty and cultural richness.

On our final day of trekking, we will make our way to Suketar village, passing through quaint villages and serene forests. The trail will lead us uphill for a few hours before a pleasant trek to Taplejung village at Suketar, where we will conclude our adventure. Suketar boasts an airstrip with flights to Biratnagar. We often opt for a driving option due to unpredictable flight schedules that can lead to delays or cancellations.

We will conclude our memorable adventure around the Kanchenjunga Base Camp with a scenic drive towards the lower regions of Southeast Nepal, specifically to Bhadrapur or nearby towns, for our last overnight stay. Our journey will pass through Ilam town, renowned for its expansive tea gardens, before reaching Bhirtamod, a bustling town near the Nepal-India border.

Early in the morning, after a hearty breakfast, we will drive to Bhadrapur airport for our flight back to Kathmandu. Our trekking crew and porters bid farewell as our guide accompanies us. During the flight, we will enjoy sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks before landing in Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we will transfer to our hotel, where the remainder of the day will be free for leisure.

Today is a contingency or free day in Kathmandu following our exhilarating Kanchenjunga trek. You will have the option to join a sightseeing tour to explore the cultural and historical sites of Kathmandu, Patan, or Bhaktapur. The rest of the day is yours to relax, engage in personal activities, or indulge in souvenir shopping.

It’s your final day in Nepal after an incredible adventure exploring the world’s third highest peak, Kanchenjunga. Our team will take you to Kathmandu International Airport for your departure flight home . Reminisce all your memories and experiences throughout your journey back. Safe Travel. Hope to see you soon for your next trip to Nepal. Namaste.