Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek
One of the most isolated, untamed, and fulfilling trekking experiences in Nepal is the Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek. This trek takes you deep into eastern Nepal, near the borders of Tibet and India, far from the crowded paths of Everest and Annapurna. The third-highest mountain in the world, Mount Kanchanjunga (8,586 m), dominates the route, making it ideal for hikers seeking untainted nature, real village life, and striking Himalayan scenery.
Reaching a destination is only one aspect of this journey; another is the gradual exploration of diverse landscapes, cultures, and climates, ranging from terraced fields and warm river valleys to icy glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
Overview at a Glance
- Trek Duration: 20–24 days (commonly 21–22 days)
- Maximum Elevation: 5,143 m (Pangpema – North Base Camp)
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Best Seasons: March–May, September–November
- Accommodation: Tea houses & basic lodges
- Permit Required: Restricted Area Permit & Conservation Area Permit
Number of Days & Trek Duration
The Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek usually takes 21 to 24 days, depending on acclimatization days, weather conditions, and walking pace.
Because of the remoteness and high altitude, the trek is designed to be slow and well-paced, allowing proper acclimatization and a safer trekking experience.
🏔 Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek – 24 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – Rest & Overnight
Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel, rest, and prepare for the trek ahead (Altitude: 1,400 m).
Day 2: Kathmandu – Trek Preparation & Sightseeing
Explore Kathmandu’s temples, Durbar Square, and local markets. Trek briefing and gear check with your guide in the afternoon (Altitude: 1,400 m).
Day 3: Kathmandu to Taplejung
Fly or drive from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, then drive to Taplejung. Scenic hills, rivers, and village landscapes along the way (Altitude: 1,200 m).
Day 4: Taplejung to Suketar / Trek Start
Start trekking from Suketar, passing through farmland, cardamom plantations, and Limbu villages. Gentle introduction to the trail and local culture (Altitude: 1,700 m).
Day 5: Suketar to Mitlung
Continue through terraced fields, bamboo forests, and traditional Limbu villages. Small streams and local settlements create a serene trekking experience (Altitude: 2,100 m).
Day 6: Mitlung to Chhiruwa
Trek through subtropical forests and small villages. Enjoy the peaceful environment far from crowded trails (Altitude: 2,500 m).
Day 7: Chhiruwa to Sekathum
Trail passes dense forests, rivers, and rural settlements. Overnight in Sekathum, a quiet village along the route (Altitude: 2,700 m).
Day 8: Sekathum to Yamphudin
Ascend gradually through forested valleys and farmland, reaching Yamphudin. Beautiful views of distant peaks along the way (Altitude: 3,200 m).
Day 9: Yamphudin to Ghunsa
Trail enters the alpine zone. Ghunsa is a Tibetan-style village and important acclimatization stop, offering great views of Kanchanjunga and Jannu (Altitude: 3,400 m).
Day 10: Rest / Acclimatization in Ghunsa
Short hikes to nearby viewpoints to adjust to higher altitude. Enjoy panoramic mountain scenery and local culture (Altitude: 3,400 m).
Day 11: Ghunsa to Kambachen
Trek through rocky alpine terrain, with glaciers and high mountain views along the trail. Overnight at Kambachen (Altitude: 4,150 m).
Day 12: Kambachen to Lhonak
Ascend further into high alpine landscapes. Lhonak is a small settlement near Pangpema, offering spectacular views and a place to rest before the base camp (Altitude: 4,700 m).
Day 13: Lhonak to North Base Camp (Pangpema)
Reach Pangpema, the North Base Camp of Kanchanjunga (5,143 m). Enjoy close-up views of Kanchanjunga, Jannu, and surrounding glaciers (Altitude: 5,143 m).
Day 14: Pangpema Exploration / High Pass Preparation
Explore nearby viewpoints or prepare for the high pass crossing. Stunning glacier and peak views surround you (Altitude: 5,143 m).
Day 15: Pangpema to Sele La Pass
Begin the high pass crossing, trekking through remote terrain with panoramic views of mountains and glaciers. Overnight in small settlements (Altitude: 5,100 m).
Day 16: Sele La Pass to South Base Camp (Oktang)
Cross Sele La Pass and reach Oktang, the South Base Camp viewpoint. Towering glaciers and massive icefalls dominate the landscape (Altitude: 4,800 m).
Day 17: Rest / Acclimatization in Oktang
Explore the South Base Camp area, enjoy mountain views, and rest before descending (Altitude: 4,800 m).
Day 18: Oktang to Yamphudin
Start descending through alpine meadows and small settlements. Relive the scenic trails and village culture (Altitude: 3,200 m).
Day 19: Yamphudin to Sekathum
Continue descending along the trail through forests and farmland, reaching Sekathum for overnight stay (Altitude: 2,700 m).
Day 20: Sekathum to Mitlung
Descend further along river valleys and village paths. Peaceful landscapes continue as you retrace the trail (Altitude: 2,100 m).
Day 21: Mitlung to Taplejung
Final trekking day through farmland and local villages to Taplejung. Celebrate the completion of the remote trekking journey (Altitude: 1,200 m).
Day 22: Taplejung to Bhadrapur / Flight to Kathmandu
Drive to Bhadrapur and take a flight back to Kathmandu. Rest and overnight in the capital city (Altitude: 1,400 m).
Day 23: Kathmandu Sightseeing / Optional Activities
Explore more of Kathmandu or relax after your long trek. Optional cultural tours or shopping (Altitude: 1,400 m).
Day 24: Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Conclude an unforgettable adventure in the Kanchanjunga region (Altitude: 1,400 m).
Trekking Route
The trek lies in the Kanchanjunga Conservation Area and follows ancient trade routes used by local communities for centuries. The trail passes through river valleys, dense forests, alpine meadows, and glacial terrain.
Unlike popular trekking routes, this trail remains largely untouched and peaceful.
Highlights of the Trek
- Close views of Mount Kanchanjunga (8,586 m)
- Panoramic Himalayan scenery with peaks like Jannu and Kabru
- Rich cultural experience of Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan communities
- Diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to glaciers
- One of Nepal’s least crowded trekking routes
Accommodation & Staying Places
Accommodation during the trek is mostly in tea houses and basic lodges. Facilities are simple but comfortable enough for trekkers.
- Mitlung
- Chhiruwa
- Sekathum
- Ghunsa
- Kambachen
- Lhonak
- Yamphudin
Food & Meals
Meals are freshly prepared using local ingredients. Common meals include:
- Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables)
- Noodles and soups
- Potatoes and seasonal vegetables
- Tibetan bread and butter tea in higher regions
Difficulty & Fitness
This is a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness. Long walking days, high altitude, and remote conditions make this trek more demanding than Everest or Annapurna.
Why Choose Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek?
If you are looking for a true Himalayan adventure with untouched trails, fewer tourists, and deep cultural immersion, the Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek is one of the best choices in Nepal.