24 Days
Quick Facts
Ground transportation in Nepal
Hotels & tea-house accommodation
All meals except in Kathmandu
Guided tour & trek throughout the trip
Autumn, Spring
Easy
Nepal
5,388 m
Why Kanchenjunga Trek?
- Explore the third-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga, in the eastern region.
- Experience the hidden culture and natural beauty of Nepal.
- Experience a walk through Odyssey, where you can discover a diverse range of flora and fauna.
- Visit the old Buddhist monasteries Ramtang and Oktang.
Trip Overview
The Kanchenjunga Trek is intriguingly situated right on Nepal’s border with Sikkim and Tibet. This route enables trekkers to experience the Ares and approach Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain, and discover a fusion of cultures.
Trek to Kanchenjunga base camp begins from Suketar, and as you trek through terraced fields, meadows, and beautiful rhododendron forests, you will receive an insight into the local Tibetan culture. As you ascend, you will witness the spectacular scenery of frozen lakes and crystal clear streams, and even glimpse glaciers, as you approach the close-up views of Mount Makalu, and the impressive Mount Kanchenjunga, standing at a staggering height of 8586m/28,169ft.
Kanchenjunga Trekking
Lying within the famous Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, Mount Kanchenjunga offers not only the majestic mountain but also amazing landscapes and alluring panoramic views of the Himalayas, including a range of miniature and magnificent frosty peaks above and below 8,000m. It also means seeing endangered birds and animals, such as the Impedance Pheasant, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, Shy Dragon, Barking Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Musk Deer, and even the Red Panda – a true treat for all animal lovers.
Unlike other trekking regions, you will encounter very few people on this trail due to its remoteness and altitude. So, anyone undertaking this trek should be physically fit, as you must walk for at least 6 hours a day and complete an arduous climb above Cheram. We recommend you join us for the trek in Autumn (September to November) or Spring (March to May) to make the most of the challenge of the Kanchenjunga Trek.
We operate the Kanchenjunga Trek in both group and private tours. As with all our treks, we offer a fully customizable itinerary, with personalized travel and accommodation plans available upon request. So if you want to know more about the itinerary options, trek cost, trek difficulty, or anything else, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our friendly team. Or, if you would like to read about what it’s like to experience this adventure, check out our Kanchenjunga Trek Blog.
If you don’t like the sound of this trek but it features what you had in mind, why not check out some of the other Everest treks from our wide range, such as these “beaten trails” packages: Tilicho Lake Trek, Upper Dolpa Trek, and Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Kanchenjunga Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Biratnagar
We will start the day by flying from Kathmandu to Biratnagar. Depending upon the availability of flying options to Suketar from Biratnagar, you will fly to Biratnagar and spend the night before flying to Suketar the following day. Or, if there are no flights to Suketar, we will drive to Phidim and spend the night there.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel
1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Day 02: Fly from Biratnagar to Suketar or Drive from Phidim to Suketar
Depending on your journey the day before, you will be flying or driving, and either way, end the day in Suketar.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel
2,420 m / 7,940 ft
Day 03: Suketar to Mitlung
Today, the trek begins! It’s all downhill today to ease you into the trek. We will walk over beautiful pasture land and through several villages, cross a small river on Hangdewa, and follow the riverbank of Tamor. The trail will become muddy, so get out your walking poles and wade through the last part of the trail to reach Mitlung for the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
12 km / 7.5 miles
2,420 m / 7,940 ft
5hrs
Day 04: Mitlung to Chirwa
We pick up the pace today as we ascend and descend throughout the day. We go through Sinwa on our journey before heading downhill to the village of Tawa. After the Tawa, we hike to Thiwa, passing through some beautiful landscapes. On arrival, we will enjoy the beautiful village of Chirwa – a small village consisting of a few teahouses and excellent hospitality.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
10 km / 6.2 miles
1,270 m / 4,167 ft
5hrs
Day 05: Chirwa to Sukathum
We go from terraced fields to dense forests on our journey today. We begin uphill before descending to the Tamor River. En route, we will pass through lush green fields and Cardamom Fields. We then need to cross the Ghunsa River before the trail becomes more gentle, and we are easily led to Sukathum for the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
12 km / 7.5 miles
1,576 m / 5,171 ft
6hrs
Day 06: Sukathum to Amjilosa
Today sees a more significant challenge. Once we have crossed the suspension bridge by Sekathum, we enter a dense forest with a steeply ascending trail. A few more ups and downs led us to another hike to Solima Village. We must then pass through a gorge along the ridge that borders the upper and lower parts of the Kanchenjunga Region before completing our 7-hour walk to Amjilosa.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
14 km / 8.7 miles
2,308 m / 7,572 ft
7hrs
Day 07: Amjilosa to Gyabla
Another long day as we make our way to Gyabla – the Tibetan refugee settlement. We begin our trek along the riverbank and make our way through dense forests of bamboo, firs, and rhododendrons. We will cross several bridges and pass by some beautiful waterfalls on the way to Gyabla. On arrival, you can receive an insight into Tibetan culture within Nepal.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
10 km / 6.2 miles
2,730 m / 8,957 ft
6hrs
Day 08: Gyabla to Ghunsa
We start by trekking down the river towards Phale, with many opportunities to purchase unique goods from the locals. Today’s trail is primarily flat and carved out by conifer and pine forests, so it is a pleasant walk towards Ghunsa. Ghunsa is a Sherpa settlement, unlike any areas we have previously visited. So, soak up this new culture as we settle for the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
12 km / 7.5 miles
3,595 m / 11,795 ft
5hrs
Day 09: Acclimatization day at Ghunsa
Today, it’s time for a well-deserved rest as we relax and acclimatize to the altitude. To pass our time, we can hike up to the surrounding ridge and visit a monastery, allowing ourselves some spiritual insight.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
3,595 m / 11,795 ft
Day 10: Ghunsa to Kambachen
Rested and revitalized from the day before, we continue through some spectacular terrain that exposes us to the impressive snow-capped mountains surrounding us. Follow the riverbank to the northern territory and through rhododendron meadows and wildflowers to reach Rampuk Kharka. Here things become a bit trickier as we pass through waterfalls and landslide-affected areas. At 4050m, Kambachen is a high alpine area accompanied only by a grassy plain.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
15 km / 9.3 miles
4,050 m / 13,287 ft
6hrs
Day 11: Acclimatization day at Kambachen
Another day of rest is needed to acclimate to the surroundings, and Lambachen makes a great choice. We can explore the Nupcy River Valley and its beautiful surroundings, but otherwise, we recommend pure rest, as this is our last day of a rest day for a while, so make sure to make the most of it!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4,050 m / 13,287 ft
Teahouse
Day 12: Kambachen to Lhonak
After rest, we hit our 7-hour trek today, full of energy. We will pass through rocky fields and sizable boulders before entering the Ramtang Valley and visiting the Ramtang Monastery. Its location next to a sparkling waterfall makes it a great place to take a break before navigating the landslide-prone areas that require precision. Also, see Everest Base Camp Trek.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
14 km / 8.7 miles
4,785 m / 15,699 ft
7hrs
Day 13: Trek from Lhonak to Pangpema/Kanchenjunga North Base Camp
A shorter and better-structured path leads us today. Only 3 hours of walking means you have time to take in the surrounding areas and enjoy the majestic mountains. Accommodation in Pangpema is not always guaranteed, so our destination could also be Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
6 km / 3.7 miles
5,143 m / 16,873 ft
3hrs
Day 14: Trek back from Pangpema to Kambachen
A nice, gentle day as the path requires us to move pretty slowly. Enjoy the sights as you travel from Pangpema to Kambachen, a beautiful spot to rest and spend the evening.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
20 km / 12.4 miles
5,143 m / 16,873 ft
7hrs
Day 15: Kambachen to Ghunsa
Today will begin with a short descent from Kambachen, taking us out of the wild landscape of Kanchenjunga North. Beautiful forest lines lead us to Ghunsa, just a short walk away. Once here, you have the entire afternoon to get some well-deserved rest as we arrive early and will stay for the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
15 km / 9.3 miles
4,050 m / 13,287 ft
5hrs
Day 16: Ghunsa to Sele Le
Today, we leave behind the trail to Gyabla and embark on the steep uphill trek to Sele Le – an uninhabited area of Kanchenjunga. The trail today passes through dense forests filled with rhododendrons and juniper. On arrival, there are chances to spot wild snow leopards on our final night in the Northern Kanchenjunga region.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
12 km / 7.5 miles
4,290 m / 14,075 ft
6hrs
Day 17: Sele Le to Cheram
Today may be our longest and one of our most challenging days yet. A quick steep uphill climb takes us to the top of Sele Le Pass, giving us aerial views of the north side of Kanchenjunga, complete with a peek at both Mount Makalu and Mount Jannu. We then have one final uphill push to reach Cheram before we can relax and rest for the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
18 km / 11.2 miles
4,480 m / 14,698 ft
8hrs
Day 18: Cheram to Ramche and return to Cheram
On a day hike. Give you a break and feel light as air as we set off early in the morning and begin by passing through the Yalung Glacier. We then continue past the Simbuwa River and Lapsang Village before arriving in Ramche. We will push on just a little further to a nearby ridgeline that gives us amazing views of Mount Jannu before returning.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
10 km / 6.2 miles
4,580 m / 15,026 ft
5hrs
Day 19: Cheram to Tortong
A nice gentle trail today to Tortong, as we lose 1000m of elevation. As we descend from Cheram, the course will split into two directions. We will take the right-hand side, leading us back to Sele Le Pass, taking in Smbuwa Khola along the way.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
16 km / 9.9 miles
3,870 m / 12,697 ft
6hrs
Day 20: Tortong to Yamphudin
Another long day of walking, lasting 7 hours, greets us today as we head towards the biggest village in the southern section of Kanchenjunga: Yamphuding. Depending on the time of year you choose to trek, today’s trail can be prone to landslides and monsoon damage, so that the route may vary. On arrival, you will be able to meet Sherpa, Limbu, and Rai, locals.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
18 km / 11.2 miles
2,870 m / 9,416 ft
7hrs
Day 21: Yamphudin to Yangpang
From Yamphuding, we descend to a small bridge that takes us from Samekham to the riverbank of Kabeli Khola. We will then pass through Mamangkhe, where we can visit the Limbu Museum and the Cultural Centre. We then cross the Khsewa River, walk through a forest of Cardamom, pass several villages, and descend to Yangpang.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
14 km / 8.7 miles
1,680 m / 5,512 ft
6hrs
Day 22: Yangpang to Thorpu
We will start today by passing through terraced fields and a few villages as we take the relatively unbeaten path between Yangpang and Thorpe. As this is not the usual tourist route, enjoy the quiet, empty trails and undisturbed nature as we make our way to Yangpang to rest up for our final day of trekking tomorrow.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
10 km / 6.2 miles
1,000 m / 3,281 ft
4hrs
Day 23: Thorpu to Birtamod
Today is our final day of trekking! We will experience a fundamental shift in climate and notice a remarkable difference in the landscape as we embark on the final portion of our journey. As we trek, the terrain changes into a fertile valley, and the weather will slowly become hot and more humid. On arrival, you can relax and celebrate the end of a long and successful trek.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
16 km / 9.9 miles
900 m / 2,953 ft
5hrs
Day 24: Drive from Birtamod to Bhadrapur, then Fly to Kathmandu
Today, we will start by driving to Bhadrapur, and then we will catch a short flight to Kathmandu from here. On arrival, you are free to spend the rest of your day enjoying the excitement of the Capital – either taking a rest or exploring the city’s nightlife for the final night of your trip.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel
1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Kanchenjunga Trek Map
What To Expect?
What's Included
- Airport/hotel pick up and drop off by private car
- At least two nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, bed and Breakfast plan
- Meals on full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) for the whole trek
- Trekking map
- An experienced Government-licensed guide
- A trekking porter/Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trek
- Insurance, salary, equipment, transportation, local tax for guide and porter
- Group medical supplies (a first aid kit will be available)
- All necessary paperwork and national park entry permits
- Travel and rescue arrangements
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- All government taxes and tourist service charges
What's Excluded
- Meals in Kathmandu before and after trekking, allowing US$ 15 – US$ 20 per day
- Your travel insurance ( Rescue )
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Tips for trekking staff and driver
- Drinks (hot, cold, and alcoholic)
- Personal shopping, laundry etc
- Personal trekking equipment
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Kanchenjunga Trek Additional Information
Kanchenjunga Trekking Permit
Besides your visa to Nepal, issued upon arrival at the airport, you need two other permits for trekking in Kanchenjunga.
The first permit is for the Kanchenjunga conservation area. This permit allows you to enter Annapurna’s conservation area of wild flora and fauna. Kanchenjunga is the largest conservation area in Nepal, and the permit cost is USD 30.
The second permit is the Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit. This restricted area permit is issued by the immigration department in Kathmandu/ Pokhara only after you book your trip with a travel agency in Nepal and hire a licensed guide. This permit is the same for all Kanchenjunga climbing routes.
Why is Kanchenjunga Restricted?
First, I’d like to explain what a restricted area means to you. The Government of Nepal has designated certain areas of cultural and historical significance as restricted regions. Once a region is on the list of such restricted areas, you must issue a special permit from the government before entering this area. Before the government gives the permit, you must follow some basic rules, such as
- You can not travel to a restricted region solo. You must be in a group of at least two people, excluding your guide
- You must hire a licensed guide with experience in trekking in the Kanchenjunga region.
- To obtain the restricted area permit, submit the following documents: a valid passport, visa, Trek itinerary, travel insurance, and photos.
Along with all these permits, you must apply to the immigration department of Kathmandu or Pokhara. Since MyEveryTrip helps you get these permits, there’s nothing much to worry about.
Kanchenjunga Base Bamp Trek Cost
Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek costs about $2500. Since there are two domestic flights and the journey is a month-long, the price of the Kanchenjunga trek is higher than that of other treks in Nepal. The MyEverestTrip Kanchenjunga trek includes all costs from your arrival in Kathmandu. A more affordable Kanchenjunga trek package is available. However, they are either shorter or don’t cover the flight charge. When comparing the price of trekking in Kanchenjunga, can you also compare the Itinerary and what costs are included in the Kanchenjunga Nepal trek?
Independent traveling is prohibited in Kanchenjunga, and you must hire a professional guide. Even when you don’t book the package, the cost of the Kanchenjunga trek is high.
How Difficult is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?
Kanchenjunga Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging base camp treks. Its long distance, high altitude, rocky terrain, and remoteness contribute to its difficulty. Quest is a journey filled with challenges and rewards.
Kanchenjunga Trek Distance
The Kanchenjunga Trek is almost 200 km long. For nearly 23 days, driving practically 15 km. Since the path is quite complex, such a distance requires you to walk 6 to 8 hours, covering over 6 miles.
Kanchenjunga Trek Altitude
After Chirwa, we start to feel the impact of altitude sickness. As we cross 3,000 meters, the level of oxygen drops. Unless proper precaution is taken, every one in three trekkers develops symptoms such as headache, tiredness, pain, shortness of breath, etc. However, some minor protection, as suggested by our expert guide, helps mitigate the effects of altitude sickness.
For example, follow the Kanchenjunga Trekking Itinerary, which involves climbing less than 500m in one day, taking rest and acclimatization days, and drinking plenty of clean water. Such a simple precaution helps you cope with the effects of altitude during the Kanchenjunga Peak Trek.
Experience needed: Almost a month’s trek at a higher altitude is not a joke. Before you book your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, ensure you have some high-altitude trek experience. Attempt some shorter jaunts around your hometown. Additionally, practice walking on rocky trails while carrying a backpack.
Training: Unlike other base camp treks, we strictly ask you to train for this Kanchenjunga Peak trek. We don’t mean that you need absolute mountain climbing training. However, cardio exercises such as running, cycling, swimming, etc., can be beneficial.
Best season for the Kanchenjunga short trek?
Nepal, a small Himalayan nation, offers numerous excellent trekking options. While some of those trek routes in Nepal are achievable throughout the year, other specific trek routes in Nepal can only be completed in warm and stable weather.
The Kanchenjunga base trek or the Kanchenjunga climb are the best times in spring and autumn. These months are preferred for their clear mountain views and stable weather. With significantly less rainfall and snowfall, you can easily climb Kanchenjunga in October / November and from March to April.
A monsoon or winter trek with higher chances of rainfall and snowfall is not recommended for the Kanchenjunga trek Itinerary. Since this is a long and very high-altitude trek, it’s wise to avoid winter.
Kanchenjunga Trek FAQs
Can we Trek to Kanchenjunga?
Yes, after obtaining a special permit from the government and hiring a licensed guide, anyone is allowed to trek to Kanchenjunga. The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is possible from September to November and March to April. Touring Kanchenjunga in Winter is unsafe, as almost all places above 2500 meters are covered in thick snow. A monsoon trek, i.e., June to August, is possible, but the trail is quite slippery now.
How long does it take to hike to Kanchenjunga?
The Kanchenjunga trek takes over three weeks to complete. MyEverestTrip Kanchenjunga circuit Trek is 28 days long, right from arrival. Depending on your speed, the actual trekking days are about 20 to 23. We reach Suketar, the starting point of the Kanchenjunga trek, only on the 5th day. If you are a very experienced trekker who regularly walks at a higher altitude, you can complete the Kanchenjunga base camp trek in 18 days.
How much does it cost to climb Kanchenjunga?
The Kanchenjunga Trek costs approximately $ 2,500 to $ 3,000. The journey includes two flights: one from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, near Suketar, and one back to Kathmandu. Additionally, the costs for transportation, accommodation, food, a guide, and a porter for 27 days make it expensive.
Can you climb Kanchenjunga from India?
No, the Kanchenjunga climb and Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek permit cannot be issued from India. Only the immigration department in Kathmandu, Nepal, can issue these permits.
How do you get around Kanchenjunga?
Trekking and Helicopter flights are the only two ways to reach Kanchanjanga. There’s no airport or road network around the Kanchenjunga mountain. You can fly to Suketar, the nearest airport to Kanchenjunga. You must trek for eight days ( and two rest days) to reach the Kanchenjunga North base camp.
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