Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek - 22 Days
Overview
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most remarkable and secluded trekking experiences, guiding adventurers to both the North and South Base Camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga – the world’s third-highest mountain standing at 8,586 meters. This journey leads deep into the untouched landscapes of eastern Nepal, offering a rare chance to explore one of the country’s least-traveled yet most spectacular trekking regions.
Your adventure begins in the far eastern Himalayas and takes you through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, a protected region known for its incredible biodiversity. The forests, valleys, and alpine zones here shelter rare wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear.
As one of Nepal’s last truly off-the-beaten-path trails, the Kanchenjunga region remains peaceful and minimally explored. Trekkers are rewarded with an authentic wilderness experience, far from commercial routes and modern distractions. The trails pass through lush forests, serene rivers, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic mountain terrain.
Along the way, you’ll walk through traditional villages inhabited by communities who practice ancient Tibetan Buddhist customs, offering a glimpse into their daily life, spirituality, and warm hospitality. These villages reflect centuries-old culture preserved in its purest form.
South Base Camp Highlights
The South Base Camp route brings you face-to-face with the mighty Yalung Glacier and provides magnificent views of Kanchenjunga’s towering south face. Rugged trails, high passes, and remote valleys lead to one of the most pristine high-altitude campsites in the Himalayas.
Due to its isolation, the trek requires special permits and must be done with a licensed guide and support team. Only a limited number of trekkers venture here each season, preserving the solitude and untouched charm of the region.
The silence and remoteness of this trail create a spiritual environment, allowing trekkers to feel deeply connected to nature. Untouched landscapes, simple mountain lifestyles, and continuous views of giant peaks make every moment of this journey extraordinary.
A Challenging Yet Rewarding Himalayan Journey
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a remote, physically demanding, and culturally enriching Himalayan adventure. With its wild terrain, dramatic scenery, and timeless beauty, this trek stands out as one of Nepal’s most rewarding long-distance trails.
More than just a trek, the Kanchenjunga journey is an expedition into Nepal’s most hidden gem—where adventure, solitude, and natural splendor come together to create a truly life-changing experience.
Description
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a spectacular high-altitude journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched Himalayan regions. This trek explores both the North and South Base Camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga, rising to 8,586 meters and ranked as the world’s third-highest peak. Known for its solitude, pristine natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, the Kanchenjunga region offers an authentic trekking experience far away from commercial trails.
Starting in the eastern Himalayas, the route winds through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to some of Nepal’s rarest wildlife. Dense rhododendron forests, high alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and rugged mountain terrain create a visual journey that changes dramatically with altitude. Trekkers often spot colorful bird species and may even encounter elusive creatures like the red panda or hear stories of the mythical snow leopard.
Beyond its natural wonders, the trek also offers deep cultural immersion. You’ll pass through traditional Limbu, Rai, and Tibetan Buddhist settlements, each with its own customs, chortens, prayer flags, and monasteries. Their preserved traditions and warm hospitality reflect a lifestyle that has remained unchanged for generations.
The South Base Camp approach features panoramic views of the Yalung Glacier and the dramatic south face of Kanchenjunga. The trail traverses steep ascents, high ridges, and remote landscapes before arriving at one of the most breathtaking base camps in Nepal. The region’s remoteness keeps the experience peaceful, making every moment feel like a true Himalayan expedition.
Because of its isolated nature, the Kanchenjunga trek requires special permits and a professional guiding team. The path demands physical endurance and previous trekking experience, as it includes long walking days, high passes, and limited access to modern facilities. However, the reward is unmatched—picture-perfect mountains, unspoiled valleys, and an overwhelming sense of serenity.
With its dramatic scenery, vibrant culture, and wilderness experience, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is perfect for adventurers seeking a challenging, meaningful, and unforgettable Himalayan journey. This trek offers the rare opportunity to explore Nepal’s hidden treasures and experience solitude in one of the most beautiful corners of the world.
Itinerary
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Cost
The Cost Includes
Accommodation
- Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights, including breakfast (Private rooms available at additional cost).
- Twin-sharing / guesthouse accommodation for 18 nights during the trek.
Meals & Drinking Water
- All standard meals during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (includes seasonal fruits).
- Purified drinking water during the trek using water filters or purification tablets.
- A special farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal.
Transportation & Domestic Flights
- All airport transfers (international and domestic) in a tourist vehicle.
- Two-way domestic flight: Kathmandu ↔ Bhadrapur, including airport departure taxes.
- All ground transfers in a private jeep throughout the trek.
Guide and Staff
- Experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (Two guides provided for groups above 7 people).
- First-aid trained and locally recruited guide and support staff.
- Porters to carry luggage (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
- All staff wages, meals, accommodation, equipment, insurance, and medical supplies.
Permits
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Benefits & Takeaways
- 1 complimentary duffel/kit bag, trekking map, sun hat, and Buff (Neck Gaiter).
- A comprehensive first-aid kit with an oximeter to monitor oxygen levels daily.
- Trip completion certificate.
Administrative & Taxes
- All administrative fees and applicable government taxes included.
The Cost Excludes
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- International flights and airport departure taxes.
- Nepal Entry Visa fees (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days).
- Travel insurance including high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage.
- Any beverages such as bottled or boiled water.
- Tips for trekking staff and drivers.
- Personal trekking gear and equipment.
- Any expenses not mentioned in the “Price Includes” section.
Required Equipments
Here is a detailed packing list to help you prepare for the Kanchenjunga Trek. You’ll need warm clothing during the colder months as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes. We provide a 75-liter duffel bag during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu, which is yours to keep. If needed, you may rent a sleeping bag and down jacket for USD 35 each once you arrive in Kathmandu.
General Gear & Equipment
- Four-season (zero-degree) sleeping bag (rental available for USD 35)
- Puffy down jacket (rental available for USD 35)
- Daypack (35–45 liters recommended) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap (complimentary Ace the Himalaya cap provided)
- Knitted hat / Beanie
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunglasses (UV-protection recommended)
Torso
- Technical fabric base layers (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- 2 short-sleeve technical shirts
- 2 long-sleeve technical shirts
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
- Fleece jacket or warm pullover
Lower Body
- Technical fabric base layers (light or heavy depending on season)
- Hiking pants (2 pairs)
- Comfortable pants for teahouse evenings
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell pants
- Hiking shorts
Hands
- Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
- Insulated hard-shell gloves (recommended for colder months)
Feet
- Warm wool or technical fabric socks
- Hiking socks
- Liner socks (optional)
- Waterproof trekking/hiking boots (well broken-in)
- Ice cleats / Micro spikes (recommended during icy conditions)
- Gaiters (light for dust or heavy for snow in winter months)
- Casual shoes for evenings
Undergarments
Note: Quantities can be adjusted based on personal preference.
- Quick-drying, technical underwear
- Sports bras (for women)
- Pajamas or comfortable sleeping clothes
First Aid Kits & Medications
Your guide carries a basic first-aid kit, but personal medication is strongly advised.
- Sunscreen (high SPF recommended)
- Lip balm (SPF preferred)
- Basic ointments and personal medications
Other Essentials
- Passport
- Extra passport-sized photos
- Reusable water bottle
- Basic toiletry kit
- Water purification tablets or UV purifier
- Hydration bladder (optional)
- Towel
- Pillowcase
- Toilet paper (2 rolls)
- High-protein snacks (nuts, bars, chocolates)
- Dry bags / waterproof bags for valuables and documents
- Airline tickets (leave a copy at our Kathmandu office)
- Earplugs
- Trekking poles
Optional Items
Thamel in Kathmandu offers affordable trekking gear if you prefer purchasing after arrival.
- Power bank or spare batteries
- Camera and mobile phone
- Cards or a book
- Binoculars
- Whistle
- Thermos for hot water