Kangchenjunga was at one time regarded as the highest mountain in the world, with the aid of modern technology it is now recognised as the third highest mountain. This is an outstanding but long trek that links both the north and the south base camps in one trek. The area has for long been off the beaten trail but recently lodges have been developed to encourage more trekkers but with a very long one day journey to reach the starting point many trekkers still look to other more accessible regions. This is a real shame because the trek along the valleys and over the passes of this region provides the intrepid explorer with some of the very best of Nepalese trekking.
Kanchenjunga itself lies on the far eastern Nepal Sikkim border, a tiny Himalayan state in the north-eastern part of India. This area was closed to trekkers until the mid-1980 and today the region is protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and a special trekking permit is required. In addition to the main peak of Kangchenjunga, there are four subsidiary summits exceeding 8000m, the most important being Kangchenjunga West, also known as Yalung Kang 8505m there are also approximately twenty other peaks that exceed 7000m, the highest being Kambachen 7903m, Janu 7710m, Jongsong 7483m, Kabru ,353m, Tent Peak 7365m and the Twins 7350m.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel Bed & Breakfast (B&B) basis. Settle in and enjoy some time to rest or explore nearby areas.
Today, you’ll explore Kathmandu’s rich cultural heritage with visits to historic sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Later, there will be a briefing and final preparations for the trek.
Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur in eastern Nepal. From Bhadrapur, take a scenic jeep ride through hills and villages to reach Taplejung, the starting point of the trek.
The trek begins with a descent through terraced fields and small villages to the Tamor River valley. After several ups and downs along the trail, reach Mitlung for the night.
Today’s trek follows the river and passes through cardamom farms and small settlements. You’ll reach Chirwa, a traditional Limbu village, and stay overnight.
The trail to Sukathum is more rugged, winding through forests and across suspension bridges over the Tamor River. The day includes a few uphill sections before reaching Sukathum.
Today, the trek becomes steeper, with some rocky paths leading through dense forests and waterfalls. After a challenging ascent, you’ll arrive at Amjilosa.
The trail continues uphill through beautiful rhododendron forests, with occasional views of distant mountains. Gyabla, a Tibetan-style village, is your stop for the night.
After an early start, you’ll trek along the river and through forests, eventually reaching Ghunsa, a large Tibetan village. This is the main settlement of the region, and you’ll notice the change in architecture and local culture.
Spend the day acclimatizing in Ghunsa. Take short hikes in the surrounding area, which offers views of peaks like Jannu. Explore the village and visit the monastery.
Leaving Ghunsa, the trail becomes more challenging with increasing altitude. You’ll trek through rocky terrain and past landslide areas to reach Kambachen, where you’ll be rewarded with mountain views.
Today is another day for acclimatization. You can rest or explore around Kambachen, taking in the views of peaks like Kanchenjunga and Jannu.
The trek to Lhonak involves high-altitude trekking through rocky landscapes and glacial valleys. Lhonak is a remote campsite with panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga massif.
Today, you’ll trek to Pangpema, the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. Here, you’ll get awe-inspiring views of Kanchenjunga’s north face and other surrounding peaks.
After experiencing the base camp, you’ll retrace your steps to Kambachen, descending gradually.
Today is another descent back to Ghunsa through familiar trails, allowing you to revisit some scenic viewpoints.
The route to Sele Le is steep, passing through dense forests and rocky terrain. Sele Le is a high-altitude campsite, so acclimatizing and staying hydrated are key.
Cross several high passes with incredible views of the Kanchenjunga range, Makalu, and other peaks before descending to Cheram.
The trek to Ramche brings you to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. After taking in the views, return to Cheram for the night.
From Cheram, you’ll begin a steady descent through forests, eventually reaching Tortong, a quiet settlement along the trail.
Continue descending through mixed forests and traditional settlements. Today’s trail leads to Yamphudin, a culturally diverse village with a blend of Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa cultures.
The trek becomes gentler, with paths winding through terraced fields and smaller villages, leading to Yangpang.
The trail today involves gradual ups and downs through more farmlands and settlements, eventually reaching Thorpu.
You’ll take a jeep from Thorpu to Birtamod, descending to lower elevations. Birtamod is a commercial town where you’ll stay overnight.
Take a morning drive from Birtamod to Bhadrapur, and then fly back to Kathmandu. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a farewell dinner.
Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu for rest, exploration, or last-minute shopping. This extra day is useful in case of any weather-related delays.
Transfer to the airport for your international departure, ending your Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking adventure.
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