Description
Kanchenjunga (8,598 m / 28,158 ft), the world’s third-highest mountain, rises majestically along Nepal’s eastern border with Sikkim, India. Opened to trekkers only in 1988, this restricted region remains one of Nepal’s most pristine and least crowded trekking destinations.
Operated by Sherpa Society Trekking – Since 1973, this journey reflects decades of Himalayan expertise, responsible tourism practices, and deep local knowledge. Our long-standing relationships with mountain communities ensure authentic cultural encounters while directly supporting the local economy.
This classic Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek follows both the North and South routes, allowing trekkers to reach Pang Pema (North Base Camp) and Oktang (South Base Camp) within less than three weeks. The journey offers dramatic landscapes, remote mountain valleys, ancient monasteries, and authentic cultural encounters with Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan communities.
Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Jannu (Kumbhakarna), Yalung Kang, Kambachen, and numerous peaks over 6,000 meters. This is a challenging trek best suited for trekkers in good physical condition who seek wilderness, solitude, and high-mountain adventure—guided with care, safety, and integrity by Sherpa Society Trekking.
- Kathmandu hotels can be arranged separately as per guest preference
- Porter service and domestic flights available on request
- Itinerary is flexible depending on weather, health, and fitness conditions
- Required equipment list and trekking information provided upon booking
Duration
20 DAYS
Grade
ADVENTURE / STRENUOUS
Average Trekking Duration
4-9 HRS
Altitude
MAX 5150 M
Group Size
2-15 PAX
Season
MARCH TO MAY & OCT TO DEC
Route itinerary
Journey to Taplejung & Trek Start
- Day 01: Flight Kathmandu → Bhadrapur, drive to Phidim (1,750 m)
- Day 02: Drive to Sekathum (2,510 m)
- Day 03: Trek to Amjilasha (2,730 m)
- Day 04: Trek to Gyabla (2,730 m)
- Day 05: Trek to Gunsa (3,595 m)
The trek begins with a scenic flight to eastern Nepal followed by an adventurous drive to Taplejung. Entering the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, the trail follows the Tamur River through lush rhododendron forests, remote valleys, and traditional settlements. Cultural encounters include Kirati shrine caves and the historic Tashi Choeling Monastery at Ghunsa.
North Base Camp Exploration
- Day 06: Acclimatization day at Gunsa
- Day 07: Trek to Kangbachen (4,100 m)
- Day 08: Rest day – Excursion to Jannu Base Camp
- Day 09: Trek to Lhonak (4,785 m)
- Day 10: Trek to Pang Pema – Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,140 m)
- Day 11: Return to Kangbachen
Ascending into high alpine terrain, enjoy stunning mountain panoramas and possible sightings of blue sheep (Naur). Pang Pema offers an unforgettable close-up view of Kanchenjunga’s massive north face and surrounding 6,000–7,000 m peaks.
Crossing to the South Base Camp
- Day 12: Trek back to Gunsa
- Day 13: Trek to Selele Base Camp (4,000 m)
- Day 14: Cross Mirgin La & Selele Pass to Tseram (3,870 m)
- Day 15: Trek to Ramjer (4,660 m)
This section involves crossing high passes with dramatic scenery, transitioning from dry northern terrain to the lush Simbua Valley.
South Base Camp & Return
- Day 16: Excursion to Oktang – South Base Camp viewpoint
- Day 17: Trek to Torontang (2,990 m)
- Day 18: Trek to Sherpa Gaon (2,080 m)
- Day 19: Drive to Phidim / Birtamod
- Day 20: Flight back to Kathmandu
At Oktang, witness the south face of Kanchenjunga and views of Kabru I–IV, Rathong, Nyukla Lachung, and other Himalayan giants. The return journey passes through bamboo and rhododendron forests, Tibetan settlements, and sacred cave shrines.
Journey to Taplejung & Trek Start
- Day 01: Flight Kathmandu → Bhadrapur, drive to Phidim (1,750 m)
- Day 02: Drive to Sekathum (2,510 m)
- Day 03: Trek to Amjilasha (2,730 m)
- Day 04: Trek to Gyabla (2,730 m)
- Day 05: Trek to Gunsa (3,595 m)
The trek begins with a scenic flight to eastern Nepal followed by an adventurous drive to Taplejung. Entering the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, the trail follows the Tamur River through lush rhododendron forests, remote valleys, and traditional settlements. Cultural encounters include Kirati shrine caves and the historic Tashi Choeling Monastery at Ghunsa.
North Base Camp Exploration
- Day 06: Acclimatization day at Gunsa
- Day 07: Trek to Kangbachen (4,100 m)
- Day 08: Rest day – Excursion to Jannu Base Camp
- Day 09: Trek to Lhonak (4,785 m)
- Day 10: Trek to Pang Pema – Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,140 m)
- Day 11: Return to Kangbachen
Ascending into high alpine terrain, enjoy stunning mountain panoramas and possible sightings of blue sheep (Naur). Pang Pema offers an unforgettable close-up view of Kanchenjunga’s massive north face and surrounding 6,000–7,000 m peaks.
Crossing to the South Base Camp
- Day 12: Trek back to Gunsa
- Day 13: Trek to Selele Base Camp (4,000 m)
- Day 14: Cross Mirgin La & Selele Pass to Tseram (3,870 m)
- Day 15: Trek to Ramjer (4,660 m)
This section involves crossing high passes with dramatic scenery, transitioning from dry northern terrain to the lush Simbua Valley.
South Base Camp & Return
- Day 16: Excursion to Oktang – South Base Camp viewpoint
- Day 17: Trek to Torontang (2,990 m)
- Day 18: Trek to Sherpa Gaon (2,080 m)
- Day 19: Drive to Phidim / Birtamod
- Day 20: Flight back to Kathmandu
At Oktang, witness the south face of Kanchenjunga and views of Kabru I–IV, Rathong, Nyukla Lachung, and other Himalayan giants. The return journey passes through bamboo and rhododendron forests, Tibetan settlements, and sacred cave shrines.
Cost Includes
Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Bhadrapur–Kathmandu)
English-speaking licensed trekking guide
All trekking permits and conservation fees
19 nights accommodation with meals during the trek
Ground transportation as per itinerary
Airport pick-up service in Kathmandu
Accomodation
The trek involves long walking days, steep ascents and descents, rocky sections, and occasional narrow trails affected by landslides. Lodges are basic to standard in remote areas. Camping can be arranged if required. Proper acclimatization days are included to ensure safety.