Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek – 16 Days

To initiate the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, most adventurers prefer taking a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, a town situated at an altitude of 91 meters. From there, they travel to Ilam, a picturesque hill station situated at an elevation of roughly 1500 meters, by taking a scenic jeep ride that lasts for about 3-4 hours. During the journey, travelers can relish the breathtaking views of the eastern Nepal tea gardens and undulating hills.

Ilam, a delightful town renowned for its tea plantations, emerald greenery, and magnificent mountain panoramas, is an ideal place to explore, visit tea estates, and go for short hikes to nearby viewpoints before embarking on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. This also allows trekkers to acclimatize to the high altitude before heading toward the base camp.

Overall, the flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and the drive to Ilam provide trekkers with a perfect introduction to the natural beauty and culture of eastern Nepal, making it an unforgettable start to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Following a period of acclimatization in Ilam, trekkers generally take a jeep ride from Ilam to Taplejung, a small town located at an altitude of around 1820 meters and the entry point to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

The journey covers a distance of about 105 kilometers and takes roughly 6-7 hours, depending on the road conditions. Along the way, trekkers can admire the stunning landscape that includes dense forests, roaring rivers, and traditional villages. They may also halt for tea breaks or capture photographs of the beautiful surroundings.

Once they reach Taplejung, trekkers can take some time to explore the town, visit the local markets and shops, and prepare themselves for the upcoming trek. This includes getting permits, meeting guides and porters, and making final arrangements before embarking on the trail leading to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp.

Overall, the journey from Ilam to Taplejung by jeep ride offers a remarkable and unforgettable experience as it provides trekkers with an insight into the daily life of the local people and the natural splendor of the area.

On the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, the journey from Taplejung to Sinwa is usually covered by foot, leading to a small village nestled at an altitude of around 980 meters. The trek spans a distance of approximately 12 kilometers, and trekkers take 6-7 hours to complete it.

The trek commences with a gentle descent through verdant forests and terraced fields, followed by several tiny settlements where hikers can engage with the locals and learn about their cultural heritage. The hike also presents awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Jannu, regarded as one of the region’s most picturesque peaks.

Further along the trail, trekkers cross over multiple suspension bridges spanning the roaring waters of the Tamor River, before ascending towards the quaint village of Sinwa. Here, trekkers can take a break, relax and rejuvenate for the next day’s journey.

Overall, the trek from Taplejung to Sinwa is both challenging and rewarding, as trekkers get to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the Kanchenjunga region while also acclimatizing to the high altitude.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek involves a 14-kilometer journey on foot from Sinwa to Sukathum. This section of the trek takes about 6-7 hours and involves both uphill and downhill terrain, traversing through dense forests and small villages.

Starting from Sinwa, trekkers climb steadily to reach Tawa village, which is known for its scenic beauty. After that, the trail descends through lush forests to Thiwa village, where trekkers can take a break and enjoy the panoramic views of the surroundings.

The route then passes through several more villages such as Chirwa, Sekathum, and Amjilosa before finally arriving at Sukathum, which is located at an altitude of about 1576 meters. On this part of the trek, trekkers can experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people and appreciate the breathtaking scenery of the Kanchenjunga region.

Sukathum is a small, secluded village that offers basic accommodation facilities and serves as a starting point for further trekking. Here, trekkers can rest and prepare themselves for the next leg of their journey, which takes them deeper into the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

Overall, the trek from Sinwa to Sukathum is an unforgettable experience that allows trekkers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the Kanchenjunga region while getting used to the high altitude.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek involves a trek from Sukathum to Gyabla that spans over a distance of 11 kilometers and takes about 6-7 hours to complete. The trail provides an opportunity to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the Kabeli Khola valley.

The trek commences from Sukathum, which is the entry point to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The trail leads to the suspension bridge over the Kabeli Khola river, followed by a steep ascent through dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo. Along the way, trekkers can spot different species of birds and animals that thrive in the region.

The trail passes through several small villages such as Amjilosa and Phole, before finally arriving at Gyabla, a picturesque village located at an altitude of around 2730 meters. Gyabla offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range and is an ideal spot for trekkers to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.

The trek from Sukathum to Gyabla offers trekkers an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the Kanchenjunga region. The trail is moderately challenging, and trekkers need to be physically fit and mentally prepared to undertake this section of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

The section of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa covers about 8 km and takes 5-6 hours. The trail ascends gradually through forests, valleys, and small settlements, allowing trekkers to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the region.
Ghunsa, located at an altitude of 3415 meters, is a popular spot for trekkers to rest and acclimatize before continuing further up the valley. This section of the trek is moderately challenging and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes.

The trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen is a section of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek spanning about 11 kilometers and taking 5-6 hours to complete. The trail ascends through forests and valleys, passing small settlements and offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Khambachen, situated at an altitude of about 4050 meters, is a scenic village ideal for acclimatization. The trek is moderately challenging and requires physical fitness and mental preparedness. Trekkers can witness the rich biodiversity and cultural diversity of the Kanchenjunga region during this trek.

During the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, trekkers take an acclimatization day upon reaching Khambachen. They can explore the area and take a hike to the Jannu View Point, which is about 2-3 hours away and situated at an altitude of around 4400 meters.
The hike involves a steep ascent through rugged terrain and offers breathtaking views of the Jannu Himal and other peaks in the Kanchenjunga range. This day allows trekkers to rest, acclimatize, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

The trek from Kambachen to Lhonak is an essential part of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, taking around 4-5 hours to complete over rugged terrain with glacial streams, boulder fields, and moraines. Trekkers must be well-acclimatized to handle the significant altitude gain.
Lhonak is the last stop before Kanchenjunga Base Camp and offers spectacular views of the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga range. Despite the challenges, the natural beauty of the area makes this trek an unforgettable experience.

The hike to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp is an optional, challenging trek for physically fit and acclimatized trekkers. It offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range but requires a high level of fitness and mental strength. Trekkers return to Lhonak for the night before continuing their journey. It’s an exhilarating experience worth considering for those who want to challenge themselves and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa involves hiking downhill from 4792 meters to 3595 meters through scenic landscapes and traditional villages. Trekkers can experience local culture, and wildlife and relax in tea houses or lodges upon reaching Ghunsa. It’s a moderate and enjoyable trek that showcases the natural beauty and local culture of the Kanchenjunga region.

The trek from Ghunsa to Cheram via Sele La Pass, Sinion La, Mirgin La, and Sinelapche Bhanjyang is a challenging but rewarding trek through beautiful forests, alpine meadows, and traditional villages. Trekkers will pass over high-altitude passes, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. The trek is known for its natural beauty and cultural experiences of the Kanchenjunga region.

The trek from Tseram to Ramche involves hiking through beautiful forests and alpine meadows to an altitude of 4620 meters and exploring the Yalung Glacier, which is known for its natural beauty and unique ice formations. The trek is moderate and provides trekkers with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. It also offers the opportunity to experience local culture and hospitality in traditional villages. The journey is a scenic and enjoyable way to witness the natural beauty and culture of the Kanchenjunga region.

The trek from Ramche to Yamphudin is a moderate downhill hike through scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and lush forests. Trekkers can experience the local culture and hospitality, witness unique flora and fauna, and acclimatize after crossing high-altitude passes. Yamphudin is a small village where trekkers can explore, interact with locals, and learn about their culture and way of life. The trek provides a scenic and enjoyable way to witness the natural beauty and culture of the Kanchenjunga region.

The trek from Yamphudin to Hapukhola is an easy downhill hike through beautiful forests and traditional villages to an altitude of 1400 meters. Trekkers can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and experience local culture and hospitality. Hapukhola is a small village where trekkers can explore and learn about the local way of life. The trek provides a scenic and enjoyable way to witness the natural beauty and culture of the Kanchenjunga region while enjoying a relatively easy trek.

The drive from Hapukhola to Bhadrapur is a scenic journey through rural landscapes, small villages, and lush forests. Bhadrapur is a small town with an airport, from where trekkers can take a flight back to Kathmandu.
The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding landscapes, making it a quick and convenient way for trekkers to return to Kathmandu after completing their Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. The journey provides a smooth and scenic end to the trek.