21 Days Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek Highlights
- Explore the remote and off-the-beaten path of the Everest Region while en route to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.
- Walk through the diverse landscapes of subtropical forests, highland pastures, and mountainous landscapes.
- Get to witness the spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
- Trek past popular glacial lakes, remote valleys, villages, ancient monasteries, and stupas.
- Immerse into the culture, traditions, and local customs of the diverse ethnic communities of Rai and Limbu.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp; Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Arun Valley, and an eastern approach to Everest lies in Eastern Nepal. And there is endless variety in this part of the country and camping is mandatory. So, most ethnic groups are represented and there are many friendly villages. Kanchenjunga is located far east of Nepal.
The trek to the base camp of the world’s third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga (8,586m.) offers an infinite variety of landscapes, cultures, and as well as panoramic views of the Himalayas. During the trip, you will walk on the lowlands of Nepal passing terraced fields, with colorful villages, and green forests. Similarly, you will come across low river valleys, rocky slopes, and glacial moraine.
Firstly, the trek enters into a ridgeline of rhododendrons. As the trail gains altitude, gorgeous views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu & Kanchenjunga can be seen. These mountains are one of the world’s five highest mountains making the trek rewarding. Then, the trial starts with approaching the Yalung glacier & crossing a series of passes, and the views become more magnificent. Then the trail reaches Pangpema (4800m) which is the base camp for the Kanchenjunga expedition. Nowadays we can start our trip with a flight to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek takes you into the remote wilderness of the Everest region. Its untouched and serene nature is perfect for trekkers looking to escape from bustling city life. Our 21 Days Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek package will let you explore the nature, landscapes, and culture of this remote route to its fullest.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Difficulty
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp route goes through the remote areas of the East region. The remoteness and the difficult terrain pose significant challenges. Trekkers have to be ready for frequent ascending and descending. Similarly, some sections of the route are steep and rocky. They also have to cross several rivers and walk over glaciers while en route.
Another difficult part of the trek is its long duration. The trek typically takes 20 to 25 days to complete. During these periods, trekkers have to hike around 7 to 8 hours a day on average. Some days, they even have to walk around 8 to 9 hours. It is physically and mentally demanding. Thus, trekkers are highly recommended to take physical training beforehand to prepare for the trek.
As trekkers move to the high altitude, there increases the risk of altitude sickness. The oxygen level drops down and it becomes easy for trekkers to come down with the sickness. The weather conditions also become a little unpredictable. So trekkers should prepare proper clothing, equipment, and gear before embarking on the journey.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a challenging journey. Physical and mental preparedness is crucial for trekkers. Similarly, proper equipment and gear also play an important role in the safety and comfort of trekking.
Best Time To Trek To Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
The primary season for trekking in Nepal is spring and autumn.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. The weather is favorable with clear skies. It falls in the pre-monsoon season so there is a low chance of rainfall. The vegetation also comes to life during spring. The forests become luscious green and the rhododendron forests are in full bloom.
It is also the best time to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of eastern Nepal. The wildlife also becomes active at this time. If you are lucky, you get a chance to witness the wildlife. However, note that it can get cold in the mornings and nights at higher elevations.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is a peak trekking season in Nepal. The weather is stable and the visibility is excellent. Autumn falls in the post-monsoon season. Thus, the dust gets washed away by rain and the views are clear. Similarly, the air is clear and crisp.
The autumn season also falls in the harvest season. Moreover, the biggest Nepali festivals also fall in this season. So, trekkers can enjoy the festive atmosphere while trekking on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp route. There is also a low chance of rainfall.
Accommodations and Meals During Trekking
During the Kanchenjunga Base Camp route, the accommodations and meals are only basic. The accommodations consist of teahouses, lodges, and homestays. Usually, these accommodations have shared facilities like twin-share rooms and shared toilets.
Similarly, the amenities can be limited. Trekkers may have to pay extra charges for services like hot showers, power bank charging, internet service, etc. The meals mostly include the staple Nepali cuisine, Daal Bhaat. The other food menu can include porridge, soups, and various types of bread like Tibetan, buckwheat, etc. You can also find other options like momo, sandwiches, and noodles.
In our 21 Days Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek package, we arrange the accommodations and 3 meals a day during trekking.
Flora And Fauna Like On The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp route goes through untouched nature and wilderness. Trekkers will get the chance to see diverse flora and fauna while on trek. You will walk through the subtropical forests, rhododendron forests, temperate forests, and alpine meadows. Similarly, you will also come across diverse landscapes, remote valleys, and terraced fields.
Likewise, the route passes through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. It is home to endangered species like red panda, and snow leopard, and many other biodiversity. While on the trek, you get the opportunity to witness the unique and diverse flora and fauna. If you are lucky, you may encounter some iconic species.
Frequently Asked Questions By Travellers
Is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek difficult?
Yes, Kanchenjunga Base Camp is a difficult trek. The trail goes through the remote area of east Nepal. The trail is physically demanding with steep uphill and downhill climbs as well as crossing several rivers along the trail. The high altitude also further adds to the route’s difficulty.
Can beginners do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?
Due to the difficulty and remoteness of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp route, the trek is not recommended for beginners. The high elevation, long duration, and difficult terrain of the route make it physically strenuous. Even for seasoned trekkers, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a challenging route to conquer.
What kind of accommodations are available?
There are tea houses, lodges, and guesthouses available along the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek route. These accommodations usually have shared bathroom facilities. Note that at higher elevations the accommodations only provide basic facilities and the amenities are limited.
Do I need a permit for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?
Yes, you will need three permits for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. These permits include TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System), Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit, and Restricted Area Permit. Our 21 Days Kanchenjunga Base Camp package includes all three permits.
Is there a risk of acute mountain sickness?
Yes, there is a risk of acute mountain sickness or altitude sickness during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. As trekkers move to higher elevations, the risk of acute mountain sickness increases. The highest point of the trek during our 21 Days Kanchenjunga Base Camp is at 5,140 meters. So, there is a risk of coming down with altitude sickness.
Route Facts
- Duration: 21 days.
- Best season: Apr-May & Sep – Nov.
- Trekking grade: D+ (Challenging).
- Trek Starting Point: Biratnagar.
- Ending Point: Biratnagar.
- Culture: Different Community with the majority of Rai, Limbus Chetry.
- Mode of Trekking: Fully organized camping trek.
- Himalayan Sights: Makalu, Everest, Kanchenjunga, Janakchuli, Dharma Peak, Pathibhara Himal, Kiran Chuli, Nepal Peak, Kumbhakarna, Chang Himal, Tapleshikhar, Givigela Chuli, Dzanye Peak, Lashar Himal & More attractive snowcapped peaks, etc.
Note: B=Breakfast, L= Lunch, D=Dinner