16 DAYS KANCHENJUNGA SOUTH BASE CAMP TREK
16 DAYS KANCHENJUNGA SOUTH BASE CAMP TREK
Remote and absolutely beautiful scenery as you head to Yalung Glacier and to Ramche (South Base Camp – 4610m) on the south side of the world’s 3rd highest mountain (8586m). Lush forests and soul-touching villages expose you to natural unspoiled beauty and amazingly kind and hospitable villagers. This is a never to be forgotten experience to a region where the pace of life calms and relaxes the spirit. The Taplejung people refer to Kanchenjunga as “Five Treasures of Snow.”
Kanchenjunga lies in the Taplejung region in the northeast of Nepal. Be prepared to stop and regain your breath as the gigantic peaks loom before your eyes: Kanchenjunga’s 5 peaks, Kangbachen (7903m), Yalung Kang (8505m)- all being within Nepal’s boundaries, and Kanchenjunga Main (8586m), Kanchenjunga Central (8482m) and Kanchenjunga South (8476m) lying on the border with India and Nepal.
Kanchenjunga is claimed to be one of the most beautiful mountains in the world and is believed to be where the Gods live. The area around Kanchenjunga Base Camp has some unique plant life and animals, largely due to its high rainfall during summer. There have been sightings of the elusive Snow Leopard in the region and more frequent sightings of the red panda. More common to this region are the Himalayan black bear and the Assamese macaque. In order to protect the area’s unique flora and fauna the entire region has been declared a conservation zone. The area is also home to several castes, including the Rai and Limbu ethnic groups.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp was first opened, from the Nepal approach, to explorers in 1950, and only become a commercial trekking destination after 1988.
The trek begins at an altitude of 2200m and rises to 3000m in the first three days of the trek. The trail winds its way across high ridges, through steep gorges and across extensive grazing land near Sherpa villages. The trail follows raging rivers, such as the Tamur and Ghunsa Rivers high into the mountains and closer to their source. The trail drops down to the Ghunsa Khola Valley and the quaint and authentic Sherpa village of Ghunsa.
The trail from Ghunsa takes us to Kanchenjunga and on to Kanchenjunga Glacier. While standing at the base of the glacier you have unparalleled views of the enormous mountains that surround you everywhere. While feeling totally insignificant in the face of these giants, you will also experience a feeling of being at peace with the world. The peaks surrounding you are Pyramid Peak, the Twins - Jannu and Kanchenjunga, will leave you spell-bound. There are also several other 6000m plus peaks that seem less awesome because of their proximity to the more dominant higher peaks of Kanchenjunga.
Leaving the Kanchenjunga glacier we head back to Ghunsa and over a period of three days cross three mountain passes before arriving at Tseram Village, the beginning of the Yalung Glacier. We then make our way to Southern Kanchenjunga Base Camp where the first mountaineers began their climb to the summit of Kanchenjunga.
The trail from Yalung Glacier (the face of the glacier is 300m high) passes through valleys and across icy ridges until eventually reaching the gorges that take us to Tharpu. Due to its remoteness, there are fewer tourists and more solitude. The maximum altitude we reach on the trek is South Base Camp (4610m). From the beginning to the end of this trek you will experience a vast variety of landscapes, from following the raging torrents of the Tamur and Ghunsa rivers to the high altitude regions of glaciers and Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The memories of this wonderful journey will stay with you for a lifetime.
Key Features of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
- Visit the world’s 3rd highest Mountain Kanchenjunga (8586m).
- Isolated, peaceful, and fewer trekkers.
- Home of red panda and the elusive Snow Leopard.
- Amazing mountain scenery and landscapes with unique flora and fauna.
- Experience high altitude trekking to remote Tibetan villages.
- Visit South Base Camp – also known as Yalung Base camp.
- Pristine rhododendron forests, unique vegetation, high alpine passes (Selele, Mringla and Sinionla), and terraced farmlands in these remote localities.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (45 min) & drive to Suketar (2,420m) Duration: 8-10 hours.
Today we will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport for your flight to Bhadrapur and then we will drive to Suketar, a seven to eight-hour drive. We will stay overnight at Suketar.
Day 2 : Trek from Suketar to Lali Kharka (2,266m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today our trek begins with a relatively relaxed four to five hour hike through lush forests and finally on to Lali Kharka Village where we stay the night.
Day 3 : Trek from Lali Kharka to Kande Bhanjyang (2,190m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After an early breakfast we follow the trail that ascends to Simbu Village and then have a steep ascent to Kande Bhanjyang Village. Along the trail we pass through several small village and forested areas before reaching Kande Bhanjyang Village where we stay the night.
Day 4 : Trek from Kande Bhanjyang to Phumphe Danda (1,860m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trail, of around five to six hours, takes us up a steep hillside passing terraced farmlands situated high above Kabbeli Khola (river). The trail is undulating, passing through valleys and across hillsides. We will stop for lunch along the way and after lunch pass through Anpan Village before descending to c Kashawa Khola (river) which we cross and then begin climbing up through the fields until we reach Phumphe Danda Village where we stay overnight.
Day 5 : Trek from Phumphe Danda to Yamphudin (2,080m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail today follows the contours of the hillside above the Kabeli Khola (river), traversing small rivers and valleys. There are several great places to stop and take a dip in the river as we follow it until reaching Yamphudin Village. We will also stop beside the river for lunch. We will stay at Yamphudin in a guest house tonight.
Day 6 : Trek from Yamphudin to Tortong (2,995m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
Our trail today, of around eight to nine hours, leads us through cooling forests and along the way offers amazing views of the Himalayas. The trail follows the Amji Khola. Further down the trail, we cross Lassiya Bhanjyang Pass before reaching Tortong where we will stay the night in a guest house.
Day 7 : Trek from Tortong to Ramche (4,10m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
We start today’s five to six-hour trek by following the trail next to the river, passing through lush rhododendron and conifer forests. The trail descends rather rapidly down to the valley of the Simjua Khola (river). We then climb to the base of the Yalung Glacier and through valleys until we find a good campsite for the night. The trail today takes us near-frozen alpine lakes, across crystal clear rivers and offers magnificent views of Koktang, Rathong, and Kabru peaks. Tonight we will sleep soundly due to the physical exertion at these higher altitudes.
Day 8 : Explore vicinity of Ramche (4,610m) and trek to Oktang (4,730m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today we have our first close up view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Soon after beginning our trek we will have impressive views of the south face of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Jannu. After spending the morning at Ramche we head to Yalung Ri Glacier and to Oktang. From this altitude we have breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains, especially the towering east face of Jannu Peak. Tonight we stay here in a guest house.
Day 9 : Trek to Yalung Ri Base Camp (4,840 m) and back to Tortong (3,370m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
We begin our six to seven-hour trek by climbing higher as we head to Yalung Base Camp. Crossing these high altitude passes requires a good energy level and fine weather. The trail is more difficult but more rewarding as the views become more spectacular, especially of the stunning Mt. Kumbakarna (Jannu), Nyukla Lachung and other nearby Himalayan snow-clad peaks. We will stay here overnight in a guest house.
Day 10 : Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (1,690m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
Today’s trek of five to six hours takes us through Lamite Bhanjyang and its dense pine forest. On this trail we may hear the chorus of many birds. After crossing the Amji Khola we descend to Yamphudin where we spend the night.
Day 11 : Trek from Yamphudin to Phumphe Danda (1780m) Duration: 5-6 hous.
We make a descend on this day as we walk along the KabeliKhola. There are waterfalls of various sizes throughout the trail. We finally reach Phumphe. We stay here overnight.
Day 12 : Trek from Phumphe Danda to Kunjari (1,780m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
As we descend today on a five to six-hour journey we follow the trail alongside the Kabeli Khola. Numerous waterfalls can be seen on the trail. Tonight we stay at Kunjari.
Day 13 : Trek from Kunjari to Taplejung (1,580m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today is our final day of trekking taking us to Suketar in the Taplejung district. There is a fair amount of climbing today that will leave us exhausted before our overnight stay in Taplejung.
Day 14 : Drive to Bhadrapur (2,08m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
On this day, we take a long drive to Birtamod of Bhadrapur. We stay in Birtamod for the night.
Day 15 : Flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu; Duration: 45 minutes flight
Up bright and early we fly to Kathmandu. Tonight we can unwind, reminisce and share the highs and lows of our epic journey through some of the most rugged region of Nepal. You may wish to enjoy the nightlife in Thamel, a popular tourist spot for tourists.
Day 16 : Final Departure day.
Our representative will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport and bid you farewell. On your flight you can look back on your journey and plan your next great escape to the wilderness regions of Nepal!
SERVICES
Costs included in your package.
- Domestic - Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Transportation from Bhadrapur to Suketar and Taplejung to Bhadrapur by sharing Jeep.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House)/ tent accommodation during the trek.
- All necessary paperwork including Kanchenjunga conservation area Entry Permit & Special permit.
- Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu flight with private airport transfer and domestic airport tax.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Excess baggage of more than 20 kg for Bhadrapur flight.
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Hotel and Accommodation:
We offer you 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights) and Lodge/Teahouses during the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with blankets and a pillow. All accommodation is on a twin share basis except at the higher elevations or after Kambachen, where you will enjoy homestay style accommodation. The Kanchenjunga trek is situated in some very areas so you may not have the same level of comfort as lower down the mountain. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide you down jackets, sleeping bags, and duffle bags (which need to be returned after the trek).
Meals and drinks during the trek:
Breakfast will be served in Kathmandu whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. Food along the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is much like it is elsewhere in Nepal, with a heavy reliance on rice, lentils and vegetable curries. We suggest you bring a water purification pill to avoid stomach problems from drinking the local water. Bottled water is sometimes available if you prefer.
Transportation:
We provide a private car for the airport transfers and sightseeing tour of Kathmandu on the day you arrive. Flights from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and return is also included. You will travel by jeep from Bhadrapur to Suketar.
Physical condition and past experience:
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek is graded as highly challenging and a tough trek due to the terrain and high altitudes. This trek takes you to many less-traveled and undeveloped areas, making it difficult in places to traverse rockfalls, moraines, and streams Trekking in these remote areas can sometimes be difficult due to landslides. The roads at the beginning and end of the trek can also be affected too. It is recommended that you prepare yourself beforehand and get physically prepared. This will make it easier to manage the difficult terrain and high altitudes.
Note: The trek itinerary is a guide and will be provided by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking. The Kanchenjunga circuit trek can be modified according to your time, budget, and requirements. What we offer here is a tea house style trek and can be modified as a purely camping trek as well. Contact us for the latest updated information and price for the varied options available.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
How long does the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek take?
The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek usually takes around 12-16 days to complete. This includes the trekking days, acclimatization days, and travel to and from the starting point of the trek.
What is the best time to do the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek?
The best time to undertake the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, stable weather conditions, and better visibility of the mountains.
Is it a difficult trek?
Yes, the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is considered to be a challenging trek. It involves walking on rugged and remote terrain, crossing high mountain passes, and long hours of trekking each day. A good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience is recommended.
Do I need a special permit for this trek?
Yes, the Kanchenjunga region is a restricted area and requires a special permit to enter. You will need to obtain both the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) from the Nepal Tourism Board. It is advisable to hire a local guide or join a trekking agency who can assist you with the permit process.
Can I do this trek solo?
Solo treks in the Kanchenjunga region are not allowed. You must trek with at least one other person and be accompanied by a licensed guide. This is for your safety and to ensure that you have a responsible and enjoyable trekking experience.
What kind of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
During the trek, you will be staying in teahouses or lodges along the trail. These are basic accommodations with shared rooms and common dining areas. The facilities may vary, but you can expect a bed with a mattress, blankets, and basic meals.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
Altitude sickness can be a concern on any high-altitude trek, including the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. It is important to acclimatize properly and take necessary precautions. It is recommended to consult with a doctor before the trek and to follow the guidance of your guide regarding altitude sickness prevention and treatment.
What are the highlights of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek?
The highlights of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek include stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Kanchenjunga, Yalung Kang, and other peaks. You will also have the opportunity to explore remote villages, interact with local communities, and experience the unique culture and traditions of the region.
What should I pack for the trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek include trekking boots, warm clothing, a down jacket, a sleeping bag, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, a first aid kit, and personal toiletries. It is advisable to pack light and carry only the necessary items.
Do I need travel insurance for this trek?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities and emergency medical evacuation. Make sure to check the policy details and ensure that it covers high-altitude trekking in Nepal.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 9 Reviews
Elizabeth
Australia
November 1, 2023
Kanchenjunga Guides, Porters and Sherpa - Easily the best!
The trip was made by a combination of two excellent guides, a wonderful hard working team of porters and a cheerful experienced Sherpa. They all work incredibly hard in their respective roles and simply made the holiday. Always encouraging, helpful and cheerful. Nothing was too much trouble for them. Easily the best guides of all my many Sherpa Expedition snd Trekking trips, they were devoted to their role. It is incredible how the porters manage to carry such loads. Tourism is a major economic force for Nepal and without them tourism would cease in its current form. They are the unsung heroes and must be supported including financially as it is a dying skill, sad for Nepal and for those of us who loved our trip.
Jo Wallace
Australia
October 6, 2023
A Salute to the Dedicated Sherpas
My trip to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp was made even more special by the presence of a knowledgeable and experienced Sherpa. Their expertise and guidance were invaluable, ensuring our safety and providing valuable insights into the region. The Sherpas are the backbone of the trekking industry in Nepal, and it is essential that we support and appreciate their contributions.
Sharon Fish
Austria
October 5, 2023
Hard Work of the Porters
Completing the journey to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp was a personal accomplishment, but it would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the porters. Carrying heavy loads through challenging terrain, they played a vital role in making our trip a success. Their efforts must be recognized and supported, as they are an integral part of the tourism industry in Nepal.
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