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Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek – 13 Days

Duration13 days
DestinationKanchenjunga Region, Nepal
Trip GradeChallenging
Starts at Kathmandu
Ends at Kathmandu
MealsFull Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation Teahouses / Camping
Max altitude 5,160 meters (Kanchenjunga South Base Camp)
ActivityTrekking
Group typePrivate and Group
Group size 1-15 people
Best seasonSpring (March to May), Autumn (September to November)

Highlights

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp: Reach the base camp on the southern side of Kanchenjunga, enjoying stunning views.
Remote Wilderness: Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote and less-visited trekking areas.
Spectacular Scenery: Experience breathtaking vistas of Kanchenjunga and neighboring peaks like Makalu.
Diverse Ecosystems: Traverse various landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows and high-altitude terrain.
Cultural Encounters: Interact with the indigenous Limbu and Rai communities and visit traditional villages.
Challenging Passes: Cross significant high-altitude passes and rugged terrain.
Serene Environment: Enjoy the peaceful and untouched natural beauty of the Kanchenjunga region.

Overview of the Trek

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is a 13-day adventure that takes you to the southern base camp of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world. This trek offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine regions, featuring dramatic landscapes, high-altitude passes, and rich cultural experiences. With a combination of challenging terrain and stunning scenery, this trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a true Himalayan adventure.

What can you expect from the trek?

Expect a demanding yet rewarding trek through remote and varied terrain, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged high-altitude zones. The trek offers spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and surrounding peaks, with a chance to experience local cultures and traditions. You will encounter challenging passes and gain a deep appreciation for the remote wilderness of the Kanchenjunga region.

How to get prepared for Trek?

Physical Fitness: Prepare with a rigorous training regimen that includes cardiovascular and strength exercises to build endurance for high-altitude trekking.
Gear and Clothing: Pack essential trekking gear, including thermal layers, waterproof clothing, durable trekking boots, and trekking poles.
Acclimatization: Follow a gradual ascent plan to allow your body to adapt to higher altitudes and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Mental Preparation: Be prepared for physically demanding conditions and variable weather, maintaining a positive attitude and flexibility.
Health Check-up: Consult with a healthcare provider to ensure you are fit for high-altitude trekking and receive advice on preventing altitude sickness.
Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.

Itinerary

Day 1: Flight from Kathmandu (1400m) to Bhadrapur (91m) then Drive to Illam (1677m)

Activity: Flight and Drive
- Begin your Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, offering a bird’s-eye view of the landscape. After landing, take a local transportation to Illam, a journey that takes 3 to 4 hours depending on road conditions. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and explore Illam’s renowned tea estates, famous for its premium black, green, and white teas.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 Hours
Distance: 92 Kilometers

Day 2: Drive from Illam (1677m) to Taplejung (1820m)

Activity: Drive
- After breakfast, travel from Illam to Taplejung by bus or jeep. The road is uneven and rough, so a jeep is recommended. Enjoy scenic views as you drive through farmland, leaving the tea plantations behind. The route becomes steeper and switchback-like after Phidim. Enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area upon reaching Taplejung.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 Hours
Distance: 152 Kilometers

Day 3: Trek from Taplejung (1820m) to Lali Kharka (1880m)

Activity: Trekking
- Trek through subtropical rainforest, crossing valleys and tributaries. Experience the local Kiranti (Limbu) culture and agriculture. Pass through Batase, Deurali, and Deurali Bhanjyang before reaching Lali Kharka. Stay in a tea house.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 Hours
Distance: 12 Kilometers

Day 4: Trek from Lali Kharka (1880m) to Khesewa (1960m)

Activity: Trekking
- Start with a climb to a ridge, then descend into Simbu. Ascend through bamboo and banana trees to Kunjari, cross a suspension bridge, and continue to Khesewa. This town is known for its millet, maize, and rice cultivation. Enjoy the first views of the Kanchenjunga landscape.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 6 to 7 Hours
Distance: 14.5 Kilometers

Day 5: Trek from Khesewa (1960m) to Pumphe Danda (1780m)

Activity: Trekking
- Trek through mixed forests and past waterfalls, approaching Kabeli Khola. Stop for lunch at Yangpang with views of Mount Jannu. Continue with a sharp ascent to Pumphe Danda. Enjoy springtime rhododendron blooms along the way.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 6 to 7 Hours
Distance: 10 Kilometers

Day 6: Trek from Pumphe Danda (1780m) to Yamphuding (2080m)

Activity: Trekking
- Follow a moderate uphill path by Kabeli Khola, with views of the Kanchenjunga massif. Pass through meadows and rhododendron woodlands. Look out for Himalayan pheasants and predatory birds. Reach Yamphuding after crossing a suspension bridge and several settlements.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 Hours
Distance: 8 Kilometers

Day 7: Trek from Yamphuding (2080m) to Torongding (2340m)

Activity: Trekking
- Trek on a well-maintained trail to Lasiya Bhanjyang, then descend to a grassy pass with views of Mt. Jannu. Ascend through a forest and cross Simbuwa Khola before reaching Torongding.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 6 to 7 Hours
Distance: 10 Kilometers

Day 8: Trek from Torongding (2340m) to Cheram (3868m)

Activity: Trekking
- Trek through pine and rhododendron woodlands to Yak Kharka and Anda Phedi. Visit a Buddhist shrine decorated with prayer flags and rock cairns. Reach a flat meadow near Cheram with a makeshift lodge at 3870 meters.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 Hours
Distance: 10 Kilometers

Day 9: Trek from Cheram (3868m) to Ramche (4160m) then Explore Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4730m)

Activity: Trekking and Exploration
- Trek through pine and rhododendron forests, ascending to the Yalung Glacier. Explore the ablation valleys, frozen lake, and clear streams at the glacier’s terminal moraine. Enjoy views of Talung, Kabru, and Rathong peaks. Visit Oktang for views of Mt. Jannu and the South Face of Kanchenjunga.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 Hours
Distance: 9 Kilometers

Day 10: Trek from Ramche (4160m) to Torongding (2995m)

Activity: Return Trekking
- Retrace your steps to Torongding, passing through Cheram, Lapsang, and Yalung Bara. Enjoy a scenic descent and relaxing trek through the countryside.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 Hours

Distance: 14 Kilometers

Day 11: Trek from Torongding (2995m) to Yamphuding (2080m)

Activity: Trekking
- Ascend to Lasiya Bhanjyang, then descend through silver pines and Chitre’s open Kharka. Continue to Yamphuding, a Sherpa village, known for its friendly community.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 6 to 7 Hours
Distance: 18 Kilometers

Day 12: Trek from Yamphuding (2080m) to Ranipul (900m) then Drive to Phidim (1200m)

Activity: Trekking and Driving
- Trek from Yamphuding to Ranipul, followed by a local vehicle ride to Phidim. The trek involves uphill and downhill sections, with the journey offering beautiful views and a tranquil forest. The drive from Ranipul to Phidim includes passing through terraced hills and charming towns.
Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Duration: 6 to 7 Hours
Distance: 16 Kilometers

Day 13: Drive from Phidim (1200m) to Bhadrapur then Flight to Kathmandu (1400m)

Activity: Driving and Flight
- Drive from Phidim to Bhadrapur, passing through the Terai region. Catch a domestic flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu, enjoying aerial views of snow-capped peaks including Makalu, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, and Everest. Upon arrival, transfer to a hotel in Thamel and enjoy a farewell dinner with a live performance.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Duration: 6 to 7 Hours
Distance: 18 Kilometers

Cost Includes

Airport pickup & drop
2 Nights at Kathmandu 3 Star Hotel
2 Breakfast in Kathmandu
All Permits and Taxes**Refer to permit section for more info
Domestic Flight/s
During Trek
Accomodation
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee
Guide (food and accomodation, salary, guide's insurance)
First Aid Kit
Public Transportation

Cost Excludes

Personal Expenses
Gears
Beverages & Mineral Water
Travel Insurance
Tips for staff (Expected at the end of the trip)
PotterNote: A porter can carry up to 25 kg and is helpful for high-altitude treks. It's recommended to have at least one porter for every two trekkers for better convenience.

Add-Ons:

Sight Seeing in Kathmandu
Potter
Flight
Helicopter services
Private Transportation

Best Season to Trek

The ideal times for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring features blooming flora and moderate temperatures, while autumn provides stable weather and clear skies. Both seasons offer excellent trekking conditions and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Food Availability

Breakfast: Options such as eggs, bread, porridge, and tea or coffee.
Lunch: Choices including rice, dal, noodles, and vegetables.
Dinner: Hearty meals including curries, pasta, rice, and traditional Nepali dishes.
Snacks: Available at teahouses and local shops, including fruits, biscuits, and energy bars.

Accommodation

Accommodation during the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is provided in teahouses and camping setups. In lower regions, teahouses offer basic amenities like beds and common areas. As the trek reaches higher altitudes, camping is used with provided equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, and dining setups. In Kathmandu, accommodation is in comfortable hotels with modern amenities.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is crucial for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. Ensure that your insurance covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation. The policy should include comprehensive coverage for trekking activities and high-altitude incidents. This insurance ensures safety and protection throughout your trek.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can occur due to decreased oxygen levels at high altitudes. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To prevent altitude sickness, ascend gradually and allow time for acclimatization. If symptoms arise, descend immediately and seek medical help. Carry altitude sickness medication and follow acclimatization guidelines to minimize risks.

Packing List for the Trek

Clothing: Thermal base layers, waterproof jacket, trekking pants, warm gloves, and hat.
Footwear: Durable trekking boots, gaiters, and warm socks.
Gear: Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, trekking poles, and daypack.

Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle, and personal first aid kit.

Guide and Safety Measures

Guide: Experienced local guides are essential for navigating the trek, managing weather conditions, and providing cultural insights. They ensure safety and handle logistical arrangements throughout the journey.
Safety: Safety measures include regular health check-ins, altitude sickness prevention, and emergency evacuation plans. Guides adhere to strict safety protocols to safeguard trekkers’ well-being.

Booking Procedure

Contact: Reach out to the trek operator to confirm availability and receive detailed information about the trek.
Deposit: Make a deposit to secure your booking.
Final Payment: Pay the remaining balance before the trek departure.
Documentation: Provide necessary documents such as passport copies, visa details, and insurance information.

Map

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FAQ

Can I get the refund?

Yes, you can receive a refund. However, you must report your cancellation at least 7 days prior to the trek. This allows us to make the necessary adjustments and offer your spot to another adventurer. Please contact our customer service team to initiate the refund process.

Can I change the travel date?

Yes, you can change the travel date. However, please ensure that you make the request at least 7 days before the scheduled trek. To change your travel date, please contact our customer service team as soon as possible.

Can I make changes for my accomodation?

Yes, you can make changes to your accommodation. If you choose to upgrade or downgrade your accommodation, it will affect the pricing of the package accordingly. Please contact our customer service team to discuss your preferences and any associated cost adjustments.

Do I need to hire a potter?

It depends on you. If you can handle your luggage weight, then there is no need to hire a porter. However, if you prefer an easier trek without the burden of carrying your gear, we suggest hiring a porter. We offer the option to add a porter to your package for your convenience.

Do I need any Insurance?

Yes, insurance is required for any rescue operations or medical emergencies that may arise due to high altitude or breathing problems. Having insurance ensures that you are covered in case of unforeseen circumstances and can receive the necessary assistance promptly. Please make sure to arrange appropriate travel insurance before embarking on your trek.

Price

From$2,269

Booking Form

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