Kanchenjunga Trekking

Kanchenjunga trekking is a remote adventure in the foothills of the high Himalayas in Nepal. This outstanding trek package from Nepal Eco Adventure is an ideal opportunity to explore the region's unspoiled natural beauty. This exciting trek takes you through forested trails and cultural landscapes.

Kanchenjunga is a remote region located in the North-Eastern part of Nepal. The trails of this trek spread over the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area in the Taplejung district. Mt. Kanchenjunga is also the third tallest mountain peak in the world. The beautiful Himalayas, glaciers, glacial lakes, and high mountain passes are highlights of this trek.

Bhotiya, Sherpa, Tamang, and Walangpa are the majority ethnicity groups in this region. Besides that, you can also find Limbu, Rai, Chettri, Gurung, and others. Buddhism is a major religion in the area. Hence, you can find many Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and other landmarks along the trails. The rich biological diversity of the region remains protected under the Kanchenjunga conservation area.

Furthermore, this fantastic trek journey starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu (1400m) to Bhadrapur (91m). We will drive to Ilam (140 m to 3,636 m ) before taking another drive to Taplejung (1820m) the next day. This incredible journey provides you with majestic views of green hills and other natural landmarks of this region.

We will then start our trekking journey as we trek to Sinuwa (980m). From there, we will continue our trek to Taplethok (1380m), Sakathum (1575m), and then to Amjilosa (2310m). Amjilosa is a beautiful settlement where you can find many locals busy in their daily lifestyles.

Again, we will then trek to Gyabla (2730m) and then to Ghunsa (3595m). We will acclimatize for the first time in Ghunsa. We will trek to Khambachen (4050m) and then trek to Lhonak (4780m). Trekkers will feel the effect of high altitude as you will cross 5000m in altitude.

Therefore, you should be careful about altitude sickness along the trail. After trekking for around 12 days, you will finally arrive at Pang Pema Base camp (5140m). The magical beauty of the region and its incredible surroundings looks incredible from the base camp.

From there, as you will trek back to Lhonak, we will hike back to Ghunsa (3595m). We will travel through a beautiful mountain pass, Sele la Kharka (4200m). Then we will pass over Sele la Pass to trek down to Tseram (3870m), retracing the same steps we took earlier.

We will then trek down to Oktang Base camp (4730m), the South base camp of Kanchenjunga, and trek back to Ramche (4580m). We will trek back to Tseram (3870m) and then to Lamite Bhanjyang (3370m). From there, we will hike to Yamphudin (1690m), Phumphe (1780m), and Kunjari (1700m) before reaching Taplejung (1580m). We will then take a scenic drive back to Birtamod before flying back to Kathmandu.

Additionally, you can observe great vista of green hills, serene rivers, and waterfalls across the region from the flight. After arriving in Kathmandu, you can celebrate the successful completion of your journey. This beautiful trek is ideal for nature lovers who want to trek in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

The North Kanchenjunga base camp at Pang Pema (5140m) is the highest point of the trek. We at Nepal Eco Adventure provide this incredible trek at a reasonable cost. Read on for a detailed description of the Kanchenjunga trekking and other information in detail.

Note: This is 27 Days Kanchenjunga trekking and this package includes our own selected hotel and one day Kathmandu sightseeing tour. If you want to choose your own hotel or skip your sightseeing tour we have 24 days Kanchenjunga trek which cost only $2,400

Things You Can Experience during the Trip

• Majestic views of Kanchenjunga (8586 meters), the third-highest peak in the world.
• Walking past high-altitude wetlands, the alpine meadows, in the Kanchenjunga North Base camp region
• Exploring the beautiful and diverse flora and fauna of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
• Observing the influence of the Tibetan heritage and lifestyles.
• Exploring traditional handicraft business, including Brassware production, Carpet weaving, and wood turning, along the trail
• Exploring Himalayan orchids, wildflowers, and other plants with medicinal properties.
• Cultural settlements of the local Sherpa, Tamang, and Rai community
• Spotting rare and endangered wildlife, including Himalayan blue sheep, Ghoral, Red Pandas, Snow leopards, Himalayan Tahr in this conservation area.
• Warm welcome and hospitality of Nepalese people

Best Time for Kanchenjunga Trekking

The beautiful Kanchenjunga region is ideal for traveling all around the year. However, if you want to travel in perfect conditions, you can travel in peak seasons of Autumn and Spring. Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May) provide stable weather conditions ideal for trekking.

Similarly, there are moderate temperatures in the region with beautiful weather and blue skies. The days are generally warmer with colder nights. The beautiful snow-capped Himalayas, green hills, mountain valleys, and others look incredible in these peak seasons.

What to expect in Spring?

Spring is a beautiful peak season providing excellent views of snow-capped mountains. There are great scenarios all around with beautiful majestic snow-capped mountains, with wildflowers like rhododendrons blooming all over the region. Trekking in stable weather with less precipitation is a highlight of this season. Moderate temperatures make it ideal for a hiking adventure in the day.

What to expect in Autumn?

Autumn is an incredible time as there is a stable climate with minimal precipitation. There are snow-capped mountain views that look incredible in clear blue skies. The weather remains perfect for daytime trekking adventures. Besides that, it is also a cultural time in the region with many festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Chaath, and others. Hence, you can go on a complete cultural exploration of this region in these seasons.

Off-season Trekking in Kanchenjunga region

The offseason treks require proper packing and preparation. The hike in the winter season brings heavy snowfall and freezing conditions in the region. Besides that, flights can get delayed or canceled frequently. However, the majestic views of snow-capped mountains look outstanding. You can also observe a wide variety of flora and fauna in the naturally diverse region.

Winters mornings and nights are pretty cold, whereas days are warm and sunny. The weather remains chilly at night, so you should pack warm clothes for this trek. Monsoon seasons (June to August) are off-seasons for this trek, and therefore there are muddy and slippery trails along the region. Therefore, you should carry proper rain gear during the monsoon treks. Overall, you can take this trek with appropriate packing and preparation.

Kanchenjunga Trekking Difficulty

Trekking in the rugged terrains of the Kanchenjunga region is quite challenging. You will start your trekking adventure, passing through various rough and remote landscapes that will challenge you. The trek passes through different up and down trails that will test you to the core.

However, the difficulty of this trek also depends upon each individual. You need to have a high endurance level to complete this trek. The hike is especially challenging for trekkers who have not trekked at high altitudes before. However, you can complete this trek with proper packing, preparation, and high-altitude experience. Also, it takes around 5 to 6 hours to complete this incredible trek, so you should get your fitness and stamina at a proper level.

So, therefore, trekkers must also have high-altitude training in harsh conditions. The training must include physical exercise, cardiovascular exercises, and mental preparation that will help you build strength, stamina, and fitness levels. Thus, you must start your training regime at least two months before taking on this challenging trek in the foothills of the Himalayas.

This incredible high-altitude trek can also lead to altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness. However, there are various ways to tackle altitude sickness along the trail. Proper acclimatization is one of the most important aspects of tackling altitude sickness. Besides that, you can also hydrate at regular intervals and get yourself a good diet.

Moreover, "Diamox tablets" can also help you tackle altitude sickness in high-altitude conditions. Trekkers should also carry all necessary items required for the trip. You should get good practice hikes as well so that you will get to experience trekking. Overall, the trek is ideal with proper packing, preparation, training, and determination.

Why Take the Kanchenjunga Trekking adventure?

Adventurous trekking experience

The Kanchenjunga region provides an adventurous experience in natural landscapes. You will pass through tranquil and peaceful trails that make you fall in love with the place. The forested trails are home to rare and endangered wildlife in the region.

There are thick rhododendron, oak, juniper, and other trees, providing a beautiful atmosphere. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure is ideal for all travelers with any skill level. Trekkers can pass through a less crowded atmosphere which is the highlight of this trek.

Incredible scenic vista

The incredible views of snow-capped mountains, green hills, deep mountain valleys, high mountain passes, and other natural landscapes will enchant you. Moreover, you can also observe serene rivers, waterfalls, glaciers, and other long trails. You can also watch incredible sunrises and sunsets along the Kanchenjunga trekking route on a backdrop of clear blue skies. Besides that, other landmarks in the region are ideal for a great adventure in a blissful, tranquil atmosphere.

Diverse wildlife exploration

The beautiful Kanchenjunga region is home to hundreds of rich and diverse wildlife, including snow leopards, Himalayan Tahrs, Himalayan Monal, and others. The various natural parts have conservation areas that actively work in protecting this wildlife. Therefore, a diverse wildlife exploration is a highlight of this trek in the Kanchenjunga region.

Cultural heritage and trails

The trails of this incredible trek are also home to local settlements and cultural heritage. There are people busy in their traditional lifestyle and rural daily rituals. This unique experience will provide you with local insight into this place with the help of a professional guide. The cultural exploration of this place and settlements with the lovely hospitality of local people will enthrall you along trails.

Buddhist monasteries, Mani walls, Chorterns, and others will provide you with a unique perspective of the region. Buddhist nuns and monks busy in their prayers and daily rituals are a common sight in the region. There you can gain an extraordinary spiritual experience that will change your outlook in life.

Food and Accommodation in Kanchenjunga Trek

The food and accommodation along this high-altitude trek are pretty basic in tea houses, lodges, and camping. These great tea houses provide travelers with a warm space in high-altitude conditions. Moreover, they offer a warm meal and a good stay. There are twin beds, a mattress, a pillow, a clean sheet, and a warm blanket in these teahouses.

You might have to camp at some points along the trail as there are fewer teahouses in remote regions. We will take care of all food and accommodation, so you do not have to worry about logistics. Toilets in these tea houses are in squat style and located outside of these outsides. Wifi, charging, hot water, and others are also available at some lower region teahouses but at an added cost.

These tea houses provide "Dal Bhat," a typical Nepalese dish including rice, lentils, dal, pickles, vegetables, and others. For breakfast, you will get bread toasts, boiled eggs, and porridge. Besides these, there are hot beverages in the region, including tea, hot drinks, garlic soup, coffee, etc. Moreover, other cuisines like momo, chowmein, noodles, thukpa, and others are also available in some teahouses. You can also get snacks including protein bars, dry fruits, and granola bars during your trek.

Things to Consider for Kanchenjunga Trekking

Acute mountain sickness

Altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness is another factor that you must consider before trekking in this region. These high-altitude trails require proper acclimatization to tackle altitude sickness. Regular hydration is another essential factor along paths that will help you tackle altitude sickness. Dehydration is generally considered the primary cause of altitude sickness.

The altitude sickness in such high altitude conditions can turn fatal if not treated in time. High-altitude conditions can get quite challenging, especially if you have not trekked in the region before. Professional guides will help you set acclimatization points so that you can get acclimatized to these trails.

Trekking Guide

Trekking guides are an essential part of a high-altitude trekking adventure. These trekking trails pass through various rugged and remote terrain. Therefore, there are chances of you getting lost or injured along trails. Hence, a trekking guide with professional experience is a great help in these conditions. They will help you navigate along paths. Therefore, you should get a licensed professional guide for this trek.

Besides that, these guides will help you explore the region's local culture, tradition, and lifestyle. Moreover, there are porters in the area, so you do not have to carry your luggage. Porters will help you with your heavy luggage and reduce your burden along the trail. Hence, you can focus your energy on trekking.

Basic level of fitness

A basic level of fitness is essential when it comes to high-altitude trekking. Thus, you should train yourself well ahead of this trip, including physical exercises, cardiovascular activities, and mental preparation. You can perform actions like cycling, hiking, jogging, swimming, and others. Acclimatization is essential for maintaining proper physical strength and stamina along trails. Mental fitness will provide you with a positive attitude that is essential during your trek.

Trek Permits

Travel permits are also essential during any trekking adventure in the region. Trekkers need to pass through various trails, national parks, and conservation areas to complete the trek. Therefore, you should get these local area permits, including Rural municipality permits, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permits, etc. Trekkers can get these permits at the Kathmandu office of the Nepal tourism board.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is another factor that you must consider during this trek. The travel insurance must cover medical injuries, accidents, theft of property, loss, and others. Moreover, it must cover helicopter evacuation. These helicopter evacuations may get required in high-altitude situations that cost around $4000 to $5000. Therefore, trekkers must get proper travel insurance for this high-altitude trek.

Kanchenjunga Trekking Permits

Trekking permits are another essential part of any high-altitude trekking adventure in Nepal. There are various Kanchenjunga Trekking permits that you need to get before you start on this incredible trek. These include Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit and Special Restricted Area Permit.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area permits cost around NRs. 2,000 per person per entry for foreign nationals, NRs. 500 per person per entry for SAARC nationals and NRs. 100 for Nepalese and is free for children under the age of 10.

Since the trails of this trek pass through Phantanglung Rural Municipality, Mikwakhola Rural Municipality, and Sirijunga Rural Municipality of Taplejung district (Province 1), you will need special trekking permits. This trekking permit costs USD 20 per person/week. However, this is only for the first four weeks.

After the first four weeks, it will cost you USD 25 per person/week. A TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) permit is not required if you have a restricted area or special trekking permit.

Kanchenjunga Trekking cost

This Kanchenjunga trekking cost is a complete package that includes all aspects of this trek, including accommodation, meals, and trekking permits. The tea houses around the region range from US$ 3 - US$5 per night. Guides and porters in the area cost around US$ 20 to US$ 25 per day.

The high-altitude Himalayan trails require porters or animals like donkeys for transportation. Hence, food and other costs are generally relatively high in these high-altitude Himalayan routes. They gradually increase as you move high along trails. Therefore, you also need to carry extra cash ($15-$20 per day, equivalent Nepalese rupees).

A professional trekking guide costs around USD 30 to 35, whereas porters cost around USD 20 to 25. These will include their food, accommodation, salary, and insurance. Besides that, you will need transportation costs for a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and then a scenic drive to Ilam and Taplejung.

Trip Safety

Safety is our utmost priority as we work to provide you with an excellent trekking service. Safety protocols will help you with any assistance you may need when you trek with us. Our guides and crew members who conduct this trip have proper first aid facilities and training. They will help you in case of any emergencies. They can also check oxygen levels regularly along the trail to tackle altitude sickness.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or altitude sickness is quite common in the region. Therefore, you should take proper care along trails. Hence, you must have appropriate acclimatization days in this Kanchenjunga trekking itinerary. The trek guides will provide you with appropriate acclimatization spots along trails for your ease.

They also know how to handle any emergency condition. In case of altitude sickness along the course, you will first get taken down to lower elevation, following the safety protocol. However, you may have to abandon the trek midway and return if you don't get better.

However, you should not worry as they will constantly monitor your situation and take any necessary steps. You will get airlifted to Kathmandu or Pokhara for further medical attention. You can also join your group back in case you feel better after resting for a while.

Training Regime

This Kanchenjunga trekking is a relatively challenging trek that requires a proper level of strength and endurance. These incredible trails demand a basic fitness level and stamina. Therefore, you need to be in good shape to get appropriate strength, endurance, and energy.

Therefore, you need to train well ahead of this trek, at least. Ideally, you should start your training regime at least 2-3 months before this trek. But if it's not possible, you can begin training at least two weeks before this trek. The training regime should include activities like physical activities, cardiovascular activities, and mental exercises.

Physical activities

These physical activities will help you gain strength and stamina for this trek. You can also gain endurance for long-duration trekking in rugged high-altitude terrain. Moreover, you will have the proper experience to tackle any terrain of this challenging trek with the help of this training regime.

You will also gain muscles through these physical exercises in your arms, legs, and shoulders. You can also hire a physical trainer that will help you maintain your exercise regime. Besides these, practice hikes are also essential for this trek.

Cardiovascular exercises (Aerobics)

These cardiovascular or aerobic exercises must get included in these training regimes. They help you remain flexible along the trail. You can hike, swim, jog, cycle, and others to help you stay flexible along trails. These exercises are of great help in low oxygen conditions as they will increase your breathing capability along the Kanchenjunga trekking route.

Besides that, you can also perform squats, pull-ups, push-ups, and other exercises. Overall, they will keep you fit along the trail so that you complete your trekking journey with ease.

Mental exercises

The trek requires muscular mental strength and a positive attitude to complete. Hence, proper mental preparation through various means is a must when it comes to high-altitude trekking. Therefore, all trekkers must learn about their itinerary, dangers, and routes along the trail. You can also ask for advice from trekkers who have trekked in the region before, practice hikes, and others.

A positive attitude through self-motivation and motivation from your fellow trekkers and guides will help you push along. The most challenging terrains in the trek get easier through these preparations. Overall, these training exercises will lead you to a successful journey along the trails.

Kanchenjunga Trek Solo Vs. Guided

A professional trekking guide is of great help during your trekking journey in rugged terrains. They will help you navigate along trails and help you with all logistics regarding treks like a meal, accommodation, and others. Your trekking guide must have a proper government-issued license.

The local guides will know about these Kanchenjunga trekking routes in advance and provide you with necessary insights into the culture and tradition of the region. They will also help you avoid taboos along the area so that you don't offend locals in any manner. Besides that, they will monitor you all along and provide help in medical injuries, accidents, altitude sickness conditions, and other emergencies.

There is a porter along the trail who will provide you with luggage along tracks. You can carry on with your trekking adventure with ease. These porters-guides who work as both will provide you with necessary help at a relatively low cost. Therefore you can hire these porters and guides along the region based on your preferences.

A Typical Day On Kanchenjunga Trek

The trekking journey starts with a scenic trip to Bhadrapur on a flight and then a scenic drive to Ilam and Taplejung. We will begin our trekking journey in the morning at around 6 AM from Taplejung.

After waking up early and freshening up, we will leave the tea houses or camps and proceed towards the dining area. We will get served our breakfast which generally consists of bread, eggs, porridge, and some hot beverages like tea and coffee. The trekking journey for the day starts as we finish our breakfast at around 7 AM. You can then begin your trek carrying snacks and water bottles.

You can observe incredible views of snow-capped mountains and beautiful surroundings. There are various natural and cultural landmarks along the trail, and you can follow these beautiful sights and take photographs of the region. You will stop to have our lunch around noon.

After taking some rest after having lunch, we will continue trekking on a rugged and remote trail. You should travel early so that you will reach your destination before dark. You can rest at the local tea house or camp after completing your journey for the day. You can have your light snacks as you will reach the destination at around 5 PM.

You can then join your fellow trekkers in the common dining area for dinner and socializing. Trekkers should prepare for trekking around 5 to 6 hours daily. The highest mountain passes and rugged terrains will make this journey quite challenging, especially for first-time trekkers. You also need to acclimatize well so that you can complete this trekking journey with ease.

You can carry cards, books, a kindle, and others to pass the time in the evening. After having dinner at 7 PM, you can prepare for your trekking adventure the next day and then rest in your room or camp for the evening.

Why Trek With Us?

Nepal is a beautiful country with incredible landscapes that are ideal for trekking. Therefore, there are hundreds of trekking agencies that you can find in the country. We at Nepal Eco Adventure are among the best trekking agencies in this country. You will get the best trekking packages and services if you trek with us. Read on why you should walk with us in detail.

Excellent team

We have excellent professional trekking guides and staff who have intimate knowledge of the Himalayan terrain. You will get a comfortable trip on this journey.

Local insights

Our local run company provides customers with excellent local insights. The local knowledge of the place will help you to have a great trekking experience overall.

Personalized trekking experience

We provide a personalized trekking experience for all customers. Since there are various trekking routes and every customer responds differently, we focus on each customer.

Attention to detail

The detailed attention to our customers' needs and demands makes our company stand out among the rest. We guarantee that we look into every tiny aspect of your trip and provide you the best trekking experience you can get.

First Aid facilities

There are first aid facilities provided to trekkers as it is essential before starting on this trek. Hence, our Kanchenjunga trek guides provide first aid facilities for any medical emergency emergencies in the high-altitude region.

Culture exploration

Our professional trekking guides and tour operators are locally based and have sound knowledge about beautiful regions. They know about these routes in the Himalayan terrain of Nepal. You will get to learn the cultures and traditions of the area. The unique heritage and lifestyle of the region are a highlight of this trek.

Customizable itinerary

Our customizable trips are ideal for those who want to trek in a relaxed manner. You can therefore schedule trips according to your schedule in your free time. You can even extend trips or reduce itineraries if necessary.

Great bargain prices

We provide these incredible services at a bargain price. You should not worry about all these details as you will get the best services at a bargain price.

Secure means of payment

There are secure payment channels, and you don't have to worry about any other transaction leaks. These means of payment are government-approved, including Visa/MasterCard, traveler's cheque, internet banking, cash, etc. The quick booking and payment facilities make this trekking opportunity ideal.

Transparent charges

There are no hidden charges as all our transactions are transparent. If you trek with us, you will get complete fair pricing on all our services. All our services are available at a reasonable cost.

Highly experienced members

Our team members have high experience in operating high-altitude trekking adventures. Therefore, you can get the best complete hassle-free services.

Essentials Tips For Kanchenjunga Trekking

• Start your trekking early as you will arrive at your destination early
• Acclimatize properly and hydrate regularly during this trek
• Get a proper training regime before starting on this trek
• Pack only those items that are essential for this trek
• Book your accommodation and food facilities in advance to be safe from any hassle along the trail
• Carry water purification tablets or solutions to purify water for drinking along the trail
• Carry power bank, solar charger, and extra batteries, and to save costs
• Carry protein bars, snickers, granola bars, and others while trekking along the trail

Packing List - Kanchenjunga Trekking

Clothing

• Waterproof jacket
• Trekking shirts
• Trekking pants
• Fleece jackets
• Down jacket
• Trekking boots
• Thermal wears
• Warm woolen cap
• Woolen trekking socks
• Woolen gloves
• Windproof jacket
• Raincoat

First Aid

• Anti-nauseant medication
• Water purifying tablets
• Dehydration salts
• Mosquito and insect repellent

Toiletries

• Shampoo
• Soap
• Sanitizer
• Quick-dry towel
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Toilet paper
• Sunscreen

Others

• Phone
• Power Banks
• Solar Charges
• Extra Batteries
• Reusable water bottles
• Local SIM card
• Kanchenjunga Trekking Map
• Camera

Important documents

• Passport
• Kanchenjunga Trekking Permits
• Travel insurance

Final Say

Nepal is an ideal trekking destination with incredible foothills of the Himalayas. There are stunning landscapes that will provide you with an adventure of a lifetime. These remote and rugged landscapes of the region are another significant part of the trek in Nepal.

Moreover, hundreds of trekkers from all around the world take part in these adventures. The Kanchenjunga trek goes through an incredible route reaching incredible landmarks like Mount Kanchenjunga base camp. You can also go on a complete exploration of the natural diversities of the region. The cultural settlements along the area provide you with a unique trekking experience.

This peaceful trekking experience will enchant all travelers. The Himalayan vista of the region makes this trek quite popular among trekkers. Contact us at Nepal Eco Adventure for a complete detailed Kanchenjunga trekking itinerary, and book your trip now.