Kanchenjunga basecamp circuit trekking in Nepal – An Intro

Where is Kanchenjunga circuit trekking in Nepal?

The Kanchenjunga base camp trekking in Nepal is a stunning and remote trekking route located in the far eastern region of Nepal, near the border with Sikkim (India) and Tibet. It takes you around the world’s third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), offering breathtaking views of its massive peaks, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.

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Kanchenjunga basecamp circuit trekking in Nepal – An Intro 10

Major Details of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:

  1. Location:
    • The trek is in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA), which is part of the Himalayan range in eastern Nepal.
    • The starting point is usually Taplejung, a town accessible by flight from Kathmandu to Suketar Airport or Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Phidim
  2. Trek Route:
    • The circuit trek is divided into two main sections: the North Base Camp and the South Base Camp.
    • North Base Camp: Takes you to Pangpema, the closest viewpoint of Kanchenjunga’s north face.
    • South Base Camp: Leads to Yalung Glacier and the south face of Kanchenjunga.
  3. Highlights:
    • Mountain views: Kanchenjunga, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), and other Himalayan peaks.
    • Landscapes: From lush subtropical forests to alpine meadows and glacial moraines.
    • Remote villages: Experience the culture of the Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa communities.
    • Wildlife: The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is home to rare species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear.
  4. Duration:
    • The trek typically takes 17–24 days, depending on the route and acclimatization stops.
  5. Permits:
    • Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit: Required for trekking in this region.
    • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP).
    • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
  6. Best Time to Trek:
    • Spring (March to May): Rhododendrons bloom, and the weather is clear.
    • Autumn (September to November): Stable weather and excellent visibility.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is less crowded than other popular treks in Nepal, making it ideal for adventurers seeking solitude and unspoiled.

kanchenjunga basecamp trekking by overland

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek can be done overland without taking a flight, though it requires more time and effort. This option is ideal for trekkers who prefer a more adventurous journey or want to save on flight costs. Here’s how you can do it:

Overland Route to Kanchenjunga Base Camp

  1. Kathmandu to Taplejung (Suketar):
    • By Bus: Take a bus from Kathmandu to Biratnagar (approx. 10–12 hours).
    • From Biratnagar, take another bus or jeep to Taplejung (approx. 12–14 hours).
    • Total travel time: 24–30 hours (depending on road conditions).
  2. Taplejung to Trek Starting Point:
    • From Taplejung, you can start the trek to Sekathum or Mitlung, the official starting points of the Kanchenjunga trek.
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Kanchenjunga basecamp circuit trekking in Nepal – An Intro 11

Trekking Route Overview – The North & south basecamp

North Base Camp Route

  1. Taplejung to Sekathum (1,660m) – 2–3 days.
  2. Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,300m) – 1 day.
  3. Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m) – 1 day.
  4. Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m) – 1 day.
  5. Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m) – 1 day.
  6. Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m) – 1 day.
  7. Lhonak to Pangpema (North Base Camp) (5,143m) – 1 day.
  8. Return via the same route or continue to the South Base Camp.

South Base Camp Route

  1. Ghunsa to Sele La Pass (4,290m) – 1 day.
  2. Sele La to Tseram (3,870m) – 1 day.
  3. Tseram to Ramche (4,580m) – 1 day.
  4. Ramche to Yalung Glacier (South Base Camp) – 1 day.
  5. Return via the same route.

Duration overview of Kanchenjunga circuit trekking in Nepal – overland

  • Overland travel: 2–3 days (Kathmandu to Taplejung).
  • Trekking: 18–24 days (depending on the route and acclimatization).

Cost Breakdown for Overland Trek

  1. Transportation:
    • Bus from Kathmandu to Biratnagar: USD 20–25.
    • Bus/Jeep from Biratnagar to Taplejung: USD 30–50.
  2. Permits:
    • Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit: USD 30 per week.
    • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP): USD 40.
    • TIMS Card: USD 30.
  3. Guide and Porter:
    • Guide: USD 35–85 per day.
    • Porter: USD 20–25 per day.
  4. Accommodation and Food:
    • Teahouses: USD 5–25 per night.
    • Meals: USD 15–55 per day.
  5. Total Estimated Cost: USD 1,800–2,500 (excluding flights).
kanchenjunga basecamp treeking by overland
Outline map

Advantages of Overland Travel

  • Cost-effective: Saves on flight expenses.
  • Cultural Experience: Explore the Terai region and eastern Nepal.
  • Flexibility: You can stop at towns along the way.

Challenges of Overland Travel

  • Long Travel Time: The journey to Taplejung can be tiring.
  • Road Conditions: Roads in eastern Nepal can be rough and unpredictable.
  • Limited Facilities: Fewer amenities compared to flight routes.
Pangpema Peak
Photo of pangpema ( Kanchenjunga base camp )

Tips for Overland Trekking

  • Start early to avoid delays.
  • Carry snacks and water for the long bus/jeep ride.
  • Be prepared for basic accommodation during transit.
  • Acclimatize properly during the trek to avoid altitude sickness.

About Author

I grew up in the mountains & got university education in Kathmandu to become an engineer. But with homely environment of mountains interest me to become a trekking & tour guide, by passion. I have been 6574 meter to the highest & fortunately got chance to explore most of Nepal and bit of abroad.

Eventually, passion converted to profession and here i am on behalf of Nepalgram - a Trekking agency in Nepal.

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