Kanchenjunga Trek

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our friendly Namaste Nepal Trekking staff, who will be holding a signboard with your name for easy recognition. They’ll assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your pre-selected hotel in the city.

After completing the check-in process, take some time to refresh and settle into your room. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the bustling streets of Thamel, the heart of Kathmandu’s tourist district. Here, you’ll find vibrant shops selling pashmina shawls, Nepali handicrafts, trekking gear, and aromatic local spices—a perfect introduction to Nepal’s rich culture.

Recommendations:

• Garden of Dreams – a peaceful, historic garden just a short walk from Thamel. Entry Fee: NPR 400 (approx. USD 3)

• Try local momos – Nepalese dumplings filled with vegetables or meat. Cost per plate: NPR 150–300

Pro Tips:

• Set your watch to Nepal Standard Time (GMT +5:45).

• Purchase a local SIM card (Ncell or NTC) at the airport for better connectivity during your trek.

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before meeting your trekking guide. This important briefing will cover your trekking route, daily schedule, safety guidelines, and helpful tips for high-altitude hiking. If you’re missing any clothing or equipment, this is the perfect time to purchase or rent gear from the well-stocked shops in Thamel. Feel free to ask your guide any last-minute questions so you’re fully prepared for the days ahead.

Once preparations are complete, the rest of the day is dedicated to exploring Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each offering a unique insight into Nepal’s history, religion, and architecture.

Recommended Sites to Visit:

• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): A hilltop Buddhist shrine offering panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley.

• Pashupatinath Temple: Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple, located along the holy Bagmati River.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: The historical royal palace complex showcasing centuries-old art and architecture.

• Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, surrounded by monasteries and prayer wheels.

• Budhanilkantha Temple: A remarkable open-air Hindu shrine featuring a large reclining statue of Lord Vishnu.

Pro Tips:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and a light, breathable outfit for sightseeing.

• Carry local currency (Nepalese Rupees) for entrance fees, snacks, and small purchases. Money exchange facilities are readily available in Thamel.

Your day begins early with a private transfer to Kathmandu’s domestic airport for a scenic flight to Bhadrapur. Make sure your trekking gear is packed and ready, as this will be your first big step toward the Kanchenjunga region.

The 45-minute flight offers breathtaking aerial views of Nepal’s most famous Himalayan ranges — from Langtang and Jugal to Gaurishankar, Everest, Makalu, and finally the mighty Kanchenjunga itself.

Upon landing in Bhadrapur, located in the far southeast of Nepal, you’ll begin an 8–10 hour overland journey to Taplejung. The drive winds through lush hills, terraced farmland, and small rural towns, offering a first glimpse into eastern Nepal’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

By evening, you’ll arrive in Taplejung, a bustling hill town and the official starting point of your trek. Settle into your guesthouse, enjoy a hearty dinner, and get a good night’s rest in preparation for the trail ahead.

Activity: Flight & Drive
Trip Duration: Full Day
Max Altitude: 1,530 m / 5,020 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Today’s journey takes you deeper into the heart of eastern Nepal, traveling fr om Taplejung to Sekathum. While the distance may appear short on the map, the 5–6 hour drive is a true adventure, with rugged mountain roads, winding curves, and breathtaking scenery at every turn.

Leaving the bustle of Taplejung behind, the landscape transforms into lush green hills, cascading rivers, and remote hillside villages. The route passes through narrow stone trails flanked by terraced farmlands and dense forests, offering a constant backdrop of raw, untouched nature. Along the way, waterfalls spill dramatically down steep cliffs, adding to the region’s wild charm.

Sekathum, your destination for the night, sits at the confluence of the Ghunsa Khola River and is surrounded by towering mountains that seem to muffle the sound of the rushing waters into a calming evening hum. In this remote outpost, you’ll find cozy tea houses — some with rustic charm reminiscent of a fantasy film setting — wh ere local hosts welcome travelers with warm hospitality and simple but hearty meals.

After settling into your guesthouse, take in the serenity of the valley, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and rest up for the trekking days ahead.

Recommendations:

• Carry Nepalese currency, as ATMs are rare in this region.

• Bring snacks and a water bottle for the road.

Pro Tip:
Fully charge your devices or carry a power bank — electricity can be limited.

Activity: Drive & Trekking
Trip Duration: 6–7 Hours
Max Altitude: 2,170 m / 7,119 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Your true trekking adventure begins today as you journey fr om Sekathum to Amjilosa, a small, remote hamlet nestled high in the hills. This 5–6 hour trek offers a mix of peaceful riverside strolls, steep climbs, and quiet encounters with rural mountain life.

The day starts gently, following the Ghunsa Khola River through thick vegetation and the soothing sound of flowing water. Gradually, the trail becomes steeper, winding along exposed hillside paths that demand effort — but reward you with spectacular views of deep valleys and cascading waterfalls.

You’ll pass through bamboo groves and rhododendron forests, wh ere the air feels fresh and crisp. Suspension bridges span the roaring river, offering dramatic perspectives of the gorge below. Birdsong, rustling leaves, and the occasional distant chatter fr om a village carry on the breeze, adding to the sense of calm.

Along the way, you may pass tiny settlements wh ere locals are busy farming or transporting goods — a glimpse into the quiet resilience of mountain life. Eventually, a short descent leads you to Amjilosa, a charming village of stone houses and terraced fields.

Recommendations:

• Carry snacks and water; tea houses along the way are limited.

• Trek steadily and pace yourself on steep uphill sections.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 5–6 Hours
Max Altitude: 1,890 m / 6,201 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Fr om Amjilosa to Gyabla, the trail carries you deeper into the heart of the mountains over 5–6 hours of serene forest trekking.

The morning begins with a steady climb through towering trees, wh ere dappled sunlight filters through the canopy and the air feels cool and rejuvenating. The path occasionally narrows, requiring careful footing, but rewards you with glimpses of waterfalls spilling over high cliffs and small streams crossing the trail.

This is a region where nature’s soundtrack dominates — birds calling, water gurgling, and wind moving through the leaves. You might pass local herders or villagers carrying supplies, offering a window into daily life in these remote hills.

As you leave the forest, the trail opens into a valley where Gyabla comes into view — a peaceful settlement surrounded by green fields and rolling hills. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of steady climbing.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 5–6 Hours
Max Altitude: 1,858 m / 6,096 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Today’s trek to Ghunsa takes you higher into the Kanchenjunga region, covering 5–6 hours of diverse landscapes.

The day starts with a gradual ascent through pine and rhododendron forests, with crisp air and the cheerful sound of birds greeting you along the way. From time to time, the trees part to reveal sweeping valley views.

You’ll cross multiple wooden and suspension bridges over glacial streams, passing colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind — symbols of the region’s Buddhist heritage. Higher up, snow-capped peaks begin to dominate the horizon, while yaks graze lazily on grassy slopes.

Ghunsa, your destination, is a charming village beside the Ghunsa Khola River, framed by towering white peaks. Traditional wooden houses and warm tea houses make it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a hot meal after the day’s journey.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 5–6 Hours
Max Altitude: 4,315 m / 14,157 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Leaving Ghunsa after breakfast, you’ll trek 7–8 hours toward Khambachen, traveling through high mountain terrain and increasing altitude.

At the edge of Ghunsa, prayer wheels painted red with golden inscriptions mark the start of your day — a blessing for safe travels. The trail follows a narrow track through grassy fields before reaching the peaceful Thango River at 3,442 m.

Fr om here, the scenery shifts to rocky, boulder-strewn slopes dotted with juniper and rhododendrons. In the distance, the white bulk of Kanchenjunga grows larger. You’ll pass through small spots like Tartang and Chhermalung, resting occasionally at tea houses such as the one at Labuk.

The final stretch involves an uphill section across a landslide-prone slope, passing the Hajare Gufa (“Thousand Cave”), a historical resting spot for trekkers. Eventually, Khambachen comes into view — a remote settlement at 4,150 m wh ere the mountains feel close enough to touch.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 7–8 Hours
Max Altitude: 2,995 m / 9,826 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Today is a rest day to help your body adapt to the higher altitude. Following the “climb high, sleep low” principle, you’ll make a short acclimatization hike to Phat Tanglung (4,200 m), taking around 3 hours.

Along the way, you’ll cross a suspension bridge and enjoy close-up views of Mount Kumbhakarna. At Phat Tanglung, colorful prayer flags and bells mark a sacred Kirat site — an atmospheric spot to pause and appreciate the mountain spirit.

Afterward, you’ll return to Khambachen for lunch and spend the rest of the day relaxing, exploring the village, or simply enjoying the solitude of the mountains.

Activity: Trekking / Acclimatization
Trip Duration: 5–6 Hours
Max Altitude: 3,870 m / 12,697 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

After a warm breakfast in Khambachen, you set off toward Lhonak on a trail that rewards you with uninterrupted views of towering Himalayan peaks. The path first takes you to Lumbuchhe (4,222 m), a pleasant hour’s walk away, where the route gradually rises higher. Soon, you’ll reach Ladam (4,291 m), walking along a mix of rocky riverbanks and grazing meadows.

Keep an eye on your footing — some sections pass through landslide-prone areas. Soon, you’ll be greeted by the impressive Khando Waterfall (4,381 m), cascading beautifully against a stark Himalayan backdrop. The trail continues uphill through barren, rocky terrain, arriving at Ramdang (4,596 m) for a short rest and refreshments.

From here, the views of the Kanchenjunga Glacier unfold in full glory. You might even spot blue sheep grazing along the ridges. A short wooden bridge takes you across the Lhonak River, and in 10–15 minutes you’ll reach Lhonak (4,780 m), a small settlement surrounded by majestic peaks. The evening is perfect for soaking in the panoramas of Kanchenjunga before dinner and an overnight stay.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 6–7 Hours
Max Altitude: 4,780 m / 15,682 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guest House

This is the day you’ve been waiting for — the journey to the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. The trail climbs gradually along the Kanchenjunga Glacier, passing Syamjo (4,851 m), a known habitat for blue sheep. As you move higher toward Thanakpu (4,966 m), expect sections of ice, loose rocks, and landslide-prone slopes that demand steady focus.

At Jorkyu (5,035 m), you’ll get your first grand view of Mount Kanchenjunga. The final stretch to Pang Pema (5,142 m) is over boulder-strewn terrain, but the moment you arrive, the effort is instantly worth it. Standing at the foot of the world’s third-highest mountain is a memory you’ll carry for life.

After spending time for photos and quiet appreciation, you’ll retrace your steps back to Lhonak for the night. This evening is all about celebration and reflection on your achievement.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 6–7 Hours
Max Altitude: 5,142 m / 16,869 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guest House

Today’s journey is long but rewarding, descending around 1,300 meters from Lhonak to Ghunsa. The trail retraces much of your earlier route, with changing scenery as alpine landscapes give way to greener valleys.

While it’s possible to split the trip over two days, pushing through means reaching Ghunsa’s better facilities in one go. Many trekkers recommend the Peaceful Guest House, known for its warm kitchen fires, hearty meals, and cozy family atmosphere.

After a hot meal, you’ll enjoy one of the most comfortable nights on the trek.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 7–8 Hours
Max Altitude: 3,475 m / 11,401 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guest House

The route now shifts toward Kanchenjunga’s South Base Camp. Today’s hike to Sele Le Base Camp is shorter but steeper, taking about 5 hours. Along the way, keep your eyes open — snow leopards have been spotted in this region.

Accommodation here is basic, with just a couple of simple tea shops, but the location makes up for it with sweeping mountain views. Overnight stay at Sele Le Base Camp.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 5 Hours
Max Altitude: 4,290 m / 14,074 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guest House

Today is a big mountain-pass day, crossing three high passes. After breakfast, you’ll ascend Sele La Pass (4,480 m) for stunning sunrise views, then continue to Mirgin-La Pass and Sinion-La Pass (4,660 m). Each climb offers new vantage points of snow-capped peaks and the valleys below.

After the final pass, the trail descends nearly 1,000 meters to Tseram (3,870 m). This village offers some of the most breathtaking mountain vistas on the trek, a fitting reward for a challenging day.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 6–7 Hours
Max Altitude: 4,815 m / 15,797 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guest House

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the heart of the Kanchenjunga region. The trail leads from Tseram to Ramche through alpine meadows and dramatic mountain landscapes, with the towering peaks getting closer at every turn. Along the way, you’ll pass glacial streams and enjoy sweeping views of the Yalung Glacier valley.

Upon arrival in Ramche, you’ll settle into the guesthouse — the last overnight stop before reaching Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. The crisp mountain air and starry skies here make for a truly peaceful evening.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 6–7 hours
Max Altitude: 5,150 m / 16,896 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

This is one of the most exciting days of the trek! After an early breakfast, you’ll set out for a full-day hike to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp area. The trail first follows a glacial path, taking about an hour to reach the edge of the Yalung Glacier.

Here, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Kanchenjunga’s south and west faces — plus other peaks that have been hidden until now. Continuing along the lateral moraine, you’ll reach Oktang, which offers one of the most jaw-dropping panoramas in the entire Himalayas.

After spending time soaking in the views and capturing plenty of photos, you’ll retrace your steps back to Ramche or, if time and energy allow, continue down to Tseram for the night.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 6–7 hours
Max Altitude: 3,140 m / 10,302 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Today’s route is a pleasant descent through the enchanting rhododendron forests, which are especially colorful in spring. The trail follows the right bank of the Simbuwa Khola, offering glimpses of the Sele La Pass route to the left.

By the time you reach Tortong, a peaceful high-altitude village with a handful of teahouses, you’ll be surrounded by serene mountain scenery far from the busier trekking trails.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 5–6 hours
Max Altitude: 2,740 m / 8,990 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Your descent continues through lush forests and remote mountain settlements. The trail crosses areas prone to landslides before opening into the village of Yamphudin — home to Sherpa, Limbu, and Rai communities. Also called “Sherpa Goan,” this is a culturally rich village where you can experience the warmth of local hospitality.

Activity: Trekking
Trip Duration: 5–6 hours
Max Altitude: 1,650 m / 5,413 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Leaving Yamphudin, you’ll travel through Eastern Nepal’s rolling hills, waterfalls, and farmlands. The drive eventually brings you to Kanyam, a scenic region famous for its tea gardens. The landscapes here are refreshing — a perfect contrast to the rugged Himalayan trails you’ve just completed.

Activity: Drive
Trip Duration: 6–7 hours
Max Altitude: 1,325 m / 4,347 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

After breakfast, enjoy a short morning exploration of Kanyam’s tea plantations before driving to Bhadrapur (2–3 hours). From there, take a late afternoon or evening flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for a comfortable night in the city.

Activity: Drive & Flight
Trip Duration: 4–5 hours
Max Altitude: 1,627 m / 5,338 ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel

This day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Sleep in, relax at the hotel, or head out to explore Kathmandu’s colorful markets, historic temples, and lively streets. It’s also a great time to buy souvenirs to remember your Kanchenjunga adventure.

Activity: Leisure
Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel

Your unforgettable Kanchenjunga journey comes to an end. Our team will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home, bidding you a warm farewell and hoping to see you again in Nepal.

Activity: Drive
Trip Duration: 30 minutes
Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Meals: Breakfast