Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

The cost of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is USD 3249 per person, which covers most of the trip’s expenses. However, the cost is variable and changes due to various factors, including the group size, chosen transportation, preferred level of luxury, and personal miscellaneous expenses.

Yes, the Kanchenjunga trek covers the Kanchenjunga Circuit, as it follows a comprehensive route that circumnavigates the entire Kanchenjunga massif. Starting from Taplejung, the trek covers Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143m) and then Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4,610m) and ends at Mitlung to Taplejung and Bhadrapur then fly to Kathmandu.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp (KBC) trek is a strenuous, remote, and off-the-beaten-path adventure in a restricted area. In contrast, the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is a popular, moderately challenging, and well-established route in a mainstream region of Nepal. Likewise, the EBC Trek takes 12-14 days and 25-27 days for the KBC to complete.

Kanchenjunga is situated within the Kanchenjunga Circuit of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. It is in eastern Nepal, near the border with Sikkim and India. Additionally, the journey to Kanchenjunga begins with a flight to Bhadrapur and ends at Suketar.

The maximum altitude reached on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is 5,143m/ 16,873ft above sea level at Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. Other prominent landmarks like Kanchenjunga South Base Camp and Sele La also stand at elevations above 4,000m. Thus, the risk of altitude-related issues is a concern during the trek. Therefore, we recommend that trekkers walk steadily and acclimate properly throughout the trip.

Yes, there are some hidden costs trekkers should be aware of while trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Some of the hidden costs include Wi-Fi, charging for electronic devices, hot water, and bottled drinking water. Likewise, side trips, snacks, and tips are other hidden costs during the trek to Kanchenjunga.

Yes, some teahouses or lodges are en route to the Kangchenjunga Base Camp trek. However, the teahouses/ lodges are basic and very limited, so it’s good to carry the equipment required for a tented camp. While the lower regions offer a range of choices for accommodation, the options become minimal as the trek leads higher.

For the trek to Kanchenjunga, you need layered clothing, sturdy footwear, a trekking pole, a backpack, a daypack, a sleeping bag, and other essential items like a headlamp, water bottles, a purification tablet, and a first aid kit. However, if you are going to trek in the off-season, you need to pack carefully, depending on the time.

Yes, travel insurance is required, even highly recommended, for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. Buying travel insurance is mandatory as the trek to Kanchenjunga is restricted, where trekkers don’t know what will happen next. Yet, buy travel insurance that covers remote and high-altitude challenges, altitude sickness and other health issues, emergency evacuation coverage, trip cancellation, and other medical coverage.

No, you can’t trek to Kanchenjunga in the off-season due to the challenges it poses. Winter (December to February) and Summer (June to August) are the off-seasons when trekking in Kanchenjunga is not recommended. Winter has the coldest temperatures, and summer has heavy rainfall, making the time unsuitable for trekking in Kanchenjunga.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, which covers both Kanchenjunga South and North Base Camp, is approximately 220km round trip. Likewise, the trek generally takes 25 to 27 days, with 21-22 days of actual trekking, depending on the route, itinerary, and pace. Similarly, trekkers must walk for 10 to 15km per day. Known for its challenging journey, Kanchenjunga Base Camp’s terrain is varied, ranging from lush lowland forests to open meadows and glaciers at high altitudes. The trek begins through dense subtropical forests and terraced fields. Rivers, waterfalls, and suspension bridges cover most of the lower region. As the trek ascends, the terrain changes to rhododendrons, pine, and oak forests, and the trail starts to become steep with narrow ridges. Above 3500m, the terrain consists of rugged, rocky, and glacial paths with high passes. The landscape in the area is barren and consists of moraine fields.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is one of the most challenging and strenuous treks in Nepal. It takes trekkers to some of the country’s most unreliable landmarks in remote locations, making navigation more demanding than other popular treks. Thus, the trek requires careful planning and proper preparation to complete.

High Altitude

The journey to Kanchenjunga Base Camp takes trekkers to a higher elevation up to 5,143m, with a high risk of altitude-related issues. Thus, the high altitude is the primary factor that makes the trek to Kanchenjunga demanding. So, trekkers on this excursion should be aware of the risk of altitude sickness and acclimate themselves properly to cope with the changed surroundings and minimize the risk.

Remote Location

The Kanchenjunga region is one of Nepal’s remote locations. Trekkers should be prepared for minimal and basic facilities and infrastructure throughout the trip. The limited facilities and infrastructure mean trekkers must pack everything they need by themselves, adding to the backpack load. Likewise, the poor network and limited medical access add to the trek’s challenges due to its remote location. Additionally, due to the lack of accommodation facilities, trekkers must stay in a camp, which is dangerous due to the harsh weather and temperature, adding to the difficulty of the trip.

Rugged Terrain

The rugged terrain is another significant factor making the trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp strenuous. The trek involves steep ascent and descent sections through rough, hilly terrain, which is physically exhausting. Likewise, the terrain at Kanchenjunga Base Camp consists of uneven, rocky, slippery, and landslide-prone paths, adding to the challenge of the trek.

Unpredictable Weather

The weather in the Himalayas is known for its unpredictability. Yet, this factor has a huge impact on the difficulty of the Kanchenjunga Trek. The weather generally changes from snowfall to winds and sometimes rainfall, causing trouble among trekkers. Likewise, the weather changes per season. Thus, we always recommend that trekkers check the weather forecast before starting the trek.

Longer Duration

The trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp lasts 25-27 days; during the trek, trekkers must walk for 20-22 days. Thus, the longer duration of each day, 5-6 hours of walking in rugged terrain, demands a trekker’s physical and mental resilience, making the trek physically and mentally demanding. Therefore, trekkers must be prepared physically and mentally to begin the trek and complete it successfully.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a fascinating journey through Nepal’s Himalayas. One of the reasons why many travelers choose the destination, even though it is restricted and remote, is the attractions it offers along the route. Here are the major attractions of KBC along the route:

Views of Mountains
The vista of mountain peaks is a major attraction along the trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The panorama of mountain peaks, especially Mount Jaanu, will accompany trekkers throughout the trip. Besides, the view of the world’s third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga, is a prominent allure along the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. Additionally, the view of Mount Yalung Kang, Kabru, Kambachen, Jongsong, the Twins, and other surrounding peaks will attract trekkers en route to KBC.

Diverse Biodiversity
Another major attraction of the trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp is the rich and diverse biodiversity, which is unique to this trekking destination. The trek is an ideal location for nature lovers who love to explore varied biodiversity. As the trek takes place within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, trekkers can expect to witness a varied landscape at every turn. The trek features stunning rhododendron forests, bamboo and oak forests in the lower region, and alpine meadows and glacial terrain in the higher region. Likewise, the trek offers a chance to glimpse rare fauna and birds.

Kanchenjunga South and North Base Camp
The trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp involves trekking the North and South Base Camps, which is undoubtedly the major attraction. The south base camp (Oktang) offers astonishing views of Mount Kanchenjunga’s south face, and the north base camp (Pangpema) offers mesmerizing views of the peak’s north side, showcasing the mountain in its majesty. Additionally, the base camps offer other spectacular scenery of alpine pastures, glacial valleys, and eye-catching sunrise and sunset views.

Sele La Pass
Sele La Pass, at 4,290m above sea level, is another attraction along the Kanchenjunga trek. After achieving North Base Camp, trekkers navigate the pass towards South Base Camp. Indeed, the pass is challenging, but it rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes. The chance to witness the majesty of Mount Kanchenjunga, Yalung Kang, and Jannu, as well as deep valleys, makes the pass a key attraction along the KBC Trek.

Yalung Glacier
Yalung Glacier (4,717m) is the key attraction along the KBC trek. The glaciers stretch across a wide area and have seracs, crevasses, and icefalls, which attract trekkers’ attention. Ramcha, Oktang, near Tseram, and Pangpema are the best locations offering the closest and ideal views of the Yalung Glacier. Ramche and Oktang are the closest ones to the glacier’s view.

The weather and Temperature of Kanchenjunga Base Camp vary seasonally and location-wise. The region faces four distinct seasons, and the weather and temperature differ accordingly. Here is the monthly and seasonal weather and temperature table of Kanchenjunga Base Camp:

January – Winter: Temperature in the Daytime/ -12°C to -18°C/ Temperature at Night/ -22°C to -28°C/ Weather – The coldest weather with frequent snowstorms.
February – Winter: Temperature in the Daytime – -12°C to -18°C/ Temperature at Night- -22°C to -28°C/ Weather – Cold but longer daylight hours.
Spring – March: Temperature in the Daytime/ -5°C to -5°C/ Temperature at Night/ -12°C to -18°C/ Snow melting time with rhododendron bloom.
April: Temperature in the Daytime – 0°C to 8°C/ Temperature at Night/ 5°C to -12°C/ Weather – Ideal weather with clear skies and mild temperatures.
May: Temperature in the Daytime/ 2°C to 10°C/ Temperature at Night/ -3°C to -8°C /Weather – Warm temperature with stable weather and dry trails.
Summer – Season
June: Temperature in the Daytime/ 5°C to 12°C/ Temperature at Night/ -2°C to 5°C / Weather – Increase humidity and light rainfall.
July: Temperature in the Daytime/ 8°C to 15°C/ Temperature at Night/ 2°C to 8°C/ Weather – Heavy rainfall, landslides, and poor visibility.
August: Temperature in the Daytime/ 8°C to 16°C/ Temperature at Night/ 3°C to 8°C/ Weather – Rainfall and muddy trails, but lush and green landslides.
September: Temperature in the Daytime/ 5°C to 12°C/ Temperature at Night/ -2°C to -5°C/ Weather – Clear skies and fresh mountain views with the end of the monsoon.
October: Temperature in the Daytime/ 0°C to 8°C/ Temperature at Night/ -5°C to -10°C/ Weather – Dry trails, stable weather, and stunning mountain views.
November: Temperature in the Daytime/ -5°C to 5°C/ Temperature at Night/ -10°C to -18°C/ Weather – Cold temperature but stable weather.
December: Temperature in the Daytime/ -10°C to -15°C/ Temperature at Night/ -20°C to -25°C/ Weather -Extremely cold with occasional snowfall. Clear sky with freezing night.

No, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek can’t be done independently due to the region’s restrictions. As the Kanchenjunga falls within the restricted region, solo or independent trekking is not possible. Likewise, the government has strictly implemented a requirement that trekkers must have a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers to trek in Kanchenjunga. Similarly, per the rule, the trip must be organized by a local trekking company. The Nepal government implemented the rule restricting independent trekking in the Kanchenjunga region in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board, and it became effective on April 1, 2023. The primary reason for this rule is to ensure the safety of trekkers in the challenging and remote terrain of Kanchenjunga.

Yes, you need permits for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, as it is one of the mandatory paperwork required for the trip. A restricted area permit (RAP) and the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project permit (KCAP) are necessary for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

Restricted area permit (RAP)

The Kanchenjunga region lies within the restricted area, so obtaining the special restricted area permit before starting the trip is necessary. The Nepal government declared the region a restricted area to protect the ecosystem and unique culture and control tourism, as it touches the border with Tibet and India. The cost of a Restricted area permit is as follows:

• USD 20 per person per week for the first four weeks.
• USD 25 per person per week thereafter.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project permit (KCAP)

As the Kanchenjunga region falls within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project, obtaining KCAP is mandatory for the Kanchenjunga Trek. The permit helps to support and protect the area’s biodiversity and the cultural heritage of local communities. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project permit is as follows:

• NPR 500 per person for SAARC nationals
• NPR 2000 per person for other foreigners.

One of the primary reasons the Kanchenjunga Trek is in the restricted area is border security concerns, as the region lies close to the borders of Tibet and India. The region is declared restricted to prevent forbidden border crossings while maintaining security. Likewise, the region is a restricted area for the conservation efforts of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, with remote and undeveloped infrastructure, and tourism control. The Kanchenjunga Trek is in a restricted area of Nepal, which is meant to prevent a heavy flow of tourists and the arbitrary control of the local culture. Nepal’s government declared the region a restricted trekking area in the late 1980s. Nepal has about 15 restricted areas, and Kanchenjunga is one of them. The restricted areas aim to preserve the region’s untouched beauty, ecosystem, and unique cultural charm.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a demanding trip in far eastern Nepal, requiring proper preparation. The trek requires adequate mental and physical preparation for a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are the preparation ways for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek:

Physical Fitness and Preparation

Engage in a cardio workout like running, cycling, and stair climbing.
Strengthen legs, core, and upper body with squats, lunges, and push-ups.
Practice hiking with a backpack to build endurance.
Get familiar with high-altitude trekking.

Altitude Sickness Preparation

• Include an acclimatization day at the key location or wherever needed.
• Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily.
• Carry Diamox (Acetazolamide).

Mental Preparation

• Prepare for a remote location and basic facilities.
• Train patience and resilience, and prepare for long trekking days in unpredictable weather.
• Stay motivated and be positive.
• Prepared to adapt to challenges and unpredictable changes.

Tips for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

• Choose the best season, including Autumn and Spring, for a safe and enjoyable trip.
• Obtain necessary permits: Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP).
• Train 2-3 months before the trek with cardio, strength, and other fitness training.
• Pack smartly, including all necessary gear, from layered clothing to sturdy footwear and other essentials.
• Acclimatize properly by taking rest days at a higher elevation.
• Walk steadily and don’t climb rapidly; instead, provide your body time to adjust to the changed temperature and gain.
• Carry required cash as ATMs are unavailable on the trail to Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
• Carry a solar charger or power bank to charge your electronics.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles to practice sustainable and responsible tourism.
• Carry a first aid box with altitude sickness medicine, painkillers, and other essentials.