20-Day Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek Itinerary & Cost

20 Days Itinerary

Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek

Trek into the remote far east of Nepal to the north face of Kanchanjunga, the third highest mountain in the world (8,586 m). Walk through rhododendron forests, Sherpa and Limbu villages and high yak pastures to Pangpema (5,143 m) in a quiet restricted area.

20 DaysMax 5,143 mChallengingTeahouse Stay

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Trip Facts

CountryNepal

Duration20 Days

DifficultyChallenging

ActivityTrekking / Hiking

Max. Altitude5,143 m / 16,873 ft

Best SeasonMar–May, Sep–Nov

AccommodationTeahouse & Hotel

MealsFull Board on Trek

Start / EndKathmandu

Kanchanjunga Base Camp Overview & Highlights

The Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek is one of the great remote treks of the Himalaya. This 20-day journey begins and ends in Kathmandu and follows the Tamur and Ghunsa rivers through the far eastern corner of Nepal to Pangpema, the north base camp of Kanchanjunga (8,586 m), the third highest mountain in the world.

The trail starts in the green foothills near Taplejung and climbs through terraced fields, bamboo and rhododendron forest, waterfalls and suspension bridges. Villages such as Sekathum, Amjilosa, Gyabla and Ghunsa reflect the mixed Limbu, Rai and Tibetan-influenced Sherpa cultures of the region.

Higher up, the landscape opens to yak pastures, glacial valleys and huge moraines. Acclimatization at Ghunsa and a steady ascent through Kambachen and Lhonak prepare trekkers for the long day to Pangpema, with close views of Kanchanjunga, Jannu and Wedge Peak.

Because Kanchanjunga is a restricted area, trails are quiet and facilities are simple. The return follows the same valleys to Taplejung, with a drive to Bhadrapur and a flight back to Kathmandu.

Trek Highlights

Reach Pangpema (5,143 m), the north base camp of Kanchanjunga
Close views of Kanchanjunga (8,586 m), Jannu and Wedge Peak
Walk through a quiet restricted area with very few trekkers
Rhododendron forests, waterfalls and suspension bridges
Limbu, Rai and Sherpa villages with Tibetan Buddhist culture
Acclimatization day at Ghunsa
High yak pastures and glacial valleys
Scenic flight to Bhadrapur at the start and end

Kanchanjunga Base Camp Detailed Itinerary

20-Day Short Itinerary

Day 1

Kathmandu → Bhadrapur (Flight)

Bhadrapur · 91 m

Day 2

Bhadrapur → Taplejung (Drive)

Taplejung · 1,820 m

Day 3

Taplejung → Chiruwa (Drive)

Chiruwa · 1,270 m

Day 4

Chiruwa → Sekathum

Sekathum · 1,660 m

Day 5

Sekathum → Amjilosa

Amjilosa · 2,308 m

Day 6

Amjilosa → Gyabla

Gyabla · 2,730 m

Day 7

Gyabla → Ghunsa

Ghunsa · 3,595 m

Day 8

Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa

Ghunsa · 3,595 m

Day 9

Ghunsa → Kambachen

Kambachen · 4,050 m

Day 10

Kambachen → Lhonak

Lhonak · 4,780 m

Day 11

Lhonak → Pangpema → Lhonak

Pangpema · 5,143 m

Day 12

Lhonak → Ghunsa

Ghunsa · 3,595 m

Day 13

Ghunsa → Amjilosa

Amjilosa · 2,308 m

Day 14

Amjilosa → Sekathum

Sekathum · 1,660 m

Day 15

Sekathum → Chiruwa

Chiruwa · 1,270 m

Day 16

Chiruwa → Taplejung (Drive)

Taplejung · 1,820 m

Day 17

Taplejung → Bhadrapur (Drive)

Bhadrapur · 91 m

Day 18

Bhadrapur → Kathmandu (Flight)

Kathmandu · 1,400 m

Day 19

Reserve Day in Kathmandu

Kathmandu · 1,400 m

Day 20

Departure

Kathmandu · 1,400 m

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1

Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur

Take a one-hour flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur in the eastern Terai. Check in to your hotel and prepare for the journey into the hills.

Max. altitudeBhadrapur (91 m)
Duration1 hr flight
OvernightHotel in Bhadrapur

DAY 2

Drive from Bhadrapur to Taplejung

Drive north through the Terai and the Ilam tea hills, climbing gradually into the foothills of eastern Nepal to Taplejung, the district headquarters.

Max. altitudeTaplejung (1,820 m)
Duration8–10 hrs drive
OvernightHotel in Taplejung

DAY 3

Drive from Taplejung to Chiruwa

Continue by road to Chiruwa on the Tamur river, where the trek begins. Permits are checked along the way.

Max. altitudeChiruwa (1,270 m)
Duration3–4 hrs drive
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 4

Trek from Chiruwa to Sekathum

Follow the Tamur river through terraced fields, forest and small villages to Sekathum, with views of the green valley.

Max. altitudeSekathum (1,660 m)
Duration6–7 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 5

Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa

Climb over a ridge and descend to the Ghunsa Khola, passing waterfalls, forest and a few small villages before reaching Amjilosa.

Max. altitudeAmjilosa (2,308 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 6

Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla

Climb steadily through bamboo and rhododendron forest, crossing suspension bridges and waterfalls, to the Sherpa village of Gyabla.

Max. altitudeGyabla (2,730 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 7

Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa

Follow the river through forest and past Phole to Ghunsa, a large Tibetan-influenced village with a monastery.

Max. altitudeGhunsa (3,595 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 8

Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa

Rest and acclimatize in Ghunsa. Take a short hike to a nearby viewpoint or monastery, or explore the village.

Max. altitudeGhunsa (3,595 m)
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 9

Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen

Walk through pine and rhododendron forest and cross a landslide area to Kambachen, with views of Jannu and the surrounding peaks.

Max. altitudeKambachen (4,050 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 10

Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak

Follow the moraine beside the Kanchanjunga glacier, enjoying close mountain views, to the high camp at Lhonak.

Max. altitudeLhonak (4,780 m)
Duration4–5 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 11

Trek to Pangpema and Return to Lhonak

Start early and follow the glacial moraine to Pangpema, the north base camp of Kanchanjunga, with views of Kanchanjunga, Wedge Peak and Nepal Peak. Return to Lhonak for the night.

Max. altitudePangpema (5,143 m)
Duration7–9 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 12

Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa

Retrace your route down the valley past Kambachen to Ghunsa, enjoying easier walking and thicker air.

Max. altitudeGhunsa (3,595 m)
Duration7–8 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 13

Trek from Ghunsa to Amjilosa

Descend through forest and cross suspension bridges to Amjilosa. This is a long day on a steep trail.

Max. altitudeAmjilosa (2,308 m)
Duration7–8 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 14

Trek from Amjilosa to Sekathum

Continue down the river valley through forest and villages to Sekathum.

Max. altitudeSekathum (1,660 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 15

Trek from Sekathum to Chiruwa

Follow the Tamur river valley down to Chiruwa and celebrate the completion of the trek with your crew.

Max. altitudeChiruwa (1,270 m)
Duration6–7 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 16

Drive from Chiruwa to Taplejung

Drive back to Taplejung along the hillside road, with views of terraced fields and distant ridges.

Max. altitudeTaplejung (1,820 m)
Duration3–4 hrs drive
OvernightHotel in Taplejung

DAY 17

Drive from Taplejung to Bhadrapur

Drive down through the hills and tea gardens of Ilam to Bhadrapur for the flight back to Kathmandu.

Max. altitudeBhadrapur (91 m)
Duration8–10 hrs drive
OvernightHotel in Bhadrapur

DAY 18

Fly from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu

Take the morning flight to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore.

Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
Duration1 hr flight
OvernightHotel in Kathmandu

DAY 19

Reserve Day in Kathmandu

This day is kept in reserve in case flights to or from Bhadrapur are delayed by weather. If not needed, explore Kathmandu.

Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
OvernightHotel in Kathmandu

DAY 20

Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, or extend your stay in Nepal.

Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
Trip endsDeparture or extension

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather, landslides, flight schedules, health or other factors beyond our control. Roads and trails in the east can be affected by rain and landslides. We recommend keeping one or two additional days available.

Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek Route Map

Route map detailing 20 day journey to Kanchanjunga base camp with important destinations such as Taplejung, Chirwa, Ghunsa, Kambachen, and Pang Pema

Route: Kathmandu – Bhadrapur – Taplejung – Chiruwa – Sekathum – Amjilosa – Gyabla – Ghunsa – Kambachen – Lhonak – Pangpema – Lhonak – Ghunsa – Amjilosa – Sekathum – Chiruwa – Taplejung – Bhadrapur – Kathmandu.

Elevation Profile

The trek climbs from the Tamur river valley near Chiruwa through Amjilosa, Gyabla and Ghunsa (3,595 m), with an acclimatization day, then gains height through Kambachen and Lhonak to Pangpema (5,143 m) on Day 11. The return follows the same valleys back to Chiruwa.

Highest Point5,143 mPangpema, Day 11

AcclimatizationDay 8Ghunsa

DifficultyChallengingRemote restricted-area trek

Main altitude point each day in metres, Day 1 to Day 20.

Trek Difficulty

The Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek is a challenging remote trek. Expect 5–9 hours of walking on trekking days, long ascents and descents, cold nights and very simple facilities. The day to Pangpema and the long descent from Lhonak are the most demanding. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended. No technical climbing is required.

Physical Effort

Altitude

Technical Difficulty

Comfort Level

Scale 1 to 5. Ratings are guidance and depend on fitness and weather.

Best Season

Spring

March–May. Mild weather and blooming rhododendrons in the forests, with good mountain views.

Autumn

September–November. Clear skies, excellent mountain views and favourable trekking conditions.

Summer

June–August. Heavy monsoon rain, leeches and landslides make the trek difficult in the east.

Winter

December–February. Very cold conditions and heavy snow at higher camps.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation

Teahouse accommodation during the trek
Twin-sharing rooms with basic beds
Shared bathrooms in many locations
Hot showers may cost extra
Hotel accommodation in Bhadrapur and Kathmandu is not included unless specified

Meals

Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
Dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs and porridge
Tea and coffee
Boiled or purified drinking water

Dietary Needs

Vegan

Vegan meals can be arranged at teahouses. Please inform us when booking.

Gluten Free

Gluten-free meal options may be available. Bring specialist products if required.

Packing List

General

Four-season sleeping bag
Sleeping bag liner
Down jacket
30–40 L daypack

Head & Upper Body

Sun hat or cap
Warm beanie
Neck gaiter
Headlamp
Sunglasses

Torso

Thermal base layer
Trekking shirts
Fleece jacket
Waterproof shell

Lower Body

Thermal base layer
Trekking trousers
Comfortable trousers
Waterproof shell trousers

Hands & Feet

Liner and insulated gloves
Warm hiking socks
Waterproof trekking boots
Casual shoes or sandals

First Aid

Personal medication
Sunscreen and lip balm
Blister plasters
Throat lozenges

Essentials

Passport and photocopies
Reusable water bottle
Water purification tablets
Toiletries and towel
Trekking poles
Energy snacks

Optional

Power bank
Camera or phone
Book or cards
Binoculars
Microspikes if conditions require

Safety & Altitude

This trek reaches 5,143 m at Pangpema in a very remote area, making altitude sickness a real risk. The itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Ghunsa. Our guides monitor trekkers and adjust the pace according to conditions.

Ascend gradually and follow acclimatization advice
Stay hydrated throughout the trek
Report headache, nausea or dizziness immediately
Descend if symptoms worsen
Guides carry a first aid kit
Insurance must cover trekking to 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation

Kanchanjunga Base Camp Cost & Inclusions

Included

Transportation

Kathmandu – Bhadrapur (flight)
Bhadrapur – Taplejung (road)
Taplejung – Chiruwa (road)
Chiruwa – Taplejung – Bhadrapur (road)
Bhadrapur – Kathmandu (flight)

Meals & Accommodation

Full-board meals and accommodation during the trek
Tea and coffee
Drinking water as specified in package

Guide & Staff

Professional licensed trekking guide
Porter service
Guide and porter wages
Guide and porter insurance

Permits & Taxes

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area permit
Kanchenjunga restricted area permit
Government and local taxes

Safety

First aid kit

Not Included

Hotels in Kathmandu, Bhadrapur and Taplejung
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Bhadrapur and Taplejung
Personal expenses
Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
International airfare
Extra nights due to delays
Tips and gratuities
Personal trekking gear
Hot showers and device charging
Additional snacks and beverages
Optional sightseeing
Medical and emergency expenses
Nepal entry visa fees

Trekking with Children

Children under 10 may qualify for exemption from certain park entry fees, subject to applicable regulations. The Kanchanjunga Base Camp Trek is remote and strenuous and reaches 5,143 m, so it is not recommended for children. Please contact us to discuss suitable alternatives.

Booking Cancellation & Refund Policy

Within 7 Days

Cancel within 7 days of booking and receive a 25% refund.

After 7 Days

Cancellations after 7 days are not refundable.

Last-Minute

Last-minute cancellations are not refundable.

Full payment: If you have paid the full amount, you receive 25% of the total payment back when cancelling within the refund window.

Why Trek with HGI Nepal

Licensed Local Guides

Experienced, first-aid-trained and English-speaking guides.

Clear Pricing

Permits, transport, meals and staff costs are explained upfront.

Safety First

Flexible pacing and emergency evacuation coordination.

Fair Staff Treatment

Fair wages and insurance for guides and porters.

Private Treks

Private and small-group departures available.

Local Support

Our Kathmandu team is available before and during your trip.

Customer Reviews

See what trekkers say about HGI Nepal on Google.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 10 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Montse Morón  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. HGI organise our trip to Tibet from Nepal. They arranged all permits and everything to get all facilities in our tour. It was a great experience and we enjoyed it a lot. We recommend their services, they are very professional and caring! Thanks Jeevan
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Matt  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I hiked the everest base camp trek with Laxmi, not only was the journey an amazing experience but the kindness and professionalism shown was outstanding. His knowledge and experience truly made the trek more enjoyable and his skill in nepali card games posed quite a challenge for me. Highly recommend
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Campbell Clan  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The crew at HGI are exceptional.  Really careful planning and communication. Everything is explained,  the guides are experienced and totally trustworthy. The trek was awesome,  and the friendly attention to detail meant everything went smoothly.  If you want a personalised trip, where friends are made,  make a great decision and go with HGI.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Pavel Čadek  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good guide and fast solution in case of emergency!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Liam Perkins  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an amazing experience on our trek organised by HGI. They were extremely professional and took care of everything from the start. The stand out of the whole trip was definitely our Guide Laxmi and assistant guide Aasish. Laxmi was extremely good at his job, he always made sure we were comfortable and safe. He was extremely knoweldgable and shared his knowledge of the environment and different cultures we encountered along the way.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Walker  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our group went around Manaslu with Laxmi and Aasish and couldn't be happier with the service provided by HGI.  Laxmi was very professional, knowledgeable and very skilled at card games.  The team at HGI really went above and beyond our expectations at every point in the trip.  Thank you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Josep (Nepal)  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. One of the most experienced Trekking Companies in Nepal working since the 80's Staff are the best,friendly and they know what has to be done while in mountains. If you are looking for serious people they are the best option for your Hiking routes in Nepal.
  
 
  
  
 
 
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Kanchanjunga Base Camp FAQs

General

How many days does the Kanchanjunga Base Camp trek take?

The itinerary takes 20 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including flights to and from Bhadrapur, an acclimatization day and a reserve day.

How high is Pangpema?

Pangpema, the north base camp of Kanchanjunga, is at 5,143 metres (16,873 feet), the highest point of the trek.

Do I need a guide or porter?

Kanchanjunga is a restricted area, so a licensed guide is required. We can also arrange porter services. Current permit and guide requirements should be confirmed before departure.

Difficulty & Fitness

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended. Good fitness and preparation are important for the long walking days and remote conditions.

How difficult is the Kanchanjunga Base Camp trek?

The trek is challenging due to altitude, remoteness and long walking days. It does not require technical climbing.

Weather & Best Season

What is the best time to trek?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons for stable conditions and mountain views.

Arrival & Visa

Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?

Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival, subject to current Nepal immigration rules and eligibility.

Cost & Permits

How much does the trek cost?

The price depends on group size, travel dates and selected services. Contact HGI Nepal for a personalised quotation.

What permits are required?

A Kanchenjunga Conservation Area permit and a restricted area permit are required, and current regulations, including group size rules, should be confirmed before departure.

Accommodation & Food

What accommodation is available?

Simple teahouses are used during the trek, with hotel accommodation in Bhadrapur, Taplejung and Kathmandu according to the package arrangement.

What food is available?

Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs, porridge and some Western dishes.

Is Wi-Fi and electricity available?

Charging and Wi-Fi are limited or unavailable in most villages, so bring power banks or solar chargers.

Health & Safety

What is the risk of altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is a real risk above 3,000 metres. Follow acclimatization guidance and report symptoms to your guide immediately.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Your policy should cover trekking to at least 5,500 metres and emergency helicopter evacuation.

What if flights to Bhadrapur are delayed?

Flights depend on weather. Your guide and our Kathmandu team will adjust the schedule, so keeping spare days is recommended.

How to Book

Fill in the Booking Form
Submit your preferred dates, group size and travel details.
We Get in Touch
Our team will discuss your trip and answer your questions.
Confirm and Pay the Deposit
Once the itinerary and price are confirmed, pay the deposit to secure your trip.
Pre-Trip Briefing
Meet your guide in Kathmandu and review the plan and equipment.