Kanchanjunga Base Camp - 21 Days

Elevation: 1400 m → 2420 m → 2250 m

After a scenic morning flight from Kathmandu (1,400m), your Kanchenjunga adventure begins as you soar eastward toward the lush and remote landscapes of Suketar (2,420m) in Taplejung District. The flight, which typically lasts around 45 minutes, offers breathtaking aerial views of Nepal’s eastern Himalayas — including glimpses of Mount Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga itself on clear days. As you descend toward Suketar, the dramatic contrast between the snow-capped peaks and the rolling green hills of eastern Nepal unfolds beneath you.

Suketar’s small airstrip, surrounded by terraced farmlands and scattered villages, serves as the gateway to the Kanchenjunga region. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your local trekking crew, organize your gear, and begin the first leg of your trek toward Lalikharka. The trail meanders gently through rhododendron and oak forests, passing small settlements where the rhythm of rural life flows peacefully. Farmers tending their crops, children walking to school, and distant mountain views create a warm introduction to the journey ahead.

The trek from Suketar to Lalikharka is relatively short, allowing your body to acclimatize gradually while immersing yourself in the serene Himalayan environment. The fresh mountain air and the tranquil scenery set the perfect tone for the incredible days to come — as you embark on one of Nepal’s most remote and rewarding treks, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Elevation: 2250 m → 2120 m 

After a peaceful night in Lalikharka, your journey continues with a pleasant yet varied trek toward Khesewa (2,120m / 6,955ft). The trail begins with a gentle descent through terraced fields and traditional Limbu villages, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of eastern Nepal’s rural communities. Farmers can often be seen working in the fields, and the aroma of cardamom plants fills the air — a local crop native to this region.

As you follow the undulating path, you’ll cross several small streams and suspension bridges while enjoying the soothing sound of cascading waterfalls. The route winds through subtropical forests of rhododendron, oak, and magnolia, providing occasional openings that reveal sweeping views of distant snow-capped peaks, including your first glimpses of the Kanchenjunga massif.

After several hours of walking through lush hillsides and picturesque settlements, the trail climbs gently to reach Khesewa, a charming village surrounded by terraced farmlands. From here, the mountain vistas begin to grow more prominent, with Kanchenjunga and its neighboring peaks appearing on the horizon.

The day’s trek offers a perfect balance of cultural encounters and natural beauty — a gradual immersion into the remote and captivating landscapes that define the Kanchenjunga region. Upon arrival in Khesewa, you can relax at your teahouse and enjoy a peaceful evening as the sun sets over the rolling hills of eastern Nepal.

Elevation: 2120 m → 1785 m 

Leaving Khesewa (2,120m / 6,955ft) behind, today’s trek takes you on a scenic journey to Mamankhe (1,785m / 5,856ft) — a charming village nestled in the lush hillsides of the Kanchenjunga region. The trail begins with a gradual descent through terraced farmlands and vibrant forests filled with rhododendron, oak, and chestnut trees, offering a refreshing start to the day.

As you make your way downhill, you’ll be greeted by spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and surrounding snow-clad peaks shimmering in the morning light. The path then winds through small settlements where you’ll encounter warm and welcoming Limbu people, known for their rich culture, traditional houses, and colorful attire. Their friendly greetings and simple rural lifestyle give you a sense of Nepal’s deep-rooted mountain heritage.

The trek continues along the Khopokhola River, crossing a few suspension bridges and narrow trails that hug the hillside. The rhythmic sound of flowing water and birdsong accompanies your walk as you pass by cardamom plantations and bamboo groves that thrive in the humid lower valleys.

After several hours of gentle ups and downs, you’ll finally reach Mamankhe, beautifully perched above the Kabeli River. The village offers breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and terraced slopes, with a tranquil atmosphere perfect for an evening rest.

Mamankhe is also known for its Limbu culture and traditional hospitality — a wonderful place to learn about local customs and enjoy a hearty meal after a fulfilling day of trekking through the heart of eastern Nepal.

Elevation: 1785 m → 2080 m 

After breakfast in Mamankhe (1,785m / 5,856ft), your trek continues toward Yamphudin (2,080m / 6,824ft) — one of the larger and more culturally diverse villages in the Kanchenjunga region. The trail begins by following the Kabeli Khola River, with a gentle climb through lush hillsides and forested terrain rich in birdlife and wildflowers. The sound of rushing water and chirping birds creates a serene backdrop as you ascend gradually through the peaceful valley.

As you progress, the route undulates with frequent ascents and descents, crossing several suspension bridges that connect remote hamlets and farmlands. Along the way, you’ll encounter villagers carrying traditional baskets (dokos) and herding livestock, offering an authentic glimpse into the rural lifestyle of eastern Nepal. The path occasionally opens to breathtaking views of distant ridges and valleys below, reminding you of the vastness of the Himalayan foothills.

After several hours of trekking, you’ll begin a steady climb toward Yamphudin, passing through cardamom plantations and scattered Limbu and Rai settlements. This section of the trail is both scenic and culturally rewarding, as Yamphudin is home to a mix of Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, and Gurung communities, each preserving their unique customs and traditions.

Upon arrival in Yamphudin, you’ll notice the village’s welcoming atmosphere and its strategic location surrounded by terraced fields and forested slopes. It serves as a key stop for trekkers heading toward the higher alpine sections of the Kanchenjunga trail. Spend the evening exploring the village, interacting with locals, or simply relaxing while enjoying a hearty meal and stunning views of the surrounding hills — a perfect end to another rewarding day on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Elevation: 2080 m → 2955 m 

After a restful night in Yamphudin (2,080m / 6,824ft), the trek ascends steadily toward Tortong (2,995m / 9,826ft), marking your entry into the higher alpine zone of the Kanchenjunga region. The day begins with a gentle climb through lush subtropical forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, interspersed with occasional terraced fields and small hamlets. The trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and distant snow-capped peaks, gradually giving you a sense of the remote wilderness ahead.

As you gain altitude, the landscape transitions from dense forests to open valleys, with streams and waterfalls providing refreshing stops along the way. The trail meanders past cardamom and ginger plantations, while local farmers tend to their crops, giving trekkers insight into the region’s traditional agricultural practices. You may also encounter villagers transporting firewood or yaks carrying supplies to higher settlements, reflecting the self-sufficient mountain lifestyle.

The final approach to Tortong involves a steady ascent through alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. From the village, sweeping views of the Kanchenjunga massif and surrounding ridges reward your effort, offering your first close glimpse of the majestic peaks that dominate the region.

Upon arrival in Tortong, a tranquil village perched on the hillside, you can relax at the teahouse and enjoy the crisp mountain air. The village is small but welcoming, providing a peaceful atmosphere and an ideal resting point before you continue your journey toward the higher elevations and glaciers of the Kanchenjunga trek.

Elevation: 2995 m → 3870 m 

After a refreshing night in Tortong (2,995m / 9,826ft), your trek continues to Cheram (3,870m / 12,696ft), marking the beginning of your ascent into the high alpine region of the Kanchenjunga area. The trail starts with a gradual climb through dense rhododendron and oak forests, offering occasional glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks as you gain altitude. The sound of the Simbuwa Khola River running alongside the trail provides a soothing accompaniment to your trek.

The path is scenic and varied, passing through small villages and yak pastures, where you may observe locals tending to their livestock or preparing traditional mountain dishes. Streams and waterfalls along the route create natural rest stops, giving trekkers a chance to soak in the surrounding beauty. As you ascend, the forests gradually give way to open alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, signaling the approach to the higher elevations of the Kanchenjunga region.

The trek to Cheram offers panoramic views of towering peaks, glaciers, and rugged valleys, including the Yalung Glacier, which comes into view as you near the village. Cheram itself is a small but strategically located settlement, providing teahouse accommodation for trekkers to rest and acclimatize. The crisp mountain air, stunning vistas, and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect spot to prepare for the more challenging sections ahead on your Kanchenjunga Base Camp journey.

Elevation:  3870 m 

A well-deserved rest and acclimatization day. You can take a short hike to the nearby viewpoints for excellent vistas of Rathong and Kabru peaks or explore the nearby Yalung Glacier area.
Overnight: Teahouse in Cheram

Elevation: 3870 m → 4580 m 

After an overnight stay in Cheram (3,870m / 12,696ft), you begin the trek toward Ramchaur (Ramche) (4,580m / 15,026ft), entering the high alpine zone of the Kanchenjunga region. The trail today is more challenging, gradually ascending alongside the Yalung Glacier, with the terrain becoming rockier and more rugged as you gain elevation.

The trek offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, including Rathong, Kabru, and the south face of Kanchenjunga, as the glacier snakes its way through the valley below. The air becomes thinner and cooler, and the landscape gradually transitions from alpine meadows to moraine-strewn valleys and rocky outcrops. Along the way, you may spot yak herds grazing and occasional Himalayan birds, adding to the remote mountain atmosphere.

Ramchaur is a small but strategically located settlement perched in an open valley, providing a perfect spot for acclimatization before heading to the Yalung Base Camp. The village offers basic teahouse facilities and panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants, making it a memorable stop on your journey.

Elevation: 4580 m → 4500 m →  3870 m 

After a restful night in Ramchaur (Ramche) (4,580m / 15,026ft), you embark on a day hike to the Yalung Base Camp (4,500m), one of the most spectacular vantage points of the southern face of Mount Kanchenjunga. The trail begins with a steady ascent through a high alpine valley, crossing rocky terrain and glacial moraines. The surroundings are stark but mesmerizing, with jagged peaks, icefalls, and the distant shimmer of glaciers creating a dramatic Himalayan panorama.

As you approach the base camp, the massive south face of Kanchenjunga dominates the horizon, along with neighboring peaks like Rathong, Kabru, and Jannu. The Yalung Glacier flows below, providing a stunning foreground for photography and reflection. The high-altitude environment is quiet and serene, giving you a sense of isolation and connection to the raw power of the mountains.

After spending time at the base camp, taking in the breathtaking scenery and capturing memories, you retrace your steps back to Ramchaur for the night. This day is both physically rewarding and spiritually uplifting, offering an intimate encounter with one of the world’s highest and most revered mountains.

Elevation: 3870 m → 4290 m 

After an early breakfast in Cheram (3,870m / 12,696ft), you begin the trek toward Sele La Pass (4,290m / 14,074ft), one of the most scenic and challenging sections of the Kanchenjunga journey. The trail steadily ascends through high alpine meadows and moraine-covered valleys, offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks, glaciers, and ridges. The air becomes crisper, and the vegetation thins, with scattered rhododendron and alpine shrubs adding color to the rocky landscape.

Along the way, you may encounter yak herders and small glacial streams, providing glimpses into the traditional high-altitude lifestyle of the region. The climb to Sele La involves moderate trekking effort, with occasional steep sections that reward you with sweeping vistas of the Kanchenjunga massif, Makalu, and other distant Himalayan giants.

Upon reaching Sele La Pass, you are greeted by a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. The pass is a gateway between the southern and northern sections of the Kanchenjunga trek, marking a symbolic crossing from one side of the mountain to the other. From here, trekkers begin their descent toward Ghunsa, but the sense of accomplishment at having reached Sele La makes it a highlight of the journey.

Elevation: 4290 m → 3595 m 

After an early start at Sele La Pass (4,290m / 14,074ft), you begin the descent toward the picturesque village of Ghunsa (3,595m / 11,794ft). Crossing Sele La marks a significant milestone on the Kanchenjunga trek, offering one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the region. From the pass, you are treated to sweeping panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Makalu, and surrounding peaks, with glacial valleys and alpine meadows stretching out below.

The trail descends gradually at first, winding through rocky terrain and alpine landscapes dotted with small shrubs and hardy plants adapted to the high-altitude environment. As you continue, the path enters dense pine and rhododendron forests, with the occasional glacial stream adding a serene soundtrack to your journey.

Along the way, you may spot yak herds grazing on high pastures or encounter local shepherds tending to their flocks, providing insight into the traditional mountain lifestyle. The descent is steady but long, giving trekkers ample opportunity to appreciate the dramatic scenery and capture memorable photographs.

Arriving in Ghunsa, the largest village in the Kanchenjunga region, you are welcomed by a charming Tibetan-style settlement with prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze. Ghunsa serves as a crucial stop for acclimatization and rest, offering teahouse accommodations and stunning views of Jannu (7,710m) and surrounding peaks. The village’s serene atmosphere and warm hospitality make it a perfect place to unwind after the high-altitude crossing of Sele La.

Elevation: 3595 m → 4050 m 

Elevation: 4050 m → 4780 m 

Elevation: 4780 m → 5143 m 

Elevation: 4780 m → 5143 m 

Elevation: 5143 m → 4780 m 

Elevation: 4780 m → 3475 m 

Elevation: 3475 m → 2308 m 

Elevation: 2308 m → 1270 m 

Elevation: 1270 m → 1549 m 

Elevation: 1549 m → 2420 m 

Elevation: 2420 m → 1400 m