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Price

From$4,950

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10643

28 days, 27 nights

Availability : April - June and October - November

Min Age : 15+

Max People : 12

KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK

Our Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek visits both the North and South Kanchenjunga base camps. Experience one of Nepal’s most beautiful region and get up-close with the third highest mountain in the world. Your journey begins in lush forests of mostly rhododendron and oak and ascends along the moraine to huge glaciers at base camp. Alternatively, a shorter program would be to visit the North Kanchenjunga Base Camp only at Pangpema.

Kangchenjunga is a sacred mountain and the word Kanchenjunga literally translates to “Five Great Treasures in the Snow.” There are five peaks within the Kangchenjunga range. And each peak is believed to be a repository of different treasures: gold, silver, gems, grains and sacred texts. Consequently, in due reverence, the first climbers stopped a few meters short of the summit in 1955. However, today’s climbers no longer follow this practice. The Kanchenjunga region is a Beyul. The purpose of beyuls is to provide sanctuaries for people seeking refuge from social and religious persecution.

THE TREK

The trek begins with an hour-long flight to Bhadrapur airport in eastern Nepal. Thereafter, board a jeep/bus for a 9 hour drive (over two days) to Ilam and then to Yamphudin where the trek begins. From Yamphudin, ascend steadily through the Kabeli river valley towards the South base camp of Kanchenjunga. Retrace trail to Tseram and cross over Sinion La pass to the Ghunsa river valley. Continue trekking to Pangpema and the North base camp of Kanchenjunga. Finally, from Ghunsa, cross Nango La pass to Olangchungola. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek ends with a drive back to Bhadrapur for your flight back to Kathmandu.

WHY TREK WITH US?

All our Kanchenjunga Base Camp Treks are private treks for a minimum of one participant for a date of your choosing. Small groups allow us to provide a private, premium and personalized experience.

“Being only two people in the group was a massive advantage we had — it was easier to get helicopters with a smaller group, easier to change where we’d stay on a given day, easier to ask to push further when we felt good, etc. In fact, because of this flexibility, we beat many big groups to EBC, who took many hours longer than us because they had to wait for stragglers, and they ended up missing the views because the clouds had already come in. Basically this helped us get in/out of Lukla more easily, move faster, and adapt the schedule to the changing weather.”

Luke L., Chicago IL, USA

We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. However, some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Do read this article “Value offered by Crystal Mountain Treks” to learn more about this. We urge you to compare apples to apples.
We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff. Additionally, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals.
We are also proud to give back to our community through our giving arm – 3 Summits For Nepal – managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. In the Kanchenjunga region, we have built four schools and two girl’s hostels. On this Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, we will have the opportunity to visit one such school in Yamphudin.

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is a hybrid trek where we use both lodges and tents. So it is both a CAMPING trek and a LODGE TREK. This means you will sleep in tents and at local lodges but will eat meals prepared by our kitchen crew. We use North Face (VE 25) 4-season tents which are quite spacious and very effective against the elements. We also provide sleeping pads (inflatable Exped mats). Meals prepared by our trek crew are quite varied and nutritious including rice with locally available vegetables, spaghetti, dumplings, noodles, local breads etc.

BEST SEASON

The best seasons for trekking in the Kanchenjunga region are Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November). It is also possible to do this trek in December. While it will be very cold (dipping to -20 C/, -4 F), it will also be less crowded.

TREK RATING

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is rated “CHALLENGING”. It is rated 5 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The highest overnight altitude reached is at Lhonak (4,790 m/15,700ft) and the highest elevation reached is at Pangpema (5,140m/16,900ft). There are two acclimatization days to allow for proper acclimatization. Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp involves average daily hiking of around 6 hours with a few longer days of around 7-8 hours. Also, this is a relatively long trek in a remote area. Regardless of the rating, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.

VIDEO OF THE KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK

In November 2024, Steve and Andrea from Sitka, Alaska, set out on a 24-day CAMPING trek to Kangchenjunga’s South and North base camps. They were joined by a team of 10 staff from Crystal Mountain Treks including a guide, a cook, and eight porters. This is their journey through the Kanchenjunga region of Nepal: trekking to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, traversing over the Selela pass and then trekking to the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

Trip at a glance

Brief Itinerary (Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek)

Day	Description	Overnight	Altitude
Day 1	Arrival in Kathmandu	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 2	Exploring Kathmandu	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 3	Kathmandu to Ilam	Ilam	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 4	Ilam to Yamphudin	Yamphudin	2,080m/6,900ft
Day 5	Yamphudin to pasture camp	Pasture camp	2,580m/8,500ft
Day 6	Pasture camp to Jhoreni	Jhoreni	3,310m/10,900ft
Day 7	Jhoreni to Torongten	Torongten	3,010m/9,900ft
Day 8	Torongten to Tseram	Tseram	3,870m/12,100ft
Day 9	Acclimatization day	Tseram	3,870m/12,700 ft.
Day 10	Trek to Ramche	Ramche	4,580m/15,100ft
Day 11	Hike to Oktang. Return to Ramche.	Ramche	4,580m/15,100ft
Day 12	Trek to Anda Pokhari.	Anda Pokhari	4,512m/14,800ft
Day 13	Trek to Ghunsa	Ghunsa	3,475m/11,200ft
Day 14	Rest day in Ghunsa	Ghunsa	3,475m/11,200ft
Day 15	Trek to Khambachen	Khambachen	4,040m/13,600ft
Day 16	Day hike to Jannu Base Camp	Khambachen	4,040m/13,600ft
Day 17	Trek to Lhonak	Lhonak	4,790m/15,700 ft.
Day 18	Trek to Pangpema	Pangpema	5,140m/16,900ft
Day 19	Hike to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Descend to Lhonak	Lhonak	4,790m/15,700 ft.
Day 20	Descend to Ghunsa	Ghunsa	3,475m/11,200ft
Day 21	Trek to near the Nangola pass	Pass camp	4,170m/13,679ft
Day 22	Trek over the Nangola pass (4,820m/15,800ft). Descend to pasture camp.	Yangma Khola	3,475m/11,200ft
Day 23	Trek to Olangchung Gola.	Olangchung Gola	3,200m/10,500ft
Day 24	Descend to road head. Drive to Taplejung.	Taplejung	1,441m/4,730ft
Day 25	Drive to Ilam.	Ilam	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 26	Drive to Bhadrapur. Fly to Kathmandu.	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 27	Kathmandu Sightseeing	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 28	Final Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Kathmandu

Arrive Kathmandu. You will be met on arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport. Transfer to Hotel Tibet or similar. Day Free. Enjoy welcome dinner. Briefing during dinner. Overnight Hotel Tibet or similar. (Dinner)

Day 2Kathmandu

Visit Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, with its two-tiered golden roof and silver door. Here, you’ll probably witness a Hindu cremation along the banks of the Bagmati River.

Then drive to Bhaktapur, the City of Devotees, for lunch and a tour of the royal palace square. Bhaktapur is a medieval city in the Kathmandu valley and is least disturbed by modern life. Here, you can absorb the architectural splendor of the five-storied Nyatapola temple, or the sculptural delight of the Peacock Window.

In the afternoon, make final preparations for your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Overnight Hotel Tibet or similar. (Breakfast and Lunch)

Day 3Kathmandu to Ilam

Fly about 50 minutes east of Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. It’s best to sit on the left side of the plane because on a clear day Everest, Makalu and Kanchenjunga are visible. After exiting the Bhadrapur airport, board a chartered vehicle for a 5 hour drive to the Northern border of Ilam. The drive first starts in the plains of Nepal slowly ascending the winding roads through rice terraces and large tea plantations to Ilam. On a clear day, the whole of the Kanchenjunga massif is visible.

Overnight local lodge (All meals)

Day 4Ilam to Yamphudin

We start early as it is another long drive to Yamphudin (7 – 8 hours). At first, we ascend to a little over 8,000 feet to Ranipauwa and then to Phidim, the district headquarters of Panchthar district. Then descend to the valley floor to almost 2,000 feet to cross the Khebang khola and then make another ascent to Gopetar from where we take the long bumpy ride to Yamphudin. If the monsoon rains have not washed away the roads, we will drive all the way into Yamphudin. From Yamphudin, we walk a short distance (steep ascent of around 20 minutes) to our first camp at Nepu village. This is also the site of the first school built by 3 Summits for Nepal.

If the road is not in good condition, we may have to begin walking earlier at Khebang. Overnight Tents. (All meals)

Day 05 and Day 06Yamphudin to Jhoreni

These two days are not long days (total 5 – 7 hours) but it is a grueling climb of several thousand feet to Jhoreni. We will be taking this alternative trail to avoid the large landslide on the Lase Bhanjyang route. After walking through a forest, we camp in a pasture on the first night and begin steep ascent through pastures to a small clearing at Jhoreni on the second day. You have the option to climb a small ridge for views of the Yalung glacier (south Kanchenjunga Base Camp) and the Simbuwa river valley – this is the route you will be ascending towards the south Kanchenjunga Base Camp.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

YAMPHUDIN TO JHORENI (Over two days)
DISTANCE: 9.64 kilometers/6 miles
ASCENT: 6,174 feet/1,883 meters
DESCENT: 1,953 feet/596 meters

Day 07Jhoreni to Yak Kharka

Ascend the ridge over Jhoreni for views of the Kabeli valley and the South Kanchenjunga range. We will take a new trail to Tseram only crossing the river near Tseram. This is a rough trail with rocks and scree; we camp for the first night in a pasture.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

JHORENI TO RIDGE
DISTANCE: 1.64 kilometers/1 mile approximately
ASCENT: 1,066 feet/325 meters
DESCENT: 44 feet/13.50 meters

RIDGE TO TORONGTEN
DISTANCE: 5.2 kilometers/3.2 miles approximately
ASCENT: 714 feet/218 meters
DESCENT: 2,729 feet/832 meters

Day 08 and 09Ascend to Tseram. Acclimatization day.

Ascend steadily on a gentle trail along the river to Tseram where there are a few lodges. The trail is beautiful through forests of Rhododendrons and Oak.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

TORONGTEN TO TSERAM
DISTANCE: 12.32 kilometers/8.7 miles approximately
ASCENT: 5,224 feet/1,592 meters
DESCENT: 2,273 feet/693 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 7 to 8 hours total

Day 10Trek to Ramche

Today is a short half day of easy hiking (around 3 – 4 hours). From Tseram, ascend steeply crossing several temporary shepherd huts to a vast pasture with azaleas which are used as incense by the locals. There is a direct but more difficult pass (Lapsang La) which can be crossed from Ghunsa to arrive at this point. Ramche is another pasture with two huts and is near the lateral moraine of the Yalung glacier.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

TSERAM TO RAMCHE
DISTANCE: 7.6 kilometers/4.7 miles approximately
ASCENT: 2,291 feet/698.50 meters
DESCENT: 283 feet/86.30 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 4 to 5 hours

Day 11Trek to Oktang. Explore South Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Again, Kanchenjunga isn’t visible until you get very close to Base Camp. Explore the South Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Return to Ramche.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

RAMCHE TO OKTANG TO KANCHENJUNGA BASECAMP – BOTH WAYS
DISTANCE: 9.48 kilometers/5.9 miles approximately
ASCENT: 1,686 feet/514 meters
DESCENT: 1,514 feet/462 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 5 hours total

Day 12Trek to Tseram and ascend to Anda Pokhari

Descend to Tseram and begin the ascent to the Selela pass. We will stop at Anda Pokhari (lake) where we camp.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

RAMCHE TO ANDA POKHARI
DISTANCE: 9.85 kilometers/6.1 miles approximately
ASCENT: 2,065 feet/629.50 meters
DESCENT: 2,156 feet/658 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 5 to 7 hours

Day 13 and Day 14Descend to Ghunsa

The pass from Tseram to Ghunsa involves crossing five passes – unnamed pass (4,724m), Sinion La (4,660m), Mirgin La (4,663m), second pass (4,115m) and Tamo La (3,900m).

Todays hike from Anda Pokhari to Ghunsa is around 6 hours. After crossing several passes, descend steeply through a thick forest of fir and rhododendrons to reach Ghunsa.

A rest day is planned in Ghunsa.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

SELELA TO GHUNSA
DISTANCE: 13.80 kilometers/8.50 miles approximately
ASCENT: 1,234 feet/376 meters
DESCENT: 5,429 feet/1,655 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 5 to 6 hours

Day 15 and Day 16Ghunsa to Khangbachen (4,092 m) and hike to Jannu Base Camp

The trail today is along the Ghunsa river with pastures and forests of rhododendron trees and juniper. Past the bridge over the Ghunsa river, it is a steep climb past a landslide. This section experiences a landslide every year and the trail is quite sketchy. Descend to Khangbachen. The next day is another acclimatization day with optional hike to Jannu Base Camp.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

GHUNSA TO KHAMBACHEN
DISTANCE: 12.69 kilometers/7.9 miles approximately
ASCENT: 3,464 feet/1,056 meters
DESCENT: 1,272 feet/388 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 5 to 6 hours

KHAMBACHEN TO JANNU BASE CAMP (BOTH WAYS)
DISTANCE: 12.5 kilometers/7.8 miles approximately
ASCENT: 2,186 feet/667 meters
DESCENT: 2,228 feet/680 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 6 to 8 hours

Day 17Hike to Lhonak

Today you hike to Lhonak. The trail climbs gradually through open rocky fields along the Kanchenjunga moraine. Look out for blue sheep along the trail from Khangbachen to Pangpema. Blue sheep are the primary prey of snow-leopards. Lhonak is a BEYUL (blessed land) and one of the most beautiful places in Nepal. Lhonak is near a dry lake bed on an open, sandy plain.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

KHAMBACHEN TO LHONAK
DISTANCE: 9.26 kilometers/5.76 miles approximately
ASCENT: 2,168 feet/660 meters
DESCENT: 616 feet/188 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 5 to 6 hours

Day 18 and Day 19Hike to Pangpema and Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,152 m)

Today you hike to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga Base Camp) along the Kanchenjunga moraine. Kanchenjunga is hidden by other peaks and becomes visible only when you almost reach Pangpema. The hike can take around 5 hours. If all members of the group are doing well, you may camp at Pangpema. The guide will make this decision depending on the weather conditions and the health of the participants and the staff.

The next day, hike further towards the Kanchenjunga Base camp for up close views. You also have the option to hike to Glacier Camp (19,700 feet). Later descend to Lhonak. Overnight Camp. (All meals)

LHONAK TO PANGPEMA
DISTANCE: 9.22 kilometers/5.70 miles approximately
ASCENT: 2,331 feet/711 meters
DESCENT: 1,008 feet/307 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 5 – 6 hours

PANGPEMA TO HIKE TOWARDS GLACIER CAMP (OPTIONAL) TO LHONAK
DISTANCE: 13.9 kilometers/8.60 miles approximately
ASCENT: 3,742 feet/1,140 meters
DESCENT: 4,998 feet/1,524 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 9-10 hours

Day 20Ghunsa (2,730 m)

Descend to Khambachen and then to Ghunsa.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

LHONAK TO GHUNSA
DISTANCE: 19.9 kilometers/12.4 miles approximately
ASCENT: 190 feet/58 meters
DESCENT: 4,504 feet/1,373 meters
APPROXIMATE TIME: 8 hours

Day 21 and Day 22Trek over Nangola Pass

From Ghunsa, head south to a small memorial built in memory of those who perished in a helicopter crash in 2006. From here, we leave the main trail and hike Westwards on a steep trail to the Nango La pass. Begin by slogging on a rocky trail through a thick forest and past a couple landslides. A few hours later, the landscape becomes barren as we get to over 12,500 feet and soon to our camp just before the pass.

The next day, hike over the pass and descend steeply to our camp in a pasture. We shall decide camp based on the hiking ability of the group.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

GHUNSA TO NAGOLA PASS CAMP
DISTANCE: 7.32 kilometers/4.5 miles approximately
ASCENT: 3,358 feet/1,024 meters
DESCENT: 625 feet/191 meters

NAGOLA PASS CAMP TO PASS
DISTANCE: 3.99 kilometers/2.5 miles approximately
ASCENT: 2,559 feet/780 meters
DESCENT: 514 feet/157 meters

PASS TO PASTURE CAMP
DISTANCE: 17.5 kilometers/10.9 miles approximately
ASCENT: 965 feet/295 meters
DESCENT: 7,056 feet/2,151 meters

Day 23Trek to Olangchung Gola

Descend to the river. The trail today is not very well maintained so be careful on the descent. Sometimes the monsoon floods wash away the bridge at the river where a modified bridge may have to be made. Continue to descend to the jeep track from where it is a steep climb to Olangchung Gola which is the last major village enroute to Tibet on the historic trading route.

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

CAMP TO OLANGCHUNGOLA
DISTANCE: 7.85 kilometers/4.9 miles approximately
ASCENT: 2,344 feet/715 meters
DESCENT: 1,434 feet/437 meters

Day 24Descend and drive to Taplejung.

From Olangchung Gola, we descend to the jeep track where our jeeps meet us for the drive back to Taplejung. The road is being built to connect Eastern Nepal with Tibet (via Olangchung Gola).

Overnight Camp. (All meals)

Day 25 and Day 26 Drive to Bhadrapur and fly to Kathmandu

We leave Taplejung early and drive to Ilam. The next day, drive to Bhadrapur and board a flight back to Kathmandu.

Overnight Hotel Tibet. (Breakfast and Lunch)

Day 27Kathmandu Sightseeing

Full day of sightseeing in Kathmandu: visit Swayambhunath, the monkey temple. Then drive to Bhaktapur, the city of Devotees, for lunch and a tour of the royal palace square.

A farewell dinner is planned for the evening.

Overnight Hotel Tibet. (All meals)

Day 28Final Departure

Transfer to the airport for flight home. (Breakfast)

Cost Information (Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek)

(valid until 31 Dec, 2026) – Camping Trek

2 persons: $6,200 USD per person

3 persons: $ 5,600 USD per person

4 or more persons: $ 4,950 USD per person

Single Supplement: $300

This package is ALL INCLUSIVE – almost everything is included in the trip price. Budget an additional US$2,500-US$3,000 extra for your international airfare, tips, bottled beverages, Nepal visa, a couple meals in Kathmandu etc. See the “price excludes” section to learn about the extras. Please inquire for quote in AUS$/GB£ or Euros.

Payment policy:

A 20% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking.
Balance is payable a week prior to departure or on arrival in Kathmandu.

Cancellation policy:

Deposit is non-refundable. But if you cancel a month prior to trek start date, your deposit will be applied to any trek you undertake with us anytime in the future.
No refunds for unused services once trek begins.

Price Includes

Expert pre-trip advice and detailed information
Motivated, well-cared-for staff
All airport transfers
Two full days sightseeing in Kathmandu as indicated in the itinerary and entrance fees to monuments
4 nights twin sharing hotel accommodation at Hotel Tibet (3 star) in Kathmandu
Airfare: Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and Bhadrapur to Kathmandu
Chartered vehicle: Bhadrapur to Taplejung and Sinam to Bhadrapur
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Camping/lodge trekking as indicated in the itinerary
Three meals a day on the trek
Boiled water for your bottles three times a day
Guide and staff wages, equipment and meals
Guide and staff insurance
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Fee and trekking permit
Gamow Bag (High altitude pressure chamber)
Satellite phone.

Price Excludes

Your international airfare (US$1,500-$2,000)
Nepal Visa (US$50)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary (2 dinners in Kathmandu: US$50)
Bottled beverages and packaged snacks (US$ 100)
Battery charging and showers (US$50)
Tips and gratuities (US$ 200 per person approximately)
Personal equipment (a suggested list will be mailed to you)
Travel insurance (This is required – US$ 300 – 500)
Other expenses of a personal nature

Map (double click to zoom in)

Photos (Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek)

Options

We understand that not everyone has 29 days. There are many other shorter circuit treks that can be arranged. During the course of building three schools in this region, our staff are very familiar with this area and we can arrange a trek that will best suit your time. Some shorter options include:

North Kanchenjunga Base Camp only (24 days): Ascend and descend via the Western route (Mitlung, Hellok and Ghunsa)
South Kanchenjunga Base Camp only (22 days): Ascend via the Western route (Mitlung), cut through to the Eastern route via Yasang (the site of another of our schools) and visit the South Base Camp.
Lower altitude Pathibhara circuit (15 days): Trek to Yamphudin and return via Pathibhara (a holy temple dedicated to a goddess revered by both Hindus and Buddhists) and Suketar. Great views of the entire Kanchenjunga massif from a ridge reached a day before arriving at Pathibhara.

On the other hand, if you have more time, we can organize a longer circuit trek visiting both Kanchenjunga base camps and then crossing the Lumba Sumba pass into the Makalu region.

We are happy to customize a trek for two or more participants. Please do write to us!

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ (Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek)

When is the best time to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

The Kanchenjunga region is one of the wettest areas of Nepal. There are two preferred seasons for the Kanchenjunga Trek: Spring (April through May ) and Fall (October through November). It is still possible to do the trek even in December if you are in good shape and don’t mind walking on snow. In the Spring, because this trek involves crossing a high pass, we wouldn’t recommend this trek in March as it may be too early and there may excessive snow in the pass.

Day time temperatures range in the 50’s and 60’s (10 to 15 Centigrade) while night-time temperatures are in the 30’s and 40’s (0 to 5 Centigrade). Expect night time temperatures of below Freezing near the Base Camp. Expect some late-afternoon showers in the Spring which is the season for rhododendrons, orchids and magnolias. October is historically regarded as the best month to trek with clear skies and better views of the mountains. The temperature is around 10 degrees Fahrenheit colder in the Fall season. If you plan to do this trek in the Winter, expect temperatures around -5F (-20 Centigrade) at night.

How fit do I need to be to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

We would recommend the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek to seasoned hikers only. It is a long trek where you would be away from modern amenities for an extended period of time. Also the trail involves a lot of ascents and descents. Regardless, you must be able to hike up to 12 miles a day (mostly at high altitude) carrying a small pack. While this trek does not involve and does not require any technical climbing, you must have the mental and physical toughness to hike on sketchy trail with some objective danger – there are at least a couple sections where you would walk through landslides.

It is advised that anyone with a pre-existing condition consult their doctor before signing up for a trek. We rate the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek a 5 on a scale of 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging).

How should I prepare for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

The more physically fit you are, the more you will enjoy the trip. There are three aspects to training for any trek.

1) Cardiovascular Training will make your body more efficient in using oxygen. Running, walking, swimming or biking, or any combination of these are great for cardiovascular conditioning.

2) Strength Training by either using free weights or machines at the gym will build hiking strength. Walking stairs, especially with a pack will simulate the hiking environment. We also recommend practicing squats. Trekkers will encounter low hanging obstacles to duck under, and many toilets are at ground level, which requires a low squat.

3) Endurance Training is where you build endurance in the months leading up to your trek, slowly increase your length of training sessions. By the time you are 2 weeks from the scheduled trek date you should be able to ascend 3,000 ft. in a 3-4 hour period.

In the end, the more your training simulates a trek, the better off you will be. So hiking 4-5 hours outdoors, uphill and downhill, about once or twice a week in addition to other cardio vascular training at the gym or at home will greatly benefit and prepare you for the trek.

What kind of food should I expect on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

All cooking gear and food have to be carried in from Kathmandu. The cook will purchase fresh fruit and vegetables and rice/lentils from the villagers en route. You will be surprised as to what the cook can make on a small gas stove. In general, expect porridge (Oatmeal), toast, eggs (various style), muesli, hash browns, sausages etc for breakfast. And sandwich, pizzas, momos, noodles (dry and with soup), rolls, fried rice, Indian bread with vegetables or Daal Bhaat (Rice with lentils) etc for lunch and dinner.

Will you provide tents and mats?

Yes, we will provide good quality Mountain Hardwear Trango or North Face VE 25 tents for this trek. We will also provide a 2 inch foam mattress and an insulation pad. You can bring an additional pad if you wish. We will also provide all the kitchen gear.

We have lately been providing Exped air mats. Check them out here.

What kind of gear do you provide for the staff?

This is a challenging trek. Even for the hardy Nepali staff. Make sure your staff and porters have good gear and enough food to complete this trek. Ask your operator what they provide for the staff. Are they provided meals or are they responsible for their own meals?

We provide snow goggles, mittens, gore-tex parka, water-proof pants and good water-proof hiking boots (mostly Lowa GTX renegade) to the staff. Also, the staff and porters will be provided all meals on the trek. We’d be glad to provide references who can allude to our claims. All our staff are insured. And we will bear the cost of a helicopter evacuation in case of an emergency.

Is there mobile signal on the trek? Wi-fi?

There is mobile signal only at some of the villages at the beginning of the trek. Wi-fi is only available at Taplejung. We will provide a satellite phone for this trek.

What are the toilets like on this trek? Will I be able to take a shower?

On camping treks, toilets are a hole in the ground in a small tent to allow for privacy. Showers are available during rest days and involve scooping out water with a mug from a bucket of hot water. On most days you can clean yourself with wet wipes. We will provide a small bowl of warm water with which you can wipe yourself with a towel.

What gear do I need for the trek? Can I rent in Kathmandu?

Layering is key. And it’s always recommended to trek with good branded gear. A good pair of hiking boots that’s been broken in is very important. Good top and bottom base layers, a mid layer (fleece or capilene), and an outer layer (Gore-tex or other material). If you tend to get cold quickly, bring a down parka especially for the evening at the lodge. On most days, you’d be hiking in a convertible hiking pant that can be converted into shorts and one or two top layers.

if you’re trekking with Crystal Mountain Treks, we provide a sleeping bag (rated to 0 degree F or -17 degree C), duffel bags, down jacket and Steripen for water purification to our clients for no charge.

It is possible to buy cheap and relatively functional gear in Kathmandu – convertible pants, down jackets, fleece, Gore-tex jackets. But remember, you get what you pay for. Wool gloves, hats, socks are available too.

There are quite a few branded stores too. North Face, Moutain Hardwear, Marmot and Sherpa. If you’re coming from Australia or Europe, items in these shops are probably cheaper than back home. But if you’re coming from the US, it’s better to buy branded gear at home.

5 Reviews

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Andrea T

Group Traveller

My husband and I had an amazing experience with Crystal Mountain on a 28-day Kanchenjunga trek. The camping trek (versus lodge trek) allowed us to go into more remote, unpopulated areas that were rugged and stunning. Camping treks require more staff which employ more people in Nepal, an economically struggling country. The guide was a master of logistics, focused on proper acclimatization and health, both led and followed as appropriate, provided knowledge on Nepal, and had friends and connections everywhere. The porters were friendly, hardworking, strong and resourceful. The cook and staff were amazing- putting out fresh, locally sourced food with amazing creativity. The trek allowed us to experience the people and cultures of Nepal immersed in the grandeur of the Himalayans. Crystal Mountain gave us a trip of a lifetime and I highly recommend their treks.

December 5, 2024

Kurt C

Group Traveller

Crystal Mountain did a thoroughly excellent job bringing my group of five through the Kanchenjunga camping trek, an amazing journey in some of the world’s greatest mountains. Crystal Mountain’s staff are outstanding, in particular their guides are deeply knowledgeable, kind, resourceful, and strong. CM also compensates their staff fairly. Jwalant, the director of CM, worked with me before the trip to modify the itinerary according to my wishes to see certain places as part of a project I am undertaking. I was left being so eager to visit Nepal again!

November 24, 2024

Terence P

Group Traveller

This is my third trek with Crystal Mountain Treks, and I continue to recommend Jwalant and his team. We did a camping trek that visited the South Kanchenjunga base camp, then the North Kanchenjunga base camp. We were in tents most of the time and would recommend that as it provides good flexibility, but there are some lodges for the entire route (but quite limited space in a few spots). The tents supplied by CMT were in very good condition and spacious. CMT also supplied a cooking staff (rather than relying on lodge food), and the food, as with the other treks I’ve done with CMT, was very good and very plentiful, with more variety than I see in most lodges.

The route we took is a bit different than what many groups seemed to do, but I think it affords some advantages (I think this or something like it is now going to be CMT’s “standard route”). We saw more people starting on the North side (or only doing the North side), and there were a lot of altitude sickness issues (some pretty severe) — I think starting on the South side affords better acclimatization opportunity, especially if you are going to attempt the climb up to the “Drohmo viewpoint” (~6000m); and I highly recommend this. On the way out we travelled over Nango La down to Olangchun Gola, which I also highly recommend — the monastery and town were interesting and well worth the visit.

We had a mix of vegetarians and non-vegetarians, and the cook staff was able to handle that while providing good and varied vegetarian fare.

January 1, 2024

Peter Walker, USA

Group Traveller

The trek was the most adventurous of any I’ve taken in Nepal. The earthquake damage certainly contributed to that but not entirely. These statements are not meant to be negative instead I have a very positive feeling about the trek as a whole. As far as physically demanding this trek is on a par with Dolpo/Shey Gompa. I always have preferred camping treks for the camaraderie of being with the staff and this trek lived up to my expectations especially with the outstanding leadership provided by Manju. One aspect of this trek that pleasantly surprised me was the dramatic difference between the east and west portions of the trek. It amounted to being on two totally different treks which I found very enjoyable and certainly very interesting. I’ll see to it that you get a copy of the video travelogue when I finish it.

October 31, 2016

Karen Kellie, USA

Group Traveller

I am definitely recommending Crystal Mountain Treks. You do an outstanding job. Here are a few quotes/testimonials from me: Crystal Mountain Treks’ leadership helped me network with other trekkers. I gained valuable insights and practical advice from conversations with people like me. The experience of the Crystal Mountain Treks staff and our senior guide’s leadership were evident every hour of the 3 weeks. Safety from injury or illness was priority. There was respect and support for all individuals. I’ll remember the hard work, teamwork, and laughter. Unfortunately, we saw examples on the trail and heard stories from other trekkers that were not as positive. They increased our appreciation for Crystal Mountain Treks’ ability to provide quality adventure beyond the ordinary. Thanks again and Namaste

August 13, 2014

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KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK

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KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK

THE TREK

WHY TREK WITH US?

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

BEST SEASON

TREK RATING

VIDEO OF THE KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK

Brief Itinerary (Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Kathmandu

Day 2Kathmandu

Day 3Kathmandu to Ilam

Day 4Ilam to Yamphudin

Day 05 and Day 06Yamphudin to Jhoreni

Day 07Jhoreni to Yak Kharka

Day 08 and 09Ascend to Tseram. Acclimatization day.

Day 10Trek to Ramche

Day 11Trek to Oktang. Explore South Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Day 12Trek to Tseram and ascend to Anda Pokhari

Day 13 and Day 14Descend to Ghunsa

Day 15 and Day 16Ghunsa to Khangbachen (4,092 m) and hike to Jannu Base Camp

Day 17Hike to Lhonak

Day 18 and Day 19Hike to Pangpema and Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,152 m)

Day 20Ghunsa (2,730 m)

Day 21 and Day 22Trek over Nangola Pass

Day 23Trek to Olangchung Gola

Day 24Descend and drive to Taplejung.

Day 25 and Day 26 Drive to Bhadrapur and fly to Kathmandu

Day 27Kathmandu Sightseeing

Day 28Final Departure

Cost Information (Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek)

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Photos (Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek)

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FAQ (Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek)

When is the best time to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

How fit do I need to be to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

How should I prepare for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

What kind of food should I expect on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek?

Will you provide tents and mats?

What kind of gear do you provide for the staff?

Is there mobile signal on the trek? Wi-fi?

What are the toilets like on this trek? Will I be able to take a shower?

What gear do I need for the trek? Can I rent in Kathmandu?

Related Tours

Andrea T

Kurt C

Terence P

Peter Walker, USA

Karen Kellie, USA

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