EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREKKING IN NEPAL

Everything you need to know about Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking in Nepal. Nestled in the eastern region of Nepal, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a renowned Himalayan trek. In Nepali, “Kanchenjunga” means “crystal clear.” The third-highest peak in the world, Kanchenjunga (8586 meters) is also referred to as the “Five Treasures of the Great Snow,” which includes gold, silver, precious stones, grain, and holy texts. Sikkim, India, shares a border with northeastern Nepal, home to the renowned Kanchenjunga. Since Kanchenjunga is partially located in both India and Nepal, views of the peak are possible from Tibet, Bhutan, and India.

In addition to its cultural significance, it is home to a diverse range of plants and several endangered animals, including the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, red panda, and musk deer. Furthermore, specialists have discovered 23 distinct varieties of rhododendrons flourishing in the region, designating it as a global “hotspot” for plant diversity.

Despite being one of the hardest treks in Nepal, trekking is one of the most popular activities in this area. Nonetheless, it could be the perfect place for people who wish to push their physical and mental boundaries while taking in the splendor of the natural world and local culture.

TREK HIGHLIGHTS

  • Embark on a strenuous trek through an area that is rarely visited by tourists.
  • Trace the course of the Tamur and Ghunsa Rivers’ glacial torrents to their source on the northwest face of the Kanchenjunga Himal.
  • After climbing to Kanchenjunga Base Camp and crossing the Mirgin La Pass (4500m), spend the night in Pangpema (5140m).
  • Enjoy unparalleled views of the Makalu range, the Kanchenjunga massif, and the neighboring peaks, including Jannu
  • Walk through isolated Gurung, Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa communities
  • Offers breathtaking views of the world’s third-highest mountain and other magnificent Himalayan peaks including Jannu, Kabru, and Rathong.
  • Leads you through thick rhododendron, oak, and magnolia woods where you may see a range of animals, including musk deer, snow leopards, red-billed blue magpies, shy dragons, Himalayan black bears, and red pandas.
  • Offers a special chance to fully immerse in the cultures of the ethnic groups that call the area home, such as the Gurung, Rai, Sherpa, and Limbu.
  • It allows you to taste their local food, including dishes like momos, thukpa, and dal-bhat.

PERMIT REQUIRED FOR KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREKKING

You must first apply for permits from the Nepali government and abide by all guidelines about trekking in the Kanchenjunga area. The two types of permits are the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for the path in the Tapethok and Yamphuding VDCs.

KANCHENJUNGA CONSERVATION AREA PERMIT (KCAP)
A permit known as the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) is required for visitors to enter the area. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Management Council (KCAMC) is in charge of overseeing the 2,035 square kilometer Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The KCAP is required for all trekkers planning to access the region, and it may be obtained from the Taplejung office of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Region Project or the Kathmandu office of the Nepal Tourism Board.

KCAP PERMIT COST

Citizens of Nepal are required to pay NPR 100 per person.
SAARC nationals must pay NPR 500 (about $5) per person.
For foreign nationals, the cost is NPR 2000 per person, or around $20.

RESTRICTED AREA PERMIT(RAP)

Since the location is within Nepal’s restricted territory, a special permission called a Restricted location permission (RAP) is needed for the walk. Among the forbidden places are the Taplejung District’s four village development committees (VDCs): Yamphuding, Lelep, Paping, and Olangchung Gola. Hiring a certified guide and/or porter for the whole journey is required, and the permit can only be acquired from a recognized trekking organization in Nepal.

COST OF RESTRICTED AREA PERMIT(RAP)

The number of days you spend in the restricted area determines the cost of the Kanchenjunga RAP.

$20 USD per participant every week for the first four weeks.
After the initial four weeks: $25 USD per person every week

DOCUMENT REQUIRED:

When completing the application procedure, you will need to present the following documentation in order to receive the Kanchenjunga Trek permit:

  • A valid passport that still has at least six months on it, as well as a valid Nepal visa that is valid after your RAP expires.
  • an electronic copy of the passport-sized photo that has to be posted to the Kanchenjunga RAP website
  • Two passport-sized pictures (KCAP only)
  • In order for travel agencies to submit an application for a RAP permit, they must provide:
  • Application
  • Confirmed Itinerary
  • Guide Insurance
  • n Online submission ID (as supplied by the agency)
  • Information about the dollar
  • Tax clearance certificate

BEST TIME TO TREK TO KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP

The weather and environment are the most significant factors to consider while thinking about trekking to Kanchenjunga. Timing is also very critical. When choosing the ideal time to trek, it’s important to have comprehensive knowledge of the weather, temperatures, and peak trekking season during each of Nepal’s four unique seasons.

SPRING

As the weather warms up in the spring, rhododendrons blossom profusely and the area is blanketed in brilliant blooms, making for a striking scene. With pleasant temperatures and bright skies that offer stunning vistas of the Himalayan peaks, it’s a great time of year for trekking.

AUTUMN/FALL

Similar to this, trekkers may enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains in the fall when the skies are clear and visibility is great. It’s the perfect time of year to trek the Kanchenjunga area because of the warm temperatures.

MONSOON

But it’s crucial to remember that the Kanchenjunga region receives a lot of rainfall from June to August during the monsoon season, which increases the risk of landslides and flooding and makes trekking challenging. Trekking is not advised during this season and should be avoided completely.

WINTER

In addition, there is a significant drop in temperature and a lot of snow and ice in the region from December to February throughout the winter. It is only advised to trek during this season if you are well-prepared for cold weather and have experience because it may be very difficult and even hazardous.

RECOMMENDED SEASON

It is recommended that you schedule your trip during the peak seasons of spring and autumn, which are March to May for spring and September to November for fall, in order to have the greatest possible experience trekking Kanchenjunga. During these seasons, the weather is usually consistent, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

But keep in mind that the best times to hike in Nepal are typically in the spring and fall. The trails may get crowded this season, and the lodges may get overbooked. As a result, it’s essential to consider possible crowds while making plans.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Multiple ways of transportation are available to reach Kanchenjunga, based on your budget and preferences. The most often-used modes of transportation are:

BY FLIGHT

From Kathmandu, you may fly to Biratnagar, from where you can take a bus or jeep to Taplejung, the base of the Kanchenjunga trekking. Flights are usually faster and more comfortable, and they provide a breathtaking aerial perspective of the Himalayan area.

BY ROAD

To get to Taplejung, you can take a local bus or rent a private vehicle from Kathmandu or other nearby cities. Although this is a less expensive choice, the journey might be difficult, long, and tiresome.

BY HELICOPTER

A more opulent and expedient way is to charter a helicopter to get from Kathmandu to Taplejung. Though it’s the most costly choice, it’s a convenient method to get there swiftly and comfortably.

Your trekking journey may start as soon as you arrive at Taplejung. It’s crucial to remember that the final stretch of the route to Taplejung is unpaved and uneven, so it’s advisable to get ready for the trip.

ACCOMMODATION OPTION IN KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP

Trekkers in the Kanchenjunga region have a variety of lodging alternatives to choose from. The most well-liked choices include camping and teahouses.

Teahouses are little rooms with a bed, blankets, and pillows that can be found along the trekking path. They also provide dishes including momos (dumplings), noodles, and dal bhat (rice and lentils). While some teahouses have common restrooms, some have attached restrooms.

For individuals who require particular diets or would prefer more privacy, camping is another alternative. Additionally, camping gives hikers greater freedom in terms of scheduling and gives them a chance to take in the area’s natural beauty.

FOOD OPTIONS IN KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP

There are several different meal alternatives available for hikers in the Kanchenjunga area. It’s important to have a balanced meal that will provide you with enough energy for your adventure. Some of the popular food options are momos, dal bhat, noodles, thukpa, local cuisine.

It is crucial to remember that the menu may get more limited as you go higher, and fresh food may become harder to get. It is strongly recommended that you carry energy bars and snacks to add to your nutrition while on the trip. To guarantee clean drinking water, another piece of advice is to always have a filtration device or tablet with you.

All things considered, even though the lodging and food alternatives are modest, they are enough to keep you cozy and well-fed while ascending Mount Kanchenjunga.

KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK COST

The cost of trekking can vary based on a number of things, including the route you take, how long the walk takes, what kind of service you need, and the season you trek. Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp typically costs between $2500 and $4500 per person.

KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK DIFFICULTY

It’s crucial to keep in mind that the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trip is tough and hard, necessitating a high degree of physical fitness and endurance while assessing its difficulty level.

The trek has small footpaths, rocky paths, steep ascents and descents, and occasional exposure to high heights. Every day of the expedition entails many hours of walking; on some days, hiking might take up to eight or nine hours. Because the walk ascends to high heights of more than 5,000 meters, altitude sickness is a serious risk.

That being said, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek may be a fulfilling and life-changing event if one is prepared and trained well. I advise bringing the appropriate gear and equipment and hiring an experienced guide.

ADVICE AND PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES:

Before starting a Kanchenjunga trek, take into account the following crucial advice and safety precautions:

  • It’s important to gradually acclimate to the high altitude. Do not go to higher altitudes too rapidly; instead, give yourself adequate time to acclimate.
  • Trekking up Kanchenjunga is physically taxing. You must to be in excellent physical shape and have trained and exercised regularly.
  • In the Himalayas, the weather may change suddenly. Before beginning the hike, it’s crucial to check the weather prediction and be ready for any changes in the weather.
  • Trekking in the Himalayas may be problematic due to altitude sickness. To prevent altitude sickness, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, abstain from alcohol, and quit smoking.
  • When trekking, keep yourself clean and hygienic. Bring wet wipes and hand sanitizer with you.
  • Make sure you have all the gear you’ll need for walking, including hiking boots, poles, warm clothes, a sleeping bag, and a backpack.
  • Follow the trekking instructions that the guide or trekking service gave you. Don’t go off on your own, stick to the approved route, and show respect for the traditions and culture of the area.
  • Get adequate insurance for trekking that includes medical coverage and emergency evacuation.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 1 Arrive in Kathmandu. Hotel.

Day 2 Rest day and trek briefing.

Day 3 Kathmandu – Biratnagar

Day 4 Biratnagar – Suketar – Mitlung (5 – 6 hours) 921m

Day 5 Mitlung – Chirwa (5 hours) 1270m

Day 6 Chirwa – Sekathum (5 – 6 hours) 1660m

Day 7 Sekathum – Amjilossa (5 – 6 hours) 2510m

Day 8 Amjilossa – Gybala (5 hours) 2730m

Day 9 Gybala – Ghunsa (4 – 5hours) 3595m

Day 11 Rest day at Khambachen.

Day 12 Khambachen – Lhonak (5 hours) 4785m

Day 13 Lhonak – Pangpema (Kanchenjunga north side base camp) (5 hours) 5143m

Day 14 Lhonak – Ghunsa (5 – 6 hours) 3595m

Day 15 Ghunsa – High Camp (5 hours) 4100m

Day 16 High Camp – Mirgin La Pass 4663m – Tseram (5 – 6 hours) 3870m

Day 17 Tseram – Ramche (5 – 6 hours) 4580m

Day 18 Day trek to Oktang (4 – 5 hours) 4730m

Day 19 Ramche – Lamite Bhanjyang (5 – 6 hours) 3310m

Day 20 Lamite Bhanjyang – Yamphudin (5 hours) 2080m

Day 21 Rest day at Yamphudin.

Day 22 Yamphudin – Ponphe (5 hours) 1900m

Day 23 Ponphe – Khunjari (5 – 6 hours) 1928m

Day 24 Khunjari – Suketar (4 – 5 hours) 2300m

Day 25 Flight from Suketar to Biratnagar, then another flight to Kathmandu.

Day 26 Depart Kathmandu

CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS:

Pangpema Peak: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek

Pangpema Peak: Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek is a great trekking region in Nepal. The mountain is also often referred to as the “queen of mountains.” The Kanchenjunga region trek will undoubtedly astonish you with its undiscovered and rustic beauty, especially if you have always yearned to see Nepal’s off-beat places. The area has a variety of natural zones, from glacier wildness to subtropical areas. However, the impressive Kanchenjunga glacier is this region’s major draw.

Kanchenjunga base camp trekking isn’t quite frequently visited by foreign travelers and is wrapped in mystery with extremely difficult mountain trails and lush rhododendron woods. Aside from stunning snow-capped mountain peaks, the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp treks also provide panoramas of subtropical lowlands, rhododendron and alpine forests, and breathtaking glaciers. Due to the difficulty of the trip, it is advised that only individuals with previous trekking experience and excellent physical fitness levels attempt it.

The actual north face base camp is located at Pangpema (5,100), which is reached by a steep trail that follows the Kanchenjunga Glacier’s moraine. The base camp, which is situated above the glacier, provides breathtaking views of Yalung Kang, also known as Kanchenjunga West (8,505m), and the north face of Kanchenjunga. To build up endurance for the return trip and enjoy the jaw-dropping views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Janu Himal, and other Himalayan peaks, an additional day is spent here.

Mt Kanchenjunga is 8,586 meters high and was formerly believed to be the highest peak in the world until 1849; it is the third tallest mountain in the world, trailing only K2 (8,611 meters) and Mount Everest (8,848 meters).

BIRDS AND ANIMALS FOUND IN THIS REGION

A diversity of species, including the elusive snow leopard, the Asian black bear, and the red panda, are just a few of the more uncommon animals that can be found in the region, which is protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and the Sacred Himalayan Landscape program of the World species Fund.

Birdwatchers may have the opportunity to witness species, including the blood pheasant, snow cock, and golden-breasted fulvetta. The Tibetan Buddhist villages, monasteries, and prayer flags provide a distinctive character to the walk because they are located in the farthest eastern part of Nepal and border Sikkim in India and Tibet.

KANCHENJUNGA TREK HIGHLIGHTS

  • Experience the trek to the third-highest peak in the world’s lap through regions that aren’t often visited.
  • Exceptional views of the Makalu range, the Kanchenjunga massif, and surrounding peaks, including Jannu, Mera, the Twins, and Wedge (Chang Himal).
  • cultures of the high mountains untouched by modernization
  • Wander through high-altitude marshes and alpine meadows.
  • Follow the Tamur and Ghunsa Rivers’ glacier torrents.
  • Trek through the remote settlements of the Kirat and Sherpa tribes.
  • peaceful exploration of the stunning mountain wilderness
  • View of the majestic Kanchenjunga mountains to the north from Pangpema base camp.
  • Difficult passes and high-altitude terrain.
  • A wide range of flora and fauna

HOW TO GET KANCHENJUNGA TREK PERMIT?

You must obtain two permissions for the Kanchenjunga Trek: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) permit. Trekkers can get their KCAP from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu, but they can only get their RAP through a legitimate Nepali trekking agency on their behalf.

The second-highest mountain in Nepal and the third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga, could be seen up close on the Kanchenjunga trip. It still maintains its status as a restricted region despite having been made accessible to trekkers in the late 1980s. The ideal trekking area is off-the-beaten-path since it is still secluded and offers the most extraordinary and stunning unspoiled environment.

PERMIT FEE

1. Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit

During the Kanchenjunga trek, trekkers need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit these areas. Given that the area near the boundary between India and Tibet has been given a restricted designation. This aids in regulating tourists, safeguarding wildlife, and putting a stop to any unlawful activity in the region.

A government-registered and authorized Nepali trekking agency is the only entity permitted to apply for and get this permission on your behalf. The cost of the Kanchenjunga RAP varies on how long you spend on the trek in the restricted area. Please take note that the prices shown below apply to both foreigners and SAARC nationals.

Restricted Area Permit Cost

$20 per person per week for the first four weeks.
$25 per person per week beyond the first four weeks.

2. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project

The 2,035 sq. km. Kanchenjunga region is protected and developed as a result of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) authorization. This permit has no expiration date.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Permit

Citizens of Nepal are charged NPR 100 per person.
The cost for SAARC citizens is NPR 500 per person (about $5).
The cost for foreign nationals is NPR 2000 per person (about $20).

PAPERWORK REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A TREKKING PERMIT

During the application procedure, you will need to present the following paperwork to get a Kanchenjunga Trek permit:

  • Two photographs the size of a passport (for KCAP)
  • A scanned or electronic copy of a passport-size photo must be posted on the Kanchenjunga RAP website.
  • a copy of your current passport
  • Travel insurance documents (including emergency helicopter transport)
  • The passport must still be valid for at least six months.
  • Having a Nepal tourist visa that is valid after the RAP’s expiration date
  • Other paperwork required by the trekking company to apply for the Kanchenjunga RAP includes trekker and guide group information, guarantee letters, itinerary confirmations, tax clearance certificates, and business licenses.

While all of the above paperwork can seem too much, it will be simpler for your trekking agency will follow up on the necessary paperwork from your end and offer the remaining paperwork on their own.

WHERE TO OBTAIN KANCHENJUNGA TREK

Permit for the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area

The permit can be obtained by trekkers. To apply, go to the Tourism Board in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, which is open on Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, excluding public holidays. You’ll need around an hour to obtain the permission.

Permit for Kanchenjunga Restricted Area

This permit cannot be acquired by trekkers; rather, a legitimate Nepali trekking organization must do it. After you arrive in Kathmandu, they will submit an online application for this permission with all the paperwork you provided and any additional paperwork they created. They will next pick up the permission at the Maitighar, Kathmandu-based office of Nepal Immigration’s Trekking Department.

With the assistance of a reputable, experienced Nepal trekking company, the two permits for the Kanchenjunga Trek may be simply secured. You may get in contact with Treks Planner Nepal to plan and arrange your trip and to assist you in comprehending the permission needs. Our team of professionals will make sure that you quickly and simply get the permissions. Travel to the isolated and lush Kanchenjunga area without any hassles.

KANCHENJUNGA TREK ITINERARY:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
30 Min Drive to Hotel
Max Altitude: 1350 M

Day 2: Trip preparation
Full Day

Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu & Drive to Taplejung
40 Minutes Flight & 8/9 Hours Drive
Max Altitude: 2000 M

Day 4: Trek to Chiruwa
7/8 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 1290 M

Day 5: Trek to Sermanthang
6/7 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 2150 M

Day 6: Trek to Amjilosa
5/6Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 2803 M

Day 7: Trek to Gyabla – Ghunsa
8/9 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 3550 M

Day 8: Acclimatization day in Ghunsa
Full Day
Max Altitude: 3550 M

Day 9: Trek to Khambachen
5/6 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 4000 M

Day 10: Acclimatization Day - Optional Side Trip to Janu/Kumbakarna Base Camp)
Full Day
Max Altitude: 4000 M

Day 11: Trek to Lhonak
5 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 4770 M

Day 12: Trek from Lhonak – Pangpema (North B.C.) – Lhonak
7/8 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 5143 M BC

Day 13: Trek to Khambachen
5 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 4000 M

Day 14: Trek to Ghunsa – Further to Phaley
5/6 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 2900 M

Day 15: Trek to Amjilosa
5 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 2308 M

Day 16: Trek to Ranipul
3/4 Hours Walk
Max Altitude: 1800 M

Day 17: Drive to Taplejung
6/7 Hours Drive
Max Altitude: 2000 M

Day 18: Drive to Bhadrapur
 8/9 Hours Drive
Max Altitude: 91 M

Day 19: Fly to Kathmandu from Bhadrapur & Transfer to hotel
40 Minutes Flight & Transfer to Hotel
Max Altitude: 1350 M

Day 20: Departure from Kathmandu
30 Min Drive to Airport

FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT!


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