Kanchenjunga Base Camp

The Trek

Gaining a maximum altitude of just over 5100m and covering a distance of over 200km this trek ventures into the remote north eastern part of Nepal.  Seldom visited by tourists the trails will be quiet but will supply you with nonstop awe-inspiring views that will inspire you and provide you with unforgettable memories.  It has been said that this is one of the best treks in the world but it’s not to be underestimated, with 20 days on the trail you’ll need to be well prepared, familiar with multi-day camping treks and have a good level of fitness

The Route

Leaving Tapeljung we head out through the beautiful Nepali villages of Mitlung, Tapethok, and Amjilosa to mention just a few before the valley opens out giving fantastic mountain views.  Following the rivers we steadily climb towards Pengpema, the northern base camp, taking a couple of acclimatisatin days as we go.  From Pengpema we retrace our steps slightly and then turn east to cross some high passes to reach the southern base camp at Ramche.

Monkey Mountaineering's Approach

• Maximise Chances of Success

At Monkey Mountaineering we recognise the difficulties involved in completing a long multi-day camping trek, that's why we do everything we can to help you achieve your goal. To improve your chances of success our groups on this trek are never more than 8 people. We use local guides who are professional, fully qualified, experienced and have in-depth knowledge of the trek and area.

• Minimise Environmental Impact

In keeping with our core values of sustainable adventure travel, we take steps to ensure our impact on the environment is kept to a minimum.  We always respect the environment we operate in and we plan all our trips with this in mind.

This is a 28-day itinerary.  We don’t see the need for you to add extra days to the end of your trip but can happily arrange this for you if you would like.  Please get in touch if you would like to discuss this further by email: info@monkeymountaineering.com or phone: 01765 773015

Day 1:  Depart from the UK heading for Nepal.  Under your own arrangements, it’s time to catch your international flight to Nepal.

Day 2:  Arrive in Kathmandu.  Once you have collected your luggage and made your way out of the airport terminal building you will be met by one of our local representatives and transferred to your hotel in the busy Kathmandu district of Thamel.

Day 3:  Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour.  After breakfast you will be collected for your sightseeing tour.  Highlights include:

• Durbar Square – This ancient location has been the home to Kings throughout different dynasties and is also the home to some of the finest Hindu and Buddhist architecture in the region.
• Swayambhunath – Set on a hilltop to the west of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath is one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal.  The site itself is a collection of small stupas and a pagoda temple built over different periods by a succession of kings and noblemen.  The main structure of is made of a solid hemisphere of brick and clay supporting a conical spire of copper gilt.  Painted on the four sides on the base of the spire are the “All Seeing Eyes” of Lord Buddha.  Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple.
• Bouddhanth - This colossal and ancient Stupa is one of Nepal’s most unique monuments and is said to be the world biggest Stupa.  Baudhanath Stupa is said to hold the remains of Kasyapa - the Buddha of the previous time.  One hundred meters in diameter this Stupa is 36 meters high.  Its pinnacle represents the stages of enlightenment, symbol of royalty, compassion, knowing and nirvana.
• Pashupatinath – With its two-tiered golden roof and silver doors this temple is famous for its superb Newari architecture.  Situated near the banks of sacred Bagmati River only Hindus are permitted to enter, however visitors can clearly see the temple from the eastern bank of the river.

After the sightseeing tour you can relax before we take you to a traditional restaurant for a welcome dinner and live Nepali cultural show.

Day 4:  Fly to Suketar/Taplejung (2420m).  After breakfast in your hotel, you will be transferred to Kathmandu’s Domestic Air Terminal for a flight to Taplejung. On arrival we will take a short trek to a nearby campsite where we will spend the rest of the afternoon and overnight.  Flight Time: approx 1 hr.  Trekking Time: approx 1 hr.

Day 5:  Taplejung to Mitlung (921m).  We officially kick start the trek today with a great downhill section taking us to Mitlung.  The trails in the lower part of the Kanchenjunga region pass through fertile valleys, beautiful pastures and small villages.  After crossing the Hangdewa Khola, we turn north and follow the raging Tamor Nadi, climbing gradually again before the final decent into Mitlung where we will camp for the night.  Trekking Time: approx. 4-5 hrs.

Day 6:  Mitlung to Chirwa (1270m).  An undulating day of trekking through the beautiful rural landscape and across a superb suspension bridge takes us to the pretty Limbu village of Chirwa which now boasts a number of small Lodges and tea shops.  We make camp here for the night.  Trekking Time: approx. 5-6 hrs.

Day 7:  Chirwa to Sukathum (1576m).  Dense forest, cardamom fields and lush green pastures are the order of the day today as our route undulates towards the Ghunsa Khola whioch we cross before arriving in Sukathum.  Overnight camping.  Trekking Time: approx. 5-6 hrs

Day 8:  Sukathum to Amjilosa (2308m).  The trek turns a bit more challenging today with as part of the trail is narrow and steep in places.  We start though by crossing another superb suspension bridge across Ghunsa Khola and walking through dense forest.  The village of Amjilosa and our campsite for the night will be a welcome sight towards the end of this day.  Trekking Time: approx. 6-7 hrs.

Day 9:  Amjilosa to Gyabla (2730m).  Bamboo, Fir and Rhododendron forests are on the cards for today along with spectacular waterfalls as our trek takes us gradually uphill to the Tibetan settlement of Gyabla.  Trekking Time:  approx. 6-7 hrs.

Day 10:  Gyabla to Ghunsa (3595m).  We start the day with a fairly steep descent before the trail levels out and follows the riverbank.  You’ll really start to get the feeling of being in the mountains today especially as the valley starts to open up as we reach Phale, a Tibetan refugee settlement.  Continuing along the river we eventually reach Ghunsa, the largest village on the trek and one that is known for its hydroelectric plant and also a tragic helicopter crash.  We camp in Ghunsa.  Trekking Time: approx. 5-6 hrs

Day 11:  Acclimatisation/Rest Day at Ghunsa (3595m).  An important day as we help our bodies become accustomed to operating at high altitudes.  After breakfast we will take a gentle walk up towards the Laspsan La Monastery gaining valuable height before dropping back down to Ghunsa for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.  Camping overnight.

Day 12:  Ghunsa to Kambachen (4050m).  Refreshed from our acclimatisation day we continue in a northerly direction along the banks of the Ghunsa Khola.  There are some great mountain views to be had today as the spectacular 7711m Kumbhakarna (Januu) comes into view.  Eventually we reach Kambachen, a collection of several shingle roofed stone buildings with some good flat areas for camping.  Trekking Time: approx. 5-6 hrs.

Day 13:  Acclimatisation/Rest Day at Kambachen (4050m).  Our second acclimatisation day will be spent around Kambachen.  A short walk up the ridge to the north of the village will help us acclimatise and provide splendid views of the peaks to the south.  Overnight camping.

Day 14:  Kambachen to Lhonak (4780m).  An early start is on the cards for this challenging day crossing desolate boulder fields left behind by ancient glaciers we continue to generally follow the river northwards.  Crossing at Ramtang we then follow the lateral moraine of the Kanchenjunga glacier before reaching the village of Lhonak.  It’ll feel cold and desolate here but the stupendous 360-degree views will more than make it worthwhile.  Overnight camp.   Trekking Time: approx. 6-7 hrs.

Day 15:  Kambachen to Pangpema/Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5388m).  today the trail takes us to our first objective, the North Kanchenjunga Base Camp from where all ascents of the North side of Kanchenjunga start from.  Our trek will take us over some particularly rough terrain today as we continue to track the lateral moraine of the Kanchenjunga glacier.  Pangpema consists of a couple of stone huts with plenty of flat space for camping.   We will spend the night here, make sure you are well prepared for a drop in temperature as the sun goes down!  Trekking Time: approx. 4-5 hrs.

Day 16:  Pangpema to Kambachen (4050m).  Start the day early and go for a short walk up the ridge north of Pangpema (at dawn perhaps) for some absolutely breath-taking and inspirational views before heading down for a hearty breakfast.  The trek back to Kambachen is a reverse of the route we followed on the way up but offers a totally different perspective with yet more stunning views.  Overnight camp at Kambachen.  Trekking Time: approx. 5-6 hrs.

Day 17:  Kambachen to Ghunsa (3595m).  Another reverse day as we continue heading back down the trail and through the forest with a spectacular mountain vista in the backdrop towards Ghunsa where we will camp for the night.  Trekking Time: approx. 3-4 hrs.

Day 18:  Ghunsa to Sele Le (4290m).  New ground today as we make our way towards Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.  Our route today climbs steeply up to Sele Le through dense rhododendron and juniper forests.  Lunch on the trail and overnight camp in Sele Le.  Trekking Time: approx. 6-7 hrs.

Day 19:  Sele Le to Cheram (3870m).  A tough day awaits today but don’t be put off, you should be well acclimatised by now and it’s all worth it.  Our route climbs up crossing the Sinion La (4660m), the Mirgin La (4663m) and the Sinelapche La (4724m) giving unequalled views of Jannu and, if conditions are right, way over to our right, Makalu which at 8485m is the world’s fifth highest mountain.  After crossing the passes, we drop back down to Cheram where we will camp for the night.  Trekking Time: approx. 6-7 hrs.

Day 20:  Cheram to Ramche (4580m) and back to Cheram.  Ascending past the snout of the Yalung glacier and following the banks of the Simbuwa Khola takes us past the village of Lapsang and onwards to Ramche.  Continuing up the valleyand climbing the moraine provides awesome views of Kanchenjunga’s south face and if we push a little further, Jannu comes into view making for a fantastic mountain vista.  Depending on how we are feeling and how much time we have it may be possible to push on a little further to the monastery at Oktang before descending back to Cheram and an overnight camp.  Trekking Time: approx. 4-5 hrs.

Day 21:  Cheram to Tortong (2995m).  We descend to Tortong following the Simbuwa Khola and pass-through lush rhododendron forests.  Overnight camp at Tortong.  Trekking Time: approx. 5-6 hrs.

Day 22:  Tortong to Yamphudin (2080m).  The trail to Yampudin changes on a seasonal basis after the monsoon rains wash parts of it away and some of it becomes covered by landslide debris.  By mid-October there is usually a good new trail established but its always interesting.  Overnight camp at Yamphudin.  Trekking Time: approx. 6-7 hrs.

Day 23:  Yamphudin to Yangpang (1007m).  As the altitude drops ever lower, you’ll be feeling the benefit of the extra oxygen now!  Descending from Yamphudin we cross the bridge at Samekham and follow the Kabeli Khola before passing through Mamankhe which houses the Limbu Museaum and Cultural Centre.  Crossing over he Khaksewa Khola we ascend through cardamom forest and some small villages before dropping down to Yangpang and our overnight camp.  Trekking Time: approx. 6-7 hrs.

Day 24:  Yangpang to Thorpu (1500m).  The route to Thorpu undulates and takes us through some really beautiful, terraced villages.  Overnight camp in Thorpu.  Trekking Time: approx. 5-6 hrs.

Day 25:  Thorpu to Birtamod (300m).  No walking today!  Sit back and enjoy the drive to Birtamond and watch the scenery change from mountains and hills to the flatter more agricultural terai as the temperature rises and the climate changes.  Overnight hotel in Birtamod.  Drive Time: approx. 5-6 hrs.

Day 26:  Drive from Birtamod to Bhadrapur and fly to Kathmandu.  A short drive takes us the regional airport at Bhadrapur where we fly back to Kathm,andu.  The remaining time is free for you to relax and unwind from your trek, and maybe wander round in the hustle and bustle of Thamel looking for souvenirs or beers!  Farewell dinner in the evening and overnight in the Thamel Eco Lodge.

Day 27:  Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport.  After what we hope has been an amazing time in Nepal today, we will transfer you to Kathmandu International Airport for your flight back to the UK.

Day 28:  Arrive back in the UK. 

Included in the price of this trip:

• Private arrival and departure transfers to and from the airport in Kathmandu.
• Pre Trek (2 nights) and Post Trek (1 night) accommodation in the bustling district of Thamel, Kathmandu in the Thamel Eco Resort (http://www.thamelecoresort.com/) in shared rooms (twin) on Bed & Breakfast basis (single rooms available for a supplement).
• Traditional Nepalese welcome dinner at the start and farewell dinner at the end.
• Kathmandu sightseeing tour (including Guide, private transport and all entrance fees).
• Transfer to/from domestic air terminal.
• Internal flights: Kathmandu to Suketar/Taplejung - Bhadrapur to Kathmandu.
• Kanchenjunga Special Trekking Permit, National Park and all other entry fees and permits.
• A fully supported camping trek based on two people sharing tents.
• All meals plus tea/coffee whilst trekking (see frequently asked questions for more details).
• 3lts of boiled water for drinking per day.
• Professional guiding and support team including Chef and porters.
• Portage of 15kg per client.
• All wages, clothing and insurances for Guide/s, Chef and porters.
• Access to satellite phone (all calls must be paid for).
• High quality Monkey Mountaineering branded duffel bag for use on trek (you will receive this on arrival in Kathmandu).

The following are not Included:

• International Flights from/to UK.
• Personal clothing and equipment (see our clothing and equipment section for guidance about what to bring).
• Additional accommodation in Kathmandu at the start or end of your trek.
• Meals whilst staying in Kathmandu (hotel is Bed & Breakfast basis).
• Drinks whilst in Kathmandu or trekking (water, soft drinks, tea/coffee, alcoholic beverages etc – see frequently asked questions).  Expenses of a personal nature such as telephone calls, laundry etc.
• Tips for Guides, Drivers and Porters etc.
• Personal travel insurance (to cover you for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects etc.)  You must ensure you have adequate cover for emergency medical treatment and rescue costs (including helicopter rescue costs) whilst trekking up to 5200m.
• Lunch, dinner and drinks etc. whilst in Kathmandu (hotel accommodation is B&B).
• Additional expenses incurred should there be a need to amend your itinerary or curtail your trek early for whatever reason and transfer you back to Kathmandu or a medical facility or hotel (it is essential that you have personal travel insurance that includes cover for trekking to Everest Base Camp).

Trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp is one of the best treks in the world but you need to be prepared for the weather and environmental conditions that you may experience whilst out on the trail.  The weather in Spring and Autumn in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area can be warm and dry with clear skies however the heavily forested lower elevations can hold the cloud and there can be heavy afternoon rains and even snow as you get higher along with strong winds.  It is often possible to walk the lower section of the trail in shorts and tee-shirt, but it is prudent to be prepared for all eventualities.

With this in mind it is important that we set out wearing the right clothing and carrying the right equipment.  Listed below are all the items of clothing and equipment that you will need to successfully and safely complete the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek.  We have annotated some items as essential so please make sure you read this section and if you are unsure about anything, please give us a call or email us at info@monkeymountaineering.com

Essential Clothing (to be worn/carried)

• Walking boots. A good pair of lightweight GoreTex lined three season walking boots which provide ankle support and are well broken-in.
• Sports Sandals/Flip Flops/Crocks.  Or something similar for wearing in the evening and around camp.
• Hiking socks. We recommend a good pair of proper hiking/trekking socks.  A minimum of three pairs (one on, one clean and one pair in the wash!).
• Shorts.  These are optional but the weather is often good enough for shorts lower down.
• Lightweight walking trousers. To wear on a daily basis if not wearing shorts and for evening wear (two pairs).  Jeans or tracksuit bottoms are not suitable.
• Long-sleeved thermal top.  Take at least 1 of these.  Can be worn during the day if temperatures dictate but most useful for wearing whilst sleeping at higher altitudes.
• Tee-shirt. For wearing on a daily basis whilst trekking.  Should be a technical fabric – avoid cotton as it is slow to dry.  You will need 2 or 3 of these.
• Fleece or Soft-Shell Layer.  This can be a fleece jumper or fleece jacket or a soft-shell jacket.
• Insulated Jacket.  Can be down or synthetic.  Mainly for wearing at higher altitudes and in the evenings.
• Waterproof Jacket.  Ideally this will be made from a waterproof, breathable material such as GoreTex and it will have a hood.
• Waterproof trousers.  Ideally waterproof and breathable.
• Sun Hat.
• Wooly hat.
• Buff.
• Gloves.
• Underwear.  Ideally these will be quick drying and moisture wicking.  Take 3 pairs as a minimum.
• Sports Bra.  Ladies only, take 2.

Essential Equipment

• Rucksack.  30l+ needs to be just big enough to carry the things you will need for the day (waterproofs and warm jacket, hat & gloves, water bottle, camera, money etc).
• Dry Bags.  A selection of rucksack liners and dry bags as required to keep your clothing, sleeping bag and equipment dry and organised.
• Duffle Bag.  This should be big enough to carry all the clothing and equipment you have with you.  It will be carried by a porter, so a soft duffle type bag is best – suitcases are not suitable.
• Small Padlock.  To secure your bag and belongings whilst in transit.
• Sleeping Bag.  This should be a minimum of four seasons and able to keep you warm down to at least minus 10 degrees.
• Head torch.  You may need this for reading in the evening (bring spare batteries).
• Sunglasses.
• Personal First Aid Kit.  This should include sun cream, lip balm, blister plasters (compeed), plasters, painkillers and any prescription medicines, insect repellent etc.
• Water Bottle and/or Bladder.  Water is plentiful on the trail.  A 1lt Nalgene type bottle should be sufficient or, if you prefer, a bladder type water carrier such as a camelbak which will allow you to drink whilst walking with no need to stop to get out a water bottle.
• Water Purification System.  Running water found along the trail will need to be treated to ensure it is safe to drink so make sure you pack some sort of purification system such as ‘water purification tablets’, filtration system or UV light purification system (recommended).
• Toiletries and Travel Towel.  Include wet wipes, hand sanitizer and toilet tissues.

Optional Equipment

• Walking poles.  Not essential but extremely useful, especially during descent.
• Camera.  Make sure you have spare batteries or the means to re-charge whilst on the trek.
• Mobile Phone.  You won't be able to get a signal whilst on the trail.  If you need to make and receive calls or send texts, then it may be worth considering buying a Nepalese SIM card when in Kathmandu.  WiFi maybe available in some of the villages we pass through.
• Long Sleeved Shirt.  For covering up during the day or wearing in the evening.

Other Clothing & Equipment

• Travel clothing.  Clothing that you will not wear whilst on the trek.  This can be packed in a small bag and left at the hotel in Kathmandu and will be delivered to you on your return.

Paperwork

• Booking confirmation.
• Passport and Visa. (see https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/nepal/entry-requirements for information relating to Visa requirements)
• Immunization Papers (if required, see https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/159/nepal for more information).

• Insurance Documents.  You must have insurance to cover you for emergency medical treatment and helicopter rescue whilst trekking up to 5200m.