Kanchenjunga, known as “the mountain of jewels,” is a revered peak in Eastern Nepal, steeped in both myth and cultural significance. Believed to house buried treasures of knowledge by the legendary sage Guru Padmasambhava, the annual Lepcha dance tribute and the sparse population of Sherpas, Limbu, Rai, and Gurung communities add a rich cultural tapestry to the region. The 22 to 25-day trek unveils diverse landscapes, from dense rhododendron forests to high-altitude yak pastures, promising a transformative journey for adventurers.
Beyond its cultural allure, the Kanchenjunga range offers breathtaking views of the vast Himalayan expanse, making it a visual spectacle for overseas tourists. The region’s warm hospitality, combined with the blooming wildflowers in April and May, enhances the trek, providing a unique opportunity for explorers to not only witness the natural beauty of the area but also connect with the traditions and people of Eastern Nepal. Kanchenjunga beckons as more than just a trek; it is a holistic journey of discovery and cultural immersion in one of the last unexplored frontiers of the Himalayas.
Overview
| Duration: | 23 days | Trip Garde: | 4 (Challenging) |
| Country: | Nepal | Activity: | Trekking |
| Arrival on: | Departure From: | ||
| Attractions: |
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m /4,264 ft)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and preparation for trekking
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Biratnagar (81 m/266 ft)
Day 04: Fly from Biratnagar to Suketar (2,420 m/7,938 ft) or Drive from Phidim (1,179 m/ (3,868 ft) to Suketar
Day 05: Suketar to Mitlung (921 m/3,021 ft) 4-5 hrs
Day 06: Mitlung to Chirwa (1,270 m/4166 ft) 5-6 hrs
Day 07: Chirwa to Sukathum (1,576 m/5,169 ft) 5-6 hrs
Day 08: Sukathum to Amjilosa (2,308 m /7,570 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 09: Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730 m /8,954 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 10: Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,792 ft) 5-6 hrs
Day 11: Acclimatisation day at Ghunsa
Day 12: Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050 m/13,284 ft) 5-6 hrs
Day 13: Acclimatisation Day at Kambachen
Day 14: Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780 m/15,678 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 15: Trek to Pangpema/Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,388 m/17,673 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 16: Trek back to Kambachen (4,050 m/13,284 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 17: Kambachen to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,792 ft) 3-4 hrs
Day 18: Ghunsa to Sele Le (4,290 m/14,071 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 19: Sele Le to Cheram (3,870 m/12,694 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 20: Cheram to Ramche (4,580 m/15,022 ft) and return back to Cheram, 4-5 hrs
Day 21: Cheram to Tortong (2,995 m/9,824 ft) 5-6 hrs
Day 22: Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080 m/6,822 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 23: Yamphudin to Yangpang (1,007 m/3,304 ft) 6-7 hrs
Day 24: Yangpang to Thorpu (1,500 m/4,290 ft) 5-6 hrs
Day 25: Thorpu to Birtamod (300 m/ 984 ft) 5-6 hrs
Day 26: Drive from Birtamod to Bhadrapur then Fly to Kathmandu
Day 27: Farewell !
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m /4,264 ft)
Upon landing at Kathmandu airport, travelers are required to complete customs formalities, including obtaining a visa. Our representative, identifiable by a BG Travel display board, will be awaiting your arrival at the gate to assist you. Subsequently, you will be transported to your hotel where you can choose to relax, explore the city on foot, or visit our office, depending on your preferences. In the evening, a welcome dinner awaits at a traditional Nepali restaurant, offering an authentic culinary experience accompanied by a brief cultural program, providing a warm introduction to the local culture.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and preparation for trekking
The first day is dedicated to completing necessary official procedures and embarking on a cultural tour of Kathmandu before the commencement of the trek. Following breakfast, a cultural exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites awaits, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath, and Bauddhanath. In the afternoon, a pre-trip discussion is scheduled at our office, where you will have the opportunity to meet fellow participants and your guides, setting the stage for the upcoming trekking adventure. This day not only ensures administrative readiness but also introduces you to the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu before venturing into the mountains.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Biratnagar (81 m/266 ft)
The journey begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar. Upon arrival in Biratnagar, the next step depends on the flight availability to Suketar. If a flight to Suketar is available, the night will be spent in Biratnagar, and the following morning you will board the flight to Suketar. Alternatively, if there are no flights to Suketar, the plan is to drive to Suketar and spend the night there. This flexible approach ensures adaptability to the dynamic flight schedules, ensuring a smooth transition to the next phase of the journey based on the available transportation options.
Day 04: Fly from Biratnagar to Suketar (2,420 m/7,938 ft) or Drive from Phidim (1,179 m/ (3,868 ft) to Suketar
The next phase of the journey unfolds with the plan to fly directly to Suketar if the previous night was spent in Biratnagar. In this case, the day involves boarding a flight from Biratnagar to Suketar, where you will spend the night. However, if the previous night was spent in Phidim, the day’s agenda shifts to a scenic drive to Suketar. Regardless of the mode of transportation, the night will be spent in Suketar, preparing for the trekking adventure that lies ahead. This adaptable itinerary ensures a seamless transition and accommodates the varying starting points of participants on their way to Suketar.
Day 05: Suketar to Mitlung (921 m/3,021 ft) 4-5 hrs
The trek officially begins with a downhill journey to Mitlung, setting the tone for the adventure in the lower sections of the Kanchenjunga region. The trails wind through fertile valleys adorned with picturesque pastures and quaint villages. Crossing the Hangdewa River, the path continues alongside the tumultuous Tamor River. Heading northward, the trail gradually ascends until a more pronounced steep section is encountered, culminating in a final descent of 350 meters on a muddy trail leading to Mitlung. The day’s trek offers a diverse terrain, from gentle slopes to challenging descents, and concludes with an overnight stay in the welcoming village of Mitlung.
Day 06: Mitlung to Chirwa (1,270 m/4166 ft) 5-6 hrs
The trek unfolds with a steady ascent and descent, guiding us towards the charming village of Sinwa. Continuing our journey, the trail leads downhill until we reach Tawa. From Tawa, the path ascends to higher elevations, eventually crossing a suspension bridge at Thiwa. Along the way, the trek offers glimpses of a beautiful rural landscape. The day’s destination is Chirwa, a picturesque Limbu village adorned with a few lodges and tea shops. Set against the backdrop of serene surroundings, Chirwa provides a tranquil atmosphere for an overnight stay, offering a peaceful interlude in the midst of the trek.
Day 07: Chirwa to Sukathum (1,576 m/5,169 ft) 5-6 hrs
The journey from Chirwa to Sukathum presents a diverse array of landscapes, encompassing cardamom fields and dense forests. The trek commences with an uphill climb, offering panoramic views, followed by a descent to lush green fields below. The trail continues along the Tamor River, navigating through a dense forest, and involves a mix of uphill and downhill stretches. Crossing the Ghunsa River marks a significant point in the trek, leading us to our final destination for the day—Sukathum. The night is spent in Sukathum, providing a well-deserved rest in this picturesque setting nestled amidst the natural beauty of the Kanchenjunga region.
Day 08: Sukathum to Amjilosa (2,308 m /7,570 ft) 6-7 hrs
The trek from Sukathum to Amjilosa proves to be a challenging endeavor. The day kicks off with the crossing of a suspension bridge just outside Sukathum, leading into a dense forest. The trail involves a series of ascents up steep paths, descents, and river crossings. A notable climb through a gorge, passing by the Solima village, adds to the trek’s difficulty. Careful navigation is crucial, particularly along the trail traversing the gorge. The path continues with a tricky route, featuring both uphill and downhill sections, until finally reaching the night’s resting place at Amjilosa. The day’s trek demands caution and resilience, promising not only physical exertion but also rewarding experiences amid the challenging terrain of the Kanchenjunga region.
Day 09: Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730 m /8,954 ft) 6-7 hrs
Embarking on the trek from the river bank, the journey meanders through a dense forest teeming with bamboo, fir, and rhododendrons. The trail unfolds to reveal a small stone house nestled by the river, providing a serene pause amid nature’s beauty. Climbing uphill, the trek involves crossing several small bridges, offering glimpses of captivating waterfalls cascading from the mountains. The trail continues with a short ascent, eventually leading to the Tibetan settlement of Gyabla. This segment of the trek not only showcases the lush flora and enchanting water features but also introduces the cultural diversity present in the Kanchenjunga region, adding depth to the overall trekking experience.
Day 10: Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595 m/11,792 ft) 5-6 hrs
Descending alongside the river, the valley gradually unfolds, revealing its scenic beauty as the trek progresses towards Phale, a Tibetan refugee settlement. Here, the opportunity arises to purchase unique handicrafts and homemade rugs crafted by the locals, adding a cultural touch to the journey. After acquiring a few souvenirs, the trail winds through conifer and pine forests, leading to the Sherpa village of Ghunsa. Noteworthy for its hydroelectricity plant, Ghunsa carries a poignant history, marked by a tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of over 20 prominent conservationists. Despite this somber past, Ghunsa offers a place for trekkers to rest and reflect, providing a night’s accommodation in this culturally and historically rich setting.
Day 11: Acclimatisation day at Ghunsa
Taking precautions for acclimatization, a rest day is spent around Ghunsa, with the recommendation to stay active rather than remain idle during the trek. A short hike towards the Laspsan La monastery through lush green forests provides an opportunity to explore the surroundings and gradually adapt to the higher altitude. Returning to Ghunsa by the afternoon allows for relaxation and preparation for the next leg of the journey.
Day 12: Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050 m/13,284 ft) 5-6 hrs
the trek continues northward from Ghunsa along the river bank, treating trekkers to breathtaking mountain vistas. The trail winds through meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers, and rhododendron and pine forests. Crossing a bridge at Rampuk Kharka and navigating past waterfalls, the journey encounters a tricky section of the landslide. Beyond this challenging terrain, the spectacular view of Mt. Jannu unfolds. Tackling the mountain trail, the day concludes with the arrival at Kambachen, situated at an elevation of 4,050 meters (13,284 feet), where the night is spent in preparation for the further ascent into the Kanchenjunga region.
Day 13: Acclimatisation Day at Kambachen
An additional day is set aside at Kambachen for acclimatization purposes, specifically aimed at accommodating participants at higher altitudes and monitoring any signs of altitude sickness within the gro