Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek

Overview

The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek is a 16-day adventure into the remote eastern Himalayas of Nepal, leading to the base of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world’s third-highest peak, located in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area near the borders of Sikkim, India, and Tibet. This off-the-beaten-path trek, opened to trekkers in 1988, attracts fewer than 1,000 visitors annually, offering solitude and an authentic Himalayan experience compared to crowded routes like Everest or Annapurna. Ideal for adventure enthusiasts, it combines stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural immersion with Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa communities.

Starting with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a scenic drive to Taplejung, the trek follows the Tamur and Ghunsa rivers through lush subtropical forests, rhododendron and oak woodlands, and high alpine meadows. Highlights include crossing Lapsang La Pass (5,160m), visiting the Tibetan village of Ghunsa, and reaching Pangpema (5,143m), the North Base Camp, with jaw-dropping views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu (7,710m), Kabru (7,412m), and distant peaks like Everest and Makalu. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, spanning 2,035 sq. km, is home to diverse flora (69 orchid species, 30 rhododendron varieties) and fauna, including snow leopards, musk deer, and the Himalayan Monal.,

This trek is highly challenging, with daily hikes of 5-7 hours over rugged terrain, steep ascents, and altitudes up to 5,160m, requiring good physical fitness and acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal, offering clear skies, blooming rhododendrons in spring, and crisp views in autumn. Monsoon (June-October) and winter (December-February) are less suitable due to rain, snow, and closed tea houses at higher altitudes like Lhonak., The trek is fully tea house-based, with basic accommodations and Nepali meals (dal bhat, vegetables) provided, though facilities are rudimentary at higher elevations.

Hairy Yak Adventures ensures a safe journey with government-licensed guides and porters trained in first aid and high-altitude trekking. All permits, including the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (NPR 2,000/$16) and Restricted Area Permit ($20/week), are arranged. We provide essential gear like sleeping bags and trekking poles (returnable). Arrive in Kathmandu one day before for a briefing and to explore UNESCO sites like Boudhanath Stupa. This trek offers a rare chance to experience Nepal’s untamed wilderness, vibrant cultures, and unparalleled Himalayan vistas.

Cost Includes

• All land transport and flight tickets (Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and return).
• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (NPR 2,000/$16) and Restricted Area Permit ($20/week).
• Tea house accommodation throughout the trek with three meals daily (Nepali meals like dal bhat, vegetables; tea/coffee included).
• Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide and porters (one porter for every two to three participants, max 15kg per person; additional cost for solo trekkers).
• Guide and porter wages, equipment, insurance, and other staff facilities.
• Complimentary sleeping bag, trekking poles, and duffel bag (returnable).
• Comprehensive first aid kit with oximeter and emergency arrangements.
• All program activities as per the itinerary on a full-board basis.

Cost Excludes

• Hotel accommodation, lunch, and dinner in Kathmandu and Bhadrapur.
• Travel insurance (must cover helicopter rescue evacuation in emergencies).
• Personal expenses (e.g., soft/hard drinks, tips, souvenirs, Wi-Fi, hot showers, battery charging).
• All bar bills.
• Items of a personal nature (e.g., personal trekking gear beyond provided items).
• Costs or delays due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., landslides, weather, illness, flight cancellations).