Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

We take a flight to Biratnagar and then use a jeep to reach Taplejung. From Taplejung, our trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp begins, passing through the large settlement of Limbu people. The journey to Taplejung is a picturesque drive where we catch glimpses of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Jannu. Along the way, we see pasture lands and small villages.

The name Taplejung comes from combining the name Taple with the Limbu word jung. Taple was a medieval Limbu king who once ruled the area, and Jung in Limbu language means fort. So, Taplejung literally means Fort of King Taple. Taplejung is a lively town with narrow streets. Alternatively, there is an option to fly directly to Taplejung.

After leaving Taplejung, we follow a wide trail that gradually descends toward the Tamur River and Mitlung. The path takes us through big cardamom farms and a few small villages before we reach the river at Mitlung.After leaving Taplejung, we follow a wide trail that gradually descends toward the Tamur River and Mitlung. The path takes us through big cardamom farms and a few small villages before we reach the river at Mitlung.

After leaving Mitlung, the trail becomes a narrow footpath winding through rice fields, cardamom farms, and barley fields. After walking for about an hour, we come across a bridge over the Sisne Khola. Crossing the bridge and continuing along the eastern bank of the Tamur River, we reach Sinwa Bazaar. This is a small market where we see Limbu settlements, a high school, hospitals, and a police checkpoint.

We keep following the Tamor River for another one and a half hours and stop at Tawa village for lunch. After lunch, we walk on a zigzag path for about one hour, leading us to Thiwa Village. From there, we climb a bit before crossing a suspension bridge at Thiwa. The higher path goes up before descending into Chirwa, where we will spend the night at a teahouse.

Today's trek takes us along the Tamur valley all day until we reach Sukathum. The trail offers a variety of landscapes, with ups and downs through dense forests. After a couple of hours, we reach Taplethok, where our trekking permit is checked as we enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. We cross a suspension bridge over the river and continue on the west bank, passing by a cardamom farm. After crossing the Khakshwa Khola, the path becomes easier, winding around the hillside above Temewa. Following the trail along Simbuwa Khola, we eventually reach a bridge that takes us to Sukathum, where we will spend the night at a teahouse.

Today's journey becomes challenging as we climb higher on a narrow trail. Leaving the Tamur River behind, the route now follows a more impressive canyon-like gorge along the Ghunsa Khola. We press on, crossing a suspension bridge and entering dense forests filled with bamboo trees, Utis trees, and various types of trees. After crossing another suspension bridge over Ghunsa Khola, we reach Jaubari, where you can enjoy the sight of a beautiful waterfall.

Continuing along Ghunsa Khola, we head to Lamatar, where we pause for lunch. After our meal, we navigate a zigzag trail and venture into thick forests. Crossing one more suspension bridge, we gradually ascend for about 2 hours along straight trails, leading us to our camp at Amjilosa. Tonight, we'll rest at a teahouse.

We make our way down the river as the valley opens up. The trail is surrounded by beautiful flowers like rhododendron, camellias, and azaleas, along with bamboo and cardamom. Our path leads us to Phole, a Tibetan settlement where you can buy handmade crafts from the locals and visit the monastery. After exploring the village, we continue our trek through a pine forest to reach Ghunsa. Ghunsa is a delightful Tibetan village with wooden houses adorned with prayer flags. There are two monasteries in the village, a comforting sight after several days in the wilderness. Tonight, we'll stay at a teahouse.

We go down along the river as the valley becomes wider. The path goes through pretty flowers like rhododendron, camellias, azaleas, and also bamboo and cardamom. We'll get to Phole, a Tibetan settlement where you can buy crafts made by the locals and visit the monastery. After leaving the village, we continue our trek through a pine forest to reach Ghunsa. Ghunsa is a lovely Tibetan village with wooden houses decorated with prayer flags. There are two monasteries in the village, a comforting sight after many days in the wild. Tonight, we'll stay at a teahouse.

We're taking a day to get used to the altitude in Ghunsa and check out the village. We're planning a day hike to a nearby monastery called Lapsang La Pass. From there, we'll get an amazing view of Ghunsa peak and a bunch of other unnamed peaks. Our hike to the Lapsang-La monastery will take us through a lush green forest. After that, we'll head back, take it easy, and spend the night in Ghunsa at a teahouse.

We walk alongside the river, heading north, and the trail treats us to fantastic mountain views. As we keep going, we stroll through meadows filled with colorful wildflowers, and there are rhododendron and pine forests too. Continuing our trek, we reach Rampuk Kharka, where we cross a bridge and pass by a waterfall and a landslide. Crossing the landslide area, we get a glimpse of Mt. Jannu.

Soon, we arrive at Khambachen, a Tibetan settlement with about a dozen houses set in a grassy plain surrounded by stunning mountains. The backdrop of the enormous north face of Jannu is truly incredible. Along the way, we cross several suspension bridges over the river and pass by waterfalls to finally reach Kambachen, where we'll spend the night at a teahouse.

We're going to check out the area around Kambachen and climb up a hill behind the village to get a view of the stunning mountains. From there, we'll take in the amazing sights of the Jannu Himalayan range. You'll find big rocks and lots of colorful prayer flags marking the viewpoint. It's going to be quite a sight!

We're going up the trail through open rocky fields to Ramtang and then crossing moraines on the northwest side of the Kanchenjunga Glacier to reach Lhonak. Get ready for some amazing views of Wedge Peak, Mera, Nepal Peak, and Twins along the way. Keep an eye out for blue sheep and Tibetan snowcock as we trek. And don't miss the spectacular sight of Kambachen, its glacier, and the ice formations of Kanchenjunga.

As we climb steeply across from the waterfall section, we'll reach the top of the ancient lateral moraine, where the slope becomes gentler. We'll cross some scrub and grass-covered moraine. After crossing a seasonal bridge over Lhonak Khola, we'll reach Lhonak, where we'll spend the night at a teahouse. Get ready for a breathtaking experience!

Leaving Lhonak, the trail is pretty easy as we head into the first hillocks of the ancient moraine. The path remains straightforward until we come across a huge boulder on the right, offering a view of the glacier further to the south. As we trek along the Kanchenjunga Glacier, the trail becomes a bit rocky, so we need to watch out for possible landslides.

Continuing our trek, we eventually reach Pangema/Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, which is a flat grassy area. If we walk a bit higher, we'll be treated to stunning views of Kanchenjunga, Chang Himal, Nepal Peak, and the Tibetan Himalaya range. After taking in the beauty, we'll make our way back down to Lhonak for the night at a teahouse. Get ready for some awe-inspiring sights!

The path is quite simple. Before reaching Kambachen, there's a big landslide, almost like a monster! As we walk down, we get a good chance to check out and learn about the landslide. You'll even catch a glimpse of the south side of Wedge Peak from Ramtang. Tonight, we'll be staying at a cozy teahouse. Get ready for a unique experience!

We stroll back using the same path, making our way from Kambachen to Ghunsa village. It's like retracing our steps and enjoying the familiar scenery. Tonight, we'll rest and spend the night at a comfy teahouse. Expect a relaxing evening after our walk!

We start our journey from Ghunsa near the school, heading up alongside the hydro pipes. This spot offers a fantastic view of Ghunsa in the soft morning light. As we trek, we encounter a steep trail, navigating through a lush forest filled with moss, vibrant rhododendrons, and juniper trees, creating a picturesque setting. After about 4 hours, we come across a stream, a flag, and a view leading up to a small col.

Following this, we make an easy descent around the hillside, passing through a rocky zone, until we finally reach Sele Le Camp. It's a wonderful spot to rest for the night at a teahouse, surrounded by nature's beauty. Get ready for a cozy evening after our day of exploration!

Today marks a challenging and exciting trek as we embark on a journey across three passes. We kick off by trekking uphill, treating ourselves to stunning views of the south side of Jannu and Makalu Himal. As we ascend, the Yalung range unfolds before our eyes, especially from Sinion La. We traverse Sinion La, then move on to Mirgin La and Sinelapche Bhanjyang.

Once we conquer these passes, we gear up for a steep descent, making our way down to Tseram. This small settlement perched above the Simbua Khola is where we'll spend the night at a teahouse. Get ready for a day filled with challenges, breathtaking scenery, and a well-deserved evening of relaxation!

We're in for an adventure today as we walk on the rocky ridges of Yalung Glacier, passing through the charming Lapsang village along the way. Keep your eyes peeled as we might spot some blue sheep while climbing up to the ridge. Our journey takes us alongside the Simbuwa Khola and Yalung Glacier until we reach the destination – Ramche.

Get ready for some breathtaking views! Once we arrive in Ramche, we'll be treated to a fantastic sight of the mountains that stand tall on the border between Nepal and Sikkim in India. Tonight, we'll rest up at a cozy teahouse, surrounded by the beauty of nature. It's a day filled with exploration and awe-inspiring landscapes!

Today's journey is a pleasant stroll, taking us up along the pasture next to the lateral moraine until we reach Oktang. As we arrive, we'll enter the mesmerizing world of the Kanchenjunga mineral universe, surrounded by the vast Yalung Glacier. At a certain bend, keep an eye out for the sacred crown of Kanchenjunga with its five distinct peaks. It's like witnessing nature's royal masterpiece!

Trekking to the southern side of Kanchenjunga, towering at 8586 meters, opens up a view of its southern face and provides a clear sight of Jannu (7711 meters). Our route to Yalung Base Camp includes a visit to Oktang Monastery, a sacred site situated right on the glacier. As we walk along the icy and slippery banks of the Yalung Glacier, we eventually reach Yalung Base Camp. Take a moment to soak in the beauty before we head back downhill to Tseram, following the glacier.

Tonight, we'll be staying at a teahouse, surrounded by the memories of our incredible journey and the natural wonders we've witnessed. Get ready for a restful evening!

Today, we're in for a downhill adventure as we descend from Tseram, passing through the lovely shaded rhododendron forest alongside the Simbuwa Khola. It's like stepping into a natural wonderland filled with vibrant colors and soothing shades.

Our journey leads us to Tortong, where we'll spend the night at a teahouse. But before we rest, let's savor some delicious meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included. Get ready for a day of scenic beauty and a cozy evening ahead!

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast because today's adventure kicks off with a steep ascent through a mossy wooded area, weaving through spots with moss-covered trees. As we trek, we'll pass through a landslide area, adding a touch of excitement to our journey. Our next stop is Lamite Bhanjyang, where we'll take a break for lunch.

After our meal, the trail leads us on a steep descent towards the Imja Khola, and eventually, we make our way down into Yamphudin. This charming village is a melting pot of cultures, home to Sherpas, Rais, Limbus, and Gurungs. It even houses another office for the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

Tonight, we'll be resting at a teahouse, surrounded by the warmth of the community and the memories of today's trek. It's an evening filled with diverse cultures and a cozy atmosphere!

As we bid farewell to the cozy village of Yamphudin, our path takes us on a descent through a lush forest, where we'll be treated to the soothing sounds of waterfalls. The journey unfolds with glimpses of vibrant cardamom fields and the charming Limbu village, all guiding us to the delightful Khebang village.

To reach Khebang, we'll cross over some suspension bridges, adding a touch of adventure as we navigate over bubbling streams. Walking alongside the Kabeli Khola, we pass through small settlements, soaking in the local atmosphere. The day's adventure culminates in Khebang, where we'll spend the night at a teahouse. Get ready for an evening filled with tales of the trail and the warmth of the local community!

Embark on a thrilling adventure as the trek unfolds along a spectacular path, almost like skywalking, around the cliffs of the Kabeli Khola. Crossing over the Kabeli river, our trail takes us up on a Limbu staircase, offering a unique experience. We then meander through fields and houses, soaking in the local scenes.

Our journey brings us to Hapu Khola, a settlement with a cozy and laid-back vibe, making it a perfect spot to unwind and recharge. As night falls, we'll rest at a teahouse, surrounded by the charm of the local atmosphere. Get ready for a night filled with tales of the trail and the soothing ambiance of Hapu Khola!

Prepare for an exciting journey as we cross the Kabeli Khola bridge, navigating a rough dirt road. Following this, we embark on a climb leading to the road before Ganesh Chowk. As we ascend, we're greeted with breathtaking views of the majestic Kanchenjunga and Jannu, making the climb totally worth it.

After passing through Phidim, get ready for a challenging but rewarding ascent over a long high pass, treating us to panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Following a series of ridges, we eventually make our way down to the charming destination of Ilam.

As the day's adventure comes to an end, we'll rest at a teahouse, surrounded by the stories of the road and the stunning views that have accompanied us throughout the day. It's a night filled with relaxation and a sense of accomplishment!

Get ready for a picturesque journey as we embark on a scenic drive to Bhadrapur, cruising along Nepal's highways that unveil a variety of breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy the beauty of quaint villages, rolling hills, and majestic mountains. Keep an eye out for the lush cardamom gardens and charming villages that will capture your heart along the way.

Upon reaching Bhadrapur, we'll continue our adventure with a scenic flight to Kathmandu, providing you with an aerial view of the stunning scenery. Once we touch down in Kathmandu, our friendly representative will be there to transfer you to the hotel.

With the day winding down, you have the option to relax at the hotel or indulge in some leisurely shopping for gifts and souvenirs. Tonight, rest and recharge at the hotel, reflecting on the incredible landscapes and experiences of your journey.