The Kanchenjunga Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and remote Himalayan adventures, leading to the base of the world’s third-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga (8,586 m). The name Kanchenjunga means “The Five Treasures of Snow”, referring to the mountain’s five high summits, believed to hold treasures of God, including gold, silver, gems, grain, and sacred texts. Local legends say the mountain is sacred, and its spirits protect the people, making it essential to respect the natural environment and local customs.
The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a jeep drive to Ilam and Sukethum, where the walking officially starts. The trail passes through terraced hills, forests, and traditional Limbu and Rai villages, offering experiences of local culture, customs, and festivals. It is possible to witness chhaang (rice beer) rituals, traditional dances, and Buddhist prayer flags, providing insight into the spiritual and cultural life of eastern Nepal.
The journey is physically demanding and considered difficult, with long walking days, steep climbs, high-altitude conditions, and mostly remote trails. Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,143 m) provides breathtaking views of glaciers, icefalls, and towering summits. Selele Pass (5,330 m) is a high mountain pass offering spectacular panoramic views of surrounding Himalayan giants, with a challenging but rewarding crossing. From the trail, many other famous mountains can be seen, including Makalu (8,481 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Kumbhakarna, and Pandim, creating an extraordinary Himalayan panorama throughout the trek.
At the heart of the route is Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) itself, a sacred and majestic giant that dominates the skyline. The trek offers not only adventure and physical challenge but also a rich cultural experience, connecting visitors with local traditions, spiritual beliefs, and the unique way of life along the trail.
Arrive Kathmandu (1350m). Transfer to the hotel
Your memorable holiday begins in Kathmandu. After arrival, you will have time to freshen up before meeting your guide for an afternoon briefing. This is the perfect moment to organize your trekking gear and prepare your bags for the journey ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
Transport: 20 M drive hotel
Kathmandu - Flight Bhadrapur (91m) - Ilam (1200m)
Everything is arranged for a smooth journey. In the morning, take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. After landing, drive by jeep to Ilam, enjoying views of the countryside on the way. Ilam is famous for its tea gardens and Himalayan cheese.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Transport : 45 minutes flight (Bhadrapur). 4/5 hours drive by jeep (Ilam).
Ilam - Taplejung - Sekathum (1576m)
Drive through the scenic hills of Ilam and Phidim to reach Taplejung. From there, continue on a rough mountain road via Mitlung and Chiruwa, following the Tamor River to Sekathum.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Transport : 7/8 hours drive by jeep (Taplejung).
Sekathum - Amjilosa (2510m)
Walk from Sukathum to Amjilosa. The trail goes uphill and through open, rocky areas with beautiful views. Cross several bridges over the Ghusna Khola before arriving at Amjilosa.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 2,186 m. Elevation loss: 1425 m. 5/6 hours walking.
Amjilosa - Gyabla (2725m)
Walk through lush forest with rhododendrons and bamboo. Pass a beautiful waterfall on the way, then continue over steep climbs and descents to reach Gyabla.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 998 m. Elevation loss: 691 m. 4/5 hours walking.
Gyabla - Ghunsa (3475m)
Leave Gyabla and walk towards Ghunsa, passing through a wide meadow. After a gentle climb over a small hill and a descent to the river, reach the village of Ghunsa. The village is known for its wooden houses, a school, a health post, and a small hydropower plant.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 925 m. Elevation loss: 213 m. 5 hours walking.
Ghunsa - Khangpachen (4050m )
The trail follows the Ghunsa Khola, winding through forested areas with tall trees and flowing streams. Along the way, pass colorful chortens and mani walls. Enjoy stunning views of glacial moraines before arriving at the Tibetan-style village of Khangpachen, with breathtaking views of the north face of Jannu, one of the region’s most dramatic peaks.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 769 m. Elevation loss: 110 m. 5/6 hours walking.
Acclimatization: Jannu Himal Base Camp (4,600 m)
Rest and explore the surroundings today. Khambachen is ideal for acclimatisation, with an optional hike to the Jannu Viewpoint offering spectacular views of Mt Jannu, its glacier, and nearby peaks. The spiritually important Phaktalung site attracts many pilgrims during the full moon festival in August.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
5/6 hours walking.
Khambachen - Lhonak (4761 m)
After breakfast, walk along the left side of the Kanchenjunga Glacier. The trail follows a high plateau to the campsite at Lhonak, offering breathtaking views of majestic peaks, including Mera Peak (6,364 m), Wedge Peak (6,802 m), Twins Peak (7,350 m), and Nepal Peak (7,177 m). The landscape is dramatic, with glaciers, rocky ridges, and open alpine terrain. Lhonak is a perfect spot to enjoy the serene atmosphere, take photographs, and admire the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 672 m. Elevation loss: 0 m. 4/5 hours walking.
Lhonak - Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143 m) - Lhonak
Spend extra time exploring this stunning area, enjoying the Kanchenjunga North base camp (Pang Pema) the majestic peaks and peaceful atmosphere. Take a circular hike and then descend back to Lhonak.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 547 m. Elevation loss: 547 m. 6/7 hrs hours walking.
Lhonak - Ghunsa (3475m)
Trek from Lhonak through alpine pastures and rocky trails, passing Ramtang and Khambachen before reaching Ghunsa.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 71 m. Elevation loss: 1405 m. 7/8 hours walking.
Ghunsa - Sele Le Base Camp (4240m)
From Ghunsa, trek uphill through dense forests and open alpine terrain to reach Sele Le Base Camp. The trail is narrow and steep in some sections but offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, deep valleys, and shimmering glaciers. Along the way, spot colorful alpine flowers, fluttering prayer flags, and traditional stone houses used by local herders, adding a glimpse of mountain life.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 834 m. Elevation loss: 53 m. 5/6 hours walking.
Sele Le Base Camp (across Sale Le pass) - Tseram (3870 m)
From Sele Le Base Camp, cross Sele Le Pass, enjoying wide views of rugged mountains, glaciers, and deep valleys. The trail is steep and rocky in places, with alpine flowers and occasional wildlife along the way. Descend to Tseram, a quiet village with traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and a glimpse of local life and culture.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 635 m. Elevation loss: 976 m. 6/7 hours walking.
Tseram - Ramche - Oktang (Yalung, Kanchanjunga South Base Camp Viewpoint (4740m) - Tseram
The scenic trek from Tseram to Ramche follows the edge of the glacier, offering stunning views of peaks like Koktang and Rathong. The trail passes a serene lake, open alpine fields, and traditional stone houses where local families live. Along the way, prayer flags and mani walls add to the cultural charm. Return to Tseram.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 558 m. Elevation loss: 558 m. 7/8 hours walking.
Tseram - Tortong (2980m)
From Tseram, the trail descends through forests, passing small streams and crossing rivers. Local birds and wildlife can be seen along the way. The trail leads to Tortong, a quiet village with traditional stone houses and friendly local people.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 0 m. Elevation loss: 880 m. 6/7 hours walking.
Tortong - Yamphudin (2080 m)
Today is mostly downhill, starting with a steep descent to Imja Khola. After crossing Dubi Pass, continue along a gentler trail through forests and small streams. Arrive at Yamphudin, a village home to Sherpas, Rais, Limbus, and Gurungs, with traditional houses and a friendly local community.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 879 m. Elevation loss: 2188 m. 6/7 hours walking.
Yamphudin - Khebang (1,910m)
This section is a gentle walk through villages, terraced fields, and forested areas. Pass through Limbu and Rai communities, where traditional houses and local culture can be seen. The trail offers views of the surrounding hills and streams before reaching Khebang, a peaceful village with friendly locals.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 901 m. Elevation loss: 808 m. 5/6 hours walking.
Khebang - Kanyam (1570m)
The drive from Khebang to Kanyam winds through hillside villages and scenic landscapes. Along the way, see terraced fields, small streams, and traditional houses. As the road descends, arrive at the famous tea gardens of Kanyam, known for their lush green plantations, fresh mountain air, and local tea production.
Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Transport : 5/6 hours drive by jeep (Kanyam).
Transfer Bhadrapur - Flight to Kathmandu
From Kanyam, we drive to Bhadrapur. Then, we board a flight back to Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Transport: 4/5 hours driving by jeep (Bhadrapur). 45 minutes flight (Kathmandu)
Kathmandu - Souvenirs day | Sightseeing Day.
If you choose sightseeing, this full-day cultural tour offers a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu’s history, spirituality, and art, guided by a certified expert who will enrich your understanding of the city’s unique heritage.
Suggested itinerary (maximum three sites per day):
- SwayambunathThe price includes a certified cultural guide, a reserved vehicle, and a professional driver for the day.
Pricing per person:
2 - 3 People: €70Final Departure / Back to Native Land
According to your flight schedule, we will drive you to the airport for your onward journey.
