Overview
Embark on a thrilling adventure with the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek, where you’ll explore the Yalung Glacier and the southern side of the world’s third-highest mountain. Picture yourself trekking through lush forests, quaint villages, and finally reaching the base camp located at Ramche, sitting high at 4,610 meters above sea level. To truly enjoy this challenging yet stunning journey in the remote eastern part of Nepal, it’s important to be physically fit and have previous trekking experience.
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Once you’ve reached Ramche, treat your eyes to breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga South Face and neighboring peaks like Kabru. The trek unfolds a panorama of snow-capped mountains, picturesque subtropical lowlands, enchanting rhododendron forests, and awe-inspiring glaciers. The whole area is carefully protected by conservation initiatives, such as the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and the Sacred Himalayan Landscape initiative by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
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In this pristine environment, you’ll encounter a rich variety of wildlife, including elusive creatures like the snow leopard, the Asian black bear, and the charming red panda. For bird lovers, the region offers the chance to spot magnificent species like the golden-breasted fulvetta, snow cock, and the vibrant blood pheasant. If you possess good physical fitness, trekking know-how, and a deep appreciation for nature, this journey is tailor-made for you. It’s an opportunity to witness the unparalleled beauty of the third-highest mountain on Earth, standing tall amidst the tranquil landscapes of Nepal’s remote east. So, gear up, embrace the challenge, and let nature’s wonders unfold before your eyes on this inspiring trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.
Trip Highlights Of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
- Sunrise Spectacle: Witness breathtaking sunrise over Kanchenjunga from the base camp.
- Floral Wonderland: Explore vibrant rhododendron and magnolia forests along the trek.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with Rai and Limbu communities, learning about their lifestyle and traditions.
- Biodiversity Haven: Stroll through the diverse Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
- Mountain Majesty: Sleep near Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak (8586m).
- Hidden Gems: Discover lesser-known spots and serene landscapes along the trek.
- Photography Paradise: Capture stunning views of Kanchenjunga South from the Base Camp.
- Traditional Hospitality: Experience warm hospitality from locals throughout the journey.
- Culinary Delights: Sample local cuisine and traditional dishes during your trek.
- Nature's Symphony: Listen to the sounds of nature in the tranquil alpine surroundings.
Itinerary
After an amazing flight over the Himalayas, you'll land at Kathmandu Airport. A Himalayan hikers' representative will be there to greet you and take you to the hotel, helping with check-in.
After breakfast, we'll use a private vehicle to see important places in Kathmandu. There are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites here, and today we'll visit a few, like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. We'll discover their historical and cultural importance. Later, you can do some last-minute shopping for the journey to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Take a stroll, grab a bite at a restaurant, and unwind in your hotel room in the evening.
Early in the morning, we'll fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. After that, there's an 8-9 hour drive to Taplejung, the main area for growing black cardamom in Nepal. Along the way, enjoy the sights of a lovely tea garden in Kanyam and Fikkal. Taplejung, sitting at 2,000 meters, has a nice climate, and the lodges there are comfortable.
After breakfast, we'll have a long drive from Taplejung to Happu Khola. During the journey, notice the weather getting colder and the landscape changing from hills to mountains. Passing through terraced fields and forests, you might catch glimpses of high mountains. We'll cross Kabeli Khola and hike up to Kebang village after lunch, moving through settlements and surrounding agricultural areas.
After breakfast in Kebang, we climb towards Ekchana Vanjyang, taking a short break before heading downhill to a bridge. Along the way, catch glimpses of snow-capped peaks. After crossing the bridge, we'll ascend to the charming Sherpa village called Yamphudin. Don't forget, there's a police checkpoint nearby to check our permits.
Today, we start with a challenging climb to a high point at 3,292 meters, crossing the Deurali Danda ridge. As the trail winds through rhododendron-filled slopes to Chittre, be ready for steep sections. At the col, enjoy wide views and a small pool. The descent to Simbua Khola offers northwest views of Jannu's summit, and Kanchenjunga pops up along the way. Watch out for a landslide-affected part during the initial descent; it's steep! Then, enter the forest for a gradual descent to Simbu Khola's banks. A one-hour walk leads to a bridge, taking us to the north bank and the meadow of Torengthen.
Today's path is easier. We'll reach a special Buddhist spot with rocks, flags, and Trisuls after a short walk through the forest. Following the riverbank, the stroll becomes pleasant, leading us to Tseram through a big meadow. Tseram is a lovely grassy spot with a single house serving as a simple teahouse, up on a small terrace, around 50 meters above the river.
The trail goes through a pretty forest with pines and rhododendrons, crossing a big loose bridge near a small stream. After a short climb from Tseram, we reach the start of the Yalung Glacier. As we go up past the glacier and through valleys, the view is amazing. The Yalung Glacier's end point appears with peaks like Talung, Kabru, and Rathong, along with a frozen lake. The last teahouse on the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is in Ramzher/Ramche/Ramchour.
From Ramzher, it's a short walk to the South Base Camp for stunning views of Kangchenjunga's south face. In about an hour, we reach the glacier's north swing with an easy trail. The south and west faces of Kangchenjunga, hidden earlier, become visible. Another hour leads us to the Yalung Glacier's moraine, with a chorten offering clear views of Kangchenjunga's main summit, Yalung Kang, and Khambachen Peak. After enjoying the views, we return to Ramche. You also have the option to trek downhill to Cheram.
Today, we go back the way we came, heading to Tseram and then to Torengthen. Before ending the day, enjoy the beauty around you.
Our last day of walking in the peaceful forest on the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. We take a shortcut along the ancient trade route between Tibet and India, thanks to local efforts and government support. Ranipul, a small settlement next to the Tamor River, is where we end our trek.
After a tasty celebratory breakfast in Ranipul, we enjoy a scenic drive through hills and villages, reaching Taplejung for lunch. If you're up for it, there's an option to continue the drive to Illam. Otherwise, you can relax in Taplejung for the rest of the day and explore in the evening.
Today, we take a drive from Taplejung, heading back to either Bhadrapur or Jhapa. This marks the end of our trek, and you can either catch a flight from Bhadrapur or continue your journey from Jhapa.
After breakfast, we drive you to Bhadrapur Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Once you land, we'll take you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax, shop, or visit a spa.
On your last day in Nepal, our crew member will take you to the airport for final departure.
The Trip Cost Includes
- Airport transfers (international & domestic) according to the itinerary
- Three nights of hotel stay in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Special permits and entry fees required for the trek
- Three meals a day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Accommodation during the trek in tents/homestays
- English-speaking, well-trained trekking guides, and assistant guides based on group size
- Porters provided for luggage
- Medical supplies with a First Aid Kit
The Trip Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/from Nepal: Not included in the cost.
- Lunch and dinner before the trek: Please budget an additional US$20 per day for these meals.
- Insurance: Coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and lost or stolen items is not included.
- Drinks: Alcoholic and bottled beverages, except sterilized drinking water, are not covered.
- Additional Fees: Costs for internet and laundry services are not part of the package.
- Non-Itinerary Expenses: Any foods and beverages not specified in the itinerary are not included.
- Personal Gear and Expenses: Participants are responsible for their personal equipment and additional expenses.
- Tips and Gratitude: Gratuity for staff members is not included in the overall cost.
FAQs
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is considered tough, requiring strong physical fitness, endurance, and mental resilience as you’ll be trekking above 5,000 meters with thin air and unpredictable weather.
Climbing Kanchenjunga is considered more challenging than Everest, requiring advanced technical skills and substantial mountaineering experience due to tough terrain and weather conditions.
Climbing Kanchenjunga is not recommended for beginners because it’s a tall mountain (8586 meters) and the expedition lasts 6-8 weeks. The climb involves tricky slopes, icy surfaces, crevasses, and tough ridges, requiring climbers to have advanced technical skills for a safe and successful ascent.
Yes, you can see Mount Everest from Kanchenjunga. During an unforgettable sunrise, a guide in the lounge pointed out the peaks. Mount Everest was clearly visible to the left of Kanchenjunga, appearing as a small triangular peak, adding to the breathtaking view.
The cost for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek begins at $1900 and can go up to $2600 per person, depending on the group size and the facilities you choose. Your daily expenses during the trek will vary based on your preferences and plans.
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