Trip Facts
- Price Start From (for 2013):USD 2821
- Duration: 27 Days
- Max.Altitude: 5140 m.
- Group Size: Minimum 02 Pax, Maximum 16 Pax
- TripGrade: Strenuous
- Season: March - Jun, Sept – Nov
- Accommodation: Hotel & Tented Camp
- Starting Point: Kathmandu
- Ending Point: Kathmandu
Trip Highlights
- The magnificent views of the snow capped mountain peaks
- Varied landscapes from the subtropical lowlands to the spectacular glacial plateaus
- Enchanting forests of rhododendrons
- Abundance of wildlife that includes the famous muck deer and blue sheep
- Close interaction with local people
- Knachangjunga South and North base camp
Testimonials
"It was really a wonderful visit to Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and Darjeeling through your agency."
Mr. Ram and Marron Staffs, Namaste and I would like to thank you very much for your kind support. It was really a wonderful visit to Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and Darjeeling through your agency I travel to Nepal and many other countries and have found...
Nepal »Trekking »Kangchenjunga Region » Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp Trek - 27 Days
Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp Trek - 27 Days
- Trip Overview |
- Detail Itinerary |
- General information |
- Cost Include & Excludes |
- Equipment List
Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, lies on Nepal's eastern border with Sikkim. On trekking along the challenging trails amid the mesmerizing vistas of Kanchenjunga, we get to witness exotic wilderness.
This wonderful trek begins and ends at the small airstrip at Sukhetar (Taplejung), which lies in the remote north east corner of Nepal. It takes you through fascinating villages and great forests to the awe-inspiring South Face Base Camp at Ramche, before crossing the Mirgin La to the north side of Kanchenjunga and the Pang Pema base camp.
As trekkers skirt through this amazing adventurous and exploratory trail, they attain a glorious and unforgettable experience that was so much worth the trip.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
Day 3: Fly to Biratnagar
Day 4: Fly to Suketar & trek to Lali Kharka (2220m)
Day 5: Trek to Keswa (2100m)
Day 6: Trek to Mamanke (2000m)
Day 7: Trek to Yamphudin (1650m)
Day 8: Trek to Lamite jungle camp (2920m)
Day 9: Trek to Torontan (3080m)
Day 10: Trek to Tseram (3750m)
Day 11: Trek to Ramche (4360m)
Day 12: Ramche – Exploration
Day 13: Trekking beyond the Mirgin La (4663m)
Day 14: Trek to Gunsa (3475m)
Day 15: Trek to Khambachen (4040m)
Day 16: Trek to Lhonak (4790m)
Day 17: Trek to Pang Pema (5140m)
Day 18: Pang Pema rest day
Day 19-20: Retreat trek to Gunsa (3430m)
Day 21: Trek to Kyapra (2300m)
Day 22: Trek to Sakathum (1600m)
Day 23: Trek to Chirwa (1180m)
Day 24: Trek to Phurumba
Day 25: Trek to Taplejung - Suketar (2300m)
Day 26: Flight to Kathmandu via Biratnagar
Day 27: Depart Kathmandu
Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu
The panoramic view of snow-capped mountain peaks welcome you at first as you enter Nepal. A representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel. At the hotel you will be briefed about your daily activities.
Day 2:Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu Valley is one of the richest cities of Nepal, both historically and culturally. It has always been a popular destination for tourists. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Buddhism and Western influence in the Valley. Western Influence because Kathmandu used to be hippies favourite place in the world during hippie era. Patan and Bhaktapur, its two major neighbouring cities bear immense historical, cultural and religious significances. There will be a half day guided tour to the famous and biggest Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal Boudhanath, the 15th century Palace of 55 windows and Swoyambhunath.
Day 3: Fly to Biratnagar
From Kathmandu you take a 45 minutes flight to Biratnagar. On reaching Biratnagar, you make preparations for the forthcoming journey.
Day 4: Fly to Suketar & trek to Lali Kharka (2220m)
We take a 30 minute flight to Suketar, Taplejung from Biratnagar. Soon after refreshment, you head to Lali Kharka with the trekking crew. On the trails, we walk by rich pastures and wonderful settlements. After several descents, we arrive at Lali Kharka.
Day 5: Trek to Keswa (2100m)
As you traverse along the steep route to Pokora village, fascinating terraced farmland unfolds soon after crossing a suspension bridge above the Phawa Khola. The route further leads to Kunjari where we stop for lunch. After lunch, we continue following the trekking trail. We pass through dense forests and charming villages, as you progress along the trail. On skirting along a gently sloping mountain path, after trekking for 5-6 hours, we reach Tambawa and later Bhanjyang where we find several teahouses. Take in the grandiose At this point, we can capture mesmerizing sight of Kanchenjunga glowing against the late afternoon sun. After having trekked for 5-6 hours, we conclude the day’s trip.
Day 6:Trek to Mamanke (2000m)
Leaving behind the terraced fields of Keswa, we follow an adventurous route leading to Nandeva Khola. After crossing the river, we trek along the glaciated mountain passes. Further ahead, the route winds through dense forest and the village of Loppoding. We come across shady areas where you can rest for a while after strenuous trekking. The winding trail then takes us to the right bank of the Kabeli Khola. After a while, terraced fields reappear and the village of Anpan comes into view. We continue ascending till we reach Ponpe Dhara. There are shady spots on the way where we can have a short rest. As we proceed along the trail, terraced fields stretches before us along the crest of the ridge. There is a rest area where we can stop for a while to relax in the fascinating sight of Mt Jannu. We further continue treading along the winding descent and pass through several villages and terraced fields along Khangwa Khola. We cross a suspension bridge and continue descending the undulating mountain passes till you reach the village of Mamankhe.
Day 7:Trek to Yamphudin (1650m)
Beginning with an easy climb, the walk to Yamphudin is along a trail which contours the hillside above the Kabeli Khola. We cross the ridges and stream beds that make up the valley sides and the trail eventually becomes level with the river a couple of hours before Yamphudin. Along the way, we can stop to bathe in one of the many clear pools in this beautiful river. It is a truly idyllic spot and after lunch by the river, you complete the day's walk at Yamphudin. Yamphudin is the most remote settlement in this area and the last habitation you will see until you reach Gunsa. Needless to say, it is a charming place tucked away beneath the ridge of the Deurali Danda, which you will cross next.
Day 8: Trek to Lamite jungle camp (2920m)
Beyond Yamphudin, the trail ascends a steep spur before dropping again to cross the Omje Khola. Walking through beautiful and dense forest, we stop for lunch in a field atop this spur, which has fine views of the valley beyond Yamphudin to the south and of the Omje Khola Valley and Deurali Danda to the north. A steep descent to the river brings you to a clearing in the Lamite forest.
Day 9: Trek to Torontan (3080m)
From your campsite we ascend steeply for 3 hours through dense forest to the top of the Deurali Danda. From the top, Mt Jannu is clearly visible and definitely closer. After crossing the pass, we descend across some fairly steep and exposed screed slopes before re-entering the forest, where we will stop for lunch. After lunch, a steep descent takes us down into the valley of the Simbua Khola and after crossing an interesting wooden bridge, you arrive at Torontan. This campsite lies amongst the towering fir trees of what is now a mainly coniferous alpine forest.
Day 10:Trek to Tseram (3750m)
This morning we follow the right bank of the river, passing through pine and rhododendron forests. The trail is steep and, as the day progresses, the trees become sparser and more stunted, giving us glimpses of the snow-capped giants ahead and of the massive snout of the Yalung Glacier. Just before Tseram, the towering heights of Kabru and Rathong start to peep over the moraine. We camp at Tseram, where night-time temperature falls, which reminds us that we are gaining height.
Day 11: Trek to Ramche (4360m)
Today we walk a relatively short distance to Ramche which is situated on a broad, flat ablation zone. The scenery is magnificent as we ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier and into a series of ablation valleys. A frozen lake, crystal clear streams and magnificent views of Kokthan, Rathong and Kabru are the highlights of the walk into Ramche.
Day 12:Ramche – Exploration
Ramche – Exploration Leaving our camp at Ramche, we take a packed lunch and set off very early for your first close encounter with Kanchenjunga. Following the valley around its sweeping curve, we come across the vast southern wall of Mt. Kanchenjunga. The ridge forms a cirque which is over 15 kms long and not less than 7500 m high. Along this ridge lie the three main summits of Mt Kanchenjunga at 8420m, 8586m, and 8474m. The sight is truly breathtaking. Proceeding further towards Oktang [4630m], we descend onto the glacier and cross it to a point below Talu from where we can see the panoramic view of the mountains in the area. Especially impressive is the eastern part of Kumbhakarna Glacier, flowing from the east face of Jannu (Kumbhakarna being the local name for Jannu). We then return to Ramche.
Day 13: Trekking beyond the Mirgin La (4663m)
Leaving our campsite, we trek down the valley, passing the small settlement of Lapsang, before turning off towards the Mirgin La - the pass we must cross in order to reach Gunsa and the north side of Kanchenjunga. As we descend from the Mirgin La, the views, in particular of Mt. Jannu, are simply magnificent. Our campsite will be somewhere beyond the pass.
Day 14: Trek to Gunsa (3475m)
After a steep descent we approach the Lamba Sumba Kharka, from where there are more splendid views of the awesome south-west face of Mt. Jannu. From here, the going is easy. Descending on an excellent trail, we reach the village of Gunsa. Gunsa is a Tibetan village with a tiny gompa and prayer flags fluttering from the wooden houses. It comes as a welcome sight after the rigorous walking of the previous days and provides an excellent opportunity to visit a local hostelry and sample the tongba (alcoholic beverage fermented out of millet).
Day 15: Trek to Khambachen (4040m)
The trail ascends gently through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, passing many mani walls and chortens. We stop for lunch by the river at Rampak Kharka. After lunch there is a steep climb before descending to the summer village of Khambachen. The views of Mt. Jannu or Mt. Kumbhakarna from here are excellent.
Day 16: Trek to Lhonak (4790m)
The trek up to Lhonak via Ramtang village is not too strenuous and despite the increase in altitude, we are able to walk on easily, enjoying the breathtaking views of the valley and mountain peaks. Our lunch stop is at Ramtang, from where the incredible fluted summit of Wedge Peak first becomes visible. During the afternoon Nepal Peak, the Twins, Mera and the White Wave all come into view. Then you arrive at Lhonak, situated high above the Kanchenjunga Glacier opposite Wedge Peak.
Day 17: Trek to Pang Pema (5140m)
A leisurely 3 hours walk from Lhonak takes us up to Pang Pema. The trail follows the moraine before finally reaching Pang Pema, the North Face Base Camp, which is in a sheltered spot, directly opposite the towering north face of Kanchenjunga. This is one of the most spectacular places in the world and is a fitting climax to this unique trek.
Day 18: Pang Pema rest day
Today is a rest day, but for the more energetic ones, there are several diversions lined up for the day. One is to ascend the lower slopes of Drohmo for panoramic views of Kanchenjunga and its adjoining peaks. Another possibility is to continue up the increasingly difficult terrain on the right flank of the glaciers for alternative views of the more remote peaks around the Jongsang La Pass.
Day 19 & 20: Retreat trek to Gunsa (3430m)
Retreat trek to Gunsa (3430m) For the next 2 days we retrace your steps to Gunsa, passing through Ramtang and Khambachen en-route.
Day 21:Trek to Kyapra (2300m)
From Gunsa, we take the route out of the mountains that follows the beautiful Gunsa and Tamur Khola (rivers). The trail passes through spectacular forests of rhododendron, conifer, birch and oak. The valley sides here are steep and the trail follows the river as it cascades downwards. We pass through Kyapra, the last of the Tibetan villages, and an hour or so further on, we reach a spot called Tang.
Day 22: Trek to Sakathum (1600m)
Heading for the village of Sakathum, our route follows an undulating trail for the first couple of hours until we reach Amjilasa. From here, there is a long steep descent from which we can see the Gunsa Khola Valley stretched out before you. You then reach Sakathum.
Day 23: Trek to Chirwa (1180m)
Leaving Sakathum, we head to Chirwa. En route we meet the union of two rivers, Simbua Khola and Gunsa Khola. At this point we get to witness the most magnificent view of the two rivers uniting into Tamur Koshi. On following the trail along Tamur Khola, many other small tributary streams come our way. After trekking for about 4-5 hours we enter into the wonderful village of Chirwa.
Day 24: Trek to Phurumba
The route further leads to cultivated land and rich pastures. On reaching Mitlung, we stop for a healthy lunch. Then the trail zigzags through the path of steep stones. After climbing for about 4 hours we come to the valley of Phurumba.
Day 25: Trek to Taplejung - Suketar (2300m)
As we leave the valley, we continue ascending along the ridge for about 3 hours to Taplejung village. We can wander around the village observing the villagers getting along with their daily routine. As Nepalese folks are generally friendly, chances are we may get invited to a few village homes .Thereafter, leisurely ascent for about 2 hours, we finally reach the airstrip at Suketar where we conclude the trip of the day.
Day 26: Flight to Kathmandu via Biratnagar
We fly back to Biratnagar and then take a connecting flight to Kathmandu. There will be transferred to the hotel upon arrival.
Day 27: Depart Kathmandu
Our representative will take you to the airport for final departure.
Accommodation:
During Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp Trek we opt you accomodate on 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar in Kathmandu City or similar.
While in Trekking route, you can get many Tea House/ Lodge to stay with moderately good service. Most Lodges provide service similar to Hotels in Kathmandu or you can also accomodate in tents at best camp sites available. We will ensure you get the best service possible to keep your trek enjoyable.
Meals:
We arrange the best quality food for all trekkers. Basically we recommend you local community foods of Kanchenjunga Region so that you could enjoy the culture, the way of living of local people and also promote the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Other than that many kind of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisine like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available in most of the places based upon your requirement.
Porter and Staff Care:
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. They are the backbones for the accomplishment of the trek.
Best Season:
The month of March - Jun & Sept – Nov are the best season for Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp Trek. Click here
Difficulty
Since the max. altitude of the peak is 5140 m so technically it is difficult peak to scale.
Our Guides:
The Guides play a very active role during the trek. Marron Treks has experienced and helpful treking guides who make your trip enjoyable as well as successful. To make our visitors journey fruitful, the team of MarronTreks has got number of guides who have good knowledge about the culture, language, location and each and every little things of Kanchenjunga Region which would help our trekkers to enjoy the full potential of the trail and communicate easily with the people along the trail.
Travel Insurance:
Before starting your journey with MarronTreks it is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure your insurance covers you for both medical and evacuation costs. In some places it is not necessary but it would be better if you have the travel insurance with you all the time. That would make your trip save and hassle free.
For more queries, Visit our FAQ section or contact us directly at info@marrontreks.com
Following are the cost details that have been provided to you for your convinience. If you want to get more, then please dont hesitate to contact us
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop service
- Applicable Airfare with guide as per the itinerary
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on BB basis as per itinerary
- All transportation costs according to itinerary
- Farewell dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program
- All trekking accommodation costs according to itinerary
- Crew for camp treks: Guide, Cook, Sherpa, Kitchen staffs and necessary porters
- Personal insurance for crew members
- All applicable tourist fees and permits for the trekking, conservation fees, TIMS fees and Special Permit fees.
Cost Excludes
- Entry fees and other expenses for sightseeing in Kathmandu
- Personal Insurance for travel to Nepal
- Lunch & dinner expenses arising before or after the trekking period
- Emergency Rescue evacuation
- Travelling Insurance
- International Airfare
- Tipping (Tips)
- Bar bills & beverage
- Other personal expenses
- Any other expenses not mentioned in the 'Cost Includes' section above
Clothing and equipments Accessories for Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp Trek
The equipments and clothing list below is for a relatively longer trek involving a cold high altitude destination. If you are doing a short trek to a relatively lower altitude you may not need all these. The list below is for a guideline alone, you may have your own check list as well.Duffle Bag and a good sleeping bag will by provided by Marron Treks P.Ltd, which you should return after completion of your trip. Please note that most of the trekking items are easily available for buying or renting in Nepal and you are suggested not to bring unnecessary items with you.
Required Equipments
Cap for sun protection during trek
sunglasses/goggles
sunscreen lotion/sun balm
T-shirts and long sleeved shirts
Fleece or thermal shirts for colder areas
Fleece jumper/sweaters
Down jacket
wind /water proof outer garment
Casual troussers for walking
Water proof trouser
Thermal legging for colder areas
Hand gloves
Trekking Shoes For foot
woolen and cotton socks
Trainer or casual shoes
Waterproof hiking boot
Gaiter for rain and snow
Others
Day sack to carry personal goods
Personal medicines and first aid kit
water bottle and iodine tablets
Torch (better head torch)
Camera and extra batteries
toiletries and towel
Large handkerchief
Optional items
compass, binoculars, altimeters,
Playing cards , books, guide book
The equipments and clothing list below is for a relatively longer trek involving a cold high altitude destination. If you are doing a short trek to a relatively lower altitude you may not need all these. The list below is for a guideline alone, you may have your own check list as well.Duffle Bag and a good sleeping bag will by provided by Marron Treks P.Ltd, which you should return after completion of your trip. Please note that most of the trekking items are easily available for buying or renting in Nepal and you are suggested not to bring unnecessary items with you.
Required Equipments
Cap for sun protection during trek
sunglasses/goggles
sunscreen lotion/sun balm
T-shirts and long sleeved shirts
Fleece or thermal shirts for colder areas
Fleece jumper/sweaters
Down jacket
wind /water proof outer garment
Casual troussers for walking
Water proof trouser
Thermal legging for colder areas
Hand gloves
Trekking Shoes For foot
woolen and cotton socks
Trainer or casual shoes
Waterproof hiking boot
Gaiter for rain and snow
Others
Day sack to carry personal goods
Personal medicines and first aid kit
water bottle and iodine tablets
Torch (better head torch)
Camera and extra batteries
toiletries and towel
Large handkerchief
Optional items
compass, binoculars, altimeters,
Playing cards , books, guide book
Clothing and equipments Accessories for Tea House and Camping Treks
The equipments and clothing list below is for a relatively longer trek involving a cold high altitude destination in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. If you are doing a short trek to a relatively lower altitude you may not need all these. The list below is for a guideline alone, you may have your own check list as well. Duffle Bag and a good sleeping bag will by provided by Marron Treks P.Ltd, which you should return after completion of your trip. Please note that most of the trekking items are easily available for buying or renting in Nepal and you are suggested not to bring unnecessary items with you.
For Head
- Cap for sun protection during trek
- sunglasses/goggles
- sunscreen lotion/sun balm
For Body
- T-shirts and long sleeved shirts
- fleece or thermal shirts for colder areas
- fleece jumper/sweaters
- Down jacket
- wind /water proof outer garment
For leg and hand
- Casual troussers for walking
- Water proof trouser
- Thermal legging for colder areas
- Hand gloves
Trekking Shoes For foot
- woolen and cotton socks
- Trainer or casual shoes
- Waterproof hiking boot
- Gaiter for rain and snow
Others
- Day sack to carry personal goods
- Personal medicines and first aid kit
- water bottle and iodine tablets
- Torch (better head torch)
- Camera and extra batteries
- toiletries and towel
- Large handkerchief
Optional items
- compass, binoculars, altimeters,
- Playing cards , books, guide book
For Peak climbing we suggest the following gears except above mentioned accessories.
Suggested Climbing Gear
- Climbing boots, Crampons.
- Ice axe, Harness.
- Karabiners.
- Tapes/slings
- Rock pegs, Helmet (crash hat).
- Warm climbing trousers, Long cotton hiking shirts.
- Waterproof climbing jacket, Gaiters.
- Sun hat, Light cotton athletic socks and wool.
- Climbing socks, long sleeved cotton/woolen shirts.
- T-shirts, Wool long underwear.
- Down high altitude, Sleeping bag.
- Down jacket/ trousers/vest, climbing sunglasses.
- Sunscreen, Lip salve.
- Lightweight fleece, Fleece/wool for climbing.
- Head torch /batteries/bulbs, Lightweight thermal/ insulated ski gloves.
Please do write us at info@marrontreks.com for furthermore information except those mentioned in above.
FAQ
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