Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek, 17 Days

Itinerary 
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu 1338m
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our company representative picks you up and transfers you to the hotel. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu. 

Day 2: Permit Procedure and Full Day Guided Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu Valley by private vehicle
Today, you will go on the full day guided sightseeing tour. You will head towards the Boudhanath Stupa, which is the largest Stupa of South Asia. You will then visit one of the holiest temples of Hindus, Pashupatinath Temple. From here, you will move towards the Swayambhunath Stupa, which is also popularly known as Monkey Temple. All of these monuments are the part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Overnight stay at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (50 minutes) and Drive to Taplejung (1820m/5-6 hours) by private Jeep 
Your trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, located in the subtropical plains of eastern Nepal. From Bhadrapur, a private Jeep will transfer you on a long but fascinating drive through winding mountain roads and terraced hillsides towards Taplejung. Along the way, you’ll witness the diversity of Nepal’s landscapes—ranging from fertile farmlands and lush valleys to traditional villages inhabited by Limbu, Rai, and other ethnic groups. By evening, you will reach Taplejung, a vibrant town that serves as the gateway to the Kanchenjunga region. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Taplejung.

Day 4: Drive from Taplejung to Sekathum (1640m/3-4 hours) by private Jeep 
After breakfast, your adventure continues with a Jeep drive deeper into the Kanchenjunga region. The route follows the Tamor River valley and passes through several picturesque villages such as Chiruwa, Tapethok, and Lelep—each reflecting the unique culture and traditions of eastern Nepal. Fertile fields of rice, millet, and maize decorate the hillsides, while chortens, mani walls, and small stupas highlight the spiritual presence of Buddhism in the area. The road gradually winds into the Ghunsa Valley, and after crossing a suspension bridge, you arrive at Sekathum (1640m). On a clear day, this is where you can enjoy your first spectacular views of Mount Jannu (7710m). Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Sekathum.

Day 5: Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2498m/4-5 hours)
Leaving Sekathum, the narrow trail winds along the north bank of the Ghunsa Khola, with short ascents and descents. After crossing stone steps high above the river, you’ll pass a cascading waterfall before reaching the small hamlet of Ghaiyabari (2130m). The path then traverses exposed grassy slopes on a trail that requires steady footing before arriving at the Tibetan-influenced village of Amjilosa. After lunch, you can explore the village and its old monastery. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Amjilosa.

Day 6: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2725m/4-5 hours)
Today’s trek follows a gentle ascent through the Ghunsa Valley. The trail meanders through bamboo and rhododendron forests, along with gnarled oaks, while waterfalls and scattered pastures line the way. As you climb higher, the mountains seem to draw closer, with distant views of Sele La Pass (3830m). A final climb beside a large cascade leads you to Gyabla, a picturesque Sherpa village with a monastery and traditional stupas. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Gyabla.

Day 7: Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3410m/4-5 hours)
The day begins with a steep descent into a ravine before leveling out along the riverbank, where rhododendron and fir forests dominate the landscape. By midday, you’ll reach Phale (3210m), a winter settlement for Ghunsa villagers, marked by mani walls, chortens, and a monastery. Locals here weave carpets and rear yaks in the fertile valley. From Phale, the trail continues through fields and larch forests, eventually crossing a bridge into the large village of Ghunsa (3410m). Buddhist prayer flags flutter above the stone houses, and glimpses of snow-capped peaks can be seen in the distance. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Ghunsa.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa
An acclimatization stop at Ghunsa is essential before heading further into the high Himalayas. This Tibetan settlement is one of the most scenic villages on the Kanchenjunga trekking route, with mani walls, prayer flags, and a historic gompa. Spend the day exploring the village, learning about the culture, or taking short hikes into the surrounding hills for acclimatization and panoramic views. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Ghunsa.

Day 9: Trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen (4150m/5-6 hours)
Heading north from Ghunsa, the trail gradually ascends through forests of juniper, fir, and larch along the east bank of the river. After crossing a sandy, boulder-strewn floodplain, you reach Rambuk Kharka (3720m). From here, the valley grows increasingly barren, and a short, steep climb over a landslide area adds some challenge. Beyond this section, the trail eases into the Tibetan settlement of Khambachen (4150m), nestled at the junction with the Nupchu Khola. The village offers breathtaking views of Mt. Jannu (7710m), Khabur (6332m), Phole (6645m), and other snow-capped peaks. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Khambachen.

Day 10: Side Trip to Mount Jannu View Point (4350m)
Today is reserved for acclimatization and exploration around Khambachen. A rewarding side trip takes you to the Jannu View Point (4350m), offering a close-up look at Mt. Jannu, also called Kumbhakarna, revered by the local Kirat people. The trail descends briefly to the river, crosses a wooden bridge, and then climbs gently across grassy slopes for 3–4 hours to the viewpoint. With luck, you may spot blue sheep or grazing yaks along the way. The viewpoint provides stunning vistas of glaciers, valleys, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Khambachen.

Day 11: Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak (4792m/4-5 hours)
Above Khambachen, the trail enters a rugged glacial landscape, carved by centuries of ice movement. The route passes the yak pastures at Ramtang (4350m) and continues along the lateral moraine of the Kanchenjunga Glacier. On your right, the crown-shaped Merra Peak (6344m) dominates the skyline. The trail finally leads to the windswept settlement of Lhonak, situated on a wide sandy plain near a dry lakebed, offering awe-inspiring 360-degree views of surrounding peaks. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Lhonak.

Day 12: Trek from Lhonak to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema, 5140m) and return to Lhonak (4792m/5-6 hours)
One of the most rewarding days of the Kanchenjunga Trek begins as you leave Lhonak and head toward the legendary Kanchenjunga North Base Camp at Pangpema. The trail gradually ascends across the glacial plain and follows the moraine, climbing up to a ridge before dropping down to Pangpema. From here, the magnificent north face of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m) – the third-highest mountain in the world – comes into full view, along with Wedge Peak and other Himalayan giants. If the weather permits, you may witness a spectacular sunset glow over the Kanchenjunga massif. After enjoying the incredible scenery, you retrace your steps back to Lhonak. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Lhonak.

Day 13: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3410m/6-7 hours)
The trail back from Lhonak follows the Kanchenjunga Glacier, passing through high pastures, wooden bridges, and yak herders’ settlements. On clear days, trekkers are rewarded with wide panoramas of Taple Shikhar (6,510m), Gimmigela Chuli (7,350m), and Kirat Chuli (7,365m). Gradually descending into the lush Ghunsa Valley, you arrive at the charming village of Ghunsa, a traditional Tibetan settlement known for its warm hospitality and monasteries. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Ghunsa.

Day 14: Trek from Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2498m/7-8 hours)
Today’s section of the Kanchenjunga trekking itinerary takes you through rhododendron, pine, and bamboo forests with cascading waterfalls along the way. Passing the village of Phale, with its mani walls and monastery, you continue following the Ghunsa Khola downstream. The trail offers peaceful scenery, lush vegetation, and glimpses of wildlife before finally reaching Amjilosa, a small yet beautiful riverside village. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Amjilosa.

Day 15: Trek from Amjilosa to Sekathum (1640m/3-4 hours) and drive to Taplejung (1820m/3-4 hours) by private Jeep 
Descending deeper into the gorge, you’ll trek through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo, following the Ghunsa Khola with occasional climbs and descents. Along the way, you pass rustic tea houses, waterfalls, and small settlements before reaching Sekathum. Here, your trek officially ends, and a private jeep will be waiting to take you on a scenic drive through terraced hillsides, traditional Limbu villages, and winding mountain roads until you reach Taplejung. Overnight at a lodge/guest-house in Taplejung.

Day 16: Drive from Taplejung to Bhadrapur (5-6 hours) by private Jeep and flight back to Kathmandu (50 minutes)
The final day of your Kanchenjunga Trek begins with a long but beautiful drive from Taplejung to Bhadrapur, passing through rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and subtropical valleys. From Bhadrapur, you take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, where your unforgettable Kanchenjunga trekking adventure comes to an end. Upon arrival, you can relax at hotel or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu. 

Day 17: Final departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your international flight schedule, we drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure with a hope of seeing you again.

# Pricing for Group Size Basis: (Private Trip)
All-Inclusive Trek Price for single/individual trekker; USD 2870
All-Inclusive Trek Price for 2 trekkers basis; USD 2010 per person
All-Inclusive Trek Price for 3 trekkers basis; USD 1890 per person
All-Inclusive Trek Price for 4 trekkers basis; USD 1770 per person

Join with us on a Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek in 2026/2027. 

Customize Your Trek: This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailormade”. The trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, For more information please e-mail us at snftnepal@gmail.com or snftnepal@yahoo.de

Note: In case of emergency during the trip, Helicopter will be arranged by Swiss Himalayan Family Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd. The charges must be paid by the clients themselves.