Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Related Information

For more detailed info on Itinerary, here is the chart –

Accommodation facilities in Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Upon arrival, we will accommodate you in the 3-star hotel in the city of Kathmandu. Here, you have the option to be alone in this hotel or to share a room with others. If you are a lone trekker, you will need to let us know so we can arrange for you to have a separate accommodation.

When it comes to lodging options, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek offers a small selection of lodges and tea houses. These teahouses can only hold the estimated number of visitors. However, the number of trekkers has surged recently. So, the Kanchenjunga region’s hotel quality and services are gradually improving. As you may know, each teahouse on the Kanchenjunga base camp trek has facilities that respond to the needs of the trekkers. The bed, pillow, mattress, and blanket are all included in the basic accommodation package here.

In earlier periods before 2015, the Kanchenjunga Trek was a Camping trek. Trek at that time was a lot more difficult than now. But with the construction of a few teahouses on the route, it is no more a camping trek.

Tips on Accommodation:

• Do not keep heating devices in the sleeping rooms.
• Prefer dining rooms to hang out in the evening or nighttime as they will have some sort of heating facilities.
• You will be sharing toilets with other trekkers in most of the places, so be prepared.
• Do not enter the kitchens of teahouses or hotels.
• Hot water for the shower may cost you a few bucks.
• Recharging your electric devices and Wi-Fi facilities may also cost you in higher altitudes.
• Bring your own sleeping bag for warmth and comfortable sleep.
• Try to order the same dish for dinner. If you are in a group it will be much quicker for them to prepare the meal.
• As soon as you reach the teahouse, make your dinner order. After that, you may relax or have a shower.

Foods and drinks

Throughout the great trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp in Nepal, you can find simple cuisine. The unique taste of the foods and culture of the Kanchenjunga area attracts many tourists.

The famous drink called Tong-Ba is the local drink that is the prime and unique charisma of the Kanchenjunga base camp trek. This drink is made up of fermented millet with a mixture of hot water which is served in a bamboo jar with a straw on it.

Only simple food is available in this region. In some embodies, you can find thukpa, pasta, and momo but mostly you can find ordinary food: rice, pulses, and vegetables. For more information, we will now present you with the food options by classifying them into breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Breakfast

A hearty breakfast will guarantee that you get to your goal by the end of the day. We understand that you require extra power in this particular trek. Hence we strongly recommend that you consume nutritious and clean meals. Toast and bread are the options that are typically available, along with a range of egg options. Further, you can find oatmeal and puddings, pancakes with butter or jam, and lastly, a selection of soups.

Lunch

In Nepalese culture, lunch is considered a vital mealtime. On the difficult and hilly Kanchenjunga base camp trek, lunch is the meal that will fuel you for the entire day. On this trip, you will find Daal-Bhat-Tarkari-Achaar (rice) as the primary meal. Also, you can find other lunch alternatives. It includes momo,  noodles (thukpa), pasta, sandwiches, and potato dishes.

Since Dal Bhat is the most well-liked food and it gives a lot of energy throughout the journey, both local and foreign visitors love this meal. This meal will be well-known because it gives you a lot of energy throughout the day. For this reason, trekkers who complete the Kanchenjunga base camp trek rarely miss this meal.

Dinner

In Nepal, dinner and lunch are the same meal, although dinner is typically a lighter meal. You may, however, eat as much as you want because you spend the entire day adventuring. Hence, you will be fed dinner at the lodge where you are staying that evening. And you will have the same alternatives that you will have in the lunch.

Drinks

Throughout the Kanchenjunga base camp trek, teahouses and lodges serve hot, soft, and strong drinks. Some of the hot beverages that are offered here are black tea, milk tea, ginger tea, green tea, black coffee, milk coffee, and hot lemon. Soft beverages including Coke, Fanta, Sprite, and bottled juice are also available. Also, hard drinks like local wine and whisky are available. However, since you’ll be at a high altitude, you should avoid consuming any strong drinks to avoid altitude sickness in your body.

Dietary restrictions and Limitations:

In Nepal, meat is normally only eaten at festival times.  The normal diet is vegetable curry and rice.  Even in areas heavily influenced by Tibetan culture, meat is not an everyday thing.

In Nepal, meat is not eaten on a regular basis. In meals, you will mostly find curry with rice, vegetables, and pickles. In most of the regions of Nepal, meat is not easily accessible and people that follow Tibetan culture do not entertain meat. So, be ensured that those who are vegetarians will mostly benefit from this journey.

Furthermore, know that there is a lack of supplements and extra ingredients in the villages. The organic vegetables may be fresh, but other things may not be totally fresh as the cultivable land is not present in such areas. So, you have to limit your wants and not think about the luxurious and sweet food items.

Hence, overcoming the expectations, you can bring your extra food by yourselves. you can choose to bring food items like dried fruits, cookies, protein bars, and other energy-giving foods.

Expenses you may have on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek –

Almost all of the necessary costs are covered by us on this trip. Costs that include Guide, transportation, lodging, and food are the primary costs that are covered by us. But there may be other things that you may have to pay upon your wish on this trip. Here is the description-

Cash:

Since you will be traveling within Nepal, you will need Nepali currency to buy anything. However, if you wish to tip to your helpers and guide you may tip them with foreign cash.

Transport:

Yes, flights are necessary for this flight, which will be covered by us. But more than that, you will also have to travel through four-wheelers in the journey. You must understand there are a range of options while traveling by road. So before the trek, you can discuss with us whether you would like to hire a private jeep or just travel in a public vehicle.

Food:

Along with three meals a day, we offer you hot drinks on the trekking journey. Anything over that must be paid by yourself.

Miscellaneous:

If you wish to take hot water for a shower, electricity facility to charge your devices, and additional Wi-Fi services. For this type of cost, you have to bear it through your own pocket.  The cost for these services might cost you a few bucks. Furthermore, different kinds of beverages such as beer and cold drinks are available in shops and teahouses. So if you wish to buy them you have to pay in Nepali rupees.

Tips:

Tips are given by heart and it is like a gift of appreciation for hard-working people. So, you can freely give to guides, porters, and any other people, who have helped you along the way. It’s all up to you.

What will you do in Kathmandu before/after your trek?

With seven UNESCO Heritage Sites within the Kathmandu Valley, there is plenty of history and architecture to see. So we will take you to visit Buddhist stupas, Hindu burning ghats, and ancient palaces right the next day after you come here. We are sure that, after doing this trip, you will be very glad that you have visited the cultural landmarks of the city.

Right after you do this trip you will head on to the trek journey.  Then after you arrive from the trek, you will have an extra day in Kathmandu. So on this day, we advise you to do some fun activities. You can check out nightclubs, live music sessions, casinos, and parties inside the Valley. Or if you are looking into more peaceful activities then you can check out ashrams and Yoga centers. Here you can participate in healing and spiritual activities.

Permits for Kanchenjunga base camp trek

After Arrival in the country, you must have a group of at least two people to do the Kanchenjunga base camp trek. This means backpackers must obtain a permit because the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is listed as one of the restricted areas.

Every backpacker should get a special permit with a Kanchenjunga Conservation entry permit. As opposed to other treks you are not required to purchase a Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) pass.

Keep in mind that every trekker should explore the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek with a professional guide. This might sound like a big turnoff but, a few of the trekkers lost their lives during a trek to Kanchenjunga. After that, the government made this rule for the foreign trekker’s safety.

Travel insurance to Acquire permits for the Kanchenjunga base camp trek

To obtain a trekking permit in Nepal, it is necessary to first obtain travel insurance and a travel insurance number. Furthermore, the adventurers are particularly likely to get altitude sickness. The chances are higher when traveling through the more isolated parts of the Kanchenjunga region. The chances are higher because these places lack specialized medical facilities. Under these conditions, the rescue operation must proceed, which will increase your expenses. Therefore, you have to avoid experiencing unwanted circumstances. So, to repay the costs, you must purchase travel insurance.

Evaluation of Risk for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

You must know that trekking is a hardcore adventure and to do this adventure, you must have an open and curious attitude. Being able to predict and face challenges will make you a true adventurer. Therefore, you may face unanticipated weather and natural conditions on this trek. So as we mentioned above, there may be situations where the itinerary and route may change in the last hours. Hence, in these conditions of rough terrain, it will be very necessary for you to act in a team and help each other.

As we care a lot about our trekkers, we have performed a threat and risk assessment for our Kangchenjunga base camp trek. All of the trips have some degree of risk. So based on it, you can choose to join the adventure and head onto it.

Therefore, to measure the risk, we first identify the hazards of the adventure, and then only we assess the level of risk. Also along with the assessment of risk, we have control measures in place to reduce this happening or to reduce the impact it. Here is the list of  the significant risks and hazards identified by us:

• Bodily harm from trips and falls, such as slipping on ice or tumbling off the route.
• Sickness related to altitude, such as AMS, HACE, and HAPE.
• Becoming disoriented or losing contact with the group, such as when crossing the Mirgin La Pass during a whiteout.
• Extremely unfavorable weather and trekking conditions.
• Injuries caused by the climate (such as sunburn, hypothermia, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke). Please be aware that the first three days of the walk will be quite hot and humid.
• Drowning and/or falling may be caused while crossing a river without a bridge.
• Landslides and rockfall.
• Risks of unpurified water.

This adventure goes through a remote region. So for that region, you will be very far from the emergency health services. If you get any kind of serious injury, then it will take time to get yourself into the hospital. The only type of evacuation and rescue is through the helicopter, so you will have to wait for some time. The helicopter only operates in optimal weather and flying conditions. So don’t expect helicopters to arrive instantly.

Options

You may be interested in this long Kanchenjunga base camp trek, but for some reason, you might not be able to complete this adventure. In such cases, you can choose other options in the Kanchenjunga region for your adventure. Since this trip is a total of 24 days, many other shorter treks can be done in fewer days. Here are some of the shorter trekking options in the Kanchenjunga region-

• North Kanchenjunga Base Camp only (20 days): This is another trekking alternative to the Kanchenjunga base camp trek. The route on this trek goes to Pangpema (north Kanchenjunga base camp from Taplejung. In particular, this trail passes past different communities. You will go through communities like Gunsa, Kambachen, Chiruwa, Sekathum, Gyabla, and Lhonak 4780m. Then finally, you will arrive at Pangpema.
• South Kanchenjunga Base Camp only (18 days): This trek is also different from the other Kanchenjunga trek routes. First, this trek follows the route of Tseram to Oktang and the beautiful Kanchenjunga south base camp. On the way, you will pass through different villages like Lalikharka, Kande Bhanjyang, Yamphudin, and Tortong. Then finally, you will make your way towards the Southern Base camp of Kanchenjunga.

If you have more time and resources, you can add the trip to the Lumba Sumba Pass which is located in the Makalu region. This can be added to the above two Kanchenjunga treks. If you are in a group then it will be very easy for us to customize the trip. So think about it and inform us!

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Rating

As we have discussed a lot about this trek we have known that this trek is a challenging one. The highest altitude where you will be spending your night is at Lhonak (4,790 m/15,700ft). Then finally, the highest elevation that you will be reaching on this trip is Pangpema (5,140m/16,900ft). In the whole trekking journey, there are only two acclimatization days to allow for proper acclimatization.

Furthermore, trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp involves an average daily hiking of around 6 hours. On some days the trekking hours could also go up to around 7-8 hours. So, Based on these facts and further information, we will rate this trek-

Difficulty

We rate this trek’s difficulty as 4.5/5. Spanning 20-24 days and reaching altitudes up to 5,143 meters, we already had said that this trek is challenging. Due to its remoteness, it involves steep ascents, rugged paths, and fewer amenities. So it is a must to have good physical fitness and stamina.

Scenery

Scoring a perfect 5/5, the trek features spectacular scenery. It includes close-up views of Kanchenjunga and other peaks. Diverse landscapes from tropical forests to alpine meadows are prominent. Whereas, rivers, waterfalls, and glacial lakes are unavoidable.

Cultural Experience

With a rating of 4.5/5, the trek offers rich cultural experiences. It passes through villages of diverse ethnic groups like Limbu, Sherpa, and Rai. So there is no doubt you will have close interaction with locals and insight into various traditions and lifestyles.

Accessibility

Rated 2.5/5, accessing the trek is challenging. It requires a flight to Biratnagar or Bhadrapur followed by a long drive to Taplejung. Trekkers need special permits, adding to the logistical complexity.

Accommodation and Facilities

Scoring 3/5, accommodation is basic but adequate. Teahouses and lodges offer simple meals and lodging, though facilities lacking at the higher altitudes. Camping is an option but requires additional support.

Overall Experience

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek earns an overall rating of 4.5/5. It offers an unparalleled adventure with breathtaking scenery and rich cultural interactions. Therefore, you will have a profound sense of accomplishment after exploring one of Nepal’s most remote regions.

Packing list for Kanchenjunga base camp trek

The Main theme of this trek is to carry as light as possible and make yourself comfortable with only essential items. While doing the trek, your day Backpack should be a maximum of 10 kg and it should not cross that limit. Furthermore, the Main duffel bag should weigh around 10 to 15 kg.

Hence, Packing for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek requires careful consideration of gear and clothing. Doing that will ensure your comfort and safety in the challenging Himalayan environment. Here is the list-

Clothing

1. Base Layers
   • Moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirts: 2-3
   • Moisture-wicking short-sleeve shirts: 2-3
   • Thermal tops (merino wool or synthetic): 2
2. Bottom Layers
   • Moisture-wicking underwear: 4-6 pairs
   • Thermal bottoms: 2
3. Insulation Layers
   • Fleece jacket or pullover: 1-2
   • Down or synthetic insulated jacket: 1
4. Outer Layers
   • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar): 1
   • Waterproof and windproof pants: 1
5. Trekking Pants
   • Lightweight trekking pants: 2-3
   • Convertible pants (zip-off to shorts): 1-2
6. Headwear
   • Sun hat or cap: 1
   • Warm hat (fleece or wool): 1
   • Buff or neck gaiter: 1-2
   • Sunglasses (UV protection): 1
7. Handwear
   • Lightweight gloves (liner gloves): 1 pair
   • Insulated gloves or mittens: 1 pair
8. Footwear
   • Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in): 1 pair
   • Camp shoes or sandals: 1 pair
   • Warm socks (wool or synthetic): 4-6 pairs
   • Liner socks (optional): 2-3 pairs

Gear

1. Backpack
   • 40-50 liter backpack (with rain cover): 1
2. Sleeping Gear
   • Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower): 1
   • Sleeping bag liner (optional for extra warmth): 1
3. Trekking Poles
   • Adjustable trekking poles: 1 pair
4. Hydration
   • Water bottles or hydration bladder (3 liters capacity): 2-3 liters total capacity
   • Water purification tablets or filter: Sufficient for the duration of the trek
5. Navigation and Safety
   • Map and compass or GPS device(Phone will do the job): 1
   • First aid kit (personal medications, blister treatment): 1
   • Headlamp with extra batteries: 1
   • Multi-tool or knife: 1
   • Emergency blanket: 1

Personal Items

1. Toiletries
   • Toothbrush and toothpaste: 1 set
   • Biodegradable soap and shampoo: 1 small bottle each
   • Quick-dry towel: 1
   • Wet wipes: 1-2 packs
   • Sunscreen (SPF 30+): 1 small bottle
   • Lip balm (with SPF): 1
2. Personal Hygiene
   • Hand sanitizer: 1 small bottle
   • Toilet paper (packed in zip-lock bags): 1-2 rolls
3. Snacks
   • Energy bars, trail mix, dried fruit, nuts: Enough for the duration of the trek (estimate 2-3 snacks per day)

Miscellaneous

1. Documents
   • Passport (with photocopies): 1
   • Trekking permits: 1 set
   • Travel insurance documents: 1 set
2. Electronics
   • Camera with extra batteries or power bank: 1
   • Mobile phone with charger: 1
   • Solar charger or portable power bank: 1
3. Optional Items
   • Gaiters: 1 pair
   • Lightweight packable daypack: 1
   • Journal and pen: 1 set
   • Books or e-reader: 1

Ensure all your gear is well-tested before the trek, especially your boots and backpack!

Books

You will be heading on to this long adventurous journey in this trek. So, we suggest you gain some information about the Kanchenjunga region and trekking. Therefore, here are some books that provide detailed information about the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. which will be helpful for your journey:

“Kanchenjunga: The Untrodden Peak” by Charles Evans

This classic mountaineering book details the first successful ascent of Kanchenjunga in 1955. It provides a historical perspective and insights into the region’s challenges and beauty.

“Kanchenjunga Adventure: The Story of the 1955 British Expedition to the World’s Third Highest Peak” by John Angelo Jackson

This book provides an in-depth look at the early explorations and expeditions to Kanchenjunga. Also, it offers historical context and fascinating narratives.

“The Kanchenjunga Adventure” by Frank Smythe

Another classic, this book recounts the early 20th-century explorations of Kanchenjunga. It provides a mix of adventure and historical perspective.

“Round Kanchenjunga: A Narrative of Mountain Travel and Exploration” by Douglas Freshfield

This book documents one of the first recorded circumnavigations of the Kanchenjunga massif in 1899. In this book, Freshfield provides detailed and engaging descriptions. He has covered topics like geographical challenges, stunning landscapes, and cultural encounters here. Reading these topics we believe that modern trekkers will get the inspiration and insights.

“The Himalayas: An Encyclopedia of Geography, History, and Culture” by Andrew J. Hund and James A. Wren

This book includes sections on the geography, culture, and history of the Himalayas. Also, it includes detailed information about the Kanchenjunga region.

“Kangchenjunga Himal and Kumbhakarna” by Jan Kielkowski

This book by Jan Kielkowski covers the Kanchenjunga region and the nearby Kumbhakarna (Jannu) peak. Also, it gives descriptions of various trekking routes, climbing expeditions, and topographical information. Hence this book is a valuable resource for trekkers and climbers. It offers insights into the geography, logistics, and challenges of this adventure.

“Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya” by Bradley Mayhew, Lindsay Brown, and Stuart Butler

Published by Lonely Planet, this guidebook includes a section on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. Hence, it offers practical advice, detailed maps, and cultural insights.

“The High Himalaya” by Art Wolfe and Peter Potterfield

This book features stunning photography and compelling stories about various Himalayan treks. Kanchenjunga region is also mentioned in it. Hence, it’s an inspiring read that will get you excited about your journey.

“Trekking Nepal: A Traveler’s Guide” by Stephen Bezruchka

This practical guide offers detailed descriptions of trekking routes in Nepal, including Kanchenjunga. It includes information on preparation, equipment, and local culture.

“Nepal – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture” by Tessa Feller

While not specific to trekking, this book provides valuable insights into Nepalese culture. Especially, this will help you understand and respect local customs. So without a doubt, this thing will enhance your overall trekking experience.

Hence, reading these books will equip you with a wealth of knowledge about the Kanchenjunga region. It will let you know about its history and practical trekking tips. Ultimately, it will make your adventure more enriching and enjoyable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have to say that the Kanchenjunga base camp trek is undoubtedly a heavenly route. This is the route that astonishes trekkers with the spectacular views of the world’s third-highest mountain. Obviously, it is one of the toughest routes in the world of mountains. But with high preparation, determination, and patience you can complete this amazing adventure. Be sure that, the outcome of the hardcore adventure is worth your time, effort, and money. So get ready!

Thus, we would like to be clear that this journey is not intended for those with the bare minimum of physical capabilities. Nonetheless, people with moderate to high levels of physical activity can participate in this trekking. Finally, we would want to say that the journey to the Kanchenjunga base camp offers profound interactions. You will be interacting with native ways of life, life-altering experiences, and a great sense of achievement.

At Mission Himalaya, we always give visitors our whole attention as they go on a trekking journey. As a result, we kindly offer you to join us on this incredible journey to one of the most spectacular places on earth. You can be confident that you will be safe with us from the beginning to the end of the journey. You can contact us by phone at +977-9841965533 or +977-14700252 if you have any queries or concerns regarding terms and conditions. As an alternative, you can contact us via email at info@missionhimalayatreks.com or by using our WhatsApp.