The Kangchenjunga Trek is one of the unspoiled trekking trails in eastern part of Nepal opened in 1988 for trekkers. Mt. Kanchenjunga 8598m lies on the border of Nepal and Sikkim. Mt. Kanchenjunga, one of the world's most spectacular mountains, is renowned as the queen of mountains. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak on the planet, can show off varied ecological zones, from the subtropical land to hostile wilderness.

Mt. Kanchenjunga is a massif with its highest peak reaching 8,586metres and is encircled with dozens of peaks, each of them competing with their queen. Kanchanjunga trekking is very rich from the point of view of its natural beauty. Kanchanjunga trek offers infinite variety of landscapes, cultures and panoramic views of Himalayas including the Everest, Lhotse, Makalu & Kanchenjunga, four of the worlds five highest mountains make the trek rewarding.

Our Kanchanjunga Trek is a relatively strenuous since the region is regarded as the most remote place of Nepal. However the presence of numerous wild animals, birds and flora in abundance make the trekking in this region very interesting and pleasant.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01:Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu. Overnight at Hotel. B.B

Day 02:Trek Preparation and Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour. Overnight at Hotel. B.B

Day 03:Fly to Taplejung (2320m) trek to Lali Kharka (2276) 3 hours. O/N at camp. B.L.D

Day 04:Trek to Khesewa (2120meters)5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 05: Trek to Mamanke (1920meters) 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 06:Trek to Yamphudin (2080meters) 6 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 07:Trek to Chitre (2965meters) 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 08: Trek to Tortongn (3010meters) 6 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 09: Trek to Tseram (3870meters) 6 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 10:Trek to Ramche (4580meters) 4 hours.Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 11:Explore Ramche and trek to Oktang 4730m 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 12:Trek to Sallerle over the Mirgin La (4480m) 6 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 13: Trek to Ghunsa (3475meters) 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 14: Trek to Kampuchean (4040meters) 6 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 15: Trek to Lhonak (4790meters) 6 hours.Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 16: Trek to Pang Pema (5140meters) 4 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 17: Explore around Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5100m) . Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 18:Trek to Ghunsa 6 hours.Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 19: Trek to Amjilosa (2460meters) 4 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 20:Trek to Sakathum (1600meters) 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 21:Trek to Chhiruwa (1200 meters) 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 22:Trek to Furumbu (1700m), 6 hrs. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 23: Trek to Suketar (2420meters) 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 24:Fly back to Kathmandu.Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 26: Leisure day, in case of bad weather in the mountain. Overnight at Hotel. B.B

Day 27: Transfer to international airport for your onward destination. B. "Farewell!"

Note: B = Breakfast, B.B = Bed & Breakfast, B.L.D = Bed, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING DURING THE TRIP:

1. Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & transfer by private car / van
2. Four nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
3. Kathmandu city tours, inclusive of all entry fees, tour guide by private car / van.
4. Meals on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) prepared by our expert cook
5. Twin sharing tented accommodation during the trek
6. Flight from Kathmandu – Taplejung – Kathmandu inclusive of departure tax, we fly via Biratnager
7. An experience guide (trained by Ministry of tourism), required number of porters, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipments
8. Kanchenjunga conservation fee and TIMS.
9. Trekking equipment (two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, table with chairs, kitchen utensils, and other necessary equipments during the trek)
10. Kanchenjunga trekking permit (Kanchenjunga trek is in restricted zone, we need special permit to visit this area)
11. Nepal Hiking Team duffle bag, down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek
12. Nepal Hiking Team T - Shirt (yours to keep)
13. Safe drinking water, boiled/iodine tablets.
    
14. First aid medical kit bag.
    
15. All government and local taxes.
    
16. Office service charge.

OUR SERVICES EXCLUDE THE FOLLOWING DURING THE TRIP:

1. Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
2. Travel insurance
3. International airfare
4. Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
5. All cold drinks such as: alcoholic beverages, mineral water, Coke, Fanta, juice, etc.
6. Hot and cold showers during the trek
7. Personal shopping and laundry
8. Personal trekking equipments
9. Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is appreciated but it is not mandatory)

Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu.
You are welcomed by hospitable meeting and then you will be transferred to hotel. Our airport representative will explain briefly the program upon arrival. Overnight at Hotel. B.B

Day 02: Trek Preparation and Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour.
Sightseeing of world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley including, Kathmandu Darbar square, Swayambhunath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa & Pasupatinath Temple. Overnight at Hotel. B.B

Day 03: Fly to Taplejung (2320meters) trek to Lali Kharka (2276meters) 3 hours.
Half hour flight to Taplejung at Suketar Airport. The porters and crew will be waiting for our arrival. After landing we take an early lunch, while the crew arranges our gear. In the afternoon we start with an easy 2 to 3 hours walk along the ridge line to Lali Kharka, a grazing area. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 04: Trek to Khesewa (2120meters). 5 hours
After traversing the hillside a short way, we descend to the village of Pakora along the Phawa Khola, crossing a suspension bridge before beginning the steep climb up towards Kunjuri. Lunch will be taken somewhere below Kunjuri. The afternoon's walk takes us on a short distance over the crest of the ridge to our campsite at Khesewa. We get our first views of Kanchenjunga, and should be able to clearly make out the south and main summit along with Yalung Kang. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 05: Trek to Mamanke (1920meters). 5 hours.
Today the path covers steep hillside through terraced fields high above the Kabbeli Khola. There are some ups and downs crossing side valleys but there are many shady spots to rest. After lunch, we pass the village of Anpan, before descending to cross the Kashawa Khola and finally, we climb again through terraced fields to the village of Mamankhe. O/N at camp. B.L.D

Day 06: Trek to Yamphudin (2080meters) 6 hours.
Today the walks start with an easy climb to Yamphudin along a track which contours the hillside above the Kabeli Khola. The path has several ups and downs as we cross the ridges and stream beds that make up the valley sides. Generally the route is flat and the river eventually becomes level with the trail, a couple of hours before Yamphudin. At last we can stop to bathe in one of the clear pools within this beautiful river. It is truly an idyllic spot. After lunch by the river we complete the day's walk to Yamphudin. Yamphudin is the most remote settlement in this area and the last village we will see until we reach Ghunsa. It is a charming place tucked away beneath the ridge of Deurali Danda that we must cross next. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 07: Trek to Chitre (2965meters) 5 hours.
Beyond Yamphudin the trail ascends a steep spur, a gentle introduction for what will come. Leaving villages behind we trek through pleasant forest, stopping for lunch in a meadow capturing fine views of the north and south. A steep descend to the river an interesting bridge across the Omje Khola to our campsite in Chitre. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 08: Trek to Tortongn (3010meters) 6 hours.
Starting the day with 3 hours of steep ascent to the crest of the Deurali Danda in dense forest most of the way. From the 3230meters pass we see Jannu, definitely closer! We descend across some steep and exposed areas before entering the forest again. The sharp descent through beautiful forest continues down into the valley of the Simjua Khola. Across the 'interesting' wooden bridge is Tortongn, a camping place with numerous rock shelters amid towering conifers. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 09: Trek to Tseram (3870meters) 6 hours.
Today we follow the river through more beautiful forest, the conifers giving way to the rhododendron forest. The valley climbs fairly steeply, with the day progressing the trees become more stunted and scattered, giving us glimpses of the snow: capped giants ahead and the massive snout of Yalung Glacier. Just before Tseram the towering heights of Kabru and Rathong peak start to peep over the moraine. Camping at Tseram, a grazing area, the night temperatures will remind us that we are really gaining height. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 10: Trek to Ramche (4580meters) 4 hours.
A shorter day's walk up the final 600 meters to Ramche where the trail to Kanchenjunga South turns dangerous. The scenery is magnificent as we ascend past the snout of Yalung Glaciers into a series of ablation valleys, which gives easy walking and good camping. A frozen lake, clear streams and views of Koktang, Rathong and Kabru are the highlights of this stroll. Expect to feel the altitude today. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 11: Explore around Ramche (4580m) and trek to Oktang (4730meters) 5 hours.
Our first close encounter with Kanchenjunga. Following the valley round to see the stunning south face of Kanchanjunga and Jannu. We get across the Yalung Ri Glacier and continue by a sweeping curve, at Oktang, 4730meters, suddenly we are confronted with the southern wall of the mountain. This vast ridge forms a cirque over 15 kms long, nowhere less than 7500meters high and with three main summits of Kanchenjunga at 8420meters, 8586meters, and 8474meters! It is a breathtaking mountain panorama and especially impressive is Jannu while observing the glaciers flowing from its east face. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 12: Trek to Sallerle over the Mirgin La (4480meters) 6 hours.
We trek down the valley, passing the turn off to the high and challenging Labsang La route to Ghunsa and the north side of Kanchenjunga. This pass is rough and dangerous, especially for porters so we take the more southern set of passes, beginning with the Mirgin La. After an initial steep climb and several false summits we reach Mirgin La. Apart from the magnificent Jannu, on the horizon are Makalu, Gyakung Kang, Everest, Lhotse and Chamalang. To the south it is possible to see down to the Terai, a panorama worth the effort. Our campsite will be beyond the pass, after 6 to 7 hours tough walking. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 13: Trek to Ghunsa (3475meters) 5 hours.
Although there four more passes, there is little descent between them, so in effect it is a high scenic area. After lunch the descent brings us to Lamba Sumba Kharka, where there are more views of the awesome Southwest Face of Jannu. From Kharka the going is easy again down a pleasant forested trail to the village of Ghunsa, where we camp in the village. Ghunsa is a picturesque Tibetan village; prayer flags flutter from the wooden houses and there are two monasteries, a welcome sight after the many days of wilderness. One of the local specialties’ is 'Tongba', a curious alcoholic drink. A jug or large bamboo cup is filled with fermented millet seed and boiling water pored over. The flavour and alcohol seep though and you drink it with a special straw. You might need a drink after the tough 4 to 6 hour walk. O/N at camp. B.L.D

Day 14: Trek to Kampuchean (4040meters) 6 hours.
Gradually the trail ascends to south of the Ghunsa Khola and crossing flood plains while emerging on a pasture situated at the north side of the river. A steep climb to a slope from where it crosses a slide and then descends to Lakepo. A short climb from here to the village of Kampuchean 4040meters. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 15: Trek to Lhonak (4790meters) 6 hours.
The main Kanchenjunga peak is only visible from Pang Pema, which is the base camp for expeditions on Kanchenjunga. From Lhonak, the trail gradually ascends across the plain but soon gets steeper as it follows the moraine. Pang Pema is at a height of 5140 meters. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 17: Explore around Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5100 meters) 5 hours.
Today those who would like to take a morning hike up a ridge, north of Pang Pema. A climb of 200 or 300 meters providing a great vantage point with views of Kanchenjunga, Wedge Peak, the Twins and Tent Peak. As usual the descent goes faster and you can reach Kampuchean the same day. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 18: Trek to Ghunsa 6 hours.
More descents thru magnificent sections of forest as long as we make Amjilosa tomorrow. From Ghunsa an hour down we pass through Phole, a village in two parts. The upper section houses Tibetan refugees who are well established, the second is the winter village of Ghunsa. Further down is Yangswa, a great and warm camp. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 19: Trek to Amjilosa (2460meters) 4 hours.  Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 20: Trek to Sakathum (1600meters) 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D
Down, down and down! After a short climb we begin the steep descent that will take most of the day. We reach the joining of the Tamur and Ghunsa Kholas. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 21: Trek to Chhiruwa (1200 meters) 5 hours.
We cross the Simbu Khola, which originates from Kanchenjunga's south base camp, the Khola that we followed up from Torontan. It is pleasantly warm at these low altitudes and cardamom grows freely in the moist shaded forest. Crossing numerous small tributary streams we reach Chhirwa, a village set among large boulders. We camp in a field out of the village. This is an easier day. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 22: Trek to Furumbu (1700m), 6 hrs. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 23: Trek to Suketar (2420meters) 5 hours. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D
Traversing in an out of minor valleys, we pass thru a succession of picturesque villages on our way to Suketar, reaching around late afternoon. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 24: Fly back to Kathmandu.
Enjoying your last glimpse of the mountains you have recently visited one last time on the 35 minute Scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D
Day 26 : Leisure day, in case of bad weather in the mountain. Overnight at Hotel. B.B

Day 27 : Transfer to international airport for your onward destination. B. "Farewell!"

Private tours are available with minimum number of two people; our trek departs every day upon your request throughout March to May and September to November. Please let us know your convenient tour dates.

Upon Arrival

When you arrive at Tribhuban International Airport, our staff will greet you and transport you to your accomodations. After resting, the next day you will have a sightseeing tour of the city's most influential cultural landmarks. Before departing for your trek, we will review your itinerary, introduce you to your guide and help with the final preparations for your journey.

Accommodation

You will be spending four nights at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast, normally from Samsara Resort, Hotel Vajra or Thamel Eco Resort. During the Kangchenjunga Trek Trek we provide comfortable two men camping tent, foam mattress, 4 season sleeping bag will be provided. We maintain standard comfort in every matter based on the enforceable conditions such as weather calamities. All hotels accommodations & tent is based on twin share, and will provide you single supplement if there is different gender; without extra charge.

Toilet Facilities - On trek, toilet facilities are available nearby your tent is an optimum distance in a toilet tent. After use of such facilities, wastes will be cover with necessary natural preservation

Meals During the Trek

Freshly cook Meals on full board basis will be provided by our experienced and trained cook during the trek with high level of balance diet, hygiene and safety. Three meals (Nepali, Sherpa, and Tibetan, Continental, Italian and Indian cousins) will be provided from the camp according to our menu. You can buy bottled mineral water from local lodges and shops en route or you can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills.

Our Trekking Guides and Staff

Your guide's role is to ensure that all aspects of the trip run smoothly. He will share his local knowledge, and provide advice on how to fill your free time as well as co-ordinate the day-to-day running of the tour - although occasionally he may need your understanding if things do not go according to plan. If you have any problems on the tour, please let your guide know so that steps can be taken to correct the situation.

We are a well-established adventure company and we employ professional trekking guides with comprehensive knowledge of English and all required supplementary crew members (everyone has basic communication skills). We also provide training for our staff, thus enhancing their work efficiency. Our guides are intimately familiar with all local castes and customs along the trails and will share with you many cultural insights that are not covered in any guide book. You will have many chances to learn Nepali phrases and other cultural aspects throughout your trek. All of Nepal Hiking Team’s guides receive training in the following courses.

1. Trekking Guide Training &licensed- Government of Nepal, Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation department of Hotel Management & Tourism Training Centre
2. Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal)
3. Intensive Wilderness First Aid KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Educational Project)
4. English Language KEEP
5. Conservation and Biodiversity TAAN
6. Rock, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (Climbing leaders) Nepal Mountaineering Association

Acclimatization

We are experts in operations at high-altitude. Every trip we run has a sound acclimatization program. We created the itinerary to allow for gradual height gain spread over a number of days. There is no way of predicting who will suffer from altitude, but for the vast majority of people, a slow ascent will produce minimal effects. Acclimatizing takes time and there are no safe shortcuts. For all trips to altitudes in excess of 3,000 meters, our guides carry medicines essential to the treatment of altitude illness; they are trained to track symptoms as well as administer medications.

Travel Insurance

To be adequately protected in terms of insurance, you will need specialized travel insurance for participation in hazardous activities. A travel insurance policy that covers emergency evacuation, trip injury, lost baggage, theft, liability, medical treatment and expenses is strongly recommended. Make sure the insurance covers all the activities that you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal such as trekking and climbing. Our agency can arrange for the appropriate policy based on your trek.

Climate and Weather

The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks take place, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is late September to December, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good and days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.

The Kangchenjunga Trek is likely to have a wide range of temperatures depending on the altitude and the time of day. In the mountains up to 3,500m the nights will be cool, normally around 5 degree C, and during the day temperatures sometimes rise to 25 degree C. At higher altitudes temperatures range from about 20 degree C to -15 degree C.

Group Size

We bring together a small group of likeminded people to give them a memorable and insightful travel experience with an invaluable opportunity to interact in a fun-filled environment. Our travel group generally comprises a maximum of 12 members. We need a minimum of 2 participants to run our fixed departure dates. For individualized trips, no minimum or maximum applies. If you would like to travel independently or with your friends, families and colleagues, you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient time frame for any number of people.

Responsible Travel

The beautiful environment of the Himalaya is also an extremely fragile one. At Nepal Hiking Team, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize the detrimental impact as much as possible. As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have campfires and we use kerosene as cooking fuel. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar energy, a far more eco-friendly alternative.

Garbage disposal is another major problem. Some of the busier trails are at times strewn with litter and garbage thrown by irresponsible trekking groups. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry the non-biodegradable garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burned at the campsite. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.