Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Trek through the forests of Kanchenjunga

Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking trails go through a moss-laden forest with diverse flora and fauna, passing grazing mountain sheep and Tibetan villages. The forested areas of Sikkim are beautiful during spring when flowers are in full bloom.

This is a strenuous trek that goes right up to Goecha La Pass at an elevation of 5000 m. It provides an exceptional view of Kanchenjunga’s east face (8535 m), the third-highest mountain in the world. The journey starts from Yuksom, a small settlement within subtropical forests, and goes through a vast yak pasture expanse. It finally reaches the alpine region where dwarf shrubs thrive in abundance, and the temperature is quite extreme.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Free day

Day 03: Fly KTM/BIR or BDR – upon arrival, meet and transfer over to Darjeeling and check into Hotel New Elgin or similar. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 04: Morning drive to Yuksom (1770 m/170 km/7 hour), overnight at trekker’s hut

Day 05: Start trek after breakfast. The trail goes through dense semi-tropical forests crossing streams occasionally. After a steep climb, we reach Tshoka (2745 m/5 hours) for the camp.

Day 06: The trail follows a steep climb through fascinating rhododendron forests

Day 07: Comparatively easy trails with a very clear view of Kanchenjunga and its range of mountains

Day 08: The trail fairly evens out towards a small village settlement

Day 09: Early morning, as the trek resumes, the trail climbs an uneven moraine with huge boulders of rocks. We get to see some exceptional views of the eastern face of Kanchenjunga. For Goechala Pass (5002 m). Descend back to camp at Samiti Pokhari.

Day 10: Retrace the trail back to Thangsing. Camp for the night.

Day 11: Descend to Phedang through a steep trail to Bakhim (2684 m/3 hours)

Day 12: The last day on the path, we retrace it back to Yuksom (4 hours) at a leisurely pace. If time permits, we get to visit Dubi Monastery and a lake with tranquil surroundings nearby. Camp for the night.

Day 13: A day for adjustment and acclimatization en route

Day 14: Transfer to Bhadrapur or Biratnagar for final departure. End of the tour.

Day 15: Free day in Kathmandu

Day 16: International departure

Cost Includes:

• A 3-star hotel in towns with breakfast
• Experienced regional leader or hire Raj
• Pack animals or  porters on the trek
• Trek permit
• Park fees
• Staff insurance
• All mentioned transportation
• Accommodation
• Sightseeing as indicated

Cost Excludes:

• Airport taxes
• Visas
• Meals
• All optional additional tours or activities during free time
• Transportation outside of the tour program
• Travel insurance (buy insurance)
• Tips and items of a personal nature
• No departure, gallery pics

Trek FAQ

Am I too young or old?
Most of our clients, from 3 years old to some in their 70s, have done and completed their treks with almost no exercise or training.

Do you offer hotel/airport pick-up?
We offer hotel and airport pick-up. As you continue with your booking, there will be an option to input flight details or hotel name.

Do I need a visa?
All foreign nationals who want to enter India need to possess a valid international travel document such as a passport with a valid visa obtained from an Indian Mission or Post abroad. All visa applicants are requested to apply for the Indian visa online by filling the online application form.

The duly signed hard copy of the completed application form will be submitted at the concerned Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or directly to the Indian Mission or Post. The instructions to fill the form and appointment scheduling can be seen at the Instructions for Regular Visa Application. The applicant is required to bring the referral number and the required documents on the scheduled date of the interview.

The status of the visa application can be checked on the link for Visa Enquiry. The applicants are also requested to visit the website of the Indian Mission for detailed information about the Indian visa.

What should I bring on a trek?
Being properly equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. For information to help you select the best type of clothing and equipment for your trip. Please see our Clothing and Equipment Guide.

Also, see our Links page for details of specialist retailers who will offer further advice and assistance with purchasing new clothing or equipment.

If you have more questions, please check the FAQ section or contact us