Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Observe a carefully prepared day-to-day schedule to help you move from the busy streets of Kathmandu to the serene wilds of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
1,400m/4,600ft
Hotel
The view of snow-capped mountain peaks greets you as you fly into Kathmandu. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the Bold Himalaya representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel.
After check-in, you can explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu. In the evening, you’ll meet your guide and have a short briefing about the trek. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur & Drive to Ilam
140m/3,636ft
Hotel
Lunch & Dinner
3-4 hours
You’ll be picked up from your hotel, and we’ll drive to the airport for our domestic flight. It will take a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur with views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. The earlier the flight, the better, as we will have time to see the beautiful eastern town of Bhadrapur.
Upon arrival at Bhadrapur Airport, we’ll begin the drive to Ilam, a journey of approximately 3-4 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass tea gardens, small villages, and beautiful countryside that make Ilam one of Nepal’s most charming hill towns. After reaching Ilam, we’ll check into our hotel.
Day 3: Drive from Ilam to Taplejung
1,441m/4,728ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
5 hours
After breakfast, we’ll leave the peaceful hills of Ilam behind and begin a scenic drive to Taplejung, the gateway to the Kanchenjunga region. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, following winding mountain roads through terraced farmlands, lush forests, rushing rivers, and traditional villages. Along the way, you’ll witness the changing landscapes of eastern Nepal and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Upon reaching Taplejung, we’ll check in to our tea house. This vibrant mountain town serves as the starting point for many expeditions into the Kanchenjunga region.
Day 4: Trek from Taplejung to Lali Kharka
2,250m/7,382ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
5-6 hours
Today, our trekking adventure begins from Taplejung and follows a peaceful trail towards Lali Kharka. The walk starts with a gentle climb through terraced fields and small settlements before entering beautiful forests filled with pine and rhododendron trees. Along the way, we’ll cross suspension bridges, pass local farms, and get your first taste of the tranquil mountain lifestyle that defines the Kanchenjunga region.
After trekking for around 5-6 hours, you’ll arrive at the quiet hillside village of Lali Kharka. Overnight in the teahouse of Lali Kharka.
Day 5: Trek from Lali Kharka to Khesewa
2,120m/6,955ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5-6 hours
After having breakfast in Lali Kharka, we begin our trek from Lali Kharka and continue deeper into the beautiful hills of eastern Nepal. The trail gently ascends and descends through terraced farmland, small villages, and lush forests. We’ll meet local villagers going about their daily lives and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the Kanchenjunga region.
Today’s walk is a pleasant introduction to the remote mountain trails ahead. By late afternoon, we reach Khesewa, a traditional hillside village surrounded by greenery. Overnight in Khesewa.
Day 6: Trek from Khesewa to Mamangkhe
1,800m/5,906ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
6-7 hours
Today, we will leave behind Khesewa to reach Mamangkhe. After a quick breakfast, we will head up the trail through a hill. The lands are mostly cultivated here in a scattered fashion. We will reach Kabeli Khola and then the village of Anpan.
From there, we will trek up to the village of Mamangkhe for the night stay. Mamangkhe is the heart of the Limbu, Rai, and Kirat cultural regions. We can visit the museum and cultural center in Mamangkhe. Some people even choose to trek up to Mamangkhe and return. This is why this trek is also called the Limbu Cultural Trail.
Day 7: Trek from Mamangkhe to Yamphudin
2,080m/6,824ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
5 hours
Today, having breakfast in Mamangkhe, we will continue our trek towards Yamphudin. This village is the largest and most culturally rich village in the Kanchenjunga region. We will pass through villages first to reach a river, then cross it and trek through some stone steps.
We will also learn about the traditional lifestyles of the local communities. As you gain elevation, the surrounding valleys become even more spectacular. And later we reach Yamphudin at the junction of the Kabeli and Amji rivers, a village inhabited by Limbu, Sherpa, and Rai communities. Overnight in Yamphudin.
Day 8: Trek from Yamphudin to Tortong
2,995m/9,826ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
5-6 hours
Today, our journey ascends towards Tortong. The trail is more wilderness as we follow the banks of the Amji Khola, walking through rhododendron, bamboo, and pine forests. The peaceful surroundings, flowing rivers, and occasional wildlife sightings make this one of the most enjoyable sections of the trek.
After a few hours, we will reach the small settlement of Tortong, situated in the heart of the forest. Overnight in Tortong.
Day 9: Trek from Tortong to Cheram
3,870m/12,697ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
3-4 hours
Today’s journey follows the beautiful Simbuwa Khola, leading us through dense forests before gradually emerging into the open alpine landscape. As we gain altitude, the air becomes cooler, the vegetation begins to thin, and the scenery transforms into a dramatic high-mountain environment. Along the trail, we’ll cross wooden bridges, pass cascading waterfalls, and catch our first impressive views of the Yalung Glacier and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Then, after some hours of walking, we’ll reach Cheram, a small high-altitude settlement that serves as an important stop before heading towards Ramche and Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.
Day 10: Rest Day at Cheram
3,870m/12,697ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is a well-deserved rest and acclimatization day at Cheram (3,870 m). Although there is no long-distance trekking planned, staying active is an important part of adjusting to the higher altitude. After breakfast, we’ll take a short hike to nearby viewpoints or walk further up the valley for better views of the surrounding peaks before returning to Cheram to rest.
Day 11: Trek from Cheram to Ramche
4,610m/15,124ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
4-5 hours
Having breakfast in Cheram, we begin our trek to Ramche. As we climb higher, the landscape changes dramatically from alpine meadows to rugged glacial terrain. The route passes alongside the roaring Simbuwa Khola, with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and magnificent mountain scenery accompanying us throughout the day. With fewer trees at this altitude, the Himalayan panorama becomes more open, revealing impressive views of Kabru, Rathong, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
The trek takes around 4-5 hours, allowing us to gain altitude gradually while enjoying the peaceful wilderness of the Kanchenjunga region. Upon reaching Ramche (4,580 m), we’ll settle into a simple mountain lodge surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery. Ramche is the final overnight stop before visiting Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (Oktang).
Day 12: Day hike to Oktang (South Base Camp) and return to Cheram
4,730m/15,518ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
5-6 hours
Today is one of the most rewarding days of the trek as we set out early for Oktang (4,730 m), the viewpoint widely regarded as Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. The trail follows the edge of the Yalung Glacier, leading through a rugged alpine landscape with breathtaking views at every turn.
As we reach Oktang, the magnificent south face of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) rises before us, with other towering peaks of Jannu (Kumbhakarna), Kabru, Rathong, and an impressive panorama of glaciers and icefalls. After spending time in the incredible scenery, capturing photographs, and celebrating our achievement, we begin our descent to Cheram.
Day 13: Trek from Cheram to Tortong
2,995m/9,826ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
5-6 hours
We will begin our descent from Cheram and retrace our steps towards Tortong. Leaving the alpine landscapes behind, the trail gradually descends through glacial valleys before entering dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and bamboo.
As we lose elevation, the air becomes warmer and the lush greenery returns. We’ll cross wooden bridges, follow the peaceful Simbuwa Khola, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Kanchenjunga wilderness. Overnight in Tortong.
Day 14: Trek back from Tortong to Yamphudin
2,080m/6,824ft
Tea House
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
6-7 hours
Today, we’ll descend back towards Yamphudin. The trail winds through lush woodlands, crosses suspension bridges over rushing rivers, and passes small settlements where you’ll once again experience the warm hospitality of the local communities.
With more downhill sections than uphill today, the walk is comfortable and offers a chance to appreciate the beautiful landscapes from a different perspective. Overnight in Yamphudin.
Day 15: Drive to Bhadrapur
91m/299ft
Hotel
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
9-10 hours
We will drive back to Bhadrapur, following scenic roads through remote villages, rolling hills, tea gardens, and fertile plains of eastern Nepal. It will take about 9 to 10 hours to reach Bhadrapur.
Upon arriving in Bhadrapur, we’ll check into our hotel and celebrate the successful completion of the trek.
Day 16: Fly to Kathmandu
1,400m/4,600ft
Hotel
Breakfast
45 minutes
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Bhadrapur Airport for a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, which takes around 45-50 minutes. During the flight, you may enjoy one final glimpse of Nepal’s beautiful hills and the distant Himalayan range before arriving in the vibrant capital city. You’ll be transferred to your hotel after landing in Kathmandu. Enjoy your remaining day exploring the sights and shopping.
Day 17: Final Departure
Breakfast
On the final day of your Kanchenjunga adventure, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight, depending on your flight schedule.
Our airport representative from Bold Himalaya will ensure a smooth check-in and assist with any last-minute travel arrangements. As you board your flight, you’ll carry unforgettable memories of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek, from the towering Himalayan peaks to the rich culture of eastern Nepal.
Want to customize your trip?
We ensure every trip meets your expectations — customize your itinerary anytime to match your travel style and preferences.
Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- Pick up and drop off service in private car
- All ground transportation during Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
- All domestic flights (Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu)
- Accommodation in 3* Hotel in Kathmandu with twin sharing bed
- Full board meals( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
- Best available standard Guesthouse/ Trekking Lodge during the trek
- Necessary staff, guide (6 guest: 1 Guide) & porters (2guest: 1 porter) including all their (Food Accommodation, Salary, and Insurance)
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area entry permit & Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card
- Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket (If you Needed Return after Trekking)
- One special cultural show and farewell dinner program
- First aid medicine items
- Some seasonal fruit items as the in trekking
- Duffle Bag, T-shirt, and Trip certificate
- Our government tax & official expenses
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
- Dessert & Bar Bills
- Your international air ticket & travel insurance
- Tips for the trekking crew members
- Any other personal expenses not mentioned in inclusion
Packing List of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
Clothing
- Lightweight thermal tops
- Hiking pants or fleece pants
- Waterproof jacket and down jacket
- Insulated jacket
- Light thermal trouser
- A brimmed hat or suncap
- Gloves
Footwear
- Trekking boots
- Lightweight camp sandals
- Woolen socks
Trekking Gear
- Backpack (40-50L)
- Trekking poles
- Head torch and extra batteries
- Sleeping Bag
- Sunscreen with SPF
Personal Accessories
- Quick dry towels
- Hand Sanitizer
- Toiletries
- Lip Balm with SPF
- Water and Purification tablets
- Snacks
- Power Bank
Fixed Departure
Fixed Departures, Guaranteed Hassle-Free Travel
Detailed Kanchenjunga south base camp trek Map
Altitude Chart of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
Good to Know
Know everything before yo go to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek.
Transportation during trek
The transportation for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp combines domestic flights, private vehicles, and trekking on foot.
From Kathmandu, you will take a domestic flight to Bhadrapur Airport – the nearest airport to the Kanchenjunga region. You will take the domestic flight for around 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Bhadrapur.
From Bhadrapur, you will be transferred to a private vehicle for a scenic drive to reach the starting point of the trek, Taplejung, via Ilam.
After finishing the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek, you will follow the same types of transportation. A scenic drive from Yamphudin to Bhadrapur and a domestic flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu.
Accommodation and Meals on Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek
Accommodation during the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is in traditional teahouses and local lodges operated by welcoming mountain communities. Rooms are simple and comfortable, typically on a twin-sharing basis, with basic beds, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities.
As you trek to higher elevations, the facilities become more basic, but the genuine hospitality and peaceful surroundings make for a memorable stay.
Meals are freshly prepared at the teahouses and include a variety of Nepali dishes. You can enjoy staples such as Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and curry), noodles, fried rice, soups, potatoes, pasta, eggs, pancakes, porridge, tea, and coffee. Nutritious meals are served throughout the trek to keep you energized for each day’s adventure.
Acclimatization during trek
While trekking at higher altitudes, acclimatization is essential for the body to cope with decreasing oxygen levels. Due to the presence of low oxygen levels, walking continuously can cause altitude sickness.
As per the itinerary, we have a rest day at Cheram, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek. But we can add a few more days for acclimatization as per your need.
Communication and Internet
In the Kanchenjunga region, connectivity to mobile networks or internet access might be limited.
Mobile network coverage is available in some lower villages through providers like Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell, but the signal becomes weak or unavailable as you gain altitude. A few teahouses in larger settlements may offer paid Wi-Fi, though the connection is often slow and weather-dependent.
Electricity
In the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, the availability of electricity is limited as you ascend to higher altitudes. Tea houses or Lodges provide an electricity facility, but charging batteries or electrical equipment might be challenging, or you may have to pay some additional costs.
So, it is recommended that trekkers bring their own power bank or portable chargers to keep their essential devices fully charged.
Physical Fitness
The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek is a journey of around 16 days, full of rough hilly terrain with extensive lengths uphill and downhill, narrow cliffs, crossing rivers, and upstream. The trek demands a high level of physical fitness as it involves 6 to 7 hours of uphill and downhill walking, and altitude gain can be quite significant.
To successfully conquer the trek, trekkers must be in good physical shape, with stamina and good condition. So you should train for at least 3 months before trekking on Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, focusing on physical shape, cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility.
Guide and Porters
We at Bold Himalaya provide you with dedicated, highly experienced, and licensed holder guides and porters who will be invaluable companions for your trek. Throughout the journey, they will confer essential support and assistance so you have a smooth and enjoyable trekking trip at the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek.
A Guide will help you to get the permit, pack essential gear, and plans the perfect itinerary for your Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek. Moreover, a guide will assist with cultural interactions acting as a bridge between you and local people. They can aid you by giving a knowledge about cultural and traditional insights as well as navigating your trekking route of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek. We provide a guide to every trekking group with a size of people, if you are a larger group then you will require more guides.
Porters may come in handy while trekking at Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. He will take care of your heavy lifting by carrying your backpacks, equipment, food, and other essential materials. He will ensure you have less physical strain and has an enjoyable journey without any worries.
Therefore, trekking with a guide and porters will support you not only in guiding and carrying equipment but also assure that you are safe by giving priority to the management of altitude sickness symptoms and monitoring weather and climate so that you can have enjoyable trekking at the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Cost
The cost of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek with Bold Himalaya is $1,790, but the price can vary on the duration, group size, and services included. Our packages typically cover airport transfers, domestic flights, private ground transportation, trekking permits, an experienced guide, porter services, teahouse accommodation, and meals during the trek.
Additional personal expenses such as travel insurance, drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, charging electronic devices, hot showers, laundry, and tips for the trekking staff are generally not included.
Trekking Permit
Obtaining a special permit from the government is essential if you are planning to trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. The region surrounding Kanchenjunga has been designated as a conservation area to help preserve the environmental and cultural assets of the area. Therefore, the permit will give you access to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. You will require two types of permits.
- Kanchenjunga Restricted Area permit
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area permit
During the permit application process, it is compulsory to provide documents such as passport-sized photographs, passport, VISA, and travel insurance details. After transmitting such documents to us, we will handle the submission and obtain the necessary permits for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek.
Travel Insurance
Trekking to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp is difficult and hazardous, taking you up to an altitude of 4,730 meters/15,518 feet. The high altitudes and severe cold might be problematic for trekkers, and anything might happen on the journey.
Having travel insurance is essential to cover all medical expenses or helicopter rescue facilities if sudden circumstances occur during the trek. Be sure your insurance policy covers all of your activities while in Nepal.
Altitude Sickness and Safety Measures
Beginning of the trek from Taplejung at 1,441 meters and leads you up to an altitude of 4,730 meters / 15,518 feet at Oktang; there is a high possibility that the trekkers might suffer altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). If managed properly, altitude sickness is nothing to worry about. You can consult with your guide if the symptoms of altitude sickness begin to show.
The symptoms of altitude sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
To deal with altitude sickness while trekking, you should follow the mentioned preventive measures.
- Acclimatize properly
- Take it easy and climb slowly
- Drink 3 to 4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated
- Consume highly nutritious and carbohydrate-rich foods
- Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills
- Descend to a little lower if necessary
FAQs of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
Your Questions, Answered
When is the best time to do Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek?
Autumn and Spring seasons are considered to be the best season for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek. The days are warm and nights are cool and the sky and weather are completely clear, making the views of verdant hills, and vibrant forests excellent visibility.
Is it necessary to have travel insurance for Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek?
Travel insurance is essential while traveling at the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek ensuring you can do worry-free trek with peace of mind. It covers all medical expenses or rescue facilities if any unforeseen circumstances occur during the trek.
What are the permits required for Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek?
For the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek, you will require two types of permits – A restricted area permit and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area permit. The permit can be only obtained with a guide.
Do I need porter for this trek?
We strongly advise you to hire a porter for this trek. Hiring a porter for the trek will allow you to relax and enjoy the walk without having to worry about your backpack. The porters can carry up to the maximum weight limit of 15 kilograms.
What is the highest altitude of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek?
The highest altitude of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek is 4,610 meters/15,124 feet at Ramche (South Base Camp).
Is there telephone/WiFi service in the Kanchenjunga region?
The majority of the settlements in the Kanchenjunga region have no cell service or connectivity of mobile networks is limited. WiFi is only available at tea houses in the Kanchenjunga region for an additional fee.
Can I rent trekking essentials?
Trekkers who visit Nepal for a trek can rent or purchase the items they need. However, renting the trekking gear is preferable to purchasing it since it is more convenient and less expensive.
Our company Bold Himalaya also owns a shop that provides all the necessary hiking gear and equipment.
What ethnic groups you will meet on the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek?
This trek explores Nepal’s border with Sikkim and Tibet. The lower region has a mixed community following Hinduism dominated by the ethnic group Limbu and the Rai people who follow animist beliefs. The upper region has a distinct community of Bhote and Sherpa people who follow Buddhism.
What is the average walking distance per day on the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek?
The average walking distance per day varies from 6 km to 18 km depending on the day.
How many hours of trekking is required per day on the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek?
The average number of hours you need to trek per day on the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek is around 5 to 7 hours.
View OurSimilar Packages
Discover our top tours, loved by thousands of travelers annually. Choose the adventure that inspires you and embark on a journey tailored to your desires.
View All Packages
Premium Nepal & Bhutan Luxury Tour | 11-Day Himalaya Adventure
Multi-country 
11 Days Days
Save 33%
Mulde View Point Trek with Poon Hill – Four Days of Annapurna
Nepal Tour Packages
4 Days
Save 32%
Mardi Himal Base Camp 5 Days Trek
Nepal Tour Packages
5 Days
Save 22%
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake
Nepal Tour Packages
13 Days
Save 28%
Nar Phu Valley Trek – 11-Day Remote Himalayan Adventure
Nepal Tour Packages
11 Days
