Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trekking - 15 Days

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trekking - 15 Days
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trekking - 15 Days
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trekking - 15 Days
At a Glance
Duration15 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4,160m at Ramche (South Base Camp)
Group Size2-10
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is one of those top-notch Himalayan adventures revolving around the south face of the majestic Kanchenjunga Massif. Situated in the eastern region of Nepal, bordering the Indian states of Sikkim and Tibet, which are yet to be exposed to mass tourism, the trekking journey to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp is the ultimate Himalayan exploration to connect to the true essence of nature.

Often referred to as the Yalung Base Camp, the south base camp of Kanchenjunga is elevated at 4,610m at Ramche to slowly make an ascend through pristine woodlands, terraced fields, farms, and traditional tranquil villages, passing through a few sections, some of which are considered landslide-vulnerable areas, usually rugged, requiring a good level of physical fitness and mental preparedness, adding much to the adventure and overall rambling to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

Throughout the odyssey to South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga, sensational snow-capped mountains such as Kanchenjunga Main, Kanchenjunga South, Yalung Kang, Kabru, Rating, and others, along with scenically vibrant landscapes, keep trekkers and travelers excited for each day featuring the lush subtropical lowlands, including rhododendron, oak, and pine, alpine meadows, spectacular glaciers, and a diverse array of flora and fauna conserved under the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and the World Life Fund (WWF).

En route to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, you will get to make your way through the classic Himalayan dwellings of several ethnic indigenous communities of Nepal: Rai, Limbu, Sherpa at the higher elevation, Gurung, and Tamang at the lowland, providing you with a unique and incredible opportunity to see and live the simple yet most fulfilling Himalayan life.

Therefore, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trekking towards one of the newly discovered hiking routes in the Kanchenjunga region is a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan expedition offering unparalleled serene natural beauty and untouched culture born and brought up in the lap of the Himalayas that you can comfortably complete in 15 days with Ammonite Adventures and Treks Pvt. Ltd. offering the best-priced package to go for the expedition in 2024 and 2025.

Highlights

  • Delve into the most gorgeous aerial views during the flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, and vice versa.
  • It is a sublime feat to be part of the culturally and naturally enriching Kanchenjunga Himalayas.
  • Discover one of the less-trodden Himalayan trekking trails in the Nepalese Himalayas.
  • Embrace the prime beauty of the third largest mountain on the earth, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), close to none other than its own south base camp at 4,160m.
  • This is a fantastic opportunity to see some of the Himalayan flora and animals, from common to uncommon, such as the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, tahr, and red pandas.
  • Walk across the breathtaking Himalayan glacial lakes, lush forests, flowing waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
  • Travel into one of the major, highly restricted zones of Nepal's Himalayas, etc.

What makes the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp excursion stand out?

Kanchenjunga, translating to the five great treasures in the snow, as represented by five of the awe-inspiring peaks regarded as the vault of five major valuables such as religious books, grains, silver, gold, and jewels, flows interestingly not less than five main glacier systems of the Kanchenjunga Trekking region, including Zumu, Talung, and Rathong to the east and Tamor fed by Yalung and Kanchenjunga glaciers to the west.

Therefore, the name alone of Kanchenjunga distinguishes it from the rest of other hiking experiences in the Himalayas, promising an otherworldly adventure during the trip to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, which features:

The less-trodden Himalayan Trekking route

Unlike some of the world's top trek destinations in Nepal, such as Everest Base Camp Voyage, Annapurna Circuit Trail, and Annapurna Base Camp Expedition, the Kanchenjunga region has a limited tourism infrastructure, seeing fewer trekkers through rugged terrain, steep ascends and descends, including some of the landslide-prone areas in the remoteness, ensuring the most pristine natural beauty and cultural immersion, providing an amazing look out at the natives of the region who are still committed to the traditional way of living, cherishing each bond along with the hills, mountains, and nature, even worshipping them as god.

Further, the trekking route leading to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp is through one of the highly restricted realms of the Nepalese Himalayas, which has helped preserve the regional original beauty, rewarding trekkers with an opportunity to explore the true and unspoiled landscapes and local culture that might have long vanished from some of the other highly infamous hiking trails due to massive commercialization in modern days.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area’s swankiness in biodiversity

Named after the third-tallest mountain internationally and second-highest peak nationally, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is home to a large number of flora and fauna, some of which belong to the list of globally elusive as well, encompassing an area of 2,035 sq. km in Taplejung district to relish during your thrilling trek to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

Characterized by dense forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and high-altitude lakes supporting a wide range of ecosystems and their native plants and animals, the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is a biodiversity hotspot in the Nepalese Himalayas where you can encounter rare Himalayan species of red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and others on your very lucky day.

The real sense of adventure on making it to the south lap of the Kanchenjunga

Elevated at 4,610m above sea level, trekking to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp grants you the surreal thrill of exploring uncharted territory and conquering the physically demanding terrain, evoking the real spirit of adventure and presenting trekking aspirants and travelers from verdant woodlands and terraced fields to high mountain glacial valleys nestled amidst the snow-covered mountains, captivating the hearts of every nature lover.

The sense of accomplishment for trekkers upon reaching the base camp of one of the world's highest mountain giants, Mt. Kanchenjunga, is significant, serving as a testament to trekkers, climbers, and travelers’s determination and perseverance, equally leaving a lasting impression on the soul of adventure seekers seeking the unmatchable achievement of reaching the foot of the glorifying peak.

Everlasting Dynasty views of the Himalayan panorama

Right on stepping into the Kanchenjunga Trekking region to the eastern part of Nepal, you will get to witness some of the most majestic peaks in the world, while the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trekking route is predominated by the Kanchenjunga Massif (8,586m) and Kanchenjunga South (8,494m) at the forefront, Yalung Peak/Kanchenjunga West (8,505m), Kabru north and south, Pandim (6,691m), and Jannu (7,710m).

Depending on the weather and visibility of the trekking day, trekkers may also steal a glimpse at the dramatic tallest peaks globally, such as Makalu (8,845m) and Lhotse (8,516 m), including the top of the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 m), on a clear day on the way to the South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga.

Expansive cultural exposure of the Kanchenjunga Trekking region

Whether you are heading to the Kanchenjunga region for a round trip to its circuit or traversing only the North Base Camp or the South Base Camp of the mountain that dominates the area, Mt. Kanchenjunga, you will pass through numerous typical villages and even spend the nights at tea houses and local lodges maintained by the Himalayan natives, promising a heartwarming cultural immersion.

The majority of the natives inhabiting the trekking trail to the South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga are indigenous people of Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan, boasting distinctive dialects, cultures, customs, and traditions.

To experience the first-hand rural life and rich tapestry of Nepal’s cultural heritage, hike along the villages, often adorned with colorful prayer flags, intricate wood carvings, and traditional architecture, where the natural landscape’s beauty is matched by the open heart and genuine hospitality of these local communities when you engage yourself in an interaction on the way to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

The 15-day itinerary and route to trek the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp

Among multiple itineraries to go for trekking to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, the 15-day route, beginning with a goose-bumping flight over to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu and enjoying the stunning aerial views, is best for a comprehensive enhanced trekking experience that heads to the scenically rich Ilam on the same day, famous for its organic tea garden, and drives to the cardamom-growing district of Nepal, Taplejung the very next day.

From Taplejung onwards, the trek to the South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga officially commences. The trek spends the first ever night at the mountainous lodge of Lalikharka, gradually to the Khesewa, Pumhe Danda, Yamphuding, Torongding, Cheram, and finally to the Ramche, exposing the south base camp of Kanchenjunga for trekkers and travelers across the world, rambling 6-7 hours each day through a mixture of each type of terrain, some flats and a and a few steep ascents and descents.

On making it to the adventurous high altitude of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp at Ramche, you will simultaneously hike down to Torongding via the same route you used to ascend that continues up to Yamaphuding, where the previous trekking route diverges, while you will board one leading to Khebang, eventually making it to Kamdime, which later on drives to Bhadrapur, while the 15-day package by Ammonite Adventures and Treks comes to an end as you fly back to Kathmandu.

Wonderfully, like any other trekking destination in Nepal, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp also provides several itineraries and routes to explore the region. A 15-day package is one of our well-crafted journeys that can be customized as per the needs and preferences of trekkers and travelers. Contact us now to get your tailored-made expedition to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp explicitly created for you.

How much does it cost you to trek the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp?

Similar to any other high Himalayan trekking, such as the long expedition to the Manaslu Circuit or the short hike to Ghorepani Poon Hill, the cost of reaching the South Base Camp can also vary depending on several deciding factors, such as the length of the trek, the specific route of your preference, the time of the year you are traversing, and the level of services you have chosen in meal and accommodation, including the guides, porters, permits, and equipment rentals.

Nonetheless, at Ammonite Adventures and Treks, we offer the best price available, including a special group discount ranging from USD 1,800 to USD 2,000 or above that covers the expenses of most of the logistics, along with the domestic flight to and from Bhardrapur, in addition to the above-mentioned aspects.

Itinerary

Today, you will fly early in the morning from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur in about an hour and drive to Ilam, entering the stunning tea gardens in Kanyam and Fikkal.

The aerial views are as stunning as it can get flying over the verdant hills, mountains, cascading waterfalls, and typical Nepalese villages.

Max. Altitude: 1,627mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Three-Star-Hotel

It is another pleasing drive day to the epicenter of Nepal's infamous cardamom-growing region in about 4-5 hours, Taplejung at 2,000m in a scenic setting from Ilam, well acquainted with standard lodges and accommodation along with some modern amenities.

Max. Altitude: 1,820 m / 5971 ftMeal: Breakfast-DinnerAccommodation: Three-Star-Hotel

It is a lovely day as you make your way through several traditional villages, agricultural fields, and farms along the bank of the rushing Tamor River in about 6 hours and later spend an overnight in the serene surroundings.

Max. Altitude: 1,880 m / 4,166 ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

You will hike the ascending trail this day as well, following a delicious breakfast through rice and millet fields that cross the adventurous suspension bridge spanning 1,430m high at Phawa Khola.

From Phawa Khola, you will proceed to the tiny, beautiful Gurung town of Sinchebu Bhanjyang for a short tea or snack break, gazed at by some of the remarkable peaks such as Kyabru and Kanchenjunga itself, and lastly, take a descending trek to Khesewa for the night in a local tea house.

Max. Altitude: 1,960 m / 6,102 ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

The day again begins with an early morning breakfast through a comparatively easier flat downhill path passing by dense forest toward the Kabeli Khola, accompanied by several small waterfalls in between to keep you excited.

The hiking of the day stops for a while at Yangpang for lunch, which is also a surreal vantage point providing expansive views of Mt. Jannu, to finally make a steep uphill climb for about 20 minutes to Pumpe Danda as the destination of the day.

Max. Altitude: 1,960 m / 6,102 ftMeal: All-Three-MealsAccommodation: Tea-House

On this day, the majority of the hike is uphill on a moderate track running beside the Kabeli Khola, while you keep an eye on the stunning ridge lying beyond the creek as you trek through, making a few switchbacks up the valley and dropping debris from previous landslides beneath steep cliffs.

On the way, you will pass through several typical settlements that make it to Yamaphudin, crossing a short suspension bridge to later explore the area to the fullest and spend the night at a local tea house.

Max. Altitude: 1,960 m / 6,102 ftMeal: All-Three-MealsAccommodation: Tea-House

Above Yamphuding, facilities are expected to be limited; however, Ammonite Adventures and Treks would have your back and arrange ample supplies for the journey while you hike through the well-maintained route ascending through Amje Khola, seeing some yaks graze at Chitre.

From here you will gradually ascent to Torongding via verdant woodlands to catch the midday meal and move through the enigmatic forest, cross a suspension bridge, and spend the night at a tea house.

Max. Altitude: 2,340 m / 11,794 ftMeal: All-Three-MealsAccommodation: Tea-House

It is one of the most pleasing hike days, relatively short and sweet, making a comfortable ascent to Cheram along the bank of Sinuwa Khola, enjoying the Tuplung peak above as you stroll through the scenic Lalung Valley, dense rhododendron forest, and Yalung Glacier.

You would have already made it to the traditional village of Cheram by lunchtime to watch out for the shimmering lakes below and the mountains atop them, including the Yalung glacier, which looks especially out of the world during the sunset on a clear day.

Later on, spend the night at the local tea house, reminiscing about the views.

Max. Altitude: 3,868 m / 11,794 ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

The most-awaited hike day is finally here: a trek to the South Base Camp of the third highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,585 m), following the hearty breakfast at Cheram through the Yalung Glacier seen on the previous day that makes a pass by Lapsang, a notable tiny dwelling, and lastly, an adventurous ascend to Ramche.

It is just the right moment to set up camp for a more expansive view of the tranquil setting of the Himalayas, the starry sky, and the true sense of raw Himalayan wilderness, although Ramche offers comfortable and cozy teahouses to spend the night.

Max. Altitude: 4,160mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

Retracing the route begins this day with spending a wonderful night at your dream destination, Ramche/Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, as you let your feet stroll through the beautiful Himalayan surroundings and settlements until you arrive at Torongding, which is a lengthy but simple day to spend the night at a local tea house.

Max. Altitude: 4,160mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

The downward hike continues for several hours, which observes a strenuous ascent after a while on passing through the trail vulnerable to landslides on the way to Lasiya Bhanjyang to stop for lunch at one of the tea houses.

On a last steeply descending trek from here, you would have made it to the large town of Yamaphuding via verdant forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine.

Max. Altitude: 2,340 m / 11,794 ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

The hike is comparatively in a lowly elevated region; hence, it is going to be more convenient as you make your way through charming towns and terraced farms until you arrive at Khebang for the night.

Max. Altitude: 2,080 m / 15,698 ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

It is the last day you will be hiking on foot when you notice a notable change in scenery as you prepare for a driveway to Bhadrapur the very next day, making your way through traditional villages and a few rugged sections.

Max. Altitude: 1,910 m / 15,698 ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

Unlike the previous day, there is a lengthy drive ahead of you, relishing the scenically rich Kanchenjunga region from Khamdime to Bhadrapur, which can take 9–10 hours to take a filling supper in the evening and unwind in a cozy hotel for the night.

Max. Altitude: 1,500 m / 11,794 ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

The day begins earlier than most of the usual trek days to avoid the uncertainty of the weather in the evening, so you can take a safe flight back to Kathmandu from Bhardapur, marking the end of your 15-day package to trek the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

Customize Trip
Trip Service Details
Included
  • Cozy lodging during the trek is as per the itinerary.
  • Domestic flights to and from Bhadrapur
  • Local bus or jeep fees were used during the trekking days.
  • All three hearty meals each day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner en route to the South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga.
  • Trekking map and government-licensed, professional guide
  • Personal insurance for hardworking Nepalese staff.
  • Garbage deposit and other necessary fees related to it.
  • Essential entrance permits: TIMS card and RAP.
Excluded
  • International flight tickets and visa fees to and from Kathmandu, Nepal.
  • High-altitude travel insurance provides much-needed coverage in case of an accident, medical emergency, or emergency evacuation.
  • Lunch, dinner, and extra-night accommodations outside of the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses such as drinks, shopping, phone calls, and internet data expenses during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • Porter, who can be shared between two trekkers, carries a maximum shared weight of 25kg.
  • Guide and Porter's trek gratitude is much appreciated.
Dates & Availability
Starts:December 15, 2024Ends:December 29, 2024
PriceUS$1565
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Additional Info

What are the conditions of food, accommodation, drinking water, and charging devices on the way to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp?

Teahouses and lodges are the primary accommodation along the trekking route to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, usually offering meals and snacks as well as bedding, normally shared bedrooms with twin beds, common bathrooms, essential boiled drinking water, and charging facilities sometimes complimentary, mostly at an additional cost.

The modern facilities, such as wifi and internet connectivity, along with some international food menus and options in accommodation, can get limited as you ascend to a higher altitude to be called the true Himalayan expedition and have a genuine connection to the authentic essence of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

When is the best time to go for trekking to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp?

Monthwise March, April, September, and November are considered the best times to clamber the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, while the spring and autumn seasons are at the edge of their best seasons due to relatively favorable weather conditions, mild temperatures, and the best trekking trail conditions, which are usually swarmed with nectar-loving butterflies and bees in the freshly bloomed or about-to-be bloomed wildflowers.

In the meantime, winter and monsoon can not be neglected as the distinctive time of the year, enabling a unique perspective of the Kanchenjunga Himalayas on being appropriately geared and equipped, especially for an extraordinary adventure to the Southern Base Camp of the third highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga (8,586m).

Do you need permits to go for a trekking to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp?

Yes, you will need two of the mandatory permits to traverse the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, which are the Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS) and the restricted area permit (RAP) issued by the government of Nepal itself to provide help in need to trekkers on the trail in case of emergency and contribute to uplifting the living standards of the locals in the Kanchenjunga Himalayas.

Must you hire a guide and porters for the epic voyage to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp?

Although hiring guides and porters for a trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp is a matter of choice and is actually mandatory for solo travelers and trekkers, getting one of the professional, government-registered porters does greatly add to the overall expedition.

The trekking route to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp can be demanding, consisting of several rugged terrains, high altitudes, and varying weather conditions. A highly trained guide can not only help you navigate the trail safely and effectively but also provide you with insider insight into the local culture, hidden treasures, and other highlights, along with the logistical support you need.

What are the other alternative trekking to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp?

While the odyssey to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp is one of the most popular routes for adventurers seeking to explore the Kanchenjunga Trekking region and embrace the serenity of the third highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), there are several other trails to take into consideration if you are looking for new experiences, want to avoid congested trails, or are looking for a more touristic voyage.

Within the Kanchenjunga Trekking region, the 22-day Kanchenjunga Trek (Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking), Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, and others are noted for their raw Himalayan off-beaten trekking experiences.

FAQs

The hiking expedition to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp is taken as a moderately strenuous high-altitude journey where trekkers might have to make way through several steep ascends and descends on rugged terrain each day for around 5-8 hours above 3,000 m, where the occurrence of acute mountain sickness is considered a normal event.

The maximum altitude you will be at during the trekking to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp is 4,160m at Yalung/ South Base Camp itself.

Although not an obligation, getting your travel ensured by one of your locally based agents is highly advised for financial security, unforeseen medical and other emergency coverage, and peace of mind, especially during the highland trek to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, where the moods of the Himalayas can never be predicted.

No, as a countryside realm of the country, trekking trails to Kanchenjunga Base Camp generally do not facilitate ATM booths; hence, it would be wise to carry enough Nepalese cash from the capital city, Kathmandu.

While the lower region of Kanchenjunga might actually give you access to the wifi at an additional cost, sometimes complimentary, the network connectivity can fluctuate; hence, it is recommendable to purchase an NTC or Ncell SIM card in Kathmandu to connect with your loved ones and concerned authorities whenever you receive a stable cellular connection.