Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek—A 15-Day journey in Sikkim to the Home of Endless Delights!

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim, sometimes called the Kanchenjunga Trek too is not one of your regular treks that you encounter in the Eastern Himalayan mountains of India. It’s a moderately strenuous trek through remote and rugged landscapes of the Kanchenjunga National Park in west Sikkim, without the comforts of modern civilization.

A 15 Day and 161 km camping trek in Sikkim with minimal facilities, unpredictable weather conditions, and zero mobile connectivity. But the best base camp trek in Sikkim suitable for hikers who love solitude and are comfortable with the basics.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is truly a wild trekking experience for those who have already done those regular treks in Sikkim or in the Eastern Himalayas, and are looking for a more challenging trek.

But be warned, you will be spending some real cold nights, and long hours of trekking too, forget the warmth, the only place warm enough will be your sleeping bag in your tent, and the Kitchen Tent.

Bring enough energy bars and spare battery banks to back up your camera and phone batteries as the Kanchenjunga National Park is devoid of power facilities.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim—there’s a mystery in the name—a promise of delights where the monsoon and winter seasons keep pace with relentless time.

The destination of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, also known as the Sikkim Kanchenjunga Trek is not only the Goechala Pass at the foot of the iconic Kanchenjunga, but also the hillsides decorated with exotic Rhododendron flowers and the horizon adorned with the Everest and Kanchenjunga Ranges.

And as the trekking trail passes through moss-laden pine and fur forest, you can you can experience the pure fresh air with every breath.

How long is this trek?

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, also known as the Sikkim Kanchenjunga Trek, is a challenging and rewarding 15-day and 161-kilometer-long trekking route in Sikkim to the Base Camp of Kanchenjunga, India’s highest mountain.

A trekking trail in Sikkim that takes adventurers through the well preserved Kanchenjunga National Park, that offers stunning Himalayan views, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural experience, to the base of the third highest mountain in the world, mount Kanchenjunga.

Getting Around

Uttaray a distant five-hour’s drive from Gangtok in West Sikkim is the starting point of this Kanchenjunga trek. While Yuksom is where the trek ends.

Yuksom is 6 hours drive from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, and five hour’s drive from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

On the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trail

The trekking trail on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek from Uttaray is a walkable cobblestone path through forests, at times a little steep till Chewabhanjyang.

Chewabhanjyang is a pass at the India-Nepal border there are security forces on both sides. A tea house and a homestay on the Nepal side make up the village, while a tourism bungalow, and the two security building on the Indian side make up chewabhanjyang.

From Chewabhanjyang, there are two trekking trails. The trail on the left heads towards Phalut on the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling, while the right hand side trail heads towards Dafeybhir and Dzongri.

The Kanchenjunga trail on the right follows the pillars that mark the International India-Nepal border. It’s another walk through thick forest and then on a ridge till we reach Gairi.

As the trekking route reaches the ridge above Gairi, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek slowly unfolds; the entire valley on the Nepal side and as well on the Sikkim side, along with the Kanchenjunga Range, can be surveyed with ease.

From Gairi to Paharey Megu to Dafebhir Pass it’s a gentle trail, at times a little steep, but littered with crystal lakes when you reach Dafeybhir Pass (4330m), the highest point on the Sikkim side of the Kanchenjunga Trekking trail.

After Dafeybhir it’s a continous up and down the himalayan trail, at times a little hard but nothing to be worried about with the Kanchenjunga Range in the horizon all the way till Dzongri and Goechala pass.

Although the final destination that you are headed for is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp at Goechala Pass, you will notice that the entire hiking trail is made up of beautiful mountain scenery and different landscapes. A scenery like out of a nature magazine.

View from Daphey Bhir Pass

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, particularly on the day you cross the Dafebhir Pass (4336m), is truly otherworldly. This section of the trek offers an incredible view of both Everest and the Kanchenjunga Ranges.

A vital aspect of this trek is immersing yourself in local culture by engaging with Yak herders along the trek route; you might even get a chance to share a cup of tea with them.

Nothing captivates you on a morning at Dafebhir Pass like the radiant orb of the rising sun coming up from beneath the jungle of misty white clouds coloring Mt. Kanchenjunga and it’s Range blood red. This is absolutely one scene on the Kanchenjunga base Camp Trek that will make one’s jaw drop in amazement.

The Peaks rising from the sea of clouds, and sometimes cloudless right from the bottom, are indeed an enduring scene. A peculiar dreamy feeling envelops the onlooker, and the surroundings appear surreal. The world may have taken a different garb now, but the charms and magic of the old Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek still hangs in the air.

Exploring the trekking trail

The Sikkim Himalayas, forever whispering secrets has a marvel of a trek: the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek untouched and serene. This isn’t just a trek, it’s a window into the beautiful Sikkim Himalayas that contain a collection of exquisite landscapes, lakes and snow capped Mt. Kanchenjunga and it’s range-intricately and meticulously crafted in consonant with nature.

Not only the views and the trail, but also the smiling demeanor and the mannerism of the people of Sikkim make the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek refreshingly different from all other trekking trails in the Himalayas. Every turn and bend on the Kanchenjunga Trek beckons one to stop and admire the unusually long Himalayan Range.

For those pressed for time, there’s also a shorter alternative: the Yuksom Dzongri Goechala Trek. This is an eight-day trek and covers a total trekking distance of 80 km, providing a condensed and enriching trekking experience in Sikkim.

Trek Grade

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a moderately strenuous, and at times a little challenging, but a beautiful trail to hike in the Sikkim Himalayas

It is unarguably the finest hiking trail in Sikkim, as this trek combines all the best features of other routes into one remarkable adventure, making it an exceptional choice for adventurers.

A solitary Trek

The trek route, especially from Uttaray to Dzongri is a solitary trek, virtually devoid of other trekkers, and as a result, the campsites are quiet, peaceful, and practically deserted.

On any given day your group may be the only humans on this side of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trail.

Since, the trek from Uttaray to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp to Yuksom is also longer than the other trails in Sikkim, it gives trekkers a chance to take in more of the mountains of Sikkim.

Not only do they get a chance to hike across the awe-inspiring landscape of the Kanchenjunga National Park, but they’ll also catch views of the Everest and the Kanchenjunga Ranges along the way.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek also provides amazing views down onto the open valleys of Nepal that are found to the north of the trail, something that is seen by only a handful of hikers on this trail.

Best Season

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim is best done during the months of April-May or October-November. These seasons offer the optimal conditions for an unforgettable trekking experience.

During the April-May timeframe, the park comes alive with a vibrant display of diverse flowering plants. The high meadows are blanketed in the stunning blooms of wildflowers, creating a breathtaking landscape.

Additionally, the approaching monsoon clouds have not yet fully engulfed the Sikkim Himalayas, allowing for clear mountain views.

Alternatively, the October-November period is another excellent choice. The air is crisp and refreshing, and the horizon is remarkably clear, offering unobstructed vistas of the majestic peaks.

While the retreating monsoon may bring some rain, it is generally minimal and should not deter adventurous trekkers.

Accommodation 

Accommodation on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim is exclusively camping-based due to the UNESCO World Heritage status of the Kanchenjunga National Park, which prohibits settlements along the trekking trail.

Hikers are provided with twin shared sleeping tents, and three-inch foam mattresses to each hiker.

Additionally, separate Dining and Toilet Tents are also provided convenience of the hikers. A dedicated Kitchen Tent will also be provided for the cook to prepare meals.

The dining and kitchen tents also serve as sleeping quarters for other members of the trekking team.

Food

One aspect that trekkers should be aware of is the limited food options available along the trekking trail.

After Uttaray, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trail is devoid of any tea houses and lodges until you reach Dzongri. Dzongri, Thansing, Kookrochoong, and Tchoka has one trekker’s hut each, but the menu is limited to the staple Dal Bhat curry.

As a result, the camp cook will provide hikers with local vegetarian food. Dal, Bhat, and vegetable curry make up the core of your meals throughout the trekking period. However, other items are also served like Chowmein, Noodle Soup, Macaroni, and Chapatis (bread).

Breakfast is primarily porridge, bread with jam, honey and butter, pancakes, eggs, and fruits, accompanied by coffee or tea.

Dinner will consist of rice, dal, and vegetable curry with soup, capped off with a warming hot chocolate drink or black tea.

WIFI and Mobile Connectivity 

Free WIFI is readily available in Hotels in Gangtok and Pelling, and also Sikkim is well connected with mobile connectivity. So if you have a local Sim or have brought one from your country and have activated roaming, then you can make calls from your phone.

However, the remote and rugged terrain of the Kanchenjunga region means there is no electricity, and mobile connectivity on the trekking route until you reach Yuksom at the end of the trek.

Therefore, come prepared with enough backup power sources, such as high-capacity power banks and extra batteries for your camera and other devices.

A portable solar charger can also prove to be an invaluable asset, allowing you to recharge your gadgets using the abundant natural sunlight.

Please Note: The use of Satellite Phone is banned in India, and also in Sikkim.

What to Carry

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim is a 15-day journey through remote parts of the Sikkim Himalayas. Therefore, bring a large haversack (50–55 liters) or a duffel bag with waterproof covers suitable for ponies to carry comfortably on their back to pack your clothes, essential items, and the sleeping bag required for the 15-day trek. Please ensure your main pack does not exceed 15 kg in weight.

Additionally, bring a day pack for personal use on daytime treks. Your day pack should be spacious enough to accommodate your personal items, an umbrella or raincoat, a water bottle, a light fleece, a windbreaker, and your personal medical kit.

Include in your personal medical kit medicines for fever, dysentery, anti-acidity tablets, and Diamox tablets for altitude sickness. Having these items will help you feel secure and prepared for any health issues that may arise during the trek.

Remember to pack antiseptic cream, sunscreen lotion, Vaseline for chafed skin, painkillers, crepe bandages for sprains, and waterproof bandages for cuts, bruises, and blisters.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes from the strong sunlight in the mountains.

Water

Water is not a scarcity on the Kanchenjunga Trek, there are springs with fresh water at close intervals, and is also safe to drink.

Nevertheless, waterborne disease is the most common way to fall sick; therefore, carry water-purifying tablets even though hard-boiled drinking water will be provided every day in the morning before starting the days trek.

Clothing

Packing List for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Language

Nepali is the local dialect and widely spoken and understood by one and all. On the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, most people you meet on the trail and in your support team will have some ability to understand and respond in English.

So, don’t worry if you don’t know Nepali or if it’s a bit rusty. Few essential words you’ll need while trekking in Sikkim is “NAMASTE” (Hello), “DHANYABAD” (Thank you), Khanchu ( I will eat), Malai (me), Timro (yours), Mithoo Lagyo ( very tasty). Additionally, some people also speak Sikkimese, which is similar to Bhutia, but is not widely spoken.

Support Team

For a two member team of hikers, an experienced guide, a cook supported by two Kitchen helpers, a sherpa to take care of the tents, a pony man along with six ponies to carry the camping equipment, baggages of the hikers, food and other essential items make up the support team.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek: Best Tips

1. Purchase a pair of light ankle-high trekking boots that are comfortable on your feet. The ankle cuff should not be too high to avoid damaging your Achilles tendon. Try these boots on before you actually embark on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, and break them in early so that you do not get blisters while on the trek.
2. Socks are an important item on the Kanchenjunga Trek. Choose socks designed for trekking and long-distance hiking. These socks are well worth the investment for extra foot protection.
3. This is a 15-day high-altitude trek averaging 10 km per day. Therefore, it is important to train well and be fit. Include in your training long walks, running, cycling, swimming, or other physical activities to improve your stamina and fitness.
4. There are a variety of terrains you will need to tackle, from riverside trails to steep paths up a mountain trail filled with snow. Therefore, mix up your training with long walks on varied terrain.
5. It is essential to acclimatize properly as you trek to higher altitudes to prevent altitude sickness. Take regular breaks and spend extra nights at higher altitudes to give your body time to adjust.
6. It is important to stretch after long walks. Focus on your calves, quads, hamstrings, hips, and back.
7. Porters/Pack Animals will carry your main baggage, but you will need to carry a day pack with some weight. Therefore, practise with a day pack before the trek.
8. Your main baggage should not weigh more than 12/15 Kg in weight. But make sure to bring along warm clothes, woolen caps, woolen gloves, a sun hat, waterproof Gear, comfortable trekking shoes, and other essential items needed for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. It is essential to include in your baggage a first-aid kit, a water bottle, water-purifying tablets, sunscreen, Vaseline, sunglasses, snow spikes, etc.
9. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek offers a glimpse into the lives of Sikkim’s indigenous people, each with their own distinct customs and ways of life. It’s essential to honor their beliefs and way of life, and to consider the potential effects of your visit on their surroundings.
10. It is important to stay hydrated at higher altitudes to avoid altitude sickness. So, stay hydrated and steer clear of alcohol and caffeine.
11. The Kanchenjunga Trek is not a race. So take your time and enjoy the scenery, and do not push yourself too hard.
12. The weather in the Sikkim Himalayas can be very unpredictable. Therefore, be prepared for rain, snow, and cold weather. Weather conditions can change very quickly in the mountains. Therefore, be flexible with your plans and be prepared to adjust your itinerary accordingly.

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Overview of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

• Location: Sikkim, India
• Total number of days: 21 days
• Trekking Duration: Typically 15 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
• Maximum Altitude: 15, 478 feet (4,719 meters) at Goechala Viewpoint 1
• Best Time to Visit: Late March to May and September to November
• Accommodation on the Trek: Tent
• Minimum Number of Participants: 2 Persons.
• Highest Camp Site: Pangdin (4210 m).
• Starting and Ending Points of the Trek: Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Rail Station
• Trek Availability For Solo hikers: We have no group departure for this trek.
• Only customized private treks are arranged for a minimum of two people on request on a date of your choice.

SIKKIM KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive at Bagdogra Airport. Drive to Gangtok (4 hours). Overnight Hotel (B/B only).

Day 2: A Day in Gangtok.

After breakfast, drive to Rumtek Monastery, located 23 kilometers from Gangtok. Rumtek monastery was built by the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa in 1959 and is a replica of the Tsurpu Monastery in Kham, Tibet. It is the biggest monastery in Sikkim, and is the seat of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

The Rumtek monastery also serves as a school for the monks, and is a must-see for any visitor visiting Sikkim. The walls of the mionastery are adorned with intricate murals and golden statues of the Buddha, and it is an awe-inspiring sight to behold.

Visit the Institute of Tibetology, which contains some ancient Buddhist scriptures and artifacts. In the meantime, our staff will process the trekking permit for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Day 3: Drive Gangtok to Pelling (1800 m/5-6 Hrs. Drive). Overnight Hotel.

Day 4: Acclimatization half-day walking tour of Pelling. Afternoon drive to Uttaray (2012 m/35 km/2 hrs), the trek head for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Visit the Pemayangtse and the Sangacholing Monasteries. The two holiest and oldest monasteries in Sikkim.

Day 5: Sikkim Kanchenjunga Trek Starts. Trek Uttaray to Chewabhanjyang (3200 m/8 km). Overnight Tents.

• Altitude: Chewabhanjyang-3200 m
• Distance: 8 Km/5 Hours
• Altitude Gain: 1188 m

After the entry formalities are done, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek from Uttray to Chewabhanjyang begins on a wide trail through a tropical, moss-laden pine and conifer forest decorated with ferns and lichens. This forest is home to wild animals like bears, musk deer, and hares.

Chewabhanjyang is a pass between Nepal and Sikkim, where trade between the two countries used to take place. As a result, the Indian Army has stationed security forces here. There is a police post on the Nepal side of the border too. The first day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a challenging one, with a lot of uphill climbing until you reach Chewabhanjyang.

The altitude gain on the first day of the trek is 1100 meters, and it can be tough if you’re not used to this kind of terrain. However, the views of the surrounding mountains, the lush forests, and the unique wildlife make the effort worthwhile.

Day 6: Acclimatization Day. Side Trek to Phoktey Dara on the Singalila Ridge. Overnight Tents.

The second day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek starts with an acclimatization trek to Phoktey Dara, the highest point on the Sikkim Singalila Ridge for brilliant views of the Kanchenjunga Range. After Breakfast trek a leisurely trek to Phoktey Dara to view the Kanchenjunga Range and as well get acclimatized to higher altitude. Total distnace covered is approximately 8 km. Return back to Chewabhanjyang for the night. Overnight Tents.

Day 7: Trek Chewabhanjyang to Gairi (3600 m/10.5 km/5 hours). Overnight Tents.

• Gairi: 3600 m
• Distance: 10.5 km/6 hours
• Altitude Gain: 400 m

With a gain in altitude of 400 meters, the trail of this day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek starts climbing gently through pine and rhododendron forests, accompanied by the presence of the two dominant peaks of the Kanchenjunga Range.

This picturesque landscape is one of the most beautiful in the Sikkim Himalayas, making Sikkim an ideal destination for a trek. As you traverse through the forests, you’ll experience the serenity of the mountain atmosphere and be able to take in the majestic views of the mountain range.

With the gentle altitude gain and views of the mountain range, today is a pleasant day for the trek. You’ll be able to take in the fresh air and admire the spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks.

Day 8: Trek Gairi to Dhond (3900 m/6 km/3 hours). Overnight Tents.

• Dhond: 3672 m
• Distance: 6 Km/3 hrs
• Altitude Gain: 72 m

The trail from Sikkimey Gairi immediately begins to climb with a 300-meter gain in altitude to Dhond. The trail offers spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range, and the trail meanders through the rhododendron forest, giving way to Alpine vegetation as the trail reaches Dhond at 3672 meters. The trail is lined with Primula flowers, making it a picturesque journey through the Himalayan region.

Day 9: Trek Dhond to Paharae Megu (3800 m/12 km/5 hours). Overnight Tents.

• Dhond: 3800 m
• Distance: 12 Km/5 hours
• Altitude Gain: 128 m

Located in a lush green meadow and surrounded by rhododendron forests on all sides, Paharey Megu is a stunning camp site. A five-minute walk up to the ridge on the India-Nepal border offers an awe-inspiring view of the Kanchenjunga range as the sun rises. This mesmerizing sight is a must-see for any trekker and a sight to cherish.

The eighth day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is relatively easy, with no gain in altitude. It is a slight uphill and downhill trek through the rhododendron forest until you reach Paharae Megu, the camp site for the night. Along the way, you will be surrounded by the beauty of the remote and isolated landscape of the Sikkim Himalaya.

Day 10: Trek Paharae Megu to Jomlae Pokhari (4100 m/11 km/5 hours). Overnight Tents.

• Jomlae Pokhari: 4100 m
• Distance: 11 km/6 hours
• Altitude Gain: 300 m

The 9th day of this trek is an amazing one, thanks to the spectacular views of Kokthang and the Kabru sisters. The trail is wide and easy to follow for about 1 km, and then the trail starts climbing for an hour. Then the trail levels out on a wide stone trail till the Twin Lakes, which also form the border between India and Nepal. This is where we stop for lunch. On the other side, one can see the small settlement of Timbong Pokhri, which falls inside Nepal. The hard trek uphill is compensated by the many lakes that are dotted along the trail, and the 300-meter gain in altitude at above 4000 meters will certainly give you an adrenaline rush. After lunch, it is a slow and steady climb to Dafey Bhir Pass and then a gradual drop down to Jomlae Pokhari, our camp site for the night.

The trail on the 9th day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is definitely one of the most beautiful and memorable of all the days. The views of the majestic mountains from Dafey Bhir Pass, the lush green valleys, and the many lakes that dot the mountainside give you that calming atmosphere of the Himalayas, and all these come together to give you an unforgettable trekking experience. Overnight Tents.

Day 11: Trek Jomlae Pokhari to Yangshyap (3543 m/9 Km/5 hours). Overnight Tents.

• Yangshyap: 3542 m
• Distance: 9 km/5 hours
• Altitude Loss: 557 m

From Lam Pokhari, the trail takes you steadily and immediately up the mountain, passing through boulder-strewn paths that eventually lead to the Dafey Bhir Pass, located at an altitude of 4330m. The views a little away from the pass are nothing short of breathtaking, with the full range of the Himalayan mountains from Everest to Kanchenjunga in full view. Once at Daphey Bhir Pass, you become an ethereal part of the most beautiful 180-degree view of the Everest and the Kanchenjunga Range. It is moments like these that make up the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim. Moments that are meant to be bottled up and cherished forever.

From here, the path then starts to descend for about three kilometers, taking you through valleys and meadows as you make your way towards Gomathang. The last two kilometers of the trail are a steep descent, but the effort is well worth it when you reach Gomathang, where you can take a break for lunch.

After lunch, the trekking trail starts climbing immediately for about 2 km through thick pine forest. The trail then gently descends till Yangshyap, our camping ground beside a small stream for the night.

Day 12: Trek Yangshyap to Pangdin (4210 m/10 km/5-6 hours). Overnight Tents.

• Pangdin: 4210 m
• Distance: 10 km/5 hours
• Altitude Gain: 667 m

The trek to Pangdin, with a total distance of 10 km and an altitude gain of 667 m, is perhaps a gentle day of trekking on the eleventh day of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. The gentle uphill trek passes through dense tropical forest and starts climbing subtly from the time we start the trek. With the views of Pandim, Thinchenkhang, and Narsing visible on the right flank. The mountain view does compensate for the long trek through the forest. Except for the last 2 km of uphill before approaching Pangdin, the entire day of trekking is moderate in nature. The altitude gain of 700 m cannot be felt either.

Day 13: Trek Pangdin to Bikhbari (3700 m/12 km/6-7 hours). Overnight Tents.

• Bikhbari: 3700 m
• Distance: 9 Km/6-7 hours
• Altitude Loss: 510

The trek route from Pangdin to Bikhbari is a pleasant experience for your aching leg muscles, as it is not difficult and there is no sudden gain in altitude. As you traverse through the route, you’ll pass through Tyigabla and Rathong Valley.

Tyigabla holds immense significance to both Buddhist pilgrims and travellers alike. It is said that Guru Rimpoche, the enlightened Guru, used this route on his way to Nepal and Tibet while propagating Buddhism. It is also a route used by travellers to enter Nepal.

The most difficult part of the trek on this day is after lunch. It is a sheer uphill climb of a little more than an hour on a small trekking trail woven out on a wall. This part of the climb is treacherous, but after the climb, the scenery is beautiful, and the rest of the trek to our camp site at Bikhbari is an easy downhill trek.

Also, from Pangdin, the morning views of the snow-clad mountains of the Kanchenjunga Range are just spectacular to behold. From the ridge, you can even spot the Dzongri Campsite.

Day 14: Trek Bikh Bari to Dzongri (4030 m/8 Km/4 hours). Overnight Tents.

• Trekking Distance: 8 Km/4 Hours.
• Highest Altitude: 4030 m (Dzongri).
• Altitude Gain: 330 m.

This is a short trek to Dzongri Ridge and an easy trek too, with a very gradual uphill trail till Dzongrilla Pass. From this pass, you can look down at the valley floor and the white peaks of Rathong, Kang, Frey Peak, and the Kabru sisters above the Himalayan Mountaineering Base Camp. From here, the trail dips slowly until we reach the camp site at Dzongri, 2 km away.

Day 15: Rest Day at Dzongri.

One of the most rewarding experiences on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is the early morning hike to the Dzongri View Point, where you are welcomed by the most mesmerizing view of the Kanchenjunga Range. The view is especially rewarding during sunrise when the alpine glow colors the summit of Kanchenjunga painting it all red, and it is here that you will truly appreciate the beauty of nature. After you’ve taken in the breathtaking views, your journey back to camp begins. Breakfast awaits you on your return, making this early morning hike one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences of your trekking experience.

Day 16: Trek Dzongri to Lamunee (4164m/11 Km/5-6 Hrs). Overnight Tents.

• Trekking Distance: 10.8 Km.
• Dzongri to Kookrochoong-3.8 Km (2 hours).
• Kookrochoong to Thansing-3.2 Km (2 hours).
• Thansing to Lamune- 3.8 Km (2 hours).
• Maximum Altitude: 4164 (Lamune).
• Thansing: 3932 m.
• Minimum Altitude: 3658 m (Kookrochoong).
• Altitude Gain: 134 m.

After Breakfast the trek to Lamunee begins. The trail starts with a gentle uphill climb on barren Alpine vegetation with mountain views in the distance for 1 km. The trail then dips down slowly for 2 km and then a steep downhill for another 2 km till you reach the river bed at Kookrochoong. From here, the trail meanders beside the river for a Kilometer before gradually ascending through the Rhododendron Forest until you reach Thansing. The remaining 3.8 km of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek are on a wide, level path, with Mount Pandim and Thinchenkhang ever present on your right, towering above you.

Thansing:

Day 17: Trek to Goechala Pass view Point and back to Kookrochoong (15 Km/6-7 Hrs). Overnight Tents.

• Total Trekking Distance: 15 Km
• Lamune to Samiti Lake-2 Km.
• Samiti Lake to Goechala View Point- 2 Km.
• Lamune to Thansing-3.8 Km
• Thansing to Kookrochoong- 3.2 Km
• Maximum Altitude: 15,478 feet / 4719 m (Goechala pass View Point)
• Samiti Lake: 4210 m
• Minimum Altitude Kookrochoong: 3658 m

Trekking to the Goechala Pass View Point is an exhilarating experience that you don’t want to miss! This 15.1 Km long round trek to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp and back starts at 3 am in the morning and takes you to a height of 15, 478 feet. The Goechala Pass view point offers unparalleled view of the south face of Mount Kanchenjunga and it’s range and is one of the most sought-after destination on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

This stretch of the trek requires a certain level of physical fitness. The early morning (3 am) 2 km trek to the sacred Samiti Lake at 4210 m is not easy. Trekking in the dark on the moraine through boulders needs stamina. But the still waters of the samiti lake that run deep, and although bathed in the shadow of the Kanchenjunga Mountains the lake appears beautiful.

After crossing the Samiti Lake, it’s another 2 Km of steep uphill trek till the first Goechala View Point. Once you reach the view point, you can witness the mesmerizing sunrise on the snow-clad peaks of the Kanchenjunga Range. How lucky you will feel to be the person watching the sunrise glaze Mt. Kanchenjunga a beautiful pink and orange. The most peaceful moment when all you can hear is your own breathing, and the fluttering of the prayer flags as they sing their good morning song.

After spending some time at the top, you will make your way back to the campsite at Lamunee for breakfast. After a well-deserved rest, you will head down the Thansing Valley in a leisurely manner and camp for the night at Kookrochoong.

Day 18: Trek Kookrochoong to Tchoka (2975 m/9.55 Km/6 Hrs). Overnight Tents.

• Total Trekking Distance: 9.55 Km
• Kookrochoong to Phedang: 6 Km
• Phedang to Tchoka: 3.55 Km
• Maximum Altitude: 3658 m (Kookrochoong).
• Minimum Altitude: 2975 (Tchoka).

The trek to Tchoka from Kookrochoong is perhaps the easiest part of this trek in Sikkim. This part of the trek route is a paradise for nature lovers, boasting with thick Rhododendron and Pine forests. With only a few uphill stretches until Phedang, where lunch will be served, the day’s trek is a great way to to enjoy a leisurely hike in Sikkim.

After lunch at Phedang, the trek to Tchoka is a downhill journey on a rough trail as you make your way to the campsite at the end of the day. This part of the trek route gives a great opportunity to observe the lush green forests and vivid fauna of the well preserved Kanchenjunga National Park in Sikkim Himalayas.

Day 19: Trek Tchoka to Yuksom (1760 m/13 Km/6 Hrs). Overnight Lodge.

• Total Trekking Distance: 12.35 Km
• Tchoka to Sachen: 5.35 Km
• Sachen to Yuksom: 7 Km.
• Maximum Altitude: 3658 m (Kookrochoong).
• Minimum Altitude: 2975 (Tchoka).

Tchoka to Yuksom is an easy 13 km trek through the dense forest of Kanchenjunga National Park. The first 3 km is a steep downhill and then it is a little up and down hill trail till Yuksom where the Trek ends. End of  the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim. Overnight Lodge.

Day 20: Drive to Kalimpong ( 124 Km/4 Hrs). Overnight Hotel / Home Stay.

Day 21: Drive to Bagdogra Airport for Final Departure. The end of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

How much Does the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Cost?

• Cost: US$1680  per  Person.
• Indian Nationals: Kindly Inquire for quote in Indian Rupee

Kanchenjunga National Park Fees (Extra as Applicable):

• For Foreign Nationals: US$110 per Person for 15 Days Trek
• For Indian National: Rs. 3,000 per Person for 15 Days Trek

Fees for Camera and Filming (extra as applicable):

• DSLR Camera: Rs.200 per entry
• Video Camera (GoPro) per entry: Rs.1500
• Drone Camera per entry: Rs.2500
• Filming (Domestic): Rs.20,000
• Filming (Foreign): Rs.30,000
• Indian Trekkers Kindly Inquire for quotes in Indian Rupees

What is Included and Excluded in the Cost?

KANCHENJUNGA BASE CAMP TREK COST INCLUDES :

• Hotel accommodation in Gangtok, Pelling and Kalimpong – twin share including breakfasts.
• Twin share Rooms in Lodge in Uttaray & Yuksom.
• Twin Share Accommodation in Tents while on the Trek.
• Fully organized trek services with guide, porters, Ponies, Tents etc.
• All fixed three meals everyday during trekking.
• All road transport as per itinerary by car/jeep.
• Service of an English speaking guide.
• Entrance fees to monuments visited.
• All Permits for Sikkim & Darjeeling.

DOES NOT INCLUDE :

• Kanchenjunga National Park Fees.
• Sleeping bag; personal clothing/equipment.
• Lunches and dinners during hotel stays.
• Bottled or alcoholic drinks.
• Tips, client insurance, evacuation costs.
• Any expenses of personal nature.

NOTE:  The above given Kanchenjunga Trek Itinerary is a sample, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors such as weather, road conditions, Physical ability of the participants etc. may dictate itinerary changes either before departure or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change this schedule in the interest of the trip participant’s safety, comfort and general well being.

NOTE:  Trek is a strenuous & high altitude Camping trek through the most uninhabited part of Sikkim. Average camp sites are at an average altitude of 4000 m and is therefore meant for seasoned and experienced trekkers only. A Physical check up is mandatory.

( All Relevant Terms and Conditions apply.)