The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and least commercialized high-altitude adventures, leading to the base of the world’s third-highest mountain, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m). Located in eastern Nepal near the Indian and Tibetan borders, this trek offers raw Himalayan wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and deep cultural immersion.

The route passes through pristine valleys, dense forests, alpine meadows, and traditional Limbu, Rai, and Tibetan-influenced villages. Unlike Everest or Annapurna, Kanchenjunga remains untouched by mass tourism, making it ideal for trekkers seeking solitude, authenticity, and serious mountain terrain. The trek reaches Pangpema (North Base Camp), delivering close-up views of Kanchenjunga’s massive north face.

Best Time to Trek:
Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–November). Clear skies, stable weather, and safe high-pass conditions.

Carrying the right gear ensures safety and comfort throughout the trek. Pack light, but include essentials.

General

• All-season sleeping bag & down jacket (available on loan, return after trek)

• Duffel bag for porter use

• Lightweight, windproof, waterproof jacket

• Daypack (30–40 L)

Head, Face & Neck

• Warm hat covering ears

• Sunglasses with UV protection

• Neck buff or scarf

• Sunscreen (SPF 35–60)

• Headlamp with spare batteries

Hands

• Warm shell gloves with liners

• Optional lightweight trekking gloves

Upper Body

• Long-sleeve moisture-wicking shirts

• Thermal base layers

• Fleece or wool mid-layer

• Waterproof outer jacket

Lower Body

• Thermal leggings

• Trekking pants (2 pairs)

• Waterproof over-pants

• Casual lightweight pants for evenings

Footwear

• Waterproof trekking boots

• Sandals for evenings

• 4–5 pairs of warm socks + liners

• Lightweight sneakers for travel

First Aid & Medication

• Adhesive bandages and blister treatment

• Painkillers like Ibuprofen

• Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)

• Wound coverings and antiseptic cream

• Water purification tablets

Documents & Essentials

• Passport + copies + 4 passport-sized photos

• Flight information

• Refillable water bottle with filter

• Hygiene kit: toilet paper, soap, wipes, towel, sanitizer

Optional Extras

• Trekking poles

• Energy snacks and dry foods

• Camera and spare batteries

• Power bank and charging cables

Note: Guides carry a group first aid kit, but bring personal medications and essentials.

Difficulty
Challenging. Remote terrain, limited facilities, long walking days (6–8 hours), and high altitude demand strong fitness and prior trekking experience.

Permits Required
Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)

Food & Accommodation
Basic tea houses with shared rooms. Facilities are limited compared to Everest or Annapurna. Meals are simple and cost increases with altitude.

Travel Insurance
Mandatory. Must cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation due to remoteness.

• Airport pick-up and drop-off in private vehicle

• Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast

• Scenic round-trip flights: Kathmandu ↔ Lukla

• Licensed, experienced trekking guide and porter team

• Full insurance for all trekking staff

• Three meals per day during the trek

• Accommodation in teahouses during the trek

• All required permits and entry fees

• Group gear for crew (kitchen and dining tents where needed)