Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
Trip Highlights of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
- Hike to Oktang Viewpoint around the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.
- Get a great sight of the mountain Kanchenjunga and the Yalung Glacier.
- Trek in Rai and Limbu villages.
- Visit rhododendron woods, Alps meadows and river valleys.
- Enjoy the serene Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
- Learn about the eastern Nepal culture and tradition.
- Trek with the expert team of Nepal Wanderlust Treks.
Overview of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is a remote trekking adventure in the eastern Himalayas, where quiet trails, traditional villages, dense forests, and high mountain scenery create a memorable journey. This trail takes the southern side of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world and this route is ideal for trekkers who prefer quieter trails away from the crowds. In between, you will see the changing landscapes, the local culture and the beautiful Himalayan scenery.
19 Days Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek starts with a scenic flight to Suketar and then trekking the Rai and Limbu villages and cultivated hillsides, rivers, waterfalls and rhododendron forests. When the trail rises upwards, forests are replaced by alpine meadows and rocky valleys. The best part of the trip is the walk up to Oktang Viewpoint by Kanchenjunga South Base Camp where you have a close-up of the mountain Kanchenjunga, the Yalung Glacier and the nearby mountains.
At Nepal Wanderlust Treks, all the aspects of your trip are well thought out to ensure your comfort and safety. Our seasoned local guides will take care of your permits, transportation, lodging and daily logistics and you can enjoy the trek without worrying about logistics, and learn about the people and the scenery of eastern Nepal.
Our Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Itinerary follows a gradual ascent with an overnight stay at Ramche before hiking to Oktang Viewpoint near Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. An additional acclimatization day at Ramche after the trek provides extra time to adjust to the altitude before beginning the return journey.
This trek is best suited for trekkers seeking a more peaceful Himalayan adventure. In case you are interested in staying in remote valleys, traditional mountain communities and the beauty of the eastern Himalayas, then Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Nepal would be a great option.
Itinerary of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport
Welcome to Nepal. A Nepal Wanderlust Treks representative will pick you up at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your Kathmandu hotel.
Once you have checked-in, you can either relax or visit the surrounding. Before the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek, we will get together in the evening, do a briefing on the trek, review the itinerary, check your equipment and answer any of your questions.
Fly from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Suketar (2,300 m) via Biratnagar
After breakfast, we will transfer to the domestic airport for flights to Biratnagar and then Suketar. During the journey, enjoy views of rivers, green hills, cultivated fields, and the eastern Himalayas from the aircraft.
On arriving at Suketar we will have lunch in our teahouse and get ready to go on the trek. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Trek from Suketar (2,300 m) to Kunjari (1,928 m)
Today’s trek starts with a slow descending path along cultivated lands, traditional villages and forested hillsides. We will pass through small streams and quiet trails in the peaceful countryside in eastern Nepal.
In the afternoon, we will arrive at Kunjari, a small village with farmland and greenery. Once we have checked into our teahouse, we will take rest and ready to walk the next day.
Trek from Kunjari (1,928 m) to Mamangkhe (1,785 m)
We will leave Kunjari and take a picturesque path through woods, terraced lands and hamlets. The trail crosses suspension bridges across several rivers and then moves on the quiet valleys of the Kanchenjunga region.
Upon arrival at Mamangkhe, we will find a comfortable teahouse and have a rest in the village. It is a good time to take a rest in the evening before proceeding to higher altitudes.
Trek from Mamangkhe (1,785 m) to Yamphudin (2,080 m)
The trail gradually climbs through forests, farmland, and traditional Limbu villages. In the process, we will cross streams and get good scenery of green hills as the scenery gradually varies with the elevation.
By late afternoon, we will reach Yamphudin, an important settlement on the route. After checking into our teahouse, you can relax and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere before tomorrow’s trek deeper into the mountains.
Trek from Yamphudin (2,080 m) to Omje Khola (2,460 m)
Leaving Yamphudin, we will follow a quieter trail through dense forests and narrow valleys. The path consists of a few ascents and descents, over suspension bridges and streams, and slowly ascending. In the process, you can visit local farms and traditional mountain houses.
By afternoon, we will arrive at Omje Khola, a peaceful stop surrounded by forested hills. The night is ideal to rest and proceed further into the Kanchenjunga area.
Trek from Omje Khola (2,460 m) to Tortong (2,890 m)
Today’s trail follows the Simbuwa Khola through beautiful rhododendron, bamboo, and pine forests. We will walk alongside the Simbuwa Khola for most of the day while gradually gaining elevation through beautiful rhododendron, bamboo, and pine forests.
After reaching Tortong, we will check into our teahouse and spend the evening resting.The cooler mountain climate becomes more noticeable from this point onward.
Trek from Tortong (2,890 m) to Tserma (3,870 m)
The trail continues to ascend steadily through forests to open alpine scenery with expansive mountainous vistas. Crossing grazing lands, we will follow the valley to Tserma, as the vegetation is thinned with the altitude.
Upon arriving in Tserma, we will enjoy impressive views of the surrounding peaks. The rest of the day is free to relac and prepare for tomorrow’s walk to Ramche.
Trek from Tserma (3,870 m) to Ramche (4,580 m)
The walk today is shorter, with a gradual ascent through alpine scenery. We will walk along the valley with the Yalung Glacier and have successively closer views of the snow covered peaks around us.
At Ramche we will settle down to our teahouse, and rest in the afternoon. By staying overnight at Ramche, your body gets acclimated to the elevation and you get to trek to Oktang Viewpoint before heading to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.
Hike to Oktang Viewpoint near Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4,730 m), Return to Ramche (4,580 m)
The day will start with a hike to Oktang Viewpoint, which is near Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Oktang Viewpoint offers a great view of Kanchenjunga mountain, the Yalung Glacier and the rest of the Himalayan mountain ranges.
We will take some time to appreciate the scenery and take photographs and go back to Ramche. The afternoon is free to relax and begin to prepare the next day acclimatization.
Rest and Acclimatization Day at Ramche (4,580 m)
Today is reserve for rest and acclimatization day after climbing Oktang Viewpoint near Kanchenjunga South Base Camp yesterday. During the mornings, we may rest or do an easy walk about Ramche, and enjoy the sights of the Alps, and the vistas beyond. The additional time at this altitude aids your body to adapt before starting the hike back.
We will later go back to our teahouse and have a peaceful evening with the mountains. Later, we will return to our teahouse and enjoy a quiet evening amidst the mountains.
Trek from Ramche (4,580 m) to Tortong (2,890 m)
After breakfast, we will begin descending through Tserma and continue along the valley beside the Simbuwa Khola. The trail runs through alpine meadows, and then is once again in rhododendron and pine forests, and the scenery varies throughout the day.
By afternoon, we will reach Tortong and check into our teahouse. The reduced height will offer a relaxing area to rest after a hard day walking.
Trek from Tortong (2,890 m) to Omje Khola (2,460 m)
Our trail today runs through forest trails along the river as we will further descend through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The walk is pleasant with bamboo groves, waterfalls, and suspension bridges as the warmer weather returns.
When we arrive at Omje Khola we will check into our teahouse and have time to rest at night and then proceed to the lower villages.
Trek from Omje Khola (2,460 m) to Yamphudin (2,080 m)
Leaving Omje Khola, we will retrace our route through forests, streams, and traditional mountain settlements. The gradual descent offers different views of the landscape as we return toward the inhabited valleys.
In the late afternoon, we will arrive at Yamphudin, where friendly local communities and comfortable teahouses welcome trekkers, where we will have a good overnight rest before the next leg of the journey.
Trek from Yamphudin (2,080 m) to Mamangkhe (1,785 m)
Today, we will go through farmland, through forests, and through little villages. The serene environment and the varying scenery make the back journey as pleasant as the ascent to the base camp.
Upon reaching Mamangkhe, we will rest in our teahouse and spend a relaxing evening reminiscing about the highlight moments of the trek so far.
Trek from Mamangkhe (1,785 m) to Keswa (2,120 m)
After breakfast, we will leave Mamangkhe and follow trails through terraced fields, forests, and traditional villages. The trail includes several gentle ascents and descents with views of nearby farms and hills with a glimpse of the nearby farms and hills. In the process, you will be able to see the everyday life of indigenous communities.
We will reach Keswa by afternoon and enter our teahouse. The village is calm, and offers a comfortable rest before the last day of trekking.
Trek from Keswa (2,120 m) to Suketar (2,300 m)
Today is the final day of trekking. We will walk through cultivated hillsides, small settlements, and forest trails before making the gradual climb to Suketar. The familiar scenery offers a relaxing end to the journey through the Kanchenjunga region.
After reaching Suketar, we will celebrate the successful completion of the trek and spend the night at a local teahouse before tomorrow’s flight to Kathmandu.
Fly from Suketar (2,300 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m) via Biratnagar
After breakfast, we will transfer to Suketar Airport for our return flights to Kathmandu via Biratnagar. Take some last glimpses of the eastern Himalayas, rolling hills, and river valleys during the flight.
We will then take you to your hotel once we get to Kathmandu. The remaining day is at your own leisure to either sightseeing or shopping of souvenirs before leaving the city.
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
- Airport arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle.
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Domestic flights: Kathmandu to Suketar via Biratnagar and Suketar to Kathmandu via Biratnagar.
- Airport taxes for domestic flights.
- Twin sharing teahouse accommodation throughout the trek.
- Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Seasonal fresh fruits after dinner during the trek.
- Experienced, government licensed English speaking trekking guide.
- One porter for every two trekkers (maximum 20 kg combined luggage).
- Guide and porter salary, meals, accommodation, insurance, and equipment.
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP).
- Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
- Trekking map and duffel bag for use during the trek.
- First aid kit carried by the guide.
- All government taxes and company service charges.
What's Excluded?
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Travel insurance, including emergency helicopter evacuation.
- Personal trekking gear and clothing.
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging stations and laundry services during the trek.
- Bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks and extra snacks.
- Personal expenses, shopping and tips for the guide and porter.
- Costs due to flight delays, weather conditions, natural disasters or other unforeseen circumstances.
- Any services not mentioned in the Cost Includes section.
Essential Information - Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
Best Time for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
The best season to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months usually have stable weather, pleasant daytime temperatures, and clear mountain views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks. The trail also has colorful rhododendron forests in the spring and fresh mountain air in the autumn following the monsoon season.
Winter trekking can be done but it is colder, particularly above Ramche where snowfall may hamper the route. During the monsoon season, it rains a lot, the roads are wet, and visibility is poor. Our Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Itinerary in the suggested seasons is a more comfortable way to trek.
Difficulty of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is a moderate level trek that can be enjoyed by individuals who are physically fit. The majority of the trekking days are of 5 to 7 hours of walking in forests, river valleys, alpine meadows, and mountain rocky paths. The slow ascent to greater heights demands gradual stepping and proper stamina.
You can train by going on regular walks, hikes, or cardio workouts before your trip to make the hike more enjoyable. Our seasoned guides will keep the pace comfortable, there will be frequent breaks and they will assist you on your way.
Altitude and Acclimatization
The highest point of the trek is Oktang Viewpoint near Kanchenjunga South Base Camp at 4,730 meters. With the trail slowly ascending, proper acclimatization is important to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Our Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Itinerary includes an overnight stay and acclimatization day at Ramche before beginning the return journey.
On the 19 Days Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek, your health is closely monitored by your guides who remind you to stay hydrated, walk slowly, and rest often. This will assist you in adapting comfortably to the rising altitude.
Permits for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek
The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek will need a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This is a restricted trekking area and you must hike with a licensed guide and there should be at least two trekkers in the group according to the current regulations.
All the necessary permits will be prepared through Nepal Wanderlust Treks prior to your trek. You only need to provide your passport details and passport sized photographs, allowing you to prepare for your adventure with confidence.
Travel Insurance
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek highly recommends travel insurance. High altitude trekking (up to 4,730 meters), emergency helicopter evacuation, medical care, cancellation of the trip, and loss of personal possessions should be included in your policy.
The route cuts across isolated mountainous regions where there are few medical institutions. The right insurance will be a source of comfort and the insurance will enable our crew to organize emergency aid fast in case of an unforeseen event when you plan to go on your Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Nepal.
Most Asked Questions by Travellers
The highlight of this trek is the Oktang Viewpoint along Kanchenjunga South Base Camp which provides great views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Yalung Glacier and the other peaks.
You will stay in local teahouses and basic lodges with simple twin sharing rooms and freshly prepared meals throughout the trek.
Yes. A few basic trekking supplies, snacks, soft drinks, chocolates, are sold in small shops in a few villages.
Yes. Our maximum weight per trekker is 10 kg. One porter usually carries a maximum of 20 kg for two trekkers.
At the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, there are the red pandas, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, blue sheep, and other species of birds.
Yes. After the trek, you can include sightseeing in Kathmandu or explore other places in Nepal.
Yes. The trail offers beautiful views of forests, glaciers, mountain villages, and Mount Kanchenjunga throughout the journey.
Our knowledgeable local staff enjoys a good service and offers good guides, professional service, and special attention in order to make the trekking experience enjoyable and safe.
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