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The North Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is one of the most remote, serene, and rewarding trekking experiences in the Nepal Himalayas. Known for its untouched beauty, wild terrain, and cultural richness, this trek takes you to the foot of the third highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m). Whether you're a seasoned trekker looking for a new challenge or a passionate nature lover, the Kanchenjunga region offers a rare Himalayan wilderness adventure.
This article by Himalayan Adventure International Treks offers a complete overview of the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek, including cost per person, day-by-day itinerary, permits, transportation, difficulty, map, guide and porter prices, food and accommodation, and more. We’ll also answer key questions like “How much does it cost to trek Kanchenjunga base camp?” and “Is Kanchenjunga base camp trek difficult?”
Starting Point: Suketar or Taplejung
Ending Point: Suketar or Taplejung
Maximum Altitude: Pangpema Base Camp – 5,143 meters
Duration: 18 to 24 days
Region: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, Eastern Nepal
Trek Type: Camping or Tea House
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Season: Spring (Mar–May), Autumn (Sep–Nov)
The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek takes you through remote villages, alpine forests, wild rivers, and glacial valleys to reach Pangpema, the northern base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga. It is part of the larger Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, which includes both North and South Base Camps.
Here is a recommended Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek itinerary:
Note: For a complete loop (Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek), trekkers continue to the South Base Camp via Sele La Pass.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek map highlights both the North Base Camp (Pangpema) and South Base Camp (Oktang) routes. The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp trek map covers key points like Ghunsa, Kambachen, Lhonak, and Pangpema. It also includes villages like Sekathum, Amjilosa, and Chirwa.
If you plan the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, your map will also include places like Tseram, Ramche, and Sele La Pass.
Map Resources: Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks provides a detailed Kanchenjunga base camp trek map with elevation, distances, and trail breakdowns.
One of the most asked questions is: How much does it cost to trek Kanchenjunga Base Camp?
Let’s break it down:
Group Size | Cost Per Person (USD) |
---|---|
Solo Trekker | $2,200 – $2,500 |
2–4 Trekkers | $2,000 – $2,200 |
5–10 Trekkers | $1,800 – $2,100 |
Indian & Nepali | NPR 110,000 – 130,000 |
Average Daily Cost (Foreigners): $90 – $120
Average Daily Cost (Indians/Nepalis): NPR 4,500 – 6,500
For Indians: INR 65,000 – 80,000 (depending on group size and service)
For Nepalis: NPR 55,000 – 75,000
Discounts available on group joining basis with Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks.
The Kanchenjunga region has limited tea house options, so some parts of the trek involve camping.
Tea House Stay (per night): $5– $10
Meal (Dal Bhat, Noodles, etc.): $7 – $12 per meal
Camping Setup (Guide/Staff/Food/Tent): $40 – $60 per day per person
💡 Tip: Full-board packages from Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks include meals, accommodation, guide/porter, and permits.
Experienced Trekking Guide: $30 – $35 per day
Porter (1 per 2 trekkers): $20 – $25 per day
Guide cum Porter: $28 – $30 per day
👉 Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for this trek due to the remote location and restricted permit requirement.
You’ll need the following permits:
Permit Type | Cost (USD) |
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | $20/week (min 2 pax) |
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit | $30 |
TIMS Card (if required) | $20 |
Only authorized agencies like Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks can obtain RAP permits.
Kathmandu to Bhadrapur Flight (Round Trip): $250 – $300
Bhadrapur to Taplejung Jeep (Round Trip): $120 – $150
Porter/Gear Transport (if any): Varies per logistics
Private vehicle options and helicopter charters available upon request.
Many ask: Is Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek difficult?
Yes – this trek is physically demanding and best suited for experienced trekkers.
Long walking days (6–8 hours/day)
Altitude over 5,000m (risk of AMS)
Remote terrain with no quick evacuation routes
Weather unpredictability and limited infrastructure
Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a serious concern above 3,000m. To prevent it:
Take acclimatization days (e.g., in Ghunsa)
Walk slowly and hydrate well
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Carry Diamox and follow your guide’s advice
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks guides are AMS-trained and carry first aid kits.
Spring (March–May): Rhododendron blooms, clear views
Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, best visibility
Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowy trails, extremely cold – not recommended
Monsoon (June–Aug): Landslides, leeches – avoid
Total Trekking Distance: ~220–250 km round trip
Daily Average Walk: 10–15 km
Elevation Gain: From 921m (Mitlung) to 5,143m (Pangpema)
Includes continuous ascents, descents, and high-altitude conditions.
Warm down jacket and sleeping bag
Sturdy trekking boots
Rain gear, layers, fleece, thermal wear
Trekking poles, headlamp, water purification tablets
Basic first-aid, sunblock, and altitude meds
Equipment rental is available in Kathmandu. Ask us for details.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in Sikkim, India, leads to Green Lake Base Camp (north-east side of the peak). It’s not connected to the Nepal side trek to Pangpema or Oktang.
If you’re looking to combine both Sikkim and Nepal sides, a cross-border expedition* is required.*
Want a longer trek?
Choose the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek — connecting North and South Base Camps via Sele La Pass.
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp: Ramche and Oktang
Combined Duration: 23–26 days
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Cost: $2,400 – $2,800 per person
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Cost for Indians/Nepalis: NPR 120,000 – 150,000
Himalayan Adventure International Treks organizes custom Kanchenjunga circuit treks with experienced local guides.
Government-registered agency specializing in remote Himalayan treks
Experienced Kanchenjunga region guides
Customizable itinerary and flexible booking
Safety-first approach with medical support
Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
Support for local communities and eco-tourism
The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek is more than just a hike—it's a journey through pristine Himalayan landscapes, rare wildlife, and timeless culture. Whether you're interested in a solo trek, a group join trek, or the full Kanchenjunga circuit, we’re here to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
🌐 Website: himalayanadventureintl.com
📧 Email: info@himalayanadventureintl.com
☎️ WhatsApp/Call: +9779803526139
The North Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek offers a unique blend of adventure, isolation, and mountain majesty. Though challenging, it’s deeply rewarding and ideal for trekkers seeking a Himalayan experience away from the crowds.
Still wondering, how much does it cost to trek to Kanchenjunga base camp? Or whether Kanchenjunga base camp trek is difficult for you?
📩 Get in touch with Himalayan Adventure International Treks for a free consultation and personalized itinerary.
The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek is a pristine Himalayan journey that leads adventurers to the foot of the world’s third-highest mountain—Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m). Located in the far eastern region of Nepal, this trek offers breathtaking alpine landscapes, remote mountain villages, ancient monasteries, and close encounters with rare Himalayan wildlife. This trek is a restricted region trek, and thus requires proper permits, a registered guide, and adherence to specific tourism regulations.
Let’s explore a comprehensive breakdown of the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek cost for solo trekkers, couples, and groups, along with updated permit fees, rules and regulations, and the best seasons to undertake this journey with Himalayan Adventure International Treks.
Trekking solo in Kanchenjunga is not allowed independently due to its status as a restricted area. Solo travelers must hire a licensed guide and be part of a registered trekking group (minimum 2 people). If you're traveling solo, Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks can help you join a group.
Total Cost for Solo (Private Service): USD $2,500 – $3,000
Includes:
Private guide and porter
Permits and TIMS card
Round-trip transportation (Kathmandu – Taplejung – Kathmandu via flight & jeep)
Full-board accommodation (tea house/lodges)
Company logistics and insurance
All government taxes Excludes:
Personal expenses
Tipping
International flights
Travel insurance
Group joining is a great way to reduce costs and meet fellow adventurers. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks organizes frequent group join treks during peak seasons.
Total Cost for Group Join (Per Person): USD $1,700 – $2,200 (for 2–8 pax)
Group Services Include:
Licensed English-speaking guide and porter (shared)
All permits and fees
Shared transportation and accommodation
Group first-aid kit
Trekking map and gear recommendations
Couples opting for a private trek will enjoy more personalized service, flexible itinerary adjustments, and privacy.
Total Cost for Couples (Per Person): USD $2,100 – $2,600
Special Inclusions:
Private guide and porter service
Twin sharing private room (where possible)
Romantic campfire evenings (weather and location permitting)
Custom pace and side trips
The Kanchenjunga Region is a restricted area, so multiple permits are required:
Permit Type | Cost (USD) |
---|---|
Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP) | $20 per person/week (first 4 weeks) |
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) | $20 per person (one-time) |
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) | NOT required in restricted regions |
Total Permit Cost Estimate (for 2–3 weeks trek): $60 – $80 per person
Permits can only be issued via a registered trekking company like Himalayan Adventure International Treks, and you must be accompanied by a licensed guide with a minimum group size of two.
To preserve the region's fragile ecosystem and support local communities, the following regulations apply:
Lush rhododendron blooms and clear mountain views
Moderate temperature, ideal for trekking
Snow begins to melt, opening high passes
Best visibility and stable weather
Festivals like Dashain and Tihar occur in this season
Cold nights but stunning landscapes
Monsoon (June to August): Landslides, leeches, and poor visibility
Winter (December to February): Heavy snowfall, closed passes, and extreme cold
Here’s a sample itinerary operated by Himalayan Adventure International Treks:
Day 01-02: Arrival in Kathmandu, permit process, and briefing
Day 03-04: Flight to Bhadrapur → Drive to Chirwa
Day 05-06: Trek Sukethum, Amjilosa
Day 07-09: Gyabla → Ghunsa → Khambachen
Day 11-12: Trek to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema – 5,143m)
Day 13-14: Return to Ghunsa → Amjilosa → Sekathum
Day 15-16: Retrace to Taplejung → Drive to Bhadrapur
Day 17: Return to Kathmandu & departure
(Custom itineraries can be arranged for private or group clients.)
✅ Government-licensed agency with decades of experience in remote treks
✅ Tailor-made itinerary options for solo, couple, or group travelers
✅ Ethical trekking practice & fair porter treatment
✅ Trusted network in Taplejung, Ghunsa, and local settlements
✅ Permit processing, gear rental, and emergency support included
Himalayan Adventure International Treks
📍 Kathmandu, Nepal
📧 Email: info@himalayanadventureintl.com
🌐 Website: www.himalayanadventureintl.com
📞 WhatsApp/Viber: +977-9803526139
The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most secluded and majestic treks. Though more expensive and logistically demanding than the Everest or Annapurna treks, it rewards adventurers with solitude, authenticity, and untouched Himalayan beauty. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or looking to join a group, Himalayan Adventure International Treks will ensure a safe, memorable, and eco-conscious journey.
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