Kanchangunga Base Camp - North and South | Cost | FAQ | Itinerary| Best Time | Best Offer (2025)

Kanchangunga Base Camp - North and South Trek

Kanchenjunga Trek offers trekkers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to taste the pristine serenity of Nepal's highest peak. Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camps, Nepal's third-highest peak, are flanked by picturesque landscapes, pristine villages, and rare plant and wildlife species. This trek is especially made for trekkers to offer a cultural and scenic trekking experience with the help of expert guides of Swissa Agency.

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Why to go with Kanchenjunga South and North Base Camp Treks?

  • Breathtaking glimpse of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Jannu peak
  • Unveil the secret beauty of off-the-beaten-path villages and cultural heritage
  • Hike through lush jungle, alpine meadows, and stunning Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
  • Whole trek with North and South Base Camp day excursions
  • Moderate-level trek for experienced trekkers

Trek to the Kanchenjunga Base Camps: A Scenic and Cultural Experience

The hike begins with an overflight of the scenic Taplejung and then a drive to Suketar, the base of the trek. The trekkers will have the opportunity to pass through remote villages, vibrant landscapes, and varied ecosystems while climbing up. The South Base Camp is bestowed with the breathtaking sights of Kanchenjunga, while the North Base Camp leads the trekkers deeper into the harsh terrain of the nation. Along the trek, the trekkers will also have the opportunity to interact with the local people, including the Limbu and Sherpa people, and have a good cultural experience.

Some Most Important Features of Kanchenjunga South and North Base Camp Treks

  • Scenic view of Kanchenjunga and surrounding peaks
  • Opportunities to see wildlife like snow leopards and red pandas
  • Visit both the North and South Base Camps for an ultimate trekking experience
  • Traverse diverse landscape, from subtropical rain forest to alpine grassland
  • Be part of the cultural heritage of the Limbu and Sherpa people

Swissa Agency Trekking: Your Guide to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

With over 30 years of experience in organizing treks in Nepal, Swissa Agency offers expert guidance and individualized trekking assistance. Our experienced tour guides ensure that communication is handled the proper way while trekking and the experience is a smooth, enjoyable ride for trekkers. Everything you need from permits, lodging, food, and transportation, we handle them so you can care less about your travel scenery.

Yes, we offer discounts and prices are negotiable!

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Preparation and Altitude Planning for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga Trek is over 5,000 meters, and acclimatization is most crucial in such a scenario. Swissa Agency provides good guidelines on physical fitness, what to carry along, and acclimatization. Our expert trekking guides ensure the trekker stays healthy during the journey so altitude sickness is avoided and safety is guaranteed, leaving a pleasant experience on the trekking side.

Our Services for Trekkers

  • Experienced guides to ensure correct communication and personal attention
  • Tailor-made itineraries based on your physical ability and experience
  • Organizing visa, trekking permit, and transportation
  • Your favorite cuisine in tea houses and lodges
  • Transparency of trek packages without hidden charges

Scheduling Your Kanchenjunga Trek Today!

Join a lifetime experience with Swissa Agency. Book your Kanchenjunga trekking tour today and discover the country's stunning beauty and richness of the amazing landscape. We'll take care of everything while you simply relax, unwind and enjoy your tour.

Why Choose Swissa Agency for Your Kanchenjunga Trek?

  • Personalized Itineraries : We design personalized itineraries based on your physical health, interest, and liking.
  • Full Logistics : We arrange permits, transport, and accommodation.
  • Over 30 Years of Experience: Avail our rich experience of guiding trekkers to Nepal.

We specialize in tailoring experiences for global tourists.

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Kanchenjunga South and North Base Camp Treks : A Pilgrimage to the Soul of the Himalayas

Kanchenjunga Trek is one of Nepal's highest and most famous treks. It leads you to remote mountain scenery, native villages, and into the base of one of the world's highest mountains—Kanchenjunga at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet).

With the wildlife range, scenery, and the ability to interact with the locals, the Kanchenjunga South and North Base Camp Treks provide the ultimate holiday experience for culture and adventure enthusiasts.

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek: The Path Less Traveled

The South Base Camp Trek is a less crowded alternative to Nepal's more popular trekking routes. The trek entails walking through forests, alpine meadows, and villages and offers a unique view of Mount Kanchenjunga's southeast face.

  • Trek Duration: 18 to 24 days depending on pace and schedule.
  • Highest Elevation: 4,500 meters at the South Base Camp.
  • Best Time to Hike: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November).

Major Highlights:

  • Jungle Walks & Biodiversity: The trek begins with forest trails that are thick with rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests. The biodiversity of the trek is excellent, and red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and wild boars are some of the wildlife that are visible.
  • Local Culture: The trek passes through Limbu and Rai villages, and during the journey, the trekkers are able to enjoy the unique culture, tradition, and hospitality of the locals. Local culture is dominated to a great extent by Tibetan Buddhism here.
  • South Base Camp Scenic Views: The South Base Camp is located at the base of Kanchenjunga's massive southern face, with excellent panoramic views of snow-covered summits and glaciers, providing a breathtaking sight to see.
  • Solitude: Compared to other trekking areas of Nepal, the South Base Camp trekking route is not as crowded, providing an unspoiled experience of nature, tranquility, and solitude.

Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek: The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure

The North Base Camp Trek is a longer, harder trek that leads you to the north face of Kanchenjunga. It offers stunning vistas of the massive mountains and leads trekkers through tough terrain and remote villages. The North Base Camp is utilized as a launch point by climbers to ascend Kanchenjunga.

  • Trek Duration: 22 to 30 days depending on route and acclimatization.
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,143 meters at the North Base Camp.
  • Best Time to Trek: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November).

Key Highlights:

  • Rugged Terrain & Spectacular Scenery: The trek covers high-altitude terrain, crossing glaciers, moraines, and alpine meadows, offering some of the most beautiful and untouched views of the Himalayas. You’ll get the opportunity to see the Kanchenjunga Glacier and other smaller peaks like Jannu, Kabru, and Kumbhakarna.
  • Kanchenjunga Glacier: One of the standout features of this trek is its proximity to the Kanchenjunga Glacier, which provides a dramatic backdrop of ice flows, crevasses, and the sheer scale of the Himalayas.
  • Cultural Immersion in Tibetan Communities: On this side of the trek, you’ll encounter villages with a stronger Tibetan influence. The people of these villages practice Tibetan Buddhism and have unique traditions and customs. The monasteries along the way offer spiritual and cultural insights.
  • High Altitude Challenge: The North Base Camp Trek requires careful acclimatization as trekkers will be climbing to higher altitudes. This makes the trek a bit more challenging but also rewarding for individuals who are looking for a more serious adventure.

Practical Information for Kanchenjunga Treks

  • Physical Fitness: Both treks are strenuous, and the North Base Camp Trek is the tougher one, requiring an excellent level of fitness. Trekkers must train with cardio exercises and endurance-building activities before the trek.
  • Acclimatization: There are gradual ascents in both treks with included rest days to enable the trekkers to acclimatize at the greater altitudes. Thorough acclimatization helps to ward off altitude sickness.
  • Permits and Regulations: The Kanchenjunga region is a restricted area, and trekkers require special permits. The trek lies within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, and therefore a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and a conservation area permit are required.
  • Trekking Season: The best time for the trek is Nepal's spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is clear, and there are less likely to be any chances of the trails being obstructed by snow.

Why Trek Kanchenjunga?

  • Unspoiled Natural Beauty: The Kanchenjunga region is a virgin wilderness. The hikes wind through lush forests, past lush green rice fields, and along sparkling clean rivers that come down from the mountains. This raw, untamed beauty is one of the region's main attractions.
  • Peace and Solitude: Unlike some of the other more popular trekking routes in Nepal, Kanchenjunga offers an almost solitary trekking experience. There is no commercialization and throngs of people, and thus the trekkers can enjoy the solitude and quietness of the region.
  • Breathtaking Panoramic Sight of Kanchenjunga: Most strikingly, the main attraction of both treks is the prospect of getting up close to view one of the world's highest mountains. Kanchenjunga and associated peaks, Makalu and Jannu, have scenery without parallel.
  • Cultural Experience: Interspersed along the way is the interesting blend of cultures, from Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa villages to Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, with a depth of culture surpassed by very few other treks.

Conclusion

Kanchenjunga South and North Base Camp Treks provide adventurers with the distinct experience of hiking to one of Nepal's most remote, untainted, and scenic regions. For mountain climbers who want something on the lesser-known path or who simply desire to try a high-altitude trek, Kanchenjunga is not disappointing. With its stunningly beautiful and rich diversity of wildlife, as well as being able to touch local tradition in the surrounding region, trekking the Kanchenjunga ranks among Nepal's worst-kept secrets.

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Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp Trek (22 Days): Detailed Itinerary

Description: Your epic Kanchenjunga journey begins in Kathmandu and takes you through remote mountain villages, dense forests, high alpine zones, and the majestic Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camps. This detailed 22-day trek combines cultural immersion, challenging high passes, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas.

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m) and Transfer to Hotel

Your epic Kanchenjunga journey begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, a representative will be waiting to warmly welcome you and facilitate your comfortable transfer to your hotel. This initial drive, typically covering 5-7 kilometers, takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the city's traffic. This first day is primarily for your relaxation and to help you settle in after your international travel. There are no planned activities beyond your hotel transfer, providing you with ample opportunity to rest, unwind, and begin adjusting to the local time. It's a chance to gather your thoughts and anticipate the grand adventure that lies ahead in the remote eastern Himalayas.

Day 2: Preparation Day in Kathmandu (1,400 m); Optional Sightseeing

Today is a crucial day dedicated to essential arrangements and final preparations for your extensive trek. In the morning, you will attend a detailed trek briefing where you'll have the opportunity to meet your trekking guide and discuss the full itinerary in depth, including permits, altitude considerations, and cultural sensitivities. This session allows for any last-minute questions, as well as final checks on your trekking gear or necessary purchases in Thamel. For those eager to explore Nepal's rich cultural heritage, an optional sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley can be arranged. You might visit iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the ancient Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) with its panoramic city views, or the spiritual Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, offering a fascinating contrast to the wilderness you'll soon encounter.

Day 3: Fly or Drive to Bhadrapur (91 m) and then Drive to Birtamod (300 m)

Today, your journey to the Kanchenjunga region truly begins. You will either take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (91 m), a short but scenic flight of approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, offering aerial views of the plains and hills. Alternatively, you can opt for a long drive, which would be an extensive journey of around 12-14 hours. Upon arrival in Bhadrapur, you will then transfer to a vehicle for a drive to Birtamod (300 m). This drive is relatively short, usually taking about 1-2 hours, as Birtamod is a major commercial hub in the lowlands of eastern Nepal. You'll spend the night in a comfortable hotel here, preparing for the longer drive further into the mountains tomorrow.

Day 4: Drive from Birtamod to Sekathum (1,650 m) via Taplejung (1,820 m)

Today is a long and adventurous driving day as you head deep into the Kanchenjunga region. The journey takes you from the lowlands of Birtamod, gradually ascending through winding hill roads, terraced farmlands, and small towns. You'll pass through Taplejung (1,820 m), a significant district headquarters, where you might stop for lunch or a quick break. The drive continues further to Sekathum (1,650 m). This entire drive is rugged and takes approximately 8-10 hours, covering a substantial distance on often unpaved or challenging roads. Sekathum is a small village situated near the confluence of the Ghunsa and Tamor rivers, marking the true starting point of your trek. You'll likely stay in a basic local guesthouse or teahouse.

Day 5: Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,500 m)

Your trek officially commences today, leading you into the heart of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The trail from Sekathum follows the Ghunsa Khola, gradually ascending through dense forests of rhododendron, bamboo, and pine, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna. You'll cross several suspension bridges over roaring rivers. The trek to Amjilosa (2,500 m) involves a steady uphill climb, covering approximately 8-10 kilometers and taking around 6-7 hours. Amjilosa is a small, scattered settlement, typically with basic teahouse accommodations. The increasing altitude and remoteness become noticeable as you gain elevation.

Day 6: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730 m)

Continuing your ascent, today's trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla offers a beautiful walk through more pristine forests and along the river. The trail generally maintains a gradual incline, with some steeper sections, allowing for continued acclimatization. You'll pass through small clearings and occasionally spot distant peaks. The trek to Gyabla (2,730 m) covers approximately 5-7 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours. Gyabla is another small village, often inhabited by Tibetan-origin communities, providing a peaceful overnight stop in a simple teahouse.

Day 7: Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,415 m)

Today is a significant day as you gain considerable altitude, leading you into the higher alpine zone. The trail from Gyabla continues its uphill trajectory, eventually opening up to more expansive views. You'll notice a change in vegetation as the tree line approaches, giving way to more rugged mountain scenery. The trek to Ghunsa (3,415 m) covers approximately 7-9 kilometers and takes around 5-6 hours. Ghunsa is a beautiful and relatively large Sherpa village, with a monastery and more established teahouses compared to previous stops. It serves as a vital acclimatization point and a cultural hub in the upper Kanchenjunga region.

Day 8: Rest and Acclimatization Day at Ghunsa (3,415 m)

This is a crucial acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude. While it's a "rest" day, it's recommended to engage in a short acclimatization hike to a higher elevation, following the "climb high, sleep low" principle. You can take a short walk above Ghunsa, perhaps to a nearby viewpoint or a small hill, gaining a few hundred meters in elevation. This active acclimatization helps your body produce more red blood cells, preparing you for the higher altitudes ahead. You'll return to Ghunsa (3,415 m) for the night, exploring the village, its monastery, and interacting with the friendly locals.

Day 9: Trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen (4,145 m)

Leaving the comforts of Ghunsa, today's trek leads you into a more dramatic high-altitude landscape. The trail continues to ascend, often through coniferous and rhododendron forests that become sparser as you gain elevation. You'll traverse along the bank of the Ghunsa Khola, passing by small pastures and temporary herders' shelters. The trek to Khambachen (4,145 m) covers approximately 10-12 kilometers and takes around 5-6 hours. Khambachen is a small, seasonal settlement with basic teahouses, surrounded by towering peaks like Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and other impressive mountains. The views here are spectacular, signaling your entry into the true high Himalaya.

Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Khambachen (4,145m)

Another essential acclimatization day is spent at Khambachen, vital for safe progression to the higher altitudes of North Base Camp. Again, an acclimatization hike is recommended to aid in your body's adaptation. You can hike to a viewpoint above Khambachen, perhaps towards the ridge or a small hill, offering even more commanding views of the surrounding peaks, including the north face of Jannu. This short but effective climb helps prepare your body for the thinner air. You'll return to Khambachen (4,145 m) for the remainder of the day, resting and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Day 11: Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak (4,792 m)

Today's trek takes you into an even more remote and stark high-altitude landscape as you approach the Kanchenjunga Glacier. The trail from Khambachen to Lhonak is mostly a gradual ascent along the rocky and sometimes uneven terrain of the glacial moraine. The vegetation becomes very sparse, limited to hardy alpine shrubs and grasses. You'll pass by the impressive Kanchenjunga Glacier and the surrounding icefalls. The trek to Lhonak (4,792 m) covers approximately 8-10 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours. Lhonak is a small, desolate settlement with very basic teahouses, serving primarily as a base for expeditions and trekkers heading to North Base Camp.

Day 12: Trek from Lhonak to Pang Pema (North Base Camp – 5,140 m) and Return to Lhonak

This is a monumental day as you reach the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. You'll start early in the morning from Lhonak for the relatively short but impactful ascent to Pang Pema. The trail continues over rocky terrain and glacial moraine, offering increasingly grand views of the Kanchenjunga massif. The trek to Pang Pema (North Base Camp – 5,140 m) covers approximately 4-5 kilometers one way and takes about 2-3 hours to reach. From Pang Pema, you are rewarded with unparalleled, close-up views of the entire Kanchenjunga massif, including the main peak, Yalung Kang, and other surrounding giants. You'll spend time soaking in this incredible panorama before descending back to Lhonak (4,792 m) for the night. The round trip to Pang Pema and back to Lhonak will take approximately 5-6 hours.

Day 13: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,415 m)

Today, you begin your descent from the higher altitudes, heading back towards Ghunsa. The trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa is primarily downhill, retracing your steps along the Ghunsa Khola. This descent allows for easier walking and a welcome increase in oxygen levels. You'll cover a considerable distance today, approximately 15-18 kilometers, which typically takes around 6-7 hours. The familiar surroundings of the forests will gradually reappear as you lose elevation. You'll be back in the more comfortable teahouse accommodations of Ghunsa (3,415 m), enjoying the relative warmth.

Day 14: Trek from Ghunsa to Sele Le Kharka (4,200m)

Today is a challenging day as you leave the main valley trail and begin the traverse towards the south side of Kanchenjunga. The trek from Ghunsa involves a significant ascent, leading you through rhododendron and juniper forests. You'll be climbing steadily to reach a high ridge. The trek to Sele Le Kharka (4,200m) covers approximately 6-8 kilometers and takes around 5-6 hours. Sele Le Kharka is a high pastureland, often with very basic shepherd huts or simple teahouse facilities, marking your overnight stop before crossing a high pass. The views from here are expansive.

Day 15: Trek from Sele Le Kharka to Ramche (4,610m)

This is another demanding day that involves crossing a high pass, offering some of the most spectacular views of the trek. You'll start early, ascending from Sele Le Kharka towards the Sele La Pass (or a series of passes like Mirgin La, Sinelapcha La, depending on the exact route). The terrain can be rocky, possibly with snow, especially in early spring or late autumn. After crossing the pass(es), you'll descend steeply into the Yalung Glacier valley. The trek is long and arduous, covering approximately 10-12 kilometers and taking around 7-9 hours. You'll finally reach Ramche (4,610m), a small cluster of basic teahouses situated near the Yalung Glacier, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks on the south side.

Day 16: Trek from Ramche to Yalung Base Camp (South Base Camp – 4,840 m) and Back to Tseram (3,868m)

Another highlight day as you visit the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. From Ramche, you'll undertake an early morning excursion further into the Yalung Glacier valley. The trail is often over moraine and rocky paths, leading to the viewpoint. The hike to Yalung Base Camp (South Base Camp – 4,840 m) or Oktang viewpoint provides incredible close-up views of the south face of Kanchenjunga, Yalung Kang, Kabru, and other peaks of the Kanchenjunga massif. After spending time at the base camp, you will retrace your steps back to Ramche and then continue a significant descent to Tseram (3,868m). This long day covers approximately 12-15 kilometers and takes around 7-8 hours, including the base camp visit. Tseram offers more established teahouses than Ramche.

Day 17: Trek from Tseram to Tortong (2,980 m)

Today involves a considerable descent as you continue to lose altitude and head back into the forested lower regions. The trail from Tseram leads you through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests, often alongside a river. The walking will generally be easier as you descend. The trek to Tortong (2,980 m) covers approximately 10-12 kilometers and takes around 5-6 hours. Tortong is a small settlement with basic teahouses, providing a comfortable stop after the high-altitude days. You'll notice the warmer temperatures and denser vegetation.

Day 18: Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (1,692 m)

Your final significant trekking day involves a long descent from Tortong to Yamphudin. The trail passes through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, and small, traditional villages inhabited by various ethnic groups like Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa. You'll cross several streams and potentially some landslide areas. The trek to Yamphudin (1,692 m) is a long one, covering approximately 15-18 kilometers and taking around 6-7 hours. Yamphudin is a larger, more established village with a mix of teahouses and local homes, marking the end of your strenuous trekking portion. You'll enjoy the cultural immersion in this vibrant community.

Day 19: Drive from Yamphudin to Kanyam, Ilam (1,829 m)

Today transitions from trekking to driving as you begin your long journey back towards Kathmandu. You'll start with a drive from Yamphudin, connecting to more developed roads. The landscape gradually shifts from remote mountain trails to wider roads and cultivated areas. The drive is long and can take approximately 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions. You'll pass through picturesque tea gardens, notably as you approach Kanyam, Ilam (1,829 m), famous for its sprawling tea estates. Ilam is a beautiful hill station, and you'll spend the night in a comfortable hotel, enjoying the refreshing air and scenic beauty.

Day 20: Drive from Kanyam to Birtamod (300 m) then Fly or Drive to Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Today involves a significant travel day to return to Kathmandu. You'll start with a drive from Kanyam to Birtamod (300 m), which takes approximately 2-3 hours, winding down from the hills. From Birtamod, you will then either take a domestic flight from Bhadrapur (which would involve a short transfer from Birtamod) back to Kathmandu (1,400 m) (approx. 45 minutes to 1 hour flight), or if you opt for the drive, it will be another very long journey of 12-14 hours. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, allowing you to settle in and enjoy the comforts of the city after your extensive Himalayan adventure.

Day 21: Free Day in Kathmandu (1,400 m) with Farewell Program by Red Swissa Family

Today is a well-deserved free day for you to relax and enjoy Kathmandu at your leisure. You might choose to revisit a favorite site, explore new areas of the city like the ancient city of Bhaktapur (optional tours can be arranged), or simply indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping in the bustling Thamel district, picking up gifts and mementos for friends and family. In the evening, you are invited to a special farewell dinner and cultural program, graciously hosted by the Red Swissa Family. This provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your successful and challenging Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp Trek, share stories and laughter with your trekking companions and guides, and enjoy traditional Nepalese hospitality and entertainment, marking a memorable and joyful conclusion to your adventure.

Day 22: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for Final Departure

Today marks the grand conclusion of your incredible Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camp Trek in Nepal. Depending on the schedule of your international flight, you will have time for a final breakfast at your hotel and to complete any last-minute packing and check-out procedures. A pre-arranged transfer will ensure your comfortable and timely transport from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), usually a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic. As you depart from Kathmandu, we sincerely hope you leave with cherished memories of the awe-inspiring Kanchenjunga massif, the pristine wilderness of its base camps, the rich cultural encounters, and the profound sense of accomplishment from undertaking one of Nepal's most challenging and rewarding treks.

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Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek FAQ


When is the best time to trek Kanchenjunga?
The best time for Israeli trekkers to visit the Kanchenjunga region is autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). The weather is clear, mountain views are good, and trekking conditions are ideal. Winter and monsoon seasons should be avoided because of extreme cold and heavy rainfall.
How do I book my Kanchenjunga trek with Swissanepal?
You can simply reserve the Kanchenjunga trek at Swissanepal website (http://swissanepal.com). You may also contact them directly by email or phone for any information or special needs of Israeli visitors.
What is the cost of the Kanchenjunga trek with Swissanepal?
The cost for the 26-day Kanchenjunga trek with Swissanepal varies between $2,500 to $3,500 USD, depending on your package. This includes transportation, meals, lodging, permits, and guide. Contact the agency for the actual price based on group size and services.
How much does the trek cost?
The cost includes:
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Permit
  • Guide and porter fees
  • All three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Accommodation (guesthouses and camping as are applicable)
  • Transport (flight to Bhadrapur, transfer to trekking point, and back to Kathmandu)
  • First-aid kit and basic safety equipment
Is the trek feasible for Israeli trekkers who are not experienced with high-altitude treks?
Yes, but you must be prepared! The Kanchenjunga trek goes up to a maximum of 5,143 meters, and hence good acclimatization and slow gradual progress is crucial. Fit Israeli trekkers with some experience of trekking can go on this adventure. Swissanepal will ensure that good acclimatization days are factored in, and the guides will be available to ensure your safety.
Do I need a guide and porter for the trek?
While not necessary, it is highly recommended to have a guide and porter for the Kanchenjunga trek. Swissanepal will arrange for a certified English-speaking guide, and a porter to carry your gear so that you can walk with comfort.
Is the trek safe for Israeli trekkers?
Swissanepal prioritizes safety and promises experienced guides who know the terrain and weather. They have extensive experience organizing treks to far-flung regions of Nepal, ensuring trekkers are well cared for en route.
Can I stay in Nepal longer than intended before or after the trek?
Yes! The majority of Israeli trekkers want to arrive early or prolong their stay in Kathmandu for sightseeing and shopping. Swissanepal can also organize additional activities such as sightseeing in Kathmandu or excursion to nearby places such as Pokhara, Chitwan, or Nagarkot.
What is the level of physical fitness required for the trek?
The hike is reasonably challenging with high-altitude terrain, steep inclines, and long trekking days. Israeli trekkers must be well-conditioned, and experience on endurance hikes at high elevations is advantageous. Acclimatization and preparation through training before attempting this trek is prudent.
Is there any altitude problem?
Yes, the trek to Kanchenjunga entails more than 5,000 meters' altitude. Acclimatization is necessary due to the danger of altitude sickness. Swissanepal ensures proper acclimatization and step-by-step ascend to avoid taking unnecessary risks. Sipping copious amounts of water and slowing down are both mandatory precautions.
How do I arrive at the trek's starting point from Israel?
You will first need to fly from Israel to Kathmandu, Nepal (usually with a stop in a Middle Eastern or European city). From Kathmandu, Swissanepal will arrange for internal flights to Bhadrapur and get you to the start of the trek.
Do I need a visa for Nepal?
Yes, Israeli trekkers will need to obtain a tourist visa for Nepal. You can apply online or obtain a visa on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport. There is an on-arrival 30-day visa for sale.
What do I need to bring along for the Kanchenjunga trek?
A must-have is:
  • Trekking shoes (waterproof, comfortable)
  • Sleeping bag (3-season rated)
  • Trekking sticks (optional)
  • Layering clothing (warm base layers, waterproof jacket, hats, gloves)
  • Sunscreen and glasses
  • Water bottle and purification tablets
  • Headlamp and spare batteries
  • Personal hygiene toiletries
  • First-aid kit
  • Camera (to take the stunning scenery photos)
Are there cultural sensitivities Israeli trekkers should be aware of?
Nepal is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country, and respect for local customs is worth having. For example, when you go into temples or holy sites, you will need to remove your shoes. Modest clothing (especially in villages) is advisable, and asking permission first before taking pictures is always appreciated.
How long will the trek take?
The Kanchenjunga trek lasts 26 days. This includes trekking days, acclimatization days, and travel time to and from the trailhead. The trek is relatively long due to its remote location, allowing for proper acclimatization.
Is it possible to do this trek in less time?
While it is possible to shorten the trek, Swissanepal recommends adhering to the full 26-day itinerary in order to have time for safe acclimatization and a more enjoyable trekking experience. Shortening the trek may jeopardize your safety and enjoyment.
Can I trek with a group of friends or as part of a larger group?
Yes, Swissanepal often organizes group treks, and they can cater to groups of varying sizes. If you’re trekking with a group of friends or family, inquire about group discounts and special arrangements.
What are the accommodation options during the trek?
Accommodation during the trek is mostly in tea houses or camps. The lodges vary from simple, traditional tea houses with very few facilities to more upmarket ones in certain regions. Swissanepal will arrange accommodations based on your package.
Can vegetarian or kosher meals be arranged?
Yes, all the tea houses on the Kanchenjunga trek offer vegetarian meals, and Swissanepal can warn the tea houses ahead of time if you have specific dietary requirements. Although kosher food would be more limited, you can inform the agency what your needs are.
Will there be Wi-Fi or phone signal on the trek?
Phone coverage and Wi-Fi are very limited in the higher reaches of the Kanchenjunga trek. You might, however, be able to find some tea houses with satellite internet for an additional fee in certain locations.
What is the situation about water during the trek?
You will have tap water accessible along the way, but it's highly recommended to purify the water with tablets, a filter, or a SteriPen to avoid stomach ailments.
What kind of support does Swissanepal provide on the trek?
Swissanepal provides experienced guides, porters, and full logistical support, safety and emergency arrangements included. All permits and requirements are taken care of efficiently and without any trouble.
Is there any hot spring or spot to relax during the trek?
Yes, there are hot springs along the route where one can relax after a long day trekking. Your guide can recommend breaks and resting points if you prefer to rest.
What happens in case of an emergency?
In case of an emergency, Swissanepal has an evacuation procedure by helicopter or road transport. It's also recommended that Israeli trekkers buy travel insurance covering trekking and high-altitude rescue.
Can I extend my trek or do side trips along the way?
Yes, you can request optional side excursions, such as a visit to Yalung Glacier nearby or other viewpoints along the way. Swissanepal will help you change your itinerary based on your preference.
How do I prepare for the Kanchenjunga trek as an Israeli tourist?
Focus on physical conditioning, particularly endurance hikes. Ensure you have the right gear and clothing. You can also prepare yourself by learning about the local cultures and languages (Nepali and Tibetan) to help with communication.
What do I do if I need to cancel or change my trekking dates?
Swissanepal has a policy of flexible cancellation. If you need to alter the trekking dates or need to cancel the trek, please inform them as early as possible. There might be a date change and cancellation fee subject to availability.
Can I use my mobile phone on the trek?
Even though there is scant mobile coverage for the trek, you might be able to access a local SIM card where coverage exists. Intermittent signal, however, is all you can be sure of when you ascend towards higher altitudes.
Do you need travel insurance for this trek?
Yes, travel insurance that includes high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is highly advisable. Swissanepal can advise you on insurance that is suitable for the trek.
How do I stay in contact with my friends and family when trekking?
Phone and internet reception is bad in remote regions, but there are some tea houses that offer satellite phone services at an additional cost. Another option is satellite messaging devices like a Spot Tracker for use in case of emergency.

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Comments

Arati sharna

(02 Apr 2025)

"Oh its amazing trip i saw various beautiful mountains guides ware amazing and the trip was really 👍"

Arati sharna

(02 Apr 2025)

"Oh its amazing trip i saw various beautiful mountains guides ware amazing and the trip was really 👍"

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