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Trekking near Kanchenjunga - Kanchenjunga - Trek to South Base Camp, Nepal
Trekking near Kanchenjunga  | Michelle Landry
Breakfast at altitude in Nepal - Kanchenjunga - Trek to South Base Camp, Nepal
Breakfast at altitude in Nepal  | Lachlan Gardiner
Campsite on Kangchenjunga Base Camp trek - Kanchenjunga - Trek to South Base Camp, Nepal
Campsite on Kangchenjunga Base Camp trek  | Bir Singh Gurung
On the way to Kangchenjunga Base Camp - Kanchenjunga - Trek to South Base Camp, Nepal
On the way to Kangchenjunga Base Camp  | Bir Singh Gurung
Kabru Range, South of Kangchenjunga - Kanchenjunga - Trek to South Base Camp, Nepal
Kabru Range, South of Kangchenjunga  | Bir Singh Gurung
Kangchenjunga range from South Base camp - Kanchenjunga - Trek to South Base Camp, Nepal
Kangchenjunga range from South Base camp  | Bir Singh Gurung

Kanchenjunga - Trek to South Base Camp

Trek to the hauntingly beautiful amphitheatre of base camp

Nepal

16 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: KBD
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 16 Days
Activities
  • 12 day trek
Style
  • In Comfort Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel
  • 11 nights camping
Meals

Valued at USD$700

  • 13 Dinners
  • 14 Lunches
  • 15 Breakfasts
Internal Flights

Valued at USD$395

Difficulty Grading  
6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

31kg of CO2-e PP per day

(468kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Kangchenjunga South Base Camp Trip highlights

  • Embark on a short but rewarding trek through a region seldom visited by trekkers
  • Walk to Oktang (Kanchenjunga South BC) alongside the Yalung Glacier
  • Witness unsurpassed views of the Kanchenjunga massif, Kabru massif and surrounding peaks including Jannu
  • Trek through remote villages of the Gurung, Limbu, Rai and Sherpa peoples
  • Enjoy incredible views without the need to cross high mountain passes
  • Trek below the soaring south face of Kanchenjunga

Overview

Eastern Nepal is characterised by greater diversity on many accounts; ethnic groups such as the Rai and Limbu people, a prolific range of flora due to the higher summer rainfall in the region and some of the most outstanding mountain vistas anywhere in the Himalaya. This trek follows the route to the South Base Camp, a popular trail for climbers attempting to summit the world's 3rd highest mountain, via the Yalung face. Dwarfed by an alpine grandeur in almost every direction, peaks such as Rathong, the impressive Kabru massif and of course Kanchenjunga (8586m) dominate the setting. It is no less dramatic on our return journey which follows a varied exit route ensuring we do not retrace our steps.

Itinerary

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Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital and the gateway to the Himalaya. On arrival, you will be met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to the Radisson Hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax or explore the local area. At approximately 4.30–5.00 pm, join your trek leader for a pre-trek briefing, where you'll meet your fellow travellers and receive your trek kit, including a kit bag, sleeping bag and down or fibre-fill jacket. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with the group as we prepare for the adventure ahead. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel Kathmandu

Meals: Nil

This morning, we fly to Bhadrapur in Nepal's southeastern Terai, enjoying spectacular aerial views of the eastern Himalaya that will soon become our trekking destination. On arrival, we begin the scenic drive into the hill country of eastern Nepal, following winding mountain roads through villages, terraced farmland and forested valleys. By afternoon, we reach the picturesque hill town of Phidim (1,250 m / 4,101 ft), set amongst the lush foothills of the Himalaya and renowned for its sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge Phidim

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue our journey deeper into the foothills of eastern Nepal, following winding mountain roads through terraced farmland, traditional villages and forested hillsides. As we climb higher, expansive views of the surrounding valleys and distant Himalayan peaks begin to unfold. By afternoon, we arrive at the picturesque village of Kande Bhanjyang (2,190 m / 7,185 ft), where we settle in for the night before beginning our trek into the Kanchenjunga region. Accommodation: Lodge Kande Bhanjyang

Meals: B,L,D

Today we begin our trek into the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The trail climbs steadily through terraced farmland overlooking the Kabbeli Khola, before undulating across the valley through traditional villages and cultivated hillsides. After lunch, we descend to the Kashawa Khola, crossing the river before making our final ascent to Phumpe Danda (1,858 m / 6,096 ft). From our campsite, enjoy superb views of Mount Kumbhakarna (Jannu), Ghabur, Boktoh, and the surrounding river valleys. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Phumpe Danda

Meals: B,L,D

Today's trail follows the Kabeli Khola, winding through a series of secluded valleys, forested hillsides and river crossings as we make our way deeper into the Kanchenjunga region. Along the way, there are opportunities to pause beside the river and cool off in its refreshing waters before continuing to our lunch stop. This afternoon, we continue to Sherpa Gaun (Yamphudin) (2,400 m / 7,874 ft), a traditional Sherpa village nestled amongst the surrounding hills. Some sections of the trail are less defined and require careful footing, adding to the sense of adventure as we approach this welcoming mountain community. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Sherpa Gaun (Yamphudin)

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue deeper into the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, leaving Sherpa Gaun (Yamphudin) behind as the trail follows the Amji Khola through forests of rhododendron, oak and bamboo. The route undulates with a series of ascents and descents, crossing suspension bridges and passing seasonal grazing pastures and isolated shepherds' huts along the way. As we gain elevation, the landscape becomes increasingly remote, with fewer signs of permanent settlement. The trail climbs steadily through peaceful woodland before emerging into more open country, where expansive views of forested hills and deep river valleys showcase the unspoilt wilderness of eastern Nepal. By late afternoon, we arrive at New Jhoreni, a peaceful forest campsite and an important staging point for our continued ascent towards the spectacular alpine landscapes surrounding Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping New Jhoreni

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue our gradual ascent, following the Simbua Khola through beautiful forests of pine and rhododendron. The peaceful trail winds steadily uphill, with the surrounding scenery becoming increasingly alpine as we venture deeper into the Kanchenjunga region. By early afternoon, we arrive at Dorenden (Dorongdin) (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), where we establish camp beside the river and enjoy the tranquil mountain setting. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Dorenden (Dorongdin)

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue following the Simbuwa Khola, whose glacial waters flow from the Yalung Glacier high above. The trail winds through pristine forests of pine, rhododendron and birch, passing numerous side streams and cascading waterfalls along the way. As we gain altitude, the forest gradually opens to reveal impressive views of the Kabru Range and the upper Simbuwa Valley. By late afternoon, we arrive at Tseram (3,870 m / 12,697 ft), where our campsite is set in a broad alpine meadow surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Tseram

Meals: B,L,D

Today is set aside for acclimatisation, an important part of preparing for the higher elevations ahead. Those who wish can join an optional hike to one of the nearby ridgelines, where rewarding views extend across the surrounding Himalayan peaks and glaciated valleys. After returning to camp, the remainder of the afternoon is free to rest and enjoy the spectacular alpine setting before continuing towards Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Tseram

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving Tseram, we continue our ascent through glacial moraine and alpine terrain as the trail climbs above the tree line towards Ramche (4,610 m / 15,125 ft). The surrounding landscape becomes increasingly rugged, with spectacular views of the upper Simbuwa Valley and the immense Yalung Glacier. After reaching Ramche, we continue to Oktang (4,730 m / 15,518 ft), the magnificent viewpoint for Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Following the moraine of the Yalung Glacier, the trail passes alpine meadows, scrub juniper and glacial streams before arriving at one of the finest viewpoints in the Himalaya. Here, we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m / 28,169 ft), Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and the surrounding peaks rising above the glacier. After taking time to enjoy this unforgettable setting, we retrace our steps to Ramche for the night. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Ramche

Meals: B,L,D

Today we retrace our steps, descending from the high alpine landscapes through Ramche and Tseram before continuing to Dorenden (Dorongdin) (3,000 m / 9,843 ft). As we lose altitude, the rugged glacial terrain gradually gives way to forests of rhododendron, birch and pine, with magnificent mountain views accompanying much of the journey. Our campsite at Dorenden marks the beginning of our return towards Chiruwa, following a different section of the Kanchenjunga region over the coming days. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Dorenden (Dorongdin)

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a long descent as we follow the Simbuwa Khola downstream through dense forests of rhododendron, pine and bamboo. The trail winds steadily through the valley, crossing streams and passing through the peaceful wilderness that characterises the lower reaches of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. By late afternoon, we arrive at Miteri Pool (1,740 m / 5,709 ft), where our secluded campsite beside the river provides a relaxing setting after the day's walk. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Miteri Pool

Meals: B,L,D

Today's descent continues through a lush Himalayan gorge, where the trail passes beneath dense subtropical forests and towering cliffs before reaching the village of Chiruwa (1,270 m / 4,167 ft). The warmer climate supports a rich diversity of vegetation, providing a striking contrast to the alpine landscapes of recent days. Chiruwa is home to the Limbu people, descendants of the ancient Kirati civilisation, who have lived in this region for more than 2,000 years and continue to maintain many of their traditional farming practices and cultural customs. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping Chiruwa

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we depart Chiruwa and begin the scenic drive back to Phidim via Taplejung. The journey follows winding mountain roads through forested hills, terraced farmland and traditional villages, offering a final opportunity to appreciate the spectacular landscapes of eastern Nepal. Arriving in Phidim (1,250 m / 4,101 ft) by late afternoon, we settle into our lodge and enjoy a well-earned rest after our trek through the Kanchenjunga region. Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge Phidim

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we depart Phidim and drive to Bhadrapur, passing through the rolling hills and fertile plains of eastern Nepal. On arrival, we board our flight back to Kathmandu. If weather conditions permit, enjoy spectacular aerial views of the eastern Himalaya, providing a final glimpse of the mountains we have explored over the past two weeks. On arrival in Kathmandu, we transfer to our hotel, where the remainder of the day is free to relax or celebrate the completion of our trek. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel Kathmandu

Meals: B,L

After breakfast, our Kanchenjunga South Base Camp adventure comes to an end. Complimentary transfers are provided to Tribhuvan International Airport for those departing today. We hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of the spectacular landscapes, remote mountain communities and incredible wilderness of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, and look forward to welcoming you on another World Expeditions adventure.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

3 scheduled departures between 12 Nov 2026 and 11 Nov 2027.

  • Departs 12 Nov 2026 – ends 27 Nov 2026 (16 days)
  • Departs 5 Apr 2027 – ends 20 Apr 2027 (16 days)
  • Departs 11 Nov 2027 – ends 26 Nov 2027 (16 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 15 breakfasts, 14 lunches and 13 dinners including all meals on trek
  • airport transfers if arriving on day 1 and 16 or if you booked pre/post tour accommodation at the Radisson through World Expeditions
  • Use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket (valued at US$500)
  • Return flights Kathmandu/Bhadrapur/Kathmandu
  • 20kg luggage allowance
  • special permit US$40
  • expert bilingual guide and medical kit
  • good quality accommodation in Kathmandu and basic accommodation in Bhadrapur
  • accommodation in our fully serviced wilderness campsites
  • souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
  • private air conditioned transportation
  • all park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • porters to carry all personal and group equipment
  • porter's insurance

Not included

  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
  • Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
  • Tips
  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?FAQsWhy Book With Us

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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The best seasons for this trek are late spring (April to May) and autumn (late September to November). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and the best views of Kanchenjunga and surrounding peaks. Spring adds colour with blooming rhododendrons, while autumn tends to offer sharper mountain views.

Yes – due to the remoteness and altitude, previous multi-day trekking experience is highly recommended. This is a Challenging to Strenuous trek that involves long walking days, rough trails, and basic infrastructure. It’s suitable for confident, fit trekkers who are prepared for an extended time in wilderness conditions.

You’ll carry just your daypack (6–8kg / 13–18lb) with daily essentials like water, layers, camera, and snacks. Your main trekking gear will be carried by our porter team.

We provide you with a trek duffel to pack your main gear, which must not exceed 15kg (33lb). This is the weight carried by your porter.

Yes – any extra items not needed on trek can be safely stored at your hotel in Kathmandu while you’re in the mountains.

Yes – accommodation is twin-share in Kathmandu and in trekking tents. If you prefer your own space, a single supplement is available (subject to availability). Solo travellers who don’t request a single will be paired with someone of the same gender.

At night above 3,500m (11,480ft), temperatures often fall below freezing, especially at higher camps near 5,000m (16,400ft). Days are usually cool to mild. We provide a warm sleeping bag, liner and jacket, and our support crew ensures you’re as comfortable as possible at camp.

Yes – toilet tents are provided at all camping locations. In remote areas with no built facilities, our team sets up a clean, private toilet tent each day. Hygiene and privacy are prioritised.

Absolutely. This trek provides close-up views of Mt Kanchenjunga (8,586m / 28,169ft) – the third-highest mountain in the world – along with Jannu and other giant peaks. The scenery is wild, remote, and dramatic.

In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a comfortable, centrally located hotel. On trek, this is a full camping expedition, with two-person tents, toilet tents, and a communal dining tent. Our crew sets up and packs down everything each day. It’s rugged but well-supported.

Charging is limited on this trek due to its remoteness. You may be able to charge devices at hotels in Kathmandu and during brief stops in settlements, but you should bring a solar charger or power bank for the camping sections.

Yes – all meals on trek are included, freshly prepared by our cook team using safe food-handling practices. Meals are nutritious and varied. In Kathmandu, breakfast is included.

This trek is graded Challenging to Strenuous (Grade 6–7). You’ll be trekking for 6–9 hours a day, often in remote areas above 3,000m. A high level of fitness and previous trekking experience are essential.

The highest point on the trek is approximately 5,140m (16,863ft) near Pangpema. The route includes gradual ascents and rest days to support acclimatisation, and our guides are trained to monitor your condition.

No – a warm sleeping bag, liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket are included in your trip package and suitable for the temperatures expected on trek.

You’ll receive a detailed packing list after booking. We provide key trek gear like your sleeping bag, jacket, liner, and duffel. You’ll need to bring personal clothing, boots, a headlamp, and your daypack.

This is one of Nepal’s least-visited, most remote routes, taking you deep into the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. It offers a true expedition experience, with wilderness camping, high passes, and exposure to rarely seen communities near the Tibetan and Sikkimese border. It’s one of the wildest and most rewarding journeys we offer in the Himalaya.

The highest point on this trek is Oktang (Kanchenjunga South Base Camp) at 4,785 metres (15,699 feet). The itinerary is designed with gradual altitude gains, daily monitoring, and a steady pace to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Your guide is trained in first aid and altitude awareness, and the team monitors your health throughout. PACs (Portable Altitude Chambers) are not carried, as this trek remains below 5,000m, but proper acclimatisation is built into the route. If symptoms of AMS occur, descent is required.

  • Additional 5kg baggage allowance (20kg total) on internal flights to Bhadrapur.
  • Fully supported camping expedition with all meals on trek freshly prepared by our dedicated cooking crew. All drinking water also included.
  • Led by experienced wilderness first aid trained guides equipped with group medical kit and portable altitude chamber
  • Receive a souvenir kit bag and save money by using our trek pack including quality sleeping bag, down jacket and more.

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How To Prepare for a Himalaya Trek | World Expeditions Webinar

Responsible Travel

Regenerative Travel ProjectsPorter Welfare10 Pieces Initiative
Breathtaking views as we trek down towards Thame | Monika Molenda
Restoring Learning in Thame Project
 
Restoring access to digital education through the installation of a computer lab and smart classroom technology, helping rebuild learning opportunities for students affected by climate-related disasters.
 
In Nepal's Solukhumbu region, the remote mountain village of Thame is recovering from a devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that destroyed homes, infrastructure, and critical community services — including the local school and its computer lab. With students displaced and relocated to temporary learning facilities, access to quality education has been severely disrupted, particularly in digital learning.
 
The Rebuilding Digital Education in Thame project aims to address this gap by equipping the newly relocated Thame Basic School with a computer lab, smart boards, and essential digital infrastructure. This will enable students and teachers to access modern, technology-enabled education in one of the most remote regions in the world.
 
With support from the World Expeditions Foundation, this project will fund the installation of computers, smart boards, printers, and classroom infrastructure to support both students and teachers. The outcome? Improved digital literacy, more engaging and interactive teaching, and equitable access to education for a community rebuilding after disaster.
 
The project is led by Himalayan Trust Nepal, a long-standing organisation working closely with local communities, schools, and government partners to deliver sustainable education and development outcomes across the Khumbu region.
 
Support our work
Our Commitment to Porters in Nepal
 
Porters are central to every trek we run in Nepal, and we are committed to their safety, wellbeing, and fair treatment.
 
We ensure fair pay, enforce strict load limits (max 30kg), and provide proper clothing, equipment, meals, and safe accommodation.
 
Porters have equal access to medical care, insurance, and emergency support as our travellers.
 
You can trek knowing your journey supports responsible and ethical practices.
Help us keep the places that inspire us clean by taking part in our 10 Pieces litter initiative | Lachlan Gardiner
Cleaning Up Wilderness Trails
 
Our 10 Pieces initiative is a simple, voluntary way to give back while you trek.
 
Travellers are encouraged to collect 10 pieces of litter each day along the trail, helping protect these fragile environments.
 
You'll find more details in your client portal once you book, and your tour leader will introduce the initiative at your first group meeting in Kathmandu.

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