Unexplored Kanchenjunga Trek

On this day, we apply for the trekking permit and organize other nacessary documents for the  adventurous Kanchenjunga Trek.

Embarking on an early morning flight from Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport) to Bhadrapur (Chandragadhi Airport), our domestic journey takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes. Upon arrival, we transition to a local jeep for a scenic drive through Kanyam. Traveling via the Mechi Highway, we enjoy picturesque views of tea cultivations en route to our destination, whether it be Illam or Taplejung. This marks the starting point of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

After enjoying breakfast, we board a local jeep to commence our second-day journey towards the day's destination, Sekathum. While many trekkers opt to trek from Taplejung to Sekathum, our itinerary streamlines the route, utilizing local services to arrive at Sekathum two days ahead of the typical trekking schedule. The scenic drive encompasses Mitlung, Chirwa, Thapethok, Lelep, and various villages along the Tamor Nadi. Along the way, we encounter the entry point of Kanchenjunga National Park, where our permits are checked, allowing us to proceed toward Sekathum.

Commencing our trek after two days of driving, we embark on the Himalayan adventure with a hearty breakfast in Sekathum. The journey unfolds as we ascend along the Ghunsa Khola, traversing numerous bridges amidst lush surroundings. Our path takes us through verdant forests, past small settlements like Jonggim and Ghaiyabari, ultimately leading us to the picturesque destination of Amjilosa.

Following breakfast, our journey from Amjilosa takes us to Gyabla, also known as Kyapra. Progressing through dense forests and trails devoid of human settlements, we venture into an area where Red Pandas may be spotted if luck is on our side. The uphill climb rewards us with breathtaking views of the mountains and several cascading waterfalls along the Kanchenjunga Trail. Taking our time, we eventually reach the charming village of Gyabla.

Our journey through woodlands, teeming with diverse flora and fauna, guides us to the charming Phale village. Continuing our trek at a steady pace, we eventually arrive at the Ghunsa village. While many trekkers pause at Ghunsa for acclimatization, our acclimation day is scheduled for Khambachen.

After breakfast, we embark on a gradual ascent through an expansive pine forest, providing opportunities to spot blue sheep and elusive snow leopards. The trail navigates through areas prone to landslides. Along the way, we are treated to the breathtaking sight of Mt. Jannu, traverse verdant glacier valleys, and ultimately arrive at the picturesque village of Khambachen.

Taking a break at Khambachen following days of trekking, we prioritize allowing our bodies to acclimatize to the altitude. During this day, we embark on a brief hike to explore nearby glaciers, viewpoints, and lakes. Khambachen serves as a hub where we may encounter fellow trekkers either returning from or en route to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

Advancing along the Kanchenjunga glacier trail, we encounter fellow trekkers during the main trekking season, both heading towards and returning from Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. Passing through Ramdang, we chance upon the Ramdang Monastery. The trail becomes challenging as we reach the junction of the Lhonak and Kanchenjunga glaciers. Continuing our journey, we arrive at the modest settlement of Lhonak, adorned with a few teahouses.

Today's adventure leads us to the North Base Camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga, also known as Pang Pema. The gradual ascent along the moraines unfolds a mesmerizing trail that ultimately brings us to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The sight of prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze and the awe-inspiring presence of the majestic third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga, marks the culmination of several days of trekking. Following this rewarding experience, we return to Lhonak for an overnight stay.

Delighting in the Himalayan vistas and bidding farewell to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp, we retrace our steps along the trail, ultimately reaching Ghunsa. The Kanchenjunga trail offers nostalgic memories of passing by stone huts, towering mountain peaks, rocky fields lining the paths, and areas prone to rockfall.

Arriving at Sele Le, we diverge from the trail leading to Gyabla. In this dense forested area, there's a chance to catch sight of elusive snow leopards. The route is dotted with isolated human settlements and a handful of teahouses, typically open only during the main trekking season. During periods of heavy snowfall, this path becomes the sole connection to reach the South Base Camp until Sekathum. In the event that the teahouses are closed, but the passes are still navigable, there exists the possibility of reaching Tseram within a day, thus shortening our planned itinerary by a day.

After departing from Sele Le Pass, our trek takes us through high-altitude passes, including Sinion La (4440m | 2758ft), Mirgin La (4480m | 2783ft), and Sinelapche Bhanjyang (4645m | 2886ft). Along this ascent, we are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view that encompasses Mt. Jannu, Everest, Makalu, Baruntse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga. Descending from the passes, we reach Tseram, where we spend the night.

Embarking on our journey after an early morning breakfast, we ascend through the Yalung glacier, steadily approaching breathtaking vistas. Along the way, we pass by Yalung, offering views of Rathong (6682m) and Kabru (7412m), and pause for lunch at Ramche. The subsequent hike takes us to Oktang/Okhordung, the viewpoint offering glimpses of Yalung Base Camp and Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Reveling in the proximity of Mt. Kanchenjunga's three summits – 8420m, 8586m, and 8474m – and other towering peaks, we explore this pristine, less-traveled Kanchenjunga Base Camp before returning to Tseram.

As we leave the towering snow-capped peaks behind, the journey through rhododendron forests instills a sense of tranquility. The trek commences with a descent, leading us to Tortong as we traverse the Simbuwa Khola, all while enjoying enchanting views of the Himalayas along the way. Our overnight stay awaits us in Tortong.

Continuing our descent from Tortong, we follow the trail along the Amji Khola, passing through Lasiya/Lamite Bhanjyang (3415m) and Dhupi Bhanjyang (2665m). Negotiating a steep slope, we eventually arrive at the charming Yamphudin village. Here, at the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area checkpost, our permits are scrutinized, especially if our trek commenced with Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

Following breakfast in Yamphudin, we embark on a journey through picturesque landscapes, trekking alongside the Kabeli Khola pathway. As we bid farewell to the mountain villages, our route transitions into a drive toward Kanyam, an enchanting locale surrounded by tea gardens. En route, the scenery unfolds with glimpses of cardamom and tea cultivation visible through our windows. Transitioning from the bittersweet memories of high-altitude trekking, we find ourselves in the lowlands. Kanyam attracts many local tourists, being a popular destination renowned for its tea gardens.

After breakfast, we'll take some time to explore the lush green tea cultivation areas. Following that, we embark on a 2-3 hour drive to Bhadrapur. In the late afternoon, a 45 to 50-minute flight from Bhadrapur brings us back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we will assist you in reaching your hotel and extend an invitation to a farewell dinner with our team in the evening.

The exhilarating journey of our Kanchenjunga trek concludes today, marking your last day in Kathmandu. You are scheduled to catch a flight to your next destination. Our team will accompany you to the airport, expressing our final farewell as you embark on the next leg of your journey.