Kanchenjunga to Makalu Base Camp Trek -37 Days

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Kanchenjunga Guides Nepal will meet you and provide a warm welcome. You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle, where you can check in and take some time to rest after your journey.

Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the nearby streets of Kathmandu or simply relax at the hotel. In the evening, your trekking team will provide a brief introduction and discuss the upcoming 22-day Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, including the itinerary, trekking conditions, equipment, and necessary preparations.

Today is dedicated to the final preparation for your Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. After breakfast, you will meet your experienced Kanchenjunga Guides Nepal trekking guide and porters. Your guide will introduce the team, review the trekking plan, and explain important information about the route, altitude, safety, and daily walking routine.

We will also complete the necessary trekking permit and documentation formalities and check your trekking equipment to make sure everything is properly prepared. Your main luggage will be organized for the porters, while you will prepare your daypack with essential items for the trail.

The remainder of the day is free for final shopping, personal preparation, or relaxing before the journey into the remote Kanchenjunga region begins.

Your adventure begins with a morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. From Bhadrapur, continue by road through the scenic hills of eastern Nepal toward Khebang.

The drive passes through tea gardens, terraced hills, rivers, forests, and traditional villages, providing a fascinating introduction to the diverse landscapes of eastern Nepal. Upon reaching Khebang, settle into a local tea house and prepare for the trekking days ahead.

Overnight at a local tea house in Khebang.

After breakfast, begin your first trekking day toward Yamphudin. The trail passes through forests, terraced farmland, small settlements, and traditional villages as you gradually enter the southern Kanchenjunga landscape.

Yamphudin is an important settlement and gateway toward the higher Kanchenjunga trails. Enjoy the peaceful mountain environment and local hospitality after completing the day's walk.

Overnight at a local tea house in Yamphudin.tea house in Yamphudin.

Continue deeper into the Kanchenjunga region as the trail climbs through beautiful rhododendron and Himalayan forests. The route follows mountain streams and steep valley slopes before reaching Tortong.

The landscape gradually changes as you gain elevation, with increasingly impressive mountain surroundings.

Overnight at a local tea house/camp in Tortong.

Today's trail continues toward Tseram through forested mountain terrain. As you climb higher, the vegetation becomes thinner and the surrounding peaks become increasingly prominent.

Tseram is an important settlement on the southern Kanchenjunga route and an ideal location to prepare for the higher elevations ahead.

Overnight at a local tea house/camp in Tseram.

After breakfast, we leave Tseram and follow the trail deeper into the spectacular Yalung Valley, gradually ascending toward Ramche. The route passes through alpine meadows, rocky terrain, and glacial landscapes, with the surrounding Himalayan peaks becoming increasingly impressive as we gain elevation.

The trail follows the Yalung Glacier Valley, offering magnificent views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Kabru, Rathong, and other surrounding peaks. The remote and peaceful setting makes this one of the most scenic sections of the trek.

We arrive at Ramche, an important high-altitude stop before our exploration of the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp and Oktang viewpoint. After checking into the lodge, we rest and prepare for the following day's adventure.

Activity: Yalung Valley trekking, glacier views & Himalayan scenery

Today, we hike along the spectacular Yalung Glacier Valley toward Oktang, the viewpoint and South Base Camp area of Mount Kanchenjunga. The trail passes through rugged alpine terrain surrounded by impressive glaciers, dramatic mountain walls, and towering Himalayan peaks.

As we approach Oktang, we enjoy spectacular views of the southern face of Mount Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks. After spending some time exploring the area and taking in the breathtaking scenery, we retrace our route back to Ramche for an overnight stay.
Activity: Oktang hike, South Base Camp area & Yalung Glacier exploration

After breakfast, we leave Tseram and begin a steady ascent toward Sele La, one of the important high-pass sections connecting the southern and northern valleys of the Kanchenjunga region. The trail gradually leaves the forested surroundings of Tseram and enters more open, rugged alpine terrain.

As we gain elevation, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and deep mountain valleys. The ascent is demanding, so we maintain a slow and steady pace with regular breaks to allow the body to adjust to the higher altitude.

We reach Sele La Camp in the afternoon and settle into our accommodation. The evening is spent resting and preparing for the challenging high-pass crossing ahead.

Activity: High-altitude trekking, alpine landscapes & mountain views

Today is one of the most rewarding and challenging days of the trek as we cross the high passes of the Sele La area and make our way from the Southern valleys toward the Northern side of the Kanchenjunga region.

We begin early and ascend through rugged alpine terrain toward the passes. Depending on trail and weather conditions, we cross a series of high passes, with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys.

After completing the pass crossings, we begin a long descent toward Ghunsa. The landscape gradually changes as we lose elevation, with alpine terrain giving way to more vegetation and forested slopes. We arrive in Ghunsa and settle into the lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Activity: High-pass crossing, alpine trekking & descent to Ghunsa.

After breakfast, we leave Ghunsa and continue toward the higher reaches of the Kanchenjunga region. The trail follows the Ghunsa Khola through increasingly rugged and alpine terrain, with the dense forests gradually giving way to rocky slopes, open valleys, and high Himalayan landscapes.

As we gain altitude, spectacular views of the surrounding peaks begin to unfold. The trail becomes more challenging, with rocky sections and gradual ascents requiring a steady pace. Our experienced guide will maintain a comfortable walking rhythm and allow sufficient time for rest and acclimatization.

We eventually reach Kambachen, a small and remote settlement surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. After checking into the lodge, we have time to rest and enjoy the impressive Himalayan views.

Activity: Alpine trekking, mountain views & high-altitude landscapes

After breakfast, we leave Kambachen and continue deeper into the remote Kanchenjunga Glacier Valley. The trail passes through rugged alpine terrain, with rocky moraines, glacial streams, and dramatic mountain walls surrounding the route.

As we gain elevation, vegetation becomes increasingly sparse and the landscape takes on a truly high-Himalayan character. Along the way, we can enjoy magnificent views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

The trail gradually leads us toward Lhonak, a remote high-altitude settlement situated in the Kanchenjunga Valley. Upon arrival, we check into the lodge and rest in preparation for our important journey to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp) the following day.
Activity: Glacier valley trekking, alpine landscapes & Himalayan mountain views

Today is one of the highlights of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. We start early from Lhonak and follow the rugged trail toward Pangpema, the North Base Camp of Mount Kanchenjunga.

The route leads through a spectacular high-altitude landscape of rocky moraines, glacial valleys, and towering Himalayan peaks. As we approach Pangpema, the magnificent north face of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) dominates the horizon, creating an unforgettable mountain experience.

After spending time at Pangpema to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and take photographs, we begin our return journey along the same trail back to Lhonak. The descent provides a welcome change after the demanding ascent.
Activity: Pangpema hike, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp & glacier valley exploration

After breakfast, we leave Lhonak and retrace our steps through the spectacular Kanchenjunga Valley. The trail gradually descends from the high alpine landscape, following the glacial valley and passing rugged mountain slopes, rocky terrain, and beautiful Himalayan scenery.

As we lose elevation, the landscape becomes greener and more familiar. We continue along the Ghunsa Khola before reaching Ghunsa, where we can relax and enjoy a comfortable evening after several demanding days at high altitude.
Activity: Descending through the Kanchenjunga Valley & Himalayan scenery

Leave Ghunsa and enter another remote section of the journey toward Nango La. The trail climbs through rugged terrain and remote mountain valleys as you approach the high pass.

This section marks the transition from the Kanchenjunga region toward the Olangchung Gola and Lumba Sumba route.

Overnight at a tented camp near Nango La.

Cross Nango La Pass, one of the challenging high points of the traverse. After reaching the pass, descend toward the remote Kharka area through rugged alpine terrain.

The surrounding landscapes offer spectacular views toward the eastern Himalayan ranges.

Overnight at a tented camp in Kharka.

Descend toward Olangchung Gola, one of the most historic settlements in this remote part of eastern Nepal. The trail follows remote valleys and gradually loses altitude.

Olangchung Gola is known for its distinctive Himalayan culture, traditional houses, and strong connection with the historic trading routes toward Tibet.

Overnight in Olangchung Gola.

Leave Olangchung Gola and climb toward the high camps used for the Lumba Sumba Pass crossing. The landscape becomes increasingly alpine as you leave the valley behind.

The trail follows remote mountain terrain toward South High Camp.

Overnight at a tented camp near South High Camp.

Today is one of the most demanding days of the entire trek. Start early and cross the spectacular Lumba Sumba Pass, reaching an elevation of approximately 5,100–5,160 m depending on the exact route.

After crossing the pass, descend toward North High Camp. The remote setting and enormous Himalayan views make this a memorable section of the Great Himalayan Trail.

Overnight at North High Camp.

Descend from North High Camp toward Thudam, a remote settlement on the Makalu side of the traverse. The trail gradually becomes greener as you lose altitude.

Thudam provides an opportunity to experience the traditional lifestyle of the local mountain communities.

Overnight at a tented camp in Thudam.

After breakfast, leave the remote settlement of Thudam and continue toward Kharka. The trail gradually descends through peaceful mountain valleys, passing forests, open hillsides, and remote landscapes that see very few trekkers.

As you lose elevation, the surroundings become greener and the trail offers changing views of the eastern Himalayan landscape. This is a beautiful section of the journey, providing a sense of remoteness and wilderness as you continue toward the lower valleys.

After several hours of trekking, arrive at Kharka, where the team will set up camp and you can relax after the day's walk.

Overnight at a tented camp in Kharka.

After breakfast, leave Kharka and continue trekking toward Num, gradually descending through the remote valleys of eastern Nepal. The trail passes through forests, green hillsides, and traditional mountain landscapes as you make your way toward the lower elevations.

The changing scenery becomes increasingly lush as you lose altitude. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the surrounding hills and experience the peaceful rural environment of this less-traveled part of Nepal.

After several hours of trekking, arrive at Num, a traditional mountain settlement and an important point toward the roadhead. Once in Num, settle into the local tea house and relax after the day's walk.

Overnight at a local tea house in Num.

After breakfast, leave Num and continue along the trail toward Seduwa and Tasigaun. The route follows a series of ascents and descents through lush forests, terraced farmland, and traditional mountain settlements. As you progress, the landscape becomes greener and more populated compared with the remote high-altitude sections of the trek.

The trail provides an opportunity to experience the rural lifestyle of the Makalu region, with local villages, cultivated hillsides, and forested slopes along the way. Continue steadily toward Seduwa, and then onward to Tasigaun, depending on the day's trail and accommodation arrangements.

Upon reaching Tasigaun, settle into a local tea house and enjoy a relaxing evening after the day's trek.

Overnight at a local tea house in Tasigaun.

After breakfast, leave Tasigaun and begin the challenging ascent toward Khongma Danda. The trail climbs steadily through beautiful forests of rhododendron, pine, and other Himalayan vegetation. As you gain elevation, the surrounding landscape gradually opens up, offering increasingly impressive views of the mountains and deep valleys.

The walk is mostly uphill today, making it an important day of the Makalu route. Take your time and maintain a comfortable pace while enjoying the peaceful forest environment. As you approach Khongma Danda, the vegetation becomes more alpine and the views become more expansive.

After several hours of trekking, arrive at Khongma Danda, a scenic ridge and an important overnight stop on the Makalu Base Camp route. Settle into the tea house and enjoy the mountain atmosphere.

Overnight at a local tea house in Khongma Danda.

After breakfast, leave Khongma Danda and begin one of the more challenging sections of the Makalu Base Camp route. The trail climbs through rugged mountain terrain toward Shipton La Pass, reaching an altitude of approximately 4,125 meters.

The ascent involves several steep sections and follows a remote high-altitude trail with dramatic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and alpine landscapes. Take a steady pace as you cross the pass, particularly as the altitude increases.

After crossing Shipton La, continue along the mountain trail toward Dobato. The route gradually descends from the pass through rocky terrain and alpine vegetation, eventually reaching the quieter surroundings of Dobato.

Upon arrival, settle into the local tea house and enjoy a well-deserved rest after this demanding mountain crossing.

Overnight at a local tea house in Dobato.on

After breakfast, leave Dobato and begin the gradual descent toward Yangle Kharka. The trail passes through beautiful alpine forests, rocky sections, and remote mountain landscapes. As you lose altitude, the surroundings become greener and the trail follows the valleys leading deeper into the Makalu region.

Along the way, enjoy impressive views of the surrounding peaks, steep valley walls, and untouched Himalayan scenery. The trail becomes more comfortable as you descend, although some sections can be rugged and require careful footing.

Continue toward Yangle Kharka, a peaceful pasture area situated in the Makalu Valley. After several hours of trekking, arrive at the settlement and settle into the local tea house. This is a scenic place to rest and prepare for the next section toward Makalu Base Camp.

Overnight at a local tea house in Yangle Kharka.

After breakfast, leave Yangle Kharka and continue northward into the higher reaches of the Makalu Valley. The trail gradually climbs through rugged alpine terrain, with dramatic mountain scenery becoming more prominent as you gain elevation.

The landscape changes noticeably today, with fewer trees and more open rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and glacial surroundings. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and the impressive valley leading toward Makalu Base Camp.

As the trail continues upward, maintain a steady pace and take regular breaks to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. After several hours of trekking, arrive at Langmale Kharka, a high-altitude pasture and an important overnight stop before continuing toward Makalu Base Camp.

Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the magnificent Himalayan surroundings.

Overnight at a local tea house in Langmale Kharka.

After breakfast, leave Langmale Kharka and begin the trek toward Makalu Base Camp, one of the most spectacular sections of the entire journey. The trail continues through high-altitude alpine terrain, with increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, glaciers, and rugged mountain valleys.

As you continue toward Base Camp, the trail passes through a tea house along the route, where you will stop for lunch and take a well-deserved break. After lunch, continue walking through the remote high-altitude landscape toward Makalu Base Camp. The surrounding scenery becomes increasingly impressive, with towering peaks and glacial landscapes creating a dramatic Himalayan setting.

Gradually make your way to Makalu Base Camp at approximately 4,900 meters. Reaching Base Camp is a major highlight of the trek and provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience the magnificent mountain environment beneath Mount Makalu.

After exploring the surroundings and taking in the spectacular views, settle into the local tea house and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Overnight at a local tea house at Makalu Base Camp.

Today is dedicated to exploring the spectacular Makalu Base Camp area. After breakfast, take time to walk around the base camp and enjoy the magnificent views of Mount Makalu and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The dramatic landscape of glaciers, rocky mountain slopes, and high-altitude valleys makes this one of the most memorable parts of the trek.

You can take a short excursion around the base camp, photograph the surrounding mountains, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this remote Himalayan wilderness. The day also provides valuable time to rest and recover after reaching the high altitude of Makalu Base Camp.

Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and the impressive presence of Mount Makalu before returning to the tea house for a relaxing evening.

Overnight at a local tea house at Makalu Base Camp.

Base Camp and begin the return journey through the spectacular Barun Valley. Retrace the trail through the remote high-altitude landscape, gradually descending toward lower elevations.

The trail follows the dramatic Barun Valley, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, rocky slopes, glaciers, and beautiful alpine scenery. As you lose altitude, the landscape gradually becomes greener, making the descent more comfortable and enjoyable.

Continue along the valley trail until you reach Yangri Kharka, a peaceful grazing area surrounded by impressive mountain scenery. After arriving, settle into the local tea house and enjoy a relaxing evening after the day's trek.

Overnight at a local tea house in Yangri Kharka.

After breakfast, leave Yangri Kharka and continue the return journey through the beautiful mountain landscapes of the Makalu region. The trail gradually climbs and descends through forests, rocky sections, and peaceful alpine surroundings as you retrace part of the route.

As you move away from the higher Barun Valley, the vegetation becomes denser and the landscape greener. Along the way, enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and the dramatic valleys that make this section of the trek particularly scenic.

After several hours of trekking, reach Dobato, a quiet mountain settlement surrounded by forested slopes and impressive Himalayan scenery. Settle into the local tea house and relax after the day's walk.

Overnight at a local tea house in Dobato.

After breakfast, leave Dobato and begin the trek toward Danda Kharka, continuing in the direction of the Seduwa Region. The trail passes through beautiful forested landscapes, with a mixture of gradual descents and undulating sections along the mountain slopes.

As you move toward lower elevations, the scenery becomes greener and the trail passes through traditional mountain areas where local communities have lived for generations. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, forest trails, and changing views of the valleys and hills of eastern Nepal.

Continue at a comfortable pace until you reach Danda Kharka, where you will settle into the local tea house. After the day's walk, enjoy a relaxing evening and prepare for the next stage toward Seduwa.

Overnight at a local tea house in Danda Kharka.

After breakfast, leave Danda Kharka and continue toward Seduwa. Today's trail gradually descends through beautiful green hills, forested sections, and traditional mountain villages. The landscape becomes increasingly lush as you lose elevation, offering a pleasant contrast to the high-altitude terrain experienced earlier in the trek.

Along the way, you will pass through rural settlements and cultivated hillsides, providing an opportunity to experience the local lifestyle and peaceful atmosphere of eastern Nepal. Continue walking through the rolling hills until you reach Seduwa, an important settlement along the Makalu trekking route.

Upon arrival in Seduwa, settle into a local tea house and enjoy a well-earned rest. This marks the final trekking section before continuing by road toward Tumlingtar.

Overnight at a local tea house in Seduwa.

After breakfast, leave Seduwa and continue toward Num, following the trail through the beautiful hills and traditional villages of the Makalu region. The route passes through forested sections, terraced farmland, and small settlements, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience the rural landscapes and local way of life.

As you continue, the trail gradually descends and follows the contours of the green hills. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and changing scenery as the remote mountain journey begins to transition toward the lower valleys and road-access areas.

After several hours of trekking, arrive at Num, one of the main road-access points along the Makalu trekking route. Take some time to relax and enjoy the local surroundings after the day's walk.

Overnight at a local tea house in Num.

After breakfast, leave Num and begin the drive toward Tumlingtar, completing the trekking portion of your Kanchenjunga to Makalu Base Camp journey. The road winds through the beautiful eastern hills of Nepal, passing rural settlements, terraced farmland, forests, and deep river valleys.

The journey offers a different perspective of eastern Nepal as you gradually descend from the mountain region toward the lower elevations. Enjoy the changing landscapes and local countryside along the way, with opportunities to stop for refreshments and lunch during the drive.

Continue toward Tumlingtar, an important transportation hub in eastern Nepal and the gateway to the Arun Valley. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax after the long journey.

Overnight at a hotel in Tumlingtar.

After breakfast, we will drive to the airport, traveling through the scenic hills and countryside of eastern Nepal. Upon reaching Bhadrapur, we head to the airport for our domestic flight back to Kathmandu.

After landing in Kathmandu, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the evening is free to rest, relax, explore the city, or do some last-minute shopping after your long Himalayan adventure.
Activity: Scenic drive, domestic flight & hotel transfer. Driving time may vary depending on road and traffic conditions. Flight schedules are subject to airline operations and weather conditions.