About Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is among Nepal’s best treks for adventure freaks. Exploring the south face of Kanchenjunga at 8,586 meters, the world’s 3rd largest mountain is already a blessing. Camping trek in the stunning wild meadows in the mountains landscapes is already a very big challenge. This shorter and lower Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek to the desolate mountain country of the Yalung Glacier is very thrilling.

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp route first takes you to Biratnagar in the eastern lowlands of Nepal. On another flight to Suketar, we officially begin our trek to Kanchenjunga. Now, we walk to villages such as Mitlung, Chirwa, and Sekathum. Camping in the wild forest, we walk further into Arun Valley before getting to Kambachen. Firstly, we reach Kanchenjunga's north base camp in Pangpema before getting to the High Camp.

Exploring more of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, we reach Mirgin La Pass for the most stunning views of Koktang, Rathong, and Kanchenjunga. This is going to be the most rewarding and adventurous section of Trekking in Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Walking down, we pass Lamite Bhanjyang, and Yamphudin before getting to Suketar airport.

Breeze Adventure writes the details of this Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek for your comfort.

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek has been rated “Moderate to Difficult” in terms of distance and remoteness. We will be trekking in the remote mountain region for more than 3 weeks (6 to 7 hours daily), and that’s not a Joke. Further, the trek begins from Suketar at 2419 meters and climbs up to 4730m. At such a height, the chances of altitude sickness cannot be ignored. However, the hard work pays off and you will have one of the best times of your life.

Best Time for Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

Kanchenjunga South Trek is possible during any time of the year. However, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) is the best season for the Kanchenjunga Trek. During the Spring, colorful rhododendrons are blooming all around. In the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer. In monsoon and Winter, we recommend tea house trekking in Kanchenjunga. A thick layer of snow and the slippery path makes this the hardest month for the walk. You should know if the tea houses operate while you trek.

Last words,

Breeze Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Weather and Temperature

Weather at 4500m+ above sea level is very freezing and unstable. March to May is very pleasant with a daytime temperature of about 8 °C and nights are about 3°C– 4°C on average. June- August receives rainfall above 600mm. Nights without rainfall are quite warm. Right after summer, the Autumn Weather in Kanchenjunga gets quite stable.

In September, the temperature is about 10 °C. But November and December get colder. The winter temperature in Kanchenjunga can drop up to -7 °C. Nights with snowfall up to 100cm can be freezing. However, the trail gets dry by late February.

People, Culture, and Religion

In the charming Limbu villages, we meet the friendly Rai, Limbu, and Tibetan villagers. We might enjoy the Tongba, the hot millet wine from the locals, and learn about their unique lifestyle. These ethnic groups speak their own dialect Gurung Launagage. Influenced by Indians in the east and Tibetans from the south, their culture differs from the rest of the country. People of Kanchenjunga celebrate the festivals as Loshar (celebrated in May), Maghi Sankranti (January), and Buddha Jayanti ( also in May).

Accommodation during this Trek

Kanchenjunga South Camp trek has been listed as a ‘camping hike’ as accommodations/general facilities on this trek are limited. It is up to you whether you would camp or stay in a teahouse.

During the peak months, most teahouses are open and they serve clean rooms and good food. Lodges in Kanchenjunga South Camp do make your stay comfortable, but the true thrill of mountain adventure is available during the camp trek. You will literally be living under the stars in the mountains. Sounds fanatic, doesn’t it?

Food and Beverage during the Trip

The tea houses serve warm healthy food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will have a menu with limited national and international foods you can choose from. Camping trek in Kanchenjunga means eating whatever you carry. You will mostly be having Nepalese Dal Bhat that keeps you charged during the trek. You might make a special request for the food of your choice so that the team from Breeze Adventure can serve you accordingly. Locally grown fresh vegetables might be available in the villages.

Trekking Trail on Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek route is definitely remote and hard to conquer. But since we encounter many local villages on the way, we experience safety and homeliness. The hospitable locals are always glad to welcome you into their lives. This recently built trekking trail is mostly raw and yet to be built. But your guide shall help you find the way and keep you safe on the route to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. However, trekking solo is not recommended as you might get lost on the way.

Transportation before and after the Trek

There are many transportation options for Kanchenjunga trekking. Firstly, we can take a night bus to Biratnagar and drive to Lalikharka. Alternatively, you can drive to Taplejung and then take a short Jeep ride to the starting point. While this cheapest option, driving 14-16 hours before the trek might be very hectic. Thus, You can fly to Biratnagar and then drive to Lalikharka. Or, you can fly all the way to Suketar from Biratnagar and save yourself from the long walk. This domestic flight is arranged by Breeze Adventure at an additional cost.

Guides and Porters

You are recommended to have a licensed trekking guide during the journey. A trekking guide will help you pack the trekking gear, get the permit, and find the route of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek. Similarly, you need to hire a porter since you have to carry a lot of personal items and food items for the trek. If you are going on the camping trek, you might need more than one porter and also a cook (optional). Since Breeze Adventure already has a professional team, you don’t need to worry about anything.

Acclimatization on Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

Acclimatization Days help your body cope with decreasing oxygen levels. It’s also your opportunity to savor the true Himalayan beauty while your body recovers from the trek. As per the Itinerary, we have the rest day at Ramchen, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. But we might add a couple more acclimatization days as per your need. Sometimes, we might also stop due to poor weather.