Kanchenjunga Lodge Trekking
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The trek takes you past rice terraces and through rhododendron forests in one of the most remote and lonely Himalayan regions, with pristine Nepalese culture and captivating mountain landscapes. At 8,586 meters, Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world and is located on the border between Nepal and Sikkim (India).
This trek is an extremely demanding, long and fascinating tour with uniquely beautiful impressions. The mountain panoramas from the campsite near Lhonak on Wedge Summit (6,750m), Mera (6,344m), Nepal Peak (6,910m), Twins (7,351m) and to the north side of Kanchenjunga with Tent Peak, Cross Peak and Kanchenjunga (8,586,) are unforgettable and of breath-taking beauty.
The overnight stays take place in teahouses with very simple furnishings, according to the motto “back to the roots”. This trek is a good choice if you have already been to other challenging tours in Nepal and are in good physical fitness and health.
Our routes are carefully planned as well as possible. We always offer enough extra breaks and acclimatization days so that you always stay healthy and fit. We have also planned enough reserve time for possible delays, e.g. due to bad weather.
Trip Details
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – introduction to the trip, equipment check and welcome dinner
Arrival in Kathmandu. You will be picked up at the airport and driven to your hotel. In the afternoon we will discuss the journey with you, and in the evening you are invited to dinner with your mountain guide. Overnight stay at Hotel Tibet or Kathmandu Guest House, (D).
Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing and preparation for trekking
Today we explore Kathmandu with a local guide. The most popular places and most impressive sights include Pashupatinath – a Hindu temple with cremation grounds, Swayambhunath – also known as the Monkey Temple -, Boudhanath Stupa, Durbar Square and Thamel – the tourist center of Kathmandu. You should return to the hotel in the late afternoon and pack for the next morning’s trek. You can also leave a bag at the hotel with items you don’t need on the tour. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel Tibet or Kathmandu Guest House, (F).
Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur (approx. 45 mins) and drive to Ilam – 6 hours drive
We fly early in the morning to Bhadrapur in the hot, humid lowlands of eastern Nepal. After arrival we drive through the hilly landscape of the Mechizone until we reach the town of Ilam. Ilam is one of the main towns in this region, as well as a center for tea production in Nepal and is known for its naturalness, tea gardens and diverse agriculture. Overnight stay at the hotel (B|L).
Day 4: Drive to Sekathum (1,660m) – approx. 9 hours
Today we are going to Sekathum. The journey passes through many traditional villages and can be bumpy in places. The village of Sekathum has a Tibetan feel and, when the weather is good, offers the first views of the higher Himalayan mountains. On a cloudless day, Jannu (7,711m) is visible above the Ghunsa Valley. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 5: Trek to Amjilossa (2,510m) – 7 hours hike
Today we follow a steep and narrow path up to the northern riverbed of the Ghunsa Kola until we reach the Tibetan village of Amjilossa. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 6: Trek to Gybala (2,730m) – 6 hours hike
On the way to Gybala, a short climb awaits us through lush bamboo, oak and rhododendron forests and at one point on the path, the southwestern flank of Kanchenjunga becomes visible. The path makes a few shorter climbs and descents before we pass a large waterfall, then take a final steep mountain path to Gyabla. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 7: Trek to Ghunsa (3,595m) – 5 hours hike
From Gyabla the path continues to Kyapra and we climb an easy path up to the right bank of the river. The path crosses a wide meadow behind a village and we walk up a gentle hill, which we then walk back down to cross the river to get to Ghunsa. Ghunsa is a picturesque village with wooden houses and colorful prayer flags. There are various huts, shops, a small Kanchenjunga conservation office and a few gompas. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 8: Acclimatization day in Ghunsa (3,595m)
Today we organize a morning hike or you can spend the time relaxing or exploring the village. Two nights in Ghunsa are essential for acclimatization. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 9: Trek to Khambachen (4,100m) – 5 to 6 hours hike
From Ghunsa the path takes a steady climb through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests along the southern bank of the Ghunsa Kola and we pass several mani walls and chortens. Here we can expect some climbs over rubble walls and moraines. The path then descends again to Khambachen, a typical Tibetan settlement with about a dozen houses on a grassy plain, bordered by mountains and an impressive view of the huge northern side of Jannus. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 10: Acclimatization and relaxation day in Khambachen hike
From our lodge we have a magnificent view of Mt. Jannu (7711m), the sacred mountain in the region. This beautiful, particularly shaped mountain is connected to Kanchenjunga by a long ridge, but does not count as a secondary peak. It is the 32nd highest mountain in the world. It is mainly known among mountaineers for its very demanding northern routes and its extremely cold and stormy climatic conditions. We will go for a hike in the area and will climb about 200-300 meters and return to our lodge. This will help us sleep better at night and adapt better to the altitude. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 11: Trek to Lhonak (4,785m) – 5 to 6 hours hike
The path climbs past rock-strewn fields to Ramtang (4,370m) and then crosses the moraines northwest of the Kanchenjunga Glacier to Lhonak. In the high valley that we have now reached there are a few simple overnight stays and alpine huts scattered around, the landscape around us is like an amphitheater and offers incredible panoramas with Wedge peak (6,750m), Mera (6,344m), Nepal peak (6,910m) , Gemini (7,351m) to name just a few. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 12: Day hike to Pangpema (5,143m), return hike to Lhonak – 7 to 8 hours hike
Unfortunately, you can’t see the main peak of Kanchenjunga from Lhonak – for this view you have to hike to the Kanchenjunga base camp near Pangpema. The path to Pangpema always runs along the edge of the glacial moraine and forces us to avoid landslides that have occurred several times in recent years. Already on the hike you have views of the Tent Peak, Nepal Peak, Cross Peak, the Twins and of course finally the 8586m high Kanchenjunga. The way back from the windswept base camp takes the same route. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 13: Return to Ghunsa (3,595m) – 7 to 8 hours hike
On the way back to Ghunsa on familiar paths, we take a lunch break in Khambachen. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 14: Hike to Selle Camp (approx. 4,100m) – 6 to 7 hours hike
We hike uphill through a dense rhododendron forest until we reach Selele with simple tea houses. From here you can enjoy the wonderful view and a wonderful sunset. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 15: Crossing the Mirgin La Pass (4,663m) and to Tseram (3,870m) – 9 to 10 hours hike
On this route we cross five passes – Tamo La (3,900m), an unnamed pass (4,115m), Mirgin La (4,663m) with great views in all directions, Sinion La (4,660m) and another unnamed pass (4,724 m). After the last pass, a 1000m descent awaits us to Tseram, a small settlement above the Simbua Khola. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 16: Day hike to Oktang (4,730m) and return to Ramche (4,580m) – 8 to 9 hours hike
Today we hike further up the valley to Ramche, where the scenery is simply overwhelming. Afterwards we come to the tongue of the Yalung Glacier, in an eroded valley. All peaks form the Nepal/India border – Koktang (6,147m), Rathong (6,679m) and the various peaks of Kabru, all of which are higher than 7,000m. Here at Ramche there is a lake, a meadow with two stone houses and up here you can often see blue sheep on the grassy slopes. We continue hiking and follow the valley to Oktang, now the south face of Kanchenjunga is visible. To get an overview of the entire massive mountain range, climb the glacial moraine and hike to a viewing point decorated with flags. The view from here of the mountain basin, which lies above 7,500 meters, and of the three main peaks, all of which are over 8,400 meters above sea level, is unique. The climbing route to the summit of Kanchenjunga, which was climbed for the first time by Joe Brown and George Band in 1953, can also be admired from Oktang. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 17: Trek to Tortang (3,310m) – 4 to 5 hours hike
The path goes to Torontang, descending through Rhodhodenron forests. On a clear day, spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga and Jannu await us from there. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 18: Trek to Lelep (1,650m) – 7 to 8 hours hike
The path descends steeply to Imja Kola and leads through cardamom fields to Lelep. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L|D).
Day 19: Drive Lelep to Taplejung and then to Ilam, about 7 hours drive
Today we end our varied and long trekking tour and drive back to Ilam. Overnight stay at the Teahouse Lodge, (B|L).
Day 20: Drive to Bhadrapur and flight to Kathmandu – approx. 5 hours drive and 45 minutes flight
Early morning drive to Bhadrapur and flight to Kathmandu. You will be picked up at the airport and driven to the hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel Tibet or Kathmandu Guest House, (B).
Day 21: Free day in Kathmandu
Today is free for you to spend relaxing, sightseeing or shopping in Thamel. One last good opportunity to get a few souvenirs at short notice. Overnight stay at Hotel Tibet or Kathmandu Guest House, (B).
Day 22: Flight back home
Farewell and transfer to the airport, (B).
We reserve the right to make program changes due to special events, force majeure or weather reasons.
B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner
Price and Services
Trip Dates:
German guided tour
English guided tour
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04. April 2025 -
25. April 2025 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly -
11. April 2025 -
02. May 2025 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly -
25. April 2025 -
16. May 2025 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly -
02. May 2025 -
23. May 2025 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly -
16. May 2025 -
06. June 2025 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly -
03. October 2025 -
24. October 2025 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly -
19. October 2025 -
09. November 2025
Tihar Festival 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly -
01. November 2025 -
22. November 2025 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly -
07. November 2025 -
28. November 2025 2.590 € Request non-bindingBook bindingly
This trekking tour can also be booked for your individual group at an additional cost at dates other than shown here.
Duration: 22 days
Costs: € 2.590 per person
Group size: min. 2 Persons (all the tour dates are guaranteed with a minimum group size of two persons)
€ 190 for single room supplement
What’s included:
- Airport transfers in Nepal
- All relevant surface transfer
- All hotel accommodation with breakfast
- All meals on trek (B|L|D)
- All internal flights (with Tara Air, Yeti Air, Summit Air, Sita Air or Buddha Air), inclusive Airport Taxes and 15kg free luggage
- Sightseeing with entrance fees, guide and vehicle
- Permit, National Park Entrance/Conservation Fees
- Guide, cook, porters and supporting sherpa staff on tented trek
- Two-Man-Tent, mattresses and kitchen utensils
- 12 kg free luggage on trekking tours, carried by porter
- Quality service and trek equipment
- Oxymeter
- Satellite Phone
Not Included:
- International flights
- Additional tours and meals that are not mentioned
- Beverages
- Personal bills
- Visas
- Excess baggage charge (beyond 15 Kg each)
- Insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects)
- Tips
Visa
Your visa can be issued on arrival at a counter at Kathmandu airport. Visa costs on arriving in Kathmandu amount to US $ 50 (stay of up to 30 days) and US $ 100 (stay of up to 90 days).
The fees can also be paid in euros, which are converted by the bank at the airport in accordance with the dollar exchange rate. Two passport size photographs must be provided for the visa. At the time of the trip your passport must be valid for at least a further six months and have at least one blank page.
These visa and passport regulations apply to EU countries, Switzerland and the USA. Other nationals should check with the relevant consular authorities.
Insurance
Travel health insurance (with recovery costs) is essential for your own safety and a precondition for participation in our trips. In the event of an accident in the mountains which requires a helicopter rescue, the helicopter will not take off before the responsibility for the cost is clarified.
The conclusion of travel cancellation insurance is highly recommended. In the case of bargain price flights in particular, changes or cancellations generally can’t be made free of charge. In Nepal complications with the weather or with your health could make it necessary to break off your journey.
We have requested ERGO (Reiseversicherung) to create various service packages for you. You can book travel health insurance at https://www.reiseversicherung.de
Please note: ERGO insurance can be booked by residents of Germany and Austria. Those living in other countries are requested to book their travel insurance through an insurance provider in their own country.
It should be noted that geoDiscovery Tours advises its customers to book their travel insurance via ERGO as a recommendation only, and accepts no responsibility for the contractual content between the customer and the travel insurance provider. Customers can book their travel insurance via ERGO or another provider at their own discretion.
The hotels and lodges booked by us
In Kathmandu and Pokhara the hotels we book are good and correspond to medium-level Western standards. Sanitary facilities are clean and functional; the hotel cuisine is adapted to Western eating habits and the food is safe to enjoy. There may sometimes be power cuts, or no hot water may be available for a while. The hotel staff is generally very friendly and looks after the welfare of guests. The hotels booked by us are as follows:
Kathmandu: Hotel Tibet/Manaslu ***+
Pokhara: Mount Kailash Resort, Lake side retreat ***
Palpa/Tansen: Hotel Srinagar **
Lumbini: Hotel New Crystal ***
Chitwan: Jungle Villa Resort
Nagarkot: Nagarkot Farmhouse
During the trek and in the interior of the country conditions are very varied, and travelers must sometimes expect basic sanitation facilities. For standard treks and tours you will stay overnight in typical “lodges” (teahouses). These usually offer very small single rooms or double rooms (some with no running water and no private shower / toilet).
In general, during the trekking tour you can select what you wish to eat from the menu. However, at altitudes of 4,000 meters it can happen that on some routes the choice of food is not very extensive. Typical Nepalese cuisine is mostly vegetarian, but very tasty, filling and wholesome. Travelers need to be adaptable, however.
Flying in Nepal
The domestic flights booked by us are with Tara Air, Summit Air, Sita Air or Buddha Air.
Tour program
The travel program for all of our recommended tours is carefully planned. It can happen, however, that roads are closed without advance notice or are impassable, that there are waiting times of several hours because of traffic congestion or fuel shortages and that specific tourist attractions are closed for various reasons. Other restrictions such as flight delays or even cancellations due to bad weather, strikes, the health of participants or unfavorable conditions while trekking may also make the implementation of the travel program more difficult or at worst make it impossible. However, our local guides are prepared for such situations and will make every effort to achieve every aspect of the program to your satisfaction. As a result the inconvenience can normally be kept to a reasonable level. Nevertheless, it must be pointed out at this juncture that for the above reasons program changes are possible at any time and cannot be influenced by the organizers. The resulting costs are borne by the traveler. We ask for your understanding.
Trip Details
- Duration: 22 days
- Holiday Type: Lodge Trek
- Best trekking period: Oct/Nov/Mar/Apr/May
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Max Altitude: Base Camp 5,143m
- Group size: min. 2 persons (all the tour dates are guaranteed with a minimum group size of only two persons)
- Tour guide: English speaking, trained Nepalese mountain guide
- Difficulty:
- Fitness:
- Price: 2.590,00 €
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Single room supplement:
190,00 €
single room /single tent supplement