⇀ Starts:

Time: 3:00 AM – Day 1

 📍 Pick-up Point: Your Hotel in Kathmandu

↼ Ends:

Time: 7:00–8:00 PM – Day 9

 📍 Drop-off: Your Hotel in Kathmandu

✈️ Arrival Recommendation:

 We highly recommend arriving in Kathmandu at least one day before your trek starts. This ensures you have time to:

• Attend the pre-trek briefing
• Meet your trekking guide
• Finalize gear and permits

Pre-Trek Briefing Options:

• Online Video Call Session (Flexible timing)
• In-person Meeting at our Kathmandu Office (Includes map discussion, packing help, and Q&A)

Transportation Details for Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

Day 1: Kathmandu → Bhadrapur Flight + Drive to Birtamod

Flight Details:

• Route: Kathmandu (1,400 m) → Bhadrapur (93 m)
• Duration: ~45 minutes
• Airline: Yeti / Buddha / Shree Airlines
• Tip: Early morning flights ensure smooth connections

Drive to Birtamod:

• Route: Bhadrapur → Birtamod (~14 km)
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Vehicle: Private car or jeep
• Road Condition: Blacktopped

Day 2: Drive from Birtamod to Yamphuding (2,080 m)

• Route: Birtamod → Kanyam → Ilam Bazaar → Phidim → Khewang → Yamphuding
• Distance: ~190 km
• Duration: 9–10 hours
• Vehicle: Shared 4WD Jeep (ideal for rough terrain)
• Road Conditions:
  • Paved up to Ilam and Phidim
  • Off-road, narrow and bumpy beyond Phidim to Yamphuding
• En route Highlights: Tea gardens in Ilam, hilly landscapes, Limbu villages

Day 3–7: Trekking Days (On Foot)

• Mode: Hiking only
• Route: Yamphuding → Toranden → Tseram → Ramze → Oktang Viewpoint → Return to Kengsar
• Altitude Range: 2,080 m to 4,730 m
• Trail Type: Forest paths, alpine terrain, glacier moraines
• Note: Porters carry your duffel bags; you carry a daypack
• Support: Licensed guide and support team throughout

Day 8: Trek to Zero KM + Drive to Kanyam (1,600 m)

Short Hike:

• Route: Kengsar → Zero KM
• Duration: ~2 hours (downhill trail)

Drive to Kanyam:

• Route: Zero KM → Khebang → Phidim → Ilam → Kanyam
• Distance: ~180 km
• Duration: 8–9 hours
• Vehicle: Private 4WD Jeep
• Road Condition: Mixed (off-road + blacktopped)
• Scenic Stops: Tea plantations, forested ridgelines, mid-hill villages

Day 9: Kanyam → Bhadrapur Drive + Flight to Kathmandu

Morning Drive:

• Route: Kanyam → Ilam → Birtamod → Bhadrapur Airport
• Distance: ~90 km
• Duration: 4–5 hours
• Vehicle: Private car
• Stop Options: Tea tasting in Ilam, lunch in Birtamod

Flight Back to Kathmandu:

• Route: Bhadrapur → Kathmandu
• Duration: ~45 minutes
• Flight Timing: Afternoon or evening flights available

Tip: Book early to avoid weather-related delays

Important Travel Notes for Trekkers:

Flights to/from Bhadrapur are weather-dependent. We recommend keeping 1–2 buffer days in your Nepal plan.

weight limit: 10–12 kg per trekker (duffel bag provided)

No roads connect to Ramze or Oktang. Entire central section of the trek is remote and pristine.

Kanyam's tea hills offer a relaxing end to your trek—ideal for photography and a warm cup of Ilam tea before flying out.

Foods During the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is a remote and less-commercialized route, so food options are limited but wholesome. You won’t find fancy menus here, but what you will enjoy is fresh, homemade Nepali food—prepared by local families and guesthouse hosts with care and simplicity.

Here's a breakdown of meals by location:

Birtamod (Lowland Town):

 You’ll find a wider selection here, including Thakali sets, Nepali curries, momo (dumplings), fried rice, and snacks. It’s your last chance to enjoy a range of food before entering the hills.

Yamphuding (2,080 m):

 This is the gateway village to the trek, offering basic guesthouse meals. Expect dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables), noodles, boiled eggs, or local-style fried potatoes.

Toranden, Tseram & Ramze (High Altitude Villages):

•  In these higher and colder areas, food choices narrow down to energy-rich essentials like:
• Dal Bhat (the staple of every trekker in Nepal)
• Instant noodles, pasta, or chapati (depending on availability)
• Boiled potatoes or rice with seasonal vegetables
• Simple soups and porridge (especially for breakfast)

Hot beverages like tea, instant coffee, and lemon ginger are available in most lodges, but extra items (chocolates, soda, beer, etc.) are rare and may cost more due to porter transport.

Accommodation During the Trek

You’ll be staying in locally run accommodations throughout the trek, which range from comfortable hotels in the lowlands to simple teahouses and homestays in the higher Himalayan villages.

What to Expect:

• Birtamod:
  •  Overnight at a standard hotel with private rooms, attached bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and electricity.
• Yamphuding:
  •  Basic guesthouses with wooden rooms, shared toilets, and clean bedding. Some houses are multi-purpose homes run by locals.
• Toranden & Tseram:
  •  You’ll stay in simple teahouses—small family-run lodges with shared rooms, a central dining space (with wood stove), and basic beds.
• Ramze (Highest point):
  •  Accommodation here is limited to homestay-style rooms or yak herder huts, with minimal facilities. You may sleep in a shared room with thick blankets, or on a wooden bed in a common area.

Trekker Tips:

• Bring a warm sleeping bag (rated at least -10°C)—especially useful above 3,000 meters where it gets freezing at night.
• Listen to your guide—they are familiar with the terrain, safest places to stay, and hosts with the best food and hospitality.
• Pack wet wipes, headlamps, power banks, and a small towel, as hot water and electricity are limited in upper regions.
• Bring some extra cash (Nepali rupees) for personal expenses like:
  • Extra beverages (bottled drinks, tea, coffee, etc.)
  • Snacks or extra meals not included in the menu
  • Donations to monasteries or tips for local families

All-Inclusive Package

Your trek package includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and accommodation from Birtamod to Ramze and back. Our goal is to make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, without worrying about where to eat or sleep each day.

Want to Upgrade?

For added comfort, you can customize your experience with our premium options.

👉 Check out our Optional Add-Ons for:

• Hotel upgrades in Kathmandu or Birtamod
• Private rooms (when available along the trail)
• Portable solar charger or electric blanket rental
• Extra porter service for lighter trekking

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is best rated as a moderate trek, but it leans toward challenging due to its remote location and rugged terrain. Unlike more developed trails like Annapurna or Everest, this route is less frequented, with limited infrastructure and raw, untouched paths. That’s part of what makes it beautiful—but also what demands physical readiness and a spirit of adventure.

You won’t need mountaineering skills or climbing gear, but you should be in good physical condition. The daily hikes range from 5 to 7 hours, and you’ll be walking on a mix of steep forest trails, rocky ridges, narrow paths, and uneven surfaces, especially above 3,000 meters. Some sections can be slippery or muddy, particularly during or after the monsoon, and occasional landslide zones may require detours.

As you gain altitude toward Tseram and Ramze, the air gets thinner and colder. Though the ascent is gradual, trekkers may feel the effects of elevation—fatigue, breathlessness, or light headaches. Thankfully, the itinerary allows for a steady pace and ample rest, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

What adds to the difficulty is the off-beaten nature of the route. This isn’t a teahouse-to-teahouse trek with every comfort along the way. You’ll be walking through isolated mountain villages and wilderness, relying on basic accommodations and limited supplies. Flexibility, patience, and listening to your guide become essential parts of the journey.

That said, the challenge is deeply rewarding. The quiet trails, unspoiled forests, towering peaks, and cultural immersion offer a trekking experience that feels raw and authentic. If you’ve done beginner treks before and are ready to push yourself further, the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is the perfect next adventure.

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek takes you through Nepal’s far-eastern Himalayas, where the climate varies dramatically between the lowland plains and the high alpine valleys. Understanding the weather is essential to plan a safe and rewarding adventure into this remote, majestic region.

Weather Conditions on the Trek

This trek spans from Birtamod (93 m) in the subtropical Terai to Ramze and Oktang Viewpoint (over 4,600 m) in the glacial Himalayas. Expect a mix of climates, from warm and humid lowlands to crisp alpine air and freezing nights.

Lower Trails (Birtamod to Yamphuding – below 2,000 m):

These areas are generally hot and humid, especially during spring and early autumn. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C, with cooler evenings. You may encounter light rain or fog, especially in early mornings.

Mid-Altitude (Toranden to Tseram – 2,000 m to 3,800 m):

The mid-mountain region offers mild days (10°C to 18°C) and cold nights, especially in October and April. Forest trails can be damp, and sudden mists are common.

High Altitude (Ramze & Oktang – above 3,800 m):

In the alpine zone, weather becomes unpredictable and cold. Day temperatures hover around 5°C to 10°C, while nighttime can dip as low as -5°C or lower. Expect chilly winds, frost, and occasional snowfall even in spring and autumn.

As this is a less-traveled and off-the-beaten-path trek, facilities are limited and trails can be rough. Always prepare for changing weather, especially above 3,000 meters.

Best Time to Do the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

Choosing the right season is key to making your trek enjoyable, safe, and visually stunning. The best time for this trek falls under two main seasons: Spring and Autumn.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most picturesque times to visit the Kanchenjunga region. The forests along the trail are ablaze with blooming rhododendrons and magnolias, adding color and fragrance to the trek. The weather is generally stable, with clear mountain views and comfortable temperatures during the day.

• Best for: Wildflowers, wildlife, and warmer days
• Temperature Range: 8°C to 20°C (day) / -2°C to 5°C (night at high altitudes)
• Visibility: Excellent, especially in the morning hours

Autumn Season (Late September to November)

Autumn is considered the most reliable season for trekking in Nepal, and Kanchenjunga is no exception. The monsoon has cleared the dust, revealing crystal-clear mountain vistas, including Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) and surrounding peaks. The air is crisp, the trails are dry, and villages are buzzing with post-harvest life.

• Best for: Clear skies, photography, and cultural encounters
• Temperature Range: 5°C to 18°C (day) / -5°C to 0°C (night at high elevations)
• Visibility: Outstanding throughout the day

Seasons to Avoid

• Monsoon (June to Early September):

This period brings heavy rain, muddy trails, leeches, and landslides. The low visibility and travel delays make it unsuitable for trekking in this region.

• Winter (December to February):

During winter, the high passes and viewpoints are snow-covered, and extreme cold makes trekking challenging and risky. Many teahouses shut down during this season.

Our Trekking Advice

• For the best experience, plan your trek between:
• Mid-March to Late May
• Late September to Early November

These windows offer the most stable weather, clear views of the Himalayas, and comfortable hiking conditions. If you’re a nature lover, spring will charm you with its blossoms. If mountain panoramas are your priority, autumn won’t disappoint.

Need Help Choosing Your Dates?

Get in touch with us for custom trekking dates, weather forecasts, or help with permits and logistics. Our team at Places Nepal is here to make sure you’re trekking at the right time for the best possible Himalayan journey.

How to Get Fit for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is a rewarding yet demanding adventure that takes you through steep hills, rugged trails, and remote high-altitude terrain. Although it's graded as a moderate to challenging trek, you don’t need to be a professional athlete to complete it — but you do need solid physical preparation, mental readiness, and the right trekking habits before you arrive in Nepal.

Here’s how you can prepare your body and mind for this incredible journey:

 1. Start Trek-Specific Training (At Least 6 Weeks Before)

Begin your fitness training 6 to 8 weeks before your trek. Focus on exercises that build endurance, leg strength, and core stability. Here's what to include:

• Cardio workouts: Running, cycling, stair climbing, hiking with a loaded backpack (3–5 times a week for 30–60 minutes).
• Leg strength: Squats, lunges, step-ups, and calf raises help prepare your muscles for long descents and climbs.
• Core exercises: Planks, sit-ups, and back extensions help maintain posture and balance on rocky trails.
• Flexibility and recovery: Yoga or stretching improves flexibility and reduces soreness during multi-day hiking.

2. Practice Real Hikes

If possible, go on day hikes or overnight treks with your backpack and gear. Practice walking uphill and downhill on uneven terrain, gradually increasing your pack weight (8–10 kg). This helps simulate real conditions and gets your feet used to your boots and your body used to sustained movement.

3. Build Mental Endurance

Trekking in remote areas like Kanchenjunga isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s also about mental resilience. You may face long trekking days, basic facilities, and changing weather. Being mentally prepared to stay positive and adaptable makes a big difference.

Tips:

• Train in poor weather to get used to discomfort.
• Embrace early mornings and discipline in your training.
• Visualize the trek and set a purpose for your journey.

4. Train with Altitude in Mind

Although you may not be able to simulate altitude, you can:

• Train with a backpack on stairs or hills to simulate exertion.
• Include interval training to strengthen your lungs and heart.
• Stay well-hydrated and practice breathing exercises (like deep belly breathing).
• Once on the trail, remember to:
  • Walk at a slow, steady pace.
  • Listen to your guide and don’t rush.
  • Stay hydrated and fuel your body properly.

5. Get a Medical Check-Up

Before flying to Nepal, get a full health check-up, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. Discuss altitude risks and vaccinations with your doctor. If needed, carry prescribed medications, including for high altitude.

Final Trekking Fitness Tips

• Break in your trekking boots before the trip.
• Strengthen your shoulders for carrying a daypack.
• Sleep well during your training period—it helps recovery.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in protein and complex carbs.

Remember: You don’t need to race — slow, consistent effort is the key. The more prepared you are, the more you’ll enjoy every step of the journey to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek – Packing & Equipment List

Packing smart for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is essential, especially as this route ventures into remote and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan trails where access to supplies is limited. Here's a comprehensive gear checklist to help you stay warm, dry, and comfortable throughout your adventure.

Note: All essential gear is your responsibility, but Places Nepal provides assistance with duffel bags and porter services. You can also rent sleeping bags and down jackets in Kathmandu if needed.

Clothing

Base Layers

• Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3)
• Thermal tops & bottoms (2 sets – for cold nights)
• Sports bras (for female trekkers)

Insulation Layer

• Fleece or down jacket (essential above 3,000m)
• Lightweight insulated jacket (for evenings)

Outer Layer

• Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Rain poncho or packable raincoat

Trekking Pants & Bottoms

• Hiking trousers (2 pairs)
• Warm trekking pants (fleece-lined or softshell)
• Waterproof pants or overtrousers

Head & Handwear

• Wool or fleece hat/beanie
• Sun hat or cap (wide-brimmed)
• Buff or neck gaiter (dust/wind protection)
• Warm gloves (insulated)
• Lightweight gloves (inner)

Footwear

• Well-broken-in trekking boots (ankle-high, waterproof)
• Camp shoes/sandals (for evenings)
• 3–4 pairs of trekking socks (wool blend)
• Liner socks (for layering)
• Gaiters (optional but useful for snow/mud)

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping bag (4-season, -10°C comfort rating)
• Sleeping bag liner (optional but adds warmth & hygiene)
• Earplugs (for noisy lodges)

Bags

• Daypack (25–35L, with rain cover – for essentials)
• Duffel bag (carried by porters – max 12–15kg)
• Small dry bags or stuff sacks (for organizing clothes)

Personal Hygiene

• Quick-dry towel
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, small soap
• Wet wipes (very handy in remote areas)
• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Toilet paper (very limited availability on the trail)
• Small quick-dry face towel

First Aid & Medications

• Basic personal medications (prescription if any)
• Diamox (for altitude, consult doctor)
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, paracetamol)
• Band-aids, blister pads
• Antiseptic cream
• ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)
• Antidiarrheal tablets
• Water purification tablets/drops or SteriPEN

Trekking Essentials

• Headlamp (with extra batteries)
• Trekking poles (collapsible, very useful)
• Reusable water bottles (2L total) or hydration bladder
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Map (optional, but nice to have)
• Notebook & pen (journaling or note-taking)
• Power bank or solar charger
• Lightweight towel
• Snacks (nuts, energy bars, chocolates)

Travel & Documents

• Passport & multiple photocopies
• Trekking permits (managed by us – TIMS, KCAP)
• Travel insurance (mandatory, must cover high altitude)
• Cash (NPR in small bills – for beverages, charging, tips)

 Tip: ATMs are not available along the trek. Bring enough cash from Kathmandu or Birtamod for any extras.

Optional Add-ons & Comfort Items

• Camera/GoPro
• Books or Kindle
• Playing cards
• Small travel pillow
• Extra snacks or protein powder

Final Advice

• Pack light but smart – Porters will carry your main duffel, but your daypack will be with you all day.
• Layering is key – Weather can shift quickly in the mountains.
• Bring some extra cash – for tea, snacks, hot showers, or battery charging.
• Talk to your guide – They know the trails and the local conditions better than anyone!

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is a breathtaking journey into one of the most remote, least-touched corners of the Nepalese Himalayas. This 9-day adventure offers a perfect mix of rugged mountain wilderness, quiet traditional villages, alpine meadows, and panoramic views of the third-highest mountain in the world — Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m). Unlike popular trekking routes, this trek remains raw and authentic, ideal for travelers seeking solitude, cultural immersion, and unspoiled Himalayan scenery.

The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a long but rewarding drive through Ilam’s lush tea gardens and rolling hills to reach Yamphuding (2,080 m), your gateway to Kanchenjunga. From here, you’ll trek through forested trails and high alpine pastures, passing remote villages like Toranden and Tseram, and climb gradually to Ramze (4,580 m). A side hike to Oktang Viewpoint (4,730 m) offers surreal up-close views of Kanchenjunga’s South Face, Yalung Glacier, Kabru, Rathong, and neighboring peaks. You’ll retrace your path with overnights in Kengsar and Kanyam, experiencing the changing landscape from high mountain terrain to sub-tropical greenery.

This off-the-beaten trek takes you deep into the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, where nature and culture exist in balance. You’ll walk through lush rhododendron forests, cross yak pastures, pass ancient monasteries, and stay in modest local teahouses and homestays, connecting directly with Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa communities. The trek concludes with a drive to Bhadrapur and a flight back to Kathmandu, completing one of the most soulful Himalayan journeys in Nepal.

Permits Required

Trekkers need the following permits for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Kanchenjunga – USD 20/week (issued through a registered agency)
• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) Permit – NPR 2,000 per person

👉 These permits are arranged by us and included in your trek package. A minimum of two trekkers is required as per government regulations.

Route Description & Altitude Highlights

• Kathmandu (1,400 m) → Bhadrapur (93 m) → Birtamod (300 m)
• Drive to Yamphuding (2,080 m) through Ilam and Phidim
• Trek to Toranden (2,980 m) → Tseram (3,870 m) → Ramze (4,580 m)
• Hike to Oktang Viewpoint (4,730 m) – Stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga
• Return via Tseram, Kengsar (2,800 m) → Drive to Kanyam (1,600 m)
• Final drive to Bhadrapur Airport → Fly back to Kathmandu

Highest Point: Oktang Viewpoint – 4,730 meters

Total Trekking Days: 5 Days

Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Trek Type: Off-the-beaten, Teahouse-based

Flora and Fauna of Kanchenjunga Region

The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is a biodiversity treasure trove. Lower altitudes are rich in subtropical forests filled with bamboo, pine, magnolia, and rhododendrons, which bloom spectacularly in spring. As you ascend, vegetation changes to juniper, fir, and alpine shrubs, eventually giving way to snow and rock.

This region is home to rare and endangered wildlife, including the red panda, Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, blue sheep, musk deer, and over 250 bird species like the blood pheasant and Impeyan pheasant (Nepal’s national bird). You may not see them all, but knowing you’re trekking in such pristine habitat is part of the magic.

Culture, People & History

Kanchenjunga means “Five Treasures of the Snow”, reflecting the five distinct peaks in its massif. Historically considered sacred by locals, the region remains deeply spiritual and untouched. The trail passes through ethnic Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tamang communities, each with their own dialects, dress, customs, and hospitality. You’ll visit Buddhist Gumbas, Mani walls, and chortens — all set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas.

Unlike commercial trekking zones, the Kanchenjunga region is culturally raw, with a slower pace of life, rich storytelling, and untouched traditions.

Who is This Trek For?

This trek is perfect for:

• Adventurous trekkers seeking remote and less-touristy routes
• Photographers & nature lovers wanting dramatic landscapes and biodiversity
• Cultural travelers interested in indigenous hill tribes and highland Buddhism
• Second-time visitors to Nepal who’ve already done Everest or Annapurna

📝 Note: Trekkers should be reasonably fit and prepared for long days and basic accommodations. No technical climbing is required, but previous trekking experience is helpful.

Why Choose Us for Your Kanchenjunga Adventure?

At Places Nepal Treks, we don’t just guide you — we connect you to Nepal’s spirit. Here’s why travelers trust us:

✅ Locally owned & operated by expert guides who’ve walked these trails for decades

✅ All logistics handled: Flights, permits, accommodations, meals — no surprises

✅ Small group sizes for a personal experience

✅ Licensed guides, insured porters, and sustainable trekking practices

✅ Flexible Add-Ons: Luxury hotel upgrades, cultural city tours, or extra acclimatization days

✅ 24/7 pre-trip support and customized itineraries to suit your style

Ready to take the road less traveled?

 Join us on this unforgettable trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, where every step is a story waiting to unfold.

👉 +9779851239965 or check Optional Add-Ons to customize your dream trek!