Overview
Kanchenjunga is Nepal’s second highest mountain, located on the border with India. It rises to an elevation of 8,586 metres (28,169 feet) and is bounded to the west by the Tamur River, to the north by the Lhonak Chu and Jongsang La, and to the east by the Teesta River. It is regarded as one of the most difficult mountains to summit, and the Kanchenjunga Expedition is one of the most arduous and demanding expeditions in the world. In 1955, Sir Charles Evans led a British team to the first successful ascent of Kanchenjunga. Since then, numerous climbers have attempted to top the mountain, with varied degrees of success. The Kanchenjunga Expedition normally lasts six to eight weeks and demands advanced physical fitness, technical climbing ability, and mountaineering experience. Climbers must acclimate to the altitude and adverse weather conditions before navigating through difficult terrain such as sheer ice and rock cliffs. The trip normally starts in the town of Taplejung in eastern Nepal, and climbers travel through several villages and high-altitude camps before reaching the summit. Along the route, they must deal with severe winds, intense cold, and the possibility of avalanches. Despite the hardships, many who embark on the Kanchenjunga Expedition find it to be a highly gratifying experience. The peak provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan range and a sense of accomplishment that comes with the successfully summiting one of the world’s highest peaks is unmatched. However, it is vital to realize that the Kanchenjunga Expedition does not come without risks. The high altitude and difficult conditions can cause altitude sickness, hypothermia, and other health issues, therefore climbers must exercise extreme caution at all times. To summarize, the Kanchenjunga Expedition is a difficult yet rewarding mountaineering journey that needs talent, endurance, and determination. It’s an expedition for experienced climbers who are well-prepared and committed to their own and their teammates’ safety.
Top Highlights of Kanchenjunga
- Summit Nepal's third-highest peak
- Stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range
- Rich cultural encounters with local communities
- Diverse flora and fauna
- Trek through remote, pristine landscapes
Itinerary
You will arrive in Kathmandu valley at the Tribhuvan International Airport, and our agents from Gravity Expedition will be there to pick you up. They will take you to your hotel, where you can rest and enjoy a delicious and traditional Nepali meal. In the evening, you have the option to attend a fascinating folk cultural performance.
Following breakfast the following morning, you will go for a full-day sightseeing trip of the Kathmandu Valley. You may see Swyambhunath, a very old temple that is essentially classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the revered Pashupatinath Temple.
Highlights of our guided trip include the largest Buddhist stupa at Boudhanath and the exquisite artwork and old architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square, which showcase the ancient culture of Nepal.
Patan City’s historic architecture and renowned fine arts will charm you on a visit. You will have time to explore the neighborhood, eat supper, and maybe take a leisurely stroll down the well-known streets when you get back to your hotel. A traditional Nepalese dinner at the Nepali Cultural Restaurant rounds off the day.
This day has been set aside for so long because preparations for the Kanchenjunga expedition are critical. The guides will provide a thorough summary of the entire journey. The guide will discuss everything from meals and housing to supplies, clothing, and potential hazards. Today is critical to the overall success of the mission. You will also be introduced to your team in order to form a bond that must last longer than two months.
We take an early morning beautiful flight to Bhadrapur. After landing, we have a jeep journey to Kanyam, where we enjoy the views of gorgeous scenery and a calm tea garden before staying overnight at the Guest House.
Drive to Taplejung on the eastern highway, then take the recently created dirt route to Chiruwa through Mitlung and Tawa village. Stay the night in the teahouse.
We gradually ascend over a few of hours before descending into a lovely, verdant forest. Olangchung Gola can be reached by hiking along the Tamor River. We also go upward before descending to the lush flora. We go downstream along the Tamur River after arriving at OlangChungGola, the gateway to Kanchenjunga National Park. Walking to Sekathum is straightforward and quick.
After crossing the river, we ascend a difficult trail to a hill, descend to the other side, and cross the river again. Take the narrow trail down to Amjilosa. Overnight camping.
We travel along the river’s side, passing through dense stands of bamboo, rhododendron, and other trees in a beautiful landscape, accompanied by a waterfall, before arriving at the Tibetan settlement of Gyabla. Overnight camping.
This is a well-known location near where a renowned conservationist was tragically killed in a helicopter crash. When we reach Gunsa in a few hours, we start descending the river valley. Overnight camping.
We relax totally today to become adjusted before visiting the area. We take a short walk through the lush woodland in the direction of the Lapsan La. We plan to spend the night at our campsite. Overnight camping.
We continue our trek north along the riverbank after visiting Ghunsa and its surroundings. We move through the shrubs and trees. Before arriving at Kambachen, we traverse several suspension bridges across rivers and through waterfalls. Trekking time: 5-6 hours. Overnight camping
We’ll take advantage of the opportunity to acclimate by visiting the neighborhood and possibly stopping by the Junu Himal base camp. Junu Himal is also known as Kumbhakarna Himal. One of the most memorable days on the entire Kanchenjunga trek. Overnight camping.
To reach Lhonak, the trail gradually descends toward the river before descending again through the stony fields on the slope below the river, passing waterfalls along the way. 5-6 hour trip. Overnight camping.
Walking up the inclining grassy walkways was difficult today due to the snow. On our right, we can see the Chang Himal in its full majesty. We have finally arrived at Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, a Pangpema. Overnight camping.
Trekkers are recommended to ascend from Base Camp to a certain higher elevation before returning to Base Camp to climb higher the next time, repeating the process. Climbers are ready to start the last ascent once they’ve adjusted to the altitude and weather conditions.
Collecting all expedition waste that needs to be cleaned up to protect the environment following the final successful ascent of Kanchenjunga.
Returning to our original route, we descend along the valley to Ramtang. Along the route, we’ll get to see panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, Gimmigela Chuli, Taple Shikhar, Kirat Chuli, and a variety of other mountains. Finally, in the evening, we arrive at Kambachen.
We return along the same road that we took to reach Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Finally, around dusk, we arrive in Kambachen.
Today’s route is the same one we took to return to Ghunsa.
Today, we cross two low passes to reach Sele Le, then trek through a dense rhododendron forest and skirt the hillside.
This would be a fantastic trekking day as we crossed three crossings, including the Sinon La, Mirgin La (4,480m), and Sinelapcha La (4,640m), en route to the mountain’s north face. Then to Tseram, which has amazing views.
Today, we have the option of heading up to Ramze, the base camp for Kangchenjunga’s southern face. There are stunning mountain views near the Yalung glacier.
Today, we will back the same route to Tseram. Mostly, we walk downhill.
Today, we descend to Yamphudin, which is home to Tamang, Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa ethnic groups, among others.
Today, as we trek down the Kabeli Khola, we will pass through small communities and cross low ridges to reach Anpan via the terraced farming system above the stream.
This day, it is just hike to Taplejung, We visit the Taplejung bazaar.
When we leave Taplejung, we return to Sukhetar. We finally arrive at Sukhetar’s STOL airfield after several hours of strenuous mountain hiking.
In the morning, you take a flight to Biratnagar. And then, in the afternoon, you take the flight to Kathmandu.
Leisure day in Kathmandu, followed by a farewell meal and celebration. You can ask your guide to take you on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. On this day, you can visit the valley’s numerous museums, including the Narayanhiti Museum, which was previously the residence of Nepal’s last king. You can also visit the hilltop of Nagarkot. After exploring the valley’s world heritage sites, you will enjoy a farewell supper with your Nepali friends and guide. You and your guide may even decide to extend your stay to include a Chitwan jungle safari, rafting activities, and other activities.
In the night you will be taken to a farewell dinner.
Our representative of Gravity Expedition will accompany you to Tribhuvan International Airport as you prepare to board your flight back home. While you travel home, you can start thinking about your next adventure here in Nepal, and rest assured that Gravity Expedition will be there to provide excellent service for your future endeavors.
Map
Cost Includes
- Airport/Hotel transfer in Kathmandu,
- All ground transportation as per the itinerary by private vehicle in Kathmandu,
- Hotel in Kathmandu for 3 night’s pre and 2 nights post on B/B plan on sharing post,
- Full day Kathmandu Heritage site sightseeing by private tourist vehicle,
- Professional English speaking tour guide during sightseeing,
- City tour entrance fees of heritage site,
- Domestic flights for members, climbing guides, liaison Officer, Assistant guides, Sherpa’s, kitchen staff and cargo,
- Yaks and porters for transportation of equipment from Staring point to Base Camp and back,
- Experienced and government licensed high altitude trekking and climbing guide during the trekking and climbing period,
- All trekking and mountaineering equipment like; Kitchen tent, store tent, dinning tents, toilet tents, tables chairs, and cooking utensils for advance Base Camp and high camp,
- Common climbing equipment (necessary fixed and main rope, ice bars, ice screws, snow bars etc.)
- Service of cook and kitchen boy at Base camp and cook at Camp 2,
- Food and accommodation during trek in full board,
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners will be served at base camp, and camp 2,
- All food and fuel for Base Camp and higher camps during the expedition for both members and crews,
- Daily weather Report service from Seattle based,
- Expedition Royalty and climbing permit of Nepal Government to climb Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m),
- Nepal government Royalty and fees,
- One experienced, trained, government licensed, Everest summiteers climbing/expedition Guide (Sherpa) per client,
- All wages, equipment, medical and accidental insurances for all involved staffs in trekking and expedition,
- Medical consultation services at the base camp with HRA clinic at the base camp,
- Equipment allowances and wages for climbing Sherpa’s, cooks, Kitchen boys,
- Equipment allowance and wages for Government Liaison Officer,
- Solar equipment for light and also for charging of various electric devices,
- First Aid Medical kits for the Group and the staffs,
- Headset radios for communication in the mountain,
- Satellite Phone (for personal use on the participants’ charge),
- Internet at base camp (for personal use on the participants’ charge),
- Appropriate food for high altitude and all climbing crew at base camp and above as required,
- Rope fixing costs from camp II to summit,
- The heater will be provided at the base camp for heating the dining room,
- Emergency Oxygen, mask, and regulator will be provided,
- Travel and rescue arrangements,
- Ice fall usage Charge,
- 5bottles of 3LTR Poisk Oxygen for member,
- Farewell dinner with beverages.
Cost Excludes
- International fare to and from Kathmandu,
- The current cost of a Nepal entrance visa USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days and USD 125 for 90 days,
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to ant reason) than the scheduled itinerary,
- Travel and high altitude insurance ( Accident /Medical / emergency evacuation)
- Personal Trekking and Climbing gears,
- Sherpa Summit Bonus: Mandatory – Minimum USD: 2,000,
- Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome and farewell dinner),
- Alcohol and Beverages during the trek and climbing period,
- Personal expenses (Phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, shower etc.),
- If needed an Emergency rescue evacuation cost will be additional,
- Tips for base camp staffs and porters,
- Any other expenses that are not included in Cost Includes.
FAQs
At Base Camp, climbers stay in communal tents with basic amenities. Higher camps consist of expedition tents equipped with essential facilities for climbers, such as sleeping bags, stoves, and cooking equipment.
Climbers can expect cold temperatures, strong winds, and variable weather, including snow and ice. Preparation involves wearing layered, high-quality cold-weather gear and being ready for sudden weather changes.
Climbers should engage in rigorous cardiovascular and strength training, high-altitude climbing practice, and endurance exercises to prepare for the physical demands of the climb.
The expedition typically lasts about 6 to 8 weeks, including time for acclimatization, climbing, and dealing with potential weather delays.
Equipments
Everest defies the adage that “when you have the right tools, you have half the job done,” but with the wrong tools, the results are very clear: disaster.
Equipment that can survive heights of 8,000 meters or above is needed for Mount Kanchenjunga Expedition. It is equally important for climbers to test each piece of equipment and have expertise using it.
Here is our checklist for ascending Mt. Kanchenjunga.
1.0 Travel Documents
- Valid passport
- Credit/debit card
- Passport size photo (6pieces)
- Insurance paper and contact address
- Family contact members
2.0 Upper Body Wear
- Expedition down jacket
- Base camp down jacket
- Lightweight fleece top
- Wind shirt
- Gore Tex Jacket
- Waterproof shell Jacket
- Base layer tops
- Trekking cloths
- Casual wear
3.0 Lower Body Wear
- Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 – 3 pcs)
- Fleece Trouser (2 – 3pcs)
- Gore Tex Pant (1pcs)
- Mid Weight Pants ( 1 – 2pcs)
- Light weight Quick Dry trekking pants ( 2 – 3pcs)
- Gaiters for trekking boots
- Down Pants (1pcs)
- Under wear ( 4 – 6pcs)
4.0 Head Wear
- Sun cap
- Desert Cap
- Balaclava
- Banadana or Buff
- Fleece hat
- Neoprene face mask
- Neck Gaiter
- Sun glass
- Ski Goggles
5.0 Hand Wear
- Thin Fleece Gloves (2 pairs)
- Liner Gloves (2pairs)
- Wind Stopper/ Screen tap Gloves (2pairs)
- Mountaineering gloves with removable liners
- Summit gloves – 8000m
6.0 Foot wear
- Socks (6pairs)
- Lightweight shoes/sandals
- Trekking boots
- 8000m mountaineering boots
- 6000m mountaineering boots
- Save gaiters
- Down bivvy boots
- Camp boots
- Foot-wearing system
7.0 Sleeping Bags
- Sleeping bag -20°c to -30°c for Base camp
- Down Sleeping Bag -40°c for extreme comfort
- Thermarests Matteres (Cell foam)
- Down Matteres (Inflatable)
- Sleeping bag Liner
- Inflatable Pillow
8.0 Climbing Equipment
- Power Bank
- Pee Bottle
- Altimeter watch
- Pocket Knife
- Walking Stick/Trekking Pole
- Satellite Phone with credit
- Battery
- Head light 500-700Lumens Spare
- Snow Goggles · Tape Slings/240cm
- Unlock Carabiner (2pcs)
- Lock Carabiner (3pcs)
- Climbing Helmet
- Summit Down Suit – 8000m
- Jumar / Ascender
- Belay Devices / Figure of 8/ATC guide
- Harness
- Ice Axe with Spike & Axe Protector
- Crampons (fit with boot)/ Packing cover
9.0 Bag packs
- Rucksacks 35 L -50 L
- Duffle Bag 120 L – 150 L (2pcs)
- Lundry / Garbage Bag (Large)
- Water Proof Stuff Sacks / Dry Bag –small / medium / Large (3-4)pcs)
10.0 Sun Stuffs
- Banana Boat/Nivea Sun Cream (up to -50SPF)
- Lip Guard – 30 to -50 (SPF)
- Sun Glasses (Uv Protection)
- Glaciers Glasses (Uv Protection)
- Moisturizer / Lotion
11.0 Toiletries (Personal)
- Toilet Paper / Wet Tissue
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Towel
- Garbage Bag
12.0 Eating & Drinking
- 1 Ltr. Water Bottle
- 1/1.5ltr. Thermos
- Mug (Opt.)
- Spoon / Fork (opt.)
- Bowl (opt.)
13.0 Medical / First Aid
- Brufen / Ibuprofens
- Antibiotic
- Diamox
- Paracetamol
- Handy Plaster
- Crack Bandage
- Tincture Iodine
- Ondem
- Cetirizine
- Electrolyte
- Minil 10mg (Palpitation, anxity)
- Codopar (Headache & chest pain)
- Salbetol 4mg (Breathless)
- Azithromycin 500mg (chronic tonsillitis, fever, nose, throat infection-must take 5 days)
- Flupen 250mg (prevent wound infection)
- Allegra 120/180mg (Allergic tonsil)
- Menstrual Products
14.0 Miscellaneous
- Nail cutter
- Umbrella /Rain coat
- Hot water bag
- Tenacious Tape Repair Kits
- Camera
- GPS Tracker (Recommended)
- Hand & Toe Warmer
Write a Review
You must be logged in to post a comment.