Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
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Trip Duration 25 days
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Max, Altitude 5143 Meters
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Type Trekking
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Best Season Sept - May
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Meals Included
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Accommodation Tented Camp
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Activity Trekking
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Difficulty Challenging
- Panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) and its surrounding peaks, Janu Himal and Kabru.
- Trek to two base camps: North Base Camp (Pangpema 5,143m) and South Base Camp (Oktang 4,610m).
- Peaceful, quiet trails for solo travellers and wildland adventurers.
- Walk through diverse lands such as forests, alpine meadows, glaciers and rivers.
- Find endangering animals, e.g., red pandas, snow leopards, and Himalayan black bears, in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
- Interact with the communities of Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa ethnic people and experience their culture and daily life.
- Explore charming mountain villages like Taplejung, Ghunsa, and Yamphudin.
- See temples, monasteries, prayer flags and chortens of sacred Buddhist sites.
- Cross the challenging Sele La Pass (4,290 m) with breathtaking scenery.
- Support eco-tourism in a protected conservation zone.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is an excellent way to reach the base of the third-highest peak in the world, Kanchenjunga (8,586m). It is in eastern Nepal and is perfect for nature, culture, and solitary adventurers.
Kanchenjunga Trek guides you along a remote trail, a stunning view, and through a traditional village, presenting a spectacular panorama of snowy peaks and glaciers.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Overview
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek has two main routes: The North Base Camp (Pangpema) and the South Base Camp (Oktang). Both sides offer breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga with backdrops of the surrounding Himalayan summits.
All these trails reroute you back to forest, terraced agriculture, river valley, and alpine meadows. You will then explore beautiful villages, such as Ghunsa and Yamphudin.
During this time, you will have the chance to speak with members of the Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa communities and get a glimpse into their mysterious culture and way of life.
The trek is less traveled than famous routes such as Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is the best option for people who prefer solitude, as it offers excellent solitude and the rough beauty of its wildness.
Nevertheless, it is a long and arduous trip due to its remoteness, long trekking hours, and high altitudes. Proper fitness and preparation are essential for this adventure.
Breathtaking scenery, a serene walk, and direct contact with nature and culture make the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek much more than a trek.
Kanchenjunga Trek is deep into the Himalayas, an area where the excitement of adventure can be thoroughly felt, and the magnificence of the Himalayas can be seen.
Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema – 5,143m)
The climb to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp is a challenge and a fantastic experience with a spectacularly scenic view of the north side of Mount Kanchenjunga. From the ancient Tibetan-built village of Ghunsa, the path continues along quiet woods, rocky outcrops and glacier moraines.
As you climb higher, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery. Reaching Pangpema, the base camp, is the highlight of the trek, where you’ll witness the breathtaking grandeur of Mount Kanchenjunga up close.
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (Oktang – 4,650m)
The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek is an adventure that takes you through different landscapes, from terraced fields to lush forests and rocky terrains. You will experience the local Limbu and Rai culture through charming villages such as Yamphudin, Torongding, and Oktang.
South Base Camp provides spectacular views of the southern face of Mount Kanchenjunga and the Yalung Glacier. The less active hiking path offers trekkers a calm and undisturbed experience.
The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trek is rich in natural beauty. In spring, the rhododendrons bloom, and in the conservation area, you can spot rare animals like the red panda.
Itinerary of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
You will land in Kathmandu, which is at the core of Nepal. You can walk around crowded markets and examine ancient temples in the area. Prepare for a briefing on the ensuing trek. Enjoy the rich culture and food around Thamel. Meet fellow trekkers and your guide.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
- Hotel Arts Kathmandu ( 3 star)
Today, We will apply for and receive permits for the Kanchenjunga Trek. You will go sightseeing in Kathmandu, covering UNESCO sites, Local places, and Buddhist and Hindu temples with our local tour guide.
Overnight at Hotel.
- Hotel Arts Kathmandu ( 3 star)
- Breakfast Included
We will take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. After landing, we take a jeep ride to Ilam and enjoy the view of the beautiful landscapes. Ilam is Nepal’s largest tea plantation area and is a major tourist area, even for domestic tourists.
The picturesque town of Ilam hosts large orchards of tea plants and is also famous for the Himalayan chew made of cheese.
Overnight at a hotel in Ilam.
- Local hotel in Ilam
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Today, we will take private transportation to Taplejung. Driving along the beautiful countryside, we will pass through Phidim and reach the Limbu village of Taplejung.
Overnight at a hotel in Taplejung.
- Hotel in Taplejung
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Start your trek through vibrant villages and terraced farmlands. The path proceeds until it reaches the Tamor River, creating the beautiful sounds of the river. Pass through forests filled with chirping birds. Experience the friendly locals along the trail. The first day’s walk is relaxing and scenic.
Overnight at Mitlung.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
On a gradual trail, walk through small settlements and farmlands. Cross several suspension bridges over clear streams and rivers. Enjoy stunning views of the cardamom plantations along the forest.
The trail is not busy; you meet local people occasionally, but it is best for hiking. Arrive at Chirwa, a small village surrounded by hills.
Stay overnight here.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Stay on the path alongside the Ghunsa River with beautiful valley vistas. Cross wooden bridges and narrow paths surrounded by greenery. The sounds of the river and the isolated waterfalls create scenery along the way.
As you ascend the higher slopes, the trail seems distant. Sekathum offers a quiet riverside resting spot.
Overnight in Sekathum.
- Local Tea House
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Today‘s trek includes crossing steep hills and narrow ridges—Trek through forests of Rhododendron and bamboo trees. The trail offers magnificent views of rivers, Waterfalls and wildlife sightings, adding excitement. It is the evening when it ends at Amjilosa, a quaint but beautiful little village.
Rest overnight here.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Experience delightful trails and scenic vistas framed by pine, oak, and rhododendron trees. The peaceful trail climbs gently with occasional clearings. Enjoy beautiful views of distant hills and cascading rivers. The cool air and greenery are refreshing.
Gyabla is a quiet village surrounded by forested hills.
Overnight in Gyabla.
- Local Tea House
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
The path rises steadily toward Ghunsa, a picturesque Sherpa village. You pass through meadows, rocky trails, and dense forests, and the landscape changes with increasing elevation. Ghunsa greets you with prayer flags and Tibetan-style homes.
Explore the village and nearby monasteries. Overnight at Ghunsa.
- Local Tea House
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
This is a rest day to acclimate to the altitude and prevent the onset of altitude sickness. Short hikes to nearby ridges provide excellent mountain views. You can also explore the village, interact with locals, and learn about Sherpa culture.
Enjoy the quiet and the sights of the neighbouring mountains. Overnight in Ghunsa.
- Local Tea House
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
The trail passes through rocky terrain and landslide-prone sections. Ascend gradually while enjoying incredible views of Jannu Himal. Spot yaks grazing in open pastures. The landscapes become more barren and rugged.
Kambachen provides a quiet ambience with spectacular mountain scenery. Overnight stay here
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Trek through glaciers, moraines and dry valleys. This trail offers a sight of snowy mountains.
The place’s surroundings look like sceneries from a science fiction movie at such an altitude. Break for some enjoyment of the majesty and tranquillity of the Himalayas. Lhonak is a remote settlement with basic teahouses.
Rest overnight here.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Trek to Pangpema- Kanchenjunga North base camp. Get spectacular glimpses of Mount Kanchenjunga and other mountains. Spend time looking at the beauty of snow-covered landscapes around the hills.
Capture memories of this incredible moment. Return to Lhonak for the night.
- Local Tea House
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Retrace your steps along the familiar trail. Descend through rocky paths and glacier crossings. Enjoy the easier downhill walk with stunning mountain views. As you lose elevation, the trail becomes more relaxed.
Reach Ghunsa and rest in the peaceful village.
Overnight here.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
To reach the High Camp, we trek along a steep rocky trail through a forested area filled with birch, pine, and colourful rhododendrons.
A fantastic view of Jannu (7710m), Nyukla Laching (6670m), Temachunggi (6044m), and other mountains can be observed from High Camp. Overnight at a lodge in High Camp.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Today might be the most challenging day as we cross over two passes on our way to Tseram, the highest pass being the Sele La (4480m) and Sinion La (4660).
Upon reaching the top of the passes, we are rewarded with an amazing view of Yalung Glacier, Jannu (7710m), Makalu (8481m), Baruntse (7129m), Kanchenjunga (8586m), and many other mountain ranges along the Sikkim border.
We then descend to Tseram. Overnight at a lodge in Tseram.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Walk through yak pastures and moraine trails toward Ramche. The trail provides stunning scenery of glaciers and peaks. Experience the adventure as you get closer to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.
The open terrain and fresh mountain air are refreshing. Overnight stay at Ramche.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Today, we explore the Oktang viewpoint area. Trekking through the glacial moraines and challenging rocky path, we cross Oktang, from which we can get a panoramic view of Jannu (7720m), Kanchenjunga (8586m), and several other peaks.
Retracing the same trail, we trek towards Anda Phedi, relishing the view of different mountain ranges and herds of blue sheep over the grassy slope. Overnight at a lodge in Tseram.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Descend from beautiful rhododendron and pine tree forest. Enjoy hiking with beautiful trees and rivers around you. The descent feels easier but remains scenic. Take breaks to admire the views. Rest overnight at Tortong village.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Continue descending through forested paths and terraced fields. Pass small settlements with friendly locals, and enjoy the warmth of lower altitudes. The trail is peaceful and rewarding. Yamphudin welcomes you with its rural charm.
Stay overnight here.
- Local Tea house
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Trek through hillsides, forests, and farmlands. Witness the simplicity of village life along the way. The path is gradual and scenic, with lush greenery. Enjoy a slower-paced walk to Khebang. Rest overnight in this quiet village.
- Local Tea House
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
We take a long drive to Ilam, enjoying the view of green hills, snow-capped mountains, rivers, and the daily activities of the locals throughout the ride. From the mountainous part, we are now in the flatlands of Nepal.
Overnight at a hotel in Ilam.
- Local Hotel in Ilam
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
We drive towards Bhadrapur airport to catch our flight back to the capital. Enjoying the aerial view of the mountains, we arrive in Kathmandu. After landing, we transfer you to the hotel.
Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
- Hotel Arts Kathmandu
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
We will transfer you to the airport. We hope you have a wonderful time with the Himalayan Trekking Team in Nepal.
Price includes
- Kathmandu Airport – Hotel – Airport Transfers by private vehicle
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit every evening after the dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (basic Tea House) accommodations throughout the trek.
- Kanchenjunga National Park permits & Trekkers Information Management System(TIMS) permit.
- Round trip flight fare Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu with including airport transfer.
- A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly , English speaking well trained, Government License holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment his salary, foods, accommodation and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel Insurance Company.
- Use of sleeping bag, down Jacket, Duffel bag and walking Poles (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed).
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Kanchenjunga base camp trekking map.
- Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible for all levels of trekker.
- Assistant guide group size above 10+ person.
- Government Tax and Service Charge
Price Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu Except Breakfast.
- Nepal entry visa fee $50 USD visa on arrival.
- Your Travel Rescue Insurance (compulsory).
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks.
- Tips for the guide, porter and driver (Tipping is expected).
- Hot shower and battery charging on the tea houses.
- Excess baggage more than 15kgs for Tumlingtar flight.
Have any Questions? Check out FAQ'S
Trip Essential Information
How difficult is Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is challenging and appeals to experienced trekkers. Its difficulty is due to its long trekking duration at high altitudes reaching up to 5,143 m.
The trails are remote, steep and uneven, so much physical fitness and endurance is expected. Significant challenges are crossing high passes such as Sele La (4,290m), walking on slippery ground, and facing an unstable climate.
Acclimatization is integral to the trek because altitude sickness can be risky. Proper rest days and gradual ascent are essential. The absence of modern infrastructures in the outlying places further complicates the trek.
Despite being challenging, the trek offers rewarding cultural experiences, beautiful scenery, and wildlife. With effort and a plan, it is a unique experience.
Altitude Sickness During Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Altitude sickness is a problem on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek because of the high altitude, significantly above 3,500 m. It can cause symptoms like pain, dizziness, nausea, and hypoxia. To avoid it, one should go for slow and gradual climbs that enable the body to adapt.
Rest days at higher altitudes help with acclimatization. However, when symptoms deteriorate, descending to a lower altitude can no longer be avoided to return to normal.
Proper hydration, nutrition and abstinence from alcohol are factors related to altitude sickness. Pay attention to your own body. Following the advice of a guide, make the steps slow, especially when ascending. With the proper preparation, the trek is easily attainable without any mishap.
Food During Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
The food during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek will be simple and nutritious. Lower region food consists of dal bhat (lentils and rice), momos (dumplings), and vegetables).
The number of items on the menu seems to decrease with height. The menu is restricted to staple foods, including rice, noodles, soup, and potatoes.
Teahouses on the roadside sell breakfast, lunch, and dinner, usually a mix of local and Western food. Hot drinks such as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are also offered. Although the food is simple, it’s just right to keep you going on long hiking days.
It is essential to drink enough water to achieve the proper hydration level, particularly during ascending.
Accommodation During the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
The accommodation in Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is mainly in tea houses or lodges. These fundamental private accommodations provide a bed, blanket, and a place to rest. Rooms are basic, and en suite bathrooms are provided. However, heating may not function at higher altitudes.
In lower areas, tea houses are more comfortable, with a cozy atmosphere and hot food. The accommodation is more straightforward the higher you go, but you will still have a place of safety and shelter to sleep in.
It is also advisable to take a sleeping bag to have more warmth, which is especially the case at altitude.
A Typical Day on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Like other treks, a day at the Kanchenjunga Base Camp is a bit early. You’ll wake up around 6:00 AM to the tunes of the mountains and then the light of dawn. Have tea or coffee and then have breakfast, which may be porridge, egg or toast.
A typical day on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek starts early. You’ll wake up around 6:00 AM to the sound of the mountains and morning light. After a warm drink like tea or coffee, you’ll have breakfast, usually of porridge, eggs, or toast.
Around 7:00 AM, you’ll begin your trek. Most days, there are 5–7 hrs of walking interspersed with many stops to refuel and enjoy the scenery.
Trails may be rugged, steep and rocky, with sections passing through woodlands, tiny settlements and alpine pastures. You will hike along waterfalls, rivers and glaciers, witnessing the power of nature all around.
Lunch is taken at about 12 o’clock in a teahouse on the trail. Then you will hike until evening and find a teahouse to spend the night in. In the evening, one will retire to a teahouse for the night, eat a hot meal, and sleep.
Dinner is usually served around 6:00–7:00 PM, and afterwards, there is time to chat with other trekkers and get ready to take the next steps towards the trip.
Permits For Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Two required permits for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek are:
1. Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (KAPR)
Under this permit, the local area of Kanchenjunga is a safe zone. Government actions are established to preserve the environment and culture. You can be allowed in a limited zone and get this permit only through a recognized trekking agent.
2 . Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP)
This permit is required to access the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, managed for wildlife protection and conservation management. The area is home to endangered animals like red pandas and snow leopards, and this permit helps support conservation efforts.
Both permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or the trekking company. The KAPR has to be specially prepared and generally received by one batch only, as individual trekking is not allowed in the protected zone. Therefore, getting these permits before starting to trek is also imperative.
Travel Insurance for Kanchenjunga Case Camp Trek
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for trekking at Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. It should include emergency medical expenses, evacuation and trip cancellation. High-altitude trekking involves risks, and insurance covering rescue efforts and hospital treatment should be taken as a necessity.
Look for a policy that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 5,143m at Pangpema) and trip interruptions. Many insurance companies offer packages tailored to trekkers.
Before buying, check whether your policy will reimburse flight delays, lost baggage, and specific activities such as helicopter evacuation. Remember to bring a copy of your insurance papers and give it to your guide. Proper insurance allows you to enjoy complete mental peace.
Cost for Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
The cost of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek ranges from USD 2560 to USD 3250 per person and varies depending on the type of trek. Our company offers a range of packages that include standard services such as permitting, local guides, porters, accommodation, food, and transportation.
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek cost can vary depending on the number of people travelling, the length of the journey, and the level of comfort you would like. However, features that make the experience more comfortable (private rooms or Premium Services) will cost more, reducing the budget options.
Other expenses to be considered are your international flights, travel insurance and personal expenses. Also, it is worth planning things like buying bottled water, snacks or extra snacks, and any optional side activities.
The area’s remoteness determines the cost of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek and the quality of the experience and services that make it lasting and enjoyable.
Best Time for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
The best seasons for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
The weather is pleasant in spring, and trails are covered in flowering rhododendrons and other flowers. The mild temperatures make it easy to trek, enjoying blue skies and spectacular views of the mountain ranges. However, it’s a busy season for hikers, so be prepared for traffic along the trail, especially at lower elevations.
Autumn weather is also suitable, with clear skies and cool temperatures. This season is the best for trekking in Nepal, and the environment is perfect. The air is purified, and the view of the mountain is at its best. In particular, going through the trail is much more convenient, and teahouses operate smoothly during this season.
While the monsoon season (June to August) is to be avoided due to heavy rains, winter (December to February) can be harsh, with frigid temperatures and snow, especially at higher altitudes. Due to the harsh weather, visits to the region can be difficult, and some tea houses are almost inaccessible.
For a good experience, try to go in spring or autumn when the weather is good and the trail is not too challenging.
Drinking Water on Kanchenjunga Trek
Hydration is a critical challenge, particularly at the foothills of the Kanchenjunga Trek, where the altitude is higher. Trekkers generally purchase bottled water or water purification devices such as tablets and filters. Typically, boiled water is also provided in the teahouses at a small additional cost.
Water supplies are scarce at high altitudes, so one must carry enough water for the day’s walk. Do not drink untreated water from streams or rivers, which can cause stomach issues. It is also advised that a reusable water bottle should be carried as a plastic waste minimizer.
Especially sufficient hydration safeguards against altitude sickness and allows you to continue. Drinking is essential, especially during long, tiring days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a wild and hard trek in the eastern region of Nepal. It brings you to the base of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain of the world (8,586 m). The trek features spectacular mountain sights, varied landscapes, and the opportunity to meet and explore local culture in remote villages.
The number of days for the trek is about 20-24 days, assuming the trek is performed at a suitable pace and enough time is spent acclimatizing. It’s a more arduous walk because of its distance and the hilly terrain.
The peak is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp at 5,143 m. From here, you can see breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and other surrounding peaks.
Yes, it’s a challenging trek. The route is long, and remote, with challenging surfaces and very high gradient terrain. It is a matter of good fitness level, previous experiences on a trek as well as preparation in terms of physical and mental endurance.
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). There is good weather with temperatures more moderate during this month, being the best conditions for all kinds of trekking and enjoy the scenery.
Yes, a guide is required. The trail is remote, and the path can be tricky to navigate. Also having a guide will benefit from permits, safety and language issues. Porters are there to lift your luggage and can be hired, but are optional.
Lodging on the trek is mainly teahouses and lodges. As you go up the more basic are the amenities. There can be times, in certain regions, where you will be forced to camp because teahouse locations are limited. Expect simple rooms and shared bathrooms.
Bring warm clothing, especially for higher altitude—trekking shoes, a sleeping bag, a rain jacket and layering clothing for changing weather conditions. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a first aid kit, a water bottle, and a camera.
To start the trek, you’ll take a flight from Kathmandu to Suketar (Taplejung). There you will get in the car and go to the gateway of the trail, Phale or Suketar, based on the trail you follow.
Yes, altitude sickness is a concern with the trek exceeding 5,000 m. In order to avoid, you need to acclimatize correctly by using rest days and ascending progressively. Drink enough water and look out for symptoms such as pain, headache, or nausea. When feeling ill, one should descend to a lower altitude.
The route to Kanchenjunga Base Camp is challenging yet beautiful. You’ll pass through dense forests, high-altitude meadows, and small villages. The trail, by its lesser density, is less congested with comparison to the other treks in Nepal and provides a rather peaceful and isolated sense of experience. Be ready for steep climbs and descents.
A Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP) and a restricted area permit (RAP) are required for the Kanchenjunga region. These are available in Kathmandu with the assistance of your guide or trekking company.
The food is simple and consists mainly of rice, dal (lentils), vegetables, and noodle soups. In lower elevations, you can find more variety, including potatoes, bread, and tea. As you climb higher, the options become more limited, and meals are typically basic but filling.
The trip is, for the most part, safe if you take the necessary measures. Hiring a guide, acclimatising in the correct way and taking appropriate equipment is crucial for safety. The area is remote, and it is possible that emergency services will be far ahead, but guides are all expert in emergency response. Always trek with guide for safety.
It’s not recommended to trek alone in this region. The hike necessitates a guide and the remoteness of the hiking trail can be dangerous without local support. A guide assists with wayfinding, permits, and unexpected eventfulness
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