Kanchenjunga to Makalu Base Camp Trek – Great Himalayan Trail (GHT)

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,335 m)

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our Alpinist Club representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, you can relax and recover from your journey. If time permits, explore the nearby streets of Thamel.

• Altitude: 1,335 m
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Meals: Breakfast

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation (1,335 m)

After breakfast, explore Kathmandu's cultural heritage sites with a local guide. Visit iconic landmarks such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Later, meet your trekking team for a trip briefing, equipment check, and final preparations.

• Altitude: 1,335 m
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and Drive to Fikkal (1,548 m)

Transfer to the domestic airport for a scenic flight to Bhadrapur in southeastern Nepal. Upon arrival, drive north through the beautiful hills of Ilam, passing lush forests, traditional settlements, and rolling tea gardens. Arrive in Fikkal and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before your overnight stay.

Highlights: Scenic flight over eastern Nepal, Ilam tea gardens, and views of the Himalayan ranges in clear weather.

• Altitude: 1,548 m
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Drive to Suketar and Trek to Lali Kharka

After breakfast, drive towards Suketar in Taplejung District. Enjoy views of the countryside and traditional settlements along the way. From Suketar, begin your trek along local trails through small villages and cultivated hillsides before reaching Lali Kharka, your first overnight camping stop.

• Altitude: Verify final altitude at Lali Kharka
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Trek from Lali Kharka to Kade Bhanjyang (2,130 m)

Leave Lali Kharka and descend through forested trails towards Simbu Village. Continue along undulating paths, climbing towards Kunjari before reaching Kade Bhanjyang. Enjoy the rural landscapes and experience the traditional lifestyle of eastern Nepal.

• Altitude: 2,130 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Trek from Kade Bhanjyang to Phumphe Danda (1,858 m)

Descend through forested trails towards Khesewa Village and cross a suspension bridge over the river. The trail then climbs through wooded hillsides towards Phungling and continues to Phumphe Danda. Enjoy the changing scenery as you move through villages, forests, and terraced farmland.

• Altitude: 1,858 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Trek from Phumphe Danda to Sherpa Gaun (1,678 m)

Begin with a descent before climbing towards Mamankhe Village. Continue along narrow ridgelines and forest trails, passing traditional settlements and enjoying views across the surrounding valleys. Reach Sherpa Gaun and settle into camp for the night.

• Altitude: 1,678 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Trek from Sherpa Gaun to Torongton (2,995 m)

Today's route passes through bamboo and rhododendron forests, with steep ascents and descents along rugged mountain trails. Continue towards Lashe Bhanjyang and navigate the more challenging sections of the route before crossing the river and climbing towards Torongton.

• Altitude: 2,995 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Trek from Torongton to Tseram (3,870 m)

Follow the Sinuwa Khola through beautiful forests and steadily ascend along the mountain slopes. The trail includes several steep sections and scenic ridgelines, particularly attractive during the rhododendron flowering season. After a break at Anda Phedi, continue towards Tseram, a small settlement surrounded by alpine scenery.

• Altitude: 3,870 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Tseram (3,870 m)

Spend the day acclimatizing before ascending to higher elevations. Enjoy a gentle walk around Tseram and explore the surrounding valley, taking time to rest and prepare for the upcoming days. Your guide will monitor your condition and advise on suitable activities.

• Altitude: 3,870 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Trek from Tseram to Ramche (4,615 m)

Ascend through alpine landscapes towards a broad valley dotted with yak pastures and seasonal shelters. Continue along the high-altitude trail towards Ramche, an important stopping point for trekkers visiting the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp area. Enjoy the dramatic mountain scenery as you approach the upper valley.

• Altitude: 4,615 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Hike to Oktang Viewpoint and Return to Tseram (3,870 m)

Set out towards Oktang Viewpoint for impressive views of the southern face of Mount Kanchenjunga and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After enjoying the scenery, return to Ramche for a break before descending to Tseram for the night.

• Altitude: 3,870 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Trek from Tseram to Sele La Camp (4,290 m)

Leave Tseram and climb towards the high mountain passes separating the Kanchenjunga valleys. The route crosses rugged terrain and may involve snow and exposed sections, depending on the season. This is a demanding day requiring steady pacing, suitable weather, and careful guidance before reaching the campsite near Sele La.

• Altitude: 4,290 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Trek from Sele La to Ghunsa (3,475 m)

Descend through rocky mountain terrain and scenic rhododendron forests towards Ghunsa. Along the way, enjoy views of the surrounding Himalayan valleys and traditional Buddhist prayer flags. Ghunsa is a beautiful Tibetan-influenced village where you can rest and learn about local mountain life.

• Altitude: 3,475 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,225 m)

Follow the Ghunsa Khola deeper into the Kanchenjunga region. The trail gradually ascends through alpine forests and rocky landscapes, with impressive views of Jannu Peak and surrounding mountains. Continue through the valley to Khambachen, a small seasonal settlement in a spectacular mountain setting.

• Altitude: 4,225 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak (4,815 m)

Continue north through a remote glacial valley surrounded by rugged mountain slopes. The trail becomes rockier and more exposed as you gain elevation, passing waterfalls and sections of eroded terrain. Arrive at Lhonak, a high-altitude settlement that serves as the base for visiting Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

• Altitude: 4,815 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Day Hike to Pang Pema and Return to Lhonak (5,150 m)

Today, trek towards Pang Pema, the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp area. Follow the rugged trail through a dramatic glacial valley, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Spend time enjoying the mountain views and taking photographs before returning to Lhonak for the night.

• Maximum altitude: 5,150 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,475 m)

Retrace your route through the high mountain valley, descending towards Kambachen before continuing to Ghunsa. The descent offers another opportunity to appreciate the alpine scenery, rocky slopes, and mountain forests. Upon arrival, rest and prepare for the remote Lumba Sumba section of the trek.

• Altitude: 3,475 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Trek from Ghunsa towards Kharka (4,160 m)

Leave Ghunsa and continue towards the remote trails leading to the Lumba Sumba region. Pass Phale and move through juniper forests and rugged terrain, following the route towards the upper valleys. Cross the designated river crossings with your guide and continue to Kharka, a remote camping location.

• Altitude: 4,160 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Trek to Langjong Kharka (3,734 m)

Continue westwards towards the Makalu region along rugged trails and remote mountain terrain. The route involves climbs and descents through highland landscapes, with sections that may be snow-covered depending on the season. Descend towards the Yangma Khola valley and continue to Langjong Kharka.

• Altitude: 3,734 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21: Trek from Langjong Kharka to Olangchung Gola (3,208 m)

Follow the Yangma Khola through a remote Himalayan valley, crossing streams and navigating forested trails. Continue towards Olangchung Gola, a traditional settlement known for its distinctive local culture and remote location. Enjoy an opportunity to learn about the lifestyle and traditions of the community.

• Altitude: 3,208 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 22: Trek from Olangchung Gola to Langmale Kharka (3,893 m)

Leave Olangchung Gola and ascend through forested slopes above the Tamor River. Cross wooden bridges and continue along increasingly rugged mountain trails towards Langmale Kharka. Enjoy the transition from village landscapes to open alpine terrain.

• Altitude: 3,893 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 23: Trek to Yangetar (4,203 m)

Continue towards the Lumba Sumba Pass region along rocky trails and open mountain slopes. As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes increasingly alpine, with views of the surrounding high peaks. Arrive at Yangetar and prepare for the upcoming high-altitude crossing.

• Altitude: 4,203 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 24: Trek to Lumba Sumba Pass Camp (4,700 m)

Ascend gradually over rocky terrain towards the high camp below Lumba Sumba Pass. Although the distance may be relatively short, the altitude requires a slow and steady pace. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing for the challenging pass crossing.

• Altitude: 4,700 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 25: Cross Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177 m) and Trek to Yak Kharka

Begin early for the challenging crossing of Lumba Sumba Pass, the major highlight of the trek. Ascend over rocky slopes and glacial moraine, with possible snow and ice depending on conditions. From the top, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges before descending carefully towards Yak Kharka.

• Maximum altitude: 5,177 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 26: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thudam (3,571 m)

Descend towards Thudam, a remote village near the Nepal–Tibet border region. The trail follows isolated valleys and river corridors, offering a glimpse into a traditional way of life far removed from the busier trekking routes. Explore the village and learn about the local community's culture and customs.

• Altitude: 3,571 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 27: Trek from Thudam to Yak Kharka (2,845 m)

Leave Thudam and retrace the remote trail towards Yak Kharka. The route passes through rugged terrain and river valleys, with opportunities to appreciate the peaceful wilderness of this little-visited region. Stop for lunch along the way before continuing to the campsite.

• Altitude: 2,845 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 28: Trek from Yak Kharka to Linggam (2,250 m)

Continue through forested hillsides and descend towards the Arun River valley. The trail includes stone steps, steep sections, and narrow paths before climbing towards Chyamtang Village. Pass Guthi Gomba and continue along the route to Linggam.

• Altitude: 2,250 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 29: Trek from Linggam to Hongon (2,323 m)

Walk towards Chepuwa Village through forested trails and traditional settlements. Continue through rhododendron forests towards Gimbar before descending towards Hongon. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you move from high mountain terrain into greener valleys.

• Altitude: 2,323 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 30: Rest Day at Hongon (2,323 m)

Take a well-deserved rest day at Hongon after several demanding days in the mountains. Relax at camp, explore the surrounding village, or enjoy a short walk nearby. This is an opportunity to recover and prepare for the next section towards Makalu Base Camp.

• Altitude: 2,323 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 31: Trek from Hongon to Bakim Kharka (3,020 m)

Leave Hongon and climb through forested hillsides towards a Buddhist chorten. Continue through pine, birch, bamboo, and rhododendron forests, with occasional views across the Arun Valley. Reach Bakim Kharka, a remote grazing area surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery.

• Altitude: 3,020 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 32: Trek from Bakim Kharka to Tin Pokhari (3,731 m)

Ascend through forested trails, passing waterfalls, narrow ridges, and open grasslands. The route leads past traditional landmarks and seasonal grazing areas before continuing towards Tin Pokhari. On clear days, the surrounding Himalayan scenery provides excellent opportunities for photography.

• Altitude: 3,731 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 33: Trek to Khola or Saldim Kharka (Approx. 3,100 m)

Descend through rocky gullies and follow the route towards Dhungge Khola and Dhungge Kharka. After a break, continue through open meadows and dense rhododendron and bamboo forests. Depending on trail conditions and the final route, camp at Khola or Saldim Kharka.

• Altitude: Approx. 3,100 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 34: Trek to Kalo Pokhari (4,192 m)

Continue along Saldim Khola through thick rhododendron and bamboo forests. Pass remote clearings and rocky sections before ascending towards Kalo Pokhari. The trail can be muddy and slippery in places, so careful footing is important.

• Altitude: 4,192 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 35: Trek from Kalo Pokhari to Kharka (4,097 m)

Walk over moss-covered rocks and climb towards a Buddhist chorten before descending through rugged, boulder-strewn terrain. Enjoy views across Barun Valley and, when conditions are clear, glimpses of Mount Makalu. Continue through forested slopes towards Kharka.

• Altitude: 4,097 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 36: Trek from Kharka to Yangri Kharka (3,557 m)

Descend towards the Barun River through rhododendron forests and alpine grazing areas. Follow the valley past Nehe Kharka and continue across open meadows to Yangri Kharka. This scenic stop offers a welcome break amid the rugged landscapes of the Makalu region.

• Altitude: 3,557 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 37: Rest Day at Yangri Kharka (3,557 m)

Enjoy a rest day at Yangri Kharka to recover and prepare for the ascent towards Makalu Base Camp. Spend time exploring the surrounding valley or take a gentle walk if conditions and your guide's advice permit.

• Altitude: 3,557 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 38: Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka (4,200 m)

Ascend through rhododendron, spruce, and pine forests as the trail gradually enters the alpine zone. Pass a Buddhist gompa and continue through open yak pastures towards Langmale Kharka. The surrounding landscape becomes increasingly rugged as you approach Makalu Base Camp.

• Altitude: 4,200 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 39: Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp (4,800 m)

Continue through open grasslands and high-altitude yak pastures towards Makalu Base Camp. Pass the Shershon area and follow the rugged trail into the upper Barun Valley. As you approach base camp, enjoy increasingly dramatic views of Mount Makalu and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

• Altitude: 4,800 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 40: Explore Makalu Base Camp (Approx. 4,800 m)

Spend the day exploring the spectacular surroundings of Makalu Base Camp. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Makalu, Baruntse, Chamlang, and other impressive Himalayan peaks. Depending on weather, snow conditions, and your physical condition, take a short walk to a suitable viewpoint or explore the nearby glacial landscape with your guide.

• Altitude: Approx. 4,800 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 41: Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka (3,557 m)

Begin the return journey by retracing your route through the upper Barun Valley. Descend past Shershon and Langmale Kharka, continuing through alpine terrain and forested slopes. After a long day on the trail, arrive at Yangri Kharka for an overnight camp.

• Altitude: 3,557 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 42: Trek to Dobato (3,800 m)

Continue along the Barun River before climbing through forested slopes and rugged mountain terrain. Pass Nehe Kharka and navigate rocky sections where extra care is required. Continue towards Mumbuk and Dobato, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way.

• Altitude: 3,800 m
• Accommodation: Camp
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 43: Trek from Dobato to Tashigaun (Approx. 2,100 m)

Descend through the forested trails of the Makalu region, crossing rugged mountain sections and passing seasonal settlements along the way. Continue towards Tashigaun, a traditional village that provides a welcome return to a more settled environment after the remote upper valleys.