When you arrive at the airport, our company representative will greet you warmly and ensure a smooth transfer to the hotel. At the hotel, you will have the opportunity to meet our team. We plan to hold a pre-trek briefing in the evening, between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. This gathering is an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with the other members of your group before we all proceed to enjoy a delicious dinner. During the welcome dinner, you will be able to taste authentic Nepalese cuisine and watch captivating cultural dance performances, immersing you in Nepal's rich cultural traditions.

Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Kathmandu with our experienced city tour guide. Our itinerary includes several remarkable sites:

• SWOYAMBHUNATH, also known as the Monkey Temple, is perched atop a hill and can be reached by climbing a long set of steps. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu.
• BOUDHANATH STUPA is adorned with traditional Gompas adorned with vibrant prayer flags. It serves as a focal point for Sherpas and Tibetans who partake in the spiritual practice of circumambulating the stupa (koras).
• PASHUPATINATH, a sacred Hindu temple, is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River and features Ghats where cremation ceremonies take place, offering a unique glimpse into Hindu rituals.
• KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE, one of the ancient capitals of the Kathmandu Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant square showcases a harmonious fusion of Hindu and Buddhist temples, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

With our knowledgeable guide, you will learn about the historical, religious, and architectural significance of these iconic landmarks. Prepare to be captivated by Kathmandu's unique charm and spiritual ambiance.

After breakfast in Kathmandu, transfer to the domestic airport for an early morning flight to Bhadrapur (BDP). Carriers such as Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Shree Airlines typically have departures between 7:30 and 8:30 AM for a smooth 45-minute journey. Opt for a left-side seat for clear views of the Himalayas, including Everest and Kanchenjunga. Upon landing at Chandragadhi Airport, drive 55–65 km (approximately 2 to 2.5 hours) to Kanyam via Charali and the Mechi Highway. You’ll be passing through Danabari and Harkate along the way. A private jeep or taxi is the quickest option, while public transport usually requires a short taxi ride to Birtamod to catch a Hiace or bus towards Ilam/Kanyam. Expect to arrive by early afternoon, allowing time to explore the famous Kanyam tea gardens. You can enjoy a tea estate walk, try horse riding near the viewpoint, and watch the sunset over the “Seven Hills.” In late February to March, expect pleasant daytime temperatures around 20°C and cooler nights close to 9°C, so be sure to bring a warm jacket. The roads are generally good but can be winding. This route marks the transition from the flat Terai plains—often likened to scenes from The Jungle Book—into the lush hills of Ilam, known as the “Queen of Hills.” This area is celebrated for its greenery, mild climate, and fertile landscapes.

After breakfast in Kanyam, the drive to Taplejung is a scenic journey through three eastern Nepal districts—Ilam, Panchthar, and Taplejung. From Kanyam to Ilam Bazaar (about 1.5–2 hours), the road dips slightly and then climbs again through Fikkal, passing beautiful tea gardens. The next stretch from Ilam Bazaar to Phidim (around 2.5–3 hours) goes via Ranke, the border point between Ilam and Panchthar, with noticeable altitude changes; Phidim is an ideal stop for a traditional Nepali dal bhat lunch. From Phidim to Taplejung Bazaar (Phungling) (another 2.5–3 hours), the road crosses the Hewa Khola and climbs steadily past Ganesh Chowk, where the air becomes cooler and thinner as you near Taplejung. As of early 2026, travelers should note that parts of the Mechi Highway—especially near Maikhola and the Panchthar–Taplejung border—may have landslide damage, so expect occasional rough sections, one-way traffic, and short diversions, even though the route is generally open.

After breakfast in Taplejung Bazaar (Phungling), the day starts with an adventurous jeep drive to Tapethok, covering about 40 km in 3 to 4 hours. The road descends into the Tamor River valley and passes small villages like Handrung and Phematar. This section is a rough, unpaved off-road track, so a 4WD vehicle such as a Scorpio or Land Rover is required, with narrow and bumpy cliffside roads above the river. At Tapethok, you reach the entry checkpoint of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, where KCAP and Restricted Area permits are checked. From here, the trek begins with an easy 2- to 3-hour walk to Sekathum, following the Tamor River and later the Ghunsa Khola through lush forests, cardamom farms, and several suspension bridges. Sekathum lies at the meeting point of the Ghunsa Khola and the Simbuwa Khola and is a common first overnight stop for trekkers heading to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

After breakfast in Sekathum, the trek begins with a scenic riverside walk along the Ghunsa Khola. You will cross several high suspension bridges over rushing waters, with parts of the trail carved into rock faces. After about two hours of relatively flat walking, the trail climbs steeply on stone steps. As the valley narrows into a deep gorge, some sections become exposed. Trekkers should stay on the “wall side” when passing porters or mule trains. Along the way, you will cross the river, then descend and climb again near Solima, navigating tricky uphill and downhill sections. Finally, you will arrive at Amjilasa, a peaceful Tibetan-influenced settlement perched on a ridge, offering fresh mountain air and stunning views. Highlights of the day include beautiful waterfalls along the Ghunsa Khola, bamboo thickets, rhododendron trees, and the iconic stone steps that reward your efforts with breathtaking valley vistas. Today is challenging but provides a truly fulfilling trekking experience.

After breakfast in Amjilasa, the trek begins with a gentle ascent to a ridge, followed by a scenic walk-through lush bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forests along the Ghunsa Khola. After 2–2.5 hours, you reach Thyangyam (Dhangem), a small flat clearing perfect for a tea break, with occasional seasonal herder huts. The trail continues with undulating stretches, descending toward the river, and passes a stunning waterfall. A final steep climb leads to Gyabla, a Tibetan/Sherpa-influenced village on a high plateau with prayer flags and traditional stone houses. Highlights of the day include wildlife spotting—birds, monkeys, and sometimes red pandas—beautiful waterfalls, and, on clear days, your first views of Ghunsa Peak and surrounding snow-capped ridges. This section is challenging but offers rewarding scenery and a true mountain village experience.

After breakfast in Gyabla, the trek begins with a gentle descent toward the riverbank, walking through forests of larch, silver fir, and rhododendron. In late February and March, some shaded areas may still have snow, and the valley opens up, feeling wider than the narrow gorges experienced in previous days. The trail to Phale (3,140 m) is relatively easy, with cooler temperatures as you ascend above 3,000 m. Phale is a Tibetan refugee settlement featuring traditional wooden houses, mani walls (prayer stones), a small monastery (Gumba), and locals weaving handmade carpets, making it an ideal spot for a tea break while enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere. From Phale, the trail continues through more larch forests, crosses the Ghunsa Khola by bridge, and follows a well-maintained path for about an hour and a half to reach Ghunsa. This charming Tibetan village is adorned with colorful prayer flags and wooden houses, all surrounded by towering peaks. Ghunsa offers lodges, small shops, and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area office, as well as a police checkpost where permits are registered once again.

During our stay in Ghunsa, we dedicate two nights to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude, which is essential for a successful trek. To help with this acclimatization process, we recommend taking morning walks. One popular trail ascends from the village to Lobsang La, reaching an altitude of 4,000 meters. This hike takes approximately three hours to reach the top, and the return journey to Ghunsa takes about two hours. This acclimatization hike allows us to gradually adapt to the higher elevation, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

If you're not up for a strenuous hike, exploring Ghunsa itself is an excellent option for active recovery. This Sherpa village features a strong Tibetan influence, ancient Buddhist monasteries that provide a peaceful space for reflection, and interesting community highlights like the local school and a small micro-hydro plant that showcases the village's self-sufficiency.

Leaving Ghunsa, the trail follows the east bank of the Ghunsa Khola through larch, pine, and juniper forests, passing mani walls and chortens, with a gentle walk across meadows and grazing pastures. After about three hours, you cross the river on a wooden bridge and stop for lunch at Rampuk Kharka (3,720 m). From here the landscape becomes more rugged, with big waterfalls on the cliffs across the valley. You then carefully cross an active landslide area on a narrow, sandy path of loose rock, so walk steadily, stay alert for falling stones, and follow your guide’s instructions. As you round the final ridge, the valley opens wide with amazing views of the north face of Mount Jannu (Kumbhakarna) (7,710 m). The trail then gently contours the hillside and descends to Khambachen (4,050 m), a small Tibetan settlement in a broad grassy valley surrounded by high peaks; it’s common to feel a mild altitude headache here, so drink plenty of fluids like garlic soup or ginger tea and take a short walk around the village to help your body adjust.

From Khambachen, the trek begins with a steady climb above the village along the lateral moraine of the Kanchenjunga Glacier, passing a seasonal yak herder’s camp at Ramtang (4,370 m) surrounded by juniper, azalea, and rhododendron. About halfway, you can rest at Ramtang Monastery, a small stone gompa under a big rock overhang, with great views of the Ramtang Glacier. The trail then becomes rockier, with loose stones, sandy patches, and some frozen streams in the morning, while careful walking is needed beneath a landslide-prone area. Continuing along the moraine northwest of the glacier, the route finally opens onto the wide sandy plain of an ancient lakebed, arriving at the Lhonak campsite near small stone huts, where you are rewarded with stunning views of peaks such as Wedge Peak (6,750 m), Mera (6,344 m), Nepal Peak (6,910 m), and Twins (7,351 m).

Leave Lhonak early, around 5:30–6:00 AM, because the weather at Base Camp can change quickly, and clouds often cover the peaks by midday. The morning is very cold, so wear warm layers. The trail follows the northern edge of the Kanchenjunga Glacierges, the valley opens into a wide sandy plain called Pangpema (5,143 m), a natural amphitheater surrounded by 7,000–8,000 m peaks. The main highlight is the massive north face of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), often echoing with avalanches, while nearby you can see Kambachen (7,903 m), Yalung Kang (8,505 m), and jagged, unnamed spires. A small rock mound with colorful Tibetan prayer flags marks Base Camp—the perfect spot for an "I made it” photo. From Lhonak, the trail continues along the glacier’s lateral moraine for about two hours, passing loose rocks and small landslide areas that require careful walking. The trail then ascends to the stone huts in the grassy area of Pangpema, taking about two more hours. Here, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga’s north face. After enjoying lunch with this incredible backdrop, the return trek back to Lhonak takes around three hours.

After breakfast in Lhonak, start the trek to Khambachen, walking over the rocky debris of the Kanchenjunga Glacier. You will probably move faster than on the way up, but be careful with your knees, as stepping down on loose rocks can be hard. On the way, pass the Ramtang Monastery and take one last look at Wedge Peak and Nepal Peak, saying goodbye to the high mountains of the north. Stop for lunch at Khambachen (4,050 m), enjoy a warm plate of Dal Bhat, and check your gear and feet for any blisters or soreness. The trail then goes through the landslide area between Khambachen and Ghunsa, so stay focused, move carefully, and watch out for loose rocks. After crossing the bridge to the east bank, the hard part is over. The last two hours to Ghunsa are pleasant, walking through larch and juniper forests with the fresh smell of pine and the sound of the Ghunsa Khola, leaving the grey rocks and icy world of Lhonak behind.

After breakfast in Ghunsa, the trek begins with a steep climb through dense forests of moss-covered rhododendron, juniper, and birch, leaving the river valley behind as you head south. In spring, the forest comes alive with vibrant red and pink rhododendron blooms, but the trail is challenging, with steep stone steps and narrow switchbacks that quickly take you above the treeline. As the forest gives way to sub-alpine scrub, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Ghunsa Khola valley and the Phole Peak range, while keeping an eye out for wildlife like the elusive red panda in bamboo thickets and the Himalayan monal (danphe) among the rocks. The first stop is Sele La Phedi (4,200 m), a small, windswept cluster of basic stone teahouses at the foot of the passes, offering a brief rest. From there, the trail continues along a rocky ascent to a ridge with a short but steep climb to Sele La Pass (4,290 m), where breathtaking views stretch across the surrounding landscape, including High Camp just half an hour ahead. High Camp sits in a sheltered spot with wooden lodges and a small nearby lake, and on clear days, the distant, majestic Mount Makalu rises in the horizon, adding to the grandeur of the trek.

Start your day before dawn, leaving Sele La Phedi by 5:00 or 5:30 AM to cross the high passes before clouds and winds build. The day begins with a steady, rocky climb to Sele La (4,290 m), the first pass, which is relatively gentle and helps set a comfortable pace. After a brief descent, the trail ascends again to Sinion La (4,660 m), the highest point of the day, marked by colorful prayer flags and offering spectacular views to the north, where you can see Jannu and the Kanchenjunga massif, and to the west on clear days, the distant pyramids of Mount Everest and Lhotse.

From Sinion La, the trail contours along cliffs and scree slopes to Mirgin La (4,645 m), where significant drop-offs and the "saddle" provide dramatic views of the deep valleys below. The final pass, Sinelapcha La (4,640 m), tests your endurance as fatigue sets in, but it marks the end of the climbing and the beginning of the long descent. The drop to Tseram (3,870 m) is steep, with nearly 800 m lost over loose rock, dust, and stone steps, transitioning from the grey, high-altitude terrain back into the alpine zone filled with rhododendrons and moss. Tseram, a small settlement with a few lodges in the Simbuwa Khola valley, offers a welcome relief after the exposure and effort spent navigating the high passes.

Start your day at dawn to get clear views before the midday clouds, beginning with a steady climb out of Tseram along the lateral moraine of the Yalung Glacier, passing alpine meadows and frozen streams. As you ascend, the towering peaks of Rathong (6,679 m) and Kabru (7,412 m) dominate the horizon, leading you to the small stone huts of Ramche (4,580 m) in about three to four hours. After dropping your heavy bags, continue a short climb to the Oktang Viewpoint (4,730 m) along a sandy, rocky glacial path, passing a sacred stone shrine with prayer flags and bells. From the viewpoint, enjoy a stunning, direct view of the South Face of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) and its massive icefalls before returning to Ramche for the night. The valley around Ramche, with its lake, meadow, and stone houses, is serene and often home to blue sheep. In the afternoon, continue along the ablation valley to Oktang, where you can see the southwest face of Kanchenjunga and its three main summits over 8,400 m, including the historic 1955 climbing route of Joe Brown and George Band, offering an unforgettable experience of one of the world’s highest mountains.

After breakfast in Ramche, the day starts by retracing your steps south from Ramche to Tseram along the Simbuwa Khola. The downhill walk is much quicker than the ascent, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. You'll get one last view of the towering Rathong and Kabru peaks before the valley narrows and the tree line reappears. Beyond Tseram, the trail enters dense forests of rhododendron, fir, and giant Himalayan cedar, where the air becomes thicker and more humid. The silence of the high mountains gives way to the roar of the river and the calls of birds. The path can be slippery and technical, featuring steep stone steps and sections carved into the hillside above the river. The trek ends in Tortong (2,995 m), a small clearing with a few basic lodges located on the banks of the Simbuwa Khola. Here, the cool, damp forest air feels warm and welcoming after the stark, freezing nights spent in Lhonak and Ramche.

After breakfast in Tortong, the day begins with a stiff two-hour climb from Tortong along the Simbuwa Khola to Lasiya Bhanjyang (3,415 m), winding through dense, primeval forest with damp, often slippery trails draped in moss and lichens. At the high ridge, a small tea shop provides a quick rest before the long descent, which passes through an old landslide zone where the gravelly slopes can be unstable, so careful footing is essential. After roughly three hours of trekking, we stop for lunch at Lamite Bhanjang before continuing on a well-maintained path for about two hours, crossing the Imja Khola and contouring around the hillside toward Yamphudin. The descent is steep and relentless, dropping over 1,000 m from the cool high-altitude forest into the warmer, more humid subtropical zone, passing cardamom plantations and terraced fields. Yamphudin (2,080 m) is a vibrant, multi-ethnic village of Sherpas, Rai, Limbu, and Gurung, offering the first real shops in weeks, a police checkpost to re-register the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP), and a chance to experience local culture and learn about the region’s unique biodiversity from the conservation office, all set against the backdrop of rivers and the sound of rushing water.

Leaving Yamphudin, the day starts with a humid descent toward the Kabeli Khola, crossing several suspension bridges over rushing streams surrounded by the scents of the jungle. After the river, the trail climbs steadily to Ekchana, passing traditional houses with carved wooden windows and porches lined with drying corn and chilies, giving a glimpse of Limbu and Rai culture. The path then winds through the Mamankhe area, navigating the ups and downs of deep valley folds and vast cardamom plantations that support the local economy. Stone-paved paths and dirt tracks lead to a steep ascent to Khebang Danda, offering magnificent views before descending into the sprawling village of Khebang. Along the way, we pass small villages with thatched-roof houses and local shops, and the terraced rice paddies provide stunning views of the lower valleys. Khebang is a larger village where Hinduism and Buddhism are practiced, giving trekkers a rich cultural experience amidst the lush forest and farmland.

After breakfast in Khebang, the day begins with an exciting off-road descent from Khebang on a narrow, rocky dirt track through remote Limbu villages and large cardamom plantations, giving the ride a bumpy "Himalayan massage" feel as the scenery shifts from the rugged high-altitude Kanchenjunga region to the lush, temperate middle hills. Along the way, you cross the Kabeli and Khokling Rivers, seeing local life—children walking to school and farmers tending terraced rice fields—before climbing back toward the ridges. After several hours, the Jeep reaches the smooth blacktop of the Mechi Highway, a scenic road winding through forests and the famous tea-growing belt, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills. The journey ends in Kanyam, Ilam, where jagged peaks are replaced by bright green, manicured tea gardens. Kanyam is a popular hill station with tea shops, local snacks, horse rides, and a cool, misty climate often called the "Darjeeling of Nepal," making the 5–6 hour drive from Khebang a memorable blend of natural beauty and local culture.

After breakfast in Kanyam (Ilam), the journey begins with a 3–4 hour drive south on the Mechi Highway to Bhadrapur, winding through lush tea gardens, charming villages, and scenic countryside. The descent from Kanyam includes several steep hairpin bends, so it’s important to check your brakes and keep an eye out for the "Small Path" (Sano Pathibhara) temple if you want a quick spiritual stop. Along the way, you pass through Charali, where the hills flatten into the plains, before continuing east and south toward Bhadrapur. Once there, you can take a 45–50 minute domestic flight to Kathmandu on Buddha Air or Yeti Airlines. For the best mountain views, sit on the right-hand side (Seat A) to see the Kanchenjunga massif and, on a clear day, even Mount Everest. Since Bhadrapur is a small airport, arriving 1–1.5 hours before your flight is usually sufficient, giving you a smooth end to the scenic journey through eastern Nepal.

Today we have free time to explore Kathmandu on our own. You could spend the day shopping for souvenirs, exploring the colorful streets and bazaars, or sampling the local cuisine. You could also go to some of the city's popular tourist attractions, such as Bhaktapur and Patan, which highlight Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage. You could also participate in other activities such as hiking, biking, or adventure sports, or simply relax and rejuvenate at one of the city's many spas and wellness centers. Whatever you decide, make sure to take in the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of this wonderful city.

Today, we will transfer to Kathmandu International Airport to depart. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will collect our belongings and head to the airport. We will arrive at the airport on time to complete all of the necessary formalities and board our flight. Before we leave this enchanting country, take one last look at the breathtaking Himalayan views and appreciate the Nepalese people's warm hospitality and kindness. This concludes our tour, and we hope you had a memorable and enjoyable experience in Nepal.