Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is one of the best off-the-beaten trekking trails in Nepal but receives much lesser explorers and trekkers than the Everest and Annapurna region. The world's third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters/28,169 feet), stands majestically over the Indian and Nepalese border in the northeast corner of Nepal’s Taplejung District.

The south base camp trek is shorter, lower in elevation, and less strenuous than the north base camp trek. But, the trekkers are equally awarded a similar level of typical natural and cultural uniqueness. The south base camp journey takes you through a landscape of subtropical lowlands, rhododendron and alpine forests, and stunning glaciers, as well as views of spectacular snow-capped mountain peaks. This Kanchenjunga trekking offers the most beautiful Himalayan scenery views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mount Makalu, and Jannu Himal and the towering heights of Mt. Rohtang La Pass and Kabru above a moraine on the side of Nepal and the Sikkim border.

The Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trekking trail starts from Happu Khola and ascends slowly day by day through the valleys past the virgin woods, farming lands, and peaceful communities to the base camp at Ramche at 4610 meters. A diverse range of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, Asian black bear, and red panda, to name a few of the most endangered creatures are protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, the trail to the Yalung Glacier and the south side of the mountain. Birders will be able to view snow cock and pheasant, among other species. 

Not limited only to the natural and wildlife beauty, the trek rewards the trekkers with a typical, unique insight into the culture and lifestyle of the remote part of Eastern Nepal. It is the opportunity of learning about the local Rai, Limbu, who are a part of Kirat and Tibetan villagers that call this location home, each with its unique dialect, rituals, and traditions.

Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek offers everything a trekking enthusiast desires.

Major highlights of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek

• Walk on one of Nepal’s deserted trekking routes
• Less-known trail in the eastern region of Nepal
• Breathtaking landscapes and mountain vista 
• Views of Mount Rhothang and Mount Kabru rising above a moraine in the Nepal-Sikkim border
• Get insight into the culture and lifestyle of the Kirati and Sherpa people there
• Chances of encountering many wildlife and various flora and fauna
• Meet the flock of blue sheep

How difficult is Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek?

The difficulty of an adventurous journey is determined by elements such as distance, altitude, destination’s weather and temperature, and trekkers' fitness. In light of these considerations, the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is rated as moderate to strenuous. 

Throughout this trek, you will be trekking in the isolated mountain region for more than a week beginning from the 2000 meters and ascending at the maximum at 4610 meters. As a result, altitude sickness is a real possibility at such a high altitude. When it comes to this illness, one should be proactive and notify the guide as soon as the symptoms like headache, nausea, tiredness, etc. appear. 

Weather fluctuations are common at high elevations. As the weather deteriorates, you will begin to notice a variety of hazards. Rock falls, slick terrains, landslides, and other natural disasters are among them. Trekking in severe weather is quite difficult. So, before you decide to go for the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek, be cautious and stay informed about the weather conditions.

Also, this journey does not necessitate any climbing abilities but requires high physical and mental fitness. But experiences are always better. So, months before departing for the journey, we suggest you engage in some aerobic workouts like running, jogging, trekking with a backpack, swimming, or going to the gym.

Best Time to do Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek 

Kanchenjunga is a challenging tea house trek. As a result, good weather is required for walking on this route. Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek is mostly done during the autumn and spring seasons, as it is for most other popular trekking trails in Nepal. 

Autumn (September – November) is by far the most enjoyable season for trekking in Kanchenjunga. Autumn boasts the clearest skies and the most consistent weather. The air quality is at its optimum in the autumn. The sky and weather are completely clear, and the days are warm and the nights are cool. The weather and temperature remain pleasant and consistent, making this the ideal time to go trekking. 

After autumn, spring (March-May) is the most popular trekking season. This is the season for outdoor enthusiasts. The trees around the Kanchenjunga hiking route are ablaze with vibrant wildflower and Rhododendron, Nepal's national flower, blossoms. Spring brings with it beautiful views of verdant hills and vibrant forests, as well as predictable weather, blue sky, and excellent visibility. 

Trekking in Kanchenjunga during the peak seasons is a wonderful experience walking through the deserted routes because of less popularity.