Head to head
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek vs Gokyo Lakes Trek
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is the more approachable option (Challenging, max 5,143 m), while Gokyo Lakes Trek is the bigger undertaking (Challenging, max 5,357 m). Pick based on your experience, available days and how high you're comfortable sleeping.
Difficulty
Kanchenjunga: Challenging
vs Gokyo: Challenging
Max altitude
Kanchenjunga: 5,143 m
vs Gokyo: 5,357 m
Duration
Kanchenjunga: 20 days
vs Gokyo: 12 days
Choose
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
if you want…
- Lower max altitude (5,143 m) — gentler on acclimatization
- More time on the trail — 20 days to immerse
- Quieter, more remote region
- Explores the Kanchenjunga region
Choose
Gokyo Lakes Trek
if you want…
- Shorter trip — 12 days vs 20
- Higher summit point (5,357 m) for bigger mountain views
- More popular and better supported with teahouses
- Explores the Everest region
Full comparison
| Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek | Gokyo Lakes Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Challenging | Challenging |
| Duration | 20 days | 12 days |
| Max altitude | 5,143 m | 5,357 m |
| Total distance | 220 km | 100 km |
| Elevation gain | 9,500 m | 5,200 m |
| Best season | Mar–May, Oct–Nov | Mar–May, Sep–Nov |
| Est. budget | USD 700-1,500 | USD 700-1,500 |
| Permits | Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit, Restricted Area Permit, TIMS Card | Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit |
| Accommodation | Teahouses and local lodges | Teahouses, lodges, and camping where required |
| Mobile network | Patchy in upper sections | Patchy in upper sections |
| Safety level | High | High |
Planning aid only. GPX and route pages are not live trail authority. Map packs need download on Wi‑Fi; weather and SMS need connectivity when used.
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