Bokta Peak Climbing – Hidden Himalayan Summit in the Heart of Kanchenjunga

After breakfast, your day begins with a guided exploration of Kathmandu Valley, rich with heritage, spiritual sites, and timeless architecture. You'll first visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a royal courtyard of ancient Malla kings with intricately carved wooden temples and palaces. From there, ascend to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), where centuries-old Buddhist prayers echo in the air and panoramic views stretch across the city.

Next, drive to the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags and peaceful monasteries—a key center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Lastly, visit the revered Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s holiest Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, where pilgrims, sadhus, and sacred rituals can be observed along the Bagmati River.

This sightseeing tour will not only offer a deep cultural immersion but also set the spiritual tone for your upcoming high-altitude journey. Return to your hotel for rest and last-minute packing.

Overnight in Kathmandu.
Meals: BLD

After an early breakfast, we head to the domestic airport for a scenic flight to Bhadrapur, the eastern lowland gateway to the Kanchenjunga region. On clear days, this short flight offers incredible aerial views of Himalayan giants like Everest, Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga.

Upon arrival at Bhadrapur Airport, our local crew will receive you, and you’ll begin your drive northward to Ilam, a cool and serene hill town famous for its lush tea gardens, fresh mountain air, and gentle hospitality. The 4-hour drive takes you through beautiful landscapes, green terraced hills, and quiet villages—an ideal transition from the plains to the hills.

Upon reaching Ilam, you’ll check into a local hotel. You may take a relaxing walk through tea plantations, taste freshly brewed Ilam tea, and enjoy the peaceful hill atmosphere as you prepare for the journey into the remote Kanchenjunga Valley.

Overnight in Ilam.
Meals: BLD

After breakfast in Ilam, your journey into the remote and pristine northeastern Himalayas begins. We board a private jeep and set out on an adventurous full-day drive towards Sekhathum, the trailhead of the Kanchenjunga region. The drive, though long (approx. 8–9 hours), is filled with dramatic scenery—rolling tea-covered hills, dense forests, and steep river valleys. As the road ascends and narrows, you’ll witness a noticeable shift in vegetation and culture.

You’ll pass through several villages inhabited by Limbu, Rai, and other indigenous communities, where traditional wooden houses with stone roofs sit beneath towering ridges. We stop along the way for lunch and leg-stretches as the road winds through multiple switchbacks, offering distant glimpses of snow peaks.

By late afternoon, we reach Sekhathum, nestled at the confluence of the Ghunsa Khola and Tamur River, surrounded by cliffs and dense alpine vegetation. This village marks the start of our trek and the beginning of a more rugged, remote adventure. Here, we’ll be introduced to our porters and support staff, sort our gear, and settle into a basic teahouse near the river.

Overnight in Sekhathum.
Meals: BLD

After an energizing breakfast, our first day on foot begins. We set off from Sekhathum following the trail that hugs the banks of the Ghunsa Khola, making our way gradually upward through thick bamboo groves, rhododendron forest, and moss-covered rocks. The route today is moderate in length but demanding in effort, with steep sections, narrow paths, and several suspension bridge crossings above the roaring river.

The environment is rich in biodiversity—you may hear the call of Himalayan birds or catch a glimpse of langurs leaping through the treetops. The trail remains mostly shaded, cool, and serene, making it a beautiful introduction to trekking in the Kanchenjunga region.

After approximately 5 to 6 hours of trekking and a gradual altitude gain, we reach the remote hamlet of Amjilosa, perched on a forested ridge with lovely views. This small settlement is home to a few families, and accommodations are basic but welcoming. In the afternoon, you can explore the surrounding forest or simply rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Our kitchen team will prepare a nutritious meal to keep your energy strong for the days ahead.

Overnight in Amjilosa (Teahouse).
Meals: BLD

After breakfast in the peaceful village of Amjilosa, we continue our journey deeper into the heart of eastern Nepal’s wilderness. The trail climbs steadily today through thick rhododendron, bamboo, and fir forests, offering a rich and vibrant environment teeming with flora and fauna. The peaceful hum of cascading waterfalls and birdsong accompanies us along the way, and the occasional rustle in the forest hints at the presence of Himalayan wildlife such as musk deer or even the elusive red panda.

This section of the trek is as scenic as it is serene. As we gradually gain altitude, we cross several small streams, pass moss-draped rocks, and trek alongside the crystal-clear Ghunsa Khola. The beauty of this day lies in its calmness—an immersion into an untouched Himalayan ecosystem.

After about 5–6 hours of trekking, we reach Gyabla (also known as Kyapra), a small Tibetan-influenced village nestled in a deep gorge. The village is home to a few stone houses, prayer flags, and yak herders. The terrain opens slightly here, and the sharp ridgelines and lush surroundings create a dramatic contrast.

After settling in, you can enjoy a warm drink, chat with locals, or explore the upper part of the village for panoramic views of the surrounding ridges.

Overnight in Gyabla.
Meals: BLD

Today’s trek marks a beautiful transformation in both landscape and culture. We leave behind the dense forest and enter a more alpine terrain. The trail continues alongside the Ghunsa Khola, climbing gently but steadily. After a couple of hours, the vegetation begins to thin, revealing views of snow-covered peaks and vast open slopes. You’ll start to feel the change in altitude, and the cool mountain air grows noticeably crisper.

After passing through yak pastures and a few small stone shelters, we reach the wider valley floor and arrive at Phole, a small village with a Buddhist monastery and Tibetan refugee settlement. This is a perfect spot to take a break, interact with the monks or villagers, and admire the hand-woven carpets and handicrafts they produce.

From Phole, it’s a short and scenic walk to Ghunsa, the largest settlement in the region and the cultural heart of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The village is beautifully set with traditional wooden houses, carved window frames, and rows of prayer flags fluttering in the cold mountain breeze. Ghunsa is inhabited mainly by the Sherpa community, and their hospitality and spiritual ambiance create a memorable welcome.

After checking in at the teahouse, you can take a leisurely stroll around the village, visit the Ghunsa Monastery, and enjoy a hearty meal prepared by our kitchen team as we prepare for higher altitudes in the coming days.

Overnight in Ghunsa.
Meals: BLD

After a nourishing breakfast in Ghunsa, we begin our ascent toward Khambachen, steadily gaining altitude as we follow the northward course of the Ghunsa Khola. The trail today is truly dramatic. It winds through a landscape of juniper forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged alpine slopes, with frequent glimpses of snow peaks peeking through the gaps in the trees.

As we leave the treeline behind, the trail becomes rockier and more open. Along the way, we cross high wooden bridges, pass ancient mani walls, and encounter chortens and prayer flags, which add a spiritual rhythm to the journey. The mighty Jannu Himal (also known as Kumbhakarna, 7,710m) begins to dominate the skyline—its sharp pyramid shape and sheer cliffs leaving trekkers awestruck.

We take it slow today to aid with acclimatization, pausing frequently to enjoy views, hydrate, and listen to the whispers of the high Himalayas. The final stretch before Khambachen is across a moraine, where the landscape becomes stark and glacial, resembling a prehistoric world.

By afternoon, we reach Khambachen, a small seasonal settlement ringed by mountains, nestled below the icy slopes of Jannu. The wide-open valley offers a grand amphitheater of views and crisp high-altitude air. This is one of the most picturesque camping spots of the trek.

Overnight in Khambachen.
Meals: BLD

Today is an important rest and acclimatization day, allowing your body to adapt to the thinner air before we ascend further. But this doesn’t mean we sit idle—the best way to acclimatize is to “climb high, sleep low,” so we’ll embark on a scenic hike to the Jannu Viewpoint.

This side trip takes us up the ridge north of Khambachen, where gradually, the views expand to include the towering presence of Jannu Himal's north face, one of the most formidable and awe-inspiring mountain walls in the Himalayas. The viewpoint also offers a panoramic sweep across the upper Ghunsa valley, glacier-carved ridges, and the flowing icy rivers below.

Along the way, we may spot blue sheep grazing on the cliffs, and if lucky, even signs of snow leopards or Himalayan griffons circling overhead. The landscape here is wild, unspoiled, and deeply humbling.

After enjoying tea and snacks at the viewpoint, we descend back to Khambachen for a hot lunch. The afternoon is free to rest, read, journal, or simply sit quietly under prayer flags fluttering in the wind, surrounded by Himalayan silence.

Our team will monitor your acclimatization carefully and prepare a wholesome dinner to fuel the coming days’ adventures.

Overnight in Khambachen.
Meals: BLD

Today, we step deeper into the wild and majestic upper Kanchenjunga region, trekking toward the windswept yak pasture of Lhonak. Leaving Khambachen behind, the trail climbs steadily over rocky slopes and glacial moraine. You’ll walk beneath towering cliffs, past landslide-prone sections that demand caution and attention, with the powerful Kanchenjunga Glacier rumbling quietly below.

The trek today is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, offering unmatched views of some of the highest peaks in eastern Nepal, including Jannu, Kirat Chuli, and Nepal Peak. The vegetation thins to hardy grasses and lichens, and the silence of the high-altitude valley is broken only by the crunch of your boots and the cry of a distant raven.

As you near Lhonak, the vastness of the Himalayan wilderness opens before you—a surreal expanse of stone, ice, and snow. Lhonak itself is a simple, seasonal grazing site with basic lodges and campsites, set against a dramatic backdrop of towering peaks and hanging glaciers. The temperature drops significantly here, so warm gear is essential.

Your team will ensure you're well-fed, hydrated, and rested, as tomorrow is a major highlight of the expedition.

Overnight in Lhonak.
Meals: BLD

This is one of the most momentous and visually unforgettable days of the journey. After an early breakfast and carrying only essentials, we make our way along the high glacial trail toward Pangpema, the fabled Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

The trek is gradual but challenging due to the altitude. You’ll walk over ancient moraine ridges and lateral glaciers, with the massive Kanchenjunga Massif (8,586m) slowly revealing its full grandeur as you ascend. On reaching Pangpema, the view is nothing short of spiritual—the towering north face of Kanchenjunga, wrapped in clouds and prayer flags, stands like a silent guardian of the Himalayas.

This site holds deep significance for the Limbu and Rai communities, who regard the mountain as sacred. Pangpema is also the launch point for expeditions attempting the north route to Kanchenjunga’s summit.

After taking in the moment—photos, quiet reflection, perhaps a shared tea—we retrace our steps back to Lhonak. Though it’s a long day, the descent is gentler and filled with the satisfaction of having reached one of the most remote base camps in the world.

Overnight in Lhonak.
Meals: BLD

After the epic journey to Pangpema and the majestic face of Kanchenjunga, today we begin our descent back to Khambachen, retracing our steps through the high glacial valley. While physically easier than the ascent, the return still demands attention due to rocky sections and potential altitude fatigue.

As we walk, we take time to reflect on the stunning alpine terrain, soaking in views that now feel more familiar—Nepal Peak, Jannu, and the upper Ghunsa Valley, all layered in silence and awe. Wildlife is often more active during descent, so keep your eyes open for blue sheep, Himalayan marmots, and soaring lammergeiers above the cliffs.

We enjoy lunch along the way and gradually re-enter the more hospitable zone of Khambachen, where your warm bed, freshly prepared food, and a cheerful atmosphere await. This return marks a successful phase of altitude acclimatization before the climbing objective ahead.

Overnight in Khambachen.
Meals: BLD

Today we branch away from the main Kanchenjunga trail and enter the rarely visited valley beneath Bokta Peak, one of Nepal’s lesser-known but technically rewarding climbing peaks. Our journey begins early, crossing lateral moraines and ascending toward the base of the mountain.

The path is remote and rugged, mostly on glacial debris, scree slopes, and snow patches depending on the season. There are no settlements en route—only the grandeur of untouched nature and absolute alpine solitude. Our team of guides, porters, and cooks will ensure all equipment and food supplies are carried, and the base camp is fully set up by the time we arrive.

After about 5–6 hours of steady trekking, we reach Bokta Base Camp, situated in a glacial bowl surrounded by snowfields and ice walls. The view of Bokta Peak (6,143m) rising directly above camp is astonishing, with its sharp ridges and shimmering snow face. The site is windy and exposed, so proper layering and care are essential.

In the afternoon, we rest, hydrate, and begin our pre-climb preparations—including gear checks, safety briefings, and basic rope training if required.

Overnight at Bokta Peak Base Camp (tent).
Meals: BLD

Today is set aside as a vital acclimatization and training day at Bokta Peak Base Camp. Resting here helps your body adjust to the thin air, reducing the risk of altitude sickness before moving higher. In the morning, your climbing guide will conduct a technical briefing and training session. You’ll review and practice essential mountaineering techniques, including:

• Use of crampons, harnesses, ice axe, carabiners, and ascenders
• Rope fixing and Jumar climbing techniques
• Safety protocols for glacier travel and crevasse zones
• Procedures for summit push and communication with guides

Our team will also evaluate your health and fitness before the summit attempt. After lunch, you'll have time to organize your climbing gear, rest, and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings of the base camp, encircled by dramatic glacial walls and high ridges.

Overnight at Bokta Base Camp (tent).
Meals: BLD

With the weather and team readiness in alignment, we make the gradual ascent to High Camp, positioned strategically closer to the summit of Bokta Peak. The route climbs steeply over rock, ice, and snow-covered ridges, and although the distance is relatively short, the gain in altitude and heavy packs make this day quite demanding.

Our experienced Sherpa team will fix ropes and assist in load ferrying, ensuring safety and pace for every climber. The trail provides phenomenal close-up views of Bokta Peak's summit face, with distant views toward Kanchenjunga, Kabru, and Rathong peaks shimmering behind.

Upon arrival at High Camp, we establish a small but efficient tented camp on a safe ledge, protected from wind as much as possible. The remainder of the day is for hydration, rest, and mental preparation for the summit attempt early tomorrow. Dinner will be light and early, as we need to wake before midnight for the climb.

Overnight at High Camp (tent).
Meals: BLD

⛰️ Summit Day! We wake around midnight and begin the climb under the stars, roped in with headlamps glowing. The summit push typically takes 6–8 hours, depending on snow and weather conditions. The route involves steep snow slopes (up to 50°–55°), icy ridgelines, and crevassed terrain, making it a physically and mentally demanding ascent. Our Sherpa guides lead the way, fixing ropes on the more exposed or dangerous sections.

Reaching the summit of Bokta Peak (6,143m) is a moment of profound achievement. From the top, you are greeted with a panoramic sweep of the eastern Himalayas, including Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the Langtang and Sikkim ranges, and a sea of peaks stretching into Tibet and Bhutan.

After brief moments of joy, prayer flags, photos, and quiet reflection, we begin the descent cautiously, retracing our steps to High Camp, and further down to Base Camp if energy permits. It is a long and exhausting day, but immensely rewarding.

Overnight at Bokta Base Camp (tent).
Meals: BLD

This day is kept as a buffer for bad weather, health issues, or extra acclimatization. Himalayan weather is unpredictable, and having a spare day increases our chances for a safe and successful summit. If the summit was achieved on Day 16, this day can be used to rest and enjoy the environment at Base Camp or to begin the descent, depending on team conditions.

Your guide will decide the use of this day based on weather forecasts and group safety.

Overnight at Bokta Base Camp (tent) or descend if possible.
Meals: BLD

After the thrill and challenge of the climb, today we descend from Bokta Peak Base Camp to Khambachen, retracing our path over rocky glacial terrain and icy slopes. The trek takes you back through the remote and wild landscapes of the upper valley, past moraine fields, boulder-strewn ridgelines, and steep slopes.

This descent is a chance to reflect on your summit achievement, now etched in your heart. The sense of openness, the dramatic peaks towering behind you, and the lightness of walking downhill allow for a renewed appreciation of this majestic land.

As we re-enter the more familiar zone near Khambachen, the scenery gradually becomes softer—grassy knolls, alpine shrubs, and the soothing flow of the Ghunsa Khola accompany us. A warm drink and hearty meal await in Khambachen, where our team will greet you with congratulations and comfort.

Overnight in Khambachen.
Meals: BLD

After breakfast, we begin our descent along the same route that once took us upward with anticipation. As we walk downhill along the Ghunsa Valley, the oxygen-rich air becomes more noticeable, and your steps feel lighter. We pass by familiar sights—mani walls, fluttering prayer flags, old stone houses, and cascading waterfalls.

The return to Ghunsa, the largest and most charming Sherpa village in the region, feels warm and celebratory. The villagers, always welcoming and curious about mountaineering news, may greet you with smiles and traditional "Namaste" blessings. If time allows, you may visit the local monastery or have a cup of tea in a traditional wooden lodge to share stories of the climb.

Back at our lodge or camp, you can relax, shower, recharge your devices, and enjoy a delicious meal in the heart of eastern Nepal’s Tibetan-influenced culture.

Overnight in Ghunsa.
Meals: BLD

Today, we leave the high alpine environment of Ghunsa and begin our gradual descent toward Amjilosa. The trail winds gently down through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, alive with birdsong and native wildlife. The air becomes warmer and the landscape more verdant as we move into lower elevations.

Along the way, you’ll pass small villages with traditional Limbu and Rai cultural influences, giving you insight into the local ethnic diversity. The peaceful surroundings and slower pace allow time to reflect on the amazing journey so far.

Amjilosa is a tranquil village where we spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse or lodge, savoring local hospitality and home-cooked meals.

Overnight in Amjilosa.
Meals: BLD

After breakfast, we continue descending to Sekathum, a larger market town nestled along the Arun River. The trek today is easier and shorter, offering time to relax and enjoy the changing scenery of terraced fields, riverside villages, and bustling local markets.

At Sekathum, we board a vehicle for a scenic drive to Taplejung, the district headquarters. This drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on winding mountain roads, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan foothills and terraced landscapes.

In Taplejung, you can enjoy some modern amenities, rest, and prepare for your journey onward to Kathmandu or further travel arrangements.

Overnight in Taplejung.
Meals: BLD

Today, you will embark on a picturesque drive from Taplejung to Ilam, often called the “Land of Tea Gardens” due to its vast and lush tea plantations that blanket the rolling hills. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours along winding mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of verdant valleys, dense forests, and terraced farmland.

As you approach Ilam, the climate becomes cooler and more refreshing, accompanied by the fragrant aroma of fresh tea leaves. Ilam is famous not only for its tea but also for its rich cultural diversity, home to various ethnic communities such as Limbu, Rai, and Brahmin, who warmly welcome visitors with their unique traditions and cuisines.

Upon arrival, you will have time to stroll through the tea gardens, visit local markets, or simply relax amid the serene hills. The peaceful environment here offers a perfect setting to unwind after your challenging trek and climbing adventure.

Overnight in Ilam at a comfortable guesthouse or hotel.
Meals: BLD

After a refreshing breakfast, you will begin your final journey by road from Ilam to Bhadrapur Airport, approximately a 3 to 4-hour drive. The route takes you through charming rural villages, alongside rivers, and past scenic landscapes that showcase the natural beauty of eastern Nepal.

From Bhadrapur, you will board your flight back to Kathmandu. As you fly over the diverse terrain of Nepal—from the plains to the towering Himalayas—reflect on the unforgettable experiences and stunning vistas you encountered on this expedition.

On arrival in Kathmandu, a Mountain King Treks representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel or onward destination. This marks the conclusion of your epic Bokta Peak expedition, leaving you with lifelong memories of Nepal’s pristine wilderness, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

Overnight in Kathmandu (optional), allowing time to rest or explore the vibrant capital.
Meals: BLD

Today is a well-deserved day of relaxation after your challenging and rewarding expedition. Having already explored Kathmandu’s major cultural and religious sites, you can spend the day at your own pace enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Start your day by wandering through the lively Thamel district, the heart of Kathmandu’s tourism and shopping scene. Here, you can browse a wide variety of handicrafts, pashmina shawls, traditional jewelry, singing bowls, carpets, and souvenirs—perfect for gifts or keepsakes to remember your journey.

Take time to relax at one of Thamel’s cozy cafes or lounges, soaking in the vibrant street life and mountain views. Alternatively, you may choose a spa or massage session to soothe tired muscles after your trek and climb.

As evening approaches, join us for a special farewell dinner arranged by Mountain King Treks. The dinner will be a festive celebration featuring authentic Nepali cuisine, accompanied by cultural performances showcasing traditional dance and music from various ethnic groups of Nepal. This evening is a heartfelt opportunity to share stories, laughter, and memories with your fellow trekkers and the Mountain King team, honoring your accomplishment and friendship.

Overnight in Kathmandu at a comfortable hotel.
Meals: B (Breakfast), D (Farewell Dinner)

According to your international flight time, a representative from Mountain King Treks & Expedition will come to your hotel to offer you a warm and respectful goodbye. Upholding Nepal’s tradition of heartfelt hospitality, we will present you with a khata—a ceremonial white scarf that symbolizes good luck, pure intention, and safe journey, especially meaningful in the Buddhist and Himalayan cultures.

As you conclude your Bokta Peak expedition, this moment is more than just a departure—it is a blessing from the mountains, the people, and the deep spiritual spirit of Nepal. You have walked through the homeland of many proud ethnic communities—Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, Gurung, Tamang, Thakali, and more—who live in harmony with nature, practice deep spirituality, and welcome guests with open hearts.

Among them, the Sherpa people, globally renowned for their unmatched legacy in mountaineering, are most closely connected with climbing culture. It is in their honor, and in the honor of all Himalayan guardians, that we say:
“Tashi Delek!(བཀྲ་ཤིས་བདེ་ལགས་) — may your life be filled with good fortune, peace, and joyful journeys.

Thank you for choosing Mountain King Treks. We are truly grateful to have served you and to have shared the adventure of Bokta Peak with you. We hope to welcome you again for another unforgettable trek or climb in the majestic mountains of Nepal.

Have a safe flight and a pleasant journey home.
Tashi Delek & Namasste