Lhonak is a high camp at about 4,780 m on the north Kanchenjunga trek in far east Nepal. It sits below Pangpema, the north base camp, and many groups sleep here before walking up and back in one long day because the sleeping altitude stays lower.
Altitude: about 4,780 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Lhonak is and why trekkers stop
Lhonak lies in the upper valley beyond Khambachen, on the final approach to the north base camp. Trekkers stop here because it is the last practical place to sleep before Pangpema at about 5,140 m. Spending the night at Lhonak and making a day trip to Pangpema keeps the sleeping altitude lower, which helps many people. Weather decides the plan, and a poor day can make the push unsafe.
Kanchenjunga needs a restricted area permit and a licensed guide.
What to expect at Lhonak
Expect a stark, cold and wide open place with rock, ice, wind and very little shelter. Facilities are basic, services are limited and nights can drop well below freezing. Views around the camp include big peaks and glacial moraine, and cloud can arrive suddenly. Keep warm layers close, charge devices before you arrive and prepare for a very early start if you are going on to Pangpema. Evenings are quiet and often silent.
Altitude and how you may feel
At about 4,780 m the air holds much less oxygen, and most trekkers feel it. Expect headaches, short breath on slight inclines, poor sleep and reduced appetite. Walk slowly, drink often and keep your pace gentle. Altitude illness can become serious here, so report symptoms to your guide immediately. If they worsen, descend without delay, and do not go on to Pangpema. Descending is the main treatment, and it should not wait until morning.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodging is basic, with simple rooms or shared dormitory space, and menus are short. Expect dal bhat, noodles, soup and tea. Carry cash in Nepali rupees, a warm sleeping layer, insulated jacket, gloves, hat, sunglasses and a headlamp. Bring water treatment and snacks, and keep your phone warm inside your clothes. Our notes say flights, rivers and weather can all delay plans, so keep a spare day and a flexible mind.
Common questions
How high is Lhonak?
Our guides give Lhonak at about 4,780 m. Pangpema, the north base camp, is higher at about 5,140 m, which is why many groups sleep at Lhonak and make Pangpema a day trip.
Why sleep at Lhonak instead of Pangpema?
The sleeping altitude stays lower, which many people find easier. Resting at Lhonak and walking up and back keeps the highest point to a few hours, though weather can still change the plan.
How cold is Lhonak at night?
Very cold. Our guides note that nights at Lhonak and Pangpema can drop well below freezing. Bring a warm sleeping layer, insulated clothing, gloves and a hat, and keep electronics warm.
