Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

26 Days
Overview Itinerary Include/Exclude FAQs

Trek Overview

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is a very beautiful and adventurous destination for trekkers. This isolated trek takes place in Eastern Nepal, which is home to Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,596m), the third-highest mountain in the world. This massive peak dominates the eastern Himalayan range and offers breathtaking scenery throughout the journey.

This region of Nepal has only been open to trekking since 1988, which explains its well-preserved traditional culture and untouched natural beauty. The Kanchenjunga area features numerous high peaks, including three mountains above 8,000 meters and eleven peaks above 7,000 meters.

The trekking route follows the Tamur River, which is fed by many glaciers such as Nupchu, Lhonak, Chichima, Gimsung, Pyramid, Kanchenjunga, and Ramtang glaciers. On the western and southern sides lie Kumbhakarna (Jannu), Yamatari, and Yalung glaciers.

The highest settlements along the route include Kangbachenga (4,038m) in the Ghunsa Valley and Walungchung (3,200m) in the Tamur Valley. Access to the Kanchenjunga region is via a road to Basantapur or a flight to Taplejung. This trek offers multiple route options and can be customized according to your preference.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a perfect choice for trekkers seeking a remote, challenging, and culturally rich Himalayan adventure.

Trekking at a Glance

Duration

26 Days

Trip Grade

Hard

Max Altitude

5,143 meters

Accommodation

Tea Houses / Lodges

Activities

Adventure, Trekking

Best Time

Mar-May & Sept-Nov

Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. After arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. You can relax after your journey or explore nearby areas. In the evening, there will be a short briefing about the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, including itinerary details and preparation.

Hotel
1,400m
Day 2:

Kathmandu sightseeing and trek preparation

Today you will explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, including temples, stupas, and cultural landmarks. After sightseeing, you will prepare for the trek, check your equipment, and finalize permits.

Hotel
1,400m
Day 3:

Kathmandu – Bhadrapur (Flight) – Taplejung

Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a long drive to Taplejung. The journey offers beautiful views of hills, rivers, and rural villages, leading you closer to the Kanchenjunga region.

Lodge
B, L, D
1,820m
Day 4:

Trek from Taplejung – Mitlung

Begin your trek from Taplejung, descending through terraced fields and traditional villages. The trail follows rivers and forests, offering a peaceful start to the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

Tea House
B, L, D
921m
4–5 hrs
Day 5:

Trek from Mitlung – Chirwa

Trek along the Tamur River through lush forests, suspension bridges, and small settlements. Enjoy the natural beauty and local lifestyle of the region.

Tea House
B, L, D
1,270m
5–6 hrs
Day 6:

Trek from Chirwa – Sekathum

Continue trekking through dense forests and river valleys. Cross several suspension bridges and pass through traditional villages before reaching Sekathum.

Tea House
B, L, D
1,660m
5–6 hrs
Day 7:

Trek from Sekathum – Amjilosa

The trail climbs steeply through forests and narrow paths. This section is more remote, offering a true wilderness trekking experience with fewer settlements.

Tea House
B, L, D
2,510m
5–6 hrs
Day 8:

Trek from Amjilosa – Gyabla

Trek through rhododendron and bamboo forests with occasional views of waterfalls and mountains. Reach Gyabla, a beautiful village surrounded by nature.

Tea House
B, L, D
2,730m
5–6 hrs
Day 9:

Trek from Gyabla – Ghunsa

Continue through forests and open valleys, entering a Tibetan-influenced region. Reach Ghunsa, one of the largest settlements in the area

Tea House
B, L, D
3,430m
5–6 hrs
Day 10:

Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa

Rest day for acclimatization. Explore Ghunsa village, monasteries, and surrounding areas while adjusting to the altitude.

Tea House
B, L, D
3,430m
Day 11:

Trek from Ghunsa – Kambachen

Trek along the river through alpine landscapes with stunning mountain views. The trail becomes more rugged as you gain altitude.

Tea House
B, L, D
4,050m
5–6 hrs
Day 12:

Trek from Kambachen – Lhonak

Continue trekking through glacial valleys and rocky terrain. Enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Tea House
B, L, D
4,780m
5–6 hrs
Day 13:

Trek from Lhonak – Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema)

Hike to the North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga at Pangpema. Enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and surrounding peaks before returning to Lhonak.

Tea House
B, L, D
5,143m
6–7 hrs
Day 14:

Trek from Lhonak – Ghunsa

Descend back through the same scenic route, enjoying mountain views and alpine landscapes.

Tea House
B, L, D
3,430m
6–7 hrs
Day 15:

Trek from Ghunsa – Sele La

Trek toward Sele La through forested trails and remote paths. The route offers panoramic mountain views.

Tea House
B, L, D
4,200m
5–6 hrs
Day 16:

Trek from Sele La – Cheram

Cross high passes and descend into the southern region of Kanchenjunga. Enjoy dramatic landscapes and peaceful surroundings.

Tea House
B, L, D
3,870m
6–7 hrs
Day 17:

Trek from Cheram – Ramche

Trek through alpine terrain and yak pastures toward Ramche, with stunning mountain views.

Tea House
B, L, D
4,580m
3–4 hrs
Day 18:

Ramche – Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (Oktang)

Hike to South Base Camp (Oktang) for breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga massif and glaciers, then return to Ramche.

Tea House
B, L, D
4,730m
5–6 hrs
Day 19:

Trek from Ramche – Tortong

Descend through forests and valleys, enjoying a gradual decrease in altitude and warmer climate.

Tea House
B, L, D
2,995m
5–6 hrs
Day 20:

Trek from Tortong – Yamphudin

Continue trekking through forests and traditional villages, experiencing local culture and landscapes.

Tea House
B, L, D
2,080m
5–6 hrs
Day 21:

Trek from Yamphudin – Khebang

Trek through terraced fields and rural settlements with scenic views of hills and valleys.

Tea House
B, L, D
1,915m
5–6 hrs
Day 22:

Trek from Khebang – Taplejung

Continue trekking through villages and forests, gradually returning to Taplejung.

Lodge
B, L, D
1,820m
5–6 hrs
Day 23:

Drive back from Taplejung – Bhadrapur

Drive back to Bhadrapur, enjoying scenic landscapes and rural views along the way.

Hotel
B, L, D
91m
Day 24:

Bhadrapur – Kathmandu (Flight)

Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. You can relax or explore the city.

Hotel
Breakfast
1,400m
Day 25:

Leisure Day in Kathmandu

Free day in Kathmandu for rest, shopping, or sightseeing. You can explore local markets and cultural sites.

Hotel
Breakfast
1,400m
Day 26:

Final Departure

Transfer to the airport for your final departure. End of your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek in Nepal.

What's Included & Excluded

What's Included

  • Airport/Hotel/Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu – Bhadrapur – Kathmandu)
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary (private vehicle/jeep)
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
  • Tea and coffee during the trek
  • Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide (salary, food, accommodation, insurance)
  • Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • All staff costs and insurance
  • First aid medical kit
  • Government taxes and official expenses
  • Assistant guide for groups above 6 people

What's Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Travel insurance (high-altitude coverage required)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, calls, internet, etc.)
  • Drinking water, bottled drinks, and alcoholic beverages
  • Hot showers, battery charging, and Wi-Fi during the trek
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue)
  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver
  • Costs due to itinerary changes (weather, landslides, strikes, etc.)
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the includes section

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its long duration, remote trails, and high-altitude sections above 5,000 meters, making it suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness.

What is the best time to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

The best time for this trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their best.

Do I need special permits for Kanchenjunga Trek?

Yes, this trek requires a Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP), and it must be done through a registered trekking agency with a licensed guide.

Is prior trekking experience required for this trek?

Yes, prior trekking experience is highly recommended due to the remote terrain, long trekking days, and high altitude involved in the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

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