Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 19 days

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 19 days
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 19 days
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 19 days
Quick Overview
Duration19 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5,143m
Group Size1-10 people
StartsKathamndu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking and Hiking
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

Highlights of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

  • This 19-Days Kanchenjunga Circuit trek itinerary takes you deep into the wild side of the Nepal Himalayas, which is raw, quiet, and beautiful.
  • You’ll stand face to face with Kanchenjunga, which is the world’s third-highest mountain. 
  • There are small villages along the trail where warm-hearted Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa communities live. 
  • The trek is through tall rhododendron trees, bamboo forests, and hidden orchids.
  • You’ll cross high passes like Sele La and Sinion La. It’s hard and windy, but the mountain views all around make it worth it. 
  • Visit both Kanchenjunga Base Camps, North and South.
  • If you’re lucky, you might also spot a red panda and a blue sheep.
  • Nights are full of stars. Mornings start with pink mountain and fresh cold air. 

Overview of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of the most stunning and less crowded mountain adventures in Nepal. This 19 days trek will lead you to the beautiful Kanchenjunga, which is also the world’s third-highest peak. This route takes you to a quiet and peaceful part of the Nepal Himalayas. You’ll walk through the small villages where life moves slowly, dense rhododendron forests, and climb some high mountain passes. 

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is not crowded at all. It is a perfect trek in Nepal if you want to feel the mountains but get away from busy tourist spots. Also, along the way, you’ll get to meet kind-hearted Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu people. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife, like red pandas or blue sheep. 

Honestly, this trek is more than just amazing views. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is about the experience of your whole journey, where you’re challenging yourself, breathing fresh mountain air, and enjoying the peace all around. If you’re an experienced trekker or just looking for a special adventure in the Himalayas, the Kanchenjunga Circuit gives you the stunning landscapes and the memories you’ll never forget. 

What is the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek like?

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is like walking into a peaceful mountain region where fewer people go. You’ll pass through small villages where life is simple and slow. The trekking route of the Kanchenjunga Circuit is through the forest, which is filled with pretty flowers and tall trees. It is also quiet and calm because you won’t see many tourists.

Some days during the trek might be tough as you’ll climb high and walk on rocky paths, but the beautiful mountain views make it all worth it. You’ll stay in small, locally run teahouses and lodges, eat local foods, and interact with the warm-hearted local Nepali people. This trek is about feeling the peace of the mountains and seeing how people live up there. By the end of the trek, you’ll have some really special memories and feel like you’ve seen a very special part of Nepal.

Who can do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, and how to prepare for this Trek?

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is best for people who already have some trekking experience. It’s not the easiest trek in Nepal. You’ll walk long hours, climb high passes, and stay in remote places. If you love adventure, don’t mind basic teahouses, and can handle a bit of tough walking every day, then you’ll enjoy this trek. You need to be fit, healthy, and okay with walking 6-7 hours a day. Before going on the trek, a little bit of preparation can make your journey way more enjoyable and safe. Here‘s a quick guide to help you get ready. 

Physical preparation: The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek isn’t super easy. You’ll be walking 5-7 hours a day, mostly uphill and downhill. So some fitness helps a lot. How to prepare:

  • Go for walks or short hikes a few weeks before you come. 
  • You can do exercises like running, cycling, or swimming to build your stamina. 
  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator, which can increase your metabolism
  • Eat healthy food and drink lots of water

Mental Preparation: Along with physical preparation, mental preparation is also equally important for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek. Different challenges may occur during the trek. Some days might be cold, rainy, or tiring. But staying positive and flexible makes everything easier. 

  • Don’t stress if plans change
  • Rest when you need to, don’t push your body hard
  • It’s okay even if you go slow
Photo Gallery
Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

You’ll arrive in Kathmandu on this day. Our team will pick you up from the airport and drop you at your hotel. Later, we will brief you about the trek, then you can interact with your guide and do some shopping for your trek.

Accommodation: Hotel

Flight Distance: 45-50 min

Drive Distance: 8-10 hours

Today our Journey begins, we will pick you up from your Hotel. Then you’ll take a scenic flight to Bhadrapul which takes around 45 minutes. From here, you’ll take a long drive through tea gardens, rivers, and hilly villages to Taplejung.

Max Altitude: 1,820m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Drive distance: 7-8hrs

We will have our breakfast and take a jeep ride to reach our destination Sekathum. The drive take us through Mitlung, Chirwa, Thapethok, Lelep and several other villages along the way. There is also Kanchenjunga National Park entry point on our way, where our permits and other documents are checked.

 

Max Altitude: 1,270m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 5-6 hrs

After two days of drive, this is the day when our trek starts. The trek is through the thick forest all around. You’ll also see rivers and waterfalls along the trail. Then, finally you’ll reach Amjilosa, a tiny village on a hill, which is your stop for today.

 

Max Altitude: 2,510m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 4-5hrs

After breakfast, we will continue our trek through the dense forest. The trail goes up and down through bamboo, pine, and rhododendron. If you’re lucky, you might also spot a red panda during the trek. By afternoon, you’ll reach Gyabla, which is a peaceful stop.

 

Max Altitude: 2,730m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 5-6hrs

Today, you’ll feel that the mountains are getting closer. The forests get thinner and the tall peaks appear through the clouds. You’ll also see prayer flags, stone houses, and Tibetan culture. Ghunsa is the biggest village around here.

Max Altitude: 3,595m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Today you’ll rest and adjust to the higher altitude. Rest doesn’t mean doing nothing, you can take a short hike nearby or walk around the villages. Say hi to locals, read a book and enjoy your day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 5–6 hrs

Today you’ll walk along the river, waterfalls and climb up the rocky paths. We will see the stunning views of Mt. Jannu, which is also known as Kumbhakarna. Then you reach Kambachen, which is higher and colder with big views and clear night skies.

Max Altitude: 4,100 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

This day is another pause to help your body adjust with altitude. We will have a short hike to nearby glaciers, viewpoints, and lakes. Take it easy, eat well, drink warm soup, and watch the sunset.

Max Altitude: 4,100 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 5–6 hrs

Now you’re deep in the wild. The trail takes you over rocks. Sometimes you’ll walk through old landslide areas, so take it slow and carefully. Lhonak is just a small place, a few stone huts, simple beds, and a quiet mountain night. It is peaceful and raw. 

Max Altitude: 4,785 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Today is one of the best days of the trek. You’ll trek up to Pangpema, the North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. This place is beautiful. Take photos, breathe it in, and walk back to Lhonak.

Max Altitude: 5,143 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 7-8 hrs

Now, it’s the time to head back down. The same trail feels different when you head back. The air gets thicker and steps feel easier. You’ll pass Kambachen again and reach Ghunsa for overnight stay.

 

Max Altitude: 3,595 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 5-6hrs

Today, you’ll leave the main path and trek back through old forests. Slowly, you’ll reach Sele Le, which is a small teahouse in the hill. From here, the hills open and the peaks surround you from far. 

Max Altitude: 4,290m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 6-7hrs

This is the big day. You’ll cross the Sele La pass. The views get wider with Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and even Everest, far from the distance.  From there, you’ll trek down gently to Cheram, a small, quiet village under the hills.

Max Altitude: 3,870m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 5-6hrs

Today is another highlight of the trek. You’ll hike up to Ramche first, from Ramche, you'll follow the trail to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. It has massive cliffs, glaciers and looks stunning. After some photos and fresh air return to Cheram for the overnight. 

 

Max Altitude: 4,700m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 5-6hrs

After breakfast, you’ll again start a downhill walk through the forests, crossing rivers and bridges. By the late afternoon, you’ll reach Tortong for warm foods and good sleep

Max Altitude: 2,995m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Trekking Distance: 5-6 hrs

Last day of Trek, you’ll walk down through villages and terraced farms to Yamphudinga. There is the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Checkpost in Yamphudin, where our permits are checked if we have begun our trek with Kanchenjunga South Base Camp first.

Max Altitude: 2,080m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Drive Distance: 8-10 hours

After having breakfast in Yamphudinga, we will start our drive to Kanyam. Along the way. We can see the cardamom and tea cultivation through our windows. We can also see many local tourists, and Kanyam is a popular destination with tea gardens.

Max Altitude: 1,210m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Drive Distance: 2-3 hours

Flight Distance: 45 min

We will have our breakfast and explore the tea cultivation area in Kanyam and Illam for a while. Then we will take a 45-50 minute flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu in the afternoon and drop you to the hotel you booked.

 

Max Altitude: 1,400m Meals: Breakfast and LunchAccommodation: Hotel
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Cost Details
Includes

Meals and Drinking Water

  • All your main meals during the trek (18 breakfasts, 18 lunches, 17 Dinners)
  • Purified drinking water

Accommodations

  • 5 Nights in 4-star Hotels in Kathmandu
  • 14 Nights in the best available teahouse, lodges, or Hotels during the trek. 

Transportation

  • Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, Bhadrapur to Kathmandu. 
  • Sharing Jeep/Bus (Bhadrapur-Taplejung-Sekathum and Yamphudin-Kanyam-Bhadrapur airport)

Guide and Porter

  • Government-licensed trekking Guide and Porter from Himalayan Partner.

Trek Permits and Expenses

  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP)fee
  •  Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)fee
  •  All government, local taxes, and official expenses

Medical Assistance

  •  Arranging rescue operations in case of complicated health conditions. (funded by travel insurance)
  • Medical kits, including an oximeter to monitor blood oxygen saturation levels in high altitudes.

Benefits and Takeaways

  • Airport Pickup and drop service during both international and domestic flight
  •  Duffle bag, trekking map, emergency kit bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag if needed 
  • Free excess luggage storage
  •  Himalayan Partner T-shirt as a souvenir
Excludes
  • All the accommodation and meals before and after this trek
  • Tips for the guide and porters
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Any additional meals beyond the itinerary
  • Other optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
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Essential Information

What permits are needed for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

If you want to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you’ll need some special permits because this area is not like other busy trekking spots in Nepal. It’s a restricted zone, so you can’t just pack your bag and go alone. You’ll need permits too. The permits required during the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek are:

  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

           It is needed because Kanchenjunga is a restricted trekking zone.

  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)

           It helps to protect nature, wildlife, and villages on the trail.

Our company will take care of all the permits. So, you don’t need to worry about that.

Altitude Sickness during the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness, can be an issue during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. The trek takes you above 4,500m. This height is high enough for Altitude Sickness if you don’t acclimate properly. Some symptoms of Altitude sickness are: Headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, and insomnia. 

How to prevent Altitude sickness during the Kanchenjunga Trek:

  • Walk slowly 
  • Stay hydrated
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol and smoking at high altitudes
  • Eat Carbohydrate-rich meals
  • Don’t Skip Sleep
  • Meditations like Diamox and other such drugs can be helpful. 
  • If symptoms get worse, descend immediately.

Packing list for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek

Clothing

  • Thermal base layers, moisture-wicking T-shirts
  • Warm fleece or insulated jacket, down jacket
  • Windproof and waterproof jackets
  •  Trekking pants, warm hat, sun hat
  •  Gloves, sleepwear, and undergarments

Footwear

  •    Good trekking boots, but not new
  •    Camp shoes and slippers

Bags

  •    Large duffle bag
  •    20- 30L Daypack with rain cover

Toiletries & Hygiene

  •  Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap/shampoo
  •  Towel, sunscreen, lip balm
  •   Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, tissue paper
  •    Sanitary Pads for females (if needed)

Trekking Gear

  •  Trekking poles
  •    Headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries
  •  Water bottles
  •  Power bank & charging cables

Documents

  • Passport with a valid visa
  •  Travel insurance copy
  • Passport-sized photos

Best Time to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

If you’re thinking of going Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, then the best time is during the Spring or Autumn seasons. Spring means March, April, and May. At that time, the hills are covered with flowers, rhododendron is everywhere, and the weather feels good. Not too hot, and not freezing cold. The sky is clear and you can see the peaks most days.

Autumn is also really good for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Which is end of September to November. After the rain skies open up, the mountain views look super sharp. Trails stay dry, so you walk easily and there is less chance of slipping. Villages also feel nice after monsoon.

The monsoon season is less recommended for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek. This season brings heavy rain, and trails may get muddy. But if you don’t mind rain, then you can still go on a trek during this season. But you need to pack well. While the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek during the winter season can be a little tough. From December to February, it gets cold in the mountains. But, you can still go if you’re well prepared and really love snow adventures. If you love quiet trails and real mountain adventure, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is worth it. Pick the right season, pack well, and enjoy every step of your trek. 

Foods and Accommodations during the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek

There are locally run tea houses and lodges along the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek route. Tea houses are small establishments with shared rooms and washrooms. They also provide meals and services like charging, WiFi, and hot showers at additional cost. Our Kanchenjunga Circuit package includes rooms and three meals a day.

Additional service expenses are not covered in the package cost. The rooms are simple. We will try to book the best accommodation with a private washroom wherever possible. Single rooms cost extra money. Food on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is simple but good enough.  Dal bhat tarkari, momo, thukpa, porridge, and other potato dishes will be the most common foods on this trek. In some places, you will also get pasta, fried rice, stew, curries, French fries, burgers, etc. Boiled water is also available throughout the trek at a very low cost. So, the food and accommodation are simple and warm, just like what you need in the mountains. 

Conclusion 

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek lies in the most beautiful and remote regions of Nepal. From peaceful villages to high mountain passes, every day feels special. It is a challenging trek, but you’ll definitely love this place. You’ll bring the best memories from this trek. Pack and prepare well because this trek shows you the beautiful, untouched landscapes of Nepal.

 

 

FAQs

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is in eastern Nepal, near the border with India and Tibet. It circles Mt. Kanchenjunga, which is the third highest mountain in the world.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek takes around 19 to 21 days. It depends on your pace, the weather, and how many rest days you need. 

 

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is tough. You’ll walk long hours and cross high passes. It is best for the trekkers who have done other Himalayan treks before in Nepal.

Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to trek the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. You’ll get clear skies, great mountain views, and safe trails.

Yes, Kanchenjunga is a restricted area. So, you must trek with a licensed guide through a registered trekking agency. Solo trekking is not allowed here.

 

Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) is needed for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. 

 

The foods on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is simple and fresh. You’ll eat classic Nepali dal bhat tarkari (rice, lentils, and veggies). Other foods like noodles, potatoes, soup, porridge, and momo is also available.

No, the Kanchenjunga Trek is generally not recommended for beginners. It is a challenging trek that requires a high level of physical fitness.

Phone signals and Wi-Fi are extremely limited or unavailable during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, especially at higher altitudes.

During Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you’ll stay in simple teahouses run by local families, which have basic rooms, warm meals, and a friendly place to rest each night.