• Duration 21 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous

    The strenuous grade is both moderate and difficult. Even in this grade, treks reach around 5000-5500 meters. You walk generally 6-7 hours every day. Strenuous treks require good physical condition and acclimatization. if some problems appear, you have to walk down and take some hot drinks or soup. You may get affected fast if you have high blood pressure, asthma, heart disease or complicated medical conditions.

  • Country Nepal

On the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek, you will dive deep into the wilderness of the far eastern Himalayas in Nepal. The journey takes you to the north (5,140 m/16,863 ft) and south (4,050 m/13,287 ft) base camps of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain on Earth. It is an epic trip, ideal for backpackers.

Travelers who love exploring untouched, remote locations and dare to go beyond the mainstream trails will love the Kanchenjunga trek. Not many people know about this trek, so the trails remain empty even in the peak seasons. Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is also known as Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek.

From Kathmandu, it takes two days to reach the trail's starting point. The region's inaccessibility is one of the big causes for fewer tourists. Likewise, it is an advanced trek with challenging terrain, high altitude, and bare minimum infrastructures for the trekkers. All these factors have kept Kanchenjunga Circuit pristine.

Trekkers get to explore the rich biodiversity of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Despite the remoteness of the region, the locals are evolving on their own. Closely tied to their roots, you will be in awe of their lifestyle, practices, and values. Visit the ancient Ramtang and Oktang monasteries.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek 21 days takes you across the wonders of nature. The journey is packed with stunning mountain views and beautiful landscapes. You will discover dense forests, waterfalls, meadows, and glaciers.

Yalung Glacier is the highlight of the upper part of the trail. Mountains like Kanchenjunga, Tent Peak, Janu, Wedge Peak, Twins, etc are seen along the trail. Not to mention, the Kanchenjunga Circuit is also a part of the Great Himalayan Trail, which makes it even more appealing.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit is near the Sikkim (India) border. It is a restricted area in Nepal, so trekkers must obtain a special permit from the Nepali government to do this trek. The lower part of the trail is lush and green, whereas the upper part of the trail is barren, rocky, and glacial.

One of the biggest highlights of the Kanchenjunga trek is the day 14th (Sele Le Kharka to Tseram). You will cross four mountain passes - Sele Le, Sinion La Pass, Mirgin La Pass, and Sinelapcha La Pass.

Highlights

  • Embark on an adventurous trek to one of the remotest parts of the eastern Himalayas in Nepal.
  • Trek to the north and south base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world
  • A perfect trek for travelers who are looking for untouched, remote locations and dare to go beyond the mainstream trails
  • Enjoy empty trails, rich biodiversity, and beautiful landscapes
  • Get to see the lifestyle of Rai and Limbu communities and experience a unique mountain lifestyle
  • Witness jaw-dropping mountain panoramas and stunning views of Yalung Glacier
  • Travel far away from the city and enjoy nature and tranquility
  • Push your limits while navigating advanced terrain and crossing multiple passes in one day

Are you ready for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek? How to train for the trek?

We hope you understand the difficulties of the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek 21 days. It is not your usual trek in the Himalayas. The terrain is advanced and high altitude challenges are huge too. Strong fitness, previous trekking experience, and some understanding of the Himalayan trails are needed for a satisfying journey.

If you meet the above requirements, you are ready to join the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek. However, if you don't, prepare for the trek. Book the trek early and give yourself at least six weeks. In these six weeks, improve your strength, stamina, and endurance. Go on regular long walks and do some day hikes.

Kanchenjunga Circuit trek packing list

Follow the list below while packing for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek. You must be well-packed for this trek and make sure you do not miss anything. The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek route is remote, and you will not find most things.

  • Breathable underwear
  • Base layer
  • Thermal layer
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • Thermal socks, gloves, beanie, and scarf
  • Dry towel
  • Hiking socks
  • Trekking boots and a causal pair of shoes/slippers
  • Duffel bag and day pack
  • Trekking poles, UV ray protection sunglass, sun hat
  • Reusable water bottles and water purification tablets
  • Portable torch, knife, map
  • Personal first aid kit (bandaids, insect repellant, ointment, hand sanitizer, crack bandage, pain relief gel/spray, general medicine, etc)
  • Toiletries (toilet paper, wet tissues, deodorant, SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, comb, toothpaste/brush, soap, etc)
  • Snacks, nuts, energy bars, ORS (electrolyte powder)
  • Cash, travel insurance documents, passport-size photo, valid passport, travel visa

Travel with Adventure Treks Nepal and enjoy more than three decades of expertise

Your overall experience in the mountains depends a lot on the service provided by your trekking company. We, Adventure Treks Nepal, are one of the oldest trekking and tour companies. With more than three decades of expertise in the industry, our trips are well-managed, planned, and supported.

We have a very high satisfaction and success rate as well. We do not compete in the market to provide cheap prices. Our trips are designed to provide optimal adventure, fun, and satisfaction. By choosing us for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek, you can travel freely.

Bookings are open for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek 2024 autumn departure. Likewise, you can also pre-book the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek 2025 spring/autumn departure with us. For any support, contact us anytime.

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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  • Accommodation: Hotel

Today, you will visit a few tourist sites in Kathmandu and later prepare for the trek. You also have to obtain a restricted area permit. First, with our tour guide, we explore monuments like Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. After the tour, he will drop you at the hotel. Rest for a bit, and then meet your mountain guide. You will receive the restricted area permit and pack for the trek.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. From here, hop on a local jeep and drive to Taplejung. Enjoy breathtaking scenery on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 1,441 m/4,727 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 50 minutes flight & 7-8 hours drive

After an early morning breakfast, leave Taplejung and drive to Sekathum. It will be a scenic ride. You will drive past settlements like Mitlung, Chirwa, Thapethok, Lelep, and others. On the way, register the permits at the police check post. From Sakathum, start walking to Amjilosa. The trail goes along the Ghunsa Khola.

  • Max Altitude: 2,498 m/8,198 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5-6 hours drive & 5 hours trek

The trail from Amjilosa goes through lush forests and ascends to a ridge. From here, you will gradually trek to Gyabla for the night. It is a Tibetan-influenced village. Witness superb mountain views on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 2,730 m/8,956 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5-6 hours

From Gyabla onwards, you will descend into a gorge. The trail then passes through a dense forest of fir and rhododendrons. You will then follow a river and cross yak pastures. Reach Pholey, and from here, trek across green fields to reach Ghunsa.

  • Max Altitude: 3,595 m/11,794 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5 hours

Spend a rest day in Ghunsa. Hike to a high elevation and return to Ghunsa to spend the night. This will help you avoid altitude sickness. Visit the Lpasan La monastery.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

While trekking from Ghunsa to Kambachen, you will navigate areas prone to landslides. The trail is offbeat and requires your attention. You will trek north from Ghunsa via lush forests and follow a river bank. On the way, witness beautiful views of Mt. Jaanu and a glimpse of the Jannu glacier.

  • Max Altitude: 4,050 m/13,287 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6 hours

Kambachen, from now on, you will enjoy the desolate landscape. The terrain is steep, rocky, and icy in some sections. You will climb via a moraine and pass by landslide debris. Reach Ramtang, and from here, continue trekking along the north bank of a river to Lhonak. The view of the Kanchenjunga glacier is remarkable.

  • Max Altitude: 4,780 m/15,682 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7 hours

Hike to the north base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga early in the morning. The trail gradually ascends via moraine and landslide-prone areas to the base camp. The mountain views and tranquility of the region are outstanding. Return to Lhonak to spend the night.

  • Max Altitude: 5,140 m/16,863 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5-6 hours

After leaving Lhonak, you will trek back to Ghunsa. The trail is the same as before. On the way, you will enjoy stunning views of Mt. Jannu.

  • Max Altitude: 3,595 m/11,794 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7 hours

From Ghunsa onwards, you will start trekking to Sele Le Kharka. Follow steep, rock-strewn tracks through lush forests to the High Camp. From here, climb to Sele Le Kharka to spend the night.

  • Max Altitude: 4,290 m/14,075 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7-8 hours

Today, you will start walking early. The trail ascends to Sele Le. The mountain views from the top of the pass are surreal. Likewise, you will also climb three other minor passes, and the views are heavenly all the time. You will see breathtaking vistas of Mt. Makalu, Mt. Baruntse, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Chamlang, and Mt. Kabru today.

  • Max Altitude: 3,870 m/12,697 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7-8 hours

The trail traverses the Yalung Glacier snout and leads you to the Oktang Base Camp. The view of the valley and snow-capped mountains is unbelievable. From the base camp, you will descend to Ramche to spend the night. Ramche is the only place that offers a view of the four main summits of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

  • Max Altitude: 4,740 m/15,551 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7-8 hours

The trail now goes to Tortong. The terrain is much easier today compared to the last couple of days. Descend from Tseram and follow the right side of the trail back to Sele Le pass. You will pass by Simbuwa Khola and enter a rhododendron forest, which will take you to Tortong.

  • Max Altitude: 2,995 m/9,826 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6-7 hours

The trail to Yamphudin is difficult. You will steeply ascend to Lamite Pass (3,500 m). From here, the trail takes you to the Simbua Khola Valley. Cross a wooden bridge and trek on a steep uphill route via forests of pine and rhododendrons. The trail then climbs to Dhupi Bhanjyang (2,540 m) and crosses a ridge to Yamphudin.

  • Max Altitude: 2,080 m/6,824 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7 hours

Today, you will trek to Thorpu. Leaving the remote Kanchenjunga route, you will head back to civilization. Trek through dense forests, enjoying beautiful landscapes while descending.

  • Max Altitude: 1,500 m/4,921 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6-7 hours

It is your last day of walking. You will leave Thorpu and descend to Birtamod. You can also use a local jeep and enjoy off-road driving to Birtamod.

  • Max Altitude: 300 m/984 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6-7 hours

Leave Birtamod early in the morning and drive to Bhadrapur. Enjoy a beautiful highway. From Bhadrapur, take a scenic flight to Kathmandu. The guide will drop you off at the hotel.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: Less than an hour drive & 50 minutes flight

You have a full day free in Kathmandu. Spend it as you wish. Visit famous tourist sites and learn about Nepali culture, art, and architecture. Do not forget to buy souvenirs, as today is your last day in Kathmandu.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will depart from Kathmandu today. Our team will drop you at the airport and bid you our last goodbyes.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Cost Details
Included
  • Arrival and Departure Transport.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with an entrance fee.
  • Trekking Duffle Bag using for Trekking.
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in Tea house while trekking.
  • Kathmandu - Bhadrapur - Kathmandu Flight.
  • Bhadrapur-Suketar-Bhadrapur Drive.
  • Trekking porter with insurance. (We Provide 01 Porter for 02 Pax).
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Trekking Guide and Porters food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Kanchanjunga Trekking Region map.
  • Farewell dinner with cultural program.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • Special Permit for Kanchanjunga.
  • Government taxes.
  • Office services charge.
Excluded
  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance of any kind
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days) you should get visa Upon your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Wi-Fi, Heater charge, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.
Route Map
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 21 Days
Altitude Chart
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 21 Days
Essential Information

Kanchenjunga Circuit trek permits

To do the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek, you will need the below permits:

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) permit: USD 20 per person

Kanchenjunga Restricted Area permit: USD 10 per person per week

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek difficulty

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is very demanding and one of the most challenging trekking routes in Nepal. The terrain, diverse climate, high altitude, and weather contribute to its difficulty. Strong fitness and endurance are required because you will navigate some treacherous terrain.

Likewise, this trek explores the most rural sections of the eastern Himalayas. Untouched and pristine, the region has minimal tourist infrastructure. You will ascend and descend rugged and steep slopes. The trail goes through dense forests, landslide areas, glacier moraines, and rocky terrain. Six hours of walking are required every day.

Prevent altitude sickness

Trekking in the Himalayas takes above 2,500 meters. Trekkers usually face altitude sickness while trekking because they are not used to high altitudes. For instance, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek takes you above 5,000 meters. You will not gain this altitude in a single day; instead, everyday elevation increases gradually.

If you focus on acclimatization, you can complete the trek without suffering from altitude sickness. Our Kanchenjunga Circuit trek itinerary has a gradual pace and three acclimatization hikes, so you will have ample time to adjust to the elevation. If you see symptoms like headache, vomiting, difficulty breathing, insomnia, nausea, etc, inform your guide and get first aid.

During trekking, you have to keep yourself hydrated and avoid any alcoholic drinks or smoking. Do not have anything that may dehydrate you. Similarly, maintain your pace and listen to your body. Do not hesitate to inform your guide if you feel any discomfort. It could be the early sign of altitude sickness. And lastly, get ample rest and have good food.

Best time to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek

The best time to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit trekking is March to May and September to November. These are pre and post-monsoon times in Nepal, so the trekking routes are in good condition, the climate remains mild, and the weather is stable. Trekkers from all around the world trek to different destinations in Nepal, but very few travel to the Kanchenjunga region.

The trails are empty and peaceful, even during the peak trekking seasons. You will enjoy stunning landscapes and mountain views. The lower part of the trail is teeming with vegetation and wildflowers. Rivers, streams, and waterfalls gush with water. The visibility is great, and the chance of rainfall or snowfall is very low.

Ensure your safety with travel insurance: helicopter evacuation coverage is mandatory

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek mandatory requires helicopter evacuation and medical bill coverage. If you want to join this trek, you will need travel insurance with this coverage. There are many travel insurance providers from which you can purchase your insurance. Make sure that the helicopter evacuation is applicable in the Himalayas and up to 5,000 meters.

Accommodation and food options along the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek route

Accommodation along the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek route is tea houses. Unlike the famous trekking regions in Nepal, Kanchenjunga lacks service for trekkers. You have to be well-packed for the journey, including ample snacks, toiletries, first aid supplies, etc. The rooms are twin-shared. You will get a clean bed and blanket; however, a sleeping bag is recommended for more comfort.

Squat toilets are commonly found. In some places, you will get Western-style toilets as well. You have to pay a few extra bucks to charge your phone, hot shower, and WiFi. WiFi is not available above Tashigaon. Likewise, the network is also not great above this village. You will get three meals daily during trekking, and you can buy extra food and drink on your own.

Teahouses also serve meals. Some common menu items are fried rice, stew, dal bhat, chapati, momo, chowmin, thukpa, porridge, soups, toast, eggs, oatmeal, and pancakes. Safe-boiled drinking water is also available everywhere along the trail. For more safety, carry water purification tablets.

Travel visa to enter Nepal for the trek

If you are a non-Nepali citizen, you will need a travel visa and passport to enter Nepal. Indian citizens and travelers from other SAARC nations can enter Nepal with their national identity card. You can get a travel visa from the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office in your country.

Likewise, if you are not from these countries - Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria or hold refugee travel documents, you can get a visa upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or any land border.

FAQs

Kanchenjunga is located around 670 kilometers away from Kathmandu. The aerial distance is 260 kilometers. To reach the starting point of the Kanchenjunga trek, you first have to take a 50-minute flight and drive for two days.

The Kanchenjunga trek is one of the longest treks in the Himalayas. The itinerary usually lasts 21 to 26 days. Our Kanchenjunga trek itinerary is 21 days and can be customized.

Yes, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is challenging. This trek is only for experienced trekkers with substantial fitness. You will cross high passes and navigate many landslide-prone areas, moraines, gorges, and glacial paths.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek costs USD 2,400 per person and can reach USD 3,200 per person. The cost depends on your itinerary, group size, and package services.

Yes, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is safe because you must do it with an expert guide and porter. The region and the terrain are very remote and untouched by the rest of the Himalayas, so trekkers have to be more attentive.

No, you cannot trek the Kanchenjunga Circuit without a guide. It is illegal for foreigners to travel in a restricted area without a guide.

No, Kanchenjunga is not K2. K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world, situated in Pakistan. Likewise, Kanchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world, located in Nepal.

Following our Kanchenjunga Circuit trek itinerary, you will start the trek from Sekathum. It takes two days to fly and then drive here from Kathmandu.

Yes, you can see Mt. Everest from some sections of the Kanchenjunga Circuit trail.

At night, the temperature drops as low as -10°C or 14°F. For the Kanchenjunga trek, you have to pack warm clothes, gloves, scarves, and jackets.

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