Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 22 Days
The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek offers an opportunity to explore the surroundings of the third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m). The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek itinerary guides you to the northern and southern base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga. It's important to note that the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, also known as the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, is challenging and requires previous trekking experience.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Price: USD $3000-
Price per person
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2-4 pax$3000
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5-7 pax$2700
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8-13 pax$2650
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14+ pax$2500
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Nepal
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Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Facts
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Highlights
- Explore the secluded mountainous eastern region of Nepal
- Opportunity to trek to both the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga mountain in one trip
- See different flora, faunas, and endangered wildlife like snow leopards, blue sheep, and red pandas
- Visit Ghunsa, a large traditional Tibetan community in the Kanchenjunga area.
- Experience the warm hospitality of the Kirati and Sherpa people.
- Cross high mountain passes like Sele La, Mirgin La, and Sinion La.
- Experience the spectacular beauty of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, Januu Himal, Wedge Peak, Mera Peak, and other Himalayan peaks.
- After long walks, meditate at the Ramtang and Oktalung/Oktang monasteries.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Overview
Compared to the renowned Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is even more challenging and remote. If you seek an extraordinary and magical adventure in the Himalayas, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek in Nepal is the one for you. The trail takes you through lush forests, meadows, rivers, waterfalls, and beautiful villages.
In addition to the main Kanchenjunga peak, four other summits are over 8,000 meters high. The most important of these is Kanchenjunga West, also called Yalung Kang, which is 8,505 meters tall. Around 20 more peaks in this area exceed 7,000 meters, with the highest ones being Kambachen (7,903m), Jannu (7,710m), Jongsong (7,483m), Kabru (7,353m), Tent Peak (7,365m) and the Twins (7,350m).
This impressive mountain cluster also has many more peaks over 6,000 meters high. Five major glacier systems flow through these peaks. The Zumu, Talung, and Rathong glaciers flow into Sikkim, while the Kanchenjunga and Yalung glaciers flow west into Nepal's Tamor River.
What to Expect: Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Imagine waking up to views of the Yalung Glaciers every morning. Trekking the Kanchenjunga Circuit feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by scenery that's timeless and utterly peaceful. It's like rediscovering a forgotten piece of yourself amidst the tranquil beauty of this region.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek takes on a whole new level of intrigue when you start chatting with the locals. They'll tell you stories about the Yeti – you know, that legendary snow creature? People believe it lives somewhere in these mountains, adding a touch of mystery to the whole adventure.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offers more than just stunning views of the Himalayas. It provides exclusive panoramas of some of the most intriguing mountains, including Tent Peak, Mt. Kambachen, and Mt. Janu. And if that's not enough, you'll also get to see the majestic eight-thousanders like Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Lhotse. It's a truly unforgettable experience.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek outline itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to Bhadrapur(flight) to 5 hours drive to Illam (1677m/ 5502 ft)
Day 2: Drive from Illam to Taplejung (1820m/5972ft)
Day 3: Taplejung to Chirwa (1270m /4166ft - 6 hrs)
Day 4: Chirwa to Lelep (1860m / 6120ft - 7 hrs)
Day 5: Lelep to Amijilosa (2510m / 8234 ft -5 hrs)
Day 6: Amjilosa to Gyabla (2730m/ 8956 ft - 4 hrs)
Day 7: Gyabla to Ghunsa (3595m/ 11794 ft - 4 hrs)
Day 8: Acclimatization Day (3595m/ 11794 ft - 4 hrs)
Day 9: Ghunsa to Kambachen (4100 m/ 13451 ft. - 4 hrs)
Day 10: Acclimatization day (13451 ft. - 4 hrs)
Day 11: Kambachen to Konak (4785 m/ 15698ft. - 4 hrs)
Day 12: Day trip to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (4785 m/ 15698ft. - 8 hrs)
Day 13: Lhonak to Ghunsa (3595m / 11794 ft - 7 hrs)
Day 14: Ghunsa to Sele le (4390m / 14402 ft. - 5 hrs)
Day 15: Sele le to Cheram (3870m /12696 ft - 8 hrs)
Day 16: Day trip to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (3870m /12696 ft - 6 hrs)
Day 17: Cheram to Torongding(2080m/6824 ft - 4 hrs)
Day 18: Toroding to Yamphuding (1980m/6824ft - 4 hrs)
Day 19: Yamphuding to Khebang (1910m/6266ft - 8 hrs)
Day 20: Khebang to Khamdime (1500m/ 4291 ft - 4 hrs)
Day 21: Khamdime to Bhadrapur (93m/ 305 ft - 10 hrs)
Day 22: Flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu (1300m/4625 ft - 50 min)
Typical day on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
On our teahouse lodge treks, we focus on creating a relaxed and comfortable experience for you. Our team is here to take care of the details so you can simply enjoy your trekking adventure in Nepal.
You'll stay in lodges with a communal dining area where you'll enjoy your meals. Rooms are typically twin-shared with a shared bathroom.
Keep in mind that the level of comfort and service in teahouse lodges can vary. For example, lodges at higher altitudes or in more remote areas might have more basic facilities.
Wake up in your room shared with another trekker. Pack your overnight gear into your main bag (provided by Places Nepal. You already placed your breakfast order with the guide last night, so it'll be ready when you are. The whole group will gather in the dining room for breakfast. Enjoy cereal, porridge, or rice pudding, along with an egg dish and some bread or toast. You'll also have two cups of hot drinks like tea, coffee, or lemon ginger honey.
While you enjoy breakfast, our porters will be getting ready and heading out. We'll start trekking between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. The pace is relaxed, giving you plenty of time to admire the views, take photos, and even explore nearby villages. Around midday, we'll stop for lunch at a teahouse along the trail. Enjoy a delicious meal like fried rice, dal bhat (Nepali lentil soup and rice), momos (dumplings), or pasta, along with two cups of hot drinks.
After lunch, we continue our trek and usually arrive at our lodge around mid-afternoon. When we arrive, you'll be greeted with a warm drink and some biscuits. For dinner, you'll enjoy a two-course meal with soup and a main dish. The menu offers a variety of options, including dal bhat (rice and lentils with vegetable curry), momos (dumplings), and the famous Sherpa stew. You can also order pasta, pizza, vegetable burgers, and fried rice. And don't forget – you'll have up to two cups of hot drinks with each meal.
After dinner, your trek leaders will discuss the plan for the next day. You can relax and chat with other trekkers in the dining room, maybe even play some cards. After a long day of trekking, most people head to their rooms early to rest up for the next day, which will likely be very similar to today!
Meal Plan: Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
All your meals are included on the trek, from breakfast and lunch to afternoon tea and dinner. We clearly outline what's included in your meals, so there's no confusion about what's covered. With all these meals included, you shouldn't need to spend any extra money on food. However, some people might choose to treat themselves to extra snacks or drinks at cafes and bakeries along the way!
When comparing our prices to other companies, make sure you're comparing the same things. Many trekking companies don't include meals in their prices when you stay at teahouses.
Food at the teahouses can be expensive, costing around £25 (US$35) per person per day. If you pay for your own meals, you'll need to carry a lot of cash, including tips for the staff. This can be risky.
It's much easier and safer to pay for your meals when you book your trip with us. You won't have to worry about carrying large amounts of cash. It's also hard to know how much cash to bring for the entire trek, especially since there are no ATMs on the trail.
Finally, it would be complicated and time-consuming for you and your guides to figure out how much each person owes at the end of each day.
At Places Nepal, we cater to different dietary needs. We always have vegetarian options available.
When you book your trip, let us know about any dietary restrictions you have. We'll work with you to create a meal plan that suits your needs before you depart.
If you have any questions about the food we provide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're happy to discuss your options further.
Kit List for Kanchenjunga Circuit trek
The weather can change a lot on this trek, especially as you climb higher. It can be hot at the beginning, with temperatures up to 25 degrees Celsius. But at higher altitudes, like Lhonak, it gets much colder. Overnight temperatures there can drop as low as -15 degrees Celsius.
You'll need a small rucksack or backpack for things you'll use during the day, like warm clothes, a jacket, your camera, water bottles, a small first aid kit, and some snacks. This backpack shouldn't weigh more than 5kg.
A porter will carry the rest of your gear in a duffel bag or kit bag. This bag can weigh up to 20kg. Make sure to mark your bag clearly so you can easily spot it.
To make packing easier, we've organized your gear into categories. Tick things off as you go and weigh your duffel bag before your trek to make sure it's within the 20kg limit.
Footwear:
- Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support are essential. Consider investing in a new pair and breaking them in before the trek.
- Camp Shoes: Lightweight trail shoes provide comfort around camp and offer a backup option if your boots develop any issues.
- River Crossing Ready: Enclosed sandals are crucial for navigating river crossings, protecting your feet from rocks and debris.
- Sock Support: Pack multiple pairs of comfortable, moisture-wicking hiking socks.
Clothing:
- Weather Protection:
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers (Gore-Tex or equivalent) are essential for rain and snow.
- Trekking Pants: Durable and quick-drying trekking trousers are ideal for hiking.
- Soft Shell Layer: Versatile soft-shell trousers offer added wind and light rain protection.
- Upper Layers:
- Long-sleeve shirts or tops (avoid cotton – choose quick-drying materials like polyester or merino wool).
- Micro-fleece layer for added warmth.
- Mid-weight fleece or synthetic jacket (PrimaLoft-type insulation) for core warmth.
- Lightweight down jacket for extreme cold conditions.
- Base Layers:
- High-quality thermals (merino wool or synthetic) for top and bottom.
- Fleece or synthetic leggings for extra warmth around camp.
Heads and Hands:
- Handwear:
- Fleece gloves for general use.
- Warm mittens or insulated gloves for extreme cold.
- Headwear:
- Warm wool or fleece hat.
- Sun hat for protection from the sun.
- Versatile bandana or scarf for warmth and sun protection.
- Lighting:
- Head torch with spare batteries for navigating in low-light conditions.
- Eye Protection:
- High-quality sunglasses with Category 4 lenses (for intense sun and glare) and side protection or a wraparound design.
High-Altitude Gear:
- Trekking Poles: Two trekking poles (like Black Diamond with "Flick Lock" for ease of adjustment) are mandatory for safety. They provide stability on steep sections, assist with river crossings, and offer support on snowy or icy terrain.
- Traction Devices: Crampons or microspikes are essential for safe descent on snowy or icy passes. Ensure they are compatible with your boots.
- Gaiters: Knee-high gaiters help keep your boots dry and prevent snow from entering your shoes.
- Climbing Helmet: While not always mandatory, a helmet is recommended for added safety on steeper sections and when navigating potentially unstable terrain.
Personal Gear:
- Sleeping Comfort:
- Sleeping bag rated for temperatures below -15°C (rental available from Shonas Rental in Kathmandu).
- Fleece or silk sleeping bag liner for added warmth and to protect your bag.
- Sleeping mat (we provide a foam mat, but consider bringing a lightweight inflatable mat for extra comfort).
- Daypack Essentials:
- Daypack (around 40 liters) with a comfortable waist belt and a rain cover.
- Two water bottles (Nalgene wide-mouth bottles are recommended).
- Water purification tablets (Pristine, Biox Aqua, or Aqua Mira).
- Snacks, camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF.
- Hand sanitizer for use after toilet breaks and before meals.
- Other Essentials:
- Stuff sacks or fold-drybags (Exped brand is recommended) for keeping your gear organized and dry.
- Books, cards, or other entertainment for evenings at the lodge.
- Earplugs (optional) for a more restful sleep.
- Baby wipes (optional) for added convenience.
- Travel insurance certificate.
Travel Essentials:
- Lock : Bring a small combination lock to secure your bag.
- Travel Attire: Pack comfortable and casual clothing for travel days and your time in Kathmandu.
- Travel Toiletries: Bring a toiletry bag with essentials like soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a travel towel. Toilet paper will be provided during the trek.
Personal First Aid Kit:
We provide a comprehensive group first aid kit. However, it's essential to bring personal medications and other items you might need, such as:
- Medications:
- All prescription medications with a doctor's note.
- Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and aspirin for pain relief.
- Diamox (for altitude sickness prevention – consult your doctor beforehand).
- Blister Prevention & Treatment:
- Blister treatment (Compeed patches are highly recommended).
- Rehydration:
- Rehydration powder (like Dioralyte) for treating mild dehydration.
- Other Essentials:
- Plasters and zinc oxide tape for minor cuts and scrapes.
- Throat lozenges for sore throats.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Itinerary
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from the hotel and accompany you to the airport. The flight to Bhadrapur is a 45-minute journey that offers scenic views over Kathmandu Valley, mountain ranges, and surrounding hills. Upon landing in Bhadrapur, we begin our scenic drive to Illam, also known as the heart of the tree plantation of Nepal.
After breakfast, we begin our 4-hour drive through terraced fields and hills filled with tea plantations of Illam until we reach Taplejung. After lunch there, you will have time to visit and roam around exploring the town filled with Buddhist monasteries and Gumbas. You can witness butter lamps burning continuously for 400 years at one of these monasteries.
Today, we begin our actual trek! It will be a long day, mostly going downhill. But we can rest briefly at the village of Sinwa next to the Tamor River before continuing walking.
Today is another long day of hiking that lasts for 7 hours. As we go through Tapethok, we will enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Here, we will have our permits checked before we cross a suspension bridge and go up to the village of Lelep.
Today’s trails consist of waterfalls and suspension bridges. We will reach the first Sherpa village on our trek and stay overnight. The village of Amjilosa is mainly used when the yaks and sheep are in the pastures, so very few families live there all year round.
After breakfast, we set off through forests of different kinds- pine, bamboo, oak, and rhododendron. Walking past the forests, we realize villages and people are starting to look more Tibetan. As we walk on the trail, we notice yaks, sheep, goats, cattle, and a variety of birds. After lunch, the trail proceeds through the dense forest and over a wooden bridge, taking us to Gyabla, where we will stay overnight.
Today, the trail passes through more forest and past Phale village, which used to be a Tibetan refugee camp started long ago when Tibetans fled from China's communist rule. We will have time to visit the village where handicrafts are sold. Then we head to Ghunsa, the biggest village in the area, which has a police station, health post, and Kanchenjunga conservation office. Telephone and internet services are available in Ghunsa.
We are now at a higher altitude and intend to go even higher. So we take the chance to rest and get used to the altitude in Ghunsa. There is a monastery to explore and a ridge to climb. You can see Jannu Peak from the ridge, which is worth the five-plus hour round-trip hike. If you want to climb up the hill, we recommend doing this to help your body adapt to the altitude. We will be taking a packed lunch for this hike.
This day, we give our bodies a chance to rest and get accustomed to the altitude as we prepare to visit the north base camp.
This day, we give our bodies a chance to rest and get accustomed to the altitude as we prepare to visit the north base camp.
The views of the Jannu Himal mountain range prevail over the skyline today. Following a delicate uphill path, we come to a green glacier valley. We may be lucky enough to spot blue sheep and snow leopards in this area. The trail then continues past a waterfall to an area prone to landslides, where we must be careful.
Today's trek is pleasing yet challenging, with rocky trails, chilly winds, pointed cliffs, overhanging rocks, and a partially frozen waterfall. The turquoise glacier walls and mountain-like terrain create an adventurous atmosphere. Along the way, a stopover at the Thulo Dhungo Shrine features an impressive Shiva trident that builds excitement for the stunning view of Mount Kumbhakarna ahead.
The route from Lhonak to Ghunsa retraces the same trail we previously traveled. The journey back involves walking downhill along the same path until reaching Ghunsa.
Today's trail lurches through a forest and along a grassy crest, from which the villages of Ghunsa and Phole can be seen in the distance, along with the majestic Mount Makalu adding elegance to the scenery.
After starting the journey in the early morning, we reach the challenging Selela Pass (4480m) before descending to Chhuchung Pokhari (Lake). The trail then climbs up and down, arriving at the highest pass (4750m), known as Nango Laptse Pass. Finally, after a few more hours of trekking, we reach Cheram, where we will stay overnight.
Today's journey takes us to Ramche, where we have lunch before continuing our trek for around 40 minutes to reach the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Situated on the edge of a glacier and surrounded by fluttering Tibetan prayer flags, the Base Camp offers a unique and spiritual atmosphere. After taking in the sights and experiences at this remarkable location, we retrace our steps along the same route, returning to Cheram for an overnight stay.
Today, the trail is generally downhill through the gorge. However, the last phase involves a steep uphill climb over an area prone to landslides through dense forests. Once we reach Torongding, there are villages where a few teahouses provide breaks and accommodation for trekkers.
Today will be a pleasant day with clear views of Jannu Peak. The trail descends and ascends through river valleys and canyons until reaching Yamphuding. At Lasiya Bhanjhyang, the hospitable Sherpa family runs a small teashop where we can rest and have lunch. Many campers wish to pitch tents here, but the limited water supply discourages camping. The waterfalls and rocky stairs help us to conquer the challenges ahead.
The trail from Yamphudin to Khebang is isolated, with only a few settlements along the way. It has many tough uphill climbs and stone steps that are challenging at that elevation. Agricultural fields only appear as you get closer to Khebang.
From Khebang, the trail winds through a pleasant forest surrounded by prayer flags. It's a colorful day with many vibrant monasteries and temples along the way, including the holy Pathivara Temple for Hindus within a few kilometers. Once reaching Kamdime, there's an opportunity for a short village walk.
Today, we look forward to a long drive. Reflect on the journey filled with beautiful scenery, incredible sights, and remarkable journeys throughout the drive to Bhadrapur. After reaching the hotel at Bhadrapur, it's time to rest your tired legs, relax, and enjoy a lovely dinner.
Today, we will drive to the airport and return to Kathmandu via flight, which will take about 50 minutes. That concludes our journey to the Kanchenjunga circuit trek.
What’s Included in the Package
- Airport Pickup and drop service during both international and domestic flight
- All necessary trekking permits
- 3-star Hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights
- All accommodations during the trek
- Meals (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) during the trek
- Government-licensed and first aid-trained English speaking trekking guide
- Salary, food, equipment, and insurance of the trekking staff
- Sharing Jeep / Bus (Bhadrapur - Illam / Taplejung - Sekathum and Yamphudin - Kanyam - Bhadrapur airport)
- Flight From Kathmandu - Bhadrapur, and Bhadrapur - Kathmandu
- First aid kit with basic medication
- T-shirt, Trekking Map, Duffle bag
- Farewell dinner in a fine restaurant
- Official expense, all local and government tax, and VAT.
Excluded:
- International flight tickets and Nepal entry visa
- Travel and health Insurance which covers rescues and evacuations
- Personal expenses.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
- Tips for trek guide and porter (it is expected)
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Map
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Dates
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - Useful Information
When is the best time to travel to the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
If you are planning on trekking to Kanchenjunga Circuit and don’t know when to plan your trip, know that it can be done at different times of the year. The Kanchenjunga circuit trek is known as one of the most challenging treks; even if you plan thoroughly, it’s mostly adventurous.
Plan your trip from March to May and October to November, as the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. Monsoons start from late May to late September, which makes it more difficult to trek due to slippery routes, heavy rain, and landslides that might occur.
The period between October and November is the most preferred time as the skies are clear, and it is the most pleasant time of the year to trek. When the weather is neither too hot nor too cold, and the breeze welcomes you in the parts of Kanchenjunga, this period is perfect for trekking.
Between March and May, spring brings its full glory out by adding a special touch to the trails with her beauty; rhododendrons bloom with their pristine color and shades, wildflowers welcome you gently, swaying with the wind, and the warm and humid weather is just too surreal making it the best time to trek.
Difficulty level of Kanchenjunga Circuit trek
Kanchenjunga circuit trek is for experienced trekkers only.” This statement might raise a few questions as to why and the reason behind it. Kanchenjunga circuit trek lies at an elevation of 200 meters to 5143 meters from sea level. Therefore, it is hard to predict the air pressure, humidity, temperature, and weather. Trekkers without prior experience might find the trek tiring, complex, and challenging. If you think you are opting for the challenge, check your health conditions and do regular exercises to ensure you have stamina while trekking. Many inexperienced trekkers might suffer from acute mountain sickness as the altitude is high and the route is challenging.
However, if you take precautions and know the basic rules of trekking, you are good to go. The trick to avoiding altitude sickness is acclimatization and hydration. A certain degree of physical fitness is required, and you don’t have to be an experienced mountain climber or trekker, but make sure your health is good before heading out to trek.
