Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek

Overview

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek explores both the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain at 8,586m. This trek requires a good level of fitness and some trekking experience due to its remote nature. Despite its isolation, trekkers can gain insights into local life and visit Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries. The landscape features rivers, waterfalls, meadows, rhododendron, birch, and pine forests, along with the Yalung Glacier, accompanied by breathtaking mountain views.

Kanchenjunga is situated in the far eastern part of Nepal near the Sikkim border. Until the mid-1800s, it was believed to be the world's highest peak. The area was off-limits to trekkers until the mid-1980s, and today, it is protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, requiring a special trekking permit. The region preserves its unique flora and fauna due to these restrictions.

Apart from Kanchenjunga, the area boasts four subsidiary summits above 8,000m, including Kanchenjunga West (Yalung Kang) at 8,505m. There are also around twenty peaks exceeding 7,000m, contributing to the impressive mountain cluster. Five major glacial systems, including Zumu, Talung, Rathong, Kanchenjunga, and Yalung glaciers, further enhance the trekking experience.

The Great Himalayan Trail's recent addition has promoted tourism in this remote region, leading to more teahouses along the route. While this benefits local communities, it also signals an opportune time to experience the pristine beauty of Kanchenjunga before increased trekker traffic.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (Flight) to Ilam (Drive)

Embark on your journey as you fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a scenic drive to Ilam, situated at an elevation of 1677 m / 5501 ft. The journey takes approximately 5 hours.

Day 2 : Ilam to Taplejung (Drive)

Continue your adventure with a drive from Ilam to Taplejung, covering a distance of approximately 5 hours and reaching an altitude of 1820 m / 5971 ft.

Day 3 : Taplejung to Chirwa

Trek from Taplejung to Chirwa, experiencing diverse landscapes along the way. Chirwa is located at an elevation of 1270 m / 4166 ft, and the trek takes around 6 hours.

Day 4 : Chirwa to Lelep

Traverse through picturesque trails from Chirwa to Lelep, reaching an elevation of 1860 m / 6102 ft after about 7 hours of trekking.

Day 5 : Lelep to Amjilosa

Embark on a scenic trek from Lelep to Amjilosa, nestled at an altitude of 2510 m / 8234 ft. The journey spans approximately 5 hours.

Day 6 : Amjilosa to Gyabla

Continue your trek to Gyabla, situated at an elevation of 2730 m / 8956 ft. The trek takes around 4 hours, offering stunning views along the way.

Day 7 : Gyabla to Ghunsa

Trek to Ghunsa at an altitude of 3595 m / 11794 ft, a journey that lasts approximately 4 hours.

Day 8 : Acclimatization Day

Take a day to acclimatize in Ghunsa, ensuring you are prepared for the upcoming elevations. Explore the surroundings during this 4-hour acclimatization period.

Day 9 : Ghunsa to Kambachen

Continue your trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen, situated at 4100 m / 13451 ft. The journey takes around 4 hours.

Day 10 : Acclimatization Day

Another day for acclimatization in Kambachen. Use this time to adjust to the altitude while exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Day 11 : Kambachen to Lhonak

Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak, reaching an altitude of 4785 m / 15698 ft after approximately 4 hours of trekking.

Day 12 : Day Trip to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp

Embark on a day trip to the majestic Kanchenjunga North Base Camp from Lhonak, with a trek duration of 8 hours.

Day 13 : Lhonak to Ghunsa

Descend from Lhonak to Ghunsa, covering the distance in about 7 hours.

Day 14 : Ghunsa to Sele Le

Trek to Sele Le, situated at an elevation of 4390 m / 14402 ft, with a trekking duration of approximately 5 hours.

Day 15 : Sele Le to Cheram

Continue your journey to Cheram, reaching an altitude of 3870 m / 12696 ft after about 8 hours of trekking.

Day 16 : Day Trip to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp

Embark on a memorable day trip to the breathtaking Kanchenjunga South Base Camp from Cheram, with a trek duration of 6 hours.

Day 17 : Cheram to Torongding

Trek from Cheram to Torongding, situated at an altitude of 2080 m / 6824 ft, taking around 4 hours.

Day 18 : Torongding to Yamphuding

Continue your trek to Yamphuding, reaching an elevation of 1980 m / 6496 ft after approximately 8 hours of trekking.

Day 19 : Yamphuding to Khebang

Trek to Khebang, situated at an altitude of 1910 m / 6266 ft, with a trekking duration of about 4 hours.

Day 20 : Khebang to Khamdime

Continue your trek from Khebang to Khamdime, reaching an elevation of 1500 m / 4921 ft after about 4 hours of trekking.

Day 21 : Khamdime to Bhadrapur (Drive)

Embark on a scenic drive from Khamdime to Bhadrapur, covering a distance of 10 hours and reaching an elevation of 93 m / 305 ft.

Day 22 : Bhadrapur to Kathmandu (Flight)

Conclude your adventure with a flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu, with a flight duration of 50 minutes. Immerse yourself in the memories of this extraordinary journey.

Trip code
Package name	Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek
Duration	22
Max. elevation	5143 m
Level	DIFFICULT
Transportation	Flight/bus
Accomodation	3*** Hotel/lodge
Starts at	Kathmandu
Ends at	Kathmandu
Trip route
Cost	USD 1,830 per person