Walk About International

Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek

from 0 reviews
Best Price
Duration
22 days
Max. Elevation
5143m
Group size
Min 2+
Level
DIFFICULT
Transportation
Flight/bus 
Best Season
March to may/September to November
Accomodation
3*** Hotel/lodge 
Meals
B/L/D
Starts at
Kathmandu
Ends at
Kathmandu
Trip Route

Highlights

    • Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga massif, the third-highest mountain in the world, and other majestic peaks including Yalung Kang, Kabru, and Jannu. The trek provides panoramic vistas that showcase the grandeur of the eastern Himalayas.
    • Traverse through diverse ecosystems, from lush subtropical forests filled with rhododendron, orchids, and wildlife to alpine meadows adorned with colorful blooms. The trek offers a visual feast of natural beauty and biodiversity.
    • Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the region by interacting with local communities, particularly the Limbu and Rai people. Experience their unique traditions, hospitality, and the ancient monasteries that dot the landscape.
    • Enjoy the tranquility of a remote and less-explored region. The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek provides a sense of seclusion and wilderness, offering a more intimate connection with nature and the local culture.
    • Experience the thrill of trekking through varied terrain, from dense forests and terraced fields to high mountain passes. The trek includes challenging passes like the Mirgin La and Sele La, adding an adventurous dimension to the journey.

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.

Important Note

Trip Itinerary

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Not satisfied with this itinerary? Make your own.
Plan My Trip

Includes

    • Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur.
    • Scenic drive from Bhadrapur to Ilam.
    • Drive from Ilam to Taplejung.
    • Trekking permits and necessary paperwork.
    • Accommodations in various locations along the trek.
    • Guided trekking with experienced local guides.
    • Necessary porters to carry equipment and supplies.
    • Meals during the trek.
    • Acclimatization day in Ghunsa and Kambachen.
    • Day trip to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.
    • Day trip to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.
    • Flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu.

Doesn't Include

    • International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
    • Nepalese visa fees.
    • Meals and accommodations in Kathmandu.
    • Travel insurance.
    • Personal expenses (e.g., tips, laundry, souvenirs).
    • Additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., natural disasters, political unrest).
    • Personal trekking gear (e.g., trekking poles, sleeping bag, etc.).

Share this tour

Book Now

Join our Newsletter

Sign up to stay updated with latest offers, recent events and more news.
Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal