Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 25 Days

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
At a Glance
  • Duration25 Days
  • Difficulty Level Serious
  • Max Altitude 5200 M
  • Group Size Up to 10 Pax
  • Starts Kathmandu Airport
  • Ends Kathmandu Airport
Highlights
  • Spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and other towering peaks
  • Trek through remote and pristine regions
  • Explore traditional villages and local cultures
  • Visit both North and South Base Camps of Kanchenjunga
  • Opportunity to spot rare wildlife such as snow leopards and red pandas
  • Cross challenging high mountain passes like Sele La and Mirgin La
  • Discover ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and stupas
  • Ideal for trekkers seeking solitude and true adventure
  • Support local communities and conservation efforts

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of the best-unsullied 25 Days trekking in Nepal. The journey presents awesome Himalayan vistas and the opportunity to walk through the subtropical lowlands of Nepal, adorned with striking glacial highlands, enthralling rhododendron woods, and beautiful villages.

The journey’s experience can be described only as blissful as you make your way through the traditional rural Nepal settings and confront the pristine massif of mountains.   

Taking place right at the very border of Nepal, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek presents trekkers a chance to explore and experience the exotic Limbu, Rai, Magar and Tibetan Sherpa cultures of the Taplejung district.

Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world and the second-highest mountain peak in Nepal, stands vigilantly over the ethnic Rai, Magar, Gurung, and Tibetan Sherpa settlements and villages of the region in a melancholic manner, covered in a snowy patina of ivory.

Due to the region's relative isolation, the Kanchenjunga Trek presents untouched natural environments and gleaming terrains that are unspoiled by the influx of visitors to the area. In like manner, it is the best less-trodden and less-tourist trekking trail in all of Nepal. You can also have a glimpse of the rare animals that reside within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, like the Musk Deer and the Blue Sheep.

Furthermore, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a gorgeous adventure that perfectly combines rural Nepalese Himalayan life with perfect natural settings. The Kanchenjunga trekking trails are decorated beautifully with chartreuse and emerald foliage, lush verdant trees, and pine-scented acreages. Because of the isolation of the trek, the journey presents an amazing natural quintessence with untouched green environments.

Join us for the best and most memorable Kanchenjunga Circuit trekking experience. Our professional staff and team members will make sure that the journey is well-serviced and that our customers are safe, comfortable, and satisfied at all times.

Come to join us in this ravishing adventure where you can experience the aesthetically pleasing magnificence of the mountains, alluring natural beauty, and have a closer look at the culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the ethnic Taplejung people of rural Nepal.

What to Expect from the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek ?

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging yet rewarding journey through Eastern Nepal’s remote regions. This trek offers incredible views of the world’s third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga, along with other towering summits, rolling hills, and rich local cultures. Here’s what you can anticipate:

  • Majestic Peaks: You’ll be surrounded by the awe-inspiring peaks of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and other mountains, providing breathtaking vistas and a true sense of adventure.
  • Cultural Insights: The trek traverses remote villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups, offering a unique glimpse into local traditions and ways of life.
  • Challenging Terrain: Expect steep ascents and descents, rugged trails, and high altitudes. The sense of accomplishment from completing this trek is unparalleled.
  • Diverse Wildlife: As you trek through dense forests, you may encounter wildlife like the Himalayan black bear, red panda, and musk deer.
  • Peaceful Solitude: Unlike more popular treks in Nepal, the Kanchenjunga Trek is less crowded, allowing for a serene and peaceful experience.
  • Adventure and Scenery: This trek combines stunning mountain scenery, cultural diversity, and a true sense of adventure, making it an unforgettable experience for trekkers of all levels.

Is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek suitable for you?

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is demanding and requires good physical fitness and preparation. Before starting this trip, take into consideration the following:

  • Physical Fitness: Long days of hiking at high altitudes with steep climbs and descents demand a high level of fitness and endurance.
  • Altitude Sickness: The trek reaches altitudes up to 5,160 meters, posing a risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization and awareness of symptoms are essential.
  • Trekking Experience: This trek is not for beginners. Previous high-altitude trekking experience and comfort with rough trails and remote environments are necessary.
  • Time Commitment: The trek is lengthy, requiring a minimum of two weeks. Ensure that you have sufficient time to do it.
  • Cost Considerations: Due to its remote location and limited facilities, the trek can be costly. Make necessary adjustments to your budget for unforeseen costs.

If you are an experienced trekker with good physical fitness and a spirit of adventure, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is perfect for you. However, if rough trails, remote settings, or high altitudes are not to your liking, consider other trekking options.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026

The cost for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek ranges from USD 2,599 to USD 3,599 per person, varying based on group size and facilities. Daily expenses for the trek are influenced by your travel style and plans.

Himalayan Recreation offers the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek cost based on group size. Here are the details:

No. of Pax

Starting price (USD) 

2 Pax

3599 USD Per person

3 to 5

3099 USD Per person

6 to 8

2799 USD Per person

9 to 12

2599 USD Per person

Note: Please feel free to Email us or WhatsApp if you have any questions or would like further information

Itinerary

Show Detail ItineraryHide Detail Itinerary

    Our airport representative will welcome you and explain the program further. There are no planned activities for the day, check into the hotel. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.

      Today, you will have a guided sightseeing tour of the ancient Kathmandu Valley. The city of Kathmandu has four major UNESCO World Heritage Sites within it. Each of the heritage sites presents insight into the history and religious reverence of Nepal. You will visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square and Pashupatinath Temple- a sacred Hindu temple located beside the Bagmati River. The next site is the Swayambhunath Stupa- a revered site of both the Hindu and the Buddhist people of Nepal. Lastly, you will visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist Mandala in the country. After the tour, we will return back to our Hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

        You will be transferred to the airport for your thirty-minute flight to Taplejung that is situated in northeastern Nepal with the Tamor River flowing through the district. Upon arriving at the Suketar Airport at Taplejung, we will start our trek to Mitlung- an old village surrounded by green hills and dotted with traditional Nepali houses with thatch roofs and rice farms. Overnight at Guesthouse at Mitlung.

          The trail to Chirwa ascends and descends steadily as we make our way toward the village of Sinwa. We will continue trekking downhill until we reach Tawa. Passing a beautiful rural landscape along the way, with dense forests and coruscating trails that wind along small brooks and rivers, we will reach Chirwa, a beautiful Limbu village with few lodges and tea shops. Overnight at Guesthouse at Chirwa.

            The trek from Chirwa to Sukethum passes through a varied trans-Himalayan landscape lush with cardamom fields and dense deciduous woods. Trekking uphill for some time, we will descend down the terrain to the lush green fields below. Continuing trekking along the Tamor River, we will be trekking uphill and downhill until crossing the Ghunsa River, after which we will reach Sukethum. Overnight at Guesthouse at Sukethum.

              Trekking from Sukethum to Amjilosa is challenging. After crossing the suspension bridge outside Sukethum, we will enter a dense forest, ascend the steep trail, descend and cross the river once more. Climbing a gorge from the bottom, we will be passing by the Solima village and descending again to the level of the river below. All in all, this day’s trekking is rather tough. Later in the journey, we will follow a tricky trail which goes both uphill and downhill until reaching Amjilosa where we spend the night. Overnight at Guesthouse at Amjilosa.

                We will start today's trekking from the river bank. Passing through a dense forest of bamboo, fir, and rhododendrons, we will eventually reach a small stone house by the river. From here, we will then climb uphill while crossing a few small bridges along the way to Gyabla- a dainty hamlet of small wooden and brick houses with thatch roofs surrounded by wide open mustard fields and distant views of the mountains. Overnight at Guesthouse at Gyabla.

                  Descending down the river as we trek on the beautiful emerald trail, we can notice the valley as it slowly opens up before reaching Phale. You can purchase a few souvenirs here if you want. Onwards in the journey, we will travel through the brimming conifer and pine forest to reach the Sherpa village of Ghunsa where we will spend the night. Overnight at Guesthouse at Ghunsa.

                    Acclimatization is important while trekking, as the lack of proper acclimatization, can lead to altitude sickness, which can dampen the trekking adventure. We will spend time acclimatizing around Ghunsa today. Today, we will take a short hike towards the Lapsang La Monastery through the lush green forest. After spending time at the Monastery, we will come back to Ghunsa in the afternoon and relax. The monastery is a great place to enjoy the views of the Kanchenjunga peak (8586m). Overnight at Guesthouse at Ghunsa.

                      From Ghunsa, we will trek further north along the river bank- which presents magnificent mountain scenery. Passing through rhododendron and pine forests, we will cross a bridge at Rampuk Kharka and continue past the waterfall to cross a rather tricky section of the landslide. Further exploring and tackling the tricky mountain trail, we will finally arrive at Kambachen. Overnight at Guesthouse at Kambachen.

                        Acclimatization is necessary for every high-altitude trekking journey. It helps us to adjust ourselves to the unfamiliar climate and thin air. We take short hikes in order to do so and explore the Nuphchu Khola Valley area. This day presents an opportunity to learn about the lifestyle of the people in the Kambachen area. Overnight at Guesthouse at Kambachen.

                          Today will be another challenging day and an early start is needed. Trekking through rocky fields and large boulders on the hillside along the riverbank, we will arrive at a waterfall from where we will cross a bridge to the Ramtang monastery. Further out we descend to the Lhonak River. Finally, we will arrive at Lhonak- a grassland in the exposed river valley ornamented with boggy marshes, glacial lakes, barren scree slopes, and glaciers. Overnight at Guesthouse at Lhonak.

                            Trekking along the Kanchenjunga Glacier, we will reach Pangpema- the Kanchenjunga Base Camp on the north side. It is important to be careful around the rockier sections while trekking as they are prone to landslides. As you climb a little higher, you can enjoy the splendour of Januu (7711m), Kanchenjunga (8586m) and the Chang Himal (6802m). Sometimes, you can also catch glimpses of the elusive Snow Leopards as well. From Pangpema, you can also see the Wedge Peak (6802m), the Ramtang Peak (6,700 meters) and the Gimmigela Himal (6,415 meters). Overnight at Guesthouse at Pangpema.

                              Retracing our path to Lhonak, we will continue down the valley to the Ramtang Monastery. The return journey offers a different perspective of the mountains like Kanchenjunga (8586m) and Mera Peak (6364m) among others. Due to the descending nature of this trek, we will reach Kambachen by evening and spend the night there. Overnight at Guesthouse at Kambachen.

                                We will descend to Ghunsa from Kambachen today, which means that we get to enjoy the beautiful snow-enveloped forests along with a backdrop of the impressive mountain scenery. The magical journey is made even more paradise-like by the fact that the trekking trail is often shrouded in low mist and gives you an eerie feeling of being in another world. We will stay overnight at Ghunsa. Overnight at Guesthouse.

                                  It’s a steep trek upward from Ghunsa to Selele-La pass. Upon reaching Selele La, we will climb through a dense forest of moss, rhododendron, and juniper. Lunch will be served in an appropriate place where there is the availability of water. We will spend the night in Selele La. The tea houses at Selele La are rather basic, but the journey is worth it because of the vast expanse of snow and the distant looming mountains of the Kanchenjunga massif. Overnight at Guesthouse at Selele La.

                                    We will be doing an uphill trek, all the while enjoying the mesmerizing south side view of the Jannu Himal (7711m) and Mount Makalu (8463m). Today is a strenuous trekking day as we will cross several passes- the Sinion La (4645m), the Mirgin La and the Sinelapche Bhanjyang. We will then make a steep descent to Cheram and spend the night there. Overnight at Guesthouse at Cheram.

                                      From Cheram, we will continue the trek, ascending past the snout of the Yalung Glacier and walking alongside the Simbuwa Khola. From here, we will be passing through the Lapsang village to reach Ramche. While there, we walk further up the valley or ascend a ridge to observe the herds of Blue Sheep. We will descend and spend the night at Cheram. Overnight at Guesthouse.

                                        As we begin our descent to Tortong, we first arrive at Anda Phedi. Leaving Anda Phedi, we descend further down to the trail alongside the Simbuwa Khola. We continue on our trek through the rhododendron forests. Maintaining a steady pace, we head to Tortung while enjoying the landscapes and serene forests. Overnight at Guesthouse at Tortong.

                                          We begin the day with an uphill walk to Lasiya Bhanjyang (3310m). The trail, shortly after reaching the Bhanjyang, drops and we descend to reach Yamphudin inhabited by Sherpas, Limbus and Rai ethnicities. You can also enjoy the local drink Tongba- an alcoholic drink typical for the Kanchenjunga region. It is prepared with boiled and fermented millet and is consumed warm. Overnight at Guesthouse at Yamphudin.

                                            From Yamphudin, we will make our way to Mamanke. The snow-line ceases slowly, and the terrain is replaced with trans-Himalayan vegetation again, with lush forests and dry soils baking in the Himalayan sun. The vast wheat fields at Mamanke are quite beautiful and the towering mountains in the distance decorate the skyline like a postcard. Overnight at Guesthouse at Mamanke.

                                              The trek to Lalikharka winds along the village passing Mamanke and going through the woods. Terrace farms and swirling vast patches of wheat and rice fields make a gorgeous view set against the mountains. You can stroll around the area to observe the lifestyle of the people inhabiting the area. Overnight at Guesthouse at Lalikharka.

                                                The trek back to Suketar is much like the trail to Lalikharka. The village of Suketar is also a rather quaint village where the people go about their day, chopping firewoods, farming or rearing domesticated cattle. It is a prime example of the peaceful village life of the Nepali Himalaya. Overnight at Guesthouse at Suketar.

                                                  From Suketar, we will make our way back to Taplejung from where we will bid the Kanchenjunga Peaks goodbye one last time and catch our flight back to Kathmandu. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the city and also shop for gifts and souvenirs. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

                                                    Approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight, a company representative will take you to the airport from where you will depart.

                                                    Cost Details

                                                    Cost Includes
                                                    • All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport transfers
                                                    • Three nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
                                                    • Kathmandu city tours, including tour guide, and private transportation
                                                    • 3 standard meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunches and Dinners) during the trek
                                                    • Best available twin sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek.
                                                    • Domestic flights (Kathmandu -Bhadrapur -Kathmandu flight)
                                                    • Bhadrapur Taplejung and Khamdime Bhadrapur local bus
                                                    • Himalayan Recreation’s experienced, government licensed, English speaking trekking guide during the trip.
                                                    • Porters and Supportive staffs services (1 porter = 2 trekkers).
                                                    • All costs of staff which includes food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment’s and medicines.
                                                    • Duffel bag use while trekking & Trekking map and trip achievement certificate
                                                    • Required National Park Permit fee & TIMS Fee
                                                    • First aid medicine kit
                                                    • Farewell dinner with Cultural show in a fine restaurant on second last day.
                                                    • Government taxes & office service charge
                                                    Cost Excludes
                                                    • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the above itinerary
                                                    • Personal Travel insurance, which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
                                                    • Personal trekking equipment or expenses
                                                    • Alcoholic drinks and beverages.
                                                    • Tips for trekking guides, porters and drivers (tipping is expected)
                                                    • Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the 'Price Includes' section

                                                    Know Before You Go

                                                    Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Difficulty

                                                    The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s wildest and most challenging treks. This trek is long and demanding, with numerous obstacles, including high passes, rivers, gorges, glaciers, rocky hills, and steep ascents and descents.

                                                    Expect several days with over 7 hours of walking. The region's remoteness means no modern comforts and the trails are often deserted. The thin air at high altitudes can quickly lead to exhaustion, adding to the trek’s difficulty.

                                                    Altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness, or AMS) is a constant concern. Symptoms like breathing problems, headaches, nausea, and loss of appetite can occur if you're not careful.

                                                    Physical Fitness and Preparations for the Kanchenjunga Trek

                                                    The trek involves many ascents and descents each day, following rugged paths with long walking hours. As elevation increases, the air gets thinner, and the cold climate can take its toll. Without physical fitness, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek can be incredibly tough.

                                                    Despite its rewards, the trek requires significant physical and mental endurance. Accommodations are basic tea houses with minimal facilities, meaning you’ll pay for little things like hot showers, internet, charging, and drinking water.

                                                    Preparation is key. Engage in physical training and consider a few short hikes or treks. Cardio exercises such as jogging, running, long walks, cycling, climbing stairs, and swimming are crucial. Building muscle and core body strength is also essential.

                                                    The best time to trek to Kanchenjunga Circuit

                                                    The Himalayas offer two prime trekking seasons with stable weather and moderate climate: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Choose the season based on your preferences.

                                                    • Spring: Perfect for seeing blooming flowers and greenery beneath snow-capped mountains.
                                                    • Autumn: Ideal for experiencing Nepal's biggest festivals and enjoying dry, exotic landscapes.

                                                    Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Permit

                                                    The Kanchenjunga Circuit is a controlled area regulated by the government of Nepal. International travellers are allowed entry under specific rules. We will obtain the necessary permits for you, and our trek package includes all permit costs.

                                                    • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) Entry Permit: NPR 2,000 per person
                                                    • The weekly cost of a Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (KRAP) is USD 20 per person.

                                                    Permit Requirements:

                                                    • Trekkers cannot trek alone or with an independent trekker. The trek must be organized by a licensed local trekking company.
                                                    • A minimum of two trekkers is required per group (excluding the guide and porter).

                                                    Tea House Condition in Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                                    The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a tea house trek with basic facilities such as shared toilets and limited amenities. Accommodation is basic, with proper lodging available in Suketar and Gunsa. There are only a few tea houses in some places.

                                                    For example, Lhonak has the last tea house on the route to the north base camp, and Ramche has the last tea house on the route to the south base camp. On the Sele Pass high camp, there are only two tea houses that can accommodate ten to fifteen trekkers each.

                                                    Food on trek

                                                    Food along the Kanchenjunga Trek Route is basic. Breakfast and dinner are served at the tea house where you spend the night, and lunch is eaten on the trail. The most common and nutritious meal is dal bhat tarkari with various side dishes.

                                                    Pack enough snacks and energy bars for the trek. Don’t rely on finding good snacks along the way, and if you do, expect high prices.

                                                    By preparing well and understanding the challenges, you can make the most of your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek and enjoy the incredible beauty and adventure it offers.

                                                    Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 25 Days FAQs

                                                    • Kanchenjunga Circuit trek falls under difficult trekking grade as it is one of the least trekked regions of Nepal. With very few tourists trekking in this region, you will experience a complete wilderness compared to other trekking areas. Also, the trek is comparatively longer than other prominent treks of Nepal, which adds to the difficulty level. 

                                                    • Yes, anyone with good fitness and physical health can trek Kanchenjunga. But, trekking solo in this region is not allowed as it is a restricted region. 

                                                    • Crossing a maximum elevation of 4,660m/ 15,88 feet or 'Lapsang La route' at 5,110m/ 16,765 feet in between the short connection route of these two base camps takes minimum 26 to 30 days. We can also tailor a trek to your liking and develop an itinerary of your choice.

                                                    • The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur or a drive to Ilam. From there, you'll further drive to Taplejung and then trek through several villages like; Chirwa, Amjilosa, Gyabla, Gunsa, Kambachen, etc until you make it to the base camps. 

                                                    • There are two base camps of Kanchenjunga, North, and South. Both base camps lie at high elevations. The altitude of Kanchenjunga North Base camp is 5143 m and of South is 4780 m.

                                                    • Similar to most of the trekking regions in Nepal, the best time to trek Kanchenjunga is in the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. These are the most suitable time with clear weather, moderate temperature, and less slippery trails offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. It is also the safest time to trek when you most likely won't face any trouble during the trek. 

                                                    • Kanchenjunga is situated in the eastern Himalayas of Nepal on the border between Sikkim and eastern Nepal. It lies partly in Nepal and partly in India.

                                                    • No, you cannot trek in Kanchenjunga without a guide. Kanchenjunga region is one of the restricted regions of Nepal where solo trekking is not allowed. You'll need to hire a guide to trek as there is a high risk while trekking alone, given the remote nature of the region. Along with the guide, the rule also demands a companion or a group along the journey.

                                                    • It is significantly far from Kathmandu as it takes two days just to reach the starting point of the trek. The trek begins from Taplejung. To reach Taplejung, you'll have to take a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur followed by a jeep ride to Birtamod and then to Taplejung. From Taplejung, you'll be trekking for another 2-3 weeks until you get back to the city. 

                                                    • Yes, you need permits for the Kanchenjunga trek. As it is a restricted region, you need a Kanchenjunga restricted area permit which costs USD 20 per week and another permit you'll need is a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) Entry Permit that will cost you USD 20 for the whole period.

                                                    • As the trek revolves around the world's third-highest mountain Kanchenjunga, it is predictable that the temperature will be frigid in the upper regions. Nevertheless, the lower region will be warmer and hot compared to the upper parts. In the upper region, the temperatures may drop to minus 25 degrees and the average temperature in the winter is below 15 degrees which is not a recommended season to trek. 

                                                    • The cost for the Kanchenjunga trek varies from the number of days in the itinerary and facilities you choose to use but in general, the cost ranges from $2200-$4500. The government charges USD 10 per person per week and USD 25 National Park fee per week per individual. The government’s licensed guide or official is a must-have and the minimum number of trekkers must be two. You cannot go on a trek on your own, and you will need to trek via a government registered travel agency.

                                                    • About (220 km) and quite strenuous, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek usually takes 20-30 days to complete. The duration can be shortened or extended depending on your walking speed or any other customization you want to make on the original itinerary. 

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