Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

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Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Highlights

Trip Duration 27 Days
Maximum Altitude 5388m
Difficulty Grade Difficult
Best Seasons Spring/Autumn
Start & End Point Kathmandu / Kathmandu
  • The third-highest mountain in the world
  • Explore Indigenous culture and lifestyle
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp
  • Yanlung base camp
  • Breathtaking Himalayan views
  • Restricted area trekking in Nepal
  • One of the Adventures trekking trails in Nepal

Overview of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is an excursion to the heavily isolated mountainous region of Nepal. It is located in the border region with India. The trek surpasses your imagination about the beauties of the remote areas and the breathtaking Himalayan white peaks in the vicinity of Kanchenjunga. A full camping trek is wonderful on this route.

Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m) is the third-highest mountain in the world. It has got five stunning and snowy summits that bear the quality to be the queen of the mountains. The Kanchenjunga circuit trek includes both South and North base camp. It is a perfect example of the fabulous remote trek in the Himalayas.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek trail is rugged, and rocky and includes various ups and downs on the trail. But the trail in the northern part is quite improved. The traverse between the south and north base camp is amazingly pleasant, where you can have an experience of walking through the highly wild areas.

The trail is not only peaceful but also the views of wild animals and birds are awesome in the Kanchenjunga National Park.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is spectacular to explore the indigenous culture and lifestyle. Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa are mainly populated groups in this area. They offer Tongba while passing their village, which is so amazing in the cooler places, which gives warmth.

It is a traditional alcoholic drink, made of millet. In the lower part, mixed villages are found, and in the alpine zone, Tibetan Buddhist communities are found.

The Himalayan views of Kanchenjunga North, Chang Himal, Kirat Chuli, and other neighboring peaks can be explored during the Kanchenjunga circuit trek. Lhonak, Ramche, Pangpema, and Yalung Glacier are some of the super scenic places and viewpoints. Vertex Holiday excellently organizes these treks with fully arranged trips. Expert guides, porters, and camping teams are provided for the trek.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - Route Map

Kanchanjunga Circuit trek map

Detail Itinerary of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Namaste and welcome to Nepal. After your arrival in Kathmandu, Vertex Holiday’s airport representative receives you at the airport and assist you to the hotel.

After getting refreshed, a short briefing and orientation will be conducted by our trekking leaders.

The evening is reserved for dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant with a Nepali cultural program. Overnight at the hotel.

 

Car 30m
Accommodation Hotel
Meals welcome Dinner
Altitude 1300m

After breakfast, we drive to the airport and fly to Biratnagar. It takes about 40 min exploring the breathtaking views of the snow-covered Himalayas.

Landing at Biratnagar, you meet the further crew and drive to Taaplejung, which is the gateway of the Kanchenjunga circuit trekking.

Multiple 45 min flight, 5-6 hrs Drive.
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 1442m

Heading from Taplejung, we follow the Tamur Riverbank, which is a wonderful trail. It emerges into the core of the Himalayas and flows down making numerous gorges.

Walking through the sub-tropical forest, we continually walk to Mitlung, a scenic pastoral village, located on the terraced hillside.

Walking 4-5 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 920m

Having breakfast, Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek climbs up to the ridge and climbs down gradually to the Sinuwa village. A primary school is located in the village.

Villagers have a typical lifestyle whose profession is based on agriculture.

Then we pass through Tawa and head uphill. Crossing a bridge, we reach Thiwa. Climbing up to the hill ridge, we can view the breathtaking Chiruwa valley and reach there in a couple of hours.

Walking 4-5 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 1270m

Right at the beginning, we climb up for half an hour and see the extensive valley. from the peak point, we descend to the grazing meadow and register at the Kanchenjunga National park office.

Walking down to the Tamur Riverbank, we cross the bridge and head through the wide and relatively easy trail, gradually to Sekathum.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 1576m

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek trail is heavily isolated and off-the-beaten. Walking through the narrow canyon, we climb up gradually uphill and again trek down from the ridge and cross the suspension bridge.

Solima is the next village that we arrive in.

Again the trail leads us down to the River bed and crossing it, we climb up through the winding trail and finally arrive at Amjilosa, where some houses of the Tibetan-influenced people lie.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 2308m

From Amjilosa, our journey goes through the dense woods of various floras. Oak, rhododendron, and bamboo are some of the species that are dotted along the trail.

With a gradual climb to the uphill side, we arrive at Gyabla, which is a Tibetan-influenced village having traditional lifestyles and ways of living.

Walking 6-7 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 2730m

Right at the beginning, we trek down to the River bed. Then we walk through the alpine forest and the valley widens as far as we walk.

We can see numerous tiny settlements that are used by the Yak herders. Ghunsa is about a couple of hours to reach from here. It is populated by the indigenous Sherpa people.

After a short rest, we set out to see the hydropower project in Ghunsa.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 3550m

While walking in the alpine altitude, we need acclimatization and strong physical fitness. Thus, we spend an acclimatization day and rest for several hours.

If you prefer to hike, we can climb up to Lapsang La at 4200 meters. Some basic facilities are available at Ghunsa, including the communication service.

Walking
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 3550m

Following the east bank of the River, Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek begins our trek from Ghunsa. Near the cattle grazing meadow, we cross the bridge and walk thoroughly exploring the numerous cascading waterfalls.

Then the landslide-affected area comes, where we should be careful not to get hampered by the continuous stone falling.

Arriving at the ridge, we can get the stunning sight of the Jannu peak. Then we walk further and arrive at Khambachen.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 4050m

After breakfast, we take the northern trail along the bank of the river. As we walk on the high altitude, the trail is almost icy and slippery.

Crossing a suspension bridge, we climb up to the Ramtang, where a big grazing meadow lies. Then we pass through Ghunsa and walk through the narrow trail that leads us to Lhonak ultimately.

Walking 6-7 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 4780m

We set out for hiking to Pangpema (5388m), which is a striking view of the Kanchenjunga peak. We need to cross the route of the glacier and pass the landslide area to reach Pangpema. It is very much adventurous.

The view of spectacular valleys, tree lines, and Himalayan views of Kanchenjunga North, Chang Himal, Kirat Chuli, and other neighboring peaks can be explored. Then we back to Lhonak and stay.

Walking 3-4 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 5388m

From Lhonak, we walk down to the Ramtang valley. This route is famous to view wild animals, including the blue sheep.

Perhaps, it is one of the wonderful spots to explore the wildlife during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Walk continually till we reach Ghunsa and rest.

Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

We take a trail through the hydroelectricity plant and climb up to the rhododendron and juniper forest. Gradually, we continue stepping uphill on a ridge.

Then we walk on the south side of the ridge and reach the Sele le base camp at 4200 meters.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 4200m

As we have our breakfast, we begin our excursion to the ridge and eventually, we will be encountered the fabulous sceneries of Makalu East and Jannu West.

Then we cross the Mirgin La pass at 4730 meters. Then we trek down through the steep trail and ultimately arrive at Cheram.

Walking 3-4 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 3870m

We need to be highly acclimatized to head to this high altitude. The route goes through the alpine meadows that are beautifully surrounded by high snowy peaks.

The evening sunset view is stunning over the Himalayas, where we can have a memorable experience exploring such heavenly scenery.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 4580m

Using some climbing equipment, we reach the Yalung base camp. It is compared with peak climbing where you need to use the peak climbing skill.

Then we have some precious moments at the base camp and retrace to Cheram through the same route.

Walking 4-5 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 4500m

We find the tree line after descending from Cheram. Continually walking down, we reach the Simbuwa River, and walking steadily, we arrive at Tortong, which is located beside the River.

There are some tea houses too. Selecting a good place to camp, we settle down.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 2995m

We leave Tortong and walk to the Simbuwa Khola. There we cross a bridge and walk through the river bank. After that, we climb up to Lasiya Bhanjyang.

Again we climb down to the River and gradually climb up the hill to the picturesque Sherpa village of Yamphudin.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 2080m

From Yamphudin, today Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek heads down to the Kabbeli Khola through the dense woods.

We will climb a switchback towards a ridge and see the Buddhist prayer flags over the ridge. People make stone cranes at this point. Descending the river and walking across, we reach the Mamankhre village.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 1785m

The beginning of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek trail from Mamankhe is gradually uphill through the terraced rice fields. Then we descend to the river and cross the suspension bridge to head towards the Phonpe village.

again the trail goes downhill that offers dramatic panoramas of the long waterfalls that take the shape of small streams. Then we head continually to Kesuwa, which is populated by the indigenous group Limbu.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 2120m

The route is not that much technical, but it has got various ups and down. The terraced hillside and forest can be seen spectacularly.

As we walk, the villages of Kunjari and Bhanjyang. At the backdrop, the beautiful Kanchenjunga and Kabru peaks dazzle. Then we walk through the Kabbeli Khola valley and climb up gradually to our destination- Lalikharka.

Walking 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude 2265m

After breakfast, we leave Lalikharka. This is also the last day of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. We walk through the terraced fields and wonderful valleys.

On the zig-zag trail with various ups and downs, we arrive at Taplejung. Enjoy the evening walking around.

Walking 4-5 hrs
Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

We take a drive to Biratnagar from Taplejung. As we arrive quite early, we spend time on our personal tasks like bathing, some light washing, and visiting around the town.

In the evening, we celebrate the success of the Kanchenjunga circuit trek. Overnight at lodge.

Accommodation Lodge
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Fly back from Biratnager to Kathmandu

Flight
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

This is a great day to explore the ancient town- of Bhaktapur. It is a half-day trip. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is an old Newari town, where medieval architectures, pagoda-style temples, pottery square, and various other attractions lie there.

After the tour, drive back to Kathmandu and join the dinner in the evening at a typical Nepali restaurant. We have a special moment. Overnight at hotel.

Note: in case the flight gets canceled, today is the reserve day for that. Weather change is normal in the mountain region.

Car
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Having a good memory of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek with Vertex Holiday our representative drops you at the airport for your departure.

Car
Meals Breakfast

Includes/Excludes

What's Included?
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
  • Two-night accommodation in Kathmandu(Twin sharing basis) at a 3-star hotel with  Bed and Breakfast
  • Two-way airfare for Kathmandu-Biratnagar-Kathmandu
  • Airport pick up and drop off for Biratnagar flight by private vehicle
  • Professional tour guide and private vehicle for a city tour
  • All kinds of entire fees during the city tour
  • Snack of seasonal fruit during the trek
  • All meals during the trek time in the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Accommodation during the trek  with Twin sharing basis
  • An experienced English speaking, knowledgeable trekking guide.
  • Porter to carry your luggage (max:-25kg) including all of their costs i.e. Transportation, salary, insurance, equipment, meals, and accommodation
  • Necessary trekking  and National Park entry permits (please bring 3 PP-size photos)
  • Comprehensive medical kit
  • Duffle bag for Trekking
  • Snack of seasonal fruit during the trek
  • Comprehensive medical kit
  • Government taxes and office service charge
What's Excluded?
  • Nepalese visa fee
  • International airfare
  • Personal travel insurance
  • All kinds of drinks, snacks, and personally ordered food during the trekking time
  • All kinds of personal expenses
  • Hot shower during the trekking if needed to pay
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Rescue charge (if needed)
  • Tips for trekking staff

Essential Information - Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Best Season For Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is best during the Spring and Autumn Seasons. The Spring season falls during the months of March to May when the skies are clear with a wide variety of wildflowers blooming. Among the  National Flowers of Nepal, the Rhododendron is one of the main attractions.

The days are mostly sunny and warm, whereas the nights are chill with clear skies, allowing for gazing into the starry skies.

The Autumn season falls during the months of September to November when the temperature is slightly colder. However, the days are clear with enough sunlight, whereas the nights are freezing cold with clear skies. During the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek,  the higher elevations over 4000 meters are prone to snowfall making the trekking journey more thrill

Most Asked Questions by Travellers

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is more difficult compared to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Graded as a difficult trek, the highest elevation of the trek is 5388 meters above sea level. The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is composed of several steep uphills and downhills.

You are expected to be physically and mentally fit for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek. You must have prior trekking experience in other lower trekking destinations.

As a difficult graded trek, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. With altitudes higher than 5000 meters in elevation, the trek is a challenging trekking trip. Thus

No, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is not recommended for beginners, children, and elderly people. Due to the higher altitudes, people with some sort of heart and breathing problems are not a good fit for this trek.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is ideal for hardcore trekkers with plenty of experience.

The all-inclusive cost of the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is 2400 USD as per Vertex Holiday’s Itinerary.

However, the cost varies within different Travel Agencies, as per the services provided.

Reviews on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

5.0

StarStarStarStar Star
Based on 1 Review


Mountain Sickness
Synthia & Roberts
Austria
One of the Toughest and Admirable journey of my life

My wife and I wanted to do a challenging trip, which not a lot of tourists visit. And Kanchenjunga was a perfect choice. The scenery was amazing, and so was the trail. However, some parts of the trail made me feel like my breath and heart would stop. However, our guide Chhiring was a motivating person, and our porters were tough men, making our trip successful and easier.

Much recommended for hardcore trekkers.

5.0
StarStarStarStar Star

Excellent