Highlights
The Complete Guide to Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Located in the eastern part of Nepal, the Kanchenjunga trek is an unexplored and virgin trail that offers a peaceful and secluded experience to trekkers. Kanchenjunga is the third highest peak in the world, and the trekking route provides breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, mesmerizing landscapes, and an exotic scenic view of the Himalayas.The Kanchenjunga trek is a special and unforgettable destination for trekkers due to its landscape, amazing topography, and rich cultural heritage. The region is surrounded by mysterious stories concerning the Himalayan Yeti, the abdominal snowman that is believed to be found in this region. The trekking trail is also home to diverse and rare wildlife, including snow leopards, musk deer, red pandas, and many more.
The trekking trail is situated in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, spread over 2,035m sq. km, providing an opportunity for trekkers to immerse themselves in the wildlife diversity, including rare species of birds, amphibians, and mammals such as the Himalayan black bear, red panda, and snow leopard. The trekking route is challenging and exciting, with the ascent of Rathong and Kabru glacial excursion around Ramche being the highlights of the trek. As trekkers follow the Kanchenjunga trekking trail, they can witness remarkable valleys with a rich culture and tradition of the local inhabitants, providing an insight into the unique lifestyle of the region. The Kanchenjunga trekking trail is an extraordinary experience for animal lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful and secluded trekking experience.
Itinerary
DAY 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m) & Transfer to the Hotel
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will receive you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, take some time to rest and adjust to the new time zone. In the evening, you will have a traditional welcome dinner with your fellow trekkers and your guide.
DAY 2 - Preparation and briefing of the Trip
Today, we will have a detailed trip briefing and preparation session. Your guide will give you all the information about the trek, including the route, altitude, weather, and safety precautions. You will also have the opportunity to rent or buy any trekking equipment you may need. In the evening, you can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu.
DAY 3 - Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and Drive to Illam (1,205m)
After breakfast, we will take a scenic flight to Bhadrapur, a small town in the eastern part of Nepal. From there, we will drive to Illam, a beautiful hill station known for its tea gardens and natural beauty. In the evening, we will explore the local market and taste some delicious local tea.
DAY 4 - Drive to Taplejung and trek to Mitlung (921m)
After breakfast, we will drive to Taplejung, a small town at the foothills of the Himalayas. From there, we will start our trek to Mitlung, a small village located on the banks of the Tamor River. The trek is easy and mostly downhill, and we will pass through lush green forests and small settlements.
DAY 5 - Trek from Mitlung to Chirwa (1,270m)
Today, we will continue our trek along the Tamor River to Chirwa, a small town located on the border between Nepal and India. The trail is mostly flat, and we will pass through beautiful forests of rhododendron and oak trees. In the evening, we will explore the town and interact with the local people.
DAY 6 - Trek from Chhirwa to Sekathum (1,660m)
After breakfast, we will start our trek to Sekathum, a small village located on the banks of the Sisne River. The trail is steep and challenging, and we will pass through several small villages and dense forests. In the evening, we will relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
DAY 7 - Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,308m)
Today, we will continue our trek along the Sisne River to Amjilosa, a small village located at an altitude of 2,308 meters. The trail is steep and challenging, and we will pass through beautiful forests and rocky terrain. In the evening, we will rest and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
DAY 8 - Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)
After breakfast, we will start our trek to Gyabla, a small village located at an altitude of 2,730 meters. The trail is steep and challenging, and we will pass through dense forests and rocky terrain. In the evening, we will relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery..
DAY 9 - Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,550m)
After breakfast, you'll start trekking towards Ghunsa. The trail goes through a beautiful forest of rhododendron and pine trees, passing by several waterfalls. You'll also get to see stunning views of the snowy peaks of Mt. Jannu (7,710m) and Mt. Khumbhakarna (7,710m) along the way. As you approach Ghunsa, you'll notice the change in the landscape as it becomes more rugged and barren.
DAY 10 - Acclimatization at Ghunsa (Rest day)
Today is a rest day for acclimatization. You'll spend the day exploring the village and interacting with the locals, who are mainly of Tibetan descent. You can also visit the local monastery, which is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the region. In the evening, you can attend a cultural show performed by the locals, showcasing their traditional dances and songs.
DAY 11 - Trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen (4,050m)
Leaving Ghunsa behind, you'll continue your journey towards Khambachen. The trail climbs steeply through the beautiful forest of rhododendron and pine trees, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You'll also cross the river at several points, and pass by yak pastures and small settlements along the way. As you approach Khambachen, you'll notice the dramatic change in the landscape, as it becomes more barren and rocky.
DAY 12 - Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak (4,780m)
Today's trek takes you to the beautiful village of Lhonak. The trail passes through the rocky terrain of the Kanchenjunga Glacier, with stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m) and Mt. Jannu (7,710m). You'll also pass by several small glacial lakes, and the trail becomes steeper and more challenging as you approach Lhonak.
DAY 13 - Hike to the Pangpema viewpoint (5,388m) and back to Lhonak
Today, you'll take a short hike to the Pangpema viewpoint, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga massif. The hike is challenging and steep, but the views from the top are truly breathtaking. After spending some time at the viewpoint, you'll trek back to Lhonak for the night.
DAY 14 - Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa
Leaving Lhonak behind, you'll start your return journey towards Ghunsa. The trail retraces the same path that you took to reach Lhonak, but the views are just as stunning. You'll pass by several small glacial lakes, and the terrain becomes more rugged and rocky as you descend towards Ghunsa.
DAY 15 - Trek from Ghunsa to Sele La Base Camp (4,200m)
Today, you'll start your journey towards the high mountain pass of Sele La. The trail passes through a beautiful forest of rhododendron and pine trees, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You'll also pass by several small settlements and yak pastures along the way. As you approach the base camp of Sele La, the terrain becomes more rugged and challenging.
DAY 16 - Trek from Sere La to Tseram (3,870m) via crossing High pass
Today will be a challenging day as we cross the high Sele La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 4,290 meters. The trek to the top of the pass takes around 3-4 hours, and we will be rewarded with magnificent views of the towering peaks of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, and Makalu. After taking in the breathtaking views, we will start our descent towards the village of Tseram, which will take around 5-6 hours. Tseram is a small village located at an altitude of 3,870 meters, surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests. We will spend the night at a campsite in Tseram..
DAY 17 - Trek from Tseram to Ramche (4,580m)
Today, we will head towards Ramche, located at an altitude of 4,580 meters. The trek takes around 4-5 hours, and we will pass through the beautiful Yalung Glacier and the Lapsang La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 4,540 meters.As we reach Ramche, we will be greeted by stunning views of the towering peaks of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, and Yalung Kang. We will spend the night at a campsite in Ramche.
DAY 18 - Trek from Tseram to Oktang Temple and return to Tseram
Today, we will trek to the Okthang Temple, located at an altitude of 4,730 meters, which is one of the highest points of our trek. The trek takes around 4-5 hours, and we will pass through beautiful meadows, streams, and forests. As we reach the Okthang Temple, we will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the pristine blue waters of the glacial lake. After spending some time exploring the area, we will trek back to Tseram for an overnight stay at the campsite.
DAY 19 - Trek from Cheram to Tortong (2,995m)
Today, we will start our descent towards Tortong, located at an altitude of 2,995 meters. The trek takes around 5-6 hours, and we will pass through the beautiful forests of rhododendron and pine trees. As we reach Tortong, we will be greeted by stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the quaint village. We will spend the night at a campsite in Tortong.
DAY 20 - Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080m)
Today's trek is relatively easy and shorter, providing a chance to rest and recover from the previous day's trek. After breakfast, we start our journey towards Yamphudin. The trail passes through the lush forest of rhododendrons and magnolias, and we might spot some rare wildlife species such as the red panda, Himalayan black bear, or musk deer.After trekking for about 4-5 hours, we reach Yamphudin, a small village with traditional houses and a colorful local market. We will have plenty of time to explore the village, interact with locals, and learn about their unique culture and traditions. In the evening, we will enjoy a hot dinner and spend the night in a local teahouse..
DAY 21 - Trek from Yamphudin to Khewang
Today's trek is relatively long and challenging, as we will be walking uphill for most of the time. After breakfast, we will begin our trek towards Khewang, a small village located at an altitude of 2,785m. The trail passes through several small villages, lush forests, and terraced fields. Along the way, we will witness some breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and the surrounding landscape. After trekking for about 7-8 hours, we finally reach Khewang, where we will stay in a local teahouse and enjoy a hot meal.
DAY 22 - Trek from Khewang to Khandenba
After breakfast, we start our trek towards Khandenba, a small village located at an altitude of 2,670m. The trail passes through dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo, and we might encounter some rare wildlife species such as the Himalayan tahr, snow leopard, or the Himalayan monal. We will also cross several suspension bridges over the roaring rivers and climb steep hills. After trekking for about 6-7 hours, we finally reach Khandenba, where we will stay in a local teahouse and enjoy a hot meal. In the evening, we can explore the village and interact with the friendly locals.
DAY 23 - Drive from Khandenba to Bhadrapur & Transfer to the Hotel: via Phidim
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the beautiful mountains and start our journey back to Bhadrapur. We will drive through the scenic route passing through the beautiful small town of Phidim. We will have lunch at Phidim, a bustling commercial hub of Panchthar district. After lunch, we will continue our drive towards Bhadrapur. Upon arrival at Bhadrapur, we will check-in to our hotel and rest for the night.
DAY 24 - Fly from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu & Transfer to the Hotel
After breakfast, we will head to the airport to catch a flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival at the airport, we will transfer to our hotel and freshen up. In the afternoon, we can explore the bustling streets of Thamel, a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant markets, cafes, and restaurants. We can also visit some of the famous landmarks in the city, such as the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, or the Pashupatinath temple. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant and celebrate the successful completion of our trek.
DAY 25 - Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley
Today is a free day for you to explore the historical and cultural highlights of the Kathmandu Valley. You can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Each site is steeped in history and culture, and your local guide will provide in-depth information about the significance and stories behind each place. In the evening, you can enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and fellow trekkers to celebrate the successful completion of the trek.
DAY 26 - Transfer to International Airport for final departure
After breakfast, our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. We hope you had a memorable and enjoyable time in Nepal, and we look forward to serving you again in the future. Have a safe journey!.
TRIP ENDS HERE!
TREK GALLERY
Map
What's Included
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : sharing a twin bedroom at the hotel (3 Star category) in Kathmandu on a bed & breakfast basis
AIRPORT PICK-UP & DROP : Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office’s Staff.
Permits : All necessary paper works: Trekking Permit including MCAP and special permit, TIMS Card & conservation entry fee
STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
MAP: Trekking map of the trek
MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : Land Transportation Kathmandu
MEMBER LUGGAGE: Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carried by porters.
FOODS & LODGING : 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation sharing basis in tea house/camp during the trek.
DRINKS : 2 liters of boiled water to carry on thermos per day per member.
Guide : Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sight-seeing in Kathmandu valley.
PORTER : Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek.
STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : All Nepalese staff & porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food & clothing.
MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive Medical kit.
Meals on treks only: Breakfast, Lunch , Dinner.
What's Not Included
NEPAL VISA FEES : Nepali Visa fee is US$ 60 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 120).
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
INSURANCE : Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation.
RESCUE EVACUATION : Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation cost if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests, and Hospitalization costs.)
PERSONAL EXPENSES: Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears, etc.
TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
INTERNET SERVICE : Internet facility during the trek is not included.
EXTRA PORTER : $35 USD for an extra porter per day (If an extra porter is demanded).
TIPS : Tips for Guide, porters, and staff.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Mandatory Documents
Identification document
Booking Receipt, if Booked Online (PDF will work)
Cancellation Policy
More than 30-days prior to departure - 50% refund.
In Between 15-30-days prior to departure - 25% refund.
Less than 15-days prior to departure - No Refund.
Frequently Asked question
Absolutely! Whether you're a solo trekker or with a group, you can easily book your trek through our website or by contacting our Kathmandu office directly. We can even pair solo trekkers with groups, if desired.
On our treks, you'll enjoy a blend of traditional Nepali meals like 'dal bhat' (lentil soup with rice) and other international cuisines. We ensure our food is nutritious and energy-packed for the trekking journey. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.
Yes, we offer secure luggage storage at our office in Kathmandu. You can leave behind non-essential items and pick them up once you return from your trek.
Yes, depending on your trek's region, you'll need permits like the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems) card and regional conservation or national park permits. Our team takes care of all the necessary paperwork and permits for you.
Absolutely! We offer both fixed-departure and tailor-made treks. If you have specific preferences, routes, or places you'd like to visit, just let our team know, and we'll help design a trek that meets your desires.
Altitude sickness is a concern in the Himalayan treks. Our itineraries are designed to allow gradual acclimatization. It's essential to communicate any discomfort to our guides, who are trained to assist in such situations.
Yes, Kathmandu offers several rental shops where you can rent or buy trekking gear. If you're missing something, it's likely you'll find it here. However, for personal comfort, we recommend bringing specialized items like hiking boots from home.
Accommodation varies depending on the trek's route. In popular trails like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, you'll find well-maintained teahouses offering basic amenities. However, in remote areas, the facilities might be more basic. Camping may also be part of certain trekking routes.
Our guides carry communication devices and have contacts with local agencies to ensure swift action during emergencies. In extreme cases, helicopter evacuations can be arranged, given that the trekker has suitable insurance coverage.