Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek-19 Days

  • Duration19 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude 5143m.|16873ft.
  • Starts at Sekathum
  • Ends at Kanyam
  • Trip Type Private
  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Transport Flight/ Private Vehicle

Experience unparalleled serenity on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, a less-traveled path in Nepal's remote eastern region, bordering Sikkim, India. Known for its pristine landscapes, this trek offers unspoiled views and abundant wildlife, making it a hidden gem among Nepal’s trekking routes. The Kanchenjunga Circuit, requiring special permits due to its challenging trails, sees fewer trekkers, ensuring a tranquil experience away from the crowds.

The trek circles the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak, reaching an impressive 8,586 meters. Our itinerary takes adventurers to both the north and south base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga, providing a thorough exploration of this awe-inspiring mountain. For those interested in a tailored experience, we offer customized itineraries focusing on either the south or north base camp.

Also referred to as the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, this journey is demanding and suited for those with prior trekking experience; it is not advisable to attempt it solo. More secluded and challenging than the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek or Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Kanchenjunga Circuit stands out for those seeking an extraordinary adventure in the Himalayas. The trail winds through lush forests, alpine meadows, flowing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages.

To secure your spot on this exclusive trek, contact us for bookings for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek 2024|2025. Take advantage of our early booking offers for the spring and autumn seasons of 2024.

Highlights of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Embark on an enchanting journey to explore the hidden corners of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain. This trek traverses a restricted area in Nepal, offering a magical adventure that feels like a step back in time, filled with stunning mountain panoramas. Experience the rich biodiversity of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy the serenity of less-traveled paths through lush forests, mesmerizing waterfalls, and scenic rivers, complemented by the charm of remote villages and their hospitable residents.

Adventure across thrilling suspension bridges, traverse high mountain passes, and explore verdant meadows. The trek leads to the north base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga, where you can immerse yourself in the Tibetan Buddhist lifestyle of the local communities and visit ancient monasteries dotting the landscape.

Why Choose Golden Tibet Travel?

Golden Tibet Travel stands out for its authentic trekking experiences, led by native guides knowledgeable about the Kanchenjunga region and its cultural nuances. Our itineraries are thoughtfully designed and customizable to cater to your trekking desires, ensuring a memorable adventure.

We maintain complete transparency in all our trekking and tour policies, with no hidden fees. Our team comprises friendly and flexible travel enthusiasts who are passionate about exploring and sharing experiences with like-minded adventurers. With two decades of expertise in trekking across Nepal, we are your ideal partner for discovering the wonders of the Kanchenjunga Circuit and other popular treks like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, and Nar Phu Valley.

Itinerary

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Day to Day Itinerary Details

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Golden Tibet Travel will greet you and transport you to your hotel in Kathmandu using a private vehicle. After settling in, you may enjoy an evening stroll through the bustling streets of Thamel and relax overnight at the hotel.

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

    Our team management will meet with you at approximately 9 am to collect your original passport for trek permit preparation. At 5 pm, our team manager will return your passport, introduce you to your trekking guide, and review your trekking equipment. You can purchase or rent any necessary items from the trekking shops in Thamel. Optionally, you may choose to take a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage sites in the afternoon.

    Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
    Meals Included: Breakfast

      Catch a morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, lasting about 45 - 50 minutes. From there, travel by local jeep through the scenic routes of Kanyam and the Mechi Highway, viewing lush tea plantations en route to either Taplejung or Illam, the starting points of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

      Accommodation: Hotel
      Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

        After breakfast, take a local jeep to Sekathum. This drive, typically bypassed by trekkers who opt to walk, will pass through several villages such as Mitlung, Chirwa, Thapethok, and Lelep. You'll check in at the Kanchenjunga National Park entry point before proceeding to Sekathum.

        Accommodation: Tea House
        Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

          Starting your trek at Sekathum, you'll ascend along the Ghunsa Khola, crossing several bridges and passing through lush vegetation and small settlements like Jonggim and Ghaiyabari to reach Amjilosa.

          Accommodation: Tea House
          Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

            Embark on a trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla, known locally as Kyapra, after breakfast. This part of the Kanchenjunga trek takes you through dense forests where no human settlements are found, offering a chance to possibly spot Red Pandas. The trail includes uphill climbs, presenting stunning mountain views and passing several waterfalls before reaching the Gyabla village.

            Accommodation: Tea House
            Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

              The journey from Gyabla to Ghunsa involves walking through rich woodlands, home to diverse flora and fauna, towards Phale village. Continuing at a comfortable pace, you will reach the culturally rich Ghunsa village. While many opt to acclimatize here, our schedule includes an acclimatization day at Khambachen instead.

              Accommodation: Tea House
              Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                After breakfast in Ghunsa, start your ascent through open pine forests where you might see blue sheep and potentially snow leopards. The route takes you past areas prone to landslides and offers views of Mt. Jannu and green glacier valleys before arriving at Khambachen village, a scenic and tranquil location ideal for trekkers.

                Accommodation: Tea House
                Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                  Use this day to rest and acclimatize in Khambachen after several days of trekking. Short hikes to nearby glaciers, viewpoints, and lakes are recommended to help your body adjust to the altitude. This location is a common gathering spot for trekkers heading to or returning from the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

                  Accommodation: Tea House
                  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                    Continue your trek along the trail of the Kanchenjunga glacier, encountering trekkers during the main season moving towards or coming from Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. The route will take you through Ramdang and past the Ramdang Monastery. Navigating through the junction of the Lhonak and Kanchenjunga glaciers, you'll arrive at the small settlement of Lhonak, which offers a few teahouses for rest.

                    Accommodation: Tea House
                    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                      Embark on a rewarding hike to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, also known as Pang Pema, situated at an altitude of 5143 meters. The trail leads through moraines, culminating in the breathtaking sight of the third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga, adorned with prayer flags. After absorbing the stunning vistas, return to Lhonak for the night.

                      Accommodation: Tea House
                      Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                        Retrace your steps from Lhonak to Ghunsa, soaking in the Himalayan views one last time. The journey back will revisit the distinctive landscapes of stone huts, soaring peaks, and rocky fields along the Kanchenjunga trail, providing enduring memories of your trek.

                        Accommodation: Tea House
                        Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                          The trek to Sele Le Base Camp introduces a path less traveled, leaving behind the trail to Gyabla. Amidst dense forests, there's a possibility of encountering snow leopards. This secluded area features a few teahouses, open only during peak trekking seasons, and provides a critical link to the South Base Camp, dependent on seasonal conditions. This stage offers a unique and isolated trekking experience.

                          Accommodation: Tea House
                          Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                            Journey from Sele Le Base Camp to Tseram encompasses traversing high-altitude passes such as Sinion La, Mirgin La, and Sinelapche Bhanjyang. These points offer panoramic views of Himalayan giants like Mt. Jannu, Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. The descent to Tseram, where you will spend the night, caps this scenic day.

                            Accommodation: Tea House
                            Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                              After an early breakfast, the trek proceeds through the Yalung Glacier towards Ramche, offering vistas of Rathong and Kabru peaks. Enjoy lunch in Ramche before hiking to Oktang, the viewpoint for Yalung South Base Camp. This location provides up-close views of three summits of Mt. Kanchenjunga and surrounding peaks, offering a profound sense of the region's grandeur before returning to Tseram.

                              Accommodation: Tea House
                              Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                                Leave the stunning snow-capped mountains behind and traverse through serene rhododendron forests on your descent to Tortong. The route follows the Simbuwa Khola, offering enchanting Himalayan views. This tranquil trek concludes with an overnight stay in the peaceful village of Tortong.

                                Accommodation: Tea House
                                Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                                  Continue descending from Tortong, passing through Lasiya Bhanjyang and Dhupi Bhanjyang, as you make your way to Yamphudin. This leg of the trek involves navigating steep slopes before arriving at Yamphudin village, where the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area checkpost is located for permit verification. This is particularly relevant if your trek commenced from Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

                                  Accommodation: Tea House
                                  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                                    After breakfast in Yamphudin, set out to explore the scenic landscapes along the Kabeli Khola. Departing from the mountain villages, you will embark on a drive to Kanyam, a picturesque area renowned for its expansive tea gardens. On the way, enjoy views of cardamom and tea plantations through the windows, transitioning from the high altitude trekking experiences to the lush lowlands of Kanyam, a favorite among local tourists.

                                    Accommodation: Tea House
                                    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

                                      After enjoying breakfast and a brief visit to the green tea cultivation areas in Kanyam, you will drive for approximately 2-3 hours to Bhadrapur. From there, take a 45 to 50-minute flight back to Kathmandu in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel and later invited to a farewell dinner with our management team, celebrating the conclusion of your trekking adventure.

                                      Accommodation: Tea House
                                      Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Farewell Dinner

                                        Meals Included: Breakfast

                                          Cost Details
                                          What's Included
                                          • Airport pick-up and drop-off services for all international and domestic flights
                                          • All necessary trekking permits
                                          • 3-star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu for three nights
                                          • Comfortable lodging throughout the trek
                                          • All meals during the trek, including tea and coffee
                                          • A government-licensed, first aid-trained trekking guide
                                          • Guide's salary, food, equipment, and insurance
                                          • Shared jeep/bus transportation for key segments of the trek
                                          • Flights between Kathmandu and Bhadrapur
                                          • First aid kit with essential medication
                                          • Complimentary sleeping bag and down jacket (refundable)
                                          • Golden Tibet Travel T-shirt, trekking map, and water purification tablets
                                          • Farewell dinner in a fine Kathmandu restaurant
                                          • All official expenses, local and government taxes, and VAT
                                          What's Excluded
                                          • International flight tickets and Nepal entry visa
                                          • Travel and health insurance, covering emergency rescues and evacuations
                                          • Personal expenses during the trek such as snacks, alcoholic beverages, and Wi-Fi
                                          • Porter service (available for an additional fee)
                                          • Private jeep transportation (available for an additional fee)
                                          • Meals in Kathmandu outside of the farewell dinner
                                          • Entrance fees for sightseeing in Kathmandu
                                          • Tips for the trek guide and porter, which are customary and appreciated
                                          Useful Information

                                          Add-Ons & Options for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                          The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package offers an economical way for budget-conscious trekkers to explore the remote Kanchenjunga Region in Nepal. For those looking to enhance their trekking experience, we offer several optional add-ons:

                                          Porter Service Enhance your trekking experience by hiring a porter. This service allows you to enjoy your hike without the burden of carrying heavy gear. Each porter can carry between 20-25 kilograms, making your trek more comfortable while you focus on the scenery and the challenge ahead.

                                          Cost for One Porter: USD 400

                                          Private Transportation While the standard package includes shared bus/jeep transportation for segments like Bhadrapur - Illam / Taplejung - Sekathum and Yamphudin - Kanyam - Bhadrapur airport, you can opt for private transportation. This exclusive service provides a more personal and flexible travel experience throughout your trek.

                                          Cost for Private Jeep: USD 400

                                          Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Difficulty

                                          The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is among the most challenging and remote treks in Nepal. Characterized by rugged terrain with frequent passes, rivers, gorges, and glaciers, this trek demands high endurance and strong physical condition. Trekkers face long days of walking, often over eight hours, in areas devoid of modern comforts. High altitudes can quickly lead to exhaustion, and there is a constant need to monitor for symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

                                          Physical Fitness & Preparation

                                          Preparation for the Kanchenjunga Circuit involves rigorous physical training. Prospective trekkers should engage in cardiovascular activities such as jogging, running, cycling, and swimming. Building core body strength and muscle endurance is also crucial due to the trek’s demanding nature. Since the trek involves lengthy ascents and descents on rugged paths, being in top physical shape is essential to fully enjoy and successfully complete the trek.

                                          Best Time to Trek Kanchenjunga Circuit

                                          The optimal seasons for trekking the Kanchenjunga Circuit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer the most stable weather conditions and moderate climates. Spring brings the landscape to life with vibrant flowers and lush greenery against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, making it ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty. Autumn coincides with Nepal's major festivals, offering dry weather and the opportunity to experience the local culture amidst stunning, stark landscapes. Depending on personal preferences for scenery and cultural experiences, trekkers can choose the season that best suits their trekking desires.

                                          Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Permit Requirements

                                          The Kanchenjunga Circuit is designated as a controlled area by the government of Nepal, necessitating specific permits for access. This region's restricted status means international travelers can only visit under strict regulations. Our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package includes all necessary permits, and we handle the permit acquisition process on your behalf.

                                          To trek in this region, you must adhere to several guidelines:

                                          • Mandatory Group Travel: Independent trekking is not permitted. You must travel with a group organized by a local licensed trekking agency.
                                          • Minimum Group Size: The group must consist of at least two trekkers, not including the guide and porter.

                                          Permit Costs:

                                          • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP): Nrs 2,000 per person
                                          • Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (KRAP): USD 20 per person, per week

                                          Tea House Conditions on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                          The Kanchenjunga Circuit is primarily a teahouse trek, featuring basic accommodations with shared toilets and limited amenities. While the facilities are modest, you will find proper accommodation in places like Suketar and Gunsa. However, teahouses are sparse along the trek and only located in certain areas.

                                          For example, Lhonak offers the last teahouse en route to the north base camp, while Ramche has the last teahouse on the path to the south base camp. On the Sele Pass high camp, there are only two teahouses available, which can accommodate between ten to fifteen trekkers each.

                                          Food Along the Kanchenjunga Circuit

                                          Dining options on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek are basic but nutritious. Meals typically include breakfast and dinner at the teahouse where you stay, with lunch consumed during the trek. The staple meal is "dal bhat tarkari" (lentils, rice, and vegetables), supplemented with side dishes, providing the essential nutrients needed for the physical demands of trekking.

                                          It is advisable to pack your own snacks and energy bars, as options en route are limited and can be expensive. This planning ensures you have access to snacks and supplements to maintain your energy throughout the trek, regardless of the availability at local stops.

                                          Trekking in Kanchenjunga: A Remote Himalayan Adventure

                                          Embarking on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most secluded and pristine areas of the Himalayas. With its rigorous permit requirements and basic teahouse accommodations, this trek is suited for adventurers seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal’s spectacular mountain terrain.

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