Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

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About the Destination

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a remote, 18–25 day trek in eastern Nepal that loops around the world’s third-highest peak, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m). It offers stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and rich local culture, with visits to both the North and South Base Camps. Less crowded and more challenging, it’s ideal for experienced trekkers. A special permit is required.

Location

Nepal

Region

Kanchenjunga

Max Elevation

5,150 m
Highest Point Reached During the Trek.

Duration

23 days

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge
Typical lodges or teahouses during the trek

Best Seasons

March–May / Sep-Nov

Group

Min. 2 Pax

Difficulty

Strenuous

Start Point

Kathmandu

End Point

Kathmandu

Permit

Special permit Required
A permit is required for this trek.

Food

Included
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are typically included

Highlights of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

  • Visit both the North and South Base Camps of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m)
  • Experience pristine alpine landscapes and diverse ecosystems
  • Visit traditional Sherpa and Rai villages rich in culture
  • Explore rhododendron forests and magnificent glacial scenery
  • Enjoy panoramic views from Pang Pema and the Yalung Glacier
  • Crossing of the challenging Sele La Pass (4,725 m)
  • Immerse in peaceful solitude far from crowded trekking routes
  • Witness the rugged natural beauty of a remote Himalayan region
  • Stay at family-run teahouses, enjoying warm hospitality and authentic local experiences

Trip Summary

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of the farthest and rewarding trekking experiences in Nepal, which takes you to the memorable circle in the north and southeast camps, the third-highest top peak in the world, the world's third-highest peak. The tour was opened for foreign trekkers in 1988, and winds through the pristine alpine terrain, attractive Sherpa and Rai villages, beautiful Rhododendron-forests and magnificent glacial scenery. These are a top alternative for those who want to enter more remote areas in Nepal.

The northern route for the trip follows the Ghunsa Valley, which goes through the quiet Sherpa village of Ghunsa and passes through Pang Pema (5,150 m), where trekkers are treated to magnificent views of Kanchenjunga Massif above. On the southern route, Ramje (Ramche) and the wonderful Yalung glacier climb, with their dramatic views with snowfall and huge southern surfaces of Kanchanjunga. Trekkers can complete the entire circuit or visit a single base camp with or without crossing the higher Sele La Pass (4725 m) depending on time and physical condition.

Due to its proximity to Sensitive India-Tibet borders, the Kanchenjunga region is a restricted (Controlled) trekking area that requires special permits. It is feasible to access the trek starting point at Taplejung by using lengthy drive travel from Kathmandu or, more usually, by means of flying to Biratnagar or Bhadrapur and then enjoying a scenic drive to Taplejung. Although there are occasional flights from Biratnagar to Suketar (Taplejung Airport), they may be now not dependable and problem to climate conditions. Therefore, it is a better option to drive from Biratnagar to Tapeljung, which takes about 7 to 8 hours of private jeep and offers panoramic length of rural areas and hills in eastern Nepal.

Despite its remoteness, the Kanchenjunga region now boasts basic tea house accommodation, which makes small group trekking feasible. What truly distinguishes the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is the combination of its rugged natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful solitude. The trek offers a rare possibility of immersion in gigantic, untouched landscapes in the shadow of the mighty Himalayan giants, which renders it a dream trek for adventure seekers seeking an authentic Himalayan experience.

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive Kathmandu

Day 02

Sightseeing to Swayambhunath, Kathmandu and Patan

Day 03

Kathmandu fly to Biratnagar (72 m) and drive to Taplejung (1,780 m)

Day 04

Taplejung drive to Sekathum (1,660 m)

Day 05

Sekathum trek to Amjilosa (2,510 m)

Day 06

Amjilosa trek to Gyabla called Kyabla (2,730 m)

Day 07

Gyabla trek to Ghunsa (3,430 m)

Day 08

Rest day for acclimatization at Ghunsa

Day 09

Ghunsa trek to Kambachen (4,100 m)

Day 10

Acclimatization Day – Hike to Kumbhakarna (Mt. Jannu) Viewpoint

Day 11

Kambachen trek to Lhonak (4,790 m)

Day 12

Lhonak trek to Pang pema (North Base Camp, 5,150 m) back to Lhonak

Day 13

Lhonak trek to Ghunsa (3,430 m)

Day 14

Ghunsa trek to Sele la Phedi (4,290 m)

Day 15

Sele la Phedi trek to Tseram (3,870 m)

Day 16

Tseram trek to Ramche (4,580 m)

Day 17

Ramche trek to Oktang (South Base Camp, 4,730 m)) and back to Tseram

Day 18

Tseram trek to Torongden (2,995 m)

Day 19

Torongden trek to Kengsra (1,700 m)

Day 20

Kengsra trek to Ranipul, then drive to Taplejung (1,780 m)

Day 21

Taplejung drive to Biratnagar (72 m) and flight to Kathmandu

Day 22

Rest and Buffer Day in Kathmandu

Day 23

Depart Kathmandu or extend your trip

Note

Have your own ideas or special requirements? We're more than happy to tailor the itinerary to match your schedule, interests, and travel preferences. Let us help you create a personalized adventure that’s truly yours.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Map and Elevation

Map and Elevation data coming soon...

Price Includes

Price Excludes

Packing List for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

This ultimate gear guide is designed to help you prepare smartly without a smartphone, and with no fluff, just essentials. Here’s what you’ll need across documents, clothing, equipment, and more.

Clothing

  • Thermal underwear (top & bottom)
  • Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3)
  • Thermal or wool socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Underwear (quick-dry)
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Lightweight wool sweater
  • Insulated jacket (-10°C to -20°C)
  • Waterproof shell jacket with hood
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Lightweight hiking pants (2 pairs)
  • Windproof softshell (optional)
  • Warm hat, sun hat, buff or neck gaiter
  • Gloves (liner + insulated)
  • Sleepwear and casual evening clothes

Footwear

  • Waterproof trekking boots (broken-in)
  • Camp shoes or sandals
  • Wool trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
  • Sock liners (optional)

Bags & Packing

  • Duffle bag (60–80L for porter)
  • Daypack (25–35L with rain cover)
  • Backpack rain cover
  • Garbage bags / bag liners
  • Packing cubes or dry bags (optional)

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C rated)
  • Sleeping bag liner

Personal Hygiene & Toiletries

  • Biodegradable soap & shampoo
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper
  • Lip balm (SPF) & sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Nail clippers, tweezers
  • Razor (optional

Trekking Essentials

  • Trekking poles
  • Spikes or crampons (Snowy season)
  • Headlamp (extra batteries)
  • Water bottles (2 x 1L Nalgene)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Dry snacks (energy bars, trail mix)
  • Pocket knife (optional)
  • Altitude sickness meds (Diamox)
  • Blister treatment (moleskin, Compeed)

First Aid & Health

  • Personal first aid kit
  • Prescription medications
  • Electrolyte powder
  • Basic cold/flu medicine

Electronics & Miscellaneous

  • Power bank
  • Charging cables
  • Travel adapter (Nepal types C, D, M)
  • Phone / camera
  • Offline maps or trekking guide app
  • Notebook, pen
  • Copies of passport & permits
  • Extra passport photos
  • Cash (Nepali rupees)

Documents & Permits

  • Passport (original)
  • Travel insurance with high-altitude coverage
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation area entry permit
  • Kanchenjunga special trek permit
  • Biratnagar flight tickets (round trip)

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek FAQ

Overview & Essentials

Arrival & Visa

Health & Safety

Weather & Temperature

Accommodation & Facilities

Packing & Gear

Reviews

5.0

Based on 1 reviews

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Profile of Sally & Mike Brodziak
Sally & Mike Brodziak
5/5
We were very impressed with Alpine Adventure Club right from the first email. Binod responded quickly and thoroughly to all of our questions and concerns. Upon arrival, he warmly welcomed us at the airport with beautiful garlands. All our accommodations were clean, and everyone we met was friendly and helpful....

All Inclusive Price

$2985

per person (varies with group size)

Group Discounts

  • 2–3 pax$3185/pp
  • 4–7 pax$3150/pp
  • 9–11 pax$3085/pp
  • 12+ pax$2985/pp
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