Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Private Trip

Destination

Nepal

Accomodation

Lodge and Camping

Walking Distance

202 km / 126 miles

Duration

16 Night 17 Days

Max. Elevation

5143m|16873ft

Meals Included

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Best Season

Autumn and Spring

Grade

Challenging

Overview

Do you want to embark on an adventure that combines breathtaking mountain views with cultural immersion? If yes, then the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is the best decision. The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is an iconic trekking adventure known for its stunning vistas and challenging trails. This trek to Kanchenjunga offers the most picturesque view of the majestic mountains and glaciers. One can also explore the unique lifestyle and their mixed Tibetan culture.

Situated near the border with Sikkim State in eastern Nepal, Kanchenjunga is the world's third-highest mountain, with an altitude of 8,586 meters. This mountain is bound west by the Tamur River, north by the Lhonak River and Jongsang La, and east by the Teesta River. This region acts as a natural boundary between India and Nepal. It was believed that Mount Kanchenjunga was the highest mountain in the world until 1849.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a must-do for trekkers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. The region is culturally rich and inhabited by Tibetan Sherpas, who maintain unique traditions and lifestyles. Kanchenjunga has four ridges extending in all directions: north, south, east, and west. Between them lie four glaciers, which is one of its unique features.

The major eye-catching and memorable parts of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek are this region's beautiful landscape, flora, and fauna. The different species at various altitudes attract the trekkers and surprise them with their peculiar characteristics.

Typically, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek spans about 16 to 18 days, allowing the trekkers to acclimatize and enjoy the adventure to the fullest. This trek promises trekkers an adventurous and memorable journey in their lives.

                                
                                Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Highlights:
                            
                                Enjoy the astonishing landscapes and the majestic mountains
Witness mountains of India as well as China
Visit beautiful glaciers, which include Yalung Glacier and many others
Experience the Tibetan Sherpa cuisine as well as their history
Explore the two different sides of Kanchenjunga: Kanchenjunga South and Kanchenjunga Central
Cross three challenging passes, including the Mirgin La Pass
Witness Olangchungola village, the last village that connects Nepal with Tibet
Enjoy the traditional rearing methods of Yak
Witness the 5th highest mountain Makalu and 3rd highest mountain Kanchenjunga

Best seasons for Kanchenjunga Circuit trek

The most favorable period for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is spring, which falls between March and May. During this season, one can witness the flowers blooming, adding more beauty to nature. They can even enjoy the picturesque scenery of the green hills and meadows with grazing animals. Another point to trekking during these seasons is that you can enjoy the different colors of Laliguras and expect snow on the trails.

The other suitable season for the trek is autumn, which falls between September and November. The chilly winds and awe-inspiring scenery blend perfectly, making the trek more exciting. During these seasons, there is less risk of avalanches, rainfall, and landslides, so trekkers can rest assured and enjoy their trek. And enjoy the yellow and red colors of the trees.

Food and Accommodation during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Most inns do not have comfortable facilities during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, especially if the place is up in the hills. We lodge you in mostly clean and secure tea houses, local lodges, and homestays, but you can choose according to your preference.

The small inns on the way to the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek have a lot of different foods to choose from. These areas provide the food hikers need and are places where you can spend the night before continuing with the hike. Tea houses generally offer you buffet-style meals. However, a limited food option includes typical Nepali thali, where you will taste different cuisines such as dal, vat, and tarkari. This is a vegetarian and non-vegetarian joint, which implies that there will always be food that one prefers on one's plate at this place. Typically, the tea houses ensure that the environment stays warm by offering the clients tea, coffee, or Tibetan tea.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Difficulty:

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a moderately challenging trek requiring physical and mental preparation. Since this trek requires reaching a high elevation of 5160 meters, there may be some difficulties, such as altitude sickness. The terrain for this trek is steep and rocky and might be challenging.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a trek for trekkers seeking a challenging, less crowded, authentic Himalayan experience and a satisfying one. It is worth considering the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek for trekkers, even with moderate trekking skills or beginners who want some challenges with high satisfaction levels.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Distance:

Days	Itinerary	Distance and Time
Day 1	KTM to Bharatpur flight	256 km \| 1 hrs (flight)
Day 2	Taplejung to Ille Danda Ille Danda to Olangchung gola	95 km \| 5 hrs (Drive) 13 km \| 5 hrs 30 min
Day 3	Olangchung gola to Langyoug Kharka	17 km \| 9 hrs
Day 4	Langyong Kharkha to Ghunsa (via NANGO LA PASS)	22 km \| 11 hrs
Day 5	Ghunsa to Khambachen	11 km \| 5 hrs
Day 6	Rest day at Kambachen	(Rest Day)
Day 7	Khambachen to Lonak	11 km \| 5 hrs
Day 8	Lonak to KBC and back Lonak	22 km \| 10 hrs
Day 9	Lonak to Ghunsa	22 km \| 9 hrs
Day 10	Ghunsa to Selele	13 km \| 6 hrs
Day 11	Selele to Cheram	19 km \| 9 hrs
Day 12	Cheram to Ramche	9.5 km \| 4 hrs
Day 13	Ramche to Oktang viewpoint and back to Cheram	14 km \| 6 hrs
Day 14	Cheram to New Jharani via Torondeng (Tortong)	17 km \| 8 hrs
Day 15	New Jharani to Yampudhim	12 km \| 6 hrs
Day 16	Yampudim to Kyanam/ tea garden	10 hrs (drive)
Day 17	Kyanam/ tea garden to Bhadhrapur Bhadhra[pur to KTM	1.5 hrs (drive) 1 hrs (flight)

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Permits

1. Special restricted area permit (SRAP):

Yamphuding is a restricted area requiring SRAP to commence Kanchenjunga trekking. To have it, you must be represented by a legal trekking company in Nepal that is registered and licensed by the government. You must pay USD 20 per person per week for the first four weeks and USD 25 per week.

2. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project permit (KCAP)

Before trekking on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trail in Nepal, one must acquire the KCAP permit at the National Park's checkpoint. We can acquire permits with or without validation dates, but complete documentation is necessary. A person must pay Rs. 2,000 for the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP). There is no time limitation for the permit.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Photo

Mountain view with rugged terrian clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

snow white mountain view with clouds and rugged terrian clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

pink flowers with small petals all over the greenery clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Trekker from North Nepal trek walking around greenery clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Amazing photo of Kanchenjung Base Camp with pink flowers and snow white himalays in a single frame clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Trekker from North Nepal Trek climbing up during pass clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Itinerary:

day 1

Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung

Driving Hours	10 hours
Flight Hours	1 Hours
Highest Altitude	1,442 m

Today, we will take our flights from Trivuwan International Airport, Kathmandu, to Chandragadi Airport on a domestic flight. Although it is an hour's flight, you will witness the mesmerizing bird's-eye view of the hills and mountains.

After landing at Bhadrapur, we will take a local jeep and start our road trip to Taplejung, about 256 kilometers away. Throughout our journey, you will get to sightsee and enjoy tea cultivations and the diverse cultural heritage of the Sherpas as we travel through the Kanyam tea garden.

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at a hotel

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

day 2

Trek from Taplejung to Ille Danda and to Olangchung gola

Driving Hours	5 hrs
Highest Altitude	3,200 m
Trek Duration	5 - 6 hours
Trek Distance	13 km

After a night at the local lodges in Taplejung, we will get up early and start our drive. Today, our destination will be Olangchung Gola. During our trip, we will cross through several jungles and also witness the settlements of Rai, Limbus, and Sherpas. We will also travel through the banks of Tamber Khola, the largest river in Taplejung.

As we continue our offroad drive of 5 hours and a distance of 95 kilometers, we will eventually reach Ille Danda. The route towards the Olangchung Gola is neither too steep nor too flat initially, but we see paths too steep to follow as we get towards the trail's end. The trek continues for about 6 hours until we finally reach Olangchung Gola, about 13 kilometers away from Ille Danda.

Photo of Greenery with Houses in Olangchung clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Photo: Olangchung gola

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 3

Trek from Olangchung Gola to Lyangyoug Kharka

Trek Duration	9 hours
Trek Distance	17 km

The trail from Olangchung Gola to Lyangyoug Kharka is more accessible than the other trail. There are steps at some points, and we will cross several suspension bridges. During our trek to Kanchenjungha Base Camp, we will encounter several forests and small lakes. As a result, you will get to explore various flora and fauna, as well as the Rocky Mountains and waterfalls. We also want to remind you that no hotels or villages are available during our trek, so make sure you carry enough packed food and drinks.

We will finally reach our destination, which is about 17 kilometers away from Olangchung Gola, after trekking for 9 hours. We will spend the night and continue our journey the following day.

Buffalo and ox grazing in the Langjoung Kharka during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek captured by North Nepal Trek

Photo: Lyangyoug Kharka

day 4

Trek from Langyong Kharkha to Ghunsa (via NANGO LA PASS)

Highest Altitude	4,910 m
Trek Duration	11 - 12 hrs
Trek Distance	22 km

Today will be an exciting and long journey. We will reach Ghunsa through Nango La Pass. The alpine forests with rhododendrons and other colorful flowers make the trip more enjoyable and beautiful. We will walk through variant species.

The trail to Nango La Pas is very steep and rocky as well. One must be careful about their steps, as the path can be slippery and risky. As we reach Nango La Pass, you will witness the breathtaking views of the hills and mountains. Overall, this trail is tricky, but it is worth the view. This trail includes loose rock and a technical route as we pass the RockyNango La Pass. Then, we will descend to Ghunsa, a small village where Sherpas reside. As we trek for 11-12 hours, covering a distance of 22 kilometers from Langyoug Kharka, we will finally reach Ghunsa, where we will spend our night and immerse ourselves in their culture.

On the way to Nangola Pass during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek captured by North Nepal Trek.

Photo: On the way to Nangola Pass

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Camp

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 5

Trek to Khambachen

Trek Duration	5 hrs
Trek Distance	11 km

The trail from Ghunsa to Khanbachen is one of the most beautiful parts of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. To reach there, we will cross several small waterfalls and suspension bridges and witness the mesmerizing view of the mountains.

Another essential feature of this trail is Kumbakarna Mountain. This mountain is also popularly known as Janu Mountain by the Tibetan people. As we continue our trail, we will encounter a ward called Hajare Wada. People believe that many years ago, they would sign an agreement at this place to maintain peace between Kirants from Nepal and Mongolians from Darjeeling. But Kirants cheated the Mongolians and poisoned the food, causing the deaths of thousands of people. So, they named this place Hajare Wada to remember the deceased people.

As we continue our trail from the Hajare Wada, we will eventually reach Khambachen after covering a distance of 11 kilometers for about 5 hours. We will rest, gather our energy at the local inns, and continue our journey the following day.

Hazare Cave at Ghunsa clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Photo: Hazare Cave

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 6

Rest day at Kambachen

Today, we will acclimatize ourselves to prevent acute altitude sickness. One can rest or walk around the places in Kambachen to stretch their legs and train for the upcoming challenges. After enjoying the morning scenery with tea, we will head towards Nupchu Lake and Nupchu Viewpoint to explore and enjoy their beauty.

The path towards these destinations is quite steep and slippery. One must be cautious and aware of the trails. As we reach Nupchu Lake, you will be amazed at how heavenly the earth is. The view from the Nupchu Viewpoint will also make you mesmerized by its beauty. After spending quality time here, we will return to our inns and prepare for our upcoming trail.

Ox carrying wooden pillars in Khambachen clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 7

Trek from Khambachen to Lonak

Highest Altitude	4790 m
Trek Duration	5 hrs
Trek Distance	11 km

Today, we will go to Lonak, a small but beautiful village in the region of Kanchenjunga, and gain around 500 meters of elevation. The trail to Lonak is moderate but risky at some points, as these places are rocky and can have landslides. There are also numerous thrones, like flowers, so one must be aware of them as they might cause extreme pain in the body.

You will witness glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, and, most importantly, the view of the majestic mountains throughout your trek. After covering a distance of 11 kilometers and trekking for 5 hours, we will finally reach Lonak, which lies at an elevation of 4790 meters.

Lonak with a hill and beautiful backdrop of blue sky and playful clouds clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Photo: Lonak

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 8

Trek from Lonak to North KBC and back to Lonak

Highest Altitude	5000 m
Trek Duration	22 km
Trek Distance	10 hrs

This day will be the most challenging and unique part of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. The trail to the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp is narrow and slippery, making it difficult for us to trek. The paths are also swayed by small waterfalls and glaciers, making them narrower and more dangerous. On this day, we will have to go above an elevation of 5000 meters; as a result, one may suffer from high-altitude sickness. People used this route for expeditions, but it has been changed to South Base Camp since it includes many rocky and slippery areas, so his trail may be pretty tough and challenging for us.

However, one must be well-prepared and aware of the consequences and preventive measures to prevent unforeseen circumstances. As we ascend, we will eventually reach Kanchenjunga Base Camp, where you will get the best view of Kanchenjunga. Although the trail is complex, the view from the camp is worth the challenges. After enjoying the scenery, we will return to Lonak after trekking for 10 hours, covering a distance of 22 kilometers, and spend our night there.

Herd of Himalayan blue sheep on the way to North KBC, clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Photo: Herd of Blue Sheep on the Way to KBC

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 9

Trek from Lonak to Ghunsa

Trek Duration	9 - 10 hrs
Trek Distance	22 km

The trek from Lonak to Ghunsa covers 22 km of exquisite geographical area. It passes alongside the Ghunsa River, with splendid peaks and lovely forests en route. In about 9 hours, we will trek through the beautiful settlement of Kambachen and meet with the locals in Ghunsa. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a lovely trek that provides a splendid opportunity to enjoy the magnificent view of the great Himalayas and establish a marvelous experience of tranquillity and creativity.

Ghunsa Village clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Photo: Ghunsa Village

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 10

Ghunsa to Selele

Trek Duration	6 hrs
Trek Distance	13 km

Today's trek will be arduous for us as we have to walk continuously for 3 hours on a very steep path. So, be prepared for the exhausting but worth the view trip. During our trek, you will get to experience the different geographical features of Nepal, along with its breathtaking beauty. You can also taste the pure spring water that comes from underground. The green grasslands also add beauty to nature, along with the grazing animals, mountain sheep, and yaks.

You will also witness Kanchenjunga and Makalu Mountain as we continue our trek. This trek will be enjoyable and provide knowledge about the geographical features and their importance. After trekking for 6 hours and covering a distance of 13 kilometers, we will finally reach Selele, where we will spend our night.

                                    
                                            Overnight at a Camp

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 11

Trek from Selele to Cheram

Trek Duration	9 hrs
Trek Distance	19 km

After breakfast at the inns of Selele, we will head towards Cheram. It takes about 9 hours and is 19 kilometers away from Selele. As we descend towards Cheram, we will have to pass through three passes: Selele (4640 meters), Mirgin La (4650 meters) (you can get the best view of Mount Makalu), and Sinelapche La (4700 meters), respectively. During our trek, you will explore several species of flora and fauna, along with the Danfe, the national bird of Nepal, and different glaciers.

There are also several stone-roofed yak huts, along with snow-capped mountains. Overall, the trail to Cheram is moderate, and one can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the grasslands and snow-capped mountains.

Trekker from north nepal crossing Selele pass clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at a camp

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 12

Trek from Cheram to Ramche

Trek Duration	4 hrs
Trek Distance	9.5 km

Today, we are going to Ramche by covering a distance of 9.5 kilometers and trekking for 4 hours. Throughout our journey, we will learn that the flora and fauna vary as the altitude changes. This route is quite famous for trekkers looking for challenges and wanting to know more about trekking. There are no advanced facilities at the inns or lodges in Ramche. So, one must compromise with what's available.

Chream village filled with greenery clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Photo: Cheram

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 13

Trek from Ramche to Oktang viewpoint and back to Cheram

Trek Duration	6 hrs
Trek Distance	14 km

The route from Ramche to Oktang View Point is grassland, with no landslides or avalanches risk. So, we know this trail is safe to trek on. Oktang View Point is the last stop for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, and no trekkers except experts are allowed to go above this. But the journey to this point of view is worth it.

Since we are in North Base Camp, one can see the south part of the majestic Kanchenjunga. You will feel lost in the heavenly realm as you see the mesmerizing scene of the mountains and glaciers. Indian people who follow Hinduism believe Kanchenjunga Mountain to be one of their gods, so they perform some rituals to show respect to their god at Oktang View Point.

After spending quality time and getting mesmerized at Oktang View Point, we will return to Cheram. The trek continues for about 6 hours, covering a distance of 14 kilometers from Ramche to Oktang View Point and back to Cheram. At Cheram, we will spend the night and gather our energy for tomorrow's trek.

Tea house/hotel at Ramche clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 14

Trek from Charem to New Jharani via Torondeng ( Tortong)

Trek Duration	7 - 8 hrs
Trek Distance	17 km

We will descend towards New Jharani after having our breakfasts. The journey will be moderate, as the paths are flat and not risky until Tortong. We will follow the bank of the river and cross through the forest. As we reach Tortong, our trail will be quick and easy, but after crossing Torong, we will have to walk through steep hills, making it difficult for us to trek. But the whole journey will be worth the view and experience. After covering a distance of 17 kilometers, we will finally reach New Jharani, a small Sherpa-residing village, where we will spend the night.

A male trekker surrounded by trees in Jharani clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 15

New Jharani to Yampudhim.

Trek Duration	6 hrs
Trek Distance	12 km

The journey from New Jharani to Yampudhim will be emotional as we will say goodbye to the beautiful Himalayas. As we start our trek, we will continuously walk through several forests and hills to finally reach Yampudhim. We will walk downhill, a short trek of 12 kilometers. After trekking for 6 hours, we will reach Yampudhim, where we will have lunch and spend our day exploring its significant areas.

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 16

Drive from Yampudim to Kyanam/Tea garden

Driving Hours	10 hrs

Today, we will not trek but have a drive in a local vehicle from Yampudhim to Kyanyam. The 10-hour road trip will be incredible, seeing the tea garden and culturally dressed locals picking them up. You will also get to click on some fantastic photos in the tea garden.

Trekker on his way to Yampudip clicked by North Nepal Trek during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                    
                                            Overnight stay at Lodge

                                            Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

day 17

Drive from Kyanam to Bhadhrapur and back to Kathmandu

Driving Hours	1:30 hrs
Flight Hours	1 hrs

Today will be our last day of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. We will head towards Bhadhrapur in a local jeep, with a one-and-a-half-hour road trip for our flight to Kathmandu. We will take a domestic flight of 1 hour from Chandragiri Airport and land at Trivuwan International Airport. If we reach there earlier than expected, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Kathmandu valley.

- Includes Breakfast, and Lunch.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Info

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Physical preparations

This trek requires rigorous exercise and walking for hours in hilly regions; therefore, one must have a prior health check. They perform movements by walking several times a day, at least 8–10 hours, for occasions that include steep rising and lowering carriers. It contains some sets of stepping stones, scarps, ridges, trails in the forest, and sometimes tracks through the streams.

Some measures that should be observed before going on the trek are exercising and training to enable the trekkers to build strength to cover the distances involved in most treks. Some aerobic fitness exercises helpful in preparing for the trek include walking, running, cycling, swimming, volleyball, soccer, etc.

Trekking tips

Some places are demanding to trek. So, one must be prepared and aware of the danger. To prevent accidents from occurring, you must be physically and mentally prepared. You also need to bring the right gear and wear layers of warm clothes. Following the guide and staying hydrated is a must during trekking.

Different cultures in different regions, so one must ensure they respect every culture. You can show that people are valued by respecting customs and traditions in nearby areas. Thinking about things and acting appropriately is necessary; doing this will lead to constructive relationships and build bridges between societies.

The other vital thing required for the trek is eco-friendly trekking practices. You must properly dispose of your waste materials and respect wildlife. Bringing reusable items during the trek is an excellent idea. You can also use sustainable gear in order not to hamper nature.