Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Overview

"Join our team of expert native guides and porters on one of the most challenging and adventurous journeys in the north-eastern Himalayas of Nepal, the Kanchenjunga circuit. Spend 18 days exploring the offbeat trekking routes and enjoying breathtaking mountain views on this trek."

If you are a fan of the Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit, then our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek will be the best trekking destination in Nepal. This 21-day adventure involves trekking at high altitudes through dense forests and remote settlements. You will be traversing around the Nepal-Sikkim (India) border on this trek. The journey takes you close to Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is also known as the Kanchenjunga Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, or Kanchenjunga Trekking, as it takes you to the south and north base camps of Mount Kanchenjunga. Opened in 1988, the Kanchenjunga Circuit is one of Nepal's most challenging and least-visited trekking routes. The inaccessibility of the trail from Kathmandu and the poor tourist infrastructure keep the crowd away from this mystical part of the Himalayas. 

And thanks to that, the natural beauty of this region and its cultural heritage remain intact. Moreover, the government of Nepal has made Kanchenjunga a restricted region, so trekking here also requires an expensive special permit. The trekking route is quite demanding, and the overall high expense keeps the Kanchenjunga circuit trail free of crowds.

We only recommend Kanchenjunga circuit trekking to individuals who have previously done other trekking in Nepal or at least have strong fitness and will. This trek is not for beginner trekkers. Also, you cannot do the Kanchenjunga circuit trek solo. As per the regulations, you have to do this trek with a local travel company like us and in a group of a minimum of two trekkers (not including guides and porters). 

Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) is the world’s third-highest mountain, located in the far north-eastern region of Nepal. The mountain peak is considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Kanchenjunga trekking has an equally growing popularity, especially among adventure seekers. The trekking zone is isolated, natural, and very challenging, making it a journey to remember for life.

The natural and untouched trekking area offers a great view of landscapes and mountain peaks, along with the unique lifestyle of the remote villages. The trek starts from Suketar and enters the wonderful tropical lowlands and alpine meadows, vibrant rhododendron forests, exciting green valleys, and chilling icy glaciers. The Kanchenjunga region is a hidden valley with many mysterious places yet to be unraveled. The thrill of trekking in the region makes it an ideal destination for adventure seekers. Trekking in this region is a very challenging task, but the trekkers are rewarded with the astounding brilliance of the Himalayas.

The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area has been protecting the wild flora and fauna and is a major attraction of the region. The Conservation Area shelters rare species like the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, red panda, and many varieties of birds like the Impheyan, pheasant, red-billed blue magpie, drongo, etc.

Kanchenjunga Trekking Route | Kanchenjunga Trek Route | Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Route

Depending on the convenience, accessibility, and reliability of the travel, the Kanchenjunga trekking route, Kanchenjunga trek route, or Kanchenjunga circuit trek route has different routes, as stated below.

  1. The starting and ending point of this trek is Suketham, which is a 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Suketar and a 5- to 6-hour drive from Suketar. The trek then begins, taking 7 days to reach Kanchenjunga North Base Camp at a height of 5,143 meters, 4 days to reach Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4730 m), and 2 days to get back to Sukethum. Then, it's a 5- to 6-hour drive to Suketar for an overnight stop and to board a flight back to Kathmandu.Depending on the reliability of air transportation, this route is not strongly recommended. Because the weather at Suketar airport hinders regular operations of the Kathmandu-Suketar flight, this will also affect your trekking plan.
  2. The trek begins and ends in Suketham, which is a 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, then an 8- to 9-hour drive to Taplejung on the first day and a 5- to 6-hour drive to Suketham on the second day. The trek then continues for 7 days to reach Kanchenjunga North Base Camp at a height of 5,143 meters and 4 more days to reach Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4,730 m), and then it takes 2 days to get back to Sukethum. Then after, it's a 5- to 6-hour Jeep ride to Taplejung for an overnight stay and an 8–9-hour drive to Bhadrapur for another overnight stop. The next day, a 40-minute flight from Bhadrapur airport brings you back to Kathmandu, which is your international arrival and departure city. It is a better route to the Kanchenjunga Trek, depending on how well air and road transportation work out.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Itinerary | Kanchenjunga Trek Itinerary

Depending on your physical fitness, the pace of walking, requirements, and preferences, there are a variety of itineraries ranging from 18 to 21 days as the Kanchenjunga trek itinerary or Kanchenjunga circuit trek itinerary. Typically, the best and most popular is Kanchenjunga circuit trek 21 days itinerary, or Kanchenjunga trek itinerary 21 days as provided in our itinerary section. The majority of the companies have designed short-day itineraries as if you were in a 100-meter race. So, to the best of my knowledge, you should enjoy your trip as a leisure traveler rather than a runner. This Kanchengunja circuit trek 21 days itinerary is flexible and can be extended or shortened by 1 to 5 days. We may, however, customize it according to your requirements. Please contact us by email, social media, or phone calls as provided in our contact information, for the best Kanchenjunga trek itinerary or Kanchenjunga base camp trek itinerary based on your requirements and preferences. We are available 24/7.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Distance and Duration

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek distance is approximately 170-200 kilometers in a round and takes 20 to 25 days to complete. This trek takes you not only to the base camp of Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters or 28,169 feet) but also through diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical woodlands to alpine meadows and high-altitude glaciers.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Cost | Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Price | Kanchenjunga Trek Price

The Kanchenjunga circuit trek cost, or Kanchenjunga trek cost, varies depending on various factors such as group size (number of people in the group), itinerary, level of accommodation, type of transportation, duration of the trek, and service inclusions and exclusions. Typically, it varies between USD 1450 and USD 2400, as provided in our price section. This is just an estimate of the cost, and it also depends on your requirements and preferences. It may increase if you prefer more luxurious options than this itinerary, such as private transportation instead of sharing, a higher level of accommodation, any add-on program, and a longer trek. However, we may customize it according to your requirements. Please get in touch with us by email, social media, or phone provided in our contact information for the best Kanchenjunga circuit trek price and trustworthy services that meet all your needs and preferences.

Kanchenjunga trek difficulty, altitude sickness, and acclimatization

The Kanchenjunga trek starts at 200 meters and goes up to 5,143 meters (16,873 ft). Despite its considerable altitude, this trek is not inherently risky as long as you adhere to a few guidelines. This trek entails a relatively long duration of trekking with numerous obstacles along the way, including mountain passes, rivers, gorges, glaciers, rocky hills, and steep ascents and descents. Some days require over 8 hours of continuous walking, making it physically demanding. So, travelers have to be physically strong. 

On Kanchenjunga trekking, you have to be aware of two significant challenges, such as acute mountain sickness (AMS) and the unpredictable climate. The thin air at high altitudes can quickly exhaust even the fittest individuals, adding to the overall difficulty of the trek. Our Kanchenjunga circuit trek itinerary has ample acclimatization days to help you avoid altitude sickness. 

Physical fitness and preparations for the Kanchenjunga base camp trek

The Kanchenjunga trek route involves numerous steep ascents and descents. The trail itself is rugged and challenging, demanding long hours of walking. As you ascend to higher elevations, the air becomes thinner, and the cold climate can take a toll on your body. If you are not physically fit, this trek has the potential to turn into a nightmare experience for you.

While the rewards of the Kanchenjunga base camp trek are undoubtedly great, they come at the price of enduring difficult and strenuous walking conditions. Endurance is not only a matter of physical strength but also of mental resilience. The trek primarily consists of tea house accommodations, where modern facilities are virtually nonexistent. Services are limited to the bare minimum, and you may find yourself having to pay extra for basic amenities such as hot showers, internet access, charging facilities, and even drinking water.

To prepare yourself for this trek in Nepal, the best approach is to engage in physical training and, if possible, undertake a few smaller hikes or short treks beforehand. Incorporate cardio exercises into your routine, such as jogging, running, long walks, cycling, climbing stairs, and swimming, to improve your overall stamina. Additionally, focus on building your muscle strength and core body fitness to tackle the demanding terrain effectively.

Best Time For Kanchenjunga Trekking

Trekking in Nepal's high Himalayas is physically and mentally demanding, and weather is the most important factor in determining whether a journey is successful and fun as compared to unsuccessful and unpleasant. The main priority is stress-free and safe travel through pristine nature with a clear picture of gorgeous landscapes and breathtaking mountain views. Rain or snowfall not only disrupts travel but also puts people's lives in peril. It is a critical aspect of Himalayan hiking. As a result, it is prudent to choose the ideal time for the Kanchenjunga trek or the best time for the Kanchenjunga circuit trek based on these criteria. The best seasons for the Kanchenjunga trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October).

The weather is stable, mild, and comfortable, with a clear blue sky, affording a breathtaking view of picturesque landscapes, historic communities, and stunning mountains, making the journey safe. The trail is arid and densely forested, with seasonal plants and flowers. There are also a lot of birds and wild animals to see. In the spring, the weather is lovely, with a clear sky. The temperature ranges from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. The days are nice, but the mornings and evenings are chilly. The trees and most of the woodlands bloom with rhododendron blooms, creating stunning views. After winter, the snow at higher elevations melts, allowing easy access to the base camp or destination.

Both of these seasons boast stable weather and a pleasant climate, which is very much needed for safe trekking, and are considered the best time for Kanchenjunga trekking. Therefore, if you wish to witness a perfect landscape with vibrant and blooming flowers and lush greenery against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and foothills, then spring is the ideal choice for you. 

Likewise, if you want to immerse yourself in Nepalese culture, witness its biggest festivals, and traverse through dry and exotic landscapes, autumn is the perfect time to embark on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. This season also offers clear skies, excellent visibility, and a chance to explore the region's unique terrain.

Summer or monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) are the off-seasons for trekking to the Kanchenjunga region. Heavy rain causes landslides and floods during the summer or monsoon season, and the trail becomes slick and muddy, making travel difficult with impaired vision. While the winters are cold and snowy, people even migrate to lower elevations to escape the weather by closing down their tea establishments. As a result, the travel becomes challenging, if not impossible. Due to unpredictable weather, trekking is not recommended during these seasons, and they are also not regarded as the Kanchenjunga trek best time or Kanchenjunga circuit trek best time.

 

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Itinerary
Itinerary

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, meet and greet at the international airport and transfer to the hotel. A short briefing of the trip. Check in to the hotel and rest for refreshment. Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

After breakfast, pick up from the hotel and proceed to the sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, especially the UNESCO world cultural heritage sites, which include Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swoyambhunath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, for the experience of a beautiful fusion of religion, culture, and history. These heritage monuments reflect the centuries-old culture, arts, and architecture of Nepal, which are medieval charms of the Malla Dynasty. After the tour, drop off at the hotel and make preparations for the Kanchenjunga circuit trek, including a permit, trekking gear, and trekking equipment. Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

After breakfast, drive to the TIA domestic terminal for the flight to Bhadrapur. Fly to Bhadrapur for about 40 minutes. Then, drive to Taplejung for 9–10 hours through the Mechi Highway, enjoying the beautiful landscape of the green tea garden on the way. Overnight at a Lodge in Ta

After breakfast, drive to Sukethum, which takes about 5–6 hours to get there. This is a mountain drive that offers beautiful landscapes dotted with green hills, terraced farmland, traditional villages, rivers, and thick forests. This is also a trekking route, even though we take the jeep drive to make the trek short. Overnight at Tea house in Sukethum, Taplejung.

After breakfast, start the trek to Amjilosa after a 2-day drive. This adventurous journey starts with an ascent along the Ghunsa Khola (local stream river), which passes over many bridges, verdant trees, and the small villages of Jonggim and Ghaiyabari and finally reaches Amjikhola after 5–6 hours of hiking. Overnight at the Tea House in Amjilosa.

After breakfast, start the trek to Gyabla for 5–6 hours. Today, the trek goes through a dense forest without any human settlement in between. If we are lucky, we get to see the rarest animal, the "Red Panda," on the route. After the uphill climb, we get to see the magnificent view of mountains and several waterfalls along the trekking route. Overnight stay at the teahouse in Gyabla.

After breakfast, start the trek to Ghunsa for 5–6 hours. At first, the trek gets to Phale village by passing through woodlands with a wide range of flora and fauna. Then, it reaches Ghunsa, continuing it. Overnight at the teahouse in Ghunsa.

After breakfast, start the trek to Khambachen for 5–6 hours. The trek begins with a gradual ascent and passes through an open pine forest, offering a chance to see  herds of blue sheep and, if lucky, snow leopards. Then the trek passes through landslide-prone areas, offering magnificent views of Mt. Jannu, encounters the green glacier valley, and ultimately reaches Khambachen. Overnight at the teahouse in Khambachen.

This is a rest and acclimatization day after several days of trekking. Our bodies need to adjust to the high-altitude climate to prevent possible mountain sickness. Explore the glaciers, lakes, and viewpoints close to it that our bodies are used to. We can meet other trekkers returning and travelling to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. Overnight at the teahouse in Khambachen.

After breakfast, start the trek to Lhonak for 4-5 hours. Today, the trek is quite challenging and goes through Kanchenjunga glaciers, passes through Ramdang, Ramdang monastery, and reaches the border of Lhonak and Kanchenjunga glaciers. Walking forward, it gets to a tiny settlement called Lhonak with a few teahouses. Overnight at a teahouse in Lhonak.

After breakfast, hike to Kanchengunja North base camp and back to Lhonak, it takes around 5–6 hours. The trek ascends gradually, following moraines, and reaches Kanchngunja North Base Camp. The mesmerizing view of the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and the prayer flags around it really make us breathless and feel the reward of long days of trekking. Hike down to Lhonak and overnight at the teahouse in Lhonak.

After breakfast, trek back to Ghunsa for 7-8 hours, retracing the same trail, leaving behind the Kanchenjunga north base camp, and taking a good memory for a lifetime experience. Overnight at a teahouse in Ghunsa.

After breakfast, start the trek to Sele Le Base Camp, which takes about 5–6 hours. The trek passes through a dense forest and offers a chance to see the snow leopard. There are only a few teahouses that are open during the trekking season. If the tea houses are closed, there is no option other than reaching the next day’s stop, Tseram, for an overnight stay. Overnight stay at the teahouse in Sele Le Base Camp.

After breakfast, start the trek to Tseram for 6-7 hours. Most of the trek passes through high-altitude passes like Sinion La (4440 m/2758 ft), Mirgin La (4480 m/2783 ft), and Sinelapche Bhanjyang (4645 m/2886 ft). This high pass hike offers an awe-inspiring view of Mt. Jannu, Everest, Makalu, Baruntse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga. After crossing these passes, the trek descends to Tseram. Overnight at the teahouse in Tseram.

After an early breakfast, start the trek to the Kanchenjunga south base camp and then back to Tseram, which takes about 7-8 hours. In the beginning, the trek goes through Yalung glacier and offers views of Rathong (6682m) and Kabru (7412m), then reaches Ramche for lunch. After lunch, hike to Oktang or Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Enjoy the three summits of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8420m, 8586m, and 8474m) and other giant peaks, exploring this untouched, unexplored area by many trekkers, Kanchenjunga Base Camp, and then trekking back to Tseram. Overnight at the teahouse in Tseram.

After breakfast, trek to Tortong for 6-7 hours on the descent trail, leaving the snow-capped mountain as a backdrop. It goes through the rhododendron forest and Simbuwa Khola, with Himalayan views on the way, and reaches Tortong. Overnight at the teahouse in Totong.

After breakfast, start the trek to Sukethum along the side of Simbuwa Khola (the Simbuwa River), which takes about 5–6 hours. The trek goes on the trail, which is a gradual descent. Overnight at the lodge in Sukethum.

After breakfast, drive back to Taplejung on a shared Jeep, which takes about 5 hours to get to Taplejung. Overnight at the lodge in Tapl

After breakfast, drive back to Bhadrapur, which takes about 9–10 hours. Overnight at a hotel in Bhadrapur.

After breakfast, fly back to Kathmandu, which takes about 45 minutes to get to the Kathmandu domestic airport terminal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to the hotel. Check into the hotel and rest for refreshments. Enjoy the free time by shopping at souvenir shops or hanging around Thamel (the tourist hub). Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Leisure, until departure. Transfer to the international airport to board the flight.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Equipment
Equipment

Ihe Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a hard and challenging trek. You should be fit physically as well as mentally. You should have proper trekking gear, clothes, and a positive mindset. Focusing on all these parameters, the below packing list is required for Kanchenjunga trekking. 

  • Backpack (40–50 liters)
  • Sleeping bag (comfortable to -15°C)
  • Water bottles (1-2 liters) and water purification tablets.
  • Trekking poles (one pair per person)
  • LED headlamp with extra batteries.
  • Insulated down jacket.
  • Thermal underwear.
  • Trekking pants (wind and water proof), T- shirts.
  • Sun glasses,sun hat (summer season), wool hat (winter season).
  • Water proof trekking or hiking boots, sandals, midweigh wool socks & gloves.
  • Neck gaiters (winter season).
  • Wet wipes, hand sanitizer.
  • Sunscreen and lip balm.
  • First aid kit.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Trip Map
Trip Map

Useful Information Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Useful Information

  • Offbeat trekking follows a less crowded and tranquil trekking route.
  • The perfect trekking in Nepal for trekkers who wish to advance their level and push themselves.
  • Reach the north and south base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
  • Overnight stays in beautiful remote villages along the trekking route.
  • Get to know the locals and discover their unique way of life and ancient practices.
  • Trek through verdant rhododendron and bamboo forests, gradually ascending to towering peaks and isolated glaciers.
  • You may get to see exclusive wildlife like snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, Assamese macaques, etc.
  • Witness diverse landscapes and stunning mountain views, along with many gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.
  • Visit ancient monasteries on the way and enjoy tea house overnight stays.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
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