The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is one of Nepal’s longest and most adventurous treks, offering a deep dive into the remote and rugged terrain of the Himalayas. This trek, which spans over three weeks, encompasses both the North and South Base Camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). The mountain was first summited on May 25th, 1955, by a British expedition led by the legendary Sir George Band.
Kanchenjunga, derived from the Tibetan term “Kanchendzonga,” meaning “Five Jewels of Snow,” refers to the five prominent peaks that form the Kanchenjunga massif. This majestic mountain straddles the border between Nepal and the Indian state of Sikkim, with the most popular trekking and climbing routes originating from the Nepalese side.
The trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to the lowlands of southeastern Nepal, followed by a drive through the picturesque hills of Ilam, known for its expansive tea gardens and stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. The trek officially starts from the Taplejung district near Sukhetar.
As you journey through the diverse landscapes, you’ll pass through charming villages where you can experience the rich culture of Eastern Nepal. The region is predominantly inhabited by the Kirat tribes of Rai and Limbu, along with Hindu communities such as Brahmins, Chhetris, and Dalits, as well as Magar, Gurung, and Tamang hill people in the lower elevations. As the trek ascends to higher altitudes, you’ll encounter Sherpa and Bhotia communities, whose culture is deeply intertwined with Buddhism.
The first major highlight of the trek is reaching Pang-Pema, the North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga, situated at an elevation of 5,065 meters (16,617 feet). From here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga massif, including peaks like Mt. Jannu, Wedge, and Kabru.
The adventure then continues to the South Base Camp, crossing high passes such as Sinion La and Tsele-la before arriving at Ramche, near the Yalung Glacier. This area offers a closer look at Kanchenjunga’s southern face, providing another incredible vantage point.
After achieving the trek’s main objectives, the return journey takes you back through the lush forests of rhododendron, pine, and fir, leading to the town of Taplejung. From here, a drive through the serene landscapes of Ilam, followed by a flight from the Terai plains, brings you back to Kathmandu, concluding this extraordinary trekking experience.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is considered one of the more challenging treks in Nepal due to its remoteness, demanding terrain, and high altitudes. Covering roughly 200 kilometers over a span of about three weeks, trekkers can expect long ascents and descents with daily hikes of 4 to 5 hours.
The risk of altitude sickness is significant, as the trail often reaches elevations above 5,000 meters. Weather conditions add to the difficulty monsoon rains make paths muddy and slippery, while winter brings snow and extreme cold. For this reason, proper acclimatization, good physical fitness, and preparation are essential before attempting this trek.
👉 For more information about the difficulty of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung (1820m)
Day 3: Drive from Taplejung (1820 m) to Sekathum (1575 m)
Day 4: Trek to Amjilosa (2310m)
Day 5: Trek to Gyable (2730m)
Day 6: Trek to Gunsa (3595m)
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa
Day 8: Trek to Khambachen (4050m)
Day 9: Trek to Lhonak (4780m)
Day 10: Trek to Kanchenjunga Base camp (5140m) and back to Lhonak
Day 11: Trek to Ghunsa (3595m)
Day 12: Trek to Sele la Kharka (4200m)
Day 13: Trek over Sele la Pass and trek down to Tseram (3870m)
Day 14: Trek to Oktang Base camp (4730m) and back to Ramche (4580m)
Day 15: Trek back to Tseram (3870m)
Day 16: Trek from Tseram to Tortong (2995 m)
Day 17: Trek to Yamphudin (1690 m)
Day 18: Drive from Yamphudip to Ilam
Day 19: Drive from Ilam to Bhadrapur and fly to Kathmandu
Day 20: Final Departure
Reach Kathmandu via various international airlines where our staff receives you with transport to the hotel in the heart of Kathmandu city within easy reach to its shops and restaurants.
Check into your rooms and after getting refreshed from jet-leg join at hotel lobby for group briefing regarding do’s and don’ts, local culture and with detail information on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.
All of our packages include accommodation as part of the cost. Lodging is provided throughout the itinerary. In Kathmandu, you will stay in a 2–3 star hotel, while on the trek, our experienced guides will choose the best available lodges for your comfort, depending on availability.
Accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis. In the mountains, showers and toilets are shared facilities. During peak trekking seasons, you may be required to share a room with a same-gender trekker from another group.
For outdoor camping treks, we provide sleeping bags, two-person tents with comfortable mattresses, and our guides will set up your camp in locations with stunning views whenever possible.
In Kathmandu, only breakfast is included. However, during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, all meals will be provided. In this region, you can enjoy a mix of traditional Nepalese dishes along with international cuisines such as Tibetan, Continental, Indian, and Italian.
Throughout the trek, breakfast and lunch are typically served at local teahouses, while dinner is enjoyed at the lodge. Each mealtime offers a menu with various options, giving you the flexibility to choose from different types of breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Trekking the Kanchenjunga Circuit requires two key permits: the Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit and the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Permit.
The Restricted Area Permit costs $10 per person for the first four weeks, with an additional $25 per person for each extra week.
The Conservation Area Permit is approximately $20 per person. Additionally, trekkers must carry a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, which also costs around $20.
Your trek will be led by a licensed, government-certified guide with years of experience on Nepal’s trails. Our guides aren’t just skilled professionals—they’re passionate about the mountains and committed to ensuring you have a safe and unforgettable journey. If any concerns arise along the way, they’ll be there to support you every step of the trek.
Your safety is always our top priority. For groups larger than six, we provide two guides to make sure everyone is well looked after. On teahouse treks, one porter is assigned for every two trekkers to help carry gear. For camping treks, additional porters are needed to transport food, tents, and kitchen equipment, ensuring a smooth and comfortable adventure.
We strongly recommend getting travel insurance before setting out on your trek. While we’ll do everything possible to keep you safe, unexpected situations can arise beyond our control. In the event of a medical emergency that requires helicopter evacuation, having insurance can make all the difference.
Please note that medical insurance cannot be purchased in Nepal—you’ll need to arrange it in your home country. Make sure your policy specifically covers overseas travel, medical emergencies, and high-altitude trekking in the mountains.
Kanchenjunga, also called Kumbhkaran Lungur in Nepal and also known as Kangchenjunga or Kinchinjunga, is the world’s third-highest mountain, rising to 8,586 meters (28,169 feet).
Since April 1st, a regulation by the Nepal Tourism Board has prohibited solo trekking in Nepal. All trekkers are now required to hire a licensed guide for their journey.
It’s not safe to drink directly from streams. To stay healthy, you should either boil the water, use purification tablets, or purchase bottled mineral water along the way.
Climbers report that Kanchenjunga is extremely hazardous due to frequent snowstorms and a high risk of avalanches, making it one of the most dangerous peaks in the world.
No, independent trekking is not allowed in the Kanchenjunga region. You must be accompanied by a licensed guide arranged through a registered local trekking agency. In addition, at least two trekkers are required in a group, not including guides or porters.
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