Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

A chance to reach the base camp of the world's third tallest mountain on a remote mountain trail ideal for trekkers

Trip Code
AMT - TREK - 505
Best Season

Spring & Autumn

Trip Grade

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Max Altitude

Pangpema viewpoint (5,388m/17,672ft)

Accomodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus

Meals

BB/Full Board

Group Size

Any

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Introduction

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is one of the great high altitude Himalayan trekking trails, which covers the eastern part of Nepal. Mt. Kanchenjunga  also spelled as Kangchenjunga in the third highest mountain in the planet and second highest mountain in Nepal with an altitude of 8,586m/28,169ft above from sea level. The word Kanchenjunga is derived from a Tibetan word which means “5 treasures of snow”. Locals still has been worshiping as a holy mount where the five treasures are Gold, Silver, Grain, Precious Stone. Holy Scriptures reflects five different peaks of Kanchenjunga range. The mount is impressively rises in the eastern corner of Nepal, bordered with North Sikkim. Mt. Kanchenjunga has an interesting legend that it was recognized as a world’s highest mountain before the end of 18th century.

Mt. Kanchenjunga was first ascended by British Expedition Team in 25 may 1955. Again in 1979 the British mountaineer Peter Boardman walked across the route of Kanchenjunga Circuit, he considered the route as one of the most beautiful trek in the world.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking Features:

Circuit of world’s third highest Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m). A part of Great Himalayan Trail, one of the longest trekking trail of Nepal.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) and transfer to Hotel.

Land at Kathmandu International Airport. Transfer to the hotel or resort by our tour representative. Overnight stay in Kathmandu. Relax.

Day 02: Guided tour to Kathmandu’s World Heritage sites.

Early morning breakfast at the hotel. Our guide will pick you up from the hotel for sightseeing of World Heritage Sites. Actually, there are seven World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and we arrange sightseeing spots according to your choice, you have to choose only 3/4 spots for a day since it is not possible to visit all places in a single day–at least 2/3 days requires to have sightseeing tour of all heritage sites in Kathmandu. World Heritage Sites of UNESCO in Kathmandu are; Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Swyambhunath Temple, Pashuapatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa and Changu Narayan Temple. In the evening we again can have pre trek discussion.

Day 03: Flight from Biratnagar or Bhadrapur.

Visit the town 45 min

After breakfast, we will take a picturesque flight from Kathmandu to the Biratnagar. Rest of the day to wander around the town.

Day 04: Drive from Biratnagar/Bhadrapur to Taplejung (1,442m/4,729ft).

6-7 Hrs. Drive

Today we will drive from Biratnagar/Bhadrapur to land at Taplejung. It is the beginning stage of our trek.

Day 05: Trek from Taplejung to Mitlung (920m/3,017ft) (4-5 hrs trek).

Early morning, we proceed with the trek to Mitlung. The trails all through the lower segments of the Kanchenjunga locale go through lush valleys with small villages and wonderful fields. We then trail along the seething Tamor River. As, we bit by bit head in a north direction the route steepens following a couple of hours before the last plunge of 350 m. on a sloppy trail to Mitlung.

Day 06: Trek from Mitlung to Chiruwa (1,270m/4,165ft) (4-5 hrs trek).

Today the trail climbs and slides relentlessly as we advance to the Sinwa village. We keep trekking downhill to stop at Tawa. From here we climb to a few hills crossing the suspension bridge at Thiwa. We pass by wonderful countryside scene en route and achieve Chirwa, an excellent village of Limbu.

Day 07: Trek from Chiruwa Trek to Sekathum (1,576m/5,169ft) (5-6 hrs trek).

Today the trail goes through different scenes, like- thick forests and cardamom fields. We trek for a while is ascending then go down to the lavish green fields and keep trekking alongside Tamor River going through a thick woodland. Then cross the Ghunsa River to land at Sukathum.

Day 08: Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,308m/7,570ft) (5-6 hrs walk).

The trekking from Sukathum to Amjilosa is testing. Cross the suspension bridge outside Sukathum to enter a thick forest. Climb the lofty trail, then go down and cross the stream once more. We likewise climb a gorge from below and trail by Solima village. The downward trail takes us to the river level. Be careful while trekking on the trail through the gorge. We later take a precarious route which goes ascends and descends both. Reach Amjilosa.

Day 09: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m/8,954ft) (5-6 hrs trek).

Today begin the trek from the bank of a river, go through thick woods of fir, bamboo, and rhododendrons. Further, ascend and then cross a couple of little bridges en route. Here, we get the chance to appreciate the combination of mesmerizing waterfalls that start from the mountains. Later climb ahead to land at Gyabla- Tibetan settlement.

Day 10: Trek from Gyabla to Ghumsa (3,550m/11,644ft) (3-4 hrs trek).

We go down the waterway and watch the valley as it gradually opens up before achieving Phale. Here you can buy handcrafted mats from local people. Then we trail through conifer and pine woods to achieve the Ghunsa, Sherpa village. This place is popular for its hydroelectricity plant

Day 11: Rest and acclimatization day at Ghumsa.

Today spend the day to get acclimatized around Ghunsa before proceeding with the trek ahead. Also, we take a short climb through the lavish green woods to visit the Laspsan La monastery. Return to Ghunsa and unwind.

Day 12: Trek from Ghumsa to Khambachen (4,050m/13,284ft) (4-5 hrs trek).

From Ghunsa we trek along the riverbank toward north which presents us with eminent mountain landscape. We go through knolls with lovely wildflowers, pine and rhododendron forests. At Rampuk Kharka we cross the bridge, proceed through the waterfall and cross the dubious region of the avalanche. Later we start to see the fabulous perspective of Mt. Jannu. Additionally investigating and handling the dubious mountain trek we at last touch base at Kambachen.

Day 13: Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak (4,780m/15,678ft) (4-5 hrs trek).

Today will be another testing day. Early morning, we trail through rough fields and large rocks on the slope along the riverbank and land at a waterfall. At Ramtang monastery cross the bridge. Then trail through an avalanche area which we should pass speedily before going down to the waterway. Reach Lhonak.

Day 14: Climb to the Pangpema viewpoint (5,388m/17,672ft) & return to Lhonak.

7-8 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Today we trek along the Kanchenjunga Glacier. We advise you to be cautious around the rockier areas as they are inclined to avalanches. After a brief time, you will achieve Pangpema, a flat lush base camp. Ascend somewhat higher and appreciate the wonder of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, and Chang Himal mountains.

Day 15: Trek back from Lhonak to Ghumsa.

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

We will trail down the valley to reach from Lhonak to Ramtang. We will have the chance to spot blue sheep on mountainsides. We will proceed with our trekking till we achieve Ghumsa.

Day 16: Trek from Ghumsa to Sele La base camp (4,200m/13,776ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Today the trail that goes through the hydroelectricity plant and villages before climbing into the thick woodland loaded with juniper and rhododendron. We proceed with the trail with a precarious ascend and reach over a ridge. Then the trail goes to the southern side of the moraine. Keep trekking until landing at Sele Le.

Day 17: Trek from Sele La Base Camp to Cheram (3,870m/12,693ft).

6-7 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Today we begin our trek climbing towards the moraine. Enjoy great perspectives of the south side of Jannu and east face of the Makalu. Reach the intersection of Mirgin La Pass at 4480 m and after that go down then ascend again to reach Sinelapche La at 4730 m. We will make a precarious downward trail from there to achieve Cheram

Day 18: Trek from Cheram to Ramche (4,580m/15,022ft).

4-5 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Today the trek goes through high knolls alongside the moraine of Yalung Glacier. After a few hours of trekking reach Ramche. The panoramas of encompassing mountains in the evening is an exceptional ordeal as the sunlight spreads at the high snow-topped mountains.

Day 19: Trek from Yalung base camp (4,500m/15,022ft) & back to Cheram.

7-8 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Today we will trek towards Yalung base camp. After a short trip to the base camp, we will backtrack taking the similar trail back to Cheram.

Day 20: Trek from Cheram to Tortong (2,995m/9,823ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

The trail will delicately go down the valley through forests. Keep trekking beside the Simbuwa waterway to touch base at Tortong. Tortong is arranged alongside the Simbuwa river bank. It is a beautiful campsite location.

Day 21: Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080m/6,822ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Start the trail by traversing bridge at the Simbuwa Khola. After that take the trail through the left bank of the canyon before climbing over the valley to reach Lasiya Bhanjyang. Then we will take the downward trail to touch base at the stream. Later cross the stream and proceed trekking into a lovely Yamphudin- a Sherpa village.

Day 22: Trek from Yamphudin to Mamangkhe (1,785m/5,855ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

The trail goes down toward the west side of Kabeli Khola through the less thick woodland. We will ascend a switchback towards a ridge with prayer flags and chortens. Later climb over the Kabeli Khola to achieve the Mamangkhe village occupied by Limbu society.

Day 23: Trek from Mamangkhe to Ksesuwa (2,120m/6,953ft).

4-5 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House available

The initial segment of the trek today is a climb through rice terraced fields beside the cannon. Further, cross the suspension bridge to reach the village of Phonpe. Then it is a simple downhill trail through small rivers and a few waterfalls en-route to Ksesuwa village. The region is the settlement of Gurung and Limbu community.

Day 24: Trek from Ksesuwa to Lalikharka (2,265m/7,429ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek

The trail from Kesuwa has a few ups and downs. We will trail via the villages of Bhanjyang and Kunjari with superb perspectives of Kanchenjunga and Kyabru. We will go into the Kabeli Khola valley. Then ascend through thick woods loaded with rhododendron trees. Reach Lali Kharka.

Day 25: Trek from Lalikharka to Taplejung.

4-5 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Leave Lalikharka for our last trek. We will trek through the fields and brilliant settlements. After a few ascends and descends, we will touch base at Taplejung.

Day 26: Drive back to Biratnagar or Bhadrapur.

Full Board Guest House/Hotel

After breakfast, we will drive from Taplejung to Biratnagar. Along the path discover the daily life of locals while we drive through a few towns and villages. Land at Biratnagar, rest of the day to unwind.

Day 27: Fly back to Kathmandu.

Breakfast Hotel/Resort

Today first we will take an early morning flight back to Nepalgunj. Our tour representative will transfer you to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 28: Free day.

Breakfast & Farewell Dinner Hotel/Resort

Today is free for personal activities. Or our tour representative can help you to customize additional city tour.

Day 29: Final departure. Drop to airport as per flight schedule.

Breakfast

After breakfast transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport. Return to home with the cherishing memories of your adventure.

 

Remember:

Our travel planner can customize the itinerary outline as per your duration of stay, purpose of holiday and your preference. Cost of the package also depends upon level of service (deluxe, standard & budget) and as per the group size. You can easily CONTACT US at any time for any queries.

Cost & Dates

N/A

TOUR MAP

Additional Information

How hard is Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking ?

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is considered as fairly-strenuous trek. There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walk of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said, Makalu Base Camp Trek can be done by travelers who have the right attitude, previous trekking experience and are physically fit.

Which is the best season for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking ?

The best season for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.

How high will we ascend during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking ?

The maximum height we will ascend during this trek is up to Pangpema viewpoint (5,388m/17,672ft).

Is the Internet accessible during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking ?

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.

What are the permits required for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking ?

The permits required for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking are:

  • Makalu Barun National Park Permit
  • Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) Card

How long will Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek take ?

According to the standard itinerary our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking package is of 25 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager; he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.

Is it possible to trek Kanchenjunga Circuit ?

Yes!! It is possible to trek Kanchenjunga Circuit. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking requires stamina and good health conditions. If you are planning to trek without any experience then you can contact us prior to 20 days so that we can guide you through some exercises and diets you should consider for preparation.

Do I need to have Travel Insurance during Trek ?

Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.

Should I manage the equipment/accessories for trekking by myself ?

All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.

Who are my Guides ?

Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.

What if I cancel the trip, do I get my refund ?

Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.

Are your staff equipped/trained & insured ?

We hire our staff according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.

What about altitude Sickness ?

Normally, Within 12-24 hours after ascending a certain height(1,500 to 2,500 meter above sea level) altitude sickness symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath are seen. In case of any altitude sickness symptoms we will apply medication and descend immediately for acclimatization.

How to select a local agency for trekking?

Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.

What is the Accommodation Like ?

Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude and remote places the service will be limited.

Can I charge my mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek ?

Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring power bank with you which will be helpful.

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