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Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek: Nepal’s Wildest Himalayan Adventure

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  • DestinationNepal
  • AccommodationHotel/Lodge/Tea House during the trek
  • RegionEastern Region
  • Best SeasonFeb, March, April, May, June, Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec.
  • Days18
  • Group8-15 Persons
  • DifficultyModerate
  • PickupTIA Airport
  • Activity Per DayApprox. 4-6 hrs Walking
  • Max. Altitude5,143 meters
  • Meals IncludedAll Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
  • TransportationFlight/Drive

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Highlights

  • North & South Kanchenjunga Base Camps (Pangpema + Oktang)
  • Lhonak La Pass 5,200 m – 360° views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu & Everest
  • Snow leopard & red panda habitat in Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
  • Sele La Pass & spring rhododendron forests in full bloom
  • Authentic Limbu & Tibetan villages with homestays & monasteries
  • Nepal’s wildest crowd-free trekking route from jungle to glacier
  • Natural hot springs at Ghunsa & sunrise over Yalung Glacier

kanchenjunga circuit Trek 18 Days Overview

Craving a raw Kanchenjunga circuit trek that tests your limits in Nepal’s most isolated wilderness? This legendary route encircles the world’s third-highest peak (8,586m), weaving through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area’s pristine trails—far from Everest’s bustle.

Our premium 18-day Kanchenjunga trek package delivers high-stakes thrills: conquer Lhonak La Pass at 5,200m for 360° glacier panoramas, explore Yalung’s icefalls, and immerse in Limbu shaman lore amid rhododendron superbloom.

Priced at $2,199 per person (group of 2+), this strenuous Kanchenjunga base camp trek demands strong fitness for 6-8 hour days up to 220km, but rewards with snow leopard sightings and sacred monasteries. Restricted permits keep it serene; sustainable homestays support remote villages.

Ideal for seasoned explorers eyeing remote trekking in Nepal—book 2026 dates for autumn clarity or spring blooms.

Short itinerary for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu – welcome dinner & briefing

Day 2: Fly Bhadrapur + jeep to Taplejung – start point

Day 3: Trek to Mitlung – subtropical Tamor Valley

Day 4: Mitlung → Chirwa – cardamom & waterfalls

Day 5: Chirwa → Sukathum – Limbu villages

Day 6: Sukathum → Amjilosa – bamboo forests

Day 7: Amjilosa → Gyabla – enter Kanchenjunga Conservation Area

Day 8: Gyabla → Ghunsa – first Kanchenjunga views

Day 9: Acclimatization in Ghunsa – hot springs & monastery

Day 10: Ghunsa → Khambachen – alpine meadows

Day 11: Khambachen → Lhonak – glacier proximity

Day 12: Lhonak acclimatization – Lhonak La Pass side trip

Day 13: Lhonak → Pangpema (North Base Camp) & return

Day 14: Lhonak → Ghunsa – descent

Day 15: Ghunsa → Sele – cross Sele La Pass

Day 16: Sele → Tseram – Yalung Glacier approach

Day 17: Tseram → Oktang (South Base Camp) & Ramche

Day 18: Ramche → Kathmandu – jeep + flight home

 ▶️Need help booking your trip? Watch our step-by-step video guide.

 

Inclusions in Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

  • Airport pick-up & drop-off (Kathmandu)
  • Round-trip domestic flights Kathmandu ↔ Bhadrapur
  • All ground transport by private jeep (Bhadrapur ↔ Taplejung ↔ Bhadrapur)
  • 1 night 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Teahouse accommodation throughout the trek (twin-sharing, best available)
  • Experienced English-speaking licensed trekking guide (local Limbu/Tibetan expert)
  • Assistant guide (for groups of 6+) + porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20 kg)
  • All required permits: – Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit – Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit – TIMS card
  • Staff insurance, wages, food & accommodation
  • All government taxes & service charges
  • Welcome & farewell dinners in Kathmandu

Price Excludes in Kanchenjunga circuit trek

  • International flights to/from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fee ($50–$125)
  • Travel & rescue insurance (mandatory – must cover high-altitude trekking up to 5,500 m + helicopter evacuation)
  • Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, etc.)
  • Extra nights or meals in Kathmandu beyond the itinerary
  • Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome/farewell dinners)
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging & bottled drinks on the trail
  • Alcohol, soft drinks, desserts & personal snacks
  • Tips for guide & porters (recommended $120–$180 total per trekker)
  • Any costs due to flight delays, roadblocks or early/late departure beyond our control

Itinerary for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

You land in Kathmandu, our team welcomes you at the airport and transfers you to a comfortable 3-star hotel in Thamel. Free afternoon to rest or explore the bustling streets. Evening welcome dinner with full trek briefing, gear check, and final preparations.

Overnight hotel.

 

Day 2: Kathmandu → Bhadrapur (flight) → Taplejung (1,820 m) | 45 min flight + 6–7 hrs jeep

Early morning flight to lowland Bhadrapur, then a scenic jeep ride through tea gardens and Limbu villages to Taplejung – the official gateway to Kanchenjunga. First taste of eastern Nepal culture. Overnight teahouse.

 

Day 3: Taplejung → Mitlung (921 m) | 5–6 hrs

Start trekking! Gentle descent along the Tamor River through lush subtropical forests, cardamom plantations, and small Limbu settlements. Easy warm-up day with river views.

Overnight teahouse.

 

Day 4: Mitlung → Chirwa (1,270 m) | 5–6 hrs

Cross suspension bridges over roaring gorges, walk through dense forests, and past waterfalls. Pass tiny Limbu hamlets and cardamom fields – classic eastern Nepal scenery.

Overnight teahouse.

Day 5: Chirwa → Sukathum (1,575 m) | 6 hrs

Follow the Tamor Valley with constant river sounds, pass traditional wooden houses and terraced fields. A relaxing day with plenty of Limbu village interaction.

Overnight teahouse.

 

Day 6: Sukathum → Amjilosa (2,510 m) | 6–7 hrs

Walk through terraced millet and cardamom fields, passing welcoming Rai and Limbu villages. Steady climb with ever-expanding mountain views.

Overnight tented camp.

 

Day 7: Amjilosa → Gyabla (2,730 m) | 6 hrs

The longest but most rewarding day: sacred Handi Lake, Nikasa mani walls, high summer pastures, and endless cultural encounters along the way.

Overnight tented camp near historic Salpa Pass.

 

Day 8: Gyabla → Ghunsa (3,595 m) | 7 hrs

Pre-dawn start for the sunrise climb to Silichung Peak – the trek’s crown jewel. Enjoy a jaw-dropping 360° panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and more. Descend for a relaxed afternoon in nearby Guranse village.

Overnight same camp.

 

Day 9: Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa (3,595 m)

Essential rest day. Optional short hikes to nearby ridges, visit the 400-year-old monastery, or relax in natural hot springs. Perfect for Limbu cultural immersion.

Overnight teahouse.

 

Day 10: Ghunsa → Khambachen (4,090 m) | 6–7 hrs

Enter high alpine zone – meadows, moraines, and icefalls. Spectacular views of Jannu and the Kanchenjunga massif dominate the horizon.

Overnight teahouse with jaw-dropping mountain backdrop.

 

Day 11: Khambachen → Lhonak (4,790 m) | 7 hrs

Rocky moraine trail beside the Kanchenjunga Glacier. The air thins and the landscape becomes stark and beautiful – pure high-Himalayan wilderness.

Overnight teahouse.

 

Day 12: Acclimatization & Lhonak La Pass Side Trip (5,200 m)

Short morning hike to Lhonak La for an unforgettable 360° panorama of the entire Kanchenjunga range. Afternoon free to rest and prepare for base camp.

Overnight Lhonak.

 

Day 13: Lhonak → Pangpema (North Base Camp 5,143 m) & return | 6–7 hrs round trip

The trek’s crown jewel – walk on the glacier to North Base Camp. Stand directly beneath Kanchenjunga’s massive north face surrounded by ice and prayer flags.

Return to Lhonak.

 

Day 14: Lhonak → Ghunsa (3,595 m) | 7–8 hrs

Long but scenic descent through wildflower valleys and past summer yak pastures. The mountains stay in view almost all day.

Overnight Ghunsa.

 

Day 15: Ghunsa → Sele (via Sele La Pass 4,200 m) | 7 hrs

Cross the dramatic Sele La Pass, draped in prayer flags – one of the trek’s most beautiful high points. Descend into rhododendron forests and spot blue sheep.

Overnight teahouse.

 

Day 16: Sele → Tseram (3,870 m) | 7–8 hrs

Walk through oak and rhododendron forests toward the Yalung Glacier. The landscape feels ancient and untouched.

Overnight teahouse.

 

Day 17: Tseram → Oktang (South Base Camp 4,730 m) & Ramche | 6–7 hrs round trip

Early start for sunrise at Oktang – breathtaking close-up views of Yalung Kang and the south face of Kanchenjunga. Return to Ramche for the night.

 

Day 18: Ramche → Taplejung → Bhadrapur → Kathmandu

Final short trek to the roadhead, then jeep to Bhadrapur and evening flight back to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner and celebration. Trip ends with memories of Nepal’s wildest Himalayan circuit.

 

Photos for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

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Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Map

🌸 Spring (March–May)
The absolute best time for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Warm days (10–20°C), endless rhododendron forests in full fiery bloom, crystal-clear views of Kanchenjunga & Jannu, and vibrant Limbu festivals along the trail.

🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Peak season for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Zero rain, crisp air, perfect visibility from Lhonak La Pass, golden harvest terraces, and stable weather for both North & South Base Camps.

❄️ Winter (December–February)
Cold nights (down to –15°C at Lhonak), possible snow on high passes, but you’ll have the entire Kanchenjunga Circuit almost to yourself with razor-sharp Himalayan panoramas.

🌧️ Monsoon (June–August)
Heavy rain & leeches below 3,000 m, slippery trails and clouded peaks — not recommended for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

🏔️ Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Highlights

North & South Base Camps
Stand at Pangpema (5,143 m) and Oktang (4,730 m) beneath the world’s third-highest mountain.

Lhonak La Pass (5,200 m)
360° sunrise panorama of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Makalu and distant Everest.

Snow Leopard Territory
Trek inside Kanchenjunga Conservation Area – prime habitat for snow leopards, red pandas & blue sheep.

Sele La Pass & Rhododendron Forests
Cross dramatic high passes surrounded by blooming rhododendron jungles every spring.

Limbu & Tibetan Culture
Homestays, ancient monasteries, shaman rituals and hot springs in Ghunsa & Olangchung Gola.

🎒 Essential Packing List for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

• Waterproof broken-in trekking boots with ankle support

• Layering: thermal base + fleece + thick down jacket

• Gore-Tex jacket & pants (essential for high passes)

• Warm sleeping bag (–15°C comfort rating)

• Trekking poles (mandatory for moraine & passes)

• UV sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen & lip balm

• Headlamp + spare batteries + power bank

• Water bottle + purification tablets/drops

• Personal first-aid + Diamox for altitude

• High-energy snacks & 35–45 L daypack

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

What is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

A challenging 18–22 day restricted-area trek that circles the world’s third-highest mountain (8,586 m), visiting both North (Pangpema) and South (Oktang) Base Camps through pristine Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

How long is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

Standard full circuit (North + South Base Camps) is 18–22 days from Kathmandu, with 15–18 actual trekking days covering 200–230 km.

 

How difficult is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

Rated strenuous – requires excellent fitness, previous high-altitude experience, and ability to walk 6–8 hours daily over high passes (max 5,200 m at Lhonak La).

 

What is the best time for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

Spring (March–May) for rhododendron blooms and Autumn (September–November) for clear skies and stable weather are the two best seasons.

 

How much does Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek cost in 2025–2026?

All-inclusive guided packages range from $1,799–$2,599 per person depending on group size; our 18-day full circuit starts at $2,199 (2+ pax) with 10% early-bird discount.

 

Do I need a special permit for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

Yes – Kanchenjunga is a restricted area. You need Restricted Area Permit ($10/week), Kanchenjunga Conservation Permit, and TIMS card (all arranged by agency).

 

Can I do Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek solo?

No – Nepal banned solo trekking in restricted areas since April 2023. You must hire a licensed guide (mandatory for safety and permit rules).

 

What is the highest point on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

The highest sleeping point is Lhonak (4,790 m); highest pass walked is Lhonak La (5,200 m) on the acclimatization day.

 

Is there mobile network or Wi-Fi on Kanchenjunga Circuit?

Very limited – NTC/Ncell signal only up to Ghunsa; no reliable internet after Day 8. Satellite devices are recommended for emergencies.

 

What accommodation is used on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

Basic teahouses/lodges (twin-sharing rooms) with shared bathrooms; hot showers are rare after Ghunsa.

 

Are there ATMs or money exchange on the trail?

No ATMs after Taplejung. Carry enough Nepali rupees from Kathmandu (no cards accepted on trail).

 

How cold does it get on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

Night temperatures drop to –10°C to –15°C at Lhonak (4,790 m) in spring/autumn; wind-chill on passes feels colder.

 

Is altitude sickness a big risk on Kanchenjunga Circuit?

Moderate risk – itinerary includes proper acclimatization days at Ghunsa and Lhonak, plus oximeter monitoring and GAMOW bag available.

 

What wildlife can I see on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

Prime snow-leopard habitat, red pandas, Himalayan black bear, blue sheep, danphe pheasant, and over 200 bird species.

 

Which is harder – Kanchenjunga Circuit or Everest Three Passes?

Kanchenjunga Circuit is generally considered harder due to longer isolation, fewer escape routes, harsher weather windows, and more sustained high altitude.

 

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