Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek 18

Overview

Country Nepal
Duration 18
Trip Grade Challenging
Maximum Altitude 5,143 m (Kanchenjunga Base Camp)
Starts Kathmandu
Ends Kathmandu
Group Size Min 2
Bst Time Spring & Autumn

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is an unforgettable 18-day journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine trekking regions, leading to both the North and South Base Camps of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), the world’s third-highest mountain. Located in eastern Nepal, this off-the-beaten-path adventure takes you through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, glacier-fed rivers, high mountain passes, and traditional Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan villages. As you trek through the protected Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, you’ll witness incredible biodiversity, breathtaking Himalayan panoramas, and authentic local cultures that have remained largely untouched by modern development. Combining dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, comfortable teahouse accommodations, and the thrill of exploring one of Nepal’s least-visited trekking destinations, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offers an extraordinary Himalayan adventure for trekkers seeking solitude, wilderness, and unforgettable mountain experiences.

When To Visit

Best time to visit

Good time to visit

Average time to visit

Itinerary

Day 1

Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Activity: Airport Arrival & Hotel Transfer
Transfer Duration: 30–45 minutes
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, relax or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel. In the evening, meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing about the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, including permits, equipment, and trail information, followed by a traditional Nepali welcome dinner.

Day 2

Altitude: 1,820 m / 5,971 ft
Flight Duration: 45 minutes
Drive Duration: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur before driving through the scenic hills of eastern Nepal to Taplejung, the gateway to the Kanchenjunga region. The journey offers beautiful views of tea gardens, rivers, terraced fields, and traditional villages.

Day 3

Altitude: 2,510 m / 8,235 ft
Drive Duration: 4–5 hours
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive on a rugged mountain road to Sekathum before beginning your first trek through lush forests, suspension bridges, and narrow valleys. Follow the Ghunsa Khola to the peaceful village of Amjilosa.

Day 4

Altitude: 2,730 m / 8,957 ft
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today’s trail passes dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, cascading waterfalls, and remote mountain settlements. Watch for red pandas and other wildlife as you gradually ascend to the beautiful Sherpa village of Gyabla.

Day 5

Altitude: 3,430 m / 11,253 ft
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Continue through pine forests and yak pastures while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Reach the traditional Tibetan village of Ghunsa, known for its ancient monastery, prayer flags, and welcoming local community.

Day 6

Altitude: 3,430 m / 11,253 ft
Activity Duration: 3–4 hours (Optional Hike)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Spend the day acclimatizing to the increasing altitude. You can take a short hike to nearby viewpoints, visit the monastery, or explore the village while preparing for the higher elevations ahead.

Day 7

Altitude: 4,050 m / 13,287 ft
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail follows the Ghunsa River through alpine meadows and glacial valleys with breathtaking views of Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and surrounding snow-capped peaks before reaching Kambachen.

Day 8

Altitude: 4,780 m / 15,682 ft
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Continue through a dramatic glacial landscape with towering mountains surrounding you on all sides. Cross rocky moraines and alpine terrain before arriving at the remote settlement of Lhonak.

Day 9

Maximum Altitude: 5,143 m / 16,873 ft
Hiking Duration: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today is one of the highlights of the trek. Hike to Pangpema, the North Base Camp of Mount Kanchenjunga, where you’ll enjoy unforgettable panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, Chang Himal, Kirat Chuli, and surrounding glaciers. After spending time at the base camp, return to Lhonak for the night.

Day 10

Altitude: 3,430 m / 11,253 ft
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Retrace your steps through Kambachen and descend back to Ghunsa while enjoying changing landscapes and beautiful mountain scenery.

Day 11

Altitude: 4,290 m / 14,075 ft
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Leave the Ghunsa Valley and climb steadily toward Sele La Kharka, passing through forests and alpine meadows with magnificent mountain views.

Day 12

Altitude: 3,870 m / 12,697 ft
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Cross the scenic Sele La Pass before descending through rugged alpine terrain to Cheram. The trail offers spectacular views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Everest on clear days.

Day 13

Maximum Altitude: 4,730 m / 15,518 ft
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hike to Oktang, the South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga, where you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Yalung Glacier and the towering south face of Kanchenjunga before returning to Cheram.

Day 14

Altitude: 2,995 m / 9,826 ft
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Descend through beautiful rhododendron forests and peaceful mountain landscapes to the small settlement of Tortong.

Day 15

Altitude: 2,080 m / 6,824 ft
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Continue descending through forests, rivers, and traditional villages while experiencing the rich culture of the Limbu community.

Day 16

Altitude: 91 m / 299 ft
Drive Duration: 9–10 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Drive through the scenic hills and plains of eastern Nepal to Bhadrapur for your overnight stay before flying back to Kathmandu.

Day 17

Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Flight Duration: 45 minutes
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner

Fly back to Kathmandu and enjoy a free afternoon for sightseeing or shopping. In the evening, celebrate your successful trek with a traditional Nepali farewell dinner.

Day 18

Activity: Airport Transfer
Transfer Duration: 30–45 minutes
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Depart Nepal with unforgettable memories of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences in one of the country’s most remote trekking regions.

Cost Details

Cost Includes

Airport transfers in Kathmandu
2 nights hotel in Kathmandu
Guesthouse / teahouse accommodation during trek
Meals during trekking (breakfast)
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
Licensed guide and porter
Transportation (Kathmandu-Taplejung-Kathmandu via flight/road)
First aid kit

Cost Excludes

International airfare
Nepal visa fee
Travel insurance (high-altitude trekking coverage recommended)
Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs)
Hot showers / Wi-Fi charges
Tips for guide and porter

Trek Essentials

Pack warm, moisture-wicking clothing that can be layered for changing mountain weather and high-altitude conditions.

Moisture-wicking base layers (tops and bottoms)
Fleece or insulated jacket
Down jacket (recommended for high altitudes)
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Waterproof trekking pants
Lightweight trekking pants
Thermal underwear
Quick-dry trekking shirts
Warm hat or beanie
Sun hat or cap
Buff or neck gaiter
Waterproof gloves
Inner gloves
Undergarments
Wool or synthetic trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
Comfortable sleepwear

Proper footwear is essential for trekking across rugged mountain trails and high passes.

Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support
Camp shoes or sandals
Comfortable sneakers (optional)
Gaiters (recommended during spring or snowy conditions)

Carry reliable trekking equipment to ensure safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Backpack (30–40L)
Duffel bag (if provided)
Trekking poles
Sleeping bag (-15°C to -20°C recommended)
Sleeping bag liner (optional)
Headlamp with spare batteries
Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3L)
Water purification tablets or filter
Sunglasses with UV protection
Rain cover for backpack
Dry bags or waterproof stuff sacks
Power bank
Universal travel adapter
Camera or smartphone

Bring essential personal items to stay comfortable and prepared during the trek.

Passport and passport-sized photos
Travel insurance documents
Nepali Rupees (cash for personal expenses)
Personal medications
Basic first aid kit
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer
Wet wipes
Toilet paper
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Biodegradable soap and shampoo
Quick-dry towel
Nail clippers
Insect repellent
Energy bars or trail snacks
Electrolyte tablets or hydration salts

FAQs

Yes. The trek passes through a restricted conservation area, so foreign trekkers are required to travel with a licensed guide. Guides also help with permits, navigation, and safety in remote regions.

Trekkers need the following permits:

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)

TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
Your guide or trekking agency can arrange these permits for you.

Permit fees vary by season, but a typical 18-day trek costs approximately USD 80–120 per person for all required permits combined.

The trek is challenging due to high altitudes, long walking days (5–8 hours), and remote terrain. Good physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and mental preparation are essential. No professional mountaineering skills are required

Best: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) for clear skies and comfortable weather.

Off-season: Winter (December–February) can bring snow at high passes; Monsoon (June–August) is wet and slippery.

It is technically possible but not recommended due to heavy rainfall, slippery trails, risk of landslides, and limited mountain visibility.

Altitude sickness can occur at elevations above 3,500 m. Proper acclimatization days, slow pacing, hydration, and monitoring symptoms reduce the risk. Always inform your guide if you feel unwell.

No. ATMs and credit card facilities are only available in Taplejung or Kathmandu. Bring enough Nepalese rupees for personal expenses like snacks, drinks, hot showers, or tips.

The total cost depends on accommodation, meals, guide/porter services, permits, and transport. Typical packages for an 18-day itinerary range from USD 1,800–3,000 per person.

Medical facilities are limited along the trail. Serious emergencies require evacuation to Taplejung or Kathmandu. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation is mandatory