Transportation
Domestic flights and private vehicles.
Group Size
Minimum 2 persons
Maximum Altitude
5,143m at Kanchenjunga North Base Camp
Accomodation
Hotels in Kathmandu; lodges/tea houses during the trek
Fitness level
High – requires excellent physical condition
Arrival on
Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
Departure from
Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
Best season
March-May, September-November.
Guiding method
Professional trekking guide
Tour type
Guided trek
Language
English (other languages available on request)
Meals
Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
Permits
Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit, TIMS card.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Map

Essential information

Equipment Checklist

Overview

Kanchenjunga trekking circuit is a very popular trekking route famous for remoteness and for the beautiful mountains located to the eastern regions of Nepal. The word Kanchenjunga is originated from the Tibetan word gangs chen mdzod lnga which means “The five treasures of the high snow”, which is in reference to the five summits that make up Kanchenjunga. The highlight of the trip is is Mt. Kanchenjunga, which at 8,586m is the the third highest mountain in the world. Since, the trek to Kanchenjunga is more remote and less crowded than other popular treks such as in the Everest region and Annapurna region, it offers a rich and relatively untapped natural scenery. It also offers a change to get to experience the rich and traditional local culture and lifestyle found in the region. This trek also offers the chance to experience different geographies that otherwise wouldn’t be to experience to the same trip. This include steamy jungles to massive glaciers and also a chance to see the flora and fauna thought out the trip. This trek will give you sense or relaxation and satisfaction that will make you wanting for more.

Highlights

Remote and uncrowded trek offering untouched natural beauty.
Majestic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
Diverse landscapes from steamy jungles to massive glaciers.
Rich local culture and traditional lifestyle experiences.
Abundant flora and fauna throughout the trekking route.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)

Langtang Ri Trekking & Expedition representative will greet you in an airport & transfer you to your Hotel, after refreshment you will be picked from hotel lobby to office where you will be formally introduced to your Guide and the activities to be enjoyed over the next few days. We will also ask for your passport photographs and any other details required for your trek permits, at this stage

Day 2 :

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing (1,300m)

After breakfast, we start an interesting tour around Kathmandu. Escorting by an English speaking guide (can be provide any language speaking guide on request) be, try to give them a full taste of our vivid culture image and an enchanting manner of its people. In our sightseeing tour we go to Monkey temple Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath and Kathmandu Durbar square. Bouddhanath: Bouddhanath is a Buddhist religious complex with a history dating back over 500 years. Located on the eastern edge of Kathmandu it is now a site of great pilgrimage for Buddhist followers who circle its massive stupa, spin its many prayer wheels and visit its beautiful monastery. The main feature of Boudhanath is its huge hemispherical white stupa with central golden tower and the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha. Visitors should circle the stupa in a clockwise direction and spin prayer wheels for good fortune and a good life. Visitors may also enjoy visiting the Thangka painting school within the complex to see highly skilled artists at work on religious mandala paintings. Pashupatinath: Hindu Temple is a very large and complex and focal point for the Hindu religion. This old and very revered complex of buildings and shrines is dedicated to the Lord Shiva, one of the main deities of Hinduism. While Lord Shiva has multiple forms he is often seen as the destroyer. This has great significance for the Pashupatinath temple as it is the site of many Hindi ritual cremations each day. Pashupatinath is considered by Hindus to be an auspicious site for passing from one stage of life to the next through the purifying and destroying flames of cremation. However, on a happier note, visitors may also get to see the temple in a buoyant festival mode with one of the many Hindu festivals celebrated here through the year. Swayambhunath: You will first visit the Swayambhunath temple complex that sits atop a high hill overlooking Kathmandu and the entire Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhunath is perhaps the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal. It consists of a very large white stupa with the all-seeing-eye of Lord Buddha plus many small stupa and beautifully carved stone shrines. This is a wonderful place to catch your breath and start to understand and appreciate the deep importance of Buddhist belief to the people of Nepal and the Himalaya region. Make sure you ring the many bells to awaken the gods and let them know you are in Nepal. Take the time to enjoy the view over Kathmandu and have your guide point the many other highlights of the city. In the far distance to the east you may also be able to see the hills of Nagarkot where your hotel for tonight is located. If you feel energetic you might also like to try some or all of the 350 steps that lead all the way from Kathmandu city up to your Swayambhunath temple vantage point. Kathmandu Durbar Square: The next stop today is the beautiful Kathmandu Durbar Square, or the royal palace square of the ancient Malla kings of the Kathmandu Valley. This square and all its architectural treasures are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While some damage to buildings occurred in the 2015 earthquake the site still contains many stunning architectural gems. The original royal palace courtyards are open to visitors and you will marvel at the intricate timber carving and beautifully crafted brickwork of the palace. The open square outside the palace has many beautiful multi-storey pagodas and temples with ornate carving and carpentry artwork that tells some of the story of the ancient kings and their mystical time and beliefs. The square also contains many important Hindu temples and statues such as to Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Durbar Square also contains the unique and intriguing Kumari Chok. This is an ancient and ornate house where resides the Raj Kumari – the Living Goddess. She is a young girl chosen through an ancient and mystical selection process to become the human incarnation of the Hindu mother goddess, Durga. If you are in the courtyard of the home at the right time in the afternoon you may see a brief glimpse of the Goddess at her window.

Day 3 :

Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Philim (921m)

Early moring after breakfast fly to Bhadrapur & continue drive t o Philim.. The trails throughout the lower sections of the Kanchenjunga region pass through fertile valleys with beautiful pastures and small villages. We then cross Hangdewa River and walk alongside the raging Tamor River. As we gradually head in a northerly direction the trail steepens after a few hours before a final descent of 350 meters on a muddy trail to Mitlung. We spend the night there.

Day 4 :

Philim to Taplejung drive in private vehicle. Than local vehicle drive to Chirwa. (921m)

Drive from Philim to Taplejung in Private vehicle. From there we change to local vehicle for off road. We pass beautiful rural landscape along the way and reach Chirwa, a beautiful Limbu village with few lodges, tea shops etc. We spend the night at Chirwa.

Day 5 :

Chirwa to Sukathum (1,576m)

The trek from Chirwa to Sukathum passes through varied landscapes such as cardamom fields and dense forests. We trek uphill for sometime then descend to the lush green fields below and continue trekking along the Tamor River passing through a dense forest. It’s both uphill and downhill trek until crossing the Ghunsa River after which we reach Sukathum and spend the night there.

Day 6 :

Sukathum to Amjilosa (2,308m)

Trekking from Sukathum to Amjilosa is challenging. After crossing the suspension bridge outside Sukathum we enter a dense forest, ascend the steep trail, descend and cross the river again. We also climb a gorge from the bottom and pass by Solima village and descend again to the level of the river. All in all, this day’s trekking is rather tough. Therefore, it is advisable to be very careful especially while walking the trail that passes the gorge. We later follow a tricky trail which goes both uphill and downhill until reaching Amjilosa where we spend the night.

Day 7 :

Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)

We start trekking from the river bank, pass through a densely forest of bamboo, fir and rhododendrons eventually reaching a small stone house by the river. We then climb uphill crossing a few small bridges along the way. Here, we get to enjoy the company of stunning waterfalls that originate from the mountains. After yet another short uphill walk we reach the Tibetan settlement to Gyabla.

Day 8 :

Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m)

We descend down the river and notice the valley as it slowly opens up before reaching Phale, a Tibetan refugee settlement where it is possible to purchase handicrafts and homemade rugs from locals. After purchasing a few souvenirs we travel through conifer and pine forest and reach the Sherpa village of Ghunsa where we spend the night. This place is known for its hydroelectricity plant and the fact that more than 20 prominent conservationists met a tragic end in a helicopter crash.

Day 9 :

Acclimatization day at Ghunsa (Max. Altitude 4000m) (3,595m)

We take care to spend time acclimatizing around Ghunsa before continuing our next day’s trek. We recommend you to stay active even in a rest day as it is better than being idle while on a trekking journey. Therefore, we take a short hike towards the Laspsan La monastery through the lush green forest. Come back to Ghunsa by afternoon and relax.

Day 10 :

Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m)

From Ghunsa we trek further north along the river bank which presents us with magnificent mountain scenery. We pass through meadows full with beautiful wildflowers, rhododendron and pine forests. We cross a bridge at Rampuk Kharka, continue past the waterfall and cross the tricky section of the landslide. After crossing the landslide area we begin to see the spectacular view of Mt. Jannu. Further exploring and tackling the tricky mountain trail we finally arrive at Kambachen and spend the night.

Day 11 :

Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m)

Today will be another challenging day and an early start is needed. We trek through rocky fields and large boulders on the hillside along the riverbank and arrive at a waterfall. We then cross a bridge to Ramtang monastery. We then come across a landslide section which we must pass through at a steady pace before descending to the river and finally arriving at Lhonak.

Day 12 :

Trek to Pangpema / Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143m)

We trek along the Kanchenjunga Glacier to spend a night at Pangpema, Kanchenjunga base camp on the north side. We urge you to be careful around the rockier sections as they are prone to landslides. After a short while you reach Pangpema, a flat grassy base camp. Climb a little higher and enjoy the splendor of Jannu, Kanchenjunga and Chang Himal.

Day 13 :

Trek back to Kambachen (4,050m)

We retrace our path to Lhonak and continue down the valley to Ramtang Monastery. The return journey offers a different perspective of the mountains Kanchenjunga, Taple Shikhar, Gimmigela, and Mera Peak among others. Due to the descending nature of this trek we will reach Kambachen by evening and spend the night there.

Day 14 :

Kambachen to Ghunsa (3,595m)

It’s essentially the reverse of our Day 12 trek. We descend to Ghunsa from Kambachen which means that we get to enjoy the beautiful forests along with a backdrop of impressive mountain scenery. Overnight at Ghunsa.

Day 15 :

Ghunsa to Sele Le (4,290m)

It’s a steep trek upward from Ghunsa to Sele-Le. Upon reaching Sele Le we climb through a dense forest of moss, rhododendron and juniper. Lunch will be served in an appropriate place with the availability of water. We spend the night in Sele Le

Day 16 :

Sele Le to Cheram (3,870m)

We do an uphill trek and enjoy the mesmerizing south side view of Jannu Himal and Makalu (the world’s 6th highest mountain). Today is a strenuous trekking day as we cross several passes – Sinion La, Mirgin La and Sinelapche Bhanjyang. We then make a steep descend to Cheram and spend the night there.

Day 17 :

Cheram to Ramche (Ramchaur) (4,580m)

We ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier and walk alongside the Simbuwa Khola, pass through Lapsang village and reach Ramche. While there, we walk further up the valley or ascend a ridge for a tremendous view of blue sheeps. We then follow the stream before climbing on the moraine top until confronted by Kanchenjunga’s southern face. We walk further ahead for a glimpse of the Jannu Himal. We can even consider continuing to Oktang Monastery.

Day 18 :

Trek to Kanchenjungha South Base Camp and Back to Cheram (4,800m)

Trek to Kanchenjungha South Base Camp and Back to Cheram

Day 19 :

Trek from Cheram to Torongden (2,995m)

Trek from Cheram to Torongden

Day 20 :

Torongden to Sherpa Gaun (2,200m)

While descending from Tortong to Yamphudin we pass through Lasiya Bhanjyang which involves walking up through trees and area of landslides. The terrain changes after every monsoon but by the middle of October it should be stable with a route through. Walking further down we reach the village of Yamphudin, a village inhabited by Sherpas, Limbus and Rais.

Day 21 :

Sherpa Gaun to khebang (1,910m)

We descend from Yamphudin, cross the bridge and climb up to Ekchana Vangyang and Descend down to Khebang village (1910m)which will takes 4/ 5 hrs.

Day 22 :

Kebang to Happukhola (1,050m)

After breakfast descend down from Khebang and cross Kabeli khola than walk to Happu khola that will take 4/5 hoours. Happu Khola to Bitamod: Drive back to Birtamoda which will take 9/10 Hours.

Day 23 :

Drive from Happukhola to Birtamod

We are most likely to drive from Thorpu to Birtamod which is a lively Terai town in Eastern Nepal. Along the way you will notice the climate getting warmer with a landscape that is different from the mountains and the hills We descend from Yamphudin, cross the bridge and climb up to Ekchana Vangyang and Descend down to Khebang village (1910m)which will takes 4/ 5 hrs.. The town boasts a number of good accommodation facilities therefore we spend the night in Birtamod.

Day 24 :

Drive from Birtamod to Bhadrapur then Fly to Kathmandu (1,300m)

The drive to Bhadrapur from Birtamod is only of short distance. We fly back to Kathmandu from Bhadrapur Airport. Upon arriving in Kathmandu you can take a rest and relax throughout the day in your hotel.

Day 25 :

Free Day on your own(1300m) overnight in hotel (1,300m)

This will be free day of your own. if you are interested in taking souvenirs for your loved ones, you can shop around the tourist area of Thamel. In The Evening we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner for the successful completion of your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.

Day 26 :

Final Departure from Kathmandu (1,300m)

Langtang Ri representative will accompany you to the airport to catch your returning flight. We hope to see you again soon!

Essential information

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding trekking experiences, offering trekkers stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural interactions. The journey takes you through remote regions, crossing several high-altitude passes, providing a true wilderness experience. Below is a comprehensive guide covering all the essential details for your trek, including privacy policies and requirements.

General Information

Region:
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, northeastern Nepal, bordering Sikkim and Tibet. It features rugged terrain, high passes, and varied biodiversity.
Maximum Elevation:
The highest point is Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp) at 5,143 meters. Other significant passes include Sele La Pass at 4,290 meters.
Trekking Grade:
The trek is strenuous, requiring high physical fitness and prior trekking experience. Daily hiking involves long distances, challenging ascents, and descents at high altitudes.
Best Season:
The best time to trek is in the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. Winter (December to February) is cold and difficult, while the monsoon season (June to August) brings rain and potential landslides.

Permits and Regulations

Permits Required:
- Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit: USD 20 per week per person.
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP): NPR 2,000 per person.
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card: NPR 2,000 per person.
Permits must be obtained in Kathmandu before the trek and are checked by authorities along the route. These permits are non-refundable and specific to restricted areas.

Accommodations and Meals

Accommodation:
- Teahouses/Lodges: These provide basic rooms with simple beds and shared bathrooms. Facilities may include solar-powered electricity.
- Camping: In remote areas, camping is often necessary due to a lack of teahouses. Tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear will be provided.
Meals:
Meals are simple yet hearty, designed to meet the nutritional needs of trekkers.
- Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, tea, or coffee.
- Lunch: Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, and vegetables.
- Dinner: Dal Bhat, pasta, fried rice, and stews.
Food options become limited as the altitude increases, so be prepared for a simple diet at higher altitudes.

Health and Fitness

Fitness Level:
The trek demands excellent physical fitness. Prior experience trekking at high altitudes is highly recommended. Be prepared for 6-8 hours of hiking daily over challenging terrain with steep ascents and descents.
Acclimatization:
Given the high altitudes, acclimatization is crucial. The trek includes acclimatization days to prevent altitude sickness. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. In severe cases, immediate descent is necessary.
First Aid:
Carry a personal first-aid kit with essential items such as altitude sickness medication (Diamox or acetazolamide), pain relievers, and treatments for gastrointestinal issues. Also, include basic supplies like bandages, antiseptics, and blister treatment.
Vaccinations:
Consult your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations, including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, and rabies.
Insurance:
Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical evacuation, and helicopter rescue is mandatory. Emergency evacuation can be expensive without proper coverage.

Environmental and Cultural Responsibility

Leave No Trace:
Trekkers should minimize their environmental impact by carrying out all waste, using eco-friendly products, and respecting the natural environment.
Respecting Local Culture:
The Kanchenjunga region is home to Tibetan Buddhist communities. Visitors are expected to respect local customs, including dressing modestly, asking permission before taking photographs, and avoiding disturbance of religious sites.
Supporting Local Communities:
Hiring local guides, porters, and purchasing goods from local vendors helps support the local economy and ensures sustainable tourism practices.

Transportation

Domestic Flights:
The trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a jeep ride to Taplejung. Weather conditions can affect flight schedules, so it is essential to plan for delays.
Ground Transportation:
In Kathmandu, private vehicles will be used for transportation to and from the airport. Jeep rides may be required on the trek, especially for the initial and final stages.

Guiding and Support

Guides and Porters:
A licensed, experienced guide is essential due to the remoteness of the trek. Guides are knowledgeable about local culture and geography and will ensure a safer trekking experience. Porters will be available to carry your main luggage, allowing you to trek with just a day pack.
Group Size:
Group sizes are typically kept small, ranging from 2 to 12 trekkers, ensuring a personalized experience and safety during the trek.

Communication and Connectivity

Limited Connectivity:
Mobile network coverage is minimal to non-existent in the Kanchenjunga region. Some teahouses may have satellite phones for emergencies. It’s important to inform family and friends that communication will be limited.

Privacy Policy

Data Collection:
Personal details such as name, passport information, emergency contacts, and medical history will be collected for booking, permits, and safety purposes.
Data Usage:
Your information is used solely for organizing your trek and will not be shared with third parties except as needed for logistical purposes.
Confidentiality:
All personal data is stored securely and only accessed by authorized personnel for trip management. Your privacy is a priority, and sensitive information is protected.
Consent:
By booking the trek, you consent to the collection and use of your data as outlined.

FAQs

How fit do I need to be?
You need to be in excellent physical condition, prepared for long days at high altitudes over rugged terrain.
What food is available during the trek?
Simple meals like dal bhat, noodles, and soups are available. Food becomes more basic as you ascend.
What if I get altitude sickness?
Guides are trained to manage altitude sickness. If symptoms occur, immediate descent is necessary.
Can I use a satellite phone?
Some lodges offer satellite phones for a fee. However, communication will be limited during the trek.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary by service provider, so it’s recommended to review the terms at the time of booking.

This guide provides all the essential details for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, ensuring you are well-prepared for an incredible adventure in one of Nepal’s most remote regions.

Equipment Checklist

Preparing for the Kangchenjunga Trek requires careful planning and having the right gear is essential for a successful and comfortable experience. Here’s a comprehensive equipment checklist to ensure you are well-prepared for this remote and challenging trek.

Clothing

Base Layers

Moisture-wicking underwear
Thermal base layer tops and bottoms (merino wool or synthetic)

Mid Layers

Insulating fleece jacket or pullover
Lightweight down jacket or synthetic puffy jacket

Outer Layers

Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
Waterproof pants
Trekking pants and shorts

Headwear

Warm hat or beanie
Sun hat or cap
Balaclava or face mask (for high-altitude conditions)

Gloves and Mittens

Lightweight trekking gloves
Insulated gloves or mittens (waterproof)

Footwear

Trekking boots (waterproof and well-broken-in)
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
Gaiters (for muddy or snowy conditions)
Trekking socks (multiple pairs, including warm liners)

Equipment

Backpack

Daypack (20-30 liters) for daily essentials
Larger trekking backpack (50-70 liters) for personal gear and sleeping bag

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping bag (suitable for temperatures down to -15°C / 5°F)
Sleeping bag liner (for added warmth)
Sleeping pad (insulated and compact)

Trekking Poles

Adjustable trekking poles with rubber tips (optional but useful)

Water and Hydration

Water bottles (2-3 liters capacity)
Hydration system or water bladder (optional)
Water purification tablets or filter (for emergencies)

Headlamp and Batteries

Headlamp with spare batteries

Sunglasses and Sun Protection

UV-protective sunglasses
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
Lip balm with SPF

First Aid Kit

Personal medications (including altitude sickness medication)
Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatment
Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications

Additional Gear

Personal Documents

Passport and copies
Trekking permits (Kangchenjunga Restricted Area Permit, TIMS Card)
Travel insurance documents

Navigation Tools

Map of the Kangchenjunga region
GPS device or smartphone with offline maps

Camera and Electronics

Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
Phone and power bank
Adapters and chargers (Nepal uses Type C, D, and M plugs)

Toiletries

Biodegradable soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Toilet paper and trowel (for use in remote areas)

Snacks

High-energy snacks (nuts, dried fruits, energy bars)

Emergency Items

Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife
Small sewing kit
Personal identification and emergency contact information

Symptoms of Cold and How to Manage

Chilblains (Pernio)

Symptoms: Red, itchy, or swollen skin, typically on fingers, toes, ears, or nose.
Management: Warm the affected areas slowly and avoid direct heat. Keep feet dry and wear insulated gloves and footwear.

Frostbite

Symptoms: Numbness, white or grayish skin, and hard or waxy texture on extremities.
Management: Gradually warm affected areas with body heat. Avoid rubbing or applying direct heat. Immediate medical attention may be required for severe cases.

Hypothermia

Symptoms: Shivering, confusion, drowsiness, loss of coordination, and slurred speech.
Management: Move to a warmer environment, remove wet clothing, and gradually warm the body using blankets or warm fluids. Seek medical help promptly.

Cold-Related Injuries

Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, or pain in extremities.
Management: Keep extremities dry and insulated. Use hand and foot warmers if necessary. Avoid long exposure to freezing temperatures.

Environmental and Cultural Responsibility

Leave No Trace
Trekkers should follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their environmental footprint. Pack out all waste, use eco-friendly products, and avoid disturbing the natural surroundings.

Respecting Local Culture
The Kangchenjunga region is home to ethnic communities with unique traditions and spiritual practices. Show respect by dressing modestly, seeking permission before photographing locals, and not disturbing religious or sacred sites.

Supporting Local Communities
Hiring local guides and porters, purchasing goods from local vendors, and engaging with local businesses helps boost the regional economy. This support is crucial for remote areas like Kangchenjunga, where livelihood options are limited.

This checklist ensures you are fully prepared for the Kangchenjunga Trek, with gear to protect you from the cold and essential tips for respecting the local environment and culture. Stay safe and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and rich experiences that the trek has to offer!

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek – 26 Day

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Map

Essential information

Equipment Checklist