Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Duration: 21 Days | Trip Photos | Trip Map

Destination: Nepal
Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
Trip Style: Lodge to Lodge Trek
Transport: Private Vehicle / Bus / Aeroplane
Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel + Teahouses + Lodges
Group Size: 1-20
Max Elevation: 5140 m

Want to experience a rugged trekking adventure in the remote trails of Nepal? If so, the incredible Kanchenjunga circuit trek is ideal for you. This outstanding trek package from Marvel Adventure is everything you can hope for!

The trekking adventure in the Kanchenjunga region is famous for its off-the-beaten, pristine trails. On this exciting trek, you will pass through numerous scenic landmarks and natural terrains. There are forests with lush vegetation that you need to cross to arrive at the destination.

Kanchenjunga is a pristine region with immense natural diversities. Most of the trails remain protected under the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. You will also observe endangered wildlife species, including Red Pandas, Himalayan Tahr, Snow leopards, and others.

All along the trail, you can view the majestic Himalayas, including Mount Kanchenjunga. Besides that, you can also observe other snow-clad mountains while trekking. During this journey, the trekkers will have a great time exploring the glaciers, lakes, mountain passes, rivers, floras, and faunas.

Moreover, cultural exploration opportunities are another exciting aspect of the Kanchenjunga circuit trek. Local settlements of ethnic communities include Bhotiya, Sherpa, Tamang, Limbu, Rai, Gurung, and others. Buddhist heritage sites and landmarks are all over the trails, including small chortens, mani walls, gompas, and prayer flags.

We at Marvel Adventure offer you this outstanding Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package at a reasonable cost. Contact us to book this stunning journey in the foothills of the Himalayas. Happy Traveling!

Why Choose Kanchenjunga Region for Trek?

The Kanchenjunga region is quite famous for its immense natural beauty. There are scenic virgin trails that you will pass to arrive at the mountain’s base camp. These trails are mainly off the beaten and unique from the more mainstream treks in the Everest region.

You will trek the foothills of the mountains while crossing the spectacular natural landmarks. Many diverse natural trails exist, including waterfalls, hills, forests, glaciers, rivers, streams, etc. Trekkers will pass through the quiet trails in the depth of nature.

Another thing that makes this Kanchenjunga region stand apart is the remote landscapes. Away from the hustle and bustle, you will get to explore the beautiful area in all its glory. You will observe the most outstanding views of the tallest Himalayan peaks, including Mt Kanchenjunga.

The local community will welcome you with open arms and incredible hospitality. There are unique lifestyles and traditions that you can observe during the trek. Hence, you should choose the remote Kanchenjunga circuit trek for all these reasons.

Check our Kanchenjunga base camp trek package.

Best Time for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The two best seasons for trekking and traveling in the beautiful Himalayan foothills. These include the spectacular Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November) seasons. Spring provides stable weather, whereas, in the Autumn season, there are fewer weather-related challenges.

Spring season

Spring is favorable for its excellent weather conditions with no weather-related challenges. Travelers will trek in the great blue sky with no overcast conditions. Besides that, the entire trail will get covered in wildflowers like rhododendron. The temperature remains in the mid-20 degree Celsius which is ideal for trekking. Hence, it is pretty pleasant to trek in the Spring season.

Autumn season

Autumn is also one of the best times for the Kanchenjunga circuit trekking. This is because it has fewer weather-related challenges. Besides, there are various other advantages of trekking in the autumn season. There are moderate temperatures that range around mid-20 degrees celsius. The Autumn season is excellent for cultural exploration, as many festivals around this time of the year.

Difficulties of the Kanchenjunga Trek

Tackling this high-altitude sickness is through acclimatization. This process is essential to quickly adapt to changing high-altitude conditions. You should also rest well after the trek and not rush through the trek.

You must trek gently so that you will be able to continue your journey without any hassle. Take regular breaks and carry Diamox tablets as a precaution to reduce symptoms like nausea, headache, insomnia, etc.

The rugged region also has dangerous uphill and downhill slopes that you will have to cross. The trekkers must carry proper tracking gear and equipment for a comfortable journey. You should also trek in the peak season of Spring and Autumn for pleasant trekking conditions. Read More about Kanchenjuna trek difficulty.

Can You Do This Trek?

The Kanchenjunga circuit trek is challenging in the northeastern region of Nepal. The trek is relatively more complex than other treks in the area. However, if you prepare well for the trek, you can efficiently complete it. You will also need the best trekking gear and equipment for the trek.

However, you should also do some other treks as practice before you start the Kanchenjunga circuit trek. It will help you continue your tour in the high-altitude region with ease. Another essential thing to consider for the expedition includes a basic fitness level. Stamina, high strength, and endurance are also required for the trek.

A healthy and nutritious diet is also essential during the trekking journey. Besides all the strength-building physical exercises, you must also perform flexibility-building cardiovascular exercises. Moreover, mental exercises will help you remain motivated along the trail.

How to Prepare for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek? - Essential Tips

Trek early and trek slow
Rest well and acclimatize at various intervals
Hydrate regularly along the trail
Tackle altitude sickness through various measures
Train well with all the exercises
Only get those items necessary during the trek
Book all the meals and accommodations
Carry water purification tablets
Get all your snacks along the trail
Carry a power bank, solar charger, extra batteries, etc.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

The Kanchenjunga circuit Trek might be a little difficult for absolute beginners. However, if you have some experience in trekking at a high altitude, you can complete the trek with ease. The tour takes you through the remote terrains along challenging routes that move uphill and downhill. The rugged landscapes require the use of proper gear and equipment. Hence, you need to be careful along the trail and prepare well.

Why is Acclimatization Necessary?

Acclimatization is an integral aspect of the Kanchenjunga circuit trek. The beautiful hike takes you through some of the highest-altitude terrains. Hence, you must tackle altitude sickness to be fit and in great shape along the trails. Hydrating regularly and trekking at a slow pace is also a necessity. You can also take Diamox tablets to tackle the symptoms of altitude sickness along the trail.

Highlights

Incredible trekking journey to the base camp of the third highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga (8586m)
Observing the Himalayan vista of the snow-clad mountains from various viewpoints
Gorgeous sunrise and sunsets views overlooking the Himalayas
Diverse exploration opportunities for the endangered wildlife
Exploring the cultural landscapes, heritage, and traditions of the local ethnic communities
Staying in the local tea houses and camps along the trail.
Experiencing the beautiful hospitality of the local people

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Phidim
Flight Duration: 1 hour
Bhadrapur altitude: 91 m
Drive duration: 6-7 hours
Phidim altitude: 700 m
Overnight: Phidim
The Kanchenjunga Trek journey begins as you fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. Our team will pick you up and take you to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The flight journey is a short one of only an hour. You will fly above the hilly region.
After arriving at Bhadrapur, you will drive to Phidim. The journey to Phidim will pass through the beautiful highway for 6-7 hours. It is a beautiful valley located in the remote region of eastern Nepal. There are sweeping views of the snow-clad mountain that you can observe from the viewpoint. After you arrive at Phidim, you will stay overnight at a hotel/lodge and rest for the night.
Day 2 Drive to Taplejung and Trek to Sinuwa
Taplejung Altitude: 1820 meters
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours
Trek duration: 3-4 hours
Overnight: Taplejung
We will have breakfast early, as we have a long journey ahead on this day. Today, the scenic drive from Phidim to Taplejung alongside the Mechi Highway is on the cards.
Taplejung is an ancient village of the Limbu dynasty. Many religious temples in the Taplejung region, including Pathibhara Devi Temple, “Mukkumlung Mangham.” There is also the shrine of Yuma Sammang, the Limbu people’s deity.
After arriving at Taplejung, you will rest for some time and continue trekking to Sinuwa. The trail of this section passes through beautiful terrains and scenic landscapes. You will spin Sinuwa.
Day 3 Trek from Sinuwa to Taplethok
Trek duration: 6-7 hours
Taplethok altitude: 2310 m
Overnight: Taplethok
On this section of the trek, you will trek to Taplethok. The trek trail takes you through the region’s beautiful landscapes. There you can observe a scenic sunrise view. The Himalayan vista looks spectacular as well.
You will trek gradually on an uphill path until you arrive. The beautiful trail takes you through the forested area, where you can observe the diverse flora and fauna of the region. After arriving at the destination of Taplethok, you can rest overnight.
Day 4 Trek from Taplethok to Amjilosa
Trek duration: 6-7 hours
Amjilosa altitude: 2310 m
Overnight: Amjilosa
The trekking day begins with a scenic sunrise view from the teahouse. You can also observe the sweeping Himalayan vista. We will eat breakfast and then continue the trek in the region. The trail first moves along a flat path before reaching colorful forests alongside the Tamar River.
The trail from there gently moves uphill as we pass through the waterfalls and streams. After an arduous trekking journey, you reach Sekathum. You will have your lunch before continuing the trail north to Amjilosa Phedi. We will take an uphill path to Jabari. There you will rest for some time to have tea. Finally, you will arrive at Amjilosa after trekking for a few hours, where you can relax.
Day 5 Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla
Trek duration: 7-8 hours
Gyabla altitude: 2725 m
Overnight: Gyabla
This section of the trek passes alongside the Ghunsa Khola. The trail takes you through the serene landscapes, where you can find beautiful trails. The uphill trail takes you above a ridge and crosses the bridge above the river. You can find a water stream as you climb through the bamboo bushes.
The trail then moves to the switchback paths as you lead your way through the uphill valley and rocky terrain. The course also has a landslide-prone area you will cross during the trek. After a few hours of trekking, you will arrive at Gyabla, where you will end your walk.
Day 6 Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa
Trek duration: 7-8 hours
Ghunsa altitude: 3400 m
Overnight: Ghunsa
The Gyabla to Ghunsa section of the trek takes you to a narrow valley with an elevation of 2700 m. The trail passes alongside the Ghunsa Khola as you pass through diverse vegetation zones in gradual uphill terrain. Trekkers can find many rhododendrons and bamboo trees in their paths.
There, you can also find many wildlife animals like red pandas, Himalayan black bears, etc. You will need to cross tricky landslide-prone areas during the trekking journey. We will cross the settlement of Phale, where the people of Ghunsa migrate in the winter.
We will walk uphill along the broad valley, where you will find the settlement of Ghunsa, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. There is a large community of Sherpa in the region. We will rest there after arriving at Ghunsa.
Day 7 Acclimatization at Ghunsa
This day gets separated for acclimatization. There are various acclimatization points in the village of Ghunsa. You can go on a hike to the ridges from where you can observe the spectacular Kumbhakarna Peak (7,711m). The peak is also popularly known as the Janu Peak.
You will get the best cultural insights into the place. You can observe rural lifestyles that will enchant you along the trail. Gompas, mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags are also influenced by Tibetan Buddhism practices. There you can also taste the local millet wine, Tongba.
Lapsang La is where you can hike, passing along the Yamtari Khola. There is a pond near the glacier where you can explore around. After exploring, you will return to the teahouse in Ghunsa to spend the night.
Day 8 Trek from Ghunsa to Khabhanchen
Trek duration: 7-8 hours
Khambachen altitude: 4100m
Overnight: Khambachen
The trail to Khambachen from Ghunsa passes through rockfall areas early in the section. The course moves alongside the river banks, passing through the gorgeous forested trails with rhododendron, pines, and birch trees. You will pass through forested areas covered in rhododendron and fern trees.
You need to cross a wooden bridge leading you to Rampuk Kharka. The trail passes through the cascading waterfalls and arrives at the landslide-prone area. This point provides you with the different perspectives of Mt. Jannu. The trail then leads you through tricky paths before arriving at Khambachen.
Day 9 Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak
Trek duration: 3-4 hours
Lhonak altitude: 4780 m
Overnight: Lhonak
On this day of the Kanchenjunga circuit trek, you will continue your journey passing through the beautiful terrains. The trail from Khambachen to Lhonak is a scenic section of the trek. It is the last settlement before Kanchenjunga Base Camp. There are rocky fields and boulders on the hillside.
You will descend along the route and climb alongside a river’s banks. This leads you to the river streams that you cross on a bridge. The gentle climb will lead you to the Buddhist heritage site of Ramtang Monastery. The beautiful visit to the Gompa will enchant you spiritually. After you arrive at Lhonak, you will rest overnight.
Day 10 Trek from Lhonak to Kanchenjunga Base Camp, Trek back to Lhonak
Trek duration: 4-6 hours
Kanchenjunga Base Camp altitude: 5140 m
Overnight: Lhonak
On this day, you will start your journey to the beautiful terrains of the Kanchenjunga region. The gradual path moves uphill through the course, covered in beautiful wildflowers. There is also the Kanchenjunga glacier that you will need to cross along the trails.
You will pass through the beautiful alpine treelines. The Kanchenjunga base camp is a lovely destination with many observable points. The base camp remains surrounded by snow-clad mountains, including Mount Kanchenjunga and others. After exploring around and making incredible memories, you will descend back. After 3-4 hours, you will reach Phonak.
Day 11 Trek from Lhonak to Khambanchen
Trek duration: 4-6 hours
Lhonak: 4780 m
Overnight: Khambanchen
The beautiful trekking journey from Lhonak to Khambachen starts as you have your breakfast. The scenic vertical trail has much more diverse flora and fauna. There you can also observe the picturesque yak pastures. The path is quite beautiful as it will provide you with a different perspective of the path. After trekking for 4-6 hours, you will arrive at the settlement of Khambachen.
Day 12 Trek from Khambachen to Ghunsa
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
Kambachen altitude: 4110m
Overnight: Gunsa
On this path from Khambachcen to Ghunsa, you will continue trekking through the beautiful terrains of the region. The trail will lead you to the challenging terrains on a downhill trail to arrive at Ghunsa. The downhill trek is relatively easy as you have walked the path before. After arriving in Ghunsa, you will rest and have your meals for the night.
Day 13 Trek from Ghunsa to Sele la Kharka
Trek duration: 7-8 hours
Sele La Kharka: 4200 m
Overnight: Sele La Kharka
The trail on this section from Ghunsa to Sele la Kharka passes through numerous diverse terrains. The incredible journey will provide you with the best views of the entire region. The scenic landscapes of the region will enchant any traveler. You will continue your journey in the south, observing the beautiful snow-clad mountains to reach Sele La Kharka.
Day 14 Trek from Sele la Kharka to Tseram via Sinon la pass
Trek duration: 7-8 hours
Sele La Pass: 4480 m
Sinon La Pass: 4660 m
Tseram altitude: 3870 m
Overnight: Tseram
The journey from Sele La Kharka to Tseram is enchanting, with incredible landscapes all around. The trek trail will take you through multiple terrains arriving at the destination of Tseram. There, you can observe the beautiful trails of the region traversing through the Chele La Pass and Sinon La Pass.
This incredible terrain will provide astounding views of the entire region. The trek trail will take you through the high mountain passes of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. The trek trails gradually take you uphill towards Mirgin La Pass, where you can observe the sunrise view.
You will cross the various water streams and continue along the trails within the region. The beautiful wooden bridge provides the best views of the entire region. There you can observe the wildflowers and flora and fauna of the region. The beautiful nature trails of the region to arrive at Chele La Pass, passing through the natural terrains, is quite enchanting.
You will get to observe the snow-clad mountains of the area, including Mt. Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and others from Sele La. you will then descend along the trails to arrive at the destination from Sele La. The descending route is quite scenic as you descend around 1000m to arrive at your destination.
Day 15 Trek from Tseram to Ramche
Trek duration: 7-8 hours
Tseram altitude: 3870 m
Overnight: Ramche
The trail on this day will take you alongside the beautiful route to arrive at the destination of Ramche. You will pass through the serene natural trails to arrive at the village settlement. The alpine village also has excellent viewpoints of the entire region that you can observe along the route.
The gradual uphill trail will first pass through the challenging terrains of the region. There you can find many lateral moraines along the course as well. You will finally arrive at your destination after trekking for a few hours and resting there.
Day 16 Trek from Ramche to Oktang Base Camp, Trek down to Torangden
Trek duration: 7-8 hours
Oktang Base Camp altitude: 4730 m
Overnight: Oktang Base Camp
The Kanchenjunga circuit Trek will take you through the beautiful Oktang Base Camp on this day. You will pass through the natural terrains along the alpine valley. There are numerous lateral moraines alongside the Yalung Glacier that you will cross in this section.
After rugged trekking, you reach the destination of Oktang Base Camp. There you can explore the base camp area and take incredible pictures. After exploring the region, you will spend the night at the teahouse.
The snow-clad mountains look majestic from the base camp. After exploring around, you will begin your slight descending trail to the village settlement of Torangden. It takes approximately 3-4 hours to reach the destination, where you will spend the night.
Day 17 Trek from Torangden to Yamphudin
Trek duration: 6-7 hours
Torangden altitude: 2200 m
Overnight: Torangden
The trek continues descending trails to arrive at Yamphudin from Torangden. The beautiful trails pass through the challenging terrains of the region for around 5-6 hours. The course is mostly descending as you move alongside the winding paths alongside the Simbuwa Khola. The trail then takes you along the flat areas of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Many wildflowers, like rhododendron, orchids, etc., are on the path to Yamphudin.
Day 18 Trek from Yamphudin to Khebang
Trek duration: 6-7 hours
Yamphudin altitude: 2200 m
Overnight: Yamphudin
This Yamphudin to Khebang trek journey starts early in the morning, after breakfast. The uphill trek passes through the settlement of Lamite Bhanjyang. The trail further descends through the numerous pine-forested courses.
The trekkers will also need to cross the pristine Simbhua Khola. There are Amji Khola river banks that you will travel through the wooden bridge. After trekking for 6-7 hours, you will finally arrive at Khebang.
Day 19 Trek from Khebang to Hapukhola
Trek duration: 6-7 hours
Khebang altitude: 1800 m
Overnight: Hapukhola
This trekking journey in the pristine landscapes is the last section of the trek. The trail has many up-and-down, winding paths. There are many settlements along the route as well. You can enjoy the beautiful nature trails during this trekking journey. After arriving at Hapukhola, you will rest overnight.
Day 20 Drive from Hapukhola to Bhadrapur
Drive duration: 5-6 hours
Hapukhola altitude: 1800 m
Overnight: Bhadrapur
The trail on this day trek takes you on a beautiful trail passing through numerous terrains. You will pass through the beautiful trails on this drive from Hapukhola to Bhadrapur for the last time. The trails drive past the scenic settlements and farmlands of the region to arrive at the destination.
Day 21 Drive to Kathmandu
You will finally drive back to Kathmandu from Bhadrapur on this day as the Kanchenjunga circuit trek ends.

What to Expect

What's included

Airport pick-up and drop
Domestic travel costs as per the itinerary
Meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Fresh fruits after dinner
Guide and Porter costs
Accommodations during the trek
Special Trekking Permits and Conservation Area Permits
First aid kit
Government taxes
Official expenses

What's not included

Items not mentioned above
International airfare and taxes
Visa fee
Travel Insurance
Lunch and dinner (Kathmandu)
Heritage sites entrance fee.
Personal expenses
Drinks and desserts
Tipping costs

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Useful Information

What is the maximum elevation gain during the Kanchenjunga circuit trek?

The maximum point in the high-altitude trek is Kanchenjunga Base Camp, with an altitude of 5140 m.

How long is the Kanchenjunga circuit trek itinerary?

The itinerary of this trek is 21 days long.

When is the best time for the Kanchenjunga circuit trek?

The Kanchenjunga circuit trek is ideal in the Spring and Autumn seasons. These peak seasons have stable and favorable weather and climate for the tour.

How challenging is the trek?

The Kanchenjunga circuit trek is relatively challenging. Altitude sickness and rugged and remote terrains are some of the challenges of the tour. Hence, the trekkers require to have high fitness and stamina for the trek.

What is the training required for the Kanchenjunga circuit trek?

The training regime required for the trek includes physical and cardiovascular exercises. Besides that, mental activities are also necessary for the tour.

What are the trekking gears required for the trek?

The trekking gear required includes poles, crampons, clothes, boots, and others. You can also get these trekking gear and equipment from various shops in Kathmandu.

Are trekking guides required for the trek?

Professional guides are necessary for the trek as they provide you with the best navigation. They will also help you remain safe from injuries, altitude sickness, accidents, etc. They will keep you motivated along the trail and help you reach your destination safely.

Are porters required for the trek?

Porters carry your heavy luggage along the trail. Hence, you can get them if you have heavy luggage.

Is travel insurance required for the Kanchenjunga circuit trek?

Travel insurance is essential for the high-altitude Kanchenjunga circuit trek as it comes with various risks. Proper travel insurance covering 4000m and above will protect you from altitude sickness, injuries, loss, accidents, theft, damage, cancellations, etc.

What are the meals and accommodation facilities on the trek?

The accommodations along the trails include teahouses, lodges, and even camps. You will get the basic facilities of a room with beds, pillows, and mattresses. The meals are generally Nepalese dishes like “Dal Bhaat” and others. You can also get other cuisines at the teahouses and carry your snacks.