Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 20 Days

Kanchenjunga
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 21 Days
Trekking into the Wild
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Duration21 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeStrenuous
i
Maximum Altitude5,140 m
Group Size1-10
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking and Adventure
Best TimeSeptember to Mid December and March to May

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Highlights

  • Kanchenjunga is a wilderness trek in the Eastern Himalayan region of Nepal
  • Immerse into the Rai, Limbu, Kirat, and Magar culture by staying in the local tea house.
  • Visit both the North and South base camp of Kanchenjunga in one adventure.
  • Enjoy the tea garden, Cardamom bush, and Rhododendron Forest along the trek
  • Mirgin La (4,645 m) pass intersects north Base camp (5,140 m) and South Yalung Base camp (4,840 m)

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek spans both the North (Pangpema Base Camp) and South (Oktang Base Camp) of eastern himalayan massif. Delimited by Tamar River in the west, Lhonak in the north, Teesta River in the east, and Sikkim in the South. Unlike restricted area popular routes Manaslu Circuit and Upper Mustang, The Kanchenjunga trek offers the untouched landscapes and deep cultural immersion. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek refers trekking either north base camp or south base camp but circuit refers both base camp. It is suitable for experienced trekkers, the Kanchenjung Circuit combines high altitude adventure, wilderness experience and Himalayan eco-system. Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586 m) is the third highest mountain in the world. It is part of the great Himalayan Trails which begins from east and end in the west of Nepal. 

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek: A hassle-free trip where you can experience the ancient style

Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Trek was open for foreigners in 1988 and this trek is becoming a primary trekking destination among the trekkers who seek thrilling adventure into the wild. Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a 20 days journey that begins and ends in Kathmandu. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is a home of wild animals like Himalayan Black bears, Panda and snow leopards.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Itinerary

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek itinerary is depend on the starting and ending point of the trek, personal physical fitness, mode of transportation, duration of the trek and so on. We have crafted 20 days Kanchenjunga circuit trek itinerary. Our 20 days itinerary follow Kathmandu - Bhadrapur by air - Phikal Bazar - Taplejung - Lelep - Ghunsa - Kanchenjunga North (Pangpema Base Camp) - Ghunsa - Selele Pass - Kanchenjunga South (Oktang Base Camp) - Yamphudin - Kanyam - Bhadrapur - Kathmandu. Our standard itinerary ensures proper acclimatization and safe trekking. However, Global Eco Trails is please to cumtomizes the itinerary if needed.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp
World 3rd highest Mountain North Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Please note that some trekking days involve 6 to 7 hours of walking and include crossing high mountain passes where tea houses or other facilities are basic. Based on the terrain and travel conditions, a duration of 18 to 24 days is generally considered ideal for completing the North and South Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek comfortably.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Cost

The cost of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek depends on several factors; trekking season, number of trekkers, mode of transportation, type of trek (tea house or camping), and trek duration.The cost for our 20-day Kanchenjunga tea house trek package ranges from USD 1,600 to 2,600 per person. Please see the details of includes and excludes below.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek Itinerary - 14 Days 

Global Eco Trails offer the shorter itinerary for Kanchenjunga North side (Pangpema Base Camp) in 14 days. The shorter itinerary is better for novic trekkers who can prepared for long hours walking.

Kanchenjunga short (Pangpema Base Camp) Itinerary for 14 Days
Day 01 Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, drive to Kanyam (1,500 m)
Day 02 Long Drive to Sekhathum (1,650 m)
Day 03 Trek to Amjilosa (2,500 m)
Day 04 Trek to Gyabla (2,730 m)
Day 05 Trek to Ghunsa (3,415 m)
Day 06 Acclimatize day at Ghunsa
Day 07 Trek to Kambachen (4,145 m)
Day 08 Trek to Lonak (5,140 m)
Day 09 Day hike to North base camp (pang pema - 5,140 m) and back to Lhonak.
Day 10 Trek back to Ghunsa 
Day 11 Trek descend to Amjilosa
Day 12 Trek descend to Sekathum and drive to Taplejung (1,820 m)
Day 13 Drive from Taplejung to Bhadrapur
Day 14 Flight to Kathmandu.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Vs Makalu Base Camp Trek (Short Comparision)

Kanchen Circuit Trek and Makalu Base Camp trek both are Nepal's true wilderness adventure, ideal for trekkers seeking for remore and fewer croweds.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek (20 days) offers more diverse experience including both north and south base camps, rich local culture, varied landscapes from forest to glacier moraine, high pass. This trek has slightly better insfracture with basic to standard lodge facility.

Makalu Base Camp Trek (18 days) more rugged and physically demanding featuring alpine scenery, remore valleys and fewer settlement. Makalu Base Camp Trek also offers all lodge base trekking. The views are extra ordinary.

What to expect at Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

Kanchenjunga Trek is a challenging trek that goes through the high pass of Mirgin La. The daily trekking duration is about 6 - 7 hours in the rocky terrain. Prepare for warm clothes “The higher you go, the colder you get” Face the challenge and convert it as a part of fun. You will be fully inspired by local people and their culture, the fascinating mountain view, blue sky with twinkling stars. The accommodation will be in a basic teahouse throughout the trek.

Kanchenjunga Lhonak
Kanchenjunga Trek Khambachen 

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a true adventure into one of the most remote and untouched regions of the eastern Himalayas. This off-the-beaten-path trail offers raw natural beauty, dramatic mountain scenery, and a deep sense of solitude, far from the crowded trekking routes like Everest and Annapurna region of Nepal.

The Kanchenjung Circuit Trek is a truly off-the-beaten-trails Himalayan Adventure in the eastern part of Nepal. It breathtaking landscapes, remote trails and authentic cultural experience make it ideal for trekkers seeking something beyond the popular trekking trails. A professional guide and local trek company is mendatory to obtain the permit. 

Plan and Book now! If you're looking for a authentic trekking experience, rich in culture, wilderness, and breathtaking landscapes, Kanchenjunga Base Camp is a journey worth every step.

Itinerary

Mt. Kanchenjung is the 3rd highest Mountain in the world and the trek itinerary to its base camp is depending on the travelers fitness, budget, level services and the transport. Our 18 days itinerary includes the North and South Base Camp. The itinerary is outlline and happy to customize as per your needs.

Trip PlanExpand All
01Day

On the clear day, you can see the best view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Terai fertile land while you are flying. After landing at Bhadrapur, drive to Phikkal Bazar and enjoy the Tea Garden.

Flight duration:1 hour
Driving Distance: 52 km
Drive time: 3 Hrs

Max Altitude: 1,000 mMeals: Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 52 km
02Day

It is a scenic drive, but long! The road is partly well paved and partly dots. You are going by local Jeep, so you will enjoy the professional driving in Nepal.

Max Altitude: 1,820 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 9 hoursDistance: 190 km
03Day

Descending to Chiruwa through local Bhramen and Kshetri village with beautiful landscapes and Mountain views.

Max Altitude: 1,270 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 21 km
04Day

Another day of walkig for about 6 hours. We enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area as we pass through Tapethok. We have our permits checked and head across the suspension bridge and ascend to Lelep.

Max Altitude: 1,750 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 9 km
05Day

Leaving Lelep behind, we march forward enjoying the mesmerizing views, trails, local people, and their way of living. We stop at Amjilosa for the night.

Max Altitude: 2,308 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 11 km
06Day

Walking through the dense forest enjoying the magnificient sceneries of the mountains and waterfalls on the way, we move forward to Gyabla this day.

Max Altitude: 2,730 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 8 km
07Day

Today, we cross 3000 m elevation and walk through the forest of Rhododendrons and firs. You will get to see the Yak pastures and a small yet beautiful Tibetan village on the way. Passing through the green fields and larch forests, we reach Ghunsa village where we stay overnight.

Max Altitude: 3,595 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 10 km
08Day

To help your body acclimate to the altitude and environment, we schedule a rest day in Ghunsa. You can explore the area and relax for the whole day.

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House
09Day

On this trek day, we have breakfast and gradually ascent through a pine forest. During the walk, you may have the chance to see a Snow Leopard in its natural habitat, offering a rare and exciting wildlife experience. You will be rewarded with an enchanting view of Mt. Jannu and Jannu Glacier after a challenging hike.  Enjoying the surrounding vistas, we descend through the mountainside and reach Khambachen where we stop for the night.

Max Altitude: 4,050 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 10 km
10Day

The trek begins by ascending through rocky boulders on the hillside along the riverbank and through the terrains carved with icy blades of the high-altitude glaciers. The trek is challenging yet rewarding with mountains surrounding us in all directions, beautiful waterfalls, and breathtaking sceneries. We come across the small village of Ramtang where you can see Ramtang Monastery and finally reach Lhonak after a short walk for an overnight stay.

Max Altitude: 4,780 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 9 km
11Day

 

After having a breakfast, we start our next day of the trek by setting out across moraine from the Kanchenjunga Glacier, gently climbing upwards. Take some rest, click pictures and immerse yourself in the majectic view of the Himalayas. We return back to Lhonak for the night.

Max Altitude: 4,780 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 9 km
12Day

After spending a night at Lhonak, we trek down the hill rejoicing the views of the Himalayas and leaving the Kanchenjunga Base Camp behind.

Max Altitude: 3,595 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 20 km
13Day

After passing Ghunsa, we reach Selele Phedi, where we can get a chance to see snow leopards as we pass through the dense forest. There is a few human settlements and guest houses since the place receives heavy snowfall during the winter.

Max Altitude: 4,200 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 7 km
14Day

Leaving Selele Phedi, we move up to the Selele La pass, where we can enjoy the panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and Mt. Makalu along the way. We descend to Tseram for an overnight stay.

Max Altitude: 3,886 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 9 km
15Day

After having an early morning breakfast, we pass through the Yalung Glacier and get close to the vistas. After some spectacular views of Rathong and Kabru, we will stop at Ramche that day.

 

 

 

Max Altitude: 4,580 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 7 km
16Day

Ultimately, this is our final destination for exploring the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (Oktang Base Camp 4,730 m) day trip. Enjoy the  Our trail leads out through woodland until we clear the tree line and approach the moraine field of Yarlung Glacier, with Jannu, Kanchenjunga, and other peaks in the area soaring high above us in the valley. After exploring South Base Camp, we will descend to Tseram overnight.

 

 

Max Altitude: 3,886 mMeals: Full BoardAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 14 km
17Day

Leaving the snow-capped Mountains behind, we start walking downhill through the Rhododendron forest with amazing views. Our trek ends at Tortong, where we stay overnight.

Max Altitude: 2,995 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 15 km
18Day

From Tortong, we continue descending to Amji Khola passing through Lasiya/Lamite Bhanjyang (3415m) and Dhupi Bhanjyang, and finally reach Yamphudin. Yamphudin is a village where we had our permits checked before entering the Kanchenjunga Reservation Area.

Max Altitude: 2,080 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 13 km
19Day

After having breakfast in Yamphudin, we take a drive towards the lowland, Kanyam, leaving the Mountain villages behind. You will get to see many visitors as it is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, surrounded by tea gardens and natural landscapes.

 

 

Max Altitude: 1,200 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 8 Hours
20Day

After having breakfast, a bumpy and adventurous drive for about 3 hours takes you to Bhadrapur Airport. Arrival and check in hotel.

 

 

 

Max Altitude: 1,350 mMeals: Breakfast
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Cost Details

Includes

  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Park Entry Permit.
  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System)
  • Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit
  • A complimentary international airport pick-up upon arrival if required
  • Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu flight tickets with departure Tax.
  • An Experienced English-speaking Sherpa Guide with equipment.
  • Airport pick up and drop off by private/sharing vehicle for domestic airstrip
  • All the food and lodging and salary of Sherpa Guide
  • 19-night twin-sharing Mountain accommodation including Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Insurance of Nepalese Staff.
  • Gov't tax and VAT
  • All ground Transportation as per the itinerary.
  • The services which are not mentioned in the included section are extra.

Excludes

  • Personal expenses, Tipping to the Guide, an Emergency Fund for the flight cancellation,
  • Necessary Trek Equipment,
  • Porter services if required, a porter cost 475 USD including his meals, accommodation, Insurance and trek gear.
  • Food and accommodation whilst city.
  • Other meals and Hotel in Kathmandu as per itinerary
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and also in the case of early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary

Essential Information

Are you feeling the trek package is costly for you? No worry, here is some suggestion how you can reduce the Kanchenjunga trek package cost.

1. Aviod domestic flights: Instead of taking a flight to Bhadrapur, choose the overnight bus option from Kathmandu to Birtamod and then a shared jeep to Taplejung or Sekhathum. 

2. Travel by local transportation: Travel by local bus or shared jeeps instead of traveling by 4WD vehicles. The private Jeeps are faster and comfortable but too costly.

3. Shorten the Kanchenjunga Trek duration: 20 days itinerary for Kanchenjung North and Sout Base camp is a sandard for a full, relaxed one. But you can shortern the itinerary with high-intensity or visit North base camp only. 

4. Share a Guide and Porter: This is a restricted are trek and without a licensed Guide is prohabited. Requiring two trekkers to obtain the permits is replaced in March 2026. So now solo trekkers also allow. Sharing a porter cost will reduce your travel package cost. Plan it for before or after the busy season.

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