21 DAYS KANCHENJUNGA CIRCUIT TREK
21 DAYS KANCHENJUNGA CIRCUIT TREK
This 21 Days Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is famous! Add this to your Nepal bucket—list of things to do. Magnificent snow-clad peaks, alpine crossings, lush green valleys, and raging rivers in one complete package.
Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m) is the third highest mountain on the planet. This trek takes you around this massive mountain and along the border with Sikkim in India and Tibet. The north and south base camp of Kanchenjunga is remote, pristine, and will leave you spell-bound. This is a trek to heavenly heights and the memories will last a lifetime.
There are several challenges along the trail, such as the high altitude Lapsang La Pass (5108m) and Sinon/Mirgin La Pass (4650m) and Kanchenjunga Base Camp at 5140m.
Mount Kanchenjunga, meaning "Five treasures of the snow" is within the Kanchenjunga conservation area covering 2035 sq km and established in 1997.
WWF has classed the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) as a Global Eco Region. There are a number of species in this region, such as red panda, wild bear, musk deer, blue sheep, rhesus macaw, and the elusive snow leopard. The birdlife along the trek is prolific and brings the forests alive. There are an estimated 1200 types of flowering plants, 69 kinds of orchids and 30 rhododendron species that brighten the trail – especially during spring.
In addition to Kanchenjunga, there are four other peaks exceeding 8,000m, one of which is Kanchenjunga West, also known as Yalung Kang (8,586m). There are more than seventeen peaks with an altitude of more than 7000m, which include Kambachen (7,903m), Janu (7,710m), Jongsong (7,483m), Kabru (7,353m), Tent Peak (7,365m) and the Twins (7,350m). Besides these giants, there are a number of peaks over 6,000m.
Flanked by this astonishing cluster of peaks are five major glaciers, Zumu, Talung, and Rathong that flow into Sikkim, and in the west the Kanchenjunga and Yulang Glacier that flow into the impressive fast-flowing Tamor River in Nepal.
The trek along the Kanchenjunga Circuit is rugged and at times physically demanding, but this is what separates it from the rest.
Highlights of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
- Spectacular mountains views including Kanchenjunga
- Yalung Glacier and other high altitude passes
- Religious communities, chortens, sanctuaries, and magnificent scenery
- Traditional Sherpa villages
- Himalayan black ear, Assamese macaque, musk deer, Red panda, snow leopards and other alpine fauna
- Rhododendrons, orchids, lilies & other flowering plants
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrive in Kathmandu (1300m) and transfer to hotel.
A representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After arriving at your hotel you can rest and the explore Thamel and buy anything you require for the trek.
Day 2 : Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur & drive to Taplejung/Suketar (2,420m) Duration: 8-10 hours.
We depart on a morning flight (45 minutes) to Bhadrapur and then travel to Ilam, a well known tea brand and Nepal’s largest tea plantation. We then drive for 4 hours before reaching Taplejung where we will spend our second night.
Day 3 : Trek from Taplejung/ Shketar to Lali Kharka (2,265m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we have a four to five hour trek ahead of us in the Panchthar District in the Mechi Zone of eastern Nepal. The trail is undulating and passes through lush green forests until we reach Lali Kharka where we stay the night.
Day 4 : Trek from Lali Kharka to Kande Bhanjyang (2,190m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After an early breakfast we follow the trail that ascends to Simbu Village and then have a steep ascent to Kande Bhanjyang Village. Along the trail we pass through several small village and forested areas before reaching Kande Bhanjyang Village where we stay the night.
Day 5 : Trek from Kande Bhanjyang to Phumphe Danda (1,860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today’s trail takes us up a steep hillside passing terraced farmlands situated high above Kabbeli Khola (river). The trail is undulating, passing through valleys and across hillsides. We will stop for lunch along the way and after lunch pass through Anpan Village before descending to c Kashawa Khola (river) which we cross and then begin climbing up through the fields until we reach Phumphe Danda Village where we stay overnight.
Day 6 : Trek from Phumphe Khola to Yamphudin (2,080m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail today follows the contours of the hillside above the Kabeli Khola (river), traversing small rivers and valleys. There are several great places to stop and take a dip in the river as we follow it until reaching Yamphudin Village. We will also stop beside the river for lunch. We will stay at Yamphudin in a guest house tonight.
Day 7 : Trek from Yamphudin to Tortong (2,995m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
Our trail today leads us through cooling forests and along the way offers amazing views of the Himalayas. The trail follows the Amji Khola. Further down the trail we cross Lassiya Bhanjyang Pass before reaching Tortong where we will stay the night in a guest house.
Day 8 : Trek from Tortong to Cheram (3,870m) Duration: 2-3 hours.
We start our two to three-hour trek today following a trail next to the Simbuwa Khola (river) and on through Lalung Valley with Tuplung Peak visible along the way. We pass through dense rhododendron forests and have occasional views of the brilliant glassy-white Yalung Glacier. We stay overnight at Cheram.
Day 9 : Trek from Cheram to Ramche (4,580m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
The trail today heads to Ramche, but before reaching there we come to the base of the Yalung Glacier. The trail is through the valley and has some views of several Himalayan peaks. Just prior to reaching Ramche we pass through Lapsang Village. We stay the night at Ramche.
Day 10 : Trek from Ramche to Yalung Base Camp (4,500m) & return to Cheram; Duration: 6-7 hours.
We have a short three to four hour trek ahead of us today as we follow the river and then cross the moraine on Kanchenjunga's southern face. Further down the trail we can see Jannu Himal and continue to Oktang Monastery. From Oktang Monastery we climb higher until we reach Yalung Base Camp where the views of Kumbakarna (Jannu), Nyukla Lachung are absolutely jaw-dropping. We stay the night at Cheram.
Day 11 : Trek from Cheram to Selele Kharka (4,290m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
We have a six to seven hour trek ahead of us today, first crossing Sinelapche Bhanjyang Pass (4646m) and later through Sinion La Pass (4440m). We then ascend to the final pass of our day, Sele La Pass. Tonight we camp at Sele La Pass.
Day 12 : Trek from Selele Kharka to Ghunsa (3595) Duration: 4-5 hours.
We start our four to five hour trek heading north to Tangbgharma Danda following a trail adorned with prayer flags. We then pass through birch, rhododendron and pine forests before arriving at Ghunsa where we stay the night.
Day 13 : Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,145m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today is about five to six hours and ascends to the south of Ghunsa Khola (river) crossing the broad river flats until we reach the elevated pastures on the north banks of the river. Along the trail we have magical views of. Mt Jannu. Once we arrive at the small Tibetan village of Kambachen we find ourselves surrounded by mountains. Tonight we stay here in a guest house.
Day 14 : Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (4,792m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Our trail of around five to six hours today crosses a rocky landscape until we reach Ramtang Village (4240m) then crosses to the northwest of the Kanchenjunga Glacier before reaching Lhonak, situated on a sandy plain with magnificent mountain views surrounding us. Tonight we will find a sheltered area to set up our tents in this arid windswept region.
Day 15 : Trek from Lhonak to Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5143m) and return to Lhonak; Duration: 6-7 hours.
From Lhonak we have a five to six-hour trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The trail follows close to the enormous Kanchenjunga Glacier. Along the trail we pass Pangpema Village. From base camp we have some great views of. Mt. Kanchenjunga, Jannu Himal, and other snow-clad Himalayan peaks. We then descend to Lhonak where we stay the night.
Day 16 : Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,595m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today we return on a six to seven hour trek to Ghunsa, via Kambache, following the same route we took to reach Kanchenjunga Base Camp. We will stay here for the night.
Day 17 : Trek from Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2,498m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
After an hour’s trek we descend to Phale, home to several monasteries and juniper forests until arriving at a grassy hillside where the tiny village of Amjilosa lies. We stay here in a guest house tonight.
Day 18 : Trek from Amjilosa to Chirwa (1,270m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today the trail initially takes us to the small village of Solima and then crosses the Ghunsa Khola (river). We continue along the trail and then reach Sukathum Village. We pass through several other small villages until after seven to eight hours trekking we reach Chirwa where we stay the night.
Day 19 : Trek from Chirwa to Taplejung (1,820m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail today passes through more lush forests with unique examples of various flora and fauna. Our trek today lasts for about eight to nine hours before we reach the quaint village of Taplejung where we stay in a guest house overnight. On our way, we can witness a lush forest filled with flora and fauna. About 8-9 hours of long walk we reach to a picturesque village, Taplejung, where we stay in a guest house overnight.
Day 20 : Drive from Taplejung back to Bhadrapur (2,08m) Duration: 8-10 hours.
The nine to ten hour road trip takes us through many small valleys and through villages until we reach Bhadrapur where we stay in a guest house for the night.
Day 21 : Fly back from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu; Duration: 45 minutes flight.
Today we have a 30-minute scenic flight back to Kathmandu and have our final glimpses of the majestic snow-covered mountains. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will take you back to your hotel
SERVICES
Costs included in your package.
- Domestic - Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Transportation from Bhadrapur to Suketar and Taplejung to Bhadrapur by sharing Jeep.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House)/ tent accommodation during the trek.
- All necessary paperwork including Kanchenjunga conservation area Entry Permit & Special permit.
- Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu flight with private airport transfer and domestic airport tax.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- Hotel accommodation in kathmandu
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Excess baggage of more than 20 kg for Bhadrapur flight.
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation:
We offer you 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights) and Lodge/Teahouses during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with blankets and a pillow. All accommodation is on a twin share basis except at the higher elevations or after Kambachen, where you will enjoy homestay style accommodation. The Kanchenjunga trek is situated in some very areas so you may not have the same level of comfort as lower down the mountain. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide you down jackets, sleeping bags, and duffle bags (which need to be returned after the trek).
Meals and drinks during the trek:
Breakfast will be served in Kathmandu whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. Food along the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is much like it is elsewhere in Nepal, with a heavy reliance on rice, lentils and vegetable curries. We suggest you bring a water purification pill to avoid stomach problems from drinking the local water. Bottled water is sometimes available if you prefer.
Transportation:
We provide a private car for the airport transfers and sightseeing tour of Kathmandu on the day you arrive. Flights from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and return is also included. You will travel by jeep from Bhadrapur to Suketar.
Physical condition and past experience:
Kanchenjunga circuit trek is graded as highly challenging and a tough trek due to the terrain and high altitudes. This trek takes you to many less-traveled and undeveloped areas, making it difficult in places to traverse rockfalls, moraines and streams Trekking in these remote areas can sometimes be difficult due to landslides. The roads at the beginning and end of the trek can also be affected too. It is recommended that you prepare yourself beforehand and get physically prepared. This will make it easier to manage the difficult terrain and high altitudes.
Note: The trek itinerary is a guide and will be provided by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking. The Kanchenjunga circuit trek can be modified according to your time, budget, and requirements. What we offer here is a tea house style trek and can be modified as a purely camping trek as well. Contact us for the latest updated information and price for the varied options available.
MAP
PHOTOS/Videos
Departures
Select a departure month
Fill out the form below and a Travel Expert will reach out to create your perfect tour.
FAQS
What is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging and remote trek that takes you around the third highest mountain in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m). It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, diverse landscapes, and an opportunity to explore the unique culture and traditions of the local communities.
How difficult is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is considered to be a strenuous and challenging trek. It involves long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing high mountain passes. Previous trekking experience and a high level of fitness are required.
How long does it take to complete the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek usually takes around 18-25 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and the pace of the trekking group.
What is the best time to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
The best time to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and good visibility of the mountains.
Do I need a permit for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
Yes, you need a special permit called the Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit to trek in the Kanchenjunga region. You also need to obtain the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
Are there any altitude sickness risks on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
Yes, there is a risk of altitude sickness on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, as you will be reaching high altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body's signals. It is also advisable to consult with a doctor before undertaking the trek.
Are there tea houses or lodges along the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek route?
Yes, there are tea houses and lodges available along the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek route. However, the facilities may be basic and limited in some areas. It is recommended to carry your own sleeping bag and be prepared for shared accommodations.
Is it possible to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek independently?
No, it is not possible to do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek independently. The trek requires a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers due to the restricted area regulations.
What should I pack for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek include warm clothing, hiking boots, a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, waterproof clothing, sun protection, a first aid kit, and a water purifier.
Is travel insurance necessary for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. It should cover emergency medical expenses, helicopter evacuation, and trip cancellation. Make sure to check the policy details and ensure that it includes trekking activities at high altitudes and remote areas.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 19 Reviews
Andrew Kames
Australia
January 2, 2024
21 Days Kanchenjunga Trek!
This was an amazing trip with North Base camp and south base camp views , both of which we were spoilt on clear skies and lovely weather, The guides and porters were all amazing, trying to communicate with their broken english, our main guide Ram was fantastic , with his knowledge of mountains and other areas in nepal. I would highly recommend this trip, just be sure that you love steps and that you love mountains and breathtaking views!!
Shem Owath
Turkey
December 12, 2023
Gratitude for Sherpa Expedition
I am immensely grateful to Sherpa Expedition for organizing this incredible journey. Their meticulous planning, experienced guides, and unwavering support made the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek an adventure of a lifetime. I highly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking an unforgettable trekking experience in the Himalayas
Juan Lopez
United Kingdom
December 7, 2023
Delicious Meals to Fuel the Adventure
Sherpa Expedition ensured we were well-fed throughout the trek. The delicious and nutritious meals provided us with the energy needed to conquer the challenging trails. From hearty breakfasts to warm dinners, the food was a delightful surprise amidst the rugged terrain.
Write Your Review
Average Customer Ratings
How The Travellers Have Rated This Package
19
0
0
0
0
People Considering This Package Right Now Check availability
