KANCHENJUNGA CIRCUIT TREKKING
KANCHENJUNGA CIRCUIT TREKKING
A remote trek to a mostly unexplored region”
Kanchenjunga (8586m) is the world’s third-highest mountain and second highest in Nepal. This trek will take you into the wild along uncharted and less explored trails in the eastern region of Nepal. Kanchenjunga translates as “The Five Treasures of the great snows."
The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek visits the South and North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. In such a remote area it is essential that you have a good level of fitness and preferably some trekking experience. Notwithstanding its remoteness, trekkers will witness how locals live in isolation and will visit the Ramtang and Oktang monasteries. The landscape in this region is chock-a-block with waterfalls, rivers, green meadows, and rhododendron, pine and birch forests. The trek begins at the Yalung Glacier. Throughout the trek, you will be immersed in the beauty of many magnificent peaks.
Mt. Kanchenjunga is in the far east of Nepal close to the border with Sikkim, in the northeast of India. Right up until 1852, Kanchenjunga was thought to be the highest mountain in the world and was closed off to climbers until the middle of the 1980s. Today the Kanchenjunga region is protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and requires a special trekking permit. The area is run by the World Wildlife Fund in conjunction with the Nepali government. As a result, and due to certain restrictions, you can expect to see its unique flora and fauna as well as magnificent farmlands and valleys. Trekkers can experience the traditions of various ethnicities, such as Sherpa, Limbu, Rai &Tamang.
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 7,000m, 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, Zuma, 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.
This just adds to the fact Trek in the Kanchenjunga circuit is an unforgettable experience where trekkers get right into the heart of the remote, less trekked, majestic Himalaya Mountains and beautiful valleys. A new map of the Great Himalayan trekking Trail, trekkers now have access to more remote areas and has seen an increase in teahouses along these routes. There is no better time than the present to experience this brand new opportunity to discover these untouched and remote regions!
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 : Arrival in Kathmandu 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 explore Thamel and buy anything you require for the trek.
Day 2 : Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley.
Today we visit many historical and well-known sites in Kathmandu. Our guide will take you to the famous Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world: The pagoda-shaped temple of Lord Shiva is visited by thousands of people every year. We will also visit the Boudhanath Stupa a place where pilgrims – both Buddhist and Hindu. This is one of the major Buddhist shrines in the world. Another place we visit is the famous Swoyambhunath Temple – also known as the monkey temple. Finally, we get to see the well known Durbar Square with its unique architecture and temples.
Day 3 : Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung/Suketar (2,400m) 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 7-9 hours before reaching Taplejung/Suketar where we will spend our second night. Breakfast Lunch and Dinner included.
Day 4 : Trek From Taplejung to Sinuwa (9,80m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Leaving Taplejung we trek through the flourishing green lower level hills passing by rivers and trekking along some steep ridges. Along the way, we pass through some traditional villages with their unique mud houses, rice fields, fruit trees, and terraced farms before heading down to the Tamur River where we head upstream passing along the way some out-of-the-way villages. We eventually reach the Tamang village of Sinuwa where we stay the night. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 5 : Trek from sinuwa to Tapethok (1,380m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After leaving Sinuwa Village the valley narrows as we traverse remnants of landslides and boulders before descending to Thiwakhola and then cross over a wooden bridge. The trail continues and follows the natural, but undulating, the contour of the terrain before reaching the market at Chiruwa. Leaving Chiruwa we take the trail next to the Tamur River before finally reaching Taplethok. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 6 : Trek Tapethok to Sakathum (1,575m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After first climbing a spur we then descend to Simbua Khola and cross the bridge over the river – with its origin the Yalung Glacier. We again head along another ridge before reaching the Ghunsa Khola Valley. Once we reach the convergence of the Tamur River and Ghunsa Khola we continue on for a short time before making camp beside the river for the night. Breakfast Lunch and Dinner included.
Day 7 : Trek to Amjilosa (2,310m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After leaving Sakathum we trek northeast alongside the banks of the Ghunsa Khola and then climb higher in the direction of Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The trek takes us across an exposed landscape and a steep ascent to the Tibetan village of Amjilosa, where we spend the night. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 8 : Trek to Gyabla (2,730m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today the trail takes us through rhododendron and bamboo forests. Climbing higher we come to a huge waterfall on the side of the river that signals our path us to our objective – Gyable, with its magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.
Day 9 : Trek to Ghunsa (3,595m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
After leaving Gyable the trail takes us through a large meadow, a small village, and a small hill. We then head downhill, crossing a river before reaching Gunsa Village, a large Tibetan village with traditional wooden houses, a school, health post, and its own hydroelectricity power plant. The village is within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area has several Gompas (Buddhist fortifications) where people rest and exchange tales of their journey. Tonight we stay in Gunsa, the very last village in the valley. Breakfast, lunch, and Dinner Included.
Day 10 : Acclimatization day in Ghunsa.
Ghunsa is an ideal location and at a high enough altitude for us to acclimatize. It is recommended that during the acclimatization period we do not remain idle. In order to do this, we trek across the river to an altitude of 400 metres above the village, taking around 4 hours return For the remainder of the day we will wander around this Tibetan village, chatting to the locals and absorbing their rich culture. Breakfast Lunch and Dinner Included.
Day 11 : Trek to Khambachen (4,050m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After leaving Ghunsa we trek through stunning pine and rhododendron forests taking the south bank of the Ghunsa Khola and its, with numerous chortens and mani walls. Trekking across several slopes and glacier moraines we reach Khambachen - today’s destination, a tiny Tibetan village with only a few houses, but encompassed by mountains. Tonight we stay in this quaint village. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 12 : Trek to Lhonak (4,780m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
After reaching the source of the Ghunsa Khola, we trek along the north side of the Kanchenjunga Glacier and then take the trail on flat terrain past the Lhonak Glacier until we reach today’s destination, Lhonak. At this elevation, the air is crisp and cold, but we are compensated with awesome views of Wedge peak, Mera peak, Nepal peak, and Twins, that will leave you spell-bound!. Tonight we stay at Lhonak. Breakfast Lunch and Dinner Included.
Day 13 : Trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,143m) and return to Lhonak (4,780m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
After leaving Lhonak we head in an easterly direction still staying close to the Lhonak Glacier on the northern ridges until we reach Kanchenjunga Base Camp at Pangpema where photo opportunities abound of the huge surrounding mountains. After this breathtaking experience we return to Lhonak for the night. Breakfast Lunch and Dinner included.
Day 14 : Trek to Ghunsa (3,595m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we return to Ghunsa following the same route we took to reach Kanchenjunga Base Camp. We will stay here for the night. Breakfast, lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 15 : Trek to Sele la Kharka (4,200m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek takes us via a precipitous, rock-strewn trail that passes through a forest that takes us to High Camp. We spend the night just beyond the pass at Sele la Kharka. is just above the high pass where we spend the night. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 16 : Trek over Sele la Pass & down to Tseram (3,870m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today is one of the most memorable on the trek as we traverse two passes, the Sele La pass (4480m) and Sinion La Pass (4660m). After passing through Sinion La Pas we descend for about 1000m until we reach Tseram where we will stay the night. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 17 : Trek to Oktang Base camp (4,730m) and back to Ramche (4,580m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
After leaving Tseram we trek through the terminus of Yalung Glacier into a washed-out valley. The peaks of this region span Nepal- India border. There is a lake and a meadow in Ramche. Blue sheep can also be seen on the grassy slopes. From Ramche, we move through rocky trails and moraines to finally reach Oktang Glacier. From, there we trace the trail back to Ramche for the night. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 18 : Trek back to Tseram (3,870m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
After leaving Ramche, we retrace our steps on the same trail back to Tseram where we spend the night. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 19 : Trek to Tortong (3,370m) Duration 4-5 hours.
Today we descend again on the same trail back to Simbuwa Khola It is much easier going heading back, giving us more time to admire the awesome views and wild orchids as we make our way through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Tonight we stay at Tortong Village. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 20 : Trek to Yamphudin (1,690m) Duration: 7-9 hours.
Today’s trek takes us through Lamite Bhanjyang and its dense pine forest On this trail we may hear the chorus of many birds. After crossing the Amji Khola we descend to Yamphudin where we spend the night. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 21 : Trek to Phumphe Danda (1,780m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
As we descend today we follow the trail alongside the Kabeli Khola. Numerous waterfalls can be seen on the trail. Tonight we stay at Phumphe. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 22 : Trek to Kandebhanjung (2,100m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After leaving Phumphe, we climb along a ridge before descending through a succession of valleys just past Phun Village. The next phase of the journey takes us through Kesawa, and then passes through the Gurung village of Bhanjyang. We then follow a ridge and descend to the Limbu village of Kande Bhanjung. Tonight we camp on the banks of the Pha Khola. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 23 : Trek to Simbu (1,600m) and drive to Taplejung (1,580m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today is our final day of trekking taking us to Suketar in the Taplejung district. There is a fair amount of climbing today that will leave us exhausted before our overnight stay in Taplejung. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 24 : Drive to Bhadrapur (2,38km) Duration: 7-9 hours.
After yesterday’s tiring trek we have time to relax on our long drive to Birtamod in the Jhapa District after a 7-9 hour journey. Our overnight stay is in Birtamod, only a short distance from our departure tomorrow from Bhadrapur. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Day 25 : Flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu Duration: 45 minutes.
Up bright and early we fly to Kathmandu. Tonight we can unwind, reminisce and share the highs and lows of our epic journey through some of the most rugged regions of Nepal. You may wish to enjoy the nightlife in Thamel, a popular tourist spot for tourists. Breakfast included.
Day 26 : Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Our representative will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport and bid you farewell. On your flight, you can look back on your journey and plan your next great escape to the wilderness regions of Nepal!
SERVICES
Costs Included in your package:
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Three night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- 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.
- Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with private car/jeep.
- 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). $25 USD for 15-day visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- 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)
- Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees($30 USD per person)
- Excess baggage of more than 20 kg for Badarpur flight.
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
Hotel and 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.
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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 21-26 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 13 Reviews
Rita Steele
Austria
January 1, 2024
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek with Sherpa Expedition: Good Camping Facilities
Sherpa Expedition provided excellent camping facilities throughout the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. The tents were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, ensuring a good night's sleep amidst the rugged terrain.
Kim Cann
Australia
December 10, 2023
Good Guide, Great Experience
Our guide from Sherpa Expedition was exceptional. Their extensive knowledge of the region, helpful insights, and constant support made the trek even more enjoyable. They were always there to answer our questions and ensure our safety.
Shirley King
Austria
November 17, 2023
A Trek of a Lifetime
Our journey to Kanchenjunga Base Camp was nothing short of extraordinary. The serene beauty of the Himalayas, the untouched landscapes, and the cultural experiences along the way made it a trek of a lifetime.
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