Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

$1850 $1480 / Person

Destination

Kanchenjunga Circuit

Trip Type

Tea house trek

Duration

18 Days

Trip Grade

Moderate

Start At

Kathmandu

End At

Kathmandu

Altitude

4200 Meter

Transport

By Air/Vehicle

Accomodation

Hotel + Lodges

Itinerary

Day 1 Kathmandu to Phidim (Illam) (Flight and Drive)

After breakfast, you will be picked up by our guide from your hotel in Kathmandu. We will then fly for 45 minutes to Bhadrapur and drive for three hours to reach Illam (Phidim). Discover Phidim’s tea garden and spend the night there.

140 m to 650 m in elevation
Primary Draws: Aerial perspective of Nepal’s hilly and terai region, featuring verdant hills and forests, rivers, and tea plantations.

 

 

Day 2 Phidim (Illam) to Taplejung (10 Hours drive)

We shall enjoy a delicious breakfast in our hotel early in the morning. Herbal tea is Illam’s speciality. We’ll have a great tea first, and then it’s a lengthy trip to Taplejung. Today, you will observe Nepal’s rural areas and local communities from the comfort of your own car. Today, Taplejung will be our destination.

Elevation: 1820 metres
Principal Attractions: Aerial image of Nepal’s hilly and terai region, featuring verdant hills, woodlands, and rivers

 

 

Day 3 Taplejung to Taplethok (3 to 4 Hours Drive)

Today is the official start of our journey. We will drive along the route after eating an early breakfast. As we travel past the nearby settlements of Sinwa, we will come across verdant hills and an oak and rhododendron forest. We’ll follow the path that runs alongside the Tamor River to Taplethok. This is a lodge where we will spend the night.

Elevation: 1270 metres
The Tamor River, river valleys, Sinwa, verdant hilltops, and stone-paved roads are the main attractions.
Lodging options include hotels, lodges, and tea houses.
Peak elevation: 2,220 metres
Altitude minimum: 2,100 m
Approximately six hours total spent walking

 

 

Day 4 Taplethok to Gyabla

We eat breakfast in Taplethok in the morning. Our trail will enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area as we begin our hike. After that, we’ll begin our ascent towards Lelep through the rhododendron woodland. We go to Gyabla while taking in the views of the several nearby villages, suspension bridges, and waterfalls. We’ll witness a stunning forest with oak, bamboo, and pine trees. The fresh air and serene surroundings of the mountain will make walking more comfortable. These days, the trail is lined by herds of goats and Yaks and wooden bridges. Staying the night will be in one of Gyabla’s nicest lodges.

2730 metres above sea level
Beautiful valleys and forests, wooden bridges, and suspension bridges are the main draws.

 

 

Day 5 Gyabla to Ghunsa

We’re going to Ghunsa today. Making connections with the locals can be accomplished by taking a short stroll from Gyabla to the Ghunsa village. We will stop at the Tibetan refugee camp in Phale village on our way to Ghunsa. When Tibetans began to relocate decades ago in order to flee China’s communist government, the camp was established. We remain at Ghunsa tonight. Numerous amenities are available in the town, including phone lines, the health post, the internet, and the Kanchenjunga Conservation office.

Elevation: 3595 metres
Principal Draws: Ghunsa Village, forested areas, and mountain valleys; Tibetan refugee camp

 

 

Day 6 Ghunsa to Kambachen

We initially go to the monastery and a ridge close to Ghunsa after breakfast. We get a stunning view of the Jannu Himal (also known as Kumbhakarna, at 7710 metres) today. The trail to Kambachen is dominated by the scenery. We will explore the area, which has easy climbs and a green glacier valley. This area is home to blue sheep and snow leopards. Thus, the possibility of coming across them is constant. We will travel to Kambachen by way of the little hiking trails and waterfalls. We will spend the night in Kambachen at a tea house or lodge.

Elevation: 4,100 metres
Key Attractions: Waterfalls, Green Glacier Lakes, Snow Leopards and Blue Sheeps, Jannu Himal

 

 

Day 7 Rest in Kambachen for Acclimatization

Today is the day of our final rest day. We must adjust to our new environment. Today, we’ll kick back and walk to a ridge. You have a breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m) from the ridge. You can converse with the locals and take in the tranquil surroundings.

Elevation: 4,100 metres
Principal Attractions: Mt. Kanchenjunga, mountain valleys, rocky hills, Kambachen town, and regional specialties

 

 

Day 8 Kambachen to Lhonak

We leave for Lhonak after completing our breakfast in the morning. There won’t be any towns along our path today. We’ll get everything ready and cross the moraine from the Kanchenjunga Glacier. These days, many flock to this road to watch snow-leopards. The Glacier Trail is an uphill walk across steep slopes with breathtaking views on all sides. Spend the night at Lhonak.

4785 metres above sea level
Principal Attractions: Summer Yaks, Snow-leopard Habitat, Lhonak River, a snow-capped mountain over Lhonak, and Kanchenjunga Glacier
Note: If the teahouses are full, we will either camp today or stay in tents.

 

 

Day 9 Day Trip to the North Base Camp (Pangpema)

We’re going to the well-known Kanchenjunga North Base Camp today. We’ll just bring what we need as we’ll be returning to Lhonak for lunch. The Kanchenjunga Glacier’s moraine encloses the Kanchenjunga base camp walk today. There are breathtaking views of rugged hills and snow-capped mountains along the route to the North Base Camp. Once you get at base camp, Mt. Kanchenjunga will be magnificently visible. We sip hot beverages while taking in the serene view of the Himalayas.
We will make the reverse walk back to Lhonak for lunch after taking in the views. Following a satisfying sleep, we walk back to Kambachen.

Maximum Elevation: 5388 metres
Key Attractions: Prayer flags, waterfalls, snow-capped summits, Mt. Kanchenjunga, the glacier, and the habitat of snow leopards.

 

 

Day 10 Kambachen to Ghunsa

From Kambachen, we travel to Ghunsa early in the morning. Watch out for the stunning sunrise over Phole, Sabi, Ghabur, and Mt. Jannu (Kumbhakarna). We will travel in reverse while passing through thick, pine and rhododendron forests. After trekking across glaciers, we head back to Ghunsa and spend the night in a hotel.

Elevation: 3595 metres
Pine and rhododendron forests, glaciers, Ghunsa hamlet, Mount Jannu, Phole, Sabi, and Ghabur are the main attractions.

 

 

Day 11 Ghunsa to Sele Le

We will walk uphill across grassy hills today, with distant views of Mount Makalu. After breakfast in Ghunsa, we head to Sele Le, where we enjoy the views of the surrounding landscapes and the forest, which is home to rhododendron, oak, and pine trees. To go to Sele Le for the night, we shall travel by numerous steep slopes and see the Tamur Khola. Keep an eye out for Sele Le passes before Sele Le settlement.

Elevation: 4,290 metres
Principal Attractions: Tamur Khola, rhododendron forests, Mt. Makalu, and Sele Le Pass

 

 

Day 12 Sele Le to Tseram

We traverse the well-known Mirgin-La Pass and the Sinelapache-La Pass today. with the stunning peak covered with snow encircling the Mirgin-La Pass. You can take in the breathtaking vista of the neighbouring mountain ranges and perhaps get a peek of Mount Everest. Trekkers never get bored of the diverse flora and fauna that can be found along its pathways. We’ll go to the Sinelapache-La Pass as well. We descended along a little track that followed the pass. We will spend the night at Tseram today.

3870 metres above sea level
Principal Attractions: Views of Mount Everest, Mirgin-La Pass, and Sinelapache-La Pass

 

 

Day 13 Tseram to Ramche (Hike to South Base Camp)

We walk down the Yalung Glacier trail to Ramche (4610m) to begin the day. We’ll be going to a lot of well-known locations, like Rothong Peaks and the Kabru Viewpoint. Additionally, we’ll go to a ridge where you may get a stunning panoramic picture of the Kanchenjunga South. From the ridge, you can also see Mount Janu, Nyukla Lanchung, and other sights.
We return to the ramche for the night after taking in the unspoiled splendour of the Himalayas and the base camp, which is draped in prayer flags.

4580 metres above sea level
Mount Janu, Nyukla Lanchung, South Base Camp, and Yalung Glaci are the main attractions.

 

Day 14 Ramche to Torongding

After experiencing both ups and downs, we make our way to Torongding. Gorgeous rhododendron-filled woodlands along the entire walk. We hike through a gorge and areas vulnerable to landslides. We travel to Torongdin village in the fresh air and lovely surroundings. Here, we spend the night.

2995 metres above sea level
Main Attractions: Rhododendron forests, lush hills, Gorde, mountain valleys

 

 

Day 15 Torongdin to Yamphudin

We depart from Thorongdin and travel 3550 metres to the Lasia la Pass. We find Simbuwa Khola, which directs us on our journey to the well-known Lasiya Bhanjyan. We go downwards to the Sherpa village of Yamphudin, which has lovely, verdant trees and a teashop where we will stop for lunch. We spend today exploring the neighbourhood while staying at Yamphudin.

2080 metres in altitude
Principal Attractions: Simbuwa Khola and Lasiya Bhanjyan

 

 

Day 16 Yamphuding to Khamdime

We eventually walk at a lower lever and fully investigate the trail after hiking at greater altitudes. We like the nearby villages, including Khebang, and the lovely valley. Viewing the flora and fauna for today’s walk, the area is full of terraced fields. We will spend the night in Khamdime, which is our final destination. We’re going to have a great dinner and have a good night’s sleep.
1500 metres above sea level
Green hills, nearby villages, and terraced landscapes are the main draws.

 

 

Day 17 Khamdime to Bhadrapur

We eventually walk at a lower lever and fully investigate the trail after hiking at greater altitudes. We like the nearby villages, including Khebang, and the lovely valley. Viewing the flora and fauna for today’s walk, the area is full of terraced fields. We will spend the night in Khamdime, which is our final destination. We’re going to have a great dinner and have a good night’s sleep.
1500 metres above sea level
Green hills, nearby villages, and terraced landscapes are the main draws.

 

 

Day 18 Bhadrapur to Kathmandu

See Bhadrapur Bazaar today and bide your time till your trip to Kathmandu. Take a flight to Kathmandu in the afternoon or evening. Spend the night at the hotel you’ve reserved on your own.

 

 

Trip Hilights

  • A safe and secure online booking system

  • Surround yourself with the Third Highest Peak in the World, Mt Kangchenjunga (8586m (28,169 ft.)

  • Last Minute Booking facility

  • Explore the life of people of Lepcha, Kirat, and Tibetian Buddhism.

  • Visit one of the most restricted areas in Nepal

  • Explores the pristine beauty and spectacular views around the Kangchenjunga Massif

  • Explore the land which is said to hold the dwelling of immortals

  • Visit the place that is recognized as the “Five Treasures of Snow”

  • Observe the traditional Sherpa Village and old settlements of Tibetan Refugees along the Kanchenjunga Trekking routes

  • Walkthrough the trails around Kanchenjunga and surround yourself with the snowcapped mountains of Kanchenjunga Main (8586m), Yalung Kang (8505m), Kanchenjunga Central (8482m), Kanchenjunga South (8497), Kangbachen(7903), etc.

  • Pass by beautiful Monasteries, Chorten, temples, and prayer walls

Trip Overview

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The thrilling Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek takes hikers to the 8,586-meter (28,169-foot) base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga. The Teesta River flows eastward, the Tamur River runs west, and the Lhonak Chu and Jongsang La go north, encircling the third-highest peak in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga.

The Kanchenjunga trekking path is located in Taplejung, in the northeastern region of Nepal. It is placed far from the influence of contemporary society and has maintained its unspoiled beauty. Beautiful Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m), Jannu (7710m), Gimmigela (also known as The Twins, 7350m), Kabru (7412m), Rathong (6682 m), and Kokthang (6148m), round the Kanchenjunga Circuit. Travellers are treated to a visual feast as they circle around the trial.

Trekking the Kanchenjunga Circuit offers numerous opportunities to visit the well-known valleys of Simbua Khola, Ghunsa, and Tamur, where you may witness the customs and culture of the local populace. Visitors have an incredible experience witnessing their remarkable culture, hearing about their unique way of life, and looking up at the snow-capped peaks. The journey is also a well-known spot to see the “Demon of Kanchenjunga,” a rakshasa or yeti species. According to popular belief, a British geological team in 1925 saw what they thought to be the “Yeti,” a strange creature that they believed to be part of the circuit journey to Kanchenjunga.

The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP), home to numerous endangered mammal species, is also explored along the Kanchanjunga circuit path. The Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, and Musk Deer are the most well-known species. The area is also home to a number of well-known and endangered bird species, including the Red-Billed Blue Magpie, the Shy Dragon, and Impala Pleasant. In addition, numerous globally significant plant species, including orchids and rhododendron, call this protected region home.

In addition to having a rich biodiversity, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is well-known for its picturesque setting. One of the most wonderful experiences of the Circuit Trek is the stunning mountain views of the Kanchenjunga North and South Face. Because of its unspoiled beauty and cultural significance, Kanchenjunga has garnered admiration from tourists from all over the world as one of the most significant locations on Earth.With the legend that the Kanchenjunga massif is home to “The Dwelling of Immortals,” the Circuit walk is even more renowned, thus elevating its stature.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Route

Kathmandu (staying the night at Taplejung) -> Taplethok -> Gyabla -> Ghunsa -> Kambachen -> Rest (day of acclimatisation at Kambachen) -> Lhonak -> Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (staying the night at Kambachen) -> Ghunsa -> Sele Le -> Tseram -> Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (staying the night at Tseram) -> Torongding -> Yamphuding -> Khamdime -> illam -> Kathmandu

The trek path for the Kanchenjunga Circuit climbs steadily from 1,200 metres (4,000 feet) to 5,180 metres (17,094 feet) above sea level. The subtropical downpour and humid summer at the lower elevations give way to a cold and wet winter in the snow-capped district on this trip up Mount Kanchenjunga. The circuit trek route follows paths used by yaks (and yak herders) and the local population, although the original Kanchenjunga trekking has remained largely ‘untracked’. In addition to this lovely trekking experience, we will also cross a few mountains, such as Mirgin La Pass, which provides breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga Massif.

Best Season for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

The ideal seasons to complete a circular walk up Kanchenjunga are thought to be autumn and spring. The finest months to go trekking are March to May and September to November. Along the walk, one may witness the breathtaking vistas of the Kanchenjunga Massif, which is lined with verdant hills and snow-capped mountains. These seasons also saw a greater flourishing of the flora and animals, which heightens the excitement of the journey. The weather during the trek will be ideal for exploring the Kanchenjunga circuit. It’s also the ideal time to interact with locals and the villages because you’ll see more of them throughout these seasons. During these seasons, one may also find the best regional specialties.

Accommodation for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The greatest lodging for trekking the Kanchenjunga Circuit is offered by RT. There won’t be any trouble spending the night because the walk is lined with excellent hotels, tea houses, and lodges. Additionally, the Nepal Trek Adventures team offers guides who are native to the area and have a great deal of experience. Along the circuit, there are cosy teahouses and lodges where you can stay.

Is Kanchenjunga Circuit Solo Trek available?

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Solo Trek is not offered at this time. A lone hiker cannot complete the Kanchenjunga circuit on this route. It takes at least two persons to complete the walk around the Kanchenjunga massif due to the high risk and uneven topography. On the trekking path, huge groups of people are infrequent, unless it’s during your overnight accommodations.

RT strives to ensure that your trekking journey on the Kanchenjunga Circuit is as enjoyable as it can be. Safety is the company’s top focus as it helps visitors discover the greatest spots around the trails. You will have an amazing trekking experience around the Kanchenjunga Massif with the best guides and lodging options. There are eighteen days total on the trip. Nowhere else in Nepal will have this bundle accessible in just a few short days. You will be able to witness all the stunning spots and landscapes of the Kanchenjunga Region in just eighteen days, an experience that can only be had with RT. The route is designed for those who want to visit the Kanchenjunga circuit in a shorter amount of time without sacrificing the stunning scenery in the area.

Food while Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

We provide three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at tea houses and lodges throughout the trekking portion. If you are part of a large group, your guide or team leader will make the meal selection for you. Generally speaking, you may find a variety of Nepalese and continental cuisines to suit your palate anywhere, but you must dine at the tea house where you will be spending the night. If you are camping, however, our cook will make your meals and serve them to you.

Acclimatization for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

Acute mountain sickness, or AMS, is a severe problem. It is the result of the body’s inability to adjust to high altitudes and can impact people of any age or fitness level. It normally happens over 1,800 metres, and the higher you go, the more likely it is that you will be harmed. To lessen the impacts of altitude, gradually increase your elevation above 3,000 metres by 300 metres each day until you’ve acclimated. Inadequate acclimatisation causes headaches, nausea, insomnia, dyspnea, and glandular and finger edoema. Reducing altitude is the only way to treat AMS, and your guide’s judgement is definitive in this regard. If you intend to walk more than 3,000 metres, we advise against walking at a quicker pace. Please speak with your guide to descend at least 500 metres to recuperate if you become altitude sick.

Tips for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

  1. Hold your rucksack in your own hands.
  2. Learn some greetings and vocabulary in Nepali, such as “Namaste,” “Hello,” “Dhanayabad,” “Welcome,” “Malai man paryo,” “I like it,” and “Mitho.”
  3. Honour the customs and culture of the people you are visiting.
  4. Avoid consuming water straight from the tap.
  5. Take good care of and safeguard your belongings.

Medicines and First Aid Kits for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

  1. Increased Power Excedrin for headaches brought on by altitude.
  2. For general aches and pains, use ibuprofen.
  3. For diarrhoea or upset stomach, take Immodium or Pepto Bismol pills.
  4. For altitude sickness, take 125 or 250 mg of Diamox tablets.
  5. One compact first aid package suitable for a person, complete with bandages, moleskin, waterproof tape, anti-
  6. infection creams, and other blister remedies.
  7. Unrelated but Crucial Items to Know Before Trekking the Kanchenjunga Circuit
  8. Passport and four additional passport photographs
  9. robust wallet or pouch to hold cash, passports, and travel documents.
  10. lip balm. SPF 20 or higher, two sticks.
  11. It is advised to use SPF 40 sun cream.
  12. little knife.
  13. purifying of water Tablets containing iodine
  14. Toilet paper in a plastic bag, hand wipes, liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, and other necessities should all be included in a toiletry kit.

Trekking equipment During Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The information below will help you prepare for your trek by providing you with some idea of what to pack. Since equipment and a backpack are essential for a successful trip in Nepal, we advise you to bring only what you need and avoid bringing unnecessary items or equipment. Here is a list of the gear you’ll need for the trek:

  1. Four seasons Sleeping bag (Optional; if you don’t have one on your own, we can lend it to you; it must be returned at the end of the hike).
  2. All of your equipment should be kept in a duffel or rucksack bag, which the porters will carry.
  3. Take a daypack with you.
  4. A jacket with a shaded hat
  5. Cover your ears with a warm wool cap.
  6. A pair of warm, light-weight gloves
  7. t-shirts 2. Three items
  8. thermal tops that are lightweight.
  9. jacket made of fleece.
  10. Wind-stopper jacket made of fleece (optional).
  11. A set of hiking shorts made of nylon. fast-drying undergarments
  12. Two sets of long, light pants.
  13. Two pairs of hiking pants—ideally with knee zips so they can be worn as shorts—would be ideal.
  14. Four sets of warm liner socks
  15. A pair of waterproof hiking/trekking boots that are light to medium in weight.
  16. Light hiking shoes for use at camps and resorts
  17. An optional pair of sandals
  18. A bottle of water.
  19. Head and torch Brightness.

    Included

  • International arrival pickup

  • Domestic airport drop off from hotel (Starting of trek)

  • Domestic airport Pick up transfer to hotel (After the trek)

  • International drop-off on your final departure day

  • Kathmandu to Bharatpur

  • Bharatpur to Kathmandu

  • Phidim to Taplethok by local bus/jeep

  • Khamdime to Bharatpur by local bus/jeep

  • 1 nights hotel in Kathmandu on BB Plan (Twin sharing basis)

  • 16 nights at local guest houses/lodges

  • If you want to upgrade the hotels in Kathmandu (Apply the Addons option)

  • Local Government Entry Permit (Trek Card)

  • Trekkers Information Management Systems Card (TIMS)

  • Kanchenjunga Special Permit

  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Permits

  • 16 Breakfast: Local and continental choices from tea house Menu

  • 17 Lunch: Simple and light lunch in lunch camp tea houses

  • 16 Dinner: Veg and Non-Veg Meals of your choice domestic and continental foods from the local tea house Menu

  • 1 Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the best restaurant with the NTA Team

  • English-speaking government trekking guide

  • With a minimum of 10 years experience

  • All meals for Guide/Porter

  • Insurances for Guide & Porter (Emergency evacuation and accidental medical expenses)

  • Salary as per the company standard rate (which is recommended by the concerned association of the tourism industry)

  • A first-aid kit box carried by our team

    Exclude

  • Nepal visa fees upon arrival in Nepal

  • Tips and gratitude to the guides, drivers, porters, other staff, etc.

  • Extra-day expenses apart from the scheduled itinerary

  • Personal expenses like drinks, laundry, shopping, personal gear, hot shower, electronic battery recharges, and WiFi

  • All other expenses not included in the cost includes list.

  • Travel Insurance: It must be covered for both medical and emergency evacuations with a minimum value of USD 100,000.

2 Reviews

Belly Wave

14 MAY, 2023 . 4:00 Pm

5.0

Absolutely delighted with the service provided by Roiels Travel! From start to finish, they exceeded expectations and made our vacation unforgettable.

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Nicolas Shai

25 APR, 2023. 12:00 Pm

5.0

During our trip, everything ran smoothly thanks to Roiels Travel's attention to detail. They ensured our comfort and safety throughout the journey.

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