Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

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About Tour Package

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging 26-day restricted-area adventure in Nepal’s far-eastern Himalayas, starting and ending in Dunai with domestic flights and jeep transfers via Taplejung. This fully supported camping trek explores remote trails through lush rhododendron forests, Ilam tea gardens, and high-altitude landscapes, featuring breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m) and peaks like Yalung Kang, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), and Pathibhara, while passing traditional villages such as Lelep, Ghunsa, Gyabla, and Phale.

Ideal for experienced trekkers, this off-the-beaten-path journey immerses you in Tibetan-influenced culture among Gurung and Tamang communities, with minimal crowds in a protected area best trekked from October to December or March to May.

Accomodation

As per Itinerary

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

As Per Company Managed

Group Size

2-10

Language

Nepali & English

Age Range

08-45 (Year)

Season

Spring Season

Highlights of the Tour

Witness the world's third-highest mountain (8,586m) along with Yalung Kang, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), Gimmigela, and other majestic summits.
Trek through lush, rolling green hills and picturesque tea plantations in eastern Nepal's renowned tea-producing region.
Experience authentic Tibetan-influenced culture in remote settlements like Ghunsa, Lelep, Gyabla, and Phale, home to Gurung, Tamang, and other communities.
Reach vantage points near the base camps with breathtaking glacier views, including the impressive Yalung Glacier.
Journey through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, river valleys, and high passes in a restricted area with minimal crowds for an authentic off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Tour Itinerary

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26 Days - The Great Kanchenjunga Divide: North Base Camp Expedition
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Met by guide and transferred to hotel. Pre-trip briefing in the evening.

Transport:

Private Vehicle

Meals:

Dinner

Accomodation:

Hotel (3-Star)
Day 02: Trip Preparation and Permit Processing in Kathmandu
Spend the day finalizing trek preparations, including gear checks and obtaining necessary permits for the restricted Kanchenjunga area. Explore Thamel for any last-minute shopping or enjoy optional sightseeing in Kathmandu's UNESCO sites.

Transport:

None (city-based).

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

Standard hotel in Kathmandu (BB plan).
Day 03: Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Taplejung via Ilam
Take an early domestic flight to Bhadrapur in eastern Nepal. Upon landing, embark on a scenic jeep drive through lush landscapes and the famous Ilam tea gardens, heading to Taplejung, the gateway to the Kanchenjunga region.

Transport:

Flight Kathmandu-Bhadrapur (45-60 mins); jeep to Taplejung (8-10 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp or basic lodge
Day 04: Jeep to Sekathum and Trek Start to Lelep
Drive by jeep along rugged roads to Sekathum, passing cardamom fields and small villages. Begin trekking through subtropical forests and along the Tamor River to the charming village of Lelep, immersing in local Limbu culture.

Transport:

Jeep to Sekathum (3-4 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 05: Trek to Amjilosa (2,500m)
Follow the Ghunsa River valley, crossing suspension bridges and ascending through rhododendron and bamboo forests. The trail offers glimpses of waterfalls and remote settlements, arriving at the small Yak herder village of Amjilosa.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 06: Trek to Gyabla (2,730m)
Continue ascending gently through dense forests, with views of snow-capped peaks emerging. Pass Tibetan-influenced settlements and enjoy the serene alpine scenery en route to Gyabla.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 07: Trek to Ghunsa (3,595m)
Trek into higher altitudes, entering pine and rhododendron forests. Arrive at Ghunsa, a traditional Tibetan village with wooden houses, monasteries, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 08: Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa
A rest day for acclimatization, with optional short hikes to nearby viewpoints or visits to the local monastery. Monitor health and enjoy the rich Sherpa and Tibetan culture.

Transport:

None (rest/hike).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 09: Trek to Khambachen (4,100m)
Ascend along the river with stunning views of Jannu (Kumbhakarna) Peak. The landscape shifts to alpine meadows as you reach the yak pastures of Khambachen.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 10: Trek to Lhonak (4,780m)
Trek through rocky moraines and glacial paths, with dramatic views of towering peaks. Arrive at Lhonak, a remote high-altitude settlement surrounded by glaciers.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 11: Excursion to Pangpema (North Base Camp, 5,143m) and Back to Lhonak
Early start for the highlight: trek to Pangpema, the North Base Camp, with breathtaking close-up views of Kanchenjunga massif. Return to Lhonak for rest.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 12: Excursion to Pangpema (North Base Camp, 5,143m) and Return to Lhonak
Early start for the highlight: trek to Pangpema, the North Base Camp, with breathtaking close-up views of Kanchenjunga massif. Return to Lhonak for rest.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 13: Trek to Ghunsa
Descend retracing the trail via Khambachen, enjoying shifting perspectives of the peaks, back to Ghunsa village.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 14: Trek to Sele Le High Camp (4,290m)
Steep ascent from Ghunsa through forests and meadows towards the high passes, preparing for the challenging crossings in this pristine wilderness.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 15: Cross High Passes to Tseram (3,870m)
A strenuous day crossing Sele La, Sinion La, Mirgin La, and Sinelapcha La passes with sweeping high-altitude panoramas, followed by descent to Tseram.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 16: Excursion to Oktang (South Base Camp Viewpoint, ~4,730m) and Return to Tseram
Hike to Oktang for dramatic views of Kanchenjunga's south face and the impressive Yalung Glacier. Return to Tseram after this rewarding side trip.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 17: Trek to Phale or Tortong
Begin the descent through rhododendron forests and alpine terrain, passing traditional villages and enjoying the changing landscapes.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 18: Trek to Amjilosa
Continue descending via Yamphudin or similar villages, through diverse ecosystems and rural settlements back towards lower elevations.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 19: Trek to Lelep or Chirwa
Further descent along river valleys, crossing bridges and passing farmland, immersing in local Gurung and Tamang culture.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 20: Trek to Sekathum or Taplejung Area
Complete the lower section trek, returning through familiar trails to the Taplejung region.

Transport:

Trekking (5-6 hrs).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Tented camp.
Day 21: Jeep Drive via Ilam Tea Gardens
Jeep transfer back, enjoying scenic views through tea plantations and eastern hills.

Transport:

Jeep (full day).

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Basic lodge or tent.
Day 22: Drive to Bhadrapur
Continue by jeep to Bhadrapur for your flight connection.

Transport:

Jeep.

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accomodation:

Hotel in Bhadrapur area.
Day 23: Fly to Kathmandu
Morning flight back to Kathmandu, with free time for relaxation or souvenir shopping.

Transport:

Flight Bhadrapur-Kathmandu.

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

Standard hotel in Kathmandu (BB plan).
Day 24: Buffer Day in Kathmandu
Extra day for any flight delays or additional rest/exploration in Kathmandu.

Transport:

None.

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

Standard hotel in Kathmandu (BB plan).
Day 25: Buffer/Relaxation Day in Kathmandu
Use as needed for contingencies or optional activities.

Transport:

None.

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

Standard hotel in Kathmandu (BB plan).
Day 26: Final Departure
Transfer to the international airport for your flight home, marking the end of an epic Kanchenjunga Circuit adventure.

Transport:

Airport drop-off.

Meals:

Breakfast.

Accomodation:

None.

Starting From

$ 4,490.00_{/per person}

Mony Back Guarentee.
Your Safety is Our Top Priority.

Bonus Activity Included – Limited Time!

Travelers

You can book for a maximum number of people 10

Adult
Children

Small Group

$ 5,590.00

2-5 Person

$ 5,590.00 00 Adult

Book Now Book Now

Medium Group

$ 4,490.00

6 to 10 persons

$ 4,490.00 00 Adult

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Big Group

$ 4,590.00

10+ Person

$ 4,590.00 00 Adult

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Package Features List

Include Features

Mandatory Permits: All necessary paperwork is covered, specifically the expensive Restricted Area Permit (RAP) (required for a minimum of two people) and the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) Permit.
Flights & Ground Transport: Round-trip domestic flights (Kathmandu to Bhadrapur/Biratnagar) and all required long-distance private/shared jeep transfers (Bhadrapur to Taplejung/Suketar and back) are included.
Accommodation & Meals on Trek: All 3 meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the 17-18 days on the trek are included, as is accommodation in the best available basic teahouses/lodges.
Expert Staff & Logistics: The cost covers a licensed, experienced, English-speaking Trekking Guide and sufficient Porters (typically one porter for every two trekkers) to carry the main luggage.
Staff Costs & Insurance: All wages, transportation, accommodation, meals, and essential insurance coverage for the entire trekking staff (guide and porters) are paid for by the company.
Kathmandu Hotel & Transfers: Standard hotel accommodation (usually 2-3 nights with breakfast) in Kathmandu, along with all private airport pick-up and drop-off services, is provided.

Exclude Features

International Flights: The cost of the traveler's round-trip international airfare to and from Kathmandu, Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport - TIA).
Travel and Emergency Insurance: The traveler's personal insurance policy, which must cover high-altitude trekking (up to $5,200\text{m}$) and mandatory emergency helicopter evacuation expenses.
Personal Spending on Trek: All personal expenditures such as bottled water, soft/alcoholic drinks, snacks/chocolates, hot showers, phone/Wi-Fi charging, and laundry services on the trail.
Tipping (Gratuities): Tips for the guide and porters are a significant part of their income in Nepal and are an expected exclusion, typically budgeted as an end-of-trek token of appreciation.
Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and Dinner while staying in Kathmandu (before and after the trek) are not included, allowing the traveler flexibility to explore the city's restaurants.
Personal Equipment: The cost of personal trekking gear, such as specialized sleeping bags (rated to $-10^\circ \text{C}$ or lower), down jackets, trekking boots, and trekking poles.

Suggested Equipment List

Insulated Trekking Boots: Waterproof, well-broken-in boots with strong ankle support are crucial for the rugged, steep, and often snowy terrain.
Layered Clothing System: Three thermal layers (base, mid-fleece, outer shell) are essential for adapting to drastic temperature changes from low to high altitude.
Trekking Poles: Adjustable, lightweight poles reduce strain on knees during long ascents and descents across uneven ground and moraine.
Waterproof Shell Jacket & Pants: A windproof and waterproof outer layer is necessary to protect against rain, snow, and severe high-altitude winds.
Headlamp with Batteries: A reliable headlamp is vital for early morning starts, navigating teahouses at night, and in case of power outages in remote areas.
UV Sunglasses & Sunscreen: High-quality, polarized sunglasses and high-SPF lip balm/sunscreen are non-negotiable for protection against intense UV rays at high altitude.
Personal First Aid Kit: A basic medical kit containing blister care, painkillers, antibiotics, and personal high-altitude medication (e.g., Diamox) is necessary.
Water Purification System: Tablets, drops, or a filter system are essential for safely purifying water and maintaining hydration without relying solely on bottled water.
Daypack & Rain Cover: A small 20 L to 30 L daypack is needed to carry essentials like water, snacks, camera, and rain gear during the day's trek.

Frequently Asked & Question

It is strenuous because of the extreme altitude (reaching $5143\text{m}$ , long duration (20+ days of continuous walking for 6-8 hours daily), and the rugged, off-the-beaten-path terrain which includes steep ascents, descents, and crossing icy moraine.

The most challenging day is often the high-pass crossing on the circuit (Sele La/Mirgin La), which involves 8-10 hours of trekking over steep, icy, and exposed ridges at very high altitude. The final push from Lhonak to Pang Pema is also demanding over rough glacial moraine.

The primary risk is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which can become serious due to the high altitude ( $5143\text{m}$ ) combined with the route's limited facilities and remoteness. Proper acclimatization days (at Ghunsa and Khambachen) are mandatory for safety.

Accommodation is basic teahouse/lodge style throughout the trek. Rooms are typically twin-shared with shared bathrooms. Beyond Ghunsa and Ramche, expect extremely simple facilities, including limited or no access to hot showers, phone charging, or Wi-Fi.

Due to its Restricted Area status, you cannot trek solo. You must be accompanied by a licensed local guide and be in a group of at least two trekkers (or pay the permit fee for two people as a solo traveler).

The optimal seasons are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). Both offer stable weather, clear skies for mountain views, and moderate temperatures. Trekkers should avoid the heavy snows of winter and the landslides/clouds of the monsoon (June–August).