Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Trip Type
Trekking In Nepal
Accomodation
Tea House
Destination
Nepal
Start Point
Kathmandu
Region
Restricted Region
Duration
20 Days
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a remote, adventurous trek in a pristine Himalayan region. It offers natural beauty and cultural richness. This trek passes through forests, glaciers, and rivers. You can enjoy the panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga along with other peaks.
Seasonal Information:
The best season for this trek is in the Spring and Autumn season. In spring, the weather is pleasant with clear skies. You can see blooming rhododendrons and green vegetation. The temperature is moderate. This season is ideal for trekking. You get the clear visibility of mountains. Likewise in autumn, the weather is stable and the trails are dry. You can see the clear views of mountains. This is also the festive season where you can explore the culture and traditions of locals. The temperature is cooler at higher altitudes.
Other seasons for this trek are in winter and monsoon. In winter, you can feel the cold especially at higher altitudes. The trails are covered with snow. In this season, the trails are less crowded. It is not recommended for beginners. Likewise in monsoon, heavy rainfall takes place which makes the trails slippery. There is a high chance of landslides. It is least recommended for trekking.
Cultural and Natural Insights:
Culturally, The trek passes through villages like Sherpa, Limbu, Rai, Gurungm Tamang. These villages are highly influenced by Tibetan culture. You can explore monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags. You can witness the lifestyle practices by the locals. You can enjoy meals like dal bhat, tibetan bread, pancakes.
Naturally, You can experience the diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. You can enjoy the panoramic views of Mountains like Kanchenjunga, Kumbhakarna, Rathong and Kabru. The trek passes through Kanchenjunga Conservation Area which is the home for species like snow leopard, red pandas, Himalayan Tahr. You can explore the g;aciers, lakes, rovers and high mountain passes.
Preparation Guide:
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For Physical fitness: This trek is suitable for beginners also with many ascents and descents . So you need to be physically fit to walk for long hours.
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For packing list:
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For clothes, you need layered clothing like thermal, jackets, base layer, fleece.
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For footwear, waterproof trekking boots with good grip is needed.
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For gear, you need trekking poles, headlamp, and a day pack.
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Sunscreen, power banks, sunglasses, water purification tablets are required.
Sustainability and Responsibility:
The ecosystem of Everest region has been significantly impacted by increasing tourism. Trekkers have some responsibilities towards the environment to preserve the beauty of the Himalayas for our own good and for the future generation. Here are some ways to practice environmental responsibility:
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You can carry garbage bags with you or dispose of trash in designated areas.
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Avoid using single use plastic water bottles.
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Choose accommodation that follows sustainable practice.
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You can purchase local goods to uplift/ support the local economy.
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Avoid picking rare plants that take long to grow and respect wildlife and their habitat.
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Travel in groups to reduce ecological strain.
Modern Travel Expectation:
Now trekkers seek balance between adventure and the outside world while in trek to be connected. Here are some expectation of modern traveller that we try to meet:
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Internet access as wifi is available at teahouses.
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Comfortable accommodation due to upgraded teahouses and hygiene facilities.
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Available expanded menu of options including pizza, pancakes, and vegetarian dishes.
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Sustainable and ethical practices as sustainable practice of waste management and using renewable energy.
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Services of health support for high altitude related issues by Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
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Customizable trekking experience for solo travellers or groups for more fun in adventure.
Why Choose Nepal Outdoor Expeditions?
Trekking with Nepal Outdoor Expeditions is more than just following a trail , it’s about creating lasting memories, discovering local culture, and truly connecting with the Himalayas. Our expert team ensures every part of your journey is thoughtfully planned and professionally managed, so you can focus on what matters most: the views, the people, and the experience. Whether it’s your first trek or your next challenge, we’re here to make it seamless, inspiring, and unforgettable.
Treks That You Might Like:
Highlights of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
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You can witness the panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga along with other mountains.
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You may encounter wildlife like red pandas, snow leopard, himalayan tahr.
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You can experience the diverse landscapes like lush forest, alpine meadows, glaciers, and high mountain passes.
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You can explore the culture of Sherpa, Gurung, Rai, Tamang .
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You can experience the warm hospitality of the local communities.
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You can explore monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags.
Short Itinerary ( 20 days )
You’ll have a scenic flight to Bhadrapur. After that you’ll have a jeep drive through mountain roads to reach Taplejung. Stay overnight at a tea house. Distance: 250 km, altitude hain: 1820 m
You’ll descend through terraced fields and small villages. Amd cross Tamor river to reach Mitlung. Stay overnight at a tea house. Distance: 12km, walking hours: 5-6, altitude loss: 899m.
You’ll pass through Tamor river, cross suspension bridges, and again pass through cardamom farms to reach Chirwa. Chirwa is a Limbu village. After you reach Chirwa you can rest at a tea house. Distance: 14km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 349m.
It is the mix of ascend and descend. You’ll follow the Ghunsa river and reach a more rugged and isolated region. Distance: 16km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 390m.
You’ll climb through forests and pass through small waterfalls. This led to Tibetan-influenced settlement of Amjilosa. Distance: 13km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 850m.
The trek continues and you’ll pass through rhododendron forests to reach Gyabla. Distance: 10km, walking hours: 5-6, altitude gain: 220 m.
when you reach Ghunsa, you’ll start feeling altitude sickness. Distance: 12km, walking hours: 5-6, altitude gain: 865m.
You acn rest for the day or you hike to Lpasan La which offers the stunning views of mountains. Distance: 5-6km, (optional hike), walking hours: 5-6, altitude gain or loss: 605 m.
This section is a landslide prone section which is dangerous. But it offers the views of Jannu Himal. Distance: 10km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 455m.
You’ll trek across glacial mountains that offer stunning views of Kanchenjunga and other peaks. Distance: 12km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 730m.
You’ll visit Pangpema which is the Kanchenjunga NOrth Base Camp and return to Lhonak. Distance: 12km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain and loss: 363m.
You’ll trek back to Ghunsa, descending through rocky landscapes. Distance: 22km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude loss: 1185m.
You’ll ascend through forests that lead to high altitude camp. Distance: 8km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 695m.
You’ll cross the highest peak of the trek and after that you’ll descend towards Kanchenjunga South region. Distance: 15km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 190m, altitude loss: 610m.
You’ll hike to Kanchenjunga South base Camp and witness the panoramic views of mountains. It also offers spectacular glacier views. After that you’ll trek back to Tseram. Distance: 10km (round trip), walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain and loss: 880m.
You’ll descend through rhododendron forests following the Simbuwa river. Distance: 17km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude loss: 875m.
You’ll descend further into the lower region, with a mix of ascend and descend sections to reach Yamphudin. Stay overnight at a tea house. Distance: 19km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude loss: 915m.
This is the final trek to Khebeng . After that you’ll have a jeep ride to Ilam. Distance: 10km +100km(drive), walking hours: 4-5, altitude loss: 880m.
You’ll have a drive to Bhadrapur from Ilam and after you reach Bhadrapur, you’ll have a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Distance: 150km drive, 250km flight, altitude loss: 1200m.
A well rested day in Kathmandu before departure. This concludes your journey.
Cost Includes
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Cost of Domestic flights
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Cost of Kanchenjunga restricted Area Permit and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit.
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Standard meals during the trek
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Accommodation in Teahouses.
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First aid and medical service
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Cost of Guide or porters.
Cost Excludes
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International Airfare
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Nepal Visa Fees
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Cost of Travel Insurance
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Cost of personal expenses
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Extra accommodation in Kathmandu
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Tips for guide or porters
