Kanchenjunga Trekking
Trip Facts
Duration
22
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5,143 meters (16,870 feet)
Group Size
2
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trek, and sherpa culture
Best Time
Sep, Oct, Nov Mar, Apr And May
Overview
Kanchenjunga trekking is getting more popular these days among nature addicts as it offers long adventure to remote and beautiful area of Himalayas in Nepal’s eastern regions. Trekking in Kanchenjunga offers trekkers the chance to explore the wilderness along with wonderful and amazing variety of scenery. Lush farmland and wooded valleys offer breathtaking mountain scenery, which includes near insight of Kanchenjunga and also beautiful panoramic Mountain View of the Khumbu Region. Since, the trekking is less crowded you can trek freely and get rewarded with a unique insight into the Nepali rural lifestyle and its rich tradition and culture.
Kanchenjunga trekking trail starts right after landing on Taplejung and goes through the tropical lowlands through great rhododendron forests and lovely villages of east Nepal up to the overwhelming views of the glacier. Kanchenjunga trekking trail starts from an elevation of 1200 meters to 5180 meters above sea level. A trek to the south and north faces of Kanchenjunga offers fantastic mountain views, including Mount Everest, the highest mountain of the world. Kanchenjunga Trekking offers an adventurous trip that will stay in mind forever. Kanchenjunga Trekking covers the most remote and beautiful areas in Nepal that are unused to foreign visitors and still lies shrouded in mystery. The features of the walk includes visiting pleasant villages with different ethnic groups in the high regions together in combination with glorious mountains and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
- Explore the Kanchenjunga Base Camp and Yalung Ri Base Camp
- Magnificent views of Mt. Everest, Makalu and Kanchenjunga.
- The native Nepali communities such as Sherpa, Limbu, Rai and Gurung etc.
- Diverse flora and fauna and rich local culture.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Kathmandu (1,340m / 4,593ft)
Day 2: Fly to Bhadrapur (91m / 299ft) and Drive to Ilam (1,200m / 3,937ft)
Day 3: Drive from Ilam to Sekathum (1,650m / 5,413ft)
Day 4: Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,510m / 8,235ft) Distance: 8 km Walking Time: 5/6 hours
Day 5: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m / 8,957ft) Distance: 9 km Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Day 6
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa (3,595m)
Day 8: Trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen (4,050m / 13,287ft) Distance: 11 km Walking Time: 5/6 hours
Day 9: Trek from Khambachen to Lhonak (4,780m / 15,682ft) Distance: 10 km Walking Time: 5/6 hours
Day 10: Excursion to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp – 5,143m) and Return to Lhonak
This is one of the most rewarding days of the trek. Start early to hike across rocky glacial terrain to Pangpema, the North Base Camp of Mount Kanchenjunga. Here you'll enjoy unforgettable panoramic views of the world's third-highest mountain (8,586m), along with Chang Himal, Pyramid Peak, Tent Peak, and the massive Kanchenjunga Glacier. After spending time taking photographs and enjoying the incredible scenery, retun to Lhonak.
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Day 11: Trek from Lhonak (4,780m / 15,682ft) to Ghunsa (3,595m / 11,795ft)
Day 12: Trek from Ghunsa (3,595m / 11,795ft) to Sele La Kharka (4,290m / 14,075ft)
Day 13: Cross Sele La (4,290m), Sinion La (4,440m) & Mirgin La (4,663m) – Trek to Cheram (3,870m / 12,697ft)
Day 14: Trek from Cheram (3,870m / 12,697ft) to Ramche (4,580m / 15,026ft) Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Day 15: Hike to Oktang (Kanchenjunga South Base Camp –-4,730m / 15,518ft) and Trek to Cheram (3,870m)
Day 16: Trek from Cheram (3,870m) to Tortong (2,995m / 9,826ft) Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles) Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Day 17: Trek from Tortong (2,995m) to Yamphudin (2,080m / 6,824ft) Distance: 16 km (10 miles) Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Day 18: Trek from Yamphudin (2,080m) to Khebang (1,915m / 6,283ft) Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles) Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Day 19: Drive from Khebang to Bhadrapur (91m / 299ft) Driving Time: 10/11 hours
Day 20: Fly from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft) Flight Time: 45 minutes
Day 21: Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Day 22: Final Departure
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
- All ground and air transport including Airport pick-up and drop services as per the itineary.
- kanchajanga special permit / Entry Permit for Conservation Area fees.
- 3 nights in a 3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu (Twin/Double Sharing) with breakfast
- Domestic flight Ticket kathamandu to Bhartpur-kathamandu
- 17 nights accommodation in the best available tea houses during the trek
- Sharing jeep from Bharatpur to Sekathum and Khebang to Bhadrapur
- All meals, three times a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner, ) Cup of Tea coffee
- One porter for every two trekkers (maximum 20u201325 kg)
- Necessary insurance for trekking staff
- Emergency Rescue assistance
- First aid kit and Emergency oxygen support carried for high-altitude safety
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
What's Excluded?
- Nature of personal expense.
- Lunch and Dinner in kathamandu
- International airfare
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Tips for Guide and Porers
- Extra costs due to delays, weather, illness, or rescue and early return from the trek
- nepal visa fee you can pay at nepal Airport imegration
Packing List
Daily Wear
Upper Body
- Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3)
- Thermal base layer (top)
- Lightweight fleece jacket
- Warm down jacket (recommended: -10°C to -20°C)
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket with hood
- Long-sleeve trekking shirts (2)
Lower Body
- Thermal base layer (bottom)
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- Waterproof over-trousers (rain pants)
- Comfortable shorts (optional)
Footwear
- High-quality waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in)
- Lightweight shoes or sandals for the evenings
- Warm wool trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
- Lightweight hiking socks (2–3 pairs)
- Gaiters (recommended in spring or after snowfall)
Headwear
- Warm wool hat or beanie
- Sun hat or wide-brim hiking hat
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Balaclava (recommended for high elevations)
Hand Protection
- Lightweight fleece gloves
- Insulated waterproof gloves for cold mornings and high passes
Sleeping Equipment
- Four-season sleeping bag (-15°C to -20°C comfort rating)
- Sleeping bag liner (optional but recommended)
- Inflatable travel pillow (optional)
Trekking Equipment
- Trekking backpack (30–40 liters)
- Duffel bag (60–80 liters, usually provided by the trekking company)
- Adjustable trekking poles
- Rain cover for backpack
- Dry bags or waterproof stuff sacks
Personal Essentials
- UV-protection sunglasses (Category 3 or 4)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Reusable water bottles (2 liters total capacity)
- Thermos flask (recommended)
- Water purification tablets or filter bottle
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Quick-drying towel
- Personal toiletries
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper
- Nail clippers
- Small sewing kit (optional)
Electronics
- Mobile phone
- Camera with extra batteries
- Power bank (20,000–30,000 mAh recommended)
- Charging cables
- Universal travel adapter
- Spare memory cards
Personal First Aid Kit
Bring any personal medications along with a basic first aid kit that may include:
- Pain relievers
- Medicine for stomach upset or diarrhea
- Cold and flu medication
- Antiseptic cream
- Bandages and blister treatment
- Elastic bandage
- Water purification tablets
- Diamox (Acetazolamide) only if recommended by your doctor for altitude sickness prevention
Essential Information
Planning ahead is key to enjoying a safe and rewarding adventure in the remote Kanchenjunga region. The following essential information will help you prepare for your trek and know what to expect before and during your journey.
Arrival in Nepal
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your 3-star hotel. During the evening, your trekking guide will conduct a detailed briefing covering the itinerary, permits, weather conditions, altitude awareness, safety procedures, and a final equipment check.
Trek Difficulty
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is considered a challenging Himalayan adventure suitable for trekkers with good physical fitness and previous multi-day trekking experience.
The trek involves:
- Walking 5–8 hours daily
- Reaching a maximum elevation of 5,143m (16,873ft) at Pangpema (North Base Camp)
- Crossing Mirgin La Pass (4,663m / 15,298ft)
- Steep ascents and descents
- Remote mountain trails with limited facilities
No technical climbing experience is required, but strong endurance and proper preparation are essential.
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek are:
Spring (March to May)
- Stable weather
- Blooming rhododendron forests
- Pleasant daytime temperatures
- Excellent mountain views
Autumn (September to November)
- Crystal-clear skies
- Dry trails
- Spectacular Himalayan panoramas
- Ideal trekking conditions
Winter (December to February) brings heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures, while the summer monsoon season (June to August) often causes slippery trails, leeches, and poor visibility.
Accommodation
During your trek, you'll stay in locally operated tea houses offering simple yet comfortable accommodation.
In Kathmandu:
- 3-Star Hotel
- Twin or double-sharing rooms
- Private bathroom
- Breakfast included
During the trek:
- Basic twin-sharing rooms
- Shared bathrooms in most villages
- Cozy dining halls heated by traditional stoves
- Blankets available (a sleeping bag is still recommended)
Meals
Our package includes three freshly prepared meals each day during the trek.
Typical menu options include:
- Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal)
- Fried rice
- Noodles
- Pasta
- Tibetan bread
- Pancakes
- Eggs
- Soup
- Potatoes
- Momos
- Tea, coffee, and hot chocolate
Vegetarian meals are widely available, while vegan and gluten-free options may be available with advance notice.
Drinking Water
Safe drinking water is essential during high-altitude trekking.
You can obtain drinking water by:
- Refilling boiled water at tea houses (small extra charge)
- Using water purification tablets
- Carrying a water filter bottle
We recommend avoiding single-use plastic bottles to help protect the mountain environment.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 2,500 meters, regardless of age or fitness.
Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
Our itinerary includes a dedicated acclimatization day in Ghunsa to help your body adjust gradually.
Your guide will monitor your oxygen saturation daily using a pulse oximeter.
If symptoms become severe, immediate descent is the safest treatment.
Trekking Permits
The Kanchenjunga region is a restricted trekking area, requiring special permits.
The required permits include:
- Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
A licensed trekking guide is mandatory, and independent trekking is not permitted in the restricted area.
Transportation
Your journey includes:
- Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur
- Domestic flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu
- Private Jeep from Bhadrapur to Sekathum
- Private Jeep from Khebang to Bhadrapur
Road conditions in eastern Nepal are rough in some sections, making a four-wheel-drive vehicle the preferred option.
Internet & Mobile Network
Mobile network coverage is available in larger villages such as Ghunsa but becomes limited or unavailable at higher elevations.
Some tea houses offer Wi-Fi for an additional charge, although connections may be slow and weather-dependent.
Electricity & Charging
Most tea houses provide electricity or solar charging facilities.
Charging electronic devices usually costs between NPR 200–500 per device, depending on the location.
We recommend bringing:
- A power bank (20,000–30,000 mAh)
- Spare camera batteries
- A universal travel adapter
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory.
Your policy should include:
- High-altitude trekking coverage up to at least 5,500 meters
- Emergency helicopter evacuation
- Medical treatment
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Lost or delayed baggage
Please carry a copy of your insurance policy during the trek.
Trekking Guide & Porter
For your safety and comfort, our package includes:
- Government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
- One porter for every two trekkers (maximum combined load of 20–25 kg)
Our experienced guides are trained in altitude awareness, first aid, and mountain safety, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Cash & Personal Expenses
ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Bhadrapur but not along most of the trekking route.
We recommend carrying enough Nepalese Rupees for:
- Drinks
- Snacks
- Hot showers
- Battery charging
- Wi-Fi
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal purchases
Responsible Trekking
We encourage all trekkers to travel responsibly by:
- Respecting local customs and traditions
- Asking permission before photographing local people
- Avoiding single-use plastics
- Carrying reusable water bottles
- Keeping trails clean by taking all non-biodegradable waste back with you
- Supporting local tea houses and communities
By following these principles, you help preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Kanchenjunga region for future generations.
Why Choose Our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
- ✔ Complete 22-day itinerary from arrival to departure
- ✔ 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- ✔ Domestic flights and private 4WD jeep transportation
- ✔ Experienced licensed trekking guide and porter service
- ✔ All required permits included
- ✔ Full-board meals during the trek
- ✔ Quality tea house accommodation
- ✔ Small group departures and personalized service
- ✔ 24/7 support from arrival to final departure
Our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offers an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal's most remote and spectacular Himalayan regions, combining breathtaking mountain scenery, authentic local culture, and a true wilderness trekking experience.
Route Map
