Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a perfect mountain park, named after its enormous snow treasure.

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Geography

Hills, Mountains, Forest

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location

Taplejung, North-East of Kathmandu

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Trip Grade

Strenuous

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Duration

25 days

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Max. Altitude

5143m

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Min. Pax

2 People

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Religion

Buddhism, Hinduism

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Ethnic People

Sherpa, Tamang, Rai

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Accomodation

Teahouse, Lodge, Tented camp

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Transportation

Private vechicle, Tourist bus, Flight

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga (8586m) is the third highest mountain in the world and, ever since it’s conquest, numerous people have desired relishing the sights of the Kanchenjunga peaks. The mountain sits in the North-Eastern part of Nepal is called the Five Great Treasures of Snow. The whole Kanchenjunga circuit trek is 25-day journey to mighty mountain to the off-beaten paths and explores cultural and natural diversity with very fewer travelers.

This endearing journey commences by exploring the myths and mysteries of the Kathmandu valley. Afterward, we fly to Bhadrapur and take a long drive to Taplejung. We walk through the lushly forested trails to arrive at Lalikharka. As we follow the trail to Khesewa, we observe the landscape from Phumphe Danda and walk through forests to arrive at Mamankhe. Then, We walk on the banks of the Kabeli Khola to reach Yamphudin. Along the way, we cross the suspension bridges to arrive at Tortong. Then, the trail to Cheram goes through the Lalung valley and Simbuwa Khola. After spending two days in Cheram; we head to Ramche where we can see the Yalung glacier.

After a brief visit to the Oktang monastery, we head to the Yalung Base Camp. From Cheram, we head towards the Sele La (4480m). The route to Ghunsa involves going through lush forests, and after reaching Ghunsa, we head to Kambachen. As we battle boulder and rocks, we arrive at the Kanchenjunga Base Camp from where we can enjoy the magnificent view of Kanchenjunga ranges. We retrace our steps back to Lhonak and after spending some time there we head back to Ghunsa. Cross the Sumbung Khola to arrive at Amjilosa and later Chirwa. We head to Bhadrapur where we shall catch a flight to Kathmandu, thus ending the trip.

The Kanchenjunga circuit trek is arduous and technical so, you need professional assistance on your journey. We, Danphe Adventure Treks, are there for you. With decades of experience and flanked by seasoned guides, we promise to provide proper assistance and support at the best price possible.

Trip Highlights

  • Visit Kanchenjunga Base Camp and enjoy the panorama of Kanchenjunga ranges
  • Tread on the off-beaten challenging paths in the shadows of Kanchenjunga
  • Explore the Yalung Glacier and Yalung Base Camp
  • Visit some of the illustrious monasteries in the region including Oktang Monastery
  • Relish the company of Tibetan influenced Buddhist culture and lifestyle

Trip Itinerary

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  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m)

    After your arrival at TIA (Tribhuban International Airport), a company representative will transfer you to the trip hotel. You can relax and refresh at the hotel. Later, you participate in a trek briefing at with our members of the company. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

    Explore the major UNESCO world heritage sites of the Kathmandu valley which include, Swyambhunath known as a (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Boudhanath. Marvel at the architectural design of these buildings and visit Kathmandu Durbar Square. After visiting these sites, return to your hotel. You can also make final preparations for the trek on the remainder of the day. Overnight stay at a hotel at Kathmandu.

  • Day 03 : Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and Drive to Taplejung (1820m) 45 min flight & 9 hours' drive

    From Kathmandu, we catch an early morning flight to Bhadrapur. The climate here is pretty hot in comparison to Kathmandu. Get all your stuff together and head on a long drive leading to Taplejung. You have the option of either using a private vehicle or a public vehicle. Upon arrival in Taplejung, transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay at Taplejung.

  • Day 04 : Taplejung to Lalikharka (2265m) 3 - 4 hours trek

    We will take the trail which lasts for about 5 hours and provides amazing sights of the snowy mountains and hills. We go through lush green forests until we arrive at Lalikharka. Passing numerous small settlements and Deurali we head to the Deurali Pass at 2600 meters. From there, it is a gradual descent to Lalikharka. Overnight in Lalikharka.

  • Day 05 : Lalikharka to Khesewa (2120m) 5 - 6 hours trek

    After having breakfast, we head in the road to Khesewa. The path is pretty much downhill until we arrive at Tembewa. We climb up until we reach Kande Bhanjyang and we enjoy the panorama of the surrounding scenery from the Phumphe Danda. As we indulge in some uphill climbing, we go through lush forests until we reach Khesewa. Overnight stay at Khesewa.

  • Day 06 : Khesewa to Mamankhe (1785m) 5 - 6 hours trek

    The trail to Mamankhe takes us through the banks of the Kabeli Khola. As we admire the glistening river, we go through the lush forests when we see a small stream. We cross it and continue our adventure through small Himalayan villages while relishing the quaint countryside. We finally arrive at Mamankhe after trekking through Sudap and Pauwa. Overnight stay at Mamankhe.

  • Day 07 : Mamankhe to Yamphudin (2080m) 4 - 5 hours

    With a slight increase in altitude, the trek becomes steep and we will spend most of the day walking on the edge of the Kabeli Khola. As we admire the amazing ridges, we wash in the falling waterfall. We cross some suspension bridges and then we have lunch at the river bank. We reach Yamphudin and explore the village upon arrival. Overnight stay at Yamphudin.

  • Day 08 : Yamphudin to Tortong (2995m) 7 - 8 hours

    We take a trail in which we can find numerous people. We go through terraced fields and green meadows. Accompanied by the Himalayas, we walk on the river bank of the Amji Khola. We shall take a brief stop at the Lasiya Bhanjyang. From there, Tortong is just a few hours away. Overnight stay at Tortong.

  • Day 09 : Tortong to Cheram (3870m) 6 - 7 hours

    We begin the long climb to Cheram, after having breakfast. The trail sits on the right side of the Simbuwa Khola and as we head forward, we can see the beautiful Lalung valley and the Tuplung peak (4488m) from afar. We will walk through lavish rhododendron forests, and marvel at the sight of the huge Yalung glacier. Overnight stay at Cheram.

  • Day 10 : Cheram Acclimatization and Rest

    A day separated for acclimatization, we shall indulge in some resting and small hikes. We shall explore the village periphery and interact with the locals residing there. Take a stroll near the Yalung glacier if you have adequate time. The views of the surrounding landscapes will offer endearing companionship for the entirety of the hike. Overnight stay at Cheram.

  • Day 11 : Cheram to Ramche (4580m) 3 – 4 hours

    Today, we walk on the trail along the Yalung glacier. We have some heavy climbing to do and the trail is tantalizing too. The wildlife on the route welcomes us with great pleasure as well with numerous sightings of the local animals to admire. We relish at the sight of numerous Himalayan peaks and have lunch at the Lapsang village. Later, we head to Ramche. Overnight stay at Ramche.

  • Day 12 : Ramche to Yalung Base Camp (4500m), back to Cheram 6 - 7 hours

    From Ramche, we walk on the winding trail and follow the stream before climbing on the summit of the moraine. We can see the southern face of Kanchenjunga from here. As we head further, we see the Januu Himal (7711m) and a bit further lies the Octang monastery. We ascend forward until we reach the Yalung Base camp. We can see peaks like Kumbakarna (Januu|7711m), Nyukla Lachung (6670m), and other Himalayan peaks. We head back to Cheram after observing the sights it. Overnight stay at Cheram.

  • Day 13 : Cheram to Sele La (4260m) 6 - 7 hours

    Today we shall cross the numerous passes starting from Sinelapche Bhanjyang. We then head towards the Simon La pass. The views from these passes are very beautiful. Upon arrival in Sele La Pass (4480m), we are greeted by Chorten flags and swaying winds. We later walk in the steeper path of the trail and arrive at Sele La in evening. Overnight in Sele La.

  • Day 14 : Sele La to Ghunsa (3427m) 5 - 6 hours

    After having breakfast, we head north. We can observe the Tanbharma Danda and we are guided by the prayer flags towards Ghunsa. We head downhill through the rhododendron filled forests along with pine and birch before reaching Ghunsa. Ghunsa is a small settlement with mud houses and Buddhist prayer flags. Overnight stay at Ghunsa.

  • Day 15 : Ghunsa to Kambachen (4050m) 6 - 7 hours

    We head north along the river bank and are greeted with awesome mountain scenery. We venture through wildflowers, pine forests and birch trees. We cross the Rampuk Kharka and continue past a waterfall and dodge landslides. We can see the awesome view of Mt. Januu (7711m) and we further explore this trail. Finally, we arrive at Kambachen in evening. Overnight in Kambachen.

  • Day 16 : Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m) 6 - 7 hours

    We start early today as the trail, on the trek today, is difficult. We trek through rocky fields which are accompanied with huge boulders. We meet numerous waterfalls and cross a bridge to reach the Ramtang monastery. We once again tread through rocky boulders and walk alongside the Kanchenjunga Glacier before finally arriving at Lhonak. Overnight stay at Lhonak.

  • Day 17 : Kanchenjunga base camp, overnight at Pangpema (5,143m) 6 - 7 hours

    From Lhonak, a trail leads us to the Kanchenjunga Base camp, which sits aside the Kanchenjunga Glacier. As we pass Pangpema, we make a downhill trail to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. In the base camp, we can see numerous tents. The base camp provides the ecstatic view of mountains like Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m), Januu Himal (7711m), and other Himalayan peaks. We set up our camp and explore the mesmerizing environs to our hearts’ content. Overnight stay at Pangpema.

  • Day 18 : Pangpema to Lhonak (4780m) 3 – 4 hours

    From Pangpema, we retrace our steps back to Lhonak. The trail sees snow and rocks which can be slippery. Follow our guide so that you can tread carefully. We shall make a few brief stops here and then we shall head to Lhonak. The Himalayas will keep us with an awe-inspiring company on the entire trek. Overnight stay at Lhonak.

  • Day 19 : Lhonak to Ghunsa (3427m) 6 - 7 hours

    The route to Ghunsa from Lhonak goes through Kambachen. We shall interact with the locals residing in Kambachen and have our lunch there. These settlements are influenced by Tibetan-Buddhism and you can learn about it with the locals. The downhill trail takes us to Ghunsa where we shall spend the remainder of the day. Overnight stay at Ghunsa.

  • Day 20 : Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2395m) 5 - 6 hours

    From Ghunsa, we go on a descending trail to Phale. We encounter many Mani walls and monasteries along the way. As we go through juniper forests, we arrive at Phale. A small descent leads us to Gyabla. As we cross the Chhundarangka Khola, we can see nearby waterfalls. As we cross the Sumbung Khola, we can see Chorten swaying which signals our arrival in Amjilosa. Overnight stay at Amjilosa.

  • Day 21 : Amjilosa to Chirwa (1270m) 6 - 7 hours

    The road greets us with a delightful waterfall, and then we head to the settlement of Solima. We must cross the Ghunsa Khola and take some rest at the Sukethum village. We make ourselves comfortable by walking along the Ghunsa Khola and later we enjoy some snacks at the banks of the Tamor River. We finally arrive at the Chirwa village where we taste the delicious local cuisine. Overnight stay at Chirwa village.

  • Day 22 : Chirwa to Taplejung (1820m) via Mitlung 7 - 8 hours trek

    After enjoying the stay in Chirwa, we make our way to Taplejung. Along the way, we share the trail with small children and settlement busy in their daily commute. Passing Sinwa on the way, we cross Sisne River and head to Mitlung. From Mitlung, Taplejung is a couple of hours away and the pleasant trail leads us there. Overnight stay at Mitlung.

  • Day 23 : Taplejung to Bhadrapur |9 hours' drive

    We head to Bhadrapur on a private or public vehicle. As the road is long, we make numerous stops on the way. The road shows the twists and turns of a typical Nepali highway. Upon arrival in Bhadrapur, transfer to your hotel. You can enjoy the warmth of the city after having been in the chills of the Kanchenjunga for over two weeks. Overnight stay at Bhadrapur.

  • Day 24 : Fly to Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner

    Get up early and get on a flight that leads to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. Today, you can rest in your hotel or even enjoy massages at the wellness centers in the valley. Later, in the evening, you will accompany the trek members on a farewell dinner hosted by Danphe Adventure Treks. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Day 25: Final departure

    Today is your final day in Nepal and our representative will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.

Trip Map

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What's Included

  • Airport Pickups and drops in a private vehicle.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu and with breakfast as per the Itinerary.
  • Cultural tour at Kathmandu with Guide in private vehicle.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
  • All Ground and Air Transportation during the Trek.
  • An experienced, English speaking, and friendly guide and Porter (1 Porter 2 trekkers).
  • Salary for the staff including their food, drinks, accommodation, and transportation.
  • All necessary paper works, Conservation entry permits, and TIMS card.
  • An arrangement for emergency helicopter service which will be paid by your travel insurance.
  • Sleeping bag, down jacket and trekking map, if necessary,( to be returned after the trek)
  • All government taxes, vat, and local taxes.
  • Nepal entry visa fee. (You may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan international airport (Kathmandu). You will require 2 passport size photos & 25 USD.
  • International airfare.
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory).
  • Meals in Kathmandu
  • Entry fees for cultural tours.
  • Personal expenses (alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks bar bills, battery charge, extra porter, boiled water shower, etc.).
  • Tips for guide, porter and driver

Equipment List

List of Equipments required for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:

Head

  • One Warm winter hat/beanie
  • One Sun hat
  • 1 Headband/buff
  • 1 Sunglasses with UV protection
  • One Headlamp/ Torch with extra batteries

Upper Body

  • Two pairs of Fleece sweaters- one light and one heavier
  • Two pairs of quick-drying long-sleeved base layer shirts
  • Three pairs of Short sleeve trekking shirts
  • One pair of Wind/rainproof Jacket v 1 Down Jacket

Lower Body

  • One pair of trekking shorts
  • A pair of trekking trousers
  • One pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
  • Two pairs of trekking pants with Ziff off bottoms
  • One pair of fleece or woolen trousers
  • One pair of waterproof pants, breathable fabric

Hands

  • One pair of lightweight warm gloves
  • A pair of poly-liner glove

Feet

  • One pair of trekking boots
  • A pair of sandals/ trainers (for wearing around the lodges)
  • One pair of down booties (great for keeping feet warm)
  • Two pair of thin lightweight inner socks
  • Two pair of warm woolen or poly socks
  • Gaiters (only in winter)

Other

  • One Sleeping Bag
  • 12 1 Sleeping bag liner (optional)
  • 1 pair of trekking poles
  • Water purification tablets/Steripen/Drops
  • 1 quick drying towel

FAQs

  • What are the visa requirements?

    Currently, all the foreign nationalities (except Indians) require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are obtainable from embassies abroad or on arrival at Kathmandu’s Airport. If getting the visa at the airport be prepared for long queues. You will also need to provide one passport photo and the $50 USD fee for 30 days.

  • What are the physical requirements for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

    Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek requires you to trek at an altitude of maximum 5143m and up to 5-7 hours per day, with a small 5-7kg bag. We recommended you to train with long hikes and/or a sport of your choice (e.g. jogging).

  • How old do I need to be?

    There is no age restriction for doing this trip, but if you are under 16 it will better to trek with your parents. You must be health-conscious during the trek.

  • What is included?

    Included:

    • Guides and Porters
    • Transportation (including airport transfers)
    • Accommodation
    • Permits & national park fees
    • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
    • All meal during the trek
    • Seasonal fruits

    Excluded:

    • International flights to Kathmandu
    • Food – (while you are in City)
    • Showers on Trek
    • Tips
    • Visa fees (typically $50 USD)
    • Personal travel/rescue insurance
  • What is the accommodation like?

    You will stay in the Hotel while you are in the city of Kathmandu, which is like a 3-star category. The hotel has access to showers and intermittent internet.

    But while you are in trekking Tea House/lodges are the place where you spend the night during the trek, which is very basic. The room is pretty small with twin sharing and a common washroom. Some places have squat style toilets, whilst others have a western style. Shower does not always offer warm water and most teahouses will charge you for use of a hot shower.

  • Which meals are included?

    Meals will be served as per the menu of the teahouse/lodges. Where you can find a variety of dishes like Indian, Nepalese, Tibetan, Continental, etc, to choose. Tea, coffee, bakery items, snacks, bars eggs, etc can also be found easily.

  • What currency should I take?

    The currency used in Nepal is Nepalese Rupees (NPR). You are unable to get NPR outside of Nepal and therefore you will need to exchange money in Kathmandu. The easiest currency to exchange is USD and Euro. You can also withdraw NPR from the ATM but check with your bank about the relevant charges to do this.

  • Is there any bank or ATM facility during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

    Yes, there is facility of ATM during Kanchenjunga Circuit  trek. You can easily access ATM service in Bhadrapur and Taplejung.

  • What kind of problems can arise at a higher altitude during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

    There is huge change of AMS problem i.e. Acute Mountain Sickness problem. It may cause some problem as you trek higher above 3500 meter altitude (11,482 ft.). But don’t worry about that. We have carefully designed our Kanchenjunga Circuit  itinerary with sufficient time for acclimatization and less walking time each day. And our experienced trek guide will be helping you with it.

  • Do I need insurance before the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

    Yes, you need to be insured before the adventure trekking in Nepal from your home country. However we will be always with you taking care of throughout the whole Kanchenjunga Circuit trek.

  • What should I pack?

    Documents

    • Passport
    • Travel insurance details
    • 2 passport photos
    • Cash USD
    • Credit/Debit Card

    Head

    One Warm winter hat/beanie.

    One Sun hat

    1 Headband/buff.

    1 Sunglasses with UV protection.

    One Headlamp/ Torch with extra batteries.

    Upper Body

    2 pairs of Fleece sweaters- one light and one heavier

    2 pairs of quick-drying long-sleeved base layer shirts

    3 pairs of Short sleeve trekking shirts

    1 pair of Wind/rainproof Jacket v 1 Down Jacket

    Lower Body

    One pair of trekking shorts

    A pair of trekking trousers

    One pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)

    Two pairs of trekking pants with Ziff off bottoms

    One pair of fleece or woolen trousers

    Two pair of waterproof pants, breathable fabric

    Hands

    A pair of lightweight warm gloves

    A pair of poly-liner glove

    Feet

    One pair of trekking boots

    A pair of sandals/ trainers (for wearing around the lodges)

    One pair of down booties (great for keeping feet warm)

    Two pair of thin lightweight inner socks

    Two pair of warm woolen or poly socks

    Gaiters (only in winter)

    Other

    One Sleeping Bag

    One Sleeping bag liner (optional)

    A pair of trekking poles

    Water purification tablets/Steripen/Drops

    One quick-drying towel

  • What is the best time of year for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

    Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is possible for whole year, but the best time to doing this trek is spring season (March to June) and autumn Season (September to November).

    However trekking in winter season to chance to see snowfall with magnificent views of mountain, and in monsoon time you will see waterfalls.

*All Inclusive Price*

$2200 USD

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Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek