Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek - 27 Days

based on 1 reviews
  • Duration 27 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Type Logde Based Trekking
  • Best Season Spring (March - May) & Autumn (Sept - Nov)
  • Group Size 16
  • Maximum Altitude 5,143 m

Highlights

  • No crowd and unspoiled sceneries
  • Reach the north & south base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world
  • Experience the rich cultural heritage of Tibetan Buddhists
  • Pass by beautiful remote villages and lush forests
  • Come across a range of flora and fauna
  • Witness diverse landscapes
  • Enjoy surreal mountain views
  • Off-beat trails, steep paths, and cross many gorges
  • Trek in the restricted area of Nepal

This trek is also called Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, so do not get confused. Kanchenjunga Circuit borders Tibet and Sikkim (India). Home to Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, it is a restricted part of Nepal that demands a special permit from the government of Nepal to enter. Unlike the famous Annapurna circuit trek and Manaslu circuit trek, 26 days Kanchenjunga circuit trek is rarely visited by trekkers. The trail is unspoiled and less crowded. 

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek explores the eastern part of Nepal overflowing with Buddhist culture and diverse flora & fauna. It is the trek for true adventurous hearts who are willing to get uncomfortable and ready to accept challenges.

The word Kanchenjunga means five great treasures in the snow- gold, silver, grain, holy scriptures, and precious stones. Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) is the third highest mountain in the world, and Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek takes you to the north (5,160 m) & south (4,780 m) base camps of this giant mountain. The region was long prohibited to enter for foreign travels and only opened in 1988. And thanks to that, to this date Kanchenjunga is thriving in terms of natural heritage and wildlife.

If you wish to experience authentic Nepali culture and village lifestyle not hampered by the modern world, then this trek is perfect. As it is a tea house trek, the services are very limited and basic. The locals mostly follow Tibetan Buddhism and are descendants of Tibetans. Their houses are built of stones, not found in any other place. Along the way, you visit ancient monasteries and stupas decorated with colourful prayer flags. 

Views during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

During the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking, we see breathtaking mountain views of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), Mt. Everest (8,489 m), Mt. Baruntse (7,162 m), Mt. Jannu (7,710 m), Mera Peak (6,476 m), etc. The trek offers diverse sceneries, from verdant valleys to rocky hills, frozen streams, and stunning glaciers.

How difficult is Kanchenjunga Trek?

Not many travellers know about Kanchenjunga Circuit because of the other iconic treks in the Himalayas. This long 26 days journey amidst high Himalayan mountains, streams and remote villages is only for experienced trekkers who are physically strong and can go without internet for multiple days. The terrain is rough and steep. It is an off-beat trek. A lot of long walks and numerous ups & downs throughout the trek. So this trekking is graded as strenuous. 

Preparation for the trek

Kanchenjunga Trek requires serious preparation. You have to bring yourself to walk 7 to 8 hours a day on a rough path. Stamina, core body strength, and mental preparation are needed too. Hit the gym, do cardio, and do muscle training. 

Our team will provide you with a packing list that you can choose to shop for the journey. Packing accurately is crucial for having a smooth journey. 

What do we offer?

We offer the best Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package and cost. Our itinerary has multiple rest days. You trek with a friendly guide who can speak your language. Likewise, our service standard, attention, and safety guarantee allow our guests to freely trek with us. 

For more information or to book Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek 2023/2024, you can contact us. Check out these other strenuous treks in the Himalayas - Makalu Base Camp Trek, Lower Dolpo Trek, Everest Three High Passes Trek, and Gosaikunda Laurabinayak Trek.

Itinerary

Expand allCollapse all

We welcome you at the international airport on your arrival day. Our team escorts you to the hotel in a private vehicle. The remaining day is free. You can rest and stroll in Thamel.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • Maximum Altitude1,310 m

In the morning, we take our time to explore Kathmandu and visit famous tourist sites. It's a guided tour, so you get to know about Nepal's history, art, and some major historical events from our tour guide. Some of the places we explore during the tour are Boudhnath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Monkey Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. 

Later in the afternoon, we return to Thamel and meet our trek guide. We arrange all the documents and do the packing for the trek. If needed you also purchase trekking essentials. 

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Maximum Altitude1,310 m

After breakfast, we load our luggage and drive to the domestic airport. We take an early morning flight to Bhadrapur. From here, we drive to Phidim, enjoying the beautiful scenery and countryside views.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, it is another long day that involves a scenic drive to Taplejung. The route we follow during the drive passes by Suketar. It's an impressive drive.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,820 m

We begin our trek today. It's a gradual walk from Taplejung to Chirwa. The trail ascends along foothills via small remote settlement areas.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,270 m

Following the Tamur river, we steeply ascend and then descend to Sumbua Khola. Further, we cross a ridge and continue trekking through steep, narrow Gunsa Khola valley to reach Sukethum. It's a Tibetan village with fantastic views of the snow-capped mountains like Jannu.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,660 m

The trail today is gorgeous. We begin the day trekking along the Ghunsa Khola river bank. Gradually the trail becomes rugged, and we get to see the rocky landscape. Before reaching Amjilose, there is an uphill climb. It is a small village resided by Sherpas and migrated Tibetans.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2,310 m

The trail goes through dense forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. The scenery and people begin to resemble more Tibetan. Along the way, we may come across sheep, yaks, and goats. We walk by verdant forests and cross a wooden bridge to reach Gyabla.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2,730 m

We leave Gyabla and continue walking through forests. The trail reaches Phale village, an old Tibetan refugee camp not used as a winter settlement village. From here, the trail moves towards the big Ghunsa village, where we can find heath post, police station, telephone, internet service, etc.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3,595 m

Before moving further, we spend a day in Ghunsa and rest. We ascend to an ancient monastery located on a ridge. The views of Jaanu peak from here are phenomenal. Later in the day, we explore Ghunsa village and take our time to mingle with locals.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3,595 m

We gradually ascend, following the south bank of Ghunsa Khola. The trail passes through pine & rhododendron forests. There are many mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags on the way. The final ascent is steep along the scree slope to Khambachen.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,100 m

Another rest day to acclimatize our body before we climb further. Today, we hike to the north base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga. The views of snow-capped mountains are breathtaking. We'll have a lot of time to unwind and enjoy the serenity of the Himalayas.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,100 m

Today, we walk on exposed rock fields to Ramtang village. The trail then crosses the northwest of the Kanchenjunga glacier and passes by large stone huts. Soon we reach Lhonak village. The views of Mera Peak, Twins, Wedge Peak, etc, are seen on the way.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,785 m

The trail continues to the moraine of the Kanchenjunga glacier. We ascend to the north base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga today. The fluttering Buddhist prayer flags along the way with the backdrop of stunning mountain scenery are heavenly. Reaching this point is a huge achievement. We spend some time here and descend to Lhonak to spend the night.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude5,143 m

Following the same route back, the trail descends to Khambachen. We walk by stony huts and walk by the glacial path. The trail then continues through lush forests.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,100 m

We trek and reach Gyabla. The rail goes by rhododendron forests, and we follow an uphill steep path to Sele La pass. At Sele Le, there are two small teahouses that offer some basic services. The trail further crosses Mirgin La pass. The views of mountains like Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Baruntse, and others are outstanding from these passes. After a long walk, we finally reach Ghunsa.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,290 m

Today, we cross Sinion La pass (4,450 m) and Sinelapche La pass (4,830 m). It's another long day with a breathtaking mountain panorama. After crossing the passes, we descend to Tseram to spend the night. It's the only settlement area on the route this day.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,830 m

We pass by the nose of the glacier and trek towards an ablation valley. The trail offers views of Koktang, Rathong, and numerous 7,000 meters above peaks. Before reaching Ramche, we walk by a lake, meadow, and stone houses. If the time allows, we can hike to Boktoh viewpoint.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,580 m

Another ablation valley, Oktang, offers a sensational view of Mt. Kanchenjunga's south face. It's a gradual walk today with great scenery. This hike will help us acclimatize. We spend the night in Ramche village. 

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,730 m

After breakfast, we begin trekking, following a downhill route that goes through rhododendron forest to Torontan. Further, we climb up via mossy forest and continue ascending towards Lamite Bhanjyang. This place offers an incredible perspective of the Jannu and Kanchenjunga mountains.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3,310 m

It's a relatively short trek day, however we descend over 1,000 meters. The first part of the route drops steeply to Imja Khola. We cross the Dubi pass and further descend for a couple of hours to reach Yamphudin.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2,080 m

Leaving Yamphuding, we continue trekking on a steep downhill route to the Kabeli Khola river. The trail crosses a log bridge and reaches Mamanke village. From here, walk along a side canyon and cross a stem over a long suspension bridge. The final part of the route steeply ascends to Phonphe.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,900 m

After breakfast, we ascend to a ridge where two tea houses are located. The trail further crosses a series of valleys and small villages. We descend to Bhanjyang and cross a ridge before descending to Khunjari.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,928 m

It's the last of our trek. Most of the trail is an uphill climb. We pass by Suketar on the way to Taplejung.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,700 m

After breakfast, we hop on the jeep and begin driving towards Bhadrapur. The drive will be comfortable and offer wonderful landscapes. We spend the night in Bhadrapur.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We fly back to Kathmandu today. The flight is short and scenic. The remaining day is leisure. You can do shopping and rest. In the evening, we meet over a farewell dinner and bid our last goodbyes.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast & Farewell dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,310 m

Our airport team will escort you to the airport as per your flight departure time. They will also help you in check-out.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast

This is our standard and recommended itinerary. If this itinerary doesn’t suit to you, we can customize your trip as per your interest and time-frame. Click here for Tailor-Made program. 

Map

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek - 27 Days map

Useful Info

Altitude Sickness

Because Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is a high-altitude venture, there are chances of altitude sickness. It is also widely known as acute mountain sickness that trekkers face if their bodies do not acclimatize while trekking. 

If you follow our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek itinerary, then the risks of altitude sickness get very low. Our itinerary is professionally designed with ample rest days and many small hikes.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Permit

You need two permits for this trek. One is the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP), and another is the restricted area permit (RAP). Our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek cost includes both permit costs.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP) fee: Rs. 2000 per person

Restricted area permit (RAP) fee: USD 10 per person each week

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Best Time

The best season for the Kanchenjunga trek is spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November). It is the time when forests get bloomed with a range of floras, and the trail becomes very impressive. The suitable conditions make the journey fabulous, and the clear sky presents fantastic views. 


Wildlife and Vegetation in Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trekking route ranges from the lowlands of Terai to coniferous forests, grasslands, and meadows. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is famous for its exotic wildlife like the red panda, royal Bengal tiger, Himalayan bear, musk deer, snow leopard, etc. The region is home to a variety of rhododendron along with 69 varieties of orchids. You see pine, bamboo, fir, and hemlock forests along the way. At high elevations, more pines and junipers are found.

Last Minute Booking

To book the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek at last-minute call us or mail us. We try our best to do all the arrangements and organize the trek. You have to be available in Kathmandu on the day the trek begins. For last-minute bookings, 100% package cost payment is mandatory. If you cancel the last-minute booking, there will be a certain cancellation charge, and we refund the rest of the money. 

Travel Tips 

Accommodation: It's a tea house trek. Carry a warm sleeping bag. The washroom is generally common. Small twin-shared rooms are mostly available. 

Food: The food option is quite limited on this trek. You get Nepali and Tibetan dishes. The upper part of the trail has more Tibetan meals like thenduk, Tibetan bread, momo, thukpa, etc. Carry snacks and bars to munch while trekking. 

ATM: No ATM on the trekking route. You have the last chance to withdraw money in Kathmandu to use while trekking. Budget USD 12 to USD 15 each day.

Charging: We do not recommend you heavily rely on charging your device during the trek as it costs extra money. Instead, carry a solar charger and spare batteries.

Luggage: Porters carry duffel bags. One porter carries up to 20 kg, and the weight is divided between two trekkers. Trekkers can use a day pack during the trek.

Personal Expenses: Our trek package does not cover your souvenir shopping, additional snacks & beverages expenses, tipping, etc. Keep some money on you to pay for these things. 

Travel Insurance: Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking needs travel insurance. As you have to get travel insurance in your home country ensure that it covers heli rescue and medical bills. 

Tipping: Freely tip if you are happy with our staff members. There's no limit to tipping.

FAQs

  • Q1. How difficult is Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek?

    Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is very difficult. If you are a new trekker, then do not go on this, or it will become a nightmare for you given the height, terrain, and isolation of the region.

  • Yes, you can trek to Kanchenjunga from Nepal. We have an adventurous trekking package that explores the north and south base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

  • We have a 27 days long Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek or Kanchenjunga base camp trek. Approximately, we cover 220 km during the trek. The itinerary and number of days may differ from one travel company to another.

  • You can expect sick mountain views, gorgeous waterfalls, lush forests, picturesque villages, and very simple accommodation & food from Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.

  • From other circuit treks in the Himalayas, Kanchenjunga is the most strenuous one that offers breathtaking diverse landscapes. It is not as famous as other circuit treks and relatively fewer tourists traverse its trodden routes. The trekking route has little tourist infrastructure.

  • To do Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you have to contact a local Nepali trekking company. You cannot trek solo or with an independent guide because of the restricted area. The travel company will get the permits for you and arrange the trek.

  • As we said earlier, solo trekking is not allowed in the Kanchenjunga area. The uneven topography and exotic flora & fauna of the region have made it a restricted area in Nepal. Rarely do travelers trek in this region.

  • If you are a novice trekker or not physically & mentally ready to endure the challenges of the journey, you should avoid Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

Client Reviews

tatp
  • Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

    We had a wonderful time on the Kanchenjunga circuit trek. Two base camps and a high mountain pass made for some truly spectacular scenery away from the crowds of Everest. Our guides, Dinesh and Tira were warm, friendly, attentive to our every need, knowledgeable and prepared for adventurous detours and spontaneous snowball fights. The route feels authentic and far removed from the modern world. Highly recommended. I’m told the scenery is just as good as Everest /Annapurna if not better.

    Monika Fazekas
    Monika FazekasUnited Kingdom, Travel Date: 11/06/2023

Similar Packages

Ask a Question