Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek – 22 Days
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek – Into the Heart of the Himalayas
A most scenic and adventurous journey, tucked away in the far eastern Himalayas. This epic route takes you deep into a land of towering peaks, dramatic glaciers, alpine meadows, and untouched forests, offering a raw and unforgettable experience for seasoned adventurers. You’ll traverse rugged terrain and remote valleys, reaching both the North and South Base Camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world’s third-highest mountain. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Mt. Jannu, Lhotse, Everest, and a host of lesser-known giants that dominate the skyline.
The trail winds through Sherpa, Limbu, and Rai villages, where ancient traditions still shape daily life. You’ll pass high yak pastures, and spin prayer wheels in remote Buddhist monasteries. The route is designed with proper acclimatisation in mind, allowing time to explore sacred sites like Ramtang Monastery, Ghunsa, and the awe-inspiring Oktang Viewpoint. This trek is not just a physical challenge, it’s a cultural and spiritual immersion into one of the most untouched regions of Nepal.
As you ascend through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, you’ll enter a biodiversity hotspot teeming with rare wildlife, including red pandas, blue sheep, and soaring Himalayan eagles. The forests shift dramatically with altitude, from lush rhododendron and bamboo groves to windswept alpine scrub and glacial moraine. Whether crossing high passes like Mirgin La or gazing across the icy amphitheaters of Pangpema, the trek offers moments of solitude, wonder, and awe.
For those seeking a remote, challenging, and culturally rich experience far from the crowds, the Kanchenjunga Circuit is a true Himalayan masterpiece, wild, sacred, and utterly unforgettable.
Trek Cost Details (2025 & 2026)
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Group Size – Cost PP (USD)
2-3 –
4-5 –
6-7 –
8-9 –
10 –
11+ –
$2,184
$2,084
$1,984
$1,884
$1,834
Contact Us
Notes
• If you are a solo traveller, please contact us for prices and further details.
• We do not merge travellers into mixed groups — your trek is private and personalised.
• Need a trek to fit your budget? Contact us — we’re happy to help tailor your experience.
Highlights
- Witness the world’s third-highest peak Kanchenjunga (8,586m) from both north and south base camps.
- Enjoy panoramic vistas of Mt. Jannu (7,710m), Makalu (8,481m), Kabru, and Rathong.
- Traverse multiple high passes including Sinion La, Mirgin La, and Laseya Bhanjyang, offering breathtaking sunrise views over snow-capped giants.
- Panoramas from Oktang Viewpoint, and Pangpema – Among the most breathtaking in the Himalayas.
- Trek through pristine forests of rhododendron, juniper, and oak, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys untouched by mass tourism.
- Explore the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to rare wildlife including red pandas, blue sheep, and over 250 bird species.
- Visit ancient Gompas, mani walls, Ramtang Monastery, and Oktang Viewpoint.
- Immerse yourself in the traditions of Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa communities in villages Ghunsa, Phale, and Yamphuding.
- Witness traditional architecture, vibrant prayer flags, and the rhythm of life in Nepal’s remote eastern hills.
- Reach both Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema, 5,143m) and South Base Camp (Oktang Viewpoint, 4,730m).
- Marvel at the Kanchenjunga massif, including Kanchenjunga south, central and surrounding peaks.
- Enjoy peaceful trails far from the crowds.
- Stand beneath towering ice walls and glacial spires in two distinct valleys.
- End your trek in Kanyam, a peaceful hill station surrounded by lush tea plantations and rolling green hills.
Itinerary
Arrival & Preparation:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,355m)
Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport our staff will greet you and escort you to your 3* hotel in Kathmandu. Depending upon your arrival time you may spend free time visiting nearby cultural sites, shopping or simply resting at your hotel. Overnight 3★ hotel. Driving 1 hour.
Day 2: Trek preparations in Kathmandu
Today we will be finalising your trek preparations and permits. You will have the day to explore the cultural sites of Kathmandu and do any last-minute gear shopping. In the early evening you will have a trek briefing with your guide. Overnight 3★ hotel.
Gateway to the Eastern Himalayas:
Day 03: Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (80m)
Begin your adventure with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, a subtropical town near Nepal’s eastern border. The landscape shifts dramatically, from the bustling capital to the lush plains of the Terai. Overnight in tea house. Flight time 45 minutes.
Day 4: Drive Bhadrapur to Taplejung (1,820m)
After breakfast, we drive by jeep through the lowlands of eastern Nepal. We continue on the Mechi Highway, winding past the green slopes of Kanyam’s tea gardens and cardamom fields. As you ascend into the hills towards Taplejung, catch your first glimpses of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world’s third-highest peak, rising above the eastern horizon. Overnight Tea House. Driving 8–9 hours.
Rivers, Villages, and the First Steps on Trail:
Day 5: Taplejung to Sekathum (1,650m)
We continue today with a shorter drive along the Tamor River, passing through the vibrant villages of Mitlung, Chirwa, and Lelep, where Limbu and Rai cultures thrive. Their homes are adorned with wood carvings and prayer flags. At Thapethok, you’ll enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, a protected zone rich in biodiversity and Himalayan heritage. Overnight Tea House. Driving 5–6 hours.
Day 6: Sekathum to Amjilossa (2,498m)
Your trekking adventure begins! Crossing suspension bridges, the path winds through bamboo groves and river valleys, with chances to spot langurs and colourful Himalayan birds. Passing through the tiny hamlets of Jonggim and Ghaiyabari, you’ll glimpse the quiet resilience of mountain life: stone houses with carved wooden windows, prayer flags, and locals tending to terraced fields carved into the hillside. The final stretch to Amjilossa is steep but rewarding, with views opening to forested ridges and distant peaks. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5–6 hours.
Rhododendron Trails to Sherpa Settlements:
Day 7: Amjilossa to Gyabala (2,725m)
Today’s trek climbs steadily through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and magnolia. Waterfalls tumble beside the trail the final approach to Gyabala (Kyapra) is steep and narrow, winding through a quiet alpine basin surrounded by misty ridgelines. The village itself is tiny and tranquil, with a handful of stone houses tucked into the hillside. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5–6 hours.
Day 8: Gyabala to Ghunsa (3,415m)
Today’s trail leads you through a landscape steeped in Himalayan tradition and natural beauty. As you leave Gyabala behind, the path climbs gently through forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron, as we approach Phale. This is a charming village, and many of its residents are Tibetan refugees who settled here decades ago. We then descend slightly into Ghunsa, surrounded by towering peaks and dense forest, Ghunsa is a place of quiet charm and warm hospitality. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 6 hours.
High Ridges and Sacred Mountains:
Day 9: Acclimatisation in Ghunsa – Hike to Ghunsa Ri (4320m) or Chherpuk Kharka (4,363m)
Take a rest day with a scenic hike to Ghunsa Ri or Chherpuk Kharka, at the summit of either viewpoint, you’re rewarded with a panoramic tableau of the eastern Himalayas. On clear days, you may glimpse the icy flanks of Jannu, Nyukla, and even the distant Kanchenjunga massif. This is a great opportunity to acclimatise while soaking in the alpine beauty and spiritual calm of the region. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5 hours.
Day 10: Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,145m)
Trek through forests of pine and rhododendron, crossing Rampuk Kharka and landslide-prone zones. Here, the terrain becomes more rugged and exposed. As you round a bend, the towering presence of Mt. Jannu (7,710m) – known locally as Kumbhakarna – comes into full view. The mountain dominates the skyline, casting long shadows across the valley. Arriving in Kambachen, you’ll find a handful of stone teahouses and a sense of quiet isolation. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 4 hours.
Into the Glacial Realm:
Day 11: Kambachen to Lhonak (4,792m)
Leaving Kambachen behind, the trail climbs gradually through rocky terrain dotted with yak herder camps. You’ll pass the ancient Ramtang Monastery, a quiet spiritual outpost nestled against the cliffs. As you gain elevation, the views open dramatically. To your left, the icy flanks of Kambachen (7,903m) shimmer in the sunlight, while ahead, the jagged summit of Jongsong (7,483m) pierces the sky. Eventually, you reach Lhonak, surrounded by glacial valleys. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5–6 hours.
Day 12: Lhonak to Pangpema (5,143m) – Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, return to Lhonak
Today marks one of the most exciting day of your trek, a high-altitude pilgrimage to Pangpema, the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. The trail leads you across a stark and dramatic landscape of rocky moraines, glacial debris, and windswept ridges. The air is thin, the sky vast, and the peaks begin to reveal themselves: Nepal Peak, Tent Peak, and The Twins (7,350m). Then, at last, Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world’s third-highest mountain, comes into view. After soaking in the panorama, you retrace your steps back to Lhonak. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 8–9 hours.
Climbing Toward the Passes:
Day 13: Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,415m)
Today’s descent retraces your steps through the Ramtang Valley, the descent feels gentler, but the terrain remains dramatic with rocky outcrop and scree slopes. The forest returns gradually, pine and rhododendron reappear, along with the scent of earth and greenery, arriving once again in Ghunsa. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5–6 hours.
Day 14 Ghunsa to Sele La Camp (4,240m)
Today, the path climbs steadily through dense forests of pine, juniper, and rhododendron. The final stretch to Sele La High Camp is steep and invigorating, with the landscape becoming increasingly stark and windswept. This seasonal camp sits just below the pass, surrounded by rugged terrain and scattered cairns. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5–6 hours.
High Passes and Alpine Meadows:
Day 15: Sele La Camp to Cheram (3,868m) via Mirgin La Pass (4,663m)
One of the most scenic yet challenging days of the trek, today’s journey takes you across three dramatic high passes, Sinion La, Mirgin La, and Sinelapche La. As you ascend, the trail winds through windswept ridgelines and rocky plateaus, with Mt. Jannu and distant glimpses of Makalu (8,481m) and the Eastern Himalayas. After the final pass, the descent into Cheram is steep but rewarding. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 7–8 hours.
Day 16: Cheram to Ramche (4,580m) via Yalung Glacier (4,580m)
Today’s trek begins with a steady ascent alongside the shimmering Yalung Glacier. The trail passes through Lapsang and follows the Simbua Khola. As you climb, the landscape opens to reveal sweeping views of snow-cloaked ridges and hanging glaciers. Arriving in Ramche, glacial lakes reflect the sky and peaks above. Overnight in teahouse. Trekking 4–5 hrs.
South Base Camp and Sacred Views:
Day 17: Ramche to Oktang Viewpoint (4,730m) – Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, return to Ramche
Today’s side trip to Oktang Viewpoint is a highlight of the southern circuit, where the South Face of Kanchenjunga, Mt. Kabru, and Mt. Rathong rise dramatically above the glacier. The trail follows the edge of the Yalung Glacier, winding through rocky moraines and alpine meadows as you ascend toward the viewpoint. After soaking in the grandeur, you’ll return to Ramche. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5–6 hours.
Day 18: Ramche to Tortong (2,995m)
Today’s descent from Ramche to Tortong offers a gentle return to the lush mid-hills. The path follows the Simbua Khola river, with each step, the alpine terrain softens into vibrant greenery, and the air grows warmer and richer. Arriving in Tortong, nestled among forested slopes, you’ll find a peaceful riverside haven. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5–6 hours.
Final Steps Through the Hills:
Day 19: Tortong to Yamphuding (2,080m) via Laseya Bhanjyang Pass (3,310m)
Today’s journey is one of endurance and reward, as you tackle a series of steep ascents and descents en route to the Laseya Bhanjyang Pass. The trail threads through dense forests and exposed alpine terrain before descending into the lush Amji Khola Valley. Eventually we arrive in Yamphuding, the largest village in southern Kanchenjunga, where Limbu culture thrives. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 8–9 hours.
Day 20: Drive Yamphuding to Kanyam (1,368m)
Today marks a gentle transition from rugged alpine trails to the serene hills of eastern Nepal. As you leave Yamphuding, the winding drive descends through forested valleys and terraced farmland, gradually revealing the emerald slopes of Kanyam, a tranquil hill station famed for its lush tea gardens. Overnight in hotel. Driving 8–9 hours.
Reflections and Farewell:
Day 21: Kanyam to Bhadrapur (80m), Fly to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we drive to Bhadrapur, and catch a short flight to Kathmandu, offering aerial views of the Himalayas and the valleys below. The rest of the day is free for souvenir shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing. In the evening, we invite you as our guest to enjoy a traditional Nepali farewell dinner together with our team in Kathmandu. A great way to celebrate your incredible trek through the Kanchenjunga region. Overnight 3★ hotel. Driving 1.5 hours. Flying time 45 minutes
Day 22 Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final stroll through the city or a short visit to a nearby temple. Our staff will escort you to the airport for your onward journey. Or, if you’re keen to explore more of Nepal’s wonders, we can help to arrange a custom extension to your trip.
What’s Included in your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Your adventure is thoughtfully designed to include everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and culturally rich experience — from airport transfers to farewell dinner.
- All hotel–airport transfers as per itinerary
- Kathmandu 3★ hotel – 3 nights, bed & breakfast
- Kanyam best hotel available – 1 night, bed & breakfast
- 18 nights lodge and tea-house accommodation on trek
- Round-trip airfare and taxes between Kathmandu – Bhadrapur – Kathmandu (total 15kg luggage allowance)
- Private transport from Bhadrapur to Taplejung to Sekathum
- Private transport from Kanyam to Bhadrapur
- Three meals a day during trek: breakfast, lunch, dinner, with tea or coffee
- Fully licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (salary, food, equipment, insurance included). Assistant guide provided for every six trekkers
- Porter service (one porter per two trekkers; salary, food, insurance included)
- All necessary national park fees, permits, and paperwork
- Local and government taxes
- First aid kit available during trek
- Emergency helicopter arrangement (cost covered by your insurance)
- Complimentary trekking map to keep
- Complimentary trekking duffle bag to keep
- Complimentary loan of sleeping bag during trek
- Farewell dinner
What’s Not Included
While we’ve covered the essentials, here are a few things you’ll need to arrange separately:
- International airfare and arrival/departure taxes to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fees upon arrival (please bring accurate USD cash and two passport-size photos)
- Personal travel/trekking insurance — You must have insurance, covering trekking up to 5,143m and rescue in case of emergency
- Additional expenses in tea-houses (Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, laundry, bottled drinks, speciality coffees (espresso, latte etc), snacks, bar bills, phone calls, etc.)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Extra night(s) accommodation in Kathmandu if returning early from the trek or late departure.
- Tips for guides and porters
