Kanchenjunga Trek - 20 Days , Cost and Itinerary

Activities : We will pick you up from your hotel and start our journey with a short and scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. And then we will have a 2-3 hours beautiful drive through rolling hills into the tea garden region of Fikkal/Kalyam region. The cool breeze with lush green hills and peaceful tea estates makes this a relaxing day before we head into the remote mountains.

In the evening, we will wander through the tea plantations and chat with friendly locals from Limbu Community. It’s a calm and culturally rich start for the rugged and off the beaten path adventure of the Kanchenjunga trek ahead.

Activities: After having breakfast, we will drive towards Taplejung which is the official gateway to the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, passing through traditional villages and forested ridges throughout the way. This journey gives us a sense of how remote and underdeveloped this region is, offering glimpses of terraced farms, cardamom fields and stunning views of the lush green hills.

Once we reach in Taplejung, we will check into a local guesthouse, rest and prepare for the treks first day tomorrow. This town is culturally rich town with famous Hindu Pathibhara Temple. If you have enough time, you can explore this sacred site before settling into hotel for the night.

Activities : This is the first day of our actual trekking which begins from Taplejung and takes us down into the Ghunsa Khola Valley through lush green forest and riverside trails before we arrive at Sekathum. This day crosses through suspension bridges and cultivated fields which gives us a real authentic feeling of local Rai and Limbu villages.

We will officially enter into the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area on this day which requires necessary permits and documents. Upon reaching Sekathum we will spend our night in a simple teahouse with basic facility and tasty warm meals. The day can be moderately challenging but sets the good tone for the adventure ahead.

Activities: Today we will leave the river valley and begin our day with a steady uphill climb toward Amjilosa, passing through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests along the Kanchenjunga Trekking route. This section of trail includes narrow sections, wooden bridges, and cliffside paths where trekkers must walk careful. Along the trail trekkers may get chance to witness red pandas, Himalayan monals, musk deers, colorful birds and other species found inside the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

Human settlements are rare in this region and you may occasionally witness Tibetan Yak herders or temporary grazing shelters along the way. The teahouses in Amjilosa are simple but cozy and serve tasty local Nepali meals. The increasing altitude starts to get noticeable as temperature drops significantly at night, so proper clothing becomes essential from this point onward.

Activiteis : After waking up we will leave Amjilosa and move upward through pine, rhododendron and oak forests. Here we feel that landscapes start to feel more alpine and we may witness herds of yaks, grazing sheep and goats and varieties of birdlife. After having lunch, we will cross wooden bridges through twisting path to reach Gyabla.

Upon reaching Gyabla we will settle in a simple tea house which is situated at an altitude of 2,730 m, enjoying crisp air and the peaceful atmosphere of this high valley village. As our trek day is shorter today it gives us an enough time to rest and acclimatize naturally before diving deeper into the Kanchenjunga region..

Activities : After waking up we will leave Gyabla and climb gradually through forests, small pastures, and open valleys to make our way toward Ghunsa which is one of the largest and most important villages on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Along the way, we will pass through a village called Phale which once was Tibetan refugee camp where you can visit a local home and check out simple handicrafts made by the locals.

After spending some time at Phale, we will continue towards Ghunsa, which is a big Sherpa village with police post, health post, lodges and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area office. Upon reaching Ghunsa we will spend a night here which makes this a perfect place to rest, acclimatize and prepare for the higher altitude journey towards the North Base Camp. Ghunsa’s wooden houses, prayer flags and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the most memorable cultural stops during Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking.

Activities : Today we will take a rest day in Ghunsa to acclimatize properly which is very important during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking. We will explore local monasteries or hike to a nearby ridge for stunning views of Jannu peak (7,710 meters). This optional hike which takes about 4-5 hours in total helps our body to adjust with the higher altitude while offering the stunning panoramic views of Janu peak on the trek.

After returning, we will enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the village, talking with locals with cup of tea in our hands and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. This acclimatization day or rest day is very important before we head towards the higher sections of the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek.

Activities : After waking up we will climb gently towards pine and juniper forests before reaching to the green glacier valleys on the way to Kambachen. As we climb higher into the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp trail, we will find the impressive views of Mt. Jannu dominating the sky. We may also witness wildlife like blue sheep or snow leopards on the distant rocky slopes if we get lucky.

After hiking for a while we will reach to the quiet glacial valley, Kambachen which is situated at an altitude of 4,100 and offers a peaceful stop with simple teahouses and stunning Himalayan scenery. It’s a perfect place to rest and acclimatize while enjoying the dramatic glacial environment and preparing for the higher altitude journey ahead on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.

Activities : Today is a very important acclimatization day to help our body adjust before we head towards Kanchenjunga North base Camp (Pangpema) which is situtated at an altitude of 5,143 meters. Taking this day as a break helps us to reduce the risk of altitude sickness and keeps us strong for the higher altitude regions of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

At afternoon we can hike up to nearby ridge for the breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga and surrounding glacier valleys which offers us a rewarding panoramic experience without any heavy exertion. After spending some time, we will return to Lhonak to rest, hydrate and prepare for the next day journey on to the most dramatic high-altitude regions of the eastern Nepal.

Activities : The trail from Kambachen to Lhonak crosses through rocky moraine, glacial carved boulders and wind sculpted ridges, as we move deeper into the High Himalayas. Along the route, views become more dramatic in every step, showcasing glaciers and towering peaks along the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek route.

Lhonak (4,780 meters) is a small village with a very basic teahouse accommodation but cozy rooms with spectacular views surrounded by complete mountain silence, snow covered peaks and authentic beauty of Kanchenjunga region, making this region as one of the most breathtaking sections of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. We will spend overnight here and have a proper rest as tomorrow is a big day, we will be going to North Base Camp.

Activities : Today we will make a full day hike from Lhonak to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema) which is located at an altitude of 5, 143 m. The trail goes through rugged glacial terrain and some of the most dramatic landscapes on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Upon reaching Kanchenjunga North Base camp, it welcomes us with a mesmerizing view of the third highest peak in the world, Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters) and its surrounding peaks including Jannu, Kirat Chuli and many more. The Kanchenjunga North Base Camp also offers incredible views of surrounded ice walls, prayer flags and the authentic beauty of high-altitude scenery.

After spending some time with this unbelievable and panoramic mountain views, we will descend back to Lhonak. Since, Pangpema has no teahouses due to its isolated location, trekkers return back to Lhonak for the night following the climber’s principle of “climb high, sleep low” which helps to reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness during Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. It’s a long and challenging day, but also the most iconic and rewarding as it is the heart of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek and an important highlight of the entire journey.

Activites : Today we will begin our day with a descent, retracing the same path we used during Lhonak to Ghunsa passing through Kambachen and Ramtang village on the way. The terrain becomes easier as you will be losing altitude but it’s a long walking day with rocky paths and moraine sections, so we need to be careful along the Kanchenjunga Trekking route.

Upon reaching Ghunsa in the evening, the village feels lively after spending several nights in the higher and colder region. The warmer air with better facilities and friendly Sherpa community makes Ghunsa a relaxing stop which gives us a time to reflect on our unforgettable journey we had at the Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp).

Activities : After waking up we will leave Ghunsa and begin a steady ascent towards Sele Le which is located at an altitude of 4,290 meters. The scenic trail goes through a forested slopes and an open ridgeline, as we climb higher, we will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga Massif, distant Makalu and other towering Himalayan Peaks. This section during the trek feels remote and untouched which gives a rare sense of solitude and wilderness and makes the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek truly special.

After crossing the pass, we will make a gentle descent towards Sele Le which is a peaceful village stop surrounded by prayer flags and a dramatic mountain scenery. We will spend overnight here in a simple but comfortable teahouses, making it an ideal place to rest and enjoy the quiet alpine atmosphere while preparing for the next stage of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp trekking journey.

Activities : Today is one of the most rewarding days during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek as we will be crossing the high scenic Sinion La Pass (4,450 m) and the Sinelapche La Pass (4,830 m). The route follows dramatic Himalayan landscapes with stunning views of the Kanchenjunga South Face, glaciers and snow-covered peaks which is a true highlight of the Kanchenjunga Southern Base Camp Trekking route.

After enjoying these jaw dropping panoramas, we will begin a steady descent towards Cheram, a quiet and remote high-altitude settlement with a few basic lodges. We will spend overnight here and get a plenty of rest and preparation for tomorrow, as we will be heading to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

Activities : After waking up we will follow a steady trail toward Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, walking beside the Yalung Glacier where the landscapes opens up wider in every steps. Upon reaching the Kanchenjunga South Base camp also known as Oktang, the scene becomes truly breathtaking as the Kanchenjunga’s massive south face stand straight above you. The glaciers crackle in the distance and the bright fluttering prayer flags against a background of pure white peaks makes standing here feel unreal, as we have stepped into a hidden heaven of ice and mountains.

After spending some time and taking photographs, we will descent towards village called Ramche. As the light changes across the Kanchenjunga massif, new colors and shadows starts to appear in the late afternoon making the trial so beautiful. Most of the trekkers remember this day as one of the most awe inspiring and unforgettable moments during the entire Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

Activites: Today we will leave Ramche and begin our descent towards Torongding. The trail drops steeply from the alpine zone into temperate forest, retracing the Cheram paths we followed earlier day and then turning west into the dense blooming rhododendron and pine forests. This region lies inside the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area where you may witness Himalayan monals, deers or other species which can add excitement to the journey. The scenery gradually shifts from glacier views to lush green forest trials and river valleys which offers a refreshing change after we spent several days on high altitude.

The descent includes steep steps, slippery paths and a few landslides prone sections, so trekking poles can be really useful. Upon reaching Torongding, we will settle into one of the two basic teahouses. Facilities are limited with no internet, where you may need to pay an extra to charge your electronic devices. As this village is situated at lower altitude, it gives us better sleep and appetite, allowing our body a much-needed break before we climb towards Lasia La.

Activites : Today is the final trek day on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking. The trail continues its descent passing through lush blooming rhododendron and bamboo forests, cardamom plantations and local Limbu and Rai villages. When we reach Rani Pul, the landscape here shifts dramatically, from high altitude sections to warm and humid valleys which is full of lush vegetation.

Ranipul is a roadside settlement and can be reachable by jeep, making it a logistical and emotional transition point. We will stay for an overnight here enjoying a warmer climate with tasty meals and the chance to celebrate with fellow trekkers as we completed our Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking successfully.

Acvities: From Ranipul we will take a local 4WD jeep with 7-8 hours’ drive which will take us back to Taplejung following scenic riverside roads and passing through traditional villages lifestyle and terraced farms. This day is a welcome break after a challenging Kanchenjunga Circuit Base Camp Trekking which offers a comfort, rest and an easier travel.

Upon reaching Taplejung we will stay in a comfortable guesthouse where we will take a hot shower, tasty meals and well deserving rest after a tough day we had at Himalayas. It’s a perfect day to celebrate our achievement with fellow trekkers, reconnect with civilization with the life long memories we had at Kanchenjunga Circuit as we will be returning to Kathmandu tomorrow.

Activities: On our final day of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, we begin it with a scenic 7-8 hours’ drive which will take us back to Bhadrapur from Taplejung passing through different rolling hills, traditional villages, terrace farms and ridgelines we crossed earlier which offers one last glimpse of eastern Nepal’s beauty. Upon reaching Bhadrapur we will take a flight back to Kathmandu which offers a spectacular Himalayan vistas from above, making it a perfect farewell to the remote mountains we have just explored during Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking.

Once we land in Kathmandu, we are back into the lively streets and comfort of capital. With long lasting memories of giant mountains, glaciers, isolated valleys, Buddhist Monasteries and the mighty Kanchenjunga Massif, we end a journey with a deep feeling of accomplishment, confidence, inspiration and connection to one of the Nepal’s most remote trekking regions.