Kanchenjunga Circuit

The Kanchenjunga Circuit is the ultimate adventure in far eastern Nepal, combining visits to both the North (Pangpema) and South (Oktang) Base Camps of the Kanchenjunga massif. This strenuous 22-day journey requires physical endurance and a spirit of adventure. You will traverse diverse climatic zones, from lush subtropical forests in the lower valleys to alpine tundra and glacial landscapes at higher elevations. The trek involves crossing a series of high passes collectively known as the Sele La passes (over 4,000m), providing a thrilling connection between the north and south sides of the mountain. Along the way, you'll encounter authentic Limbu and Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and unparalleled views of the world's third-highest mountain.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

Visit both Pangpema (North Base Camp) and Oktang (South Base Camp).

Cross the challenging and scenic Sele La passes.

Immerse in the pristine wilderness of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

Enjoy incredibly diverse landscapes, from cardamom fields to glaciers.

Experience authentic local cultures in remote Himalayan villages.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

Scenic Flight Elev: 1,820 m

• Scenic drive through winding river valleys, terrace fields, and rural townships.
• Countryside vistas featuring rolling hills and distant snowcapped peaks.
• Arrive at Taplejung; evening dinner, team briefing, and overnight lodge stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 921 m

• Trail route: Trek to Mitlung (921 m).
• Descend through agricultural terraced fields and villages to the Tamor River, reaching the small settlement of Mitlung.
• Arrive at Mitlung; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 1,270 m

• Trail route: Trek to Chirwa (1,270 m).
• Follow the Tamor River upstream, walking through Limbu and Chhetri villages, cardamom fields, and crossing suspension bridges to Chirwa.
• Arrive at Chirwa; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 1,576 m

• Trail route: Trek to Sukathum (1,576 m).
• Continue along the river valley, which gradually narrows.
• The trail involves some uphill climbs and descents before arriving at Sukathum.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,308 m

• Trail route: Trek to Amjilosa (2,308 m).
• A challenging day with a steep ascent through a gorge.
• The trail climbs high above the river, passing through bamboo and rhododendron forests.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,730 m

• Trail route: Trek to Gyabla (2,730 m).
• Walk through dense forests with chances to spot red pandas.
• The trail is scenic, leading to the picturesque village of Gyabla.

Trekking Day Elev: 3,595 m

• Trail route: Trek to Ghunsa (3,595 m).
• Pass through the Tibetan refugee settlement of Phale.
• The valley opens up as you reach Ghunsa, a large and welcoming Sherpa village with a monastery.

Acclimatization Day

• Active acclimatization hike to elevated ridge viewpoints around in Ghunsa.
• Breathtaking 360-degree mountain panoramas and exploration of local culture.
• Restful afternoon, hydration, and leisurely walk around the settlement.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,050 m

• Trail route: Trek to Kambachen (4,050 m).
• Trek alongside the river through alpine terrain.
• Cross a difficult landslide section.

Acclimatization Day

• Active acclimatization hike to elevated ridge viewpoints around in Kambachen.
• Breathtaking 360-degree mountain panoramas and exploration of local culture.
• Restful afternoon, hydration, and leisurely walk around the settlement.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,780 m

• Trail route: Trek to Lhonak (4,780 m).
• Ascend gradually through rocky moraines alongside the Kanchenjunga Glacier.
• Arrive at the high, barren outpost of Lhonak.

Trekking Day Elev: 5,143 m

• Trail route: Hike to Pangpema (North BC, (5,143 m) and return to Lhonak.
• A challenging hike along the moraine to Pangpema for awe-inspiring views of the Kanchenjunga massif.
• Return to Lhonak.

Trekking Day Elev: 3,595 m

• Trail route: Trek to Ghunsa (3,595 m).
• Descend rapidly through Kambachen, returning to the comforts and lower altitude of Ghunsa.
• Arrive at Ghunsa; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,290 m

• Trail route: Trek to Sele La Base Camp (4,290 m).
• Leave the main trail and ascend steeply through dense rhododendron and juniper forests to reach the isolated Sele La Base Camp.
• Arrive at Sele La Base Camp; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

High Pass Crossing Elev: 3,870 m

• Early pre-dawn start to cross Cross Sele La Pass before afternoon high winds.
• Challenging high-altitude ascent rewarded with breathtaking summit panoramas.
• Steady descent to valley floor; celebratory dinner and overnight at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,580 m / 4,730 m

• Trail route: Hike to Ramche (4,580 m) and Oktang (South BC, (4,730 m).
• Hike up the Yalung Glacier valley to Ramche, and further to Oktang, the South Base Camp, for magnificent views of Kanchenjunga's south face.
• Return to Cheram.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,995 m

• Trail route: Trek to Tortong (2,995 m).
• Descend through beautiful rhododendron forests alongside the Simbuwa Khola to the small settlement of Tortong.
• Arrive at Tortong; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,080 m

• Trail route: Trek to Yamphudin (2,080 m).
• Cross the Lasiya Bhanjyang pass (3,310m) and undertake a long, steep descent to Yamphudin, a diverse village of Sherpas, Limbus, and Rais.
• Arrive at Yamphudin; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Trekking Day Elev: 1,910 m

• Trail route: Trek to Khebang (1,910 m).
• Walk through agricultural lands and numerous small villages, interacting with the locals along the way.
• The trail climbs through rhododendron and oak forests, opening up to views of the massive Kanchenjunga (8,586m) massif.

Trekking Day Elev: 1,120 m

• Trail route: Trek to Khandambu (1,120 m).
• Continue the descent through the foothills, enjoying the warmer climate and lush scenery.
• We follow trails beneath towering rock walls and hanging glaciers, trekking in one of the most remote corners of the world.

Scenic Drive

• Scenic drive through winding river valleys, terrace fields, and rural townships.
• Countryside vistas featuring rolling hills and distant snowcapped peaks.
• Arrive at Bhadrapur; evening dinner, team briefing, and overnight lodge stay.

Scenic Flight

• Trail route: Fly to Kathmandu.
• Catch a flight from Bhadrapur back to Kathmandu.
• Arrive at Kathmandu; evening dinner and restful overnight stay.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.
Standard teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS, National Park Fees).
A comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful trek.

Exclusions

International flight airfare.
Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory).
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters).
Tips for guide and porters (customary but not mandatory).

Frequently Asked Questions

Are accommodations in remote regions very basic?

Yes. Unlike popular regions like Everest or Annapurna, remote regions (like Manaslu, Dolpo, or Kanchenjunga) have simpler teahouses or require camping. Facilities are basic, featuring shared squat toilets and limited hot water.

Do I need a special restricted area permit?

Many remote borders require Restricted Area Permits (RAPs) and must be hiked with a registered guide and a minimum of two trekkers. Our agency handles all permit processing for you.

Is electricity charging and Wi-Fi available?

Charging is mostly solar-powered and available at lower teahouses for a fee. Wi-Fi is rare or non-existent in remote villages. We recommend bringing a high-capacity power bank and a local SIM card.

How difficult are the trails in remote regions?

The trails are less developed, more rugged, and see very few tourists. You should expect steep ascents, high mountain passes (like Larkya La at 5,106m), and long walking days over challenging terrain.

How much cash should I carry for a remote trek?

Since there are absolutely no ATMs in remote regions, you must withdraw sufficient cash in Nepalese Rupees in Kathmandu. We recommend budgeting at least 2,500 Rupees ($20 USD) per day for personal expenses.

What should I pack for an off-the-beaten-path trek?

You should pack high-quality gear: a warm sleeping bag (rated to -15°C), broken-in trekking boots, thermal layers, water purification tools, basic toiletries, and a small personal first-aid kit with altitude medication.