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Kanchenjunga circuit Trek 17 day ktm-ktm 2500 USD

Kanchenjunga circuit Trek 17 day ktm-ktm 2500 USD - Quick Infos:
  • Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu
  • Hard
  • tea house
  • Mar, Apr, May,Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec
  • fly/jeep/bus

About the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and remote trekking adventures, often considered a true hidden gem among Himalayan expeditions. Unlike the more crowded Everest and Annapurna routes, this trek offers a pristine wilderness experience, rich in biodiversity, untouched landscapes, and deep cultural heritage.

Encircling the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga — the world’s third highest peak at 8,586 meters — the trek takes you through diverse terrains ranging from subtropical forests and rhododendron-covered hills to alpine meadows and icy glaciers. The trail navigates challenging high mountain passes such as Sele La and Sinion La, where trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of Kanchenjunga’s towering faces, as well as neighboring giants like Makalu, Lhotse, and Everest on clear days.

The region is culturally vibrant, home to indigenous communities including the Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Lepcha peoples. Their unique traditions, colorful festivals, and warm hospitality provide trekkers with an authentic glimpse into mountain life far from mainstream tourism. Along the route, you will visit ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and sacred sites that hold spiritual significance for locals.

This trek demands good physical fitness and acclimatization but offers a profound sense of solitude and adventure. It is perfect for seasoned trekkers looking to explore Nepal’s wild east, connect deeply with nature, and challenge themselves amidst spectacular Himalayan scenery.

With well-established but less commercialized tea houses and lodges, trekkers can enjoy comfortable yet simple accommodations, often with spectacular mountain views. Guided by experienced local professionals, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek ensures a safe, well-organized, and culturally immersive journey.

Whether you’re drawn by the challenge of high passes, the allure of remote villages, or the awe-inspiring mountainscapes, the Kanchenjunga Circuit promises an unforgettable adventure that stays with you long after you return home.


 

Day 1: Kathmandu to Biratnagar/Bhadrapur - Fly, then Drive to Taplejung

Fly: 45m

Driving: 9/10 hrs. about 200km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Altitude: 1800m(Taplejung)

 Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge

  • Morning:
    • Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to either Biratnagar or Bhadrapur (flight duration: approximately 45 minutes).
    • Upon arrival, meet your driver and prepare for the scenic drive to Taplejung.
  • Drive to Taplejung:
    • Distance: Approx. 220 km
    • Duration: Around 7 hours (subject to road conditions)
    • The drive will take you through the lush landscapes of eastern Nepal, passing hills, forests, rivers, and small villages, offering a glimpse of local life.
  • Lunch Break:
    • Stop at a local eatery en route for a traditional Nepali meal.
  • Evening:
    • Arrive in Taplejung, a gateway to the Kanchenjunga region.
    • Check into your accommodation, freshen up, and relax after a long journey.
  • Altitude of Taplejung: Approximately 1,820 meters (5,971 feet).
  • Day 2: Taplejung  to Ranipool by Jeep

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

    Drive: 3-4 hrs.40km off road

    Max. Altitude: 1500m Ranipool

    Overnight: Teahouse.
    After a long day of driving yesterday, today will be a rest day for the group. They will travel by jeep from Taplejung to Ranipool, where they can unwind and relax to recharge for the trek ahead. The scenic drive will offer beautiful views, and once in Ranipool, the group can rest and acclimatize for the upcoming trek.

    This will help them recover from the long journey and prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.

  • Day 3 Ranipool to Amjilosa

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

     Walking: 6/7 hrs. Trek

    Max. Altitude: 2490m Amjilosa

    Overnight: Teahouse.
    The trek from Ranipool to Amjilosa offers a captivating journey through the rugged landscape of eastern Nepal, with magnificent views of the towering Kanchanjunga range. Starting from Ranipool, the path gradually ascends, passing through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, with occasional clearings that open up to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, trekkers will cross several traditional villages, providing a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle of the inhabitants. The trail is often narrow, winding through steep hillsides, but the pristine environment and serenity make it an unforgettable experience.

    The trek covers a distance of approximately 12-14 kilometers, with a steady uphill climb. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the pace and acclimatization. Along the way, trekkers will be treated to views of distant snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear streams, and lush greenery. Reaching Amjilosa, a small but scenic village, offers a peaceful stopover surrounded by the beauty of the Kanchanjunga Conservation Area, providing the perfect setting to rest and prepare for the next leg of the trek.

  • Day 4 Amjilosa to Gyabla

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

    Walking: 6/7 hrs. Trek

    Max. Altitude:2730m Gyabla

    Overnight:Teahouse.
    The trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla takes you deeper into the Kanchanjunga Conservation Area, where the landscape continues to impress with its natural beauty and cultural richness. As you leave Amjilosa behind, the trail gradually ascends through lush forests of oak, bamboo, and rhododendron. The path follows the banks of crystal-clear streams, crossing over suspension bridges and passing by small, traditional Sherpa and Rai villages, where you can observe the local way of life.

    The distance from Amjilosa to Gyabla is approximately 11-12 kilometers, and the trek usually takes around 6-7 hours, depending on the pace and terrain. The trail can be challenging, with steady climbs and occasional steep sections, but the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys provide constant motivation. As you gain elevation, the views of the mighty Kanchanjunga and its neighboring peaks become more prominent, with the snow-capped summits dominating the horizon.

    Gyabla itself is a tranquil village, located at an altitude of around 2,700 meters. The village is surrounded by terraced fields, with panoramic views of the Kanchanjunga range and other towering peaks. It's an ideal spot to rest and acclimatize before continuing further into the higher reaches of the trek.

  • Day 5 Gyabla to Ghuncha

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

    Walking: 6/7 hrs.

    Max. Altitude: 3430m Ghuncha

    Overnight:Teahouse.
    The trek from Gyabla to Ghuncha is a rewarding journey that takes you higher into the Kanchanjunga region, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Leaving the village of Gyabla, the trail begins with a gradual ascent through dense forests, which are home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species. As you climb, the vegetation transitions to alpine meadows and higher altitudes, with fewer trees and more open spaces, providing stunning vistas of the Kanchanjunga massif.

    The path winds through small settlements, where you can witness the daily life of the local Sherpa and Rai communities. The trek is relatively challenging, with steady uphill sections and rocky terrain, but the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Kanchanjunga, Jannu, and other surrounding mountains are a constant source of inspiration.

    The distance from Gyabla to Ghuncha is approximately 10-11 kilometers, and the trek usually takes around 6-7 hours, depending on the pace and acclimatization. As you approach Ghuncha, the landscape opens up to reveal expansive views of the valley below and the majestic Kanchanjunga range.

    Ghuncha is a small but scenic settlement located at around 3,400 meters, offering a peaceful environment for trekkers to rest. It’s an excellent place to acclimatize and prepare for the challenging days ahead, as the altitude begins to increase. The village is surrounded by beautiful meadows and offers excellent opportunities for photography, with the towering peaks of Kanchanjunga as the perfect backdrop.

  • Day 6 Ghuncha Acclimatization and Exploration

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

    Walking: 6/7 hrs.Trek

    Altitude: 3430m

    Overnight: Teahouse.
    After a challenging trek from Gyabla to Ghuncha, it’s essential to spend a day acclimatizing to the higher altitude. Ghuncha, situated at around 3,400 meters, is an ideal location for this purpose, providing a peaceful environment and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

    During the acclimatization day, trekkers can take a leisurely walk around the village and explore the nearby areas. The village is surrounded by lush meadows, terraced fields, and rugged terrain, offering a variety of short hikes to help your body adjust to the altitude. One popular route is to hike a short distance uphill to a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Kanchanjunga range and other nearby peaks. The sight of these majestic snow-capped mountains is a rewarding experience and provides an excellent opportunity for photography.

    Additionally, trekkers can visit nearby areas to explore the local culture. Ghuncha is home to a small community of Sherpa and Rai people, and taking time to interact with the locals provides insights into their traditional lifestyles and customs. You can visit local homes, enjoy a cup of tea with the villagers, and learn about their agriculture, handicrafts, and daily routines.

    A gentle walk in the surrounding forests, with its diverse flora and fauna, can also be a refreshing way to relax while still getting the necessary rest for acclimatization. The key is to avoid strenuous activity during the day, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude at a comfortable pace, preparing for the more challenging sections of the trek ahead.

  • Day 7 Ghuncha to Khampachen

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

    Walking: 6/7 hrs.

    Max. Altitude: 4150m

    Overnight:Teahouse.
    The trek from Ghuncha to Khampachen takes you further into the stunning Kanchanjunga region, offering beautiful views and a deeper connection with the natural environment. As you leave Ghuncha, the trail begins with a moderate ascent, leading through rugged terrain, dense forests, and alpine meadows. The path gradually winds upward, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and valleys below.

    Along the way, you'll pass through small villages, where local communities continue their traditional farming practices, often growing barley, millet, and potatoes. The trek also offers glimpses of the region’s unique wildlife, with sightings of birds and occasionally even a Himalayan red panda or snow leopard in the more remote areas.

    The distance between Ghuncha and khampachen is around 10-12 kilometers, and the trek typically takes around 6-7 hours, depending on the pace and acclimatization. The route is steep in sections, with a combination of uphill and moderate level paths. As you ascend, the altitude will increase, so it’s essential to take it slow and stay hydrated.

    khampachen, situated at an altitude of approximately 4000 meters, offers a tranquil setting with spectacular views of the Kanchanjunga range. The village is surrounded by high-altitude meadows and offers opportunities for short hikes to nearby viewpoints, which provide sweeping panoramas of the majestic peaks, including Kanchanjunga and Jannu.

    This is a great spot to rest, acclimatize further, and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding landscape. The peaceful atmosphere and the grand mountain views make Phampachen a perfect location to relax and prepare for the next leg of the trek.

     

    Day 8 Khampachen to Lonak

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

    Walking: 6/7 hrs.

    Max. Altitude: 4970m

    Overnight:Teahouse.
    The trek from khampachen to Lonak is an exciting journey that takes you higher into the Kanchanjunga Conservation Area, offering increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. As you leave khampachen, the trail gradually ascends through rough alpine terrain, with fewer trees and more open meadows. The path winds through rocky hillsides and narrow ridges, offering exceptional panoramic views of Kanchanjunga, Jannu, and other towering peaks.

    Along the way, trekkers will encounter glacial streams and small alpine lakes that add to the beauty of the landscape. The environment becomes more barren and windswept as you gain elevation, with fewer settlements along the route. However, the isolation and tranquility of this section of the trek create a feeling of awe and serenity.

    The distance from khampachen to Lonak is approximately 12-14 kilometers, and the trek usually takes around 5-7 hours, depending on pace and acclimatization. The climb can be challenging due to the altitude and the rugged terrain, so it’s important to pace yourself and ensure proper acclimatization.

    Lonak, situated at an altitude of around 4,780 meters, offers breathtaking views of the Kanchanjunga Glacier and the surrounding peaks. The village is quite isolated, and it serves as a base for those continuing their journey to higher elevations, such as kangpema, the base camp for Kanchanjunga. The stark beauty of the landscape, with its vast glaciers and towering peaks, makes Lonak a remarkable destination. This is an ideal place to rest and prepare for further exploration, offering an authentic Himalayan experience at the foot of some of the world’s highest mountains.

    Day 9 Lonak to Kanchanjunga Base Camp and Return to Lonak

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

    Walking: 6/7 hrs.

    Max. Altitude:5243m KBC

    Overnight: Teahouse.
    The trek from Lonak to Kanchanjunga Base Camp is a thrilling adventure, taking you to one of the most remote and awe-inspiring destinations in the Himalayas. From Lonak, the trail climbs steadily, passing through rocky terrain, glacial moraines, and alpine meadows, with incredible views of the Kanchanjunga range. The altitude starts to increase significantly, so it’s important to proceed slowly and carefully to avoid altitude sickness.

    The route takes you to the Kanchanjunga North Base Camp, located at approximately 5,140 meters, where trekkers are rewarded with spectacular close-up views of the Kanchanjunga Glacier and the towering peaks of Kanchanjunga, Yalung Kang, and other surrounding mountains. The base camp offers a dramatic and peaceful setting, surrounded by the majestic Himalayan peaks and glaciers, making it a great place to take in the stunning natural beauty of the region.

    The trek from Lonak to the Base Camp typically takes around 4-5 hours, covering a distance of about 6-8 kilometers, depending on the trail conditions. After spending some time at the base camp, trekkers will retrace their steps back to Lonak. The return journey is slightly easier, as it’s downhill, but still requires careful attention due to the rugged terrain.

    The trek back to Lonak usually takes about 3-4 hours. The views along the way are just as spectacular on the descent, with the vast Kanchanjunga Glacier stretching out below, and the surrounding peaks creating a breathtaking backdrop. This section of the trek provides an opportunity to reflect on the stunning beauty of the region and enjoy the serenity of the high-altitude landscape.

    Once back in Lonak, you can rest, recuperate, and savor the accomplishment of reaching one of the most beautiful and remote base camps in the world. This part of the trek is not only a physically challenging experience but also a chance to connect deeply with the natural environment and the grandeur of the Kanchanjunga massif.

    Day 10 Lonak to Ghuncha

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

    Walking: 6/7 hrs.

    Max. Altitude: 3430m

    Overnight: Teahouse.

    After visiting the Kanchanjunga Base Camp, trekkers typically descend back through the same route, heading toward Ghuncha. The descent is much faster, as it’s downhill, but trekkers still need to be cautious due to the rugged terrain and varying conditions.

    The distance from Lonak to Ghuncha is approximately 14-16 kilometers, and the journey usually takes around 5-7 hours, depending on the pace and trail conditions. The return trek involves descending from the higher, rugged terrain at Lonak down to the lower altitude of Ghuncha. Along the way, trekkers will pass through alpine meadows, forested paths, and a few remote settlements, offering a different perspective of the landscape compared to the ascent.

    As you descend, the views of the Kanchanjunga range and surrounding peaks remain breathtaking, with the larger snow-capped mountains visible on the horizon. Once back in Ghuncha, trekkers can rest and acclimatize further before continuing their trek to lower altitudes or return to the starting point.


  • Day 11: Ghunsa to Sele Le
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    Walking: 5–6 hrs
    Max. Altitude: 4,290m
    Overnight: Teahouse

    From Ghunsa, the trail leaves the main route and begins a steady climb toward Sele Le, a remote and scenic ridge camp used for crossing the high passes toward the southern Kanchenjunga valley. The distance covered is about 6–7 kilometers and typically takes 5 to 6 hours of walking, depending on weather and trail conditions.

    The trail ascends through beautiful, untouched forest filled with rhododendron, pine, and moss-covered trees. Along the way, trekkers pass small chortens and mani walls, giving a spiritual essence to the climb. As you gain altitude, the air becomes cooler and thinner, and the landscape opens up to occasional views of snow-capped peaks, including glimpses of Jannu Himal.

    This section of the trek feels more remote and peaceful, as it is less traveled compared to the main trail. Upon reaching Sele Le, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views and a quiet environment surrounded by high ridges. It’s an ideal place to rest before the challenging high pass crossing planned for the next day.

  • Day 12: Sele Le to Cheram
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    Walking: 6–7 hrs
    Max. Altitude: 4,640m (Sinion La Pass)
    Overnight: Teahouse

    This is one of the most adventurous and rewarding days of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, crossing several high passes on the way from Sele Le to Cheram. The trail starts with a gradual climb from Sele Le, eventually reaching the highest point at Sinion La Pass (4,640m), followed by other smaller passes like Mirgin La. The day involves a series of ascents and descents across rugged high ridges with spectacular views of Mt. Makalu, Mt. Baruntse, and even distant glimpses of Everest on a clear day.

    The distance from Sele Le to Cheram is approximately 10–12 kilometers, taking about 6 to 7 hours depending on weather and trail conditions. The route can be challenging due to possible snow and exposure to winds at higher elevations, so trekkers should proceed with caution and be prepared for rapidly changing weather.

    As you descend toward Cheram (3,870m), the trail becomes easier, moving through yak pastures and rhododendron forests. Cheram itself is a small settlement with a handful of teahouses, offering a welcome rest after a long day over the passes. This is a perfect spot to recover and prepare for exploring the Yalung Glacier area in the following days.

    Day 13: Cheram to Oktang Viewpoint and Back to Ramche
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    Walking: 6–7 hrs
    Max. Altitude: 4,730m (Oktang Viewpoint)
    Overnight: Teahouse

     

    This is a highlight day of the southern Kanchenjunga trek, as you trek to the stunning Oktang viewpoint — one of the closest accessible points to the Kanchenjunga South Face. The day starts early from Cheram, ascending gradually through a glacial valley toward Ramche and continuing further up to Oktang.

    From Ramche, the trail winds through rocky terrain and grassy yak pastures before climbing gently onto a lateral moraine. As you ascend, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering views of the Kanchenjunga massif, Kabru I, II, and Rathong peaks. After around 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you reach the Oktang viewpoint (4,730m), a sacred site where climbers begin their ascent of the south face.

    The panoramic view from Oktang is breathtaking — standing right in front of the massive icefall and glacier, you can feel the power and majesty of the world's third-highest mountain. After spending some time soaking in the views and taking photos, you return the same way, retracing your steps back to Ramche for an overnight stay.

    Though a challenging high-altitude hike, the views and spiritual atmosphere of Oktang make this one of the most memorable days of the entire circuit.

  • Here’s Day 15 for the trek from Ramche to Tortong in your preferred format:


    Day 14: Ramche to Tortong
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    Walking: 5–6 hrs
    Max. Altitude: 3,630m (Tortong)
    Overnight: Teahouse

    From the high alpine camp at Ramche, the trek begins with a gradual descent through rocky moraine and alpine pastures. The trail winds down along the Yalung Glacier valley, offering sweeping views of Kanchenjunga’s southern peaks and surrounding ridges.

    As you descend, the vegetation becomes denser, with dwarf rhododendrons and alpine shrubs giving way to fir and pine forests. The landscape changes noticeably, signaling a transition from high alpine terrain to lower subalpine forests.

    Tortong is a small settlement situated near a river and surrounded by forested hills. The village provides a peaceful stopover with basic teahouse accommodation. The fresh air and quiet environment offer a perfect place to rest and prepare for the continuation of the trek deeper into the Kanchenjunga region.

  • Here’s Day 16 in your preferred format for the trek from Tortong to Yamphudin:


    Day 15: Tortong to Yamphudin
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    Walking: 6–7 hrs
    Max. Altitude: 2,030m (Yamphudin)
    Overnight: Teahouse

    Leaving the quiet village of Tortong, the trail descends further along the river valley through dense forest and terraced farmland. The path is less rugged here and passes through traditional Limbu and Rai villages, offering trekkers a chance to experience local culture and hospitality.

    The descent is gradual but steady, moving from alpine terrain into greener subtropical zones. Along the way, you’ll see rhododendron forests, maize fields, and small hamlets dotted across the hillsides.

    Yamphudin, located at about 2,030 meters, is a charming village known for its friendly local community and beautiful surroundings. This is a good place to rest after the day’s walk, with basic teahouses available for an overnight stay.

  • Day 16: Drive from Yamphudin to Ilam
    Meals: Breakfast and Dinner (Lunch on the way or in Ilam)
    Driving Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
    Distance: Around 80 kilometers
    Overnight: Hotel or Guesthouse in Ilam

    After completing the trek section to Yamphudin, trekkers take a scenic drive to Ilam, a beautiful hill town famous for its tea gardens and lush landscapes. The road winds through the hills and valleys of eastern Nepal, passing small villages, terraced farms, and dense forests along the way.

    The drive can be bumpy in parts due to the mountainous terrain and road conditions, but it offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and distant mountain ranges. Ilam is a peaceful and picturesque town, known as the “Land of Green Tea,” where you can relax and enjoy a comfortable stay in a hotel or guesthouse after the drive.

    This transfer marks the transition from the remote trekking areas back to more accessible regions with road connections, completing an important leg of the Kanchenjunga Circuit journey.


  • Day 17: Drive from Ilam to Bhadrapur and Flight to Kathmandu
    Meals: Breakfast
    Driving Time: About 3–4 hours from Ilam to Bhadrapur
    Flight Time: Approx. 30–40 minutes from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu
    Overnight: End of trip

    On the last day of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you will drive from the serene hills of Ilam down to Bhadrapur airport. The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours, passing through scenic landscapes of eastern Nepal including tea gardens, forests, and small towns.

    From Bhadrapur, you will catch a short domestic flight back to Kathmandu, offering aerial views of the Terai plains and the Himalayan foothills as you return to Nepal’s bustling capital.

    Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the trek officially concludes. This is a good time to rest, reflect on your incredible journey, and prepare for your onward travel or explore the cultural richness of Kathmandu if your schedule allows.

     

Trip Cost Includes & Excludes

Trek Cost Includes:

  • Kathmandu Domestic Airport Picks up and drop.
  • Kathmandu to Bhadrapur  and back Flight Fares with Airport Taxes.
  • Everyday Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner as per above itinerary.
  • Teahouse/Lodge Accommodation while on Trek.
  • An English Speaking Government Licence Holder Trekking Guide.
  • One Porter for Two Hikers.
  • Guide and Porter Salary, Insurance and Accommodation.
  • all the required permits 
  • Trekker's Information Management System Fees.
  • All Government Taxes.
  • Assistance in case of Emergency Evacuation.

Trek Cost Excludes:

  • Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Travel Insurance of Trekkers.
  • Bar Bills like Mineral Water, Beer, Whiskey etc.
  • International Air Fares.
  • Nepal Visa.
  • Tips and Gratitudes to Guide and Porters.
  • Use of Wi-Fi, Phone Calls, and Personal Expenses.
  • Rest of all that are not mentioned in Cost Inclusive.

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