The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is a journey that encompasses both the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, standing tall at 8,586 meters.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is a journey that encompasses both the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, standing tall at 8,586 meters.
This trek ventures into a remote region, making it advisable to have a good level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. Despite its isolation, trekkers are rewarded with glimpses into the local way of life and the opportunity to visit the Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries.
The landscape along the way is a captivating blend of rivers, waterfalls, lush meadows, and forests adorned with rhododendron, birch, and pine trees. The trail also leads you to the Yalung Glacier, all while being accompanied by the awe-inspiring presence of majestic mountains.
Situated in the far eastern region of Nepal, near the border with Sikkim, Kanchenjunga’s stature as the highest peak in the world was believed until the mid-1800s.
Access to this area was restricted to trekkers until the mid-1980s. Presently, the region is safeguarded by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, requiring a special trekking permit for entry. Due to these protective measures, the area’s unique flora and fauna remain in pristine condition.
In addition to the main peak of Kanchenjunga, there are four subsidiary summits surpassing 8,000 meters, with Kanchenjunga West, also known as Yalung Kang (8,505 meters), being the most significant. The region also boasts around twenty peaks towering above 7,000 meters, including Kambachen (7,903 meters), Janu (7,710 meters), Jongsong (7,483 meters), Kabru (7,353 meters), Tent Peak (7,365 meters), and the Twins (7,350 meters).
Moreover, the area hosts numerous peaks surpassing 6,000 meters. This cluster of peaks includes five major glacial systems, contributing to the rich glacial landscape of the region.
Trekking in Kanchenjunga offers an unforgettable experience, immersing trekkers in the heart of the remote and less-explored Himalayan mountains and valleys.
With the recent addition of the Great Himalayan Trail to the trekking map, tourism is being promoted in this and other remote areas, leading to the establishment of more teahouses along the route. While this development benefits local communities, it also signals that now is an opportune time to embark on a trek in Kanchenjunga, before the area becomes more frequented by trekkers.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek certainly promises an array of captivating experiences. Here’s a summarized overview of the key highlights:
1. Exploration of Eastern Nepal: This trek offers a unique opportunity to venture into the less-trodden eastern regions of Nepal, providing a fresh perspective on the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
2. Scenic Glacial Lakes: Trekkers will have the chance to encounter a series of enchanting glacial lakes, each with its own natural allure, enhancing the overall beauty of the journey.
3. Diverse Flora and Fauna: The route showcases a rich variety of plant and animal life, allowing trekkers to fully immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the region.
4. Spiritual Sanctuaries: Visiting the serene Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries offers a tranquil space for meditation and contemplation, providing a sense of peace after challenging days of trekking.
5. Close Encounters with Majestic Peaks: Throughout the trek, you’ll be enveloped by the awe-inspiring presence of the towering peaks of the Kanchenjunga region, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your journey.
These highlights collectively make the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek a truly remarkable and enriching adventure for those seeking to explore Nepal’s eastern wilderness.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offers a comprehensive itinerary to explore this remote and breathtaking region:
Day 1: Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (Flight) to Ilam (Drive)
– Altitude: Ilam – 1677 m / 5501 ft
– Travel: 5 hrs
Day 2: Ilam to Taplejung (Drive)
– Altitude: Taplejung – 1820 m / 5971 ft
– Travel: 5 hrs
Day 3: Taplejung to Chirwa
– Altitude: Chirwa – 1270 m / 4166 ft
– Trekking: 6 hrs
Day 4: Chirwa to Lelep
– Altitude: Lelep – 1860 m / 6102 ft
– Trekking: 7 hrs
Day 5: Lelep to Amjilosa
– Altitude: Amjilosa – 2510 m / 8234 ft
– Trekking: 5 hrs
Day 6: Amjilosa to Gyabla
– Altitude: Gyabla – 2730 m / 8956 ft
– Trekking: 4 hrs
Day 7: Gyabla to Ghunsa
– Altitude: Ghunsa – 3595 m / 11794 ft
– Trekking: 4 hrs
Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Ghunsa
– Altitude: Ghunsa – 3595 m / 11794 ft
Day 9: Ghunsa to Kambachen
– Altitude: Kambachen – 4100 m / 13451 ft
– Trekking: 4 hrs
Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Kambachen
– Altitude: Kambachen – 4100 m / 13451 ft
Day 11: Kambachen to Lhonak
– Altitude: Lhonak – 4785 m / 15698 ft
– Trekking: 4 hrs
Day 12: Day Trip to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp
– Altitude: Lhonak – 4785 m / 15698 ft
– Trekking: 8 hrs
Day 13: Lhonak to Ghunsa
– Altitude: Ghunsa – 3595 m / 11794 ft
– Trekking: 7 hrs
Day 14: Ghunsa to Sele Le
– Altitude: Sele Le – 4390 m / 14402 ft
– Trekking: 5 hrs
Day 15: Sele Le to Cheram
– Altitude: Cheram – 3870 m / 12696 ft
– Trekking: 8 hrs
Day 16: Day Trip to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp
– Altitude: Cheram – 3870 m / 12696 ft
– Trekking: 6 hrs
Day 17: Cheram to Torongding
– Altitude: Torongding – 2080 m / 6824 ft
– Trekking: 4 hrs
Day 18: Torongding to Yamphuding
– Altitude: Yamphuding – 1980 m / 6496 ft
– Trekking: 8 hrs
Day 19: Yamphuding to Khebang
– Altitude: Khebang – 1910 m / 6266 ft
– Trekking: 4 hrs
Day 20: Khebang to Khamdime
– Altitude: Khamdime – 1500 m / 4921 ft
– Trekking: 4 hrs
Day 21: Khamdime to Bhadrapur (Drive)
– Altitude: Bhadrapur – 93 m / 305 ft
– Travel: 10 hrs
Day 22: Bhadrapur to Kathmandu (Flight)
– Altitude: Kathmandu – 1300 m / 4265 ft
– Travel: 50 minutes
This comprehensive itinerary ensures a rich experience of the Kanchenjunga region, offering a blend of trekking, acclimatization days, and cultural exploration.
The day starts with a hearty breakfast, followed by a rendezvous with our guide at your hotel. Together, you’ll head to the airport for a short flight to Bhadrapur. This aerial journey treats you to sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley, its surrounding hills, and Nepal’s renowned mountains—a complimentary mountain flight experience! Upon touchdown in Bhadrapur, a drive will take you to Ilam, a region renowned for its sprawling tea plantations and considered the heart of Nepal’s tea industry. It promises a scenic and immersive introduction to the natural beauty of the area.
Following breakfast, a picturesque four-hour drive awaits, winding through terraced fields and rolling hills until we arrive in Taplejung. Here, we’ll settle in for the night. After lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this captivating town. Taplejung is rich with Buddhist heritage, boasting numerous gompas (monasteries) that offer a glimpse into the spiritual culture of the region. Among these, one particular gompa stands out—it hosts a mesmerizing sight: butter lamps that have been alight for an astounding 400 years. Outside the gompa, a babbling stream sets prayer wheels into motion, sending the sacred mantra “om mane padme hum” skyward. It’s a unique and spiritually resonant experience.
Today marks the official commencement of our trek! While it will be a predominantly downhill journey, we’ll have a chance to pause and catch our breath at the charming village of Sinwa, nestled along the banks of the Tamor River, before pressing onward.
We’re in for another full day of trekking, spanning about 7 hours. Our path leads us through Tapethok, where we officially enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. At this point, our permits will be checked before we cross a suspension bridge and make our ascent to Lelep.
Today’s trek promises to be filled with scenic delights. We’ll encounter picturesque waterfalls and cross several suspension bridges along the way. Our journey will lead us to the first Sherpa village on this trek, where we’ll spend the night. Amjilosa primarily serves as a seasonal settlement when yaks and sheep are in the pastures, meaning that only a handful of families reside here year-round.
The day starts with a hearty breakfast, followed by a journey through diverse forests that include pine, bamboo, rhododendron, and oak. Along the way, we’ll observe a transformation in the villages and the people, as they take on a more Tibetan influence. The trail also introduces us to yaks, sheep, goats, and a variety of bird species. After a satisfying lunch, we ascend through dense forest cover, crossing a sturdy wooden bridge, eventually arriving at Gyabla, where we’ll spend the night.
Continuing our journey, we navigate through lush forests and pass by Phale Village, which holds historical significance as a Tibetan refugee camp established many years ago during the mass exodus from Tibet due to the Chinese Communist regime. In the present day, it serves as a winter settlement. We’ll take some time to explore the village, where you can find various handicrafts for sale. Our route then leads us to Ghunsa, the largest village in the region, equipped with essential amenities like a police station, health post, and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Office. Additionally, telephone and internet services are available here, providing a vital link to the outside world.
Given our increasing altitude, it’s important to acclimatize properly. In Ghunsa, we’ll take the day to adjust to the higher elevation. There’s a monastery to explore, providing insight into the local culture and spirituality. Additionally, we have the option to embark on a climb up a ridge, which not only offers stunning views of Jannu Peak but also aids in acclimatization. This excursion takes approximately 5 hours round trip. We’ll make sure to bring along packed lunches for those who choose to join in this acclimatization hike.
Today’s trek offers spectacular views of the Jannu Himal as it commands the horizon. We’ll follow a gradually ascending path that leads us to a verdant glacier valley. This area is known for its sightings of blue sheep and even the elusive snow leopard if we’re fortunate. The trail then takes us past a captivating waterfall before leading to an area prone to landslides. We’ll exercise extra caution while navigating through this section.
Today presents another opportunity for us to acclimatize to the higher altitude, a crucial step before we make our way to the North Base Camp. We have the option to ascend another ridge, from where we’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Kanchenjunga. This vantage point will undoubtedly be a highlight of our journey.
Today’s leg of the journey leads us primarily over moraine, with a landscape dominated by the Kanchenjunga Glacier. The path guides us upwards, navigating large boulders and offering spectacular vistas on all sides. Given that we are in the heart of Snow Leopard territory, we keep a keen watch for any signs of this elusive creature. This region is also known for its summer yak pastures, though we won’t encounter any settlements along this stretch. The raw natural beauty and potential wildlife sightings make this a day of adventure and anticipation.
After a hearty breakfast, we embark once more on the moraine, tracing the path from the Kanchenjunga Glacier, gradually ascending. Upon reaching Base Camp, we are greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the encircling mountains, enhanced by the presence of fluttering Buddhist prayer flags. We linger here, soaking in the serenity, accompanied by a hot beverage and some snacks. Later, we make our way back to Lhonak for a well-deserved rest. This day is sure to leave an indelible mark on our journey, with memories of awe-inspiring vistas and moments of profound tranquility.
Our trek continues, leading us over pebbles and moraine until we arrive at Kambachen Village, where we pause for a replenishing lunch. From here, we turn eastward, tracing the path alongside the Tamor River. The landscape begins to transform, revealing lush greenery as we make our way back to Ghunsa, where we will rest for the night. This return journey offers a fresh perspective on familiar terrain, with nature’s vibrant colors greeting us along the way.
Today’s trek guides us through a forested area, leading to a grassy ridge that offers panoramic views of Ghunsa and Phole villages, with the majestic presence of Mt. Makalu gracing the horizon in the distance. This vantage point provides a unique perspective of the landscape, allowing us to appreciate the interplay of nature and human settlements in the region.
Embarking on our journey early in the morning, we make our way towards the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. The trail leads us across the Sinion La pass at an altitude of 4,450 meters, and then along a ridge to the Sinelapche La pass at 4,830 meters.
From this vantage point, the vistas of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the surrounding valley unfold in a breathtaking display. We then descend along a narrow trail to reach Cheram, the sole settlement along this route. Here, we spend the night, resting and taking in the remarkable surroundings.
Today’s trek leads us to Ramche, where we pause for a hearty lunch. From here, it’s an additional 40 minutes of walking to reach the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Nestled on the cusp of the glacier and enveloped by Tibetan prayer flags, the Base Camp offers a surreal experience. We retrace our steps back to Cheram for the night, cherishing the memories of this extraordinary journey.
Today’s trek primarily takes us on a descent through a gorge. However, the final stretch involves a steep ascent through an area susceptible to landslides and dense forests. There are no settlements until we finally reach Torongding, where we’ll find a handful of teahouses for our accommodation.
Following breakfast, we begin our descent, eventually transitioning into a steep and lengthy uphill hike. We’ll navigate through an area prone to landslides, arriving at Lasiya Bhanjyang. Here, we’ll find a teashop for a lunch break. The trail continues with a steep descent through more forests until we reach the sizable village of Yamphuding.
With the lower altitude, the trekking becomes more manageable. We’ll encounter intriguing villages and terraced fields along the way. Our journey continues until we reach Khebang, where we’ll spend the night.
This marks the final day of our trekking adventure, as tomorrow we’ll be taking a vehicle to the airport.
Today concludes our trek, and we embark on a long drive back. It’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the incredible sights we’ve encountered and give our tired legs a well-deserved rest. Upon reaching Bhadrapur in the evening, we can relish a hearty dinner, perhaps accompanied by some beer, and unwind in a comfortable hotel for the night!
Today’s journey begins with an early start as we head towards the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. We’ll traverse the Sinion La pass (4,450m), and from there, the trail leads us along a ridge to the Sinelapche La pass (4,830m). This leg of the trek promises breathtaking views and a remarkable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
