Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Travel safe, fun, meaningful and unforgettable

Country
Country: Nepal
Trip Difficulty
Trip Difficulty: Challenging
Activities
Activities: Trekking / Hiking
Accommodation
Accommodation: Included
Meals
Meals: Included
Max. Elevation
Max. Elevation: 5140m
Group Size
Group Size: Min. pax: 2 | Max. pax:
Best Season
Best Season: March to May / September to November

Highlight

  • Explore the world's third-highest peak — Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m / 28,169 ft), towering over the Nepal-India border.
  • Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine regions, opened to visitors only since 1988.
  • Reach heights of up to 5,140 m / 16,863 ft with breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan giants.
  • Choose between tea-house trekking or full camping experiences in this off-the-beaten-path adventure.
  • Encounter the cultures of the Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan communities in isolated mountain villages.
  • Walk through dramatic landscapes — deep gorges, thunderous waterfalls, alpine forests, and wild crags.
  • Capture unforgettable views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the Eastern Himalayas away from the crowded trails.
  • Perfect for the adventurous traveler seeking solitude, natural grandeur, and authentic local connection.
  • Let Sabbatical Explore Nepal handle all the logistics for a smooth, safe, and adventure-filled journey.

Overview

Mt. Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world. Situated on the border between Nepal and India, it rises 8,586 m/28,169 ft into the deep blue skies.
This region was closed to visitors until 1988 and today still is one of the least visited of the 10 highest peaks in the world. It is available only from the Nepal side, as it's white-capped crown rises high above the world. This trek requires good physical condition as you will be trekking to elevations of 5,140 m/16,863 ft.
This trek can be done as either a tea-house trek or camping. Even though it is a remote area, there are small villages that welcome visitors to their mountain. The area is inhabited by Limbu, Sherpa and Tibetan people. Walk by deep canyons, roaring mountain streams, majestic waterfalls, dense forests of rhododendron as well as rocky crags where you have stunning views of the high mountains of the Himalayas.
Mt. Kanchenjunga will not disappoint you as it happily reveals itself to those brave and adventurous enough to make the journey. If you are looking for a place less traveled with incredible mountain views as well as an opportunity to meet the mountain people of Nepal, then Kanchenjunga trek is just right for you. Call or write your representative at Sabbatical Explore Nepal for more information as well as to book your trip to Nepal.
Let the people at Sabbatical Explore Nepal take the hassle out of your vacation while putting together a worry-free, adventure filled experience.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m.)
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparations
Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur (50 minutes) then drive (7/8 hrs.) to Taplejung (1,820m.)
Day 4: Taplejung to Sekathum(1,650m.) 6/7 hrs.
Day 5: Sekathum to Amjilapsa(2,490m.) 5/6 hrs.
Day 6: Amjilapsa to Gyabla (2,725m.) 4/5 hrs.
Day 7: Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,420m.) 5/6 hrs.
Day 8: Trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen (4,145m.) 5/6 hrs
Day 9: Rest, Acclimatize and explore around Khambachen
Day 10: Khambachen to Lhonak (4,790m.) 5/6 hrs.
Day 11: Hike to Kanchenjunga north Base Camp (Pangpema) (5,145m.) then back to Lhonak 6/7 hrs.
Day 12: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,420m.) 6/7 hrs.
Day 13: Ghunsa to Sele-La Base Camp (4,240m.) 7/8 hrs.
Day 14: Sele-La B.C. to Tseram (3,870m.) via Mirgin-La / Sinion-La Pass (4,645m.) 5/ 6 hrs.
Day 15: Rest or hike to Ramche, explore Ramdang Gumba, Oktang - South K.B.C. (Yalung Viewpoint, 4,740m.) and back to Tseram - 6/7 hrs.
Day 16: Tseram to Tortong (2,980m.) 5/6 hrs.
Day 17: Tortong to Yamphudin (1,690m.) 7/8 hrs.
Day 18: Drive to Kanyam-Ilam -ilam (1,200) m 8/9 hrs. drive by Jeep
Day 19: : Explore Kanyam Tea Garden and drive to Bhadrapur and fly back to Kathmandu.
Day 20: Last day in Kathmandu - Rest and Relax or Shopping and Sightseeing!
Day 21: Final Departure from Kathmandu

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m.)

We will welcome you in a traditional way upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, then head to the hotel for some much-needed rest. In the evening,join us for a welcome dinner where we will share all the trip details. Afterward, you will return to the hotel for a good night's rest.

Included
Welcome Dinner
Place: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1350

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparations

On your second day, we will help you settle in and feel at home by exploring some of Kathmandu’s key UNESCO heritage sites, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and  Kathmandu Durbar Square. Meanwhile, our team will handle all trek preparations—permits, tickets, and gear etc. After returning to the hotel, you will have time for any last-minute shopping before the trek. Overnight stay at the same hotel in Kathmandu.

Included
Breakfast
Place: Kathmandu
Activity: Sightseeing
Max. Altitude: 1,350m.

Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur (50 minutes) then drive (7/8 hrs.) to Taplejung (1,820m.)

Flight HoursIncluded
Drive Hours7/8 hours

Today, we take a short flight (about 45–50 minutes) from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (Chandragadhi Airport). From there, we drive in a local jeep through the beautiful tea gardens of Kanyam, following the Mechi Highway. The scenic drive takes us to Taplejung, where our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek begins.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Activity: Flight/Scenic drive
Max. Altitude: 1,820m.

Day 4: Taplejung to Sekathum(1,650m.) 6/7 hrs.

Flight HoursIncluded
Drive Hours6/7 hours.

After breakfast, we will take a local jeep and start our second day’s journey to Sekathum. Most trekkers walk to Sekathum from Taplejung, but we are making our trip shorter by using the available transport. This way, we reach Sekathum two days earlier than usual. The drive takes us through several villages like Mitlung, Chirwa, Thapethok, and Lelep, following the Tamor River. On the way, we will pass the Kanchenjunga National Park entry point, where our permits will be checked before we continue to Sekathum.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Activity: Off Road Tour
Max. Altitude: 1,650m.

Day 5: Sekathum to Amjilapsa(2,490m.) 5/6 hrs.

Walk7/8km
Trek Duration5/6 hours
Ascent: 987m
Descent: 134m

After two days of driving, our adventure in the Himalayas starts as we follow the Ghunsa Khola, crossing several bridges along the way. We walk through green forests and pass small villages like Jonggim and Ghaiyabari before reaching Amjilosa.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 2,490m.

Day 6: Amjilapsa to Gyabla (2,725m.) 4/5 hrs.

Walk7.5km
Trek Duration4/5 hours
Ascent: 999m
Descent: 688m

After breakfast at Amjilosa, we continue our hike to Gyabla, also called Kyapra. We walk through thick forests on a quiet trail where no people live. If we’re lucky, we might see a Red Panda along the Kanchenjunga Trail. After climbing uphill, we enjoy beautiful views of mountains and waterfalls. Step by step, we make our way and finally arrive at Gyabla village.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 2,490m.

Day 7: Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,420m.) 5/6 hrs.

Walk9/10km
Trek Duration5/6 hours
Ascent: 795m
Descent: 100m

Today, our walk goes through beautiful forests full of different plants and animals as we reach Phale village. Then, we continue steadily to Ghunsa village. Many trekkers stop at Ghunsa to rest and adjust, but we will do our acclimatization day later at Khambachen.

 

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 3,420m.

Day 8: Trek from Ghunsa to Khambachen (4,145m.) 5/6 hrs

Walk10/11km
Trek Duration5/6 hours
Ascent: 675m
Descent: --

After breakfast, we start a gentle climb through open pine forests, where we might see blue sheep and even snow leopards. The trail goes through some landslide areas. Along the way, we enjoy amazing views of Mt. Jannu and beautiful green glacier valleys before reaching Khambachen village.

 

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 4,145m.

Day 9: Rest, Acclimatize and explore around Khambachen

Walk8/9km
Trek Duration3/4 hrs. explore
Ascent: 414
Descent: 414

We spend two nights in Khambachen at 4,100 meters to help our bodies adjust to the altitude. On this day, we hike to the base camp of Janu Himal. Since there are no places to eat on the trail, we carry a packed lunch with us.

The view from the base camp is breathtaking. The whole area is often covered in snow, and we get to see Kumbhakarna, the 32nd highest peak in the world. We also visit a sacred site where the Kirat people worship their god. After spending some time exploring, we walk back to our teahouse in Khambachen.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Place: Khambachen
Activity: Sightseeing/Explore
Max. Altitude: 4,559m

Day 10: Khambachen to Lhonak (4,790m.) 5/6 hrs.

Walk9/10km
Trek Duration5/6 hours
Ascent: 668m
Descent: 16m

Today, we walk over rocky ground from the Kanchenjunga Glacier. The trail goes uphill with big stones, and we see beautiful views all around us. We are now in an area where snow leopards live, so we keep looking – maybe we’ll be lucky! This place is also used for yak grazing in summer, but there are no villages along the way.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 4,790m.

Day 11: Hike to Kanchenjunga north Base Camp (Pangpema) (5,145m.) then back to Lhonak 6/7 hrs.

Walk23/24km
Trek Duration6/7 hours
Ascent: 607m
Descent: 1,266m

We reach Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, also called Pangpema, at about 5,143 meters (16,873 feet). This is the final point of our trek and gives us an amazing view of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), the world’s third-highest mountain, along with other beautiful peaks like Tent Peak and Chang Himal.

On the way, we pass through quiet villages, thick forests, high meadows, and rocky glacier paths. It’s one of the most adventurous treks in Nepal.

Since there are no tea houses at Pangpema, we stay at Lhonak and hike to the base camp as a day trip. The area is wild and peaceful, with huge ice walls and glaciers all around. Because of the high altitude, we need to be well acclimatized and physically fit. Reaching the base camp is tough, but the views and experience make it truly worth it.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Place: Pangpema (North Base Camp)
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 5,145m

Day 12: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,420m.) 6/7 hrs.

Walk9/10km
Trek Duration6/7 hours
Ascent: 41m
Descent: 705m

We hike down from Lhonak (5,065m) to Ghunsa (3,475m), following the same trail we used before. On the way, we pass through beautiful alpine landscapes and the villages of Ramtang and Kambachen. We still get great views of Kanchenjunga’s north face. Going downhill is easier on our lungs, but some parts of the trail are rocky and need careful walking. We may also spot blue sheep or signs of snow leopards along the way, which makes the walk even more exciting.

As we drop about 1,600 meters in height, the scenery slowly changes back to green forests. By late afternoon, we reach Ghunsa—a peaceful Sherpa village with wooden houses, prayer flags, and a quiet monastery. Here, we enjoy a comfortable stay with good food and a warm place to rest before we begin our journey toward the southern base camp.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 3,475m

Day 13: Ghunsa to Sele-La Base Camp (4,240m.) 7/8 hrs.

Walk6/7km
Trek Duration7/8 hours
Ascent: 844m
Descent: 50m

After breakfast, we leave Ghunsa and walk past the forest. Soon, we see open grasslands and colorful plants. The mountain views are beautiful and make us feel happy. As we move ahead, the view of Phale village slowly disappears. When reach Sele La, the views from here are amazing. On the way, we see some camps. There are two places to stay in Sele La – upper and lower – and we will stop where it’s best for us.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 4,240m

Day 14: Sele-La B.C. to Tseram (3,870m.) via Mirgin-La / Sinion-La Pass (4,645m.) 5/ 6 hrs.

Walk8/9km
Trek Duration5/6 hours
Ascent: 660m
Descent: 1,003m

After leaving Sele Le, we hike up to some high mountain passes—first Sinion La (4,440m), then Mirgin La (4,480m), and finally Sinelapche Bhanjyang (4,645m). As we climb, we get amazing views of Mt. Jannu, Everest, Makalu, Baruntse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga. After enjoying the views, we go downhill and reach Tseram, where we stay for the night.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 4,645m.

Day 15: Rest or hike to Ramche, explore Ramdang Gumba, Oktang - South K.B.C. (Yalung Viewpoint, 4,740m.) and back to Tseram - 6/7 hrs.

Walk18/19
Trek Duration6/7 hours
Ascent: 907
Descent: 907

After an early breakfast, we start our trek along the Yalung Glacier, getting closer to the stunning mountain views. As we walk, we can see Rathong (6682m) and Kabru (7412m). We’ll stop for lunch at Ramche. Then, we hike up to Oktang, also known as the viewpoint of Yalung or Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. From there, we enjoy breathtaking views of the three peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga along with other high mountains. After exploring this remote and rarely visited base camp, we return to Tseram.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 4,740m.

Day 16: Tseram to Tortong (2,980m.) 5/6 hrs.

Walk8/9km
Trek Duration5/6 hours
Ascent: 32m
Descent: 907m

Now, we walk slowly down steeply from the high mountains into thick rhododendron and pine forests. On the way, we may see birds, deer, or even a red panda.

The trail is rough with steps and slippery parts, so we use trekking poles. Tortong is a quiet place with two teahouses and basic services. There’s no internet, and charging costs extra. Spring water is available but needs to be boiled or purified. This downhill walk helps us feel better as we reach lower altitudes.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 2,980m.

Day 17: Tortong to Yamphudin (1,690m.) 7/8 hrs.

Walk12/13km
Trek Duration7/8 hours
Ascent: 973m
Descent: 2,192m

From Tortong, we keep walking downhill along the Amji Khola, passing through Lasiya (or Lamite) Bhanjyang at 3415m and Dhupi Bhanjyang at 2665m. After walking through some steep areas, we arrive at Yamphudin village. If we started our trek from the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp side, our permits will be checked at the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area checkpost in Yamphudin.

Guesthouse/Teahouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activity: Hiking/Trekking
Max. Altitude: 1,690m.

Day 18: Drive to Kanyam-Ilam -ilam (1,200) m 8/9 hrs. drive by Jeep

Drive Hours8/9 hours
Trek Duration7/8 hours

After breakfast in Yamphudin, we begin walking along the trail beside the Kabeli Khola, enjoying the beautiful landscapes. Leaving the mountain villages behind, we take a drive to Kanyam, a lovely place known for its tea gardens. On the way, we see tea and cardamom farms through the window. With sweet memories of our high-altitude trek, we now arrive in the peaceful lowlands. Kanyam is popular with local visitors, and we’ll likely see many enjoying the scenic tea gardens.

 

Hotel/Guesthouse
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Activity: Off/Road trip (Approx 200km)
Max. Altitude: 1,690m.

Day 19: : Explore Kanyam Tea Garden and drive to Bhadrapur and fly back to Kathmandu.

Flight Hours50 mintues
Drive Hours1.5 hours.

We will start the day with breakfast, then spend some time exploring the green tea gardens in Kanyam, Ilam. After that, we drive for about 2 to 3 hours to Bhadrapur. In the late afternoon, we take a 45 to 50-minute flight back to Kathmandu.

Included
Breakfast and Lunch
Activity: Sightseeing

Day 20: Last day in Kathmandu - Rest and Relax or Shopping and Sightseeing!

Enjoy a leisurely day in Kathmandu — unwind at your boutique hotel, indulge in spa or massage treatments, shop for exquisite handicrafts, or take a private cultural tour. The day is yours to savor in style.

Included
Breakfast

Day 21: Final Departure from Kathmandu

And now, it's time to depart from Nepal. What an adventure it has been! We will drop you at Kathmandu Airport — fly back home taking a beautiful memory in your heart.

Breakfast

What's Included?

  • All necessary Transport by car or Jeep for the trip
  • Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu Twin/double sharing Basis in BB Planas per the itinerary.
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek as per the itinerary in AP plan.
  • Sharing dormitory or Tent accommodation during trek if teahouse orlodges fully occupied.
  • Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu Flight ticket.
  • English speaking trekking guide.
  • 1 Porter each 2 trekkers (maximum 25 kg weight: carrying capacity)
  • Kanchanjunga Conservation Area Permit.
  • Kanchanjunga Restricted Area Permit.
  • First Aid kit (carried by Guide).
  • Insurance of porters and guide.
  • Melas, accommodation and salary of porter and guides.
  • Breakfast, Lunch and dinner only during the trek days as per the itinerary.
  • Special Souvenir at the end of the trip from the team.
  • All applicable government tax and VAT.

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal Visa
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • All the personal expenses as tips, bar bills, laundry and beverage.
  • Trekking equipment, Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
  • Battery Charging/ Drinking water and beverages.
  • Any other expenses due to political, act of nature or any other reasonwhich are beyond control of our agency.
  • Baggage and personal insurance including emergency evacuation

Group Departure

Dates
Remarks | Status
Book Now
22nd September, 2025 - 12th October, 2025
3 Lucky Travelers Can Still Join! Limited
6th October, 2025 - 26th October, 2025
Available
20th October, 2025 - 9th November, 2025
Available
27th October, 2025 - 16th November, 2025
Available
3rd November, 2025 - 23rd November, 2025
Available
17th November, 2025 - 7th December, 2025
Available
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 21 Days
Price USD 2895

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