-
Autumn
-
Camping
-
Kathmandu
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is your ticket to the base of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m / 28,169ft), the third-highest mountain on Earth, towering with mythical grandeur and waiting to etch its glory into your memories forever.
Nestled deep in the heart of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, this trek unveils breathtaking panoramas—so close, you’ll feel the icy whispers of the Himalayan peaks. Known as the “Five Treasures of Great Snow”, Kanchenjunga’s five summits shimmer like jewels, symbolizing gold, silver, grains, precious stones, and holy scriptures. As you gaze upon these frozen giants, you’ll feel an inexplicable connection to their spiritual energy.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Nature lovers, get ready to awaken your wild side! With Himalayan Black Bears, Musk Deer, and Red-Billed Blue Magpies to accompany your journey, this trek offers a rare chance to witness wildlife thriving in its purest habitat—a true wilderness enthusiast’s dream.
Over 20-25 exhilarating days, covering roughly 200 kilometers, you’ll trek through landscapes that shift from rugged trails and alpine meadows to lush forests and roaring glacial rivers. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon hidden villages that feel frozen in time. Meet the warm-hearted Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa people, guardians of these lands, who’ll welcome you with open hearts and timeless hospitality. Imagine sharing stories around a crackling fire, tasting local delicacies, and marveling at ancient monasteries adorned with fluttering prayer flags. Here, life slows down, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a culture where simplicity, faith, and nature intertwine.
So, are you ready to answer the call of the mountains? Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and let the “Five Treasures of Great Snow” become part of your own story. The Himalayas are waiting—and so is your next great adventure.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp – A Remote Journey to the Third-Highest Mountain in the World
The ultimate highlight of this trek is reaching Kanchenjunga Base Camp at 5,143m. Standing in the shadow of Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the third-highest mountain in the world, you’ll be awestruck by the sheer size and majesty of this remote and untamed region. The trek offers unmatched views of the Kanchenjunga massif, as well as the surrounding peaks like Jannu Himal, Wedge Peak, and Nepal Peak, making it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Kanchenjunga South Base Camp – An Immersive Glacier Experience
Journeying through the stunning Yalung Glacier region, trekkers will arrive at Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4,500m), where breathtaking icefalls, glaciers, and jagged peaks surround you. The spiritual atmosphere of this sacred Buddhist site adds a unique dimension to the experience, offering trekkers not just incredible views but also a deep connection to the mountain’s reverence in local culture.
Kanchenjunga’s Northern and Southern Faces – Panoramic Views of Majestic Peaks
Throughout the trek, you will be treated to some of the best panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. From the North Base Camp (Pangpema) to South Base Camp (Ramche), the landscape changes dramatically, offering new perspectives of Kanchenjunga’s North Face, South Face, and Yalung Kang. Each pass and camp offers breathtaking views of some of the tallest and most remote peaks in the Himalayas.
The Remote and Untouched Wilderness of Kanchenjunga
The trek takes you through Makalu Barun National Park and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, two of Nepal’s most pristine and biodiverse regions. From lush rhododendron forests and alpine meadows to towering glaciers and high-altitude lakes, this trek takes you into the heart of one of the most remote corners of the Himalayas. Encounter elusive wildlife, such as snow leopards, red pandas, and blue sheep, as well as rare birds like Himalayan griffins and blood pheasants.
Immersing in Local Limbu and Sherpa Culture
As you pass through traditional Limbu villages and enter the heart of Sherpa culture, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with local communities. Visit remote villages like Ghunsa, Tortong, and Yamphudin, where you can experience traditional ways of life, including ancient butter tea-making, meditation practices, and local festivals. The welcoming hospitality of the local people will make the journey even more memorable, with opportunities to join in cultural programs and learn about the rich heritage of these high-altitude communities.
Crossing High Altitude Passes – A Test of Strength and Endurance
The Sele La Pass (4,480m) is one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of the trek. Adorned with colorful prayer flags, the pass offers a dramatic descent with magnificent views of Kanchenjunga South Face, Yalung Kang, and Kabru. The physical challenge of crossing these passes adds an element of adventure and triumph to your journey.
Dramatic Waterfalls, Glaciers, and Sacred Caves
The trek passes through dramatic landscapes featuring waterfalls, glacial moraines, and ancient meditation caves used by Buddhist monks for centuries. The natural beauty of these surroundings is unparalleled, with each day offering new and stunning vistas, from hidden hot springs and waterfalls in the lower regions to the awe-inspiring glacier fields and icefalls at higher altitudes.
The Spiritual Atmosphere of Buddhist Monasteries and Shrines
Along the way, you’ll visit ancient Buddhist monasteries such as Ghunsa Monastery and Tashi Choding, where you can witness traditional prayers and rituals. The region’s strong Buddhist influence provides a spiritual element to the trek, with visits to prayer wheels, sacred caves, and hidden shrines scattered throughout the remote valleys. Join the locals in morning prayers and experience the deep spiritual connection they share with the land.
Lush Valleys and Diverse Ecosystems
From the subtropical valleys of Yamphudin to the alpine meadows surrounding Ramche, the trek offers a diverse range of ecosystems and landscapes. Experience dramatic climate changes as you descend from high-altitude glacial landscapes to lush, green valleys filled with wildflowers, rhododendrons, and edelweiss. These shifts in scenery keep the trek constantly captivating and visually diverse.
Celebration of Cultural Encounters and Stunning Views in the Teahouses
In villages like Khebang, Tortong, and Cheram, experience the best of Limbu and Sherpa hospitality. Enjoy traditional meals, including butter tea, local cheeses, and home-brewed drinks, while sharing stories of your trek with the local communities. Each night, relax in cozy teahouses or camp beneath the Himalayan sky, taking in the star-filled nights and the soothing sounds of mountain rivers.
Farewell Views of Kanchenjunga – A Final Moment of Reflection
On your final day, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the tea gardens of Illam and Panchthar, with one last view of Kanchenjunga from the comfort of your seat. The mountain’s towering presence will stay with you long after you’ve left the trails, providing a moment of reflection as you prepare to head back to Kathmandu and bid farewell to one of the most incredible trekking experiences Nepal has to offer.
This trek is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey into the heart of the Kanchenjunga region, where you’ll encounter stunning mountain vistas, remote landscapes, and rich cultural experiences that will leave a lasting imprint on your soul.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, meet our experienced trek leader and support team. Day free to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites including ancient Kathmandu Durbar Square with its intricate wood carvings, Swayambhunath stupa, and bustling local markets. Evening trek briefing covering route details, gear check, and altitude considerations. Experience traditional Nepali welcome dinner featuring authentic local cuisine and cultural performances.
Altitude: 1,300m
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
A day dedicated to trek preparation, including finalizing gear, shopping for any essentials, and arranging necessary permits and documentation. Use this time to rest, explore the city, and ensure everything is ready for the adventure ahead.
Altitude: 1,300m
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: breakfast, dinner
Early morning scenic flight to Bhadrapur offering panoramic Himalayan views. Drive through Nepal's famous tea gardens and rolling hills. Experience the colonial architecture and vast tea estates of Illam. Evening exploration of local tea processing centers and cultural sites. Witness traditional tea plucking and processing methods.
Altitude: 1,200m
Accommodation: Local Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Adventurous drive through winding mountain roads and deep valleys. Pass through traditional Limbu villages with unique architecture and cultural heritage. Experience dramatic changes in landscape from tea gardens to alpine forests. Visit local monasteries and cultural sites en route. Evening preparation for trek start.
Altitude: 921m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Embark on an exhilarating drive along cliff-edge roads following the mighty Tamor River. Pass through mystical cardamom forests and remote settlements. Witness local farmers harvesting the precious spice. First glimpse of snow-capped peaks piercing through clouds. Evening exploration of Chirwa village, meeting locals and learning about their unique lifestyle.
Altitude: 1,270m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Adventure begins with crossing dramatic suspension bridges swaying high above Tamor River. Trek through dense, mysterious forests echoing with exotic bird calls. Discover hidden waterfalls and natural hot springs. Visit ancient Limbu villages where time stands still, witnessing traditional dancing and local brewing methods.
Altitude: 1,750m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Challenge yourself with an exciting ascent through dramatic gorges. Cross multiple Indiana Jones-style suspension bridges spanning deep ravines. Trek alongside thundering waterfalls and through bamboo forests where red pandas roam. Evening camping under star-filled Himalayan skies.
Altitude: 2,510m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Views: First dramatic views of Jannu Himal's imposing north face
Enter the mystical world of high Himalaya through ancient rhododendron forests blooming with vibrant colors (March-May). Navigate narrow mountain trails carved into cliffside. Spot Himalayan Tahr and musk deer on distant slopes. Visit remote herders' shelters and learn about their nomadic lifestyle.
Altitude: 2,730m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek into the legendary Sherpa territory. Cross paths with yak caravans carrying goods from Tibet. Explore the historic Tibetan refugee settlement of Phale, where traditional carpet weaving and butter tea making continue. Evening prayer ceremony at ancient Ghunsa Monastery with local monks.
Altitude: 3,595m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Views: Spectacular views of Jannu Himal (7,711m), Kumbhakarna massive
Immerse yourself in Sherpa culture at Ghunsa, a key stop on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Join morning prayers at Tashi Choding Monastery and hike to a hidden viewpoint revealing the Kanchenjunga massif. Enjoy traditional Sherpa dishes and butter tea with local families.
Ghunsa offers basic amenities, including teahouses, a health post, and a school supported by international climbers. A 35 kW micro-hydro plant provides sustainable electricity to the village.
Altitude: 3,595m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Venture into high-altitude wilderness across glacial moraines. Navigate through massive boulders and icy streams. Watch for Himalayan snow cock and blue sheep on rocky slopes. Visit meditation caves used by Buddhist yogis for centuries. Experience the raw power of Kanchenjunga's glaciers.
Altitude: 4,050m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Views: Jannu Himal, Kanchenjunga, Wedge Peak
Trek through prime snow leopard territory (footprints often visible). Cross dramatic glacier moraines while witnessing massive ice formations. Pass high-altitude lakes reflecting mountain peaks. Camp in one of the most remote locations in Nepal, surrounded by 7,000m peaks.
Altitude: 4,780m
Accommodation: Camping / Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Views: Kanchenjunga, Wedge Peak, Nepal Peak, Tent Peak
Witness sunrise painting Kanchenjunga's north face golden. Explore massive glacier formations and ice seracs. Stand face-to-face with world's third-highest mountain. Return trek offers different perspective of this majestic landscape.
Altitude: 5,143m (Pangpema), 4,780m (Lhonak)
Accommodation: Camping/ Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Views: Kanchenjunga North Face, Twins, Nepal Peak, Tent Peak
Descend through dramatic landscapes with new perspectives of peaks previously climbed. Cross glacial streams using traditional techniques as you traverse near the mighty Kanchenjunga Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the region, showcasing breathtaking ice formations and a rugged, icy terrain.
Conclude the day with an evening celebration with local Sherpa families, sharing trek stories over a traditional meal and experiencing their warm hospitality.
Altitude: 3,595m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascend through ancient juniper forests considered sacred to local Buddhists. Spot Himalayan griffins soaring overhead. Camp beneath towering peaks in preparation for tomorrow's pass crossing. Altitude: 4,290m
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Conquer the challenging Sele La Pass (4,480m) adorned with prayer flags. Dramatic descent offering first views of Kanchenjunga's south face. Trek through alpine meadows carpeted with edelweiss flowers.
Altitude: 3,870m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Views: Kanchenjunga South Face, Yalung Kang, Kabru
Trek deeper into Yalung Glacier territory. Navigate through otherworldly glacier formations and ice pyramids. Spot rare Himalayan wildlife including musk deer and blood pheasants. Camp in a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks.
Altitude: 4,580m
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Views: Kanchenjunga South Face, Koktang, Rathong
Journey to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, passing the Yalung Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. Witness massive icefalls and stunning glacier formations while experiencing the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred Buddhist site.
The return trek takes you through moraine fields, offering unique perspectives of the surrounding mountains and showcasing the region's rugged beauty.
Altitude: 4,500m (Base Camp), 3,870m (Cheram)
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Views: Kanchenjunga South Face, Kabru, Rathong, Koktang
Descend through multicolored rhododendron forests. Cross pristine mountain streams on log bridges. Visit hidden Buddhist shrines and prayer wheels. Evening camping under towering pine trees.
Altitude: 2,995m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek through diverse ecosystems from alpine to subtropical. Experience dramatic climate changes. Visit traditional paper-making village. Share evening with Limbus community, learning about their unique culture and traditions.
Altitude: 2,080m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey through lush valleys and terraced fields. Visit traditional honey hunters. Experience local home-brewing methods. Evening cultural program with traditional Limbu dancing and music. Altitude: 1,915m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse/Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Final trek through rural Nepal's heartland. Cross bamboo forests and cardamom plantations. Visit local cheese factory. Last night celebration with trek crew.
Altitude: 1,580m
Accommodation: Basic Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scenic mountain drive through famous tea gardens. Visit tea processing factory. Experience colonial architecture and history.
Altitude: 1,200m
Accommodation: Local Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning drive through Terai landscapes. Mountain flight offering final views of Kanchenjunga. Evening farewell dinner with cultural performance.
Altitude: 1,300m
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Transfer to international airport. Depart with memories of Kanchenjunga's majestic peaks and rich cultural experiences.
Altitude: 1,300m
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cost Include
- Airport transfers, domestic flights, and private transportation.
- Hotel stays in Kathmandu and Bhadrapur; camping during the trek.
- Full-board meals during the trek; welcome and farewell dinners.
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and restricted area trekking permits.
- Experienced guide, porters, and camping staff (cook, helpers).
- Camping gear (tents, mattresses, sleeping bags, kitchen equipment).
- First aid kit, oxygen cylinder, and safety equipment.
- Duffel bag for trekking; all government taxes and service charges.
Cost Exclude
- International flights and Nepal visa fees.
- Personal trekking equipment, snacks, beverages, and bottled water.
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging facilities in tea houses (if available).
- Travel and trekking insurance (mandatory) covering helicopter evacuation.
- Tips for guides, porters, and camping staff.
- Optional sightseeing tours in Kathmandu.
- Costs due to delays, cancellations, or changes in the itinerary.
The trek is challenging and requires good physical fitness, as it involves high-altitude trekking and long trekking days.
The best seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), offering clear skies and favorable weather.
