Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking - Black Diamond Expedition
  • Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking
  • Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

(5 Reviews)
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OverviewItineraryIncludedExcludedFAQsReviews
  • Duration
    Duration:28 Days
  • Accomodation
    Accommodation: 3 Nights (Standard Hotel)
    24 Nights (Camp)
  • Meals
    Meals :26 Breakfast, 23 Lunch
    24 Dinner
  • Location
    Service: Airport to Airport
  • Trip Grade
    Trip Grade :Difficult
  • Max Altitude
    Max Altitude: 5,143m/16,873ft

Overview

Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek is one of the less crowded and less explored trekking routes in Nepal. One of the chief traits of the Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek is that it offers both altitude gain and loss every now and then. This feature of this route makes the Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek both challenging and tough trekking route. The 3rd highest mountain Kanchanjunga, located in the Eastern Nepal the border of Nepal and Sikkim, is a conversation area which has a rich diversity of flora and fauna. This trekking route offers full geographical diversity and cultural variation since it covers lower land of Terai to higher point of Himalaya. Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek offers a diverse cultures and life-styles of the Rai and Limbu people apart from the Tibetan Buddhist villages and the Kanchanjunga Glacier, the most famous attraction of Kanchenjunga

On the way of trekking you will pass through viewing different flowers like Rhododendrons, orchids, lilies, primula and many other flowers; similarly chance to encounter with snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, red panda and other animals; and definitely love to see different kind of birds like impheyan, pheasant, red-billed blue mangpie, shy drongo etc. You will indeed be delighted to receive the the hospitality of different ethnic groups of people throughout the trekking.

Highlights

  • Less exploited trekking trail in Nepal
  • Tough and demanding trek
  • Opportunity to view the spectacular third highest mountain of the world
  • Rich diversity of flora and fauna
  • Geographical diversity and cultural variation
  • Wonderful opportunity to see the impressive Kanchenjunga Glacier; the most famous attraction
  • Rhododendrons, orchids, lilies, primula and many other flowers
  • Chance to encounter with snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, red panda and other animals
  • Different kinds of birds like impheyan, pheasant, red-billed blue mangpie, shy drongo

Itinerary

Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu

Upon arrival in the Kathmandu airport (TIA), you will be greeted by a representative from Black Diamond at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to the hotel. After check into the hotel, you can either take rest; hang around in the city as it all depends upon your interests. In the evening, we will organize a Welcome Dinner at an excellent traditional Nepalese restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal. Overnight in Hotel Encounter Nepal.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2 Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation

After breakfast, you will be taken to four of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu – Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swayambhu and Boudhanath. Kathmandu Durbar Square holds the palaces of the medieval rulers of Nepal. Pashupatinath houses a sacred lingam or the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva and is one of the four most important religious sites in Asia for Shiva devotees. The Pashupatinath Temple is the largest Hindu temple and is considered to be the holiest of all Hindu Temples. However, Non Hindus are not allowed inside the Temple. The Aryaghat alongside Pashupatinath and on the banks of the Bagmati River is a famous funeral site for the Hindus. Bouddhanath is one of the holiest Buddhist site in Kathmandu. The stupa’s massive mandala makes it one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. The area of Boudhnath is also famous for over 50 Tibetan Gompas or monasteries. Swayambhu meaning the “the self-existent” is popular among the foreigners as the Monkey Temple owing to the large number of monkey population residing in the area.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3Fly to Bhadrapur Jhapa & Drive to Ilam

Today we fly Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, Jhapa of Easternmost Nepal, about 650 kilometers from Kathmandu. The flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur takes about 50 minutes. From Bhadrapur Airport, it’s about 75 kilometers to Ilam, a 3:30 hour’s drive into the mountains. For the Westerners living in the megacities, the landscape of the Nepal Terai might look like coming straight out of The Jungle Book. Within a journey of 75 kilometers, we drive from flatland of Bhadrapur to the hills of Ilam. Ilam is also known as the Queen of Hills for it is fully covered by hills with temperate climate, low green hills and fertile lands. Overnight at Ilam.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 – 6 hrs

Day 4Drive to Taplejung

Today, we drive to Taplejung via Phidim. In case the Suketar Airport of Taplejung is operational, and if you wish to avoid driving journey to Taplejung, you can also opt for flying from Biratnagar to Suketar. However, because of the construction works going on at the Suketar Airport and due to its remoteness & weather conditions, flights to Suketar are closed this day. Therefore, we drive up to Suketar, our trek start point from Suketar.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 – 6 hrs

Day 5Trek to Mitlung

We start our trek with a downhill walk to Mitlung. Our route will pass through scenic pastures and small villages. On the way, we cross the Hungdewa Khola and the raging Tamur River.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 4 hrs

Day 6Trek to Chirwa

Trek uphill for some time then descend to the village of Sinwa. Continue to Tawa and then another climb. Cross the suspension bridge at Thiwa. Thus, going uphill and downhill at the same time enjoying the great unfolding vistas. Thus we arrive at Chirwa, a small Limbu village with a few lodges, shops, and camping sites.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7Trek to Sekathum

Trek uphill for some time then descend to the lush green vegetation below. Continue along the Tamur River until arrive at the Olangchung Gola, the entry point of the Kanchenjugha National Park. Thus we go uphill and downhill again before crossing the Ghunsa Khola. Ater crossing the suspension bridge, and another half an hour’s walk we arrive at our campsite of Sekathum.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 hrs

Day 8Trek to Amjilosa

Today is going to be a rather tough day. Cross the river and ascend the steep trail. Then descend again and cross the river again. Another climb from the gorge bottom. Pass by Solima. Desend again to the river level. The trail passes along the gorge, hence be careful while walking. Then following the uphill and downhill tricky trial, we conclude our today’s hectic journey at Amjilosa.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hrs

Day 9Trek to Gyabla

We hike upward river bank. Pass through the densely forest of mainly bamboo, fir and rhododendrons. Eventually reach a small stone house by the river. Then climb up again crossing a few small bridges. You will find that the river drops steeply with many waterfalls and pools. Enjoy the stunning company of the waterfalls. Another short uphill walk takes us to the Tibetan settlement of Gyabla.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 5 hrs

Day 10Trek to Ghunsa

We descend again down the river. The valley slowly opens up before we arrive at Phole. Another couple of hours take us to the famous Sherpa village of Ghunsa with hydroelectric plant. It’s also the place where more than 20 prominent conservationists met their tragic end in a Helicopter crash.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11Acclimatisation day at Ghunsa

We spend this day for acclimatization. Health experts always recommend us to stay active and moving during the rest day too instead of being idle. We make a short hike towards the Lapsan La through lush green forest. Get by to Ghunsa by afternoon and relax.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12Trek to Kambachen

From Ghunsa, we trek further north along the river bank. Walk through the high land trees and vegetation. Cross the bridge at Rampuk Kharka. Continue past the waterfall. Cross the tricky and hazardous section of the landslide. After crossing the landslide, we start getting the views of Jannu. Thus, exploring the tackling the tricky mountain trail, we finally arrive at Kambachen.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13Acclimatisation day at Kambachen

Today we make another acclimatization day of the trek at Kangbachen. This is to accommodate all the members of the group in case if anyone is getting the high altitude symptoms. Relax, take a bath or explore the area. Explore the region to Nuphchu Khola Valley.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 Trek to Lhonak

Climb through the rocky fields and boulders on the hillside along the river bank. Arrive at a waterfall. Cross the bridge to Ramtang. Cross some small landslides, before dropping down to the river and finally arriving at Lhonak.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15Trek to Pangpema - Kangchenjunga North Base Camp

Today, we trek along the edge of the glacier which is mostly gradual path on grassy trails. Be careful on some rockier sections and areas prone to landslides. Enjoy the views of the Chang Himal on your right. Arrive at Pangpema a flat grassy base camp. Climb higher a little to get the magnifiscent views of the Kangchenjuna North Face.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16Trek back to Khambachen

We retrace our path to Lhonak and continue down the valley to Ramtang. Enjoy the views of Kanchenjungha, Taple Shikhar,Gimmigela Chuli, Kirat Chuli among others. Since, we are descending; we can get to Kambachen by evening, which would also help to make a short trek tomorrow.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hrs

Day 17Return to Ghunsa

It’s essentially the reverse of our Day 12 trek. We descend to Ghunsa from Khambchen.

Meals: Breakfast,Lunch, Dinner

Day 18Trek to Sele Le

Today a steep trek upward from Ghunsa to Sele- Le. After getting the Ghunsa village, climb through the dense forest of moss, rhodedendron and juniper. Lunch at a suitable place.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 hrs

Day 19Trek to Tseram

This day uphill trek on a hill. Enjoy the mesmerizing views Jannu Himal. It’s a strenuous day today, as we cross several passes. The passes we cross are: the Sinion La, the Mirgin La and the Sinelapche La. Enjoy the memerising views of the east Himalayas from these passes. Finally, make a steep descent to Tseram.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hrs

Day 20Trek to Ramche

We ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier. After lunch explore the area by walking further up the valley or ascending a ridge above camp for even more tremendous views.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21Day trip to Yalung Glacier/Oktang

We follow the stream before climging on to the moraine top. Hold your breath as the magnifiscent south face of Kanchenjungha appears before you. Walk further ahead for a glimpse of the Jannu Himal. In interested, you may also consider continuing to Oktang. Return back to Ramche.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 22Trek to Torontan

If we stayed at Ramche yesterday, we get back to Tseram today. From Tseram, we descend mostly downhill to Torontan. Follow the trail along the Simbua Khola.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hrs

Day 23Trek to Yamphudin

Today descend further down to Yamphudin. Yamphudin is a village inhabited by different ethnic groups including Sherpas, Limbus, Rais and Gurungs.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 24Trek to Anpan

We follow the Kabeli Khola. Cross the bridge over Kasshawa Khola beyond Mamankhe. Ascend through the cardamom forest, pass by a few villages. Descend further down to Anpan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hrs

Day 25Trek to Thorpu

Instead of going back to Taplejung, we descend down to Thorpu. By doing this we save our time, and at the same time we enjoy a more exotic journey. Arrive at Thorpu village, enjoy the hospitality of the villagers, discover and relax.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Duration: 6 hrs

Day 26Thorpu to Birtamod

Today, we drive to Birtamod from Thorpu. Birtamod is a lively Terai town of Eastern Nepal. Birtamod is just half an hour’s distance from Bhadrapur Airport from where we will fly to Kathmandu tomorrow. Since, there are a number good accommodation here, we stay overnight at Birtamod.

Meals: Breakfast
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hrs

Day 27Drive to Bhadrapur, Fly to Kathmandu

Early morning half an hour’s drive to Bhadrapur. From Bhadrapur we fly back to Kathmandu. Arriving Kathmandu, you can rest and relax throughout the day in your hotel or if interested, visit to some nearby shops and venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods. If you want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu take the time to do that today! Remember, we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner together for successfully completing your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking!

Meals: Breakfast

Day 28Departure Day

You are saying good bye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with your travel companions and organize your photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Our Company will take you to the airport. On your way home you’ll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast

Included

  • All transfers, sightseeing, airport pick up and drop by private vehicle
  • Kathmandu to Bhadrapur to Kathmandu airfare
  • Domestic airport tax
  • 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (Hotel Encounter Nepal or a similar hotel, subject to availability).
  • 24 nights accommodation in the camp during trekking
  • Welcome dinner in Nepalese Restaurant with cultural show
  • Farewell dinner
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • English Speaking Guide and entrance fees in the monuments during sightseeing
  • An experienced guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people), cook and assistants during trek
  • Salary, insurance, equipments, transportation, food and lodge for the guide and porter
  • Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are need to be returned after trek)
  • All high quality camping equipments, kitchen equipment, mattress; dining, toilet and kitchen tents
  • Travel and rescue arrangement
  • All necessary paper work and permits
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes.

Excluded

  • International airfare
  • Nepal Visa fee
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charge
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
  • All kind of drinks
  • Extra night accommodation than the scheduled itinerary
  • Tips for guides, porters and driver
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in 'Trip Cost Includes'

Accomodation

During your trek, you will be accommodated in Hotel Encounter Nepal in Kathmandu or a similar category hotel. You will stay in basic tea houses or guest houses. These tea houses and lodges typically provide rooms on a twin-sharing basis with attached bathrooms and hot shower facilities. Single-supplement rooms are served with an extra charge of USD 495. However, it may be difficult to get one at higher points or during the peak season of trekking.
Some of the tea houses in this trekking region in both lower and higher elevations may have shared bathrooms and toilet facilities.

Meals

Your meal plan in Kathmandu includes breakfast, providing the perfect start to each day. During the trek, you will be served a three-course meal. At the Hotels where we spend an overnight, you will be served balanced and nourishing breakfasts and dinners. For Lunch, we will stop at one of the teahouses along the way to our next destination. Black Diamond will also arranged a Welcome and Farewell dinner for our guests. This will be accompanied by a captivating cultural performance, providing you with a memorable and delightful experience.

Best time to Trek Kanchenjunga Circuit

The best seasons for the trek to Kanchenjunga are March to May and September to December. During these seasons, you’ll encounter favorable weather conditions with moderate temperatures, clear skies, and captivating natural vistas. However, visits during other seasons have their advantages as well, such as fewer crowds and often lower prices compared to peak seasons. The ever-changing weather conditions allow you to appreciate the diverse facets of the landscapes. 

Packing list for Kanchenjunga Circuit trek

While trekking to Kanchenjunga Circuit, it is essential to pack necessary items wisely. You should be sure to pack the stuff appropriately because you will be trekking through the rough terrain in high-altitude areas and it will be difficult to carry all the stuff and trek. So you should be careful and clever to pack only the necessary items. Some of the essential items that you should pack include:

  • Down Jackets and Base Layer 
  • Insulating layer
  • Sun hat & sunglasses
  • Gloves and Hat 
  • Trekking poles
  • Hiking Sturdy Boots

For detailed lists of what to pack, check our comprehensive Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking packing lists

FAQs

I'm a solo traveller, is there a single supplement?

The Kanchenjunga region is a restricted area, so it is mandatory to hire a licensed guide and obtain the necessary permits. This ensures your safety and helps support the local economy. 

Which currency is most widely accepted on this tour?

– Austria – Euro (EUR)
– France – Euro (EUR)
– Germany – Euro (EUR)
– Italy – Euro (EUR)
– Netherlands – Euro (EUR)
– Switzerland – Swiss franc (CHF)
– United Kingdom – Pound sterling (£)

Should I book pre/post tour accommodation?

The decision to book pre/post-tour accommodation depends on your comfort, budget, and the logistics of your specific tour and travel plans.

What are the main highlights of the trek?

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks, diverse flora and fauna, unspoiled forests, and opportunities to interact with the local culture, including visits to traditional villages.

How challenging is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

The trek is considered challenging and physically demanding due to its remote location and the need to cross high mountain passes. Trek participants should be in good physical shape and prepared for long days of walking.

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5 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Louise Rolland

Solo Traveller

I really recommend it to all. Its really fun and thrilling. I had a great time. Special thanks to guide Kapil for his excellent guidance.

October 28, 2023

Brooklyn Hayes

Family Traveller

I did this trek with my kids, cousins, and their children. The Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek as a family with kids turned out to be an exciting and educational adventure in Nepal. The trek’s dynamic altitudes provided a natural playground for the little ones, making it an engaging experience for the entire family.

Discovering Rai, Limbu, and Tibetan Buddhist cultures became a fun and interactive lesson in cultural diversity. The glacier and encounters with vibrant flowers and friendly locals made this trek a memorable nature’s classroom, fostering a love for exploration and learning in the youngest adventurers.
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Thank you to guide Shankar and porter for their dedicated work; they are incredibly friendly and professional.

October 18, 2023

Baptiste Dubois

Family Traveller

Choosing the Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek for a family adventure in Nepal was a decision that turned into shared moments of wonder. The trek’s challenges, with its altitude changes, allowed each family member to contribute to the experience. Discovering Rai, Limbu, and Tibetan Buddhist cultures added an educational touch to our journey.

The Kanchanjunga Glacier symbolized unity, and encounters with vibrant flowers and friendly locals made this trek a delightful family exploration.

Thank You Black Diamond Expedition for this memorable journy

September 26, 2023

Quinn Walker

Solo Traveller

I did a solo Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek on October. Deciding on the Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek for a photography trip was like capturing nature’s beauty in Nepal. The trek’s less-explored path, with Kanchanjunga in the background, gave us amazing shots of landscapes. Exploring Rai, Limbu, and Tibetan Buddhist villages became a photo journey into different cultures. The glacier and nature’s wonders made this trek a photographer’s dream. I highly recommend it to all!

September 26, 2023

Inès Gérard

Solo Traveller

Doing the Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek solo was an enchanting exploration of Nepal’s lesser-trodden paths. This hidden gem, known for its solitude and unspoiled beauty, provided a unique challenge with its frequent altitude changes. The solo journey unfolded against the backdrop of the 3rd highest mountain, Kanchenjunga, in Eastern Nepal, offering a serene and less-crowded trekking experience.

As a conservation area, the trek traversed diverse landscapes from Terai lowlands to Himalayan peaks, showcasing a rich tapestry of cultures. The Kanchanjunga Glacier, a majestic spectacle, added to the allure of this off-the-beaten-path adventure. Solo trekkers reveled in the tranquility, encountering vibrant flowers, elusive wildlife, and captivating birds along the way. The warm hospitality from diverse ethnic groups resonated, creating a deeply personal and unforgettable odyssey through nature, culture, and the thrill of solo exploration.

April 19, 2022
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