Among the many popular trekking routes in Nepal, the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is the remotest and most challenging. The true form of nature has been preserved in its untouched form within the eastern highlands of Nepal. The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek itinerary takes you to the far eastern region of Nepal, encircling Mount Kanchenjunga.
Along with Kanchenjunga, there are other high peaks like Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyo, etc. that you can see on the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek map. However, these mountain peaks are not the only perks of the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek. The pristine set of five glacial systems, including Zumu, Talung, and Rathong, flows towards Sikkim.
And then there are the Yalung glaciers that flow right into the Tamor River. This alpine highland and its wonders have been under the protection of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, thus needing a special Kanchenjunga trek permit. Inside the Kanchenjunga National Park, you get to witness an unbelievable array of unique flora and fauna lying in pristine condition.
Also, there are relic mammals like the Red Panda and the Snow Leopard. The Kanchenjunga trek was opened for tourists in the year 1980 only. Recently, the Kanchenjunga circuit trek has been upgraded to teahouse trekking. This means you can comfortably walk while living in a cosy room and enjoying the warm food.
Highlights of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
- Marvellous views of more than a dozen mountain peaks above 6,000 metres above sea level.
- Stunning photography at the pristine glacier lakes of Kanchenjunga
- Trekking via the diverse flora and fauna that haven’t been seen anywhere else in the world.
- Explore the hidden monasteries of Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries while witnessing the rich Sherpa culture.
- less crowded
List Of Mountains Visible During Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking:
- Yalung Kang (8,505m)
- Kambachen (7,903m),
- Jongsong (7,483m),
- Kabru (7,353m),
- Janu (7,710m),
- Tent Peak (7,365m),
- Twins (7,350m)
Permits for the Kanchenjunga circuit trek
Kanchenjunga is a restricted region. You will need a special restricted area permit. which can be issued by a local company like Himalayan Masters. You will need a Kanchenjunga restricted area permit. Also, a conservation area project entry permit for the Kanchenjunga trek. If you want to go to Kanchenjunga, two trekkers are compulsory for the trek.
Day 1: Fly to Bhadrapur to drive to Ilam
Altitude: 1677 m / 5501 ft
Drive duration: 3 hrs
Early in the morning, a driver picks us up from the hotel and drives us to the domestic terminal of the Kathmandu airport. Soon, we hop into a plane, taking us above the mountains. Flying above the lush green hills and many perennial flowing rivers, we land in Bhadrapur, Jhapa in about 1 hour.
From Jhapa, we move to the higher altitude of Illam. Driving along the stunning hilly, winding roads, we can see the beautiful tea farms of Illam. Taking some amazing photos, we stopped at a local guesthouse in Illam.
Day 2: Drive To Taplejung
Altitude: 1820 m / 5971 ft
Drive duration: 5 hrs
We will wake up early in the morning to witness the spectacular sunrise at Illam before starting the real Kanchenjunga trek. Although the drive to Kanyam is not included in our itinerary, arrangements can be made. After breakfast, we plan to drive further north along the terraced fields.
After mid-day, we reach Taplejung, a beautiful town in the hills. Here, we get to visit different Buddhist gompas that have had butter lamps burning continuously for more than 400 years. After a peaceful evening, we get back to the hotel.
Day 3: Trek To Chirwa
Altitude: 1270 m / 4166 ft
Duration: 6 hrs
We start trekking to Kanchenjunga on the rough paths beyond the stunning river. Early in the morning, we walk towards the village of Sinwa, Tawa. After a short stop at the Porke, we can see that the valley narrows over old landslide debris. Then, we shall walk down to the Thiwa Khola River and walk on a thrilling wooden bridge. After a few hours, we shall then walk to Chirwa. The huge boulders and tiny bamboo houses of Chirwa make a wonderful stop.
Day 4: Trek to Lelep
Altitude: 1860 m / 6102 ft
Duration: 7 hrs
The first thing in the morning is a short walk to the Tamur River. In the next few hours, we will be walking towards the Simbua Khola. This river flowing from the south of Kanchenjunga makes an amazing view. Next, we shall stop at the narrow Ghunsa Khola. Next is the Tibetan village of Lelep.
Day 5: Trek To Amjilosa
Altitude: 2510 m / 8234 ft
Duration: 5 hrs
On the fifth day of the trek to Kanchenjunga, we walk beyond the wonderful waterfalls and suspension bridges. Today’s walk on the steep trail will be challenging as we gain altitude. However, once we reach the Sherpa village of Amjilosa, we get lost in its charm. Here, we can see yaks and sheep all around.
Day 6: Trek To Gyabla
Altitude: 2730 m / 8956 ft
Duration: 5 hrs
Moving above the Amjilosa, we start to see the western side of Kanchenjunga. Walking via the forest of oak and bamboo, you cross many suspension bridges and rivers. After a final steep walk, we descend to Gybala.
Day 7: Trek To Ghunsa
Altitude: 3595 m / 11794 ft
Duration: 5-6 hrs
It’s another long and exciting day in the mountains. First, we shall walk through the forest to get to the Phale Village. Phale is a Tibetan refugee camp which started almost a decade ago after fleeing from the communist regime in China. From this winter settlement village, we further move to Ghunsa. This is the largest village in the highland area with a police station and health post.
