Among the many popular trekking routes in Nepal, the Kanchenjunga 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 Kanchenjunga Mountain.
Along with Kanchenjunga, there are other high peaks like Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyo, etc., that you can see on the Kanchenjunga map. However, these mountain peaks are not the only perks of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek. The pristine set of five glacial systems, including Zumu, Talung, and Rathong, flows towards Sikkim.
The Yalung glaciers flow right into the Tamor River. This alpine highland and its wonders are protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, so a special Kanchenjunga trek permit is required. Inside the Kanchenjunga National Park, you can witness an unbelievable array of unique flora and fauna 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 base camp has been upgraded to teahouse trekking. This means you can comfortably walk while living in a cosy room and enjoying the warm food.
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.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Guest House
Walking / Driving : 45mins flight/ 1 hr drive
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.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
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.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
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.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
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.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
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.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
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.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Since we are living at 3,500 metres above sea level, it’s important to stop for a day for acclimatisation. And since Ghunsa is the most developed settlement here, it’s an ideal place for the stop. We hike to nearby hills, enjoy a campfire, and observe local culture for a day.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 4100 m / 13451 ft
Duration: 5 hrs
After a relaxing day, it’s now time to move further away from the mountains. Today, we can witness the Jannu Himal as we walk along the gentle path. Here, we can see the beautiful green glacier valley. If you look into the alpine area, you might also spot blue sheep and snow leopards. In 5–6 hours, we reach Kambachen.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Before we head further upwards in a challenging section of the tour, we let our bodies rest for another day. Since we plan to have fun, there’s no need to rush for Kanchenjunga Circuit trekking.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 4785 m / 15698 ft
Duration: 5 hrs
From Khambachen, we first walk via the rocky path leading to Ramtang. Walking west of the Kanchenjunga Glacier gives us an opportunity to take some amazing pictures. In the evening, we reach Lhonak village, which is decorated with large stone huts. From Lhonak, we can witness the views of Wedge Peak, Mera Peak, Nepal Peak, and the Twins.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 4785 m / 15698 ft
Duration: 8 hrs
Climbing beyond the moraine of Kanchenjunga Glacier, we head towards the northern base camp of Kanchenjunga. The climb to Kanchenjunga would be very challenging, but the tranquillity and stunning views of the mountain vistas make you forget everything. We enjoy the beauty of Kanchenjunga for a few hours and then walk down to Lhonak for the night. Our Kanchenjunga base camp trek is going to be a wonderful experience.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 3595 m / 11794 ft
Duration: 7 hrs
Walking via the pebbled route, we walk down from the Lhonak and head towards the Kambachen Village. East of the Tamor River, we can enjoy a beautiful night in Ghunsa. It’s a relaxing day on the Kanchenjunga base camp trek.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Duration: 5 hrs
Altitude: 4390 m / 14402 ft
Walking beyond the forest of Ghunsa in the morning, we can again see the alpine grassland. The colourful vegetation and the awesome views of the mountain take your heart away. As the view of Phole villages gets smaller, we climb to Sele Le.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 3870 m / 12696 ft
Duration: 8 hrs
We leave the Sele Le quite early in the morning and head for the most difficult walk of the journey. We commence in the morning by climbing Sinion La pass at 4,450m. After a short stop here, we need to cross Sinelapche La pass (4,830m); the Kanchenjunga trek difficulty keeps on increasing. Finally, after 8 to 9 hours of walking, we reach Cheram at night.
Also check Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 3870 m / 12696 ft
Duration: 6 hrs
From Cheram, we trek to Ramche for a few hours. After lunch at Ramche, we walk for less than an hour to the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. This base camp, decorated with colourful prayer flags, is located on the edge of the glacier. After amazing photos and a peaceful time in Kanchenjunga’s south base camp, we get back to Cheram.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 2080 m / 6824 ft
Duration: 4 hrs
Now, we start moving towards the lower altitude. Walking downwards from the gorge, we get to the area that is prone to landslides. Moving down, we start to see the sub-tropical forests during this Kanchenjunga National Park trek. In the late evening, we get to Torongding, the only settlement we can see in the entire day.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 1980 m / 6496 ft
Duration: 8 hrs
As we head downhill from Torongding, the mountains start to appear. In the morning, we first walk towards the Lasiya Bhanjyang. After lunch in Lasiya, our path goes steeply downhill to the forest. Finally, we reach the big village of Yamphuding. It’s an important stop on the Kanchenjunga base camp trek map.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 1910 m / 6266 ft
Duration: 5 hrs
From Yamphudin, the Kanchenjunga trek route first descends to the Kabeli Khola River. On the way, we stop at Bhanjyang for a short time and then walk along with the terraced farms to the Khebang. Today’s a relaxing day on the Kanchenjunga trek.
Check our Everest view trek for something easy and short.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 1500 m / 4921 ft
Duration: 5 hrs
From Khewang, the trail moves to a steep ridge. Then, we walk downwards to the village of Aaap Danda. After a stop here, we trek to Jor Pool and then to Simal Danda. Finally, in the late evening, we will crash at Khamdime. Our final day of the trek to Kanchenjunga ends on a high note.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Tea House
Altitude: 93 m / 305 ft
Duration: 10 hrs
From Khimdime, we drive to Bhadrapur in a private vehicle. The jeep ride along the off-road of the hills is quite interesting. On the way, we will pass many beautiful tea farms and villages. After a few hours of walking, we reach Bhadrapur in the evening.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : hotel
Altitude: 1300 m / 4265 ft
Duration: 50 minutes
Finally, it’s time to head back to Kathmandu. A driver takes us to the Bhadrapur airport, and in less than one hour, we will be walking through the streets of Kathmandu. When you return to Thamel, you will have enough time for souvenir shopping. In the evening, it’s time for the farewell dinner. We celebrate the wonderful Kanchenjunga trek in Nepal, conquered together.
Although wonderful, this is also the most dangerous and long trekking route in Nepal. Having an expert team of Himalayan masters will be helpful to make your stay even more exciting. So, book your trip with us here.
Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accomodation : Hotel
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trekking difficulty is a challenging adventure that requires a high level of physical fitness, endurance, and mental toughness. You’ll trek at altitudes above 5,000 meters, with thin air and unpredictable weather.
The terrain is steep and challenging, with long ascents and descents, river crossings, and winding paths. You’ll also spend many hours Kanchenjunga base camp trekking in remote and isolated areas.
While the trek is challenging, it’s not impossible. It would help if you were in good health and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead to do it.
The Kanchenjunga trek is quite challenging but also very rewarding. Depending on where we’re headed, you’ll be hiking for about 5 to 7 hours each day. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is a strenuous trek that takes about three weeks to complete, covering approximately 185 kilometers. We’ll take breaks regularly to enjoy the stunning mountain views.
The Kanchenjunga trek paths involve many uphill climbs, steep downhill sections, and rocky trails through forests. The fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy the Kanchenjunga base camp trekking. If you’ve done trekking before, that could be helpful. But if you have health issues like heart or lung problems, there are better ideas than this trek.
As you trek higher on the Kanchenjunga Trek, the air gets thinner, and pressure decreases. This can lead to altitude sickness, a common issue for many Himalayan trekkers. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and shortness of breath. It’s essential to acclimatize correctly and go slowly to manage altitude sickness. If symptoms worsen, it’s best to descend to lower altitudes or seek medical help.
Our trek leaders and guides are trained in first aid and have extensive experience in the Himalayas. If you experience symptoms, let them know immediately. They will provide advice and precautions.
Taking your time and drinking plenty of water (at least 4 liters a day) is essential. Severe altitude sickness requires immediate descent. Your group leader has the final say on whether you can continue based on your health. Remember, some people are more susceptible than others. Your health and safety are our top priorities.
To join the Kanchenjunga Trek, you must have advanced technical skills. Some consider it even more challenging than climbing Mount Everest. It would help if you had a lot of experience in mountaineering because the terrain and weather are very tough. You will be trekking and climbing for more than 10 hours daily, so you must be in great physical shape. You must have winter climbing gear.
In case of an emergency at Kanchenjunga trek difficulty, immediate action is crucial. Contacting local authorities or emergency services is essential. Due to the remote and challenging terrain, evacuation can be difficult and may require specialized assistance. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and mountaineering to ensure you are prepared for any emergency.
The travel insurance is a must for the evacuation process. Our team will ensure your safety and hire a helicopter for the rescue evacuation, but you need to pay the evacuation charges from the insurance. You need to pay back the insurance charges to the company.
When preparing for the Kanchenjunga trek, having the right gear is essential for safety and success. Here’s a comprehensive list of the equipment you’ll need:
To prepare for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp, focus on physical fitness, altitude acclimatization, technical climbing skills, navigation, first aid, mountain safety, equipment use, mental resilience, teamwork, and environmental awareness.
Himalayan Masters will provide you with the special training required to reach the base camp. It offers specialized training for trekkers, focusing on high-altitude acclimatization, trekking techniques, gear usage, safety protocols, wilderness first aid, and environmental conservation practices.
Trekking to Kanchenjunga is a memorable adventure that takes trekkers through remote and stunningly beautiful landscapes. Physical preparation for the Kanchenjunga base camp is crucial due to its demanding nature. Engaging in cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, or hiking is recommended to build endurance. Strength training for your legs, core, and upper body will also be beneficial.
Additionally, practicing long hikes with a weighted backpack to simulate trekking conditions can help. Flexibility exercises such as yoga or stretching can improve mobility and reduce the risk of injury. It’s essential to start your training well in advance to build up your fitness levels gradually.
The best time to trek in the Kanchenjunga weather is spring (March to April) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is favorable, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. You can enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas, including the blooming rhododendron flowers in spring.
On the other hand, it’s not recommended to trek during winter (January to February) due to freezing temperatures, especially at night. The monsoon season (July to August) brings heavy rainfall, making the trails slippery and challenging to trek. Overall, spring and autumn are the best seasons to experience the beauty of the Kanchenjunga region.
The weather in the Kanchenjunga Mountain can be challenging and uncertain, with spring and autumn being the best times for trekking. Spring brings warmer temperatures, while autumn offers clear skies and mild Kanchenjunga weather.
In summer, from March to May, temperatures range from 10°C to 28°C, with May being the warmest month. It’s recommended to carry winter clothes as evenings can be fantastic.
Monsoon season, starting in June, brings rain, though rainfall decreases after June, with October marking the beginning of the tourist season. From December to February, winter sees temperatures dropping to a chilly -5 °C, with maximum temperatures not exceeding 16°C.
In Nepal, specific areas, known as ‘Restricted Areas,’ are closely managed by the government. Solo trekkers, called FITs (Free Individual Trekkers), are prohibited from entering these places. You will need permits for Kanchenjunga Base camp Trek.
To trek around the Kanchenjunga base camp elevation, you need a Special Restricted Area Permit (SRAP) and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project permit (KCAP). The SRAP is required for restricted areas like Thapethok and Yamphuding, and a registered Nepali trekking company must obtain it.
The KCAP permit is required to enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and can be obtained at the National Park checkpost during your trek without a validation date. When trekking to Kanchenjunga in these restricted areas, you must be in a group of at least two people and accompanied by a licensed trekking guide for safety and environmental protection. You cannot request the permit independently; you must use a licensed trekking agency.
The 22-day trekking to Kanchenjunga accommodation includes nights in basic mountain hotels with twin-sharing beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows. Hot showers are available for an extra cost. In Kathmandu, you’ll stay two nights in hotels of your choice before and after the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trekking (not included in the package).
During camping, you’ll share high-quality tents like Mountain Hardwear with another trekker, each with a thick down-filled mattress for comfort. There will be a dining tent, a kitchen tent, a staff tent, and a toilet tent with a commode at base camps.
Foods on the Kanchenjunga trek are convenient and include fresh, hygienic, and nutritious food selected from lodge menus. The menu offers a mix of local, Asian, and Western dishes. Hot drinks like green tea, lemon tea, ginger tea, and garlic soup are recommended for health benefits at high altitudes.
While camping, cooks will prepare high-altitude food, and you’ll enjoy a variety of Nepalese and Western cuisines. Meals in Kathmandu are not included, but you’ll find a range of Nepalese and international cuisine to suit your taste. Trekking to Kanchenjunga is an opportunity to connect with nature and immerse oneself in the peaceful serenity of the Himalayas.
During the Kanchenjunga base camp trekking, lodges offer electricity for recharging cameras and mobile batteries for a fee. Most lodges have hydroelectricity, while some use solar panels. You can buy packed mineral water from local lodges and shops along the route or fill your bottles with boiled water for an additional cost. It’s advisable to use a water purification pill to treat drinking water.
While trekking to Kanchenjunga, you may encounter some roads, particularly in the lower parts of the trek. To avoid these roads and enjoy a more traditional trekking experience, it’s recommended to choose routes that take you through remote and less frequented trails. Opting for side trails and off-the-beaten-path routes can help you steer clear of roads and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and wilderness of the region.
Additionally, working with experienced local guides and trekking agencies can help you plan routes that minimize road encounters and maximize your enjoyment of the trekking adventure. Trekking to Kanchenjunga is a test of endurance and determination, rewarding those who undertake it with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
When booking your trek with Himalayan Masters, you can expect a seamless experience when you arrive in Nepal. Their team provides airport pickup services, ensuring you are safely transferred to your accommodation in Kathmandu or the designated meeting point for your trek.
Himalayan Masters takes pride in their experienced and knowledgeable support team, including trekking guides, porters, and staff members dedicated to making your trek memorable and safe. They assist you every step of the way, from navigating the trails to providing insights into the local culture and ensuring your comfort throughout the journey.
Your trek’s starting and ending points will vary depending on the itinerary you choose. Himalayan Masters offers a variety of treks in the Himalayas, each with unique beginning and ending points. Popular starting points include Kathmandu or other gateway towns, with treks typically ending back at the starting point or a designated exit point.
A day of trekking with us offers a unique and rewarding experience, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the scenery, take photos, and explore local villages. Accompanied by experienced guides and friendly porters, you’ll carry a small day pack while they handle your baggage. Each day begins with tea, breakfast, and a start to the day’s walk around 7-8 am.
After trekking for 3-4 hours, we stop for lunch before continuing for another 2-3 hours to reach our overnight lodge. Evenings are spent snacking, exploring nearby areas, and enjoying dinner together. Before bed, we discuss the day’s adventures and plan for the next day, often enjoying games and entertainment while learning about Nepalese culture and language.
The Kanchenjunga Trek offers an adventurous journey through the Himalayan foothills, with packages ranging from $1800 to $2100 depending on group size. The trek is perfect for those seeking wilderness exploration.
Costs vary based on factors like accommodation, transport, and gear, with a recommended budget of $2000 to $2500. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly teahouses at $6 to $8 per night to pricier hotels.
Guides and porters, essential for navigating rugged trails, cost $25 to $30 for porters and up to $35 for guides per day. Food and drinks can be expensive, averaging $25 to $30 daily. Trekking in this restricted area requires a $10 local permit and a $2 conservation area permit per person per week.
Trekking in the Kanchenjunga region requires proactive and reactive preparedness due to the potential for severe sickness or other emergencies. It’s mandatory to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation, including helicopter rescue at high altitudes. While we can recommend insurance companies, we do not sell insurance policies. Trekkers need proper insurance to be allowed to participate.
In an emergency, we assist in arranging rescue operations and hospital transfers based on the insurance information provided. Ensure your insurance covers mountain rescue services at the Kanchenjunga base camp elevation. The cost of travel insurance for the Kanchenjunga trek varies depending on the coverage and insurance provider, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300 for a comprehensive policy.
Additional expenses not included in the trekking package may include meals and accommodations in Kathmandu, visa fees, travel insurance, beverages, snacks, trekking crew tips, and souvenirs. It’s recommended to bring cash in dollars, which can be exchanged for Nepalese rupees in Kathmandu.
ATMs are scarce along the Kanchenjunga trekking route, with the last ones typically found in Bhadrapur and Taplejung. Once you leave these areas, carrying enough cash for your trek is advisable as you won’t find ATMs in the remote regions.
Lodges along the trek do not accept card payments, so cash in Nepalese rupees is essential. While dollars and euros are not accepted, you can exchange them for Nepalese currency in Bhadrapur or Taplejung before starting your trek. It’s crucial to plan your finances accordingly to ensure you have enough cash for your entire journey.
Yes, the Nepal government issues permit for all foreigners to trek to the Kanchenjunga base camp. There is a different route to trek to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp and Trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. Our Kanchenjunga Circuit Itinerary here takes you to both of these Base camps, completing one Circuit. Almost all treks to Kanchenjunga starts from Taplejung.
However, you cannot trek beyond the Kanchenjunga base camp without a climbing permit. Along with a special permit, you will also need climbing experts and porters.
