Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 22 Days

In the morning, complete trekking permits and briefing at the agency office, including information on safety, culture, and environment. Later, board a short scenic flight to Bhadrapur in the subtropical plains of eastern Nepal, known for its warm climate and rich biodiversity. Overnight in Bhadrapur to rest before the drive tomorrow.

Enjoy a long but scenic drive through winding roads lined with tea gardens, cardamom fields, and lush forests. Passing through small towns and villages inhabited mostly by Limbu and Rai ethnic groups, you witness the daily life of hill farmers. Phungling Bazaar, the headquarters of Taplejung district, serves as the gateway to the Kanchenjunga region, offering breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas.

Starting from Phungling Bazaar (1,820m), the trail descends into the lush Tamor River Valley, surrounded by subtropical forests and bamboo groves. Along the way, you pass through traditional Limbu and Rai villages like Asahangpati, Sinwa, and Tawa, where locals farm cardamom, oranges, and millet. Suspension bridges span the clear mountain streams, adding charm to the scenic walk. Cultural sights such as prayer flags and mani stones reflect the region’s spiritual blend. After 6 to 7 hours of trekking, you arrive at Chirwa (1,270m), a peaceful riverside village with stunning natural beauty.

The trek from Chirwa begins with a pleasant walk along the Tamor River, soon reaching the village of Tapethok, where the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area officially begins. Here, a police check post verifies trekking permits before you proceed further. The trail continues through a mix of small settlements and forested sections, passing through villages such as Phembu and Temewa, where you’ll observe daily rural life and traditional farming practices.

As you ascend gradually, the vegetation changes into mixed forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, filled with birdsong and mountain serenity. After crossing the roaring Ghunsa Khola via a suspension bridge, the landscape becomes more dramatic, with steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls flanking the narrow trail. Eventually, you reach Sekhathum, a small Rai village with traditional wooden houses and terraced fields, offering an authentic cultural experience amid stunning natural surroundings.

As you ascend further, the forest changes to bamboo and rhododendron thickets. The trail opens onto a serene alpine valley. Amjilosha is a quaint settlement with clear views of surrounding hills waterfalls and distant snow-capped peaks. You may catch sight of Himalayan wildlife like red pandas or musk deer here. The local Sherpa and Rai communities maintain vibrant traditions.

Moving into higher altitudes, the trail narrows and winds through fir and juniper forests. Yak pastures become frequent, and you see herders tending their animals. Gyabla is a charming village where Tibetan culture is more prominent, featuring prayer flags, mani stones, and stone-built houses. The fresh mountain air and sweeping views of peaks like Kabru evoke a profound sense of connection to the Himalayas.

Trek through subalpine forests to the Sherpa village of Ghunsa, renowned for its welcoming community and large gompa (monastery). The village sits amidst alpine meadows with views of Mt. Jannu (Kumbhakarna) towering at 7,710 meters. Crossing wooden suspension bridges over glacier-fed rivers, you witness the pristine natural environment and ancient Buddhist culture.

Ghunsa is the largest human settlement in the Kanchenjunga conservation area. It is modern settlement then other camp after taplejung with telephone, internet services, Kanchenjunga Conservation office, health post, police station and more. 

Spend the day acclimatizing and exploring. Take short hikes to nearby viewpoints that offer breathtaking panoramas of Kanchenjunga’s eastern ridges, Makalu, and the Jannu massif. Visit the monastery to observe religious rituals and chat with monks. Enjoy local Sherpa cuisine and learn about their vibrant festivals and traditions. This rest day allows your body to adjust for the high-altitude trekking ahead.

The trail ascends steadily into alpine terrain, leaving forests behind. You cross high mountain streams and rocky ridges, with increasing views of massive glaciers. Khambachen is a remote yak herders’ settlement surrounded by high passes and vast snowfields. The air thins, but the sweeping views of Jannu and Kabru peaks reward your effort. Night skies here offer exceptional stargazing.

Climbing through moraine slopes and open meadows, you gain striking views of the towering Kanchenjunga massif. Lhonak is an exposed plateau camp known for its stark beauty and wildlife like Himalayan blue sheep and snow leopard. The landscape here is lunar-like, with sparse vegetation but awe-inspiring mountain panoramas. It’s a critical day for acclimatization and preparing for the Kanchenjunga base camp hike.

Today’s journey takes you to Pangpema, the renowned Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, situated at 5,143 meters / 16,877 ft. The trail is challenging, traversing rocky moraines, glacial debris, and high alpine terrain. As you approach Pangpema, you stand directly beneath the towering north face of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world’s third-highest peak. The panoramic views from the base camp are truly awe-inspiring, featuring peaks such as Jannu (7,710m), also known as “Mystery Peak,” along with Wedge Peak, Nepal Peak, The Twins, and Tent Peak. Surrounded by dramatic icefalls, crevasses, and hanging glaciers, the landscape feels both remote and majestic. After taking time to soak in the high Himalayan scenery and capture photographs, you return to Lhonak for a well-deserved rest.

Retrace your steps down through alpine meadows and forests. The descent is long but rewarding, allowing you to enjoy varied ecosystems and wildlife as you return to the warmth of Ghunsa. Reflect on the awe-inspiring high Himalayan environment you’ve experienced so far.

Leave the alpine village of Ghunsa and begin a steep ascent through moss-draped rhododendron and juniper forests. The trail gradually climbs above the treeline, entering a remote wilderness filled with alpine shrubs, wildflowers in season, and grazing yak herds. As you gain elevation, the views open dramatically, revealing distant snow-draped peaks of the eastern Himalayas.

Sele Le Camp rests beneath a dramatic ridgeline and serves as a stunning viewpoint. In clear weather, it reveals sweeping vistas of iconic Himalayan giants, including Mt. Makalu (8,481 m / 27,825 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft), Baruntse (7,129 m / 23,389 ft), and even distant Mt. Everest (8,848 m / 29,029 ft) shimmering on the far horizon. The camp area is serene, wind-swept, and sacred to local yak herders. The silence is broken only by prayer flags fluttering against the vast Himalayan sky. This peaceful highland meadow marks the gateway to some of the most rewarding mountain passes in the Kanchenjunga region.

One of the most exhilarating and demanding days of the trek begins early, with a steady climb toward the high Himalayan passes. You’ll traverse three prominent passes: the Sinion La (~4,440m), Mirgin La (~4,480m), and the highest, Sinelapche La / Bhanjyang (~4,830m). These ancient routes were once used by yak caravans and pilgrims. The terrain here is rocky and windblown, with sections of snow depending on the season.

From these high vantage points, the horizon explodes with jaw-dropping panoramas: Mt. Jannu (7,710m), Kabru range, Kanchenjunga South, Mt. Everest, and Mt. Makalu rise in grand procession. The dramatic ridge walk reveals glacial valleys, frozen lakes, and endless layers of snow-capped summits. 

After crossing the final pass, descend through open alpine slopes and yak pastures before entering a beautiful glacial valley that leads to Tseram, a quiet settlement framed by glaciers and towering cliffs. Located just below the Yalung Glacier, Tseram serves as the primary base for the final approach to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. After crossing high passes, the descent from Sele Le Camp to Tseram spans approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) through alpine ridges, yak pastures, and glacial valleys. Tseram sits in a dramatic high-altitude basin, surrounded by towering peaks and icefalls, making it an ideal resting point before venturing toward the southern face of Kanchenjunga.

After an early breakfast at Tseram, begin your high-altitude journey toward the southern face of Kanchenjunga. The trail follows the lateral moraine of the Yalung Glacier, ascending steadily through barren glacial terrain and alpine meadows. Along the way, breathtaking views unfold of Mt. Rathong (6,682m / 21,890ft) and the majestic Kabru range (up to 7,412m / 24,318ft).

A short stop at Ramche (4,580m / 15,026ft) allows for rest and lunch amid a stunning amphitheater of rock and ice. From here, continue hiking higher toward Oktang Viewpoint, also known as the Yalung South Base Camp Viewpoint, perched between 4,740m and 4,903m (15,551ft to 16,090ft). This sacred and seldom-visited vantage point offers awe-inspiring views of the three massive summits of Mt. Kanchenjunga—8,420m (27,658ft), 8,586m (28,169ft), and 8,474m (27,802ft)—along with towering neighbors like Talung (7,349m) and Kabru South.

The amphitheater of ice, towering peaks, hanging glaciers, and deep silence create a powerful, almost spiritual atmosphere. This kanchanjunga south base camp remains one of the most unvisited and less-crowed trail in the Himalayas, offering a truly untouched and hidden gem experience. After soaking in the grandeur of the southern face, return the same route back to Tseram for the night.

Begin descending through alpine forests and rhododendron groves. Cross crystal-clear streams and pass traditional yak herding settlements. Tortong, nestled in the forested hills, offers a tranquil atmosphere and a chance to experience Sherpa and Limbu village life.

Descend further into lush green valleys with terraced fields and orchards. The trail passes through small villages inhabited by Limbu people, known for their warm hospitality and vibrant cultural traditions. Enjoy views of terraced hillsides and glimpses of local farming practices.

Continue your descent through fertile farmland, witnessing the rhythms of rural Nepali life. The trail winds through cornfields, millet crops, and forests, offering glimpses of mountain streams and local wildlife. Khebang is a small village with a strong agricultural heritage and friendly villagers.

After your final drive through the scenic eastern lowlands, board your flight back to Kathmandu. This journey showcases Nepal’s rich biodiversity, from river valleys to cultivated hillsides. Arrive in Kathmandu to relax and prepare for your departure.

Enjoy a day of leisure exploring Kathmandu’s UNESCO heritage sites such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, or the Durbar Squares. Visit vibrant markets for souvenirs, sample Nepali cuisine, or relax in a traditional tea house. 

After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Take with you unforgettable memories of Kanchenjunga’s majestic peaks, rich cultures, and the natural beauty of Nepal.