Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking is a hidden gem in eastern Nepal, offering an unforgettable journey to the base of the World’s third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga (8586m). This off-the-beaten-path trekking path takes you through pristine landscapes, ancient villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes, offering a raw and authentic Himalayan experience that is distinct from the crowded trails of the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
The 20-day Kanchenjunga Trek showcases the pristine beauty of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area while circling both the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5143m) and the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4730m).
The trek crosses high mountain passes such as Sele La Pass (4290m) and Mirgin La Pass (4645m), offering spectacular views of mountain peaks like Mt Kanchenjunga (8586m), Yalung Kang (8505m), Kumbakarna (7710m), Kambachen (7903m), Jongsong (7483m), and Kabru (7353m).
On clear days, you can also see Mount Everest (8848.86m), the world's tallest peak, along with Lhotse (8516m) and Makalu (8485m). The Yalung Glacier and Kanchenjunga Glacier add further natural beauty to the journey.
This trek is not just about mountains; it’s also a cultural journey. The region is home to diverse ethnic communities, including the Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan settlers, where you can experience their unique culture, traditions, and way of life. Moreover, this restricted trekking area within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area offers you the opportunity to witness rare wildlife, including the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear.
Kanchenjunga Trekking is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. With its combination of rugged landscapes, high-altitude trekking, and serene remoteness, this trek provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the raw beauty, cultural richness, and wilderness of the eastern Himalayas.
20-day Kanchenjunga Trekking Distance and Difficulty
The Kanchenjunga Trek Distance to reach the base camp is around 225 KM. It requires a lot of effort to pass through the strenuous trail. The total trekking time for this trek is between 18-22 days. However, it can change due to weather conditions and the path. We are often asked, “How hard is it to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek” in Nepal? The walking level is not that difficult. However, the trail and high altitude can be difficult factors. However, previous trekking experience can be an excellent advantage in avoiding difficulty.
What to expect during the journey to the Kanchenjunga Region?
While doing a trip to the Himalayas of Nepal, trekkers must expect many surprises. It might be the views, the weather, the challenges, and many other factors. Hiking in high altitudes is always challenging. The Himalayan Pathways demands a good physical and mental state. Likewise, this trek will take you to an elevation of 5000 meters. Therefore, expect this trip to be cold. Moreover, walking in high elevations with cold weather can cause altitude sickness. Besides these challenging obstacles, the trek offers magnificent views of mountains, including the 3rdthird-highestt peak in the world. Likewise, expect to witness some of the stunning landscapes, remote villages, glaciers, farmlands, and several plants and animals.
20- Day Kanchenjunga Trekking Itinerary and Route Map
The 20-day Kanchenjunga Trekking starts after your arrival, followed by the 45-minute domestic flight to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu. Upon landing at Bhadrapur, take a 5-6 hour jeep drive through the scenic highway to Taplejung Bazaar(1840m), the capital of Taplejung district. The next day, take a 5-6 hour off-road jeep drive to Sekathum (1650m), from where the actual Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek starts.
The trek leads through a trail that passes through a dense forest of rhododendrons, oaks, and pines. The trail along the Ghunsa Khola passes through various settlements, including Amjilosa (2500m), Gyabla (2725m), and Ghunsa(3415m). Ghunsa is the largest human settlement where your permits are checked.
From here, the trek leads through alpine forests and pastures towards Khangpachen (4,145 m), where you can acclimate to the altitude. After resting in Khangpachen, continue the trek through the lateral moraines to Lhonak(4792m). The following day, hike towards the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143 m), also known as Pangpema, offering stunning views of the north face of the world’s third-highest peak, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) and the surrounding peaks. Spend some time at the base camp and then return to Lhonak, followed by a trip towards Ghunsa.
From Ghunsa, the trek diverges towards the Sele La Base Camp (4240m) following the ascending trail. The next day, start early and continue the journey passing several mountain passes such as Sele La Pass(4290m), Sinion La Pass (4440m), Mirgin La Pass(4480m), and Sinelapche La Pass(4840m) to reach Tseram.
Continue the journey by hiking towards the Kanchenjunga Base Camp (4730m), also known as Oktang. The Oktang viewpoint offers magnificent views of the south face of Kanchenjunga (8586m), the Yalung Glacier, and other surrounding peaks. On the same day, return to Tseram the same way for a night's stay.
The next day, the return journey starts with a trek down the descending trail toward Torton and then to Yamphudin. From there, enjoy an adventurous and scenic jeep ride to Kanyam, the hub of tea cultivation in Nepal. After exploring Kanyam, drive toward Bhadrapur to catch a domestic flight to Kathmandu, where your Kanchenjunga Trip concludes.
What makes the Kanchenjunga Trek special?
Remote and Untouched Trails
Unlike the Everest Base Camp Trek or the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Kanchenjunga Trek is less crowded, offering a pure and raw trekking experience. This off-the-beaten-path trekking trail offers unspoiled landscapes, rugged paths, and a tranquil atmosphere, providing an authentic Himalayan adventure.
Explore Kanchenjunga Base Camps
The 20-day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek takes you to both the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga (8586m). These base camp offers a close-up view of the north and south faces of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-tallest peak. Also, witness the spectacular views of mountain peaks such as Yalung Kang (8,505 m), Kumbakarna (7,710 m), Kambachen (7,903 m), Jongsong (7,483 m), and Kabru (7,353 m).
Wildlife and rich Biodiversity
The Kanchenjunga region is rich in natural biodiversity, offering a dramatic variety of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to high alpine meadows and glaciers. The region lies within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to rare species like the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and blue sheep. Likewise, you can witness the varieties of rhododendrons along the trail.
Cultural Experience
The Kanchenjunga region is home to diverse ethnic groups, including the Limbu and Rai in the lower area, while Sherpa and Tibetan-origin communities are in the higher altitudes. While trekking through the settlements of such communities, you get a chance to learn about local traditions, ancient rituals, and unique lifestyles that have been preserved for centuries.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Cost 2025, 2026
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package for 20 days costs $1999 per person, which includes ground transportation, a 2-way Kathmandu to Bhadrapur flight, accommodations, three meals a day during the trek, all required permits, guide and porter fees, and all government taxes.
However, our 20-day Kanchenjunga Trekking Package doesn’t include the personal expenses, such as drinks, hot water, showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging.
Why choose Mountain Eco Trails for the trek to the Kanechenjunga region?
Choosing the right trekking company can make a huge difference in your experience. Mountain Eco Trails specializes in Kanchenjunga and other Nepal treks, providing a balance of safety, professionalism, and local expertise. Here are a few reasons to trek with Mountain Eco Trails:
- Experienced crew members and official team.
- Flexible and customized Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Itinerary with personalized service.
- Complimentary Services like Duffel Bag, Trekking Poles, SIM Card, and an hour trekker's massage
- First Aid Kit with basic medication.
- Hassle-free last-minute booking and trip arrangements.
- Competitive and Fair price that matches the services and has no hidden costs.
- Special Discount for a group of trekkers of more than 5 Pax.
With Mountain Eco Trails, you trek with a trusted local company that prioritizes your experience, safety, and the environment. We strive to turn your Langtang journey into an incredible memory you’ll cherish for life. Feel free to contact us via email or WhatsApp us at +9779849790153.
