Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga trekking circuit is a very popular trekking route famous for remoteness and for the beautiful mountains located to the eastern regions of Nepal. The word Kanchenjunga is originated from the Tibetan word gangs chen mdzod lnga which means “The five treasures of the high snow”, which is in reference to the five summits that make up Kanchenjunga. The highlight of the trip is is Mt. Kanchenjunga, which at 8,586m is the the third highest mountain in the world. Since, the trek to Kanchenjunga is more remote and less crowded than other popular treks such as in the Everest region and Annapurna region, it offers a rich and relatively untapped natural scenery. It also offers a change to get to experience the rich and traditional local culture and lifestyle found in the region. This trek also offers the chance to experience different geographies that otherwise wouldn’t be to experience to the same trip. This include steamy jungles to massive glaciers and also a chance to see the flora and fauna thought out the trip. This trek will give you sense or relaxation and satisfaction that will make you wanting for more.

Itinerary

Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)

Langtang Ri Trekking & Expedition representative will greet you in an airport & transfer you to your Hotel, after refreshment you will be picked from hotel lobby to office where you will be formally introduced to your Guide and the activities to be enjoyed over the next few days. We will also ask for your passport photographs and any other details required for your trek permits, at this stage

Day 2. Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing (1,300m)

After breakfast, we start an interesting tour around Kathmandu. Escorting by an English speaking guide (can be provide any language speaking guide on request) be, try to give them a full taste of our vivid culture image and an enchanting manner of its people. In our sightseeing tour we go to Monkey temple Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath and Kathmandu Durbar square.

Bouddhanath: Bouddhanath is a Buddhist religious complex with a history dating back over 500 years. Located on the eastern edge of Kathmandu it is now a site of great pilgrimage for Buddhist followers who circle its massive stupa, spin its many prayer wheels and visit its beautiful monastery. The main feature of Boudhanath is its huge hemispherical white stupa with central golden tower and the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha. Visitors should circle the stupa in a clockwise direction and spin prayer wheels for good fortune and a good life. Visitors may also enjoy visiting the Thangka painting school within the complex to see highly skilled artists at work on religious mandala paintings.

Pashupatinath: Hindu Temple is a very large and complex and focal point for the Hindu religion. This old and very revered complex of buildings and shrines is dedicated to the Lord Shiva, one of the main deities of Hinduism. While Lord Shiva has multiple forms he is often seen as the destroyer. This has great significance for the Pashupatinath temple as it is the site of many Hindi ritual cremations each day. Pashupatinath is considered by Hindus to be an auspicious site for passing from one stage of life to the next through the purifying and destroying flames of cremation. However, on a happier note, visitors may also get to see the temple in a buoyant festival mode with one of the many Hindu festivals celebrated here through the year.

Swayambhunath: You will first visit the Swayambhunath temple complex that sits atop a high hill overlooking Kathmandu and the entire Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhunath is perhaps the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal. It consists of a very large white stupa with the all-seeing-eye of Lord Buddha plus many small stupa and beautifully carved stone shrines. This is a wonderful place to catch your breath and start to understand and appreciate the deep importance of Buddhist belief to the people of Nepal and the Himalaya region. Make sure you ring the many bells to awaken the gods and let them know you are in Nepal. Take the time to enjoy the view over Kathmandu and have your guide point the many other highlights of the city. In the far distance to the east you may also be able to see the hills of Nagarkot where your hotel for tonight is located. If you feel energetic you might also like to try some or all of the 350 steps that lead all the way from Kathmandu city up to your Swayambhunath temple vantage point.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: The next stop today is the beautiful Kathmandu Durbar Square, or the royal palace square of the ancient Malla kings of the Kathmandu Valley. This square and all its architectural treasures are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While some damage to buildings occurred in the 2015 earthquake the site still contains many stunning architectural gems. The original royal palace courtyards are open to visitors and you will marvel at the intricate timber carving and beautifully crafted brickwork of the palace. The open square outside the palace has many beautiful multi-storey pagodas and temples with ornate carving and carpentry artwork that tells some of the story of the ancient kings and their mystical time and beliefs. The square also contains many important Hindu temples and statues such as to Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Durbar Square also contains the unique and intriguing Kumari Chok. This is an ancient and ornate house where resides the Raj Kumari – the Living Goddess. She is a young girl chosen through an ancient and mystical selection process to become the human incarnation of the Hindu mother goddess, Durga. If you are in the courtyard of the home at the right time in the afternoon you may see a brief glimpse of the Goddess at her window.

Day 3. Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Philim (921m)

Early moring after breakfast fly to Bhadrapur & continue drive t o Philim.. The trails throughout the lower sections of the Kanchenjunga region pass through fertile valleys with beautiful pastures and small villages. We then cross Hangdewa River and walk alongside the raging Tamor River. As we gradually head in a northerly direction the trail steepens after a few hours before a final descent of 350 meters on a muddy trail to Mitlung. We spend the night there.

Day 4. Philim to Taplejung drive in private vehicle. Than local vehicle drive to Chirwa. (921m)

Drive from Philim to Taplejung in Private vehicle. From there we change to local vehicle for off road. We pass beautiful rural landscape along the way and reach Chirwa, a beautiful Limbu village with few lodges, tea shops etc. We spend the night at Chirwa.

Day 5. Chirwa to Sukathum (1,576m)

The trek from Chirwa to Sukathum passes through varied landscapes such as cardamom fields and dense forests. We trek uphill for sometime then descend to the lush green fields below and continue trekking along the Tamor River passing through a dense forest. It’s both uphill and downhill trek until crossing the Ghunsa River after which we reach Sukathum and spend the night there.

Day 6. Sukathum to Amjilosa (2,308m)

Trekking from Sukathum to Amjilosa is challenging. After crossing the suspension bridge outside Sukathum we enter a dense forest, ascend the steep trail, descend and cross the river again. We also climb a gorge from the bottom and pass by Solima village and descend again to the level of the river. All in all, this day’s trekking is rather tough. Therefore, it is advisable to be very careful especially while walking the trail that passes the gorge. We later follow a tricky trail which goes both uphill and downhill until reaching Amjilosa where we spend the night.

Day 7. Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)

We start trekking from the river bank, pass through a densely forest of bamboo, fir and rhododendrons eventually reaching a small stone house by the river. We then climb uphill crossing a few small bridges along the way. Here, we get to enjoy the company of stunning waterfalls that originate from the mountains. After yet another short uphill walk we reach the Tibetan settlement to Gyabla.

Day 8. Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,595m)

We descend down the river and notice the valley as it slowly opens up before reaching Phale, a Tibetan refugee settlement where it is possible to purchase handicrafts and homemade rugs from locals. After purchasing a few souvenirs we travel through conifer and pine forest and reach the Sherpa village of Ghunsa where we spend the night. This place is known for its hydroelectricity plant and the fact that more than 20 prominent conservationists met a tragic end in a helicopter crash.

Day 9. Acclimatization day at Ghunsa (Max. Altitude 4000m) (3,595m)

We take care to spend time acclimatizing around Ghunsa before continuing our next day’s trek. We recommend you to stay active even in a rest day as it is better than being idle while on a trekking journey. Therefore, we take a short hike towards the Laspsan La monastery through the lush green forest. Come back to Ghunsa by afternoon and relax.

Day 10. Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m)

From Ghunsa we trek further north along the river bank which presents us with magnificent mountain scenery. We pass through meadows full with beautiful wildflowers, rhododendron and pine forests. We cross a bridge at Rampuk Kharka, continue past the waterfall and cross the tricky section of the landslide. After crossing the landslide area we begin to see the spectacular view of Mt. Jannu. Further exploring and tackling the tricky mountain trail we finally arrive at Kambachen and spend the night.

Day 11. Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m)

Today will be another challenging day and an early start is needed. We trek through rocky fields and large boulders on the hillside along the riverbank and arrive at a waterfall. We then cross a bridge to Ramtang monastery. We then come across a landslide section which we must pass through at a steady pace before descending to the river and finally arriving at Lhonak.

Day 12. Trek to Pangpema / Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143m)

We trek along the Kanchenjunga Glacier to spend a night at Pangpema, Kanchenjunga base camp on the north side. We urge you to be careful around the rockier sections as they are prone to landslides. After a short while you reach Pangpema, a flat grassy base camp. Climb a little higher and enjoy the splendor of Jannu, Kanchenjunga and Chang Himal.

Day 13. Trek back to Kambachen (4,050m)

We retrace our path to Lhonak and continue down the valley to Ramtang Monastery. The return journey offers a different perspective of the mountains Kanchenjunga, Taple Shikhar, Gimmigela, and Mera Peak among others. Due to the descending nature of this trek we will reach Kambachen by evening and spend the night there.


Day 14. Kambachen to Ghunsa (3,595m)

It’s essentially the reverse of our Day 12 trek. We descend to Ghunsa from Kambachen which means that we get to enjoy the beautiful forests along with a backdrop of impressive mountain scenery. Overnight at Ghunsa.

Day 15. Ghunsa to Sele Le (4,290m)

It’s a steep trek upward from Ghunsa to Sele-Le. Upon reaching Sele Le we climb through a dense forest of moss, rhododendron and juniper. Lunch will be served in an appropriate place with the availability of water. We spend the night in Sele Le

Day 16. Sele Le to Cheram (3,870m)

We do an uphill trek and enjoy the mesmerizing south side view of Jannu Himal and Makalu (the world’s 6th highest mountain). Today is a strenuous trekking day as we cross several passes – Sinion La, Mirgin La and Sinelapche Bhanjyang. We then make a steep descend to Cheram and spend the night there.

Day 17. Cheram to Ramche (Ramchaur) (4,580m)

We ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier and walk alongside the Simbuwa Khola, pass through Lapsang village and reach Ramche. While there, we walk further up the valley or ascend a ridge for a tremendous view of blue sheeps. We then follow the stream before climbing on the moraine top until confronted by Kanchenjunga’s southern face. We walk further ahead for a glimpse of the Jannu Himal. We can even consider continuing to Oktang Monastery.

Day 18. Trek to Kanchenjungha South Base Camp and Back to Cheram (4,800m)

Trek to Kanchenjungha South Base Camp and Back to Cheram

Day 20. Torongden to Sherpa Gaun (2,200m)

While descending from Tortong to Yamphudin we pass through Lasiya Bhanjyang which involves walking up through trees and area of landslides. The terrain changes after every monsoon but by the middle of October it should be stable with a route through. Walking further down we reach the village of Yamphudin, a village inhabited by Sherpas, Limbus and Rais.

Day 21. Sherpa Gaun to khebang (1,910m)

We descend from Yamphudin, cross the bridge and climb up to Ekchana Vangyang and Descend down to Khebang village (1910m)which will takes 4/ 5 hrs.

Day 22. Kebang to Happukhola (1,050m)

After breakfast descend down from Khebang and cross Kabeli khola than walk to Happu khola that will take 4/5 hoours. Happu Khola to Bitamod: Drive back to Birtamoda which will take 9/10 Hours.

Day 23. Drive from Happukhola to Birtamod

We are most likely to drive from Thorpu to Birtamod which is a lively Terai town in Eastern Nepal. Along the way you will notice the climate getting warmer with a landscape that is different from the mountains and the hills We descend from Yamphudin, cross the bridge and climb up to Ekchana Vangyang and Descend down to Khebang village (1910m)which will takes 4/ 5 hrs.. The town boasts a number of good accommodation facilities therefore we spend the night in Birtamod.

Day 24. Drive from Birtamod to Bhadrapur then Fly to Kathmandu (1,300m)

The drive to Bhadrapur from Birtamod is only of short distance. We fly back to Kathmandu from Bhadrapur Airport. Upon arriving in Kathmandu you can take a rest and relax throughout the day in your hotel.

Day 25. Free Day on your own(1300m) overnight in hotel (1,300m)

This will be free day of your own. if you are interested in taking souvenirs for your loved ones, you can shop around the tourist area of Thamel. In The Evening we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner for the successful completion of your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.

Day 26. Final Departure from Kathmandu (1,300m)

Langtang Ri representative will accompany you to the airport to catch your returning flight. We hope to see you again soon!

What's Included

    • Airport Pick up & Drop Transportation by private vehicle
    • Twin /Double sharing accommodation at Kathmandu in 2-3 star hotels with breakfast
    • Sightseeing in Kathmandu Escorted with English Speaking Guide & Entrance fee
    • Kathmandu / Taplejung & Bhadrapur / Kathmandu flight fare for member & Neplese staffs
    • Cargo
    • Accommodation in tent, T-jouse,homestay house during trek
    • Tents, mattress, cooking utensils and camping equipments
    • Meals (Breakfast, lunch, dinner) in trekking
    • Boiled drinking water, Tea ,Coffee
    • Seasonal sleeping bag
    • Trekking map for group
    • Special Permit Cost
    • Conservation Area Permits
    • All necessary paper work & Permits
    • A First Aid and Eco trained & Government licensed holder English Speaking guide and required porter while on trek
    • Experienced cook, kitchen crew & sherpa
    • Accommodation, meals, salary, equipment & Insurance of Langtang Ri trekking staffs
    • First Aid Kit
    • Travel & Rescue arrangement
    • All government taxes
    • Farewell dinner

What's Not Included

    • International Airfare
    • Nepal Visa fee (US$ 50 per person for 30 days)
    • Lunch/Dinner in Kathmandu
    • Medical evacuation in case of emergency
    • Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
    • Client's insurance, Items of personal nature i.e. Soft/hard drinks, Tips etc
    • Expenses incurred due to mishaps, landslide, strikes, political unrest etc. In such case extra will be charged as per actual
    • Anything not specified in cost include section

Equipment Check List

Recommended equipment list: Trekkers need to provide their own personal clothing and equipment. Some items of equipment are available for hire from us as like Down Jacket

Footwear

Well broken-in walking shoes - these must be suitable for snow, thick socks, light socks, camp shoes.

Clothing

Down or fiber filled waterproof jacket and trousers, sweater or fleece jacket, underwear, warm and cotton trousers or jeans, shirts and T-shirts, shorts, long underwear, wool hat, sun hat, gloves, bathing suit, track suit.

Other equipment

Sleeping bag (5 seasons),  lock, day pack, water bottle, sun cream, sunglasses, flashlight with spare bulbs and batteries, lip salve, gaiters.

Other Items

Insect repellent, toilet articles, diary, toilet roll, laundry soap, wet ones, pocket knife, towel, sewing kit, plasters, binoculars, camera, film, cards and personal medical kit.

Important Note

Itinerary and Dates: Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary, but as this is adventure travel in a remote mountain region, we cannot guarantee it. Weather conditions and the health of trekkers can all contribute to changes. Your guide, and their Sherpa assistants, will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if necessary. Our aim is to return you safely to Kathmandu in time for your departure flight booking.

Experience Required: This Trek is suitable for keen walkers who are able to walk for 6 – 7 hours each day, with a light rucksack. Some of the days are quite long, and walking feels more strenuous at altitude. Generally, the trail is a good quality, but occasionally it will be uneven and rocky.

Food & Accommodation: You will be accommodated in a teahouse each night, unless the itinerary stipulates tent camping is necessary on some nights. Teahouses are simple, locally-run guesthouses with twin-share or single rooms. Toilets and showers are of varying standards. Typical food available for lunch and dinner is Nepali rice & lentils, pasta, potato dishes, soups or pizzas. Delicious pancakes, porridge, toast and eggs are the main breakfast fare, while tea, coffee and hot chocolate are always available. You will probably be pleasantly surprised by the variety of food at the lodges.

What about our luggage: One porter will be shared between two trekking clients. Porters will carry a maximum of 12kgs per client. If you wish to, you may keep excess clothing and items in a storage room at your Kathmandu hotel.

What will the temperature be like: The weather obviously varies considerably by season and may also change drastically within a single day, particularly at high altitude. If your itinerary takes you above 3,000m need to be prepared for conditions that may range from -10 to 25 degrees on any day. Some useful weather data is available here: https://bit.ly/3vi7rHX You will also need good protections from sun and wind exposure. Contact us for a suggested trek packing list to suit your itinerary.

How much money should we bring: You will need to carry Nepali Rupee to pay for things not covered by your itinerary package. This may include bottled water; evening hot showers; additional food treats; additional hot drinks; equipment replacement or repairs; battery charging and gifts and tips. Shopping can also be done on your last day in Thamel. Talk with us in our office before departing on your trek and we can provide more advice and currency exchange.

What about Acute Mountaineering Sickness (AMS): AMS is essentially impossible to predict. Some people are affected, and other not. Only a very small percentage of people suffer serious effects. Effects may become apparent at any altitude, not just at the extremes of your itinerary.

Signs of AMS includes:

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Drowsiness
  • Flatulence
  • Peripheral Edema (Swelling of extremities)
  • Fluctuation in body temperature

Prevention of AMS:

  • Adequate rest prior to the trek.
  • Adequate hydration maintained throughout the trek.
  • Adequate salt and sugar in your bloodstream. So, eat plenty and don’t skip meals.
  • Adequate warmth. Use clothing layers to maintain warmth without sweating excessively. Controlled and regular breathing. Breathe deeply from the diaphragm to use all your lung capacity. Try and walk to a pace that maintains controlled and steady breathing. Breathe through your nose to protect you throat from drying. Consider wearing a muff over your mouth and nose at high altitudes.
  • Managed exertion. Trekking is not a race to the next pass or teahouse. Go at a constant, manageable pace, do not chase after the person in front. Keep a slow steady pace rather than pushing too hard and needing to stop frequently. Take time to enjoy the scenery.

Trip facts

  • Activity
    Trekking
  • Duration
    26 Days
  • Grade
    Demanding
  • Best Time
    April- May- October- November-
  • Max. Altitude
    5388m
  • Group Size
    Min 2 pax
  • Transportation
    Private vehicle or Flight

Your Host

Mrs Pamfa Dhamala

 My company has been helping people plan and experience the Himalayan treks and tours of their dreams for over 25 years. Please Let me assist you with your inquiry.

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Since its establishment in 1991 AD, Langtang Ri Trekking and Expedition has stood as a beacon of adventure and exploration in the realm of tourism. With three decades of unparalleled experience, the company has been at the forefront of creating unforgettable journeys for clients hailing from every corner of the globe. Rooted in Nepal's breathtaking landscapes, Langtang Ri has continuously raised the bar for trekking, tours, expeditions, and extreme sports, offering a comprehensive range of services that cater to the intrepid spirit of travelers.
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Contact Us

  • 97714523360 9779823010252

  • langtangritrekking@gmail.com
  • Tridevi Marg, Nurshing Chowk Thamel, Kathmandu