Kanchenjunga Base Camp Circuit Trek
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Circuit Trek
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Circuit Trek

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Circuit Trek

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Duration26 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5143 meters
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking, Hiking, Walking

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking & Base Camp takes you to the Northern and Southern face of the Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m), the third tallest mountain in the world. Therefore, It is one of the best off-beat treks in Nepal and explores a large span of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. In addition, the trek also makes a stop at the Yalung glacier and Oktang Monastery. Moreover, Along with the thrill of crossing passes Selele La (4480m) and Sinion La (4645m), the trek also offers the opportunity to learn Kirant and Tibetan culture.

Firstly, The 26-day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking begins after you arrive in Kathmandu. Secondly, Then, you’ll be taken to a hotel and the very next day will be spent on shopping and preparation. Therefore, Your journey starts with a flight to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu. In addition, you’ll drive to Birtamod from Bhadrapur airport. From Birtamod, you’ll drive to Taplejung which will be a day-long drive. Finally, from Taplejung, you start your trek. The first day of your trek will be towards Siwan. Therefore, you’ll enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and stop at Taplethok. From Taplethok, you’ll head towards Sukethum and then to Amjilosa along the Ghunsa River. Passing Gyabla on the way, you make way to Kambachen from Ghunsa.

Trekking Trail

Moreover, The trekking trail to Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking starts to get rougher as you tread along the Kanchenjunga Glacier to reach Lhonak. Therefore, Then, you’ll go to Northern base camp of Kanchenjunga and return to Ghunsa via Lhonak. Moreover, you’ll start your trek to Tseram via Selele La Pass (4480m) and Sinion La Pass (4465m). From Tseram, you’ll trek to Yalung Glacier and reach the Southern base camp of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.  Therefore, As the return trek begins, the trail continues to Tortong and heads south to Khesewa. Finally, a fairly easy trail leads you to Suketar which is followed by a drive to Bhadrapur. A short flight to Kathmandu officially ends the trip.

Therefore, At HappyLand Treks, we deliver the best services to our clients. Moreover, We serve travel enthusiasts with the thirst for adventure and eagerness to learn about Nepal. In addition, We also provide experienced and licensed guides and strong porters for your trek. Transportation and accommodation facilities for the whole trek will be managed by us. 

Trip Highlights:

  • Firstly, Traverse the lesser-explored trail around the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking
  • Secondly, Trek along the majestic glaciers like Zulu, Talung, and Kanchenjunga
  • Witness the beautiful views of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking, Kabru, and Januu ranges
  • Observe the diverse culture and tradition of the Kirant and Tibetan communities

What to Expect

Firstly, We trek per day between 4 to 8 hours it’s depending on the walk, we can always tailor the date to you and your needs. Moreover, While trekking with Happyland Treks we recommends you to drink 3 to 5 liters water per day. In addition, Water is known to help when combating mountain altitude sickness.

Secondly, During the trek almost every village you will have access to boiled purified drinking water, bottle of water and hot water for the drink which is cost started from 100 – 500 rupee per liters depends where you are. Moreover, Cold shower is free but we are not recommends cold shower during the trek because it too cold up there, so it’s better to have hot shower which is possible by Gas Geysers or Hot Bucked and prices started from 100 – 200 rupee per head.
Thirdly, For the camera/mobile battery we always recommends you bring some extra batteries if possible, you can have Mobile/Camera Battery charge almost every tea house the places where you staying in the night.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

Arrival in Kathmandu transfer to hotel and overnight in Kathmandu.
You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport then our representative will welcome you. Therefore, You will be guided to your hotel where you can rest and unpack. Alternatively, you can also explore the nearby areas around the hotel.

Shopping wonder around and Preparation for trekking. Overnight Kathmandu.
This day is separated for shopping and preparation of the trek. In addition, You can visit the UNESCO world heritage sites in the Kathmandu valley like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Therefore, You’ll meet your guide and get information about the trek. Moreover, You’ll also be given a list of gears and equipment that you’ll have to buy for the trek. In addition, You can also roam around the city while we manage your passes.

Kathmandu to Bhadrapur by flight and drive by bus to Birtamod.
After a nice breakfast, you’ll take a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur which is a small town in eastern Nepal. Therefore, You spend some time in Bhadrapur and then drive to Birtamod, which is a very short drive. Moreover, Birtamod is about 17 km northwest from Bhadrapur. Therefore, You’ll head to a hotel and rest for the day. Overnight stay in Birtamod.

Drive Birtamod to Taplejung (1820m) by bus/jeep.
Next, from Birtamod, you’ll head to Taplejung which lies north of Birtamod. Moreover, The drive takes around 8 hours by bus or jeep. In addition, On the way, you’ll get views of hills and drive past Ilam, Embung, Amarpur and many other settlements. Therefore, You’ll ascend a little bit and enter the Kanchenjunga region. Overnight stay in Taplejung.

Trek Taplejung to Sinwa (980m)
Your trek starts this day from Taplejung to Sinwa. Passing the fertile valleys and small settlements, you head to Siwan. Therefore, You walk along the Tamor River crossing the Hangdewa River. Moreover, After some hours of walking, you need to descend a bit on muddy trial and will reach Mitlung. In addition, The trail takes numerous ups and downs as you head to Sinwa. Overnight stay in Sinwa.

Trek Sinwa to Taplethok. (1380m)
Further, you trek downhill from Siwan and cross Tamor River and trek on the trail along the river. Therefore, You reach Pawa and then enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Here, your permits will be checked and you will continue along the river. Moreover, You ascend gradually and pass through traditional villages to reach Taplethok. Overnight stay in Taplethok.

Trek Taplethok to Sekathum/Japan Tar (1585m)
Your next destination will be Sukethum from Taplethok. Therefore, From forests and hilly areas, you’ll enter rocky trails as you head further north. Moreover, You’ll get the close view of Mt. Kumbakarna (7711m) on the trail. Finding the path along the Ghunsa River, you reach Sekathum. Therefore, From here, you can view Mt. Kumbakarna (7711m), Gimmigela Himal (6415m), and Kabru (7412m). Overnight stay in Sukethum.

Trek Sukethum to Amjilosa (2395m)
Trekking along Ghunsa Khola, you’ll head to Amjilosa. This day, you ascend a little more than previous days. Therefore, The trail is steep uphill and a bit difficult to reach Amjilosa. Moreover, You cross few bridges and walk on some stone trails to cross Jongim on the way. Therefore, After hours of trek, you’ll get to a Tibetan village, Amjilosa. Overnight stay in Amjilosa.

Trek Amjilosa to Gyabla (2730m)
Today, you’ll head to Gyabla. You’ll pass through rhododendron and bamboo forests. Therefore, After a short uphill walk, you’ll reach a big waterfall on the side of the Ghunsa River. Moreover, You pass Saekang River and reach Syanjungma en route. Therefore, With small inclinations and declinations on the way, you finally reach Gyabla. Overnight stay in Gyabla.

Trek Gyabla to Ghunsa. (3427m)
Walking through a broad meadow, you leave Gyabla village and head to Ghunsa. Therefore, After a short walk, you’ll climb a small hill and descend down and cross a river to reach Ghunsa. Ghunsa is a Tibetan village with wooden houses, a micro hydropower plant, a health post, and school. In addition, You can visit some Buddhist gompas and stupas after you reach the village. Overnight stay in Ghunsa.

Rest day exploration at Ghunsa. (3427m)
The day is spent adjusting with the thinning air at high altitude and the changing climate. Therefore, You can go on a short hike at the opposite side of Ghunsa Khola which ascends 400 m from the village. In addition, You can explore the village and observe the ancient culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the people residing there. Therefore, People can also try the local products as you rest before continuing on the trek. Overnight stay in Ghunsa.

Trek Ghunsa to Khambachen. (4050m)
After breakfast, you walk along the southern bank of Ghunsa Khola and through the pine and rhododendron forests towards Khambachen. Therefore, Crossing Rampuk Kharka, the trail heads to Lakep where you will trek along with a dangerous rock fall. In addition, You trek on steep slopes and cross various glacial moraines to reach Kambachen. Moreover, Kambachen is a small Tibetan settlement that is surrounded by mountains. Overnight stay in Kambachen.

Kambachen to Lhonak. (4780m)
You will follow the Ghunsa Khola until you reach its source at the Kanchenjunga Glacier. Then, you’ll walk along the trail that is south to the glacier. You will walk along a plateau passing Lhonak Glacier and reach Lhonak. You gain more altitude this day so, you should be careful to take the trek in a slow and steady manner. You’ll cross streams on the way and snow can cause some difficulties. You can have enjoyed the views of Mera Peak (6364m), Nepal Peak (7177m), and Twins Peak (7350m). Overnight stay in Lhonak.

Trek Lhonak to Pangpema Base camp – Northern Base Camp of Kanchenjunga (5143m) and Back to Lhonak (4780m) as the same day.
Finally, you’ll get to the base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga (8586m). Mostly, the trails are grassy and covered with snow as you head east from the base camp. Pangpema is considered as the Northern Base Camp of Kanchenjunga and it provides a complete view of the Northern face of the Mountain. Along with the view of Kanchenjunga, you can also get views of the mountain ranges bordering India and Tibet. After spending some moments in the base camp, you’ll retrace your path along the glaciers and return to Lhonak. Overnight stay in Lhonak.

Trek Lhonak to Ghunsa. (3427m)
After enjoying the breakfast with the constant company of the mountains, you’ll begin the return trek to Ghunsa. You’ll rest at Kambachen and continue your walk to Ghunsa. You trek on the trails along Kanchenjunga and Kumbakarna glaciers. You’ll descend more than 1300 meters so, you need a nice rest and a good diet. Overnight stay in Ghunsa.

Trek Ghunsa to Selele La Kharka
Today, you’ll head to Selele La Kharka from Ghunsa. You walk through forests of rhododendrons and pines and start ascending. You follow the steep rocky trail that takes you to Selele la Kharka that’s just above the High Camp. The pastureland offers a surreal vista of mountains in the Kanchenjunga and Kumbakarna Himal ranges. After enjoying the views, you will explore the surrounding and rest. Overnight stay in Selele La.

Trek Selele La to Cheram/Tseram. (3870m)
The most exciting day of the trek finally appears. This day, you walk through two passes, that are Selele La pass (4480 m) and Sinion La pass (4645 m). As you get to the top, you get brilliant views of Kanchenjunga (8586 m), Jannu (7711 m), Makalu (8481 m) and other snowcapped mountains along with the Yalung Glacier. You can also get views of the mountain ranges along the Sikkim border. After the Sinion La pass, you’ll descend about 1000 meters and reach Tseram.

Trek Cheram to Ramche/Ramchaur. (4580m)
From Tseram, you’ll trek passing the moraines of Yalung Glacier into an eroded valley. The trail is again the forests with rhododendrons and pines. You can spot yaks and blue sheep grazing on the pasturelands en route to Ramche. You also need to cross some frozen streams to reach Ramche. Overnight stay in Ramche.

Trek Ramche to Oktang (4730m) / Yalung (4500m) – Southern Base Camp (and return back to Cheram. (3870m)
Today, you’ll explore the Yalung Base Camp area and Oktang Monastery. You climb a moraine wall to get to Yalung Glacier and further trekking on the rocky path, you get to Oktang. You can witness the beautiful panoramic scene of Kanchenjunga range with several other Himalayas. The day’s trek takes you to the southern base camp. Here, you can explore as you enjoy the views of the Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m). After watching the views and resting awhile, you’ll return back to Cheram via Ramche. Overnight stay in Cheram.

Trek Oktang to Lasiya Bhanjyang. (3310m)
From this day, you’ll start descending and the trek becomes easier. Your trail goes through Simbu Khola as you walk on your return journey. As the trek becomes easier, you can admire the surroundings and the views more constantly. You pass Tortong and head to Lasiya Bhanjyang that lies below Amjilosa. Overnight stay in Lasiya Bhanjyang.

Trek Lasiya Bhanjyang to Yamphudin. (2080m)
The day begins as you witness the views of the mesmerizing Himalayas in Kanchenjunga ranges. You begin the trek as you descend to Lamite Bhanjyang and Dhupi Bhanjyang through pine forests. You pass Chitre and Amji Khola then descend to Yamphudin. Yamphudin is a village where the people of different ethnicities like Rai, Sherpa, and Limbu have settled. Overnight stay in Yamphudin.

Trek Yamphudin to Khebang. (1915m)
The path is mostly forest and you come past rivers, streams, and waterfalls. You’ll leave the Kanchenjunga Conservational Area and head to Khebang from Yamphudin. The settlements are mainly small on the way. You pass those small settlements, cross suspension bridges and walk along Kabeli Khola to reach Khebang. Overnight stay in Khebang.

Trek Khebang to Hapu Khola lunch and drive to Ilam same day.
Through the forested trails and lush-green hills, walking past waterfalls, you’ll head towards Hapu Khola. The trek heads south and reaches Pedang. Shortly after, you arrive at the confluence of the Tawa and Kabeli rivers to reach Hapu Khola. After lunch, you’ll drive to Ilam. You can visit the area in Ilam if time permits. Then you’ll prepare for the drive and flight for the next day. Overnight stay in Ilam.

Ilam to Birtamod by Jeep and same day by flight to Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you’ll drive to Birtamod and then Bhadrapur to catch your flight. You’ll fly from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu. The flight offers a final glimpse of the Kanchenjunga ranges and heads to Kathmandu flying over beautiful landscapes. You’ll be guided to the hotel where you can rest. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

On this day, you can rest, go shopping or visit the sites you’ve missed. You can go to Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Changunarayan Temple. Alternatively, you can also choose to hike to the hill stations around the Kathmandu Valley. You can also feel free to shop for gifts in the local markets. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Departure to the international airport or if you have a few days extra in Kathmandu you can chill, do shopping and sightseeing, etc.
After breakfast, you will be dropped to Tribhuvan International airport if you have a scheduled flight. If you intend to stay a little longer, you can chill and go shopping. If you want to take any other trips, you can reach us.

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Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport pick up and drop by car/van/ bus/
  • Tims Card (Trekkers Information Management System)
  • Kanchenjunga conservation area permit and restricted area permit.
  • All your standard meals while in the trekking (Breakfast/Lunches/Dinners) with three cup of tea or coffee a day.
  • Tea house accommodation during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking.
  • English speaking guide.
  • Accommodation, Food, Salary, Insurance, and medicine for all staff.
  • Porter service (1 porter between 2 person basis)
  • Medical kit.
  • Happyland treks certificate.
  • Company Duffel bag and a t-shirt.
  • All ground transportation land to land.
  • Domestic flight ticket and airport tax Kathmandu – Bhadrapur and back Birtamod – Kathmandu. Member and guide.
  • All government and local taxes.
Excludes
  • Any food and accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • Travel medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost.
  • Nepal entry visa fee. International air fare.
  • Personal equipment.
  • Tips for guide and Porter (Tipping is expected)
  • Personal expenses such as:  Alcoholic beverages, hot shower, water bottle, cold drinks, hot water, battery charge, donation. etc.
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned on ‘price include’ section.
Essential Information

Accommodation During Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

Moreover, We stayed at the Tea house. Tea house trek basically means a small hotel with a cozy room. Established along the trekking route that provides room and food. Therefore, Most of these established family-owned and home-cooked meals. In adddition, are served as well as different types of European and western food. To sum up, It’s a bit different but it’s good.

Equipment and Trekking Kit 

However, For all Trekking and Hiking trips, we recommend you be prepared and have the items from this list

Head:
Sun hat / warm fleece hat / Sunglasses / Head torch/headband

Body:
Few pair of T-shirt / Cotton t-shirt / Light thermal / leggings
Fleece jacket/down jacket
Lightweight walking pants /  Hiking Shorts / Undergarments

Feet:
Inner Socks / Thick warm wool hiking socks / Comfortable Hiking boots / Sandals

Hands:
Fleece Gloves / waterproof wind fleece gloves

Accessories:
Sleeping bag liner / Poncho rain cover / Trekking poles. Headlamps and spare batteries/camera batteries with chargers. Watch with light alarm / Water bottle or Camel bag/money belt / Dry Packs

Toiletries and Personal Hygiene:
Shampoo / conditioner
Toothbrush and paste / Face and body moisturizer
Nail clippers file / Clothes washing shop
Toilet paper you can buy more on a trek/hand sanitizer / Sunscreen/body high UV Protection.

Medical Kits:
However, See your doctor for complete travel medicine. In addition, Including High altitude medicine Diamox. and In addition carry your daily medicine.

Do I need training for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

Trekking in the Himalayas is challenging. Therefore, As you will be hiking steadily for 4 to 8 hours a day. Therefore, this trek is great for people with some physical fitness. In addition, Improving your cardio endurance with activities. Such as jogging or rowing beforehand can help your body and energy level during the trip. And ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. However, it is not necessary to be a high-level athlete, simply in good shape.

What is the best season for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

However, People travel and trek every month of the year. But the best seasons are Spring, from March to May, and Autumn, from October to the beginning of December. Therefore, January is one of the coldest months of the year and May is one of the hottest. In addition, the rainy season happens between June and August. So, you should keep that in mind when planning your trip. 

Mountain Sickness and Prevention in Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking

To clarify, Mountain Altitude Sickness can affect anyone above 3000 meters. Altitude Sickness affects people regardless of sex, age, and fitness. Secondly, Therefore, If you are showing signs of mountain altitude sickness. Your safety is our first priority and we will facilitate you getting down as fast as possible.

Accommodation in Kathmandu

However, Accommodation in Kathmandu is not included in this package. And you will have to arrange accommodation for staying in Kathmandu yourself.  Therefore, Its costs varies depending on the tourist. season as well as the areas where you choose to stay. In conclusion, Our team members will be more than happy to help you. Moreover, provide assistance and guidance for booking accommodation. Or any other travel information related to your Nepal trip.