Nepal · Trekking

22-Day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek in Nepal with North and South Base Camps

22 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Hard pace
Kanchenjunga Trek
Kanchenjunga Trek
Kanchenjunga Trek

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek to both Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camps
  • 02 Explore vibrant rhododendron forests and alpine meadows
  • 03 Cross high mountain passes with panoramic Himalayan views
  • 04 Discover traditional Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa villages

Discover the remote beauty of eastern Nepal on this 22-day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, exploring diverse landscapes from lush rhododendron forests to high Himalayan glaciers. Visit both Kanchenjunga North and South Base Camps, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, and cross dramatic mountain passes with sweeping Himalayan panoramas. Along the way, encounter Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa communities in traditional villages and experience one of Nepal's most untouched and awe-inspiring trekking regions. This trek is ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking authentic adventure, pristine wilderness, and deep cultural immersion.

Discover the remote beauty of eastern Nepal on this 22-day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, exploring diverse landscapes from lush rhododendron forests to high Himalayan glaciers.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 22 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Hard
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
City Kathmandu
Languages English, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Briefing

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
  • Meet and greet by your representative and transfer to your hotel.
  • Rest and recover from your flight.
  • Attend an evening briefing about the trek with your guide.
2
Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

  • Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath.
  • Check your trekking gear and obtain the necessary permits.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

3
Day 03

Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Taplejung

  • Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (about 45 minutes).
  • Continue on a scenic drive from Bhadrapur to Taplejung (approximately 8-9 hours).
  • Enjoy views of terraced fields and the eastern hills of Nepal along the way.

Overnight in Taplejung.

4
Day 04

Trek from Taplejung to Mitlung

  • Begin your trek through lush forests and traditional Limbu villages.
  • Cross suspension bridges and enjoy views of the Tamor River.

Overnight in Mitlung.

5
Day 05

Mitlung to Chiruwa Through Forests and Settlements

  • Trek through cardamom fields and mixed forests.
  • Pass small settlements such as Sinwa and Tawa.
  • Cross suspension bridges over the Tamor River before reaching Chiruwa.

Overnight in Chiruwa.

6
Day 06

Chiruwa to Sukathum in the Conservation Region

  • Enter the restricted area of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Region.
  • Walk through dense forests of oak and rhododendron.
  • Follow the Ghunsa Khola River to Sukathum.

Overnight in Sukathum.

7
Day 07

Climb from Sukathum to Amjilosa

  • Make a steep climb along narrow gorges and forested trails.
  • Look out for monkeys and colourful birds along the route.

Overnight stay in the small village of Amjilosa.

8
Day 08

Amjilosa to Gyabla Through Bamboo Forests

  • Trek through bamboo and rhododendron forests.
  • Enjoy a gradual ascent with occasional views of snowcapped peaks.
  • Reach Gyabla, a Tibetan-style village surrounded by alpine scenery.

Overnight in Gyabla.

9
Day 09

Gyabla to Ghunsa and Sherpa Village Life

  • Trek through lush pine forests and yak pastures.
  • Arrive at Ghunsa, the largest Sherpa village in the region.
  • Explore the local monastery and interact with villagers.

Overnight in Ghunsa.

10
Day 10

Acclimatisation Day in Ghunsa

  • Spend the day acclimatising to the altitude.
  • Take a short hike to a nearby ridge or monastery.
  • Learn about local Sherpa culture and traditions.

Overnight in Ghunsa.

11
Day 11

Ghunsa to Kambachen with Mountain Views

  • Follow the trail along the Ghunsa Khola with stunning mountain views.
  • Pass through rhododendron and juniper forests.
  • Arrive in Kambachen, surrounded by high Himalayan peaks.

Overnight in Kambachen.

12
Day 12

Kambachen to Lhonak Across Glacial Terrain

  • Trek through rugged moraine landscapes and glacial valleys.
  • Cross streams and enjoy panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga North Face.

Overnight in Lhonak.

13
Day 13

Pangpema Excursion to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp

  • Set out early in the morning for Pangpema, the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks.
  • Spend time on photography and exploration.
  • Return to Lhonak for your overnight stay.
14
Day 14

Return from Lhonak to Ghunsa

  • Retrace your steps along the Ghunsa Khola.
  • Enjoy a gradual descent through familiar landscapes.

Overnight stay in Ghunsa.

15
Day 15

Ghunsa to Sele Le via Rhododendron Forests

  • Make a steep uphill climb through dense rhododendron forests.
  • Reach Sele Le Pass and enjoy beautiful mountain panoramas.

Overnight in a mountain lodge at Sele Le.

16
Day 16

Cross High Passes to Reach Cheram

  • Cross several high passes, including Mirgin La (4,480 m) and Sinion La (4,660 m).
  • Take in stunning views of the Makalu, Everest, and Kanchenjunga ranges.
  • Descend to Cheram for your overnight stay.
17
Day 17

Cheram to Ramche Along the Yalung Glacier

  • Trek through alpine meadows and glacial moraines.
  • Pass the Yalung Glacier and reach Ramche, the base for the southern face of Kanchenjunga.

Overnight in Ramche.

18
Day 18

Visit Yalung Base Camp and Return to Cheram

  • Take a morning hike to Yalung Base Camp (4,800 m) with striking views of Kanchenjunga's south face.
  • Return to Cheram for your overnight stay.
19
Day 19

Descend from Cheram to Tortong

  • Descend through rhododendron forests and small settlements.
  • Follow the Simbuwa Khola to Tortong.

Overnight in Tortong.

20
Day 20

Tortong to Yamphuding Through Village Landscapes

  • Descend through forests and terraced fields.
  • Pass villages inhabited by Limbu and Rai communities.

Overnight in Yamphuding.

21
Day 21

Road Journey to Birtamod After the Trek

  • Trek a short distance before joining the road.
  • Drive through the lowlands of eastern Nepal to Birtamod.
  • Celebrate the completion of your trek.

Overnight in Birtamod.

22
Day 22

Return to Kathmandu by Flight or Drive

  • Take a morning drive to Bhadrapur for your flight to Kathmandu.
  • Alternatively, take a full-day drive back to the capital.
  • Enjoy a free evening in Kathmandu for shopping or relaxation.

Overnight in Kathmandu or departure transfer to the airport.

Pangpema, Yalung Base Camp, Ghunsa, rhododendron forests

Where this trip takes you

Pangpema, Yalung Base Camp, Ghunsa, rhododendron forests

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 1 city · 22 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • All airport-to-hotel transfers by private vehicle
  • 3 nights' stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu to Bhadrapur flight tickets
  • Bhadrapur to Kathmandu flight tickets
  • Bhadrapur to Phidim by public sharing jeep
  • Phidim to Suketar by public sharing jeep
  • Tapethok to Suketar by public sharing jeep
  • Suketar to Illam by public sharing jeep
  • All twin-sharing accommodations during the trek
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with seasonal fruits
  • All necessary paperwork and permits
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Restricted Area Permits
  • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card
  • All government and local taxes
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
  • Assistant trekking guide (1 assistant guide for every 10 trekkers)
  • Support staff/Sherpa porters (1 porter for every 2 trekkers), including salary, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging
  • Online pre-trip briefing after booking confirmation
  • Free excess luggage storage at our office store
  • Down jacket and seasonal sleeping bag (to be returned after the trip)
  • Duffle bag (to be returned after the trip)
  • T-shirt
  • Trekking map
  • Trekking poles (to be returned after the trip)
  • Self-sufficient medical first aid kit with essential medications
  • Oximeter to monitor pulse oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (useful for checking AMS symptoms)

What's Not Included

  • Nepal visa fee (the lowest available is for a 15-day visa costing $30 per person)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Excess luggage charges
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu (if returning early from the mountains)
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • All lunches and dinners during your stay in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, personal drinks, battery charging, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, Wi-Fi or internet, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and porters

What to bring

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Warm fleece hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Warm beanie
  • Buff or neck gaiter
  • T-shirts
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Optional fleece wind-stopper jacket
  • Waterproof shell jacket (breathable fabric preferred)
  • Down jacket or synthetic insulated jacket
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Heavyweight gloves
  • Hiking shorts
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Fleece or wool pants (seasonal)
  • Waterproof pants
  • Lightweight trekking pants
  • Thermal pants (for higher and colder regions)
  • Thin, lightweight inner socks
  • Thick, warm wool hiking socks
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
  • Sleeping bag and liner
  • Map and compass/GPS
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Daypack (20-30 liters)
  • Duffle bag
  • Basic first aid kit and regular medicines
  • Trekking poles
  • Water bottles or hydration system (at least 2 liters)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Solar charger or power bank
  • Multi-tool or knife
  • Medium-sized quick-drying towel
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Multipurpose soap
  • Deodorant and nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Wet wipes (baby wipes)
  • Tissue/toilet roll
  • Antibacterial hand wash
  • Reading book or lightweight journal with pen
  • Trail map or guidebook
  • iPod or smartphone
  • Pencils and small notebooks
  • Camera and spare batteries
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Gaiters (for snow or muddy trails)
  • Lightweight binoculars
  • Portable trekking pillow
  • Traveling games (Uno, playing cards, dice, etc.)
  • Copies of passport, visa, and insurance
  • Cash for tea houses, tips, and small purchases
  • Travel insurance details
  • Emergency contact information
  • Dress in layers to manage temperature changes
  • Ensure boots and gear are broken in before the trek
  • Keep your backpack as light as possible without sacrificing essentials
  • Build endurance with hikes, cardio, and strength exercises before departure

Know before you go

  • Trek difficulty: Moderate to very challenging; includes long days, steep ascents/descents, high passes (~4,400-5,140 m), and remote camps.
  • Suitable for trekkers with prior multi-day trekking experience and good endurance.
  • Fitness target: walk 4-6 hours/day on hilly terrain with a 10-12 kg daypack; include cardio, stair/hill work, and one long hike (12-20 km) before the trek.
  • Preparation: 3-6 months of aerobic fitness, leg strengthening, weighted hikes, practice on varied terrain, and gear testing.
  • Vaccinations & meds: Check routine vaccines and consult a doctor about altitude medications.
  • High points: Pang Pema (~5,140 m), Lhonak (~4,780 m).
  • Acclimatization: rest days included; follow "climb high, sleep low," hydrate, eat well, and avoid alcohol.
  • AMS symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, and poor sleep; descend immediately if severe.
  • Emergency support: guides are trained in high-altitude first aid; evacuation may require hours or a helicopter, depending on weather.
  • Travel insurance: must cover high-altitude trekking >5,500 m, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation.
  • Permits: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and regional permits; TIMS or local registration required.
  • Cultural etiquette: respect Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa communities; dress modestly and follow customs near monasteries and religious sites.
  • Visa: tourist visa available on arrival or online; passport must be valid for ≥6 months.
  • Flights: international via Tribhuvan Airport; domestic flights are weather-dependent, and road travel can be long and bumpy.
  • SIM cards & coverage: Ncell/NTC in towns; remote areas may have no signal; guides carry radios/satellite phones.
  • Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR); carry cash for tips, snacks, and small purchases; cards are accepted mainly in Kathmandu.
  • Food & water: local meals include dal-bhat, noodles, and momos; drink boiled or treated water and carry purification tablets.
  • Accommodation: basic tea houses; hot showers are limited at higher altitudes; bring a warm sleeping bag.
  • Packing essentials: down jacket, insulated sleeping bag, waterproof shell, trekking boots, poles, fleece layers, thermal base layers, sun protection, personal first aid, water treatment, power bank, passport/permit copies, and cash.
  • Luggage: porter carries up to 20 kg; daypack about 10 kg.
  • Safety & wildlife: sightings of blue sheep and red panda are possible; never feed animals and follow Leave No Trace principles.
  • Tipping: customary for guides and porters; lead guide about 10-15% of trek cost, assistants and porters proportionally less.
  • Contingencies: domestic flights and road transfers are weather-dependent; schedule buffer days and contact your operator for emergencies.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 22 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

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Estimated room rates

Single Room $2,470.00 — $2,475.00
Double Sharing $2,470.00 — $2,475.00

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