Nepal · Trekking

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

24 Days Round trip from Taplejung Easy pace
Kanchenjunga Trek

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek to both the North and South Base Camps of Mount Kanchenjunga (5,143m), the third-highest mountain in the world
  • 02 Experience a rarely visited, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan trail with fewer crowds and untouched wilderness
  • 03 Walk through diverse ecosystems including subtropical jungles, rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and glacier valleys
  • 04 Enjoy stunning mountain panoramas of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Kirat Chuli, and other towering peaks
  • 05 Visit Oktang Viewpoint, the best vantage point of the southern face of Kanchenjunga
  • 06 Cross remote high mountain passes such as Mirgin La and Sinion La, offering sweeping ridge views
  • 07 Discover rich biodiversity including rare birds and wildlife

Embark on a 24-day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, a challenging and scenic journey through the remote and diverse landscapes of eastern Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes you to both the north and south base camps of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. Discover lush rhododendron forests, deep river valleys, glacial moraines, and traditional mountain villages. Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan giants, immerse yourself in Tibetan-influenced cultures, and experience true wilderness in one of Nepal's most pristine trekking regions.

Embark on a 24-day Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, a challenging and scenic journey through the remote and diverse landscapes of eastern Nepal.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 24 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Kathmandu, Ilam
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
  • Receive a warm welcome and transfer to your hotel.
  • Attend a trek briefing and gear check.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

2
Day 02

Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Ilam

  • Take a scenic flight to Bhadrapur in eastern Nepal.
  • Drive through lush tea plantations to the charming hill town of Ilam.

Overnight stay in Ilam.

3
Day 03

Drive to Taplejung and Trek to Lali Kharka

  • Drive to Suketar, the starting point of your trek.
  • Begin a gentle hike to Lali Kharka through terraced landscapes.

Overnight at a tea house in Lali Kharka.

4
Day 04

Trek to Khesewa Through Terraced Hills

  • Descend to Phundrawa and climb through terraced fields.
  • Enjoy spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and nearby hills.

Overnight stay in Khesewa.

5
Day 05

Trek to Mamankhe via Forest and Villages

  • Cross ridges and descend into valleys.
  • Walk through dense forest and traditional Limbu villages.

Overnight stay in Mamankhe.

6
Day 06

Trek to Yamphudin Through Cardamom Farms

  • Trek through cardamom farms and subtropical forests.
  • Cross suspension bridges over scenic rivers.

Overnight stay in Yamphudin.

7
Day 07

Climb to Tortong Through Rhododendron Forest

  • Climb steeply through rhododendron forests.
  • Reach higher altitudes with cooler temperatures.

Overnight stay in Tortong.

8
Day 08

Trek to Tseram Along the Simbuwa Khola

  • Follow the Simbuwa Khola upstream.
  • Enter the alpine zone with stunning mountain views.

Overnight stay in Tseram.

9
Day 09

Acclimatization Day in Tseram

  • Take an optional hike to the Yalung Glacier viewpoint.
  • Rest and allow your body to adapt to the altitude.

Overnight stay in Tseram.

10
Day 10

Trek to Ramche Through Yak Pastures

  • Hike through yak pastures and rocky moraine trails.
  • Reach Ramche, surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

Overnight stay in Ramche.

11
Day 11

Hike to Oktang Viewpoint and Return to Tseram

  • Begin early for a sunrise hike to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp at Oktang.
  • Enjoy sweeping views of the south face of Mount Kanchenjunga.
  • Return to Tseram for the night.
12
Day 12

Cross High Passes to Sele La

  • Climb steeply through rhododendron forest.
  • Cross high passes including Mirgin La and Sinion La.

Overnight camp or stay at Sele La.

13
Day 13

Descend to the Tibetan-Style Village of Ghunsa

  • Descend through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests.
  • Reach Ghunsa, a charming Tibetan-style village.

Overnight stay in Ghunsa.

14
Day 14

Acclimatization and Cultural Exploration in Ghunsa

  • Enjoy a rest day or take a side hike to Lapsang La viewpoint or visit a monastery.
  • Explore the cultural life of the local community.

Overnight stay in Ghunsa.

15
Day 15

Trek to Kambachen Across Glacial Terrain

  • Gradually ascend along rocky and glacial terrain.
  • Carefully navigate landslide-prone areas.

Overnight stay in Kambachen.

16
Day 16

Trek to Lhonak in a Glacial Valley

  • Trek along a glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks.
  • Admire views of Kirat Chuli and other nearby mountains.

Overnight stay in Lhonak.

17
Day 17

Hike to Pangpema North Base Camp and Return

  • Hike early to reach the northern base camp of Kanchenjunga at Pangpema.
  • Take in panoramic views of the north face of the mountain.
  • Return to Lhonak for overnight stay.
18
Day 18

Return Trek to Ghunsa

  • Retrace your steps back to Ghunsa via Kambachen.
  • Descend steadily through high mountain terrain.

Overnight stay in Ghunsa.

19
Day 19

Descend to Amjilosa

  • Descend through mixed forests, pastures, and village trails.
  • Cross suspension bridges and rest in small settlements.

Overnight stay in Amjilosa.

20
Day 20

Trek to Chiruwa Through Warmer Lowlands

  • Enter warmer lowland areas.
  • Pass through cardamom plantations and riverside communities.

Overnight stay in Chiruwa.

21
Day 21

Final Trek to Taplethok and Drive to Taplejung

  • Complete your final trekking section to Taplethok.
  • Drive back to Taplejung by local jeep.

Overnight stay in Taplejung.

22
Day 22

Drive to Bhadrapur

  • Embark on a full-day drive through hills and plains.
  • Reach the lowland city of Bhadrapur by evening.

Overnight stay in Bhadrapur.

23
Day 23

Fly Back to Kathmandu

  • Take a domestic flight back to Kathmandu.
  • Check into your hotel and rest.
  • Enjoy souvenir shopping and a celebration dinner.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

24
Day 24

Final Departure from Nepal

  • Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
  • Say farewell to Nepal with incredible memories of your journey.
Oktang Viewpoint, Pangpema, Mirgin La, Sinion La

Where this trip takes you

Oktang Viewpoint, Pangpema, Mirgin La, Sinion La

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Taplejung 2 cities · 24 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Domestic flight: Kathmandu - Bhadrapur - Kathmandu
  • Private or local jeep: Bhadrapur - Taplejung - Bhadrapur
  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu
  • Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) permit
  • TIMS Card (Trekker's Information Management System)
  • All government taxes and service charges
  • Licensed and experienced English-speaking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
  • Staff insurance, equipment, meals, accommodation, and wages
  • Basic tea house lodging during the trek
  • Two nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
  • One night in Ilam or Taplejung before or after the trek
  • Three meals per day during the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Nepali, Tibetan, and basic international dishes (as available)
  • Tea or coffee included with meals
  • Sleeping bag and down jacket (to be returned after trek)
  • Trekking map and detailed route briefing
  • First-aid kit carried by the guide

What's Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory with helicopter evacuation coverage)
  • Bottled water, snacks, and personal drinks
  • Wi-Fi, battery charging, and hot showers (available at some lodges for an extra fee)
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra hotel stays, personal expenses, or trek extensions

What to bring

  • 2 to 3 thermal tops (synthetic or merino)
  • 2 thermal bottoms
  • Fleece jacket or wool sweater
  • Down jacket (warm and packable)
  • Hardshell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof pants
  • 2 to 3 quick-dry trekking shirts
  • 2 pairs trekking pants
  • 1 pair warm trekking pants
  • 3 to 4 pairs of good hiking socks (wool blend)
  • 1 warm hat (beanie)
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Buff or scarf (for dust and wind)
  • Gloves (1 thin liner pair and 1 insulated pair)
  • Well-broken-in hiking boots (waterproof)
  • Camp shoes or sandals for evenings
  • Gaiters (optional, for snow or mud)
  • 4-season sleeping bag (comfort rating -10°C to -20°C)
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Pillowcase (optional)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo
  • Wet wipes or baby wipes
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper
  • Small mirror, nail clippers, and other personal care items
  • Personal first-aid kit (blister pads, ibuprofen, Diamox, etc.)
  • Water purification tablets or filter (Sawyer, LifeStraw, etc.)
  • Electrolyte powders or rehydration salts
  • Altitude sickness medication (consult doctor)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Power bank (10,000-20,000 mAh)
  • Universal adapter
  • Solar charger (optional)
  • Camera or phone with extra memory card
  • Duffel bag (carried by porter - approx. 15-20 kg max)
  • Daypack (20-30L for daily essentials)
  • Rain cover for backpack
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Water bottles (2 liters total capacity)
  • Snacks such as energy bars, dried fruits, and nuts
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Passport and photocopies
  • Extra passport photos (for permits)
  • Cash (no ATMs on the trail)
  • Lightweight book or journal
  • Playing cards
  • Ear plugs (for noisy lodges)
  • Duct tape or repair tape
  • Safety whistle

Logistics

Meeting & route

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

Your 24 days finish where they began, in Taplejung.

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