Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 22 Days

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 22 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate Trek
  • Activity Trekking
  • Group Size 2-16
  • Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu and Teahouse in Mountains
  • Meals Breakfast in Kathmandu and Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner during Trek
  • Best Season March- April and September to December

Want to go on a challenging trekking journey on Nepal's isolated trails? If so, the fantastic Kanchenjunga circuit trek is perfect for you. All Nepal Hiking's excellent journey package is all you could want! The Kanchenjunga region is well-known for its off-the-beaten-path, unspoiled routes. This thrilling journey will take you through various picturesque sights and natural terrains. To get to your destination, you must pass through forests with lush vegetation. The Kanchenjunga Circuit walk visits Kanchenjunga's north and south base camps, the world's third-highest peak at 8,586 meters. You should be in good shape and have some trekking experience because this is a remote region tour. 

Kanchenjunga Trek 22 Days is an incredible north-to-south option to complete Round Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking with formidable packages cost with a trailer Itinerary for those travelers to explore the pure Nature and mountains. Kanchenjunga trek provides amazing snow-capped mountains, landscapes, and exotic panoramic views of the High Himalayas. Kanchenjunga circuit trekking only for group trek Mount Kanchenjunga 8,586 m is the third-highest peak in the World. This is one of the unexplored and virgin trekking routes located in the eastern part of Nepal. Trekking in Kanchenjunga is a pleasing trail that offers us wonderful snow-capped mountains, Landscapes, and exotic scenic views of the Himalayas. You can enjoy different types of small and high snowy peaks above 8,000 m and below 8,000 m  popular peaks such as Mount. Everest 8,848 m, Mount Makalu 8,201 m and Mount. Lhotse 8,516 m etc

History of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Located in the far eastern region of Nepal, near the Sikkim border, Kanchenjunga was once thought to be the world's highest peak until the 1800s. It wasn't accessible to trekkers initially, but in the mid-1980s, it opened up for exploration. The area is now protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, necessitating a special trekking permit. These regulations have effectively maintained the area's untouched natural beauty and diverse plant and animal life. Apart from the towering Kanchenjunga peak, there are four other subsidiary summits over 8,000 meters, with Kanchenjunga West (Yalung Kang) at 8,505 meters being the most prominent. The region also features about twenty peaks surpassing 7,000 meters, including Kambachen, Janu, Jongsong, Kabru, Tent Peak, and the Twins.

Furthermore, the region has numerous peaks exceeding 6,000 meters and five major glacier systems. While the Zumu, Talung, and Rathong glaciers flow into Sikkim, the Kanchenjunga and Yalung glaciers feed into Nepal's Tamor River. The recent addition of the Great Himalayan Trail to the trekking network has led to gradual tourism development in remote areas like Kanchenjunga. This has resulted in the establishment of more accommodations along the route, benefiting local communities. However, the current period presents a unique opportunity to explore Kanchenjunga before it gains popularity among trekkers.

Trekking Insurance for Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Trekking insurance is a compulsory requirement for all trekkers participating in Nepal's various trekking routes, including the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Having trekking insurance serves multiple purposes. It not only grants you a sense of security and financial safeguarding in unforeseen situations during your trek but also fulfills the prerequisites for obtaining the necessary permits for trekking in Nepal.

An ideal insurance policy should encompass a range of provisions, including coverage for emergency medical expenditures, helicopter evacuation if needed, trip cancellation or interruption, and the loss or theft of personal belongings. Prioritize your personal safety and overall well-being by procuring a dependable trekking insurance policy that is tailored to the unique challenges and experiences of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.

Permits Needed for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

To undertake the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, it is essential to secure the following permits:
 
1. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP)
2. Restricted Area Entry Permit (RAP) specifically for the trail sections in Tapethok and Yamphuding VDCs.

Fees for Permits on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The permit costs for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek are outlined as follows:

1. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP): NPR 2,000 per individual. This permit does not have a time limitation.

2. Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (KRAP): USD 10 per person per week.

Essential Criteria for the Kanchenjunga Trek Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The following documents and particulars are required to obtain the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for the Kanchenjunga Trek:

1. A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the expiration date of the RAP.
2. A valid Nepal visa that extends beyond the RAP's expiry date.
3. A letter from the trekking agency, including the subsequent details:
   - Application particulars
   - Itinerary of the trek
   - Details of the guide's insurance
   - Online submission ID issued by the agency
   - Information regarding the necessary dollars
   - An electronic copy of a passport-sized photograph.

Why do the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?

Embarking on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offers not just an adventure, but an opportunity to immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty, cultural encounters, and a profound sense of achievement.

  • Uncover the unexplored trails of Nepal's eastern mountainous regions.
  • Stroll alongside renowned glacial lakes in the vicinity.
  • Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring journey through diverse biodiversity.
  • Find tranquility through meditation at Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries, rejuvenating your spirit.
  • Savor moments of bliss as you unwind in tents beneath the majestic peaks.
  • For those who find the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek ambitious, consider exploring our blog on "Beginner Treks in Nepal," catering to novice trekkers and families with children. These treks offer stunning mountain views and an enriching experience.

The local ethnic communities you'll encounter include Bhotiya, Sherpa, Tamang, Limbu, Rai, Gurung, among others. The trails are adorned with Buddhist heritage sites like chortens, mani walls, gompas, and prayer flags. All Nepal Hiking provides an excellent Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package at an affordable price. Feel free to reach out to us to secure your spot on this awe-inspiring trek through the Himalayan foothills. Safe travels!

Highlights
  • Explore Nepal's less-traveled eastern highland regions.
  • Trek past the region's famed glacier lakes.
  • Unique experience going through the different plants and creatures.
  • After your exhausting walks, meditate at the Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries.
  • Have a fantastic day resting in your tents on the lap of the big peaks.
  • Spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Makalu, two highest mountains in the world
  • Local ethnic group like Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Gurung, Bhote, etc
  • Eyewitness the one-of-a-kind lifestyle and culture of the locals as you journey along the trail.
  •  Ancient stupas, shortens, monasteries 
  • Trek into the lush forests and rocky gorges of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area 
  • Makalu Barun National Park
  • Tea gardens in Illam
  • Traditional Olangchung Gola village and the alpine lakes around it
  • The trail is adventurous, peaceful, and beautiful
  • Discover the wonders of Makalu valley, one of the least visited parts of the Himalayas
  • You may get to see snow leopards and red pandas
  • A high mountain Lumba Sumba pass
Itinerary
  • Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Transfer to your hotel
  • Attend a trek briefing and meet your trekking guide
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu
  • Max. Altitude:1300m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Suketar (Taplejung)
  • Begin the trek from Suketar to Mitlung (921m)
  • Trek through terraced fields, lush forests, and traditional villages
  • Overnight stay in Mitlung
  • Max. Altitude:850m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Continue the trek from Mitlung to Chirwa (1,270m)
  • Pass through beautiful landscapes and small settlements
  • Cross the Tamor River and ascend to Chirwa
  • Overnight stay in Chirwa
  • Max. Altitude:1190m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Chirwa to Sekathum (1,660m)
  • Follow the trail along the Tamor River
  • Cross suspension bridges and enjoy the scenic views
  • Overnight stay in Sekathum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:1650 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5-6 hour
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,520m)
  • Pass through dense forests and bamboo groves
  • Cross the Ghunsa River and ascend to Amjilosa
  • Overnight stay in Amjilosa
  • Max. Altitude:2310m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Continue the trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)
  • Trek through rhododendron forests and cross several streams
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
  • Overnight stay in Gyabla
  • Max. Altitude:2,730m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 to 6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,475m)
  • Ascend through dense forests and alpine meadows
  • Reach the Sherpa village of Ghunsa
  • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
  • Max. Altitude:3,600m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 to 7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Rest and acclimatize in Ghunsa
  • Explore the village and interact with the locals
  • Optional hike to a nearby viewpoint for stunning mountain views
  • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m)
  • Ascend through rocky terrain and cross moraines
  • Reach the beautiful village of Kambachen
  • Overnight stay in Kambachen
  • Max. Altitude:4,100m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 to 6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Rest and acclimatize in Kambachen
  • Take short hikes around the area to help with acclimatization
  • Enjoy the breathtaking views of Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and other peaks
  • Overnight stay in Kambachen
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m)
  • Follow the trail along the Kanchenjunga Glacier
  • Reach the remote settlement of Lhonak
  • Overnight stay in Lhonak
  • Max. Altitude:4,790m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 to 6 hours trek
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Lhonak to Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,143m)
  • Enjoy the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks
  • Return to Pangpema (5,140m) for an overnight stay
  • Max. Altitude:5,143m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:8 to 9 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Pangpema to Kambachen
  • Descend along the Kanchenjunga Glacier
  • Overnight stay in Kambachen
  • Max. Altitude:4050m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Kambachen to Ghunsa
  • Retrace your steps through beautiful landscapes
  • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
  • Max. Altitude:3430m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:4hrs
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Ghunsa to Sele La (4,290m)
  • Ascend towards the high mountain pass of Sele La
  • Set up camp near Sele La for an overnight stay
  • Max. Altitude:4480m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Sele La to Cheram/Tseram (3,870m)
  • Descend from the pass and enter the rhododendron forests
  • Reach the village of Cheram/Tseram
  • Overnight stay in Cheram/Tseram
  • Max. Altitude:3870m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Cheram/Tseram to Tortong (2,995m)
  • Descend through the forested trail
  • Pass by the villages of Ramche and Lamite Bhanjyang
  • Overnight stay in Tortong
  • Max. Altitude:4630m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080m)
  • Descend through picturesque villages and terraced fields
  • Reach the village of Yamphudin
  • Overnight stay in Yamphudin
  • Max. Altitude:2065m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:8 hrs
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Yamphudin to Khebang (1,910m)
  • Descend through scenic valleys and cardamom fields
  • Reach the village of Khebang
  • Overnight stay in Khebang
  • Max. Altitude:1930m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5-6hrs
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Khebang to Thorpu (1,500m)
  • Descend along the Kabeli Khola River
  • Pass by waterfalls and small settlements
  • Overnight stay in Thorpu
  • Max. Altitude:1500m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trek from Thorpu to Birtamod (300m)
  • Descend through the lowlands and farmlands
  • Reach Birtamod, marking the end of the trek
  • Overnight stay in Birtamod
  • Max. Altitude:5,390m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Take a scenic drive from Birtamod to Kathmandu
  • Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu
  • Enjoy a celebratory dinner in the evening
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu
  • Max. Altitude:1300m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:12 hours
  • Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Transfer to your hotel
  • Attend a trek briefing and meet your trekking guide
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu
    • Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Suketar (Taplejung)
    • Begin the trek from Suketar to Mitlung (921m)
    • Trek through terraced fields, lush forests, and traditional villages
    • Overnight stay in Mitlung
      • Continue the trek from Mitlung to Chirwa (1,270m)
      • Pass through beautiful landscapes and small settlements
      • Cross the Tamor River and ascend to Chirwa
      • Overnight stay in Chirwa
        • Trek from Chirwa to Sekathum (1,660m)
        • Follow the trail along the Tamor River
        • Cross suspension bridges and enjoy the scenic views
        • Overnight stay in Sekathum
          • Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,520m)
          • Pass through dense forests and bamboo groves
          • Cross the Ghunsa River and ascend to Amjilosa
          • Overnight stay in Amjilosa
            • Continue the trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)
            • Trek through rhododendron forests and cross several streams
            • Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
            • Overnight stay in Gyabla
              • Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,475m)
              • Ascend through dense forests and alpine meadows
              • Reach the Sherpa village of Ghunsa
              • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
                • Rest and acclimatize in Ghunsa
                • Explore the village and interact with the locals
                • Optional hike to a nearby viewpoint for stunning mountain views
                • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
                  • Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m)
                  • Ascend through rocky terrain and cross moraines
                  • Reach the beautiful village of Kambachen
                  • Overnight stay in Kambachen
                    • Rest and acclimatize in Kambachen
                    • Take short hikes around the area to help with acclimatization
                    • Enjoy the breathtaking views of Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and other peaks
                    • Overnight stay in Kambachen
                      • Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m)
                      • Follow the trail along the Kanchenjunga Glacier
                      • Reach the remote settlement of Lhonak
                      • Overnight stay in Lhonak
                        • Trek from Lhonak to Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,143m)
                        • Enjoy the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks
                        • Return to Pangpema (5,140m) for an overnight stay
                          • Trek from Pangpema to Kambachen
                          • Descend along the Kanchenjunga Glacier
                          • Overnight stay in Kambachen
                            • Trek from Kambachen to Ghunsa
                            • Retrace your steps through beautiful landscapes
                            • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
                              • Trek from Ghunsa to Sele La (4,290m)
                              • Ascend towards the high mountain pass of Sele La
                              • Set up camp near Sele La for an overnight stay
                                • Trek from Sele La to Cheram/Tseram (3,870m)
                                • Descend from the pass and enter the rhododendron forests
                                • Reach the village of Cheram/Tseram
                                • Overnight stay in Cheram/Tseram
                                  • Trek from Cheram/Tseram to Tortong (2,995m)
                                  • Descend through the forested trail
                                  • Pass by the villages of Ramche and Lamite Bhanjyang
                                  • Overnight stay in Tortong
                                    • Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080m)
                                    • Descend through picturesque villages and terraced fields
                                    • Reach the village of Yamphudin
                                    • Overnight stay in Yamphudin
                                      • Trek from Yamphudin to Khebang (1,910m)
                                      • Descend through scenic valleys and cardamom fields
                                      • Reach the village of Khebang
                                      • Overnight stay in Khebang
                                        • Trek from Khebang to Thorpu (1,500m)
                                        • Descend along the Kabeli Khola River
                                        • Pass by waterfalls and small settlements
                                        • Overnight stay in Thorpu
                                          • Trek from Thorpu to Birtamod (300m)
                                          • Descend through the lowlands and farmlands
                                          • Reach Birtamod, marking the end of the trek
                                          • Overnight stay in Birtamod
                                            • Take a scenic drive from Birtamod to Kathmandu
                                            • Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu
                                            • Enjoy a celebratory dinner in the evening
                                            • Overnight stay in Kathmandu
                                              • Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal
                                              • Transfer to your hotel
                                              • Attend a trek briefing and meet your trekking guide
                                              • Overnight stay in Kathmandu
                                                • Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Suketar (Taplejung)
                                                • Begin the trek from Suketar to Mitlung (921m)
                                                • Trek through terraced fields, lush forests, and traditional villages
                                                • Overnight stay in Mitlung
                                                  • Continue the trek from Mitlung to Chirwa (1,270m)
                                                  • Pass through beautiful landscapes and small settlements
                                                  • Cross the Tamor River and ascend to Chirwa
                                                  • Overnight stay in Chirwa
                                                    • Trek from Chirwa to Sekathum (1,660m)
                                                    • Follow the trail along the Tamor River
                                                    • Cross suspension bridges and enjoy the scenic views
                                                    • Overnight stay in Sekathum
                                                      • Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,520m)
                                                      • Pass through dense forests and bamboo groves
                                                      • Cross the Ghunsa River and ascend to Amjilosa
                                                      • Overnight stay in Amjilosa
                                                        • Continue the trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m)
                                                        • Trek through rhododendron forests and cross several streams
                                                        • Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
                                                        • Overnight stay in Gyabla
                                                          • Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,475m)
                                                          • Ascend through dense forests and alpine meadows
                                                          • Reach the Sherpa village of Ghunsa
                                                          • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
                                                            • Rest and acclimatize in Ghunsa
                                                            • Explore the village and interact with the locals
                                                            • Optional hike to a nearby viewpoint for stunning mountain views
                                                            • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
                                                              • Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m)
                                                              • Ascend through rocky terrain and cross moraines
                                                              • Reach the beautiful village of Kambachen
                                                              • Overnight stay in Kambachen
                                                                • Rest and acclimatize in Kambachen
                                                                • Take short hikes around the area to help with acclimatization
                                                                • Enjoy the breathtaking views of Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and other peaks
                                                                • Overnight stay in Kambachen
                                                                  • Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m)
                                                                  • Follow the trail along the Kanchenjunga Glacier
                                                                  • Reach the remote settlement of Lhonak
                                                                  • Overnight stay in Lhonak
                                                                    • Trek from Lhonak to Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5,143m)
                                                                    • Enjoy the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks
                                                                    • Return to Pangpema (5,140m) for an overnight stay
                                                                      • Trek from Pangpema to Kambachen
                                                                      • Descend along the Kanchenjunga Glacier
                                                                      • Overnight stay in Kambachen
                                                                        • Trek from Kambachen to Ghunsa
                                                                        • Retrace your steps through beautiful landscapes
                                                                        • Overnight stay in Ghunsa
                                                                          • Trek from Ghunsa to Sele La (4,290m)
                                                                          • Ascend towards the high mountain pass of Sele La
                                                                          • Set up camp near Sele La for an overnight stay
                                                                            • Trek from Sele La to Cheram/Tseram (3,870m)
                                                                            • Descend from the pass and enter the rhododendron forests
                                                                            • Reach the village of Cheram/Tseram
                                                                            • Overnight stay in Cheram/Tseram
                                                                              • Trek from Cheram/Tseram to Tortong (2,995m)
                                                                              • Descend through the forested trail
                                                                              • Pass by the villages of Ramche and Lamite Bhanjyang
                                                                              • Overnight stay in Tortong
                                                                                • Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080m)
                                                                                • Descend through picturesque villages and terraced fields
                                                                                • Reach the village of Yamphudin
                                                                                • Overnight stay in Yamphudin
                                                                                  • Trek from Yamphudin to Khebang (1,910m)
                                                                                  • Descend through scenic valleys and cardamom fields
                                                                                  • Reach the village of Khebang
                                                                                  • Overnight stay in Khebang
                                                                                    • Trek from Khebang to Thorpu (1,500m)
                                                                                    • Descend along the Kabeli Khola River
                                                                                    • Pass by waterfalls and small settlements
                                                                                    • Overnight stay in Thorpu
                                                                                      • Trek from Thorpu to Birtamod (300m)
                                                                                      • Descend through the lowlands and farmlands
                                                                                      • Reach Birtamod, marking the end of the trek
                                                                                      • Overnight stay in Birtamod
                                                                                        • Take a scenic drive from Birtamod to Kathmandu
                                                                                        • Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu
                                                                                        • Enjoy a celebratory dinner in the evening
                                                                                        • Overnight stay in Kathmandu

                                                                                          FAQs About Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

                                                                                          1. What is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
                                                                                          The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging and remote trekking route that takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Kanchenjunga region in eastern Nepal. It offers breathtaking views of the world's third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), and takes you through a variety of ecosystems, from lush forests to high alpine terrain.

                                                                                          2. How long is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
                                                                                          The trek usually takes around 20 to 25 days to complete, depending on your itinerary and pace. The trekking distance is approximately 170 to 220 kilometers, with several acclimatization days to help you adjust to the altitude.

                                                                                          3. Is a special permit required for this trek?
                                                                                          Yes, the Kanchenjunga region is a restricted area, and a special trekking permit is required. You need to obtain both a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. Additionally, the trek requires a minimum of two trekkers to enter the region.

                                                                                          4. What is the best time for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
                                                                                          The best time for the trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and favorable trekking conditions. The views of the mountains and landscapes are also at their best during these periods.

                                                                                          5. How difficult is the trek?
                                                                                          The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is considered to be a strenuous and challenging trek. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and rugged terrain. Trekkers should be physically fit and mentally prepared for long days of walking. Previous trekking experience at high altitudes is recommended.

                                                                                          6. What is the accommodation like on the trek?
                                                                                          Accommodation during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek varies. In lower altitudes, you can find tea houses and basic lodges with shared facilities. As you ascend, the accommodation becomes more basic and may involve camping due to the lack of proper lodges. It's essential to be prepared for basic amenities and to carry proper gear.

                                                                                          7. Is it necessary to hire a guide and porter?
                                                                                          While it's not mandatory, hiring a guide and porter is highly recommended. A guide can assist with navigation, ensure your safety, and provide cultural insights. A porter can help carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to enjoy the trek without the physical strain of carrying a heavy load.

                                                                                          8. Are there any altitude-related risks on the trek?
                                                                                          Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek due to the high altitudes reached during the trek. It's crucial to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually. The trek's itinerary usually includes rest days for acclimatization. If symptoms of altitude sickness develop, descending to a lower altitude is the best course of action.

                                                                                          Route Map
                                                                                          Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 22 Days map
                                                                                          FAQs
                                                                                          • It is highly recommended to hire a guide and porter for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. A guide will help navigate the trail, ensure your safety, and provide valuable insights about the region. A porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to enjoy the trek without the burden of carrying a heavy load.

                                                                                          • Yes, it is possible to combine the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek with other treks in the region. For example, you can extend your trek to include the Makalu Base Camp Trek or the Three Passes Trek in the Everest region. These combinations require careful planning and a longer duration for the overall trek. Consulting with a trekking agency will help you design a customized itinerary based on your preferences and fitness level.

                                                                                          • In case of emergencies during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, there are rescue services available. It is important to have travel insurance that covers emergency evacuations in remote areas. Your trekking agency will have arrangements in place to contact rescue services if needed.

                                                                                          • There are no specific restrictions on photography during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. However, if you plan to take photographs or videos for commercial purposes, you may need additional permits or permissions. It is always respectful to ask for permission before taking photos of local people, religious sites, or cultural events.

                                                                                          • The starting point of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is usually Taplejung, a town in eastern Nepal. To reach Taplejung, you can take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Suketar Airport, which is the nearest airport to Taplejung. From Suketar, you can continue the journey by road or on foot to reach Taplejung.

                                                                                          • Yes, the Kanchenjunga region is known for its rich biodiversity. During the trek, you may have the opportunity to spot various wildlife species such as the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and different species of birds. However, wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed as they depend on factors such as season, time of day, and luck.

                                                                                          • The most popular route for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is the North and South Base Camp Trek, which involves a loop around the Kanchenjunga massif. However, there are alternative routes available depending on your preference and time constraints. Some trekkers choose to trek to either the North or South Base Camp only. It is best to discuss your options with a trekking agency to determine the route that suits your needs.

                                                                                          • There are no strict age restrictions for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. However, due to the challenging nature of the trek and the high altitudes involved, it is recommended for trekkers to be in good physical health and have previous trekking experience. It is advisable to consult with a trekking agency and your healthcare provider to assess your suitability for the trek.

                                                                                          • Yes, the Kanchenjunga region is rich in cultural diversity. Along the trek, you will pass through several villages inhabited by different ethnic groups such as the Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa communities. You can explore their unique culture, traditions, and religious practices, including monasteries and prayer flags.

                                                                                          • The maximum elevation reached during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is at Pangpema, also known as Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of approximately 5,143 meters (16,873 feet).

                                                                                          • Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk on the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek due to the high altitudes reached during the trek. It is important to acclimatize properly by ascending slowly, drinking plenty of water, and listening to your body. It is advisable to include rest days in your itinerary to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.

                                                                                          • Kanchenjunga Base Camp is located in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area in eastern Nepal, near the border with India. It is situated at the foot of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.

                                                                                          • Yes, a permit is required to enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. You will need a special restricted area permit, as well as a trekking permit, which can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.

                                                                                          • Some essential items to pack for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing (including layers), a down jacket, a sleeping bag, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, a headlamp, sunscreen, a water bottle, water purification tablets, basic medical supplies, and snacks or energy bars. It's important to pack light and carry only the essentials.

                                                                                          • Yes, there are altitude-related risks during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, as you reach high elevations. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a common concern. It's crucial to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually to minimize the risks. It's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and be aware of the symptoms and preventive

                                                                                          • The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks, including Mount Kanchenjunga itself. It takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, remote valleys, and picturesque villages. You also get the opportunity to explore the unique culture and lifestyle of the local communities, including the ethnic Rai and Limbu people.

                                                                                          • Accommodation options during the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek are basic and primarily consist of teahouses and lodges. These offer simple rooms with basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and a common dining area. The availability of amenities may decrease as you go higher in altitude, so it's advisable to carry your own sleeping bag and other essential items.

                                                                                          • While it is not mandatory to hire a guide or porter for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, it is highly recommended, especially if you don't have prior experience with high-altitude trekking in remote areas. A guide can provide valuable assistance with navigation, safety, and local knowledge, while a porter can help carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek.

                                                                                          • Yes, you need several permits to trek in the Kanchenjunga region. These include the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits are obtainable through authorized trekking agencies in Nepal.

                                                                                          • The best time to do the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and excellent visibility. However, it's important to note that the region can be prone to heavy snowfall and harsh weather, so it's always advisable to check the latest weather updates before planning the trek.

                                                                                          • The duration of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek varies depending on the chosen route and itinerary. On average, it takes around 20 to 25 days to complete the entire trek, including acclimatization days and rest days.

                                                                                          • The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is considered to be a challenging and strenuous trek. It involves steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and long walking hours. It requires a good level of physical fitness, endurance, and previous trekking experience.