Your adventure begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, which offers stunning views of the eastern Himalayan range. From Bhadrapur, you’ll take a scenic drive to Ilam, a beautiful hill station known for its tea gardens and lush landscapes. After arriving in Ilam, take time to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The day involves around 5 hours of driving, and you'll be staying at a local lodge for the night.
Today, you’ll drive to Taplejung, which is one of the most important gateways to the Kanchenjunga region. The drive takes about 5 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes, including rural villages, terraced fields, and dense forests. Upon arrival in Taplejung, you’ll spend the night at a lodge and prepare for the trek ahead.
Your trekking journey begins today as you head from Taplejung to Chirwa, a small village nestled in a valley. The trail is mostly downhill as you descend towards the Tamor River, crossing several suspension bridges along the way. It’s a scenic route through lush forests and terraced fields. The trek takes approximately 6 hours, and you’ll arrive at Chirwa in the afternoon.
From Chirwa, you will trek to Lelep, which is situated at a higher elevation and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The trail passes through a variety of terrain, including dense forests and small villages. It is a moderate trek of about 7 hours, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Today’s trek will take you to Amjilosa, a small settlement nestled in a scenic valley. The trail is moderately challenging, with some uphill sections, but it’s also rich in wildlife and natural beauty. As you ascend through beautiful forests and cross streams, you’ll gradually make your way toward Amjilosa. The trek will take about 5 hours, and you’ll rest for the night in a local teahouse.
Today, you’ll continue your ascent toward Gyabla, a charming village surrounded by beautiful forests. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga region and the surrounding peaks. The walk takes around 4 hours, and you’ll be greeted by the stunning sight of snow-capped mountains as you arrive at Gyabla.
The trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa takes you deeper into the heart of the Kanchenjunga region. You’ll pass through picturesque villages, forests, and meadows, all while enjoying views of towering peaks. The trek lasts about 4 hours, and upon reaching Ghunsa, you’ll settle into a comfortable lodge to rest and prepare for the next leg of the journey.
To help your body adjust to the increasing altitude, today is an acclimatization day. You’ll spend the day exploring the village of Ghunsa and taking short hikes around the area to help your body acclimate. It’s important to stay active, but not overexert yourself. This rest day will help you avoid altitude sickness as you continue your trek.
After acclimatizing, it’s time to continue your trek to Kambachen. The trail climbs gradually, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. As you walk through alpine meadows and rocky terrain, the landscape becomes more dramatic. The trek takes around 4 hours, and you’ll be able to enjoy some rest and recuperation upon arrival at Kambachen.
Another acclimatization day is scheduled at Kambachen to help your body adjust to the high altitude. You can take short walks around the area, perhaps visiting nearby viewpoints or enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Staying well-hydrated and resting are essential as you prepare for the challenging days ahead.
The journey from Kambachen to Lhonak is a relatively short yet rewarding trek. The path takes you through alpine terrain, past glaciers, and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. After approximately 4 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive in Lhonak, where you’ll enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
Today, you’ll make a day trip to the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. It’s an exciting opportunity to get up close to the mighty Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world. The trek is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. After spending time at the base camp, you’ll return to Lhonak to rest for the night.
After visiting the North Base Camp, it’s time to return to Ghunsa. The trek takes about 7 hours as you descend through stunning landscapes, retracing your steps back to the village. This will be a long day of trekking, but the journey will be filled with incredible views and the satisfaction of having reached the North Base Camp.
Today, you’ll continue your trek from Ghunsa to Sele Le, which is located at a higher elevation. The trail climbs steadily through forests and across alpine meadows, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The trek takes around 5 hours, and you’ll enjoy an overnight stay at Sele Le.
Today’s trek will take you from Sele Le to Cheram, a small village known for its alpine beauty and proximity to the South Base Camp. The route takes you through rough, rocky terrain with amazing views of Kanchenjunga and other surrounding peaks. It’s a challenging 8-hour trek, but the breathtaking scenery makes it all worthwhile.
On this day, you’ll make the trek to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, which offers an up-close view of the majestic Kanchenjunga. The trek takes about 6 hours, and you’ll be able to capture stunning photos of the mountain range and surrounding landscape. After spending some time at the base camp, you’ll head back to Cheram to rest.
Today, you’ll descend to Torongding, which is located at a lower elevation. The trek is relatively easier compared to the previous days, and you’ll pass through beautiful forests and meadows. The journey takes around 4 hours, and you’ll enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Torongding for the night.
From Torongding, you’ll make your way to Yamphuding, which is a larger village located at a lower elevation. The trek takes about 8 hours, with some challenging uphill sections and steep descents. As you pass through villages and terraced fields, you’ll get a chance to experience the rural lifestyle of the region.
Today, you’ll head from Yamphuding to Khebang, a peaceful village in the lower hills. The trek is moderate, lasting about 4 hours, and offers wonderful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You’ll enjoy the warm hospitality of the villagers and stay overnight in a local lodge.
The trek from Khebang to Khamdime is a relatively short 4-hour walk through villages and farmlands. You’ll gradually make your way down the hill, following a scenic route with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Upon arrival at Khamdime, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the peaceful environment.
Today, you’ll drive back to Bhadrapur from Khamdime. The 10-hour drive takes you through charming rural landscapes, offering you one last chance to enjoy the beauty of eastern Nepal before reaching the town.
On the final day of your trek, you’ll take a flight from Bhadrapur back to Kathmandu. You’ll be able to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve completed through the Kanchenjunga region as you return to the hustle and bustle of the capital city.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek with Explore Holiday Nepal was an incredible experience. The trek offered stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters. The team at Explore Holiday Nepal provided exceptional service, making the journey smooth and memorable. Highly recommend for adventurers looking to explore Nepal's hidden gems!
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a remote and less-traveled trekking route in eastern Nepal that takes you around the majestic Kanchenjunga massif, the third-highest mountain in the world. This trek offers trekkers the chance to explore pristine nature, encounter traditional villages, and witness breathtaking mountain views. The trek is known for its diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, and its rich cultural experiences. The Kanchenjunga Circuit is perfect for adventurous trekkers who seek an off-the-beaten-path experience away from the crowds.
Explore Holiday Nepal is a reputable trekking company with years of experience in organizing treks in Nepal’s remote regions. Our team is dedicated to providing excellent service, ensuring safety, and delivering authentic trekking experiences. When you choose Explore Holiday Nepal, you benefit from our knowledgeable local guides, comfortable logistics, and comprehensive support throughout your trek. We prioritize your safety, satisfaction, and an unforgettable journey to one of Nepal's most spectacular regions.
The best time to embark on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is clear, and the temperatures are more moderate, allowing for better trekking conditions. The skies are usually clear, offering spectacular mountain views. However, it’s important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and trekkers should be prepared for varying conditions.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its remote location, long trekking days, and high-altitude terrain. The route reaches elevations above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), which increases the risk of altitude sickness. The trek requires a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience in similar environments. It is highly recommended to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude-related issues. Our team at Explore Holiday Nepal will ensure you take proper acclimatization breaks and provide expert guidance to help you safely navigate the trek.
Yes, it is highly recommended to trek with a licensed guide and porter. Explore Holiday Nepal provides professional guides who are knowledgeable about the local terrain, culture, and safety procedures. A porter will assist in carrying your heavy load, allowing you to focus on the journey and the breathtaking views around you. Our team ensures your comfort and well-being throughout the trek by providing the best logistical support.
Altitude sickness is a concern on high-altitude treks like the Kanchenjunga Circuit. As the trek reaches elevations over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), proper acclimatization is key. Our guides at Explore Holiday Nepal are experienced in helping trekkers acclimatize properly by taking rest days and ensuring gradual elevation gains. We also advise you to stay hydrated, avoid overexertion, and be mindful of any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Throughout the Kanchenjunga Circuit, you will stay in basic tea houses or local lodges. While the accommodations are relatively simple, they are comfortable enough to rest and recharge for the next day of trekking. The teahouses offer warm meals, local food, and a cozy atmosphere, though it’s important to have realistic expectations as the trek is in a remote region. There will be opportunities for a few nights of camping in areas where tea houses are not available.
Packing for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek requires careful planning due to the variable weather and altitude. Key items include:
Proper trekking boots
Warm clothing (layers are best)
A sleeping bag for colder nights
Waterproof jackets and pants
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
A first aid kit, water purifier, and personal medications
A good quality camera to capture the stunning landscapes
Our team will provide a detailed packing list when you book the trek to ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure.
Safety is our top priority at Explore Holiday Nepal. Our experienced guides are trained in first aid and altitude sickness prevention, and we ensure that your trek follows proper safety protocols. We monitor the weather conditions and adjust the itinerary as needed to avoid potential hazards. We also carry emergency communication devices to ensure that assistance can be provided in case of an emergency.
The cost of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek depends on the specific itinerary, duration, and services included. This typically covers permits, transportation (flights and drives), accommodations, meals, guide and porter fees, and other logistics. A detailed breakdown of the costs will be provided when you inquire with Explore Holiday Nepal, ensuring transparency and no hidden fees.
The duration of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek varies based on the chosen itinerary, ranging from 18 to 24 days. The trek's length depends on acclimatization schedules, rest days, and the specific route taken. Explore Holiday Nepal offers flexible itineraries to suit different preferences and fitness levels.
A high level of physical fitness is essential for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Trekking at high altitudes, often above 5,000 meters, requires endurance and strength. Regular cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practice treks in similar terrains are recommended to prepare.
Acclimatization is key to preventing altitude sickness. The trek includes scheduled rest days at higher elevations to allow your body to adjust. It's also advisable to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and maintain a steady pace. Consulting with a healthcare provider before the trek is recommended for personalized advice.
Trekkers need two permits:
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
These permits are mandatory and can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency like Explore Holiday Nepal. Independent trekking in the region is not permitted.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is essential. It should cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation (including helicopter rescue), trip cancellation, and loss of belongings. Given the remote nature of the trek, insurance is crucial for safety.
Yes, a tourist visa is required for entry into Nepal. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at land border crossings. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is considered a strenuous journey, best suited for experienced trekkers with a good level of physical fitness. The trail involves long daily walks, significant altitude gains, and traversing rugged terrains. While beginners with prior trekking experience in high-altitude regions may attempt the trek, it's essential to undergo proper physical training, consult with a healthcare provider, and consider joining a guided group for safety and support.
Hiring a porter is highly recommended for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek due to its long duration and demanding terrain. The average trek involves multiple days of hiking across varied elevation gains, often with daily walks lasting 6–8 hours. Carrying your own gear can lead to fatigue and lessen your enjoyment of the experience.
Porters typically carry up to 20–25 kg of gear, allowing you to trek with just a light daypack. Not only does this reduce physical strain, but it also supports the local economy by providing employment. Explore Holiday Nepal ensures all porters are fairly compensated, well-equipped, and insured for their safety.
In addition to guides and porters, Explore Holiday Nepal provides assistant guides for larger groups, cooks for camping sections, and logistical support teams. Assistant guides are helpful for managing group dynamics and ensuring that slower or faster trekkers receive attention at all times.
On certain remote routes where teahouses are limited, a cooking staff and camping crew may accompany the group. These team members manage tent setup, food preparation, and camp logistics, ensuring a smooth and comfortable trekking experience even in isolated areas.
Accommodation during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is mostly in basic teahouses or homestays, especially in lower and mid-altitude villages. These teahouses typically offer simple rooms with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. The facilities are modest, but they provide shelter and a communal area for meals and warmth.
As you ascend into higher altitudes, facilities become more limited. In extremely remote areas, you may stay in more basic lodges or even camp, depending on the itinerary. Explore Holiday Nepal ensures that all accommodation is pre-arranged and meets safety and hygiene standards to the best extent possible in remote conditions.
Bathroom and shower facilities vary depending on the location. At lower elevations, teahouses usually offer squat toilets and occasionally Western-style toilets. Hot showers, when available, often come at an extra cost and are typically heated using gas or solar power.
In higher altitudes or more remote areas, bathrooms may be basic outdoor toilets, and showers may not be available. Trekkers should be prepared for rustic conditions and bring personal hygiene supplies. Explore Holiday Nepal provides guidance on what to expect in each village and how to stay clean and comfortable during the trek.
Electricity is available in most teahouses at lower elevations, often powered by solar panels or small hydro systems. Charging devices like phones or cameras usually incurs an extra fee, and the availability of charging outlets can be limited, especially at higher altitudes.
It is advisable to carry a power bank or a solar charger. Explore Holiday Nepal also recommends minimizing battery use by switching devices to airplane mode and keeping electronics warm to preserve battery life in cold conditions.
Meals on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek are typically simple, hearty, and carb-rich to sustain energy during long trekking days. The staple meal is “dal bhat,” a traditional Nepali dish consisting of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and sometimes meat. Other options include noodles, fried rice, potatoes, pasta, and Tibetan bread.
While food is basic, it is generally clean and nourishing. In more remote areas, food choices may be limited due to supply constraints. Explore Holiday Nepal works closely with local teahouses to ensure food is prepared hygienically and according to trekkers’ dietary preferences where possible.
Yes, vegetarian meals are widely available and often the default in many rural areas where meat is not regularly consumed. Vegan meals can also be accommodated with some planning. Typical vegan options include dal bhat without ghee, vegetable curries, plain rice, and chapati.
However, protein options for vegans may be limited, so it is advisable to bring supplemental snacks like nuts, seeds, protein bars, or plant-based protein powders. Explore Holiday Nepal can help coordinate dietary needs in advance with teahouses and cooks.
Drinking untreated water from streams or taps is not safe. Bottled water is available in some villages, but it is expensive and environmentally unsustainable. Most trekkers use water purification tablets, iodine drops, or portable filters to purify tap or stream water.
Explore Holiday Nepal encourages the use of refillable water bottles and provides advice on safe water sources along the route. In some cases, the guide may carry a portable filter for the group’s use.
Temperatures vary widely depending on the altitude and time of year. At lower elevations (below 2,000m), daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. As you ascend, temperatures drop significantly. At higher elevations, such as Pangpema (5,140m), nighttime temperatures can fall below -10°C.
Layered clothing is essential to cope with the range of temperatures. Explore Holiday Nepal provides a recommended gear checklist based on seasonal variations to help trekkers stay prepared.
Weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly. Sudden storms, snowfall, or landslides may cause delays or require route changes. In extreme cases, flights or transport may be canceled, and trekkers may need to wait for safer conditions.
Explore Holiday Nepal monitors weather forecasts and has contingency plans for emergencies. Flexibility is built into the itinerary to accommodate delays, and guides are trained to make safe decisions in changing conditions.
The most significant health risk on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is altitude sickness, which can affect anyone above 3,000 meters regardless of fitness. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If left untreated, it can progress to more serious conditions like HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) or HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema), which can be life-threatening.
Other risks include dehydration, foodborne illness, blisters, and cold-related issues like hypothermia or frostbite. Explore Holiday Nepal's guides are trained in first aid and altitude illness recognition. They carry basic medical kits and are prepared to initiate descent or organize helicopter evacuation if necessary.
Preventative measures are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. Acclimatize properly by following a gradual ascent schedule and listening to your body. Stay hydrated by drinking at least 3–4 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and smoking, as both can impair acclimatization.
Food hygiene is another key factor. Eat only well-cooked meals and drink treated water. Use hand sanitizer before eating and after using the bathroom. Explore Holiday Nepal works only with teahouses that meet minimum hygiene standards to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
In an emergency, immediate action is critical. If symptoms of severe altitude sickness appear, descent is the best treatment. Explore Holiday Nepal’s guides are trained to make quick decisions and coordinate evacuation, which may involve arranging for a helicopter through your insurance provider.
Emergency communication equipment such as satellite phones or walkie-talkies are carried by guides to stay in contact with the base office. The company maintains emergency protocols to liaise with local authorities and rescue services when needed.
While most of the trek is teahouse-based, some sections—especially near the North and South Base Camps—may require camping if teahouse options are full or closed. Explore Holiday Nepal provides all necessary camping equipment, including tents, kitchen gear, and sleeping mats, for such situations.
Trekkers only need to bring personal items, including a sleeping bag and warm clothing. The company’s support staff takes care of camp setup and meals, making the camping experience comfortable and well-organized.
Yes, Kathmandu has many shops where you can rent or buy trekking gear at reasonable prices. Items like sleeping bags, down jackets, and poles are commonly available. However, ensure the quality is up to standard, especially for high-altitude conditions.
Explore Holiday Nepal can assist in sourcing reliable rental shops and checking gear quality before your departure. For items worn next to the skin, such as base layers or boots, it’s best to bring your own to ensure comfort and hygiene.
Booking is easy and can be done through the Explore Holiday Nepal website or by contacting the office directly via email or phone. After choosing your preferred dates, the company will send a detailed itinerary, terms and conditions, and payment instructions.
A deposit (typically 20–30%) is required to confirm the booking, with the balance due upon arrival in Nepal. Once the deposit is received, the company begins arranging permits, transportation, and accommodations, ensuring a smooth and organized trek.
Explore Holiday Nepal accepts various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, PayPal, and cash. International wire transfers are the most common method for paying deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash (USD, EUR, NPR) or by card upon arrival in Kathmandu.
It’s advisable to carry some local currency during the trek, as card payment options are unavailable in rural areas. The company provides guidance on currency exchange and budgeting for your trip.
The cancellation policy is fair and transparent. If you cancel more than 30 days before the trek starts, you’ll receive a partial refund of your deposit. Cancellations closer to the trek date may incur a higher fee due to non-refundable permit and logistics costs.
In case of medical or personal emergencies, Explore Holiday Nepal offers flexibility and may allow rebooking at a later date. Travel insurance covering cancellation fees is highly recommended for added protection.
The trek starts in Taplejung, which is accessed via a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a jeep or bus ride to Suketar or Taplejung. These journeys may take 1–2 days depending on road conditions.
Explore Holiday Nepal arranges all domestic travel, including airport transfers and ground transportation. The company coordinates timings carefully to ensure minimal transit delays and maximum comfort.
Flights to Bhadrapur are relatively reliable compared to mountain destinations like Lukla or Jomsom. However, as with all flights in Nepal, weather conditions can cause delays or cancellations. It’s wise to allow buffer days in your itinerary to account for possible disruptions.
Explore Holiday Nepal tracks flight schedules in real time and maintains good communication with domestic airlines. In case of delays, the company arranges alternative transport or accommodation as needed.
While Explore Holiday Nepal does not issue international airline tickets directly, the team is happy to provide advice on flight schedules, trusted booking platforms, and airport logistics. They can also arrange airport pickup and drop-off services in Kathmandu.
If you arrive early or stay after the trek, the company can assist with hotel bookings, cultural tours, and short excursions to complement your trekking adventure.
