Kangchenjunga Circuit Trek 2026

Key takeaways

• The Kangchenjunga Circuit Trek is a rare, remote Himalayan adventure that visits both the North (Pangpema) and South (Yalung/Oktang) Base Camps of the world’s third-highest mountain.

• This 23-day trek is challenging and best suited for experienced trekkers, with high altitudes above 5,000 m, long walking days, and limited facilities in remote areas.

• Trekking requires special permits, a licensed guide, and a minimum group of two, but rewards you with rich culture, quiet trails, and dramatic alpine scenery.

• With proper preparation, fitness, and the right season (spring or autumn), the Kangchenjunga Circuit offers one of Nepal’s most authentic and unforgettable trekking experiences.

The Kangchenjunga Circuit is a rare Himalayan adventure. It leads you far off the beaten path, so you’ll see very few other trekkers. The trek visits two base camps: Yalung (South) and Pangpema (North). From both camps, you have spectacular close-up views of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) and its neighbours. Along the way, you pass through remote villages where Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Gurung, and Tibetan communities live traditional mountain lives. You’ll see colourful prayer flags, Buddhist monasteries, and simple villages like Ghunsa and Khambachen. This trek is special for its cultural richness and stunning scenery – wild rhododendron forests, high glaciers, and the serenity of a quiet trail away from crowds.

Kangchenjunga Circuit Trek Duration: 23 Days

• Total distance: ~180–200 km in and out (depending on route).

• Duration: 23 days (including arrival and departure days).

• Highest altitude: about 5,150 m at Pangpema (North Base Camp).

• Permits: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (approximately US$25) and Restricted Area Permit (approximately US$20 per week). (A TIMS card ($17) is also needed for trekking.)

• Group size: Minimum two trekkers (solo trekking is not allowed).

• Best seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November).

• Route highlights: Both South and North base camps, high passes (Sele La ~4,200 m), lush forests, and Yak Kharkas (summer herder camps).

Day-by-Day Itinerary: Kangchenjunga Circuit Trek (23 Days)

The Kangchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and challenging adventures, combining both the North and South Base Camps. This 23-day journey takes you through lush tea gardens, forests, Sherpa villages, high alpine meadows, and glacial valleys. With breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga’s massive peaks, cultural immersion, and diverse landscapes, this trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a complete Himalayan experience.

Itinerary (23-Day Breakdown)

• Days 1–2 (Kathmandu): Arrive in Kathmandu, complete permits and paperwork, shop for gear, enjoy Nepali food, and explore the city.

• Day 3: Fly to Bhadrapur or Biratnagar (45 min), then drive/jeep to Taplejung or Sekathum. Trek begins at Phurumbu/Chirwa.

• Day 4: Trek to Amjilosa, following the Ghunsa Khola river valley.

• Day 5: Trek to Gyabla through rhododendron and pine forests.

• Day 6: Trek to Ghunsa (3,595 m), a Sherpa/Buddhist village with tea houses and a monastery.

• Day 7: Rest and acclimatise at Ghunsa. Optional ridge hike.

• Day 8: Trek to Khambachen (4,050 m) via Selele (3,900 m), crossing suspension bridges and meadows.

• Day 9: Trek to Lhonak (4,780 m) through alpine meadows and yak pastures.

• Day 10: Trek to Pangpema (5,150 m, North Base Camp) for views of Kanchenjunga’s north face. Return to Lhonak/Khambachen.

• Day 11: Descend back to Ghunsa.

• Day 12: Trek to Sele La (4,290 m), crossing the high pass with yak pastures and a lake.

• Day 13: Trek to Cheram (3,870 m) in the Yalung Khola valley near the South Base area.

• Day 14: Rest/acclimatise at Cheram with short hikes and glacier views.

• Day 15: Trek to Ramche (4,580 m) and visit the Yalung Glacier viewpoint.

• Day 16: Day hike to Oktang (4,730 m, South Base Camp) for sunrise/sunset views of Kanchenjunga’s South Face. Return to Ramche.

• Day 17: Trek to Tortong (2,995 m), descending through rhododendron forests.

• Day 18: Trek to Sekathum (1,576 m) via Chirwa, the last village with guesthouses.

• Day 19: Jeep ride to Ilam (tea garden town) or Taplejung through lush hills.

• Day 20: Drive/jeep to Bhadrapur, fly back to Kathmandu. Rest in the city.

• Days 21–22 (Kathmandu): Free time for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxation.

• Day 23: Final departure with unforgettable Himalayan memories.

Trek Difficulty & Fitness Needs

The 23-day Kangchenjunga Circuit is a challenging trek. You will hike many long days (5–8 hours) on steep, rocky trails. The highest points are above 5,000 m (you reach over 5,100 m at Pangpema), so high-altitude fitness is essential. To prepare, train for months ahead: do uphill hikes with a backpack, run or cycle for cardio, and build leg strength. Practice hiking 4–5 hours at a time. You should be in good general health and able to walk for long hours. The trek is not suitable for beginners in Himalayan trekking, but with proper training and a positive attitude, you can still make it. Listen to your body, pace yourself, and remember that each rest day helps you adjust to your routine.

Cost & Budget Guide for Kangchenjunga Circuit Trek (23 Days)

Typical package price:

About US$1,800–2,500 per person. Prices vary by group size, season, and included services.

What’s included:

Most tour packages include all meals on trek (3/day), accommodations (tea houses or lodges), permits, internal flights (Kathmandu–Bhadrapur), park fees, an English-speaking guide and porters.

What’s extra:

International airfare to Nepal, Nepal visa fees, travel insurance, tips for guides/porters, and personal expenses (such as snacks, phone calls, and alcoholic drinks) are usually not included. Budget extra for a warm sleeping bag rental, hot showers (if available), and snacks/drinks along the way.

Advice:

Get quotes from a reliable trekking company. Cheaper isn't always better; ensure the price covers permits, flights, guide & porter wages, and good food on trek. Avoid companies that skimp on safety or staff pay.

Permits, Rules & Local Regulations

Permits Needed:

You must obtain a Kangchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) and a Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP). (A TIMS card is also required.) These are arranged through your licensed Nepali trekking agency. The Conservation Permit costs approximately US$25, and the Restricted Area Permit costs about US$20 per week (additional weeks are $25/week).

How to obtain them:

Your trekking company will assist you in applying in Kathmandu. You need your passport, photos, and details of your itinerary. Permit fees must be paid in advance. Carry the permits with you on the trek for checkpoints.

Guides & Groups:

According to Nepalese law, solo trekking is not permitted on the Kangchenjunga Circuit. Trekkers must hike in groups (minimum two people) with a licensed guide. The guide must be from the trekking agency that arranges your permits. This rule helps protect the fragile environment and keeps you safe in remote areas.

Other rules:

Follow national park and local guidelines. Don’t litter or damage plants. Respect local customs (ask before photographing people). Always stick to the trail on your permit’s map.

Accommodation & Food on the Trail

Lodging:

You sleep in tea houses or mountain lodges. These are simple twin-sharing rooms with basic beds, blankets, and pillows. Above ~4,000 m (after Khambachen), lodges get more rustic; sometimes you stay in local homestays or yak-huts with shared facilities. Always bring a warm sleeping bag, as nights at high altitudes can be cold.

Meals:

Your package usually includes three meals a day during the trek. Dishes are simple Nepali and Tibetan-style foods. Breakfast might be oatmeal, eggs, pancakes or toast. Lunch and dinner often include staples such as dal bhat (lentils and rice) or vegetable soups, as well as noodles, pasta, and occasionally momos (dumplings). Many tea houses have menus with Western dishes (pasta, pizza, bread) and Nepali favourites. Expect lots of potatoes, rice, and soups, since higher camps rely on what's carried in or grown locally.

Snacks & drinks:

Tea houses offer hot beverages (such as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate), snacks (including noodles and chocolate bars), and bottled water. (Water can also be boiled or purified.) Drink lots of fluids during the day. Food and drink prices tend to increase at higher altitudes. (For example, dal bhat might cost ~$1–1.50 low down and ~$5–6 at 5,000 m.)

Cleanliness:

Basic toilets (often squat style) are in most tea houses. They can get very cold and dirty at high camps. Carry some toilet paper in your daypack. Showers are rare: Ghunsa has the best hot showers (for a fee), and some lower villages may have them.

Best Time & Weather for the 23-Day Trek

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal. You’ll enjoy mostly clear skies, mild days, and cool nights. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and warm afternoons, while autumn offers stable, crisp weather and a good chance of snow-free passes.

Monsoon (June–August):

Heavy rain and clouds make the trails slippery and leechy. Most high lodges close. We do not recommend trekking then.

Winter (December–February):

Very cold, deep snow at high passes, and many lodges are closed. Some trekkers do it, but it’s much harder.

Temperatures:

In good seasons, expect daytime highs of 10–20°C (50–68°F) in lower villages, but nights can drop below freezing above 3,000 m. On the highest passes (4,000–5,000 m), it can be near –10°C (14°F) at night. Always prepare for cold and wind, even on sunny days.

Essential Packing List for a 23-Day Kangchenjunga Circuit Trek

Pack light but smart. Here’s a checklist of the most important items:

Clothing:

Warm, layered clothes. A fleece or insulated jacket, a down jacket, and a windproof/waterproof shell. Trekking pants and thermal underwear (long johns). T-shirts (moisture-wicking) for hiking, plus a couple of warm long-sleeve shirts. A warm hat (covers ears) and a sun hat. Warm gloves and liner gloves. Wool or synthetic socks (several pairs) and comfortable trekking boots (waterproof, broken-in).

Gear:

A sturdy 60 L backpack with a rain cover. A 4-season sleeping bag (rated to –15°C or colder) and a sleeping pad for insulation. Trekking poles for stability. Sunglasses (UV protection) and high-SPF sunscreen. A headlamp with extra batteries. A refillable water bottle and water purification (tablets or filter). Personal hygiene items: toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitiser, quick-dry towel, toothbrush/toothpaste, soap. Small first-aid kit (blister plasters, painkillers, altitude sickness medicine, such as Diamox if prescribed, and personal medications).

Essentials:

Passport (and copies), passport photos, cash (Nepali rupees), a small padlock for your duffel bag. Camera or phone (with charger, power bank). Power adapter (Nepal uses types C, D, M plugs). Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate). Travel insurance info.

Tip:

Check the weight limit for the small plane flight (max. ~20 kg, including personal carry). Your guide/porter will carry your main duffel (up to ~13 kg). Keep the rest (day items) in a small daypack.The Kanchenjunga Trek packing list includes a four-season sleeping bag and warm layers for high altitudes.

Altitude Sickness Prevention & Health Tips

Going above 3,000 m means that altitude sickness (AMS) is a risk. AMS happens when the body can’t get enough oxygen at high elevation. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, or feeling very tired. To prevent it, climb slowly and give your body time to adjust. This trek has built-in acclimatisation days (Ghunsa and Cheram). Stay hydrated (drink plenty of water) and eat enough carbs (rice, potatoes). Avoid alcohol and smoking on trek, and don’t overexert yourself. On tough days, take frequent breaks and walk at a steady pace. You can consider Diamox (acetazolamide) if you know you suffer from altitude sickness, but only use it under a doctor’s advice. If you experience severe symptoms (severe headache, vomiting, confusion), descend immediately to a lower altitude. Always listen to your guide if someone shows signs of AMS.

Stay well-rested and healthy: bring a basic first-aid kit and any necessary personal medications. A small water purifier or tablets will ensure safe drinking water. It’s wise to have travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation in the event of an emergency. Our guides will have a first-aid kit and oximeter (oxygen meter) to monitor everyone’s health.

Culture & Scenic Highlights

The Kangchenjunga trek is as rich in culture as it is in scenery. You pass through traditional Rai and Limbu villages, home to Nepal’s ethnic mountain peoples. Villagers warmly welcome trekkers, and you’ll see wooden houses with carved windows, monasteries, and fluttering prayer flags. In Khambachen or Ghunsa, you might meet locals tending flocks or performing Buddhist rituals. If you’re lucky, you may witness a local festival featuring mask dances in Ghunsa, offering a glimpse into the living Himalayan culture.

In nature, the views are unforgettable. You trek through thick rhododendron forests (especially beautiful in spring bloom) and open alpine meadows. The surrounding mountains include Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Mt. Everest, Makalu, and many other 7,000–8,000 m peaks. From the bases and high passes, you see giant glaciers and towering snow walls. Wildlife such as the red panda, Himalayan black bear, blue sheep, and musk deer inhabit this area. Keep your camera ready for colourful sunsets on snowy peaks and for bright prayer flags against a blue sky.

Conclusion

 The 23-day Kangchenjunga Circuit is a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Now that you know what it takes, start preparing: train your body, gather gear, and apply for permits well in advance. Choose a trusted trekking company – they will handle permits, logistics, and help you focus on the journey. Plan for spring or fall for the best chance of good weather. Talk to others who have done the trek or ask travel forums for tips on guides and routes.

 

With careful preparation and a spirit of adventure, this trek will reward you with unforgettable views and experiences. You’ll not only see Nepal’s third-highest peak from both sides but also meet warm-hearted mountain people and experience a Himalayan culture that few outsiders know. So lace up your boots, pack your bag, and get ready for the ultimate Himalayan journey: 23 days of wilderness, culture, and awe in Kangchenjunga!

FAQs

Can I trek the Kangchenjunga Circuit alone?

No. Solo trekking is not permitted. You must be in a group of at least two people with a licensed guide.

What fitness level is required?

Good physical fitness is necessary. Prepare with regular hikes, stair climbing, and cardio workouts. The trek is demanding with steep trails and high altitude.

Is the trek safe? What about altitude sickness?

Yes, it is safe with proper planning. Altitude sickness can occur above 3,000 m. Walk slowly, stay hydrated, rest often, and inform your guide if you feel unwell.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best seasons. Rain or snow is still possible, so carry warm clothing and a rain jacket. Guides may adjust the itinerary if needed.

Do children need trekking permits?

Yes. Children under 10 receive free permits. The trek is very difficult for young kids. Over 10s can join with a guide, but families should consider easier treks such as Langtang Valley or Everest Panorama.