Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek 22 Days

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is an extraordinary adventure that offers trekkers a chance to experience Nepal’s untouched wilderness and the majestic beauty of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak (8,586 m). This trek, located in the remote eastern region of Nepal, is renowned for its breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural experiences.

Highlights of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:

1. Stunning Views of Kanchenjunga and Neighboring Peaks
   Witness panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), and other towering peaks.
2. Diverse Landscapes
   Experience varied terrains, from subtropical forests and terraced farmland to alpine meadows and glacier-covered landscapes.
3. Rich Flora and Fauna
   The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is home to species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear.
4. Cultural Immersion
   Explore traditional villages of ethnic groups like the Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan communities.
5. Remote and Less Crowded Trails
   Enjoy pristine trekking trails far from the more commercialized routes of Nepal.

Short Details

• Duration: 20–27 days (depending on your itinerary)
• Starting Point: Taplejung (via a flight to Bhadrapur and a drive to Taplejung)
• Difficulty: Challenging (requires good fitness and prior trekking experience)
• Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November

Itinerary Overview:

1. Kathmandu to Taplejung (Travel by flight and drive)
2. Taplejung to Mitlung – Initial descent through terraced fields and forests.
3. Mitlung to Ghunsa – Pass through culturally rich villages.
4. Ghunsa to Kambachen to Lhonak – Trekking near glaciers with incredible mountain views.
5. Visit Pangpema (Kanchenjunga Base Camp - North) – Highlights of the trek.
6. Cross Sele La Pass – A high-altitude pass with awe-inspiring scenery.
7. Descend to Yalung Base Camp (South Face)
8. Return to Taplejung

Permits Required:

• Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
• Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

Trip Outline

Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (2,420m/7938ft), Drive to Taplejung; 45 min flight & 9 hours drive
Day 02: Taplejung to Lalikharka (2265m/7,431ft): 4 – 5 hours trek
Day 03: Lalikharka to Khesewa (2120m/6,955ft): 5 - 6 hours trek
Day 04: Khesewa to Mamankhe (1785m/5,856ft): 5 - 6 hours trek
Day 05: Mamankhe to Yamphudin (2080m/6824ft): 4 -5 hours
Day 06: Yamphudin to Tortong (2,995m/9,826ft): 7 -8 hours
Day 07: Tortong to Cheram (3,870m/12,696ft): 2 -3 hours
Day 08: Cheram: Acclimatization and Rest
Day 09: Cheram to Ramchaur (Ramche) (4,580m/15,026ft): 3 – 4 hours
Day 10: Ramchaur (Ramche) to Yalung Base Camp (4500m), back to Cheram: 3 – 4 hours
Day 11: Cheram to Sele La (4290m/ 14,074ft) : 6 -7 hours
Day 12: Sele La to Ghunsa (3,595/11,794) : 2 -3 hours
Day 13: Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m/13,287ft) : 5 -6 hours
Day 14: Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m/15,682ft) : 5 -6 hours
Day 15: Kanchenjunga base camp, overnight at Pangpema (5,143/16,873ft): 6 -7 hours
Day 16: Pangpema to Lhonak : 3 – 4 hours
Day 17: Lhonak to Ghunsa (3475m/11,400ft) :6 -7 hours
Day 18: Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2,308m/7,572ft) : 5 -6 hours
Day 19: Amjilosa to Chirwa (1,270m/4,166ft) : 6 -7 hours
Day 20: Chirwa to Taplejung via Mitlung (921m/3020 m): 7 -8 hours trek
Day 21: Taplejung to Bhadrapur: 9 hours drive
Day 22: Fly to Kathmandu