When you hear about trekking in Nepal, you’ll likely first think of Everest or Annapurna. But tucked far east of these famed routes lies a hidden giant: the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, an untouched Himalayan adventure circling the third-highest mountain in the world – Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m).
Far from the tourist crowds, Kanchenjunga circuit trek in Nepal is raw, remote, and culturally immersive. This trek gives you:
Pristine trails,
Epic mountain vistas,
Tibetan-influenced villages, and
The ultimate sense of solitude.
The Kanchenjunga region is located in the Taplejung district in far eastern Nepal, bordering Sikkim (India) and Tibet (China). Due to its remoteness and status as a restricted trekking area, it remains Nepal’s most untouched trekking gem.
Mount Kanchenjunga is revered by locals as a sacred mountain. The region is part of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to red pandas, snow leopards, blue sheep, and ancient glaciers.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is a loop that connects both the North Base Camp (Pangpema) and South Base Camp (Oktang), offering a rare 360-degree Himalayan panorama.
Taplejung
Ghunsa (local Tibetan village)
Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema – 5,143m)
Sele La Pass (4,290m)
South Base Camp (Oktang – 4,730m)
The Kanchenjunga trek itinerary typically lasts 21–24 days, depending on rest days and route extensions. Below is a classic circuit plan that balances adventure and altitude safety.
Day 1 – Fly Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, drive to Taplejung
Day 2 – Trek to Mitlung
Day 3 – Trek to Chirwa
Day 4 – Trek to Sekathum
Day 5 – Trek to Amjilosa
Day 6 – Trek to Gyabla
Day 7 – Trek to Ghunsa (3,595m)
Day 8 – Rest day in Ghunsa for acclimatization
Day 9 – Trek to Khambachen
Day 10 – Trek to Lhonak
Day 11 – Day hike to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema)
Day 12 – Return to Ghunsa
Day 13 – Trek to Sele La Pass
Day 14 – Trek to Tseram
Day 15 – Trek to Ramche
Day 16 – Day hike to South Base Camp (Oktang)
Day 17 – Return to Torongding
Day 18 – Trek to Yamphuding
Day 19 – Trek to Khebang
Day 20 – Trek to Taplejung
Day 21 – Drive to Bhadrapur & fly to Kathmandu
Note: Shorter itineraries (Kanchenjunga North/South only) are possible.
| Expense Item | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Restricted Area Permit | $20/week (min 2 trekkers) |
| Kanchenjunga Conservation Permit | $30 |
| Guide (mandatory) | $25–$35/day |
| Porter (optional) | $20–$25/day |
| Transportation (domestic flight + jeep) | $250–$300 |
| Food & Accommodation | $25–$40/day |
| Trekking Gear & Essentials | $100–$150 (if rented) |
Many trekkers debate between the North Base Camp, South Base Camp, or the full Kanchenjunga Circuit.
Experience both faces of Kanchenjunga
Cross the dramatic Sele La Pass
Visit authentic villages like Ghunsa, Yamphuding
Stunning biodiversity from jungle to alpine glacier
It’s Nepal’s best remote trek for serious trekkers looking for silence, nature, and cultural depth.
One of the most trusted names in sustainable trekking, Nepal Eco Adventure offers full-service Kanchenjunga trek packages, including:
Government-licensed guides
Permits, transportation, and accommodation
Eco-conscious waste management
Customizable itineraries for private or group treks
If you’re looking for ethical travel with a focus on community support and environmental responsibility, Nepal Eco Adventure is a great option.
Most Kanchenjunga trekking packages include:
Airport transfers
All domestic transport (flight + jeep)
3 meals/day during trek
Lodging (teahouses and homestays)
Trekking permits
Guide and porters
First-aid kit, emergency contact
Not included:
Travel insurance
Tips for staff
Personal gear/snacks
International flights
Due to the restricted area rule and tough terrain, hiring a Kanchenjunga trek guide is mandatory and highly recommended.
Navigation through remote, unmapped zones
Help with permits and local liaisons
Crisis management (injury, altitude issues)
Cultural context of Buddhist/Tibetan customs
Logistic planning for high passes & base camps
Choose guides with Kanchenjunga experience, not just general trekking knowledge.
Sleeping bag (rated -15°C or lower)
Thermal layers, down jacket, rain gear
Trekking boots, poles, headlamp
Water filter or purification tablets
Snacks, hydration salts, sunscreen
Personal medicine and first-aid
| Location | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Taplejung | 1,800m |
| Ghunsa | 3,595m |
| Pangpema (North BC) | 5,143m |
| Sele La Pass | 4,290m |
| Oktang (South BC) | 4,730m |
Total trek distance: 170–200 km, depending on side treks and detours.
If you’re craving an unspoiled adventure, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is Nepal’s final frontier. It’s remote, raw, and refreshingly off-grid.
From the glacial amphitheater of Pangpema to the sacred cliffs of Oktang, the journey will test your limits—and reward you with the most humbling Himalayan experience.
Whether you book through Nepal Planet Treks or a trusted local guide, be ready for the trek of a lifetime.
1. How difficult is the Kanchenjunga trek?
It’s a challenging Grade 4 trek, suitable for fit trekkers with high-altitude experience. Daily walks of 6–8 hrs, remote trails, and high passes make it strenuous.
2. Can I do Kanchenjunga Trek solo?
No. Due to its restricted status, Kanchenjunga trekking requires a minimum of two trekkers and a licensed guide.
3. Is there phone or Wi-Fi?
Limited. Expect no internet or cell signal beyond Ghunsa. Take a satellite device for emergencies.
4. What’s the best time to trek Kanchenjunga?
Spring (March–May): Clear skies, rhododendron bloom
Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, crisp views
We are a government-authorized trekking agency in Nepal. We have strictly followed all necessary legal procedures and obtained necessary licenses and certificates to be liable to operate travel services in Nepal.
