The unspoiled region, off-beaten trail, pristine beauty of flora and fauna, and a great myth with a high spiritual connection. This is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek in Nepal, a heaven-like beauty on earth. Embark on this unbelievable adventure in Nepal, where the majestic views depict the tranquility of the Himalayas, demonstrating the unchanged Tibetan culture of the Sherpa and Lepcha communities, and the remote trail shows the ancient tea house and untamed landmarks.
Highlights
- Witness the first-hand panoramic vista over the mountains and landscapes throughout the flight from Kathmandu to Bhdrapur - a kick start to the expedition
- Explore the hidden corner covering every aspect and trailhead surrounding the world's third-highest peak - Mt. Kanchenjunga
- Make your way through the off-beaten pathway and wild terrains from woodlands to the rugged terrains to local villages to the alpine valleys and the highly towering mountains
- Attain both the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga, also known as Pang Pema and Oktang, over 4000 meters
- Interact and gaze at the unchanged lifestyle of locals of diverse communities such as Lepcha, Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and others
- Cross the legendary high mountain passes and feel the adventure, such as Sele La Pass (4482 meters) and Sinion La (4646 meters)
- Meander through the woodlands that thrived in the colorful rhododendrons at lower elevation and Himalayan poppy wild flowers over 3000 meters
- Visit several monasteries, temples, and other spiritual landmarks where meditation, prayers, and chants are hosted with other boasting festivals
- Unveil the beauty of Himalayan flora and fauna spanning through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, right from the beginning to the end
- Take a chance to spot the untamed the rare wildlife species such as blue sheep (Chyangra), snow leopard, and Himalayan tahr en route
- Surround yourself with the almighty peaks, also some eight-thousanders such as Mt. Everest, Makalu, along with the Yalung Glacier as well
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Overview:
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek leads you to both the North and South Base Camps of Kanchenjunga that showcase multiple-angle views of the third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga soaring at the height of 8586 meters within Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. As this trek to Kanchenjunga circles every corner of the iconic peak, through the remote and isolated area, it is one of the treasures in the Eastern Himalayas, that stands out being one of the most pristine off beaten adventure in Nepal, just to let you know it also connects The Great Himalayan Trail - hence, one can imagine how varied landscapes one gets to navigate through during this trek.
Located at the eastern side of the country, the Kanchenjunga Trek route lies within a restricted area, with limited (basic) amenities, which comprise several ascents and descents and cross over the high mountain passes of Sele La (4482 meters) and Sinion La (4646 meters), showing the ice walls, glaciers, pristine lakes, and alpine surroundings. The scenery shifts to the rugged beauty of Alpine tundra, leading you to the spectacular close-up views of several glaciers, including the famous Yalung Glacier and the Kanchenjunga massif, which highly resembles Gautam Buddha in a meditative pose from many sides.
Daily, the trekking route of the Kanchenjunga Circuit demands 5 to 7 hours of hiking, through diverse terrains, rugged sections, and high passes as well, hence one must have prior experience of high elevation treks. On top of that, it requires a special permit to get through this restricted area, making it an unexplored trek and keeping away large crowds of trekkers from this hidden gem. Also, do not get confused, as this trek is also popularly known as "Kanchenjunga Base Camp," and the trailhead remains the same.
Besides the breathtaking views, it is also believed that many peaks that reside here are highly protected by the Yeti (snow monster) from any dangers. The locals worship Mount Kanchenjunga as five celestial Tathagatas (Buddhist deities). So, no one ever dares to touch the summit point of this mountain, and the remaining 5 feet below the sentimental values of people. These mythological and many other spiritual insights add a unique experience to the trek.
Trekking in the Kanchenjunga region was closed to trekkers until mid-1980, whereas in the present day, the region is protected by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area project, where beautiful fauna and flora are still in their natural state today. To get through the trek, a restricted area entry permit is mandatory, provided by the Ministry of Nepal Immigration Department.
Our Kanchenjunga Circuit trek itinerary is a complete package of adventure, and scenically wild experiences, that include visits to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp and Kanchenjunga North Base Camp from Ramche and Lhonak, with an acclimatization hike to Janu Himal Base Camp (4700 m) and Nupchu Pokhari - 4954 meters, before attaining the base camps, so that you get to gradually adopt the rising elevation without any risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
With the perfect infusion of the rich tapestry of Tibetan communities such as Lepcha, Rai and Sherpa, off-beaten wilderness, and varied landscapes where ancient villages, mountains, Himalayan flora, and fauna reside, it would be no debate to mention Kanchenjunga as one of the most preserved gems worth more than diamonds, in the eastern Himalayas, Nepal.
Are you ready to unfold the new memories in life by accessing the remote and restricted territorial land to exist? Well, then, do not wait any longer! You can make your bookings for Kanchenjunga Trek 2025 and 2026 with us, where your safety, comfort, and flexibility are handled by the professional expert teams!
What makes the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek for 2025 and 2026?
Unlike other popular treks that have been booming all over the internet these recent years, Kanchenjunga Circuit is one of the most pristine landmarks located in Eastern Nepal, which lets you experience the remoteness, local communities, thriving festivals, isolated corners with no trace of facilitated infrastructure, showing a distinct and ancient tea house just like 90's back in old days.
This 19-day expedition traverses through the traditional villages of Ghunsa, Amjilosa, Ghyabala, Khambachen, Lhonak, and attains the North and South Base Camps at the same time. The side trips explore the hidden treasures of Jannu Base Camp, Nupchu Pokhari, and reach the height of 6100 meters - Drohmo Ri, and cross the high mountain passes of Sele La Pass, hence, Kanchenjunga Tea house Trek is an once in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to unveil the beauty of the rugged landscapes and the unchanged culture without compromising the panorama of the mountains.
Within less than 3 weeks, you’ll get to see different insights into the pristine beauty of the Virgin Mountains and landscapes with cultural diversities that make you feel like a fairy tale on earth. Thus, the following are the major highlights that add an extra touch to captivating trekkers to embark on this journey of the Kanchenjunga Trek:
Experience the Off-Beaten Adventure and Ancient Tea House Comfort
Being surrounded by the towering mountains and glaciers, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is one of the most protected and restricted territories of Nepal, which requires a special permit, limiting the footprints in the trailhead. That defines that, if you are opting for this Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, then you will be rewarded with an opportunity to pass through the untamed beauty of the highlands, exploring the rugged, remote beauty, and one of the treasures of the Himalayas. Unlike other popular routes here in Nepal, like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Langtang Trek, you can expect lesser crowded trailhead, throughout the journey, providing a realm of peace at the same time, without being modernly influenced by civilization.
Throughout the journey, this trek traverses through the ancient tea houses that remained unchanged and passed through inheritance with the slatted roofs, old mystic designs, colorful stones, and is surrounded by the colorful prayer flags signifying its Tibetan culture. While other routes are being heavily infrastructure with different routes and developed rapidly, this hidden gem of the Kanchenjunga region remains the same, opening a gateway to every explorer who loves to seek unblemished trails with a distinct cultural mosaic.
Unparalleled Mountain Views
Trekking to Kanchenjunga means unveiling the beauty of the Himalayas each day. From the first day of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes with the majestic vista of Kanchenjunga massifs and Kumbhakarna Range from our first stop, Taplejung, even if it’s from far away. After leaving the forests and entering the alpine zone (middle sections), you’ll see clear views of Kanchenjunga Mountain with several glaciers, including the Yaglung Glacier is the largest in the Kanchenjunga region.
Along the way, you’ll trail through high-altitude passes like Sele La at 4290 meters and Sinion La (4500 meters), from where panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Makalu, and many more can be seen. Upon reaching the North and South Base Camps, you will witness the majestic views of Kanchenjunga face-to-face with the stunning glaciers falling from the peaks, along the dramatic ice wall.
Hike to the iconic Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pang Pema) at 5140 meters
Without attaining the base camp of the northern side, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek remains incomplete, which begins from Lhonak to Pang Pema, surrounded by ice walls, rocks, and sparkling glaciers. After reaching the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, the highly towering peaks of the northern face - Mount Kanchenjunga at 8586 meters, which stretches to other Himalayan peaks such as Nepal Peak, Pyramid Peak, Kirat Chuli, Twin Peaks, Tengkoma, and many others. Meanwhile, along the route, if luck is in your favor, then you might witness the rare, elusive snow leopard, through the remote and raw landscapes, making the Kanchenjunga Trekking more wild.
Meaningful Side Trips to Janu Himal Base Camp (4701 m) and Nupchu Lake at 4954 meters
One of the major perks of the Kanchenjunga Trekking is the side excursion from Khambachen (4050 meters) to the Janu Himal Base Camp located at the height of 4700 meters, which takes almost 6 to 7 hours round trip; however, it acts as a preparation to ascend to higher elevations on the following day,s adopting the increasing altitude.
The trek begins with the stone, rugged trailhead, and slowly, the landscapes gradually open up, with the glacier (a huge one), just at the right side, and the Tibetan hamlet (like a monastery), dotted with colorful prayer flags, and Tibetan mantras, where hikers, locals, and monks do prayers and seek blessings before heading to the sacred holy Jannu Himal - considered as a deity in Buddhism. After reaching Jannu Base Camp (4700 meters), the adjacent Mount Jannu (7710 meters) surrounds you with towering high cliffs, valleys, ice walls, and the panoramic vista of Mt Jannu (Kumbhakarna), and other holy mountains as well.
At the same time, if you still have strength and want to boost your adrenaline level, then you can continue the hike to Nupchu Pokhari - one of the highest glacial lakes of Kanchenjunga that soars at a height of 4954 meters. Starting from a gradual ascent, rugged terrains, and crossing over glacial rock sides and alpine valleys, you will be encircled by the panorama of the Jannu Himal, Ghabur Himal, Nupchu Peak, Sarphu Peak, and the Pholesobithonje range at 360 degrees as well. Whereas, the holy glacier lakes, sprinkle and reflect the high mountains, along the colorful Buddhist prayer flags, flapping in the wind.
Hike to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (Oktang) - 4732 meters
After covering the northern side of the base camp, the trail follows toward Kanchenjunga South Base Camp from Ramche, also known as Oktang, at an elevation of 4732 meters, which demonstrates the pristine landmarks from terraced fields, to high mountain yak pastures where yaks graze, and the shiny glacial moraines, through some rocky and icy sections. Then, after reaching the base camp, the southern face of the almighty Mt. Kanchenjunga stands right in the front with other peaks such as Kabru Range, Talung, and the shiny Yalung Glacier. If you've arrived earlier, then the sunrise view over the mountains will leave you speechless.
Cultural, Spiritual, Beliefs, and Thriving Festivals
If you have ever had the urge to experience the rich culture of remote areas, then trekking to Kanchenjunga is the perfect one for you. Besides being best at its natural diversity, it shows you the way of livelihood of different ethnic groups like Sherpa, Rai, Bhutia, Lepcha, and many more. At the beginning of this trek, you’ll see great insights into the Rai and Lepcha's famous rituals and beliefs, where they perform songs and dances celebrating their connection with nature. The Lepcha community is something distinct from others that can only be found in Kanchenjunga. They wholeheartedly respect and worship the rivers, mountains, and landscapes as deities of the Gods. It is also said that they communicate with nature and maintain shamanistic practices to get blessings. Sounds fascinating, right?
While moving to the middle to upper regions, you’ll witness the communities of Sherpa and Bhutia residing in the lap of stunning landscapes and mountains. Staying at their lodges or tea houses, you’ll get the warmth of hospitality even at such high altitudes, out of genuine respect and love that offers a homely feeling here. From the starting point to the ending point, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek presents a wide range of customs, traditions, regional languages, local foods, etc., where you’ll stay, rest, see their culture, and interact with them.
Here are some of the festivals that you will explore, at the peak seasons of spring and autumn in the Kanchenjunga region:
- Mani Rimdu: Celebrated in Autumn (peak seasons), in between October and November, it is one of the major festivals of Sherpa communities, full of colors and vibrant celebrations, done in the form of mask dances, playing ancient musical instruments, which represent the victory over negative energies (evil) by good forces, hosted in monasteries and local kanchenjunga vital corridors as well.
- Lhosar (Tibetan New Year): Known as the Tibetan New Year, that is celebrated in Spring season (Feb - Early May), that highly depends on the lunar calendar, and the beginning of the new year, it is hosted in himalayan buddhist communities; including the Sherpa, Tamang, across Tibet, Bhutan and Nepal as well especially, at the himalayan side.
- Dumje Festival: Celebrated among the Sherpa and Tibetan communities, including the Kanchenjunga landmark itself, it is an annual event hosted every year, dedicated to the birth of the Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the Buddhist master who himself introduced and spread the Vajrayana Buddhism throughout the Himalayas.
- Buddha Jayanti: One of the major festivals, also known as Buddha Purnima, is celebrated in Nepal and throughout the world following the Buddhist spirituality, which commemorates the 3 significant events of Buddha's Life - Birth, Enlightenment, and Death of Lord Buddha between April and May (springtime).
With the perfect influx of scenic views, diverse landscapes of six climatic zones, and the rich tapestry of culture, this Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking marks its name as one of the most pristine and wild adventures in the Himalayas.
Can I opt for the Kanchenjunga North or South Base Camp without completing the whole circuit?
If the timing and your experience level don't fit as per the challenges of the full Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, then, do not settle yourself back, as a complete 19 days is too much to give for, which takes almost 3 weeks to spend on the isolated, remote area, we offer the feasibility of choosing either the north or the south base camp of Kanchenjunga, that fits as per your preference and timing as well.
As the circuit one visits both the base camps, to shorten up the trip, you can opt for either of those, which both promise to offer the best pristine Himalayan highland, and explore the highlighted corner of the world's third-highest peak - Mount Kanchenjunga. If you are someone who loves the snowy, frosty peaks panorama, alpine landscapes, shining glaciers, and the thrilling ice wall, along with the opportunity to witness the dramatic six climatic zones, the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek (Pang Pema) is for you, which can be completed within 14 days.
On the other hand, for more cultural exploration, one can opt for the legendary Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek; however, looking at the brighter side, this trip is relatively shorter, perfect for individuals with tight schedules, as it gets completed within 12 days, starting from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Even though it is relatively short, it traverses through the lush green woodlands, to local hamlets, and terraced fields, letting you connect with the Lepcha and Rai communities, and still reaches the southern base camp.
No matter what your destination is, both the base camps of North and South access the off-beaten pathway of Eastern Nepal, where the remote tea houses, dramatic landscapes, and mountains with the local people's hospitality will awestruck you. We at Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition offer you the flexibility of customizing your Kanchenjunga Trekking itinerary as per your choice and time, being matching your budgeted cost at the same time. Meanwhile, having served for more than 2 decades now, our professional team carries the great expertise in making your trip a comfortable, safe, and meaningful one with an experienced local trekking guide for navigation through well-marked routes, avoiding the risky landslide and avalanche areas. To know more, you can take a deep dive by reading our recently updated blog: Ultimate Kanchenjunga South Vs North Base Camp breakdown, which signifies the differences, features, and similarities, perfect for those who are limited in time and want to opt for either of the base camps.
So, do not wait any longer, thinking that time and budget are your major drawbacks. With us, we customize as per your demand, so your adventure becomes 100% successful and lets you tick off the bucket list at the same time. Bookings for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek for 2025 and 2026 are now open, with 5% off early birds offer.
Required Kanchenjunga Trekking Permits and Cost
The permits will be checked at the Kanchenjunga National Park checkpoint. But, there is nothing to worry about as we arrange all the necessary permits in Kathmandu before your arrival. As per the government rules, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) can only be possible if you are trekking through a registered trekking agency like Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition must trek along with at least one other person, and that doesn’t include the guide and porter. There are only two permits required for the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek mentioned below:
- Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit: USD 20$, NPR 2000/- per person
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit: USD 30$, NPR 3000/- per person
Note: After your booking is confirmed with us, all these required trekking permits will be arranged by us, and the fees are generally included in our package; hence, you do not have to bear extra costs.
Kanchenjunga Trek Solo Vs Group for 2025 & 2026
Are you alone and don't have a partner to travel with, and looking forward to venturing out on the Kanchenjunga Trek solo in 2025 or 2026? Well, if that's the case, then just take a note that solo trekking to Kanchenjunga is not allowed and has been banned by the Government of Nepal, considering the fact, that, it falls under one of the most isolated parts of the country, with no trace of tea houses in many points and most of all, faciliated with limited aminities. To hike within this restricted area, the Government of Nepal has implemented the law that one needs a trekking partner to hike within this region, including 1 registered licensed guide and 1 porter; hence, solo trekking is banned, and the permits and other logistics must be managed through a registered trekking local agency.
However, looking on the brighter side, you can do a private Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, along with just a guide and a porter, without any group joining, as the group join remains rare in this expedition, unlike other treks, as it is a long, long journey where the time doesn't align and fits for group joining. While you go solo trip, it gives you a first-hand experience to explore the best out of the majestic highlands, untamed Himalayan exploration, and a time for solitude and peace, and most of all, choose your itinerary and time as well without any fuss of matching other departure dates.
What can be done for the private trip is to add a ghost permit, where the restricted area permit (the main permit) will be arranged by enlisting 1 other trekker (who doesn't exist), and you just have to pay USD 20 per head every week for the extra Restricted Area Permit, which might be on a costlier side, but trust us, it is the only way that you can go solo, along with guide legally. Besides, you can do group joining for the Kanchenjunga Trekking as well, but you must wait for the departure dates. Group joining benefits in splitting the cost of transportation, lodging, guides, and porters, which goes on the budget-friendly side.
No matter whether you go on a solo Kanchenjunga trek or opt for joining the group, we at Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition can customize your trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp for 2025 and 2026 with ease, arranging all the logistics, from restricted area permits, licensed guides and porters, managing the itinerary as per your pace and ensuring safety.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026
Our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek package starts from USD 1299 and goes up to USD 1850, which completely depends on the number. of the pax that your group holds, and the facilities you are opting for. However, if you have a relatively larger number of hikers in your group, then the cost will be minimized, and the price will be relatively higher if you want a private, secluded trip. Our standard Kanchenjunga Trek cost is USD 1850, which covers all your requirements, such as permit fees, accommodations, meals, guides, and all their expenses (insurance, meals, equipment), transportation facilities ensuring the journey becomes a hassle-free expedition.
Here is the detailed outline of the pricing depending on the number. of hikers for 2025 and 2026:
| No. of Hikers | Starting Price (USD) |
| 1-1 | USD 1850 |
| 2-2 | USD 1550 |
| 3-3 | USD 1530 |
| 4-5 | USD 1499 |
| 6-10 | USD 1299 |
Why trek with Destination Himalayan Treks and Expedition?
With our above 15 years of experience in providing trekking services to people all around the globe, we can deliver safe and trustworthy expeditions. To date, we’ve more than a 98% satisfaction rate, making us a reliable partner for your next destination. We’ve carefully tailored this Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek itinerary with the most affordable price possible in the market, and one of the most amazing parts about us is that you can easily customize the itinerary to your preference and duration with the help of our expert company member.
When it comes to our guides and porters, they have been serving many trekkers in the Kanchenjunga region, and on top of that, you’ll be trekking with an English-speaking guide who knows this trail pretty well. At every point of the trek, he’ll describe to you the specialties and famous myths, and stories of this trek. Regarding our trekking company, we charge you only the trekking fees that have been mentioned; there are no hidden charges.
If you want to explore any other popular trek within a limited timeframe, then you can check our Annapurna Circuit Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, and many others. To enhance your journey even more, we offer additional benefits to make the overall journey even more fascinating, such as:
- 2-3 days staycation at our "Hotel Bihani" standard tourist-based hotel if you are staying for more days here in Nepal.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites Seeing Tour in Kathmandu and the Patan valley, upon arrival or after the trip.
- Free Airport Shuttle (Airport Pickup and Drop off) via private vehicle
- 24-hour communication along the trail via WhatsApp, Viber, or direct call at +977 9851016814
- Online Trip Briefing before the trip and In-Person Briefing on arrival
- Safe and Easy Booking and Secure Payment System
- Oximeter- to keep track of how your pulse rate is working and ensure that your body is adapting to the rising elevation
- Free Luggage Excess Storage even after the trip gets completed if in case you don't have the place to fit or keep your luggage safe
