Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m

Driving Time: Approx. 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic

Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu or similar

Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International airport, our representative will be awaiting you to cordially welcome you with great hospitality. The representative will be displaying the “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” placard outside the airport terminal.

You will be then escorted and transferred to the hotel in our private vehicle. Our staff will accompany you and help you with the check-in at your accommodation. Further, you will be given a brief description of the activities that will take place during the upcoming trip and a preliminary briefing on hygiene and safety by our representative.

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m

Tour Duration:  8 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu or similar

Meal: Breakfast

9:00 AM: After breakfast, you start a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley. Experience the numerous colors, sounds, and tastes of authentic Kathmandu and its surroundings. Our experienced tour guides will tell you all you need to know and answer all your curiosities regarding those sites.

Local Market Tour

Take a short drive to Ason. Then, start wandering Ason and Indrachowk marketplaces to get a glimpse of traditional Nepalese life. Witness the bustle of the market, see how locals purchase the products and haggle for a bargain. Whilst walking around, enjoy the lively and vibrant atmosphere this local market has to offer. Observe firsthand the local produce people from Nepal actually purchase. You will also take in the sights and smells of the market. Your friendly tour guide will explain in full detail all the products and procedures you will see. There are lots of photo opportunities to capture with your camera.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Next, head towards Kathmandu Durbar Square, also called Hanuman Dhoka Durbar. This ancient site used to be the residence of the Nepali royal family and administrators. It incorporates an architecturally extraordinary complex of ancient palaces, temples, courtyards, and shrines dating from the 15th to the 18th century.

The prominent sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square are Kumari Ghar or the house of the living goddess.  Kasthamandap is a huge rest house that is said to have been built with wood from a single tree and is the source from which Kathmandu valley got its name. Other sites around Kathmandu Square are the ferocious Kal Bhairab – the red monkey God- Hanuman, hundreds of erotic carvings, temples, and statues dedicated to different deities.

Swayambhunath

Swayambhunath (monkey temple), is the magnificent ancient religious architecture and center of faith of Hinduism and Buddhism. Its lofty white dome and dazzling golden spire are visible from far and wide. Swayambhunath is the ideal place to observe the religious harmony in Nepal. In the shadows of the imposing structure and besides the integrated architecture, can be found the daily surge of devotees faithfully offering their prayers to the gods. Upon arriving at the top, you can hear the Buddhist song “Om Mani Padme Hum” resounds everywhere. The candles and the aromatic fragrance of incense that burns constantly create a serene vibe and enormous prayer wheels which encircle the stupa.

PM: Boudhanath

Thereafter, take a short drive towards Boudhanath.  From the moment you step into the sanctuary, you’ll immediately feel the spiritual energy that comes from the place. Boudhanath is one of the biggest stupa in Nepal, built in the 5^th century and listed on the world heritage list by UNESCO in 1979. The surrounding area is a central spiritual hub of Tibetan life and culture in Nepal. Observe a beautiful dome-shaped structure stupa surrounded by brilliant colorful prayer flags. It is believed that prayer flags convey mantras and prayers into the universe while fluttering in the wind. The Stupa is said to entomb the remains of Kassapa Buddha.

Witness monks draped in maroon robes rolling the prayer wheels, burning incense, and flickering butter candles. Moreover, it’s fascinating to see the people feeding grains and maize to hundreds of pigeons around stupa areas. The devotees turn the prayer wheels & chant, which is humbling to see such dedication to their beliefs.

Delight in the serenity as you hear the Buddhist mantra ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ being chanted by devotees, alongside the echo of music streaming out from the nearby shops.

Pashupatinath

Moving on, visit Pashupatinath temple, a Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva located on the bank of Bagmati River. The word Pashupati means “the king of animals” and the temple is famous for its monkeys. You will be visiting the Pashupatinath area to indulge in a spiritual journey.

Pashupatinath is more than just a religious destination. It is a combination of religion, art, and culture. The temple, spread across 246 hectares of land, abounds in temples and monuments. Hundreds of rituals are performed here every day. Witness people performing the religious ritual and funeral pyres burning at open-air cremation. Also, see elaborately dressed holy men meditating outside the temple and pilgrims placing offerings at the shrines. After touring around prominent sites, you will be transferred safely back to your hotel.

Altitude above sea level: 800 m

Flight duration: KTM- Bhadrapur 40 minutes approx.

Driving duration: 3 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

With an early wake-up call, you will get ready and be transferred to the airport, from where you will fly to Bhadrapur. Landing at Bhadrapur there will be a vehicle waiting for you that will drive to Ilam. It is a famous destination for natural scenery and landscapes, tea production, and a diverse agricultural economy. Stay overnight at Ilam and prepare yourselves for tomorrow’s trek.

Altitude above sea level: 921 m (Mitlung)

Driving duration: 5 hrs. Approx.

Trekking duration: 3-4 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You leave Ilam early in the morning and drive to Taplejung through the cardamom and tea cultivated area. The scenic drive offers you the first glimpse of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Jannu.

Your first day of trekking starts from Taplejung with an easy downhill walk. During the trek, you come across several cardamom plantations, tropical forests, and local farmlands. Thereafter, cross the suspension bridge, and you have to walk along Tamor River to get to the small farming village of Mitlung.

Altitude above sea level: 1,246 m (Chiruwa) 

Trekking duration: 5 – 6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you leave Mitlung behind and head towards Chirwa. You follow the Tamor river for a while, then the trail climbs towards the Chautara and the picturesque village of Sinwa. Thereafter, you go uphill to reach Tawa village. Then, it is an easy downhill to reach Chiruwa. Get settled into your accommodations and spend your leisurely afternoon exploring this beautiful spot.

Altitude above sea level: (1,660 m) Sekathum

Trekking duration: 5-6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After having breakfast, continues walking along the Tamor River. Then, you have to pass through a landslide area and continue to Taplethok Checkpoint. Thereafter, cross the suspension bridge over the river and walk on the west bank along with the cardamom farm. After having lunch at Phembu, you have a long uphill to get to the small mountain village of Lelep. It is a place with a police station and the headquarters of the Kanchenjunga conservation area project.

After this, you take a descending trail to Tamor River. Once you cross the suspension bridge, you have a long ascent up to the ridge which after you enter the Ghunsa river valley to reach Sekathum.

Altitude above sea level: (2,510 m), Amjilosa

Trekking duration: 5-6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you walk along Ghunsa River on the north side of the river, then climb towards Ghayabari. Then, the trek continues climbing uphill to Amjilosa. As you make your way toward Amjilosa, you’ll pass picturesque monasteries and witness the culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa and Tibetan people living in this area.

Altitude above sea level: (2,730 m) Gyabla

Trekking duration: 5–6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you leave Amijilosa behind and follow an easy trail walking along the Ghunsa River. You will pass waterfalls, meadows, and dense forests filled with oak, bamboo, and rhododendron. With no villages along the way, the entire walk provides a remote and tranquil experience as you trek toward Gyabla. Gyabala is a beautiful village with a Tibetan settlement.

Altitude above sea level: (3,595 m) Ghunsa

Trekking duration: 5–6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you will set out on today’s trek toward Ghunsa. You descend to the river valley and walk along the Ghunsa River through a beautiful forest of oak, fir, and rhododendron forests and continue to Phole. The charming Tibetan village of Phole marks the halfway point of the trek, and you can take a break to explore and enjoy lunch here before continuing towards Ghunsa.

Altitude above sea level: (3,595 m) Ghunsa

Accommodation: Tea house lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is an important day for acclimatization. Spend your day acclimatizing to the altitude as you rest and let your body adjust to the altitude of the Kanchenjunga region. A day hike can be organized to a close-by monastery called Lapsang La Pass. From the pass, you can see the beautiful view of Ghunsa peak and several other unnamed peaks.

Altitude above sea level: (4,100 m) Khambachen 

Hiking duration: 4–5 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After having a hearty breakfast, you follow the trail that goes along the east bank of the river. Then, cross the bridge at Rumpak Kharka, and continue to trek, passing a beautiful waterfall as you make your way towards Kambachen.  Kambachen is a Tibetan settlement consisting of dozen houses situated in a grassy plain area. The magnificent mountain surrounds the area. On top of that, you can see an incredible backdrop of the enormous north face of Jannu from Kambachen.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Before going any higher, you have another acclimatization at Khambachen. You can hike toward Jannu View Point from Khambachen. The hike to Jannu Base Camp is rewarding with mesmerizing view of Mount Jannu and other mountains.

Altitude above sea level: (4,785 m) Lhonak

Hiking duration: 5-6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you ascend through the rocky fields and boulders on the hillside along the stream flowing from Kanchenjunga Glacier. As you reach Ramtang, you start climbing on moraines alongside Kanchenjunga Glacier to reach the village of Lhonak and your final destination for the day.

Lhonak is a cold campsite due to its high location. However, you can savor the magnificent sights of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Jannu (7,711 m), Nepal Peak (7,177 m), and the Twins (7,350 m), and several other surrounding peaks of Nepal, Tibet, and India from this point.

Altitude above sea level: (5,143 m) KBC

Hiking duration: 6-7 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is one of the longest and most challenging days of your adventure, as well as one of the most memorable. Hit the trail early this morning to reach Pangpema, the highest point of Kanchenjunga North Basecamp. From here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the valley and the surrounding peaks of Chang Himal, Kirat Chuli, and Kanchenjunga’s north side. Since there are no lodges or teahouses available in this remote spot, you’ll hike back to Lhonak for the evening.

Altitude above sea level: (3,595 m) Ghunsa

Hiking duration: 8 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you hike mostly downhill as you cross Ramtang towards Ghunsa. Along the way, you’ll come across blue sheep grazing peacefully on the high slopes.

Altitude above sea level: (4,100 m) High Camp

Hiking duration:  5-6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Your trek starts after a hearty breakfast. You take a steep trail and climb through thick forests of pine and rhododendron. Then, the trek continues to Sele La pass at 4,290 m.  After lunch, you continue to hike further until you arrive at High Camp.  This place offers magnificent views of Mount Makalu.

Altitude above sea level: (3,870 m) Tseram,  (4,663 m) Mirgin La Pass

Hiking duration: 6-7 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is another long and challenging trek day; we cross 3 passes through the trail. After breakfast, we begin to trek, we trek uphill enjoying the south side view of Jannu and Makalu Himal. We traverse Sinon La  (4,440 m/14,566 ft.) and followed by Mirgin La (4,480 m/14,698 ft.), Sinelapche Bhanjyang (4,646 m/15,242 ft.) after crossing the passes we then make a steep descend to Tseram; it is a small settlement above Simua Khola.

Altitude above sea level: (4,580 m) Ramche

Hiking duration: 4 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we ascend uphill for one and half hours to Yalung Kharka. Then, you will walk all the way through the grassy area for 2 ½ hours, which will take you to Ramche.

Trek Highlights:

• You are likely to see blue sheep grazing and Tibetan snow cock on the way.
• You can see beautiful views of Kokhtang, Rathong, Kabri I-IV, Talung peaks from Ramche campsite.
• Witness the flocks of wild sheep and Lammergeier, the largest and the most spectacular bird of the Himalayas.

Altitude above sea level: (4,730 m) Okhtang

Hiking duration: 5-6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

In the early morning after breakfast, we hike up to Okhtang viewpoint for one and half hours passing through Yalung Glacier. While we ascend the ridge, we can see amazing views of blue sheep and Tibetan snow cock. After enjoying the view, we then follow the stream and soon follow the Okhtang vantage point. Once you reach the viewpoint you will see splendid view of majestic peaks such as Yalung, Kambachen and South Kanchenjunga After enjoying the view we then take descent to Ramche where there are a beautiful lake and pasture land along with stone houses. You can see blue sheep grazing on the grassy slopes. Then we walk down to Tseram, a large flat meadow.

Highlights:

• Encounter with blue sheep and Tibetan Snow cock.
• You can see a view of Yalung, Kambachen, South Kanchenjunga from Okhtang viewpoint
• Observe Yalung Glacier, which forms the major source of the Tamor River.
• Yalung glacier is overlooked by the peaks of Talung, Kabru, and Rathong

Altitude above sea level: (3,000 m) Tortong

Hiking duration: 4-5 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea house Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After having breakfast, we take descend all the way through Tseram and walk all along the shaded rhododendron forest following the Simbuwa Khola to Tortong.

Trip Highlights:

• Walking through the shaded forest of rhododendron trees. If you are trekking during spring, the entire forest is dominated by the vibrant rhododendron and wildflowers

Altitude above sea level: (2,080 m) Yamphudin

Hiking duration: 7 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After having breakfast we climb up 1,000 m/3280 ft., and the trail ascends steeply through a mossy wooded area passing the landslide area. Then we arrived at Lamite Bhanjyang where we had a lunch break. We continue the trail that descends steeply to the Imja Khola and descends into Yamphudin. The village has a mixed community of Sherpas, Rais, Limbus, and Gurungs and consists of another Kanchenjunga Conservation Area office.

Trip Highlights:

• Walk through serene mossy forest

• Explore Yamphudin, the mixed community of various ethnic groups

Altitude above sea level: (1,810 m) Mamankhe

Hiking duration: 4-5 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we leave Yamphudin village and take the contouring trail soaring on top of the river to Mananke.

Trip Highlights:

• Walk through the cardamom garden and rice fields
• Pass through several beautiful villages and encounter local people.
• Overnight at Mamanke, the prosperous Limbu Village

Altitude above sea level: (2,149 m) Kande Bhanjyang

Hiking duration: 6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

From Mamankethe trail, we walk through leveled and zigzag path and traverse a brook on an extended suspension bridge before ascending to Phumphe village. We then ascend to tea shops on the ridge and then cross through a sequence of valleys, passing many villages. Finally, we climb up to Kande Bhanjyang where we stay overnight.

Trip Highlights:

• Cross swing suspension bridge
• You can see the beautiful view of Mount Jannu from Phumphe ridge until Kande Bhanjyang
• The trail offers a great experience of the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of Limbu people.
• A wide range of cardamom farms, unique Himalayan flora, and fauna, untouched natural landscape, and cultural dances such as Dhaan Naach, chyarung Naach, and Bijuwa Naach are the major highlights of the region.
• Witness the fine views of Kanchenjungha, Kumbhakarna Mountains and Kabru ridge from Kande Bhanjyang

Altitude above sea level: (2,300 m) Suketar

Driving duration: 4 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, we take a drive to Suketar.

Altitude above sea level: (91 m) Bhadrapur

Driving duration: 8–9 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We wake up early, have breakfast, and take transportation that will drive us to Bhadrapur. The drive goes through Nepal’s highway, offering different beautiful landscapes.

Altitude above sea level: (1,302 m) Kathmandu

Flight duration: 40 minutes approx. (BDP-KTM)

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Meal: Breakfast

After breakfast, we take a flight to Kathmandu. After landing in Kathmandu, our representative will transfer you to the hotel. Spend your leisure afternoon on your own.

Meal: Breakfast

It is time to fly back home, keeping all the wonderful experiences of Nepal in mind. The representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to TIA airport, where you should check-in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight.