Trek to the base camp of world's third highest mountain, Kanchenjunga. The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking package has been designed for adventurers looking for real challenges in the less travelled regions. Located in Eastern Nepal the border of Nepal and Sikkim, Kanchenjunga is the most easterly of the 8,000 meter Himalayan peaks and consists of four separate summits - Main Summit, Middle Summit, South Summit & Yalung Kang or West Summit. Kanchenjunga is also less explored than other famous Himalaya regions of Nepal such as Everest and Annapurna. On the way, besides the majestic Himalayas and waterfalls, you will pass through thickets of rhododendron and other highland forests. Also you can enjoy the hospitality of different ethnic groups, and encounter various highland flora and fauna.
Since, the Suketar Airport of Taplejung is not operational these days, we fly to Bhadrapur and then drive to Suketar, our trek start point. From Suketar, via Mitlung and Ghunsa, we climb to the north base camp, Pangpema. Then we retrace our path to Ghunsa and head toward Yalung Glacier/Oktang. While returning, instead of going to Taplejung again, we descend to Thorpu from where we drive to Birtamod. The next day you will take your return flight to Kathmandu completing your adventures in the Kanchenjugha region.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu:
Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport (TIA) you will be greeted by a representative from Blue sky Trekking (HGT). After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with a Blue sky Trekking display board at the arrival gate.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Preparation for the Trek:
After breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. This day will also be for finalizing official procedure and other necessary arrangements. You will be also briefed on the nature of the trek and equipment. Some of the landmarks we visit include the World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhu Nath) and Buddhists shrine (Bouddha Nath). In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. You can also make your last minute buying of personal items as you will be flying to the Himalayas tomorrow.
Day 03: Fly to Bhadrapur Jhapa & Drive to Ilam: 5 to 6 hrs
Today we fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, Jhapa of Easternmost Nepal, about 700 kilometers from Kathmandu. The flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur takes about 45 minutes. From Bhadrapur Airport, it's about 75 kilometers to Ilam, a 3 hour's drive into the mountains. For the Westerners living in the megacities, the landscape of the Nepal Terai might looks like it may be coming straight out of The Jungle Book. Within a journey of 75 kilometers, we drive from flatland of Bhadrapur to the hills of Ilam. Ilam is also known as the Queen of Hills for it is fully covered by hills with temperate climate, low green hills and fertile lands. Overnight at Ilam. (B)
Day 04: Drive to Taplejung: 6 to 7 hrs
Today, we drive to Taplejung via Phidim. If the Suketar Airport of Taplejung is operational, and if you wish to avoid driving journey to Taplejung, you can also opt for flying from Biratnagar to Suketar. However, because of the construction works going on at the Suketar Airport and due to its remoteness & weather conditions, flights to Suketar are closed these day. Therefore, we drive upto Suketar, our trek start point.
Day 05: Trek Mitlung: 4 hrs
We start our trek with a downhill walk to Mitlung. Our route will pass through scenic pastures and small villages. On the way, we cross the Hungdewa Khola and the raging Tamur River.
Day 06:: Trek to Chirwa: 5 to 6 hrs
Trek uphill for some time then descend to the village of Sinwa. Continue to Tawa and then another climb crossing the suspension bridge at Thiwa. A trek of several parts of uphill and downhill climbs and then we will arrive at Chirwa, a small Limbu village with a few lodges, shops, and camping sites.
Day 07: Trek to Sekathum: 5 hrs
A trek uphill for some time is then followed by a descent to the lush green vegetation below. We continue along the Tamur River until we arrive at the Olangchung Gola, the entry point of the Kanchenjugha National Park. We travel uphill and downhill again before crossing the Ghunsa Khola. Ater crossing the suspension bridge, and another half an hour's walk we arrive at our campsite of Sekathum.
Day 08: Trek to Amjilosa: 7 to 8 hrs
Today is going to be a rather tough day. We will cross the river and ascend the steep trail. Then descend again and cross the river. Another climb from the gorge bottom passes by Solima where we will then descend again to the river level. The trail passes along the gorge until we arrive at Amjilosa.
Day 09: Trek to Gyabla: 5 hrs
Again, we hike upwards along the river bank passing through the densely forest of mainly bamboo, fir and rhododendrons until we eventually reach a small stone house by the river. We then climb up again crossing a few small bridges until you will find that the river drops steeply with many waterfalls and pools. Enjoy the stunning company of the waterfalls before taking another short uphill walk takes us to the Tibetan settlement of Gyabla.
Day 10: Trek to Ghunsa: 4-1/2 to 5-1/2 hrs
We descend again down the river where the valley slowly opens up before we arrive at Phole. Another couple of hours takes us to the famous Sherpa village of Ghunsa with a hydroelectric plant. It's also the place where more than 20 prominent conservationists met their tragic end in a Helicopter crash.
Day 11: Acclimatisation day at Ghunsa
We spend this day for acclimatization. Health experts always recommend us to stay active and moving during the rest day too instead of being idle. So we will take a short hike towards the Lapsan La through lush green forest, reaching Ghunsa by the afternoon ready to relax.
Day 12: Trek to Kambachen: 7 hrs
From Ghunsa, we trek further north along the river bank walking through the high land, trees and vegetation. We cross the bridge at Rampuk Kharka and continue past the waterfall. After crossing the rocky terrain, we will start getting the views of Jannu before finally reaching Kambachen.
Day 13: Acclimatisation day at Kambachen
We take another acclimatization day at Kangbachen. This is to accommodate for all the members of the group in case anyone is getting the high altitude symptoms. Today is the time to relax, take a bath or explore the area. You can also explore the region of the Nuphchu Khola Valley.
Day 14: Trek to Lhonak: 3-1/2 hrs to 4-1/2 hrs
Climb through the rocky fields and boulders on the hillside along the river bank before arriving at a waterfall where we will cross the bridge to Ramtang before finally arriving at Lhonak.
Day 15: Trek to Pangpema - Kangchenjunga North Base Camp: 3 to 4 hrs
Today, we trek along the edge of the glacier which is mostly a gradual path on grassy trails. Enjoy the views of the Chang Himal on your right before arriving at Pangpema , a flat grassy base camp. If you climb higher a little you will get the magnificent views of the Kangchenjuna North Face.
Day 16: Trek back to Khambachen: 6 to7 hrs
We retrace our path to Lhonak and continue down the valley to Ramtang. Enjoying the views of Kanchenjungha, Taple Shikhar,Gimmigela Chuli, Kirat Chuli among others. Since, we are descending, we can get to Kambachen by evening, which will also help to make a shorter trek tomorrow.
Day 17: Return to Ghunsa: 5 hrs
It's essentially the reverse of our Day 12 trek. We descend to Ghunsa from Khambchen.
Day 18: Trek to Sele Le: 6 hrs
It's a steep trek upward from Ghunsa to Sele- Le. After getting to the Ghunsa village, we climb through the dense forest of moss, rhodedendron and juniper.
Day 19: Tseram: 6 to 7 hrs
We make an uphill trek to be able to enjoy the mesmerizing views of Jannu Himal. It's a strenuous day today, as we cross several passes. The passes we cross are: the Sinion La, the Mirgin La and the Sinelapche La. Enjoy the memerising views of the east Himalayas from these passes before finally making a steep descent to Tseram.
Day 20: Trek to Ramche: 4 hrs
We ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier. After lunch we explore the area by walking further up the valley or ascending a ridge above camp for even more tremendous views.
Day 21: Day trip to Yalung Glacier/Oktang
We follow the stream along before climbing on to the moraine top. Hold your breath as the magnificent south face of Kanchenjungha appears before you. Walk further ahead for a glimpse of the Jannu Himal and if you are interested, you may also consider continuing to Oktang. Return back to Ramche or Tseram.
Day 22: Trek to Torontan: 7 to 8 hrs
If we stayed at Ramche yesterday, we get back to Tseram today. From Tseram, we descend mostly downhill to Torontan following the trail along the Simbua Khola.
Day 23: Trek to Yamphudin: 9 to 10 hrs
Descend further down to Yamphudin. Yamphudin is a village inhabited by different ethnic groups including Sherpas, Limbus, Rais and Gurungs.
Day 24: Trek to Anpan: 6 to 7 hrs
We follow the Kabeli Khola crossing the bridge over Kasshawa Khola beyond Mamankhe. We ascend through the cardamom forest, passing by a few villages before descending further down to Anpan.
Day 25: Trek to Thorpu: 6 hrs
Instead of going back to Taplejung, we descend down to Thorpu. By doing this we save our time, and at the same time we enjoy a more exotic journey. We arrive at Thorpu village, where we enjoy the hospitality of the villagers, discover and relax.
Day 26: Thorpu to Birtamod: 5 to 6 hrs
Today, we drive to Birtamod from Thorpu. Birtamod is a lively Terai town of Eastern Nepal. Birtamod is just half an hour's distance from Bhadrapur Airport from where we will fly to Kathmandu tomorrow. Since, there is a number good accommodation here, we stay overnight at Birtamod.
Day 27: Drive to Bhadrapur, Fly to Kathmandu:
First we have an early morning half an hour's drive to Bhadrapur. From Bhadrapur we fly back to Kathmandu. Arriving in Kathmandu, you can rest and relax throughout the day in your hotel or if interested, visit to some nearby shops and venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods. If you want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu take the time to do that today! Remember, we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner together for successfully completing your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking!
Day 28: Farewell Friend:
You are saying good bye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with your travel companions and organize your photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Blue sky Trekking will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Price per person: 2600 GBP , US $ 4000
Minimum of 2 people required for this trek.
For groups of 4 or more there will be a reduction of 30 GBR per person.
This includes:
Not included in the price:
· Alcoholic and soft drinks
· Extra personal expenses
Since, the Suketar Airport of Taplejung is not operational these days, we fly to Bhadrapur and then drive to Suketar, our trek start point. From Suketar, via Mitlung and Ghunsa, we climb to the north base camp, Pangpema. Then we retrace our path to Ghunsa and head toward Yalung Glacier/Oktang. While returning, instead of going to Taplejung again, we descend to Thorpu from where we drive to Birtamod. The next day you will take your return flight to Kathmandu completing your adventures in the Kanchenjugha region.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu:
Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport (TIA) you will be greeted by a representative from Blue sky Trekking (HGT). After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with a Blue sky Trekking display board at the arrival gate.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Preparation for the Trek:
After breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. This day will also be for finalizing official procedure and other necessary arrangements. You will be also briefed on the nature of the trek and equipment. Some of the landmarks we visit include the World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhu Nath) and Buddhists shrine (Bouddha Nath). In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. You can also make your last minute buying of personal items as you will be flying to the Himalayas tomorrow.
Day 03: Fly to Bhadrapur Jhapa & Drive to Ilam: 5 to 6 hrs
Today we fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, Jhapa of Easternmost Nepal, about 700 kilometers from Kathmandu. The flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur takes about 45 minutes. From Bhadrapur Airport, it's about 75 kilometers to Ilam, a 3 hour's drive into the mountains. For the Westerners living in the megacities, the landscape of the Nepal Terai might looks like it may be coming straight out of The Jungle Book. Within a journey of 75 kilometers, we drive from flatland of Bhadrapur to the hills of Ilam. Ilam is also known as the Queen of Hills for it is fully covered by hills with temperate climate, low green hills and fertile lands. Overnight at Ilam. (B)
Day 04: Drive to Taplejung: 6 to 7 hrs
Today, we drive to Taplejung via Phidim. If the Suketar Airport of Taplejung is operational, and if you wish to avoid driving journey to Taplejung, you can also opt for flying from Biratnagar to Suketar. However, because of the construction works going on at the Suketar Airport and due to its remoteness & weather conditions, flights to Suketar are closed these day. Therefore, we drive upto Suketar, our trek start point.
Day 05: Trek Mitlung: 4 hrs
We start our trek with a downhill walk to Mitlung. Our route will pass through scenic pastures and small villages. On the way, we cross the Hungdewa Khola and the raging Tamur River.
Day 06:: Trek to Chirwa: 5 to 6 hrs
Trek uphill for some time then descend to the village of Sinwa. Continue to Tawa and then another climb crossing the suspension bridge at Thiwa. A trek of several parts of uphill and downhill climbs and then we will arrive at Chirwa, a small Limbu village with a few lodges, shops, and camping sites.
Day 07: Trek to Sekathum: 5 hrs
A trek uphill for some time is then followed by a descent to the lush green vegetation below. We continue along the Tamur River until we arrive at the Olangchung Gola, the entry point of the Kanchenjugha National Park. We travel uphill and downhill again before crossing the Ghunsa Khola. Ater crossing the suspension bridge, and another half an hour's walk we arrive at our campsite of Sekathum.
Day 08: Trek to Amjilosa: 7 to 8 hrs
Today is going to be a rather tough day. We will cross the river and ascend the steep trail. Then descend again and cross the river. Another climb from the gorge bottom passes by Solima where we will then descend again to the river level. The trail passes along the gorge until we arrive at Amjilosa.
Day 09: Trek to Gyabla: 5 hrs
Again, we hike upwards along the river bank passing through the densely forest of mainly bamboo, fir and rhododendrons until we eventually reach a small stone house by the river. We then climb up again crossing a few small bridges until you will find that the river drops steeply with many waterfalls and pools. Enjoy the stunning company of the waterfalls before taking another short uphill walk takes us to the Tibetan settlement of Gyabla.
Day 10: Trek to Ghunsa: 4-1/2 to 5-1/2 hrs
We descend again down the river where the valley slowly opens up before we arrive at Phole. Another couple of hours takes us to the famous Sherpa village of Ghunsa with a hydroelectric plant. It's also the place where more than 20 prominent conservationists met their tragic end in a Helicopter crash.
Day 11: Acclimatisation day at Ghunsa
We spend this day for acclimatization. Health experts always recommend us to stay active and moving during the rest day too instead of being idle. So we will take a short hike towards the Lapsan La through lush green forest, reaching Ghunsa by the afternoon ready to relax.
Day 12: Trek to Kambachen: 7 hrs
From Ghunsa, we trek further north along the river bank walking through the high land, trees and vegetation. We cross the bridge at Rampuk Kharka and continue past the waterfall. After crossing the rocky terrain, we will start getting the views of Jannu before finally reaching Kambachen.
Day 13: Acclimatisation day at Kambachen
We take another acclimatization day at Kangbachen. This is to accommodate for all the members of the group in case anyone is getting the high altitude symptoms. Today is the time to relax, take a bath or explore the area. You can also explore the region of the Nuphchu Khola Valley.
Day 14: Trek to Lhonak: 3-1/2 hrs to 4-1/2 hrs
Climb through the rocky fields and boulders on the hillside along the river bank before arriving at a waterfall where we will cross the bridge to Ramtang before finally arriving at Lhonak.
Day 15: Trek to Pangpema - Kangchenjunga North Base Camp: 3 to 4 hrs
Today, we trek along the edge of the glacier which is mostly a gradual path on grassy trails. Enjoy the views of the Chang Himal on your right before arriving at Pangpema , a flat grassy base camp. If you climb higher a little you will get the magnificent views of the Kangchenjuna North Face.
Day 16: Trek back to Khambachen: 6 to7 hrs
We retrace our path to Lhonak and continue down the valley to Ramtang. Enjoying the views of Kanchenjungha, Taple Shikhar,Gimmigela Chuli, Kirat Chuli among others. Since, we are descending, we can get to Kambachen by evening, which will also help to make a shorter trek tomorrow.
Day 17: Return to Ghunsa: 5 hrs
It's essentially the reverse of our Day 12 trek. We descend to Ghunsa from Khambchen.
Day 18: Trek to Sele Le: 6 hrs
It's a steep trek upward from Ghunsa to Sele- Le. After getting to the Ghunsa village, we climb through the dense forest of moss, rhodedendron and juniper.
Day 19: Tseram: 6 to 7 hrs
We make an uphill trek to be able to enjoy the mesmerizing views of Jannu Himal. It's a strenuous day today, as we cross several passes. The passes we cross are: the Sinion La, the Mirgin La and the Sinelapche La. Enjoy the memerising views of the east Himalayas from these passes before finally making a steep descent to Tseram.
Day 20: Trek to Ramche: 4 hrs
We ascend past the snout of the Yalung Glacier. After lunch we explore the area by walking further up the valley or ascending a ridge above camp for even more tremendous views.
Day 21: Day trip to Yalung Glacier/Oktang
We follow the stream along before climbing on to the moraine top. Hold your breath as the magnificent south face of Kanchenjungha appears before you. Walk further ahead for a glimpse of the Jannu Himal and if you are interested, you may also consider continuing to Oktang. Return back to Ramche or Tseram.
Day 22: Trek to Torontan: 7 to 8 hrs
If we stayed at Ramche yesterday, we get back to Tseram today. From Tseram, we descend mostly downhill to Torontan following the trail along the Simbua Khola.
Day 23: Trek to Yamphudin: 9 to 10 hrs
Descend further down to Yamphudin. Yamphudin is a village inhabited by different ethnic groups including Sherpas, Limbus, Rais and Gurungs.
Day 24: Trek to Anpan: 6 to 7 hrs
We follow the Kabeli Khola crossing the bridge over Kasshawa Khola beyond Mamankhe. We ascend through the cardamom forest, passing by a few villages before descending further down to Anpan.
Day 25: Trek to Thorpu: 6 hrs
Instead of going back to Taplejung, we descend down to Thorpu. By doing this we save our time, and at the same time we enjoy a more exotic journey. We arrive at Thorpu village, where we enjoy the hospitality of the villagers, discover and relax.
Day 26: Thorpu to Birtamod: 5 to 6 hrs
Today, we drive to Birtamod from Thorpu. Birtamod is a lively Terai town of Eastern Nepal. Birtamod is just half an hour's distance from Bhadrapur Airport from where we will fly to Kathmandu tomorrow. Since, there is a number good accommodation here, we stay overnight at Birtamod.
Day 27: Drive to Bhadrapur, Fly to Kathmandu:
First we have an early morning half an hour's drive to Bhadrapur. From Bhadrapur we fly back to Kathmandu. Arriving in Kathmandu, you can rest and relax throughout the day in your hotel or if interested, visit to some nearby shops and venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods. If you want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu take the time to do that today! Remember, we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner together for successfully completing your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trekking!
Day 28: Farewell Friend:
You are saying good bye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with your travel companions and organize your photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Blue sky Trekking will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Price per person: 2600 GBP , US $ 4000
Minimum of 2 people required for this trek.
For groups of 4 or more there will be a reduction of 30 GBR per person.
This includes:
- 2 nights accommodation in Kathmandu
- Accommodation during the trek
- Insurance and wages for the staff which will includes porters and guides
- Private transportation when you begin and end your trek
- Meals during the trek
- Pick up and drop at airport
- Trekking permit
- Special permit
- Transport from Kathmandu to Taplejjung- private vehicle
Not included in the price:
· Alcoholic and soft drinks
· Extra personal expenses