Kanchenjunga-trek

Kanchenjanga Circuit Trek

  • duration 21 days
  • difficulty Hard
  • best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
  • group size Min. 2 Pax
  • max altitude From 4,600 at Kathmandu to 16,873ft at Pang Pema

trip overview

Experience the ultimate Himalayan adventure with our modern, balanced approach to the legendary Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. This meticulously designed 20-day journey takes you around the world’s third-highest mountain, visiting both the North and South Base Camps while solving the traditional pacing problems that plague conventional itineraries.

Our innovative approach utilizes recent road access improvements and strategic rest days to eliminate the cramped beginning” that exhausts trekkers before they even start climbing. You’ll enjoy proper acclimatization, gradual conditioning, and comprehensive cultural immersion while achieving one of trekking’s most coveted accomplishments.

This isn’t just another Kanchenjunga trek—it’s a completely reimagined experience that prioritizes your safety, comfort, and success while maintaining the full adventure and challenge that makes this circuit so extraordinary.

What Makes This Trek Special

Modern Logistics Integration: We utilize recently constructed roads providing direct access to Sekathum, eliminating two extra days of walking and allowing more time for the spectacular high-altitude sections.

Balanced Flow Design: Our innovative staging day in Taplejung solves the traditional problem of forcing exhausted travelers into immediate demanding treks. You’ll start refreshed and properly prepared.

Expert Acclimatization Protocol: Strategic 2-night stays at Ghunsa and Khambachen follow proven altitude adaptation principles, ensuring your safety and success at high elevations.

Complete Circuit Experience: Visit both Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143m) and South Base Camp (4,730m), plus cross the challenging Sele La Pass for the full circumnavigation.

Cultural Immersion: Deep engagement with Tibetan Buddhist communities, monastery visits, and authentic village experiences in one of Nepal’s most remote regions.

Gradual Physical Progression: Begin with gentle 4-5 hour walks, building to full trekking days—no brutal shock immersion that ruins the experience.

Small Group Adventure: Intimate group sizes ensure personalized attention and flexible pacing to match your capabilities.

Safety First: Comprehensive safety protocols, experienced guides, and proper equipment support for this remote high-altitude environment.

Detailed itinerary

  • day 01
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413ft)

    We will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from jet lag or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel on your own. This dedicated arrival day ensures you’re properly rested before beginning the logistics of reaching the remote Kanchenjunga region. Evening briefing about the trek ahead and gear check preparation. This realistic approach eliminates the traditional cramped beginning that forces exhausted travelers into immediate demanding schedules.

    Time: Airport transfer + rest day | Difficulty: Easy

    • Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
  • day 02
    Kathmandu to Bhadrapur to Taplejung (1,820m/5,971ft)

    After breakfast, we transfer to the domestic terminal for our scenic 45-minute flight to Bhadrapur over the hills and valleys of eastern Nepal. This flight provides your first glimpse of the remote regions you’ll be exploring. From Bhadrapur, we begin the 7-8 hour drive to Taplejung through winding mountain roads, tea plantations, and traditional villages. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure as you witness rural Nepalese life transitioning from subtropical lowlands to the cooler hill regions. Taplejung, perched at 1,820 meters, serves as the gateway to the Kanchenjunga region and offers your first taste of the mountain air.

    Distance: 45-minute flight + 241km drive | Time: 8-9 hours total journey | Difficulty: Easy

    • Accommodation: Standard Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 03
    Rest and Preparation Day in Taplejung (1,820m/5,971ft)

    This innovative rest day solves the traditional cramped beginning” problem that plagues most Kanchenjunga itineraries. After yesterday’s long journey, your body needs time to recover before beginning the physical demands of high-altitude trekking. Today we’ll conduct a comprehensive gear check, finalize permits, and hold detailed briefings about the trek ahead. You’ll have time to explore Taplejung’s local markets, visit the famous Pathibhara Devi Temple (Mukkumlung Mangham), and mentally prepare for the adventure. This strategic staging day ensures you begin trekking refreshed rather than exhausted, setting the foundation for a successful circuit.

    Time: Full rest day with optional local exploration | Difficulty: Easy

    • Accommodation: Standard Hotel
  • day 04
    Drive to Sekathum (1,575m/5,167ft). Short Acclimatization Walk

    We utilize the recently constructed road providing 4WD access directly to Sekathum , eliminating two extra days of walking that were previously necessary . The 3-4 hour drive descends through terraced hillsides and traditional villages before reaching the confluence of the Tamur and Ghunsa Khola rivers. Sekathum marks the modern starting point for Kanchenjunga treks, where ancient trading routes meet contemporary logistics. Upon arrival, we’ll take a gentle 1-hour acclimatization walk to stretch our legs and begin the gradual adjustment to mountain rhythms. The evening offers time to meet your trekking team and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure.

    Distance: 3-4 hours drive + 1-hour walk | Time: 4-5 hours total | Difficulty: Easy

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 05
    Trek to Amjilosa (2,310m/7,579ft)

    Today begins our trekking journey proper with a gentle 4-5 hour walk designed for gradual conditioning rather than immediate shock. Following the Ghunsa Khola northeast, we gain 735 meters of elevation through moderate terrain, passing through traditional settlements and pristine forests. This first trekking day deliberately avoids the brutal 7-8 hour marches that characterize poorly designed itineraries, allowing your body to adapt gradually to the demands ahead. Amjilosa, a stunning Tibetan settlement, provides your first immersion into the rich cultural heritage of the Kanchenjunga region. The village’s stone houses and prayer flags create a magical introduction to the high Himalayan lifestyle.

    Distance: 6-7km | Time: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 06
    Trek to Gyabla (2,730m/8,957ft)

    Our journey continues with a scenic 5-6 hour trek through bamboo and rhododendron forests toward Gyabla. The trail follows ancient paths used by traders and pilgrims for centuries, winding alongside rushing streams and through clearings that offer glimpses of the peaks ahead. You’ll encounter a magnificent waterfall partway through the day, providing an excellent photography opportunity and rest stop. As we gain 420 meters of elevation, the landscape gradually transitions from subtropical vegetation to temperate mountain forests. Gyabla offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks in the distance, serving as a beautiful reminder of the ultimate destination that awaits.

    Distance: 7-8km | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 07
    Trek to Ghunsa (3,595m/11,795ft)

    Today marks our entry into the high-altitude zone with a significant 865-meter ascent to Ghunsa, the largest settlement in the upper Kanchenjunga region. The trail leads through enchanting forests of pine and oak before opening into the spectacular valley where Ghunsa sits. This traditional Tibetan village features stone-walled houses, a health center, school, and hydropower station, representing a thriving community in one of Nepal’s most remote regions. Buddhist monasteries and chortens dot the landscape, while prayer flags flutter in the mountain breeze. Ghunsa serves as the crucial gateway to higher elevations and offers your first taste of the profound cultural heritage that defines the Kanchenjunga region.

    Distance: 10km | Time: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 08
    First Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa (3,595m/11,795ft)

    This critical acclimatization day allows your body to adjust to the altitude above 3,500 meters. We’ll take a rewarding hike to a viewpoint ridge approximately 400 meters above the village, offering spectacular views of Jannu Peak and the surrounding Himalayan landscape. The 4-5 hour round trip provides excellent acclimatization exercise while revealing the dramatic mountain amphitheater that surrounds us. You’ll also have time to explore Ghunsa’s monasteries, interact with local families, and observe traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture in action. This day exemplifies the climb high, sleep low” principle essential for safe high-altitude travel.

    Distance: 4-5km round trip to viewpoint | Time: 4-5 hours hiking | Difficulty: Moderate

    • Accommodation: Tented
    • Meal: Teahouse
  • day 09
    Trek to Khambachen (4,100m/13,451ft)

    Departing Ghunsa, we follow the Ghunsa Khola’s southern bank through increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. The trail passes numerous monasteries, mani walls, and chortens that speak to the deep spiritual significance of this landscape. Pine and rhododendron forests gradually give way to alpine vegetation as we ascend 505 meters over 5-6 hours. The magnificent Jannu Himal dominates the skyline, while glimpses of the Kanchenjunga massif begin to appear. Khambachen, a traditional summer village with strong Tibetan heritage, provides stunning 360-degree mountain views that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the incredible beauty surrounding this remote settlement.

    Distance: 8km | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

    • Accommodation: Tented
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 10
    Second Acclimatization Day in Khambachen (4,100m/13,451ft)

    This second crucial acclimatization day provides unrivaled side trip opportunities to Jannu Base Camp or the beautiful glacial lake Nupchu Pokhari, contributing to successfully reaching Kanchenjunga North Base Camp . Expert sources emphasize that many Nepalese trekking agencies only have a 1-night stay at Khambachen, which is dangerous and misses excellent acclimatization opportunities . Our carefully planned 2-night stay ensures proper altitude adaptation while offering spectacular day hikes to viewpoints providing close encounters with some of the world’s most impressive peaks. The day allows for both essential physiological adjustment and unforgettable mountain experiences.

    Distance: 5-8km depending on chosen side trip | Time: 4-6 hours optional hiking | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 11
    Trek to Lhonak (4,785m/15,699ft)

    Today’s journey takes us into the heart of snow leopard territory as we trek across glacial moraines and rocky terrain toward Lhonak. The 5-6 hour walk gains 685 meters of elevation through increasingly dramatic high-altitude landscapes. We’ll traverse summer yak pastures and cross boulder fields while keeping our eyes open for blue sheep and, if we’re incredibly fortunate, the elusive snow leopard. The trail follows the Kanchenjunga Glacier’s lateral moraine, providing stunning views of the towering peaks that form the massif. Lhonak, situated at nearly 4,800 meters, offers a cold but incredibly clear mountain environment where the air is thin but the views are boundless.

    Distance: 9km | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 12
    Trek to Pangpema - Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143m/16,873ft) and Return to Lhonak

    Today represents the primary objective of our journey as we trek to Pangpema, the North Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. The 7-8 hour round trip takes us across the Kanchenjunga Glacier’s moraine to stand before the third-highest mountain in the world. At 5,143 meters, this base camp offers an overwhelming sense of scale and natural power, with Buddhist prayer flags creating a spiritual atmosphere against the backdrop of ice and rock. The panoramic views include not only Kanchenjunga’s north face but also neighboring peaks that tower above 7,000 meters. After absorbing this extraordinary environment and capturing memories through photography, we return to Lhonak for the night, having achieved one of trekking’s most spectacular destinations.

    Distance: 8km round trip | Time: 7-8 hours | Difficulty: Very Challenging

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 13
    Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,595m/11,795ft)

    We begin our descent from the high-altitude environment, retracing our route through Khambachen before continuing to Ghunsa. This 6-7 hour journey involves a significant 1,190-meter descent, manageable as a single day while providing relief from the thin air of higher elevations. The trail offers opportunities to observe how dramatically the landscape changes with altitude, from the stark beauty of the glacier zone to the increasingly lush vegetation as we descend. Lunch at Khambachen provides a welcome break and chance to reflect on yesterday’s achievement. Returning to Ghunsa feels like coming home, with the village’s relative comfort and lower altitude offering a restorative environment before continuing the circuit.

    Distance: 15km | Time: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 14
    Trek to Sele La High Camp (4,200m/13,780ft)

    Today we begin the challenging transition to the circuit’s second half by trekking toward Sele La Pass. The 6-7 hour journey gains 605 meters through steep, rocky terrain and dense forest sections. This demanding day requires early departure and steady pacing as we climb toward the high camp that will position us for tomorrow’s pass crossing. The trail winds through areas of incredible natural beauty, with glimpses of the peaks we’ll soon view from the opposite side. Sele La High Camp provides basic but adequate shelter in a dramatic mountain setting, preparing us for one of the trek’s most challenging but rewarding days ahead.

    Distance: 8km | Time: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 15
    Cross Sele La Pass (4,480m/14,698ft) and Trek to Tseram (3,870m/12,697ft)

    This epic day involves crossing the challenging Sele La Pass, which links the north and south sides of the Kanchenjunga massif. We’ll tackle two significant passes—Sinion La (4,660m) and Sele La (4,480m)—before descending 1,000 meters to Tseram. The 7-8 hour journey tests both physical endurance and mental determination while rewarding us with some of the trek’s most spectacular scenery. From the passes, the views encompass both sides of the Kanchenjunga region, providing a unique perspective on this vast mountain wilderness. The descent to Tseram brings relief from altitude and entry into the beautiful Yalung valley system that leads to the southern base camp.

    Distance: 12km | Time: 7-8 hours | Difficulty: Very Challenging

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 16
    Trek to Gunsa (3,475m).

    From Tseram, we begin our approach to Kanchenjunga’s southern base camp region with a beautiful 4-5 hour trek through the Yalung valley. The trail follows ancient paths alongside the Yalung Glacier, gaining 710 meters of elevation through increasingly spectacular mountain scenery. We’ll pass through small settlements and encounter the dramatic geological features that characterize this glacial environment. Ramche, situated at 4,580 meters, provides the staging point for reaching the southern base camp and offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga massif from this entirely different perspective. The village’s location allows for excellent photography of the surrounding peaks, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.

    Distance: 7km | Time: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 17
    Trek to Oktang - Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (4,730m/15,518ft) and Return to Ramche

    Today completes our circuit’s primary objectives with a visit to Oktang, the viewpoint for Kanchenjunga’s South Base Camp. The 6-7 hour round trip takes us through moraine landscapes and glacial terrain to reach this spectacular vantage point at 4,730 meters. From Oktang, you can observe four of Kanchenjunga’s main summits: Kanchenjunga Main (8,586m), Yalung Kang (8,505m), Kanchenjunga Central (8,482m), and Kanchenjunga South (8,476m)—an extraordinarily rare opportunity to view four such high peaks in close proximity. After experiencing this overwhelming display of Himalayan grandeur and completing photography, we return to Ramche having achieved both major base camp objectives of the circuit.

    Distance: 8km round trip | Time: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Very Challenging

    • Accommodation: Tea house at Ramche
  • day 18
    Trek to Tortong (2,995m/9,826ft)

    We begin our descent from the high-altitude regions with a significant 6-7 hour trek that drops 1,585 meters to Tortong. This major elevation loss takes us through dramatically changing ecosystems, from the stark beauty of the glacial zone through alpine meadows and eventually into temperate forests. The long descent requires careful attention to footing and knee protection, but the gradual return to thicker air provides noticeable relief. Tortong, situated in a beautiful valley setting, offers a pleasant contrast to the harsh high-altitude environment we’ve been experiencing. The village provides comfortable accommodation and the satisfaction of having successfully completed the circuit’s most challenging sections.

    Distance: 12km | Time: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 19
    Trek to Yamphudin (1,690m/5,545ft)

    Continuing our descent, we trek 6-7 hours through beautiful mountain landscapes toward Yamphudin, losing another 1,305 meters of elevation. The trail passes through traditional villages where we can observe the rich cultural heritage and time-honored customs of the local communities. Yamphudin represents a return to the warmer, more comfortable elevations where breathing becomes noticeably easier. This traditional village, renowned for its cultural preservation, provides insight into the authentic mountain lifestyle that has remained unchanged for generations. The evening offers time to reflect on the incredible journey completed and celebrate the achievement of successfully circumnavigating the Kanchenjunga massif.

    Distance: 12km | Time: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

    • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • day 20
    Trek to Pang Pema (5,140m).

    Our final day begins with a 4-5 hour drive from Yamphudin to the road network, then continues to Bhadrapur for our flight back to Kathmandu. The journey provides final opportunities to observe the beautiful countryside and reflect on the extraordinary adventure completed. The 45-minute flight returns us to Nepal’s capital, where the contrast between the remote mountain wilderness and urban civilization feels particularly striking. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll have successfully completed one of the world’s most challenging and rewarding treks, having experienced both base camps of the third-highest mountain on Earth while gaining deep appreciation for the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Kanchenjunga region.

    Distance: 4-5 hours drive + 45-minute flight | Time: 6-7 hours total journey | Difficulty: Easy

    • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
  • day 20
    Drive from Yamphudin to Bhadrapur. Fly to Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413ft)

    Final day with drive to Bhadrapur and flight back to Kathmandu. Reflect on the extraordinary adventure completed—you’ve successfully experienced both base camps of the third-highest mountain on Earth while gaining deep appreciation for the Kanchenjunga region’s cultural richness and natural beauty.

    Distance: 4-5 hours drive + 45-minute flight | Time: 6-7 hours total | Difficulty: Easy

    • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
  • day 21
    Final Departure

    Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure, carrying with you the spiritual insights and cultural connections forged in the sacred Tsum Valley.

    Distance: Airport transfer | Time: 30 minutes drive

    • Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu-Bhadrapur-Kathmandu
  • All ground transportation during the trek
  • Private 4WD transportation: Bhadrapur-Taplejung-Sekathum and Yamphudin-Bhadrapur
  • Accommodation in 3 star hotels in Kathmandu and standard hotels in Taplejung (twin sharing)
  • Tea house accommodation during trekking days (twin sharing)
  • Professional English-speaking trekking guide
  • Assistant guide for groups of 8+ people
  • Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
  • Guide and porter wages, meals, accommodation, and insurance
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
  • Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • All government taxes and official expenses
  • First aid kit and basic medical supplies
  • Pre-departure briefing and gear inspection
  • Trekking route map
  • Achievement certificate

What's Not Included

  • International flights to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Travel and trekking insurance (mandatory)
  • All meals in Kathmandu, Taplejung, and during trekking
  • Personal trekking equipment and gear
  • Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, internet, etc.)
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
  • Hot showers and battery charging fees in tea houses
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Emergency helicopter rescue and evacuation
  • Single room supplement
  • Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu
  • Personal medication and medical consultation
  • Souvenirs and shopping
  • Any costs arising due to unforeseen circumstances
  • Services not mentioned in the included section
 

Accommodation during the Trip

Kathmandu 3 Star Hotels

Comfortable 3-star hotels in Thamel area with private bathrooms, hot water, WiFi, restaurant, and modern amenities. Twin-sharing rooms with daily housekeeping and secure luggage storage.

Single Room Supplement: Available upon request for additional cost.

Hotel Upgrades Available: 4-star and 5-star hotel options available in Kathmandu for additional cost. Upgrades include luxury amenities, better locations, and enhanced services.

Taplejung Standard Hotels

Basic but clean mountain town hotels with essential facilities. Private or shared bathrooms, limited WiFi, and hot water at scheduled times. Local restaurants serving Nepali cuisine.

Single Room Availability: Limited single rooms available on request basis for additional cost.

Note: Hotel upgrades not possible in Taplejung due to limited accommodation options.

Tea Houses During Trekking

Family-run lodges with twin-sharing rooms and shared bathroom facilities. Communal dining areas with heating. Facilities become more basic at higher elevations. Bring sleeping bag for warmth. Charging facilities available for additional cost.

Single Room Availability: Very limited single room options available at lower elevations only. Not available at higher elevations due to space constraints.

Note: No accommodation upgrades possible in tea houses.

Lower elevations (1,575m-2,730m): Relatively comfortable with possible hot water and basic showers.

Mid elevations (3,595m-4,100m): Basic rooms with shared toilets, heating only in dining areas.

High elevations (4,785m+): Very basic shelter, no room heating, limited facilities.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How difficult is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
    The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is rated as challenging to difficult, involving up to 7 hours of daily trekking at altitudes up to 5,180 meters . This trek is considered one of the most difficult high-altitude treks in Nepal . The main challenges include:
    • High altitude (reaching 5,180m at Pangpema Base Camp)
    • Long daily hiking hours (6-7 hours on average)
    • Remote terrain with rough and challenging paths
    • Crossing multiple high mountain passes
    • Extended duration (20-22 days typically)
    • Limited infrastructure and facilities
    Previous high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended for this trek.
  • How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?
    You should be able to hike 6-7 hours daily while carrying a daypack (3-5kg) in challenging terrain. This trek requires excellent physical fitness . Prepare with:
    • Cardiovascular training: 4-5 times weekly for 3-4 months (hiking, jogging, swimming, cycling)
    • Strength training: Focus on leg, core, and upper body strength
    • Practice hikes: Complete several 6-8 hour hikes with elevation gain before your trek
    • Stair climbing: Excellent preparation for steep ascents and descents
    • Endurance building: Long-distance activities to build stamina
    Given the challenging nature and remote location of this trek, superior fitness levels are essential for both safety and enjoyment.
  • What is the best time to go on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
    The optimal trekking seasons are: Spring (March-May): Clear mountain views, warmer temperatures, rhododendrons in bloom Autumn (September-November): Stable weather, crystal clear skies, ideal visibility October-November is often considered the best time for the clearest mountain views and most stable weather conditions. Avoid these seasons: -Monsoon (June-August): Heavy rain, landslides, poor visibility -Winter (December-February): Heavy snow, closed tea houses above 3,500m
  • Do I need permits for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
    Yes, two permits are required:
    1. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
    2. Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
    The restricted area permit requires:
    • Booking through a registered Nepalese trekking agency
    • Minimum 2 foreign trekkers in the group
    • Licensed guide accompaniment (mandatory)
    Independent trekking is not allowed in the Kanchenjunga region.
  • Can I trek the Kanchenjunga Circuit independently?
    No, independent trekking is not permitted in the Kanchenjunga region. You must:
    • Trek with a licensed guide through a registered agency
    • Have minimum 2 foreign trekkers in your group
    • Obtain restricted area permits through an agency
    This regulation ensures trekker safety in this remote and challenging region.
  • How do I prepare physically for this trek?
    Start training 3-4 months before your trek with:
    • Cardiovascular training: 4-5 times weekly (hiking, running, cycling)
    • Strength training: Focus on leg and core strength
    • Practice hikes: Complete several 6-8 hour hikes with a backpack
    • Stair climbing: Excellent preparation for ascents and descents
    • Altitude training: Previous experience above 4,000m is beneficial
    Consistency is more important than intensity. You should be able to walk 6-8 hours daily while carrying a daypack.
  • What about altitude sickness prevention and management?
    The trek reaches 5,143m at Pangpema (North Base Camp), making altitude acclimatization crucial:
    • Follow the proper acclimatization schedule with rest days at Ghunsa (3,595m) and Khambachen (4,100m)
    • Ascend slowly and stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily)
    • Avoid alcohol and tobacco
    • Recognize symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue
    • Inform your guide immediately if symptoms appear
    • Consider Diamox after consulting your doctor

     

    Our 20-day itinerary includes proper acclimatization days to minimize altitude sickness risk.
    •  
  • What type of accommodation can I expect?
    In Kathmandu:
    • 3-star hotels with modern amenities
    • Private bathrooms, WiFi, restaurant facilities
    • Twin-sharing rooms (single room supplements available)
    In Taplejung:
    • Standard hotels with basic facilities
    • Limited WiFi, hot water at scheduled times
    • Single rooms have limited availability
    During Trekking (Tea Houses):
    • Family-run lodges with twin-sharing rooms
    • Shared bathroom facilities
    • Facilities become more basic at higher elevations
    • No room heating at high elevations (bring sleeping bag)
  • Are meals included in the package?
    This package does not include meals during the trekking portion. You will purchase your own food at tea houses along the route. Tea houses offer: Typical meal options:
    • Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal with rice and lentils)
    • Momo (Tibetan dumplings)
    • Noodle soups and pasta dishes
    • Fried rice and vegetarian options
    Vegetarian options are widely available and often recommended at higher elevations.
  • How much should I budget for meals during the trek?
    We recommend budgeting approximately $30-50 per day for meals during the trekking portion. Prices increase significantly with altitude as supplies must be carried by porters:
    • Lower elevations: $30-40 per day
    • Higher elevations: $50-65 per day
    • A typical breakfast costs $3-8
    • Lunch and dinner range from $8-18 each
  • Is travel insurance required?
    Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and must cover:
    • High-altitude trekking up to 6,000m
    • Emergency helicopter evacuation
    • Medical expenses and trip cancellation
    • Gear loss  and delays
    Regular travel insurance typically doesn't cover trekking above 4,000m. Helicopter evacuation alone can cost $5,000-15,000.
  • What happens in case of an emergency?
    In case of a medical emergency:
    1. Your guide will assess the situation and provide first aid
    2. For serious issues, descent to lower elevation is the priority
    3. Helicopter evacuation will be arranged if necessary
    Helicopter Evacuation:
    • Available from most points along the trek (weather permitting)
    • Typically takes 2-6 hours to arrange
    • Costs $5,000-15,000 USD (covered by proper travel insurance)
    Your guide carries satellite communication equipment for emergency contact.
  • What essential gear do I need?
    Critical items include:
    • Four-season sleeping bag (rated to -15°C)
    • Waterproof and windproof outer layers
    • Insulated down jacket
    • Quality hiking boots (well broken-in)
    • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
    • Headlamp with extra batteries
    • Comprehensive first aid kit
    • Water purification method
    A detailed gear list is provided upon booking.
  • What can I rent in Kathmandu versus what should I bring?
    Items you can rent in Kathmandu:
    • Down jacket and sleeping bag
    • Trekking poles and gaiters
    • Thick gloves and winter accessories
    Items to bring from home:
    • Hiking boots (must be well broken-in)
    • Base layers and personal clothing
    • Personal medications
    • Electronics and chargers
    Kathmandu's Thamel area has numerous trekking shops for gear rental and purchase.
  • How much cash should I carry during the trek?
    Carry enough Nepalese Rupees for the entire trek as ATM access is extremely limited:
    • ATMs only available in Kathmandu and Taplejung
    • Exchange currency before starting your trek
    • Carry small denominations as change is limited
    • Keep money secure in a money belt
  • What is the tipping etiquette for guides and porters?
    Tipping is expected and an important part of trekking culture:
    • Recommended amount: 10-15% of total trip price
    • Tip guides at trek completion in Kathmandu
    • Tip porters before departure from the mountains
    • Distribute tips individually to each team member
  • What are the payment terms and cancellation policy?
    Payment Terms:
    • 20% deposit required to confirm booking
    • Balance payment due upon arrival in Kathmandu
    • All payments in USD or equivalent
    Cancellation Policy:
    • Cancellations 30+ days before: 20% penalty
    • Cancellations less than 30 days: 50% penalty
    • Cancellations less than 15 days: 100% penalty
  • Can I customize my Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
    Yes, we offer flexible customization options:
    • Private departures: Choose your preferred start date
    • Itinerary modifications: Adjust pace or add rest days
    • Accommodation upgrades: 4-star or 5-star hotels in Kathmandu
    • Extension options: Combine with other Nepal experiences
    • Group size: From 2 to 12 people maximum
    Contact us with your preferences for a customized itinerary.
     

Essential Trip Information

  • You will have to trek uphill continuously for 18 days before you reach the Kanchenjanga and the way back is equally tough. There are several cliffs and high passes that you have to cross. Take light endurance training before starting the trip.
  • Please make sure you take a travel insurance at home before arriving here. It is mandatory and you cannot take it in Nepal. Your insurance agent will know which insurance plan suits your travel.
  • It is advisable that you free up a few days before and after your trip schedule. For reasons beyond our control like flight delays, accidents and natural hazards, the itinerary may have to be altered.
  • Please inform us and our guides if you have any medical condition that might affect your trip. Please consult your doctor beforehand for any precautions you need to take and always carry medicines if you need them. However, our guides and local support staff have been trained in basic medical intervention and your travel insurance covers any emergency rescue or evacuation.
  • You may decide to alter your itinerary to some degree as long as there are no time constraints and everyone consents, if you are travelling in a group. Talk to us before embarking on the trip or you may also talk to our guides to see if we can arrange something. One thing we have learned from mountaineering all these years is however good you plan your journey, there are bound to be some improvisations to make our experience richer.

Packing Checklist

  • Advanced layered clothing system Base, mid, and outer layers for adaptability to extreme temperature variations from temperate to alpine conditions up to 5,180m
  • High-altitude mountaineering boots Well broken-in with superior ankle support, waterproofing, and insulation for challenging terrain
  • Large capacity daypack (30-40L) For carrying daily essentials during 6-7 hour trekking days in remote valleys
  • Water bottles/hydration system For maintaining critical hydration during long mountain days at extreme altitude
  • Headlamp with spare batteries Essential for pre-dawn starts and emergency situations in remote location
  • Trekking poles Critical for stability on rocky trails and challenging mountain passes
  • High-altitude sleeping bag (rated -15°C minimum) Essential for extreme cold conditions at high elevation camps
  • High-capacity power bank For extended electronics use during 22-day expedition

Mountain Kick provides a duffel bag for your gear during the trek.

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We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.

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csr

As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.

READ MORE ABOUT CSR

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