based on 14 reviewsKanchenjunga Circuit Trek
In the far east of Nepal, bordering the Indian state of Sikkim, lies the world's third-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), standing in almost complete isolation from the other major peaks of the Himalayas. The restricted area has only been open for exploration since 1988, and the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is now considered among the premier routes for those seeking a rarely traveled and highly challenging adventure through one of Nepal's last unspoiled wilderness regions. During the trek to Kanchenjunga Circuit, you will notice that it's home to elusive snow leopards, the Himalayan black bear, and the Assamese macaque, as well as an unforgettable landscape of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and verdant forests of rhododendron and bamboo. On the trails of this trek, you will also notice the sparse population scattered throughout the mountains is made up of the warm-hearted Rai and Limbu people, with a culture that traces back to Tibetan origins and a unique belief system based on an amalgamation of Buddhist, Hindu, and animist principles.
Starting with a flight to Bhadrapur, you will drive to Taplejung and enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Areas of eastern Nepal. The trek to Kanchenjunga Circuit climbs through the scenic and cultivated foothills into the great mountain stronghold of peaks such as Rathong, Kumbhakarna, Jannu, and, of course, Mt. Kanchenjunga, offering some of the Himalaya's most awe-inspiring and majestic scenery en route to North Base Camp (5,143 meters). Until recently, the trek was only possible through the considerable effort of carrying in all the necessities of life, such as food and camping equipment, but with the advent of tea houses along the trail in response to its growing popularity, the logistics of the exercise have become considerably easier.
The Kanchenjunga Round Trek is a journey for the trekker with a sense of adventure, a desire to explore trails less traveled, and the determination and conditioning to tackle the challenges of a physically demanding route through one of Nepal's most remote regions. Nepal Trekking Experts is the perfect agency to arrange your trek through the area, including additional options, such as a visit to the isolated Kanchenjunga Northern Base Camp, Kanchenjunga South Base Camp, Janu Base Camp, Dormo Ri, and more.
So why not get in touch with us, know all the details about Kanchenjunga Trek's difficulty and equipment checklist, and see what we can do to set you on the path to this intriguing journey in the eastern Himalayas?
If you are not satisfied, you may take a look at our other similar packages, such as the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, the Everest Three High Passes Trek, the Upper Dolpo Trek, and more.
Kanchenjunga Round Trekking Difficulty:
That depends on who is asking the question. However, if you are physically healthy and strongly desire to accomplish something exceptional, this walk may be for you. The Kanchenjunga Round Trek is an incredible journey on a trail less traveled and off the radar of the majority of tourists who visit Nepal.
It is one of the most difficult high-altitude treks in Nepal. Trekkers must cross 4,000-5,000-meter passes and climb for several days along remote high-altitude trails, with the highest point reaching 5,143 meters. Altitude can be a huge issue on this trek if you do not properly acclimatize; it can be risky. While the trail's infrastructure is improving, don't anticipate fancy meals; Dal Bhat (rice and lentil soup with veggies), potatoes, Tibetan bread, Chapati, Mo-Mo, and quick noodles are likely to be the dishes of the day. In addition, the trails can be deceptive at times, especially when covered with snow. Trekking itineraries typically run between 18 to 24 days, not including time spent in Kathmandu.
While hiking across rural terrain, communication at higher altitudes remains limited (but improving). There are multiple challenging ascents and descents, and the difficulty appears to double as the elevation increases with the thinning air. To summarize, if you are willing, fit, and enthusiastic about the challenge, you are already invincible.
Best Time for Kanchenjunga Base Camp:
The best time to trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp is during the Spring months of March to May and the Autumn months of September to November. These seasons offer favorable trekking conditions with clear skies and stable weather patterns enhancing the breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga massif and its surrounding peaks. During Spring, the region has a moderate temperature, and the lower regions are filled with lush greenery with blooming rhododendrons and vibrant alpine flowers. Similarly, Autumn offers unparalleled visibility of the majestic mountain ranges with mild temperature conditions. Additionally, these months offer relatively dry trails with a higher possibility of seeing wildlife activity including rare species such as red panda and snow leopard.
Besides these favorable conditions, NTE does not recommend you to trek during off-seasons. Since this trek consists of multiple challenging segments with steep ascents, rugged trails, and long walking duration, the trek to Kanchenjunga Circuit gets tough due to unpredictable weather conditions. In Winter, the trails experience heavy snowfall which makes the route icy and slippery increasing the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, the constant snow may also block high-altitude areas cutting your journey short. As for the Monsoon, the frequent rainfall affects the trek. While the higher region will be dry, the lower trails will be muddy and slippery with the potential risk of landslides and floods.
Permits Required to Trek the Kanchenjunga Region:
To enter the restricted Kanchenjunga region, you must have a minimum of two people in your group (contact us to join a group), two permits per person, and a trek with a government-licensed guide. When trekking with Nepal Trekking Experts, all permit fees are included in your package. The permit process is more involved in trekking in the Kanchenjunga region compared to others; however, we will process everything and obtain it on your behalf.
- The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project Entry Permit (KCAP) costs 2000 Nepali rupees per person with no time restrictions.
- Restricted Area Entry Permit (RAP) for Tapethok and Yamphuding costs 20 USD per person, per week.
Booking and Payment with Nepal Trekking Experts
To book your trek with us, you have to send a deposit of 10% of the total cost of the trek. Please also forward a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and full flight details if and when available. For your convenience, you may also forward the deposit to us online through our website. It is completely safe, and as soon as you make it, you will get an automatic receipt in your inbox. The rest of the payment can be paid upon arrival.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us anytime. We are always ready to assist.
