Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. Embark on a long, scenic drive through the eastern hills to Taplejung, the trailhead. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Descend through agricultural terraced fields and villages to the Tamor River, reaching the small settlement of Mitlung.

Follow the Tamor River upstream, walking through Limbu and Chhetri villages, cardamom fields, and crossing suspension bridges to Chirwa.

Continue along the river valley, which gradually narrows. The trail involves some uphill climbs and descents before arriving at Sukathum. We follow trails beneath towering rock walls and hanging glaciers, trekking in one of the most remote corners of the world. The scale of the mountains and the pristine wilderness is humbling.

A challenging day with a steep ascent through a gorge. The trail climbs high above the river, passing through bamboo and rhododendron forests. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

Walk through dense forests with chances to spot red pandas. The trail is scenic, leading to the picturesque village of Gyabla. We pass through villages inhabited by Limbu and Sherpa communities, learning about their local traditions and agricultural lifestyle. The region is rich in biodiversity and feels incredibly wild and unexplored.

Pass through the Tibetan refugee settlement of Phale. The valley opens up as you reach Ghunsa, a large and welcoming Sherpa village with a monastery.

Crucial acclimatization day. Take a hike up the surrounding ridges for views and to adjust to the altitude. Explore the village. We follow trails beneath towering rock walls and hanging glaciers, trekking in one of the most remote corners of the world. The scale of the mountains and the pristine wilderness is humbling.

Trek alongside the river through alpine terrain. Cross a difficult landslide section. Arrive at Kambachen with spectacular views of Mt. Jannu. We trek in the far eastern corner of Nepal, walking through lush tropical forests of bamboo and giant ferns. The trail rises along deep valleys, crossing wooden bridges over clean mountain rivers.

Another rest day. Hike towards Jannu Base Camp for incredible mountain panoramas and proper acclimatization.

Ascend gradually through rocky moraines alongside the Kanchenjunga Glacier. Arrive at the high, barren outpost of Lhonak. The trail climbs through rhododendron and oak forests, opening up to views of the massive Kanchenjunga (8,586m) massif. The landscape becomes alpine, characterized by glacial moraines and high pastures.

A challenging hike along the moraine to Pangpema for awe-inspiring views of the Kanchenjunga massif. Return to Lhonak.

Descend rapidly through Kambachen, returning to the comforts and lower altitude of Ghunsa.

Leave the main trail and ascend steeply through dense rhododendron and juniper forests to reach the isolated Sele La Base Camp.

A tough day crossing a series of passes: Sinion La (4,440m), Mirgin La (4,480m), and Sinelapche La (4,646m). Descend steeply to Cheram.

Hike up the Yalung Glacier valley to Ramche, and further to Oktang, the South Base Camp, for magnificent views of Kanchenjunga's south face. Return to Cheram.

Descend through beautiful rhododendron forests alongside the Simbuwa Khola to the small settlement of Tortong.

Cross the Lasiya Bhanjyang pass (3,310m) and undertake a long, steep descent to Yamphudin, a diverse village of Sherpas, Limbus, and Rais.

Walk through agricultural lands and numerous small villages, interacting with the locals along the way. The trail climbs through rhododendron and oak forests, opening up to views of the massive Kanchenjunga (8,586m) massif. The landscape becomes alpine, characterized by glacial moraines and high pastures.

Continue the descent through the foothills, enjoying the warmer climate and lush scenery. We follow trails beneath towering rock walls and hanging glaciers, trekking in one of the most remote corners of the world. The scale of the mountains and the pristine wilderness is humbling.

Meet your transport and drive back to Bhadrapur, reflecting on the incredible journey. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Catch a flight from Bhadrapur back to Kathmandu. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.