The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging and remote trek that takes you through the stunning landscapes of eastern Nepal, including the third highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga. This trek is an ideal choice for experienced trekkers who are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
The trek starts in the small town of sekhathung and follows the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, which is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional villages and meet with local people who have a unique culture and lifestyle.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek from takes around 18 Days from Kathmandu to complete and involves crossing several high mountain passes, including the Lapsang La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek at 5,160 meters. The trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, along with several other peaks, including Jannu, Kabru, and Rathong.
Highlight of Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
- Spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga: The trek offers stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, as well as other peaks in the region.
- Diverse landscapes: The trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes.
- Cultural experiences: The trek takes you through remote villages where you can experience the local culture and traditions of the Limbu and Rai people.
- Wildlife: The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan black bears.
- Challenging trekking: The trek is challenging and involves steep ascents and descents, as well as crossing high mountain passes.
- Off-the-beaten-path: The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a less crowded and more remote trekking route, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without the crowds found on some of the more popular routes.
Where Start the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
To reach the starting point of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, Sekhathung, you will need to take a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur , and then drive to Sekhathung via Biramode, taplejung.
Alternatively, you can take a direct flight from Kathmandu to Suketar, which is the nearest airport to Taplejung. However, flights to Suketar are often delayed or canceled due to bad weather, so it’s recommended to have some extra days in your itinerary to account for any delays.
Kanchenjunga Permit
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a restricted area trek, and you will need a special permit to undertake this trek. Here are the permit requirements for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:
- Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The Kanchenjunga RAP is a compulsory permit for all trekkers and costs USD 10 per person per week. It is issued by the Nepal government’s Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP): The KCAP is another mandatory permit that costs USD 30 per person for foreigners and NPR 3000 for SAARC nationals. This permit is issued by the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Management Council (KCAMC) in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Trekking Agency: You will also need to trek with a registered trekking agency, and they will arrange these permits for you.
It’s essential to obtain these permits before starting the trek, and they cannot be obtained en route. Your trekking agency will need your passport details, along with two passport-sized photos, to obtain the permits.
It’s important to note that there are restrictions on the number of trekkers allowed in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area at any given time. Only a limited number of permits are issued each year, so it’s recommended to plan and book your trek well in advance.
Accommodation in Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
The lodges and guesthouses along the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek to have basic accommodation with shared facilities such as bathrooms and showers. Rooms are typically furnished with two beds, and you will need to bring your own sleeping bag and other gear such as a headlamp.
Keep in mind that the accommodations on this trek are located in remote areas, so amenities such as hot showers, WiFi, and electricity may not be available or may be limited. It’s important to be prepared for basic living conditions and to bring the necessary supplies and equipment for your trek.
It’s also a good idea to carry some cash with you, as some lodges may not accept credit cards or other forms of electronic payment.
Here are Some of the popular places to stay along the route include:
- Taplejung: This is the starting point of the trek, and there are several basic guesthouses available.
- Chirwa: This is a small village with a few guesthouses and lodges.
- Amjilosa: This is a small village with a few basic guesthouses.
- Gyabla: This is a small village with a few basic guesthouses.
- Ghunsa: This is a larger village with several lodges and guesthouses.
- Kambachen: This is a small village with a few lodges and guesthouses.
- Lhonak: This is a small village with a few basic guesthouses.
- Pangpema: This is the highest point on the trek and there are a few lodges available.
It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance during peak trekking season (September-November and March-May) to ensure availability.
Meals on Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
During the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you will be able to enjoy a variety of meals at the lodges and teahouses along the route. The meals served on the trek are typically basic but hearty, with a focus on providing the energy and nutrients needed for trekking at high altitudes.
Breakfast typically includes porridge, toast, eggs, pancakes, or chapati (a type of flatbread), along with tea or coffee.
Lunch and dinner usually consist of dal bhat, a traditional Nepalese dish of lentil soup, rice, and vegetables. Other options may include noodles, pasta, or potatoes, with a variety of sauces and toppings. Meat is also available, but it’s recommended to stick with vegetarian options due to the challenges of maintaining proper refrigeration in the remote areas along the trek.
Snacks such as biscuits, chocolates, nuts, and energy bars are also available at the lodges, and it’s a good idea to bring some of your own snacks to supplement your meals.
It’s important to drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated during the trek, so be sure to drink lots of water, tea, and other hot beverages. It’s also a good idea to bring water purification tablets or a water filter to ensure that your drinking water is safe.
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Difficulties
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and endurance, as well as some previous trekking experience. Here are some of the difficulties that you may encounter on the trek:
- Altitude: The trek takes you to high altitudes, with some of the passes reaching over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Altitude sickness can be a real concern, so it’s important to take proper acclimatization measures and to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Weather: The weather in the region can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from hot and humid in the lower elevations to cold and windy in the higher elevations. Snow and ice can be a factor at higher elevations, especially during the winter months.
- Remote and rugged terrain: The trek takes you through remote and rugged terrain, with steep ascents and descents, rocky trails, and narrow paths. The trek can be physically demanding, especially in challenging weather conditions.
- Basic facilities: The lodges and teahouses along the trek provide basic accommodation and facilities, which may not be as comfortable or well-equipped as you are used to. Electricity, hot water, and internet access may not be available in some areas.
- Limited access to medical care: Medical facilities along the trek are limited, and evacuation to a hospital can take several days in case of an emergency.
Overall, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that requires proper preparation, a good level of fitness, and a willingness to embrace the remote and rugged conditions of the trek.
When is best time to go Kanchenjunga Circuit trek?
The best time to go for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally dry and clear, with good visibility and pleasant temperatures.
In the spring, the rhododendron forests along the trek are in full bloom, adding a burst of color to the already stunning landscapes. The temperatures are mild, and the days are longer, allowing for more time to trek each day.
In the autumn, the skies are usually clear, and the temperatures are cool and comfortable. The autumn season is also the harvest season in the region, and you can experience the local culture and traditions during festivals such as Dashain and Tihar.
However, it’s important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and even during the best months, there can be occasional snow, rain, or cloudy weather. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for changing weather conditions and to pack appropriate clothing and gear for the trek.
Weather and Temperature during the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
The weather and temperatures on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek can vary depending on the time of year and altitude. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times to trek, as the weather is usually clear and mild, with warm days and cool nights. Temperatures at lower altitudes can range from 15-20°C (59-68°F) during the day, while higher elevations may be cooler, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F) during the day and dropping below freezing at night.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August): This is the rainy season in Nepal, and while the Kanchenjunga region may not experience as much rainfall as other parts of the country, there is still a risk of rain and cloudy weather. Temperatures at lower elevations may be warmer, ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day, while higher elevations can still be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F) during the day and below freezing at night.
Autumn (September to November): This is another popular time to trek, with clear skies and cool temperatures. Temperatures at lower elevations can range from 15-20°C (59-68°F) during the day, while higher elevations may be cooler, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F) during the day and dropping below freezing at night.
Winter (December to February): This is the coldest time of year, and trekking at higher altitudes can be challenging due to snow and extreme cold. Temperatures at lower elevations can range from 10-15°C (50-59°F) during the day, while higher elevations can be very cold, with temperatures ranging from -10 to 0°C (14-32°F) during the day and dropping well below freezing at night.
It’s important to note that weather conditions in the mountains can be unpredictable and can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for a range of temperatures and weather conditions, regardless of the season. Bringing appropriate clothing and gear is essential for a safe and comfortable trek.
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