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Kanchanjunga Circuit Trek

5140 m

On the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek, you will dive deep into the wilderness of the far eastern Himalayas in Nepal. The journey takes you to the north (5,140 m/16,863 ft) and south (4,050 m/13,287 ft) base camps of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain on Earth. It is an epic trip, ideal for backpackers. Travelers who love exploring untouched, remote locations and dare to go beyond the mainstream trails will love the Kanchenjunga trek. Not many people know about this trek, so the trails remain empty even in the peak seasons. Kanchenjunga Circuit trek is also known as Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek. From Kathmandu, it takes two days to reach the trail's starting point. The region's inaccessibility is one of the big causes for fewer tourists. Likewise, it is an advanced trek with challenging terrain, high altitude, and bare minimum infrastructures for the trekkers. All these factors have kept Kanchenjunga Circuit pristine.
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Duration
21 Days
Best Time : September to May
Difficulty
Grade : Strenuous Challenging
Altitude
Start: 1400M Highest: 5140M

Key Highlights

Summiting the Third Highest Peak :

Experience the ultimate thrill of standing atop the world's third highest mountain.

Remote and Pristine Wilderness :

Trek through untouched landscapes and experience the raw beauty of the Kanchenjunga region.

Cultural Immersion :

Interact with local communities and experience the unique culture of the region.

Challenging Climb :

Test your mountaineering skills with a technically challenging climb.

Expert Guidance :

Climb with experienced guides and Sherpas who prioritize safety and success.

Itinerary

Costs Include

Costs Exclude

Essential Tips

Permits :

Obtain the necessary permits: Langtang National Park Permit (USD 30) and TIMS Card (USD 20). Booking a package often simplifies this process.

Trek Difficulty :

This is a challenging trek due to high altitude (reaching 4,610m at Lauribina La pass), rugged terrain, and daily ascents and descents of around 6 hours. Prepare physically with regular exercise and hiking.

Altitude Sickness :

Acclimatization is crucial. Trek slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and smoking, and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms (headache, vomiting, difficulty breathing, etc.). Inform your guide immediately if you experience any symptoms.

Best Time to Trek :

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (late September-November) offer the most stable weather and moderate climate.

Travel Insurance :

Essential for emergency helicopter evacuation and medical expenses due to the remote location. Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking.

Accommodation and Food :

Expect basic guesthouse accommodations (twin sharing, shared toilets). Three meals a day are provided (Dal Bhat, Thukpa, Momo, Noodles are common), but pack extra snacks. Consider a single room for an additional cost if desired.

Packing :

Pack light but in layers. Essentials include comfortable underwear, trekking clothes, base/thermal layers, windproof/waterproof jacket/pants, fleece/down jacket, gloves, socks, scarf, beanie, sun hat, trekking boots, casual shoes, duffel bag, daypack, trekking pole, map, water bottle, sleeping bag, toiletries, first aid kit, snacks, camera, charger, journal, cash, and documents.

Physical Preparation :

Improve stamina, strength, and endurance through regular exercise, including strength training, aerobic exercises (swimming, cycling, running), and hiking. Practice breathing techniques.

Respect Local Culture :

Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Ask before taking photos and show respect for the Tamang and Sherpa communities.