Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Himalayan Dream Team will pick you up at the international airport in Kathmandu for your transfer to the hotel. As a welcome you will have a typical Nepalese dinner with some of the staff members. Learn about momo's and Dal bhat and do not forget to try our typical Nepalese drink with great mood of cheers.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Our first stop is the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu. This sacred site is a beautiful symbol of faith for both Buddhists and Hindus.

Pashupatinath Temple: Next, we visit Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and cremation site. Here, you can witness and photograph traditional Hindu rituals along the Bagmati River, immersing yourself in the local spiritual life.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: After a delicious lunch, we head to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic site showcasing stunning Newari architecture. Enjoy a photo session with locals in traditional attire or Hindu holy men (Sadhus), perfect for capturing unique and memorable portraits.

Vegetable and Spice Markets: End the day with a visit to the bustling vegetable and spice markets. Capture dynamic street photography of vibrant colors, energetic atmosphere, and diverse faces, providing a glimpse into everyday life in Kathmandu.

Today, we catch an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, a scenic 45-minute journey offering stunning views of Nepal’s hills and valleys. At Bhadrapur Airport, our support team will greet you, and we’ll begin our long drive to Taplejung (8/9hrs). The drive takes us through beautiful landscapes, passing lush tea gardens in Kanyan and Fikkal, which are part of the famous Ilam region. As we near Taplejung, the aroma of black cardamom forests fills the air. Known as the world's largest producer of black cardamom, Taplejung welcomes us with its unique charm. We settle into our guesthouse for the night and prepare for the exciting trek ahead.

Our trekking adventure officially begins today as we hike from Taplejung to Chiruwa. The trail initially descends along the Tamor River, passing through dense black cardamom forests that fill the air with a rich aroma. We take a short break for tea or coffee before continuing on a flatter path. As we move further, the landscape transitions from alpine vegetation to a more tropical environment, with the steep mountains giving way to open flatlands. Along the route, we pass small villages of the Kirat people, who are primarily farmers, as well as communities of Tamangs and Gurungs. Observing their unique lifestyle adds a cultural richness to our journey. By evening, we reach the small settlement of Chiruwa, where we rest for the night.

After breakfast at Chiruwa, we commence the trek by crossing the suspension bridge over the Tamor River, which brings us to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Our permits will be checked at the park checkpoint before heading into the thick cardamom gardens. The trail follows the bank of the river, with passes through traditional villages, terraced fields, and vibrant-coloured farms. En-route, glowing waterfalls and streams catch our fascination. A major attraction of the day is to view the rich culture of Kirati people along with their simple way of living. After reaching Sermanthang, we will rest in a teahouse and relax for the night to rejuvenate ourselves for the remaining journey.

Today is a very mixed route, consisting of stone steps and rough trails. The trek is quite uphill in the initial parts while there are stiff, strenuous climbs in the latter parts. This trail changes landscapes as we climb higher slowly from Kirati settlements in the lower parts to Sherpa in the higher reaches. We have lunch at the riverbank of Lamatar and then resume climbing. Later in the afternoon, we reach Amjilosa, where a few Sherpa houses and yak pasturelands are located. We rest in the tranquility of this village at the end of the day.

We start early and trek on rocky stone steps through the landslide area, small streams, and beautiful waterfalls. The trail now becomes tougher as it goes uphill through the dense forests of rhododendron and ancient oak trees, with glimpses of small villages nestled in the serene valley down below. From Gyabla, we have a quick lunch and are rewarded with our first breathtaking view of the Kumbhakarna (Jannu) Peak. A steep climb on stone steps continues till Faley. From here, the trail becomes a mountain path and takes us uphill along the Ghunsa River. By evening, we reach Ghunsa - a pretty Sherpa village. Overnight at Ghunsa.

Today is your acclimatization day at Ghunsa. Your body needs some time to get adjusted to the gaining altitude. For the purpose, we go on a short hike over the river above the village. It takes about 4 hrs upward and downward. We spend the later part of the day exploring the Ghunsa- a traditional Tibetan village. You get to mingle with the locals, experience a very different culture, and take a look at handmade Tibetan crafts and souvenirs. The day is for acclimatization but also culturally enlightening about the lives of the Himalayan people.

We leave Ghunsa and head towards Khambachen, trekking through lush pine and rhododendron forests. The trail follows the east bank of the Ghunsa Khola, adorned with Buddhist mani walls, chortens, and vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind. As we ascend, the mountain scenery becomes even more dramatic, highlighted by the striking north face of Jannu Peak. Cautiously crossing a landslide-prone area, we continue along the hillside before descending into Khambachen. This beautiful Tibetan village sits on a green plain surrounded by towering mountains, where we settle in for the night.

Today is another day of acclimatization to ascend higher. Those who want some challenge, an optional hike to the Jannu Base Camp at 4400 meters highly recommended. The trek towards it follows along the Nupchu Khola and has mind-blowing views of Mount Jannu commonly called Kumbakarna. The journey to the Jannu shrine takes about 5-6 hours round trip. For those not joining the hike, Khambachen provides a peaceful setting to relax, take in the surrounding mountain vistas, and recharge for the days ahead.

We begin our trek early, navigating through a rocky field with large boulders scattered across the landscape. En route, we pass by a beautiful waterfall, cross a river, have a rest stop at Ramtang Monastery, cross an area susceptible to landslides with caution down steadily, and then make our way down to another river. Packed lunches are taken en-route as the trail approaches Lhonak, the closer view unfolds of Mount Kanchenjunga for the first time along with Wedge Peak (6750m), Mera Peak (6476m), Nepal Peak (6910m), and Twins Peak (6750m). Amidst this breathtaking scenery is Lhonak where we rest tonight.

From here, we start early for Pangpema, also called the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp, which is the highlight of the trek at 5143 meters. The trail to Pangpema is mostly on moraines and is rocky, with the shifting moraine making the route quite challenging. At Pangpema, the sight of the main peak of Kanchenjunga joined by Wedge Peak, Tent Peak, Nepal Peak, Cross Peak, and Twins provides breathtaking views. We can reach and view the beauty of the scenery, explore this significant destination, and then turn back to Lhonak for the night to enjoy every moment of this day.

Today, we will have to backtrack to Khambachen with a downward trend for about 5 hours. It is easier to trek downhill and at lower altitudes, so we shall behold the shifts in the scenery around us. We will get new views of Mount Kanchenjunga besides other peaks like Taple Shikhar (6510m) and Chang Himal or Wedge Peak. Arrive at Khambachen and overnight, enjoying breathtaking views.

Now we continue our descent, following the familiar trail back to Ghunsa. For much of this trek today, we can see magnificent views that were behind our backs, with fresh photo and observation opportunities. The path seems softer as we make our way back through these serene landscapes. We reach Ghunsa in the evening for rest, savoring the familiar village environment.

After breakfast, we bid goodbye to Ghunsa and start our ascend towards Sele La Base Camp. Gradually gaining altitude, the trail ascends through the rhododendron, birch, and pine forests up to a chorten with prayer flags beyond which the route starts to be steep. We begin our walk through natural stone steps and high-altitude vegetation, seeing waterfalls en route, followed by some stunning views of the mountain. At Sele La Base Camp, we can see peaks like Sarphu III (5865m), Khabur, and Bokton (6143m). Overnight here in tranquil beauty.

Today's trek is a pretty challenging one with ups and downs as we cross over three high passes, namely Sirion La at 4646 m, Mirgin La at 4470 m, and Sirelapche Bhanjyang at 4530 m. Mirgin La promises the most promising view of Mount Kanchenjunga. Along the way, we will be able to see yak grazing areas, medicinal herb field, waterfalls, and small glacier lakes. After the last pass, steep but short descent brings us past Jor Pokhari Lake and juniper woodlands. On our approach to Tserum, opening views of Kabru, the Yalung Glacier, Everest, and Makalu come along. The final stretch of going uphill is steep, and snowfall is common there; hence, it adds more adventure.

We start our day with a short hike to Ramzher. It leads us through jungles and rugged stone pathways up to the snout of the Yalung Glacier. En route, we can enjoy the ineffable beauty of various Himalayan peaks, glacier lakes, and yak pastures. As we reach Ramzher, the path flatten out after crossing over Lapsang La. Arriving at Ramzher, we rest for a few moments and visit a small monastery nearby.

Early morning, we leave for Oktang Glacier, the South Base Camp of Mount Kanchenjunga. The trail is mostly flat crossing yak pastures and open valleys up to the glacier. The views from Oktang of the Kanchenjunga massif are overwhelming-its peaks soar above 7500 meters, and we also get a close view of the glacier itself. Besides this, there is the visit to Okthalung Temple, the sacred place in the area. We spend some time in this unforgettable scenery before descending to Ramzher for the night, ending another remarkable day on the trek.

After breakfast in Ramzher, we begin our trek back to Tseram, retracing our steps with beautiful mountain views along the way. The mostly downhill trail makes for an easier walk. Continuing along the river on a stony mountain path, we pass through a lush rhododendron forest before reaching Torengthen. This charming settlement, surrounded by woods and farmland, is a known habitat for red pandas. We spend the night in this tranquil village.

We leave Torengthen after breakfast, climbing through rhododendron and pine forests and carefully crossing a landslide-prone area. After a 3-hour ascent, we stop at Lamite Bhanjang for lunch. The trail then descends for about 2 hours on a steady path before crossing the Imja Khola. Passing streams, a gorge, and open fields, we eventually reach Yamphudin, also called Sherpa Gaun. This diverse village is home to Sherpas, Rais, Limbus, and Tamangs. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area office is located here, making it an ideal spot to rest and explore.

On the final day of trekking, we follow a jungle trail through Kebang to Happukhola. The undulating path high above the river offers peaceful views of terraced farms, vibrant villages, and serene meadows. Along the way, we pass through Limbu towns, enjoying their hospitality and the colorful local culture. Reaching Happukhola marks the end of our trek in the Kanchenjunga region. The village, known as the bus park for Taplejung, provides a perfect setting to relax and reflect on the incredible journey.

Leaving Happukhola, we embark on a bumpy mountain drive to Taplejung. This scenic drive offers the last glimpses of the region’s rugged landscapes before arriving in Taplejung for the night.

We set off early for a full day’s drive to Jhapa, winding through picturesque hills, small towns, and valleys. Jhapa’s warmer climate and flat terrain contrast with the high-altitude mountain trails we’ve left behind. We spend the night here, preparing for our flight back to Kathmandu.

Early in the morning, we transfer to Bhadrapur Airport for a short flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you’ll be escorted to your hotel. Once checked in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. You can shop for souvenirs, stroll through the bustling streets of Thamel, visit cultural landmarks, or simply relax after your incredible journey. In the evening, consider celebrating your successful trek with a traditional Nepali meal or a spa session to rejuvenate.

After breakfast or lunch, depending on your flight time, we will transfer you to the international airport or if you leave by evening you can put your luggage at the Hotel and enjoy the city one final day