Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Dream Team will warmly welcome you with a traditional Nepali flower garland and assist with your private transfer to the hotel.

After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey. If you feel like exploring, you may enjoy a gentle walk around the nearby streets and get your first impression of Kathmandu’s lively atmosphere.

In the evening, we will treat you to a welcome dinner at one of the finest local restaurants. This is a perfect introduction to authentic Nepali cuisine, warm hospitality, and the journey that awaits you in the Himalayas.

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.

After an early breakfast, we take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, enjoying spectacular views of Nepal's hills, rivers, and, on clear days, the Himalayan mountain range. Upon arrival at Bhadrapur Airport, our driver will welcome you before we begin the scenic drive to Taplejung (1,820 m).

The journey takes us through the beautiful tea gardens of Kanyam and Fikkal in the famous Ilam region, passing traditional villages, rolling green hills, and lush forests. As we approach Taplejung, the landscape becomes increasingly mountainous, with extensive black cardamom plantations, one of the region's most important agricultural products. Upon arrival, we check into our teahouse, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the exciting Kanchenjunga trekking adventure ahead.

Today, our Kanchenjunga trekking adventure officially begins. After breakfast, we leave Taplejung (1,820 m) and descend towards Chiruwa (1,290 m), following the scenic trail alongside the Tamor River. The route passes through lush forests, black cardamom plantations, terraced farmland, and traditional villages inhabited by Limbu, Rai, Tamang, and Gurung communities.

As we continue, the landscape gradually changes from cool mountain scenery to the warmer subtropical valleys of eastern Nepal. Along the way, we cross suspension bridges, enjoy beautiful river views, and experience the warm hospitality of the local people. By late afternoon, we arrive at the peaceful village of Chiruwa (1,290 m), where we spend our first night in a traditional teahouse.

After an early breakfast, we leave Chiruwa and follow the scenic trail alongside the Tamor River before gradually entering the beautiful Ghunsa Khola Valley. The route passes through lush subtropical forests, cardamom plantations, terraced farmland, and traditional Limbu villages, offering excellent opportunities to experience the local culture and rural lifestyle.

Along the way, we cross several suspension bridges over rushing rivers and enjoy views of cascading waterfalls surrounded by dense vegetation. As we steadily gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged, marking our entrance into the remote Kanchenjunga region.

By late afternoon, we arrive at the peaceful village of Sekathum (1,660 m), situated at the confluence of the Tamor and Ghunsa Khola rivers. This small settlement is an important gateway to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and provides a comfortable overnight stop before continuing deeper into the Himalayas.

After breakfast, we leave Sekathum and begin a steady ascent along the Ghunsa Khola. The trail passes through dense forests, narrow rocky paths, waterfalls, and several suspension bridges, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. As we gain altitude, the subtropical vegetation gradually gives way to a cooler mountain environment. After lunch, the trail becomes steeper before finally reaching the peaceful village of Amjilosa. Surrounded by forested hills, this small Tibetan-influenced settlement is the perfect place to rest and prepare for the journey deeper into the Kanchenjunga region.

After an early breakfast, we leave Amjilosa and continue our ascent through beautiful rhododendron, pine, and bamboo forests. The trail passes waterfalls, streams, suspension bridges, and narrow valleys before reaching the small Tibetan village of Gyabla (2,730 m), where we stop for lunch.

After lunch, we continue climbing through forests and alpine meadows, passing the traditional village of Phale (3,210 m) before following the Ghunsa Khola to Ghunsa (3,550 m). Along the way, we are rewarded with our first magnificent views of Kumbhakarna (Jannu Peak, 7,710 m). Ghunsa is a beautiful Sherpa village with traditional houses, prayer flags, and a peaceful mountain atmosphere. Overnight at a traditional teahouse.

Today is an important acclimatization day in Ghunsa (3,550 m) to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude before continuing higher into the mountains. After breakfast, we take a short acclimatization hike above Ghunsa Village (3,800 m), following the principle of "climb high, sleep low" to improve acclimatization while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

After returning to the village for lunch, you will have time to explore Ghunsa, one of the largest and most picturesque Sherpa villages in the Kanchenjunga region. Visit the local monastery, observe traditional stone houses decorated with prayer flags, meet the friendly locals, and experience the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture that has flourished here for generations. Overnight at a traditional teahouse in Ghunsa.

After breakfast, we leave the beautiful village of Ghunsa (3,550 m) and continue our journey towards Khambachen (4,000 m). The trail follows the east bank of the Ghunsa Khola, passing ancient mani walls, chortens, prayer flags, and peaceful alpine forests of pine and rhododendron. As we gain altitude, the vegetation gradually becomes sparse, giving way to spectacular mountain scenery.

Along the route, we carefully cross a few landslide-prone sections before enjoying magnificent views of Kumbhakarna (Jannu Peak, 7,710 m) and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. By afternoon, we arrive at Khambachen (4,000 m), a small Tibetan settlement set on a wide glacial plain beneath towering mountains. After checking into our traditional teahouse, you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking alpine surroundings.

Today is another important acclimatization day in Khambachen (4,000 m) before trekking to higher elevations. After breakfast, those who wish can take an optional hike towards Jannu Base Camp (approximately 4,400 m). The trail follows the Nupchu Khola through alpine terrain, offering spectacular views of Kumbhakarna (Jannu Peak, 7,710 m), glaciers, and the surrounding Himalayan landscape. The round-trip hike takes approximately 5–6 hours and helps your body adapt to the higher altitude by following the "climb high, sleep low" principle.

Those who prefer a more relaxing day can stay in Khambachen, enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery, explore the small settlement, or simply rest at the teahouse while preparing for the journey ahead.

After breakfast, we leave Khambachen (4,000 m) and continue trekking through a rugged alpine landscape of rocky trails, glacial moraines, and scattered boulders. The trail follows the Ghunsa Khola, passing the grazing area of Ramtang and offering magnificent views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

As we gain altitude, the scenery becomes more dramatic and the vegetation gradually disappears. Along the way, we enjoy spectacular views of Kanchenjunga, Kumbhakarna (Jannu Peak, 7,710 m), Wedge Peak (6,750 m), Nepal Peak (6,910 m), and the surrounding Himalayan giants. By afternoon, we arrive at the small settlement of Lhonak (4,770 m), situated on a wide glacial plain beneath towering mountains. After settling into our teahouse, we rest and prepare for tomorrow's unforgettable hike to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.

Today is the highlight of the trek as we make an early morning hike from Lhonak (4,770 m) to Pangpema (5,143 m), the viewpoint of Kanchenjunga North Base Camp. The trail follows glacial moraines and rocky terrain, gradually climbing through the high Himalayan landscape. As we gain altitude, breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Wedge Peak (6,750 m), Tent Peak, Nepal Peak (6,910 m), Cross Peak, and the Twins unfold before us.

After spending time at Pangpema, enjoying the spectacular mountain panorama and taking photographs, we retrace our steps back to Lhonak (4,770 m) for an overnight stay at the teahouse.

After breakfast, we leave Lhonak (4,770 m) and retrace our steps towards Khambachen (4,000 m). The mostly downhill trail follows the Ghunsa Khola through rugged alpine terrain, glacial moraines, and rocky landscapes. As we descend, the mountain scenery changes once again, offering fresh perspectives of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Kumbhakarna (Jannu Peak, 7,710 m), Wedge Peak (6,750 m), and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

By afternoon, we arrive back at the peaceful settlement of Khambachen (4,000 m). After checking into our teahouse, there is time to relax and enjoy the spectacular mountain views.

Today we continue our descent from Khambachen (4,000 m) to the beautiful Sherpa village of Ghunsa (3,550 m). Following the familiar trail along the Ghunsa Khola, we pass alpine meadows, pine and rhododendron forests, ancient mani walls, chortens, and colorful prayer flags. The descent offers new viewpoints of Kumbhakarna (Jannu Peak, 7,710 m) and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

By afternoon, we reach Ghunsa (3,550 m), one of the largest villages in the Kanchenjunga region. The remainder of the day is free to relax, explore the village, or enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere before continuing towards the southern side of the circuit.

After breakfast, we leave Ghunsa (3,550 m) and begin a steady ascent towards Sele La Base Camp (4,480 m). The trail winds through beautiful forests of rhododendron, pine, and birch before gradually climbing above the tree line into the alpine zone. Along the way, we pass waterfalls, prayer flags, and small chortens while enjoying increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged and open, revealing magnificent mountain scenery. By afternoon, we arrive at Sele La Base Camp (4,480 m), where we enjoy panoramic views of Sarphu III (5,865 m), Boktoh Peak (6,114 m), and the surrounding mountains. Overnight at a traditional teahouse.

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek. After an early breakfast, we leave Sele La Base Camp (4,480 m) and cross a series of high mountain passes, including Sele La Pass (4,646 m), Mirgin La (4,470 m), and Sinion La (4,440 m). From the passes, we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Makalu (8,485 m), Everest (8,849 m), and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

The trail then descends past small alpine lakes, yak pastures, and juniper forests before reaching the beautiful Yalung Valley. Following the valley, we arrive at the peaceful settlement of Tseram (3,870 m), where we spend the night at a traditional teahouse.

After breakfast, we leave Tseram (3,870 m) and gradually ascend through the beautiful Yalung Valley towards Ramche (4,580 m). The trail follows the Simbuwa Khola, passing alpine meadows, yak pastures, glacial streams, and rocky mountain terrain. As we gain altitude, spectacular views of Kabru (7,412 m), Rathong Peak (6,678 m), and the surrounding Himalayan peaks unfold before us.

By afternoon, we arrive at Ramche (4,580 m), a peaceful high-altitude pasture surrounded by towering mountains and the impressive Yalung Glacier. After settling into the teahouse, there is time to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery before tomorrow's hike to Kanchenjunga South Base Camp.

Today is another highlight of the trek as we hike from Ramche (4,580 m) to Oktang (4,730 m), the spectacular viewpoint of Kanchenjunga South Base Camp. The trail follows the Yalung Glacier across open alpine meadows and yak pastures, offering ever-improving views of the surrounding mountains.

From Oktang (4,730 m), we enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the south face of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), along with Kabru, Rathong, Talung, and the magnificent Yalung Glacier. After spending time enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, we retrace our steps to Ramche (4,580 m) for another overnight stay at the teahouse.

After breakfast, we leave Ramche (4,580 m) and retrace our steps through the beautiful Yalung Valley towards Torongding (2,995 m). The trail gradually descends past alpine meadows, glacial streams, and yak pastures before re-entering forests of rhododendron and pine. Along the way, we enjoy wonderful views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and the peaceful mountain landscape.

By afternoon, we arrive at the small settlement of Torongding (2,995 m), nestled beside the Simbuwa Khola and surrounded by lush forest. This tranquil village is known for its rich biodiversity and is one of the habitats of the rare red panda. Overnight at a traditional teahouse.

After breakfast, we leave Torongding (2,995 m) and continue descending through beautiful forests of rhododendron, bamboo and pine. The trail crosses several suspension bridges over the Simbuwa Khola, passes waterfalls, small streams, and traditional mountain settlements, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

After lunch near Lamite Bhanjyang, we continue along a mixture of forest trails and terraced farmland before reaching Yamphudin (2,080 m). This charming village is home to Sherpa, Limbu, Rai, and Tamang communities and marks the end of the remote high-mountain section of the Kanchenjunga Circuit. 

Today marks the final day of trekking as we leave Yamphudin (2,080 m) and follow scenic forest trails towards Happukhola (1,915 m). The route passes through the traditional Limbu village of Khebang, where we experience the warm hospitality and rich culture of the local people. Along the way, we walk through terraced fields, lush forests, small streams, and peaceful villages while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

By afternoon, we arrive at Happukhola (1,915 m), where our memorable Kanchenjunga trekking adventure comes to an end. We spend the night at a traditional teahouse, celebrating the completion of this incredible Himalayan journey.

After breakfast, we leave Happukhola (1,915 m) and begin our scenic drive back to Taplejung (1,820 m). The winding mountain road passes through picturesque villages, terraced farmland, forests, and rolling hills, offering one last opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of eastern Nepal.

Upon arrival in Taplejung (1,820 m), we check into our accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening after completing the trekking section of the Kanchenjunga Circuit.

After breakfast, we leave Taplejung (1,820 m) and begin our scenic drive to Jhapa (500 m). The journey winds through rolling hills, traditional villages, terraced farmland, and lush forests before gradually descending to the lowlands of eastern Nepal. Along the way, we enjoy beautiful views of rivers, tea gardens, and the changing landscapes as we leave the mountains behind.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Jhapa (500 m), where we check into our hotel and relax before tomorrow's flight back to Kathmandu.

After breakfast, we transfer to Bhadrapur Airport for a short flight back to Kathmandu (1,335 m). Upon arrival, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

After check-in, the rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at your own pace. You may explore the lively streets of Thamel, shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts, relax at a café, or treat yourself to a traditional spa or massage after completing your trek. It is the perfect opportunity to unwind and celebrate your unforgettable Kanchenjunga adventure.

After breakfast, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. If you have a late departure, you are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel and enjoy some free time exploring Kathmandu, shopping for last-minute souvenirs, or relaxing at a café before we transfer you to the airport.

If you would like to extend your holiday, we would be delighted to arrange additional sightseeing around the Kathmandu Valley, a wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park or Bardia National Park, a visit to Pokhara or Lumbini, a tour to Bhutan or Tibet, or any other customized adventure in Nepal. Simply let us know your interests, and our team will be happy to tailor the perfect extension to your journey.