Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

By restricted region, it doesn’t mean that you are not allowed to trek here. It simply means that the government monitors tourism here because of the various safety regulations. Here are a few of them:

• The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is situated near the border between India and Tibet. Therefore, the Nepalese government must monitor the trek for geopolitical security.
• The Kanchenjunga Trek, encompassing both the north and south base camps, lies within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, which is home to endangered animals such as the snow leopard and the red panda. To protect them, it has to be restricted.
• It is one of the regions where indigenous communities, such as the Sherpa, Lepcha, Rai, Limbu, and Bhutia, reside. It becomes a duty of the government to preserve its traditions.
• Since it lies in the remotest part of the country, there are limited medical facilities available. Education also takes time. Controlled tourism enables the government to manage tourism effectively and ensure the safety of trekkers.

Remoteness and Peaceful Trails

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of the most remote trekking areas in Nepal. Unlike the most commercialized treks, such as Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp, the trails of this trek remain quiet and pristine. Not even a thousand trekkers visit the Kanchenjunga Base Camps in a whole year. While it might sound daunting, it is thrilling as you can have the trails to yourself. You can enjoy the solitude of nature like never before. It is ideal for those seeking a meditative and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Rich Local Culture and Traditions

Despite remoteness, many indigenous communities inhabit the trails leading to both Kanchenjunga Base Camps. The communities that you will encounter during the trek are the Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa people. Each of these people has their own language and tradition. While Sherpas follow Tibetan-influenced Buddhism, the Rai and Limbu people follow Kirant Mundhum. The ancient monasteries and traditional houses along the way will offer you a glimpse into their way of life. While staying at their teahouses or homestays, you can ask them about their culture, which will help increase your knowledge.

Stunning Eastern Mountain Views

Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) is the third-highest mountain in the world. So, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a Himalayan trek. It means that throughout the trek, you will witness many majestic peaks in the Kanchenjunga Massif. The list of some mountains you will see in this trek is as follows:

• Kanchenjunga (8,586 m)
• Yalung Kang (8,505 m), also known as Kanchenjunga West
• Kamachen (7,903 m)
• Jannu/Kumbakarna (7,710 m)
• Jongsang (7,483 m)
• Kabru (7,353 m)
• The Twins (7,350 m)

Ultimate Adventure

To trek in the Kanchenjunga region of Nepal means to accept all the challenges it offers. It means going through rugged terrain, high altitudes, and walking for longer hours. This trek is not for the faint-hearted. But those who dare will be rewarded with the ultimate adventure. The thrill of travelling on peaceful trails with all these challenges is unmatched by any other trek. Crossing the river, glaciers, and steep ascents keep the adrenaline level high. Upon completing this trek, you will experience a profound sense of accomplishment.

Varied Biodiversity

Kanchenjunga lies within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. It is the protected areas with a varied range of forests, flora, and fauna. You will pass through the lush forests of pine and rhododendron at a lower altitude. However, the upper regions have rocky slopes and alpine meadows. Animals such as the snow leopard and black bear live in this region. It is home to more than 250 species of birds. Such rich biodiversity increases the chances of you connecting with nature.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek begins in Taplejung, situated at an elevation of 1,820 meters. It reaches up to the North and South Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The North Base Camp is located at an elevation of 5,143 meters, the highest point on the trek. So, the overall elevation gain for the entire trek is 3,323 meters.

The two highest elevation gains occur on a trek to Ghunsa on day ten, which is approximately 860 meters, and on a trek to the south base camp on day nineteen, which is approximately 880 meters. The highest elevation loss occurs on the day you return to Ghunsa from Lhonak, which is around the fifteenth day, a decrease of roughly 1190 meters. The average elevation gain just for the trekking days is around 590 meters, and the average elevation loss is around 825 meters.

Here is the elevation chart for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:

The trails of the Kanchenjunga are remote. The wilderness is untouched. Unlike the many popular crowded trails, facilities are limited. Additionally, the route is rugged, with limited rescue options. Due to the numerous difficulties involved, selecting the best time for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is crucial.

Since the upper region of Kanchenjunga lies above 3,500 meters, the number of tea houses is very limited. They, too, do not operate during the off-seasons due to the extreme rainfall and snowfall in the monsoon and winter, respectively.

So, the best times for the Kanchenjunga Trek are either autumn (September to November) or spring (March to May). These seasons are also called peak trekking seasons. Let’s examine both peak season and off-season separately.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek during Peak Seasons

The peak seasons (autumn and spring) for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offer favorable temperatures and weather. The temperature in the lower region will be around 10 to 20°C on average, and the upper region will be at around 3 to 5°C, both of which are manageable. Besides, the views of the Kanchenjunga massif are crystal clear. The trails in spring are colorful and filled with golden hues in the autumn. Also, there are minimal chances of rainfall, making the trail safe. Teahouses are also open, even at higher elevations like Pangpema (5,143 meters).

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek during the Off-season

The major drawback of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek during the off-season is its remoteness and the presence of landslide-prone areas. The trails are covered in snow in winter, and they are slippery during monsoon, both of which are dangerous. The tea houses are also not open at higher elevations. For example, huts that operate at Pangpema (5,143 meters) are closed during the off-season. Another aspect that makes it a challenging trek in the off-season is the harsh weather and temperature. The rainfall and snowfall make it harder to maintain the right footing. Additionally, the temperature can drop below freezing during winter and rise above 25°C during summer.

Like any other Himalayan Trek, the major difficulty of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is altitude sickness. The other challenges include remoteness, which is not the case with many other popular treks. Let us explore four of the primary challenges you might face during this trek:

Remoteness

The Kanchenjunga trekking region is one of the least-visited trekking destinations in Nepal. Villages are scattered far apart, and there are no medical facilities along the trail. Once trekking starts, you will leave behind all the facilities. The food options and accommodation are limited. You must be self-reliant on the trek and prepared to handle any issues caused by remoteness. Since you will be trekking with a guide, you can rely on the guide for safety.

Altitude Sickness

The trek reaches an elevation of 5,140 meters once and above 4,000 meters multiple times. It includes crossing three high passes: Sele La Pass (4,290 m), Sinelapche La Pass (4840 m), and Mirgin La Pass (4665 m). The oxygen level becomes relatively thin once you reach 3,500 meters. For someone who isn’t accustomed to such an atmosphere, they may experience breathing difficulties. This is altitude sickness. And its risk is higher in a trek like the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. Beyond Ghunsa (3,590 m), the risk is even greater. Hence, it is best to acclimatize at Ghunsa. Additionally, be sure to drink plenty of water.

Length and Duration

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek takes 24 days to complete. Out of 24 days, you will be travelling on the road or by flight for 4 days, which is extremely tiring. The remaining 19 days (excluding your arrival in Kathmandu), you will walk for approximately 6 to 8 hours a day. At times, you will even have to cover about 15 km in a day. Trekking in such remoteness for such a long time can be very stressful.

Trail Conditions

Since the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is the least popular, with fewer than a thousand people visiting there yearly, the trails can be unmanaged. Compared to popular treks like ABC or EBC, the trails are not structured as well. There are numerous rocky sections with can be slippery. The unpaved trails can be slippery if it rains. Besides, there are landslide-prone areas on the trail. Walking on such a trail can be challenging, which may lead to injuries and accidents.

Since the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a remote and less popular route compared to the EBC or ABC, many trekkers wonder about the accommodation options available along the trail. Accommodation is one of the major difficulties many trekkers face in this trek, as they are not used to the simple bedding. The lodging options available along the trail are basic teahouses. These teahouses offer simple rooms. You might have to share it with the fellow trekkers. Facilities here are rustic, and you shouldn’t expect luxury.

In some sections, especially beyond Ghunsa, the tea houses can be limited or even closed during the off-season. For example, the huts at Pangpema (5,143 meters) are open during peak seasons, but they shut down during the off-season. The other unpopular accommodation option is camping. However, it is highly challenging and requires extra expenses. You have to preplan and manage resources for the entire group beforehand.

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is a demanding and remote adventure. It is best suited for experienced trekkers who are also physically fit. So, trekkers with different levels of experience perceive this trek differently. For example, it is highly challenging for first-time trekkers. Still, it can also be equally difficult for even those who have trekked before, particularly if there is a significant gap between this trek and their previous one. Let’s examine the Kanchenjunga Circuit trek at each level so you can determine if it’s suitable for you.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek for Beginners Trekkers

We generally do not recommend the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek for beginner trekkers due to the difficulties involved. By beginners, we mean those with no trekking experience. However, if you are one or two treks old, you can do it with adequate preparation. If you are a beginner, you should expect long and tiring days with almost no people besides you and your group. You should also expect basic accommodations with no modern facilities. If you really want to do this, you have to prepare your mind for discomfort.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Intermediate Trekkers

Intermediate trekkers who have previously completed the high-altitude treks will find Kanchenjunga Trek challenging than their previous trek. However, they have the benefit of having experienced the remote trails. They will be better prepared, at least mentally, than the beginner trekkers. However, they might find it hard if they are not physically fit. If you fall under this category, you can expect the trek to act as a transition, making you an experienced trekker. Doing the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, you can do any other trek in Nepal.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek for Experienced Trekkers

If there is any trek that an experienced trekkers are left to do, then it has to be the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. It is perfectly suited for those who are comfortable with trekking for longer days in a remote environment. Such trekkers will find the hidden beauty in the tranquil trails of Kanchenjunga. If you fall under this category, it will be more about immersing yourself in the inner self, extracting the most adventure out of it, and connecting with nature like never before.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is both a high-altitude and a remote trek. Compared to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek, it is the least popular of the two. The trails are not well-maintained, and there are minimal facilities available. Therefore, you must be cautious while trekking. Here are some tips and safety measures to complete this trek successfully:

• First things first, since there are nearly no medical facilities available on the trek to the Kanchenjunga, you must carry first aid, including medication for altitude sickness and diarrhea.
• If you suffer from altitude sickness, you have to either delay the trek or be evacuated, both of which will cost you money. Therefore, ensure you have travel insurance that covers high-altitude treks.
• Acclimatize, drink plenty of water, and maintain a steady pace to help prevent altitude sickness.
• Prepare your body for the rugged trails by focusing on cardiovascular exercises, such as swimming, running, and hiking. Also, focus on training your legs.
• If you have any medical conditions, consult your doctor before embarking on the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.
• Use eco-friendly products and opt for reusable alternatives to reduce single-use plastics. Carry out all waste and follow Leave No Trace principles.
• Carry all your documents with you and present them to the officials when asked. Failing to do so might result in legal actions and a fine.
• Pack light but include all essentials like thermal layers, windproof jackets, and rain gear.

There are two permits that you will need to obtain to complete the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. They are: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) and Restricted Area Permit (RAP). The restricted regions include Phantanglung Rural Municipality (All areas of ward nos. 6 and 7), Mikwakhola Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 5), and Sirijunga Rural Municipality (All areas of ward no. 8) of Taplejung district. These permits are designed to ensure both the safety of trekkers and the safety of the region. Below is the table for its price and the place to obtain it:

Note: Himalaya Guide Nepal will obtain the permit on your behalf. However, you will need to provide documents such as your photos, a photocopy of your passport, and a copy of your visa.

The cost of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is USD 2,000 per person for groups of two people. Since it is a restricted area, you must travel in a group of at least two. Moreover, you are required to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide, as per government regulations. At Himalaya Guide Nepal, we offer a discount for groups with a larger number of people. For example, the cost is USD 1,780 if you are trekking in a group of ten people. The more groups, the greater the discount.

Note: In addition to group discounts, Himalaya Guide Nepal offers festive and seasonal deals.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown

The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of the most remote treks in Nepal. The prices of food and accommodations here are a bit expensive than in the other treks in Nepal. Since there is no transportation available, the services you receive, such as food, must be carried by a person. That said, here is the approximate breakdown of the costs that are included in the package:

Note: Refer to the information below for details on what is included in the packages and what is excluded.

Here is a general packing list for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek:

Note: The packing list is subject to season, personal preference, and the number of trekking days.

If the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is that remote, then why should you opt for it compared to other popular Himalayan treks, such as Everest Base Camp and the Manaslu Circuit Trek? Here is the table comparing these three journeys:

The sole reason why you should consider the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is to experience the remote trails. Despite being expensive, it offers you an adrenaline rush like no other hike. The less crowded trails offer an opportunity to connect with nature, and you can also opt for camping on the Kanchenjunga Trek. Not only that, it doesn’t compromise the scenic views, meaning you’ll still get the Himalayan Trekking experience you wanted. So, if it’s raw beauty and real adventure you seek, Kanchenjunga is the one you should pick.