Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

Welcome to Kathmandu – the capital city of Nepal. Today is your first day with EverTrek. Once you’ve passed through passport control and collected your bags, you’ll head out to the front of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) to be greeted by one of our friendly team members - look for the EverTrek sign, you won’t miss them! They will be there to pick you up and transport you to your hotel in Thamel.

EverTrekkers will be arriving throughout the day at differing flight times.

You will enjoy a group meal with your fellow trekkers. You'll be taken to one of the most popular local restaurants where you can enjoy Nepali food along with cultural music and ethnic dance.

Today you will head out into Kathmandu and visit the cultural and historical sites of the Kathmandu Valley. You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and enjoy lunch at one of our favourite viewpoints in the city. Kathmandu lies at 1300m above sea level so it’s important to get out and about today and let your body acclimatise.

Today also gives you the opportunity to grab any last-minute items in the trekking hub of Thamel and get an early night ready for the trek tomorrow.

Time to kickstart the next chapter of your adventure! Bright and early this morning, your trusty trekking guide will swing by to scoop you up and whisk you off to the airport for your flight to Bhadrapur. Brace yourself for a jaw-dropping journey that'll treat you to awe-inspiring mountain vistas, including sweeping views of the majestic Mount Everest.

Once your feet are back on solid ground, the rest of the day is dedicated to a scenic drive to Taplejung. Buckle up for a ride along a narrow and bumpy road that winds through charming rural landscapes. As you roll into town, you'll be warmly welcomed at your hotel. It's a chance to recharge those batteries, as tomorrow marks the exciting launch of your trekking journey. Get comfy and gear up for the thrilling trails that await you!

Today’s trek takes you toward the small mountain village of Lelep, passing through the Tapethok Checkpoint en route. It's a long day today as you trek upwards but take the time to enjoy the views and acclimatise. This is one epic journey but enjoy the remoteness and the awesome views around. 

Leaving the village of Amjjilossa behind, the trail winds through a lush forest adorned with pine, bamboo, rhododendron, and oak trees. Here, you'll find tranquility in every step, accompanied by the melodic chirping of birds that fill the air. Keep your eyes peeled, as you'll also be treated to a vibrant array of birdlife dancing amidst the branches.

As we journey ahead, the villages begin to take on a more Tibetan-inspired charm. And guess what? Our target for today is none other than Gyabla.

As you continue along the trail, you'll weave through a forested path and make your way past Phale village. This quaint village, once a winter settlement, carries a rich history as a Tibetan refugee camp in the past. Our journey then takes us to our designated rest stop for the day – Ghunsa.

Ghunsa holds the distinction of being the largest village around, boasting essential amenities like a police station, the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Office, and a health post. And guess what? You're not cut off from the world here – communication facilities including telephone and internet are also at your fingertips. So, settle in and unwind in this convenient hub before the next leg of your exhilarating adventure!

As you make your way along the trek, the altitude starts to gradually climb and you can start to feel it. It's important to give yourself time to acclimatize and avoid any altitude-related discomfort. That's why today is all about taking it easy – it's a well-deserved rest day in Ghunsa. You can either kick back and relax or venture out to explore the captivating surroundings. Embrace the chance to recharge and ensure you're in top form for the exhilarating journey that lies ahead!

As you start your trekking journey today, you'll be greeted by a gentle ascent that winds through picturesque pine and rhododendron forests. Along the way, you'll encounter numerous mani walls and chortens, adding a touch of spirituality to your journey. A scenic lunch break awaits you by the river at RampakKharka, offering a serene pause in your adventure.

But wait, there's more to come! After lunch, brace yourself for a steep climb that paves the way for a rewarding descent into the summer village of Khambachen. And oh, the views! From this vantage point, you'll be treated to magnificent vistas of Mt. Jannu, also known as Kumbhakarna. Get ready to soak in these breath-taking views! 

The trek to Lhonak through Ramtang village isn't overly demanding but still a trek at altitude is always tough ehh. Despite the altitude gain, the trail remains manageable, allowing you to stroll along and relish the awe-inspiring vistas of the valley and majestic mountain peaks. Midway through, you'll pause for a well-deserved lunch break at Ramtang, and that's where the magic happens – the towering summit of Wedge Peak graces the scene in all its glory.

As the afternoon sun unfolds, drink in the mesmerizing panorama before you. Nepal Peak, the Twins, Mera, and the striking White Wave peak into view, each contributing to the stunning landscape. Finally, you'll reach the charming village of Lhonak, perched high above the Kanchenjunga Glacier, offering a picturesque view of the Wedge Peak on the other side. 

One of the big highlights on the trek. Kanchenjunga North base camp. You'll start the trek off nice and early for about 3 hours from the village of Lhonak before the terrain starts to change as you follow the glacial moraine, leading you to the Kanchenjunga North Face Base Camp, nestled in what looks like a little nook. The  North face of Kanchenjunga towers above as you enjoy this epic place at the worlds third highest mountain.

Soak it all in before we take the journey back down to lower altitudes and a well earned rest.

Today we will trek from the village of Lhonak and compared to the previous days it's not too strenuous although the altitude does increase as the trek continues around the Kanchenjunga massif. 

This morning's journey leads you predominantly downhill (though it's not as effortless as it may seem!) as you make your way across Ramtang en route to your evening haven in Ghunsa. Along this path, an exciting opportunity awaits – you'll catch sight of the Himalayas very own native Bharal, the elusive blue sheep. There is a fair bit of up and down on this day as we negotiate some areas where sometimes there are landslips along the steep-sided valley, gradually descending.

Today's adventure unfolds along a path well-trodden by the locals of this region, a route they traverse daily. This trail winds through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, occasionally veiled by a blanket of snow. Your journey will lead you along a track that clings to the southern slope, guiding you to your evening abode in Sele Le. It's a day packed with natural wonders and local vibes, ensuring a truly immersive experience on this unforgettable trek.

This is one of the toughest days on the trek as we navigate and cross some high passes. Your morning sets off with a steep ascent toward the stunning Mirgin La Pass, standing tall at an elevation of 4,480m. At this lofty vantage point, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panorama encompassing the majestic Mount Makalu, the awe-inspiring Jannu, the imposing Baruntse, the legendary Kanchenjunga, and the grand sweep of the Himalaya range stretching along India's Sikkim border.

Keep the momentum going as you press on towards Sinelpche La, forging ahead to the welcoming village of Cheram. With every step, you'll be carving out memories of awe-inspiring vistas and remarkable landscapes, all culminating in a cozy haven for the night. The journey continues, unveiling the Himalayan treasures that await around every bend.

A beast of a day after 8 or 9 hours of trekking but what an adventure

Another epic today as you reach another base camp of Kanchenjunga. The trek starts hiking through alpine meadows, tracing a path alongside the lateral moraine of the Yalung Glacier. After a couple of hours of hiking, your journey brings you to the welcoming embrace of Ramche. Here, a breathtaking sight awaits as the surrounding mountains unveil their magnificence before you. As the evening sun casts its golden glow over the snow-capped peaks, you'll be treated to a truly unforgettable spectacle.

From Ramche, your adventure presses on towards the Kanchenjunga South Basecamp at 4,580m. This camp sits in an awesome spot with some more epic views so drink it all in and enjoy the moment of one of the true highlights of the trek.

Afterward, your trail leads you back to Ramche.

Today you trace your trek back to Cheram and trek to Tortung, a small village with few tea houses. The trail goes down and up the hill through a gorge, forest and area prone to landslides. We'll be super careful here!

After having breakfast, the journey continues as you continue on downhill and steep ups, again some typical Nepalese flat trekking. It's a long day but not as tough as some of the previous days so enjoy the journey for our last few days of trekking in this fantastic area. You'll stay overnight at Yamphuding one of the more remote settlements in the area.

The trek today is quite relaxing and there will be some opportunities to stop and bathe in one of the many clear pools in the KabeliKhola as we walk along the trail. Nothing quite like a cold dip in the glacial waters of the Himalayas. The trail continues down the stream beds before crossing the mountain ridge over to the nice and easy descent down to Mamakke.

As you bid farewell to Manakke village, the trail beckons, guiding you to cross a suspension bridge that spans the path. Alongside the Khangwa Khola, your journey unfolds amidst terraced fields that paint a picturesque scene. Take a moment to savor the captivating vista of Mt. Jannu, a grandeur complemented by the presence of scattered hamlets and the artistic stretches of terraced fields adorning the ridge's crest.

Your path weaves through Anpan village, a brief interlude before you find yourself at Ponpedhara, the next waypoint. The trail continues, leading you through the enchantment of Loppoding. Venture forth, and as you navigate through dense forests, you'll traverse the embrace of glaciated mountain passes. Navigating across the Nandeva Khola, your journey unfolds amidst the terraced fields that grace Kesuwa. The symphony of landscapes and experiences continues, each step weaving a chapter into your Himalayan odyssey.

Today's adventure treats you to the captivating spectacle of Kanchenjunga basking in the morning sun's glow. Embarking on the trail, you'll journey beyond, crossing Bhanjyang and Tambawa, marking the waypoints of your expedition. The path unravels through petite hillside villages and verdant forests, painting a tapestry of rural life and natural beauty.

As you forge ahead, the route winds its way through Kunjari, revealing fascinating terraced farmlands that showcase the ingenuity of the locals. Crossing the suspension bridge over the Phawa Khola, your path leads you to Lali Kharka, a destination that marks the conclusion of today's invigorating journey. Each step carries you deeper into the embrace of the Himalayas, an experience woven with nature's wonders and the stories of the land.

Departing from Lali Kharka, your journey presses on along the trail, guiding you to the welcoming embrace of Taplejung village. Here, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the tapestry of village life, soaking in the cultural richness, customs, and the warmth of the village inhabitants. Wander through the village streets, forging a connection with its essence and the people who call it home.

Following this enriching experience, your expedition transitions to a scenic drive of approximately 5 hours, leading you to Ilam. It is here, amidst the beauty of the region, that your remarkable Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek officially draws to a close. The memories, landscapes, and connections you've forged during this journey will forever linger in your heart, a testament to the grandeur of the Himalayas and the spirit of exploration.

Driving from Ilam, you will be brought to Bhadrapur and then you take a flight to Kathmandu. you'll then be transferred to the hotel upon arrival. RELAX!