Kanchenjunga Region Treks

Kanchenjunga Region Treks are demanding journeys into the remote heart of the Kanchenjunga Himalayas in far eastern Nepal, suitable for experienced trekkers. The route involves long and strenuous trekking days, with nine consecutive days above 3,000 m. Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world at 8,586 m, on the border between Nepal and Sikkim, India. We give you clear advice and honest information about how demanding the route is before you book, so there are no unnecessary surprises on the trail.

The Kanchenjunga region offers a genuine wilderness experience, passing through Limbu villages in the lower Tamor valley and Sherpa settlements higher up around Ghunsa, with trails winding through rhododendron and pine forest, high glacial valleys, and traditional teahouses along the way. Trekkers visit both the Kanchenjunga North Base Camp at Pangpema (5,143 m) and the Kanchenjunga South Base Camp area near Yalung and the Oktang Viewpoint (4,730 m). This makes it one of the few treks in Nepal that views a major Himalayan giant from two different sides. Our local team knows these routes, villages and seasons well, and plans the trek to take you beyond the viewpoints and closer to the culture and character of the region.

As a restricted trekking area, Kanchenjunga region treks require a Restricted Area Permit along with the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit, and trekkers must travel in a group of at least two people accompanied by a licensed guide. The best seasons for Kanchenjunga trekking are autumn, from September to November, and spring, from March to May, when mountain visibility is generally clearest and trail conditions across the high passes are more stable. Browse our Kanchenjunga region trekking package below, the classic Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, where every price shows exactly what is included and what is not. Get in touch with Thamel Travels and Tours for permit assistance, itinerary planning, and personal support from our team throughout your journey in this remote eastern Nepal trekking destination.

What Makes These Treks Special

Every Kanchenjunga trek crosses wild country, high passes and traditional villages, carefully planned by our local team so you can experience the mountain from more than one side.

  • Two Sides of Kanchenjunga
    You will visit both the North Base Camp at Pangpema at 5,143 m and the South Base Camp area near Yalung on one circuit. 

  • Remote Himalayan Wilderness
    Walk through rhododendron and pine forest, glacial valleys and quiet mountain trails far from the busier trekking regions. 

  • Limbu and Sherpa Villages
    You will pass from Limbu farming villages in the Tamor valley and spend a full acclimatization day in the Sherpa village of Ghunsa at 3,595 m, which has a monastery, before climbing to Khambachen and Lhonak.

  • Cross the Sele La Pass Complex
    You will cross a chain of high passes, Sele La, Mirgin La and Sinion La, that links the northern and southern sides of the circuit. 

  • Honest Advice, Personal Support
    You will get clear communication, transparent arrangements and a licensed guide and permit support from our local team. 

Package Highlights

Package
Grade
Route Highlights

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, 21 Days

Strenuous

Flight to Bhadrapur, Taplejung, Lelep, Ghunsa, Khambachen, Lhonak, Pangpema, Sele La, Tseram, Ramche and Yalung, Tortong, Yamphudin, Kanyam

Permit and Visa for Kanchenjunga Region Treks

Requirement
Who needs it
Cost
Good to know

Nepal tourist visa, 15 days

Most foreign passport holders

US$30

Valid for multiple entries. Too short for the 21 day trek.

Nepal tourist visa, 30 days

Most foreign passport holders

US$50

Covers the 21 day trek and gives a buffer for road and flight delays.

Nepal tourist visa, 90 days

Most foreign passport holders

US$125

For longer stays.

Visa for Indian and SAARC citizens

Indian and SAARC passport holders

Indian citizens need no visa.

Other SAARC citizens, except Afghan citizens, get up to 30 days free on a first visit in a visa year.

Visa extension

Anyone who stays longer

US$3 per day, with a minimum of 15 days

Done at the immigration offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit

Every foreign trekker

US$20 per person per week

Issued only through a registered agency. Included in our package.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit

Every foreign trekker

NPR 2,000

One fee covers the whole trek. Included in our package.

Licensed trekking guide

Every foreign trekker in the restricted area

Included in our package

Must be with the group at all times.

Package(s)
Trip NamePriceSeasonNights
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 21 Days map
Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek - 21 Days21 Days Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Price US$1575SeasonNights