Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek: Explore Yalung glacier

                                                    
                                                    destination
                                                    Kanchenjunga
                                                
                                                    duration
                                                    21 Days
                                                
                                                    grade
                                                    High Advance
                                                
                                                    start/end point
                                                    Kathmandu/Kathmandu
                                                
                                                    region
                                                    Kanchenjunga
                                                
                                                    max altitude
                                                    5,143m
                                                
                                                    group size
                                                    2-12
                                                
                                                    meal
                                                    All inclusive
                                                
                                                    activity
                                                    5-6 Hrs
                                                
                                                    accommodation
                                                    Tea House
                                                
                                                    season
                                                    Autumn/spring

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

The Kanchenjunga Circuit trek visits both the north and south base camps of Kanchenjunga, the third tallest mountain on the planet at 8,586m. This trek takes you to some very remote regions of Nepal. It is therefore advised that trekkers have a good level of fitness in order to complete the trek. On this trek you will experience various cultures and observe their lifestyle, visiting places like the Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries. On the trail the scenery will keep you enthralled as you cross rivers, pass by cascades; traverse green hills; trek through rhododendron, birch and pine forests; get up close to the Yalung Glacier, and view enormous snow clad mountains that will take your breath away.

Kanchenjunga is in the far east of Nepal, close to the Indian state of Sikkim. Until the mid 1800’s, it was thought that Kanchenjunga was the tallest mountain on earth. This region was closed to trekkers until the mid 1980’s. Today the region is protected and is within the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and requires a trekking permit. Due to the fact that it is protected, this ensures it remains unblemished and serene.

Besides Kanchenjunga, there are 4 other peaks taller than 8,000m in this region, the next tallest being Kanchenjunga West, otherwise called Yalung Kang (8,505m). There are a number taller than 7,000m, the tallest of these being Kambachen (7,903m), Janu (7,710m), Jongsong (7,483m), Kabru (7,353m), Tent Peak (7,365m) and the Twins (7,350m). If this wasn’t enough, there are many over 6,000m. Many of these mountains form the Zumu, Talung and Rathong rivers that flow into Sikkim, while those to the west, namely the Kanchenjunga and Yalung glaciers flow into the Tamor River in Nepal.

Trekking in Kanchenjunga is remarkable in many ways, specifically due to the immense size of these mountains and the beautiful valleys that separate them. One of the main attractions to trekkers is its remoteness and it being less busy during the trekking and climbing season. This trek is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a remote trekking experience while it is still relatively new and less commercialised.

ITINERARY

Expand All

Day 1 : Fly from Kathmandu to Suketar (2,420m), trek to Lalikhar

From Kathmandu, we take an early morning flight to Suketar located in the eastern part of Nepal. From there we follow an undulating trail through lush green forests all the way to Lalikharkha.

Day 2 : Lalikharka to Khesewa (2120m/6,955ft)

This morning we began by an easy descent until we arrive at Phundrawa. From here we begin our steep ascent until we reach Yangpang from where we continue our ascent to Phumphe Danda andn finally arrive at Khesewa. The trail often passes through through forests and small villages.

Day 3 : Khesewa to Mamankhe (1785m/5,856ft)

Our first destination today is Kabeli Khola and then after passing through forest we come to a small stream which we cross. All along this trail we have astonishing views of the snow covered peaks. Once again we pass through several villages before arriving at tonight’s destination, Mamankhe.

Day 4 : Mamankhe to Yamphudin (2080m/6824ft)

Today’s trek will be mostly uphill on an easy trail alongside the Kabeli Khola (river). Directly behind us is a ridge that will provide a beautiful backdrop. We will pass a waterfall before crossing a suspension bridge and the pass through a small village before arriving at Yamphudin where we will stay the night.

Day 5 : Yamphudin to Tortong (2,995m/9,826ft)

Today we follow a path used by the villagers, across terraced fields and across grassy meadows. Throughout the day we have majestic views of the surrounding mountains. The trail follows the Amji Khola (river) and through Lassiya Bhanjyang before we arrive at tonight’s destination,Tortong.

Day 6 : Tortong to Cheram (3,870m/12,696ft)

Today we have a steady climb to Cheram while following the Simbuwa Khola. We trek through the beautiful Lalung valley and will have fantastic views of Tuplung Peak for most of the day. We pass through rhododendron forest and can see the Yalung Glacier. We will spend the night at Cheram.

Day 7 : Cheram: Acclimatization and rest

We will spend the day in Cheram which will help us acclimatize to the high altitude. It is imperative to do so in order to avoid altitude sickness. We can enjoy short treks in the neighbouring countryside. It is recommended that we stay active to improve the process. A trek to the Yalung Glacier is a great way to improve your ability to cope at high altitudes. Kabaru and Rathong peak are clearly visible.

Day 8 : Cheram to Ramchaur (Ramche) (4,580m/15,026ft)

Today’s trek is relatively short. From Cheram, the trail is mostly uphill until we reach the base of the Yalung Glacier. It is a really beautiful easy walk through the valley. All the time there are those enormous peaks around us. We will pass through the settlement of Lapsang before reaching Ramche.

Day 9 : Ramche to Yalung Base Camp (4500m) to Cheram

From Ramche, we follow a stream up the valley before climbing over the moraine before being confronted by Kanchenjunga’s south face. Further on we can catch glimpses of the Jannu Himal. We then come to the Oktang Monastery, at which point we reach the Yalung Base Camp. The views from the base camp are exceptional. Kumbakarna (Jannu), Nyukla Lachung and other Himalayan peaks are nearby. We descend to Cheram where we spend the night.

Day 10 : Cheram to Sele La (4290m/ 14,074ft)

Today we cross 4 passes today, starting with Sinelapche Bhanjyang. And then continue to Mirgin La Pass. The next pass we come to is the Sinion La Pass and a little further we ascend to the Sele La Pass. The ubiquitous Tibetan prayer flags are strung across the steeper sections of the trail close to Sele La pass. Tonight we will stay at Sele La Pass.

Day 11 : Sele La to Ghunsa (3,595/11,794)

Today we head north with Tangbgharma Danda close by. We come to a Chorten marked by prayer flags which is the beginning a steep trail. We descend through rhododendron, birch and pine forests before coming to the beautiful village of Ghunsa. With houses made from dark and weathered pine walls and adorned with Buddhist prayer flags.

Day 12 : Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,050m/13,287ft)

From Ghunsa we head north along the river bank and are surrounded by glorious mountain scenery. The trail passes through lush meadows filled with beautiful wildflowers and then pass through rhododendron and pine forests. We then have to cross a bridge at Rampuk Kharka and past a waterfall before arriving at a rough section of the trail that has been effected by landslides. Once past this point we have some extraordinary views of Mt. Jannu. The traill is quite tough until we arrive at Kambachen where we will stay the night

Day 13 : Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m/15,682ft)

Today is going to be a tough one requiring us to be up early. We trek through rocky fields and across large boulders on the hillside next to the riverbank before coming to a waterfall and then cross the bridge to Ramtang monastery. We come to another part of the trail that has been effected by landslides and must be careful as we pass through this section of the trail. We then descend to the river and finally arrive at Lhonak.

Day 14 : Kanchenjunga base camp, overnight at Pangpema (5,143m)

From Lhonak, we trek towards the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. Our trail is alongside the gigantic Kanchenjunga Glacier. After passing Pangpema we descend towards the Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The view from the base camp is extraordinary. Mt. Kanchenjunga, Jannu Himal and other Himalayan peaks are ours to admire. We descend back to Pangpema to spend the night.

Day 15 : Pangpema to Lhonak 5 hours

From Pangpema we trace back our steps to Lhonak. Overnight in Lhonak.

Day 16 : Lhonak to Ghunsa (3475m/11,400ft)

From Lhonak, we descend all the way to Ghunsa via Kambache. It is the same route we took when we were climbing up.

Day 17 : Ghunsa to Amjilosa (2,308m/7,572ft)

From Ghunsa we head to Phale passing several Mane stones and religious community. We will pass through Juniper forests before coming to Phale. From here it is all downhill until we reach Gyabla. We follow the Chhundatangka Khola (river) and pass a cascade to reach Gyabla. We will also follow the Sumbung Khola before coming to Amjilosa.

Day 18 : Amjilosa to Chirwa (1,270m/4,166ft)

This morning we will pass a beautiful cascade and then pass the small settlement of Solima before crossing the Ghunsa Khola and then come to Sukathum. Along the trail we pass through several towns adjacent to the Thunsa Khola before coming to Tamor Nadi and ultimately Chirwa

Day 19 : Chirwa to Phurumbu (1,549/5,082ft)

As we descend we pass more settlements and trek through dense vegetation before coming to Sinwa. From here we cross the Sisne Khola and continue along the Pathibhara trail. The trail takes us through one more town and cross another suspension over the Yaphre Khola before coming to Phurumbu.

Day 20 : Phurumbu to Suketar

Our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek ends today as we trek along the Pathibhara Trek trail before arriving at Suketar.

Day 21 : Fly to Kathmandu

Toay we can sit back and relax in Kathmandu prior to our evening farewell dinner. You will have many highlights to look back on and may already be planning another great adventure into the magnificent Himalayas.

SERVICES

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Airport/ hotel pick up and drop off by private vehicle
Hotels in Kathmandu, inclusive of breakfast
Meals during the trek
Government licensed, experienced English speaking guide
One porter per two people
Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff.
All government taxes
One trekking map per person
Kanchenjunga permit and conservation fee
Surface transportation
Sleeping bags and down jackets for the trek (should be refunded after trek)
First aid kit
Domestic flight tickets KTM–BDR/Suketar
Trekking Map

WHAT'S EXCLUDED

Travel and rescue insurance
Beverage bills, bar bills, telephone bills and Personal expenses.
Nepal entry visa
Tips for guide, porter and driver
Optional trips and sightseeing if extended
Excess baggage charges (if you have more than 20 kg of luggage, a cargo charge is around $1.5 per kg)
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)

EQUIPMENTS

Trekking equipment

The Following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek as the backpack for the hiking in Nepal and the gear play a vital role for the successful trip and we suggest you to have all the necessary gear for the trip and not to have unnecessary equipment/things that you will not be using for the trip and list of the gear you need for the trek are:

Good down Sleeping bag (Optional/we can provide one if you do not have on your own and it is to be returned after the trek.
Duffel or Rucksack bag to keep your all the gear and this will be carried by the porters.
Daypack bag for yourself
A down Jacket
Shade hat
Warm wool hat to cover your ears
A pair of lightweight warm gloves.
T-shirts 2- 3 pieces
Lightweight thermal tops.
Fleece jacket.
Fleece Wind-proved jacket (optional).
A pair’s nylon hiking shorts which are quick drying one
Underwear
Two pairs of lightweight long underwear.
Two pairs trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts
Four pairs of liner warm socks
A pair of light to medium weight waterproof hiking/trekking boots.
A pair of light trekking shoes for camp/lodges
A pair sandal (Optional)
A water bottle.
Head/Torch Light.

Medicines and First Aid Kits

Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude-related headaches like DMX.
Ibuprofen for general aches and pains.
Imodium or Peptone besom, Flexon capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea.
Diamox 125 or 250mg or 400mg tablets for altitude sickness.
1 small personal sized first-aid kit with blister treatments such as moleskin, band-aids, some waterproof tape, anti-infection ointments, etc.(Uma Holidays Travels and Tours company's team also provide first aid kits)

Miscellaneous but Important

Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies)
Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
Lip care (Balm) At least SPF 20, 2 sticks.
Sun’s cream with SPF 40 is recommended
Pocket knife.
Water purification Iodine tablets
Toiletry kits and be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.

Note Regarding Itineraries:
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan and their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Uma Holidays Travels and Tours Pvt. Ltd. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is safe and successful. Your safety is paramount