Kanchenjunga Circuit
Remote far-east trek to the third-highest mountain on earth. Two base camps (North + South). Restricted area, two-person minimum.
Overview
The Kanchenjunga Circuit is a long, wild expedition-style trek to the base camps of the world’s third-highest mountain (8,586 m), in the far north-east of Nepal on the Sikkim border. The route visits both the north (Pangpema) and south (Oktang) base camps through rhododendron forest, remote Limbu and Tibetan villages and pristine high valleys.
It is a restricted area requiring special permits, a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers. Remote, demanding and lightly travelled, it rewards experienced trekkers with some of the most unspoilt mountain country in Nepal.
Highlights
- ▸North base camp at Pangpema (5,140 m) below Kanchenjunga
- ▸South base camp at Oktang with the Yalung Glacier
- ▸Remote Limbu, Rai and Tibetan villages
- ▸Pristine rhododendron and high-valley wilderness
- ▸One of Nepal’s quietest big-mountain treks
What's included — from $2,900
- ✓Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit and Conservation Area Permit
- ✓Government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- ✓Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- ✓All teahouse / lodge accommodation on the trail
- ✓Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while trekking
- ✓All trekking permits and conservation-area fees
- ✓Ground transport between the city and the trailhead
- ✓Guide and porter wages, insurance, meals and lodging
- ✓Government taxes and official paperwork
- ✕International flights to and from Nepal
- ✕Nepal entry visa fee
- ✕Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
- ✕Personal trekking gear and clothing
- ✕Meals and accommodation in cities / on rest days
- ✕Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging and bottled water on the trail
- ✕Tips for your guide and porter
- ✕Personal expenses and anything not listed as included
Best time to go
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Kanchenjunga Circuit cost in 2026?
A guided Kanchenjunga Circuit trek typically costs USD 2,200–3,000 per person, reflecting long remote logistics, internal travel to the east, restricted-area permits, guide, meals and lodging/camping.
Do I need a permit for Kanchenjunga?
Yes. Kanchenjunga is a restricted area requiring a special permit plus the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit, a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers.
How hard is the Kanchenjunga Circuit?
It is graded Strenuous — long (3+ weeks), remote and high, reaching over 5,100 m at the base camps with basic facilities. Strong fitness and trekking experience are recommended.
How many days does the Kanchenjunga Circuit take?
Typically 20–24 days including travel to and from the trailhead in eastern Nepal.
When is the best time for Kanchenjunga?
March–May and October–November. The monsoon makes the lower forests very wet, and winter brings heavy snow to the high base camps.
Related treks
Plan Kanchenjunga Circuit with Lekaly
Get this itinerary, offline maps, verified teahouse contacts and permit help in the Lekaly app — or request a quote from vetted local agencies.