If you’re looking for a remote, challenging, and truly rewarding trek in Nepal, the Kanchenjunga Circuit might just be it. Tucked away in the country’s far eastern corner, this trail circles the world’s third-highest mountain, Mt Kanchenjunga (8,586 metres), offering raw Himalayan landscapes and a deep connection to nature and culture.

The adventure begins in Taplejung, a hill town connected by air and road. As the trail winds past villages like Chiruwa and Lelep, you’ll follow rivers and forests into the heart of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. After Sekhathum, the road disappears, and the real journey begins. From here, everything moves at a different pace, quiet, slow, and simple.

The route leads to the North Base Camp at Pangpema (5,143 metres), passing through Ghunsa, a picturesque village with Tibetan-style houses and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. From Ghunsa, the trail gets steeper and colder, but the views of the mountains, especially the Kanchenjunga massif, make every step worth it.

Crossing over the Sele Le Pass is one of the trek’s highlights and challenges. At over 4,200 metres, it can be windy and snowy, but on a clear day, you’ll see an unforgettable sweep of Himalayan giants—including Makalu and Everest in the far distance.

On the southern side of the trek, the trail drops towards Tseram and the South Base Camp. Here, the landscape shifts again, glaciers, lakes, and thick forests replace the alpine barrenness. The path eventually loops back, bringing you full circle.

This trek isn’t for the faint-hearted. Expect long days of walking, basic accommodation, no mobile networks for days, and the occasional landslide that delays everything. But the remoteness is what makes it special. No crowds. No commercial buildup. Just you, the trail, and the mountains.

The locals along the way are warm and welcoming, often offering tea and simple food to tired trekkers. Their kindness adds a human touch to the wild terrain.

Ultimately, the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek isn’t just about reaching base camps. It’s about the journey—rugged, beautiful, and honest. This is the place to be for anyone looking to disconnect from the world and reconnect with the mountains.