When Long Treks Feel Scary, Kanchenjunga Circuit Short Trek Is Your Perfect Match

I signed up for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Short Trek because I wanted big Himalayan views without being stuck on a trail for a month. My knees were already sending warning signals just thinking about long, brutal treks. Turns out, this shorter version gave me both views and bragging rights at home with less leg pain.

What “Short” Means

• The short trek takes about 19 days from start in Kathmandu to finish.

• Max height you reach is about 5,140 meters (Pang Pema, North Base Camp).

• Most walking days are 5-6 hours, so no hiking sunrise till you can’t feel your face.

What I Felt On the Trail

The first day, my legs were happy. No screaming after walking 4 hours. As I climbed higher, I felt proud when I didn’t cry (much). I slept in teahouses, ate dal bhat, met people wearing bright clothes, and drank warm Tongba to reward myself.

The cold hit at night. At about 4,500 m I gasped, “Why did I think this was easy?” But then I saw morning light hit Mt. Kanchenjunga’s ice ridges, and I forgot to count how many blisters I had.

Why It Was Worth It

• I got real mountain views of Kanchenjunga (8,586m) without taking as much time or money.

• My body hurt less. Knees cried less. I could walk down with dignity.

• At home, people asked: “Did you really trek near the third highest mountain?” Yes. I did.

Who This Trek Is For

If you are:

• Busy, working full-time, but your heart wants mountains

• New to trekking, or worried about long treks

• Afraid of altitude, but okay with mild cold and high valleys

Then this short trek is made for you. You get adventure, culture (you pass Limbu and Sherpa villages), good food, and stories without dragging on forever.

Tips for First-Timers (Like Me)

• Walk “slow slow” so your body adjusts to height.

• Carry good shoes, warm jacket, gloves. Blisters will still try, but nicer gear helps.

• Sleep in lower-altitude nights when possible before high camps.

• Drink water even when you don’t feel like. Your head will thank you.

Final Thought

If long treks make you nervous, know this: the Kanchenjunga Circuit Short Trek still gives you peaks, views, culture, ice, sky, and pride. Your knees may whine a bit. But when you stand under those mountains, when you eat warm Tongba watching sunset, you will think every step was worth it.