A bespoke trekking in nepal adventure.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is one of the most remote and rewarding Trekking in Nepal adventures, offering an unforgettable journey through pristine wilderness, authentic mountain culture, and spectacular Himalayan scenery. This carefully designed 19-day itinerary circles the magnificent Kanchenjunga massif, home to Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world's third-highest mountain, while exploring both the northern and southern valleys of the protected Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. Combining remote mountain villages, ancient forests, glaciers, alpine meadows, and breathtaking high-altitude landscapes, it is one of Nepal's finest wilderness trekking experiences. For a detailed overview of the route, highlights, and practical travel advice, explore our Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Guide.
The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur before traveling through the beautiful hill town of Ilam to the remote trailhead at Sekathum. The trail passes through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, deep river valleys, traditional Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan-influenced villages, and dramatic alpine landscapes while offering magnificent views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), Kabru, Rathong, Makalu, and many surrounding Himalayan peaks. Crossing the spectacular Selele Pass links the northern and southern valleys, creating one of the most diverse and scenic trekking routes in the Himalayas.
Highlights of the trek include hiking to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp), one of the finest viewpoints beneath the world's third-highest mountain, and visiting Oktang Viewpoint, where breathtaking panoramas of Kanchenjunga's south face, glaciers, and towering icefalls await. Along the way, trekkers experience the warm hospitality, centuries-old traditions, and unique mountain lifestyle of the local communities while exploring one of Nepal's last true wilderness regions. To discover more about the region's remarkable wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage, explore our Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Guide and Kanchenjunga Culture & Heritage Guide.
With more than 35 years of Himalayan experience, Mountain King Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. professionally organizes the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek with experienced local guides, carefully planned logistics, comfortable teahouse accommodation, full-board meals during the trek, and personalized service from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure. Continue below to explore the detailed itinerary, trip highlights, trip facts, permits, accommodation, transportation, and everything you need to prepare for one of Nepal's most spectacular Himalayan trekking adventures.
Short Itinerary – Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek – 19 Days
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m), transfer to hotel.
Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (91m) and drive to Ilam (1,200m) (Flight 45m, Drive 3–4h)
Day 03: Drive from Ilam to Sekathum (1,650m) (8–9h)
Day 04: Trek from Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,310m) (5–6h)
Day 05: Trek from Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730m) (5–6h)
Day 06: Trek from Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,415m) (5–6h)
Day 07: Trek from Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,100m) (5–6h)
Day 08: Acclimatization at Kambachen, optional hike to Jannu Viewpoint (3–4h)
Day 09: Trek from Kambachen to Lhonak (4,780m) (5–6h)
Day 10: Hike to Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp) (5,143m) and return to Lhonak (6–7h)
Day 11: Trek from Lhonak to Ghunsa (3,415m) (6–7h)
Day 12: Trek from Ghunsa to Selele (4,290m) (6–7h)
Day 13: Cross Sinion La (4,660m), Mirgin La (4,646m), and Selele La (4,480m), then trek to Tseram (7–8h)
Day 14: Hike to Oktang Viewpoint (Kanchenjunga South Base Camp View) (4,730m) and return to Tseram (6–7h)
Day 15: Trek from Tseram to Tortong (2,995m) (5–6h)
Day 16: Trek from Tortong to Yamphudin (2,080m) (5–6h)
Day 17: Drive from Yamphudin to Phidim (1,250m) (6–7h)
Day 18: Drive from Phidim to Bhadrapur Airport and fly to Kathmandu (Drive 4–5h, Flight 45m)
Day 19: Final departure from Kathmandu.
Trip Facts
Trip Name: Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek 19 Days
Destination: Kanchenjunga Region, Nepal
Duration: 19 Days
Trip Type: Tea House Trek & Wilderness Adventure
Activities: Trekking, Hiking, Cultural Exploration & Himalayan Adventure
Maximum Altitude: Pangpema / Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,143m / 16,873ft)
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu & Mountain Lodges/Guest Houses during the Trek
Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu; Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the Trek
Transportation: Domestic Flights, Private Vehicles & Trekking
Start / End Point: Kathmandu
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
Group Size: 2–16+ Trekkers
Permits: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit & Restricted Area Permit
Guide: Licensed English-speaking Trekking Guide
Porter: One Porter for Every Two Trekkers
Trekking Days: 14 Days
Walking Hours: Approximately 5–8 Hours per Day
Suitable For: Experienced Trekkers & Adventure Travelers Seeking Remote Himalayan Experiences
Customization: Private & Tailor-Made Itineraries Available
Best Time to Visit Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
The best time for the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is stable, mountain views are at their best, and trekking conditions are ideal. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests in spring, and crystal-clear Himalayan panoramas in autumn.
Winter trekking is possible for experienced trekkers with proper equipment, although heavy snowfall may affect the high mountain passes. The monsoon season is generally not recommended due to frequent rainfall, slippery trails, and limited mountain views. For more information, explore our Best Time to Visit Nepal Guide and Nepal Weather Guide.
Accommodation & Meals
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek 19 Days package includes comfortable twin-sharing hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast and clean twin-sharing mountain lodge and guest house accommodation throughout the trekking route.
During the trek, a full-board meal plan is provided, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner served at local mountain lodges. Guests may choose one main course from the available à la carte menu for each meal. Breakfast is served with a cup of tea or coffee, followed by fresh seasonal fruits whenever available. Before starting each day's trek, we also provide an energy bar, and fresh seasonal fruits are served after dinner as dessert whenever available.
Tea houses along the Kanchenjunga route offer simple but comfortable accommodation with warm Himalayan hospitality. Facilities become more basic in the higher mountain villages due to the region's remote location.
To learn more about trekking accommodation and meals, explore our Nepal Trekking Accommodation & Food Guide and Tea House Trekking in Nepal Guide.
Difficulty Level & Preparation
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is considered a challenging Himalayan trek due to its remote location, high altitude, long walking days, and the crossing of the spectacular Sele La Pass section. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended, although trekkers with excellent physical fitness, proper preparation, and a positive attitude can successfully complete this rewarding Himalayan adventure.
Proper acclimatization, regular walking or hiking, cardiovascular training, and suitable trekking equipment are essential before arriving in Nepal. To help you prepare for the trek, explore our Nepal Trekking Difficulty Guide to understand the trekking grade, Altitude Sickness in Nepal Guide for high-altitude safety and acclimatization, and Nepal Trekking Safety Guide for practical trekking tips and essential preparation.
Transportation & Route Information
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek 19 Days begins with a private airport transfer from your hotel to Kathmandu Domestic Airport, followed by a scenic flight to Bhadrapur. From there, travel by private vehicle through the beautiful hill town of Ilam and Taplejung to Sekathum, where your trekking adventure begins.
The trekking route passes through Amjilosa, Gyabla, Ghunsa, Kambachen, Lhonak, Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp), Selele Kharka, Tseram, Tortong, and Yamphudin, completing one of Nepal's most spectacular Himalayan trekking circuits. After the trek, travel by private vehicle via Phidim to Bhadrapur, followed by a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, where our representative will transfer you to your hotel by private vehicle. For more information about domestic flights, road transportation, and traveling throughout the country, explore our Nepal Transportation Guide.
Kanchenjunga Culture & Himalayan Experience
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek offers far more than breathtaking mountain scenery. It is also a remarkable journey through the traditions, lifestyles, and cultures of eastern Nepal. Along the trail, you'll visit traditional Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Bhote communities, ancient Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls, and remote mountain villages where centuries-old customs continue to thrive.
The region's rich cultural heritage, combined with the pristine wilderness of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, creates one of Nepal's most authentic Himalayan trekking experiences. For a deeper understanding of the region's people, nature, and traditions, explore our Kanchenjunga Culture & Heritage Guide and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many days does the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek take?
The standard itinerary takes 19 days from arrival in Kathmandu to your final departure. This includes domestic flights, road transportation, acclimatization, and the complete trek to both the North and South viewpoints of the Kanchenjunga region.
2. Can the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek itinerary be customized?
Yes. Mountain King Treks offers private and tailor-made itineraries that can be customized to suit your travel schedule, fitness level, interests, and group size. Additional acclimatization days or side trips can also be arranged upon request.
3. Is the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek suitable for solo trekkers?
Yes. Solo travelers are welcome to join this trek through Mountain King Treks. As the Kanchenjunga region is a restricted area, all trekkers must travel with a licensed guide and the required permits arranged through a registered trekking agency.
4. What are the main highlights of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
Highlights include Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp), Oktang Viewpoint, the spectacular Sele La Pass section, the pristine Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, traditional Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Bhote villages, and breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Kabru, and other Himalayan peaks.
5. Where can I learn more before planning my Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek?
Before planning your adventure, explore our Nepal Travel Planning Guide for itinerary ideas and budgeting, Nepal Trip Preparation Guide for packing lists, fitness, and essential trekking preparation, and Nepal Travel Information Guide for practical advice on transportation, accommodation, permits, weather, and traveling in Nepal. You can also find answers to common travel questions in our Nepal Travel FAQs.
Book Your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
Ready to discover one of Nepal's most remote and rewarding Himalayan adventures? The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek 19 Days takes you through pristine wilderness, traditional mountain villages, spectacular glaciers, and breathtaking viewpoints beneath the world's third-highest mountain.
Whether you're looking for a true wilderness expedition, an authentic cultural journey, or an unforgettable high-altitude trekking experience, our experienced local team will help you choose the right itinerary and ensure every detail of your adventure is carefully planned from arrival to departure.
Contact Us
Have questions about the itinerary, permits, transportation, accommodation, fitness requirements, or the best time to visit? Contact our experienced local team for personalized advice and trekking assistance.
WhatsApp / Call: +977-9841566449
Email: info@mountainkingtrek.com
Plan Your Trip
Whether you're traveling solo, with family, friends, or a private group, we can customize your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek to match your schedule, trekking experience, interests, and travel goals. From selecting the right itinerary and travel dates to arranging every detail of your adventure, our experienced local team is here to help you plan a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable journey in the Kanchenjunga region.
What makes this special.
- Trek around Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world's third-highest mountain
- Visit Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp)
- Explore the spectacular Oktang Viewpoint and South Base Camp area
- Cross the scenic Selele Pass section
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Makalu, Kabru, and surrounding peaks
- Experience authentic Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan-influenced cultures
- Trek through remote valleys, forests, glaciers, and alpine landscapes
- Discover one of Nepal's least crowded and most pristine trekking regions
- Fully organized trekking logistics with permits, transportation, accommodation, and guide included
- Experience a true Himalayan wilderness adventure
Your itinerary.
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest and prepare for your upcoming Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu (BB)
After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu airport for a scenic domestic flight to Bhadrapur in eastern Nepal. Upon arrival, drive toward Ilam, a beautiful hill town famous for its tea gardens, green landscapes, and peaceful countryside. The journey passes through fertile plains, winding mountain roads, traditional villages, and scenic eastern Nepal landscapes.
Ilam is a perfect stopover before continuing toward the remote Kanchenjunga region, allowing you to enjoy a more comfortable and gradual approach to the trekking area.
Flight Duration: 45 minutes
Driving Duration: 4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Ilam
After breakfast, continue the scenic drive toward Sekathum, the starting point of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. The route passes through Taplejung and remote mountain landscapes, offering beautiful views of eastern Nepal’s hills and villages.
Upon arrival at Sekathum, prepare for the trekking adventure beginning the following morning.
Driving Duration: 8–10 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Sekathum
After breakfast, begin your Kanchenjunga trekking adventure by following the Ghunsa River through beautiful forests and rugged mountain landscapes. The trail crosses suspension bridges and gradually climbs through remote Himalayan terrain.
After several hours of walking, arrive at Amjilosa, a peaceful mountain settlement surrounded by forests and dramatic landscapes.
Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Amjilosa
Today’s trail continues through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests while gradually gaining elevation. The route offers beautiful views of waterfalls, rivers, and the untouched wilderness of the Kanchenjunga region.
After reaching Gyabla, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this traditional mountain village and rest before continuing toward Ghunsa.
Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Gyabla
After breakfast, continue trekking toward Ghunsa, one of the most important villages in the upper Kanchenjunga region. The trail passes through beautiful forests of rhododendron, pine, and bamboo while following the Ghunsa River valley.
As you approach Ghunsa, the landscape becomes more alpine with impressive views of surrounding Himalayan peaks. Ghunsa is a traditional Sherpa village with a monastery, stone houses, and a unique mountain culture. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and prepare for the higher sections of the trek.
Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Ghunsa
Today is an important acclimatization day to help your body adjust before heading into the higher altitude areas of the Kanchenjunga region. After breakfast, take an optional hike above Ghunsa toward the upper valley, offering excellent views of Mount Jannu (Kumbhakarna), glaciers, and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The hike provides a good opportunity for gradual altitude adaptation while enjoying the spectacular mountain scenery. In the afternoon, return to Ghunsa and relax at the lodge, explore the village, or visit the local monastery.
Walking Duration: 3–4 hours (Optional Acclimatization Hike)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House Gunsa
After breakfast, continue trekking north through the beautiful upper Ghunsa Valley toward Kambachen. The trail gradually climbs through alpine forests, rocky landscapes, and open mountain terrain while following the Ghunsa River.
Along the way, enjoy magnificent views of Mount Jannu (Kumbhakarna) and surrounding Himalayan peaks. After reaching Kambachen, a remote mountain settlement surrounded by dramatic landscapes and glaciers, relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this high Himalayan village.
Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House Khambachen
Today, the trail continues deeper into the remote wilderness of the Kanchenjunga region toward Lhonak. The route follows the glacial valley through rocky terrain, crossing high mountain landscapes with breathtaking views of towering peaks and glaciers.
As you approach Lhonak, the valley becomes wider and more dramatic, surrounded by some of the highest Himalayan mountains. Lhonak is a remote high-altitude settlement and the final overnight stop before the journey to Kanchenjunga North Base Camp.
Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Lonak
Today is the highlight of the northern section of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek. After an early breakfast, follow the spectacular trail through the Kanchenjunga Glacier Valley toward Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp).
The route offers unforgettable views of massive glaciers, ice-covered peaks, and the magnificent north face of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m). After spending time at Pangpema enjoying one of the most impressive Himalayan viewpoints, return along the same trail back to Lhonak for an overnight stay.
Walking Duration: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Lonak
After breakfast, retrace your steps back through the spectacular Kanchenjunga Glacier Valley toward Ghunsa. The trail gradually descends through rocky landscapes, alpine terrain, and beautiful mountain scenery, offering another chance to appreciate the breathtaking surroundings of the northern Kanchenjunga region.
As you lose altitude, the landscape becomes greener and more comfortable. Upon reaching Ghunsa, enjoy a relaxing evening at the lodge and prepare for the next challenging section of the trek, crossing the high mountain passes toward the southern valley.
Walking Duration: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House n Ghunsa
After breakfast, begin the climb toward Selele Kharka, following a scenic trail through forests, alpine landscapes, and remote mountain terrain. The route gradually ascends above Ghunsa, leaving behind the green valley and entering the high Himalayan wilderness.
As you approach Selele Kharka, the views become increasingly impressive, with panoramic landscapes of surrounding peaks and deep mountain valleys. This overnight stop provides a comfortable break before crossing the spectacular Sele La Pass section the following day.
Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Selele Kharka
Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek as you cross the high mountain passes connecting the northern and southern valleys. The trail crosses Sinion La Pass (4,660m), Mirgin La Pass (4,646m), and Sele La Pass (4,480m), offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The route passes through remote alpine landscapes with breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), Makalu, and other Himalayan giants. After completing the pass crossings, descend toward Tseram, a beautiful mountain settlement surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Walking Duration: 7–8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Tseram
After breakfast, begin an exciting day hike toward the southern side of the Kanchenjunga massif. The trail gradually climbs through alpine landscapes and remote mountain terrain toward Oktang Viewpoint, one of the finest viewpoints in the entire Kanchenjunga region.
From Oktang, enjoy magnificent views of the southern face of Mount Kanchenjunga, glaciers, icefalls, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. After spending time at this spectacular viewpoint, return to Tseram for a comfortable overnight stay.
Walking Duration: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House Tseram
After breakfast, begin descending toward Tortong through beautiful rhododendron forests and peaceful mountain landscapes. The trail follows the Simbuwa River, passing waterfalls, lush forests, and traditional Himalayan surroundings.
After several hours of walking, arrive at Tortong, a quiet settlement where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere after completing the high-altitude sections of the trek.
Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Tortong
Today, continue trekking toward Yamphudin, one of the important villages on the southern side of the Kanchenjunga region. The trail descends through forests, terraced hillsides, and remote mountain communities while offering beautiful views of eastern Nepal's natural landscapes.
Yamphudin is a culturally diverse village where different ethnic communities live together, providing an opportunity to experience the traditional lifestyle and warm hospitality of the local people.
Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Yamphudin
After breakfast, drive by private vehicle from Yamphudin toward Phidim, following the scenic mountain roads of eastern Nepal. The journey passes through beautiful hills, terraced farmland, forests, and traditional villages while enjoying the changing landscapes from the high Himalayas toward the lower hills.
Upon arrival in Phidim, check in at the hotel and relax after the long drive. Phidim is a comfortable stopover town before continuing to Bhadrapur for your flight back to Kathmandu.
Driving Duration: 7–8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge / Guest House in Phidim
After breakfast, drive from Phidim to Bhadrapur Airport through the scenic landscapes of eastern Nepal. The route passes through tea gardens, fertile plains, and local villages before reaching the airport.
Take a scenic domestic flight from Bhadrapur to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, our team will transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with our team at a traditional Nepali restaurant, celebrating the successful completion of your unforgettable Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.
Driving Duration: 3–4 hours
Flight Duration: 45 minutes
Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu (BB)
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Kathmandu before your departure. According to your flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
We hope you return home with unforgettable memories of the remote landscapes, mountain culture, and incredible experiences from your Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek.
Driving Duration: 30 minutes–1 hour (Airport Transfer)
Meals: Breakfast
Trip includes
- Complimentary airport arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu (on request with flight details)
- Round-trip domestic flight tickets (Kathmandu–Bhadrapur–Kathmandu) as per itinerary
- All required trekking permits and government paperwork including Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) and Restricted Area Permits
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide throughout the trek
- Guide’s salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, and transportation
- Porter service (as per group requirement / arrangement basis)
- Teahouse accommodation during trekking on twin-sharing basis
- Full board meals during trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Three main meals per day with freshly prepared dishes from local lodges
- Tea or coffee served with meals
- Seasonal fresh fruits provided daily (morning and after dinner)
- Energy snacks such as chocolate bars (Mars, Snickers or similar) before trekking each morning
- First aid kit and basic emergency medical support during the trek
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with cultural hospitality experience
- All ground transportation as mentioned in the itinerary
- Government taxes and service charges
Not included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fee
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- Meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner)
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing
- Travel insurance (mandatory for high-altitude trekking)
- Personal expenses such as beverages, soft drinks, bottled drinks, alcohol, snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging fees, laundry, etc.
- Extra drinks and beverages not mentioned in the package meals
- Tips for guide and support staff
- Expenses due to flight delays, weather conditions, or unforeseen circumstances
