Lumba Sumba Pass Trek

5.0

Discover the hidden gem of the Lumba Sumba Pass trek in eastern Nepal. Explore untouched nature, enjoy gorgeous Himalayan views, and connect with diverse local communities. This high-altitude adventure promises a journey like no other.

At a Glance
Location

Lumba Sumba Pass

Duration

19 Days

Activities

Trekking

Accommodation

Tents

Meals

All meals prepared by a private cook and his assistants

Group size

Min. 6 Pax

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Max. Altitude

5100m.

Lumba Sumba trek in an isolated region of eastern Nepal is intended for experienced hikers. Its uniqueness lies in its authenticity and wild nature. Opened in 2012, this relatively unknown trek features diverse landscapes, from the tea plantations of Ilam to terraced rice fields. You can continuously climb to the Lumba Sumba Pass at 5100m. The trail crosses beautiful forests, a preferred habitat for deer and Himalayan bears. The major highlights of this trek include the Lumba Sumba Peak, famous for its breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

The first days of the trek follow the same path that leads to Kanchenjunga before heading west towards Mount Makalu. You’ll have wonderful encounters in Sherpa villages and with the Tibetan-origin inhabitants of Olangchun Gola at 3208m. The trek passes through different ethnic villages with Limbu, Sherpa, Rai, Gurung, and Tamang communities. After Sanjung, the trail only crosses shepherds’ shelters used in summer when yaks are brought to high pastures.

Nature is wild, and you can have a great chance of spotting Himalayan deer like thars or bharals and red pandas. After the pass, the descent westward offers beautiful views of Makalu. The villagers on this side are of Rai and Limbu ethnicity and they are animists and live close to nature. On this off-the-beaten-track trek, there have been sightings of snow leopards and opportunities for birdwatchers to spot several unique and rare species. In addition to the natural beauty, trekkers can also visit cultural heritage sites such as monasteries, chortens, temples, and prayer walls.

Major Highlights of Lumba Sumba Trek

  • Experience a high altitude off the beaten path
  • Explore the villages of different ethnic groups with fewer trekkers
  • Views of the high peaks of eastern Nepal such as Kanchenjunga, Makalu that are rarely seen
  • Trek through coniferous forest home to wild animals
  • Begin on a very gradual ascent from Taplejung (1820m) to the Lumba Sumba Pass (5100m) in ten days
  • Acclimatization for a day in the beautiful village of Olangchung Gola
  • You will get a Hyperbaric chamber and a satellite phone for your safety
  • Trek with an experienced team of qualified and well-equipped porters.
  • Enjoy the meals prepared by your cook and assistants throughout the trek.
  • Visit the Diki Chhyoling Monastery, the oldest monastery which is nearly 500 years old.

 

Itinerary

Your journey to Lumba Sumba starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, presenting aerial views of the lush Terai plains. From Bhadrapur, you will start a drive through hilly terrain and tea gardens to reach Taplejung. The route by road provides glimpses of rural Nepali life and verdant landscapes. You will spend the night in a comfortable lodge in Taplejung, preparing for the trekking days ahead.

After breakfast, you will drive to Taplejung. There are many local markets with hotels, shops, and restaurants in Taplejung. If you need anything, take some time to explore the market. After that, you will begin your trek to Chiruwa, following a path through terraced fields and villages. Chiruwa is a small village located on the banks of the Tamor River. You will either camp or stay in a lodge here, enjoying the serene environment.

Today’s trek takes you off the main Kanchenjunga trail into the remote regions of the Tamor River gorge. The trail is adventurous, leading you through dense forests and over suspension bridges. After about 5 to 6 hours of trekking, you will arrive at the Sherpa village of Gowatar, set amidst millet fields. This quaint village provides a perfect setting for camping and experiencing local Sherpa culture. We ascended 846 meters and then descended 320 meters during our trek.

You must prepare for a day of trekking through pristine forests. The trail ascends gradually, providing opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the forest. This 7-hour trek is challenging and you can see the stunning views of the surrounding hills. Spend the night in Selap Kharka, either camping or in a basic lodge.

We start our journey through high mountain landscapes and over a mountain pass. The scenery undergoes a dramatic change as we near Olangchung Gola, a large Tibetan village surrounded by a forest of enormous rhododendron trees. This village is a popular tourist destination and is known for its rich culture and history. The 4-hour trek is relatively short, allowing for acclimatization and the opportunity to engage with the local community. During the trek, we ascend 580 meters and descend 65 meters.

Today is a rest day that will help you acclimatize to the altitude you’ll encounter. Use this time to explore Olangchung Gola and meet the residents, who have strong trade links with Tibet. The majority of people in Olangchung Gola are Buddhists. The oldest monastery in the Taplejung area, the Diki Chhyoling Monastery, is located in this hamlet and is a major highlight. The ancient monastery in this village is nearly 500 years old. You may also see yak caravans transporting goods such as millet and corn, and returning with salt and wool. This day provides an opportunity for deep cultural immersion and a chance to rest.

Your trail goes up steeply to the summer pastures of Sanjung. The 5-hour trek will take you higher into the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the peaks and valleys. Sanjung is a remote area where you will camp overnight. You ascend 889 meters and then descend 97 meters.

We make our way up to the moraine at the base of the Lumba Sumba pass. The high altitude requires a steady pace. The base camp is located at 4790m and offers views of the highest peaks including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and other neighboring peaks. The trek takes approximately 4.5 hours, ascending 828 meters and descending 58 meters.

We start early to cross the high-altitude Lumba Sumba pass. This pass connects the Kanchenjunga and Arun valley at the foot of Makalu. Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Makalu, Jannu, and Kanchenjunga. Although it will be a long day with a steep ascent and several false passes. The entire descent provides a picturesque backdrop of Mt Makalu. Your trek will culminate with a descent to the Tibetan hamlet of Thudam. Situated close to Tibet, the inhabitants of this village make a living through trade between the two countries and yak farming. The trek lasts for 7 to 8 hours and will involve an ascent of 373 meters and a descent of 1638 meters.

Today will be another long day to reach the shepherd huts. You can see a panoramic view of peaks in the Makalu range. You will see small bushes and bamboo on the way as well as the Chhujung Khola (river). Camp overnight after 4.5 hours of trekking, with an ascent of 1307m and a descent of 2124m.

You have the option to return to Yak Kharka by following the Chhujung River and retracing your steps. The 7 to 8-hour trek through bamboo forests provides opportunities to spot wildlife such as red pandas and colorful birds. Camping in Yak Kharka gives you the chance to rest and appreciate the natural beauty.

Today, you’ll head on a relatively easy trek that descends into the first village of Arun Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through rhododendron forests and cross suspension bridges before arriving at the Sherpa village of Chyamthang. This small mountain village is predominantly inhabited by Sherpa people. The trek is expected to take around 6 hours.

You are back on a trek through bird-rich rhododendron forests to reach Glimber after 2.5 hours. Enjoy lunch in Glimber before continuing to Hongon, a journey totaling 6 to 7 hours. Hongon is a small village where you will stay overnight.

We will hike along the banks of the Arun River to reach Hatiya. The village is culturally rich and inhabited by Bhote, Rai, and Limbu communities. The trek takes approximately 6 hours, and we camp overnight in this vibrant village.

We will trek to the confluence of the Arun and Barun rivers, then continue to Gola. This trek takes you through scenic landscapes and small settlements. Gola is a small village home to Sherpa, Tamang, and Rai people. Camp overnight, enjoying the local hospitality. It involves six hours of trekking.

After enjoying breakfast, start the trek through beautiful paths and charming hill villages to reach Simma. This 7-hour trek provides opportunities to interact with local villagers. The trail is less traveled, presenting a serene trekking experience. Camp overnight in Simma.

Crossing a river, we begin on a steep uphill climb to reach Num village. It marks a transition from remote trails to more accessible paths. Num serves as the starting point of the dirt road for vehicles. We’ll stay overnight in Num, and the total trekking time is 7.5 hours.

We traveled by jeep from Num to Tumlingtar along a dirt road. The village is home to the Kumal, Bahun, Chhetri, Rai, and Magar tribes, who are engaged in traditional pot-making. Tumlingtar serves as your gateway back to Kathmandu, where you can rest and prepare for your flight. The journey from Num to Tumlingtar took 5 hours.

After breakfast, head to the airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, our team will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel. Reflect on your incredible journey through the Himalayas.

Cost Includes
  • English-speaking guide
  • Porters throughout the trek
  • Meals and accommodation in tents (cooks and assistants, personal tent, dining tent, toilet tent, mattresses, cooking utensils)
  • National Park entry fees and TIMS registration
  • Bus transport from Bhadrapur to the starting point (round trip)
  • Flights from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
  • Insurance for Nepalese staff
  • Airport transfers (international airport/hotel/international airport)
Cost Excludes
  • Personal insurance covering mountain rescue expenses
  • Visa fees
  • Drinks and personal consumption
  • Nights and meals in Kathmandu
Book your spot

Starting from

€2,683.61

€2,297 camping and €380.58 for flights and permits

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Trip Difficulty

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FAQs

The best times to hike the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek are from March to May or from September to November. During these periods, the weather is generally favorable, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rain and slippery trails, and winter (December to February) due to snow and cold temperatures at higher altitudes.

You need the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area Permit, the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit, the Kanchenjunga Special Permit, and a Restricted Area Permit for Sangkhuwasabha District. These permits are essential for trekking in protected areas and restricted regions.

The trail has limited teahouses and lodges, especially in the more remote sections. Trekkers should be prepared for camping in some areas.

The Lumba Sumba trek offers opportunities to see rare wildlife such as the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and various bird species.

The trek is challenging due to its high altitude, remote location, and difficult terrain. You will trek to reach the Lumba Sumba pass at an altitude of 5100m, which is the highest point of this trek.