Lumba Sumba Pass Trek

Today begins after a hearty breakfast with a guided cultural sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley's most revered and historically rich UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your private vehicle and licensed cultural guide will lead you through four key landmarks:

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: Once the royal palace of the Malla kings, this complex of ancient courtyards, pagodas, and shrines reflects traditional Nepali architecture and royal history.
• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Perched atop a hill, this sacred Buddhist site offers panoramic views of the city and is a symbolic fusion of Hindu and Buddhist spirituality.
• Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world, it stands as a vibrant center of Tibetan Buddhism, surrounded by monasteries and prayer wheels.
• Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu pilgrimage site on the banks of the Bagmati River, dedicated to Lord Shiva. You'll witness holy rituals, cremation ghats, and ascetic sadhus.

Throughout the day, your guide will share insights into the region’s cultural diversity, showing how Hindu and Buddhist traditions co-exist in harmony across the valley. You’ll return to your hotel in the late afternoon with free time to prepare for the trek, make final purchases, or relax before your early domestic flight the next day.

Tonight, you’ll stay again at your hotel on a bed and breakfast basis, with your bags packed and your heart ready for the remote beauty of the Himalayas.

After an early morning breakfast, we transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for a scenic domestic flight to Bhadrapur, located in the eastern plains of Nepal near the Indian border. This approximately 45-minute flight offers you a breathtaking aerial view of the diverse Nepalese landscapes—rolling hills, distant snowcapped mountains, and green terraced farms.

Upon landing at Bhadrapur (91 meters), you'll meet your trekking crew and begin a long yet captivating drive to Taplejung, the trailhead of your Himalayan adventure. The 240-kilometer drive takes around 9 hours, following winding roads that ascend from the subtropical lowlands to the misty green hills of eastern Nepal.

Along the route, the scenery transforms dramatically—lush rice fields give way to tea gardens and rhododendron-covered hills. The road is filled with charming rural settlements, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of various communities. We'll take a break for lunch at a local teahouse en route. As we gain elevation, the fresh mountain air and panoramic views of the high hills and deep valleys begin to hint at the remoteness of the terrain ahead.

We reach Taplejung (1,820 meters) by late afternoon or early evening, a vibrant hill town and the last large settlement before the trail begins. You’ll be accommodated in a comfortable guesthouse or lodge for the night. After a hearty dinner, your guide will give a briefing about the trek starting tomorrow. This is also a chance to check your gear and prepare your backpack. Rest well—the real Himalayan journey starts tomorrow!

Today marks the official beginning of your Lumba Sumba Pass Trek as we set off from Taplejung on foot. After breakfast, we follow a well-established trail that gently descends through terraced fields, cardamom farms, and small villages. The initial stretch introduces you to the lower-hill landscape of the Kanchenjunga region—rich in biodiversity and cultural variety.

We pass through traditional Limbu and Rai villages, where houses are built with wood and stone and decorated with flowers and prayer flags. Locals greet you warmly, often with a nod or a shy "Namaste." These communities are deeply rooted in indigenous traditions and speak dialects rarely heard outside the region.

The trail meanders through thick forests filled with birdsong, occasional waterfalls, and bamboo groves. We stop for lunch in one of the small teahouses along the route, offering simple but delicious local fare—dal bhat, seasonal vegetables, and tea fresh from the surrounding gardens.

After lunch, the path continues to descend and follows the banks of the Tamor River, where the thunder of water crashing against boulders accompanies your steps. The surrounding scenery becomes increasingly dramatic with cliffs and river gorges.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Chiruwa (1,270 meters), a riverside settlement nestled among cardamom fields and banana trees. This village is home to a mix of Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa people. Tonight, we stay in a local lodge or homestay, offering a comfortable room and a hearty, homemade dinner. The warmth of village hospitality and the hum of river sounds set a peaceful tone for the night.

After a hearty breakfast in Chiruwa, we begin today’s trek by following the upstream trail along the Tamor River, as the terrain gradually begins to ascend. The trail is adorned with dense bamboo groves, cardamom plantations, and vibrant subtropical vegetation, creating a lush green canopy overhead. This region lies in the lower belt of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, and its rich biodiversity and pristine environment make for a mesmerizing walk.

We cross several suspension bridges, pass small hamlets, and often encounter cheerful children on their way to or from school. Along the way, we traverse through Tapethok, where the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area entry checkpoint is located. Here, our permits are registered, and you’ll have a moment to rest and enjoy tea while soaking in the sounds of the rushing river and birdsong.

From here, the trail climbs more steeply, leading us through forests of alder, bamboo, and chestnut trees, as well as dramatic river gorges carved over centuries. The trail narrows at times, hugging the hillside with sheer drops down to the river. You may even spot macaques or langurs leaping through the treetops, or colorful butterflies fluttering by.

By mid-afternoon, we reach Lelep (1,860 meters), a small settlement perched on the hillside. Lelep is home to Limbu and Rai communities, and many villagers are involved in cardamom farming or traditional crafts. Here, you’ll settle into a local homestay or lodge, where the food is organic, simple, and deeply flavorful—fresh vegetables, local rice, pickles, and the ever-reliable dal bhat. In the evening, you can wander through the village, visit the small gompa, or enjoy a conversation with the locals over a cup of tea.

After breakfast, we set out from Lelep along a trail that now winds deeper into the mountains, leaving behind the lower hill culture and moving into the mid-mountain Sherpa-Bhote settlements. The trail ascends gradually, revealing increasingly dense forests of oak, rhododendron, pine, and magnolia—a true Himalayan jungle, especially beautiful in spring when the rhododendrons are in bloom.

The path crosses wooden bridges and small streams, and sections of the trail are shaded and silent except for the occasional call of Himalayan monals, blood pheasants, and other highland birds. You may even catch a glimpse of red pandas, though they are elusive and shy. Along the route, you’ll notice the architecture beginning to shift—flat-roofed stone houses with small, high windows, reflecting the Bhote and Sherpa styles suited for higher, snow-prone terrain.

We take breaks in open clearings to enjoy packed snacks or tea, and as we gain elevation, the cool mountain air becomes noticeably crisp. By early afternoon, we arrive at Ela Danda (2,050 meters), a stunning ridge-top location that offers wide views across the deep valleys we’ve trekked through. If the weather is clear, you may see peaks of the Makalu and Kanchenjunga ranges glinting in the distance.

Ela Danda is a remote settlement with very basic lodge or homestay facilities, sometimes requiring tent support if the lodges are full. The accommodation may be simple, but the mountain hospitality is warm, and food is freshly prepared using local ingredients. Evenings here are quiet and serene, ideal for stargazing and resting your legs after a steady day of climbing.

This morning, you’ll awaken to the soft light spilling over the ridges of the eastern Himalayas. After a warm breakfast and some quiet time to enjoy the crisp mountain air, we set off from Ela Danda on a trail that continues its ascent through the wild, unspoiled beauty of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.

Today’s walk is incredibly scenic and peaceful, cutting through thick rhododendron and pine forests that are alive with the fluttering of birds and the rustle of leaves. The trail meanders alongside the Tamor Nadi’s tributaries, offering moments of tranquility near cascading waterfalls and narrow gorges. Keep an eye out for wildlife—this region is home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and countless bird species, though sightings require patience and luck.

The day’s terrain is a mix of steady ascents and gentle undulations, passing through occasional yak grazing pastures and silent forested ridges. You’ll also cross several log bridges, crafted by locals, that span the clear mountain streams.

By early afternoon, we reach Selep Kharka (2,520m)—a remote pasture and seasonal settlement used by yak herders and shepherds. Depending on the season, a basic lodge or homestay may be available, but it’s common to supplement with camping gear here. The campsite is open and scenic, nestled against a backdrop of thick alpine forest and distant snowy peaks.

Here, our kitchen team sets up a warm and hearty meal—perhaps freshly prepared soup, steamed rice, and vegetables—and we take the evening to rest. This area feels completely cut off from modern life, offering a real wilderness experience in the lap of the Himalayas.

Today is a shorter but meaningful day of trekking as we climb to the important cultural and historical village of Olangchung Gola. After breakfast in the crisp mountain air, we begin our gradual ascent through increasingly alpine terrain. The trail becomes narrower and more rugged, traversing steep hillsides, dense fir forests, and glacial streams, with every step taking us deeper into the sacred highlands of eastern Nepal.

We pass Langmale, a small clearing used by herders, before continuing through pristine forest trails. At certain points, you’ll hear only your own breath and the sound of boots on stone—a humbling experience in this untouched wilderness.

By midday, colorful prayer flags signal our arrival in Olangchung Gola (3,200 meters), one of the most culturally rich and isolated villages in the region. This ancient Sherpa-Bhote settlement is inhabited by Tibetan Buddhist communities who have lived here for generations, maintaining a way of life that is deeply connected to both the mountains and the monastic traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.

At the heart of the village stands the impressive Deki Chholing Gompa, a centuries-old monastery surrounded by mani walls, chortens, and prayer wheels. The houses are traditional stone-built homes with wooden carvings and yak wool prayer flags fluttering in the wind. If you're lucky, you may witness local religious ceremonies, seasonal festivals, or monks in prayer.

Accommodation is in basic lodges or homestays, where you’ll be welcomed with salt butter tea and a warm fire. Meals are typically tsampa (roasted barley flour), momos, thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), or dal bhat with locally grown vegetables. Electricity is limited, often solar-powered, and mobile signals may be nonexistent—but the experience of spending a night here is unforgettable.

Olangchung Gola is also our last major settlement before crossing the high Lumba Sumba Pass, so the rest day tomorrow will allow us to explore, acclimatize, and prepare for the more demanding days ahead.

Today is a scheduled rest and acclimatization day in the tranquil and culturally rich village of Olangchung Gola, perched at an elevation of 3,200 meters. This is a vital stop to allow your body to adapt to the altitude before heading toward the remote, higher Himalayan terrain and crossing the formidable Lumba Sumba Pass.

Rather than staying idle, we make the most of our day with gentle walks around the village, exploring the heritage and local lifestyle of the Bhote Sherpa community. Olangchung Gola is a living museum of Tibetan Buddhist culture, where centuries-old traditions remain alive. You can visit the revered Deki Chholing Monastery, where intricately carved wooden pillars, prayer wheels, and ancient wall murals reflect the spiritual heart of the region. Here, the rhythmic chanting of monks, the scent of juniper incense, and the sound of the long copper horns create a deeply peaceful atmosphere.

The village is also known for its handwoven textiles, carved wooden crafts, and yak-based agriculture, offering an opportunity to interact with locals and understand how they survive in such isolation—trading salt, wool, and dried yak meat with Tibet in earlier times.

Accommodation tonight is in a basic lodge or local homestay. Meals are simple but nourishing—think thukpa (noodle soup), local cheese, barley roti, and freshly brewed Tibetan tea. Your guide and cook team will also use this day to prepare logistics for the high camp and crossing day, checking gear and supplies for upcoming camping nights beyond the last permanent settlements.

Leaving behind the final true village of our journey, today we venture deeper into the wilderness zone of the Kanchenjunga–Makalu buffer region, where there are no permanent lodges or homes. After breakfast, we begin a long and steady ascent through dense alpine forest, glacial river valleys, and uninhabited terrain.

The trail climbs through birch, rhododendron, and pine forests, with frequent crossings over icy streams using temporary wooden bridges. In spring and early summer, this forest comes alive with blooming rhododendrons, wild orchids, and alpine flowers carpeting the forest floor. Wildlife is elusive but present; this region forms part of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, which shelters rare species like the red panda, Himalayan tahr, and even elusive snow leopards.

The landscape begins to open up as we gain altitude, with distant views of snow-covered ridges becoming clearer. The silence and purity of the surroundings evoke a powerful sense of remoteness—this is trekking at its rawest and most pristine.

By mid-to-late afternoon, we arrive at Upper Langmale (3,890 meters), a windswept clearing often used as a yak pasture in summer months. There are no tea houses or homestays available here, so we will camp overnight in a designated flat area near a water source. Our support team will set up tents and prepare a hot, hearty meal under the stars.

Tonight’s camp offers a breathtaking view of the milky way arcing above the Himalayan ridges, and the cold, high-altitude air reminds us we are now deep in one of the most remote corridors of the Great Himalayan Trail.

After a hearty breakfast in the serenity of Upper Langmale, we continue our ascent into the high Himalayas, trekking through a stark, rugged landscape that feels like a different world. The trail gradually climbs along glacial moraines, alpine scree slopes, and vast, untouched yak grazing pastures surrounded by jagged, snow-draped ridges. As we climb higher, the vegetation thins out, giving way to a windswept alpine desert dotted with hardy lichens and dwarf juniper.

You will feel the thinness of the air as we cross 4,000 meters, so we take the pace slowly to avoid altitude sickness. On clear days, breathtaking panoramas begin to unfold—views of Kanchenjunga, Janu Himal, and distant peaks from the Makalu range.

By early afternoon, we arrive at Pass Camp (4,470 meters), located just below the final ascent to Lumba Sumba La. This is a remote, exposed spot used only by herders and trekkers. There are no permanent shelters or homestays, so we will camp here for the night, with full support from our staff.

Our kitchen team will prepare warm soup, carbohydrate-rich meals, and plenty of hot drinks to prepare us for the biggest day tomorrow. Tonight is one of the coldest nights of the trek, and temperatures often drop below freezing—layered clothing, warm sleeping bags, and windproof tents are essential.

Before nightfall, your guide will brief the group thoroughly about crossing the Lumba Sumba Pass, including safety protocols, gear checks, and departure timing (usually before sunrise).

Today is the highlight and most challenging day of the entire Lumba Sumba adventure. We wake very early, long before dawn, and prepare for the pass crossing with headlamps, layered thermal clothing, trekking poles, and packed high-energy snacks. After a hot drink and light breakfast, we begin the final steep climb toward Lumba Sumba La Pass, which stands at 5,177 meters (16,985 feet)—a sacred, windswept saddle between the Kanchenjunga and Makalu regions.

The ascent is steep and strenuous, crossing rocky scree, ice patches, and possible snow depending on the season. But as we reach the pass, the effort is rewarded with 360-degree views of some of the highest mountains on earth. On a clear day, you can see the eastern face of Mount Makalu, the wild peaks of Kumbhakarna (Jannu Himal), and even a distant glimpse of Kanchenjunga’s glacier-laced summits.

Take a moment here to breathe in the stillness, hang your prayer flags, and reflect on this incredible achievement. The high winds and extreme exposure don’t allow for long rests, so we begin the steep descent into the remote Barun river valley toward Thudam.

The descent is long and tough on the knees, navigating loose scree and icy trails. As we descend, snow gives way to alpine pasture and finally into greener, forested zones. In the late afternoon, we reach the isolated village of Thudam (3,500m), one of the least-visited Sherpa villages in eastern Nepal, lying in the shadow of the high Himalayas.

Thudam is a culturally fascinating and truly off-the-beaten-path destination, inhabited by the Bhote Sherpa people who retain Tibetan dialects, dress, and lifestyle. Due to its isolation, there is no reliable lodge or homestay infrastructure, so we will camp tonight, likely near the edge of the village or beside the yak herders' fields.

Our kitchen team will once again prepare warm meals while you relax and absorb the incredible sense of achievement after crossing one of Nepal’s highest and least-trekked passes. This evening, we may be able to interact with local villagers, offering a rare glimpse into a traditional Himalayan life unaffected by modernization.

After a restful night at the isolated Sherpa village of Thudam (3,500m), we start the day with a descent into the wilder, more densely forested regions of eastern Nepal. The trail from Thudam leads us through untouched forests of pine, rhododendron, and bamboo, accompanied by the distant sound of the Chujung Khola below.

This region is extremely remote, with no formal lodges or homestays, so our team will continue to operate in full camping mode. The route today may involve crossing small wooden log bridges and navigating landslide-prone zones, particularly during or after the monsoon season.

We pass through hidden grazing pastures and traditional herding shelters used by highland Sherpas during summer months. The birdlife here is impressive—keep an eye out for Himalayan monals, blood pheasants, and sunbirds flitting through the trees.

We eventually arrive at a Kharka (2,850m)—a seasonal grazing pasture—which provides a flat, open campsite for the night. The air is warmer and thicker here, and our kitchen team will prepare a hearty meal to rejuvenate you after the demanding days above 4,000 meters. Enjoy a peaceful night under the stars surrounded by alpine silence and the whispering forest.

Today we leave behind our final camping night and re-enter the world of Himalayan village life. The trail from Kharka to Chyamtang (2,180m) descends steadily through thick forests of rhododendron and oak, which are especially vibrant during the spring bloom (March–May). The path, though well-defined, remains remote and rarely used by outsiders, offering an intimate experience of eastern Nepal’s biodiversity and cultural variety.

As we drop in altitude, the forest becomes denser, with occasional views of cascading waterfalls and deeply carved valleys. You’ll notice the change in vegetation, climate, and even bird calls as the subtropical belt begins.

By mid-afternoon, we reach the charming village of Chyamtang, perched on a hillside overlooking the Arun River. Here, we are warmly welcomed by the Limbu and Rai communities, and basic lodges and homestays are available. After days of camping, this return to local hospitality feels luxurious.

Chyamtang is a cultural hub in this region, known for its agricultural terraces, traditional wooden houses, and friendly locals. Spend your evening exploring the village, sipping on fresh millet beer (tongba), or simply resting with a view of the rolling green hills.

After a restful night in Chyamtang, we continue our journey along the eastern flank of the Arun Valley. The trail descends steadily through lush subtropical forests filled with broadleaf trees, banana plants, ferns, and bamboo groves. You’ll pass through remote hamlets and cultivated fields, where villagers—mostly of Rai and Limbu heritage—carry out their daily routines.

As we walk through this region, the landscape grows greener and warmer. Terraced fields stretch across hillsides, with crops like millet, maize, and cardamom thriving in the fertile soil. The trail offers glimpses of daily rural life, including livestock herding, traditional water mills, and hillside shrines.

By early afternoon, we reach Hatiya (1,590m)—a culturally vibrant village with a mix of ethnic groups, including Limbus, Rais, and Tibetan-descended groups. Hatiya is a notable settlement at the confluence of trails coming from the Makalu and Arun regions. It offers basic lodges and homestays, and the villagers are welcoming, with traditional homes and lively evening gatherings around the hearth. Enjoy a warm dal bhat dinner and local hospitality.

Today's trek descends deeper into the Arun River corridor, following a quieter and less-trodden route to the small settlement of Gola (1,120m). The trail takes you through dense forest trails interspersed with small farms and patches of bamboo. The Arun Valley is known for its biodiversity, so keep your eyes open for monkeys, civets, and colorful birds like barbets and drongos.

As we lose altitude, the air becomes noticeably warmer and more humid. Local children may greet you along the trail, and you’ll see men and women weaving baskets, working in cardamom fields, and carrying goods using traditional head straps.

Gola is a small rural village, but basic homestays and local teahouses are available here. This area has strong connections to the indigenous Kirati traditions, particularly the Rai people, who are known for their oral epics, shamanic rituals, and musical storytelling.

After settling in, enjoy a quiet evening soaking in the atmosphere of this peaceful region, where ancient rhythms of rural Himalayan life continue undisturbed by modernity.

We begin the penultimate day of trekking with a gradual ascent from the lowland village of Gola to Hedangna Gadi (1,170m). The trail winds through lush forests filled with chirping birds, flowering plants, and scattered cardamom farms. You’ll cross small wooden bridges and pass pastoral lands where goats and cows graze freely.

As you move closer to Hedangna Gadi, the terrain undulates gently, and the scenery grows increasingly cultivated. You’ll pass several small hamlets of the Kumal, Rai, and Limbu communities, where traditional mud-and-thatch homes dot the hillsides. There is a strong sense of community here, with locals often gathering for seasonal festivals and communal farming activities.

Hedangna Gadi was once a strategic fort, and remnants of stone structures are still visible, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s history. It also serves as a gateway between the remote eastern Himalayas and the more accessible mid-hills, making it a vibrant village. Here, you’ll find basic but welcoming homestays and teahouses for your overnight stay.

Enjoy a hearty local meal and take time to interact with the villagers, who are always happy to share stories of their lives and culture.

Today marks the end of your trekking adventure. After breakfast, we follow a moderately descending trail from Hedangna Gadi to Num (1,560m). The trail winds through terraced fields and villages, with panoramic views of the Arun Valley unfolding before you.

Upon reaching Num, you’ll meet your vehicle and begin a scenic drive through winding mountain roads. The drive to Tumlingtar (518m) takes about 4 hours, passing through picturesque hills, forests, and settlements. Along the way, you’ll cross the mighty Arun River and ascend briefly before descending to the bustling market town of Tumlingtar.

Tumlingtar, situated in a low river valley, is a gateway town for eastern Himalayan treks and has modern facilities including hotels, teahouses, shops, and a small airport. You’ll check into a comfortable hotel for your final night in the eastern hills. Enjoy a well-deserved rest and reflect on the unforgettable adventure you’ve just completed through one of Nepal’s most remote and beautiful regions.

After an early breakfast, we head to Tumlingtar Airport, where you’ll board a short scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The flight, lasting approximately 50 minutes, offers splendid aerial views of the Himalayan foothills, the Arun River, terraced farmlands, and—if the weather is clear—a final glimpse of the majestic snowcapped peaks you’ve just trekked near.

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Mountain King Treks will warmly receive you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel or a centrally located area. After check-in, you have the rest of the day at leisure. You may wish to relax and enjoy a hot shower, shop for souvenirs, or revisit one of Kathmandu’s vibrant cafés or bakeries.

In the evening, your guide will meet you for a short debriefing, and you can reflect on your journey across the Lumba Sumba region—from the misty trails of Taplejung to the high Himalayan pass and back to civilization.

Overnight stay at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu.

Today is your well-deserved leisure day in Kathmandu, giving you time to rest, explore, or indulge in a final sightseeing or shopping experience. You may revisit cultural sites like Patan Durbar Square, enjoy a serene stroll in the Garden of Dreams, or dive into the local cuisine in the city’s many vibrant eateries.

For those interested, optional activities such as spa treatments, cooking classes, or a short day tour to Bhaktapur or Kirtipur can be arranged.

In the evening, Mountain King Treks will host a special farewell dinner at a renowned Nepali cultural restaurant. You’ll enjoy a delicious multi-course traditional Nepali meal with live cultural music and dance performances representing Nepal’s rich diversity—an unforgettable conclusion to your Himalayan adventure.

During the dinner, our team will present you with a Buddhist-style khada scarf as a token of blessings and safe onward journey—a gesture that marks the successful completion of your trekking journey.

Overnight stay at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Today marks the end of your incredible journey through the remote eastern Himalayas. After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, you will have some free time for last-minute shopping or simply soaking in the atmosphere of the city.

At the scheduled time, a Mountain King Treks representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. We will assist you with your airport formalities to ensure a smooth and hassle-free departure.

As you say goodbye to Nepal, take with you unforgettable memories of pristine mountain landscapes, vibrant cultures of the Limbu and Sherpa-Bhote communities, and the warmth of the people you met along the way.

We wish you a safe flight and hope to welcome you back soon for another adventure with Mountain King Treks—the Best Trekking Agency in Nepal with over 35 years of experience in adventure and eco-cultural tourism.