Lumba Sumba Pass Trekking - 22 Days

Highlights for Lumba Sumba Pass Trekking

• On the off beaten tracks within tranquil surroundings and quaint farm villages.
• Adventure beyond north of massive  Mt. Kanchenjunga  world 3rd highest peaks.
• Enchanting woodlands of tall rhododendron, magnolia, birch, pines and fir trees.
• Explore the hidden pockets of remote north eastern Himalaya region of Nepal.
• Sweeping panorama of dramatic country with high snow mountain ranges.
• Follow the old Trans Himalaya trade route, and cross high  Lumba-Sumba pass.

Introduction: Lumba Sumba Pass Trekking

The North Kanchenjunga Lumba Sumba Pass Trekking is an extreme adventure that takes you deep into the remote eastern Himalayas of Nepal, north of the towering Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak at 8,586 m (28,169 ft). Designed for experienced trekkers, this journey offers a true wilderness experience far from the crowded trails and tourist routes.

Situated in the far northeast of Nepal’s Taplejung district, this trek explores one of the least ventured corners of the Himalayas. The route follows ancient Trans-Himalayan salt trade and caravan trails toward the southeastern border of Tibet, revealing pristine landscapes, rolling green hills, high alpine valleys, and majestic snow-capped peaks. Along the way, trekkers pass through traditional villages inhabited by Bhotia and Sherpa communities of Tibetan heritage, providing a rare cultural glimpse into the lives of high Himalayan people.

The trek’s centerpiece is the Lumba Sumba Pass, standing at 5,160–5,177 m. This high Himalayan pass presents a challenging yet highly rewarding crossing that links the Kanchenjunga region in the northeast with the Makalu region in the southwest. From the pass, trekkers are treated to sweeping panoramic views of some of Nepal’s most iconic peaks, including Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Baruntse, while navigating high alpine terrain, glaciers, and remote trails that few adventurers ever experience.

Why Choose Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?

1. Ultimate Remote Adventure – Perfect for trekkers who crave a true wilderness experience far from crowded trekking routes. This journey takes you deep into untouched Himalayan landscapes, remote valleys, and traditional villages rarely visited by tourists. Expect raw natural beauty, peaceful trails, authentic cultural encounters, and a strong sense of exploration, making it an unforgettable adventure for those seeking solitude, challenge, and pure adventure in the heart of Nepal.

2. High Himalayan Pass Challenge – Crossing the spectacular Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177 m) is a thrilling and rewarding challenge designed for experienced trekkers. This high-altitude crossing demands strong endurance and determination, while offering breathtaking mountain panoramas, dramatic glaciers, and a deep sense of achievement in one of Nepal’s most remote Himalayan regions.

3. Spectacular Mountain Scenery – Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of some of the Himalayas’ most iconic giants, including Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), and many surrounding snow-capped peaks. The trail offers ever-changing landscapes of glaciers, high passes, deep valleys, and alpine meadows, making every day a visual highlight of this remarkable adventure.

4. Rich Cultural Encounters – Explore authentic and culturally rich villages inhabited by Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan-influenced communities. Along the trail, experience traditional lifestyles, ancient customs, unique architecture, local festivals, and warm Himalayan hospitality, offering deep insight into the diverse cultures preserved in Nepal’s remote eastern regions.

5. Exceptional Biodiversity – Trek through the pristine Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, one of Nepal’s most ecologically rich regions. The trail passes through dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude landscapes that are home to rare wildlife and diverse flora, including unique Himalayan plants and endangered species, making the journey especially rewarding for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

6. Diverse Landscapes – Experience an ever-changing panorama as the trail leads you from lush subtropical forests and deep river valleys to high alpine meadows, glaciers, and rugged mountain terrain. Each day reveals a new landscape, creating a dynamic and visually captivating journey that highlights the incredible geographical diversity of eastern Nepal.

7. Trans-Himalayan Experience – This unique trek links the Kanchenjunga and Makalu regions in one epic journey, offering a rare opportunity to traverse two of Nepal’s most remote and spectacular Himalayan areas. The route showcases dramatic contrasts in landscapes, cultures, and ecosystems, creating a once-in-a-lifetime adventure across the eastern Himalayas.

8. True Sense of Achievement – With far fewer trekkers on this route, completing the journey offers a profound sense of accomplishment. The solitude, challenges, and untouched beauty make it an exclusive Himalayan adventure, leaving trekkers with lasting memories and the pride of exploring one of Nepal’s most remote and rewarding trails.

Major Attractions of Lumba Sumba Pass Trekking

• Remote High Himalayan Pass – Crossing the challenging Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177 m) is the highlight, offering a true adventure in an untouched region.

• Spectacular Mountain Views – Panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Jannu, and other eastern Himalayan peaks.

• Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience – One of Nepal’s least crowded treks, ideal for trekkers seeking solitude and wilderness.

• Rich Biodiversity – Trek through Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to rare flora, red pandas, snow leopards, and diverse birdlife.

• Cultural Diversity – Experience authentic lifestyles of Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan-influenced communities.

• Dramatic Landscapes – Dense forests, alpine meadows, deep valleys, glacial rivers, and high mountain terrain.

• Linking Two Famous Regions – Connects Kanchenjunga and Makalu regions, making it a unique trans-Himalayan trek.

• Pristine Villages and Monasteries – Traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and centuries-old trade routes.

How does Lumba Sumba Trek start and End

The Lumba Sumba Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and adventurous high-altitude treks. The journey begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, where you are welcomed and transferred to your hotel to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead. After initial preparations and a briefing, you take a domestic flight to Bhadrapur, followed by a scenic drive through rolling hills and tea gardens to Suketar, the gateway to the high Himalayas. From Suketar, the trek starts on foot, gradually ascending through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages inhabited by Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa communities, offering a rich cultural experience along the way.

As you progress, the terrain becomes more rugged and alpine, with panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Jannu. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177 meters), a challenging yet rewarding high mountain pass that offers breathtaking 360-degree Himalayan vistas. After the pass, the trek descends through the remote Arun Valley, passing by pristine rivers, forests, and small villages like Num, where you can experience authentic local lifestyles.

The journey concludes with a drive from Num to Tumlingtar, followed by a flight back to Kathmandu, where you have free time to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or relax before your departure from Nepal. The trek offers an unparalleled combination of adventure, natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of accomplishment, making it ideal for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experience.

Outline Lumba Sumba Pass Trek Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Airport and transfer to Hotel.

Day 02: Full day in Kathmandu with half day sightseeing tour at places of interest.

Day 03: Fly to Bhadrapur and drive to Ilam town

Day 04: Drive to Suketar and trek to Mitlung

Day 05: Trek to Chirwa.

Day 06: Trek to Lungthang.

Day 07: Trek to Holung / Walangchung-Gola.

Day 08: Rest day at Walangchung - Gola.

Day 09: Trek to Lumba Sumba.

Day 10: Cross over Lumba Sumba la.

Day 11: Trek to Thudam.

Day 12: Trek to Kharka.

Day 13: Trek to Chyamtang.

Day 14: Trek to Hon-Goan.

Day 15: Trek to Hatiya.

Day 16: Trek to Gola.

Day 17: Trek to Gadhi-Danda.

Day 18: Trek to Num.

Day 19: Drive to Tumlingtar for overnight in the local Lodge.

Day 20: Fly to Kathmandu and transfer to a hotel.

Day 21: In Kathmandu free day for individual activities.

Day 22: Final International departure from Nepal.

We can customize the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek Itinerary to suit your needs, whether you prefer a relaxed pace with extra time in villages, additional sightseeing stops, or more challenging trekking days. Every journey can be tailored to match your interests, fitness level, and schedule, ensuring a personalized Himalayan experience that’s both enjoyable and memorable.