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The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and remote trekking routes, connecting the iconic Himalayan regions of Kanchenjunga and Makalu. This off-the-beaten-path trail leads you through hidden valleys, alpine forests, yak pastures, and high mountain passes, including the breathtaking Lumba Sumba Pass at 5,160 meters.
Ideal for adventurous trekkers, the Lumba Sumba Trek passes through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and Makalu Barun National Park, home to rare species like the red panda, snow leopard, and vibrant Himalayan birdlife. Along the way, you'll visit traditional villages like Olangchung Gola and Chyamtang, experiencing the rich cultures of the Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan communities.
This trek offers a genuine sense of wilderness and solitude, with fewer trekkers on the trail and limited but growing access to basic teahouse accommodation. The journey begins with a flight to Bhadrapur, followed by a scenic drive to Selep, and ends in Tumlingtar after crossing the Lumba Sumba Pass.
With the right preparation, experienced guides, and a moderate to high fitness level, the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek rewards you with unspoiled mountain views, deep cultural encounters, and a true Himalayan adventure far from the crowds.
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Take time to rest or explore the city before your trek briefing in the evening.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
While your Kanchenjunga and Lumba Sumba trek permits are being processed, enjoy optional sightseeing: Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa are popular highlights.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Flight Time: 1 hour | Drive Duration: 4–5 hours
Fly to Bhadrapur in eastern Nepal and drive to Ilam, a picturesque hill town known for its tea estates and views of the eastern Himalayas.
Overnight: Hotel or lodge in Ilam
Drive Duration: 8–9 hours (off-road)
Depart Ilam and head north via Taplejung, passing through remote hillside villages and dense forest roads. Eventually, you reach the small settlement of Selep, situated by the Tamor River. This marks the end of the rough jeep track and the starting point for trekking into the high Himalayas.
Overnight: Teahouse in Selep
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Begin trekking through dense rhododendron and bamboo forest, ascending gradually toward Ela Danda. The trail passes over small wooden bridges and along steep slopes, offering increasing views of the Himalayan terrain as you gain elevation.
Overnight: Teahouse in Ela Danda
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Climb steadily through alpine forest and pastures to reach Jongin Kharka, a seasonal yak herder's camp. The location provides a quiet resting point between Ela Danda and Olangchung Gola, helping you acclimatize effectively before crossing into higher terrain.
Overnight: Basic teahouse or camping in Jongin Kharka
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Continue along a remote trail, crossing wooden bridges and ascending through pine and juniper forests. As you approach Olangchung Gola, the valley opens up, revealing stone houses and prayer walls. This ancient Sherpa village is culturally rich and historically significant.
Overnight: Teahouse in Olangchung Gola
Explore the historic village, interact with locals, and visit the 465-year-old Deki Chholing monastery. Essential rest day for altitude adjustment.
Overnight: Teahouse in Olangchung Gola
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Begin the wilderness section of the trek, following yak herders' trails through alpine terrain and pine forests.
Overnight: Camping at Langmale Kharka
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Ascend to Pass Camp below the Lumba Sumba Pass. Dramatic glacial scenery surrounds you.
Overnight: Camping at Pass Camp
Trek Duration: 7 hours
Early morning ascent to Lumba Sumba Pass with views of Kanchenjunga and Makalu. Steep descent to the yak pastures of Yak Kharka.
Overnight: Camping at Yak Kharka
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Descend through subalpine terrain to the secluded Tibetan village of Thudam, one of the last settlements before the Arun Valley.
Overnight: Basic teahouse in Thudam
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Enter lush valleys and forested hillsides, crossing multiple suspension bridges. Chyamthang is a Rai and Sherpa settlement.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chyamthang
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Continue down the Arun Valley through dense forest and small farmlands, observing changing landscapes and cultures.
Overnight: Teahouse in Hatiya
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Reach the warmer lowlands of eastern Nepal through subtropical forest and rice fields.
Overnight: Teahouse in Gola
Trek Duration: 4 hours | Drive Duration: 5 hours
Final trek to Gadhi village. From there, take a jeep to Tumlingtar for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight: Lodge in Tumlingtar
Flight Time: 50 minutes
Fly back to Kathmandu. Enjoy your final day relaxing, shopping, or sightseeing before departure.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the international airport for your departure. If you’re extending your stay in Nepal, your guide can help with additional travel arrangements or sightseeing plans.
End of Trek.
