Lumba Sumba Pass Trek
Trek Description
The Lumba Sumba Pass, standing tall at 5,160 meters above sea level, highlights this off-the-beaten-path trekking route. Along the way, trekkers are treated to stunning scenery, dramatic terrain, and the rich cultural heritage of various ethnic communities. This demanding yet enriching journey links the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area- home to Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak at 8,598 meters- with the Makalu Barun National Park, which boasts Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain at 8,485 meters.
Destination
Lumba Sumba Pass Trek
Duration
20 days
Trip Grade
difficult
Start/ End
Kathmandu -Kathmandu
Best Season
Autumn, Spring
Max People
4 -6 people
Transportation
Private vehicle, local bus, jeep, or Flight
Activities
Trekking/Tour/Hiking
This 20-day walk starts in warm areas and goes up to cold, high mountains, with tough paths and quiet, wild places along the way. We might see many animals and plants, including the rare snow leopard and red panda.
Lumba Sumba Pass Trek Facts
| Title | Information |
|---|---|
| Trek Name | Lumba Sumba Pass Trek |
| Travel Budget | $1800 - $2200 |
| Standard Budget | $2500 - $3000 |
| Difficulty | Moderate-Difficulte |
| Best Time | Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) |
| Permit | Kanchenjunga Special Permit Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) Entry Permit Makalu Barun National Park Entrance Permit Restricted Area Permit for Sankhuwasabha District |
| Accommodation | Tea Houses, Lodges |
| Best ViewPoints | Great Himalayan Trail, Tamor and Arun River system, Makalu Barun National Park |
Day Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Pick-up from Tribhuvan International Airport
- Transfer to a hotel in Thamel.​
- Trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
- Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- Final trek preparations.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Flight to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu and Drive to Taplejung
- Land at Bhadrapur Airport, where we will meet the supporting crew.
- We will drive directly to Taplejung for the night.
Day 4: Trek to Chiruwa (1270 m) – 5/6 hours
- The trek begins alongside the Tamor River with a moderate walk to Furumba, then a climb up the descent to Siwa Bazaar.
- The trail leads up to the checkpoint of Kanchenjunga Conservation, then eventually descends to Chiruwa.
Day 5: Trek to Lelep (1687 m) – 6/7 hours
- Today, as we will, the trek begins alongside the Tamor River, passing through Ulnas trees.
- The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area headquarter is also in Lelep, which we will be exploring upon reaching there.
Day 6: Trek to Ila Danda (2051 m) – 5/6 hours
- The journey begins after breakfast, moving through a dense forest with rich wildlife habitats. Spotting a snow leopard is a rare but possible event.
- After crossing a scenic suspension bridge and climbing through pine forests, we reach a monastery for rest and a brief visit.
- Descending to Gowatar village, we walk further to witness two stunning 100m waterfalls before crossing the Tamor River.
- After a rest at Chautaroo, a traditional resting spot, a short hike brings us to Ila Danda with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.
Day 7: Trek to Selep Kharka (2525 m) – 5/6 hours
- As we begin, we pass through a lush rhododendron forest.
- We also pass through a dense bamboo forest, which is also famous for Red Pandas.
- The trail also passes through maple and Ulnus.
Day 8: Trek to Olangchung Gola (3280 m) – 5 hours
- Early in the morning, we will head towards Jongim along the bank of the Tamor River.
- After an uphill walk, we reach Ramite, where we can see a mixed forest of Deodar and rhododendron.
- Upon reaching Olangchung Gola, we can explore the monastery with the golden manuscript and KCAP office.
Day 9: Trek to Upper Langmane (3893 m) – 6 hours
- We start our trek through the wilderness of this region.
- Along the way, we will pass through a lush rhododendron and pine forest.
Day 10: Trek to Pass Camp (4747 m) –6 hours
- Now, we will gradually ascend to the base of Lumba Sumba Pass.
- Here, there is a high chance of seeing the almighty Snow Leopard, Red panda, Himalayan tahr, and others.
Day 11: Trek to ChauriKharka via Lumba Sumba Pass (4595 m) – 7/8 hours
- Today is exciting as we explore Lumba Sumba Pass, which is difficult yet rewarding.
- The trail is upward and downward as we tackle altitude.
Day 12: Trek to Thudam (3500 m) –7 hours
- After several alpine ramblings, we will experience a significant decline in height from Chaurikharka through thick forest and river valleys.
- Along the way, we’ll come across Dobato (the junction of two roads/trails). One leads us toward Lyasha in Tibet and another to our destination, i.e., Thudam.
- Overnight in Pokhara
Day 13: Trek to Yak Kharka (2877 m) – 6 hours
- We walked along the Chujung Khola. The trail today offers a panoramic view of the Makalu range.
- The trail is filled with small bushes and bamboo, that is also popular for Red pandas.
Day 14: Trek to Chyamtanng (2229 m) – 6 hours
- As we begin, we pass through a lush rhododendron forest.
- Continuing the journey, we pass via Arun River and then the last steep ascent.
Day 15: Trek to Hatiya (1595 m) – 7 hours
- As always, we are greeted by the luscious rhododendron forest with birds' pleasant chirpings.
Day 16: Trek to Gola (1128 m) – 6 hours
- Today marks the 2nd week of our astonishing trekking journey, collecting and making memories that last a lifetime.
- We will pass the Arun River sightseeing the beautiful place along the way.
Day 17: Trek to Hedanga Gadhi (1179 m) – 5 hours
- The trek passes through paddy fields, making it a sign of lowlands.
- After a while, we reach Pathivara (not to be confused with Pathivara Temple in Taplejung). It is a Gurung village with tea shops and groceries.
- Passing Pathovar, we reach Gadhi, a historically significant place where the Nepali Army fought with the invading Tibetan army in the past.
Day 18: Trek to Num & Drive to Tumlingtar
- This marks the last day of this amazing trek.
- After crossing the Arun River, an uphill journey of about one and a half hours takes us to Num village.
- From the village, we take a jeep and head towards Tumlingtar.
Day 19: Flight to Kathmandu
- We will transfer you to the Tumlingtar Airport for the flight to Kathmandu.
- On the way, a majestic aerial view of giant hills and landscapes can be seen.
Day 20: Departure from Kathmandu
- Drop off at Kathmandu Airport (TIA) for your flight.
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop service by private car.
- Meals on full board during the trekking(Breakfast, lunch,dinner,soup,Tea or coffee).
- Free Trekking map.
- An expert Government licensed holder guide.
- Trekking porter /Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking.
- Ground transportation.
- All necessary paper works and Trekking entry permits.
- Visa fees for Nepal, charges for overweight luggage, and international flight tickets.
- Travel insurance covering emergency high-altitude helicopter rescue and medical expenses.
- Additional charges due to unforeseen delays
- Any Alcoholic, hot or cold drinks
- All kinds of Personal Expenses
- Helicopter return from Base Camp.
- Private room & meals.
- Extra food/snacks.
Why Choose This Lumba Sumba Pass Trek
- Adventure and Wildlife: The trek offers an excellent opportunity for adventure enthusiasts. The trail is a mix of remote villages, scenic landscapes, and challenging mountain passes.
- Quieter and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Unlike the popular Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Lumba Sumba Pass trek remains less crowded, offering a more serene and unique trekking adventure.
- Unique cultural experience with Gurung and Rai communities: Explore remote villages, meet local people, and experience their traditional way of life.
- Luscious rhododendron: The national flower of Nepal, it always speaks its own uniqueness with only being found in high altitudes, different colours, and only in specific months of the year.
- Breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Mount Kumbakarna.
Best Time For Lumba Sumba Pass Trek
- Spring: Spring is known for clear skies, mild weather, and blooming rhododendron forests, making it one of the best seasons for the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek.
- Autumn: The peak trekking season with stable weather, breathtaking mountain views, and ideal hiking temperatures.
- Winter: Trekking becomes more difficult due to freezing temperatures and snow, especially at higher elevations.
- Monsoon: Heavy rain and potential landslides make trekking conditions more challenging and less predictable.
Cost and Planning Facts for Lumba Sumba Pass Trek
- Budget:Â The cost of the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek typically ranges between $1800 – $2200 USD depending on the level of service and trek duration. This price includes permits, accommodation, meals, a guide, and porter. The cost of the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek typically ranges between $1800 – $2200 USD depending on the level of service and trek duration. This price includes permits, accommodation, meals, a guide, and porter.
- Accommodation: Teahouse accommodation typically costs $5 – $15 USD per night, depending on the altitude and location. For the full trek (20 days), expect to spend $100 – $180 USD on accommodation.
- Food/Meal: Meals along the trek are typically $5 – USD 10 per meal. Expect to spend around $15 – $30 per day for meals, totaling $400 – $550 USD for 20 days.
- Transportation: A one-way flight ticket costs approximately $100 to $106. Bus tickets are priced between $10 and $20. Renting a jeep for transportation can cost anywhere from $120 to $150.
- Guide: Approx. $25 – $35 USD per day (includes salary, meals, and accommodation).
- Porter: Approx. $15 – $25 USD per day. For a 20-day trek, guide and porter costs could range between $900 and $1500 USD, depending on the number of days and services.
- Permits: Kanchenjunga Special Permit, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) Entry Permit, Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card, Makalu Barun National Park Entrance Permit, Restricted Area Permit for Sankhuwasabha District.
Packing Tips for Lumba Sumba Base Trek
- Head
- Warm hat & cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Headlight.
- Face Mask or Balaclava
- Footwear
- Trekking shoes
- Hiking boots
- Warm Hiking socks
- Gaiters
- Body
- Base layers
- Waterproof jacket
- Thermal Gloves
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Fleece Jacket
- Thermal Shirts and Pants
- Essentials/ Equipments
- Sleeping bag
- First aid kit
- Trekking poles & Raincoat
- Water Bottles
- High-energy snacks
- Maps & Compass/GPS
Lumba Sumba Pass Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition
Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition offers a thoughtfully organized Lumba Sumba Pass Trek led by experienced guides to ensure a safe and unforgettable journey. Our dedicated team delivers top-notch services for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Join us to discover one of Nepal’s most serene and scenic trekking routes, featuring stunning mountain vistas and rich local culture.
Gallery Section
Lumba Sumba Pass Trek
Starting from (1800) $(2000)
20 Days
Group Prices Available
1 Person: $2000
1 Person (Luxuary): $2500
FAQ's Section
1. What kind of food is available during the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
Food options on the Lumba Sumba trek are basic but filling, with more variety in lower villages. Common meals include Dal Bhat, momo, thukpa, fried rice, noodles, chapati, and curry, becoming simpler at higher altitudes.
2. Is the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek difficult?
Not necessarily. While the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is rated as moderate to strenuous due to its high altitude (5,160m), challenging terrain, steep ascents/descents, and river crossings, it is achievable for physically fit trekkers who have good endurance and are properly acclimatized.
3. Do you need permits for the hiking journey to Lumba Sumba Pass?
Yes, you need at least three permits for the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek, which are: the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP), the Makalu Barun National Park Permit, and the Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card, as you will be hiking through the protected areas of the country for several days.
4. What is the total distance of the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
The total distance of the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is approximately 130 to 160 kilometers (81 to 99 miles), depending on the specific itinerary and starting/ending points. The trek typically takes 18 to 22 days to complete.
Want to Trek Lumba Sumba with Mardi Himal Treks & Expedition?
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