LUMBA SUMBA PASS TREK
LUMBA SUMBA PASS TREK
The feeling of being in a far-off and stunningly gorgeous region is what you will experience on this trek.
The Lumba Sumba Trek is Nepal’s latest escape into the wilds of the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area known for its remoteness, natural beauty, and massive snow-covered peaks. This trek was only opened in 2012 and is still well-preserved and unaffected by trekkers. The trek connects the Kanchenjunga region and Makalu region via the Lumba Sumba Pass (5160m), and takes you to Lumba Sumba Peak (5200m) where the views are unbelievable! The region is home to a number of ethnic groups: Limbu, Sherpa, Rai, Gurung Magar, Newar, and Tamang. Those villages at a higher altitude are occupied by mostly Tibetan Sherpa people. The trek runs through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and Makalu Barun National Park in the eastern Himalayan region of Nepal.
The region is home to several indigenous species, such as red panda and the mysterious Snow Leopard. The birdlife in this region is plentiful as you trek through the dense rhododendron, juniper and pine forests. The trail also takes you to a number of pure alpine lakes near Olanchung Gola, through the snowy Nango La Pass, to Pang Pema, or north Kanchenjunga Base Camp. The Lumba Sumba Pass (5160m) offers superb views of Kanchenjunga (8598m – world’s 3rd highest peak) in the west, Mt. Makalu (8485m – world’s 5th highest peak) in the east.
We will also visit the base camps of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Makalu. There are numerous wild mountain rivers that cascade down from the mountains, such the Arun and Tamor rivers, and the more notable Sapta Koshi (river). You will see Yak razing in the alpine pastures, follow trails through dense sub-tropical and temperate forests at lower altitudes and trek along yawning valleys passing small villages decorated with colorful Tibetan prayer flags, chortens, Mani stones and Buddhist temples.
Sherpa Expedition Teams have been taking tour groups into the Himalayan Mountains since 1977 and will take care of all permits, accommodation and meals on this trek.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
A representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After arriving at your hotel you can rest and explore Thamel and buy anything you require for the trek. We will go over things you may need along the way and introduce you to your trek leader. Please make sure you bring your passport, three copies of passport-size photos and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy. During this meeting please be prepared to clear the due balance., if any, and sign the legally binding trip form as well as the non-liability disclaimer.
Day 2 : Fly from Kathmandu to Biratnagar & drive to Phidim. Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today we head to the airport and take our 30 minutes to Biratnagar and then have a six-hour drive until we reach the municipality of Phidim, the headquarters of the Panchthar District in the Mechi Zone of eastern Nepal.
Day 3 : Drive to Taplejung & trek to Mitlung (9,09m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trek starts from Taplejung and continues on to Hangedawa and ultimately Mitlung Village. Along the route we pass through Asangpati Tole, Gaigode Tole, Panesar Tole, and Pawa village.
Day 4 : Trek from Mitlung to Chirwa (1,246m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trek today is about five to six hours as we follow the Tamor River to Kurumba Village and then on to Mitlung, Proceed We pass several other villages, such as Tawa, Sinwa Bazaar and then climb to Thiwa Village which is the entrance to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project. We then descend to Chirwa where we stay the night.
Day 5 : Trek from Chirwa to Lelep (1,687m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we follow the trail along the banks of the Tamor River to Tapethok passing through dense forest and cultivated cardamom fields. We stop for lunch and then proceed to Lelep where we stay the night. Lelep is also the headquarters of the KCAP.
Day 6 : Trek from Lelep to Ela Danda (2,051m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
We have a six to seven-hour trek today, again following the Tamor River through dense forest and then cross a suspension bridge. We then ascend through a pine forest until we reach the monastery and then descend to Gowatar. Heading on, we cross the Tamor River and reach Ela Danda where we stay the night.
Day 7 : Trek from Ela Danda to Selep Kharka (2,525m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail today initially takes us through alder and Rhododendron and on to Maguwa passing along the way through dense bamboo groves which is a likely place to see red panda. We finally reach Selep Kharka where we stay the night.
Day 8 : Trek from Selep Kharka to Olanchung Gola (3,208m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our first leg of the trek today takes us to Jongim Village which is surrounded by snow-covered peaks. We then head to Ramite Village passing through Rhododendron forest and then come to Olanchung Gola which is home to a 465-year-old monastery with a golden manuscript. We will stay here for the night.
Day 9 : Trek from Olanchung Gola to Upper Langmale (3,893m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our journey for the next three days is through the wilderness with fewer villages and people on the trail. We first head to Jadak and then to Upper Langmale where we will stay overnight.
Day 10 : Trek from Upper Langmale to Pass Camp (4,747m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
our trek today is for about six to seven hours following the Tamar River until we reach Tangchetar from where we head off to Pass Camp.
Day 11 : Trek from Pass Camp to Chaurikharka (4,595m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today is more physically demanding with a six to seven hour trek as we head to higher altitudes and to Lumba Sumba Peak (5200m) and then descend to Chaurikharka where we stay the night.
Day 12 : Trek from Chaurikharka to Thudam (3,500m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail today is less demanding and is nearly all downhill and reaches a crossroad where one road leads to Sasha in Tibet and the other to the Sherpa village of Thudam where we stay overnight.
Day 13 : Trek from Thudam to Kharka (2,877m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
A six to seven-hour trek today follows the banks of Chujung Khola (river). Along the trail we have some amazing panoramic views of the Makalu Range.. As we head to Kharka we pass through bamboo groves where we may see a red panda. We will stay overnight at Kharka.
Day 14 : Trek from Kharka to Chyamthang (2,229m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
A six to seven-hour trek takes us to Chaurikharka again passing through dense Rhododendron forest. We continue and descend until we reach the Arun River where we cross a suspension bridge and then on to Chyamthang Village where we stay the night.
Day 15 : Trek from Chyamthang to Hatiya (1,595m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today heads to Gimber Village again passing through the ever-present rhododendron forests and along the trail we have fantastic views of the Makalu Range. We then head to Hatiya, a small village inhabited by the Bhote people. It is also the entry point to the Makalu National Park. We will stay here overnight.
Day 16 : Trek from Hatiya to Gola. Duration: 5-6 hours.
We begin the day trekking along the banks of the Arun River until we reach the junction of the Arun and Baru rivers. We continue towards Gola, a village inhabited by Sherpa, Tamang, and Rai people. We will stay here for the night.
Day 17 : Trek From Gola to Gadhi (1,800m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
We start the day following the trail to the small to Gurung village of Pathibhara passing through cultivated farmland until we reach the small trading village of Gadhi where we stay the night.
Day 18 : Drive from Gadhi to Khadbari (1022m) & drive to Biratnagar (80m) Duration: 8-10 hours.
Today we spend most of it on the road, but first have to trek down to the Arun River and then up to Num Village. A drive or about five hours takes us to Khandbari, the district headquarter of Sankhuwasavha district. From here we take a bus to Kathmandu through Dharan or Biratnagar. If we wish to fly back to Kathmandu, this can be done from Tumlingtar airstrip.
Day 19 : Fly from Biratnagar to Kathmandu.
Today we fly back to Kathmandu (30 minutes) and on this short flight will have some distant views of the snow-clad peaks that we saw close-up on our trek.
Day 20 : Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Your adventure comes to an end today – but your memories will last a lifetime! Our company representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure and explore the most magnificent mountains of Nepal.
SERVICES
Costs included in your package.
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop off service by a private tourist vehicle
- Standard twin-sharing accommodation in a three-star hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast (2 nights only)
- Standard twin-sharing accommodation in a guesthouse in Biratnagar including breakfast (1 night only)
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodation during the trek.
- All standard meals - 3 meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek prepared by our expert camping cook and kitchen team
- Tented camp accommodation for the trek (We will provide full water/wind-proof twin-share tents, dining tents, kitchen gear, dining table, chairs, toilet tents, etc.)
- Local Sherpa Expedition and Trekking licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- The required number of local staff and porters to carry your luggage during the trek (We assign one porter for every two guests.)
- Biratnagar to Phidim and Khadbari to Biratnagar transportation by Sharing Jeep.
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicine for all staff
- All special trekking permits & fees
- Down jacket and sleeping bag by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking (which need to be returned after the trek)
- Kathmandu-Biratnagar-Kathmandu airfare with airport departure tax
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Excess baggage of more than 20 kg for Biratnagar flight.
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
Hotel and Accommodation:
We offer you 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights) and Lodge/Teahouses during the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with blankets and a pillow. All accommodation is on a twin share basis except at the higher elevations or after Kambachen, where you will enjoy homestay style accommodation. The Kanchenjunga trek is situated in some very areas so you may not have the same level of comfort as lower down the mountain. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide you down jackets, sleeping bags, and duffle bags (which need to be returned after the trek).
Meals and drinks during the trek:
Breakfast will be served in Kathmandu whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. Food along the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is much like it is elsewhere in Nepal, with a heavy reliance on rice, lentils and vegetable curries. We suggest you bring a water purification pill to avoid stomach problems from drinking the local water. Bottled water is sometimes available if you prefer.
Transportation:
We provide a private car for the airport transfers and sightseeing tour of Kathmandu on the day you arrive. Flights from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and return is also included. You will travel by jeep from Bhadrapur to Suketar.
Physical condition and past experience:
Kanchenjunga circuit trek is graded as highly challenging and a tough trek due to the terrain and high altitudes. This trek takes you to many less-traveled and undeveloped areas, making it difficult in places to traverse rockfalls, moraines and streams Trekking in these remote areas can sometimes be difficult due to landslides. The roads at the beginning and end of the trek can also be affected too. It is recommended that you prepare yourself beforehand and get physically prepared. This will make it easier to manage the difficult terrain and high altitudes.
Note: The trek itinerary is a guide and will be provided by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking. The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek can be modified according to your time, budget, and requirements. What we offer here is a tea house style trek and can be modified as a purely camping trek as well. Contact us for the latest updated information and price for the varied options available.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route in eastern Nepal. It takes you through remote and pristine landscapes, offering stunning views of the Himalayas, diverse flora and fauna, and an opportunity to experience the rich culture of the local communities.
How difficult is the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is considered to be a challenging trek. It involves long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing high mountain passes. Previous trekking experience and a good level of fitness are recommended.
How long does it take to complete the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek usually takes around 25-30 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and the pace of the trekking group.
What is the best time to do the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
The best time to do the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and good visibility of the mountains.
Do I need a permit for the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
Yes, you need a special permit called the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) to trek in the Lumba Sumba region. You also need to obtain the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
Are there any altitude sickness risks on the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
Yes, there is a risk of altitude sickness on the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek, as you will be reaching high altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body's signals. It is also advisable to consult with a doctor before undertaking the trek.
Are there tea houses or lodges along the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek route?
The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is a remote and less developed trekking route, so there are limited tea houses and lodges along the route. Camping is often required, and it is recommended to carry your own camping equipment and food supplies.
Is it possible to do the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek independently?
Yes, it is possible to do the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek independently. However, due to the remote and less developed nature of the route, it is recommended to hire a local guide or join a guided trek to ensure safety and proper navigation.
What should I pack for the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek include warm clothing, hiking boots, a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, waterproof clothing, sun protection, a first aid kit, and a water purifier. Additionally, you will need camping gear if planning to camp along the route.
Is travel insurance necessary for the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek. It should cover emergency medical expenses, helicopter evacuation, and trip cancellation. Make sure to check the policy details and ensure that it includes trekking activities at high altitudes and remote areas.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 16 Reviews
Juliana Almeida
Australia
September 9, 2024
Excellent Service and Well-Planned Trek
Our experience with Sherpa Expedition on the Lumba Sumb Pass Trek was excellent, thanks to their well-planned service. The guides were skilled and professional, expertly navigating the trek’s demanding routes and providing valuable cultural and environmental insights. Their commitment to safety was evident throughout. The support staff handled all logistics seamlessly, ensuring that every aspect of the trek, from food to accommodations, was managed efficiently. Their attention to detail and customer care made the trek smooth and enjoyable. Sherpa Expedition is highly recommended for their exceptional service and planning.
Rebecca Gorgan
Australia
August 22, 2024
Memorable Trek with Expert Care
Sherpa Expedition provided a memorable experience on the Lumba Sumb Pass Trek with their expert care. The guides were highly knowledgeable, expertly navigating the challenging trails and offering engaging insights into the area’s unique features. Their emphasis on safety and their ability to handle unexpected situations were reassuring. The support team was efficient in managing logistics, from meal preparation to accommodations, ensuring a comfortable trek. Their dedication to client satisfaction made our adventure truly enjoyable. Sherpa Expedition is an excellent choice for a well-executed trekking experience.
Emerson Asher
United States
May 12, 2024
Highly Skilled and Attentive Team
Our trek with Sherpa Expedition through the Lumba Sumb Pass was enhanced by their highly skilled and attentive team. The guides were adept at managing the trek’s complexities, offering detailed information about the region and ensuring our safety. Their friendly and professional approach made the journey enjoyable. The support staff was excellent, taking care of all logistical needs and ensuring our comfort at every stage. Their commitment to a smooth and enjoyable trek was evident. Sherpa Expedition’s service is highly recommended for a memorable adventure.
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