Lumba Sumba Pass Trek - The Great Himalaya Trail Connection

Lumba Sumba Pass

The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is one of Nepal's newest and most challenging trekking routes. Developed as part of the Great Himalaya Trail, it serves as a spectacular bridge connecting the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area in the east with the Makalu Barun National Park. This demanding 21-day journey takes you far off the beaten path, through isolated villages, dense forests, and alpine pastures. The crux of the trek is crossing the formidable Lumba Sumba Pass (5,159m), which rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views encompassing both the Kanchenjunga and Makalu mountain ranges. This trek is suitable for highly experienced trekkers looking for wilderness, solitude, and authentic cultural encounters in some of Nepal's most remote mountain communities.

Lumba Sumba Pass Trek

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

Cross the challenging Lumba Sumba Pass (5,159m) connecting two major regions.

Witness panoramic views of both the Kanchenjunga and Makalu massifs.

Trek through extremely remote and pristine wilderness areas.

Experience the traditional lifestyles of Limbu, Sherpa, and Bhotiya communities.

Trek a section of the legendary Great Himalaya Trail (GHT).

Trail Logs & Itinerary

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Fly from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and take a long drive to Taplejung to begin the trek. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Descend to the Tamor River and trek through villages and terraced fields. We begin our return journey, descending to lower altitudes. With every step, the air becomes thicker and warmer, and we walk through lush forests and traditional villages, reflecting on our incredible achievements in the high mountains while enjoying the easier hiking.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Walk along the Tamor River through cardamom fields and Limbu settlements. We hike along traditional trails connecting local settlements, encountering friendly villagers along the way. The changing views of green valleys and mountain ridges accompany our journey.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Leave the main Kanchenjunga trail and follow the Tamor River towards the northwest. The trail alternates between gentle flat sections and steady climbs, passing through pristine forests and scenic viewpoints. Every step brings a new perspective on the natural beauty of Nepal.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Trek through thick pine and rhododendron forests, with occasional views of the river gorge. We walk through beautiful Himalayan landscapes, enjoying changing scenery and local culture. The trail passes through green hills, traditional villages, and agricultural terraces.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Walk through bamboo forests and cross suspension bridges, arriving at a clearing used as a pasture. The path winds through lush forests and crosses mountain rivers on suspension bridges. We take time to appreciate the views of distant snow-capped peaks and the peaceful environment.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Arrive at the historical and culturally rich village of Olangchung Gola. Visit the ancient 400-year-old Diki Chholing monastery. Today we explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of Kathmandu. We visit the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati River, the ancient stupa of Boudhanath, and the hilltop Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of the city. We also complete trek briefing and permit preparations.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Take a much-needed rest day to acclimatize to the higher elevation. Explore the village and prepare for the higher altitudes ahead. A vital day dedicated to rest and acclimatization to allow our bodies to adapt to the thinner mountain air. We take a gentle, scenic hike to higher viewpoints, maximizing our altitude adaptation before returning to the lodge. Staying active while resting is key to a successful journey.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Trek completely in the wilderness. The trail passes through alpine landscapes and grazing lands. We walk through beautiful Himalayan landscapes, enjoying changing scenery and local culture. The trail passes through green hills, traditional villages, and agricultural terraces.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

A strenuous climb towards the base of the Lumba Sumba pass. The terrain is rocky and barren. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

The most challenging day. Start early to cross the pass. Enjoy views of Makalu and Kanchenjunga before a steep descent. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Descend to the remote Sherpa village of Thudam, nestled deep in a valley. We begin our return journey, descending to lower altitudes. With every step, the air becomes thicker and warmer, and we walk through lush forests and traditional villages, reflecting on our incredible achievements in the high mountains while enjoying the easier hiking.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

The trail follows the banks of the Chujung Khola. It involves crossing landslides and navigating difficult terrain. An early, challenging start takes us toward the high mountain pass. Walking slowly and steadily, we climb through snow and scree to reach the summit, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The expansive views of neighboring valleys and giant peaks are absolutely spectacular before we begin our descent.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Walk through dense rhododendron forests to reach Chyamtang, a village inhabited by the Bhotiya people. The path winds through lush forests and crosses mountain rivers on suspension bridges. We take time to appreciate the views of distant snow-capped peaks and the peaceful environment.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

The trail drops down to the Arun River. Follow the river to Hatiya, an entry point to the Makalu Barun National Park. We begin our return journey, descending to lower altitudes. With every step, the air becomes thicker and warmer, and we walk through lush forests and traditional villages, reflecting on our incredible achievements in the high mountains while enjoying the easier hiking.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Walk along the banks of the Arun River, passing small settlements and lush vegetation. The trail alternates between gentle flat sections and steady climbs, passing through pristine forests and scenic viewpoints. Every step brings a new perspective on the natural beauty of Nepal.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Continue along the Arun River valley, passing through terraced farmlands. We walk through beautiful Himalayan landscapes, enjoying changing scenery and local culture. The trail passes through green hills, traditional villages, and agricultural terraces.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Cross the Arun River one last time and undertake a steep climb up to the village of Num. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Take a jeep drive back to Tumlingtar along a bumpy mountain road. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,159m

Take a flight from Tumlingtar back to Kathmandu. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Lumba Sumba Pass Trek

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.
Standard teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS, National Park Fees).
A comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful trek.

Exclusions

International flight airfare.
Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory).
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters).
Tips for guide and porters (customary but not mandatory).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to do this trek?

The best seasons are the pre-monsoon (Spring: March to May) and post-monsoon (Autumn: September to November). During these times, the weather is generally clear, offering the most spectacular mountain views and stable walking conditions.

Do I need to be highly fit or have previous trekking experience?

While previous experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. You should have a reasonable level of physical fitness and be able to walk 5-7 hours a day over varied terrain. We highly recommend cardiovascular exercises (like running or cycling) a few weeks prior to your arrival.

What happens if I get altitude sickness?

Our itineraries are carefully designed with built-in acclimatization days. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and carry a medical kit, including a pulse oximeter. If mild symptoms occur, the guide will monitor you closely and may advise resting. In severe cases, we will coordinate an immediate helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu.

What kind of food and accommodation can I expect during the trek?

Accommodation along the main trekking routes consists of 'teahouses'—local lodges that provide both food and a place to sleep. The rooms are generally simple, clean, and equipped with twin beds, foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets. Most teahouses have shared bathroom facilities, and hot showers are usually available for an extra small fee. As for food, the menus are surprisingly extensive! You can expect traditional Nepali meals like Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and curries) which provides excellent energy for trekking. You will also find a variety of Western, Tibetan, and Indian dishes including pasta, pizza, noodles, soups, pancakes, and eggs. We highly recommend eating freshly cooked vegetarian meals at higher altitudes for better digestion.

Do I need comprehensive travel insurance for this trek?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is strictly mandatory for all our trekkers. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters depending on your specific route), medical emergencies, and most importantly, emergency helicopter evacuation. In the remote Himalayas, if you suffer from severe altitude sickness (AMS) or physical injury, a helicopter is the only way out, and these evacuations can cost several thousand dollars. Please ensure you carry a printed copy of your insurance policy with you, as our guides will need to verify it before the trek begins.

How do I access safe drinking water on the trail?

Staying hydrated is critical for acclimatization; you should aim to drink 3 to 4 liters of water every day. While you can buy bottled mineral water at lower elevations, we strongly discourage this to protect the fragile Himalayan environment from single-use plastic waste. The best and most sustainable method is to bring two reusable 1-liter water bottles (Nalgene or similar). You can fill these with tap or stream water and use water purification tablets or a SteriPEN. Alternatively, every teahouse sells boiled water which is 100% safe to drink and is highly recommended during the cold mornings and evenings.

Is there internet, Wi-Fi, and phone coverage on the mountain?

Yes, technology has reached the Himalayas! You can buy a local SIM card (Ncell or NTC) in Kathmandu, which provides decent 3G/4G coverage in the lower regions of the trek. As you climb higher, mobile networks become patchy or non-existent. However, almost all teahouses along the popular routes (like Everest and Annapurna) now offer Wi-Fi access for a small daily fee. In the Everest region, you can purchase an 'Everest Link' prepaid Wi-Fi card. Keep in mind that connection speeds are shared among many trekkers and can be slow, especially during bad weather, so it's a great opportunity for a digital detox!

How much cash should I bring, and are there ATMs on the trail?

The mountains operate almost entirely on a cash economy. While there are a few ATMs in major hubs like Namche Bazaar or Jomsom, they are notoriously unreliable, often running out of cash or suffering from network outages. You must withdraw enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in Kathmandu before starting your trek. Since your meals, accommodation, and permits are included in your package, you only need cash for personal expenses. We recommend budgeting around $15 to $20 USD (in local currency) per day to cover extras like hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi, snacks, tea, coffee, and tipping your guide and porters at the end of the trip.

What is the luggage allowance, and do porters carry all my gear?

If your trek involves a domestic flight (such as to Lukla or Jomsom), the strict weight limit is 15 kg (33 lbs) total per person, which includes both your checked duffel bag and your carry-on daypack. Our packages include porter service, with one porter assigned to carry the gear for two trekkers. Your porter will carry up to 20-25 kg total (10-12 kg of your gear). We provide you with a durable company duffel bag for this purpose. You will only need to carry your personal daypack (around 30-40 liters) containing your daily essentials: water, snacks, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, and warm layers.

What happens in the event of bad weather or flight delays?

Mountain weather in the Himalayas is notoriously unpredictable, and flights to remote airstrips like Lukla are operated strictly on visual flight rules (VFR). Even in peak seasons, flights can be delayed for hours or sometimes cancelled for consecutive days due to high winds or low visibility. If this happens, our team in Kathmandu will work tirelessly to reschedule your flight for the next available window. We highly recommend scheduling 1 or 2 extra 'buffer days' at the end of your trip in Kathmandu before your international flight home. In severe cases, chartered helicopters may be an option to bypass flight cancellations, but this comes at an additional cost usually covered by your travel insurance.