Kanchenjunga Lumba Sumba Pass Trek

Welcome to the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal! We are glad to be your partner in the Lumba Sumba Pass trek. Our team after receiving you at TIA will drive you to your accommodation in the city. After some rest, our tour guide will meet you to introduce you to other group members and discuss about the program we have planned for you in our Kanchenjunga round trek.

Then our guide will also brief you about the required gear and clothing. If you miss any, he will aid you in renting or purchasing the missing gear at an affordable cost. Later in the evening, you can roam on your own through the beautiful streets of the capital.

We suggest you sleep early for the next day’s early morning flight to Bhadrapur.

Duration

30 mins drive to hotel

Max Altitude

1300 m.

Activity

Arrival

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Boarding an early morning flight to Bhadrapur is an absolute delight as we will be flying above the Himalayan massive of Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga. After we land at the airport, our local team who will be accompanying us through the trek will receive us with a great smile.

After some rest, we will then hop in our transport and drive towards Phidim along the Mechi Highway. Initially, the path runs through the hilly landscape of Illam known for its vast tea plantation. Then the asphalt road passes through the dense bamboo forest.

The road eventually rises to pass Nepalthok from where we cross three passes below 2500 m. The trail allows us to admire the Kanchenjunga and Jannu Himal.

We will then descend to Phidim-  the large local shopping town resting with the elegant backdrop of Kanchenjunga.

Duration

45 mins flight / 4-5 drive

Max Altitude

1606 m.

Activity

Driving

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

After an early breakfast, we will once again set off on our long road journey towards Sekathum. Driving along the Mechi Highway, we will soon reach the Taplejung town where we will stop to eat our lunch. The town is also known for the sacred Pathibhara Temple. We may explore the temple for a while.

Resuming our journey, a steep road alongside the Tamur Khola will now take us through numerous enchanting settlements of Mitlung, Sinuwa, Tawa, and Chirwa. The cardamom plantation from here will fill the air with its beautiful aroma.

Soon, we will reach Taplethok where the checkpost will inspect our documents and permit for Kanchenjunga National Park. Next, a steep but well-paved road will take us to the Sherpa town of Lelep shortly leading us to Sekathum.

Duration

1576 m

Max Altitude

8 to 9 hours

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Our trekking days begin from today so get ready, stretch your legs as we now depart Sekathum, and walk along the trail on the northern bank of Ghunsa Khola. En route, we will pass many gorgeous waterfalls and serene streams. The vegetation slowly becomes alpine and the views become more and more magnificent.

Next, we will climb the vertical stone steps to reach Ghayabari at 2150 m. We will continue with the downhill hike and pass the grassy Jongim and Solima slopes. Now the steep climb will lead us to Chanjalung Danda (2530m) from where we will climb down to reach Amjilosa where we will spend the night after a stunningly beautiful day of hiking.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

2308 m

Activity

TRekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Today we have a gentler hike than yesterday’s without the same type of steep passages. The beautiful trail goes through the forest of oak, birch, larch, and bamboo and a few streams eventually leading us to Thanyani Village.

Next, we will pass one wild and beautiful waterfall after another. The usual Nepali trail of ups and downs and steep climbs will take us to Gyabla where the strong Buddhist influence starts and the population is now primarily of Sherpa Tibetans.

Duration

Duration 4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

(2730m)

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We are now slowly entering the higher Himalayas. After Ghunsa, we will hike along the river and walk on a narrow passage to reach Phale (3250 m) where there is a fine Buddhist gompa. It is a fine place to stop for lunch. We will now step into the Upper Tamur Valley, crossing the Ghunsa River over a metal bridge, we will reach Ghunsa, the main village in the area.

The altitude has crossed 3500 m so we will spend two nights at Ghunsa for adequate acclimatization.

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

(3595m)

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We place a great emphasis on reasonable acclimatization and Ghunsa is a perfect place to have a rest day. We can spend the whole day exploring the little charming village or we can trek to the nearest Viewpoint standing at 3950 m. The exclusive views of Jannu will be a great reward for the steep climb.

Activity

Rest day

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

The tour continues steadily upwards in glorious hiking on the south side of Ghunsa Khola. The trail follows the forest mixed of birch, rhododendron, and pine. It then climbs steadily towards Rambuk Kharka (3720 m). Here we can rest to admire the mountain Jannu (also known as Khumbukarna), Phole Peak (6645 m), Sobi Thongje (6652 m), and Ghabur Peak (6044 m).

The route now takes us to the bridge over the Ghunsa Khola from where it runs through a tree line. The final section will be on a little exposed area where a little caution is necessary. Shortly, we arrive at Khambachen.

Duration

6 - 7 hours

Max Altitude

4050 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Our trip continues over the hill behind Khambachen and then northeast above. The route will be Nepali flat terrain at first which gradually climbs over scree towards Ramtang (4350 m). it’s a beautiful spot to eat our lunch in front of Chang Himal (6812 m).

Setting off with our trip, we will hike along the northwestern side of the Kanchenjunga Glacier with numerous ups and downs. Then crossing the river, we will arrive at Lhonak- a village by the side of Lhonak Lake.

We will have time to admire the beautiful peaks of Tent Peak or Kirat Chuli (7365 m), Mount Gimmigela (6415 m), Kanchenjunga,  Mera Peak, and many more.

Duration

6 -7 hours

Max Altitude

4780 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

From Lhonak, our route goes up a long steep slope before we follow the glacier to a flat meadow. We will pass a few stone circle areas, where we have to walk carefully but also quickly. Eventually, we will set foot in the Pangpema or the North base camp of Kanchenjunga.

The Chang Peak (6750 m), Yalung Kang (8510 m), Taple Shikar (6,341 m), Ramtang Peak (6700 m), Langpo Glacier, Kanchenjunga Massif, and Drohma Ri will be the beautiful reward of our hard labor.

After spending some time, we will now head down to Lhonak in three hours.

Duration

6-7 hours

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We will return along the Ghunsa Khola marveling at the incredible view of Makalu. Traversing the Ramtang and Khambachen, we will walk down a relatively easy path towards Ghunsa itself where we will spend the night again, a wonderful reunion with the fine wooden and stone houses.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3595 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We will soon be approaching the Olangchun Gola- one of the most beautiful spots and the second highlight of our Kanchenjunga Round with Lumba Sumba Pass Trek.

Leaving Ghunsa, we will advance to cross the bridge over the river. Then, we will walk for a while and come across another bridge. We will not cross this bridge but will turn right and start walking alongside the peaceful Namgo River.

The path will fairly rise till it takes us to our campsite at Kharka at 4776 m. We have fairly gained the elevation today so we will rest at our camp. We can explore the secluded campsite in the evening.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

4776 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Get ready for a pretty arduous journey today as we will set off to conquer the 4910 m high Nango La Pass. After dismantling our tents, we will begin our climb over the snowy rocky terrain. The top of the Pass offers the unforgettable spectacle of the dense jungle, Yangma Khola below, Lopsang Peak, the vast expanse of Olangchun Gola, and also Mirgin La trail.

After we climb down from the Pass, the dense jungle will lead us towards the yak pasture of Langong Kharka. Marching forward, we will shortly arrive at our campsite beside Yangma Khola.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

3743m. / 3470m.

Activity

TRekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

After we depart from Yangma Khola, we will march further and reach the confluence of Yangma Khola and Tamur Khola. Further, we will come across a metal bridge which we will cross. From here on, the Tamur Khola will be our beautiful company.

The trail through the rhododendron forest will next take us to Ramite at 2685 m. Here, we will stop to eat our lunch, enjoying the cool breeze through the mixed forests of Himalayan cedars and rhododendrons.

After lunch, we will walk for another 45 minutes past the amazing waterfall. En route, we can see the beautiful Olangchun Gola on the horizon. It is a beautiful Sherpa village with 465-year-old Dekhi Chholing Monastery with a golden manuscript.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

3191m)

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

The Olangchun Gola village is an excellent site to spend a day of acclimatization. We will explore the Dekhi Chholing Monastery today, its architecture, and the monks living in the area. Later, we can explore the narrow streets of the village and interact with the friendly Sherpas.

Activity

Rest day

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

after having breakfast, we will walk moter road till the camp side, as well we will follow along the tomor nadi. after reaching we will have lunch than continue trek to sanjung kharka approximately one hour walk than stay over night.

Duration

5 hrs

Max Altitude

4000m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

today The trail then takes us to the wooden bridge allowing us to cross the Tamur Khola from where we will advance towards Tiptala Bhanjyang. Walking forward, we will come to the entrance of Dingsamba Khola Valley. From here, we will continue above the ruins in an interlacing of mossy stones to almost come alongside the river.

We will then wind between imposing juniper trunks until crossing a kharka. Then, the chaotic path covered with thorn bushes will lead us via Langmale Kharka-  a meadow dominated by beautiful slender rocky needles.
Leaving the Langmale Kharka, we will continue with a steady climb in the middle of juniper bushes. Around 4000m, we will approach an area of collapsed black rocks, from here we will turn right and follow a contour path.

We will then cross a rocky cliff to discover the face of Jannu and the summit of Kabru. We will then arrive at Sanjung Kharka from where we will continue walking along the Dingsamba Khola River. Then crossing the river via a natural bridge of two large rocks, we will encounter the wide path through the middle of the rhododendron bushes.

We will then pass a meadow and reach Yangetar Kharka. From here, we will climb the moraine and come across a large flat area. Finally, we will arrive at the end of the glacial tongue of the Lumba Sumba summit where we will again put up our tent.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

4453 m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Today is a very important stage and the most demanding but most beautiful day of our Lumba Sumba Pass trek. Departing from the camp, we will cross the area of collapsed rocks and climb the many small ridges, walking up and down along the glacial rocky path bumping here and there the beautiful glacial lakes and streams for about 4 hours.

Eventually, a balcony path in a large scree will appear leading us to the Lumba Sumba Pass in around half an hour. At the Pass, we can see the garlands of lungtas (prayer flags) fluttering in the wind along with the astounding views of Kanchenjunga, Chamlang, Makalu, Baruntse, Khambachen, Hongku, Jannu, Kabru, and many more.

Depositing these moments in our memory, we will now head down to Lasa Kharka beside the Lapsi Khola on gentle slopes that are sometimes snow-covered.

Duration

9-10 hrs

Max Altitude

5159m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Our hike today will lead us down into the Lapsi Khola Valley and we return to civilization after the strenuous last few days. We will cross the river on an ingenious stone bridge and a few kharkas along the route.

Eventually, we will enter a forest of rhododendron bushes at the confluence of the Lapsi Khola with the Medok Chheje Khola. We will then hike down to cross the Medok Chheje Khola on two wooden bridges. Moving further, we will cross one more pasture and arrive at Samne Kharka.

The route next follows the Medok Chheje Khola offering the wonderful views of Mera Peak, and Chamlang. At first, we will descend gently through the pine trees followed by a steep descent on a stony path till we reach the Thudam Village-  a small village of Sherpas and Bhotiyas.

Duration

3-4 hrs

Max Altitude

3556m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We will be losing approximately 900 m altitude today which means our trek today comprises lots of downhill walking. Therefore, we will leave the Thudam Village in the morning after breakfast and immediately begin a descent on the stony path. Moving through the pine forest, we will then cross two steep scree. The forward trail is dominated by the rocky hillside path, with bends here and there.

En route, the Makalu and Chamlang peaks will play hide and seek with us. Then the descent takes place steeply along the hillside through a narrow path leading us to Chimjung Khola on the Himaloso Danda. The up-and-down route continues in a charred forest.

Finally, we will make an arduous climb back into the forest towards a contour route in the middle of a bamboo forest which will lead us to Yak Kharka.

Duration

7 hrs

Max Altitude

2700m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Resuming our hike along the Great Himalayan Trail, we will now descend among the rhododendrons to cross a small waterfall. Then it’s a short drop to cross a beautiful river on a wooden bridge. We will then climb up opposite towards the ridge which separates us from the Arun River. We will walk on an excellent path that passes in the middle of another Kharka.

From here, the trail now descends sharply for about three hours taking us to the Arun River. We will cross the river over a long suspension bridge and climb for about an hour to the Village of Chyamthang where it may be possible for us to find one or two lodges where we can spend the night. If not, once again, the tent will be our good shelter for the night.

We have now stepped into the restricted zone of Makalu Barun National Park.

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

2187m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

After walking for six days straight, we will finally be able to relax our tired bodies in the village. With the beautiful view of Makalu, we can explore the small village in the afternoon. We should prepare our bodies for more ups and downs as we make our way towards the Makalu Base Camp.

Activity

Rest day

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

A well-marked path with numerous chortens and Mani Walls will lead us from Chyamthang to Linggam via Guthi Gompa. We will then go down to the bottom of the valley to cross a river that precedes the village of Chepuwa.

Continuing walking on the hillside, we will cross the cereal fields of Gimbar, a space that marks the entry into the Handak Khola valley.  The path then descends gently leading to the series of stairs to the suspension bridge.

We will cross the bridge, ascend the stony path, and walk through the millet fields to reach the base of the village of Hong Gaun where we can find a lodge for an overnight stay.

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max Altitude

2323m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Leaving behind the Hong Gaun, we will now cross the ridge and continue uphill. Shortly, the wide track arrives which approaches the Chyaling Khola River. Crossing the river, we will go uphill into the forest and approach the Tejo Khola.

Continuing with our climb, we will reach a Kharka surrounded by trees where we can see langurs jumping on their branches. We will cross one more Kharka through the forest from where the path slopes slightly. Coming out of the forest, we will find a staircase that goes up straight towards a pass marking the entrance to Bakim kharka.

We will walk forward till we reach the flat ground where we will put up our tents for an overnight rest.

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max Altitude

3020m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

From the Bakim Kharka, we will follow the path which starts at the top of the ruined kharka. Then, we will come out into the open with the beautiful waterfall and continue uphill.

We will come across many springs along the way, as we set foot on a small grassy plateau from where we will continue the climb to reach a first pass.

Beyond, we will incline a little to cross the 2nd pass from which we will discover the Molun Pokhari lake set in a cirque of rocky mountains. Then, we will overcome the pass located on the west side of the Molun Pokhari.

Then following a balcony path, we will descend to cross the Tin Pokhari valley before continuing towards Dhunge kharka where we will again establish our camps for a good night’s rest.

Duration

6-7 hrs

Distance

3590m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

From Dhunge Kharka, we will enter the Khola Kharka Valley and cross a deciduous forest. We will then walk straight, climb for a while, and descend on a wide path in a rhododendron forest. A wooden bridge will allow us to cross the river and leave the Khola Kharka Valley.

Walking along the similar ups and downs along some more pastures, and moss stones, crossing some rustic bridges, we will pass the Saldim Khola camp. From here, we will head towards Saldim Khola through a sparse forest and reach the Cave Camp where we can set up tents in an open cave for a restful night.

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

3115m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Leaving our campsite of cave camp, we will now follow the route past numerous waterfalls, that go up and down along the steep slopes. En route, we will also cross many streams and climb some rocky corners of the cliffs.

As we advance on our path, we will come across slopes with ice that need caution to cross. Then going up and down a rocky gully, we will reach a grass area with water flowing by side. Ten minutes walk from here will then take us to Kalo Pokhari Lake where we have an open place to set up our tents on its bank.

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max Altitude

4192m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Leaving the Kalo Pokhari lake behind, we will climb through the rhododendron bushes to cross a cliff from which Kanchenjunga and Jannu appear in front of us.

We will then continue in a slight contour line on the hillside from where we can overlook the Arun River and the Barun River Valleys. After about ten minutes of walking, we will arrive at the pass at around 4400 m. Descending from the Pass, we will reach the valley floor from where we will again undertake the steep climb.

The path now becomes easier as we walk through the areas above Barun River Valley. After some zigzag, we will walk through the rhododendron bushes and descend to a circular meadow until we reach the kharka of Korlangue – the perfect spot to set up our camp.

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

4097m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We will leave the camp and follow the river to find a path that goes up and down between the rhododendron bushes. As we descend, we will come across the first pine trees. From here, the path now becomes steep which eventually leads us to stream.

We will cross the stream and face a small uphill climb on the sandy edge. Now, descending we will reach Barun River from where the route now goes up and down through rhododendron bushes. After crossing open terrain, we pass a waterfall and reach the new footbridge for the Makalu – Hatiya trail.

Bypassing the footbridge, we now proceed along the main path towards the Makalu base camp. We now walk through some ups and downs in the rhododendron forest until we reach Yangli Kharka where lodge or tent stay is possible for the night.

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max Altitude

3557m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Early morning, we will hike through the pine forest and reach an open area. We will then pass by the Merek camp ( 4010m) and ascend slightly to cross two streams.

We will then cross a wide river over a wooden bridge and reach the grassy moraine. Then, we ascend towards the upper edge of the central moraine that takes us to Langmale Kharka. The shelters are located 400 meters northwest from here offering a campsite and a lodge.

We can spend the night in a tent or a lodge enjoying the fantastic mountain views of Peak 6, Peak 7, Chamlang, Yaupa, and Honku Chuli.

Duration

4-5 hours

Max Altitude

4410 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

With a constant view of Chamlang and Honku Chuli, we will hike along a sandy plain and a grassy moraine to the Shersong high pasture (4,650 m). Then we gradually turn right until the gigantic rock pyramid of the 8,485 m high Makalu comes into view.

Walking along the Barun Riverbed, we will reach a wooden bridge that helps us cross the river and get to the Makalu Base Camp. We can spend the night in a tent or a lodge at the base of the massive Himalayan mountain, feeling tiny next to its towering rock walls.

Duration

5 hours

Distance

4870 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We will retrace our steps towards the sandy plateau of Shershong and walk following the Barun River until reaching the Langmale Kharka. Walking along the familiar path, we will admire the stunning glacial mountains till we arrive at Yangli Kharka after approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3557 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

After leaving the Kharka, we will arrive at the wooden bridge that allows us to cross the river and head towards Korlangue kharka. A few hundred meters walk and we will arrive at Phemathang kharka or Nene kharka.

We will descend along the Barun River, crossing many rock screes. The path decorated with prayer flags then will lead us to a cave. We will then take a left path that crosses through the rhododendron bushes till we reach the spacious area.  Dobato is now just 50 minutes away where we can spend the night in a tent or lodge.

Duration

5 hours

Max Altitude

3540m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

From Dobato, we will start our climb passing through the beautiful rhododendron-filled slopes. After a while, we will take a right turn and continue climbing in stages until we reach the final steep climb that leads us to Keke La (4188m).

Then, we move on to overcome the second Pass of Shipton La at 4250 m. As we descend from the pass, the path takes us through rhododendron bushes with continuous ups and downs. We will then follow a staircase-like path until we reach Khongma Danda. Here, a few lodges have been built where we can spend the night.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3500 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Exiting the Makalu Barun National Park, we will now head down passing the numerous Mani Walls through rhododendron bushes on stairs-like paths. We will then enter a deciduous forest, pass a cave, and cross a large kharka, and continue along a series of stairs until we reach a meadow and arrive at Tashigaon.

Then, walking through a series of slightly sloping paths that switch between forested areas and terraced fields, we will eventually find ourselves walking on a flat path surrounded by cardamom plantations. Finally, we have reached Seduwa in the Kasuwa Khola valley where we will find a lodge for a peaceful night.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

1500 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

From Seduwa, we will turn left and descend to the hamlet of Murmidanda, which is part of the village of Seduwa. We deviate from the path and descend via steep stairs to Num. Next, we will approach a series of rice terraces of Lumlungma.

We will then climb down steeply until we reach the metal footbridge over the Arun River. After the river crossing, we will leave the forest and cross an agricultural plateau. The motor road is located a few bends above.

From here, we will drive to Tumlingtar crossing the Deorali pass. From the Tumlingtar airport,

Duration

5 hours trek / 3 drive

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

we will board a return flight to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

You have the whole day at your leisure for shopping or sightseeing. We are happy to organize an optional city tour through the former royal cities such as Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, or Patan with an experienced city guide. In the evening, we will enjoy a final dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We will drive you to TIA for your departure to your home.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse