Lumba Sumba Pass Trek

Early morning, we will have our breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu and then we will forward to the airport and catch the flight over Bhadrapur which will takes 45 minutes to reach. After getting off the flight we will drive to Ilam. The drive from Bhadrapur to Ilam typically takes around 3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 75 km. Evening explore tea fields. 

Overnight at the hotel.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Today is a long day on the road as you drive up through switchback bumpy and dusty roads to reach Taplejung. There will be stops for tea and lunch on the way.  On arrival at Taplejung you will meet your camping crew who will come to pick up the gear that your guide has brought with him from Kathmandu. Their first task is to set up the campsite and get dinner underway for you.

Overnight at Hotel.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

You will have breakfast at Taplejung and take a four-wheeler local jeep to Tapethok for 3 to 4 hours and lunch at Tapethok. The dirt road is dusty and suggests bringing a neck cover or handkerchief to cover your face. After checking permit at National Park office, you will start trek to Lelep. On the way to Lelep, you will hike through cardamom gardens and can soak up the scenery and atmosphere of this lovely area.

Overnight at tented camp.
Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Today, be on the lookout for the vibrant birdlife that thrives in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, as you trek through dense forests—habitat for elusive mammals like musk deer and langur monkeys—and ascend to higher elevations where even rarer wildlife may emerge; after crossing a suspension bridge and climbing to a quiet monastery ideal for a brief respite, the trail descends into Gowatar village, shortly followed by the breathtaking sight of a towering 100 m (328 ft) waterfall, before culminating in a rewarding short hike up to Illa Danda, where sweeping views of the Himalayan peaks await. 

Overnight at tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

After crossing the suspension bridge, the dense forests give way to open meadows dotted with grazing sheep and yaks. As you ascend toward your high-altitude campsite nestled in one of these grassy expanses, you’re treated to fantastic mountain vistas from your very doorstep.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

As the trek continues, the rising altitude brings a welcome intensity to your journey—though you’re well acclimatized and free to savor the experience as you pass through meadows and pastures, cross the Tamor River once more, and wander into forests of rhododendron that burst into spectacular bloom in spring; at day’s end, your campsite awaits on a high altitude pasture at Olangchung Gola, offering not just a restful night but enchanting mountain views, including those of the formidable Kanchenjunga massif.

Overnight at tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Today is dedicated to acclimatization as you prepare for the higher altitudes ahead. In Olangchung Gola—known for its centuries-old Diki Chhyoling monastery dating back over 400 years—you’ll have the opportunity to explore both this historic spiritual site and the traditional Sherpa village it presides over. Otherwise, the day presents a much-needed chance to relax, rest, and reflect on the journey that lies ahead.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

You are rising considerably in altitude today, one of the reasons for yesterday’s acclimatization day. The trail begins with pastures but then becomes more rugged, featuring scree and moraines. At this altitude, the winds can become high and chilly. There may even be some snow patches on the trail. Care is needed both in terms of the altitude and the loose/ slippery ground under your feet.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Today, your trail winds alongside the mesmerizing Tamor River, offering a stop near Tangchetar village for a leisurely lunch before you hike the same distance onward to your overnight Pass Camp; during a break with snacks and tea, your guide will brief you on what to expect when you ascend the formidable 5,177 m (16,985 ft) Lumba Sumba Pass, and once you arrive, it’s time to rest well and recharge, this is your vital preparation for the challenging climb ahead.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

This is a long and demanding day: you’ll embark at dawn to climb the formidable Lumba Sumba Pass at approximately 5,160 m (16,930 ft), aiming to summit before the high-altitude winds sweep in later in the morning; the ascent crosses deep, potentially treacherous snowfields, but once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping panoramic vistas of the Kanchenjunga Massif, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and countless other peaks and glaciers, while the descent guides you into the stunning Arun Valley and onward into the remote Makalu-Barun region, so pace yourself carefully as you make your way to camp, where a hard-earned rest awaits.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Today, you descend significantly in altitude, entering a landscape rich with vegetation and dotted with Sherpa villages. Along the way, you'll encounter the Chhujung Khola (river), serene bamboo forests, and stunning views of towering peaks from the Makalu region. As the journey continues, you’ll find yourself nearing the border with Tibet, adding to the sense of remoteness and cultural depth in this part of the trek.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Today’s trek continues along the Chhujung River, winding through dense bushes and bamboo groves, offering another chance for birdwatching if you're interested. Keep an eye out for the elusive red panda, a rare inhabitant of the Makalu Barun National Park, though sightings are extremely uncommon. As you progress, the appearance of cultivated land signals a more populated region, reflecting the lower elevation and increased human settlement.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Today, you journey through dense rhododendron forests as you make your way toward the Arun River, with the trail mostly descending. After crossing a suspension bridge, the path climbs once more, leading you up to the Sherpa village of Chyamtang.

Overnight at tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Now in the Arun Valley, you’ll enter Makalu National Park upon reaching Hatiya, a village primarily inhabited by the Bhote people, an indigenous community from the Himalayan region. The descent through cool, shaded forests gives way to a changing landscape of lower foothills and terraced fields, marking a shift in both elevation and cultural setting.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

You trek past the confluence of the Arun and Barun rivers today as you head to the small village of Gola.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

After a few hours of hiking through terraced rice fields, you’ll arrive at Pathivara, a Gurung village with small shops and tea houses—offering a noticeable contrast to the more remote settlements you've passed on the trek. It’s a great spot to relax with a soft drink and some local cookies, if available—after all, it’s your final day of hiking, so why not treat yourself to two? Continuing down the trail, you’ll reach Hedangna Gadhi, where you’ll spend the night.

Overnight at a tented Camp. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

After breakfast, a short hike takes you down to Num, where you'll board a public jeep for the drive to Tumlingtar to catch your flight back to Kathmandu. This evening marks the end of your journey—enjoy a final night with your camping crew, savor one last meal prepared by your talented camp chef, and share some final stories and laughs with your guide.

Overnight at Lodge. 

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Today begins with your final breakfast in camp and heartfelt goodbyes before you board your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in the capital, your guide will escort you to your hotel and bid you a warm farewell, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.

Note: All kilometers/miles are approximate. On a mountain trail, it is better to adjust your mind to hours of walking rather than to mileage.