The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek, offered by Hairy Yak Adventures, is an 18-day adventure through the remote eastern Himalayas of Nepal, connecting the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and Makalu Barun National Park. Priced at $2,800 per person, this challenging trek is perfect for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural immersion. The highlight is crossing the Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177m), offering panoramic views of Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Makalu (8,485m), and distant peaks like Everest and Lhotse.
This trek, introduced in 2012 by the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), traverses pristine landscapes, from subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and glacial moraines. Trekkers pass through vibrant villages inhabited by ethnic groups like Limbu, Sherpa, Rai, Gurung, and Tamang, with opportunities to visit ancient monasteries like Dekichholing in Olangchung Gola. The route is a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare wildlife such as snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahr, alongside vibrant rhododendron and orchid forests. Unlike more popular treks, Lumba Sumba remains uncrowded, offering tranquility and an authentic Himalayan experience.
The journey begins with a 50-minute flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a 4–5-hour jeep ride to Num, the trek’s starting point. The trail includes challenging ascents, such as Shipton La Pass (4,200m), and visits to remote settlements like Seduwa, Tashigaon, and Olangchung Gola. Trekkers stay in teahouses and tents, enjoying local cuisine like dal bhat and momos. With a maximum altitude of 5,177m, the trek demands excellent physical fitness and mental resilience, supported by acclimatization days to ensure safety. This off-the-beaten-path adventure promises stunning sunrise views, cultural encounters, and a profound connection with Nepal’s untouched wilderness.
The Lumba Sumba Pass Trek with Hairy Yak Adventures starts at $2,800 per person for an 18-day package. This cost typically includes:
Permits: Kanchenjunga Restricted Area Permit ($10/week), Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit ($20 for foreigners, $5 for SAARC nationals), and TIMS card ($20 for solo trekkers, $10 for groups).
Transportation: Round-trip domestic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar ($100–$150 one way) and jeep transfers to/from Num ($50–$100, shared or private).
Accommodation: Teahouses or camping tents during the trek, plus a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for pre- and post-trek nights.
Meals: Three meals daily during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), featuring Nepali staples like dal bhat, momos, and continental options where available.
Guide and Porter: Licensed trekking guide ($25–$35/day) and porter ($15–$20/day, carrying up to 12kg per person).
Support: Pre-trek briefing, camping equipment, and basic medical kits for altitude sickness prevention.
Additional costs may include personal expenses (snacks, hot showers, device charging: $20–$50/day), travel insurance (covering high-altitude trekking up to 5,500m), and tips for guides/porters (10–15% of trek cost recommended). Budget-conscious trekkers can save by opting for shared jeeps, while luxury options with private transfers may increase costs to $3,500.
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The trek involves crossing the high-altitude Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177m), navigating snowfields, and hiking 5-8 hours daily on rugged terrain, requiring prior high-altitude experience.
Olangchung Gola is a 500-year-old Tibetan village with the historic Deki Chholing Gompa, offering a glimpse into Buddhist culture and traditional Sherpa life.
Beyond Taplejung, tea houses are scarce, so camping is required for 13 nights, with tents, meals, and tea/coffee provided for comfort in remote areas.
The Kanchenjunga and Makalu regions are home to snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and birds like the Himalayan Monal, especially near Olangchung Gola.
Acclimatization days at Olangchung Gola and Pass Camp, hydration (3-4 liters daily), and following our guide’s pacing help minimize altitude sickness risks, with emergency medical support available.