Kanchenjunga & Lumba Sumba Pass Trek (5,177 m)

One of Nepal’s ultimate wilderness treks, linking the remote Kanchenjunga and Makalu regions through the rarely crossed Lumba Sumba Pass.

Kanchenjunga & Makalu

Region

Max 5,177 m

Max. Altitude

~28 days

Duration

Strenuous

Difficulty

Overview

The Kanchenjunga & Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is one of the most remote and adventurous trekking routes in the Himalayas. This extraordinary journey combines the spectacular landscapes of the Kanchenjunga region with the remote valleys beyond Lumba Sumba Pass, creating a true expedition-style trek through eastern Nepal.

The route begins in the shadow of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), the world’s third-highest mountain, before traversing pristine forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and isolated mountain settlements. The highlight of the trek is the crossing of Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177 m), a remote high-altitude pass connecting the Kanchenjunga and Makalu regions.

Unlike Nepal’s more popular trekking routes, this region receives very few visitors. Days may pass without encountering other trekking groups, making this one of the finest wilderness experiences available in the Himalayas.

Trek Highlights

  • Cross the remote Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177 m)
  • Explore one of Nepal’s least-visited trekking regions
  • Experience a true Himalayan wilderness adventure
  • Trek through remote valleys connecting Kanchenjunga and Makalu
  • Enjoy spectacular views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Jannu, and other Himalayan giants
  • Visit traditional Limbu, Rai, and Tibetan-influenced villages
  • Experience pristine forests, alpine meadows, glaciers, and high mountain passes
  • Explore a restricted region requiring a special permit and licensed guide
  • Encounter few other trekkers on one of Nepal’s most remote routes

Typical 28-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2

Preparation and permit arrangements

Day 3

Flight to Bhadrapur and drive to Taplejung

Day 4

Taplejung to Sekathum

Day 5

Sekathum to Amjilosa

Day 6

Amjilosa to Gyabla

Day 7

Gyabla to Ghunsa

Day 8

Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa

Day 9

Ghunsa to Kambachen

Day 10

Kambachen to Lhonak

Day 11

Visit Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (Pangpema)

Day 12

Lhonak to Ghunsa

Day 13

Ghunsa to Sele La

Day 14

Sele La to Tseram

Day 15

Visit Kanchenjunga South Base Camp (Oktang)

Day 16

Tseram to Tortong

Day 17

Tortong to Yamphudin

Day 18

Yamphudin to Chirwa

Day 19

Chirwa to Lelep

Day 20

Lelep to Illa Danda

Day 21

Illa Danda to Olangchung Gola

Day 22

Acclimatization Day in Olangchung Gola

Day 23

Olangchung Gola to Upper Langmale

Day 24

Cross Lumba Sumba Pass (5,177 m)

Day 25

Pass Camp to Thudam

Day 26

Thudam to Chyamtang

Day 27

Drive and flight connections to Kathmandu

Day 28

Departure


Who Is This Trek For?

The Kanchenjunga & Lumba Sumba Pass Trek is designed for experienced trekkers seeking one of Nepal’s most remote and demanding adventures. Long trekking days, high altitude, limited infrastructure, and challenging logistics require excellent fitness, previous trekking experience, and a strong spirit of exploration. The reward is a truly exceptional journey through some of the most untouched mountain landscapes in the Himalayas..


Quick Facts

Kanchenjunga & Makalu Regions

5,177 m

Strenuous (4 out of 5)

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