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)