Lumba Sumba Pass Trekking - 21 Days

Trip Introduction: Lumba Sumba Pass Trek 2024/2025

The Lumba Sumba Pass, at 5,160 meters/16,929 feet, is a stunningly beautiful pass connecting Kanchenjunga to Makalu, featuring the majestic Kanchenjunga (8598m) to the west and Makalu (8,485 m/ 27,837 ft) to the east, the third and fifth highest peaks in the world, respectively.

Where originally pronounced as Kanchendzonga means five jewels which is related to its five main peaks of the Kanchenjunga mountain range located in Nepal's Far North Eastern belt of Himalaya close to the border Sikkim (northeast state of India) and Tibet beyond further north directions.

A fabulous adventure that leads you to a far and remote range at the end of Nepal Himalaya where few trekkers and adventurers seldom venture this unknown hidden country around Holung -Walungchung and Gola situated close to the route to Eastern border of Tibet-China.

Trekking around Lumba Sumba Pass is a spectacular area with its outmost scenery of mountains, green valleys, and high rolling hills with fast-flowing glacial rivers in the harmony of impressive villages and its culture is interwoven with Buddhism religion, where people of the region closely related to Tibetans across the border.

This wonderful adventure begins with a great panoramic flight facing alluring views of Himalayan peaks with Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga range to land in the warmer south east of Nepal, where the drive leads to the alpine cooler hills past Ilam town with its vast tea-garden to reach our trekking starting point at Taplejung.

Walking into nice hill farm villages of moderate climate entering into forested areas on the main trail of Kanchenjunga north base camp for few days, and then our route diverts straight north into a complete wilderness of high green hills covered within the thick forest of rhododendron, magnolia, hemlocks, oaks, pines, and fir tree lines.

As our adventure walks progress to reach at nice and impressive villages at Holung and Walungchung – Gola at a height of 3,200 m high, with time to explore its interesting places and villages enriched with Tibetan traditions and customs, from heading to cross over the highest point of the trek to traverse Lumba-Sumba at above 5,160 m pass, facing marvelous views of surrounding peaks and landscapes.

After a great adventure around the remote villages of Walunchung-Gola where a walk leads to much warmer areas back into well-cultivated farm fields and villages to reach Num, which is en route to Makalu base camp.

From Num where our wonderful trekking completes taking an exciting local jeep drive to reach around low warm Arun valley town at Tumlingtar for a scenic sweeping flight back to Kathmandu, after a most rewarding adventure with an enjoyable experience on North Kanchenjunga with Lumba Sumba Trekking.

Why trek to lumba sumba pass ?

Travelling and trekking towards this region is a great option for anyone looking for a hard and off-the-beaten-path in Nepal trekking trip. These are a few reasons trekkers must consider:

• Remote and Unexplored: The trekking trail takes you through some of the most remote and unexplored regions of eastern Nepal, where you may enjoy the regions unspoiled natural beauty and cultural richness.

• Landscape Richness and Biodiversity: The trek leads you through lush woods, high-altitude grasslands, glacial lakes, and traditional villages, providing a broad range of landscapes and habitats for various flora and species.
• Trekking at High Altitude: The walk leads you to the highest point at 5,160 meters, providing beautiful vistas of the Himalayan peaks as well as a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience.
• Cultural immersion: The hike takes you through several traditional villages of various ethnic groups, giving you the chance to interact with the locals and learn about their unique culture and way of life.
• Off-the-beaten-path: This is a lesser-known trekking route of eastern region of Nepal. During the trek, you may explore the region's wildness without the crowds of other popular treks in Nepal.

Overall, this Lumba Sumba Trek package is an excellent choice for those looking for an adventurous, off-the-beaten-path trekking adventure in Nepal.

who is the lumba sumba pass trek for and what is the difficulty level?

A challenging journey that needs physical fitness and stamina. The trek involves long hours of walking over steep and rough terrain, crossing high-altitude passes, and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions are all part of the expedition. As a result, it may not be appropriate for everyone.

Nepal Trekking Planner suggest you to get physically fit and get the habit of walking 5-6 hour per day. You are also recommended to have prior trekking experience, especially at high altitudes. Before going on the trek, you must be in good physical shape.

Before embarking on the journey, trekkers and travellers are recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that you are physically ready to handle the challenges of high-altitude trekking. Those who have pre-existing medical issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, or diabetes should consult a doctor before embarking on the trek.

If you are physically fit, have past trekking experience, and are willing to take on the challenge of high-altitude walking, this journey may be memorable and a satisfying experience.

What is the best season/month to trek towards lumba sumba pass?

The peak seasons for trekking are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is normally calm during these months, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it the optimum season for trekking.

The weather is pleasant during the spring season (March to May), and the rhododendron blooms are in full bloom, making for picturesque vistas. The autumn season (September to November) provides clear skies and dry weather, making it the ideal time to take in the beautiful mountain vistas.

It is important to remember that trekking in the mountains can be difficult, and weather conditions in the highlands can be unexpected. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and be ready for any kind of weather. Moreover, trekking with a qualified guide and carrying suitable equipment is recommended to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.

How should trekkers prepare for lumba sumba pass?

For the preparation trekkers need to be physically fit, mentally strong and well equipped. Here are some preparation advice for trekkers before beginning this trek:

• Physical fitness: As the trek involves long hikes over difficult terrain, it is very important to build up your strength and stamina before embarking to the trek. You can begin by completing regular exercises such as walking, running, trekking, and climbing stairs. Strength training activities should also be performed to improve your core, legs, and upper body. 

• Mentally Active: Before embarking a trek, you must be mentally prepared as well. The hike involves long hike where you must be mentally prepared for the ups and downs, during the journey. You must have a positive mindset all over the trek. You also need to consider the challenges such as unexpected weather change, difficulties during the trek and so on. Trekkers are also suggest you to do yoga and meditation to keep your mind and soul active as well as positive.
• Appropriate equipment: During the trek, travellers are required to take adequate clothing and supplies. A good quality trekking backpack, trekking shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, a sleeping bag, and a water bottle are all required. A first-aid kit, sunscreen, and bug sprays are also recommended. But if you don’t want to carry heavy luggage and baggage during flight, Trekking Planner Nepal also provides you the necessary equipment as per your requirement.
• Acclimatization to high altitudes: Acclimatization is the most important task required during the trek else you get AMS. The trek involves climbing to high altitudes, so trekking slowly allows you enough acclimatization. Nepal Trekking Planner provide you as per required itinerary where you will have enough time for acclimatization. During the journey, hikers need to to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and smoking and meat too.
• Well trained and local guide: A well experienced guide is required throughout the journey. We, Trekking Planner Nepal family have professional guide who is familiar with the hiking route and can provide assistance and support. The guides are well trained in case of emergencies and first aid too.

You may ensure a safe and pleasurable hiking journey in this region by following these suggestions and being well-prepared.

Climate and Weather around the lumba sumba pass 

Lumba Sumba Trekking is a high altitude trekking route in eastern region. The climate and weather during the trek varies on the season you are travelling. Besides the weather of mountain region is unpredictable, so our guides will always check the weather before embarking trek.

The weather is generally calm and good for trekking during the trekking season, which runs from March to May and September to November. Throughout the day, temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius in the lower elevations and gradually drop to 0 to 10 degrees Celsius at the higher elevations. Nights can be unusually cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing in certain places.

During the monsoon season (June to August), the trekking trail might get slippery and muddy due to heavy rainfalls. The humidity is strong, and landslides and floods are probable. Trekking is therefore not advised during this period. Still the taste and preference totally depends on you.

During the winter season (December to February), the temperature gets frizzy, and higher elevations might receive considerable snowfall, making trekking difficult. Temperatures can fall below freezing, so it is important to be well-prepared with proper equipment and clothing.

Local Culture and Religion seen around the trekking trail of lumba sumba pass.

Lumba Sumba Trekking takes place in eastern region of Nepal. This region is known for its numerous ethnic and cultural cultures. The diverse local culture and religion are highly influenced by Hinduism, Buddhism, and Shamanism.

The main ethnic group of this region is Rai and Limbu communities, and they ptactice their own unique culture and traditions. The Rai people are famous for their traditional music and dance, whereas the Limbu people are famous for their martial arts and traditional festivals.

The locals in the area are extremely religious, practicing a blend of Hinduism and Buddhism. There are various monasteries and temples in the area, including the Pathibhara Devi Temple, which is a popular Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site.

Shamanism is also practiced in the area. The local shamans are well-respected members of the community. They are thought to be able to converse with spirits, as well as cure illnesses and solve issues.

Throughout the journey, you can watch and participate in local traditional events and rituals such as the Rai community's Sakela dance and the Limbu community's Chasok Tangnam celebration. Tourists can also sample the native cuisine, which includes dishes like Dal bhat, Momos, and Thukpa.

is Travel Insurance required for lumba sumba pass.

Trekking Planner Nepal strongly advised to get travel insurance before embarking on the Lumba Sumba Trek. Trekking in such a remote place can be difficult, and there may be the chance of accidents or medical issues. Travel insurance can provide peace of mind as well as cash protection in the event of an unfortunate accident.

When selecting travel insurance for the Lumba Sumba Trekking, make sure that your insurance covers all trekking activities, including high-altitude hiking. The coverage should also cover emergency medical expenses, such as helicopter or air ambulance evacuation, trip cancellation, lost or stolen baggage, and personal expenses.

When taking travel insurance, it is important to carefully read and understand the policy's terms and conditions. Make careful to tell your insurance provider about any pre-existing medical issues, as this may affect your coverage.

Before embarking on the trek, bring a copy of your travel insurance policy and emergency contact information with you. It will be helpful in case of emergency.

Can we get altitude sickness while trekking to lumba sumba pass 

As trekkers are trekking through the places located in high altitude regions of Nepal. It is normal to develop symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) at this high altitude. The inability of body to rapidly acclimatize to the lower air pressure and decreasing oxygen levels at high elevations causes AMS. Headache, nausea, dizziness, exhaustion, and difficulty sleeping are some of the symptoms of AMS.

To avoid AMS, it is best to climb gently, enabling the body to adjust to the reduced air pressure and higher altitude gradually. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and eating a well-balanced diet are also important. If AMS symptoms emerge, it is advised to rest and descend to a lower altitude until the symptoms decrease. In severe cases, medicine may be required, and medical treatment is advised.

Washing and Toilet facilities at lumba sumba pass

As trekking is rarely done in this rural region. As a result, access to washing and restroom facilities during the journey may be limited. Here are some general considerations:

• Toilets:  The toilet facilities during the trek are likely to be a mix of basic pit toilets and squat toilets. Western-style bathrooms are available in some teahouses and lodges, however this is not always the case.

• Washing: Accessibility to washing facilities is also limited during the trek. Some teahouses and lodges may have a simple and basic shower, but this may not be applicable in all areas. Sometimes you may also need to use bucket to fill water for washing. The locals may charge for the hot shower too.

Trekking Planner Nepal, legally registered company, suggest you to follow Leave No Trace principles whenever you trek to any part, even at Lumba Sumba Trek. This includes not washing in streams or rivers and instead utilizing designated toilet facilities where they are available. If there are no bathroom facilities accessible, it is critical to properly bury your waste at least 200 feet away from water sources, and to place any toilet paper or hygiene goods in a sealable plastic bag.

Accommodation facilities at the trekking trail of lumba sumba pass.

The trekking trail in this regions are remote and less travelled trek in Nepal's east. As a result, lodging along the trail is limited. Our representatives and guides are available to secure your trip and make it memorable. We book the lodge in advance after your booking so you can travel without any hesitation.

Teahouses and hotels are available for lodging along the walk. Teahouses are small guesthouses that offer simple rooms with a bed and, in many cases, common bathing amenities. Lodges are a step up from teahouses, having nicer facilities and more comfortable rooms. Teahouses and lodges are both run by local families and provide insight into the local culture and way of life. This helps you experience local cultures and tradition.

It's important to note that accommodation options can be limited along the trek, and in some cases, you may need to be flexible with your plans. During peak trekking season, it's also important to book accommodation in advance to ensure that you have a place to stay. Our staffs will secure your booking in advance, allowing you to prepare for additional trekking.

Temperatures can be rather cold, especially at higher elevations, so bring a sleeping bag and warm clothes with you. But, if you do not want to carry large luggage during your travel, Trekking Planner Nepal can provide you with the necessary equipment. It is better to   ring a headlamp or torch as well, as electricity may be limited or unavailable in some regions. When living in teahouses or lodges, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs, as well as mindful of your impact on the environment.