Nepal · Trekking

16-Day Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek in Nepal with Gyajo La Pass

16 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Easy pace
Numbur of cheese circuit trek
Numbur of cheese circuit trek
Numbur of cheese circuit trek
Numbur of cheese circuit trek
Numbur of cheese circuit trek

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek through remote Tamang and Sherpa villages with rich cultural traditions
  • 02 Camp beside the sacred alpine lakes at Panchpokhari (Five Lakes)
  • 03 Cross the high-altitude and challenging Gyajo La Pass (4,880m)
  • 04 Visit a historic Buddhist monastery in the remote village of Ngeju
  • 05 Explore the beautiful Khimti Valley, known for yak pastures and forest trails
  • 06 Witness traditional yak cheese production in highland settlements

Embark on a 16-day Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek through the spectacular and less-traveled regions of Nepal. Journey from the bustling capital of Kathmandu to the serene highlands of the Khimti and Likhu valleys. Explore remote Sherpa and Tamang villages, camp by the sacred alpine lakes of Panchpokhari, cross the challenging Gyajo La Pass, and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Numbur and surrounding peaks. Immerse yourself in authentic Himalayan culture, witness traditional yak cheese production, and experience the warmth of homestays and monastery visits.

Explore remote Sherpa and Tamang villages, camp by the sacred alpine lakes of Panchpokhari, cross the challenging Gyajo La Pass, and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Numbur and surrounding peaks.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 16 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Budget
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
City Kathmandu
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Meet your representative and transfer to the hotel.
  • Attend a trek briefing and complete an equipment check.
2
Day 02

Drive to Those Bazaar

  • Begin a scenic overland drive via Khurkot or Jiri.
  • Reach your host's home in Those Bazaar after 7 to 8 hours.

Stay overnight at a local teahouse.

3
Day 03

Trek Through Villages to Khahare

  • Start trekking through terraced fields and mixed forests.
  • Pass through Tamang and Sherpa villages for cultural exposure.
  • Reach Khahare and settle in for the night.
4
Day 04

Ascend to Panipakha

  • Ascend gradually through rhododendron and pine forests.
  • Camp at an open pasture with panoramic mountain views.

Enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.

5
Day 05

Trek to Maanedanda

  • Trek through high-altitude yak grazing meadows.
  • Witness spectacular views of Numbur and surrounding peaks.

Set up camp at Maanedanda and rest.

6
Day 06

Trek to Sacred Panchpokhari

  • Hike toward the sacred Five Lakes of Panchpokhari.
  • Experience spiritual serenity in the alpine environment.

Camp near the lakes and enjoy the scenic beauty.

7
Day 07

Acclimatization at Panchpokhari

  • Spend the day exploring the area with optional short hikes.
  • Allow your body to adjust to the high altitude.

Rest and hydrate to prepare for the upcoming pass.

8
Day 08

Trek to Tare

  • Cross challenging terrain with stunning Himalayan vistas.
  • Follow remote yak herder trails through high pastures.

Reach Tare and camp for the night.

9
Day 09

Cross Gyajo La Pass to Ngeju

  • Ascend to Gyajo La Pass, the highest point of the trek.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views from the top.
  • Descend to Ngeju and visit a historic Buddhist monastery.
10
Day 10

Rest and Explore Ngeju

  • Take a rest day to relax and recover.
  • Explore the local village and monastery.
  • Immerse yourself in the culture and tranquility of the area.
11
Day 11

Descend into Khimti Valley to Lahaksewar

  • Enter the Khimti Valley, home to traditional Sherpa settlements.
  • Visit local yak cheese production centers along the trail.

Stay overnight in the peaceful village of Lahaksewar.

12
Day 12

Trek to Kyama Homestay

  • Continue descending through alpine forests and cultivated fields.
  • Stay at a family-run homestay for an authentic experience.
  • Interact with locals and enjoy a traditional dinner.
13
Day 13

Final Trek to Shivalaya

  • Complete the final trekking leg of the circuit.
  • Reach Shivalaya and celebrate the successful journey.
  • Reflect on the adventure with your trekking team.
14
Day 14

Drive Back to Kathmandu

  • Drive back to Kathmandu by private or shared transport.
  • Check into your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest.
15
Day 15

Leisure Day and Farewell in Kathmandu

  • Enjoy optional sightseeing around the city.
  • Shop for souvenirs or relax at your hotel.
  • Attend a farewell dinner with a cultural performance.
16
Day 16

Departure from Nepal

  • Transfer to the airport for your international flight.
  • Depart with unforgettable memories of the Numbur Cheese Circuit.
Panchpokhari alpine lakes, Gyajo La Pass high ridge, Mount Numbur views, Khimti Valley yak pastures

Where this trip takes you

Panchpokhari alpine lakes, Gyajo La Pass high ridge, Mount Numbur views, Khimti Valley yak pastures

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 1 city · 16 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Accommodation in tea houses or lodges during the trek with basic facilities
  • Daily meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring local and international cuisine
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable trekking guide
  • Porter support to carry luggage and ease your trekking experience
  • Round-trip transportation between Kathmandu and the trek starting point
  • All required trekking permits and entry fees included

What's Not Included

  • International flights to and from Kathmandu are not included
  • Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations is required but not included
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, hot showers, snacks, and Wi-Fi are not included
  • Tips and gratuities for the guide, porter, and support staff are not included

What to bring

  • Hiking boots or trekking shoes
  • Multiple pairs of moisture-wicking socks
  • Base layers (thermal tops and bottoms)
  • Insulating layers (fleece, down jacket)
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Scarf or neck gaiter for wind protection
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Shampoo and conditioner (small bottles)
  • Wet wipes for body cleaning
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Biodegradable toilet paper
  • Band-Aids and medical tape
  • Antiseptic wipes or ointment
  • Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
  • Altitude sickness medication (e.g. Diamox)
  • Any personal prescription medications
  • Smartphone with charger
  • Camera with charger and extra memory cards
  • Power bank or solar charger for backup
  • Adapter suitable for Nepal's sockets
  • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2-3 liters)
  • Water purification tablets or portable filter
  • Trail snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruits)
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Compact guidebook and topographic map
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm with SPF
  • Earplugs and eye mask for restful sleep

Know before you go

  • Duration: 13 to 16 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and trekking pace.
  • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous, involving high-altitude and mixed terrain.
  • Maximum altitude: 4,880 meters at Gyajo La Pass or 4,515 meters at Panch Pokhari.
  • Region: Ramechhap District, near the Everest region in eastern Nepal.
  • Physical conditioning: Regular hiking and cardiovascular training are recommended.
  • Acclimatization: Gradual altitude gain is necessary to prevent altitude sickness.
  • Weather: The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
  • Permits: Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP) and TIMS card are required.
  • Scenic views: Spectacular vistas of Mount Numbur, Everest, and surrounding peaks.
  • Cultural experiences: Visit ancient monasteries and interact with Sherpa communities.
  • Cheese delights: Taste fresh yak cheese and observe traditional cheese-making.
  • Wildlife: Possible sightings of red pandas, musk deer, and snow leopards.
  • Meals: Nutritious local dishes, including Nepali, Tibetan, and simple Western meals.
  • Guides and porters: Strongly recommended for navigation, safety, and support.
  • Travel insurance: Required to cover altitude-related medical emergencies and evacuations.
  • Pack lightly and keep your load under 10-12 kg.
  • Choose clothing that can be layered for changing weather.
  • Bring a portable charger for your electronics.
  • Do not forget essential medications and personal hygiene items.
  • Bring a good appetite to enjoy locally made yak cheese along the trail.
  • Carry a quality camera or smartphone to capture stunning mountain landscapes and cultural moments.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Those, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 16 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

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