The eastern region of Nepal also has some of the finest mountains in the country. One such name is the Numbur Cheese circuit trek. Located in the northeastern part of Nepal, the Numbur Himal trek is short and beautiful.
It is mainly focused on the circuit trek, which can be done in less than 3 weeks. As the climbers will attend the highest altitude just below 4000m, the overall experience shouldn’t be too tough.
This particular trek has been open for less than 2 decades, and the hype around Numbur Himal just gets higher every passing year. Numbur Himal trek is also called the Number cheese circuit trek, and there is a reason behind it.
Numbur Himal Trek Overview
Numbur Himal trek is impossible to perform, so we tend to do the circuit trek most of the time. Numbur circuit trek is famous for the mountains and peaks that cover the region.
It will take the trekkers less than 3 weeks to complete the trek. Everest, Numbur Chuli, Gaurishankar, and Jugal are some of the famous mountains that you see during the trek.
Besides, this circuit is also famous for the ponds available. From the likes of Panchpokhari to Jatapokhari, Bhalepokhari, and Dudhpokhari, there are plenty of religious ponds in the region.
Highlights of Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek
- Witness the beautiful mountains like Everest, Jugal, Gaurishankar, Numbur, etc
- Visit and taste the local cheese, which is grown in the overall circuit trail
- Chance to cross the well-known passes like Panchpokhari pass, Gyajo La pass, Numbur chuli glacier, etc
- Understand the Sherpa and Newar communities living in the region
Why isn’t the Numbur Himal trek possible?
There might be a lot of readers who might be thinking, why can’t Numbur Himal be climbed? Well, the answer is simple. Numbur Himal is a sacred mountain for the Hindu people.
It is considered to be the protector deity of Solu. Being the protector deity, climbing or putting your legs on it isn’t considered to be the norm. As a result of that climbing, Numbur Himal isn’t possible.
What is special about the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek?
Readers might be thinking, ” What is so special about the Numbur Cheese circuit trek, and why do we call it a cheese trek? Well, there is a reason for it.
The first-ever yak cheese factory in Nepal was established in the region. Established in 1957, this particular trail has been named the same after the cheese factory.
In recent times, too, there have been plenty of cheese factories right through the trail. Meanwhile, the importance of the circuit has also gone higher.
Moving along, you will find plenty of ponds in the region. Panchpokhari is one of the most sacred places in the country. It is religiously important for both the Hindu and Buddhist people.
On the occasion of Janaipurnima, there is a massive celebration with a soul cleansing dip, which is refreshing and freezing at the same time.
Best Time For Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek
Similar to a lot of other treks in Nepal, the Numbur Cheese circuit trek is also best when done in autumn and spring. Autumn falls from the month of September to November, while spring is from March to May.
The color on the trail is much brighter during this period. The rhododendron keeps blooming with a clear view of the mountains right along.
Interestingly, you can do the Numbur cheese circuit trek all around the year. With cheese factories being the major focus of the route, performing this trek during the monsoon is also an option.
The cheese factories open during the monsoon, which provides you with an opportunity to witness and taste authentic cheese.
Cost of Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek
The cost of the Numbur Cheese circuit trek depends majorly upon the number of people, the time of the year, and the facilities you are looking for.
On average, you will have to pay between $850 to $1500 if you want to perform this trek. However, the selection of groups with 10 people on it will diminish the overall cost.
Under this cost, you will get the permits, food, accommodation, guides, training, porter, etc. In total, everything you need over the period of two weeks will be covered for this price.
But in some cases, if your budget is limited, The Trek Nepal could help you with it. We are known to provide a customised package to our clients. Based on your time and budget, we create packages and an itinerary. Feel free to contact The Trek Nepal and know more.
Permits Required for Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek
Located in the easternmost part of Nepal, getting the right permits will be key for the Numbur Cheese circuit trek.
If you have booked with The Trek Nepal, we will arrange all the permits that will be required. However, if you are on your own, permits required for the Numbur Cheese circuit trek include:
- Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project permit
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card
Food and Accommodation During the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek
As we go higher in altitude, the quality of service tends to decline. When we talk about food during the Numbur Cheese circuit trek, you will get authentic Nepali food.
From dal, bhaat, and potatoes to local cheese, the food items at higher altitudes are generally limited. On the other hand, the food during your stay in Kathmandu will be top-notch, with a variety.
All the food that the climbers will consume will be at the local tea houses. These food items are organic and locally grown. No matter the altitude or place, there will be three meals during the whole day.
Breakfast and dinner will be served at the place of stay, while lunch will be done on the road. Talking about the accommodation, though it will be lodges and tea houses.
During your stay in Kathmandu, you will be placed at the 3-star hotels. There is also a proper system of camping on the outdoor, but that will be made possible depending on the conditions.
The local teahouses and lodges will have good beds, warm blankets, etc. The bathrooms will be shared. The cost for private services will be a bit higher.
Detailed Itinerary About Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Welcome to Nepal and the beginning of your Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative and transferred to your hotel.
The rest of the day is kept easy, allowing you to rest and settle in after your journey. A short briefing will introduce you to the trek, covering route details, essential gear, and final preparations.
Overnight stay will be at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Shivalaya (1,790m)
After an early breakfast, you begin a scenic drive towards Shivalaya, the starting point of the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek.
The journey takes around 8–9 hours, following winding roads alongside rivers, terraced fields, and rural villages. As you move closer to the mountains, you may catch distant views of snow-capped peaks.
Shivalaya, located near the Khimti River, serves as the gateway to this unique trekking route. Overnight stay will be at a teahouse.
Day 03: Trek from Shivalaya to Khahare (2,175m)
Your trek begins with a steady walk along the valley, following the river and passing through terraced farmland.
The trail gradually climbs, offering views of the surrounding hills and rural settlements. A steeper section leads you up towards Khahare, a seasonal settlement used by locals during winter.
The quiet setting provides a peaceful introduction to the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek. Overnight stay will be at a teahouse or homestay.
Day 04: Trek from Khahare to Panipakha (3,105m)
The trail continues uphill through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, gradually gaining elevation. Today’s destination, Panipakha, is a scenic campsite surrounded by tall trees and open clearings.
This is your first night in a tented camp, offering a more immersive Himalayan experience. The location is ideal for enjoying mountain sunsets and the quiet beauty of the wilderness along the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek.
Day 05: Trek from Panipakha to Mane Danda (3,940m)
After breakfast, you pass through a small Sherpa settlement of Phokte before continuing through rhododendron forests.
As the tree line begins to thin, the landscape opens into alpine meadows. Mane Danda offers expansive views of surrounding peaks, and on clear days, the mountain scenery becomes especially rewarding. Overnight stay will be at a tented camp.
Day 06: Trek from Mane Danda to Panch Pokhari (4,515m)
Today’s trail leads you to Panch Pokhari, a sacred site consisting of five alpine lakes. The route passes through high pastures and open terrain, gradually gaining altitude.
Panch Pokhari holds religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists, especially during the Janai Purnima festival.
A small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and basic pilgrim shelters are located here. This is one of the spiritual highlights of the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek. Overnight stay will be at a teahouse.
Day 07: Trek from Panch Pokhari to Tare Kharka (4,140m)
The day begins with a climb to a high pass at around 4,600 meters, offering impressive views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
After crossing the pass, the trail descends through Khola Kharka and continues towards the Nupche River, surrounded by dense bamboo forests.
The contrast between high alpine terrain and lush vegetation makes this section particularly diverse. Overnight stay will be at a teahouse in Tare Kharka.
Day 08: Trek from Tare Kharka to Ngeju Kharka (4,325m)
Today involves crossing one of the highest points of the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek, the Gyajo La Pass (also known as Thulo Lapcha) at 4,880 meters.
The ascent is challenging but is rewarded with outstanding panoramic views of the Himalayan range. From the pass, the trail descends past glacial landscapes, including the Likhu Glacier, before reaching Ngeju Kharka.
This route is traditionally used by Sherpas moving livestock across the region. Overnight stay will be at a teahouse.
Day 09: Trek from Ngeju Kharka to Lhachhewar (2,665m)
The trail descends significantly today, leaving behind the high alpine terrain and entering greener landscapes.
You arrive at Lhachhewar (Sewar), a traditional Sherpa village in the upper Ramechhap region. The village offers a rich cultural experience, where you can observe local customs and daily life. Overnight stay will be in a homestay.
Day 10: Trek from Lhachhewar to Kyama (2,380m)
The route continues through lush forests, with a mix of ascents and descents. Along the way, you are treated to views of Numbur Peak and Pathibhara, key highlights of the region.
Kyama is a small settlement surrounded by forest, offering a peaceful stop on the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek. Overnight stay will be in a homestay.
Day 11: Trek from Kyama to Gumdel (2,255m)
A relatively short trek brings you to Gumdel, another culturally rich Sherpa village. The trail is gentle, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the journey so far. Gumdel offers insight into traditional mountain life, with strong cultural ties to the surrounding Himalayan environment. Overnight stay will be in a homestay.
Day 12: Trek from Gumdel to Serding (3,360m)
The trail ascends again through sub-alpine forests, offering consistent views of Gauri Shankar and Numbur Peak. Serding is known for its local yak cheese factory, a unique highlight of the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek where you can taste fresh Himalayan cheese. Overnight stay will be at a teahouse.
Day 13: Trek from Serding to Lapchane (2,875m)
Today’s route gradually descends through forested trails and passes through Thodung, where you can visit a local monastery.
Continuing downhill, you reach Lapchane, a scenic village with wide mountain views. On clear days, distant peaks such as Gauri Shankar, Numbur, and even parts of the Annapurna and Kanchenjunga ranges can be seen. Overnight stay will be in a homestay or teahouse.
Day 14: Trek from Lapchane to Those (1,740m)
A peaceful walk brings you to Those, marking the final day of trekking on the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek.
The trail is relatively easy, allowing time to enjoy the surroundings and reflect on the journey. Upon arrival, you can explore the village or simply relax after completing the circuit. Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse.
Day 15: Drive from Those to Kathmandu (1,400m)
After breakfast, you begin the drive back to Kathmandu, which takes around 9 hours. The journey retraces scenic routes through hills, rivers, and rural landscapes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you check into your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek.
Day 16: Departure for the home nation
On the very last day of the trek, all the trekkers will have an early morning breakfast. It will be the technical end of the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek, and we will depart for our homes.
A member from The Trek Nepal will drop you off at the airport.