Hidden in the remote hills of eastern Nepal, the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek is a rare Himalayan adventure far away from crowded trekking trails. This unforgettable journey combines breathtaking mountain panoramas, sacred alpine lakes, authentic Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and Nepal’s historic yak cheese factory into one remarkable trekking experience. Ideal for travelers seeking raw Himalayan beauty and genuine cultural connection, the trek offers peaceful wilderness, warm local hospitality, and memories that last a lifetime.
The Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s newest and most rewarding hidden trekking routes located in the beautiful Gaurishankar Conservation Area of Ramechhap District. This 12-day Himalayan journey offers a unique blend of nature, adventure, culture, and remote mountain wilderness.
The trail begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Shivalaya and gradually ascends through terraced farmlands, lush forests, riverside villages, and alpine landscapes. Along the way, trekkers pass traditional Sherpa settlements where ancient Buddhist traditions and mountain lifestyles remain beautifully preserved. One of the most special aspects of this trek is its incredible diversity. Trekkers experience subtropical forests, rhododendron-covered hills, glacial rivers, sacred high-altitude lakes, yak grazing meadows, and rugged mountain passes within a single circuit. Panch Pokhari, the sacred five alpine lakes, creates a peaceful spiritual atmosphere surrounded by snow-covered peaks.
The trek also offers breathtaking Himalayan panoramas including Numburchuli (6959m), Everest range, Gaurishankar, Ramdung, Parchamo, Langtang Himal, and Annapurna South on clear days. Unlike commercial trekking regions, the Numbur Cheese Circuit remains quiet and authentic. You can interact closely with local communities, visit the historic cheese factory, explore ancient monasteries like Thodung, and enjoy untouched Himalayan landscapes without large tourist crowds.
The Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek is perfect for travelers looking for a unique and less-commercial trekking experience in Nepal.
What Makes This Trek Special?
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1338m)
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu(1350m) to Shivalaya (1790m) | 7–8 hrs
Day 3: Drive from Shivalaya (1790m) to Khahare (2175m) & Trek to Panipakha (3105m) | 3 hrs
Day 4: Trek Panipakha to Mane Danda (3940m) | 5 hrs
Day 5: Trek Mane Danda to Panch Pokhari (4515m) | 5 hrs
Day 6: Trek Panch Pokhari to Tare (4140m) via Khola Kharka | 7 hrs
Day 7: Trek Tare to Ngeju (3690m) via Gyazo-La Pass (4880m) | 6–7 hrs
Day 8: Trek Ngeju to Lahaksewar (2665m) | 5 hrs
Day 9: Trek Lahaksewar to Gumdel (2255m) via Kyama | 6 hrs
Day 10: Drive Gumdel to Jiri (1905m) via Serding (3360m) | 4 hrs
Day 11: Drive Jiri to Kathmandu (1350m) | 7–8 hrs
Day 12: Final Departure from Kathmandu
Spring (March – May)
Spring is one of the best seasons for the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek. The weather is stable with comfortable temperatures and blooming rhododendron forests covering the hillsides. Mountain visibility is excellent during this period.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn offers crystal-clear skies, dry trails, and stunning Himalayan views. The weather remains stable, making it ideal for crossing high passes and enjoying panoramic landscapes.
Winter (December – February)
Winter trekking is possible but temperatures become very cold at higher elevations with snowfall around Gyazo-La Pass.
Monsoon (June – August)
Heavy rain, slippery trails, and landslide risks make monsoon less suitable for trekking, although lower hills become incredibly green and beautiful.
Accommodation during the trek includes a combination of camping and local teahouses/lodges. In Kathmandu, trekkers stay in comfortable hotels, while mountain accommodation remains basic yet authentic.
Meals
Three meals per day are provided during the trek including:
Vegetarian options are widely available.
Facilities
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Shivalaya, approximately 7–8 hours by private vehicle. The route passes through rivers, hills, terraced farms, and rural villages.
After completing the trek at Gumdel, travelers drive to Jiri and continue back to Kathmandu by road.
Transportation Summary
Why Travelers Trust Ghumnajaau
Discover one of Nepal’s hidden trekking gems with breathtaking mountain views, authentic Sherpa culture, sacred lakes, and peaceful offbeat trails.
✅ Small Group & Private Departures
✅ Experienced Local Guides
✅ Safe & Personalized Service
✅ Flexible Booking Support
Book your Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek with Ghumnajaau today and experience the untouched beauty of the Himalayas.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), our representative will receive you and transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle. After check-in, enjoy welcome drinks and a short briefing about your trek. You may explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu or rest at your hotel.
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Shivalaya, the gateway to the Numbur Cheese Circuit. The journey offers stunning views of hills, villages, and distant snowcapped mountains. Shivalaya lies along the picturesque Khimti River.
From Shivalaya, drive to Khahare and begin trekking through terraced pastures, waterfalls, and steep trails. After lunch, continue to Panipakha, the first campsite, located among alpine forests and yak sheds. Enjoy a beautiful sunset before settling into your tent.
Trek through the small Sherpa settlement of Phokte and ascend through rhododendron forests to reach the summer pastures of Mane Danda. On a clear day, the panoramic mountain views from here are breathtaking.
Follow the trail to Jata Pokhari, a sacred Shiva pilgrimage site with cascading waterfalls and alpine herbs. Continue to Panch Pokhari, a cluster of five holy lakes, believed to be sacred by Hindus. This high-altitude campsite offers serene mountain reflections and spiritual ambiance.
Cross a high pass at 4600m, then descend through Khola Kharka and bamboo forests to the Nupche River. Here, you can taste freshly made local cheese and learn about the process. Rest in green pastures before reaching Tare.
A challenging but rewarding day, crossing the Gyazo La (Thulo Lapcha) at 4880m, a route historically used by Sherpas to move yaks. Descend from the Likhu glacier and rocky debris to reach the remote yak pastures of Ngeju.
Descend into the Sherpa community of Lahaksewar (Sewar), known for its preserved traditions, hospitality, and unique culture. This cultural experience offers a glimpse into authentic highland Sherpa life.
The trail passes through forests and pastures with magnificent views of Numburchuli and Pathibhara peaks. Continue through Kyama and descend into Gumdel, where you’ll enjoy Sherpa culture, home-stays, and traditional mountain hospitality.
Drive on a scenic dirt track through Serding and surrounding villages before arriving at Jiri, a historic trekking hub known as the “Gateway to Everest.”
Return drive to Kathmandu through hills, rivers, and villages. Enjoy the changing landscape as you conclude your Himalayan adventure.
Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home or onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of the Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek.
The trek is moderate to challenging with daily walks of 5–7 hours and a maximum altitude of 4,880m.
Previous experience is helpful but not compulsory. Good physical fitness is recommended.
Gyazo-La Pass at 4,880 meters (16,010 feet).
Trekkers stay in a mix of camping tents, local lodges, and teahouses.
Yes. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and gradual ascent are essential.
You need the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit and TIMS card.
Yes, insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is compulsory.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons.
Yes, experienced licensed guides and porter support are included in the package.
Yes, beginners with reasonable fitness and preparation can successfully complete the trek.