Numbur Cheese Circuit Trekking is a unique trekking package hosted by Nepal Trek Routes. It is named after the Numburchuli peak, a virginal Himalayan peak rising at 6959m. Situated in Ramechhap district, close to Kathmandu, the Number Cheese Circuit route bestows diverse landscapes, glacial lakes, terraced rice fields, and splendid views of Langtang Himal range, Everest range, Numburchuli, Annapurna South, Gaurishanker, Jugal, and surrounding peaks. The Number Cheese Circuit houses country’s first Yak Cheese Factory, founded in 1957.

The Numbur Cheese Circuit trek route meanders through valleys of Khimti and Likhu in the lowland of the Everest and Rolwaling region. The trail is easy to follow and traverses alpine forests inhabited by wildlife like Red Panda, Musk Deer, Himalayan Thar, Snow Leopard, and more than 300 species of birds. En route, you will discover Panch Pokhari, Dudhpokhari, Bhale Pokhari, and Baula Pokhari.

You will walk through pasturelands of Manedanda, Kholakharka, Tare, Kholaseer, and Ngeju, and get grandstand views of the lofty mountains. The trail revels shimmering Likhu Nup Glacier, Bigphere Go Glacier, Surmoche Glacier, and Likhu Glacier. Adding to this, the trail also links to Panchpokhari pass (4605m) and Gyajo La (4880m).

Observe the lifestyle of indigenous communities like Newar, Thami, Tamang, Hyolmo, and Sherpa. This trek is an opportunity to gain insights into the Sherpa families’ culture, traditions, and food. You can try organic potatoes or a special tea.

Though the trek remained off the radar until recently, it is popular with passionate trekkers who love to explore off-the-beaten-path through remote valleys, alpine zones, and small villages. It is a great option for those who want to escape regular tracks.

Nepal’s first cheese factories, Thodung monastery, Sherpa villages, Khimti and Likhu valleys, two high passes, shimmering glaciers, high altitude lakes, and beautiful pasturelands are some distinct attractions of this adventure. The hike to Number Cheese Circuit route is one of the remotest treks in Nepal.

Teahouses and village homestays are available along the route. Remember, there are no tea houses, lodges, or homestays available from Khahare to Lahaksewar. You will be camping at Panipakha, Manedanda, Panch Pokhari, Thare, and Ngeju. Your team will manage a fully supported camping operation in these areas.

Numbur Cheese Circuit Trekking Route

Commence the trip by driving to Shivalaya, the gateway to Numbur Cheese Circuit, perched alongside the Khimti River. After 8-9 hours of the scenic drive, you will reach Shivalaya.

Your next destination will be Panipakha. After a decent hike of 5-6 hours, you will reach Panipakha, your first campsite of the trek. Before you reach Maanedanda, the trail passes a tiny Sherpa settlement called Phokte. You will rest at shelter tents.

On the 5th day, you will head to Panchpokhari at 4515m. Initially, the trail ascends to Jata Pokhari, a famous pilgrimage in the Ramechhap district. You will walk across the high pastures and beautiful waterfalls.

Continue the trail to Tare, Ngeju, and Lahaksewar, before exploring Gumdel. You will hike from Thare to Linkhu Khola valley, walkthrough Khola Kharka, and explore Sewar, a Sherpa community in the upper Ramechap area. En route to Ngeju from Tare, you will cross Gyajo La pass, and enjoy the sight of Likhu Glaciers.

On the 10th day, you will walk along the lush rhododendron forest, through the sup-alpine zone. The stupendous views of Gauri Shanker and Numburchuli are the highlight of the day. Further, on your way to Lapchane, you will visit Thodung Monastery, and continue downhill to Deurali.

Gauri Shankar mountain greets you. Upon reaching Lapchane, you will stay at a local Newari house and indulge in their enticing culture. You can enjoy a side-trip to Tamdanda, a popular hill in Ramechhap, from where you can embrace the astounding views of mountains like Dhaulagiri, Gauri Shanker, Annapurna, Numbur, and Kanchenjunga. On the 12th day, you will descend to Those, and finally, back to Kathmandu.

Numbur Cheese Circuit Trekking Difficulty

Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek is a 13-day trek from Kathmandu. It is an easy to moderate trek suitable for anyone. First-time trekkers can go for it. However, prior trekking experience will be a plus point. On the 2nd day, after savoring delicious breakfast, you will march towards Khahare. Walk past terraced pastures, cross several rivers, and climb cliffs.

The highest elevation marked during your adventure to Number Cheese Circuit is 4515m. On average, the trail demands 4-5 hours of trek. And on a challenging day, you must trek for 6-7 hours.