Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek, also known simply as the Number Circuit Trek, is one of Nepal’s newly opened and lesser-known trekking routes. Located in the eastern district of Ramechhap, this trail offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure.
Trekkers on this circuit are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of some of the world’s most iconic Himalayan ranges, including the Everest, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna South, Numbur Chuli, Gaurishankar, Jugal, and Langtang Himal ranges. The trek traverses a diverse landscape featuring glacial lakes, deep river gorges, terraced farmland, and a transition from temperate to alpine vegetation. Picturesque Sherpa and Tamang villages, along with towering peaks like Bigphera Go Nup (Pathibara) and Numbur Chuli, add to the journey’s charm.
A highlight of the trek is the opportunity to visit one of Nepal’s first cheese factories, established in 1957, as well as the revered Thodung Monastery, located along the route.
During March, April and may, the trail bursts into color with blooming rhododendrons, while wildlife such as eagles, musk deer, and Himalayan Tahr are commonly spotted. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard.
Designed by Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition, this trek is ideal for adventurers of all ages who seek a peaceful and less touristy experience. It’s perfect for those looking to explore hidden valleys and immerse themselves in authentic Sherpa culture. The trail also takes trekkers to the south face glacier of Numbur Chuli and through the high summer pastures of Lhiku Valley, offering a unique glacier walking experience.
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition has been organizing this trek with experienced guides and at a reasonable price since the trail’s opening. In designing the route, great care was taken to preserve the wilderness of the northern regions. Instead of crowded lodges, eco-friendly campsites are used, and trail improvements have been made to enhance sustainability.
Along the way, trekkers can enjoy local delicacies such as yak cheese, high-altitude tea, organic potatoes, rainbow trout, and plums, offering a true taste of the region.
Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Numbur Cheese Circuit promises an authentic and unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Detail Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1320m)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1320m)
Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Shivalaya (1790m) via Jiri by public bus 8-9 hours
Day 04: Shivalaya to Khahare (2175m) 3-4 hours
Day 05: Khahare to Panipakha (3105m) 3-4 hours
Day 06: Panipaka to Mane Danda (3940m) 4-5 hours
Day 07: Mane Danda to Panch Pokhari (4607m) 5-6 hours
Day 08: Panch Pokhari to Tare (4140m) 6 hours
Day 09: Tare to Ngeju (3690m) via Gyazo La Pass (4880m) 6-7 hours
Day 10: Ngeju to Lhachhewar (2665m) 4-5 hours
Day 11: Lhachhewar to Kyama (2380m) 4-5 hours
Day 12: Kyama to Gumdel (2255m) 3-4 hours
Day 13: Gumdel to Serding (3360m) 4 hours
Day 14: Serding to Thodung (3105m) 4-5 hours
Day 15: Thodung to Shivalaya (1790m) 3-4 hours
Day 16: Shivalaya to Kathmandu by bus 8-9 hours Drive
Day 17: Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu Bhaktapur Sightseeing 3-4 hours
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu (1320)
Important Information:
Our Guest’s security is of dominant concern to Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition. Please understand that the HV Treks trekking leader has the authority to adjust or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is found prudent. Unfavorable circumstances may occur during the trek. Such as dangerous weather conditions, the condition of a group member, natural events like landslides, can force changes in the itinerary. All efforts will be made to keep to the planned itinerary. The HV Treks leader will try his/her best to ensure that the trip goes smoothly and according to plan, but please be ready to be flexible if necessary. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is capable, experienced, and prepared to give a 24-hour emergency response to an accident or condition that requires attention or evacuation.
Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition requires that trekking and expedition guests have Insurance Policies. A Travel Insurance Policy should cover the cost of emergencies (including altitude sickness), injuries, and evacuations. Please, it is essential to bring your Travel Insurance Policy, or copies of your pertinent existing insurance coverage with you to Nepal. HV Treks will require a copy for our office records. We, as well, advise you to inform your existing insurance agent/company of your itinerary, including trekking, climbing, and hiking, and insure your current policy provides sufficient coverage.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1320m)
You are welcomed to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal renowned for historical monuments, Hindu Temples, and Buddhist Stupas/Monasteries. We meet our guests at the Tribhuvan International Airport. A representative will be waiting with a Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition placard with our guests’ names displayed. After dropping luggage at the hotel,
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1320m)
A local guide will be available. According to your wishes, the guide will escort you for sightseeing. Sightseeing may include the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupati, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square, and the Swoyambhunath areas. Starting after breakfast, usually at 9.00am, the exploration of Kathmandu Valley can continue until 4.00pm. Lunch and dinner, you will be responsible for.
Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Shivalaya (1790m) via Jiri by public bus 8-9 hours
About 8 hours’ drive from the capital city Kathmandu takes us to Shivalaya, the gateway to the Everest region. Shivalya lies on the Khimti Khola River valley with lodges and a trek information center. The town has a busy and well-stocked market for trekking supplies. We can enjoy a cold river-cooled beer and yak cheese sitting on the lodge verandahs before beginning the trek. The trail from Jiri to Shivalaya, on the other hand, is part of the classic Sir Edmund Hillary route to Everest. On the way, we will enjoy the views of Koshi River and some beautiful Himalayas including Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung and Dorje Lakpa. Finally, after passing a single lane road we will reach a calm and pleasant Shivalaya Valley where we will spend the night at Lodge. The check post office of Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project lies in Shivalaya where our permits will be examined by the authority. Telephone service is available here.
Today we will have a leisurely four-hour’ trek northwards along the Khimti Koala River to Khahare village. The path goes gently ups and downs along a beautiful valley and lush terraced field Just beyond Shivalaya, the valley opens up to allow views of the first snow-capped peaks of the Rowaling Himal Range, whose visibility becomes crystal clear in the next 6 to 7 days.
The trail goes through terraced farmlands, crisscrosses the river and then snakes steeply up a cliff. Khahare village is consisting of less than 5 houses, inhabited only during the winter by Yak/ sheep herders who spend their summer on higher pastures tending their Yaks/sheep. We enjoy our night at a home-stay with a Sherpa family and have tasted of a variety of dishes made of Yak cheese, potato and barley. Telephone service is available here.
Day 05: Khahare to Panipakha (3105m) 3-4 hours
The trek of today is quite adventurous but enjoyable and unique, where human settlement is far. We will walk-ups and downs along the Khimti River today too. We will enjoy the fresh nature of wilderness, awesome views of the diverse landscape, hills, and lush terraced fields. Since it is a newly developed trail, teahouse facility is not yet in access everywhere. Thus, from today camping trek starts and it goes for a few days more. The camping tent accommodation will offer us quite exciting and pleasurable nights. We will have our camp amidst the yak/chauri sheds. Our Sherpa guide will always ready to serve us best. We will spend our night in a tent.
Day 06: Panipaka to Mane Danda (3940m) 4-5 hours
Today the trail goes across a small Sherpa village of Phokte. The route ascends all the way through the rhododendron forests to the summer meadows of Maanedanda. Mane Danda offers a great view of sunset, incredible scenery of nature including Khimti River etc.
Day 07: Mane Danda to Panch Pokhari (4607m) 5-6 hours
In the beginning, the trail makes a climb towards Jatapokhari thus the altitude increases, the alpine pastures give way to scrubby forests of Sunpati, a rare mountain herb. The path by the river reaches a dramatic waterfall that signifies their arrival at Jatapokhari, a holy mountain lake perched in the lap of Panchpokhari Danda.
The lake is a popular pilgrimage destination where over 3000 pilgrims gather to celebrate Janaipurnima (a full moon day during August) every year. It is believed that taking a dip in its holy water will fulfill one’s wishes. An overnight stay here is recommended to allow for acclimatization. We take a side trip to Baula Pokhari or “Mad Lake” but don’t disturb the spirits within or our wishes may not come true! Altogether there are five small lakes, known collectively as Panchpokhari, within this huge glacial cirque regarded as precious high altitude wetlands. Sunset views of the mountain peaks of Numbur and Parchemo are not to be missed from here. We enjoy camping accommodation at Jatapokhari for the evening and night.
Day 08: Panch Pokhari to Tare (4140m) 5-6 hours
Today’s initial section of our trek will pass Pachpokhari. The passes offer the mind-blowing spectacular view of Rolwaling,Numbur, Everest ranges etc. Our trek will continuously ascend toward the Base Camp of Bighara Go Nup. A further section of our trek on a glacial trail will bring us to Tare. Today’s trek offers us outstanding walk-on glacial and incredible Himalayas views.
The Panch Pokhari pass offers spectacular panoramic views of the Rolwaling, Numbur and Everest ranges. The trail and views of the Himalayan peaks, glaciated valleys and folded hills to the south are breathtaking. We enjoy the scenic landscape at Kholakharka or we may do some rock climbing too.
Interested visitors can make their overnight stay even at Kholakharka. Over the white river (Nupche) cross the yak pasture and enjoy fresh cheese. We observe the golden Bigphera Go Nup (Pathivara) during sunset before setting into a wilderness camp. For anyone with an extra day, a side trip to Bigphera Go Nup base camp and glacier, Khola Seer (4469m) and Linkhu Nup glacier is worthwhile. We plan our trek wisely to visit beautiful Luikharka, Linkhu Nup Glacier, Bigphera Go Nup glacier and Panga Dinga glacier. If we are lucky enough, we will see Himalayan tahr, and even snow leopard. We go up to the base camp or see the up-close view of Ramdung, Chukyima Go and Bigphera Go Nup. Horses can be rented during the grazing season to take us further up the pastures and into Khola Seer where the impressive Lhasa Lake (4469m) remains hidden. This vast, remote lake boasts an amazing Tibetan panoramic backdrop that is sure to leave a lasting impression
Day 09: Tare to Ngeju (3690m) via Gyazo La Pass (4880m) 6-7 hours
The trail of today offers us an adventure and rewards views of valleys, glacial lakes, glacial trail, and a magnificent view of Tibet mountains rages. The foremost section of our trek will cross Likhu valley which might be adventurous for some of us. Gradually, we will cross Gyajo La(Thulo Lapcha with an altitude of 488m) and short descend of the trek will bring us to pastures of Lakhe Danda(4320m), where we can see Snow Leopard. The great view of Dudh Pokhari (Milky Lake) which is surrounded by glacial, large marine of rock etc. offer from Lakhe Danda. Further few hours of the trek will bring us to Ngeju and there we will visit the Buddhist monastery named as Kau Gompa & back to camp for the night
Day 10: Ngeju to Lhachhewar (2665m) 4-5 hours
It seems that from Ngeju the trail weaves through thick and beautiful ancient forests alongside the Likhu Khola re-emerging into the distant society of Sherpas in Lhachhewar. Lahchhewar ‘often called Chhewar’ is one of the most beautiful Sherpa villages in the upper Ramechhap region, with amazing landscapes, cultural wealth, and friendly Sherpa people.
‘Chhewar’ offers pure Sherpa culture where people still maintain their traditional way of life. We enjoy again the Sherpa culture with home-stay accommodation at this point. Telephone service is available here.
Day 11: Lhachhewar to Kyama (2380m) 4-5 hours
The trail follows the Likhu Khola River valley, descending through the deep forest to Kyama with good views of Bigphera Go Nup and Numburchuli. Just at the confluence of Likhu and Nupche River, we will find Uma-Tirtha temple, widely regarded as the famous Hindu Pilgrimage, the KASHI of the HIMALAYAS. We enjoy the natural chanting sounds of deer and varieties of birds around Kyama, a wonderful traditional Sherpa village. We visit an artistically painted monastery and experience Sherpa home-stay with a cultural performance, too. Telephone service is available here.
Day 12: Kyama to Gumdel (2255m) 3-4 hours
Trek from Kyama to Gumdel will offer us good views of landscape, nature, Sherpa cultures, monastery, and stupas. The initial part of our trek begins with descending and ahead come straight and slope trail make our day perfect. Each and every section of our trail offers unique ideas and views. Gumdel is very beautiful Sherpa village that will offer us very good homestay facility and hospitality. With the glistening Numberchuili as the backdrop, Gumdel is a tiny hamlet gathered around a large Buddhist Stupa. Telephone service is available here.
Day 13: Gumdel to Serding (3360m) 4-5 hours
From the Guldel, our trail makes us descend towards the terraced field situated on mountains along the Likhu river valley and we will arrive at Everest Base Camp Trek trail via Jiri-Shivalaya and to Bandar. Few hours of ascend trek will bring us to Serding. Serding is good to view center. The Serding will offer us tremendous great views of Gaurishanker, Numbur Peak, great scenic view of Bigphera Go Nup etc. also we can witness fresh yak cheese making process here in this village too. Our camp will be in a Guesthouse for the night.
Day 14: Serding to Thodung (3105m) 4-5 hours
We descend gently to observe one of Nepal’s first yak cheese factories, established in 1957 along the way to Thodung. We visit the nearby monastery and get a warm blessing from the lamas.
Thodung Monastery is a large, active monastery surrounded by sweet-smelling pines and a variety of flora that boost the tranquility of the monastery and its surroundings. Also, we can see a Hindu temple here. We have our lunch with lamas at Thodung or stroll back down to Deurali which lies on the Everest trek. We will see a unique panorama of Gaurishankar Himal from Ekanagi. Telephone service is available here.
Day 15: Thodung to Shivalaya (1790m) 3-4 hours
In the morning we will enjoy the beautiful view of the sunrise. Then we will begin our trek through the pleasant descend trail. After some time we will walk through green lush terraced fields and pleasurable forests. The day trek will offer us a diversity of landscape; hills, pastures etc. we spend the night in a Guesthouse at Shivalaya.
Day 16: Shivalaya to Kathmandu by bus 8-9 hours Drive
From Shivalaya we will drive to Kathmandu by bus. We can enjoy the beautiful views of Gaurishanker and the other Himalayas, several beautiful villages etc. About 7 hrs drive will bring us to Kathmandu. We head to the hotel. The evening will be on our own.
Day 17: Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu Bhaktapur Sightseeing 3-4 hours
This day is free too. If you wish, a sightseeing trip to the ancient temple/king’s seat of the world heritage site of incredible Bhaktapur can be arranged. The tour lasts 4 hours and will cost an additional upcharge. In the evening, a Farewell Dinner is given by Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition.
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu (1320)
Today, we check the list of all necessary documents and goods of our guest. We confirm the flight tickets before 72 hours of departure flight. We advise our guest to put passport and tickets at their handbag for convenience. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff representative will take our valuable guests to the airport (3 hours prior to your flight) and bid goodbye.
Minimum number of participants: 4
Maximum number of participants: 12
Max Altitude: 4880 meters
Best Season: March-December
Difficulty Level: Moderate
It is called the winter season in Nepal. It is a season for snowfall in mountain region above 4300m in Nepal. So hiking is possible below 4500m during this period. This season is noted for occasional snowfall at higher elevations in Himalayas. Though it gets colder in night, often it offers the clear day / blue sky and relatively less trekkers on the trail.Sunrise and Sunset are seen very clear and beautiful in this season. So tourist who wants to pass short holidays during this period Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes to see splendid view of nature. During this period, we arrange family tour to experience natural beauty with short hikings and cultural tour.It is suitable for homestay tour through which different rituals and culture can be experienced during this period. The famous homestay like Sailung Temal homestay,Temal homestay, Tamang Heritage Homestay, Ghalegaon Homestay are the special places to visit. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour for this places. Chitawan National park Bardiya National Park are also the places to have live experience of culture and rituals.
It is spring season which is known as trekking season in Nepal. A smooth wind and gentle breeze is felt all over the country. Sunny days and clear weather are the supportive factors for trekking in this season. Presence of cloud can be seen in the sky during this season.So a short rainfall can be felt during this period. It is the season of expedition and climbing high peaks in Nepal .So many tourist from different parts of the world come to climb peaks above 7000m in this season. Himalyan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and journey for climbing during this period.Peak climbing period can be enlength upto June so Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges attractive programmes during this period.This period offer plenty of opportunities for clear mountain views. It is also the time for flowers to blossom, and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendrons – coat the mountainsides with its colorful beauty throughout the spring.Except rhododendrons , many kind of natural flora and fauna makes Nepal very beautiful during this season
It is rainy season in Nepal. As it is the season of heavy rainfall. it is also known as the crops harvesting season in Nepal. In this season, trekking is slight difficult in Nepal. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Trekking in the rain-shadow (places are out of reach of the rain clouds because of the high mountains) areas north of the Himalaya like Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection. However, Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and trek during this period in dry areas. We arrange treks and tour in dry areas like Mustang , Upper Dolpa , Leh Ladakh (India) and Tibet.
Moderate temperatures, clear sky with outstanding views, making it a great time to do any of our trek. Occasional short storms may dump snow at high altitudes.This is the season of feast and festivals. This is also known as the special season for flowers in Nepal. Marigold is the popular and found best in this season. Temples and holy places are visited during this period. Festivals like Dashain , Tihar and Chhath are celebrated during this season. Long national holidays are offered for this festival for civil workers. This season is known as the king of the season. No rainfall, sunny days and moderate temperature are the most favourable factors of this season for treks and tours in Nepal.Every kind of treks and tours can be done during this period.So many tourist come to see beautiful Nepal in this season. Many trekking routes are full of tourist during this season. Peaks 6000m to 7000m are the best destination for climbing in this season.Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes tourist to feel the splendid view of nature of Nepal in this season.
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Please understand that the items listed below will vary according to the season and the duration of the trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 12 kg. Your gear will be carried by your porter and you will be required to carry your own day-pack (with your valuables and things of immediate importance to you). We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary. Our list of equipment is prepared on the basis of our long experience. The Himalayan Vacation Trek & Expedition Team leader will check your gear to insure you have all necessary equipment at the start of the trek. If necessary, the HVTreks’ guide will request additions of necessary equipment when and where it is available.
-Note: In the larger towns and cities of Nepal, pharmacies have available common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Western/foreign brand name products and prescription drugs are not. We suggest you bring the pharmaceuticals you use in enough quantity.
