Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek

The Numbur Cheese Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's quietest and most rewarding alpine circuits, looping through the Solu and Ramechhap districts in the lower Everest region beneath the sacred Numbur Himal (Shorong Yul Lha, 6,958 m). Far from the busy Khumbu trails, this route threads together Sherpa and Jirel villages, terraced farmland, rhododendron forest and wide yak pastures dotted with traditional Himalayan cheese factories. It is a trek for travellers who want raw, authentic mountain culture without the crowds.

The circuit climbs steadily to the glittering Panch Pokhari (five lakes) at 4,515 m, a revered pilgrimage site, before crossing the demanding Gyajo La pass at 4,880 m, the trek's high point, with sweeping views toward Numbur, Karyolung and the distant Everest range. The descent passes the famous Thodung cheese factory, one of the oldest in Nepal, where you can taste fresh yak-milk cheese made the way it has been for generations.

A genuine off-the-beaten-path circuit

Because it lies inside the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, the trail remains wild and lightly travelled. Accommodation is a mix of simple teahouses, homestays in settled villages and tented camps in the remote high sections, so you experience real village hospitality alongside true wilderness camping. The route begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Shivalaya, the classic gateway on the old Jiri trail once walked by the first Everest expeditions.

Who is this trek for

This is a challenging trek best suited to fit, adventurous trekkers comfortable with long days, basic facilities and a high pass. In return you get solitude, living Sherpa and Jirel culture, alpine lakes and cheese-pasture landscapes that almost no other trekkers see.