Tsum Valley TrekTsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek 14 Days

  • DestinationNepal
  • Duration13 Days
  • Difficulty Level Challenging
  • Max. Altitude3700 meters
  • Starts/EndsMacchhekhola/Machhekhola
  • Trip StyleTrekking
  • Group SizeMin. 1 Pax.
  • Best SeasonSpring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Tsum Valley opened for foreign trekkers in 2008.
  • Diverse landscapes and wildlife through the Manaslu Conservation Area.
  • Visit Rachen and Mu Gompas & interact with Buddhist monks and Lamas.
  • Explore the caves and learn about Milarepa.
  • Glimpse of Tibetan Plateau with Himalayan ranges.

Tsum Valley Trek is an off-the-beaten journey in Nepal's remote area. This Hidden Valley is beautifully settled in the northern part of the Gorkha District of Nepal.  Being one of the restricted regions of Nepal, the valley delivers mind-blowing views of many mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Boudha Himal, and Sringi Himal. Moreover, the region is dominated by Tibetan Buddhists. Several monasteries like Rachen and Mu Gompas are the major attractions of this Valley. In addition, unique landscapes, Tibetan Culture, Biodiversity, Himalayan views, etc. make this journey worth visiting.

Is Tsum Valley worth Visiting?

The journey to Tsum Valley Trek Nepal takes you to the sacred valley near the Tibetan Border. It is decked with amazing views of mountains and landscapes. Similarly, this valley has a cultural significance of Tibetan Buddhism. Visiting different old monasteries, Chorten, and mani walls makes this trip more spiritual for the trekkers. There are many reasons for this question Why choose Tsum Valley Trek? The valley remains less crowded and untouched due to its restrictions. Explore this hidden valley and the unique civilization of the Tsumba community. Moreover, a trip to Tsum along the Budhi Gandaki River, lets you spot the Blue Sheep and Himalayan Thar.

Attractions and Things to See Along the Journey

  • Unspoiled and untouched trekking trail.
  • Diverse landscapes and unique geography.
  • Manaslu Conservation Area and its rich bio-diversity.
  • The Tsumba Community follows Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Rachen Gompa and popular Mu Gompa.

Planning & Preparation for the Tsum Valley Trip

If you plan to do the Tsum Valley Trek, it needs better preparation. Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary, trekking gear, the best time to trek Nepal, and many other factors come under preparation.

Trekking Difficulty to Tsum Valley and Training Tips

Being one of the remote trekking regions of Nepal, Tsum Valley Trek is graded as an easy to moderate trek. The Tsum Valley Trek distance is around 100-105 KM from the starting to ending point. It takes you to the altitude of 3700 meters, at Mu Gumpa.  Considering the height of this trek, it is not that difficult journey. However, you can’t do this trek without proper planning and preparation. Here are some training tips for the Tsum Valley Trekking:

  • Do regular cardio exercises.
  • Likewise, hiking once a week before the trek would be a bonus.
  • Do your medical checkup and take the essential medications.

Pick the Spring and Autumn season for the trek

Like Manaslu Circuit Trekking, the best time to trek Tsum Valley is Spring and Autumn. However, it is also popular as the best monsoon trek in Nepal. Yet, these three seasons offer magical Himalayan and scenic views. They deliver clear blue skies, dry weather, natural scenery, cultural immersion, and soaring Himalayas. Likewise, crispy air, mild weather, blooming vegetation, festival vibes, etc. make your trek even more special.

Trekking Permit Cards for Tsum Valley

Foremost, trekking to the restricted region in Nepal without a Permit card is not allowed. The Tsum Valley Trekking permit card costs $40 for the first week of the trek from September to November. While from December to August, it costs $30 for the first week. Then, beyond 7 days, you have to add $7 per day. The other permit card you must need is the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit. It costs $30 per person.

Hiring a Guide & Porter for restricted trekking areas in Nepal

Having said that, the Manaslu region including Tsum, is not allowed to trek without a guide or porter. Not even a single trekker can go into this region. There must be at least two trekking members to go to places like Manaslu Circuit or Tsum. However, if you are a single trekker, we are here to help you in a group joining Tsum Valley Trek 2024 with a fixed departure.

Mountain Eco Trails has a very experienced trekking guide from the Manaslu Region. We provide the guide from the same region for almost all the trekking routes including Tsum Valley. Same with the porters as well, our team is focused on promoting the local community. Guide and porters from the same local regions know the pathway better than anybody else. You may wonder what the guide & porter cost for the Tsum Valley. For the guide per day, it costs around $25-30. Whereas for porters, it costs between $20-22 per day.

Choose the best trekking company in Nepal

Mountain Eco Trails is a government and licensed trekking company in Nepal you can always trust. Apart from organizing the trekking in Nepal, we promote the Eco-Tourism at the same time. Booking the trekking tour with us means contributing to Eco-friendly tourism to help the environment as well.

Conclusion

Hence, we present you the Tsum Valley Trek 14 Days Itinerary for 2024/2025. If you are not happy with this itinerary, feel free to contact our trekking experts. Get ready to mark the next adventure to the remote villages of Tsum.

Note: If you want to combine this trek with Manaslu Circuit Trekking then feel free to visit this package. 

 

Itinerary

Your exciting journey to Tsum Valley Trek begins with an early breakfast and an 8-hour drive to Maccha Khola via Dhading Besi. The picturesque drive along the winding, dusty, and bumpier roads reveals scenic lush hills and diverse geographical landscapes. Despite the dusty and bumpy road, the window seat offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Pabil, Annapurna, and others. Overnight stay at Machha Khola.

  • Max Altitude:930 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The following breakfast, your trek officially commences from Maccha Khola to Jagat. The path along the Budi Gandaki River leads you to Khorla Besi, where a suspension bridge spans the Maccha Khola. Along the way, you'll encounter waterfalls, intriguing Buddha cliff paintings, and hot springs, eventually reaching Jagat via Doban. Spend the night in Jagat.

  • Max Altitude:1340 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Embarking on the day with a morning breakfast in Jagat, the trek proceeds towards the entrance of Tsum Valley, Lokpa. The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River passing through rhododendron forests and, the Himalayan Pine. Upon crossing a suspension bridge, you’ll stop at the scenic village of Philim for lunch. After lunch trek continues through terraced millet fields and bamboo forests to reach Lokpa for a night stay.

  • Max Altitude:2240 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today's trek traces the ancient trade route to the lower Tsum Valley, leading to Chumling Village. The trail winds its way, traversing side streams and crossing suspension bridges. Progressing through a pine and rhododendron-filled trail, you'll reach the charming Chumling Village for an overnight stay. Nestled on the south face of Shangri Himal, Chumling Village captivates its beauty with its ancient Chumling Gompa and stone streets.

  • Max Altitude:2386 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following an early breakfast, the trek heads towards the largest village in Tsum Valley, Chhokang Paro. The trek commences with a crossing of the suspension bridge, leading you past charming chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags on the way to Gho. Enjoying the majestic views of Himalchuli (7893m) and Ganesh Himal (7140m), you’ll reach Chhokanparo for an overnight stay.

  • Max Altitude:3031 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trek for today begins with an early breakfast, heading towards the final village of Tsum Valley, Nile. The path unfolds through lush pine forests, agricultural lands, breathtaking waterfalls, and several Buddhist monasteries. Passing through Tibetan villages like Ngakyu. Leru, Lama Gaun, Phurbe, and Pangdun, you’ll eventually reach the Nile for an overnight stay. En route, you'll have the opportunity to explore the renowned Milarepa Cave (Piren Phu) and the largest Rachen Gompa.

  • Max Altitude:3361 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Commencing the day with an early breakfast in the Nile, you’ll embark on a journey to explore the oldest Mu Gompa (3,700m/12,139ft). Trekking along the west bank of Tsum Valley through Tibetan landscapes, you'll eventually reach the largest and oldest Mu Gompa. Established in 1895 A.D., Mu Gompa is located in the highest and most isolated part of the valley. Following an exploration of the Gompa and its surroundings, you'll return to the Nile for an overnight stay.

  • Max Altitude:3700 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an early breakfast, you’ll retrace back the same way to Chhokang Paro from the Nile. The trail leads through the forest to Chhule, offering spectacular views of the majestic Punchen Himal, Churke Himal, and Kipu Himal. As you pass through several Tibetan villages, you'll have the opportunity to witness the local lifestyle. The day's journey concludes as you reach Chhokang Paro for an overnight stay.

  • Max Altitude:3361 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Descending through the same narrow trail for approximately 2 hours, you will cross the bridge to Dhumje. The trail then ascends amidst pine and rhododendron groves until it intersects with tracks winding along a mani wall adorned with prayer flags. A steep zigzag descent brings you to Lungdang Gumba, nestled in the embrace of Ganesh Himal. Overnight stay at Lungdang Gumba.

  • Max Altitude:3200 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea house
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today marks a significant day as you embark on the final leg of this trek. Following an early breakfast, the trek heads toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp, crossing Laudang Khola. The trail is poorly marked but passes through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests. Along the way, you'll encounter seasonal yak huts and moraine walls, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. Upon reaching Base Camp, take some time to capture photographs and create lasting memories. Returning along the same path, you'll spend the night at Lundgang Gumba

  • Max Altitude:3200 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following an early breakfast, you’ll descend through a pine forest, making your way to Dumje. The trail involves crossing the Laudang Khola and traversing the elevated valley adorned with barley and buckwheat fields. Continuing through the scenic Ripchet, you will eventually reach Lokpa for an overnight stay.

  • Max Altitude:2240 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail today descends following the Budi Gandaki River passing through terraced millet fields and bamboo forests. Upon reaching picturesque Philim, you’ll have a refreshment break. Afterward trek continues through rhododendron forests and, the Himalayan Pine passing Sirdibas to reach Jagat for nightstay.

  • Max Altitude:1340 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The final day of walking on the trail begins with an early breakfast. The trek for the day follows the renowned Manaslu Circuit Route, leading to Machha Khola. The paths consist mostly of rocky terrain and involve multiple river crossings, passing through Dovan, Tatopani, and Khorlabesi. The day concludes with an overnight stay at Machha Khola.

  • Max Altitude:930 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The memorable Tsum Valley Trek concludes with a scenic drive to Kathmandu via Arughat and Dhading Besi. The path traverses the recently constructed dusty road leading to Arughat Bazaar. The picturesque drive along the winding, dusty, and bumpier roads unfolds scenic lush hills and a variety of geographical landscapes.

  • Max Altitude:1350 meters
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch,
Cost Includes
  • International Airport pick-ups and drop-offs in a private vehicle.
  • Both-way transportation in a local bus. (Kathmandu-Macchekhola-Kathmandu).
  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit Card.
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit Card.
  • All the meals inclusive (14 Breakfast, 14 Lunch, and 13 Dinner)
  • Government-authorized and licensed trekking guide.
  • The expenses of the trekking guide include his salary, meals, accommodation, transportation, and insurance.
  • Porter carries the luggage with a limit of 9 kg per trekker.
  • Porter’s expenses include his meals, Accommodation, salary, and insurance.
  • Accommodation during the trek on a sharing basis.  
  • Farewell dinner after the trek or before the departure day.
  • All government and local taxes are included.
Cost Excludes
  • Personal expenses during the trip like hot shower, drinks, Wi-Fi, battery charge, etc.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
  • Extra night in Kathmandu you arrive early from the trek.
  • Travel insurance and emergency rescue facilities.
  • Additional costs such as meals, accommodation, and other expenses because of weather delays, government policies, itinerary modification (on safety concerns), and situations which is not in our hands.
  • Tips to guide and porter.
  • Costs that are not listed on the cost include.
Availability
Select a Departure Month
Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: SaturdaySep 21, 2024End DateEnds: ThursdayOct 03, 2024PricePriceUS$1299StatusStatusAvailable
Good to Know

Accommodation in Tsum Valley

Tsum is a very remote place. So, do not expect deluxe and luxury during the trek. The rooms here are basic with certain standards. Generally, they have two beds with blankets and pillows. Interestingly, teahouses do not have attached bathrooms. It is outside of the rooms with Asian style toilet.

Food and drinks during the Tsum Valley trek

The 14-day Tsum Valley Trek to high altitude is difficult if you lack a nutritious meal. You can get enough nutritious food during the trek. However, choice can be limited as you go higher. There are 14 breakfasts, 13 Dinners, and 13 Lunches included in this package. You can select from the menu and order the meals. Always remember, you will eat your breakfast and dinner in the same teahouse you stayed in. However, the lunch will be on the way during the trek.

Drinks and water are minimal during the trek. Even though there are teahouses that sell mineral water, they are very expensive. We do not recommend drinking the direct tap water. However, if you have water purification tablets then you can use filtered water. A bottle of water costs somewhere between 2-4 USD accordingly. Remember, water and hot drinks (except 3 cups a day) are not included in the price.

Electricity Facilities

Along the Tsum Valley Trekking Trail, you can get electricity to charge your devices. However, teahouses may charge you additional costs for this service. The cost depends on the altitude, as you go higher it can go from USD 2 to USD 4 per hour.

Backpacking and Trekking Gear Checklist for Tsum Valley Trekking

Carrying the necessary gear and a backpack is very essential. Although your porter will carry your baggage, you need to carry a small backpack to keep your personal belongings. Here are the basic gear you need for this trek.

Clothing (whole body)

  • Sun hat and winter hat.
  • Winter gloves.
  • Hiking T-shirts, long-sleeved T-shirts, fleece jackets, and Down jackets.
  • Hiking Pants, Shorts, and thermal wear.
  • Underwear and woolen socks.

Trekking Gear

  • Trekking poles, backpack, sleeping bag, and thermal bottle.
  • First Aid Kit, extra copies of your PP, and map.

Personal Belongings

  • Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Soap, Towel, Sunglasses, & sunscreen.

You can also visit our common trekking gear for Nepal to get some ideas about it.

Trip Extension after the trek

After finishing the Tsum Valley Trek, if you still have some days left, then we can offer you different activities of your interest. Chitwan National Park Tour, Rafting, Kathmandu city tours, etc. are on our list if you want to do extra fun.

FAQs

  • The price of the Tsum Valley Trekking ranges from $ 999 to $1500 based on the service you choose.

  • The highest place you will go on Tsum Valley Trek is Mu Gompa at 3700 meters.

  • To get to the Tsum Valley, either you have to take a local bus to Soti Khola from Kathmandu or take a private Jeep.

  • Of course, you can combine these two treks and explore the whole Manaslu Region.

  • The best time to do the Tsum Valley Trek is in spring, autumn, and monsoon season.

We Offer Group Discount
  
1 paxUS$1299
2 - 5 paxUS$1250
6 - 10 paxUS$1199
Price Per PersonUS$1299US$1399(All-inclusive services)
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