Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Trekking
Tsum Valley Treks
Trip Photos

Tsum Valley Trek

Personalized Adventures
Duration13 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
Maximum Altitude4,900m.
Group Size2-14
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeMarch to May and Mid- Sep to Nov.

Tsum Valley is a hidden and rarely visited corner in the Manaslu region, situated higher up near the Tibetan border. Trekking to Tsum Valley is adventurous and offers offbeat trails. Trekkers get to explore untouched and pristine landscapes. The journey takes you deep into the rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage rooted amidst the towering Himalayan mountains.

Tsum Valley is surrounded by Boudha Himal and Himal Chuli in the west, Siring Himal in the north, and Ganesh Himal in the south. The valley has many ancient monasteries and caves, where some of the greatest sages have meditated, including Guru Rinpoche and the Tibetan philosopher Milarepa. The region presents ancient art, beliefs, and practices.

Tsum Valley trek offers an unforgettable trip in the western Himalayan range of Nepal. The journey is adventurous, culturally rich, and serene. It is a restricted area, so highly protected by the Nepal government and requires a special permit to enter. Very few trekkers know about this hidden Shangri La, and only a handful of them visit it, keeping the trail undiscovered.

Camping is not required for the Tsum Valley trekking, so you can do this trek without spending a lot of money!

Highlights of Tsum Vallet Trek

  • An adventurous trek to a hidden and rarely visited corner in the Manaslu region
  • Follow offbeat trails via lush rhododendron forests, alpine pastures, and picturesque villages
  • Cross hanging bridges on the way and come across many streams and waterfalls
  • Explores untouched and pristine landscapes amidst the towering Himalayan mountains
  • Witness numerous snow-capped mountains and come across a wide variety of flora and fauna
  • If you are lucky, you may get to spot a snow leopard
  • Immerse into the rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage
  • Explore ancient monasteries and caves where some of the greatest sages have mediated, including Guru Rinpoche
  • An unforgettable, serene trip in the western Himalayan range of Nepal

What to expect during the Tsum Valley trek 13 days?

Tsum Valley is very remote, and as this trek is not that known, the trekking route lacks tourist infrastructure. There are tea houses in the major settlements along the Tsum Valley trek route, where trekkers spend the nights and have meals. However, unlike the popular EBC and ABC trek, you will not come across tea shops or other fellow trekkers on the way.

So, trekkers have to bring enough snacks and all the essentials for the trek. The Tsum Valley trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. From Machha Khola, you will trek for two days to reach Lokpa, from where the trail separates to Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley. Most of the trekkers usually explore the Tsum Valley first and continue to Larkya La pass to complete the circuit.

The trail from Machha Khola follows lush rhododendron forests along the Budhi Gandaki river. You will spend a night in Jagat and trek to Lokpa via many small villages. The trail then goes further north to Chumling, where you will explore three old monasteries- Pango Gumba, Gurwa Gumba, and Mani Dhungyr. From Chumling, you will follow Shair Khola and pass by Domje village, the largest in the Tsum Valley.

The trail gradually ascends from sub-tropical forests and gives way to alpine pastures and high-mountain deserts on the way to Chhokagnparo. You will keep trekking northwards, passing Milarepa Prien Phu Cave (the most sacred cave in Tsum Valley). Trekking past the Nile settlement, you will follow a steep uphill route to Mu Gompa. It is the northernmost point of the trek.

From Mu Gompa, you will trek back to Chhokangparo, following the same route. You have the option to take a different route and visit Rachen Gompa on the way. Then the trail descends to Gumba Lungdang. You will trek along a glacier and hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp. It is rarely visited by tourists and remains completely isolated.

After exploring the base camp, you will retrace the trail to Chumling. From here, descend to Salleri and further drop down to Machha Khola, where the trek ends. Following the same highway, you will drive back to Kathmandu.

Who can do the Tsum Valley trek?

The Tsum Valley trek is demanding in terms of terrain and remoteness of the region. This trek sees comparatively less altitude gain, so altitude sickness risk is low. However, trekkers still have to be careful. Physical and mental fitness is important for the Tsum Valley trekking.

We recommend the Tsum Valley trek 13 days to individuals who have previous trekking experience. It allows you to understand the limitations of the region and embrace it. Make sure your stamina and physical strength is good. If not, you can train 4 to 8 weeks before starting the trek.

Tsum Valley- opened in 2008 for foreign trekkers

The fact that the Tsum Valley was opened only in 2008 for foreign trekkers has kept it shielded from modernization. Not only that, but the strict rules and regulations and expensive permits keep the heavy flow of travelers away from this trek route. The locals still live quite an ancient life. They are still very attached to their roots.

During the Tsum Valley trek, you will meet Tsumbas, the residents of this remote area. Their culture, tradition, beliefs, language, and practices are a blend of Nepali and Tibetan heritage. You will be humbly welcomed in their homes during the journey. Feel free to interact with them. Our guide will help you with that.

Likewise, the Tsum Valley trail is dotted with several monasteries, mani walls, prayer flags, and stupas. The cultural richness is epic in this untouched part of the world. Moreover, this area is home to exotic flora and fauna. One of the famous animals is the snow leopard. It is hard to spot. However, you may get to see Himalayan pheasant, tahr, and blue sheep.

To make your expedition much more mesmerizing, mountains like Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Himalchuli (7,893 m/25,895 ft), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), Shringi Himal (7,155 m/23,474 ft), Simnang Himal (6,251 m/20,508 ft), and many others decorate the horizon.

Why do the Tsum Valley trek with Recreation Holidays?

We provide a native guide and porter for the Tsum Valley trek 13 days. So, you will trek with a local. Even though the trekking region is quite far, our extensive network allows us to well organize this trek and provide a hassle-free trip to our guests.

Likewise, we also have a genuine Tsum Valley trek price. You will get a lot in our package cost. Our Tsum Valley trek itinerary is also flexible. You can customize it as per your time, requirements, budget, and group size. Bookings are open for the Tsum Valley trek 2024/2025 departure.

We promise a safe and delightful trek experience in this remote part of the Himalayas. Feel free to contact us if you have any queries regarding our Tsum Valley trek cost or package.

ItineraryExpand All

Detailed Itinerary

Day01

You will begin the journey from Kathmandu after a big breakfast. Following the Prithvi Highway, drive to Arughat. The road condition is good till Arughat and offers beautiful landscapes on the way.

The highway goes along the lush foothills and rivers. You can see terraced fields, waterfalls, and mountains on the way. From Arughat, continue the drive to Machha Khola via Soti Khola. Drive via small villages, following the Budhi Gandaki River.

Duration: 8-9 hours

Max Altitude: 869mMeals: L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day02

The trek starts from Machha Khola. You will walk via farming terraces. After a few ascents and descents, Tharo Khola will arrive. Crossing the river, trek to Kholra Besi, and pass by Tatopani. There are natural hot springs in Tatopani.

From here, you will trek on a narrow trail that leads to the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross a suspension bridge and climb a stone staircase adorned with prayer flags. You will arrive at Tharo Bharyan and continue trekking to Jagat from here.

Duration: 7 hours

Max Altitude: 1,340mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day03

Register the permits at the police check post and start trekking to Jagat. The trail ascends over a rocky ridge to Salleri. The view of Mt. Shringi is fantastic from here. You will then cross a long suspension bridge and enter Philim. The trail goes to Ekle Bhatti and ascends to Lokpa. The view of Mt. Manaslu is superb from Lokpa.

Duration: 6-7 hours

Max Altitude: 2,240mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day04

From today onwards, you will trek in the Tsum Valley. Leaving Lokpa, follow a narrow trail and descend to Lungwa River. The trail goes through dense forests of juniper, rhododendron, and pine. You will reach Gumling and continue to Syar Khola. From here, walk to Chumling village, where you will visit Panago Gompa, Mani Dhungyur, and Gurwa Gompa.

Duration: 6-7 hours

Max Altitude: 2,386mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day05

The trail steeply ascends from Chumling to Chhokangparo. Chhokang and Paro are two different settlements. You will trek following the Shari Khola and reach Domje. Domje is the largest village in Tsum Vaell. From here, the trail ascends to Chhokangparo, offering stunning views of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal.

Duration: 6 hours

Max Altitude: 3,031mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day06

On this day, you will trek to Mu Gompa. Follow the Shiar Khola and trek to Chhule. From here, you will walk twenty minutes and reach Nile. On the way, the trail goes past the Phiren Phu Cave, also called Pigeon Cave. Here, the great sage Milarepa is believed to be meditated.

Explore the cave and trek via green meadows. Gradually, the trail gets narrow and steep and climbs to Mu Gompa. It is one of the most important monasteries in the Tsum Valley. On the way, you will also visit the Dephyudonma Gumba. It is also very old.

Duration: 5-7 hours

Max Altitude: 3,361mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day07

You will start trekking from Mu Gompa early in the morning. Follow the same trail back to Chhokangparo. The trail steeply descends to Nile, and from here, you will drop down to Phurbe. You have an option to take a different route from Phurbe if you want to visit the Rachen Gompa. The trail further gradually descends to Chhokangparo.

Duration: 5 hours

Max Altitude: 3,031mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day08

Leaving Chhokangparo, you will follow a forested route and descend to Domje. From here, trek on a different route that leads to Gumba Lungdang. You will trek on a downhill trail, enjoying the tranquility and lush vegetation.

Duration: 7 hours

Max Altitude: 3,400mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day09

Today, early in the morning, go on a hike to the Ganesh Himal Base Camp. The trail steeply descends along the TorogumbaGlacier, offering breathtaking mountain views of the Ganesh Himal range, Churke Himal, Kipu Himal, etc on the way. It is an isolated area, so you will not see any humans. After the hike, return to Gumba Lungdang to spend the night.

Duration: 8-9 hours

Max Altitude: 4,900mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day10

After a delicious breakfast, start trekking from Gumba Lungdang to Domje. The trail is the same as yesterday, however you will ascend this time. From Domje, you will trek to Chumling via a lush forest. On the way, trek past some stupas. Likewise, the mountain views are beautiful during the trek.

Duration: 4 hours

Max Altitude: 2,470mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day11

From Chumling, you will trek to Salleri. The trail goes through many villages and dense rhododendrons and pine forests. First, descend to Lokpa. From here, drop down to Ekle Bhatti and follow a forested route to Philim. The trail further goes past Sirdibas and continues to Salleri.

Duration: 6-7 hours

Max Altitude: 1,353mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day12

From Salleri, you will descend via Jagat and Tatopani villages. Trek through dense forests and cross suspension bridges on the way. In Tatopani, you can take a break to enjoy natural hot springs. It will cost you a few extra bucks to use hot springs. Further, the trail goes along the Budhi Gandaki River and passes by Labubesi and Khursane to Machha Khola.

Duration: 6-7 hours

Max Altitude: 869mMeals: B, L, DAccommodation: Tea House
Day13

You will drive back to Kathmandu today. The ride will be long and beautiful. Upon reaching Kathmandu, check in your hotel. The remaining day is free. You can rest and shop. In the late evening, we may meet for a farewell dinner.

Duration: 9hrs

Max Altitude: 1,345m.Meals: B, L
Is the proposed itinerary suitable for you?If you are looking for a custom itinerary, please feel free to reach out to our team of professionals at any time.
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Trip Service Details
Includes
  • Nutritious meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner), accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee with breakfast.
  • Seasonal fresh fruit available daily.
  • Comfortable accommodations provided throughout the trek.
  • Services of an English-speaking licensed trekking guide, including his salary, food, equipment, and insurance.
  • All necessary permits: MCAP, TIMS, Manaslu, and Tsum Valley Restricted permits.
  • Bus service from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and back (or to Pokhara).
  • Complimentary Nepal Recreation Holidays T-shirt, trekking map, and water purification drops.
  • First aid kit equipped with an oximeter and basic medications.
  • Farewell dinner at a fine restaurant.
  • All official expenses covered.
  • Inclusion of all local and government taxes and VAT.
Excludes
  • International flight tickets and Nepal entry visa.
  • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
  • Travel and health insurance covering emergency rescues and evacuations.
  • Personal expenses during the trek, including snacks, alcoholic beverages, and non-alcoholic drinks other than tea or coffee with breakfast (e.g., coke, juice, water, Wi-Fi, etc.).
  • The service of one porter for every two trekkers is recommended and costs $260.
  • Private jeep service from Kathmandu to Machha Khola ($210) and from Machha Khola back to Kathmandu or Pokhara ($210). This cost is per jeep, with each jeep accommodating up to six people.
  • Tips for the trekking guide (tipping is expected).
Additional Info

Tsum Valley trek permits

The Tsum Valley is a restricted area, and trekkers have to get a special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP) along with a Manaslu Conservation Area permit to trek here.

  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cost September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days after that, USD 15 per person each day
  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit cost from December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days after that, USD 10 per person each day
  • Manaslu Conservation Area permit cost: USD 30 per person

Guide and porter during the trek

You will do the Tsum Valley trek with a native English-speaking guide and a friendly porter. They will accompany you throughout the trek. The guide will join you in Kathmandu, whereas the porter in Machha Khola. They will show you the trail and help you navigate the steep and tricky sections.

Porter will carry the duffel bag for you. You can pack up to 7-9 kg in your duffle bag. Pack all clothes and supplies in your duffel bag. Likewise, keep the essentials with you in your daypack. The porter usually walks ahead of you and reaches the tea house early.

The guide will share stories and information about the region. He will show you any must-see mountains, vegetation, etc. You will have a great time trekking with our reliable on-field team because they will not let you feel bored and make the trek immersive. Feel free to ask any questions with them.

Tsum Valley trek difficulty and altitude sickness

Tsum Valley trekking route is off the beaten path. Trekkers have to be quite careful during the trek and use trekking poles for stability and additional support. Stay on the track, and do not wander off. Even though the trek route is dotted with tea houses, the region lacks tourist infrastructure, which makes it difficult for the trekkers.

Likewise, the Tsum Valley trail is very remote and untouched. You may not come across other fellow trekkers often along the way. The trail is high altitude, so there is also the risk of altitude sickness on this trek. Overall, the Tsum Valley trek is challenging. It demands good fitness, determination to complete the trek, and endurance to adjust to limited facilities.

You can avoid altitude sickness by maintaining your pace, taking acclimatization days in between the trek, and keeping yourself hydrated. Also, have carbohydrates and other nutritious meals and get plenty of rest. Do not tire yourself unnecessarily, and be aware of the symptoms like vomiting, headache, difficulty in breathing, nausea, insomnia, etc.

Is travel insurance required for the Tsum Valley trek?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for the Tsum Valley trek. It is one of the necessary documents for restricted area trekking in Nepal. The travel insurance should cover helicopter evacuation, or it'll not be accepted. You have to buy travel insurance in your country because it is not available in Nepal.

Accommodation and meals on the Tsum Valley trek

You get tea house accommodation during the Tsum Valley trekking. It is a very basic accommodation with twin shared rooms and a common washroom. If you want a single room, let us know. It cost a few extra bucks. You will need a high-quality sleeping bag for the Tsum Valley trek, along with all the toilaters, including toilet paper, soap, etc.

The rooms are small but clean and cozy. They are good enough to spend the night. Likewise, you will also have meals in the tea houses. Nepali and Tibetan dishes are common on this trek route. Dal baht, Tibetan bread, momo, thukpa, soups, porridge, dhido, fried rice, eggs, curries, etc, are some most found foods.

We highly recommend you pack ample snacks for this trek. For drinking water, you will get boiled water in the tea houses. It costs USD 1 to 2 for a bottle. For further safety, treat the water with a purification tablet. Do not drink water directly from a tap or stream. You may not be able to digest it.

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FAQs

The Tsum Valley trek is an under two-week trekking program in Nepal. If you want to spend more time in the mountains, you can extend the trek to Manaslu Circuit and make it 18 to 22 days long.

To travel to Tsum Valley from Kathmandu, first, you have to drive to Machha Khola. It will be a long 8 to 9 hours ride. From here, you trek for two days to Lokpa, from where the trail separates to Tsum Valley. Mu Gompa is the highest point in the Tsum Valley and can be reached in three days of walking from Lokpa.

The highest point where you will spend the night during the Tsum Valley trek is Gumba Lungdang. It is situated at 3,400 meters (11,155 ft) from sea level. Likewise, the highest point you will touch on this trek is Ganesh Himal Base Camp, which is located at 4,900 meters (16,076 ft).

The Tsum Valley trek route is very far away, isolated, and offbeat. For beginner trekkers, the challenges of the Tsum Valley trek can be very taxing. If you have decent fitness to walk 6 hours a day and can adjust to bare minimum food options and basic tea houses, then you can do the Tsum Valley trek as a first-time trekker.

The best season to do the Tsum Valley trek is spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November). You get favorable weather and climate with rich vegetation and clear views in these two seasons.

No, there is no age limit for the Tsum Valley trek or any trek in Nepal. The only requirement for most of the treks in Nepal, including this one, is that the participants have to be fit. Trekkers below 16 years old can do the Tsum Valley trekking with an identified guardian.

Yes, there is a toilet facility in the tea houses along the Tsum Valley trail. You will mostly get squat toilets to do your business. Hot showers are available in some tea houses, and cost USD 3 to USD 5. The tea house will provide you with hot water in a bucket.

For the Tsum Valley trek, you will need breathable and flexible trekking clothes. You will have clothes in different fabrics for different kinds of weather conditions. Yes, it is possible to purchase the trekking clothes and other essentials for the tip in Kathmandu before the trek starts. If you are on a limited budget, you can also rent most of them.

You will need a daypack and a duffel bag for the Tsum Valley trek. You have the option to bring a daypack or rent one in Kathmandu. Likewise, we provide duffel bags for our guests to use during the trek as a compliment. You have to return the duffel bag after the trek finishes.

Yes, you can store your extra luggage in our office or at your hotel's locker room for free of cost for the trek duration.

Vegetarians will get a wide variety of food during the Tsum Valley trek. We even encourage our guests to stick to veg meals in the mountains to avoid any risk of upset stomach or indigestion due to meat.

You may get WiFi in Machha Khola and Jagat villages, however there is no WiFi availability above these two villages. It is better to carry a Nepali tourist sim to use data. You will not get a network everywhere on the trail.

No, there are no ATMs available on the Tsum Valley trek route. So, withdraw money in Kathmandu to use during the trek. Carry the money in small domination.

Yes, you will be able to charge your batteries while trekking in the Tsum Valley. Tea houses offer charging facilities for USD 1 to USD 3 per hour.

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