Tsum Valley Trek

Highlights

Best Time to Trek in Tsum Valley: The best time for the Tsum Valley Trek is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is stable, with clear skies, offering breathtaking mountain views. Monsoon rains make the trail slippery in June-August, while winter temperatures can drop drastically.
Permits Required for Tsum Valley Trek: Trekking in the restricted Tsum Valley region requires a Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit and a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). These permits are essential for preserving the region and ensuring the safety of trekkers. Make sure you obtain these before starting your trek.
Difficulty Level of the Tsum Valley Trek: This trek is graded as a moderate-to-difficult trek. With a maximum altitude of around 3,700m (Mu Gompa), acclimatization is important. While previous trekking experience isn’t mandatory, good physical fitness is crucial for handling the long walking days and the elevation gain.
Accommodation and Food Along the Trek: Accommodation is primarily in basic teahouses run by locals, offering simple meals like dal bhat, noodles, and Tibetan bread. These teahouses provide a comfortable resting place but expect simple facilities without many luxuries. Hot showers are available in some places, usually for an additional fee.
Cultural Significance of the Tsum Valley: The Tsum Valley is one of Nepal's most culturally significant regions. It is home to the Tsumba people, who practice Tibetan Buddhism and follow age-old customs and traditions. Monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa play a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of the region.

Overview

The Tsum Valley Trek is one of the hidden gems of Nepal, offering adventurers a glimpse into a remote and culturally rich part of the Himalayas. Located in the northern part of the Manaslu region, this trek takes you through the secluded valley that shares a close cultural affinity with Tibet. Known as the "Beyul" or sacred valley, Tsum Valley is famous for its ancient monasteries, sacred caves, and untouched Tibetan culture.

The 16-day trek is perfect for those seeking a spiritual and peaceful journey away from the crowded trekking routes. The trail takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests, terraced fields, quaint villages, and impressive mountain vistas. It also offers trekkers a chance to interact with the friendly local people and learn about their unique way of life. This trek is moderately challenging and best suited for trekkers looking for an authentic Himalayan experience.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Explore the city's famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites or prepare for your trek by getting the necessary permits.

Day 2 : Drive to Soti Khola

A scenic drive to Soti Khola along the Budi Gandaki River takes you through beautiful landscapes and small villages. Overnight in Soti Khola.

Day 3 : Trek to Machha Khola

Begin your trek to Machha Khola. The trail offers stunning views of cascading waterfalls, terraced fields, and lush forests. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 4 : Trek to Jagat

Cross suspension bridges and follow a narrow trail along the river to reach Jagat, a small Gurung village, marking the entrance to the restricted area.

Day 5 : Trek to Lokpa

Enter the Tsum Valley and trek through forested trails and traditional settlements to Lokpa, the gateway to the valley.

Day 6 : Trek to Chumling

Today’s trail takes you higher into the Tsum Valley, with views of the Ganesh Himal range and lush greenery. Overnight in Chumling village.

Day 7 : Trek to Chhokangparo

Ascend to Chhokangparo, where you’ll experience your first up-close views of the towering peaks surrounding the valley. Visit local monasteries and interact with villagers.

Day 8 : Trek to Nile

Continue along the trail to Nile. Visit nearby monasteries and sacred sites along the way, soaking in the tranquility of the region.

Day 9 : Trek to Mu Gompa

This is the highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. Visit Mu Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region.

Day 10 : Explore Mu Gompa and Dhephu Doma Gompa

Take a rest day to explore the monasteries and sacred caves in the region. Learn about the spiritual significance of these sites to the local community.

Day 11 : Trek to Rachen Gompa

Retrace your steps to Rachen Gompa, another important monastery in the valley. This Gompa is home to female monks and is a spiritual center for the local people.

Day 12 : Trek back to Chumling

Descend back to Chumling through the scenic landscapes you crossed earlier in the trek.

Day 13 : Trek to Philim

Retrace your steps towards Philim, where the views of the Himalayas remain just as stunning as when you first began the trek.

Day 14 : Trek to Tatopani

Reach Tatopani, known for its hot springs where you can relax and ease your muscles after days of trekking.

Day 15 : Trek to Soti Khola and Drive Back to Kathmandu

Return to Soti Khola and drive back to Kathmandu. Celebrate your successful trek and enjoy the evening in the capital city.

Day 16 : Departure from Kathmandu

Depart from Kathmandu, marking the end of your Himalayan adventure in the Tsum Valley.

Trip code	TVT
Package name	Tsum Valley Trek
Duration	16
Max. elevation	3700 m
Level	Moderate
Transportation	Drive
Accomodation	Tea Houses on trek, 3-start hotel in kathmandu
Starts at	TIA, Kathmandu
Ends at	TIA, Kathmandu
Trip route	kathmandu-machha khola-mu gompa-machha khola-kathmandu
Cost	USD 850 per person