Tsum Valley Trek - 15 Days

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Facts
Duration
11 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Maximum Altitude
3,700 m./12,136 ft.
Group Size
2-10
Wishlist

Explore the hidden valley of the Manaslu region to wards Tibetan border by following the ancient salt trading route Tsum Valley, where you may find peace of mind and experience Buddhism and Tibetan culture.

Tsum Valley trekking is a spiritual journey to the sacred Tsum Valley, located in the northern part of the Gorkha district. Tsum Valley was once part of the Tibetan kingdom of thirteen provinces called Tsum Tsho Checksums. Still, the Tibetan language and customs are followed and called mini Tibet.  The word ‘Tsum’ is believed to have come from the Tibetan word Tsombo meaning ‘vibrant’. So pious is the land that the ascetic and poet Milarepa once walked on and Guru Rimpoche meditated in its soaring cliffs and silent valleys. No wonder the land is devoted to ancient and artistic monasteries, stupas, and Mani walls among which Rachen Gompa, the largest monastery of Mu Gompa, and the oldest nunnery Gumba Lungdang are quite famous. This is a region that remained isolated for thousands of years and today still special visitor permits are to be obtained from the Department of Immigration in Nepal. This valley is an ideal place to visit for family and friends.

The trekking route follows the Budhi Gandaki River passing through temperate forests, beautiful villages, and green terraced fields. Doban, Lamagaun, Burji, Chule, Nile, and Dhumje are other villages that you will come across on your trek to Tsum Valley. There will be no time before you enter the magical Tsum Valley where you will encounter spectacular views of Buddha Himal, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Sringi Himal. The majestic peak of the Manaslu circuit region is Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, and will always be within your eye distance. Crossing Larke La pass (5106), the highest point of the trek, is both challenging and rewarding. While the lower belt is inhabited by the Gurung ethnic community, the Tsum Valley is home to Tibetan people who follow Tibetan Buddhism and culture. The ancient system of polyandry is still practiced here and Tibetan Tea called ‘Tsu’ is a delight for every traveler. Some of the major festivals of the region are Lhosar (New Year), Saka Dawa, and Dhachyang. Contact us for the latest update on price, trek route, and trek itinerary.

Highlights

  • Trek through Manaslu Conservation Area and enjoy pristine wildlife
  • Visit Tsum valley and learn about the Tibetan lifestyle and culture whilst trek
  • Visit Rachen Gumba, Mu Gompa and Gumba Lungdang
  • Experience the local culture
  • Visit the sites of Milarepa and Padma Sambava Cave
  • Enjoy spectacular views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Sringi Himalayan ranges.

Tsum Valley Trek - 15 Days Itinerary Outline

  • Day 01: Arrival and transfer to Hotel in Kathamndu 1,300 m./4,264 ft./30 min. drive
  • Day 02: Trek Preparation and meet your trek team.
  • Day 03: Kathmandu to Machhe Khola by bus 8,70 m./2,853 ft./175 km./108 miles/8 hrs.
  • Day 04: Mache Khola to Jagat 1,300 m./4,264 ft./15 km./9.35 miles/7 hrs.
  • Day 05: Jagat to Lokpa 2,240 m./8,003 ft,/15 km./9.35 miles/7 hrs.
  • Day 06: Lokpa to Chumling 2,440 m./ 8,003 ft./10 km./6.25 miles/4 hrs.
  • Day 07: Chumling to Lama Gaun/Chhekamparo 3,010 m./9,872 ft./10 km./6.25 miles/5 hrs.
  • Day 08: Lama Gaon/ Chhekamparo to Mu-Gumpa 3,700 m./12,136 ft./10 km./6.25 miles/5 hrs.
  • Day 09: Leisure day at Mu Gumpa.
  • Day 10: Mu Gaon to Rachen Gumpa and Chhokamparo 3,031 m./9,941 ft./19 km./12 miles/ 5 hrs.
  • Day 11: Chhekamparo-Lokpa 2,240 m./7,347 ft./18 km./11.20 miles/6 hrs.
  • Day 12: Lokpa - Jagat 1,410 m./4,264 ft./15 km./9.35 miles/6 hrs.
  • Day 13: Jagat - Mahhakhola 8,70 m./2,384 ft./15 km./9.35 miles/6 hrs.
  • Day 14: Machha Khola Drive back to Kathmandu 175 km./108 miles/travel duration 8 hrs.
  • Day 15: Departure

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, our dedicated airport representative will extend a warm welcome to you and facilitate your smooth transition to your hotel. You will be transferred to your accommodation, where you can unwind and enjoy a comfortable and pleasant stay. Have a wonderful overnight stay at Hotel Buddha

Travel Distance: 6 km.

Travel Duration: 30 min.

Max Altitude: 1,350 m./4,264 ft. Meals: No mealsAccommodation: Hotel Buddha or Hotel Kailash Kutee

Today has been designated as a leisure day for you to prepare your trekking gears and participate in a trek briefing with your dedicated trek team. You are free to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub in Kathmandu known for its bustling markets, diverse cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Take this opportunity to gather any last-minute items you may need for your trek.

Trek Briefing at Global Adv. Trek

Team meeting: 5 pm

Max Altitude: 1,350 m./4,264 ft. Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel Buddha or Kailash kutee

Your bus journey from Kathmandu to Machakolha takes around 8 hours. It promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with stunning landscapes, cultural encounters, and memorable moments along the way. Enjoy the scenic ride and the journey into the heart of Nepal's natural splendor. You will pass beautiful small towns along the way like Malekhu, Dhading Bensi, Salantaar, Aarughat, Arkht and Soti Khola, and reach to Machhe Khola

Travel Distance: 175 km/108 miles

Departure Time: 7:00 am

Max Altitude: 870 m./2,394 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Hotel Tsum Vally or Hotel Everest(Attached Bath)

The fourth day is the day that marks the beginning of the actual trek. On this day, you will get freshened up in the morning, have a fulfilling breakfast, and start the walk. This part of the Tsum Valley Trekking route takes you through a mild ascend in the initial part and then the ascend gradually gets a little more steep. After the climbs, we also cross Tharo Khola and Khorlabesi village, which is a beautiful village with Gurung settlement.

Walk a little more and you start walking over a ridge that gradually becomes the sidewalk of the Budhi Gandaki River leading to another stop named Dovan. Let us get you prepared for some hot springs that arrive before getting to Dovan. From Dovan, we start on a steady uphill climb which takes us to the place destination of the day, Jagat.

The trail starts with gradual ascents and descents, passing through Tharo Khola and Khorlabesi villages. Upon reaching Tatopani, trekkers can relax in the natural hot springs. Continuing, the trail traverses a ridge and crosses the Budhi Gandaki river to Dovan. From there, it's a steady uphill climb to Jagat, showcasing diverse landscapes and stunning vistas.

Trekking Distance: 15 km (9.35 miles)

Altitude Gain: 430 m.

Trekking period: 7 hours.

Meals-Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Max Altitude: 1,300 m./4,264 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Himalayan Tourist Guest House(Attached Bath)

Today, the journey towards the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek entails first securing the necessary permits. Following this, the path leads through a rocky ridge to Sirdibas, where a wooden bridge awaits crossing, eventually arriving at the picturesque village of Philim. Along the way, one might explore the ancient herbal meditation center before proceeding to the Afghan monastery route to Lokpa.

Hiking Distance: 15 km/9.35 miles

Max Altitude: 2,240 m./8,003ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Lokpa Guest House or Tsum Guest House

Today's journey takes us mostly through dense forests, with occasional breaks to cross bridges and ascend to Chumling, a vibrant and charming village along the way. Here, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and lifestyle, experiencing the unique traditions of the region.

Hiking Distance: 10 km/6.25 miles

Max Altitude: 2,390 m./7,839 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Hotel Tashi Dellek or Simmilar

Moving onward, the route takes you through local villages and cultivated lands, giving you insights into the daily lives and traditions of the people living in the area. The transition from pine forests to wider, cultivated lands offers a diverse landscape for exploration.

Hiking Distance: km/6.25 miles

Max Altitude: 3,010 m./9,872 ft Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Karma Guest House or Similar

Continuing along the trekking route, the journey follows the path alongside the Shiar Khola, a stream that likely adds to the scenic beauty of the surroundings. As you proceed, you enter the Tum Valley, inhabited by the Gurung people who follow Tibetan culture. This cultural fusion adds a unique aspect to the trek, offering insights into the diverse traditions of the region.

Throughout the day, you encounter several villages along the way, where you stop for lunch and perhaps interact with the local residents. These interactions provide opportunities to learn more about the lifestyle, customs, and traditions of the Gurung people living in the area.

Walking Distance: 10 km/6.25 miles

Max Altitude: 3,700 m./12,136 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Mu- Gumpa

A leisure day at Mu Gumpa offers a well-deserved break from the trekking routine, allowing trekkers to relax and explore the surroundings at their own pace. With the crew staying back at the camp, trekkers have the freedom to choose their activities for the day.

One option presented by the guide is to visit the border site, which serves as a trade route between Nepal and Tibet via the Nguladhojyang pass, reaching an elevation of 5,093 meters. This excursion offers a unique opportunity to experience the cross-cultural influences of the region and witness the stunning landscape of the Tibetan plateau.

Max Altitude: 3,700 m./12,136 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Mu Gumpa

The return journey provides a chance to revisit familiar landscapes and landmarks, offering a different perspective on the surroundings. Trekkers may notice details missed during the initial ascent or encounter new experiences along the way.

Overall, this day marks a transition from the higher altitudes of Mu Gumpa back towards lower elevations, as the trek progresses towards Rachen Gompa. The journey continues to offer opportunities for cultural immersion, spiritual exploration, and appreciation of the natural beauty of the Tsum Valley region.

Walking Distance: 19 km/12 miles

Max Altitude: 3,031 m./9,941 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Hotel Karma or Similar

After enjoying a hot breakfast in the morning, the trek begins with a descent through the lush green forest towards Lokpa. This part of the journey offers trekkers a chance to appreciate the rich biodiversity of the region while descending back towards lower altitudes.

Upon reaching Lokpa, trekkers will stay overnight at a lodge, where expert staff will prepare full board meals. This provides a comfortable and relaxing environment to rest and refuel after a day of trekking.

Walking Distance: 18 km.

Max Altitude: 2,240 m./7,347 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Lokpa Guest House or Tsum Guest House

After enjoying breakfast in the morning, trekkers will prepare for the journey ahead, trekking towards Jagat. This leg of the trek is expected to take approximately six hours to complete, covering a distance from Lokpa to Jagat.

As trekkers set out on the trail, they'll traverse through diverse landscapes, including forests, valleys, and perhaps small settlements along the way. The route may offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing ample opportunities for photography and appreciation of the natural beauty of the region.

Walking Distance: 15 km/9.35 miles

Max Altitude: 1,410 m./4,264 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Himalayan Tourist Guest House(Attached Bath)

Descending along the trekking trails offers a different perspective, with the journey characterized by ease and enjoyment. Passing through Gurung and Brahmin villages adds cultural richness to the experience, providing insights into the traditional way of life in the region. The diversity of the landscape, from lush forests to clear waterfalls against a backdrop of blue skies, adds to the sense of adventure and excitement.

Walking Distance: 15 km/9.35 miles

Max Altitude: 870 m./2,384 ft. Meals: Full board mealsAccommodation: Hotel Tsum Vally or Hotel Everest( Attached Bath)

Traveling by bus through the local villages and towns will surely offer you a unique perspective on Nepali life and landscape. Balaju is a great spot to disembark and transfer to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

And a farewell dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant sounds like the perfect way to cap off your trip, indulging in delicious cuisine and perhaps reflecting on the adventures you've had during your time in Nepal. Enjoy your journey and the warmth of Nepali hospitality!

Travel Distance: 175 km/108 miles

Max Altitude: 1,300 m./4,264 ft. Meals: Breakfast+LunchAccommodation: Hotel Buddha or Hotel Kailash Kutee

We are pleased to inform you that arrangements have been made for your departure to Kathmandu International Airport for your upcoming journey.

Departure Sport-Your Hotel

Departure Time: As per your schedule

Transportation: private Vehicle

Meals: Breakfast

Cost Details

Includes

  • Manaslu Conservation entry permit (MCAP)
  • Manaslu Conservation Entry Permit (ACAP)
  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit for 7 days
  • Land transportation to and from by Bus
  • 11-Night Tea house Accommodation in the Mountain.
  • Experienced English-speaking Global Adventure Trekking's guide with equipment.
  • Airport picks up and drops off.
  • Safe Drinking Water while on the trek
  • TIMS (Trekker Information Management System)
  • 1-porter for every two clients.
  • Insurance of Nepalese Staff.
  • Full board Meals while trekking (breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Seasonal Fruits
  • Duffel Bag and Sleeping Bag (Refundable)
  • Company T-shirt
  • 3-Night hotel in Kathmandu including Breakfast

Excludes

  • Personal expenses made by the trekkers like drinks and other extra food, except for the ones mentioned in the package.
  • Tips are given to the guides, porters, drivers, or any other people.
  • The cost of emergency evacuation by helicopter,the  Airport Tax, and the customs clearance.
  • Extra stay in Kathmandu or even in the Tsum Valley itself.
  • Alternative transportation in case of heavy rain, landslides, strikes, road blockades, etc.

Dates & Availability

This is our outline itinerary and if it does not suits your requirement, please ask us to customize the trip. This is our small group eco-friendly group joining trekking.

Essential Information

Minimum you need to be 2 people to book this trip. However, if you are single please ask us for the group joining we are having a daily departure for Tsum Valley Trek. 

Group Size, guide, and crew member:

We organize Tsum Valley Trek for single people to a maximum of 16 people at once or even if you have more than 16 people then we can split the group into two or more groups (according to the number of trekkers) however you all can walk together and stay at the same guest house and there are only different guide, and there are 1 guide up to 10 people and 2 guides for 11-16 people and a porter for every 2 trekkers.

Trek as an Individual, Private Group or Join a Scheduled Trek:

Global Adventure Trekking specializes in organizing treks for individuals, couples, and small groups. You can trek by yourself as a private group on the date you select without paying extra, or you can choose to join a small group that is scheduled during your preferred time frame. We also now and then arrange groups on dates other than those shown on this schedule so feel free to contact us to inquire about other possible dates for group treks that you might be able to join.

Personal expenses on the trek:

The daily expenditure in Kathmandu will be about 5 USD per meal. However, it depends on you how much and where you eat. On the trek, your daily expenditure will be about 5-10 USD per day for souvenirs and drinks.

Tips are expected from your support team after the trek. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise you to allocate 10 - 15% of the total tour cost as tips to the staff. It depends on the services they deliver to you along the trek.

FAQs

The Tsum Valley Trek stands as one of the most scenic and culturally rich trekking routes sitting patiently in Nepal’s Manaslu region. The trail takes us through the remote Tsum valley, showcasing the Tibetan-influenced culture and stunning landscapes.

With Global Adventure Trekking, you will complete this adventurous trekking journey within 15 days, starting from arrival in Kathmandu to return to your country.

The best time for the Tsum Valley Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is generally clear and the trails are more accessible.

Yes, you will need both a Tsum Valley Permit and an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit to trek in this region. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu.

Yes, the Tsum Valley Trek is generally safe, but like any high-altitude trek, it's important to acclimatize properly and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness. Besides, the Global Adventure Trekking representatives make sure that every day of this trek offers you a next level of thrill, adventure, and insights.

Although the trail is well-marked, you cannot go for the Tsum Valley Trek without hiring a professional licensed guide. However, hiring or not hiring porters completely depends upon your decision. If you hire a porter, you can go for an easy trek without worrying about carrying heavy loads.

Accommodation on the Tsum Valley Trek mainly consists of tea houses (small lodges) offering basic facilities such as a bed, shared bathrooms, and local meals.

The food available along the trek includes Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), Tibetan bread, noodles, vegetarian dishes, and simple snacks like biscuits and fruits.

You should focus on cardiovascular fitness, endurance training, and hiking with a backpack. Acclimatizing to the altitude is crucial, so spending time in higher altitudes before the trek can help.

The Tsum Valley is home to the Tibetan Buddhist community. You’ll visit monasteries, chortens (Buddhist stupas), and experience local traditions such as the Mani walls (stone walls inscribed with mantras).

Some tea houses along the Tsum Valley Trek offer Wi-Fi, but the connection can be slow or unreliable. Be prepared for limited access and expect to pay a small fee for usage.

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