Tsum Valley Trek, located in the Manaslu region near the Tibetan border, is a remote and isolated destination of Nepal that exudes a distinct Tibetan Buddhist ambience, setting it apart from the surrounding countryside. This short Tsum Valley treks requires a good level of fitness, with walking days averaging 5 to 7 hours at altitudes over 3,000m.
Until 2008, the valley was restricted and relatively uncharted by hikers. However, the starting point is just a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu, making it an easily accessible option for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path. The Tsum Valley trek spans over 19 days and offers stunning views of towering mountain ranges, including Himalchuli (7,893m), Ganesh Himal (7,140m), Manaslu (8,163m), Churke Himal, and the Poshyop Glacier in Mansalu regions.
As trekkers navigate through lush pine forests, they will come across gushing rivers adorned with cascading waterfalls, awe-inspiring suspension bridges, charming villages, and several gompas, monasteries, mani walls, and stupas. The Tsum Valley trek's difficulty makes this adventure perfect for those fascinated by Tibetan culture and mesmerized by mountainous landscapes in Manaslu region.
One of the highlights of the Tsum trek is the chance to visit Mu Gompa Tsum Valley, which offers a unique opportunity to witness the Tibetan Buddhist way of life in their villages, meet with monks and nuns in their respective religious orders, and bask in the Magnificent views of the Himalayas in Manaslu region.
The Tsum Valley Trek is a standalone option or can be added to the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek for those with more time to spare. This Tsum Valley trekking experience is ideal for those seeking an adventure in a secluded and remote location while witnessing a unique Tibetan culture and breathtaking mountainous landscapes.
Upon your arrival, we warmly welcome you and provide you with a comfortable pick-up service. We will take care of your transfer to the hotel, ensuring that your journey is stress-free and enjoyable. Once you have settled in, we will provide you with a detailed briefing on the daily program, allowing you to make the most of your time with us. Your overnight stay at the hotel will be a relaxing and restful experience, providing you with the perfect start to your adventure.
Take a trip back in time as we take you on a sightseeing tour of some of the world's most exquisite heritage sites. From the intricate architecture of the Kathmandu Darbar Square to the serene beauty of the Swayambhunath Temple, every stop along the way will leave you in awe. Marvel at the grandeur of the Boudhanath Stupa and discover the spiritual significance of the Pashupatinath Temple. After a day filled with wonder and enlightenment, retire to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. Overnight, you will dream of the extraordinary experiences that await you on the rest of your journey to Tsum Valley.
After enjoying an early breakfast, we will start our trek to Tsum Valley towards Arughat and Soti Khola. Our travel route will take us westward along the Trishuli River's banks, following the Prithvi Highway from Kathmandu.
Upon reaching Dhading Besi after a few hours, we will proceed with our journey. As we progress, the bus will track the Budhi Gandaki river's flow, providing breathtaking views of the magnificent Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal en route. Then, we will reach Arughat Bazaar, a cosy settlement located on both sides of the Budhi Gandaki River and linked by a suspension bridge. The drive from Arughat to Soti Khola is roughly two hours, and we will encounter stunning landscapes around every corner.
After having breakfast, the Tsum Valley trek journey continues with a trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola. The trail is renowned for its beautiful waterfalls, the Sal Forest, and the breathtaking views of the Budhi Gandaki rapids. Along the way, you will pass through Khursane and Lapubesi, where you can interact with the locals and gain insights into their culture and lifestyle. After crossing the Nauli Khola, you will reach Machha Khola, a picturesque village by the Budhi Gandaki River, where you can spend the night at a tea house or lodge. The diverse landscapes and scenic views, combined with the opportunity to connect with the locals, make this trek a highlight of the trip. The peaceful surroundings of Machha Khola also provide the perfect setting for rest after a long day of trekking to Tsum Valley.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, the journey involves a trek from Machhi Khola to Jagat. The path takes you through several small villages where you can experience the local culture and traditions of the Nepalese people. You will pass through Tatopani, known for its hot springs, and the beautiful Dovan village nestled in the lap of nature. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Budhi Gandaki River, which you will cross several times. After a few hours of trekking, you will reach Jagat, a small village with a mix of Gurung and Tibetan communities. You can spend the night at a tea house or lodge and explore the village, which offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. This Tsum Valley trek section of the journey is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical activity.
You will start on a trek from Jagat to Lokpa after breakfast. The route takes you through lush green forests and along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing it several times on suspension bridges. You will also pass through several quaint villages, including Philim, a charming village with traditional stone houses and a Buddhist monastery. The trail then leads to the village of Lokpa, where you will be greeted by breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. You can spend the night in a tea house or lodge and enjoy the serene surroundings before continuing your journey the next day. This section of the trek provides a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and experience the local culture and hospitality.
As the journey to Tsum Valley unfolds, you will trek from Lokpa to Chumling, ascending to an altitude of 2386 meters. The route passes through serene forests and valleys, providing an immersive experience with nature. You will cross the beautiful Siyar Khola and be surrounded by stunning views of the Himalayas. Chumling is a small and quaint village inhabited by the Lama and Gurung communities, with a vibrant local culture and traditions. You can interact with the locals, learn about their way of life, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. This section of the journey of Manaslu region offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
On your journey of Tsum Valley trek, you will trek from Chumling to Chhekampar, which lies at an elevation of 3031 meters. The trek will take you through the beautiful and remote valley of Tsum, which is home to a mix of Tibetan and Gurung communities. You will pass through quaint villages, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes, offering a glimpse into the unique local culture and traditions.
The trail will take you through green forests, lush meadows, and along the banks of the Siyar Khola River. You will cross several suspension bridges, including the famous 100-meter-long bridge over the Siyar Khola, which is a thrilling experience. As you ascend towards Chhekampar, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli.
Upon arrival at Chhekampar, you can explore the village and interact with the locals, who are known for their hospitality and warmth. You can spend the night at a teahouse or lodge and rest.
The Tsum Valley trekking journey continues with a trek from Chhekampar to Nile, which takes you through picturesque mountain trails and lush vegetation. As you make your way through the serene landscape, you will pass through quaint villages, including the peaceful settlement of Nile. Here, you will have the chance to observe the unique way of life and culture of the local people. With stunning mountain views as your backdrop, you can take in the natural beauty of the area and reflect on the adventure so far.
After an early breakfast, you will travel from Nile to Mugompa along a trail that provides magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and hills. The journey will take you through a steep ascent to reach Mugompa, a remote village perched atop a hill. You will pass through several small settlements and cross over the Siyar Khola River before reaching Mugompa. The village is known for its monastery, which houses ancient Tibetan Buddhist scriptures and artefacts. You can spend the night in a tea house or lodge and explore the village, which offers a unique insight into Tibetan culture and way of life.
On this rest day of the Tsum Valley trek, you will have a well-deserved rest day in Mu Gompa, located at an altitude of 3700m. This will be an opportunity for you to take a break from the physical demands of the trek and acclimatize to the higher altitude. You can spend the day exploring the picturesque village, which is known for its ancient Buddhist monastery, where you can witness the daily life of the monks and learn about their practices and traditions. The village also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. You can also take part in meditation sessions, interact with the locals, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful ambience of the village. This rest day is essential for your overall health and well-being and will prepare you for the challenges that lie ahead on the journey of Manaslu region.
The next destination on the Tsum trek is Rachhen Gompa, which lies at an altitude of 3240m, following a day of rest in Mu Gompa. The route offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lush green forests. While trekking, you will witness the transport of goods by yak caravans, which is a unique experience in itself. During your journey, you will pass through quaint villages and monasteries that offer an opportunity to witness the culture and lifestyle of the locals. Upon reaching Rachhen Gompa, you can explore the monastery and interact with the monks, immersing yourself in their spiritual and religious practices. This leg of the journey is an ideal blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion, providing a memorable experience for all adventure seekers.
The route from Rachhen Gompa to Gumba Lundang, situated at an elevation of 3200m, winds through a stunning landscape of snow-capped mountains and verdant forests. Along the way, you will witness yak caravans transporting goods to remote villages and pass by small settlements and monasteries, affording glimpses into the customs and way of life of the locals. At Gumba Lundang, take the time to explore the monastery and engage with the resident monks, who can offer valuable insights into their religious practices. This trek offers the perfect combination of natural splendor and cultural immersion, making it an ideal choice for adventure seekers seeking a truly memorable experience.
After exploring Gumba Lundang and interacting with the resident monks, the journey to Tsum Valley continues towards the Ganesh Himal base camp. The route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and dense forests. The trek to base camp is a challenging yet rewarding experience, as you push your physical limits and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Himalayas. Once at the base camp, you can marvel at the majestic Ganesh Himal and the stunning glaciers that surround it. After taking in the sights and sounds of the base camp, you will retrace your steps back to Gumba Landing, where you can unwind and reflect on the journey over a warm cup of tea.
Trekking from Gumba Lungdang to Lokpa involves descending through the beautiful landscapes that you earlier traversed on your ascent. You will get to witness the stunning views of the mountains and forests one last time before bidding farewell to this picturesque region. As you descend, you will also come across small settlements and monasteries, offering a final glimpse into the local culture and way of life. Upon reaching Lokpa, you can take a well-deserved rest and spend time exploring the village and interacting with the friendly locals, who will be happy to share their stories and experiences with you in Tsum Valley trek.
As theTsum trek comes to an end, it's time to make your way back down to Jagat, where the Budhi Gandaki River awaits. The descent offers a few fleeting views of the magnificent mountains as you traverse through lush forests and undulating terrain, making for a leisurely and comfortable walk down. Along the way, you will cross several suspension bridges and pass through the charming village of Sirdibas before reaching Jagat, marking the end of your journey of Tsum Valley trek.
The trek from Jagat to Machha Khola takes you through diverse landscapes with a mix of ups and downs. You will come across several small settlements and cross numerous suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. As you descend towards Machha Khola, you will notice the temperature getting warmer, and the terrain becoming more rugged.
Leaving Maccha Khola behind, the route to Soti Khola begins with a gentle ascent through lush forests and picturesque countryside. The terrain becomes more challenging as you approach Soti Khola, with steep ascents and descents. Finally, you will arrive at Soti Khola, a small village located on the banks of the river, where you can relax and rest for the next day's return to Kathmandu.
After leaving Sothi Khola, you will hike through small villages and farmland to see rural Nepali life. The path gradually descends to the main road, where you will take a bus to Kathmandu. Along the way, you will see amazing countryside views before arriving in the busy city. This is the end of your Tsum Valley trek, but you will never forget the natural beauty, culture, and physical challenge you experienced.
A Tsum Valley trekking route in the Gorkha district of Nepal.
Yes, a Restricted Area Permit and TIMS card are required for Tsum Valley trek.
For Tsum Valley trekUSD 40 per person per week during peak season, USD 30 off-season.
September to November and March to May is the best time for Tsum Valley trek.
Tsum Valley trek is moderately difficult.
Typically, 14–21 days taks for Tsum Valley trek.
Mu Gompa at 3,700 meters is the higest elevation for Tsum Valley trek.
Tea houses and lodges are available during the Tsum Valley trek.
A registered guide is required for Tsum Valley trek.
Yes, with proper preparation and precautions makes Tsum Valley trek safe.
To reach the starting point of the Tsum Valley Trek, one must first travel to the town of Arughat in Gorkha district, which is about 140 km away from Kathmandu. From there, one can take a jeep or a bus to Soti Khola. Alternatively, a private jeep can also be arranged. It takes about 7-8 hours to reach Soti Khola from Kathmandu. From Soti Khola, the trek to the Tsum Valley begins.
Tsum Valley Trekking is a unique and special trekking destination located in the northern part of the Gorkha district of Nepal. This restricted area trek requires a Tsum Valley Trek permit to be obtained before the start of the trek, which can be obtained through a registered trekking agency or guide. The Tsum Valley is known for its ancient Buddhist monasteries and remote villages, making it an attractive destination for trekking enthusiasts.
To apply for a Tsum Valley trekking permit, you need to go through a registered trekking agency in Nepal or a registered guide. The agency or guide will help you with the application process for the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. In addition, you will also need to obtain a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card, which is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal.
The Tsum Valley trek cost is determined by the duration of the trek and the season in which you plan to go trekking. During the peak trekking season from September to November, the permit cost is generally higher compared to the off-season from December to August. In 2023, the permit cost for Tsum Valley Trek will be USD 40 per person per week during the peak season and USD 30 per person per week during the off-season. Additionally, an extra charge of USD 10 per person per day is imposed for each day beyond the specified time limit.
It is essential to keep in mind that only a limited number of permits are issued every year for the Tsum Valley Trek, so planning your trek in advance is recommended. A registered trekking agency can help you obtain the necessary permits and ensure a hassle-free trekking experience.
Upon starting on the Manaslu Circuit trek, it is imperative that you arrive in Kathmandu at least two days before the trek's departure date. It is of utmost importance that the second day after your arrival is a weekday. This is because we require one full weekday to obtain the restricted area permit that is essential for your trek to Tsum Valley. To acquire this permit, we will need your passport, complete with a valid Nepal visa.
In the unlikely event that you missed the online trip briefing, arriving two days early will also provide us with ample time to conduct an in-person trip briefing. On the day of the trek departure, we will transport you to Sotikhola via Arughat to commence the start of your Tsum Valley trek.
If you are planning to trek the Tsum Valley, you will need to consider your accommodation options along the way. The route has a limited number of tea houses, so you will need to plan your trekking days carefully to ensure that you have a place to stay each night.
Most tea houses along the route are basic and offer simple accommodations, such as shared dormitories and communal bathrooms. However, some tea houses do offer private rooms with attached bathrooms, so it is worth asking for these if you prefer more privacy.
The cost of accommodation varies depending on the tea house and the level of comfort you are looking for.
During the peak trekking season from September to November, it is recommended to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. However, during the off-season from December to August, you may be able to find a room on the same day without a reservation.
During the Tsum Valley trek, you will have the opportunity to taste the traditional food of the region. The food options available during the trek will mostly consist of local Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), momos (steamed dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup). These dishes are rich in carbohydrates and are perfect for providing you with the energy you need to complete the trek to Tsum Valley.
Most of the teahouses and lodges where you will be staying during the trek will have a communal dining area where you can enjoy your meals with other trekkers. It is also possible to request vegetarian or non-vegetarian meals according to your preferences.
It is recommended to carry some snacks like energy bars, chocolates, and nuts to keep your energy levels up throughout the Tsum Valley trek. Make sure to also carry enough water with you, as it is important to stay hydrated during the trek.
The best time for the Tsum Valley trek is during the spring season (March to May) and the autumn season (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is clear, and the skies are usually blue, making it easier to enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding landscapes. Moreover, the temperatures are moderate, and the chances of rain and snow are relatively low. However, it is important to note that the spring season can be quite busy with tourists, while the autumn season is generally considered to be the best time for the trek due to its favourable weather conditions and stunning views.
The Tsum Valley Trek is a moderately challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and stamina. The Tsum Valley trek involves long and steep ascents and descents, often on rugged and rocky terrain. Therefore, it is recommended that trekkers have some prior trekking experience and be in good physical condition.
It is also important to take proper precautions for your medical and health conditions. It is advisable to consult your doctor and get a thorough medical check-up before embarking on the trek. Trekkers with pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart problems should inform their guide and take the necessary precautions.
As the trek involves high altitude, trekkers may experience altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness (AMS). Symptoms of AMS include headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping. It is recommended to acclimatize properly by gradually ascending to higher altitudes and staying hydrated. If the symptoms persist, it may be necessary to descend to a lower altitude or seek medical assistance.
Overall, with proper preparation and caution, the Tsum Valley Trek can be a safe and enjoyable adventure for trekkers with a good level of fitness and no serious medical conditions.
It is always recommended to trek on Tsum Valley with a guide or porter for safety reasons and to make the most of your trekking experience.
If you choose to trek with a group, you can either join a pre-organized group or form your group with friends or other fellow trekkers. Joining a pre-organized group can be a good option if you are travelling alone or if you want to meet new people during your trek. However, forming your group can give you more flexibility in terms of itinerary and pace.
If you choose to trek solo, you will have to make all the arrangements yourself, such as obtaining the necessary permits, hiring a guide or porter, and arranging accommodation and food. It is important to be well-prepared and to have experience in solo trekking before embarking on the Tsum Valley Trek, as it is a remote and challenging trek.
In some villages along the trekking route, there may be limited access to Wi-Fi or internet cafes, so it is best not to rely on these for communication. Instead, it is a good idea to inform your family and friends of your itinerary beforehand and set up a plan for regular check-ins with your trekking group or guide.
During the Tsum Valley trek, your guide will also be able to help with communication, as they will have local knowledge and language skills. It is important to listen to their advice and follow their instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
A valid passport and visa are required for all foreign nationals visiting Nepal, including those who are planning to trek in Tsum Valley. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Nepal.
Visas can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or various entry points if you are entering Nepal overland. Tourist visas are issued for 15, 30, and 90 days, and the cost varies depending on the length of your stay.
You can also apply for a Nepal visa at your nearest Nepalese embassy or consulate before your arrival. It is recommended to check the latest visa requirements and fees with the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country before travelling to Nepal.
Response Time 3 Hours , Response Rate 100%
Enjoy the popular trekking and tour packages in Nepal Himalayas. 2025.
© 2001 - 2025 All rights reserved. Magnificent Himalayan Treks