Tsum valley trek for Beginners
The Tsum Valley is situated in the Manaslu region near the Tibet border. The trek is easy to complete and it doesn't require years of experience on trekking. The trekking trail follows the Budhi Gandaki upstream in the north, passing by many villages and forests full of pine, rhododendron, and junipers. As the trail slowly ascends, the sub-tropical forests give way to alpine pastures and high mountain deserts. From Chhokangparo, you head north passing Milarepa Prien Phu Cave (the most sacred cave), and then Phurbe to reach the Nile. After spending a night at the Nile, you head further north and Mu Gompa, the northernmost point of the trek. After reaching Mu Gompa, Now it's time to return. While returning we take different routes from Phurbe towards the Ganesh Himal Base Camp at an elevation of 4,200 meters through Langdung. After that, you will head back to Lokpa and then to Jagat. After spending a night at Jagat the next day your trip will be finished after having a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The route is quite easy even though it goes up to an elevation of 4200 meters. People having normal physical fitness can complete the trek easily.
Trekking Guides for Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley trekking guide will help you to plan your trek which includes everything you need to know about the Tsum Valley trek. Tsum valley trek requires a guide who has a guide license. Without a trekking guide, it is not possible to do the Tsum Valley trek. Local guides are not nominated for the Tsum Valley trek as it requires a permit from MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit).
Therefore, only a guide holding a license is eligible for getting a permit to do a trek on Tsum Valley. The guide will plan the trip and he will take responsible for food and accommodation throughout the trek. He will give you all the information about the trekking trails and different remote villages across the trekking trails. You will be more comfortable, informative, and secure on all sides throughout the trek.
Porter and its requirement
Porters are the right choice for those who like to trek light and comfort and Porters are preferred by most trekkers. He will carry your gear and luggage throughout the trekking trail. We hire energetic, dedicated, and experienced porters for trekkers who can carry 10 to 20 kgs of luggage and bags in total. He will make sure that you have comfort throughout the trek and carry all the essential requirements that you will need during your trek.
Facilities on Tsum Valley Trek
Even though the trek is in the remote valley of the Manaslu region, you will get different types of facilities.
Electricity
Electricity is available throughout the entire trekking route. Electricity at lower altitudes is generated from the national grid and electricity at higher altitudes is generated from solar power. So that electricity at higher altitudes might be of low voltage. You might have to pay some extra money to charge your batteries. Therefore, it is recommended that you carry a power bank yourself to charge batteries.
Internet
Most of the teahouses along the path have access to the internet. However, you have to pay some extra fee to utilize it. To use the internet at lower altitudes you might not have to pay extra money. You can also buy a sim while in Kathmandu and can utilize a mobile network during the trek.
Drinking Water
Drinking water is available at the teahouses or hotels or lodges during the trek. Water is the most essential factor to keep yourself hydrated during the trek. You must drink 2 to 4 liters of water regularly during the trek. Various natural sources of water such as pond water or tap water are available during the trek. The water available from a pond or tap might not be safe for drinking so it is recommended you carry water purification tablets. You can also buy mineral water or hot water from the tea houses.
Tsum Valley Trek cost
The cost of the Tsum Valley trek might vary according to the group size of trekkers. If you are doing a solo trek it might be a little more costly. The cost for the Tsum Valley trek includes:
Tsum Valley Trek Permit Cost
Special permit fees from September to November: US$ 70 per person for a week or US$ 10 per person per day.
Special permit fees from December to August: US$ 50 per person for a week or US$ 7 per person per day.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit fees are US$ 30 per person.
Package Cost
Package includes Guide, Porter, Accommodation, permits, Food in the mountain, Transport as itinerary, Guide insurance, hotel in Kathmandu, Airports picks up and drop.
Group size 1 - US$ 1200 per person
Group size 2 to 6 - US$ 950 per person
Group size 7 to 10 - US$ 800 per person
Best Season for Tsum valley Trek
In Nepal, the Spring season and Autumn seasons are considered to be the best season for the Tsum Valley trek. However, the Tsum Valley trek can be done in the Winter season and the Summer seasons as well. Due to heavy rainfall in the summer season, the path might be slippery and snowfall in the winter season might invite some difficulties for the trekkers while trekking. Therefore, the season of summer and winter is avoided.
Spring Season
The Spring season starts in March and ends in May, considered to be the best season for trekking. The trekking can be done in late February and early June as well. The clear skies and perfect temperature in this season make the majestic view of mountains and landscapes amazing. The blooming rhododendron in the forest and thousands of vegetation and floras make the trek more beautiful and enjoyable.
Autumn Season
The Autumn Season is also the best season for trekking in Nepal which starts in September and ends in November. However, the trekking can be done in late August and early November as well. The perfect temperature and weather of the Autumn season make the mountain view crystal clear as well the trek will be more enjoyable. Moreover, The great festival of Nepal such as Dashain, Tihar, Chhat, and Indrajatra will give pikelets to your trekking. The trekking in the Autumn season gives the vibe of festive throughout the entire trekking route.
Trekkers Group size for Tsum Valley Trek
We Bold Himalaya offers different options for the Tsum Valley trek. You can do a solo trek or a group trek according to your wish. If you are planning to do a solo trek you will require a guide and it might be a little more costly. If you are planning to do a trek in a group then a group size of 2 to 6 people will require one guide, 7 to 12 people will require 2 guides and 13 to 18 people will require three guides.
The number of guides increases by 1 for a group of six people each.
Tsum Valley Trek Routes
The Tsum Valley is one of the most secluded valleys in the Manaslu region of Nepal. The trek routes start with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to starting point of the trek which is at Machha Khola, Gorkha. You will start trekking from Machha Khola to Jagat, and then to Lokpa, Chumling, Chhokangparo, Nile, and then Mu Gompa (the second highest point of the trek at 3,700 meters). Similarly, the trek goes toward Rachen Gumpa, Gumba Lungdang, and then Ganesh Himal Base Camp (the highest point of the trek at 4,200 meters). While heading back, you will travel through Gumba Lungdang, Lokpa, Jagat, and then Machha Khola where your trek ends. On this route, you will be trekking for Tsum Valley covering around 48.2 kilometers.
Arrival and Departure
On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, one of the representatives from our company will be there to pick you off. He will heartily welcome you and take you to the hotel for rest. He will explain in brief about the itinerary and the package designed for you.
On your departure after the trek, he will drop you off at the airport and give you a farewell with a token of love.
What will you Experience at Tsum Valley?
Tsum Valley Trek offers exposure to ancient Tibetan Buddhism, well-preserved monasteries, and a view of the Ganesh Mountain. At Tsum Valley, you will experience breathtaking mountains like Shringi, Bouddha Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and many more. You will experience Tibetan Buddhism, old and unique cultures and traditions, and the lifestyle of Tsum Valley.
Altitude Sickness and Their Safety
Trekkers are at risk of developing altitude sickness which may be harmful or even fatal if ignored. It is caused by ascending too rapidly which does not allow the body enough time to adjust to reduced oxygen and changes in the air pressure. The symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, or insomnia.
To prevent altitude sickness, ascend slowly by having enough rest, avoid cigarettes or alcohol, avoid climbing more than 300 to 500 meters per day, and make sure you are drinking enough water to keep yourself hydrated.
Food
Food is one of the most essential parts of traveling to the Tsum Valley. Foods and drinks that are rich in proteins, minerals, and carbohydrates give you strength while walking at the higher altitudes of Tsum Valley. Your body requires a tremendous amount of energy to walk uphill and downhill for a long time. You might have limited options on the menu at the teahouses. The menu includes:
For Breakfast
Tibetan bread, Corn flakes, Chapati, Oatmeal, French toast with jam, fried rice, pancakes, porridge with milk, fried or boiled eggs, honey, and peanut butter, muesli, vegetable items, and drinking options like hot tea and hot chocolate.
For Lunch
Dal, Bhat, Tarkari, Thukpa, Noodles, Spaghetti, Fruits, vegetable items, sherpa stew, chapati, bread, macaroni, momos (dumplings), pizza, burgers, spring rolls, steaks, potato items, rice and curry, and dessert items.
Dinner
Dal, Bhat, Tarkari, Chapati bread, macaroni, Korean Ramen, pizza, burgers, spring rolls, yak steak, rice with curry, momos (dumplings), sandwiches, meats, thukpa, spaghetti, and dessert items like rice pudding or apple pie.
Tea House and its facilities
Accommodation for the Tsum Valley trek is in the simple tea houses of the region. The room available in the tea houses usually come in double occupancy including beds, blankets, mattresses, pillows, and attached bathrooms. Attached bathrooms might not be available everywhere, but you will get a luxury toilet available in the tea houses. Single rooms are available and they will be provided for female solo travelers.
We will make sure and accommodate you to the best tea houses available with great views and scenarios during the trek.
Transportation
We use private cars for the pick-ups and drop off at the airport and for the sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley. To get to the starting point of the trek and reach Kathmandu Valley after trekking can use public vehicles. We do have an option for private vehicles as well but it depends on the interest of trekkers.
ATM, Exchange, and foreign currency
There are no facilities for ATMs or money exchange during the trek. Money exchange facilities are available in Kathmandu, you can get ATM facilities up to Arughat, Gorkha. After that, you will get no facilities for ATMs or money exchange. So, be sure you withdraw or carry enough money for your trek. At higher altitudes of Tsum Valley, people might not accept foreign currency, therefore be sure you carry enough Nepali rupees for your trek.
Tipping Culture for Trekking Crew Members
When you are trekking in Nepal, it is customary to tip your crew after an adventure. Tipping the crew members is like showing gratitude to the crew after getting good personal service. However, tipping is not universal, it depends on you either to tip or not. You may tip the guide or porters because they make sure you experience wild adventures and know about local cultures comfortably.
Tip for Guide
Throughout the trekking, the guide shows you famous places, making you fascinated with the tales of local lore and making you experience wild adventures. Guides are there to keep you safe and make sure you have the best possible experience during your trek. While tipping the guide, you can tip around US$ 15 to US$ 20 per day.
Tip for Porters
Porter carry your bag throughout the trek to make sure you are comfortable with your trek. Without porters, you might have difficulties while walking at the higher altitudes of the trek. Therefore, you might tip around US$ 10 per day to porters for carrying your luggage and making sure you have comfort while trekking.
Required Permits for Tsum Valley Trek
For trekking to Tsum Valley, you will require the following permit:
Documents required for permits
The documents required to get a permit for the Tsum Valley trek are mentioned below:
1 passport-size photo (for MCAP permit)
One scanned photograph (to be uploaded for Tsum Valley RAP's online form)
Photocopy of your passport (with at least six months validity)
Travel Insurance
Nepal tourist visa
Expandable Trips
We have the option to expand your trek with the Manaslu Circuit trek. The expanded trek to the Manaslu circuit changes the route from Chumling toward the Deng, Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaun, Samdo, and Larkya La Pass (the highest point of the trek at 5,106 meters). The trek offers a close view of Mt. Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.
For the expanded trips, you have to bear the expenses yourself. So, if you are interested to expand your trip while at the Tsum Valley trek be sure you carry enough money required for the trek.
Safety and Securities on Trek
Safety and Security is our top priority - Nothing is more important than the safety and satisfaction of our clients and our employees.
Trek to Tsum Valley is a guided trip and you will be accompanied by our experienced and license holder guide. He will carry all the essential equipment for first aid kits. We would like you to take some personal meditation or a day's rest during the trek. In the emergency case, if our clients have trouble with mountain sickness or any unexpected circumstances, we will send a rescue helicopter to bring back our clients to Kathmandu or lower places.
Necessary Items for Tsum Valley Trek
The following lists are the essential packing list for the Tsum Valley trek which can be easily available at our shop or in Kathmandu Valley.
Travel Documents
Travel Insurance
Passport and Nepal visa
Cash
Clothing
Sunglasses, brimmed hat, and neck warmer
Thermal tops or waterproof jackets
sports bra (for women) and insulated jacket
Gloves
Hiking pants or hiking trousers
Trekking socks and books
Trekking accessories and gears
duffel bag, 90L
Trekking poles
Sleeping bags
First Aid and medicines
Toiletries and personal hygiene
Miscellaneous items
Responsible Tourism on The Trek
Our experienced field staff or team strongly believes that we have a responsibility to act in favor of the local culture and environment. It is our duty not to do anything that harms nature or the beauty of the views. We would request you to respect local people, culture, traditions, and beliefs. Always ask or take permission from a guide before doing something in the locality. You are requested to express the positive influence of tourism in Nepal to the local people and also support keeping the environment clean by not throwing any kinds of waste materials unnecessarily.
Extension of Trips to other Regions
After the completion of the trek at Tsum Valley, you can have a tour of Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, or Lumbini as an extension. These tours are perfect to refreshen your body from a long day walk during the trek. You can have a body massage and relaxation at different touring areas of Nepal. You can do adventurous activities at Pokhara such as Paragliding, and Bungee jumping at Pokhara, relax in the wilderness of Chitwan national park, visit Lumbini for peace of body and mind, and rafting at Trishuli River.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for trekkers participating in the trek or tour programs in the mountains. Having travel insurance is like having personal security whom you can rely on and enjoy the trip without any worries. It is recommended that your travel insurance must cover things like helicopter rescue and medical evacuation expenses. It will assist you to cover personal expenses for injury, or any kind of injury during the trek. Having good travel insurance will guarantee you peace of mind while traveling and complete coverage if anything goes wrong during the trek.
Booking Process
Bold Himalaya is a local government-authorized and registered trekking or adventure trip operator in Nepal. We heartily welcome the interested adventurer or trekkers and design the best itinerary according to the client's interest. For the booking process, you need to deposit 10% of the full trip cost in advance of the prior time to make reservations such as hotels, guides, trekking permits, and transportation. The remaining payment can be made on your arrival in Kathmandu by cash or credit. Payment in cash would be much appreciated. We would like to request you to send all the required documents such as passport, travel insurance copies, and flight details at the time of booking.
Nepal Visa
If you are traveling to Nepal then you will require a visa to enter Nepal. You can apply for a visa to Nepal from the embassy of Nepal in your country or you can get a arrival visa on your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. You must enter within six months from the visa-issued date. Your total stay will be counted from the day you enter Nepal.
You will be charged around US$40 as visa application fees for 30 days for a tourist visa except for the people of India and China. If you are a citizen of India or China you don't require a visa to enter Nepal.