Tsum Valley Trek
Detailed Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft)
1,400m/4,593ft
3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Breakfast the next morning
Day Highlights:
- Nepal’s traditional Khada welcoming ceremony
- Transfer to a standard hotel in the Thamel area
- Trek briefing by an experienced guide
- Gear check and permit confirmation
- Walk around the colorful Thamel area of Kathmandu
Namaste and welcome to Nepal, the country of the enormous Himalayas and ancient cultures! Our Bold Himalaya guides will welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport with a white ceremonial shawl, or Khada, wishing you good fortune on your future Tsum Valley trek.
Following a scenic drive to your 3-star hotel in the heart of Kathmandu’s Thamel, you will meet your experienced trekking guide to learn about the Tsum Valley Trek. This sacred “Valley of Happiness” was previously closed to outsiders until 2008 and has maintained its complete Tibetan Buddhist culture for centuries.
Your guide will walk through the entire schedule, check your trekking permits (Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and ACAP), and make sure that all gear is tidily packed. Evenings are free to stroll around Thamel’s lively streets, experience good Nepali cuisine, or rest to get over jet lag before beginning your Himalayan adventure.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (Distance: 140km) (1,345m/4,413ft)
1,345m/4,413ft
Tea house lodge in Jagat
Full Board Meals
6-7 hours
Day Highlights:
- Panoramic drive through hill villages and terraces
- Cross the picturesque Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers
- Nepali countryside rural life
- Straight road to the trek starting point
- First experience in a mountain lodge
Your trek to Tsum Valley starts well on the right note with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Jagat village. New road development has caused cars to go as far as Jagat, the officially declared entry point of the restricted Manaslu Conservation Area, saving time for the trek.
The journey through Nepal’s picturesque countryside along the Prithvi Highway is a feast with stunning views of rice, millet, and vegetable farms on hilly sloping terrains cultivated by farmers employing centuries-old traditional methods. Hillside terraced fields are ubiquitous when you’re driving through towns such as Dhading Besi and Arughat.
On reaching Jagat (“customs post” in Nepali), complete your permit registration at the check post. Your initial tea house lodge is simple but clean rooms with shared toilets, a true test of mountain hospitality. The noise of the rumbling Budhi Gandaki River is pleasant background music for your overnight stay in the mountains.
Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (Distance: 8km) (2,240m/7,349ft)
2,240m/7,349ft
Tea house lodge at Lokpa
Full Board Meals
6-7 hours
Day Highlights:
- Welcome to the sacred Tsum Valley region
- Cross Valley Intersection at Philim village
- Initial view of the Himalchuli and Manaslu mountains
- Enjoy the sacred “No Killing Zone”
- Begin initiation into the Tibetan Buddhist society
Your arrival today in the holy Tsum Valley, also referred to in Tibetan as “Kyimo Lung” or “Valley of Bliss.” The hike starts with the hiking trail tracing the footpath along the Budhi Gandaki River north, along turning gorges and rocky ridges blanketed with rhododendron jungles.
At the T-junction with roads leading off to the busy Manaslu Circuit and less frequented Tsum Valley in the village of Philim, go right, cross a rickety suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, and enter officially this ancient Tibetan-in-flavor valley that has been Tibetan in feel for over 1,000 years.
Welcome to Lokpa village as the initial village of the sacred “No Killing Zone” where animals have been prohibited from being killed for centuries, a signature of successful Buddhist tradition. You are blessed with your first stunning mountain view, like royal Himalchuli (7,893m) and distant Manaslu (8,163m) looming above the valley like vigilant sentinels.
Day 4: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (Distance: 6km) (2,386m/7,828ft)
2,386m/7,828ft
Tea house lodge at Chumling
Full Board Meals
5-6 hours
Day Highlights:
- Trek through virgin pine and rhododendron forests
- Night stay at a typical Tibetan village
- Visit three ancient Buddhist monasteries
- Wade through ancient prayer ceremonies
- Enjoy panoramic Ganesh Himal range views
The trek from Lokpa to Chumling takes one further into the untouched wilderness of Tsum Valley, first descending into the Lungwa River valley and climbing through breathtaking forests. The months of spring (March-May) see weathered rhododendron trees bursting into mere works of art with a kaleidoscope of red, pink, and white flowers creating color galleries of nature.
Chumling village, the “Lower Tsum,” is your first experience of complete culture immersion in authentic Tibetan Buddhist civilization. The sacred village with three holiest monasteries, Panago Gompa, Gurwa Gompa, and Mani Dhungyur, each repository of Buddhist relics and centuries-old religious paintings.
Half-day trek of the upper part of Chumling for breathtaking views of the colossal Ganesh Himal range (7,422m). Postcard image of old flat-roofed stone houses against colored prayer flags in front of snow peaks. Experience genuine Tsumba hospitality with traditional butter tea and genuine local food cooked by traditional recipes.
Day 5: Trek from Chumling to Chhokangparo (Distance: 7km) (3,031m/9,944ft)
3,031m/9,944ft
Tea house lodge at Chhokangparo
Full Board Meals
5-6 hours
Day Highlights:
- Enter the upper Tsum Valley, a high Himalayan region
- Cross ancient stone bridges and mani walls
- Experience traditional Tibetan architecture
- Witness high-altitude farming practices
- Gradual acclimatization to higher elevations
Your journey to find more of Tsum Valley begins as you step into the completely authentic high Himalayas, where Tibetan culture has not been touched by any sort of modernization. The trek route goes through the virgin Syar River valley and goes through a scenic Domje village with a traditional Tibetan medical center, where the old school retro healing rituals are still being practiced to date.
The road threads through fields of barley stacked in tiered ranks and over numerous old stone bridges littered with colored prayer flags fluttering softly in mountain wind. Hundreds and hundreds of mani walls – massive stone walls inscribed with Buddhist mantras hundreds and hundreds of meters long on the road, one stone left as an offering to all sentient beings.
Chhokangparo village consists of two villages, Paro and Chhokang, on a flat plain beneath overhanging rock faces. Charming, nicely painted traditional Tibetan houses consist of flat-roofed stone and richly carved wooden houses, and richly painted entrance doors. Nice climatic conditions provide majestic scenery views of Himalchuli (7,893m) and Ganesh Himal (7,422m) peaks.
Day 6: Trek from Chhokangparo to Nile (Distance: 5km) (3,347m/10,980ft)
3,347m/10,980ft
Tea House Lodge at Nile
Full Board Meals
4-5 hours
Day Highlights:
- Visit the sacred Milarepa Piren Phu Cave
- Explore Tibet’s most revered meditation site
- Experience profound spiritual energy
- Reach the northernmost inhabited village
- Witness traditional yak herding culture
Hike today incorporates moderately strenuous trekking and deep spiritual concentration as you trek to Milarepa’s Cave (Piren Phu), Tibet’s holiest meditation place. Milarepa, the 11th-century religious ascetic, meditated in the cave on the cliff and was enlightened and composed many of Tibet’s sacred songs sung today.
The monastery cave overhangs cliffside rock formations in two lone gompas, taped to the cavelike natural structures. Inside, discover dark-hued Buddhist art, mandalas carved into stone, written on stone walls centuries past, and dozens of pilgrims’ consecrated prayer flags. Peace and spiritual insight are what most visitors to this sacred site experience.
Continuing to Nile village, you reach the highest human habitation in the upper Tsum Valley. The remote village lies on the west, sunward slopes with broad views over neighboring peaks. Local villagers maintain traditional yak herding culture and have maintained old Tibetan traditions nearly in their original state for over 1,000 years.
Day 7: Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa (Distance: 4km) (3,700m/12,139ft)
3,700m/12,139ft
Monastery guesthouse at Mu Gompa
Full Board Meals
3-4 hours
Day Highlights:
- Reach the highest monastery in Tsum Valley
- Visit the northernmost gompa in Nepal
- Experience authentic monastery life
- Explore the ancient Dephyudonma gompa
- Participate in traditional Buddhist ceremonies
A relatively short but spiritually challenging trek brings you to Mu Gompa, the highest and most northern of all monasteries in Tsum Valley. The trek traverses alpine yak grazing slopes typical of the Trans-Himalayan landscape, high-altitude open scrub, and harsh mountain terrain to the border of Tibet.
Mu Gompa monastery occupies the forbidden Tibet’s edge in self-appreciation, with unimaginably beautiful panoramic scenery of mountains curving around and stunning scenery to the north. Multicolored chorten (Buddhist stupa) rows densely clustered stand around the monastery complex, with ancient Buddhist relics, valued scriptures, and sanctified paintings created by master hands centuries back inside.
Close to Mu Gompa lies the ancient Dephyudonma monastery, the valley’s earliest Buddhist monastery and one closely associated with the arrival of Buddhism in the valley. Spend an evening in real monastery life and view interesting evening prayer ceremonies. Absorb in the fervent religious atmosphere of this sacred site.
Day 8: Trek from Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa (Distance: 8km) (3,240m/10,630ft)
3,240m/10,630ft
Monastery guesthouse at Rachen Gompa
Full Board Meals
4-5 hours
Day Highlights:
- Visit Nepal’s most famous nunnery
- Meet dedicated Buddhist nuns
- Admire 1000 clay statues of Avalokiteshvara
- Experience traditional nunnery life
- Participate in evening prayer ceremonies
Your trek continues to Rachen Gompa, Nepal’s largest and most prestigious nunnery, which grants Buddhist nuns of the Ngakpa tradition. The trek is downhill through the tunning Shiar Khola valley, the smaller settlement of Phurba to reach this stunning spiritual retreat in the heart of the valley.
Rachen Gompa houses about 1,000 beautifully carved images of Avalokiteshwara, the Buddhist Lord of Compassion, which constitute a climactic spiritual procession that touches the heart of all who witness it. These beautifully carved forms, molded by centuries of master craftsmen’s hands, are one of the most beautiful collections of Himalayan Buddhist sculpture.
The nuns residing here are famous for preserving traditional Buddhist rituals and welcoming guests with hospitality. You will be privileged to witness them going about their daily lives, participating in the evening prayer, and learning about these committed practitioners from Buddhist teachings on these earnestly devoted practitioners, who have made this remote mountain hermitage their sacred pilgrimage.
Day 9: Trek from Rachen Gompa to Gumba Lungdang (Distance: 10km) (3,200m/10,499ft)
3,200m/10,499ft
Monastery guesthouse at Gumba Lungdang
Full Board Meals
5-6 hours
Day Highlights:
- Trek through pristine mountain wilderness
- Experience Nepal’s most remote monastery
- Meet dedicated mountain nuns
- Witness breathtaking 360-degree mountain views
- Participate in traditional evening ceremonies
The climb of Gumba Lungdang is just the most breathtaking and spiritually fulfilling section of the entire trek of Tsum Valley. The trail goes downhill first to the famous Chhokangparo and then diverges to this breathtakingly isolated mountain monastery deep in the remoteness of untouched wilderness.
Your path makes its way along extensive stretches of silver giant pine and rhododendron forests, traversing wooden bridges and along ancient pilgrim tracks marked by prayer flags and extensive mani walls. After around an hour or two of trek in progressively wilder surroundings, arrive at a signpost climbing trail that winds its way between a humongous forest of pine.
Gumba Lungdang monastery is fortunate to sit atop a 3,200-meter ridge with spectacular 360-degree views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and many other Himalayan peaks. This very tiny but very vibrant monastery is inhabited by some 40 very committed nuns who maintain traditional Buddhist ritual in one of the remotest regions of Nepal. Their very fascinating 6:00-7:30 PM puja evening ceremonies are truly not-to-be-forgotten spiritual events.
Day 10: Trek from Gumba Lungdang to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (Distance: 8km) (4,200m/13,779ft)
4,200m/13,779ft
Return to Gumba Lungdang
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6-7 hours
Day Highlights:
- Reach trek’s highest point at 4,200 meters
- Experience dramatic high-altitude wilderness
- Spectacular close-up views of Ganesh Himal
- Cross-challenging glacial moraine terrain
- Ultimate achievement of the Tsum Valley Trek
It’s the toughest but greatest day of your entire trek in Tsum Valley as you climb to Ganesh Himal base camp, altitude 4,200 meters – the highest point of the trek. The trek is getting tougher and less used as you cross beyond the monastery and trek into virgin wilderness that few people get to experience.
The longer walk passes via two small valleys and trudges on wet trails through dense forests before climbing becomes extremely hard when you ascend to the upper reaches. Cross the Laudang Khola by a wooden bridge and steep ascent up through dense pine and rhododendron forests to a ridge surmounted by stone houses and massive boulders.
The final stretch to base camp is over the lateral moraine of Torogumba Glacier with breathtaking vistas of ice walls and high-altitude terrain. Congratulations at Ganesh Himal Base Camp for reaching this far and enjoy the great close-up views of massive Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Shringi Himal (7,161m), and the surrounding mountains. Head back to Gumba Lungdang for a well-deserved rest after having the thrill of a lifetime in the mountains.
Day 11: Trek from Gumba Lungdang to Chumling (Distance: 12km) (2,386m/7,828ft)
2,386m/7,828ft
Tea house lodge at Chumling
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6-7 hours
Day Highlights:
- Begin descent through diverse ecological zones
- Experience changing landscapes and climates
- Revisit monasteries with a deeper appreciation
- Witness daily life in Tibetan communities
- Celebrate successful Upper Valley completion
You begin your journey back home today once more through the Tsum Valley with the opportunity of experiencing your favorite sights in a completely different manner after having your physical and spiritual position at the summits of the valley. The extended downhill ride from Gumba Lungdang follows diverse landscapes and a mix of climatic zones.
The road then descends through beautiful pine woodlands before finally finding more flat ground with stunning views of the mountains. Descending in a rolling slope, look at the change from the alpine flowers above to the thick rhododendron woods, as the air is filled and more available to breathe.
Arrive at the famous Chumling village and tour the three sacred monasteries – Panago Gompa, Gurwa Gompa, and Mani Dhungyur – with a better knowledge of the Buddhist culture one sees during the trek in the valley. Locals and monks receive trekkers back occasionally, and the celebrations become more important after your enriching experience in the higher valley.
Day 12: Trek from Chumling to Lokpa (Distance: 6km) (2,240m/7,349ft)
2,240m/7,349ft
Tea house lodge at Lokpa
Full Board Meals
4-5 hours
Day Highlights:
- Final day in the sacred Tsum Valley
- Retrace steps through pristine forests
- Reflect on spiritual journey experiences
- Appreciate the “No Killing Zone” philosophy
- Prepare for departure from Hidden Valley
Your final day in Holy Tsum Valley provides perfect moments for reflection on clearly demarcated trails from Chumling to Lokpa through breathtaking rhododendron, pine, and juniper groves. This will leave you with priceless final moments to imbibe untainted original beauty and reflect on the significant cultural and spiritual achievements you have made.
The pleasant downhill stroll is far from navel-gazing photo time, thinking time, and simply relishing the peaceful atmosphere of this holy valley where Tibetan Buddhist life has been unchanging and intact for more than 1,000 years. Consider the self-indulgence you’ve treated yourself to by visiting one of the few remaining intact Tibetan Buddhist cultures in their native mountain home.
Your two-week journey in the Tsum Valley starts unrecognizably from this morning to this village, your base in saying goodbye to this sacred “No Killing Zone.” The village’s strategic location at the valley mouth sets the final glimpse of peaceful mountain scenery that has been ever-present with you in this memorable trek. Relax on your last night in comfort with your trekking team and fellow travelers.
Day 13: Trek from Lokpa to Jagat (Distance: 13km) (1,345m/4,413ft)
1,345m/4,413ft
Basic lodge in Jagat
Full Board Meals
4-5 hours
Day Highlights:
- Final morning in Tsum Valley
- Descend back to the main trail
- Complete trek at Jagat
- Last mountain lodge experience
Your last morning in the beautiful Tsum Valley starts early. After breakfast, you’ll begin the descent from Lokpa back down to where the valleys meet at Philim. From here, you follow the main Budhi Gandaki River trail that you took on the way up.
The walk goes through villages and countryside familiar to you, but now you appreciate them differently, having been in the sacred valley. You will arrive at Jagat in the afternoon and complete the exit formalities at the checkpost.
You will stay overnight in a simple mountain lodge at Jagat – your last night in the mountains before returning to city life.
Day 14: Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu
3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6-7 hours
Day Highlights:
- Scenic mountain drive
- Return to Kathmandu
- Hot showers and comfort
- Celebration dinner with cultural show
You will start the lengthy drive back to Kathmandu after breakfast. The drive is over winding mountain roads with villages and picturesque terraced fields along the way.
It is a great chance to unwind and think about your amazing trekking experience in one of Nepal’s most isolated valleys. The trek gives you plenty of time to absorb all the wonderful things that have happened over the past two weeks.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you unwind in your hot shower and comfortable hotel room to relax. There is a special dinner at night, accompanied by a show of Nepali traditional music and dance – a good way to mark the culmination of your Tsum Valley adventure.
Day 15: Final Departure from Kathmandu
Day Highlights:
- Final breakfast in Nepal
- Last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel
- Airport transfer assistance
- Departure with lifetime memories
- Planning your next Himalayan adventure
Your incredible Tsum Valley Trek adventure concludes as our Bold Himalaya representative assists with your airport transfer for international departure. If time allows before your flight, enjoy final opportunities for souvenir shopping in Thamel’s colorful markets or simply relax while processing the profound experiences from your journey.
If you are not quite yet prepared to say goodbye to Nepal’s mystique, reserve extensions of Chitwan wildlife treks, white-water rafting trips, or tours of other excellent trekking regions. Bold Himalaya will be pleased to arrange your next Nepali travel adventure when you are ready to return to the top of the world.
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Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- Private Tourist Vehicles
- Three-star category hotel in the city(Kathmandu) in twin sharing bed with breakfast basis & standard trekking lodge in Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit Trek route.
- Full meals during trekking as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with tea or coffee ).
- First-aid medicine items.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Trekking permit, Restricted Area Permit & TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System).
- Experienced, licensed trekking guides up to five trekkers in the group including their salary, accommodation, meals, and their insurance.
- One assistance guide if trekkers are more than five in the group including their salary, accommodation, meals, transportation, and insurance.
- One porter to carry your luggage (for two guests one porter to carry baggage) including their salary, accommodation, meals, transportation, and insurance.
- Some necessary types of equipment sleeping bag and down jacket (if you need one, return after the trek).
- One special cultural show and farewell dinner program.
- Duffle Bag to use in trekking, T-shirt, and Trip certificate (after trip completion).
- Our government/Local taxes and official expenses
- Extra Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu.
- Desserts & any types of drinks during the trip.
- Kathmandu city tour entrance fee.
- Your international air ticket & travel insurance.
- Tips for the trekking crew members
Detailed Map of Tsum Valley Trek
Altitude Chart of Tsum Valley Trek
Good to Know
Things to Remember
Accommodation and Food Facilities
Clean basic accommodation by Tsum Valley tea houses is best suited for mountain trekking. Basic twin rooms sharing with rudimentary bathroom facilities and no fire are what one can expect. There may be a single large dining hall for each tea house with a fire where the trekkers sit and warm themselves. The fare is simple but wholesome with plain dal bhat (lentils and rice), Tibetan fare such as momos and thukpa, and plain international fare. Water must be filtered or treated with tablets, and showers are an additional fee at some lodges.
Trek Difficulty and Fitness Level
The Tsum Valley Trek is rated moderate to demanding due to high altitude (up to 4,200m), long trekking days (5-7 hours), and remote location with basic facilities. Basic cardiovascular fitness is required, with normal hiking or gym exercise for 2-3 months before the departure date. Technical climbing skills are not required, but the trekkers must be okay with walking on undependable paths, suspension bridges crossing, and fluctuation of altitudes.
Permits and Documents Required
All trekkers need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit ($100 for first 7 days, $15 per additional day), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ($30), and TIMS card ($20). These permits require a minimum of 2 trekkers and a licensed guide. Bold Himalaya handles all permit arrangements with your passport copy and photos.
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:
Package Cost:
Package includes Guide, Porter, Accommodation, permits, Food in the mountain, Transport as per itinerary, Guide insurance, hotel in Kathmandu, Airports picks up and drop off.
- 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
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.
Packing List 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,a brimmed hat, and a 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 Medicine
- Antibiotics and painkillers
- Bandages
- Water bottles and backpacks
Toiletries and personal hygiene
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorants and dry shampoo
- Toilet paper
Miscellaneous items
- Contact lenses or power glasses
- Power bank or universal adapters
- Camera
Altitude Sickness Prevention
Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 2,500m. Prevent it by ascending gradually, drinking 3-4 liters of water daily, avoiding alcohol, eating light meals, and taking rest days. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen or include vomiting, confusion, or difficulty breathing.
Internet & Communication Facilities
Limited mobile network coverage is available in major villages like Chumling and Chhokangparo. WiFi is available at some tea houses for $2-5 per day, but the connection is slow and unreliable. Satellite phones are carried by guides for emergencies. Most trekkers find it refreshing to disconnect from technology and enjoy the peaceful mountain environment.
Money & Banking Facilities
ATMs and banks are not available in Tsum Valley. Carry sufficient Nepali rupee cash in small denominations to cover all expenses like food, extra expenses at the lodges, tipping, and gifts. US dollars can be exchanged in Kathmandu before the trek. Spend $15-20 a day on extras over package expense.
Training & Preparation Guidelines
Start physical conditioning 2-3 months before leaving, with a focus on leg strengthening and cardiovascular conditioning. Upstairs or uphill backpacking with a heavy pack. Swimming, cycling, and running are good endurance builders. Socks and boots need to be broken in well in advance of leaving. Overnight backpacking can also be used as a means of equipment testing and conditioning.
Environmental Responsibility & Ethics
Be respectful of Leave No Trace ethics by removing all rubbish and not leaving anything behind, wherever possible, making use of toilet facilities, and not using single-use plastics. Be respectful of Buddhist tradition by keeping to the right when walking around monasteries, keeping off sacred buildings with footwear, and not taking pictures of people or sacred buildings without permission. Be respectful of the economy by not staying at large hotels and village shopping and paying reasonable fees to guides and porters.
Travel Insurance Requirement
Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking up to 4,500m altitude and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory. Standard policies often exclude high-altitude activities, so verify coverage includes Nepal trekking and adventure sports. Emergency evacuation from remote areas can cost $5,000-15,000 USD.
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.
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.
Tipping in Nepal
Tipping is customary in Nepal trekking. Recommended amounts: $8-12 per day for guides, $5-8 per day for porters, shared among the group. Tip at trek completion in Nepali rupees. For excellent service, tips more generously as guides and porters depend on tips for significant income.
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.
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 an arrival visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. You must enter within six months of 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.
Tsum Valley Trek vs Manaslu Circuit Trek
| Aspect | Tsum Valley Trek | Manaslu Circuit Trek |
| Duration | 15 days | 16-18 days |
| Difficulty | Moderate-Demanding | Demanding |
| Highest Point | 4,200m (Ganesh Himal BC) | 5,106m (Larke Pass) |
| Cultural Focus | Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries | Mixed Cultures |
| Crowd Level | Very few trekkers | Moderate crowds |
| Main Attraction | Sacred monasteries & culture | High mountain pass crossing |
| Best For | Cultural enthusiasts | Adventure seekers |
| Accommodation | Basic tea houses | Better tea house facilities |
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
Can I do Tsum Valley Trek solo?
No, solo trekking is not allowed in the Tsum Valley. You need a minimum of 2 trekkers and a licensed guide to get permits for this restricted area.
What are the popular treks in Manaslu Region?
Manaslu region is popular trekking of the Himalayas which has various trekking routes. Manaslu Circuit Trek Larkey La Pass Trek, Rupinala Pass Trek, and Manaslu Base Camp Trek are the popular trekking in Manaslu Region.
Can I go to Tsum Valley Trek without guide?
You cannot go yourself without a guide for Tsum Valley Trek because Tsum Valley Trek lies in a restricted area trekking Nepal where you must go through a guide, and needs a special area permit from a registered company under the Nepal government. Some other restricted areas are Upper Mustang, Kanchenjunga, Manaslu Circuit, Upper Dolpo, Lower Dolpo, etc
How much is the cost of the Tsum Valley Trek?
Cost is around $1,200-1,800 per person sharing basis, inclusive of all permits, guide, porter, accommodation, food, and transportation. Costs vary based on group size and services included.
Is Tsum Valley Trek harder than Manaslu Circuit?
Manaslu Circuit and Tsum valley both trekking lie in the restricted area Manaslu Region of Nepal. Tsum valley trek is an easy trek compared to Manaslu Circuit trek because Manaslu Circuit Trek’s high altitude trek where you have to work more than 5 hours in a day at a high altitude above 4500m.
What are the Tsum Valley Trek permits?
You require three permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit ($100+ per person), ACAP permit ($30), and TIMS card ($20). Bold Himalaya organizes all the permits.
Is altitude sickness an issue on this trek?
Yes, altitude sickness can take its toll on the trekkers at high altitudes over 2,500m. Our itinerary has sufficient acclimatization days, and our guides are extremely experienced in identifying and handling altitude issues.
What is the accommodation like?
Basic tea houses with twin beds, shared bathrooms, and no heating in rooms. Dining areas have wood stoves for warmth. Some locations offer hot showers for an extra cost.
Can vegetarians and vegans find suitable food?
Yes, vegetarian food is easily available throughout the trek. Vegan options are more limited but manageable with advance notice to the tea house owners.
How physically fit do I need to be?
You need good cardiovascular fitness and should be able to walk 6-7 hours daily carrying a daypack. Start training 2-3 months before with regular hiking and cardio exercise.
Where is Tsum Valley located?
The Tsum Valley is situated in the Gorkha district of western Nepal at an altitude of 2,000 to 3,500 meters above sea level. The valley lies inside the jurisdiction of the Manaslu Conservation Area which was established in 1998.
What happens in case of emergency?
Our guides carry satellite phones and first aid equipment. Helicopter rescue in fair weather is available. High-altitude rescue complete travel insurance is required.
Are there any local traditions I should keep in mind?
Yes, be sensitive to Buddhist cultures by going anticlockwise around monasteries, taking shoes off when entering religious structures, and obtaining permission first before taking photos of people or religious structures.
How many kilometers should one walk per day during the Tsum Valley Trek?
One should walk around 10 to 12 kilometers per day which takes about 5 to 6 hours in total without a lunch break during the Tsum Valley trek.
What are the popular monasteries of the Tsum Valley?
The popular monasteries of the Tsum Valley are Mu Gompa, Ranchen Monastery, Dephyudoma Nunnery Gompa, Piren Phu Gompa, Milarepa Cave, and Gumba Lungdang.
Can the Manaslu Circuit be included in this trek?
Yes, Tsum Valley can be combined with Manaslu Circuit for a longer 20-25-day trek. This will require more permits and grades.
What is the accommodation in Kathmandu like?
We provide 3-star hotel accommodation in Thamel, Kathmandu, with hot showers, soft beds, Wi-Fi, and restaurants and shops.
What is the weather forecast like for the Tsum Valley region?
The weather in the mountains is changeable and subject to frequent variation, and occasionally the weather forecasts are not the best. We monitor the situation and will modify the itinerary on the grounds of safety if need be.
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