Destination
Tsum Valley Trek: A Journey to Tranquility
Duration
15 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Start/End
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Best Seasons
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)
Transport
Private Car/Jeep
Accommodation
Teahouses/Lodges
Permits
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Tsum Valley Permit Fee, TIMS Card
Tsum Valley Trek Overview
The Tsum Valley Trek is a unique and challenging adventure that allows trekkers to discover the Himalayas' hidden wonders. Nestled in isolated places, the valley is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. For hikers who want to get away from the crowds and experience the tranquility of nature, this is the ideal location.
The cultural significance of the Tsum Valley Trek is among its most appealing characteristics. A thriving Tibetan Buddhist community that has preserved its distinctive traditions and customs for centuries can be found in the valley. Trekkers can engage with the hospitable locals, tour the historic monasteries, and discover more about their rich cultural legacy.
The chance to take in the area's natural elegance is another highlight of the Tsum Valley Trek. Trekkers traverse verdant forests, lofty mountain passes, and undulating hills peppered with traditional villages during the journey.
Along with a variety of bird species, trekkers can see wildlife such as the Himalayan tahr and the Himalayan black bear.
Key Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek
The unique Tibetan-influenced culture of the Tsumba people.
Explore spiritual sites: Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Gumba Lungdang, and the sacred Milarepa Cave.
Enjoy dramatic views of Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and Boudha Himal
Dense pine and rhododendron forests to arid highlands.
Walk through less-traveled trails, ancient villages, and serene valleys.
Take a challenging yet rewarding detour to the base camp of Ganesh Himal (3774 m), surrounded by towering peaks and pristine nature.
Trek through lush forests and witness Himalayan wildlife and blooming flora, especially in spring.
Experience the warm welcome of locals in villages like Chhokangparo and Nile.
Tsum Valley Trek Altitude and Elevation Chart
Here is the Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary breakdown table, which includes day, location, and elevation throughout the trek.
Day | Route | Altitude (m) | Trek Duration (hours) |
Day 1 | Kathmandu | 1,300 m | – |
Day 2 | Kathmandu – Machha Khola | 870 m | 7 to 8 hours Drive |
Day 3 | Machha Khola – Jagat | 1,340 m | 6 to 7 hours |
Day 4 | Jagat – Lokpa | 2,240 m | 6 to 7 hours |
Day 5 | Lokpa – Chumling | 2,386 m | 4 to 5 hours |
Day 6 | Chumling – Chhokangparo | 3,031 m | 7 to 8 hours |
Day 7 | Chhokangparo – Nile | 3,361 m | 4 to 5 hours |
Day 8 | Nile – Mu Gompa | 3,700 m | 3 to 4 hours |
Day 9 | Mu Gompa – Gumba Lungdang | 3,200 m | 7 to 8 hours |
Day 10 | Gumba Lungdang – Ganesh Himal Base Camp | 3,774 m | 7 to 8 hours |
Day 11 | Gumba Lungdang – Lokpa | 2,440 m | 6 to 7 hours |
Day 12 | Lokpa – Jagat | 1,340 m | 6 to 7 hours |
Day 13 | Lokpa – Machha Khola | 8,70 m | 6 to 7 hours |
Day 14 | Machha Khola – Kathmandu | 1,300 m | 7 to 8 hours Drive |
Day 15 | Departure from Kathmandu | 1,300 m | – |
Tsum Valley Trek: Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 m)
After getting picked up from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you will move to a hotel in Thamel or nearby Kathmandu.
Visit around for trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping.
Spend an overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Machha Khola (870 m), 7 to 8 hours (drive)
Begin your journey with an early drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Arughat.
Covering a distance of approximately 141 km, the drive takes you through terraced fields, traditional villages, and winding rivers.
Upon arrival in Machha Khola, settle into a lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat (1340 m), 6 to 7 hours
Begin your Tsum Valley Trek with a gentle walk through lush forests and charming villages.
The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, passing natural hot springs where you can relax. As you ascend, you’ll encounter Gurung villages with traditional stone houses.
When you reach Jagat, an entry checkpoint for the restricted Manaslu region, you'll be surrounded by a variety of ethnic cultures and beautiful scenery.
Day 4: Jagat to Lokpa (2440 m), 6 to 7 hours
You will trek along the Manaslu Circuit in the morning. Following lunch, you will head off in the direction of the Tsum Valley. Travel through more forests, the villages of Salleri and Siribass, and more rivers and streams.
Philm, a larger Gurung village, is followed by the tiny community of Ekle Bhatti, which takes us to a river gorge and another crossing of the Budhi Gandaki River.
You can now see the path to the Tsum Valley and anticipate going there tomorrow. First, however, there are mountain vistas to take in: our overnight stop at Lokpa offers views of Himalchuli and Boudha Himal.
Day 5: Lokpa to Chumling (2386 m), 4 to 5 hours
The trek from Lokpa village, which leads to Tsum Valley, begins the day. You will have breathtaking views of Ganesh Himal and Boudha Himal from the path.
The path passes through a thick forest with juniper, pine, and rhododendron before descending to the Lungwa river valley.
After that, you will arrive at Gumling, and soon after that, you will reach Syar Khola, indicating that you have arrived at Chumling village.
You will have enough time to visit the Panago Gompa, Mani Dhungyur, and Gurwa Gompa, Chumling's three main monasteries, after the short hike.
Day 6: Chumling to Chhokangparo (3031 m), 5 to 6 hours
We set out early to reach Chhokangparo, the starting point for the upper Tsum Valley.
Chhokangparo consists of two settlements, Paro and Chhokang. Domje, the largest town in the Tsum Valley, can be reached via Shair Khola.
Ascending from Domje to Chhokagnparo offers stunning views of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal. We hope to experience local warmth and taste their distinctive Tibetan tea, known as butter tea.
Day 7: Chhokangparo to Nile (3361 m), 4 to 5 hours
The final village north of the upper Tsum Valley is Shiar Khola, with the village on its western side.
From Chhule, it takes twenty minutes to get to the sacred Phiren Phu Cave, which is thought to be the place where Tibetan Buddhist master Milarepa meditated. With two gumbas richly decorated with Buddhist murals and artistic scripts, the village is encircled by verdant meadows and winding landscapes. These prayer flag-adorned gompas are a sociocultural asset.
A suspension bridge on the Shair Khola leads to the village.
Day 8: Nile to Mu Gompa (3700 m), 3 to 4 hours
You will trek from Nile Village to Mu Gompa, the biggest monastery in the area, following breakfast. One of the valley's oldest monasteries, Dephyudonma Gumba, will be reached.
The highest point in the Tsum Valley, Mu Gompa, was founded in 1895 and is home to a variety of religious texts, including Buddhist master portraits, Kangyur, and an Avalokiteshwara statue.
You travel through arid Trans-Himalayan landscapes and yak pastures.
Day 9: Mu Gompa to Gumba Lungdang (3200 m), 7 to 8 hours
After breakfast at the Mu Gompa, you continue on the Tsum Valley Trek Route to Rachen Gompa.
You will come across a small white Gompa at Gho after two hours of hiking. You can get to Domje, a Tibetan herbal medicine clinic and school, by crossing Siyar Khola on a wooden bridge.
Through a pine, juniper, and rhododendron grove, you can see mani walls and prayer flags from Domje.
Climb through the silver pine forest to Gumba Lungdang, which is inhabited by about forty nuns, before arriving at Lungdang Gompa. The gompa offers a fierce puja and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 10: Gumda Lungdang to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (3774 m), 7 to 8 hours
Today's walk will begin with an ascent through smaller valleys and end at Ganesh Himal Base Camp. Your guides will help you find the trail, even though it might be challenging.
In roughly four hours, you will arrive at the camp, and after taking in the scenery, you will spend the night back at Gumba Lungdang.
Day 11: Gumda Lungdang to Lokpa (2240 m), 6 to 7 hours
We return to Lokpa. You will first take the upper track and cross the Laudang Khola on your way down to Domje.
You will travel south from Domje to Ripche, passing through stunning, dense forests and over suspension bridges.
After that, you will descend to Batti Ghumlong and then climb slightly to reach Lokpa.
Day 12: Lokpa to Jagat (1340 m), 6 to 7 hours
You will descend from Lokpa alongside the Budi Gandaki River.
You will cross several suspension bridges to reach Sirdibas village before arriving at Jagat.
Day 13: Jagat to Machha Khola (870 m), 6 to 7 hours
Following an early breakfast, your Tsum Valley Trekking Route will descend to Lapubensi.
The journey will be pleasant as you walk down, but the suspension bridges are what provide the excitement.
You will travel through charming towns like Yaruphant, Dobhan, Tatopani, and Khorla Besi to reach Machha Khola before arriving in Lapu Besi.
Day 14: Machha Khola to Kathmandu (1400 m), 7 to 8 hours
On the final day of the Tsum Valley Trek, drive back to Kathmandu from Machha Khola.
Enjoy the scenic drive through the hilly terrain, with views of terraced fields, small villages, and lush greenery, before arriving in Kathmandu.
Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your travel schedule, you can head to the airport for your international flight to your hometown.
Packing List for Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Trek is a moderate trekking trail that does not require lots of equipment. However, there are some essentials you must have during the trek.
Head
Warm hat & cap
Sunglasses with UV protection
Headlight
Earmuffs
Beanie
Body
Thermal layers
Warm and Waterproof jacket
Thermal Gloves
Trekking Trousers and Shorts
Neck buff
Waterproof gloves
Footwear
Trekking shoes
Hiking boots
Warm Hiking socks
Gaiters
Essentials/Equipment
Sleeping bag
First aid kit
Trekking poles & Duffel bag
Water Bottles and Hydration Bladders
Raincoat
High-energy snacks
Reliable oxygen supply
Maps & Compass/GPS
Note: Don’t carry too many goods that will trouble you during the trek. Take only stuff that is important.
Best Time to Do the Tsum Valley
The weather varies significantly based on the season:
Spring (March-May):
The best time for trekking is considered one of the best seasons in Nepal.
Temperatures are moderate in these regions with clear skies. But as you ascend to higher altitudes above 3000m, it feels colder during the night and in the morning.
During this period, the blooming rhododendrons and the greenery landscape remind you of the joys of your journey with picturesque views.
Autumn (September-December):
Another popular season for the Manaslu trek is during autumn due to stable weather.
Temperatures at these times are also similar to spring.
You can witness mesmerizing, clear views of the mountains as the weather is normally clear.
Winter (December–February):
- Harsh and cold, especially at higher elevations.
- Trails may be snow-covered and difficult to navigate.
- Shorter days and possible lodge closures.
- Not recommended for inexperienced trekkers.
Monsoon (June–August):
- Heavy rainfall makes trails muddy and slippery.
- High risk of landslides and leeches.
- Mountain views are often obscured by clouds.
- Not ideal for trekking due to safety concerns.
Cultural and Religious Importance of the Tsum Valley
It is well known that Tsum Valley has close ties to Tibetan Buddhism. Several historic Buddhist monasteries, chortens (stupas), and mani walls with carved stones bearing prayer inscriptions can be found in the valley. Tibetan Buddhist culture has a strong influence on the area, and you can observe a variety of religious festivals and rituals here.
The Tsumba people, who have their unique language, culture, and customs, live in the Tsum Valley. They have maintained their traditional way of life for centuries and are friendly and welcoming to guests. Trekkers can fully immerse themselves in the local way of life thanks to the region's well-known authentic homestay experiences.
What’s Included in the Trek Package
Transportation from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (trek start) and from Machha Khola (trek end) to Kathmandu by public bus.
All standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
Accommodations in lodge, room with private bathroom, wherever available.
Government-licensed English-speaking experienced trekking guide.
Guide wages, meals, insurance, lodging, transportation, and equipment costs.
Manaslu Special Permit (MRAP) & Conservation Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Water purification tablets for safe drinking water.
All government, local taxes, and official expenses.
What’s Not Included in the Trek Package
All accommodations and meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara, before and after the trek.
Personal expenses
Personal clothing and gear.
Travel insurance has to cover emergency helicopter high-altitude rescue, and evacuation, along with medical costs (compulsory).
Tips for the guide and the porter.
Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances beyond our control
All the costs and expenses that are not listed in "Included" will be counted as excluded.
Trek Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness
The Tsum Valley trek involves multiple high areas above 4,500 meters, making altitude sickness a real risk. You need to acclimatize properly with rest days, ascend gradually, stay well-hydrated, and recognize symptoms like headache, nausea, or shortness of breath. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately.
Trek with a licensed guide familiar with the region’s challenges, carry a basic first-aid kit and altitude medication, and always inform someone of your daily route. Due to the region’s remoteness, be prepared for limited communication and emergency evacuation options.
Responsible and Sustainable Trekking in Tsum Valley
The preservation of the Tsum Valley's pristine environment and distinctive cultural heritage depends on ethical trekking and ecotourism.
Trekkers should use reusable water bottles to cut down on plastic waste, refrain from littering, and adhere to the Leave No Trace philosophy to lessen their impact on the environment.
Respecting locals, adhering to cultural traditions, and getting consent before taking pictures of people or holy places are all crucial.
To preserve the fragile ecosystem, hikers should also stay on designated trails and refrain from upsetting wildlife.
By encouraging sustainable practices, helping out local communities, and making sure the area is a safe and popular travel destination for years to come, ecotourism is essential to the preservation of the Tsum Valley.
Required Permits and Entry Fees for the Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Permit Fee
Permit fees for the Tsum Valley Permit Fee depend on the season:
$20 each week plus $3 for every extra day
You will get this pass from the Nepal Tourism Board through your agency.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costs the following:
Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 27–30).
This permit will usually be organized for you by your trekking agency along with the other permits for the trek.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
The entrance fee for Manaslu Conservation Area is different based on nationality:
$20 each week plus $3 for every extra day.
You can get the MCAP through a registered trekking agency or from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.
TIMS Card
Cost: $20
This permit will usually be organized for you by your trekking agency along with the other permits for the trek.
Why Book the Tsum Valley Trek With Us?
With decades of experience, Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd is a trusted name in Himalayan travel. We take pride in delivering exceptional trekking and tour experiences, marked by meticulous planning, safety-first operations, and culturally enriching encounters. Our team comprises highly skilled, licensed guides and dedicated support staff, all of whom are passionate about sharing the majestic beauty and heritage of Nepal.
Do you want to know about our Tsum Valley Trek package?
Tsum Valley Trek Cost
The Tsum Valley Trek's cost can vary significantly based on factors such as the duration of the trek, the need for a guide and porter, lodging options, and personal spending habits.
Budget: Since everyone has different needs, which come with varying costs, there is no set budget. The cost varies according to the level of luxury you desire in your lodging, food, and other services.
Transportation: The price varies depending on the kind of transportation you select and the size of your group.
Meal and Accommodation: The price of your meals and lodging will vary based on the area and your preferences. Traditional dishes like dal bhat and tarkari (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), Momo, noodle soup, thukpa, local bread, pasta, etc., will be available for you to eat while trekking. You are staying at a lodge and resting in a tea house.
Guide and Porter: The cost of the guide and porter will depend on your experience level.
Permits: Manaslu Conservation Project Area Permit ($20 each week plus $3 for every extra day), Tsum Valley Permit Fee: $20 each week plus $3 for every extra day, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $27-30, and TIMS Card: $20. Changes according to the year.
Booking Process - How to Book the Tsum Valley Trek
You can visit Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd.'s website to reserve your Tilicho Lake Tour package. We'll make sure you have the greatest time while you're in Nepal. For more information about the total cost of the tour, click the button below.
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FAQs
How long is the Tsum Valley trek?
The total duration of the Tsum Valley trek is 15 days.
How do I get to Tsum Valley?
To reach the Tsum Valley, take a bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and trek there.
What is the history of the Tsum Valley?
Tsum Valley, renowned for its Tibetan Buddhist culture, boasts historic monasteries, chortens, and mani walls, attracting visitors for religious festivals and rituals.
Is a guide mandatory for the Tsum Valley trek?
Yes, a guide is mandatory for the Tsum Valley Trek or any other trek in Nepal.
How much is the permit for the Tsum Valley?
Manaslu Conservation Project Area Permit ($20 each week plus $3 for every extra day), Tsum Valley Permit Fee: $20 each week plus $3 for every extra day, and TIMS Card: $20.
How much does it cost to trek Manaslu Tsum Valley?
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek costs between $1000 to $2000.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the trek?
The maximum altitude to reach during this trek is 3774 m at Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, travel is necessary for protecting yourself from any unseen circumstance, such as emergency helicopter high-altitude rescue, evacuation, and medical costs.