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trip code
3395
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difficulty
Moderate
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Start in
Kathmandu
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end in
Kathmandu
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group size
1 to 22
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max altitude
3,700 m (12,139 ft)
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Accommodation
Tea House/ Lodge
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Best Season
Sept, Oct, Nov, March, April, May
Overview
Table of Contents
Tsum Valley Trek: A Hidden Gem in the Himalayas
The Tsum Valley Trek is one of the lesser-known yet deeply rewarding treks in Nepal. Nestled in the remote northern part of the Manaslu region, the valley was only opened to trekkers in 2008. Since then, it has remained a secluded and sacred Himalayan pilgrimage site. The word “Tsum” comes from the Tibetan word “Tsombo,” which means vivid, and true to its name, the valley is rich in culture, tradition, and natural beauty.
Unlike many of Nepal’s more commercialized trekking routes, the Tsum Valley offers a peaceful, authentic experience. You’ll walk through quiet trails, visit ancient monasteries, and interact with Tibetan-influenced communities that have preserved their way of life for centuries. Because the valley lies in a restricted area, special permits are required—but this also helps preserve its pristine nature and cultural heritage.
Why Trek to Tsum Valley?
The journey to Tsum Valley offers far more than just physical adventure. Along the way, you’ll be immersed in a landscape dotted with chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags. As you gain altitude, the views of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal ranges become more dramatic. At the same time, you’ll notice the shift in vegetation—from lush green hills to alpine terrain.
The valley is home to several important Buddhist monasteries such as Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, which are still active and provide insight into the spiritual lives of the local people. Furthermore, the region is known for its deep connection to Tibetan Buddhism, and many locals follow a traditional lifestyle based on agriculture, yak herding, and religious practice.
Cultural and Natural Highlights
In addition to its spiritual sites, Tsum Valley is full of natural charm. The biodiversity here is exceptional, and you might encounter wildlife like Himalayan Thar and Blue Sheep. The villages you pass—such as Chumling, Chhokang Paro, and Nile—are built with traditional stone houses and sit amidst dramatic mountain backdrops. Moreover, the hospitality of the people adds warmth to the trek, making it a culturally rich experience.
What’s more, this trek allows you to explore the unique dialect, dress, and festivals of the Tsumba people. Their customs are closely tied to Tibet, and you’ll notice many similarities in architecture, language, and daily practices.
A Less Crowded, More Rewarding Trek
One of the best aspects of the Tsum Valley Trek is the sense of solitude it offers. While routes like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit can be quite busy during peak seasons, Tsum Valley remains quiet and undisturbed. Therefore, it’s ideal for trekkers looking to avoid crowds and find deeper meaning in their Himalayan journey.
The 15-day itinerary is well-paced, allowing for proper acclimatization and time to fully appreciate the surroundings. While the trek is moderately challenging, it is accessible to trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. With proper preparation, the Tsum Valley Trek becomes a truly unforgettable journey.
Final Thoughts on Tsum Valley Trekking in Nepal
In summary, the Tsum Valley Trek offers a rare combination of scenic beauty, spiritual depth, and cultural authenticity. If you’re looking for a quieter trekking route in Nepal that provides genuine local experiences and incredible Himalayan views, this trail is a fantastic choice.
Ready to explore one of Nepal’s hidden gems? Learn more about the region and entry requirements on Nepal’s official tourism website.
Trip highlights
Breathtaking Mountain Views
Be mesmerized by the astounding panorama of both Manaslu and Ganesh Himal, the most beautiful landscapes in Nepal.
Cultural Whirlwind
Experience a vividly inspiring Tibetan culture in active Tsum Valley. Observe ancient monasteries, such as Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, which also demonstrate traditional rituals and spiritual practices.
Warmth of Local Hospitality
Feel the inviting ambiance of local teahouses where delectable Nepali and Tibetan cuisine are served and friendly villagers await interaction.
Rare flora and fauna: Tsum Valley encompasses varied types of ecosystems hosting rare birds and animals like the Snow Leopard, as well as flora that is special and found only along its trail. Remote and serene trails: Tsum valley offers an opportunity to closely encounter nature and culture along less touristic trails, which are not spoilt by the hustle and bustle faced in the more popular trekking routes. Historic sites
Understand the history and culture and trace ancient villages to learn the style of livelihood of the Tsum people while crossing the valley.
Diverse Landscapes
Walk through lush forests, terraced fields, and rugged mountain terrain and ensure a difference in each trek as a result of the amazing scenery after every other turn.
Altitude Challenge
Experience the thrill of trekking at altitudes up to 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) for a rewarding sense of achievement and beautiful high-altitude views.
Adventure and Spirituality
Combine adventure with spirituality: prayer flags, mani walls, and stupas add extra charm to your trek.
Unforgettable Memories
Create lifetime memories due to great photography opportunities, cultural exchange, and that feeling of adventure in exploring a hidden treasure.
itinerary
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day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,400 m (4,600 ft)
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to the hotel. -
day 2
Kathmandu Sightseein
Altitude: 1,400 m (4,600 ft)
Visit Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath. -
day 3
Drive: Kathmandu to Arughat
Altitude: 600 m (1,968 ft)
Drive for 7-8 hours to reach Arughat. Overnights in a guesthouse.Stay Over Night,Aarughat rural municipality
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day 4
Arughat to Soti Khola
Altitude: 700 m (2,297 ft)
Trek for 6-7 hours to reach Soti Khola. Overnights in Soti Khola. -
day 5
Soti Khola to Machha Khola
Altitude: 900 m (2,953 ft)
The hike to Machha Khola takes around 6-7 hours. The overnight stay will be in Machha Khola. -
day 6
Machha Khola to Jagat
Altitude: 1,340 m (4,396 ft)
Today’s trekking is to Jagat. This will also take 6-7 hours. The overnight stay will be in Jagat. -
day 7
Jagat to Lokpa
Altitude: 2,240 m (7,350 ft)
Today, enter the Tsum Valley as the hike proceeds for 5-6 hours. Overnight in Lokpa. -
day 8
Lokpa to Chumling
Altitude: 2,386 m (7,828 ft)
Trek for 5-6 hours to Chumling. Overnight in Chumling. -
day 9
Acclimatization Day in Chumling
Altitude: 2,386 m (7,828 ft)
Explore local culture and do a short hike to higher elevations. Overnight in Chumling -
day 10
Chumling to Nile
Altitude: 3,200 m (10,499 ft)
Trek to Nile for 6-7 hours. Overnight in Nile -
day 11
Nile to Mu Gompa
Altitude: 3,700 m (12,139 ft)
Trek to Mu Gompa (3 -4 hour easy trek). Visit the monastery. Overnight in Mu Gompa. -
day 12
Acclimatization Day
Acclimatization Day in Mu Gompa Altitude: 3,700 m (12,139 ft) Full day for exploration and optional hikes to nearby peaks. Overnight in Mu Gompa.
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day 13
Mu Gompa to Chumling
Altitude: 2,386 m (7,828 ft) Trek back to Chumling, 6-7 hours. Overnight in Chumling.
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day 14
Chumling to Jagat
Altitude: 1,340 m (4,396 ft) Continue trekking back to Jagat, 6-7 hours. Overnight in Jagat.
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day 15
Return to Kathmandu
Return to Arughat and Drive to Kathmandu
Not satisfied with this itinerary?
Make your own.Price Included
- Accommodations
- Permissions
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Accommodation
- 14 nights in local teahouses or guesthouses during the trek.
- 1 night in Kathmandu in a hotel before the actual trek.
- Meals 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) along the trek route.
- The meal includes local food; vegetarian options are also available.
- Guide and Porter Services:
- Professional English-speaking trek guide.
- Porter service it means one porter for two trekkers to carry your luggage. Transportation:
- Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Arughat and back.
- Any additional domestic transportation that may be required during the trek.
- Visits to monasteries and villages along the route
- Opportunities to interact with the community and understand the culture
- Some agencies may make rental options available for basic trekking gear.
Price Excluded
- International Flights
- Cost of airfare to and from Nepal.
- Personal Expenses
- Snacks, soft drinks, and all meals in cities like Kathmandu and Arughat.
- Tips for guide and porters-usual custom.
- Travel Insurance
- Comprehensive travel insurance, trekking at high altitude.
- Extra Activities
- Extra activities in Kathmandu, such as paragliding and sightseeing tours.
- Visa Fees
- Nepalese visa fees available on arrival.
- Emergency Evacuation:
- Costs for emergency evacuation or additional transportation other than mentioned in the itinerary.
- Laundry and Hot Showers
- Laundry and hot shower costs in teahouses are charged extra and will not be calculated toward the total cost.
FAQ
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What is the Tsum Valley Trek?
Tsum Valley Trek is a 15-day trekking adventure in northern Nepal that offers tremendous landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and ancient monasteries. Known as the “Valley of Happiness,” it provides a rare blend of nature and culture for the trekkers; hence, it is one of the most hidden gems of the Himalayas.
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What permits do I need for the Tsum Valley Trek?
The Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit are required for trekking in the Tsum Valley. It is available through agencies for trekking in Nepal and is mandatory for legal entry into the region.
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Is the Tsum Valley Trek suitable for beginners?
The Tsum Valley Trek is considered to be of a medium grade in terms of physical demands required; previous trekking experience will be great assets. The trekking involves daily walks on the mountain altitudes, so proper training and acclimatization are necessary.
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What is the best time to trek in Tsum Valley?
The best time for the Tsum Valley Trek is during spring, from March until May, and during autumn, from September until November. These are those seasons when the weather is usually mild with clear skies, making it visible for mountain views.
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What should I carry along with me for the Tsum Valley Trek?
Pack clothing in layers to adjust according to temperature variation, a good quality pair of trekking boots, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and personal toiletries. Do not forget to carry a camera to capture the breathtaking scenarios.
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From Kathmandu, how do I reach Tsum Valley?
This involves driving from Kathmandu to Arughat and then trekking from Arughat to Soti Khola, considered the real beginning of the Tsum Valley Trek. Other trip plans may combine road travel with some trekking.
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What are the accommodations like on the trek?
Accommodation: Tsum Valley Trek will be accommodated in local teahouses or guesthouses. They provide basic comfort services with an opportunity to enjoy traditional Nepali and Tibetan meals and the authentic experience of local hospitality.
Review
Two Weeks In Nepal
We came to Nepal for just under two weeks in March 2017. My husband and I decided to bring my mom for her 60th birthday as it was her lifelong dream to visit Nepal. But weren’t sure what to do while we were there! Luckily, we found Nepal Tour Guide Team, and after a few emails to Kumar, he set up the whole trip for us. Our trip was incredible, and Kumar was wonderful. From Kathmandu to Chitwan, Pokhara and back, Kumar showed us the whole country, and his knowledge was second to none. He arranged all the hotels, the car and driver, the things we did, showed us great places to eat and most importantly, provided great friendship and conversation along the way! We laughed the whole trip and had a wonderful time. The mountains were beautiful, Chitwan was amazing, and the lakeside at Pokhara was definitely my mom’s favorite part. We’re still positive we had the best tour guide and the most skilled driver in the entire country. Kumar is an incredible person and we made a lifelong friend. Even after coming home, we continue to keep in touch, chatting and making video calls. We can’t wait to go back!
Aristofanes Cedeno
01/01/1970
One Week in Nepal With Tour Guide
I recently spent one week in Nepal and Tour Guide Team Trek provided an extraordinary service with an itinerary suited to my needs and interests, including Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara, detailed cultural and historical explanations when visiting different sites in Kathmandu, and above all, a customer and people-oriented approach to all activities, meals, shopping, etc. Kumar Dahal was my tour guide and it was a pleasure for me to have him showing me his native Nepal. Kumar has excellent English speaking skills and he is willing to take the extra mile to help you have the best trip to this beautiful country. I recommend him and Nepal Tour Guide Team Trek wholeheartedly as the best agency to fulfill your expectations.
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