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TSUM VALLEY TREK

  • Duration 16 Nights/17 Days
  • Difficulty Moderate
  • Region MANASLU REGION
  • Activity Nepal Trekking
  • Max. Altitude 3700m
  • Best Season Mar-Jun, Sep-December
  • Start/End Point Kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-12 People

TSUM VALLEY TREK: A REMARKABLE SEVENTEEN-DAY JOURNEY INTO A HIDDEN HIMALAYAN SANCTUARY AND A MUST-DO ADVENTURE

Tsum Valley Trek is a remarkable seventeen-day journey into one of Nepal’s most sacred and least-explored Himalayan regions. Nestled deep within the Manaslu region, Tsum Valley remains a true cultural sanctuary, protected from modern influence and rich in ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Known locally as “tsombo,” meaning vivid, the valley lives up to its name through colorful prayer flags, sacred monasteries, and a spiritual atmosphere that can be felt at every step. Blessed by Guru Rinpoche as the “hidden valley of happiness,” Tsum Valley offers trekkers an experience that is as spiritual as it is adventurous.

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat, the gateway to both the Manaslu and Tsum Valley trekking routes. From here, the trail follows the roaring Budhi Gandaki River, passing through traditional villages such as Soti Khola, Maccha Khola, Jagat, and Ekle Bhatti. These early days provide a gradual transition from lowland landscapes to deeper mountain terrain, with terraced fields, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and welcoming teahouses along the way.

After Ekle Bhatti, the trail leaves the main Manaslu route and ascends northeast into the heart of Tsum Valley. The atmosphere changes noticeably as the path enters a quieter and more spiritual world. Remote villages, ancient mani walls, and prayer wheels mark the entrance to a valley where Tibetan culture has remained intact for centuries. Trekkers continue through Chhokang Paro and Nile, surrounded by expansive alpine scenery and dramatic mountain backdrops.

The highlight of the Tsum Valley Trek is reaching Mu Gompa, the highest and most sacred point of the journey. This ancient monastery serves as the spiritual center of the valley and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Spending time here allows trekkers to witness monastic life, participate in morning prayers, and experience a rare sense of peace found only in such isolated regions.

Exploring Tsum Valley over several days feels like stepping into a living cultural museum. Monasteries more than a hundred years old, traditional stone houses, and a lifestyle centered around faith and community reflect a way of life untouched by time. Yak and mule caravans moving along the trails, locals dressed in traditional attire, and warm hospitality create meaningful cultural encounters that leave a lasting impression.

As the trek descends from the upper valley, the route reconnects with the Manaslu Circuit at Deng, blending the spiritual calm of Tsum Valley with the dramatic diversity of the Manaslu region. The landscape shifts once again, moving through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, deep gorges, and rugged mountain terrain that define the Manaslu Himalayas.

The Tsum Valley and Manaslu trek is ideal for trekkers seeking more than just physical challenge. With panoramic views of Ganesh Himal and Siringi Himal, untouched wilderness, and a deeply spiritual environment, this journey offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and serenity. Far from crowded trails, the Tsum Valley Trek stands out as one of Nepal’s most immersive and soul-enriching Himalayan adventures.

For trekkers seeking the ultimate Himalayan journey, Tsum Valley can be seamlessly combined with the Manaslu Circuit Trek, creating an extended adventure rich in culture, scenery, and high mountain challenge. This combined route allows travelers to explore the sacred calm of Tsum Valley before continuing deeper into the rugged heart of the Manaslu region. After reconnecting at Deng, the trail gradually ascends through dramatic gorges, alpine forests, and remote highland villages, building toward one of Nepal’s most spectacular trekking experiences.

The journey reaches its pinnacle at Larkya La Pass (5,160 m), the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit and a breathtaking test of endurance and spirit. Crossing this legendary pass rewards trekkers with awe-inspiring views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II, stretching endlessly across the horizon. After the pass, the trail descends into the beautiful alpine meadows of Bimthang, completing a journey that perfectly blends the spiritual depth of Tsum Valley with the raw grandeur and adventure of the Manaslu Circuit—an unforgettable Himalayan experience for true mountain explorers.

Highlights

  • The amazing scenic ride from Kathmandu to Machhakhola
  • Ancient Mu Gompa & Lungdang Gompas in Tsum valley
  • Holy Milarepa Piren Phu Cave (pigeon cave), the most divine cave in the Tsum valley.
  • The traditional Dephyudonma and Rachen monastery, the oldest monasteries in the Tsum valley
  • Hiking around Mt Manaslu, the world’s eighth tallest mountain
  • Side trip around the lovely turquoise side of Ganesh Himal
  • Astonishing Monasteries, Typical Tibetan village and their rich culture.
  • Sumptuous view of glaciers, Lakes, rock and mountain of Mt. Manasalu.
  • The unusual cultural blend of Tibetan Nupri and Gurung inhabitants
  • The Lovely ancient Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and Tibetan lifestyle.
  • Witness incredibly diverse scenery with rich in wildlife.
  • An antiquated dealing route to Tibet.
  • Less cackled path than other trekking regions.

    • Itinerary

    Adventure Himalaya Nepal Offers this 17 days itinerary to Tsum Valley Trek.

    After arriving in the lovely capital of Nepal via Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be there to receive you and transfer you to the hotel of Kathmandu.

    You’ll have a very wonderful time by exploring some of the greatest cultural and historical heritages of Kathmandu. Have a very gracious time and prepare for your trekking by buying some of the crucial recommended gears.

    The lovely drive in the alluring morning takes us to the west of Kathmandu valley. The journey from Kathmandu to Machhakhola. You would be thrilled by the views of green hills, beautiful terraces, cultivations, and some rivers. Then when we cross the Trishuli river, the bumpy drive begins. It will take approximately three hours to reach Arughat. You can enjoy the diverse panoramas, greenery, and countryside life while riding. Arughat is a little town with a hospitable Newari settlement. Then from Arughat, we will again ride towards Machha Khola. The s bus ride starts after passing a bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River.

    Our next day begins with set off on the trekking path towards Jagat. The trek starts as we will follow the narrow trail towards Tharo Khola which eventually leads to Khorlabesi from where you can witness the panorama of Ganesh Himal. After a few hours of crossing two suspension bridges over west of Budi Gandaki, we will reach to a rocky trail. We should follow that Rocky trail until we reach Jagat.

    The following day begins with an entrance in restricted Tsum valley, the police check-post will be waiting for us to register your special trekking permits. After the energy-boosting breakfast and alluring panorama of Shiringi Himal, we'll head towards the rocky trail, which has elevation as well as dropouts. After lovely lunch in the local lodge, we'll head towards Lokpa after crossing the Manaslu circuit trail in Philim.

    Beginning our day by filling breakfast in Lokpa, we will start hiking uphill. The trail crosses uphill which eventually leads to the ridge from where the panoramic view of Ganesh Himal is seen.
    And our journey will lead us to Ganesh Mountain Base Camp. After advancing further from the base camp, we reach to Chumling. Chumling is a lovely village located towards the southward direction of the elegant Shingri Himal. It is also known as the Lower Tsum.

    On this day, we enter the upper valley, part of the Inner Himalaya. The trail continues along the Syar River down to Domje and then rises over to the largest city in Tsum valley. A beautiful village of Gho has distinctive Gomba. From there we will continue our uphill climbing and then trek to arrive at Chhokangparo. During a clear day, we can have majestic views of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal from Chhokangparo. From Chhokangparo, where we will have the chance to have the hospitality of local people greeting with traditional Tibetan Chiya and local meal.

    After leaving Chokkangparo, we continue trekking in the trail. The hospitality and lovely faces of people make our hike more enjoyable. After some time, we reach in the village called Lamagaun we continue our trek and descend to the river and climb to Rachen Gompa, a very significant monastery. We come across many mules and traders in Lar. They come from the border with China. It is simmering to find yourself in the place where everywhere you look there are small monasteries, chortens, Mani walls, prayer flags, yaks. We accompany the trail upstream and pass the villages of Phurbe, Pangdun, and come to our terminating place the Nile.

    Next day commences bypassing Shiar Khola over a wooden bridge and proceed high above the river. We will come across a really beautiful naturally diversified locality which has rich flora and fauna. We reach to Mu Gompa, a big monastery. Mu Gompa is the last inhabited place in the Tsum Valley which is located in the highest and farthest point, established in 1895 at the height of 3510m. After lunch, we tour Mu Gompa and accompany a small path to a “hidden” nunnery: Dhephyodoma Gompa. Looking back, we can notice the river rumbling down and many mules and yaks coming back from China.
    After the journey to Mu Gumba, we reverse the trail back to the Nile. Overnight in the Nile. Next day commences bypassing Shiar Khola over a wooden bridge and proceed high above the river. We will come across a really beautiful naturally diversified locality which has rich flora and fauna. We reach to Mu Gompa, a big monastery. Mu Gompa is the last inhabited place in the Tsum Valley which is located in the highest and farthest point, established in 1895 at the height of 3510m. After lunch, we tour Mu Gompa and accompany a small path to a “hidden” nunnery: Dhephyodoma Gompa. Looking back, we can notice the river rumbling down and many mules and yaks coming back from China. After the journey to Mu Gumba, we reverse the trail back to the Nile.

    We descend the trail, this time via Rachen Gumba as a retreat. The retracing trails are located in the Shiar Khola Valley in the foothills of the cliffs bordering Nepal and Tibet. And then we will head the same trail to Chokkangparo.

    The next day begins with leaving Chokkangparo behind by catching the trail of Dumje which leads to a bit large settlement of Ripchet. To reach Ripchet, we have to cross through the lush forest and have to cross two wooden bridges. Ripchet is a big village with ± 60 houses. We are most likely welcomed by the hospitable dwellers to observe their house for the night.

    We will be retracing our way back to Eklebhatti via rocky steep trails. Witness the picturesque views of Ganesh and Shiring Himal one last time and embrace it in your memories.

    Begin your day by retreating your foot tracks back to trails. You’ll see many hospitable local people aweing the beautiful smile on their face which makes this hike even more delighting.

    The beautiful alluring day will start by energy boosting breakfast in Dovan which will give us energy to head back towards Lapubesi. Get astonished by the scenic greenery of place.

    Retrace your footprints back to Arughat bazar. Shop some memorable goods if you wish.

    =The scenic drive from Arughat Bazar to Kathmandu is really memorable and leaves a different charisma. Enjoy your ride and embrace the panorama of beautiful cliffs.

    You’ll be heading back to your home by bidding farewell to Nepal and its amazing hospitable people. Make sure you open the suitcase of beautiful memories you cratered in Nepal.

    Price Includes

    • Complimentary airport picks up and drops off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay in a standard hotel in Kathmandu with Breakfast included (twin share basis)
    • All drive tickets from and to Kathmandu.
    • All necessary special trekking permits for Tsum valley Manaslu Circuit Trek permit TIMS card, etc.
    • All accommodation during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • Complimentary duffel bag
    • Government licensed and first-aid trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First-aid kit
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax/VAT including airport tax
    • Certificate of achievement

    Price Excludes

    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Riding horse along the trek
    • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs.
    • All liquors, snacks, and additional charges such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi, etc.
    • Gratitude and tips to staff

    Altitude

    View in:

    Essential Information

    Trek Duration
    The Tsum Valley Trek typically takes 17 days, including arrival and departure days in Kathmandu. The itinerary allows proper acclimatization and enough time to explore the culturally rich villages and monasteries within the valley.

    Maximum Altitude
    The highest point of the trek is Mu Gompa (3,700 m). If combined with the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the highest elevation becomes Larkya La Pass (5,160 m).

    Trek Difficulty
    This trek is considered moderate. It is suitable for trekkers with reasonable fitness and some prior trekking experience. Daily walking hours range from 5 to 7 hours on varied terrain, including ascents, descents, and narrow mountain trails.

    Best Time to Trek
    The ideal seasons for the Tsum Valley Trek are:

  • Spring (March to May) – Rhododendron blooms and clear mountain views
  • Autumn (September to November) – Stable weather and excellent visibility
  • Winter trekking is possible but colder, while the monsoon season is not recommended due to rain and trail conditions.



    • Permits Required
    The Tsum Valley Trek requires special trekking permits:

  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) (if combined with Manaslu Circuit)

    • (Note :All permits are arranged by Adventure Himalaya Nepal.)

    Accommodation
    Accommodation is in local teahouses and lodges along the trail. Rooms are simple but comfortable, usually on a twin-sharing basis. Facilities become more basic as altitude increases.

    Meals
    Three meals a day are provided during the trek. The menu includes Nepali, Tibetan, and basic Western meals, such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, momos, and rice dishes. Vegetarian options are widely available.

    Drinking Water
    Safe drinking water is available through boiled water, filtered water, or purification tablets. We recommend avoiding plastic bottles and using reusable water bottles for environmental protection.

    Trekking Guide & Safety
    All treks are led by experienced, licensed local guides with strong knowledge of the Tsum Valley and Manaslu regions. Safety measures include first-aid kits, altitude awareness, and flexible itineraries for acclimatization.

    Communication & Electricity
    Mobile network coverage is limited and often unavailable in upper Tsum Valley. Electricity is mostly solar-powered, and charging devices may incur an extra cost at teahouses.

    Travel Insurance
    Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is mandatory for this trek.

    Physical Preparation
    Trekkers should prepare with cardio exercises, hiking practice, and strength training before the trip. A positive attitude and slow, steady walking greatly enhance the trekking experience.

    FAQs

    Tsum Valley is located in the northern Gorkha district of Nepal, within the Manaslu region, close to the Tibetan border.

    The standard Tsum Valley Trek takes around 17 days, including arrival, departure, and trekking days.

    The highest point of the trek is Mu Gompa (3,700 meters). If combined with the Manaslu Circuit, the highest point becomes Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters).

    The trek is moderate in difficulty. It involves long walking days and gradual ascents but does not require technical climbing skills.

    Previous trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Good physical fitness and a positive mindset are essential.

    The best times are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for stable weather and clear mountain views.

    No, the Tsum Valley Trek is less crowded compared to popular treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna, making it ideal for solitude seekers.

    You need:
    -Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
    -Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
    -ACAP if combining with Manaslu Circuit
    All permits are arranged by Adventure Himalaya Nepal.

    Yes, due to restricted area regulations, trekking with a licensed guide is mandatory.

    Accommodation is in local teahouses and monasteries with basic but comfortable facilities.

    Meals include Nepali, Tibetan, and simple Western dishes, such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, momos, and rice-based meals.

    Yes, drinking water is available through boiled or filtered water. Trekkers are advised to carry purification tablets or filters.

    Altitude sickness is less common due to gradual elevation gain, but proper acclimatization and hydration are still essential.

    No, ATM facilities are not available along the trekking route. Trekkers should carry sufficient cash from Kathmandu.

    Charging is available at some teahouses using solar power, usually for an additional cost. (but carrying powerbank will be advantage)

    Mobile network coverage is limited and unreliable, especially in upper Tsum Valley. Internet access is minimal or unavailable.

    Solo trekking is not permitted due to restricted area rules. Trekkers must be accompanied by a registered guide.

    You may encounter blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, marmots, and various bird species, depending on season and luck.

    Yes, it can be combined with the Manaslu Circuit Trek, including the crossing of Larkya La Pass.

    Adventure Himalaya Nepal offers experienced local guides, carefully planned itineraries, safety-focused operations, and authentic cultural experiences, ensuring a smooth and memorable trek.