Tsum Valley Trekking

  • Duration 21
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Starts at
  • Ends at
  • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
  • Accommodation Included
  • Max. Altitude 3,200 M
  • Activity Trekking, Hiking and Exploring
  • Group Type Private
  • Group Size 1-12 people
  • Best Season Jan - May & Sept - Dec

Tsum Valley Trekking Overview

The Tsum Valley Trek is a captivating journey to the sacred and secluded Tsum Valley, often referred to as the “Hidden Valley of Happiness.” Nestled in the northern part of Nepal, near the Tibetan border, this trek takes you through a culturally rich and unspoiled region steeped in Tibetan Buddhist heritage. The valley, once restricted to outsiders, is known for its ancient monasteries, remote villages, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

The trek begins in the Manaslu region, following trails that wind through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung settlements. As you ascend into the Tsum Valley, the scenery transforms into a mystical realm of rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and expansive alpine meadows. Along the way, you’ll pass through villages like Chumling, Chhokang Paro, and Nile, where traditional lifestyles and ancient customs have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Key highlights of the trek include visits to the Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, two of the region’s most important Buddhist monasteries. Trekkers will also have the opportunity to explore sacred caves, such as the Milarepa Piren Phu Cave, believed to be a meditation site of the revered Tibetan saint Milarepa. The spiritual significance of the valley, coupled with the warm hospitality of its people, makes this trek a deeply enriching experience.

Spanning 14-20 days, the Tsum Valley Trek is moderately challenging and ideal for trekkers seeking solitude and a cultural journey off the beaten path. With its unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual resonance, the trek offers an unforgettable adventure into one of Nepal’s most enchanting and lesser-explored regions.

Day to Day Itinerary
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  • Activities: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel. In the evening, there will be a briefing session about the trek.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Activities: Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Boudhanath. Final preparation for the trek.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Activities: Begin with a scenic drive to Soti Khola, passing through rural villages, rivers, and beautiful landscapes.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River through terraced fields, rocky trails, and waterfalls.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Cross several suspension bridges, pass hot springs, and reach Jagat, the entry point to Manaslu Conservation Area.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Walk through bamboo forests and small villages. Experience the change in landscape as you approach Lokpa.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Enter the Tsum Valley and pass rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and monasteries before reaching Chumling.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Enjoy the panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal range as you trek through small villages.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Visit the Milarepa Cave and trek through the Buddhist villages of Lamagaon and Chhule.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: A short hike takes you to Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in Tsum Valley. Explore the gompa and surrounding areas.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Visit the ancient monastery and hike to the Pika Himal Base Camp or nearby Tibetan border regions.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Retrace your steps back to Rachen Gompa, a nunnery with beautiful murals and a spiritual atmosphere.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Descend through villages, enjoying views of the lush valley and snow-capped peaks.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Continue descending to Bihi Phedi, passing various traditional villages along the route.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Ascend again through dense forests and narrow gorges as you reach Namrung, known for its Tibetan-influenced culture.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: A relatively easy trek today offers excellent views of Manaslu and other high Himalayan peaks.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Pass through alpine meadows and enjoy views of Mount Manaslu as you approach the village of Samagaun.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Trek uphill to Dharmasala, passing several small settlements and grazing areas for yaks.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass, which offers breathtaking views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and other peaks.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Descend through lush forests and terraces before reaching Dharapani.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

  • Activities: Drive back to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Cost Includes
  • Airport transfers
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and during the trek
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Trekking permits and entrance fees
  • Professional trekking guide
  • Porter to carry your luggage
  • Necessary equipment (sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc.)
Cost Excludes
  • International flights
  • Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for the guide and porter
Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
Useful Info
  • Altitude sickness is a potential risk, so acclimatize properly.
  • Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can be cold at high altitudes.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Obtain a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) before starting the trek.
FAQs
  • The average daily walking distance is around 5-7 hours.

  • While the trek is not extremely difficult, it requires a moderate level of fitness and experience. Beginners may find it challenging, especially at higher altitudes.

  • The highest altitude reached is around 3,200 meters.

  • Yes, you can hire a horse or mule to carry your luggage, but this will incur additional costs.

  • The weather in the Tsum Valley can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. It’s best to be prepared for all weather conditions.

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