Tsum Valley Trek
5
TRIP DURATION
12 Days
MAX. ALTITUDE
3800m
TRIP GRADE
Moderate
LODGING
Tea House
BEST SEASON
Autumn and Spring
MEALS
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
COMMUNICATION
NTC/ NCell
PER DAY WALK
6-8 hours

Tsum Valley Trek

Hidden within the pristine beauty of Gorkha, the TSUM valley lies before the Manaslu range of Nepal. Manaslu is the world’s eighth-highest mountain and lies in the central north of Nepal. This pristine mountain harbours many beautiful valleys that lie a few hundred kilometres away from Kathmandu. And one such remote valley of Nepal is Tsum valley. Tourist has just recognized the unbelievable natural beauty and the rich culture of Tsum.

We can claim that the Tsum Valley trek is the most underrated adventure in Nepal. Tsum Valley lies in the northern part of Manaslu. The name Tsum represents a Tibetan word that marks “Tsombo”; meaning is Vivid. Even the name reflects the diverse culture, unique lifestyle, and myth/ mystery of this village. From the insight into the polyandry system (off-course illegal) to the tales of Yeti or Abominable snowmen, the valley has so much to uncover.

Tsum Valley Trek With Manaslu

You can see the Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and dozens of other peaks in the journey. This hidden Jewel homes many old monasteries/ gompas, Mani walls, rotating wheels, and prayer flags along the route. The rich Tibet culture will surely give you salvation and peace. Recently upgraded to a tea house trekking trail, you can now conquer Tsum’s beauty while enjoying the comfort and luxury of newly built tea houses.

The 12-day Tsum Valley trek begins with an exciting drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and then to the Nile via Jagat. Walking via the thick tropical forest, cascading rivers, and pristine lakes, you will soon be wandering in the deserted land of the mountain. On the 8th day, you reach Mu Gompa, the major highlight of this trek, and get back to Soti Khola via Lokpa. The victory over Tsum comes with a life-long lesson of happiness and peace- a purely rejuvenating experience.

So, Are You Ready To Explore Tsum Valley?

Highlights Of Tsum Valley Trek

  • A delightful experience of high altitude trekking, i.e. our final destination, Mu Gompa, at 3700 meters above sea level
  • Avoid the crowd of other popular base camp treks and enjoy the solitude of nature all by yourself.
  • Visit many century-old monasteries and dive into the core of the Buddhist religion
  • Experience the unique Tibetan culture of Gurung and Tamang people, including polyandry
  • Discover the truly hidden settlement like Philim, Gao Samagaon, Shambo
  • Wander through the rich sub-tropical forest and encounter many rare and endangered Himalayan wildlife- a jungle safari-like experience
  • Comfortable accommodation in the newly built tea houses of Tsum.

ITINERAY

Day 01: Drive to Soti Khola

Altitude: 730m

Drive duration: 7-8 hours

Initially, we drive from Kathmandu via Trishuli River and join a different route from Dhading Besi. In the next part, we pass via Arughat Bazaar along Budi Gandaki Riverside. From, Arkhet we drive to Soti Khola for an hour.

Overnight in Soti Khola

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 02: Trek to Machhikhola

Trek to TSUM Valley
Trek to TSUM Valley

Altitude: 869meters

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

Today, we walk north via Soti Khola and get into Buddhi Gandaki valley to stop at Lapubesi. From here, we descent to a wide river and then reach MachhiKhola for dinner.

Overnight in MachhiKhola

Check our Chitwan National park tour if you are looking for an easy vacation in Nepal.

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 03: Trek to Jagat

Altitude: 1310m

Trek duration: 6 to 7 hours

Today, we cross the suspension bridge and then walk to Kholabesi. After another river, we get to Tatopani and reach the beautiful village of Dovan. Next, we walk to Thulo Dunga and to the Jagat Village.

Overnight in Jagat

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 04: Trek to Lokpa

Altitude: 2020 m

Trek duration: 5/6 hours

Here, we cross an entry point: the registration post for the permit. After paperwork, we climb to Salleri village. Crossing Budhi Gandaki River, we explore the Phelim village and Ekle Bhatti. We walk closer to the mountains towards Lokpa.

Overnight in Lokpa

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 05: Trek to Chumling

Trek to Manaslu TSUM

Altitude: 2385meters

Trek duration: 3/ 4 hours

Here, the actual wild route to TSUM valley commences. We can see Siring Himal, Buddha Himal and Ganesh Himal before ascending to Chumling village. Here, we visit the ancient Buddhist monastery in the evening.

Overnight in Chumling

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 06: Trek to Chhekampar

Altitude: 3032meters

Trek duration: 5/6 hours

First, we cross the Syar River in Domje and ascend into Gho, the largest village of TSUM Valley; we visit a typical local Monastery and then slowly walk to Chhekampar.

Overnight in Cheekampar

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 07: Trek to the Nile

Altitude: 3362 meters

Trek duration: 5/ 6 hours

Today’s a short walk in the west of the Nile, i.e. Shikhar Khola. Then, we get to Chhule and then rest at Lamagaon. After that, we stop at Milrepa to visit the Pire Phu cave. The Pigeon cave lies on the side of a rocky cliff mountain with two monasteries attached. From here, we walk to the Nile.

Overnight in the Nile

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 08: Trek to Mu Gompa

Altitude: 3700 meters

Trek duration: 5/6 hours

It’s the final destination of our trek. We walk closer to the Tibetan border from the Nile and stop at Mu Gompa. This historical Buddhist monastery with beautiful Chortens lies beyond the Yak pasture, just before the Rocky Mountains. We stay at this very important pilgrim site at Tsum valley.

Overnight in Mu Gompa

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 09: Trek to Chumling

Trek to TUSM Manaslu

Altitude: 2385meters

Trek duration: 6/ 7 hours

On a very familiar path, we walk to Chumling via Nile and Chhekampar.

Overnight at Chhekampar

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 10: Trek to Dovan Village

Altitude: 1150 meters

Trek duration: 6/7 hours

From the TSUM valley, we walk down to Lokpa via Ekle Bhatti and Philim Ghaun. We will also stop at Jagat before finally getting to Dovan Village.

Overnight in Dovan

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 11: Trek to Soti Khola

Altitude: 730m

Trek duration: 6/7 hours

From Dovan, we cross a river to Tatopani. Then, we trace back the route to Khorlabesi and Machhikhola via Soti Khola.

Overnight in Soti Khola

Meal : Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Accomodation : Tea House

Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu

It’s time to drive back to Kathmandu

Meal : Breakfast/ Dinner

Accomodation : 3-star hotel

Walking / Driving : 9 hrs drive

include / exclude

Trip Cost Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop off service
  • 2 night accomodation in the Kathmandu
  • Guide for 11 day’s
  • Manaslu conservation area permit
  • Tsum Valley restricted area Permits
  • Kathmandu to Sotikhola and Sotikhola to Kathmandu by public bus
  • Breakfast, lunch, Dinner during the trekking
  • 10 night accomodation in the mountains
  • All government taxes and company service charge

Trip Cost Excludes

  • International Airfare
  • Visa Charges
  • Hotel Expenses(In Kathmandu, some packages do include hotel expenses)
  • Your travel and medical insurance
  • Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
  • Food and accommodations in Kathmandu
  • Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency
  • Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.

useful info

Tsum Trek Difficulty And Fitness

The fact that Tsum Valley was closed for many years and lies within a restricted region makes it sound scary. However, the fact is, it’s among the most leisurely treks in the Manaslu region. Firstly, the trek’s highest point is 3,700 meters, which is very low compared to other big tours of Nepal.

If you drink enough water and give yourself enough rest, the chances of altitude sickness in Tsum are almost till. You will be walking for ten days, 15 to 20 km each day in the trek. The overall Tsum Valley hike is about 150 km. Trekking such distance is not a big deal. However, walking in the rough mountain terrain demands fit physical fitness.

So, if you are not a professional climber, you need to train your body with a few cardio exercises before then trek. Running, Jogging, Swimming, and cycling two months before the hike can be helpful. You will not need trekking gear and climbing skills for this trek.

Note: Travel Insurance covering high-altitude trek rescue/ evacuation and Medical treatment is compulsory for this trek. 

Acclimatisation in Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek

 

Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Trek

Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek offer a unique opportunity for adventurers to explore stunning landscapes while gradually ascending to higher altitudes. Starting from the low elevation of Soti Khola at 730 meters, we took our time climbing, allowing our bodies to safely adjust to the increasing altitude.

To prevent altitude sickness, it’s crucial to trek at a moderate pace and stay hydrated by drinking at least four litres of water daily. If someone in the group shows severe symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, or dizziness, the best action is to descend to a lower altitude immediately.

Based on the group’s overall health, our trek leaders can decide whether to continue the Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley trek or halt. Your safety is our top priority, and we encourage open communication about any concerns or symptoms you may experience.

It’s essential to recognise that some individuals are more susceptible to altitude sickness than others, so listening to your body and communicating discomfort to your trek leader is essential. By following these precautions and guidelines, we ensure that your Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek experience is enjoyable but also safe and unforgettable.

Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley trek Safety

At Himalayan Masters, we prioritize ensuring you’re safe, secure, and happy during your adventure. Safety always comes first for us. We’re fully prepared for anything that comes our way, equipped with all the necessary gear, tools, and first aid kits. Our team leaders and guides have undergone thorough training in first aid.

If someone on the Tsum Valley and Manaslu trek starts feeling sick because of the altitude, our trek leader will assess the situation and decide whether it’s best to keep going or head down immediately. And if there’s an emergency, like someone getting seriously ill or injured, we’ve got you covered. We have arrangements to help you, even if you’re too high. We can call in a rescue helicopter, and don’t worry about the cost — it’s all covered by insurance.

Plus, when trekking, we work together to ensure everyone stays safe. It’s all about looking out for each other and having a great time exploring the fantastic landscapes together. So, rest assured, when you trek with us, you’re in good hands. Read full packing list for Manaslu. 

Required Permits For Tsum Valley Trek

Along with your Nepal visa, you need three other permits for this trek. A tourist Visa to Nepal is available upon arrival at the airport and costs $50 for 30 days. Indian Manaslu trekkers do not need a visa, and a visa is free for a citizen of SAARC country. Read all Manaslu Cost. 

Tsum Restricted Permit

Tsum Valley lies within the restricted region of Nepal, so you will need a restricted area permit. This permit is necessary to cross Jagat (there’s a check-post). This restricted area permit is only issued to group trekkers (more than two) accompanied by a licensed trek guide. The trekkers need to get this permit from the Department of Immigration, Kathmandu, and require a long list of documents. Your travel agency (Himalayan Masters) will assist you in getting the restricted area permit. The cost is:

September – November: USD 40 per person/week and USD 7 per person/day (beyond one week)

December – August: USD 30 per person/week and USD 7 per person/day (beyond one week)

Manaslu Conservation Area permit

The Manaslu conservation area starts at Philim. You can get this permit from Kathmandu or even at the entry point. Only your passport-size photo and passport are needed to issue the permit, and it costs about USD 30 (Rs 600 for people of SAARC country).

Annapurna Conservation Area permit

This permit is only needed if you take route three mentioned above. This permit is not needed for our Itinerary. The cost and rules are similar to those for the Manaslu Conservation area.

Tsum Valley Accommodation

For a long time, this region of Manaslu was a popular camping trek destination. The Tsum Valley Nepal trek has recently been upgraded as a tea house trek destination. There are only a handful of tea houses, and you need to book them in advance—the cost of a room in tea houses is minimal, i.e. $5 to $6.

Tea houses are small hotels owned by the locals with centrally heated restaurants. The room has 2 to 3 single beds, a mattress, a pillow, and a small blanket. It’s not very luxurious, but it’s comfortable enough. The bathrooms are usually Indian style and available on a sharing basis. The hot shower is available for an extra cost ($2- $3).

Internet/ Wi-Fi in TSUM trek: Most tea houses now have a wireless network connection, but the speed is prolonged. It cost an additional $2.

Electricity in TSUM trek route: The electronic devices can be charged in reception, which will also cost a few extra dollars. Having an extra battery, power banks, and a solar-powered charger is handy. We don’t suggest you carry a laptop.

Food Available At Tsum Valley Trek

Must Try Local Food of NepalMust Try Local Food of Nepal

The tea house also provides you with a warm breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu choice is quite versatile, and the cost is $5 to $7 per meal.  For breakfast, Tibetan bread, dry bread with cheese, oatmeal, and toast with jam, honey, or peanut butter are common. Hashed brown potato, boiled eggs, pancakes, and porridge/ muesli with milk are available. Coffee/ tea and lemon drinks are also included. Thukpa (noodle soup), (dumplings), bread, fried rice, and soup are famous in Nepal.

There’s also international cuisine like macaroni, Spaghetti, steaks, Sandwiches, Pizza, and spring rolls. Some desserts are also available- Rice Pudding, Apple pie, and fruit snicker. The dal/Bhat set is the most popular option for the food. You can try some yak steak and cheese. Local food like Dhindo, Butter tea, and Sel roti is also a must-have. Water bottles cost 1-3 USD per litter. To save money, you can carry your water bottle and fill it with natural taps. However, it would help if you carried purification tablets.

The people from Tsum Valley Manaslu trek 

The region around the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is home to Gurung, Tibetan, and Tamang communities. Tsum Valley lies within the Tsum Nubri Rural Municipality in the Gorkha district. Here, the women of Tsum Valley are known for weaving traditional fabrics called Baku and Pangden using wool from local sheep. The area is quite isolated, surrounded by mountains, and the people, both men and women, wear thick woollen clothes to stay warm in the chilly temperatures.

Despite the modern world advancing rapidly, people still hold onto their ancient customs and traditions. They celebrate Buddhist festivals, perform ceremonies like burning juniper berries to cleanse the air and honour nature, hang prayer flags, and build Mani Walls to spread happiness to all living beings. This preservation of culture is largely due to the region being somewhat forgotten by modern development. This area is a fascinating destination for adventurers and trekkers to explore and experience firsthand. Read all tips for Manaslu Trek.

Tsum Valley Trek Map

Where is Manaslu TSUM Valley

Route 1: Our Itinerary here is only 12 days long. This is a rather short route and goes via the places mentioned here in the Itinerary section.

Route 2: If you have a few more days in your holiday, you can take another route from Chekampar (Day 09 in Itinerary) and then walk to Gumba Lundang and visit Ganesh Himal Base Camp. This gives you the true experience of the base camp trek. From Gumba Lundang, you walk to Lokpa and Jagat, joining the same route.

Route 3: You can also join the Annapurna Circuit Route from the Domje village (above Chumling). For this, you first walk to Bihi, Namrung, and then to Sama Gaon. Joining Samdo and Larkya Phedi, you walk to Dharmsala, Bhimthang, and Dharapani. From Dharapani, you can drive to Besisahar and then to Kathmandu. This makes your Tsum Valley trek about 20 days.

Related Content:- Manaslu Circuit Trek

How long is the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek itinerary with Tsum Valley?

Exploring the Manaslu region can take up to 26 days to see both the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley. However, you can make the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek itinerary shorter if you prefer. Consider an 18-day Manaslu Tsum Valley trek itinerary for a relaxed journey, but some might find it too lengthy.

If you’re in a hurry, skip side trips and cut the duration by about 7 days. If your main goal is to conquer the Larke La pass, you can do it in 14 days with the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Adding Tsum Valley will require an extra 7 days, providing an ultimate Manaslu experience.

Alternatively, if you’re interested only in the Tsum Valley trek, it typically takes around 11 days. Similarly, the shortest version of the Manaslu Circuit Trek can also be completed in an 11-day Manaslu Tsum Valley trek itinerary.

So, depending on your preferences and time constraints, you can choose the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek itinerary that suits you best.



FAQs

When is your next departure for TSUM valley?

This TSUM valley trek can be done throughout the year. We can book your TSUM trek whenever you wish to depart. Just let us know you’re available.

What's the highest altitude of Tsum Valley Trek?

Can we trek to TSUM without an agency?

What if I get altitude mountain sickness in the TSUM valley Nepal trek?

What is the booking & payment system?

Is it safe for a solo female traveler?

Do I need a sleeping bag for TSUM trek?

Will we get a Porters for the bags?

Where is TSUM Valley?

How far is Kathmandu from TSUM Valley?

What is the altitude of TSUM Valley Nepal?

Who are the people living at the highest altitude in Nepal?

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Based on your preferences, location, timeframe, and budget, our team can design your dream trek based on our extensive knowledge and experience of the Himalayas. Get in touch with us for detailed information and assistance planning your dream trek. With our 97% success rate on trekking and climbing trips in 2022 and 2023 spring season, we will answer any questions you may have and guide you for an unforgettable experience.