Tsum Valley Trek Overview
Tsum Valley Trek is a rugged, less-traveled trekking trail near the Tibetan border in the northern Gorkha province. Trekking began there in 2008. Trekking in Nepal is a popular and hard activity for individuals who enjoy exploring distant locations and learning about the distinct culture and traditions of the Himalayan people. The journey begins at Arughat, proceeds down the Budhi Gandaki River, and passes by stunning waterfalls. Ascending further will reward you with breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains covered with snow.Located in the foothills of Ganesh Himal (7422 m), Tsum Valley is a hidden valley renowned for its rich Buddhist culture, historic monasteries and traditional way of life. The main attractions of this trek are the Rachen Gompa and MU Gompa, which are reached by trekking. With over 100 monks living there MU Gompa is 400-year old monastery. Situated at an elevation of 3700m in the Tsum valley, this monastery is the oldest and largest one.
You will see chortens, prayer flags, and mani walls along the route. All things considered as the Tsum Valley Trek is and exciting trekking route that passes through numerous charming little villages, such as Machhakhola, Jagat, Chumling, and Chhekampar, where you can learn about the distinctive customs of the locals and feel their warm hospitality. Nonetheless, it’s a moderate to exciting hike that calls for a decent level of fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience (though it’s not required). Culture and Religion in Tsum valley The majority of the locals in Tsum Valley are Tibetan, and they speak a distinct language. They firmly believe in Buddhism. In Tsum Valley, people offer prayers to various Bodhisattvas and Buddha Gur Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). In addition, they install player flags, mani walls, khata, light butter lamps in monasteries, and hold the notion that lamas reincarnate. The majority of people commemorate the Lhosar festival, which takes place in January or February. For ten to fifteen days, people visit monasteries and hang fresh prayer flags in their homes to commemorate the New Year. They also offer delectable food as a means of greetings and well wishes. The Dhuchyang festival, held in December or January, is another significant celebration for the people of Tsum Valley. praying and visiting monasteries.
Best Time For Tsum Valley Trek
The best time for Tsum Valley trekking falls in the spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. These months hold favorable weather conditions due to clear weather, mild temperatures, and less rainfall. It is during the spring that the rhododendrons, the national flower, bloom in vibrant colors, while autumn has a crispy atmosphere and an ideal temperature to undertake the trek. This time is advantageous to reduce extreme weather conditions in the region and guarantees safe and comfortable trekking. Understandably, trekking in other seasons than those mentioned may be quite tricky and challenging because of massive snowfall in winter or, vice versa, because of monsoon rains in summer that make the trails slippery and more difficult to trek. Thus, choosing the right season for the Tsum Valley trek guarantees either success or a fun-filled journey.
Difficulty on Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Trek is categorized as a moderately difficult to challenging trek due to its remoteness, wide altitude range, and varied landscapes it goes through. Although not technically as tough compared to some other high-altitude treks, the trek still requires acclimatization due to its distance, rugged pathways, and many suspension bridges with steep ascents and descents. Altitude also contributes to the challenge the trek poses, as it goes over 3,700 meters altitude at its highest point of 12,139 feet, with the added risk of altitude sickness if one does not follow proper acclimatization. Isolation further makes this a difficult trek since services and infrastructure are at a minimum in this region. This scenic, culturally rich adventure is doable with proper preparation combined with good fitness levels and good acclimatization.
Fitness On Tsum Valley Trek
Fitness and preparation are important for the Tsum Valley Trek, as it includes long days of walking at high altitude on difficult terrain. Therefore, a medium degree of physical fitness is desirable, oriented toward cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and stamina. Training like hiking with a loaded backpack, stair climbing, and long-distance walking or running will help the body be better prepared for the demands of the trek. Leg strengthening, especially quadriceps and calf muscles, is important for steep ascents and descents. It’s also essential to practice hiking at elevations if possible to get your body accustomed to thinner air and avoid altitude sickness. Aerobic exercises, like cycling or swimming, on a regular basis, will help improve cardiovascular health and increase overall endurance. Generally, good physical fitness combined with proper acclimatization during the trek is the basis of successfully completing the Tsum Valley Trek without much risk of fatigue and altitude problems.
Mu Gompa
Mu Gompa is an ancient and famous Buddhist monastery situated within the Tsum Valley, lying at an elevation of about 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). The monastery, along with other villages, gives a prayer-like serenity to the residents and trekkers who pass by, enjoying serene atmospheres surrounded by the stunning Himalayas. This monastery is considered very historical, as it dates back centuries and has been an important site regarding Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Mu Gompa is usually visited by trekkers through the Tsum Valley for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful murals, and the chance to experience the local culture and tradition of the Tibetans. Situated at such a high elevation, its access calls for proper acclimatization by trekkers beforehand for a safe and successful visit.
Foods and lodging
In Nepal, all trekking is centered around teahouses, which entail lodging and dining in regional lodges. The mountain tea houses offer a breathtaking view from their simple, usually double-occupancy rooms that include a wooden bed, blanket, mattress, pillow, and shared bathroom facilities. Similarly, there are single rooms that can accommodate a female traveler traveling alone. Even though the food is abundant and excellent, we eat at teahouses. They serve soup, seasonal vegetables, rice, and a selection of potato and noodle dishes. You can have pancakes, corn flakes, peanut butter, honey, and jam on French toast, as well as porridge with milk for breakfast. Many types of thukpa (noodle soup), momo (dumplings), Tibetan/chapati bread, macroni, spaghetti, Sherpa stew, sandwiches, pizza, spring rolls, and yak steak are available for lunch. Additionally, there are rice pudding, fruit snickers, apple pie, and hot beverages like hot chocolate, hot mango juice, hot pineapple juice, black/milk coffees, and black/mint/ginger/green/lemon honey teas. There are fresh seasonal fruits available in certain areas.
Suitable time to trek One of the greatest times to visit Tsum Valley is in the spring, which runs from March to May. The weather
is usually clear and warm during the day and cooler at night. It’s a beautiful path and easier to trek in the absence of rain or snow. The autumn season, which lasts from October to November, is one of the best because of the clear skies that return after the monsoon rains, the lush landscape, and the hills covered in verdant forests. Now that the heavier clouds have moved on, the mountain’s summit is once again plainly visible. The best times of year for adventure seekers who wish to take on strenuous and difficult treks while visiting Nepal are thought to be the winter and monsoon. The trail is hazardous and challenging because of the muddy and slick conditions.
Guide and Porter
Since the Tsum Valley Trek is a restricted area trek, entry into the area requires a special permit. As a result, all hikers must hire a certified trekking guide and obtain a permit from approved trekking companies that are officially registered with the Nepali government. A trustworthy and respectable business, Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd., is able to offer guides
with excellent technical proficiency and safety performance. They are amiable, proficient in English, properly trained, licensed, and insured as guides. They always have the necessary supplies, first aid kits, and safety equipment on hand.
Travel Insurance
All hikers who wish to take part in any trek or tour program in Nepal’s mountains must have travel insurance. Trekking at high altitudes like the Tsum Valley Trek can be hazardous and physically taxing. In the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a delayed or canceled flight, or lost or stolen luggage, travel insurance can provide financial protection. In addition, it provides you with financial security and assurance in the event of an unplanned mishap.
Altitude sickness
Above 3000 meters in the mountains, altitude sickness is a common occurrence. Your body tries to adapt to the lower oxygen and air pressure at high altitudes by producing symptoms like headache, nausea, exhaustion, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, appetite loss, rapid pulse, and severe dehydration, among others. When trekking in the Tsum Valley, if you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention right away to avoid complications. These are some prevention tips for altitude sickness that our knowledgeable trekking guides have tried and tested:
- Take a break and relax where you are.
- Ensure you’re getting adequate water to drink.
- Don’t exercise, consume alcohol, or smoke.
- Consuming crab-containing foods and beverages
Tsum Valley Trek Highlights
- The largest and oldest monastery MU Gompa
- The snow- capped mountains, waterfalls, rivers, caves, suspension bridges and valleys
- Less traveled trekking route and off the beaten path of Manaslu region
- Known for its rich Buddhist culture, Monasteries and traditional lifestyle of locals
- Geographically Spectacular and culturally interesting hidden valley, Non-touristy trail, a bonus of a visit to Ganesh Himal Base Camp(7422 m)
- Magnificent views of Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Lumbo Himal, Sringi Himal (7,187m), Boudha Himal (6,672m), and Himalchuli (7,893m), etc.
- Exploration of ancient monasteries, nunneries, and sacred sites- Mu Gompa, Ranchen Gompa, Lungdang Gompa, Milarepa cave
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat follows Budhi Gandaki River and waterfalls
- Beautiful pine, variety of rhododendrons and juniper forests
- Observe Mani walls, prayer flags and Khata on the trail
Important Notes
Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. Hurry up! Adventure is waiting for you and mountains are calling you.
This trip is fully customization. Importantly, this trip is available on both a fixed departure and a private group basis. Moreover, we can also customize the trip as per your needs, please contact us at Whatsapp (+977-9843770916) or email us at [email protected]. Let us know how we can help you, and we will do our best to give you the best customer service you’ll get anywhere else.
Furthermore, Nepal holiday treks and tours Pvt. Ltd. is a reputable and reliable company serving relentlessly in the field of tourism to fulfill the dreams of diverse adventure seekers around the globe into reality where they can feel most alive. So, we recommend you to reserve seat for yourself by booking with us right away for a wonderful and unforgettable trip experience.
Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary
Expand allDay 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar ( 126 km) ( 600 m) ( 6 - 7 hrs)
We start our trekking with a 6.5 hours’ drive on the scenic Kathmandu-Pokhara highway via beautiful hills, rivers, and villages. At the end, we reach Arughat Bazaar, a market town by the Budhi Gandaki River. Overnight at the lodge, warm meal, rest, and get ready for the next day’s trek.
The best periods for trekking are spring-Spring (March–May)-and autumn-Sptember–November, characterized by clear weather; the mountain views from almost all the trials are breathtaking.
Day 2: Trek from Arughat Bazaar to Liding via Soti Khola ( 22 km) ( 860 m) ( 7 - 8 hrs)
From here, it follows the Budhi Gandaki River through some lush green hills, dense Sal and Chilaune forests, and across fascinating villages. The scenic route goes up to Liding, a tranquil spot on the riverside. Here, we stay overnight at a teahouse to enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Day 3: Trek from Liding to Khorlabeshi via Machha Khola ( 19 km) ( 930 m) ( 7 - 8 hrs)
The 6 hours trekking route through forest, greeneries, mini waterfalls will lead you to the Mongolian village of Lupu Besi. The zigzag trail will finally lead you to Khorlabeshi and then Machha khola meaning Fish River. We will be staying at a teahouse here in Machha Khola (930 meters).
Day 4: Trek from Machhakhola to Jagat ( 1,340 m) ( 22 km) ( 7- 8 hrs walk)
We will be moving ahead through Tatopani the hot springs and Khola Bensi a village from where we will
ascend up with some of the challenging trails. We will be crossing a suspension bridge over a river at a
place called Lauri to reach Jagat at 1440 meters where we stay overnight in a guest house.
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa ( 16 km ) / ( 2,240 m) / ( 7 - 8 hrs)
On this day we will be hiking for approximately six or seven hours ascending gently towards the flat route.
We will be reaching a beautiful village of Gurung inhabitats before we reach Philim crossing the
suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki River. We will climb up to Lokpa at 2240 meters which lies under
Tsum valley where we will stay overnight in a guest house.
Day 6: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling ( 9 km ) ( 2,386 m) ( 4 - 6 hrs)
We will be ascending the route to Chumling located at 2600 meters which is the south face of Shingri
Himal. We can amble around the Chumling village where there are a lot of Gombas of Tibetan styles
where you can enjoy the artistic scenarios. We will be staying overnight at a lodge after all the travel.
Day 7: Trek from Chumling to Rachen Gompa via Chhokangparo ( 10 km) ( 3,240 m) ( 5 - 6 hrs)
The trail becomes more tough and lengthy as we climb upwards from Chumling and reach Chhokangparo
at 3010 meters which inhabitates two settlements Chhokang and Paro. The superb views of Ganesh
Himlal can be observed with during today’s Trekking. You will be staying at a guest house in Rachen
Gompa at 3300 meters of altitude.
Day 8: Trek from Rachen Gompa to Mu Gompa (3,700m) – (10 km) (4 to 5 hrs)
We will today be trekking through the last village in Tsum Valley named Nile at 3361 meters. The final
destination for today will be Mu Gompa at 3700 meters of an altitude. This trail to Mu Gompa is used as
the trail for import and export from Tibet with the help of yak for local villagers. You will also be observing
this whole scenario during this trek. We will be staying overnight at a guest house in Mu Gompa on this
particular day.
Day 9: Acclimatization day in Mu Gompa (3,700m)
This particular day we will not move further but will be staying at Mu Gompa enjoying the spectacular
views of snow covered peaks as well as strolling around for the whole day. We will be staying overnight at
a guest house in Mu Gompa.
Day 10: Trek from Mu Gompa to Rainjam via Chhule ( 14 km ) ( 2,430 m) ( 6 - 7 hrs)
We will be descending through Mu Gompa to reach Rainjam at 2600 meters all the way through Chhule at
3347 meters where we could enjoy the beautiful scenarios of Punchen Mountain which is a unique gift of
nature. We will stay overnight at Guest house in Rainjam.
Day 11: Trek from Rainjam to Gompa Lungdang ( 11 km) ( 3,200 m) ( 5 - 6 hrs)
We will be walking enjoying the views all the way from Rainjam to Gomba Lungdang which homes to
beautiful as well as giant monastery that shelters the female monks. We can observe the spectacular
sunrise through the Ganesh Himal. We will stay overnight at the Gompa on this particular day.
Day 12: Trek from Gompa Lungdang to Ripchet via Rainjam ( 12 km) / ( 2,460 m) / ( 5 - 6 hrs)
We will be descending from Gompa Lungdang to Rainjam enjoying the closest and the most attractive
view of Ganesh Himal. Our destination will be Ripchet which is a village which lies on a rural area of
Nepal. We will be enjoying home stay at Ripchet.
Day 13: Trek from Ripchet to Philim via Lokpa ( 12 km) / ( 1,570 m) / (5 - 6 hrs)
We are descending today through the dense pine forest where you will be observing the inhabitant of
different species of birds as well as Musk Deer on the way. Reaching at Philip at 1700 meters we will find a
better lodge to stay in.
Day 14: Trek from Philip to Khorlabeshi ( 15 km) ( 970 m) ( 5 - 6 hrs)
We will be continuing our descent from Philim too to Khorlabeshi at 930 meters following the path at the
bank of river Budhi Gandaki. You can enjoy the hot spring in Tatopani where you can relax in the warm
waters. We will be staying overnight at a tented camp in Khorlabeshi.
Day 15: Trek from Khorlabeshi to Soti Khola ( 12 km) (700 m) ( 4 - 6 hrs)
We will be passing through some villages as well as few waterfalls on the both sides of the river. Reaching
Soti Khola at 730 meters; you will be staying overnight at a guest house.
Day 16: Trek from Soti Khola to Arughat ( 13 km) ( 600 m) ( 4 - 5 hrs)
Walking for about 5 hours we will reach to Arughat from where we had started our trekking. We will be
staying overnight at a lodge in Arughat.
Day 17: Drive from Arughat Bazaar to Kathmandu ( 13 km) ( 600 m) ( 4 - 5 hrs)
We will be enjoying our 6 hours trip from Arughat Bazaar to Kathmandu
If the above Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences and specifications.
Plan My TripTsum Valley Trek Cost Includes
✅An experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed guide.
✅The guide’s and Porter’s salary, food, and accommodation are covered.
✅One porter provided for every two trekkers.
✅Tea house lodging during the trek and Basic yet comfortable accommodations in mountain lodges.
✅Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner and tea or coffee).
✅Sleeping bag and down jacket provided for the trek.
✅Sharing Transportation transfer from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar and return.
✅Manaslu Conservation Area Permit and Tsum Valley Special Permit.
✅All government taxes and company service charges.
Tsum Valley Trek Cost Excludes
❌Fee of visa for Nepal.
❌Personal expenses forbar and beverages bills, bottle of water ,desserts , extra porters, shower,
❌laundry or any other program which are not mentioned by the company.
❌Airfare to come Nepal or return back to your own country.
❌If you want to stay for extra nights in a certain destination.
❌personal Insurance for health and travel .
❌Tips which may be provided by you to our guides, porters or anyone during the trip
Upcoming Departures
Tsum Valley Trek FAQs
Why am I going to trek with Nepal Holiday?
Nepal Holiday offers experienced guides, excellent customer service, and local knowledge that can make your trek safe, enjoyable, and well-organized.
What are the other documents that I need to bring along for trekking?
You will be requiring a valid passport with six-month validity, a Nepal visa available on arrival or online, and permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
How to book a flight to Nepal, and what should I look out for?
Book international flights well in advance. Plan for extra days, in case flights are delayed-particularly for the return-as flight conditions to Lukla are very much weather-related.
I have previously gone on a trek; will I need a guide?
Not compulsory but highly advisable for safety, navigation, and to enrich your trekking experience. Guides speak English and have local knowledge.
When is the best season to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
The best seasons are Spring – March-May and Autumn – September-November when the weather is clear and the trails are dry.
What is the total distance of the Tsum Valley Trek?
The Tsum Valley Trek typically covers a round-trip distance of 160-200 km (100-124 miles), depending on the route taken. The trek can last from 14 to 20 days depending on your pace and side trips, such as going to Mu Gompa or exploring other remote areas.
How difficult is it on the Tsum Valley Trek?
The Tsum Valley Trek is suitable for trekkers with moderate trekking experience and a good level of physical fitness. With proper preparation, acclimatization, and pacing, the trek is achievable, but it may pose challenges for trekkers who are new to high-altitude trekking or those unprepared for its remote and rugged conditions.
What kind of weather does one experience on the Annapurna Circuit trek?
Lower altitudes (1000-2000m): 15°C-25°C daytime, 5°C-10°C nighttime. Higher altitudes (3000m-5000m): 0° to -10°, Coldest nights at below freezing mark.
Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?
Yes, you can get a visa on arrival at the airport or apply online prior to your trip.
Who will pick me up at the airport upon my arrival in Nepal?
A representative from Nepal Holiday will meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel.
How much extra money do I need per day for my trek?
You’ll need about USD 20-30 per day in Kathmandu and less during the trek for your personal expenses, snacks, and tips.
Do I have to pay a deposit when I book my trek?
Yes, a deposit is required to confirm your booking. The balance can be paid in cash either in USD or Nepalese Rupees in Kathmandu. You can also pay by credit card in Kathmandu.
Do I need any previous trekking experience for the trek?
Previous experience will be helpful but not compulsory. Your fitness and stamina should be pretty good.
Is there any restriction on age to trek in Nepal?
There is no specific age limit, but to attempt this circuit your physical fitness level should be good enough. Consult your doctor if you’ve got health issues.
How safe is Nepal to trek solo for women travelers?
Generally, Nepal is safe to trek for a solo female traveler, but always in the back of one’s mind should be taking standard precautions such as the choosing of a reputable company or guide.
What type of accommodation am I supposed to expect during the trek?
The types of accommodation range from basic lodges to a tea house. Private rooms are available on request; however, sometimes extra costs may be incurred.
What if I need to stay an extra night in Kathmandu?
If you are delayed for any reason, you’re extra nights as a result will be your responsibility to cover the extra night at your hotel.
Will it be a problem being a vegetarian on the trek?
Being a vegetarian is no problem to diet on, and teahouses accustomed to providing vegetarian meals.
Can I charge my electronics during the trek?
Charging is possible at tea houses lower down on the route and higher up electricity may be limited and for an extra cost.
Are your guides certified, and have they been trained in first aid?
Yes, the guides are Government of Nepal certified and trained in first aid for high-altitude sickness.
Tsum Valley Trek Equipment Lists
Clothing:
- Thermal base layers
- Trekking shirts (quick-dry)
- Fleece jacket and down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking trousers
- Gloves (inner and outer)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Trekking socks
- -20 Sleeping bags
Footwear:
- Sturdy trekking boots
- Camp shoes/sandals
- Gaiters (optional)
Accessories:
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag (-15°C)
- Backpack (50-60L) and daypack (20-30L)
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottles and purification table
Similar Tours
Gokyo Cho-la Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp
Gokyo Cho-La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp is the exciting Everest Region trekking program that combines all factors...
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Mount Makalu is known for its dazzling beauty, which is located in Sankhuwasabha District in the koshi zone of...
Upper Dolpo Trek
Upper Dolpo trekking in Nepal provides unique and challenging isolated region trekking experience for adventure enthusiasts seeking a remote...
Upper Dolpo Trekking
Upper Dolpo offers unique and challenging isolated region trekking experience for adventure enthusiasts seeking a remote path adventure. It...
Upper Mustang Trekking
Upper Mustang trekking is a moderate and a remote routes in the north of Annapurna at an average altitude...