Tsum Valley Trek
Destination
Nepal
Duration
15 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Max Altitude
3,360m
Accomodation
Lodge/Tea House
Best Season
Mar-May Sep-Nov
Trip Start
Pokhara
Trip End
Pokhara
Overview of Tsum Valley Trek
Less Crowded Trails for a Peaceful Journey !
The Manaslu Round Trek is less crowded than other hiking routes, so you can enjoy peace and quiet. Uncrowded trails allow you to establish a strong connection with the natural world and your journey. It is hence a favourite among those seeking tranquility, contemplation, and a genuine sense of adventure.
Discover the secret Tibetan Buddhist land lying at the edge of one of the most secluded Himalayan valleys. Tsum Valley is one of the world’s remotest Himalayan Valleys which was also a restricted region until recently. The trek to Tsum Valley takes you into the majestic surroundings of the Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and Boudha Himal ranges. The region once being part of Tibet looks completely different from what you will find elsewhere. The people of Tsum Valley or the Tsumbas belong to Tibetan origin with their own ancient form of dialect, art, culture and religion. Very few adventure travelers have made it to this high and mysterious valley, which used to be an important trade link with Tibet. In the initial days, we trek the route of Around Manaslu Trek or the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The Tsum Valley lies on the northern part of Manaslu and used to be a restricted area until 2008. The region is still less exposed in comparison to other touristy areas, with relatively virgin and less beaten paths in comparison to the more popular regions. The Tsum people have their own way of family life, which may be quite surprising for many outsiders. All the brothers in the family are married to a single girl, what you may call a practice of polyandry.
Highlights
- Diverse cultures and ethnic groups (Hindu, Buddhist, Bon-Po).
- Stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
- Scenic landscapes: tropical rice fields, Rhododendron forests, Mustang Valley.
- Ancient Tibetan monasteries (e.g., Braga Monastery).
- Muktinath Shrine, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Challenging Thorung La Pass (5416 meters).
- Witnessing the ancient Bonpo Religion in Mustang.
- Tibetan cultural influence in Mustang.
- Relaxing end in Pokhara, with a mountain flight from Jomsom.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – Welcome to the Land of the Himalayas
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Beauty Nepal Adventure will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. You’ll receive a short briefing about your trip and meet your guide. Take the rest of the day to relax or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel.
Day 02: Permit and Trek preparation day
After breakfast, you will meet your trekking leader when he will go over what is required for the trek, such as your Manaslu & Tsum Valley Restricted area trekking permit. You will also need 3 passport-sized photos and a copy of your travel insurance policy.
Prepare for your trek with a comprehensive briefing, ensuring you are fully equipped for the journey ahead. Utilize this day for any last-minute shopping for trek essentials. Additionally, you have the freedom to explore Kathmandu’s cultural sites, such as the historic Durbar Square and the Swayambhunath Stupa, immersing yourself in the local heritage.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola [710m/2328 ft] 8 - 9 hours
Our journey starts today with the drive from Kathmandu to Arughat which will take around 7-9 hours of drive. The first part of the journey is smooth as we go through the highway. But, from Gorkha or Dhading, the path is rough (there are two ways to go to Arughat). We take some rest before continuing the further journey from Arughat to Soti Khola changing the vehicle. It is approximately 13 km away from Arughat. On the way, after the Kathmandu valley, you will get the beautiful view of the Himalayas like Mt. Annapurna (left view), Manaslu range in the middle and Ganesh Himal in the right.
Day 04: Soti Khola to Machha Khola(870m, 6/7 hours)
Cross the bridge and trek through the beautiful Sal forests, then climb onto a ridge above big rapids on the Budhi Gandaki. The rocky trail then weaves its way up and down, past two tropical waterfalls on a steep, rocky trail clinging to the side of a cliff. It eventually makes its way down and past a few rice terraces, then up and around to the Gurung village of Labubesi. Climb behind a rocky outcrop, where the valley opens and the Budhi Gandaki meanders among wide gravel bars. Drop to the sandy river bed and walk along rounded stones before climbing over a side ridge. Head down again to the river and traverse to Machha Khola village. Overnight at Machha Khola.
Day 05: Machhakhola to Jagat(2340m, 6/7 hours)
The narrow trail makes some minor ups and downs and eventually crosses the Tharo Khola, flowing in a rocky ravine, then reaches Khorla Besi. After a few more ups & downs there is a small trailside hotspring, from where we reach Tatopani. From the Hot spring we climb over another ridge, then cross the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge. Climb on a wide, well-crafted staircase, then across a landslide and over a ridge to Dobhan. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Dobhan Khola, the trail climbs on a rugged trail to Duman. Ascending up again to the Budhi Gandaki, we reach Yaru Khola. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola we climb the stone stairs and then drop to the river and again climb more stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang. Cross to the west bank of the budhi gandaki, climb over a ridge, and trek along the river then climb towards the village of Jagat.
Day 06: Jagat to Lokpa(1980m, 6/7 hours)
Beginning the Tsum Valley Trek today, we climb up a hill gradually and then follow the leveled trail for a while.Crossing the suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki River, we get into a beautiful village, Philim. Explore the cultural delights of Philim, the village having a wonderful ethnic tribe including the Gurungs. A gradual uphill climb beyond Philim, brings us to Ekle Bhatti, where the trail towards Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley Trek branches. Taking right from Ekle Bhatti, we enter the restricted region of a beautiful hidden valley in Nepal, Tsum. Today on the trek we arrived at Lokpa, the first village we stayed overnight inside Tsum.
Day 07: Lokpa to Chumling(2386m, 6/7 hours)
The Tsum Valley Trek today is interesting and somehow challenging as the trek leads along the uphill trail. Two hours of trek through woodlands, small settlements and amazing landscapes with a short lunch break in between, we arrive at Chhumling. The beautiful village nestling at the southern foothill of Shringi Himal, has wonderful Gompas worthwhile visiting. Now you are in Tsum so take your time to explore around the best of Tsum.
Day 08: Chumling to Chhekampar(3010m, 6/7 hours)
Cross the suspension bridge onto the opposite bank. Enjoy the great views of Ganesh Himal. Walking past Rainjam to Serpu Khola crossing another bridge we arrive at the Gho Village. Another 2 hours climb to Tsum takes us to the village of Chhokangparo. Weather permitting; enjoy the views of Himalchuli at 7893 meters and Ganesh Himal at7140m. Overnight at Chokhangparo.
Day 09: Chhekampar to Nile(3360m, 5/6 hours)
While climbing above Chokhangparo, it is better to be careful of altitude problems. Walk past Lamagaon crossing rope suspension bridge to the Rachen Gompa, which is also well known as Nunnery Gompa too. We make a small visit and then we cross the Shiar Khola. Continue walking through the well managed villages Lar (micro hydro power), Phurbe and Pangdun. Leaving the old historic Stupa of Buddha in a way crossing the village of Chhule, climb upstream and cross the bridge to finally arrive at Nile. If you consider we can make your visit to a famous monastery of Chhule which is located at the top of the area.
Day 10: Nile to Chumling(2386m, 6/7 hours)
Breakfast and trek down 6/7 hours via Rachen Gompa visit, the biggest nunnery monastery.
Day 11: Chumling to Philim(1570m, 6/7 hours)
Breakfast and trek of 6/7 hours down on the same trail we went up.
The trail from Chumling descends through terraced fields and lush forests. You’ll cross over the Siyar Khola River on a suspension bridge, getting your first glimpses of the beautiful landscapes along this route.
As you continue, you’ll reach the impressive Samba Falls.
The path winds through small villages, fields, and forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the Shringi Himal. Along the way, you’ll encounter friendly locals, some grazing yaks, and other livestock.
Day 12: Trek from Philim to Soti Khola (7,00m). Duration: 6–7 hours.
Today we follow the trail along the ridge to the Budhi Gandaki River and on to Labubesi until we reach Soti Khola where we stay the night. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 13: Drive from Soti Khola to Kathmandu (1,350m). Duration: 7–8 hours..
Today marks the final leg of your journey, as you drive back to Kathmandu from Soti Khola. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off on a scenic 7-8-hour drive, navigating a winding road through lush valleys, terraced fields, and charming villages. Along the way, you’ll pass through rural landscapes, crossing rivers, and navigate uphill and downhill stretches. The drive offers a glimpse into the daily lives of locals and the beauty of the Nepali countryside. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to rest and reflect on the unforgettable adventure you’ve experienced in the Himalayas. Then, we will celebrate the successful completion of our journey. We will have a farewell dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu where we can pick our typical meals.
Day 14: Rest Day in Kathmandu
Free Time in Kathmandu!
Use the rest of the day to explore Kathmandu Valley, shop for souvenirs, or revisit some of the city’s vibrant markets and cultural landmarks, such as Thamel or Durbar Square.
Day 15: Final Departure – Until We Meet Again
Today, a representative from Beauty Nepal Adventure will transfer you to the international airport for your onward flight. We hope your journey in Nepal has been filled with joy, wonder, and unforgettable memories.
Thank you for trekking with Beauty Nepal Adventure! we hope to welcome you again!
Note :- This Itinerary is meant only as a guideline and is subject to change to suit the local conditions. Walking hours are based on an average walking pace and may change as per individual pace.
What's include
- Kathmandu Airport pickup and drop .
- As per itinerary accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- All accommodation and meals during the trek.
- Meal three times a day during the trek.
- Breakfast, Lunch & dinner, Tea/Coffee.
- Land Transport for both way trek starting and trek ending Point.
- An experienced English-speaking Professional / Competent / Flexible trekking Guide .
- Porters service ,( One strong porter service between two clients ) .
- Including their salary, equipment, transport, food ,lodging ,insurance etc.
- A comprehensive medical kit for Nepali staff.
- All necessary paperwork and permits.
- Special Tsum Valley trek permit.
- Tsum Valley Rural municipality entrance fee.
- ( MCAP ) Manaslu Conservation Area Park Permit.
- ( ACAP ) Annapurna Conservation Area Park Permit.
- (TIMS Card) Trekking Information Management System Card.
- Farewell diner Trek ending day tricycle Nepali restaurant.
- Government Tax, Vat etc..
What‘s excluded
- KTM / Pokhara /KTM flight tickets.
- KTM / Pokhara /KTM Bus tickets.
- Personal & medical insurance during the trip.
- Lunch, dinner and Accommodation in Pokhara and Kathmandu.
- Bar bills & beverages (like mineral water, coke, fanta , rum ,beer etc.
- Tips for Guide and Porter.
- Personal expenses.
Essential Info
Suggested Equipment List
- Duffel/Rucksack bag
- Walking Pole
- Day pack.
- Trekking shoes.
- Sports shoes or sandals.
- Sun Hat/cap
- Warm woolen cap.
- Warm fleece jacket or puffy jacket
- Waterproof Gore-Tex layer
- Pullover or warm sweeter
- Raincoat
- 4/5 pairs of good quality socks
- Hand gloves.
- 2/3 pairs of trekking trousers.
- 3/4 pairs of trekking shirts.
- 3/4 pairs of underwear (non cotton preferred).
- Sun glasses
- Water bottle
- 4 season sleeping bag
- Flash or Torch light
- Camera and batteries
We at Beauty Nepal Adventure understand that every traveler has different dreams, schedules, and expectations when it comes to trekking and exploring Nepal.
That’s why each of our trekking itineraries is flexible and customizable. Whether it’s the duration of the trek, the destination, or the type of experience you’re looking for, we’re more than happy to tailor the journey according to your interests, time availability, and travel preferences.
If you have any specific wishes or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to share them with us. We are always open, friendly and generous when it comes to adjusting our programs to better suit your needs. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Feel free to express your ideas without any hesitation. We genuinely welcome your input.
Thank you for trusting Beauty Nepal Adventure. We look forward to creating a beautiful journey together! Namaste !
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