- difficulty
Moderate
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Trip Style
Group
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Start in
Kathmandu
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end in
Kathmandu
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group size
10
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max altitude
3700 m / 12139 ft (Mu Gompa)
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Accommodation
Teahouse
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Best Season
March - May September - December
Overview
Tsum Valley Trek Overview
Why not travel via the secluded and remote Tsum Valley if you’re searching for an alternative Nepal Himalayan trek? Since it has only been around for less than 20 years, trekkers have had limited access to it, making it less well-known and accessible than traditional treks in other parts of the nation.
The Tsum Valley Trek exposes us to Tibetan culture and way of life through the many gompas and monasteries we can traverse, leading us through some of the most stunning landscapes all the way to the Tibet-Nepal border. The mountain scenery is unique, and the trails are mostly over 3,000 meters (9,842 feet), as we could expect so far north. Himalchuli (7,893 m / 25,895 ft) and Mount Manaslu itself (8,163 m / 26,781 ft) are two of them. Continue reading if you think this is a destination you would love to visit.
Tsum Valley Trek Route
The trek to Tsum valley has its starting point in Kathmandu. Our journey navigates west bound via Prithvi highway for 110 kms prior to reaching Aabu Khaireni. The roadway branches off at Aabu Khaireni and heads north. We then arrive at the compact community of Gorkha district, Aarughat. Aarughat secludes Dhading district from Gorkha and dirt road starts from hereon. Our drive will largely tail along Budhi Gandaki river and so will our trek. We navigate through small Gurung villages to reach Machhakhola. Our trekking days commences from Machhakhola.
For the initial 3 days, our expedition will be a rollercoaster ride down the route paved beside raging Budhi Gandaki river. This river serves as one of the prominent tributaries of the Saptagandaki river system. Your walk will follow along several small rural villages that cater as teahouses for trekkers. Tsum Valley trek uncovers villages like: Machhakhola ,Tatopani, Dovan, Jagaat, Salleri, Phillim, before reaching Lokpa village. And continue to Chumling, Chhokang Paro ,Rana gaon, Rachen Gumba, Chhule / Nile and finally to Mu Gumpa.
Pathway to Manaslu Circuit Trek diverges at Lokpa. Another major river, Syar river, meets with Budhi Gandaki at Lokpa. Our trekking days then are spent walking down the route paved by Syar river. This river has a sacred significance and provides an agricultural source for the Tsumba people. Tsumba people are popularly known for their committed devotion towards ethnic Buddhist culture. You will encounter several traces of Buddhist heritage in the Tsum area of this trek. Dotted with divine monasteries, the trail hereafter is filled with spirituality and history. Rachenn Monastery, Milarepa Piren Phu, and the most primordial monastery of Tsum valley, Mu Gompaa, will fill your trek with spiritual enlightenment. Your trekking adventure will end at Mu Gompa and then we retrace our footsteps back.
What Not to miss in Tsum Valley Trek
Mu Gompa:
Mu Gompa is the oldest Buddhist structure in the Manaslu region. The 3700-meter-high Mu Gompa is home to historic carvings of Tibetan monasteries. Bon Buddhist adherents have long held this location in high regard. Ancient paintings, wooden doors and pillars, golden-colored artwork, wooden floors, and sculptures of Lord Buddha are all shown in the monastery. The Dalai Lama and other revered monks are depicted on the sides of the main statue, which is placed at the monastery’s northern end. Every day, the monastery holds a procession that includes sacred prayers and offerings. High mountains encircle the monastery on all sides, while the Syar River flows through the center.
Rachen Nunnery:
The Rachen Nunnery in Tsum Valley is yet another amazing place to see. Rachen Gompa village is home to this nunnery, which is a symbol of both spirituality and cultural history. This nunnery, which was constructed according to a Tibetan architectural blueprint, is inhabited by Buddhist nuns who have made prayer, study, and contemplation their life’s work. Upon entering this area, you will feel a sensation of spiritual enlightenment. The place’s ancient roofs, pillars, and walls will transport you back in time.
Milarepa Cave
Milarepa Cave is located between Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa. Religious history about Milarepa, Tibet’s most famous poet and yogi, may be found in this cave. For members of Buddhist communities, the cave is a sacred site, although appearing commonplace to outsiders. The cave, which is remote from a neighboring village, is thought to have served as Milarepa’s meditation area in the eleventh century. Tibetan Buddhism has a long history in this cave, which continues to arouse spiritual energy today.
Chhokang Paro
On your journey to Tsum Valley, you will come across a number of Buddhist communities. Nevertheless, Chhokang Paro is a picture-perfect example of a Buddhist community in the region. This small hamlet located in between Chumling and Racchen Gompa reflects a typical Buddhist village. The trail led from the center of buildings made of stone and mud. The village is decorated with prayer flags, mani walls, and chhortens.
Gumba Lungdang
In the Tsum Valley Trek, Gumba Lungdang is another noteworthy Buddhist cultural site. This ancient monastery is situated between Ganesh Himal Base Camp and Dumje. The outside of this monastery features elaborate carvings in a distinctive Tibetan style. Looking at this monastery will open your eyes to a completely different view of Bon Buddhism. A humorous mountain vista that includes Ganesh I (7422m), Ganesh II (6908m), Voke Peak (4617m), and Ganesh IV (6908m) envelops it. Work with our knowledgeable staff to plan your Tsum Valley itinerary so that you can see these undiscovered locations.
Natural Hot Spring
Most of Nepal’s core Himalayan regions have natural hot springs that come up out of the earth. Manaslu has one of these natural hot springs, just like Annapura, Langtang, and Rolwaling. Tatopani Hot Spring, located between Macchakhola and Jagat on the Budhi Gandaki River, is believed to contain mineral-rich waters that help cure skin-related problems.
Tsumba people:
The Tsumba people, indigenous to Tsum Valley, are believed to have migrated from Tibet long ago. These people have lived in the Tsum Valley since the beginning of time since it is a commercial route connecting Tibet and the lower regions of the Gorkha district. Their religious and cultural customs are quite similar to Tibetan Buddhism, which is practiced in many parts of Nepal, such as Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Humla, and other regions that border Tibet. The Tsumba people celebrate a number of festivals, which you can see if you’re lucky enough. Lhosar, Saga Dawa, Dumje and other festivals are celebrated in Tsum valley and are observed with full of energy and passion by the Tsumba people. Please consult with Himalaya Trip to plan the best time for Tsum Valley that coincides with these festival dates.
Ganesh Himal Base Camp
Ganesh Himal Base Camp is reached by the eastbound path that branches out from Dumje. It is at this base camp that the Ganesh Himal trip begins. At 4200 meters, this base camp is situated just beneath the glittering Ganesh range peaks. “Ganesh” is the name of a revered Hindu god whose head is shaped like an elephant. The name comes from the fact that the mountain summit resembles the face of this Hindu god. You will have a wondrous time at Ganesh Himal base camp as it is located amidst gigantic mountains. We suggest you buy a detailed Tsum Valley trek map to not miss important points of interest. The standard itinerary of Tsum valley trekking does not include Ganesh Himal Base Camp trek. If you want to add this side trip, please inquire with us.
Trip highlights
Tsum Valley Trek Highlights
- Until 2008, the Tsum Valley was closed to outside hikers.
- The rare and elusive species in this protected area is appropriate for its distant location.
- There are valleys, rivers, rhododendron and pine forests, and rugged mountain trails.
- The world’s eighth-highest mountain is Mount Manaslu
- Explore the cave where Milarepa, a yogi and scholar of Buddhism, meditated hundreds of years ago.
- Meet residents whose culture is quite similar to Tibet’s; in fact, many of the people who live here are immigrants from Tibet.
- Learn about the spiritually significant and historically significant monasteries in the hidden valley, including Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa.
- Take part in the distinctive celebrations of the Tsum Valley, like Lhosar (Tibetan Spring).
- Get a glimpse across the border into Tibet.
- Walk over high suspension and cantilever bridges with the rivers raging below.
itinerary
- day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
- Arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport.
- Our representative will greet you with warm regards and escort you to the hotel.
- Rest of the day is free for making the preparations of the trek that starts the following day.
- Overnight.
- day 2
Drive From Kathmandu to Macha Khola (9,30 m/ 3,051 ft)
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
- Overnight: MachaKhola
Option 1: Private Jeep
Picked up from your hotel after breakfast.
Depart straight away in a comfortable vehicle.
Can stop anytime for photos or rest.
Option 2: Public Bus
Picked up by taxi from your hotel at around 5:30 am.
Dropped at the bus station.
Ride the public bus – less comfortable and more adventurous.
Cannot stop freely for photos or breaks.
End of Day 2:
Arrive at Maccha Khola.
Overnight stay.
Next morning – start trekking.
- day 3
Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m/4,396 ft)
- Trek time: 6 to 7 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Trek Distance: 14 km / 8.6 miles
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Jagat
Morning Start
- Excitement begins over breakfast at the lodge.
- Ready to hit the trail in the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Altitude & Acclimatization
- Trek is ideal for beginners not used to high altitudes.
- Gradual acclimatization over three days.
- Helps adapt to thinner air and long trekking routes.
Trail Experience
- Cross multiple suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River.
- Possible encounters with waterfalls and wildlife.
- Trek through green forests of the Gurung and Tamang communities (mostly shepherds).
- Continuous up-and-down mountain trails – the true essence of trekking.
- day 4
Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (1,340 m/4,395ft)
- day 5
Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2,386 m/7,828 ft)
Trek Experience
Steep climbs with rewarding mountain scenery.
Forests of pine, juniper, and rhododendron hide and reveal mountain views along the way.
Arrival in Chumling
Reach Chumling village around lunchtime.
Traditional stone-paved settlement, resembling Tibetan culture.
Afternoon Exploration
Visit Panago Gompa.
Visit Gurwa Gompa.
These are the first monasteries encountered on the trek.
Overnight Stay
Rest in Chumling village.
- day 6
Hike to Chekampar from Chumling (3,031 m / 9,944 ft)
- day 7
Trek from Chekampar to Nile (3,361 m / 11,026 ft)
Trail to Nile
Trek towards Nile, the last settlement in the Tsum Valley.
Cultural & Spiritual Highlights
Visit one of the caves of Milarepa (11th-century Buddhist scholar and yogi) where he meditated during travels in Nepal and Tibet.
Explore Rachen Gompa, an important nearby monastery.
Atmosphere
Close to the Tibetan border.
Strong sense of spirituality and peace in the area.
- day 8
Day Trip to Mu Gompa (3,700 m / 12,139 ft)
Trail & Atmosphere
Hike towards Mu Gompa, surrounded by towering mountains.
The peaceful and spiritual ambiance continues.
Mu Gompa Highlights
Most famous monastery in the Tsum Valley.
Home to lamas and monks who pray, meditate, and live here.
Admire murals depicting Tara and Guru Padmasambhava.
Cultural & Spiritual Experience
Possible to join a Buddhist ritual.
Opportunity to light oil lamps for loved ones.
Overnight Stay
Option 1: Stay overnight at Mu Gompa.
Option 2: Return to Nile (approx. 3-hour trek).
- day 9
Trek from either Nile or Mu Gompa to Chumling
- day 10
Trek from Chumling to Philim (1,570 m / 5,150 ft )
Trail Route
Descend from Chumling through terraced fields and lush forests.
Cross the Siyar Khola River on a suspension bridge.
First glimpses of the beautiful landscapes along this section.
Natural Highlights
Visit the impressive Samba Falls.
Scenic views of Shringi Himal and surrounding mountains.
Cultural & Local Encounters
Path passes through small villages, fields, and forests.
Meet friendly locals.
Observe yaks and livestock grazing along the way.
- day 11
Philim to Machha Khola (930 m / 3,051 ft)
Trail Route
Hike along the ridge back to the Budhi Gandaki River.
Arrive at Labubesi village.
Final Day Highlights
Last full day on the Manaslu & Tsum Valley trail.
Overnight stay at a trekking lodge in Maccha Khola.
- day 12
Drive from Maccha Khola to Kathmandu
Special Day – Larkya La Pass
Trek to the trail’s highest point: Larkya La Pass (5,160m / 16,929 ft).
Challenging trek in bad weather or snow, but doable with steady pace.
Morning Schedule
Wake up early at 3 a.m..
Have breakfast and depart from the teahouse early.
Aim to cross the pass before the afternoon.
Pass Highlights
Stunning panoramic views at the pass:
Himlung (7,126m / 23,379 ft) near Tibet
Kang Guru (6,981m / 22,903 ft)
Annapurna II (7,937m / 26,040 ft) in the Annapurna Range
Descent & Overnight Stay
Walk down for approximately 3 hours toward Bimthang.
Views along the way: icefalls, surrounding mountains, Pongkar Tal, and glaciers (Pongkar & Salpu Danda).
Overnight stay in Bimthang.
Not satisfied with this itinerary?
Make your own.Price Included
Airport transfers for international flights (arrival & departure)
10 nights accommodation in mountain teahouses
Professional guide for 11 days
Local bus transport (Kathmandu ↔ Maccha Khola)
All necessary trekking permits
Duffel bag for porter (if you hire one)
All meals during trek:
11 x Breakfast
11 x Lunch
11 x Dinner
Price Excluded
Personal expenses of any kind
Travel insurance
Private Jeep (optional: USD 320)
Any hot or cold drinks
FAQ
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How difficult is the Tsum Valley Trek?
The trek is considered moderate. It includes daily walking of 5–7 hours on mountain trails, with some steep ascents and descents. No prior trekking experience is required, but a good fitness level is recommended.
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What is the highest point of the trek?
The highest point is Mu Gompa (3,700m). If combined with the Manaslu Circuit, trekkers can also cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m).
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What kind of accommodation is available?
You will stay in mountain teahouses, which provide basic lodging and local meals. Rooms are simple, usually twin-sharing.
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Do I need special permits?
Yes. You need:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Tsum Valley Special Permit
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) (if combining with Manaslu Circuit)
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When is the best time to trek Tsum Valley?
Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, great mountain views.
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Stable weather, best for trekking.
Winter is possible but cold; monsoon season has heavy rain and leeches.
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Is it safe to trek alone?
No. As it is a restricted area, you must trek with a licensed guide and at least two trekkers in a group (or pay for a “ghost permit” if alone).
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Are the trekking guides and porters licensed/certified?Yes, usually guides and porters have to be licensed and certified in Nepal. It is known that the MoCTCA of Nepal issues licenses to the guide for trekking, ensuring proper training and knowledge of safety, navigation, and first aid.Many guides are certified through a recognized training program, often through the NMA or another accredited agency. In the case of porters, while licenses may not necessarily be in order, it's possible to hire them through reputable trekking companies that make priorities of safety and fair treatment.This means that at the time of booking a trek, it is worth confirming whether or not guides and porters are certified to ensure one will have a safe and enjoyable experience.
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Are the trekking restaurants available at trekking places?Yes, there are many trekking restaurants or 'tea houses' along popular routes in Nepal. These places have simple accommodation and food for trekkers. Here's what you'd usually expect:Meal Options: Most of the tea houses offer a range of local cuisines that include dal bhat, momos, noodles, and pancakes. Most of these places also sell snacks and hot drinks.Accommodation: Most tea houses have simple rooms where trekkers can stay overnight and have well-deserved rest after a very long day of trekking.Variety: The quality and variety of food differ according to the region and the altitude. You will get more options in the so-called popular trekking areas like the Annapurna and Everest regions.Social Atmosphere: Most of the time, the tea houses allow trekkers to come together, share their experiences, and enjoy a warm meal together.Availability: Availability is very common along the well-traveled routes; however, it is quite infrequent in areas that are considered to be more remote. So, better check your route and plan your trip accordingly.
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Are there any age limits for this trek?Generally, there are no strict age limits for trekking in Nepal, as much of it depends upon the individual fitness and experience of the people concerned. The following are a few important aspects to consider:Children Most trekking companies welcome children to go on family-friendly treks, mainly on popular routes such as the Annapurna and Everest regions. Naturally, one would have to be careful in choosing a trek that would suit the child's fitness and capability.Older Adults Participation by older trekkers is also allowed, provided there is good health and stamina to take on the demands of the trek. However, the recommendation is in advance to consult with an old age doctor before going on a trek.Group Considerations Agencies also have age limits for all or specific treks and routes that require further and more critical conditions. In this respect, discussion of such issues with the agency through which one has booked is relevant.Safety Trekkers of any age must pay attention to altitude sickness. Weather conditions may suddenly change. All trekkers should allow for adequate acclimatization and pacing.
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Are you trekking guides and porters trained for first aid?Yes, many trekking guides and porters in Nepal undergo basic first aid training. This training typically covers
- The guides learn basic first-aid abilities, thus enabling them to deal with ordinary injuries and sudden ailments such as cuts, sprains, and altitude sickness.
- Altitude Sickness Awareness They have particular training in the recognition and management of altitude sickness symptoms, including the administration of oxygen when necessary.
- Emergency Response Guides are trained in assessing situations and taking necessary actions, which may include the evacuation of trekkers if necessary.
- Basic First Aid Kits Many guides carry with them a basic first-aid kit that may include supplies to treat minor injuries.
- However, the training may vary, and it's always advisable to make inquiries about experience and qualifications from your guide or trekking agency. Always consider personal insurance that covers medical emergencies on a trek.
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Can I continue my trek if I got sick?Continuing your trek after getting sick is generally not advisable. Here are some key considerations1. Assess Your Symptoms Mild Infection If minor - such as a headache or light stomach ache you may be able to rest and carry on. However, listen to your body.Severe Symptoms If any of the following symptoms persist, such as severe headache, repeated nausea, dizziness, or any symptoms of AMS, do not continue.2. Altitude Sickness Urgent Action The only thing you can do if you feel that you have altitude sickness is to go down to a lower height. Continuing to trek to high altitude means your case is deteriorating.3. Rest and Recovery Rest for A While Sometimes all you need is rest for one or two days. You can always inform your guide, who will help modify the schedule accordingly.4. Consult Your Guide Professional Advice Your guide will be trained to observe your condition and make intelligent decisions about your continuation or descent.5. Safety Above All Health First Trekkers should not commence the trek if they are ill as it will prove risky for themselves and others in the group.6. Emergency Plan Know your options: Know how to get back down to a lower elevation or seek medical attention if you need to.What this means, more simply, is that if a person does not feel well, then the concrete evaluation of being sick should be highly considered for taking priority over the continuation of the trek.
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Can I customize the itinerary from your website?Yes, you can do so from the website, but to a certain extent. Please note that for a more personalized experience, we highly recommend contacting us via email or over the phone. This is so we can get a better understanding of your personal interests and tailor your itinerary according to your needs.
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Do I need to book the flights or transportation myself?Booking Flights and TransportationDo I need to book the flights or transportation myself?It depends on how you plan your trip1. Booking on Your Own If you like having control and want to plan your own schedule, you can book your own flights and transportation. This way, you can pick the best times and routes that fit your plans.2. Package Tours If you’re going on a guided trip or a package tour, transportation and flights are usually included. Check with the tour company to see exactly what’s included.3. Help from Tour Operators Many tour companies can help you book flights and transportation as part of their services. They can find the best options for you and take care of all the arrangements.4. Getting AdviceIf you decide to book everything yourself, ask the tour company for advice on reliable options.NOTENo matter what you choose, make sure to book your flights early, especially during busy trekking times, so you can get the dates and times you want!
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Do I need travel insurance for this trip?Trekking in Nepal is a very risky business. If you don't have a travel insurance then it will end up costing your bank account or even your life. There are various problems you can face during your travels. Sprained ankles, Altitude sickness, food poisoning, skin infections and respiratory infections. A helicopter evacuation in Nepal costs you upwards $5,000, not including the bed charge, service charges and medical charges. Without the right travel insurance, your medical bills can be very high!Many travel insurance companies do not cover people over 4,000 meters or adventure activities. So make sure the fine print in you policies cover these two factors. Please check with your insurance company for trekking in Nepal.
Review
Tom And Heide
18/09/2018
AMAZING NEPAL EXPERIENCE WITH Nepal Tour Guide Team
We had the privilege exploring KTM valley with Kumar. He has a way of showing you all facets of Nepal as nobody else will. Not only does he know his country like no other, he also has a special way of connecting you with his culture , people, customs and more like a real tour guide can only do. He is a humanitarian, a good spirit, with a great sense of humor and a heart of gold, someone who CARES about his country and people. You will love the way he guides you and shows you his country. Anything from local foods, to extensive history or just small talk about politics and social issues, Kumar is happy to discuss all. He showed us a side of Nepal, we would have never experienced with a larger bus group. He customized our program to our liking, the way we wanted it, patiently answered all of our questions always friendly , attentive and genuine. We can highly recommend Kumar as your private guide. I have traveled the world extensively (please see my other reviews on tripadvisor) and know the difference between ‘just a guide’ and a true tour director who LOVES his job and connecting with people from all walks of life. Kumar is great in what he does and his personality will make you like him the day you meet. We are still friends and should we return to Nepal, there is no doubt in our minds that we will see him again, not only as our guide but also to reunite with a great friend and human being.
Adam Szucs
01/01/1970
Memorable 4 Days With Tour Guide
My wife and I had the privilege to enjoy a 4 days long private tour with tourguideinnepal.com. Everything was spot on. We had a private driver and a private tour guide for the entire trip, both extremely polite. I can 100% recommend them to others also. I also found their pricing more than fair. Kumar runs the company, he was very helpful when we put together the custom itinerary. Our tour guide was Suvash, probably the most caring guy I’ve ever met. Thanks for the lifetime experience guys!
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