Tsum Valley
If you’re looking to explore a lesser-known and secluded gem in the Nepal Himalayas, the Tsum Valley Trek offers a perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure. This remote trekking route, which opened to outsiders only in 2008, takes you through pristine landscapes near the Tibetan border. The trek, spanning 14 days, begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the peaceful riverside village of Machha Khola and progresses through the rugged terrain of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Throughout the trek, you will experience the rich cultural heritage of the region, with numerous Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and vibrant local villages dotting the landscape. The Tsum Valley, famous for its spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty, introduces trekkers to Tibetan-influenced lifestyles and traditions. As you ascend to higher altitudes, you will be treated to majestic views of towering peaks, including Mount Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal (7,140m), and Himalchuli (7,893m), while also enjoying the serenity of the valley.
Reaching Mu Gompa (3,700m), the highest point of the trek, offers an unforgettable experience with panoramic views of the Tibetan plateau and surrounding mountains. The Tsum Valley Trek is designed for those seeking a combination of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and physical challenge, with days spent trekking through remote valleys, lush forests, and quaint villages.
This trek requires a good level of fitness due to the altitude and long trekking days, but the rewards are worth the effort. It’s an incredible journey through Nepal’s most serene and untouched regions, where you might encounter unique wildlife such as red pandas, snow leopards, and blue sheep, as well as meet the warm and welcoming locals who call this place home.
Remote and Untouched Beauty:
The Tsum Valley is a hidden paradise, far removed from the busy tourist spots of Nepal. The trek takes you through lush rhododendron forests, serene riverside villages, and high-altitude landscapes, offering a rare chance to witness untouched Himalayan beauty.
Tibetan Culture and Spirituality:
Explore the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Tsum Valley. Visit ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, where you’ll learn about local Buddhist traditions and observe the peaceful rhythm of life in the remote villages. Experience the spiritual atmosphere that permeates the valley.
Breathtaking Mountain Views:
The trek offers spectacular views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Mount Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal (7,140m), and Himalchuli (7,893m). The panoramic vistas from various points along the trek are unforgettable.
Trekking Through the Manaslu Conservation Area:
As part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, this trek allows you to discover Nepal’s diverse wildlife, including the possibility of spotting red pandas, snow leopards, and blue sheep, along with numerous species of birds and plants. The area is also home to local yak herders and Buddhist monks.
Unique Festivals and Cultural Encounters:
The Tsum Valley is rich in festivals and cultural traditions. If you’re lucky, you may get to experience Lhosar (Tibetan New Year) or witness other local celebrations, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s cultural richness.
Trekking to Mu Gompa (3,700m):
Reach the highest point of the trek at Mu Gompa, an ancient monastery that offers sweeping views of the Tibetan plateau and surrounding mountain ranges. It is a sacred site for the locals and provides a serene atmosphere for reflection.
Historic Cave of Milarepa:
Visit the cave where the renowned Buddhist scholar and yogi, Milarepa, meditated centuries ago. This sacred site is a significant part of the valley’s history and adds a mystical touch to the trek.
Trekking Over High Suspension Bridges:
Experience the thrill of crossing high suspension bridges that span across deep valleys, with raging rivers below. These bridges are a signature feature of the Tsum Valley trek, adding to the adventure.
Scenic Village Life:
Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional Tibetan villages like Chhokang Paro and Chumling, where you can interact with locals, learn about their way of life, and enjoy the hospitality of the villagers.
A Rare Glimpse into Tibet:
As you trek closer to the Tibetan border, you’ll get a rare glimpse across the border into Tibet, adding an extra layer of adventure and cultural intrigue to your journey.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Take time to relax or explore the lively streets and marketplaces of Thamel, Kathmandu's vibrant tourist hub. In the evening, enjoy a warm welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine, accompanied by a cultural show showcasing Nepal’s rich traditions.
Altitude: 1,400m
Accommodation: 3-star Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Dinner
Begin your journey with a scenic drive to Machha Khola, which takes approximately 8-10 hours. The route takes you along the Trishuli River via the Prithvi Highway, passing through Dhading Bensi and Arughat Bazaar. Along the way, you will encounter two distinct trails: one leading towards the Ganesh Himal region and another heading towards the Manaslu Trek. Both trails offer incredible views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.
Machha Khola is a peaceful riverside village where you will rest for the night before starting your trek.
Altitude: 900m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your trek begins along the Budhi Gandaki River, where you'll cross several suspension bridges. The trail ascends gradually through gorges, lush forests, and narrow ridges. Pass by charming villages with terraced fields. Jagat is the first checkpoint to the Manaslu Conservation Area, and a great place to relax after your first day of trekking.
Altitude: 1,410m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascend gradually through rhododendron and pine forests, passing mani walls with Tibetan prayers. The landscape transforms as you approach Lokpa, which serves as the official gateway to the secluded Tsum Valley. Enjoy the natural serenity of the area as you arrive in Lokpa.
Altitude: 2,240m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you enter the mystical Tsum Valley. The trail winds through pine forests, crossing wooden bridges and enjoying peaceful views of Ganesh Himal. Upon arrival in Chumling, experience the Tibetan Buddhist culture that flourishes in this serene village.
Altitude: 2,386m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a gradual ascent through fields of barley and buckwheat, crossing streams and suspension bridges. Upon reaching Chhokang Paro, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and a traditional Tibetan village.
Altitude: 3,031m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trail leads you through traditional settlements, monasteries, and numerous mani walls. The trek becomes more serene as you approach the Nile, a village close to the Tibetan border. This is one of the remotest areas of Nepal, offering a tranquil experience surrounded by nature.
Altitude: 3,361m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you'll trek to Mu Gompa, the highest point of the trek. Visit this ancient monastery, learning about its spiritual significance while enjoying panoramic views of the Tibetan plateau and surrounding mountains. Mu Gompa is a sacred site for locals and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Altitude: 3,700m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Retrace your steps back to Chhokang Paro, soaking in the tranquil beauty of the Tsum Valley as you descend. The lush landscape and serene villages make this day’s trek very special.
Altitude: 3,031m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend further through lush forests and charming villages to return to Lokpa. The trek offers a different perspective of the landscape, with a greater sense of peace as you leave behind the higher altitudes.
Altitude: 2,240m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue your descent along the Budhi Gandaki River, passing familiar landscapes and bridges. As you approach Jagat, take in the final views of the valleys and surrounding peaks.
Altitude: 1,410m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Retrace your path along the riverbanks and forest trails, making your way back to Machha Khola. The peaceful environment allows you to reflect on your adventure.
Altitude: 900m
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, reflecting on your incredible journey in the Tsum Valley. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy some leisure time to relax or explore the city.
Altitude: 1,400m
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Final breakfast with team members. Depart knowing your journey supported vital community initiatives.Thank you for joining us on the Tsum Valley Trek.
Altitude: 1,300m
Meals Included: Breakfast
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- 3 star hotel stay in Kathmandu on a BB basis.
- Trekking Permits and necessary documents required for the trek.
- Domestic Flights and Ground Transportation during the trek.
- Accommodation: A simple twin bedroom shared with fellow trekkers. Single rooms can be available upon the request and availability of room in the teahouse.
- Meals: 3 meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) plus a hot beverage of any kind available, with the meals.
- Team members: Experienced guide and support staffs.
- Direct contribution to support childrens’ education in remote Upper Dolpa Region of Nepal through Himalayan Development Initiative.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa and international flights.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
- Excess baggage charge at the domestic airport (15-20)kg being the limit.
- Personal expenses including bar bills, laundry, battery charging, internet use, hotel showers, local products, bottled water, cold drinks, etc.
- Personal Trekking Gear.
- Tips for the guides and the crew members.
- Delays and unforeseen costs- extra costs due to flight cancellations, bad weather, or political disturbances.
- Emergency Helicopter rescue or Medical Evacuation Costs.
- What is not included is excluded.
FAQs
The Tsum Valley Trek offers:
- A secluded and spiritual journey near the Tibetan border.
- Rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, and sacred sites.
- Breathtaking views of Manaslu, Ganesh Peak, and Himalchuli.
- A chance to explore Nepal’s untouched Himalayan beauty.
The trek usually takes 14 days and follows this route:
Kathmandu → Machha Khola → Jagat → Lokpa → Chumling → Chhokang Paro → Nile → Mu Gompa (3,700m) → Rachen Gompa → Chumling → Machha Khola → Kathmandu.
Since Tsum Valley is a restricted area, you need:
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
It is a moderate trek, but:
- The altitude reaches 3,700m (Mu Gompa), so acclimatization is essential.
- Trails can be steep and rugged, requiring good fitness.
- Suspension bridge crossings add adventure and challenge.
The best seasons are:
- Spring (March–May): Clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and blooming flowers.
- Autumn (September–November): Stable weather and excellent mountain visibility.
Winters can be very cold, and monsoon rains make trails slippery.
Tsum Valley is deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, with:
- Mu Gompa & Rachen Gompa: Important Buddhist monasteries.
- Milarepa’s Meditation Cave: A legendary spiritual site.
- Traditional Tibetan villages like Chhokang Paro & Chumling.
- Local festivals like Lhosar (Tibetan New Year).
The trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to:
- Red pandas, blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and snow leopards.
- Lush rhododendron forests, deep river gorges, and high-altitude pastures.
- Panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal and Manaslu ranges.
Yes! Many trekkers extend their trip by combining both treks into a 21–24 day journey, making it one of Nepal’s most rewarding treks.
It is a moderate trek, but first-time trekkers should:
- Train for endurance and altitude acclimatization.
- Be prepared for long trekking days and simple accommodations.
- Trek with an experienced guide for a smoother experience.
