Destination
Nepal
Accomodation
Hotel, Lodge and Tea house
Walking Distance
103 km
Duration
7 Night 8 Day
Max. Elevation
3700m
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Season
March to June & October to January
Grade
Moderate
Overview
Only opened to trekkers in 2008, Tsum Valley Trek is one of the most remote treks in Nepal. Tsum Valley is also referred to as "Chum Valley" by many trekkers. It is a sacred valley in northern Gorkha with the magnificent backdrop of Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal. Unlike the Annapurna region, trekkers rarely explore the Manaslu and Tsum Valley regions.
So, this trail is usually less crowded, but the historically enriched culture with untainted flora and fauna has recently made it one of the most popular treks. This path leads us very close to a Tibetan border, and the Tibetan culture greatly influences the people of this region. The people of this region are involved directly with Tibet regarding trade.
- Explore the Tsum Valley, one of Nepal's most remote trekking destinations, opened to trekkers recently in 2008.
- Tsum is a sacred valley in northern Gorkha with the magnificent backdrop of Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal.
- The Tsum Valley trek takes us very close to the Tibetan border, and the Tibetan culture greatly influences the people of this region.
- The Chum Valley is filled with monasteries and chortens, reflecting their centuries-old culture.
- The Chum Valley is considered a magnificent and wonderful spiritual land by Buddhists and visitors from different religious backgrounds.
- Witness the footprint of Jetsun Milarepa, the great tantric master of Tibet, set on the stone of the Piren Phu Cave here.
- People of Tibetan origin mainly inhabit Tsum Valley; they speak a unique dialect and follow Buddhism as their dominant religion.
- Tsum Valley Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover a hidden gem that has managed to preserve its rich culture and traditions even in modern times.
- Visit Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in Tsum Valley, at an altitude of 3650 m.
Less Crowded Tsum Valley Trek:
Tsum Valley was open to foreigners recently, and it is enlisted in the restricted area of Nepal. The trail goes along the historic salt-trading path on the bank of the Budi Gandaki River. The trekking route is a part of the Manaslu Conservation Area. Tsum valley trek follows an off-beaten path that goes through some stunning scenarios and quaint cultural villages offering both stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
While there may be fewer people on this route, don't worry about going hungry or without a place to stay. New tea houses are being built to ensure you have all the comforts you need. It's worth noting that prices for food and lodging are slightly higher in the Manaslu region, but the experience is priceless.
Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary - 8 Days with Trek Distance:
|
Days
|
Itinerary
|
Distance
|
|
1
|
Ktm | Pkr to Jagat
|
182 km or 200 km
|
|
2
|
Jagat to Lokpa
|
16 km / 10 miles
|
|
3
|
Lokpa to Gho village
|
17 km / 10.5 miles
|
|
4
|
Gho to Nile
|
17 km / 10.5 miles
|
|
5
|
Nile to Mu Gompa to Chhekampar
|
16 km / 10 miles
|
|
6
|
Chhekampar to Chumling
|
15.5 km / 9.6 miles
|
|
7
|
Chumling to Philim
|
13 km / 8.08 miles
|
|
8
|
Philim to Jagat, drive to PKR/ KTM
|
8 km / 4.9 miles (trek)
|
Total Driving distance:
364 km / 266 miles from Kathmandu and back to Kathmandu.
400 km / 248 miles from Pokhara and back to Pokhara.
382 km / 237 miles from Kathmandu to Pokhara or Pokhara to Kathmandu if changing destination (after the end of the Tsum Valley trek).
Total Trekking Distance: 103 kilometers / 64.5 miles
Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary - 10 Days with Trek Distance:
|
Day 1
|
KTM / PKR to Jagat drive
|
182 km / 200 km
|
|
Day 2
|
Jagat to Lokpa
|
16 km
|
|
Day 3
|
Lokpa to Chumling
|
9 km
|
|
Day 4
|
Chumling to Chhekampar
|
11 km
|
|
Day 5
|
Chhekampar to Nile
|
10 km
|
|
Day 6
|
Nile to Mu Gompa and return to Lamagaun
|
18.4 km
|
|
Day 7
|
Lamagaun to Sipchet / Ripchet
|
14 km
|
|
Day 8
|
Sipchet or Ripchet to Philim
|
16 km
|
|
Day 9
|
Philim to Machhakhola
|
23 km
|
|
Day 10
|
Machhakhola to KTM / PKR by Jeep or Bus
|
142 km / 160 km
|
Whole Tsum Valley Trekking Map:
Tsum Valley Trek Overview:
The Tsum Valley trek entails walking across numerous stunning monasteries, chortens, and prayer wheels that line your path, providing a glimpse into ancient Buddhist traditions. The inhabitants of this region are greatly influenced by Tibetan culture, and this trek provides a glimpse into the lives of people living in the Himalayas. Shear Khola, originating from the Glacier of Ganesh Himal and streams from glaciers of Sringi Himal, irrigate the valley. The valley also inhabits animals like the Blue Sheep and Himalayan Thar. Historic monasteries like Rachen Gumba and Mu Gumba are located in the valley along with Lungdang Gumba, which sits at the base of a hill. Tsum Valley Trek takes you through pine forests, rigorous rivers, beautiful waterfalls, stunning villages, gompas, and monasteries. Furthermore, it also provides some incredible views of mountains like Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and Manaslu. You can do this trek at any time of the year. However, we recommend the months of March through May or September through November. Any other time, it is either too hot or too cold. We will take care of your entire food and lodging and make sure that you’ll smoothly complete this trek. Additionally, we provide an experienced guide that will accompany you throughout Tsum Valley Trek. Mu Gompa sits at a hill top surrounded by towering peaks in a breathtaking, isolated setting. The monastery is hours away from the nearest village, making it a wonderfully peaceful place perfect for meditation. Around 20 monks live, study, and practice at Mu Gompa. The younger monks attend classes with the resident teacher, participate in religious ceremonies, and assist with daily chores. Meanwhile, the older monks - some of whom have lived there for over 40 years - spend their time in spiritual retreats, guiding the younger monastics in their practice. The harsh Tsum Valley environment makes life very difficult at Mu Gompa. The wind constantly whistles through the buildings, and the winters are long and brutally cold. There is hardly any heating, and food supplies depend on the unpredictable weather. Just getting the necessities for daily survival requires a lot of work. The high altitude means only hardy crops like potatoes, Champa, barley, and mustard can grow, even those with a short summer season. When the summer rains fail, the threat of famine is always present. Most supplies must be brought in from the lower Gorkha region - Arughat Bazar or by yak caravan, on pack horses from Tibet. These high transportation costs make everything comparatively expensive, from food, and medicine to building materials. The remote Tsum communities need a lot of outside assistance to improve their difficult living conditions, and Kopan continues to initiate projects to help. When planning a Tsum Valley trek, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each season and choose based on personal preferences. Here is a breakdown of each season. Spring Season: The months of March to May are the best time for trekking in the Tsum Valley. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, and the Rhododendron, Nepal's national flower, blooms, creating a breathtaking landscape. Trekkers can enjoy clear views of the traditional villages, alpine meadows, and lush forests. Autumn Season: During this time, you'll get to witness the trees in the forests turning into beautiful shades of red and orange, which look stunning against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. It is also the best time to explore local culture and tradition. However, be aware that the weather can get cold at higher elevations, and there might be a few more visitors at this time. If you're looking for a breathtaking adventure, consider trekking in the Tsum Valley between September and November. Winter Season: The Tsum Valley Trek during the winter season is a great option for those who want to experience frozen waterfalls, serene winter landscapes, and the lifestyle of local people during the cold and harsh winter months. This trek is best enjoyed from December to February when the number of trekkers is reduced, leading to a more intimate experience and an opportunity to connect with the hospitable local communities. However, keep in mind that the winter trek can be challenging due to freezing temperatures and snow-covered trails, and there may be limited services and accommodations. Summer Season:
Moreover, the Tsum Valley Trek is moderately challenging, but not among the most challenging treks. Additionally, the risk of altitude sickness is significantly low in this area.Mu Gompa:
Best Season for Tsum Valley Trek:
The Tsum Valley Trek during the summer season is filled with wildflowers and greenery. There are very few trekkers during this season which makes it even more pristine. The Tsum Valley trek becomes moderately difficult during the summer season as continuous rainfall can lead to landslides and blockage of trails. So, we need to prepare some extra days, and never trek on tight schedules during the summer season.
Tsum Valley Trek Permits:
We need two permits for the Tsum Valley trek, the Manaslu MCAP, and the Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Tsum Valley.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit:
The Tsum Valley Trek lies in the Manaslu Conservation area, so we need a MCAP permit to enter it. The Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit costs NRS.1000 to trekkers from SAARC Countries, and NRS.3000 to foreigners.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
|
Countries
|
Cost Per Nationality:
|
|
SAARC
|
NRS 1000 (Approx USD 10)
|
|
Foreign
|
NRS 3000 (Approx USD 30)
|
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit:
The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Tsum Valley covers locations like Sirdibas, Lokpa, Chumling, Chekampar, Nile, Chule, and Chumnubri Rural Municipality and also includes all areas of wards 3,6 and 7).
Tsum Valley trek permits cost changes according to the season. It costs USD 40 per person/week during the peak season of September - November and USD 30 per person/week during December - August.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
|
Seasons
|
Cost of RAP(Tsum Valley):
|
|
From September
to November
|
USD 40 per person/week
USD 7 per person/day
(beyond 1 week) |
|
From December
to August
|
USD 30 per person/week
USD 7 per person/day
(beyond 1 week) |
Where Tibet and Nepal Meet: Tsum Valley Trekking, Nepal Himalaya
Short Tsum valley trek itinerary - 8 Days
-
day 1
Pkr|Ktm to Jagat (1,290 m)
-
day 2
Jagat (1,290 m) to Lokpa (2,240 m):
-
day 3
Lokpa (2,240 m) to Gho village|Renzam Village (2,415 m)
-
day 4
Gho|Renzam Village (2,415 m) to Nile (3,480 m)
-
day 5
Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700 m) back to Chhekampar (3,000 m )
-
day 6
Chhekampar (3,000 m ) to Chumling (2,386 m):
-
day 7
Chumling (2,386 m) to Philim (1,590 m):
-
day 8
Philim (1,590 m) to Jagat (1,290 m) and drive to Pokhara|Kathmandu
Tsum Valley Trekking Route Map and Altitude Graph
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Professional English-speaking, Eco Trained trekking guide his food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine, transportation, etc.
- Tea house accommodations during the trek.
- We provide 3 meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) and Tea / Coffee twice daily. Please note that each meal is served as a single serving.
- Bus transport from KTM / PKR to Machhakhola and Jeep transport from Macchakhola to Jagat. Also, at the end of the trek, Jeep from Jagat to Machhakhola & bus from Machhakhola to KTM / PKR. ( Note: Options for private jeep travel at an additional cost.)
- Complete trekking arrangements, Tsum Valley Special Permits, MCAP permit, Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP), and TIMS card for trekkers.
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which your Travel Insurence Company will pay.
- Duffle bag, sleeping bag and, trekking Sticks, if necessary ( return after the trek).
- All Government taxes, VAT, and service charges.
- Medical kit bag with Oximeter
- Achievement certificate after the trek.
WHAT'S EXCLUDED
- International airfare & Nepal visa fee.
- Accomondation, Lunch and Dinner while you are in Kathmandu.
- Your Travel Insurance(Compulsory).
- Your Personal expenses, entrance fees, and & personal expenses
- All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic Drinks.
- Tips for Guide and Porter.
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned in including section.
Note: You can include Lunch and Dinner within the package itself, with an extra cost of 15$ - 20$ per day.
Why choose North Nepal Travel and Trek for Tsum Trek?
Our team consists of local guides who are best trained, certified, and have many years of experience. They are easy to communicate with and friendly. You will definitely love their service and friendly nature. They are trained to efficiently handle any unforseen situation.
Our travel package can be customized per your need and the number of days you have for trekking. Our package includes all the charges for food, accommodation, guide, porter, permits, and many more. We will also be taking care of our guide's and porters' insurance, food, housing, and medical care. Our valuable trekkers’ and our staff’s satisfaction is our top priority.
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Packing List for Tsum Valley Trek:
1 pair of pants that maybe convert to shorts
1 pair of shorts
1 Warm or thicker pair of hiking pants
1 Long sleeve quick-dry shirt
1 Long-sleeve thermal shirt
2 Short-sleeve t-shirts
1 Thermal long underwear
4 pairs of quick-dry underwear
1 Lightweight down jacket
1 Heavy-duty summit down jacket
1 Beanie
1 Cap
Sunglasses
1 Neck Buff
Gloves
Hiking boots
Microspikes
Headtorch
Gaiters
1 pair of warm summit socks
2 pairs of regular socks
Sunscreen
Trekking poles
Water filter
Powerbank
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Frequently Asked Question
Yes, the Tsum Valley trek with the children is possible. However, this trek is one of the remote treks, so carrying children may take extra time and effort. While children can conquer the trek with extra care and caution, they may face many difficulties along the way.
To minimize the risks, hikers are suggested to hire a caretaking guide for the whole journey.
Tsum Valley trek nearly touches the Tibetan border, so the Tibetan culture vastly influences the cultures around this place. Most of the trade in this region is completed through Tibet. The import of goods is done from Tibet in this region.
The Tsum Valley trek of the Manaslu region is moderately easy, but the terrain is isolated and rugged, with steep ascents/descents on rocky trails.
Trekking occurs at high altitudes, and acclimatization is crucial to preventing altitude sickness.
No, trekking as a solo trekker on the Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek is impossible. Nepal's government bans trekkers from entering this restricted area without a guide. Moreover, the region is isolated and rugged, so it will be difficult to navigate the terrain and route.
Hiring a licensed guide and porter (if required) is a must, and they can help you with navigation, logistics, communication with locals, and emergency assistance if needed.
The mobile network coverage works fine up to the altitude of 3500 m but is extremely limited. However, a good Wi-Fi connection is available in lodges of most villages, except Mu Gompa.
Yes, acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a major risk above 3,000m due to the high altitude. However, our itinerary is enough for proper acclimatization, so you are always on the safe side during your hike. Other risks include dehydration and minor injuries on the trails.
Our Guides are well-trained in wilderness first-aid and carry a first-aid kit with an Oximeter during high-altitude treks.
Yes, multiple permits are mandatory: Manaslu Conservation Area Entry Permit (MCAP) and TSUM Restricted Area Permit (TSUM RAP), which are only obtained via a registered trekking agency and TIMS Card.
Essential gear includes proper hiking boots, trekking poles, a warm-down jacket, synthetic/quick-dry layers, waterproof outerwear, a 4-season sleeping bag, a trekking backpack, sunscreen, water purification tabs, and a basic first-aid kit. Pack light, but include key items for safety and comfort.
You can check out our comprehensive packing list here.
Basic lodges/tea houses providing basic accommodation and meals are available along the main trail in villages, so there is no need to carry camping gear. Trekkers must remember that the quality of the tea houses is very basic, just sufficient for an overnight stay.
Overall, the region is considered safe without major conflicts or crime. However, being a remote, high-altitude area with minimal infrastructure or medical facilities, trekking here carries significant risks of altitude issues, weather hazards, etc. So Proper preparation and precautions are necessary, and following the advice and orders of the guide is a must.
Cultural: Exploring ancient Buddhist villages, centuries-old monasteries, and unique Tsum Valley culture preserved due to its isolation.
Natural: Stunning Himalayan scenery of snow-capped peaks like Manaslu (8,156m), pristine forests, glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and diverse flora/fauna.
A typical Itinerary for the Tsum Valley Trek is 10 - 12 Days. The days are reduced due to driving accessibility up to Jagat from Kathmandu and driving back from Jagat to Kathmandu. North Nepal Treks has introduced an itinerary of 8 days to excellent hikers and good fitness levels; however, we recommend the 10-day Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary for normal hikers.
8 Days Tsum Valley Trek Company Reviews
100% recommend North Nepal Trek for Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley
We recently had an incredibly wonderful and memorable experience with our guide Zeewan and our porter Dayaram on our Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley trek. Zeewan came highly recommended from friends. He and Dayaram were exceptional, we always felt we were in safe hands over the 19 days we were completing the trek. Zeewan has so much passion for Nepali wildlife and it shined through and really enriched our experience; while we were trekking, he spotted wild deer, Tahr, Blue Sheep and Himalayan Marmots for us to see. We would absolutely recommend heading out with Zeewan to anyone, we are incredibly grateful for the professionalism and kindness of our guide and porter.
Best Tsum Valley Trekking
We came as strangers and left as friends. That sums up our experience with North Nepal Travel & Trek (especially Mohan, the manager, and Zeewan, our guide) perfectly. It is definitely the best agency we can imagine. Mohan takes time for his guests, listens to them and then customizes a trekking tour. Everything is highly professional and perfect in terms of safety. When things didn't go fast enough in the kitchen at the guesthouse, Zeewan always stepped in and helped to get the best result for us. As soon as we weren't feeling well with the altitude, he supported us with any problem and helped us to feel better quickly. We even experienced a winter storm during our hike in February and still felt very safe and in best hands, Zeewan knows exactly what he is doing. After the hike, we were welcomed as friends by Mohan and we met again and again for tea, coffee and food many times. Thank you so much for this wonderful experience Mohan and Zeewan, we look forward to seeing you again!!!
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