Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek - 18 Days

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Recommended by 99% of travelers
Trip Facts
Duration
18 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5220 M
Group Size
2-20
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking and Hiking
Best Time
March to May & Sep to Dec

Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek

  • Witness Mt. Manaslu, the world's 8th highest peak, Manaslu Circuit Trek.
  • Immerse yourself in the Tsum Valley's untouched beauty, steeped in Tibetan culture and ancient heritage.
  • Explore charming villages like Jagat, Chisapani, and Chumling.
  • Discover hidden caves and monasteries like Milarepa's Cave, Mu Gompa, and Rachen Gompa.
  • Conquer the challenging Larkya La Pass (5160m) with breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Unforgettable Himalayan adventure for those seeking a challenge.
  • Immerse yourself in unique culture and stunning natural beauty.
  • Achieve a sense of accomplishment conquering the past.
  • Numerous bird species, the Himalayan tahr, and the elusive snow leopard, are among the region's abundant biodiversity.

Tsum Valley Trek Overview

Tsum Valley Trek—Nestled within the Manaslu Region of Nepal, the Tsum Valley offers a unique trekking experience. It combines stunning Himalayan landscapes with rich cultural heritage and authentic village life. 

This trek is for those seeking a more secluded adventure than the classic Manaslu Circuit Trek. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the valley, dotted with ancient monasteries, waterfalls, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Imagine hiking in the majestic peak of Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain. Immerse yourself in the lush forests and verdant valleys of the Tsum Valley, where ancient Gompas whisper tales of Buddhist tradition. Cross the challenging Larkya La Pass, witnessing breathtaking panoramas that will leave you speechless. Embark on this unforgettable journey and discover Nepal's raw beauty and cultural richness.

Nestled near the Tibetan border, the Tsum Valley offers a unique adventure. Until 2008, this populated land, inhabited by Tibetan descendants, remained hidden. Experience its ancient Buddhist caves, monasteries, and untouched landscapes on the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek. Discover untouched beauty, off-the-beaten-path trails, and the serene aura of Buddhism in this remote valley.

Itinerary

The trek begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, where you'll be escorted to your hotel. After a restful night, you'll drive west to Arughat and then to Soti Khola, the gateway to the Manaslu Circuit. From there, the journey continues with a trek through beautiful landscapes, crossing various villages like Machha Khola, Jagat, Lokpa, and Chumling, all the way to the remote Tsum Valley. The trek features stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and the surrounding mountains. Highlights include visits to ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Ganesh Himal Base Camp, along with opportunities for cultural immersion in villages such as Chhokangparo and Nile. The trek winds back through the Tsum Valley, retracing your steps to Arughat before driving back to Kathmandu. The journey concludes with a farewell and your departure for the airport.

If our Tsum Valley Trek isn’t quite right for you, let us craft a custom itinerary that matches your unique preferences. Contact us for to for tailor made plans!

Tour PlanExpand all

Hours: Arrival time varies
Distance: 6 km

Upon arrival, our team will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will be notified with all the detailed plans and itinerary for your holiday package. Get rest and enjoy your meals for the night.

Max Altitude: 1,400 meters Meals: No meals includedAccommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Hours: from Kathmandu, 9 hours drive
Distance: 160 km

Early breakfast, then a scenic bus ride west of Kathmandu along the Trishuli River in the morning. The trail winds through Dhading Bensi town, follows the Budhi Gandaki River with Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal views, and reaches Arughat Bazaar on the river. A final two-hour drive from Arughat will take you to your final stop, Soti Khola, the gateway to your Manaslu Circuit adventure.

Max Altitude: 730m/2896ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 5-6 hours
Distance: 10 km

Experience today's journey of Soti Khola with charming waterfalls and hike through a beautiful Sal forest. Trek leads you to a ridge for amazing Budhi Gandaki views. Descend along terraced farmlands to a Gurung settlement pass through Liding and Khursane villages. Walk through farmlands and follow the riverbank to Nauli Khola till you reach Machha Khola.

Max Altitude: 890 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 7-8 hours
Distance: 22 km

Trek to Jagat follows a fertile land with ups & downs. Continue the trail, crossing Tharo Khola and going to Khorlabesi. Upon reaching Tatopani, enjoy its hot spring in the
Peaceful surroundings. Explore Valley narrows Budhi Gandaki River on a suspension bridge, and Climb stone stairs with
Prayer flags at Tharo Bharyang. Finally, rest your legs in Jagat town after hiking for several hours.

Max Altitude: 1400 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 6-7 hours
Distance: 21 km

We must register our permits for Manaslu and Tsum Valley at the Jagat entry crossing before moving to Lokpa. After crossing a challenging steep slope, we will climb to Salleri. Here, we will take a few minutes to enjoy the views of Mount Sringi before making our way down to Sirdibas. We hike on, arriving at Ekle Bhatti and then Lokpa, the entrance to Tsum Valley, after crossing the largest suspension bridge in Nepal at Sirdibas. The stunning Manaslu range is seen from this town, the first in the Tsum Valley.

Max Altitude: 2240 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 6-7 hours
Distance: 19 km

Today’s trek starts with a warm breakfast at Lokpa Village, near the entrance to the Tsum Valley. This trek offers stunning panorama views of Boudha Himal (6,672m) and Ganesh Himal. Trek to Reach Lungwa river valley and trek through a dense forest with rhododendrons, juniper, and pine. Passing by Gumling village and Syar Khola, we finally reach Chumling village.

Max Altitude: 2386 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 5 hours
Distance: 14 km

Your day begins with an early departure from Chumling village, leaving behind the monasteries and vibrant culture. Your path follows the narrow valley, gradually opening up to reveal the breathtaking vistas of the upper Tsum Valley. Following the gentle flow of Shair Khola, you'll reach Domje, the largest town in the Tsum Valley. Take a moment to soak in the local atmosphere. As you reach Chhokangparo, immerse yourself in the warmth of regional hospitality. The breathtaking scenery surrounding you, dominated by the snow-capped mountains, will remain etched in your memory long after your journey ends.

Max Altitude: 3031 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 5-6 hours
Distance: 19 km

Your journey takes you to the remote Nile village, nestled on the western side of the Tsum Valley. A 20-minute walk from Chhule brings you past the sacred Phiren Phu Cave, known to be a meditation spot for the Buddhist master. Lush meadows and narrow farms unfold as you ascend, leading to two colorful gumbas adorned with murals and ancient scripts. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Shair Khola finally delivers you to Nile, the last village in the upper Tsum Valley, promising cultural immersion and breathtaking scenery.

Max Altitude: 3361 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 6-7 hours
Distance: 8 km

Your adventure begins with a hearty breakfast in Nile Village, followed by a gradual ascent along a trail leading to the majestic Mu Gompa, the region's largest monastery. After 2-3 hours of trekking, you'll encounter Dephyudonma Gumba. Immerse yourself in its ancient aura, feeling the dawn of faith that resonated through the Tsum Valley centuries ago. Continuing the trek, you'll pass through yak pastures and the rugged terrain of the Himalayas. This journey promises a physical challenge and a spiritual and cultural odyssey. Embrace the serenity of Buddhist traditions, dive into the valley's rich history, and capture breathtaking Himalayan views.

Max Altitude: 4060 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 5-6 hours
Distance: 14 km

We register our permits for Manaslu and Tsum Valley at the Jagat entry crossing before moving on to Lokpa. After crossing a steep slope, we will climb to Salleri, where we will pause to take in the views of Mount Sringi before making our way down to Sirdibas. We hike on, arriving at Ekle Bhatti and then Lokpa, the entrance to Tsum Valley, after crossing the largest suspension bridge in Nepal at Sirdibas. The stunning Manaslu range is seen from this town, the first in the Tsum Valley. Padmashamva supposedly blessed this remote community decades ago.

Max Altitude: 3240 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 5-6 hours
Distance: 12 km

Today's trek passes a little white gompa at Gho and brings you closer to Chumling. You will arrive in Domje after descending and going over the Siyar Khola Bridge. Prepare for an ascent eastward through a fragrant forest of juniper, rhododendron, and pine, passing prayer flags and sacred mani walls en route. The magnificent Lungdang Gompa is your reward for making one last climb among the silver woods. Approaching the gompa, a house of devoted nuns, picture the trail's colorful springtime mosaic of blossoming rhododendrons. Take in the magnificent sweeping views while you observe their enthralling puja ceremony. Lungdang Gompa is a visually spectacular and spiritually enlightening way to end your walk.

Max Altitude: 3200 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 6-7 hours
Distance: 10 km

Today's adventure takes you on a thrilling ascent to the remote Ganesh Himal Base Camp. Prepare for an upward climb, but know that the panoramic vistas awaiting you will make every step worthwhile. As you travel through these beautiful valleys, embrace the feeling of being
Off the beaten path. Few others embark on this journey, but your experienced guides will ensure you stay on track. After approximately four hours, you'll reach the Base Camp, where breathtaking views of the majestic Ganesh Himal will leave you speechless. Savor the moment before retracing your steps back to Gumba Lungdang for a well-deserved rest and overnight stay. Remember, today is not just about reaching the destination but immersing yourself
in the unique landscapes and experiencing the thrill of venturing off the beaten path. Enjoy the journey.

Max Altitude: 4200 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 6-7 hours
Distance: 19 km

We retrace back, descending to Domje via the upper track. Don't miss the chance to appreciate the Laudang Khola from a different perspective. Immerse yourself in the beauty of dense forests as you continue southward. Prepare for exciting suspension bridges, including the one leading to Ripche (2,470m). Enjoy the gentle descent to Batti Ghumlong, savoring the lush landscape. Finally, conquer a short ascent to reach your destination – the charming village of Lokpa.

Max Altitude: 2240 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 6-7 hours
Distance: 21 km

Your journey winds down as you gently descend towards Jagat, rejoining the mighty Budhi Gandaki River. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you pass scenic trails with glimpses of breathtaking peaks. Today's hike promises a pleasant and relaxing walk downhill, perfect for tired legs as you meander through lush forests and diverse terrain. Brace yourself for several thrilling crossings on suspension bridges before reaching the charming village of Sirdibas and, ultimately, Jagat. Remember to capture the scenic beauty as you bid farewell to the majestic. Tsum Valley, carrying memories that will last a lifetime.

Max Altitude: 1400 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 6-7 hours
Distance: 20 km

Our final morning in the Tsum Valley starts with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a delightful descent to Lapu Bensi. Enjoy the gentle downhill walk, offering stunning glimpses of the surrounding mountains. Prepare for some extra thrills as you navigate exciting suspension bridges, adding a touch of adventure to your journey. Before reaching your destination, you'll encounter Machha Khola, where you'll cross another suspension bridge over Nauli Khola.

Finally, your path follows the sandy riverbed of the mighty Budhi Gandaki, leading you to the charming Gurung village of Lapu Bensi. Immerse yourself in the local culture and embrace the beauty of this traditional settlement before concluding your Tsum Valley adventure.

Max Altitude: 900 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 4-5 hours
Distance: 21 km

Today's journey marks the bittersweet end of your Tsum Valley adventure. The trail promises scenic beauty and a comfortable return to Arughat Bazaar. Embark on a tranquil walk alongside the majestic Budhi Gandaki River, soaking in the breathtaking mountain scenery for a few hours. Reach Soti Khola, your gateway back to city life. Hop on a jeep and enjoy a scenic drive for a couple of hours, reminiscing about your unforgettable experiences in the Tsum Valley. Arrive at Arughat Bazaar, a charming town with small cafes and shops. Spend time exploring the local markets, indulging in delicious food, and picking up souvenirs to cherish your memories.

Max Altitude: 600 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Guesthouse

Hours: 9 hours
Distance: 160 km

Your unforgettable Tsum Valley journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, offering one last chance to admire the beauty of the Himalayas before
Returning to the bustling city. Savor a delicious breakfast and reminisce about your incredible experiences during your trek. Bid farewell to the charming town of Arughat Bazaar and prepare for your journey back to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1400 meters Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner includedAccommodation: Hotel

Hours: 30 minutes
Distance: 6 km

Today your holiday in Nepal ends. Our team member will escort you to the airport on time for your flights.

Max Altitude: 1400 meters Meals: Breakfast included
Route Map
Tsum Valley Trek Map
Cost Details
Includes
  • All ground transportation by private vehicle, including airport transfers
  • Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
  • Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
  • One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porter (1 porter for 2 people), and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
  • Manaslu and Tsum Valley special trekking permits and Annapurna and Manaslu conservation fees.
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag use while trekking
  • Duffle bag for trekking
  • Nepal Hiking Team T-shirt, trekking map, and trip achievement certificate
  • First aid medical kit
  • Government taxes and office service charge
Excludes
  • Meals not specified in the ‘Meal Inclusions’ in the itinerary.’
  • Travel Insurance
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Cold drinks, bottled or boiled water, snacks, and other personal expenses
  • Hot shower during the trek
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers
Essential Information

Best Seasons To Trek The Tsum Valley Manaslu

The best seasons to trek the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Region are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). The clear and stable weather during these seasons provides ideal trekking conditions and stunning views.

Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty

Moderate to Strenuous: The Tsum Valley Trek involves moderate trekking days with gradual ascents. While it doesn’t involve high-altitude passes, good fitness and stamina are recommended.

You’ll walk several hours daily, carrying your backpack and acclimatizing to higher altitudes. The highest point on the trek is Larkya La Pass, at 5,160 meters (16,929 feet). Properly acclimatization is necessary to avoid altitude sickness. It’s crucial to ascend gradually and take rest days when needed. The section involves steep ascents and descents on rocky trails, uneven paths, and some river crossings. Good physical fitness and strong legs are essential. 

Tsum Valley Homestay and Teahouses

The Tsum Valley in northern Nepal is a hidden gem known for its stunning and unique homestay experiences. Due to its remoteness and limited development, the Tsum Valley offers a glimpse into a way of life untouched by the modern world. Homestays are typically simple but comfortable, with rooms furnished with traditional beds and bedding. Some homestays have attached bathrooms, while others have shared facilities. Meals are included in your homestay stay and are prepared by the host family. Expect to enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. Tsum Valley Home Stay provides culturally authentic homestay experiences. They offer a variety of homestays in different villages, as well as camping treks.

Tsum Valley Trek Permit 

  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
    • RAP is mandatory for foreigners entering the Tsum Valley, a restricted region within Nepal. Every trekker must obtain this trek as it is an entry card in the Valley. Trekkers can obtain these permits through registered trekking agencies in Nepal. They handle the application process and collect the permit on your behalf.
  • Cost for Restricted Area Permits
    • USD 40 per person for the first week (September-November)
    • USD 30 per person for the first week (December-August)
    • Additional USD 7 per person per day beyond the first week throughout the year.
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit:
    • MCAP permits are necessary to gain grants access to the broader Manaslu region, including the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Trekkers can obtain MCAP permits in the Kathmandu Department of Immigration and Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) or the Pokhara-Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office.
  • Cost for Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit: USD 30 per person, regardless of nationality or duration of stay.

Additional notes:

  • Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
  • Carry photocopies of your permits while trekking.
  • Show your permits at checkpoints as required by officials.

Why Choose the Tsum Valley Trek?

Trekking through the Tsum Valley isn’t like trekking anywhere else. This hike takes you through remote villages, by historic monasteries, and into an area where the culture of Tibetan Buddhism is thriving. Many residents still adhere to long-standing traditions and beliefs passed down through the years, and the area is revered.

The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers breathtaking natural splendor and cultural attractions. As you pass through lush valleys, woods, and alpine meadows, you are surrounded by towering peaks like Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal.

Equipment Lists
First Aid Kits and Medications

Clothing

Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking):

  • 2–3 thermal tops, lightweight and midweight.
  • 2–3 thermal bottoms.

Insulation Layers:

  • A fleece jacket or vest.
  • A down coat, lightweight yet warm.

Outer Layer (Waterproof and Windproof):

  • Waterproof jacket with a hood.
  • Waterproof trekking pants.

Trekking Shirts:

  • 3–4 quick-dry t-shirts, long-sleeved and short-sleeved.

Trekking Pants:

  • 2 pairs of lightweight trekking trousers.
  • 1 pair of thermal trekking pants for colder days.

Gloves:

  • 1 pair of lightweight inner gloves.
  • 1 pair of insulated, waterproof outer gloves.

Headwear:

  • A warm beanie or woolen cap.
  • A sun hat or cap.
  • A buff or scarf for dust and wind protection.

Socks:

  • 3–4 pairs of trekking socks.
  • 1–2 pairs of warm thermal socks for cold nights.

Footwear:

  • Waterproof trekking boots (well-broken-in).
  • Comfortable camp shoes or sandals.

Gear and Equipment

Backpack:

  • A 40–50L backpack with a rain cover (for personal items).
  • A daypack 10–20L for essentials during daily hikes.

Sleeping Bag:

  • A sleeping bag rated for -10°C to -15°C (can be rented in Kathmandu).

Trekking Poles:

  • Adjustable trekking poles for balance on rugged terrain.

Water Bottles and Purification:

  • 2 reusable water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3L total capacity).
  • Water purification tablets or filters.

Headlamp:

  • A reliable headlamp with extra batteries for early mornings and evenings.

Personal First Aid Kit:

  • Pain relievers, band-aids, antiseptic cream, blister tape, and altitude sickness medication (Diamox).

Miscellaneous:

  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm.
  • Trekking map or guidebook for Tsum Valley.
  • Dry bags or zip-lock bags are used to keep things dry.
  • Toiletries and Personal Items

Hygiene Items:

  • Biodegradable soap/shampoo.
  • Quick-dry towel.
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.
  • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer.
  • Sanitary products or menstrual cups
  • Toilet Paper

High-Energy Snacks:

  • Granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, chocolates, and protein bars.

Electrolyte Tablets:

  • To replenish salts lost during long days of trekking.

Documents and Cash

Permits:

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).
  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit.

Passport:

  • Original passport, with additional copies.

Cash:

  • Adequate Nepalese rupees; ATMs are unavailable in most places outside of the cities.

Optional

  • Camera
  • Books or Journal
  • Power Bank
  • Travel Pillow
FAQs

To reach Tsum Valley, you typically start from Kathmandu, Nepal. From Kathmandu, you take a flight to the town of Soti Khola, which is the starting point of the trek. The journey involves a combination of flight and road travel, followed by a multi-day trek from Soti Khola through the valley. The route passes through charming villages and scenic landscapes before arriving in Tsum Valley.

The Tsum Valley has a long history of Buddhism. The valley is home to ancient monasteries, traditional Tibetan villages, and unique cultural practices.

The Tsum Valley Trek is considered a moderate trek. Due to the rugged terrain and altitude, it involves some challenging sections but is generally accessible to trekkers with a reasonable fitness level.

To trek in Tsum Valley, you need two permits: Tsum Valley Special Permit and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

The Tsum Valley is sustained by the Syar Khola River, which flows through it.

It is not allowed to hike alone in this area. You have to hike with a certified guide.

With knowledgeable guides, clearly designated paths, and friendly locals, the hike is usually safe.

Even though it’s a difficult and remote trek, fit beginners who are ready for long trekking days can handle it.

It’s true that the Tsum Valley is a restricted area, and we can help you obtain the necessary special permits.

The Tsum Valley Trek reaches an altitude of approximately 5220 meters. It generally involves gradual ascents and passes through various elevations, with the highest settlements at a lower altitude than other treks in the region.

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