TA-winner-badge
Tsum Valley Trek

5 - Excellent
Based on 3 Reviews | More reviews on TripAdvisor

Tsum Valley Trek 11 Days, Moderate

Tsum Valley Trek in the Manaslu region is a different experience trek than the popular Everest and Annapurna treks. This trek lies in the remote region hence it is less crowded. Tsum Valley is heavily influenced by ancient Tibetan culture. Many people here practice Buddhism. Trekkers can experience the intimate culture and traditions of the people living here. The Buddhist monasteries, enriched topography, and real scenic beauty make this Tsum Valley trek one of the best treks to explore. Relish the stunning mountain views of Buddha Himal, Ganesh Himal, Siringi Himal, and others.

Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Moderate

A moderate trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a good level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours.

Max Elevation: 3,705 (Mu Gompa)

A cultural and spiritually significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery where travelers can witness ancient rituals.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse

Basic but comfortable accommodation with limited facilities during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

3-course Healthy and Hygienic meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Clear views and comfortable trekking trails due to stable weather and temperature.

Trip Route:

Soti Khola - Machha Khola – Jagat – Lokpa – Chumling – Chhokang Paro – Nile - Mu Gompa- Chhokang Paro – Eklebhatti – Dovan - Soti Khola

Trip Highlights

  • Less-explored and off-beat trek
  • Sacred Tsum Valley
  • Traverse through beautiful villages (Chumling, Chhokang Paro, Nile)
  • Buddhist Monasteries and Milarepa Cave
  • Untouched nature and varying cultures and ethnicities
  • Immerse yourself in the Himalayan lifestyle and culture of locals
  • Stunning views of snow-capped peaks (Siring Himal, Buddha Himal, Tabsar Himal, etc.)

Trip Overview

There is a popular belief that the legendary Buddhist monk Milarepa had visited the route passing through Tsum Valley. There he meditated in the caves on the way in ancient times. Tsum Valley remains a virgin region for visitors to explore which is in the Manaslu region. It officially opened only towards the end of 2007 by the Trekking Agencies’ Association Nepal (TAAN).

Like other Adventure Treks of the high mountain region, Tsum Valley Trek also involves the intense experience of alpine ecology and environment. The trek also features an equally intense, intimate experience of the culture and traditions of the people living here. The region follows and bears a deep imprint of Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism. People here do not sacrifice animals. Numerous monasteries scattered around the valley give it a certain religious aura. There are chortens and mani walls in Dzong and Phurpe that are as long as 250 meters.

People pass their lives in perfect communion with the surrounding environment in the lap of the High Himalayas; that surround the valley. You will see Buddha Himal to the west of the valley. Ganesh Himal to the south, and Siringi Himal to the north of the valley during your Tsum Valley Trek.

View All Photos

Tsum Valley Trek Gallery

Trip Outline

Day 01: Kathmandu arrival (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Trek preparation day (Optional- Kathmandu city tour)
Documentation works (Issue of Permits, Paper works), (Optional: Kathmandu city tour).

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (700 m)
Starting point of the trek.

Day 04: Trek to Machha Khola (930 m)
Trek along Budhi Gandaki River valley to Machha Khola.

Day 05: Trek to Jagat (1340 m)
Traverse natural hot spring Tatopani adoring sceneries to Jagat.

Day 06: Trek to Lokpa (2240 m)
Cross the longest suspension bridge over Bhatu Khola and beautiful settlements to Lokpa.

Day 07: Trek to Chumling (2383 m)
Pass the suspension bridge over Sarli Khola admiring the scenery to reach Chumling.

Day 08: Trek to Chhokang Paro (3031 m)
Trek past a narrow river gorge to Chhokang Paro.

Day 09: Trek to Nile (3361m)
Trek through notable monasteries to Nile.

Day 10: Trek to Mu Gompa (3705m) and back to Chhokong Paro (3031 m)
Hike to sacred Mu Gompa and descend to Chhokong Paro.

Day 11: Trek to Chumling (2386 m)
Return to Chumling which takes 5-6 hours.

Day 12: Trek to Eklebhatti (1600 m)
Return to Chumling which takes 5-6 hours.

Day 13: Trek to Dovan (1070 m)
Return to Dovan which takes 5-6 hours.

Day 14: Trek to Soti Khola (700 m)
Return to Soti Khola which takes 5-6 hours.

Day 15: Drive to Kathmandu (1400 m)
Return to Kathmandu after completing the Tsum Valley Trek.

Day 16:  International Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation:

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Tsum Valley trek that provide basic facilities but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are outside the teahouses. Pay additional costs for facilities like Wi-Fi, laundry, hot bucket water, and charging devices. Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions.

Meals:

3-course full board meals are served during the Tsum Valley trek which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek. Since Manaslu is a Buddhist region, meats are prohibited in the Tsum region.

Drinking water:

Drinking water during the Tsum Valley trek is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution. Travelers can also use a water purification solution or buy mineral water which costs USD 2-4 per bottle.

Public vehicles are the means of transportation during the Manaslu Circuit Trek as there are no airways in this region. Private vehicle options are also there.

  • Kathmandu – Soti Khola – Kathmandu by sharing a jeep/bus
  • Private jeeps from Kathmandu – Soti Khola – Kathmandu are available at an applicable cost.

Tsum Valley is a trek in the remote region and has limited facilities. Thus, the ideal seasons are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. The winter and rainy seasons are riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Tsum Valley Trek requires compulsory four permits i.e. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP), and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

  • USD 40/week per person + USD 7/person per day (beyond a week) [Sep-Nov]
  • USD 30/week per person + USD 7/person per day (beyond a week) [Dec-Aug]

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

  • Foreigners- USD 30/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person
  • Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • MCAP Permit
  • Tsum Valley RAP
  • TIMS

Difficulty:

Tsum Valley trek is a moderate-level trek with a maximum elevation of 3,705 m. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails can be challenging for trekkers. Also, the region is remote with limited facilities. This trek is suitable for trekkers with an average level of physical fitness as it does not involve any technicality. Previous experience is preferable. Our support is always there throughout your journey from the start to the end.

Fitness:

Tsum Valley Trek demands trekkers to have good fitness levels. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization, it is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Tsum Valley trek is 3,705 m (Mu Gompa). Altitude sickness is common above 2500 m. As the elevation gains, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Take an acclimatization rest as suggested in the itinerary during the trek.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

 

Tsum Valley is a moderate-level trek. Thus, it requires basic equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Kathmandu arrival

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 30-minute hotel drive.

Arrival at Kathmandu airport. Welcome and transfer to the hotel in Thamel. Free and easy evening around Thamel yourself.

Hotel

Day 02 Trek preparation day (Optional- Kathmandu city tour)

Trekking permit preparation day. Our company team will arrange the entire permit on this day. (Optional -If you wish, You can enjoy the cultural/heritage tours in Kathmandu such as Boudhanath  Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath Stupa, Back to the hotel), final preparation and discussion with your guide. Night at hotel.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 03 Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

Elevation: Soti Khola (700 m) 9 hours’ drive.

We will pick you up from your Hotel at 6:30 am, a Taxi drive to the Bus Park, and a Local bus drive to Soti Khola, which will take about 6 Hours. Evening overnight at Local Tea House.

(Optional: Private jeep is available with applicable extra cost.)

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 04 Trek to Machha Khola

Elevation: Machha Khola (930 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 230 m.

We will have breakfast at the lodge where we stayed, and start to Trek at about 7:30 am, followed by Budhi Gandaki River, where we will find the spectacular views of the hilly landscapes. Walk through the green forest, we passed by Harry Hill, Lapubesi Village, and overnight at the Local Tea House at Machha Khola.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 05 Trek to Jagat

Elevation: Jagat (1340 m) 6-hour trek. Elevation gain: 410 m.

Today we don’t have much climbing, we follow the Budhi Gandaki River today too. We will cross some beautiful villages including Khorlabesi villages, through the Jungle, and Tatopani village (also a natural hot spring at the bank of Budhi Gandaki River), it will take about 5-6 Hours. Overnight at the Local Tea House at Jagat.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 06 Trek to Lokpa

Elevation: Lokpa (2240 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 900 m.

Today we are starting in a restricted area, checking posts for the Trekkers, after that, we start to Trek to Lokpa, which will take about 5-6 Hours, we cross Salleri, Sridabas, Filim, Eklebhatti and reach Lokpa for our overnight at Local Tea House, today also we follow the Budhi Gandki River.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 07 Trek to Chumling

Elevation: Chumling (2386 m) 4-5 hours trek. Elevation gain: 146 m.

Today we will follow Siyar Khola, and reach Chumling for Lunch, today we will not cross any villages along the way, just Nature, and it takes about 4-5 Hours.  Evening overnight at Local Tea House.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 08 Trek to Chhokang Paro

Elevation: Chhokang Paro (3031 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 645 m.

Today also follow the Siyar Khola, and today we will not cross any villages on the way, it will take about 4-5 hours will get the views of Siring Himal, Buddha Himal, and Tabsar Himal, we will reach Chhokang Paro for our Lunch and overnight at Local Tea House. Evening Guide will take you around to see the local Buddhist Monasteries.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 09 Trek to Nile

Elevation: Nile (3361 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 330 m.

Wake up early morning for sunrise at the Himalayas Ranges, after breakfast follow Siyar Khola and cross the small Villages and Milarepa Cave, we will visit the cave, the Lama is seasonable, so it depends on the Lama available. Today we reach Nile for our Lunch and Overnight too.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 10 Trek to Mu Gompa and back to Chhokang Paro

Elevation: Mu Gompa (3705 m), Chhokang Paro (3031 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 344 m/674 m.

We walk without our backpacks to Mu Gompa/Gumba, Exploration around Mu Gumba, visit the monastery, and back to Chhokang Paro overnight, it will take about 6-7 Hours.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 11 Trek to Chumling

Elevation: Chumling (2386 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 645 m.

We decent our Trek to Chumling. Stay Overnight.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 12 Trek to Eklebhatti

Elevation: Eklebhatti (1600 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 786 m.

Today also we followed the Budhi Gandaki River and decent down to Chumling for our overnight.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 13 Trek to Dovan

Elevation: Dovan (1070 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 530 m.

Today also decent down to Dovan following the Budhi Gandaki River.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 14 Trek to Soti Khola

Elevation: Soti Khola (700 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 370 m.

Today is the last and longest day of our Trek, it will take about 5-6 Hours, overnight at the Local Tea House.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 15 Drive to Kathmandu (1400 m)

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 9 hours’ drive.

Local Bus Drive to Kathmandu, will take about 9 Hours, after Dinner in the evening at the cultural restaurant with traditional foods and shows or meals of your preference.  Night at hotel.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 16 International Departure

Airport transfer on required time. Or if you are extending your stay in Kathmandu, we are very happy to arrange the transfer service on your preferred date & time.

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek; Deluxe accommodation for 3 nights in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis.
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Transportation: Airport – hotel – airport transfers by Private Transportation, Kathmandu – Soti Khola- Kathmandu by public bus, Local Taxi to the Bus Park and back.
    (Optional: Private jeep from Kathmandu – Soti Khola – Kathmandu is available with applicable cost.)
  • Documentation: Trekking permits (Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Project, TIMS).
  • Equipment/Accessories: Down jacket, sleeping bags, a waterproof duffel bag, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for Complimentary use (Use if Required)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); a porter per trekker (carrying up to 15 kg/person); all the expenses for the guide and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. We carry a Supplementary oxygen tank with a mask and regulator for emergencies. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Please make sure that your insurance will cover helicopter evacuation up to 5650 meters.

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations.
  • Your travel insurance, and International Air Fares
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available at extra cost)
  • Costs arise due to unforeseen weather conditions, natural disasters, political issues, incomplete trips because of personal problems, mountain sickness, physical status, early return from the trek, late departure & any costs other than those mentioned in the inclusion section

Tsum Valley Trek FAQs

The Tsum Valley Trek is a mesmerizing trekking experience in the remote Tsum Valley region of Manaslu renowned for its unique Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and fabulous mountain views.

The total trek duration of the Tsum Valley Trek is 11 days.

The duration of the Tsum Valley Trek typically ranges from 14 to 18 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and trekking pace. It allows ample time to explore the cultural highlights and natural beauty of the Tsum Valley region.

The best seasons to embark on the Tsum Valley Trek are during the spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov) seasons. The favorable weather conditions, clear views, and comfortable temperatures make these seasons worthwhile.

The Tsum Valley Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It involves a mix of uphill and downhill sections, high altitude, and long walking days. Prior trekking experience and a good level of fitness are recommended.

There are teahouses and lodges available along the Tsum Valley Trek route whose infrastructure is relatively basic compared to more popular trekking regions.

Yes, there is a risk of altitude sickness on the Tsum Valley Trek as it involves ascending to high altitudes. To prevent this, it is important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness. A gradual ascent is recommended.

Since the Manaslu region is a restricted area, an independent Tsum Valley trek is not allowed.

For the Tsum Valley Trek, you need a Tsum Valley Restricted Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System). These permits are essential to enter the restricted Tsum Valley region and contribute to conservation efforts.

Travel Insurance acts as a safety tool and hence it is necessary. Make sure it covers emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, loss of belongings, high-altitude trekking, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Mu Gompa which stands at an elevation of 3,705 m is the highest point on the Tsum Valley Trek.

Since there are no ATM facilities along the Tsum Valley Trek route it is advisable to carry enough cash (in Nepalese rupees) to cover your expenses throughout the trek. It must include accommodation, meals, and any emergencies.

Communication facilities, such as mobile network coverage and Wi-Fi are limited and stable in the lower region. However, it is difficult to get stable connections in the higher regions.

Drinking water is easily available as you can purchase bottled water at teahouses. For safe drinking, it is recommended to bring a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets or kits.

Yes, you can customize as well as extend the Tsum Valley Trek according to your preferences.

The Tsum Valley Trek cultural highlights are ancient Buddhist monasteries, traditional customs, rituals, and festivals.

To book the Tsum Valley Trek with Outdoor Himalayan, visit the website and fill out the booking form or contact us directly via email or phone. We will provide you with the necessary details and assistance for your trekking experience.