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Tsum Valley Trek: Explore the remote areas | Trek Mysterious Tibetan culture and hidden Gompas
The Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most remarkable journeys, taking you into a hidden world of ancient monasteries, Tibetan culture and dramatic Himalayan scenery. Opened to trekkers only in 2008, this remote valley lies in the northern Gorkha district, bordering Tibet, and offers an experience that feels like stepping back in time.
The trek begins in the lush subtropical forests of Machha Khola and gradually ascends through terraced fields, waterfalls, and suspension bridges into the high valleys of Tsum. Along the way, you’ll explore traditional villages where the people, known as Tsumbas, preserve their Tibetan-inspired language, dress, and customs. Sacred sites such as Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa and Gumba Lungdang reflect the valley’s deep Buddhist heritage, while Milarepa’s Cave connects the region to legends of meditation and enlightenment.
Surrounded by peaks like Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal and Himalchuli, the landscape shifts from green forests to semi-arid Tibetan-style terrain, dotted with mani walls and chortens. Unlike busier routes such as Everest or Annapurna, Tsum Valley remains quiet and less crowded, making it perfect for trekkers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Whether it’s walking through serene villages, joining nuns in their evening puja, or hiking to the breathtaking Ganesh Himal Base Camp, the Tsum Valley Trek offers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and spirituality.
| Day | Route / Activity | Food | Accommodation | Altitude | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel, welcome dinner | D | Hotel | 1335 m | - |
| 2 | Kathmandu sightseeing (UNESCO sites), trek prep | B | Hotel | 1335 m | 5–6 hrs |
| 3 | Drive Kathmandu → Machha Khola (via Soti Khola) | B, L, D | Lodge | 870 m | 8–9 hrs |
| 4 | Trek Machha Khola → Jagat | B, L, D | Lodge | 1350 m | 6–7 hrs |
| 5 | Trek Jagat → Lokpa | B, L, D | Lodge | 2240 m | 6–7 hrs |
| 6 | Trek Lokpa → Chumling | B, L, D | Lodge | 2386 m | 5–6 hrs |
| 7 | Trek Chumling → Chhokang Paro | B, L, D | Lodge | 3030 m | 6–7 hrs |
| 8 | Trek Chhokang Paro → Nile | B, L, D | Lodge | 3360 m | 3–4 hrs |
| 9 | Day trip to Mu Gompa, return to Chhokang Paro | B, L, D | Lodge | 3700 m | 5–6 hrs |
| 10 | Trek Chhokang Paro → Gumba Lungdang | B, L, D | Lodge | 3200 m | 5–6 hrs |
| 11 | Day hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp, return | B, L, D | Lodge | 4500 m | 6–7 hrs |
| 12 | Trek Gumba Lungdang → Lokpa | B, L, D | Lodge | 3200 m | 6–7 hrs |
| 13 | Trek Lokpa → Jagat | B, L, D | Lodge | 2240 m | 6–7 hrs |
| 14 | Trek Jagat → Machha Khola | B, L, D | Lodge | 1370 m | 5–6 hrs |
| 15 | Drive Machha Khola → Kathmandu | B, L | Hotel | 1335 m | 8–9 hrs |
| 16 | Departure from Kathmandu (airport transfer) | B | Hotel | 1345 m | - |
1. A Journey on the Road Less Traveled
The Tsum Valley, hidden in the Manaslu region, ranges in altitude from 1,905 m to 5,093 m, and offers some of Nepal’s finest trekking scenery. Unspoiled and lacking the crowds, this remote trail rewards travelers with stunning landscapes, calming forests, and simple stone settlements that modernity has forgotten.
Trekkers enjoy impressive views of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi, and Boudha, as well as deep gorges and glacial rivers. The trek fits the description of the remote and authentic Himalayan experience, perfect for those needing an escape from the more popular Annapurna and Everest routes.
2. A Living Museum of Tibetan Culture
Tsum Valley, sitting on the Tibetan border, is often called a cultural living museum. Ethnic Tsumbas speak a unique dialect and celebrate old Tibetan-Buddhist culture with traditional dress, and customs, including the quirky and fun Losar festivities, Tibetan New Year, and Dhachyang, the archery festival.
One of the most remarkable social customs still practiced here is polyandry, where all brothers in a family share one wife a tradition once common across high Himalayan communities. Visiting the Tsum Valley feels like stepping into a timeless world where spirituality guides daily life.
3. The Spiritual Heart of Tsum Valley
Tsum Valley is one of the holiest places in the Himalayas for devoted Buddhists.It is a hidden treasure of the Himalayas. It is a beyul. It is a place that is believed to have been blessed by Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). It is a refuge for spiritual seekers. The Tibetan saint Milarepa is said to have meditated in the Piren Phu cave. He is said to have left his footprints in the rock. This cave is a spiritual site that still draws monks and pilgrims to meditate and seek blessings.
As you walk the trail, the landscape unfolds as a living prayer. Each mani wall, chorten, and prayer flag is a work of art, and each flag sings a mantra in the wind. Each step you take is a prayer, a reminder of the calm that reflects the spiritual heart of the valley.
Beside the valley
4. Unmatched Natural Beauty and Spirituality in the Tsum Valley
Nothing else Tsum valley offers as a trekking destination can compete in the combination of unparalleled beauty and devotion. The peaceful atmosphere is charged with the chanting of the monks, the rhythmic prayer wheels, and the burning juniper incense. This hidden Himalayan sanctuary is a place that most, if not all, pilgrims and trekkers come with the expectation of a spiritual renewal.
For nature lovers, the area's abundant wildlife, such as the Himalayan tahr, blue sheep and the vibrant Danphe (Nepal's national bird), offers even more joy.
1st Day- Tsum Valley Trek
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel Welcome to Nepal! A Himalayan Dream Team representative will welcome you with a Nepali flower at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and facilitate your private transfer to the hotel. You can relax and recover from your journey at the hotel and, when you feel ready, enjoy a gentle stroll around the neighborhood to get your first taste of the city. As an introduction to your journey, we would like to treat you to dinner at one of best restaurant, which is guaranteed to give you the best impression of authentic local cuisine and hospitality.
2nd Day- Tsum Valley Trek
Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley - UNESCO Heritage Sites and trekking preparation
Following your breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you on a full day exploration of the profound cultural and spiritual heritage of Kathmandu, taking you to multiple UNESCO world heritage sites.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): You will start the day at this lofty Buddhist stupa resting on a hill with its eye catching views of the entire Kathmandu Valley. This site is one of the oldest by gaining importance as a relious center in Nepal where it is worshiped by Buddhists and Hindus.
Pashupatinath Temple: You will then proceed to Nepal’s most revered Hindu temple complex located on the banks of Bagmati River. Here, you will observe traditional cremation services and you will see sadhus (Hindu religious hermits) practicing their spirituality.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: You can take a walk at the serene old royal palace region of historic Kathmandu after lunch. This square is a living exposition of older temples and courtyards along with houses sculptured and wooden buildings in newari style architecture.
Local Markets Visit: To end the day, you can roam around kathmandu spice and vegetable markets which will allow you to experience the daily life of Kathmandan locals and provide opportunities for street photography.
3rd Day- Tsum Valley Trek
After breakfast, your Tsum Valley trek begins with a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu. The journey first follows the Prithvi Highway with beautiful views of terraced fields, rivers, and villages. Reaching Arughat, a major gateway to the Manaslu and Tsum region, you switch to a local jeep and follow rough mountain roads through Soti Khola before continuing to Machha Khola.
The road section is adventurous, passing through waterfalls, forested hills, and traditional Gurung and Magar settlements. By evening, you reach (145KM) Machha Khola, a charming riverside village where the Budhi Gandaki River flows steadily. This is where the trekking part officially begins.
4th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
The trail today is full of variety, with steady ascents and descents along the Budhi Gandaki River. You cross the Tharo Khola to reach Khorlabesi, a small Gurung village, and then continue towards Tatopani, where a natural hot spring offers a pleasant rest.
The path then climbs over stone steps, passes through Dobhan, and continues to Yaruphant. One highlight is crossing the Cantilever bridge at Yaru Bagar, an engineering marvel built after the 2015 earthquake. Following the riverbank, you ascend gradually to reach Jagat, a picturesque stone-paved village and the official entry checkpoint of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
5th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
From Jagat, the trail climbs to Salleri, offering superb views of Mt. Sringi (7,187m). Descending to Sirdibas, a Buddhist-influenced village, you notice the cultural shift as chortens and mani walls appear. Crossing the suspension bridge, you arrive in Philim, a large Gurung village known for its neat terraced farms and schools supported by Japanese aid projects.
From Philim, you follow the trail through dense forest to Ekle Bhatti. Shortly after, the trail forks – the left leads to the Manaslu Circuit, while the right takes you into the hidden Tsum Valley. Taking the Tsum trail, you climb steadily through pine and rhododendron forests to reach Lokpa, the first village of Tsum Valley, surrounded by deep gorges and mountains.
6th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
Leaving Lokpa, you descend gradually through subtropical forest alive with birdsong. The trail undulates along the hillside until you reach a suspension bridge, where the route to Ripchet diverges. Continuing towards Chumling, the entrance to the Lower Tsum Valley, you pass mani walls and stone houses before arriving at this charming village.
Chumling offers wonderful views of Ganesh Himal and is home to several ancient monasteries including Panago Gumba, Mani Dhungyur, and Gurwa Gumba. A massive whitewashed chorten dominates the valley floor, adding a spiritual aura to the village. From here, you start to feel the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture that defines the Tsum region.
7th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
Leaving Chumling, the trail enters the heart of Tsum Valley, where ancient Buddhist culture comes alive. You walk past beautifully crafted mani walls and chortens, carved with sacred prayers and deities, reflecting the spiritual depth of this region. After crossing a suspension bridge, the route winds through fertile farmlands of maize and potatoes, with traditional Tibetan-style houses along the way.
The trail climbs steadily, passing through landslides that reshaped the valley decades ago but are now re-covered by forest. Views of Ganesh Himal (7,000m) dominate the horizon, with glimpses of Ripchet village perched high above the valley. After a simple lunch stop at Rainjam, you cross the Serpu Khola and continue on a gradual but steady climb. The day ends at Chhokang Paro, one of the largest villages in the Upper Tsum Valley, surrounded by expansive barley and buckwheat fields. On clear evenings, Himalchuli (7,893m) shines brilliantly down the valley.
8th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
Today’s trek is shorter but significant as you continue to gain altitude. Take time in the morning to explore the twin villages of Chhokang and Paro, and if you wish, visit the meditation site of Lama Kongchog, the revered monk whose reincarnation story inspired the documentary Unmistaken Child.
Heading north, the trail passes through fertile fields and small hamlets before reaching Rachen Gompa (3,240m), a large nunnery considered the female counterpart of Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu. The valley here widens, and you visit Milarepa’s Cave (Piren Phu), where the legendary Tibetan saint is believed to have meditated. Continuing further, you pass through the villages of Phurbe and Pangdun, with their distinct mani walls and an unusual round stupa.
Crossing the Shiar Khola, the trail climbs gradually to Chhule, marked by a traditional kani (village gate), and then continues upstream to reach Nile (Nyile). This village, together with Chhule, is the last permanent settlement heading north towards Mu Gompa. Houses are built in traditional style, often with attached livestock shelters and wide verandas for drying crops.
9th Day - Tsum Valley Trek
Today is one of the highlights of the Tsum Valley Trek. With just a light day pack, you leave your main rucksack behind and start early, following the west bank of the Shiar Khola. The morning is magical, with yaks being herded to pasture and sunlight streaming into the narrowing valley.
After a steady climb past rows of chortens, you arrive at Mu Gompa (3,700m), the largest monastery in Tsum Valley, home to more than 100 monks. This centuries-old gompa is a center of Buddhist learning and meditation, with stunning views of the surrounding Tibetan borderlands. If time permits, you can also make a side visit to Dhephyudoma Gompa (4,000m), a secluded retreat. Panoramas of high passes towards Tibet and seasonal yak pastures stretch in all directions.
On your way back, descend through Chhule and stop at Rachen Gompa (3,240m), an ancient nunnery still active today. The trail then follows the river south until you cross back to the west bank and return to Chhokang Paro.
10th Day - Tsum Valley Trek
Leaving Chhokang Paro, the trail drops steadily for about two hours to reach Gho (2,485m), a small village with a modest monastery. You continue descending to cross a wooden bridge over the Shiar Khola, arriving at Dumje (2,440m), where a Tibetan herbal clinic and school are located.
From here, the route climbs steeply behind the village through pine and rhododendron forest. The trail is narrow and exposed in sections, marked by mani walls draped with prayer flags. After a demanding zigzag ascent through silver pines, you finally reach Gumba Lungdang (3,200m), a remote monastery perched high on a ridge. Around 40 nuns live here, and their evening puja (chanting ceremony) is one of the most moving cultural experiences of the trek. The monastery also offers breathtaking mountain views in every direction.
11th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
Today you set out on a challenging but rewarding hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,500m). Starting from the monastery, the trail descends briefly before climbing steeply through pristine forest of pine, birch, and rhododendron. After crossing the Laudang Khola on a wooden bridge, you ascend a ridge with seasonal yak pastures and scattered huts.
The path eventually reaches grassy flats below the Toro Gompa Glacier, with dramatic views of the surrounding cirque of peaks. The final push to base camp rewards you with one of the most spectacular panoramas in the Himalayas, showcasing the massive Ganesh Himal range in all its glory. After enjoying the scenery and a packed lunch, you return to Gumba Lungdang in time for the evening puja.
12th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
Today’s trek is long and varied as you begin your journey back down the valley. Descend first to Dumje, then cross the Laudang Khola to follow the southern bank of the Shiar Khola. The trail crosses several dramatic gorges on wooden and cantilever bridges before climbing to the beautiful village of Ripchet (2,470m), a fertile terrace of barley and buckwheat fields with ancient chortens.
From here, a steep descent leads to Ghumlong (2,130m) by the river, before another climb through pristine temperate forest takes you back to Lokpa (2,240m). This is where the Tsum Valley trail reconnects with the main Manaslu Circuit route.
13th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
The descent continues today with easier walking compared to the past few days. You retrace your steps towards Philim, crossing suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. Passing through villages like Sirdibas and Gatte Khola, you witness a return to greener valleys and warmer temperatures. By late afternoon, you arrive in Jagat, a lively Gurung settlement.
14th Day -Tsum Valley Trek
The trail descends along rocky paths and through forested slopes as you steadily lose altitude. You cross suspension bridges, follow the Budhi Gandaki River downstream, and pass Yarubagar before finally reaching Machha Khola. The warmer climate and lush greenery mark the end of the high-altitude section of your Tsum Valley trek.
15th Day- Tsum Valley Trek
After breakfast, you board a private vehicle for the return journey to Kathmandu. The drive retraces the rough mountain road back to Arughat and then continues along the highway through Gorkha Bazaar, with splendid views of the Ganesh Himal on the horizon. By evening, you arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel, where a hot shower and comfortable bed await. This marks the end of your unforgettable Tsum Valley Trek with Himalayan Dream Team.
16th Day - Tsum Valley Trek
After breakfast, our team will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. If your departure is later in the day, you can safely leave your luggage at the hotel and enjoy some last-minute sightseeing or shopping in Kathmandu.
If you have extra time, you may choose to extend your trip in Nepal. Options include relaxing for a few days after trekking, exploring cultural highlights of the Kathmandu Valley such as Bhaktapur, Patan, Dhulikhel, Namobuddha, or adding side trips to Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, or Lumbini – the birthplace of Buddha. You can also take a once-in-a-lifetime Everest Mountain Flight for aerial views of the world’s highest peaks. The Himalayan Dream Team will be happy to help you customize these post-trek experiences and make the most of your stay in Nepal.
Is Previous trekking experience required for this Tsum Valley Trek?
You don’t need any trekking experience in Tsum Valley Trek. Regardless of prior experience, this trek can be undertaken by anyone with moderate fitness levels, able to trek for at least 5- 6 hours a day, and has a positive mental attitude. Although this trek has some uphill sections, the inclines are gradual and at a slow pace for acclimatization.
On this trek, you are able to walk comfortably and will have a positive trekking experience. Enjoy the stunning views of this beautiful destination. At Himalayan Dream Team, all of our crew guides have experience in the Himalayan valley and are trained in high altitude mountaineering and are equipped to make this a memorable experience for you.
Is the Tsum Valley Trek Safe for Solo Travellers?
The Tsum Valley is a safe and culturally rich region; however, solo trekking is not allowed because it lies within a restricted area of Nepal. The government requires all visitors to trek with a licensed guide and a minimum of two trekkers to ensure safety, environmental protection and proper permit processing.
Although the valley is peaceful, the trail itself is remote, rugged, and less populated. This makes it challenging for solo hikers to manage unexpected situations such as altitude-related issues, navigation difficulties, or sudden weather changes. Trekking with an experienced Himalayan Dream Team guide ensures that you are safe, supported and well-informed throughout the journey.
If you are traveling alone, we will do our best to find or match you with another trekker so your permits can be arranged smoothly and you can fully enjoy this extraordinary Himalayan experience.
Why Do We Need a Guide and Porter for the Tsum Valley Trek?
The Tsum Valley lies in a remote restricted area where trekking with a licensed guide is mandatory. Beyond the legal requirement, having an experienced guide greatly enhances your safety and overall experience. The trail includes isolated villages, unmarked sections, and high-altitude terrain, where expert navigation, cultural interpretation, and quick decision-making are essential. A guide from Himalayan Dream Team will provide you with the safest, most educational, and culturally immersive experience in the valley.
Porters also carry out tasks that help the trek run smoothly. You will no longer have to worry about the sensation of a weighty backpack weighing you down. Porters will carry your main luggage which will allow you to only carry a smaller light daypack, ultimately letting you trek at a comfortable pace.
All of this means that a combination of a good guide and a good porter will make the Tsum Valley Trek much more enjoyable.
What Will Happen in an Emergency During the Tsum Valley Trek?
Your safety is the utmost priority. Tsum Valley is a remote area with very little medical help. However, Himalayan Dream Team has an elaborate system in place in order to keep you safe throughout the trek. This system has been tailored to the geography of the area.
How emergency situations are managed
Immediate Support
Your guide is trained, certified, and has received first-aid training. He/she will be the first to assess the situation and give the necessary primary care. Depending on the situation he/she may have to take additional actions.
Direct Communication
Your guide will keep in contact with our office in Kathmandu. This allows for fast decision making and coordinated help.
Insurance and Rescue Coordination
If you will require an evacuation, we will first contact your travel insurance company to gain authorization for an evacuation, and subsequently release a rescue plan.
Helicopter Evacuations
When serious issues occur, we may have to set up a helicopter evacuation. This may happen when a patient has:
Local Medical Facilities
In Tsum Valley, the only medical available are basic health posts. Because of this, in serious situations, evacuation is the fastest and safest solution.
Before we head on the trek, let us know about any medical problems you may have. And, make sure you purchase travel insurance that includes emergency helicopter rescues.
Best Time for the Tsum Valley Trek: Ideal Season & Weather Guide
Are you planning your Tsum Valley Trek? If so, choosing the right season is key to enjoying its untouched beauty and spiritual charm.
The best time for trekking in the Tsum Valley falls in spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the Himalayan views are at their most spectacular — ideal for exploring this sacred valley where nature and culture blend perfectly.
Spring (March – May)
Spring brings new life to the Himalayas. The lower valleys bloom with rhododendrons and magnolias, while higher meadows near Chhokang Paro, Nile, and Mu Gompa open under crisp, blue skies.
Temperature:
Conditions: Everywhere is decorated by blossoming flowers in spring season and the chill of the air makes this the most colorful and comfortable time of year.
The cultural immersion and photography opportunities are fantastic during this time, as the community prepares their fields and honors small Buddhist festivals at the valley’s monasteries
Autumn (September - November)
Autumn is equally ideal - Post-monsoon clarity results in vibrant colors on the Himalayas! The long hike days are made more enjoyable as the air is cool, dry, and crystal clear which allows for unobstructed views of the mountains.
Temperature
Conditions: Dry trails, stable weather, magnificent visibility, and light snow in late November at higher elevations (Mu Gompa, Ganesh Himal Base Camp) are expected for snow as the month ends.
Autumn also coincides with the most important Sikh-Buddhist festivities which consist of wonderful rituals you would be lucky to witness, as well as prayer ceremonies.
Autumn is equally ideal post-monsoon clarity paints the Himalayas in vibrant hues. The air is cool, dry and incredibly clear, offering perfect conditions for long hiking days and unobstructed mountain views.
Best Overall Trekking Experience
Spring and Autumn provide the best overall trekking experience, the best season trekking experience and the best season outdoor experience. Warm days and cool nights are accompanied with the stark contrasts of nature and spirituality. Whether it is the blooming wildflowers of spring or the crisp golden landscapes of autumn, the sacred Tsum Valley and dramatic Tsum Valley trekking routes await.
How Much Money Should I Bring on the Trek?
For the Tsum Valley Trek, we recommend taking around NPR 2,000 to 3,000 each day (about 15-25$) to cover personal costs like hot showers, charging devices, snacks, Wi-Fi, tip for the guide or porter, etc.
For a 15-day trek, it is reasonable to carry between NPR 30,000 to 40,000 (around 225-300$) for comfort and flexibility during the trek.
All trail transactions need to be settled in Nepali Rupees. Foreign currencies will not be accepted. Please remember, there are no ATMs in Tsum Valley, and so withdraw enough cash when in Kathmandu before your trek.
Paying small remote villages will be easier if you carry small denominations.
Your trek package with Himalayan Dream Team covers accommodation, three meals a day (including tea and coffee with meals), necessary permits, transportation, and a qualified guide. Costs not included are the drinks you might want before and after meals (extra tea, coffee, bottled water, soft drinks, and alcohol). If you like these drinks, you'll want a little extra in your budget.
Insider Tip:
Sometimes, teahouses only offer paid Wi-Fi, but if you're looking for better Internet connectivity, get a Nepal Telecom SIM card. It is the most dependable mobile service provider in the mountains. Also, remember to carry a bit of extra cash for emergencies, additional rest days, or little comforts like a hot drink or a cold Coke to rehydrate after a long hike!
It is a nice idea to tip the guide and porter for the Tsum Valley Trek. Tipping shows appreciation for their effort in keeping your trip safe and memorable. While tipping is not required, it is a tradition in Nepal and supports the local teams and folks who helped with your trip.
It is common to tip 10-15% of the total cost of your trek, which can be split between your guide and porter, depending on their duties and your satisfaction with their service.
For example, on a 15-day Tsum Valley Trek, the usual tips for guides and porters is around the following ranges:
Guide: NPR 1,500-2,500 per day (USD 10-20)
Porter: NPR 1,000-1,500 per day (USD 8-15)
These ranges are just a suggestion and you can change them depending on the group size, trek and quality of service.
Tips are usually given in cash at the end of the trek, directly to your guide and porter.
If you're going hiking with a group of friends, pooling together your tips and handing them over at once shows warmth and respect. A small mention of thanks goes a long way for those who have made your experience enjoyable.
Every little bit counts.
Tipping helps support local trekking workers, many of who come from mountain villages and depend on seasonal income. This is a small way to give back to those who make your Himalayan adventures a reality.
From the Heart
If your guide and/or porter goes out of their way for you, a thank you note, little souvenir, or useful trekking gear like gloves, a hat, or a headlight would be a nice touch. These gestures are treasured and remembered long after the trek is finished.
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