The Tsum Valley Trek is a 16-day remote cultural trek in Nepal’s Manaslu region, leading through traditional Himalayan villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries and spectacular mountain landscapes close to the Tibetan border. Located in northern Gorkha, Tsum Valley is known for its distinctive Tsumba culture, Tibetan Buddhist heritage and peaceful trails. Opened to foreign trekkers in 2008, the valley remains considerably quieter than many of Nepal’s popular Everest and Annapurna trekking routes.
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola before following the Budhi Gandaki Valley through Jagat. Near Lokpa, the trail separates from the main Manaslu Circuit Trek and enters Tsum Valley, continuing through Chumling, Chhokang Paro, Chhule and Nile into the remote upper valley.
Major cultural highlights include Rachen Gompa, Milarepa’s Cave and Mu Gompa (3,700 m), surrounded by mani walls, chortens, prayer wheels and traditional Tibetan Buddhist settlements. The trek also visits Gumba Lungdang, a secluded Buddhist nunnery beneath the Ganesh Himal, with an optional challenging day hike toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp when weather, trail conditions and individual fitness allow.
Unlike the Manaslu Circuit Trek, this itinerary does not cross the high Larkya La Pass (5,160 m). Instead, the Tsum Valley Trek is ideal for travellers looking for a quieter Himalayan experience where Buddhist culture, remote mountain villages and Himalayan landscapes are as important as reaching a particular summit or viewpoint.
With Himalayan Dream Team, the Tsum Valley Trek is fully guided and organised, including the required trekking permits, transportation, accommodation and trekking support, allowing you to experience one of Nepal’s most culturally distinctive mountain valleys at a comfortable and well-planned pace.
| Day | Activity | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel | Hotel |
| Day 2 | Kathmandu Valley sightseeing and trek preparation | Hotel |
| Day 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola | Lodge |
| Day 4 | Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat | Lodge |
| Day 5 | Trek from Jagat to Lokpa | Lodge |
| Day 6 | Trek from Lokpa to Chumling | Lodge |
| Day 7 | Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro | Lodge |
| Day 8 | Trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile | Lodge |
| Day 9 | Hike to Mu Gompa and return to Chhokang Paro | Lodge |
| Day 10 | Trek from Chhokang Paro to Gumba Lungdang | Lodge |
| Day 11 | Optional hike toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp and return to Gumba Lungdang | Lodge |
| Day 12 | Trek from Gumba Lungdang to Lokpa | Lodge |
| Day 13 | Trek from Lokpa to Jagat | Lodge |
| Day 14 | Trek from Jagat to Machha Khola | Lodge |
| Day 15 | Drive from Machha Khola to Kathmandu | Hotel |
| Day 16 | Final departure – transfer to Kathmandu International Airport | — |
The Tsum Valley Trek is a moderate to challenging trek that requires good general fitness, walking endurance and preparation for several consecutive days in the mountains. No technical climbing or mountaineering experience is required, but the combination of long trekking days, remote trails, steep sections and basic mountain facilities makes the trek physically demanding.
On our 16-day Tsum Valley Trek, most trekking days involve approximately 4–7 hours of walking. The most demanding section is the optional hike from Gumba Lungdang toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp, where the trail climbs into more remote mountain terrain. The exact turnaround point depends on fitness, weather and trail conditions.
| Difficulty Factor | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Overall Grade | Moderate to Challenging |
| Main High Point | Mu Gompa – 3,700 m |
| Optional Higher Hike | Toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp |
| Normal Trekking Days | Approx. 4–7 hours |
| Trail Conditions | Forest trails, stone steps, suspension bridges, rocky paths and steep ascents |
| Technical Climbing | Not required |
| Fitness Level | Good fitness and walking endurance recommended |
| Previous Trekking Experience | Helpful but not compulsory |
| Main Challenges | Long walking days, steep sections, remoteness and basic facilities |
The Tsum Valley Trek gains altitude gradually, beginning in the lower Budhi Gandaki Valley and continuing into the higher settlements of Upper Tsum. The main high point of the trek is Mu Gompa at approximately 3,700 m, while the optional hike toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp reaches higher and is considerably more demanding.
Our itinerary allows the body to adjust naturally as you trek through Chumling (2,386 m), Chhokang Paro (3,030 m) and Nile (3,360 m) before visiting Mu Gompa. Although the elevations are lower than on many high-pass treks in Nepal, trekkers should maintain a comfortable pace, stay well hydrated and inform the guide immediately if they experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
| Location | Approx. Altitude | Acclimatization Note |
|---|---|---|
| Machha Khola | 870 m | Start of the trek |
| Jagat | 1,350 m | Gradual altitude gain |
| Lokpa | 2,240 m | Entering Tsum Valley |
| Chumling | 2,386 m | Comfortable progression |
| Chhokang Paro | 3,030 m | First night above 3,000 m |
| Nile | 3,360 m | Maintain a steady pace and stay hydrated |
| Mu Gompa | 3,700 m | Main high point of Upper Tsum |
| Ganesh Himal Base Camp Hike | Higher optional excursion | Subject to fitness, weather and trail conditions |
Himalayan Dream Team guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey and can adjust the walking pace when necessary. The optional hike toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp should only be attempted when conditions are suitable and the guide considers the trekker sufficiently acclimatized.
Accommodation on the Tsum Valley Trek includes a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu and locally run lodges or teahouses during the trek. As Tsum Valley is a remote Himalayan region, accommodation becomes simpler as you travel farther into the valley.
Most trekking lodges provide basic twin-sharing rooms with beds, mattresses, blankets and pillows. Private bathrooms are not available at every location, particularly in Upper Tsum and around Gumba Lungdang, where facilities can be very basic. A good sleeping bag is therefore recommended.
| Location | Accommodation | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | Hotel | Comfortable room with private bathroom |
| Lower Tsum Valley | Lodge / Teahouse | Simple twin-sharing rooms with basic facilities |
| Upper Tsum Valley | Local Lodge / Teahouse | Basic rooms with limited facilities |
| Gumba Lungdang | Basic Local Accommodation | Very simple facilities in a remote mountain setting |
Himalayan Dream Team arranges the best available accommodation along the route, but trekkers should be prepared for simple facilities in the more remote parts of Tsum Valley.
During the Tsum Valley Trek, breakfast, lunch and dinner are included throughout the trekking days. Meals are prepared in local lodges and teahouses, with choices becoming simpler as you travel deeper into the remote upper valley.
Typical meals include dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, soups, potatoes, pasta, momos, eggs, porridge and Tibetan-style dishes. Dal bhat is particularly popular with trekkers because it provides a filling combination of rice, lentils and vegetables.
| Food & Water | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Porridge, eggs, bread, pancakes and hot drinks, depending on the lodge |
| Lunch & Dinner | Dal bhat, noodles, rice, soups, potatoes, pasta, momos and local dishes |
| Vegetarian Meals | Widely available and recommended in remote areas |
| Drinking Water | Boiled or properly treated water is recommended throughout the trek |
| Water Purification | Water purification tablets, drops or a suitable filter can be carried as a backup |
To reduce plastic waste, we recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and using boiled or properly treated water rather than relying on single-use plastic bottles.
The best time for the Tsum Valley Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons generally offer the best combination of stable weather, comfortable trekking temperatures and clear mountain views.
Spring brings warmer temperatures and flowering rhododendrons in the lower valleys, while autumn is especially popular for its clearer skies and excellent views of the Ganesh Himal and surrounding mountains. Winter trekking is possible with proper preparation, but Upper Tsum can be very cold and snowfall may affect higher trails. The summer monsoon brings rain, cloud and more difficult trail conditions in the lower region.
| Season | Months | Typical Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–May | Mild to warm days, rhododendron forests and generally good mountain views | Excellent |
| Monsoon | June–August | Rain, cloud, slippery trails and possible road disruptions | Less Recommended |
| Autumn | September–November | Generally stable weather, clear skies and excellent mountain views | Excellent |
| Winter | December–February | Cold and quieter, with possible snow in Upper Tsum | Possible with Preparation |
For most travellers, April–May and October–November offer particularly good trekking conditions. Himalayan weather can change quickly at any time of year, so suitable clothing and some flexibility are always recommended.
The Tsum Valley Trek route begins in Kathmandu with an overland journey to Machha Khola in Nepal’s Manaslu region. From here, the trek follows the Budhi Gandaki Valley through Jagat before leaving the main Manaslu Circuit trail near Lokpa and entering the secluded Tsum Valley.
The trail continues through the traditional villages of Chumling and Chhokang Paro before reaching Chhule and Nile in the upper valley. From Nile, the route leads to Mu Gompa (3,700 m), one of the most important cultural highlights of the trek. The return journey passes through Chhokang Paro and continues to Gumba Lungdang, where trekkers can enjoy impressive views of the Ganesh Himal and, when conditions allow, take an optional hike toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
From Gumba Lungdang, the trail descends through Lokpa and Jagat to Machha Khola, followed by the drive back to Kathmandu. Unlike the Manaslu Circuit Trek, this Tsum Valley itinerary does not cross Larkya La Pass (5,160 m).
Kathmandu → Machha Khola → Jagat → Lokpa → Chumling → Chhokang Paro → Chhule/Nile → Mu Gompa → Chhokang Paro → Gumba Lungdang → Lokpa → Jagat → Machha Khola → Kathmandu
The Tsum Valley is one of Nepal’s most culturally distinctive Himalayan regions, where Tibetan Buddhist traditions have been preserved for generations. The local Tsumba people maintain a strong connection to Buddhism, reflected in their monasteries, traditional villages, religious sites and everyday way of life.
Along the trail, trekkers pass mani walls, chortens, prayer wheels and prayer flags while visiting important spiritual sites such as Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, Milarepa’s Cave and Gumba Lungdang. These places offer a meaningful insight into the Buddhist heritage and traditional lifestyle of Upper Tsum Valley.
| Cultural Highlight | What You Experience |
|---|---|
| Tsumba Culture | Traditional Himalayan lifestyle with strong Tibetan Buddhist influence |
| Mu Gompa | Historic monastery in the remote upper Tsum Valley |
| Rachen Gompa | Important Buddhist nunnery and religious centre |
| Milarepa’s Cave | Sacred meditation site associated with the Buddhist master Milarepa |
| Gumba Lungdang | Secluded Buddhist nunnery beneath the Ganesh Himal |
Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and religious traditions, ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies, and follow the guide’s advice when entering monasteries and sacred sites.
Three of the most important spiritual sites on the Tsum Valley Trek are Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa and Milarepa's Cave (Piren Phu).
Mu Gompa (3,700 m) is a remote Buddhist monastery in Upper Tsum, while Rachen Gompa is an important Buddhist nunnery in the valley. Milarepa's Cave is a sacred meditation site traditionally associated with the Tibetan Buddhist master Milarepa.
Together, these sacred sites offer a fascinating insight into the Buddhist heritage and spiritual traditions of Tsum Valley.
Gumba Lungdang is a secluded Buddhist nunnery set beneath the Ganesh Himal and one of the most peaceful places visited on the Tsum Valley Trek. Its remote mountain setting offers impressive views and a very different atmosphere from the villages of Upper Tsum.
From Gumba Lungdang, trekkers can make an optional hike toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp. This is one of the more demanding days of the trek, with higher and rougher mountain terrain. The exact route and turnaround point depend on weather, trail conditions and individual fitness.
Himalayan Dream Team is a Nepal-based, women-led trekking company with first-hand experience organizing trekking adventures throughout the Himalayas. On the remote Tsum Valley Trek, we focus on careful planning, experienced local support, reliable logistics and personal attention from your arrival in Kathmandu to the completion of the trek.
Our aim is not simply to reach Mu Gompa. We want you to experience Tsum Valley at a sensible pace while having time to appreciate its remote Himalayan landscapes, traditional villages, monasteries and distinctive Tsumba Buddhist culture.
Welcome to Nepal and the Tsum Valley Trek
Your Tsum Valley Trek begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A representative from Himalayan Dream Team will meet you at the airport and welcome you with a traditional Nepali flower garland before transferring you by private vehicle to your hotel.
After check-in, the rest of the afternoon is free to relax after your international journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may also take a short walk around the nearby streets and get your first impression of Kathmandu.
In the evening, we invite you to a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine and hospitality while meeting your trekking team and looking forward to the adventure ahead.
After breakfast at the hotel, you will join your guide for a cultural sightseeing tour of some of Kathmandu's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This day provides an introduction to Nepal's Buddhist and Hindu traditions, historic architecture and everyday city life before you leave for the Tsum Valley region.
Your first visit is Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), situated on a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. At approximately 1,335 m, it is also the highest point reached during today's sightseeing. This ancient Buddhist stupa is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus and offers panoramic views across Kathmandu on a clear day.
You then continue to Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most important Hindu temple complex, located beside the sacred Bagmati River. Here you can observe temples, shrines, saffron-robed sadhus and traditional Hindu cremation ceremonies along the riverbanks.
Afterwards, continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square, the historic royal center of old Kathmandu. Walk through its courtyards and narrow streets while discovering traditional Newari architecture, carved wooden buildings, temples and former royal palaces.
The sightseeing concludes with a walk through the lively local market areas of central Kathmandu, where spice shops, vegetable stalls, traditional stores and busy streets provide a glimpse into everyday life in the capital.
After the tour, return to your hotel and prepare for the journey toward Machha Khola, the starting point of your Tsum Valley Trek, the following morning.
After breakfast, your journey toward the Tsum Valley Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (870 m). Leaving the Kathmandu Valley, we follow the Prithvi Highway westward alongside the Trishuli River before turning toward the hills of the Gorkha region.
The journey passes through changing landscapes of terraced farmland, river valleys, small settlements and forested hills. As we continue toward Arughat and Soti Khola, the road gradually becomes rougher and more adventurous, particularly on the final section toward Machha Khola.
Depending on the weather and road conditions, the drive normally takes around 8–9 hours. On arrival in Machha Khola, check into the lodge and relax beside the Budhi Gandaki Valley. Tomorrow, the walking section of the Tsum Valley Trek officially begins.
The trail today follows the Budhi Gandaki River, with a mixture of gradual ascents, descents and river crossings. From Machha Khola, you continue through Khorlabesi toward Tatopani before following the valley deeper into the Manaslu region.
The trail continues through Dobhan and Yaruphant, crossing suspension bridges and sections of rocky mountain path along the river. After a final gradual climb, you reach Jagat, a traditional stone-paved village and an important checkpoint on the route. Overnight at a local lodge.
From Jagat, the trail climbs through the Budhi Gandaki Valley toward Sirdibas and Philim, passing terraced fields, traditional settlements and increasingly strong Buddhist influences. On a clear day, there are impressive views toward Sringi Himal.
Beyond Philim, continue through forest toward Ekle Bhatti before leaving the main Manaslu Circuit route and entering the trail toward Tsum Valley. The surroundings become quieter as you climb through forest and narrow valleys to Lokpa (2,240 m), the gateway to the Tsum Valley.
Leaving Lokpa, the trail descends through forest before continuing across suspension bridges and along the steep-sided valley. The route includes several short ascents and descents as you make your way deeper into the Lower Tsum Valley.
After the final climb, you arrive at Chumling (2,386 m), a traditional village surrounded by cultivated fields and Himalayan scenery. Mani walls, chortens and Buddhist monuments begin to appear more frequently, providing your first deeper introduction to the distinctive Tsumba culture and Tibetan Buddhist traditions of the valley.
Today you enter deeper into Upper Tsum Valley. Leaving Chumling, the trail crosses suspension bridges and passes traditional settlements, cultivated fields, mani walls and chortens while gradually gaining altitude.
The route continues through Rainjam and Gho, with increasingly impressive views of the surrounding mountains, including Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli when the weather is clear. From Gho, a steady climb leads toward Chhokang Paro.
At approximately 3,030 m, Chhokang Paro is one of the main settlements of Upper Tsum Valley, surrounded by fields of barley, buckwheat and potatoes. The village offers a fascinating introduction to the traditional architecture, Buddhist culture and mountain lifestyle of the upper valley.
Today is a relatively shorter trekking day as you continue gradually higher into Upper Tsum Valley. The trail passes traditional villages, cultivated fields, mani walls, chortens and important Buddhist sites while following the broadening valley northward.
Along the route, you can visit Rachen Gompa, an important Buddhist nunnery in Tsum Valley, and Milarepa's Cave (Piren Phu), a sacred meditation site traditionally associated with the renowned Tibetan Buddhist master Milarepa.
Continue through the upper-valley settlements before crossing the Shiar Khola and climbing gradually toward Chhule and Nile. Nile, at approximately 3,360 m, is one of the last permanent settlements before Mu Gompa and provides a peaceful overnight stop in the remote upper valley.
Today is one of the cultural highlights of the Tsum Valley Trek. After an early breakfast, you leave Nile and follow the trail north through an increasingly open and remote Himalayan landscape toward Mu Gompa.
A gradual climb brings you to Mu Gompa (3,700 m), one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Tsum Valley. Located close to the Tibetan border in the remote upper valley, the monastery is surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and offers an insight into the long-established Buddhist traditions of the region.
After spending time exploring Mu Gompa and its surroundings, descend through the upper valley toward Nile and continue back to Chhokang Paro for the night. This is a longer trekking day, but the visit to Mu Gompa makes it one of the most memorable days of the journey.
After breakfast, leave Chhokang Paro and begin the journey toward Gumba Lungdang, a secluded Buddhist nunnery set beneath the Ganesh Himal. The trail descends through the valley before continuing toward Dumje and then climbing into a quieter, more forested mountain landscape.
From Dumje, the route becomes steeper as you ascend through pine and rhododendron forest toward Gumba Lungdang (approx. 3,200 m). The peaceful location and increasingly impressive views of the Ganesh Himal make this one of the most atmospheric places on the trek.
Accommodation at Gumba Lungdang is very simple compared with regular trekking lodges, but the remote setting and opportunity to experience the Buddhist nunnery make the overnight stay particularly memorable.
Today is the most demanding optional excursion of the Tsum Valley Trek. Starting early from Gumba Lungdang, you hike higher into the remote mountain landscape toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
The trail becomes rougher and more challenging as you gain altitude, with increasingly close views of the Ganesh Himal range and surrounding peaks. Unlike the main Tsum Valley trail, this section is less established and conditions can vary considerably.
The exact route and turnaround point depend on weather, snow, trail conditions, available daylight and individual fitness. Your guide will assess the conditions before and during the hike, and reaching a fixed base camp point cannot always be guaranteed.
After enjoying the mountain scenery, return along the same route to Gumba Lungdang for a second night.
After breakfast, leave the peaceful surroundings of Gumba Lungdang and descend through forest toward Dumje. From here, continue through the lower Tsum Valley, retracing sections of the route through familiar mountain landscapes and traditional settlements.
The trail involves a mixture of descents and short climbs as you gradually lose altitude. Continue through forested sections and across suspension bridges before arriving back at Lokpa (2,240 m).
After the higher and more remote days in Upper Tsum, Lokpa provides a comfortable place to rest for the night.
Today you leave the Tsum Valley and descend toward the Budhi Gandaki Valley. From Lokpa, follow the forested trail back toward Ekle Bhatti and rejoin the main route near Philim.
Continue through Philim and Sirdibas, passing terraced farmland, traditional villages and suspension bridges as you follow the river valley southward.
The final section brings you back to Jagat (1,350 m), where you spend the night in a local lodge.
After breakfast, continue your descent along the Budhi Gandaki River, retracing the lower section of the trekking route through Yaruphant and Dobhan.
The trail follows a mixture of rocky paths, suspension bridges, stone steps and riverside sections as you descend through the warmer lower valley. Continue past Tatopani and Khorlabesi before reaching Machha Khola.
Arriving at Machha Khola (870 m) marks the end of the walking section of your Tsum Valley Trek. Enjoy your final evening in the trekking region before returning to Kathmandu the following day.
After breakfast, leave Machha Khola and begin the overland journey back to Kathmandu. The road follows the hills and river valleys of the Gorkha region before reconnecting with the main highway toward the Kathmandu Valley.
The journey offers a final look at the rural landscapes, terraced farmland and small settlements of central Nepal. Road conditions can vary, particularly on the first section from Machha Khola, so the exact travel time may change.
On arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure after completing your Tsum Valley Trek.
After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. We normally arrange the transfer with sufficient time for international check-in while taking Kathmandu traffic conditions into consideration.
If your flight departs later in the day, you can leave your luggage at the hotel and enjoy some additional free time for last-minute shopping, sightseeing or relaxing in Kathmandu before your airport transfer.
If you would like to extend your stay in Nepal, Himalayan Dream Team can arrange additional experiences in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Chitwan or Lumbini, as well as an Everest Mountain Flight. Our team will be happy to help you plan an extension that suits your available time and interests.
Yes. Tsum Valley is a restricted trekking area, so trekkers require a Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit. You also need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the applicable trekking documentation for the route.
Himalayan Dream Team arranges the required trekking permits and paperwork before departure.
The restricted-area permit fee depends on the trekking season.
From September to November, the fee is USD 40 per person for the first week and USD 7 per person per additional day.
From December to August, the fee is USD 30 per person for the first week and USD 7 per person per additional day.
Permit regulations and fees are determined by the Nepal Department of Immigration and may be revised by the authorities.
Yes. Tsum Valley is a restricted trekking region, and the trek should be organized through a registered Nepal trekking agency with a licensed trekking guide.
Himalayan Dream Team arranges the guide, permits and required trekking documentation as part of the trip organization.
No. Tsum Valley is not suitable for independent trekking under Nepal's restricted-area trekking regulations. The required restricted-area permit must be arranged through an authorized trekking agency, and trekkers must follow the applicable guide and permit requirements.
No. Although both treks begin along the Budhi Gandaki Valley and are located in the Manaslu region, they follow different routes.
The Tsum Valley Trek branches away from the main Manaslu Circuit near Lokpa and continues into Tsum Valley toward Chhokang Paro, Nile and Mu Gompa. The Manaslu Circuit continues toward Samagaun, Samdo and crosses the high Larkya La Pass.
Tsum Valley is particularly suitable for travellers interested in Buddhist culture, monasteries, traditional villages and a quieter Himalayan trekking experience.
Yes. Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit can be combined into a longer trekking itinerary. After exploring Tsum Valley, the route can rejoin the Manaslu Circuit and continue toward Samagaun, Samdo, Dharamsala and Larkya La Pass.
This is an excellent option for experienced trekkers who have more time and want to experience both the cultural highlights of Tsum Valley and the high-mountain scenery of the Manaslu Circuit.
Wi-Fi may be available at some lodges, particularly in the lower parts of the route, but connections become limited and less reliable in Upper Tsum Valley.
Internet availability should not be expected every day. Where Wi-Fi is available, lodges may charge an additional fee.
Mobile network coverage is available in some locations but can be weak or unavailable in remote sections of the valley. Coverage depends on your location, network provider, weather and local conditions.
Trekkers should not rely on having a mobile signal throughout the journey.
Charging facilities are available at many lodges, although electricity becomes more limited in remote areas. Some lodges use solar power, and charging may be slower or unavailable during poor weather.
An additional charging fee may apply. We recommend carrying a power bank for phones, cameras and other essential devices.
Hot showers are available at some lodges, especially in the lower sections of the trek, but facilities become more basic as you travel farther into Tsum Valley.
In remote locations, hot water may be provided in a bucket rather than through a conventional shower. An additional charge normally applies.
Toilet facilities vary considerably along the route. Some lower-altitude lodges have Western-style or basic flush toilets, while more remote lodges may have simple shared squat toilets.
Trekkers should carry personal toilet paper, hand sanitizer and basic toiletries because these may not always be provided by the lodge.
No reliable ATM facilities are available once you enter the trekking region. You should carry enough Nepalese rupees in cash from Kathmandu to cover personal expenses during the trek.
Cash may be needed for Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, snacks, drinks, tips and other personal purchases.
We recommend keeping your trekking luggage as light as possible. Himalayan Dream Team normally provides one porter for every two trekkers, with a maximum combined porter load of approximately 20 kg for two trekkers.
You should carry your own small daypack containing water, valuables, camera, sunscreen, rain protection and anything you may need during the day's walk.
Yes. Items that you do not need during the trek can normally be stored safely at your hotel in Kathmandu and collected when you return.
This allows you to travel with only the clothing and equipment required for the trek.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended and should cover trekking at the elevations reached on your itinerary, medical treatment, emergency evacuation and helicopter rescue where necessary.
You should carefully check the altitude limit and trekking conditions covered by your policy before traveling to Nepal.
Your guide will assess the situation and determine the safest course of action. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve resting, descending to a lower elevation, arranging local transportation or coordinating an emergency evacuation.
Because Tsum Valley is remote, access to medical facilities is limited. Appropriate travel and emergency evacuation insurance is therefore important.
Mountain weather, landslides, road conditions and other circumstances can occasionally affect trekking or driving schedules in the Manaslu and Tsum Valley region.
If conditions require a change, your guide and Himalayan Dream Team will adjust the itinerary with safety as the first priority. Some flexibility is therefore important when travelling in remote Himalayan areas.
Yes, physically fit first-time trekkers can complete the Tsum Valley Trek with suitable preparation. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not compulsory.
You should be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days over mountain trails with ascents and descents. Regular hiking, walking, stair climbing and cardiovascular exercise before traveling will make the trek more enjoyable.
No. The hike toward Ganesh Himal Base Camp is optional. It is more demanding than the normal trekking days and enters higher, rougher and more remote mountain terrain.
Your guide will consider weather, snow, trail conditions, available daylight, acclimatization and your fitness before deciding how far to continue.
Yes. Solo travelers can join an organized departure or arrange a private trek with Himalayan Dream Team. However, because Tsum Valley is a restricted trekking area, special permit and trekking regulations apply.
Contact us before booking so we can advise you on the current restricted-area requirements and arrange the appropriate trekking option.
Yes. Himalayan Dream Team welcomes solo women travellers and can arrange a professionally guided Tsum Valley Trek with experienced local support.
As a Nepal-based, women-led trekking company, we understand that some travellers may prefer additional reassurance when travelling in remote areas. A female trekking guide can also be requested, subject to availability.
Yes. The itinerary can be adjusted according to your available time, trekking experience, interests and preferred pace.
It is also possible to extend the journey by combining Tsum Valley with the Manaslu Circuit, adding extra time in Kathmandu, or including destinations such as Pokhara or Chitwan before or after the trek.
You should travel with a passport that meets Nepal's entry requirements and provide the passport details and photographs required for trekking documentation.
Himalayan Dream Team will advise you before arrival about the documents needed for your Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, MCAP and other applicable trekking paperwork.
Tsum Valley is one of Nepal’s officially designated restricted trekking areas and lies in a sensitive Himalayan border region close to Tibet. Foreign trekkers require a restricted-area trekking permit issued through Nepal’s Department of Immigration.
The permit system regulates access to the region, and permits must be processed through an authorized trekking agency in Nepal.
For current permit regulations and fees, please check the Nepal Department of Immigration.
We wanted a quieter trek in Nepal and Tsum Valley was exactly what we were looking for. The villages were beautiful and Mu Gompa was a very special place. Our female guide Mingma was patient, knowledgeable and always made sure we were comfortable. Everything was well organized from Kathmandu until our return. Thank you Himalayan Dream Team for a wonderful experience.
Sophie & Nadia
We were four friends traveling all the way from Colorado and booked our Nepal trip with Himalayan Dream Team. From the moment we arrived at Kathmandu International Airport until our departure day, we enjoyed every part of our stay. The Tsum Valley trail was peaceful, the mountain views were fantastic, and in the upper valley we met very few other trekkers. Gumba Lungdang was probably our favorite place of the whole trek. Our guide Hem and the porters took excellent care of us every day, and Indira was always available on WhatsApp whenever we had a question or needed any help. We knew Tsum Valley would be a challenging adventure, but this team made everything run so smoothly that we could simply enjoy the experience without worrying about the arrangements. There is not much more to say except that we hope to come back again in a few years! We will happily recommend Himalayan Dream Team to our friends and everyone we know.Namaste and Pheri Bhetaula!
Dean and friends.
This was my third visit to Nepal, but the first for my two friends, and also our first time traveling with Indira and Himalayan Dream Team. Having trekked in Nepal before, I can honestly say that Tsum Valley felt completely different from the busier trekking areas I had experienced. We especially loved the small villages, beautiful monasteries and the walk through the upper valley towards Mu Gompa. The accommodation was simple, as you would expect in such a remote place, but comfortable enough, and the food was actually much better than we expected.
Everything was clearly explained and very well arranged from beginning to end. My friends absolutely loved their first experience of Nepal, and for me it was wonderful to discover another very special part of the country. Well done, Indira and we wish you and Himalayan Dream Team all the best for the future. We will definitely be telling our friends and family about you.
Big hug,
Charlotte
Our group of six had a wonderful time in Tsum Valley. We loved the combination of trekking, mountain scenery and Buddhist culture. The walk to Mu Gompa was a highlight for everyone. Our guide Ram Chandra was friendly, professional and knew a lot about the villages and local culture. The whole team worked very hard and made our journey easy and enjoyable.
Namaste from Vitnam
Minh Nguyen
Friends from our neighbourhood recommended Himalayan Dream Team and Indira to us, and as this was our first holiday in Nepal, we were very happy to have someone we could trust. We booked the complete Tsum Valley Trek with Indira, and it turned out to be one of the best choices we could have made. Our journey started with sightseeing around Kathmandu with Manish, a very knowledgeable guide. On the third day, our big adventure into Tsum Valley began. For us, this trek was about much more than mountains. We met local people, visited beautiful monasteries and experienced a completely different side of Nepal and the Himalayas. Gumba Lungdang was especially beautiful and peaceful. Our trekking guide Om was wonderful throughout the journey and always gave us enough time to walk at our own pace and enjoy each place without rushing. We returned home with many special memories and would happily recommend Himalayan Dream Team to our friends and anyone planning a trek in Nepal. A big thank you to Indira, Om, Manish and the whole HDT team. We hope to see you all again!
Annelies and Team
We travelled as a group of six and the whole trip went very smoothly. Everyone had a slightly different walking pace, but our guide Om managed the group very well and nobody ever felt rushed. The scenery became more impressive every day as we entered the upper valley. We especially enjoyed Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa and our stay near Gumba Lungdang.
After returning from the trek, we spent a few relaxing days exploring Kathmandu Valley and Bhaktapur with Raju. It was a wonderful way to finish our trip and gave us a completely different experience of Nepalese culture, history and everyday life. We returned home with so many great memories and beautiful photographs that we will enjoy looking back on for years to come.
Emma Xxx
In October, we traveled to Nepal and we did not want a crowded trekking route, so Indira suggested Tsum Valley Trek for me and my friend. It was exactly right for us. The landscape was beautiful, but what we remember most are the small villages, prayer walls and monasteries along the trail. Our guide Hem was calm, experienced and very helpful throughout the journey.
Thank you Himalayan Dream Team for arranging everything so well, we are already missing beautiful Nepal from our home.
Namaste,Thomas K.
We travelled with four friends and found the trek challenging enough without feeling rushed. The days around Nile, Mu Gompa and Gumba Lungdang were our favorites. Accommodation became basic in the remote villages, which we expected, but the hospitality was always warm. Our guide Ram and porters were fantastic and worked hard every day. Indira from the company made us everything clear and comfortable before we start our trek. It was a beautiful and memorable journey through a very special part of Nepal.
back home with beautiful memories
greetings, Eva de Vries and friends
Enjoy the popular trekking and tour packages in Nepal Himalayas. 2026.
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