Transportation
Bus and trekking
Group Size
2-12 people
Maximum Altitude
5,093m at Ngula Dhojhyang pass
Accomodation
Teahouses and camping
Fitness level
Moderate to high physical fitness required
Arrival on
Day 1 (Kathmandu)
Departure from
Day 19 (Kathmandu)
Best season
March-May and September-November
Guiding method
Professional guide (English or requested languages)
Tour type
Guided group trekking
Language
English (guides available in other languages upon request)
Meals
Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during trek
Permits
Special Tsum Valley Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
Destinations
Langtang, Nepal
Activities
Trekking
Trip Type
Home Stay, Nature Friendly
Difficulty
Hard

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Equipment Checklist

Map

Essential information

Overview

Tsum Valley Trek is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley situated in northern Gorkha, Nepal. ‘Tsum’ comes from the Tibetan word ‘Tsombo’, which means vivid. Traditionally, Tsum valley was a currently distinct geographical area called ‘Tsum Tso Chucksums’, which means thirteen provinces ruled as a single territory. Against the majestic backdrop of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Boudha Himal ranges, this serene Himalayan valley is rich in ancient art, culture and religion. The local people are mostly of Tibetan origin & speak their own dialect. The altitude of Tsum Valley trek varies from 1905m in Lhokpa to over 5093m at Ngula Dhojhyang pass on the Tibatan border. The hidden valley is surrounded by the Buddha Himal and Himal chuli to the west, Ganesh Himal to the south & Sringi Himal to North.

People in Tsum Valley Trek still practice polyandry system and they have their own unique culture, tradition, & dialect. They celebrate unique festival like Lhosar, Dhacyhang, Saka Dawa,Faning & others. Many residents of this valley report that they have seen or found the signs of Mehti, commonly referred as the ‘Yeti’ or ‘Abominable Snowman’.

Tsum Valley Trek route gives the glimpses of diversity of flora & fauna, and people with different religion and cultures. On the way to Philim there are many waterfalls on both side of the Buddha Gandaki river and hundred species of birds in the forest. As you walk enjoy with songs of bird and the roaring sound of the river. Liding, Machhakhola, Jagat and Philim provide the unique hospitality with culture and religion. During this trekking the narrow valley shaping by Budhi Gandaki provides the magnificent vistas of Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal and Himal Chuli.

Highlights

Sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley in northern Gorkha, Nepal.
Rich in ancient art, culture, and religion, with Tibetan-origin inhabitants.
Trek altitude ranges from 1,905m (Lhokpa) to 5,093m (Ngula Dhojhyang pass on the Tibetan border).
Surrounded by Buddha Himal, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and Sringi Himal.
Unique local culture, dialect, and polyandry practices.
Festivals celebrated include Lhosar, Dhacyhang, Saka Dawa, and Faning.
Reports of sightings of the Mehti ('Yeti' or 'Abominable Snowman').

Day 1 :

Kathmandu Arrival

Lantang Ri Trekking & Expedition representative will greet you in an airport & transfer you to your Hotel, after refreshment you will be picked from hotel lobby to office where you will be formally introduced to your Guide and the activities to be enjoyed over the next few days. We will also ask for your passport photographs and any other details required for your trek permits.

Day 2 :

Kathmandu Sightseeing

After breakfast, we start an interesting tour around Kathmandu. Escorting by an English speaking guide (can be provide any language speaking guide on request) be, try to give them a full taste of our vivid culture image and an enchanting manner of its people. In our sightseeing tour we go to Monkey temple Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath and Kathmandu Durbar square.Bouddhanath: Bouddhanath is a Buddhist religious complex with a history dating back over 500 years. Located on the eastern edge of Kathmandu it is now a site of great pilgrimage for Buddhist followers who circle its massive stupa, spin its many prayer wheels and visit its beautiful monastery. The main feature of Boudhanath is its huge hemispherical white stupa with central golden tower and the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha. Visitors should circle the stupa in a clockwise direction and spin prayer wheels for good fortune and a good life. Visitors may also enjoy visiting the Thangka painting school within the complex to see highly skilled artists at work on religious mandala paintings.Pashupatinath: Hindu Temple is a very large and complex and focal point for the Hindu religion. This old and very revered complex of buildings and shrines is dedicated to the Lord Shiva, one of the main deities of Hinduism. While Lord Shiva has multiple forms he is often seen as the destroyer. This has great significance for the Pashupatinath temple as it is the site of many Hindi ritual cremations each day. Pashupatinath is considered by Hindus to be an auspicious site for passing from one stage of life to the next through the purifying and destroying flames of cremation. However, on a happier note, visitors may also get to see the temple in a buoyant festival mode with one of the many Hindu festivals celebrated here through the year. Swayambhunath: You will first visit the Swayambhunath temple complex that sits atop a high hill overlooking Kathmandu and the entire Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhunath is perhaps the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal. It consists of a very large white stupa with the all-seeing-eye of Lord Buddha plus many small stupa and beautifully carved stone shrines. This is a wonderful place to catch your breath and start to understand and appreciate the deep importance of Buddhist belief to the people of Nepal and the Himalaya region. Make sure you ring the many bells to awaken the gods and let them know you are in Nepal. Take the time to enjoy the view over Kathmandu and have your guide point the many other highlights of the city. In the far distance to the east you may also be able to see the hills of Nagarkot where your hotel for tonight is located. If you feel energetic you might also like to try some or all of the 350 steps that lead all the way from Kathmandu city up to your Swayambhunath temple vantage point.Kathmandu Durbar Square: The next stop today is the beautiful Kathmandu Durbar Square, or the royal palace square of the ancient Malla kings of the Kathmandu Valley. This square and all its architectural treasures are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While some damage to buildings occurred in the 2015 earthquake the site still contains many stunning architectural gems. The original royal palace courtyards are open to visitors and you will marvel at the intricate timber carving and beautifully crafted brickwork of the palace. The open square outside the palace has many beautiful multi-storey pagodas and temples with ornate carving and carpentry artwork that tells some of the story of the ancient kings and their mystical time and beliefs. The square also contains many important Hindu temples and statues such as to Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Durbar Square also contains the unique and intriguing Kumari Chok. This is an ancient and ornate house where resides the Raj Kumari – the Living Goddess. She is a young girl chosen through an ancient and mystical selection process to become the human incarnation of the Hindu mother goddess, Durga. If you are in the courtyard of the home at the right time in the afternoon you may see a brief glimpse of the Goddess at her window.

Day 3 :

From Kathmandu drive to Arughat Bazaar by bus (7-8 hrs) and trek to Arkhet Bazar (2 hrs)

We take a 7- 8 hrs bus ride to Arughat bazaar in Gorkha district. The village of Arughat is in two parts, on opposite sides of the Buri Gandaki. Arughat Bazaar is large, clean and prosperous with hotels and shops selling cloth, food and hardware.From the bus stop we trek for two hours to Arkhet bazaar. We pass through Gurung and Magar villages and terraced fields along the way.

Day 4 :

Arkhet Bazar to Machha Khola (6 hrs)

From Arkhet Bazaar we take the trail to Machha Khola. Machha Khola is a village situated above a stream with the same name. We set up camp at a good campsite.

Day 5 :

Machha Khola to Yaru khola (6 hrs)

From Macha Khola we trek to Yaru Khola. The village of Yaru Khola at 1,330m has a good campsite near the Buri Gandaki river. The river meanders serenely among gravel bars.

Day 6 :

Yaru khola to Lokpa (6-7 hrs)

From Yaru Khola we trek to Lokpa. Lokpa is the first village as you enter the Tsum Valley. The local people are farmers and grow potatoes, gucchi mushrooms and soya beans.

Day 7 :

Lokpa to Chumling (Lower Tsum) (4-5 hrs)

From Lokpa we trek to Chumling Tanjo. We can see the Baudha Himal(6672m) and Ganesh Himal VI on a clear day. Chumling has three monasteries: Panago Gumba, Mani Dhungyur and Gurwa Gumba. There are also several good campsites. There is a telephone service and health post too.

Day 8 :

Chumling to Chhokangparo (Upper Tsum) (7 hrs)

From Chumling we trek to Chhokangparo. Upper Tsum valley (part of the Inner Himalaya) open from Chhokangparo, where hospitality local people (Tibetan group “Tsombo”) welcome you with traditional Tibetan Chiya (butter tea) and local meal.

Day 9 :

Chhokangparo to Nile/Chhule, visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave on the way (4-5 hrs)

From Chhokangparo we trek to Nile/ Chulle. This is the last village heading north in the upper Tsum Valley. Nile is on the western , sun-side of the Shiar Khola, about 20 minutes walk across from Chhule.On the way we pass the Piren Phu cave. Piren Phu(pigeon cave) is one of the most sacred caves in the Tsum valley. It is located at the foot of a rugged cliff near the village of Burji. Milarepa, the famous Tibetan saint, was believed to have meditated here. There are two separate gumbas attached to the rocky cave. Richly painted Buddhist murals, excellent artistic scripts carved on stones, long prayer flags and significant Buddhists paper scripts make this cave one of the most important socio-cultural asset in the valley.Beautiful views can be had of the Shiar Khola, Rachen Gumba, the mountains and settlements amidst vast agricultural land.

Day 10 :

Nile/Chhule to Mu Gompa (3700 m), visit Dhephyudonma Gompa (4060 m) (4-5 hrs)

Dephyudonma gumba is one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley and is situated in the rugged mountains, a 2 hr walk from the village of Chhule and Nile. The history of this monastery is directly associated with the dawn of Buddhism in the valley.The monastery is run by Lama Serap of Nile Ladrang from the Kangin sect. There are a few campsites and dinking water facilities.

Day 11 :

Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa, visit Gonhgye Gompa (Nyigma-pa Buddhist sect) (5 hrs)

The trail ascends to Mu Gumba, the largest monastery in the region. Mu Gumba is located at the highest and farthest point in the Tsum Valley. On the way to Mu Gumba.

Day 12 :

Rachen Gompa to Dumje (6-7 hrs)

Rachen Gumba is one of the largest nunneries in the Tsum Valley, with 80 nuns currently studying. It was established in 1905 AD. Iyt houses the nuns belonging to Ngak-pa sect, which does not allow animal slaughter. Dhumje is a small village with about eight houses and adjoining cattle shed.

Day 13 :

Dumje to Philim (cross Ripchet) (7-8 hrs)

From Dumje we trek to Philim and cross Ripchet. on the way we witness one of the most beautiful falls in the Lower Tsum Valley, Samba Tingding Chhupyang. Phillim, at 1550m, is a large Gurung village with fields of corn and millet. The trail that climbs through the village and heads up over the ridge leads to Ganesh Himal Base camp.

Day 14 :

Philim to Tatopani (7-8 hrs)

From Phillim we trek to Tatoni. There is a hot spring at Tatopani. You can relieve your tired muscles by soaking yourself in the hot spring.

Day 15 :

Tatopani to Lapubeshi (6-7 hrs)

From Tatopani we trek to Lapubeshi, a Gurung Village. We pass through terraced fields and tropical waterfalls. We camp at the village.

Day 16 :

Lapubeshi to Arughat Bazar (5-6 hrs)

As we make our way from Lapubeshi to Arughat Bazar, we come to the last leg of our journey.

Day 17 :

Drive to Kathmandu by bus (6-7 hrs)

We drive to Kathmandu.

Day 18 :

Kathmandu free day of your own

This is the free day and you can use it for your shopping. In the evening you will drive you for farewell dinner with cultural dance.

Day 19 :

Final Departure

All too soon it’s time to bid Nepal farewell and one realizes that we can never be intimate, only acquainted with this amazing country.

Equipment Checklist

Preparing for the Tsum Valley Trek requires careful planning and the right equipment to ensure a safe and comfortable journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and sacred valleys. Here’s a comprehensive equipment checklist tailored for the Tsum Valley Trek – 19 Days, along with tips for managing cold-related symptoms.

Clothing

Base Layers:

Moisture-wicking underwear
Thermal base layers (tops and bottoms made of merino wool or synthetic materials)

Mid Layers:

Insulating fleece jacket or pullover
Lightweight down or synthetic jacket for warmth

Outer Layers:

Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
Waterproof trekking pants
Comfortable hiking pants and shorts for lower altitudes

Headwear:

Warm hat or beanie
Sun hat or cap to protect from the strong Himalayan sun
Neck gaiter or balaclava for warmth at higher altitudes

Gloves:

Lightweight trekking gloves
Insulated waterproof gloves or mittens for colder conditions

Footwear:

Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots (well-broken in)
Camp shoes or sandals for relaxing after a long day of trekking
Gaiters (optional, for snow or muddy paths)
High-quality hiking socks (multiple pairs, with warm liners)

Equipment

Backpack:

Daypack (20-30 liters) for carrying daily essentials
Larger trekking backpack (50-70 liters) for the porters to carry your personal gear and sleeping bag

Sleeping Gear:

Sleeping bag (3-season, suitable for temperatures down to -10°C / 14°F)
Sleeping bag liner for added warmth

Trekking Poles:

Adjustable trekking poles (optional but recommended for balance and support)

Water and Hydration:

Water bottles (capacity for 2-3 liters)
Water bladder or hydration system (optional)
Water purification tablets or filter (essential for emergencies)

Lighting:

Headlamp with extra batteries

Sunglasses and Sun Protection:

UV-protective sunglasses
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
Lip balm with SPF protection

First Aid Kit

Personal medications (including altitude sickness tablets like Diamox)
Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatment
Pain relievers, anti-diarrheal tablets, and other essential medicines

Additional Gear

Personal Documents:

Passport with photocopies
Trekking permits (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, TIMS Card)
Travel insurance documents

Navigation Tools:

Map of the Tsum Valley region
GPS device or smartphone with offline maps

Camera and Electronics:

Camera with spare batteries and memory cards
Phone and power bank
Adapters and chargers (Nepal uses Type C, D, and M plugs)

Toiletries:

Biodegradable soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Toilet paper and trowel (for use in remote areas)

Snacks:

High-energy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars)

Emergency Items:

Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife
Small sewing kit
Personal identification and emergency contact information

Symptoms of Cold and How to Manage

Chilblains (Pernio):

Symptoms: Red, itchy, or swollen skin, particularly on fingers, toes, ears, or nose.
Management: Warm the affected areas slowly, avoid direct heat, and keep feet dry and warm. Insulated gloves are essential for hand protection.

Frostbite:

Symptoms: Numbness, white or grayish skin, hard or waxy texture on extremities.
Management: Warm the affected areas gradually using body heat. Do not rub or massage frostbitten skin. Seek medical attention immediately if severe.

Hypothermia:

Symptoms: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness, and loss of coordination.
Management: Move to a warmer environment, remove wet clothing, and warm the body with blankets or warm fluids. Seek medical help immediately.

Cold-Related Injuries:

Symptoms: Pain, numbness, or tingling in extremities.
Management: Ensure proper insulation and keep extremities dry. Use hand warmers or heat packs if needed.

Environmental and Cultural Responsibility

Leave No Trace:

Adhere to Leave No Trace principles, including packing out waste and using biodegradable products to minimize environmental impact.

Respecting Local Culture:

The Tsum Valley is home to Tibetan Buddhist communities with deep-rooted cultural traditions. Show respect by dressing modestly, asking permission before photographing people or religious sites, and observing local customs.

Supporting Local Communities:

Support the local economy by hiring guides and porters from the region, staying in locally run teahouses, and purchasing goods from local vendors.

Essential information

The Tsum Valley Trek is an extraordinary and sacred journey through one of the most remote and culturally rich regions of the Himalayas. Nestled in northern Gorkha, Nepal, Tsum Valley is known for its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and strong ties to Tibetan Buddhism. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for this unique 19-day adventure.

General Information

Region: Tsum Valley is located in the northern part of the Gorkha district, adjacent to the Tibetan border. The region is part of the Manaslu Conservation Area, known for its pristine beauty, deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist culture, and ancient monasteries.

Duration: This trek takes 19 days, allowing ample time for exploration, cultural immersion, and acclimatization. The journey includes visits to sacred monasteries, ancient villages, and the hidden gem of Mu Gompa.

Maximum Elevation: The highest point of the trek is Mu Gompa, sitting at 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). Though not as high as some other treks, it still requires acclimatization and preparation for high-altitude trekking.

Difficulty: The Tsum Valley Trek is moderately challenging. It involves steep ascents and descents, with long days of trekking through remote terrain. Good physical fitness and a passion for exploring cultural treasures are essential.

Best Time to Trek: The best time for the Tsum Valley Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear weather and optimal conditions for trekking and cultural exploration. Winter can be cold, while the monsoon season brings heavy rain.

Permits and Regulations

Permits Required: To trek in the Tsum Valley, you will need the following permits:

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit: Required to enter the conservation area, costing NPR 3,000 (USD 25) for foreign nationals.
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit: This special permit costs USD 40 per week during peak seasons.

These permits are obtained in Kathmandu and must be carried throughout the trek for inspection by local authorities.

Accommodations and Meals

Accommodation: Accommodations during the trek are mainly teahouses, offering basic facilities with shared amenities:

Teahouses/Lodges: These provide simple rooms, often with shared bathrooms. Comfort levels decrease as you go higher into the valley.
Camping: Camping is optional but not necessary for this trek. However, some groups may choose to camp for a more immersive experience in remote areas.

Meals: Meals during the trek consist of local and basic dishes designed to provide energy for the trekkers:

Breakfast: Common options include porridge, Tibetan bread, and tea.
Lunch: Dal bhat (lentils with rice), noodles, and soups are typical.
Dinner: Dal bhat is a staple, along with other local dishes like momos. Food availability decreases in variety at higher altitudes.

Health and Fitness

Fitness Level: This trek requires moderate fitness. Trekkers should be prepared for long days of walking, often on steep trails. Previous trekking experience, especially at altitude, is an advantage but not mandatory.

Acclimatization: Though not as high in elevation as other treks, acclimatization is still important. The itinerary includes rest days to adjust to the altitude and prevent altitude sickness.

First Aid: Carry a personal first-aid kit, including altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, antiseptics, and bandages. Being prepared is essential, especially in such remote areas.

Vaccinations: It’s advised to consult with your healthcare provider regarding vaccinations before traveling. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus vaccines are commonly recommended.

Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and helicopter evacuation. This is essential for safety in case of altitude-related issues.

Environmental and Cultural Responsibility

Leave No Trace: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace, ensuring you minimize your environmental impact. Carry out all waste and avoid disturbing the local ecosystem.

Respecting Local Culture: Tsum Valley is a sacred area with a strong Buddhist influence. Show respect for local customs, dress modestly, and always seek permission before photographing religious sites or local residents.

Supporting Local Communities: Hire local guides and porters, stay in local teahouses, and purchase from local vendors to support the community and promote sustainable tourism.

Transportation

Flights: The trek typically begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, the starting point of the trek. There are no direct flights to Tsum Valley.

Ground Transportation: A private vehicle will be used for transportation to and from Soti Khola, with the possibility of road delays due to weather or terrain conditions.

Guiding and Support

Guides and Porters: Hiring a guide is highly recommended for this trek. A local guide will provide knowledge about the cultural significance of the region, ensure your safety, and handle logistics. Porters are available to carry heavy luggage.

Guiding Method: The trek is typically fully guided, ensuring smooth transitions between accommodations, routes, and cultural highlights.

Group Size: Group sizes range from 2 to 12 trekkers. Small groups offer a more intimate experience, while larger groups may share costs and offer more camaraderie.

Communication and Connectivity

Connectivity: There is limited mobile connectivity in Tsum Valley, with some areas having no signal. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi, though it may be slow or unreliable.

Privacy Policy

Data Collection: We collect personal information necessary for booking your trek, including passport details and emergency contacts.

Data Usage: The collected data is used for trek planning and obtaining permits. It is not shared with third parties beyond the requirements of organizing the trek.

Confidentiality: Personal data is stored securely and accessed only by authorized personnel.

Consent: By booking this trek, you consent to the collection and use of your personal data as outlined in our policy.

FAQs

How fit do I need to be for the Tsum Valley Trek? A moderate fitness level is necessary. Trekkers should be ready to walk long hours each day.

What kind of food is available during the trek? Expect local meals like dal bhat, noodles, and soups. The variety decreases at higher altitudes.

What if I experience altitude sickness? Guides are trained to handle altitude sickness. Descending may be necessary if symptoms persist.

Can I use a mobile phone during the trek? Mobile coverage is limited. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi, but it is not always reliable.

What is the cancellation policy? Cancellation policies vary by operator. Please check the terms when booking.

This guide equips you with essential information for your 19-day Tsum Valley Trek, ensuring a well-prepared and culturally enriching adventure.

Festival	Date
Bisket Jatra	13-17 April
Maha Shivaratri	26 February
Holi (Fagu Purnima)	13 March (Hilly Region), 14 March (Terai)
Buddha Jayanti	12 May
Tiji Festival	6-8 May
Dashain	22 September - 1 October
Tihar (Deepawali)	18-23 October
Chhath	27 October
Mani Rimdu Festival	11-13 November
Rato Machhendranath Jatra	5-7 April
Losar (Tibetan New Year)	29 January - 1 February
Indra Jatra	6-13 September
Gai Jatra	10 August
Ghode Jatra	28 March

Tsum Valley Trek – 19 Days

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Equipment Checklist

Map

Essential information