Tsum Valley Trek - 17 days

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  • DestinationNepal
  • Durations17 days
  • Group Size15+

Trip Highlights

  • Explore Manaslu Conservation Area, a remote and culturally diverse area
  • Experience Tibetan Buddhism's culture and traditions
  • renowned monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa
  • Enjoy the magnificent vistas of the Sringi, Boudha, and Ganesh Himal mountain ranges
  • Trek through Tibetan settlements preserved through time with distinctive traditions and warmth
  • Relax in pristine regions with rivers, woods, and alpine meadows
  • Find trails that are comparatively less touristy and congested than other trekking routes
  • Interact with local populations while experiencing cultural exposure
  • Travel through tough paths that provide a range of easy to hard walking experiences
  • Encounter the rich biodiversity, with opportunities to see animals including blue sheep and Himalayan thr.

Tsum Valley Trek Overview

The Tsum Valley Trek, located in Nepal's Manaslu Conservation Area, offers an enthralling exploration of a remote and culturally significant region. The journey, which is well-known for its spiritual importance and immaculate scenery, provides a special fusion of the outdoors and cultural absorption.

The route starts in the town of Arughat and winds its way up through verdant forests, terraced farms, and charming villages, most of which are home to the native Tsumbas, who practice Tibetan Buddhism. Trekking through quiet valleys with prayer flags billowing in the mountain wind leads to historic monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, where nuns and monks live in seclusion.

The Tsum Valley is renowned for its rich cultural legacy, which is displayed in its elaborate mani walls covered with prayer, chortens (stupas), and centuries-old monasteries. As you go higher, you're rewarded with expansive vistas of the snow-capped summits of massive Himalayan peaks like Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal, which contrast with the clear blue skies.

Tsum Valley provides a more genuine and peaceful trekking experience because it has not been as commercialized as other major trekking routes in Nepal. Many possibilities for cultural interactions with the locals are presented by the voyage; they provide a warm welcome to guests and share their customs and way of life.

Trekking Trails to Tsum Valley 

Starting from Arughat, the hiking paths that lead to Tsum Valley through the untamed terrain of the Manaslu Conservation Area. Trekkers experience a variety of landscapes as they rise, from terraced farms and subtropical woods to alpine meadows and glacier valleys. 

Before arriving at the Tsum Valley entrance, which is symbolized by a chorten covered in prayer flags and serves as a symbolic entryway into this revered Himalayan refuge, the routes pass past traditional Gurung and Magar communities.

Geographically, Tsum Valley can be found away among the tall hills of the Ganesh Himal range, providing breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and the deep canyons the Budhi Gandaki River has created. The Tsumba people, who are primarily Tibetan Buddhists and of Tibetan descent, live in the valley. 

Monastic traditions are deeply ingrained in their culture; this is seen in the venerable monasteries of Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, which are centers of spiritual study and meditation.

Tsum Valley's biodiversity spans from lush pine and rhododendron forests at lower levels to alpine scrub and desolate terrain at higher elevations. The region's wildlife, which includes blue sheep, Himalayan thyr, and several bird species, contributes to its biological diversity. 

The valley is a paradise for hikers and anthropologists interested in studying its distinctive combination of natural and cultural heritage because of its remoteness, which has kept its natural beauty and cultural authenticity.

Best Season for Trekking to Tsum Valley

Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are the ideal times of year to trek to Tsum Valley since they each have special benefits and provide a different perspective on the Himalayan scenery.

Tsum Valley has consistent weather and bright skies in the fall, which makes it a perfect place for hiking. The evenings may be sharp and chilly, especially at higher elevations, but the daytime temperatures are moderate enough for comfortable trekking. 

Trekking is made simpler and more fun by the comparatively dry and less muddy paths that are maintained throughout the post-monsoon season. Fall offers great visibility and stunning views of the nearby Himalayan peaks, including Sringi Himal and Ganesh Himal, which are frequently covered in snow.

Tsum Valley is a riot of color in the spring, when rhododendrons and other wildflowers blossom and cover the slopes. It's another favorite season for hiking since the weather is still good and starts to warm up after the winter. Springtime brings clear skies, which are ideal for taking breathtaking mountain vistas and appreciating the beauty of the surroundings. 

During this season, there is also a rise in wildlife activity, making it possible to see blue sheep, Himalayan thar, and a variety of bird species along the trekking trails.

Outline Itinerary 

Day

Activity

Duration (approx.)

Distance (approx.)

Altitude (m)

Altitude (ft)

1

Arrival in Kathmandu

-

-

1,400

4,600

2

Trek Preparation and Sightseeing

Full Day

-

1,400

4,600

3

Drive Kathmandu - Arughat, Trek to Soti Khola

Full Day

-

730

2,395

4

Soti Khola to Jagat

5-6 hrs

9 km

1,400

4,593

5

Jagat to Chisopani

4-5 hrs

7 km

2,100

6,890

6

Chisopani to Chumling

5-6 hrs

10 km

2,386

7,831

7

Chumling to Chokhangparo

4-5 hrs

8 km

3,010

9,875

8

Chokhangparo to Nile

3-4 hrs

6 km

2,970

9,744

9

Nile to Mu Gompa

3-4 hrs

5 km

3,580

11,745

10

Mu Gompa Sightseeing

Full Day

N/A

3,580

11,745

11

Mu Gompa to Burgi

4-5 hrs

7 km

3,210

10,531

12

Burgi village to Chumling

4-5 hrs

8 km

2,386

7,831

13

Chumling to Philim

7-8 hrs

12 km

1,570

5,151

14

Philim to Khorlabesi

3-4 hrs

5 km

910

2,986

15

Khorlabesi to Soti Khola

4-5 hrs

8 km

730

2,395

16

Soti Khola to Arughat, Drive to Kathmandu

Full Day

-

-

-

17

Departure Day

-

-

-

-

 

Detail Itinerary

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If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.

Cost Details

Cost Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop-off services 
  • Transportation for drive from Kathmandu to Arughat and back
  • 3 meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea/coffee  during the trek 
  • Accommodations during the trek 3 nights in Kathmandu and 14 nights in tea houses along the trekking trails 
  • All permit fees and government charges 
  • Experienced and well-trained guides and porters 
  • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
  • Filtered water in the trails using a water filter or water purification tablets

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal visa fees upon arrival in Nepal
  • Tips and gratitude to the guides, drivers, porters, other staff, etc.
  • Extra-day expenses apart from the scheduled itinerary
  • Personal expenses like drinks, laundry, shopping, personal gear, a hot shower, electronic battery recharges, and WiFi
  • All the other expenses that are not mentioned in the cost list.
  • Travel Insurance

Dates & Availability

  • 1 Person-----US$ 1200
  • 2 - 5 Person-----US$ 1150
  • 5 - 12 Person-----US$ 1100
  • 13 - 20 Person-----US$ 1055

Book a Private Date

Good to Know

Accommodation during 18-Day Tsum Valley Trek

Along the Tsum Valley Trek, teahouses and guesthouses make up the majority of the lodging options. These are budget lodges that provide basic twin-bedded rooms or dorm-style lodging.

Teahouses usually provide tea or coffee along with food such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, and soups. Basic to moderate amenities range from common restrooms with hot showers (hot water supplies might be erratic, especially at higher altitudes) to private rooms with hot showers.

It is best to reserve lodging in advance during the busier trekking seasons, including fall and spring, particularly in settlements like Chumling, Chokhangparo, and Mu Gompa. Trekkers may meet and exchange stories with other hikers and hosts, as well as get insight into the local way of life, at these teahouses that double as places to stay.

Meals during Trek to Tsum Valley

Meals are usually served at the teahouses or guesthouses along the trail on the hike to Tsum Valley. The simple yet filling meals are served with the intention of supplying hikers with fuel for their journey. The following are some typical meals to anticipate:

  • Breakfast: typically consists of items like porridge, pancakes, fried, boiled, or scrambled eggs, muesli, tea, or coffee.
  • Lunch: Lunch often consists of fried rice, soups (like vegetable or noodle soup), sandwiches, dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles (like thukpa or chowmein), tea or coffee, and fried rice.
  • Dinner: Dinner is akin to lunch, with dal bhat serving as a main course. Pasta, pizza, momos (dumplings), curry meals (chicken, vegetable, or yak), and once again, tea or coffee are possible additional alternatives.

The majority of teahouses have a fixed menu, and the variety of meals may vary according to what is in season when you hike a certain distance. 

Simple but wholesome meals are often served to hikers to meet their energy demands in the steep terrain. 

Especially for lengthy trekking days, it's a good idea to include some snacks, such as energy bars, almonds, or dried fruits, for extra nutrition in between meals.

Packing List for Tsum Valley Trek

Clothing:

  • Moisture-wicking base layers: Synthetic or wool tops and bottoms
  • Insulating layers: Fleece jacket or pullover, down or synthetic-filled jacket
  • Outer shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket with hood, and waterproof pants
  • Trekking pants and shorts: Lightweight and quick-drying
  • Undergarments and socks: Moisture-wicking and comfortable
  • Warm hat and gloves: Fleece or wool for cold mornings and evenings
  • Sun hat or cap: Protection from sun exposure
  • Bandana or buff: Versatile for sun protection or as a scarf

Footwear:

  • Trekking boots: Sturdy and waterproof, broken-in before the trek
  • Camp shoes or sandals: Lightweight and comfortable for evenings

Gear and Equipment:

  • Backpack: 30-40 liters for carrying daily essentials
  • Sleeping bag: Warm and suitable for cold temperatures (down to -10°C or lower)
  • Trekking poles: Adjustable and sturdy for steep ascents and descents
  • Headlamp or flashlight: With extra batteries
  • Water bottles or hydration system: 2 liters capacity, insulated to prevent freezing

Personal Hygiene and Medical:

  • Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes
  • Sunscreen: High SPF, lip balm with SPF
  • Personal medication: Including altitude sickness medication if prescribed
  • First aid kit: Bandages, blister treatment, pain relief medication, and antiseptic wipes

Miscellaneous:

  • Trekking towel: Quick-dry and compact
  • Sunglasses: With UV protection
  • Camera or smartphone: With extra batteries or power bank
  • Snacks: energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for quick energy

Optional:

  • Trekking guidebook or map: For reference
  • Journal and pen: To document your journey
  • Travel pillow: Inflatable or compressible

Important Documents:

  • Passport and permits: Including TIMS (Trekker's Information Management System) and Manaslu Conservation Area permits
  • Travel insurance: Including emergency evacuation coverage

FAQS