Highlights

  • Hidden Himalayan Paradise – Experience one of Nepal’s least explored and culturally rich trekking regions.

  • Mu Gompa (3,705 m / 12,155 ft) – Visit the spiritual heart of Tsum, home to monks practicing ancient Buddhist rituals.

  • Authentic Tibetan Culture – Interact with locals of Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan origins; witness traditional weaving, festivals, and rituals.

  • Historic Monasteries – Explore ancient gompas, Mani walls, and chortens adorned with prayer flags.

  • Unique Traditions – Encounter stories of polyandry, folklore of Yetis, and age-old Himalayan myths.

  • Panoramic Mountain Views – Spectacular sights of Ganesh Himal (7,422 m / 24,350 ft), Shiringi Himal (7,165 m / 23,507 ft), and Manaslu massif.

  • Teahouse Comfort – Recently developed lodges provide cozy stays, making trekking more accessible.

  • Off-the-Beaten Path – A peaceful alternative to popular trekking routes, ideal for adventurers seeking solitude.

About Tsum Valley Trek - 11 Days

"A Hidden Himalayan Jewel"

Nestled deep within the majestic Manaslu Conservation Area of Nepal, the Tsum Valley Trek is an enchanting journey into one of the Himalayas’ last untouched sanctuaries. Often called the “hidden valley,” Tsum lies north of Gorkha and borders Tibet, embraced by the towering peaks of Ganesh Himal, Shiringi Himal, and Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft).

The word Tsum originates from the Tibetan word Tsombo, meaning “vivid.” True to its name, the valley captivates travelers with colorful prayer flags, ancient monasteries, remote settlements, and pristine mountain landscapes. Unlike crowded routes such as Everest or Annapurna, the Tsum Valley offers solitude, spiritual immersion, and authentic Himalayan culture.

Until recently, Tsum Valley was a restricted region with minimal outside influence. Its remoteness has preserved a rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage, where locals still follow centuries-old traditions, celebrate festivals, and live in harmony with nature. Ancient gompas such as Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa stand as spiritual beacons amidst the vast Himalayan wilderness.

This 12-day trek combines rugged trails, rhododendron forests, suspension bridges, sacred Mani walls, and panoramic mountain vistas—culminating at the mystical Mu Gompa (3,705 m / 12,155 ft), the highest point of the trek.

Why Choose Tsum Valley Trek?

  • Avoid the crowds of Everest and Annapurna.

  • Experience unspoiled Tibetan culture and landscapes.

  • Visit Mu Gompa and ancient Buddhist sites.

  • Perfect for adventurers seeking a moderate, offbeat trek.

Outline Itinerary

Detail itinerary
  • Day 1Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (869 m / 2,851 ft)
  • Day 2Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340 m / 4,396 ft)
  • Day 3Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,240 m / 7,349 ft)
  • Day 4Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2,386 m / 7,825 ft)
  • Day 5Trek from Chumling to Chhekampar (3,031 m / 9,941 ft)
  • Day 6Trek from Chhekampar to Nile (3,361 m / 11,024 ft)
  • Day 7Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa (3,705 m / 12,155 ft)
  • Day 8Trek back to Chhekampar (3,031 m / 9,941 ft)
  • Day 9Trek back to Lokpa (2,240 m / 7,349 ft)
  • Day 10Trek from Lokpa to Jagat (869 m / 2,851 ft)
  • Day 12Drive back to Kathmandu From Jagat(2,240 m / 7,349 ft)

What’s Included

  • Airport Pickup on Arrival and Departure at Kathmandu Airport by Private Transport.
  • 2 Night Accommodation in Kathmandu with BB Plan
  • Transfer from Kathmandu to Machha Khola by local bus
  • Transfer From Dharapani  to Kathmndu Local Transport
  • Tea House Accommodation During The Trek
  • Three meals a day(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) During the trek
  • Use of sleeping Bag and Duffel bag(if you don't have your own, to be refund after the trek)
  • Daily seasonable fresh fruits after dinner
  • For safety, the guide carries a first aid kit with an oximeter to monitor oxygen and pulse in high-altitude areas.
  • English speaking experienced guide
  • Food, salary, accommodation and insurance for our Nepali staffs
  • All Trekking Permit( ACAP and Tims card) Annapurna Conservation Fee, Manasalu Consurvation fee, 
  • Tsum Valley special permit
  • Manasalu region trekking map
  • All Government and Local taxes

 

Optional

  1. Private transport Kathmandu to Machha Khola USD 200
  2. Jagat to to Kathmandu: USD 250
  3. Porter: Per porter: USD 220
  • International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
  • Meal in Kathmandu
  • Travel and Rescue Insurance
  • Additional hotel nights in Pokhara required in the event of early arrival, late departure, or an early return from the trek for any reason.
  • Personal expenses such as Wi-Fi, phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery charging, bottled water, showers, and tea/coffee.
  • Others cost not mentioned in "cost includes" sections
  • Tips for Guide, porters and Drivers

Tips & Ideas

Tsum Valley Trek – 11 Days Trip Information

Cultural Insights

The Tsum Valley is often referred to as the "Hidden Valley of Happiness" in Buddhist texts. Isolated for centuries, the region has preserved a rich cultural heritage influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.

  • People: The valley is mainly inhabited by Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan-descendant communities. They live in scattered villages and hamlets where hospitality is warm, and traditions are deeply rooted in spirituality.

  • Traditions: Daily life revolves around Buddhist practices. Rituals include burning juniper leaves for purification, hoisting prayer flags to spread blessings, and building Mani walls inscribed with sacred mantras. You’ll frequently see monasteries (gompas), chortens, and long strings of colorful prayer flags.

  • Lifestyle: Villagers engage in subsistence farming of barley, buckwheat, and potatoes, alongside yak herding. Women are skilled in wool weaving, producing traditional garments like Baku (robes) and Pangden (striped aprons). Homes are stone-built highland dwellings designed for warmth in the cold climate.

Visiting Tsum Valley feels like stepping back in time, offering not just a trek but a cultural immersion.

Best Time to Trek

The weather in the Himalayas plays a crucial role in trekking experiences. Tsum Valley is best visited during the following seasons:

  • Spring (March–May): The trails are lined with blooming rhododendrons, hillsides are lush, and skies are mostly clear. Days are pleasantly warm, and nights are moderate. Perfect for both scenery and photography.

  • Autumn (September–November): This is the prime trekking season in Nepal. The air is crisp, the skies are crystal clear, and mountain views are at their best. Cultural festivals like Dashain and Tihar also fall in this period, adding vibrancy to your journey.

  • Winter (December–February): Extremely cold at higher altitudes, with snow blocking passes. Only suited for highly experienced trekkers with winter gear.

  • Monsoon (June–August): Heavy rainfall brings landslides, slippery trails, and leeches. Visibility is poor, making this the least recommended time.

👉 Overall, Spring and Autumn are the most favorable seasons for the Tsum Valley trek.

Accommodation & Meals

  • Accommodation: Trekkers stay in locally-run teahouses. Rooms are simple but comfortable, usually with two single beds, a mattress, pillow, and blanket. In lower regions and in Kathmandu, you may find attached bathrooms, but in the highlands, common washrooms are more common. Don’t expect luxury — the charm is in its authenticity.

  • Meals:

    • In Kathmandu and lower trekking regions, you can find a variety of dishes: Nepali, Indian, Chinese, and Continental.

    • During the trek, meals are simpler and primarily local dishes such as Dal Bhat (lentils, rice, vegetables), Tibetan bread, thukpa (noodle soup), and seasonal vegetables.

    • Tea houses also serve noodles, fried rice, and soups, but options get limited with altitude. Vegetarian choices are widely available.

Food is freshly prepared and filling — perfect fuel for long trekking days.

Required Permits

Since Tsum Valley lies in a restricted region, trekkers need special permits issued through a registered trekking agency. Solo trekking is not allowed.

  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – Mandatory for all trekkers.

  • MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit) – For conservation of flora and fauna.

  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit) – Required as some trails exit through Annapurna territory.

👉 Note: Your trekking guide will always carry the permits and check them at various entry points along the trail.

Equipment Checklist

Tsum Valley trek takes you from subtropical villages to alpine valleys, so preparation is key.

Clothing & Gear

  • Durable trekking boots (waterproof, broken-in)

  • Warm insulated jacket (down or synthetic)

  • Sleeping bag (comfort rating –10°C recommended)

  • Layered clothing (base layer, fleece, outer shell) for changing temperatures

  • Trekking poles for stability on steep terrain

  • Water purification tablets or filter (to avoid plastic bottles)

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat for sun protection

  • Headlamp with spare batteries

Personal Essentials

  • First aid kit (including altitude medication if prescribed)

  • Toiletries (biodegradable if possible)

  • Power bank or solar charger (limited electricity in higher villages)

Packing smart ensures both comfort and safety throughout the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Tsum Valley Trek

1. Where is Tsum Valley located?

Tsum Valley lies in the northern Gorkha district of Nepal, close to the Tibetan border. It is a restricted trekking area, culturally rich with Tibetan Buddhist heritage, monasteries, and ancient traditions.

2. How difficult is the Tsum Valley Trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging. You will be walking for 5–7 hours daily on uneven trails, with some steep ascents and descents. No technical climbing skills are required, but a good level of fitness and stamina is essential.

3. Do I need prior trekking experience?

While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is recommended. Trekkers who have done moderate treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Langtang Valley will find this trek manageable. First-time trekkers with strong fitness can also complete it.

4. What is the maximum altitude of the trek?

The highest point reached on the Tsum Valley trek is Mu Gompa (3,700m / 12,139 ft), a sacred monastery near the Tibetan border.

5. What permits are required?

You need three main permits:

  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Note: Solo trekkers are not allowed; you must travel with a registered guide and agency.

6. What kind of accommodation is available?

Accommodation is in basic teahouses. Rooms are usually simple with two single beds, a mattress, blanket, and pillow. Bathrooms are often shared, and hot showers may not be available in higher areas. In Kathmandu, you can expect comfortable hotels with modern facilities.

7. What kind of food is served on the trek?

Meals typically include Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), Tibetan bread, noodles, soups, potatoes, and tea. Vegetarian options are widely available, though food variety is more limited in higher altitudes. In Kathmandu, you will find Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisines.

8. What is the best season for Tsum Valley Trek?

  • Spring (March–May): Warm days, rhododendron forests in bloom, and clear skies.

  • Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, crisp mountain views, and pleasant trekking conditions.
    Winter can be very cold, and the monsoon brings heavy rains, landslides, and leeches, making trekking difficult.

9. Is altitude sickness a risk?

Yes, altitude sickness can occur as you trek above 3,000m. Acclimatization, proper hydration, walking at a steady pace, and avoiding alcohol can help reduce the risk. Carrying Diamox or consulting with your guide is recommended.

10. Is safe drinking water available?

Bottled water is available but discouraged to reduce plastic waste. Instead, trekkers are encouraged to use water purification tablets or a water filter to treat tap or spring water.

11. Is Wi-Fi or phone network available?

In the lower villages, you may find limited phone signals and occasional Wi-Fi. However, connectivity becomes very unreliable or unavailable in higher and remote areas.

12. What should I pack for the trek?

Essential items include:

  • Good trekking boots, warm jacket, sleeping bag

  • Trekking poles, gloves, layered clothing

  • Headlamp, water purification tablets, sunscreen, and first aid kit

  • Power bank, as electricity may be limited

13. Do I need a guide and porter?

Yes. Since Tsum Valley is a restricted area, a registered guide is mandatory. Porters are optional but highly recommended if you want to trek comfortably without carrying heavy loads.

14. How physically fit should I be?

You should be able to walk 5–7 hours daily with a medium backpack. Preparing with cardio, hiking practice, and leg-strengthening exercises beforehand will help.

15. Are there cultural considerations I should respect?

Yes. Tsum Valley is deeply Buddhist and culturally conservative. Respect local customs by:

  • Walking clockwise around Mani walls and stupas

  • Asking before photographing locals

  • Dressing modestly

  • Avoiding disrespectful behavior in monasteries