• Duration 15 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate

    The moderate grade includes a one-week to fifteen-day itinerary. It can reach up to 5000 meter altitude range, but the trails will be moderate (neither easy nor tough). High altitude may affect walking speed and distance. You need to have acclimatization over 3000 meters.

  • Country Nepal

Tsum Valley is one of the most untouched corners of the Himalayas. The trek route is located east of the famous Manaslu Circuit. Known as the hidden Shangri La, the Tsum Valley trek offers a magical journey in the Manaslu region. Dominated by Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Himlachuli, and Mount Manaslu, the Tsum Valley offers magnificent vistas.

Unlike famous treks such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and Langtang Valley, the Tsum Valley is much less crowded. Not even 10% of the tourists do the Tsum Valley trek, which makes it unspoiled and pristine. The trail is not commercialized at all. So, if you are searching for a raw adventure in the Himalayas, consider the Tsum Valley trek 15 days.

Luckily, camping is not required on this trek. However, only a handful of tea houses are available in the villages along the way. Not many travelers know about the Tsum Valley trail, and its starting point is also not easily accessible. You have to drive 8 to 9 hours from Kathmandu and walk for two days to reach the entrance of Tsum Valley.

Highlights

  • Explore one of the most untouched corners of the Himalayas
  • An adventurous trek to the hidden Shangri La, the Tsum Valley
  • Start trekking through lush forests and ascend to meadows and barren alpine area
  • Witness stunning views of mountains like Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Himalchuli, etc
  • Experience a raw side of the Himalayas and empty trails
  • Walk on the ancient trade route and get to see the lifestyle of the Tsumbas
  • Visit ancient monasteries and stupas on the way
  • A magical journey in the Manaslu region close to the Tibetan border

What to expect during the Tsum Valley trek 15 days?

Located near the Tibetan border, the Tsum Valley was opened in 2008 for foreigners. The trek starts from Machha Khola (930 m/3,051 ft) and ascends to Mu Gompa (3,700 m/11,026 ft). The elevation gain is not much on this trek, so it is perfect for anyone looking for a low-altitude adventurous trek.

Our 15 days Tsum Valley trek does not include an excursion to the Gumba Lungdang and Ganesh Himal Base Camp. However, we highly recommend extending the trek here if you have 2-3 days extra.

The trail ascends far north. The first few days of the trail are very lush. You will trek through dense forests and cross rivers and streams on the way. Once you reach Lokpa, the trail turns to Tsum Valley, and soon, the lushness fades away with the rise in elevation.

You will find yourself amidst towering mountains and barren hills. Likewise, you may see yak herders, Himalayan tahr, and blue sheep on the way. This area is also home to rare red pandas and snow leopards, but seeing one is less likely. The trail is steep and offbeat, so trekkers have to be extra careful.

Locals have been trading with the Tibetans for centuries here, and you may also explore an old trading route. Samdo is one of the biggest Tibetan refugee villages in the Manaslu region; however, it is on the Manaslu Circuit route. The locals of Tsum Valley are called Tusmbas. They follow Tibetan Buddhism.

Their language, culture, and practices resemble those of Tibetans. Along the trail, you will explore many ancient monasteries and stupas. Mu Gompa is the highest point of Tsum Valley trekking. It is also a significant religious center in the valley. Likewise, you will visit the Milarepa Piren Phu Cave, Dephyu Dolma Nunnery Gompa, and Rachen Gompa.

How do you train for the Tsum Valley trek?

To train for the Tsum Valley trek, you must add exercise to your daily routine that will help you improve your strength, stamina, and endurance. Light, prolonged walking, gym training, hiking, and other activities like swimming, cycling, and running are great options.

With physical training, you also have to train yourself mentally for the Tsum Valley trek. The region is much more remote than you may imagine. The services and food options are very limited. On this trek, you will truly experience a city life detox.

Therefore, make sure you are mentally ready for the journey, too. Check out videos on YouTube for the Tsum Valley trek. It will give you a good idea of what to expect. Similarly, practice long breathing and a positive mindset. Similarly, 5 to 6 hours of walking each day is given.

Who can do the Tsum Valley trek 15 days? Are you ready for the journey?

Even though the elevation gain is comparatively low on the Tsum Valley trek, the terrain is challenging. This trek is recommended for trekkers with some hiking experience and can cope with limited facilities. Senior citizens, travelers looking for something new in the Himalayas, and student groups will love the Tsum Valley trek 15 days.

If you have decent stamina and endurance, you can join our Tsum Valley Trek 2024 autumn departure or book the Tsum Valley Trek 2025 spring/autumn departure. Our Tsum Valley trek itinerary has a gradual pace, and you get ample time to enjoy nature and wilderness of the region. Likewise, our local guide and porter support will help you a lot. So, do not worry.

Tsum Valley trek packing list

For the Tsum Valley trek in Nepal, you will need the following gear:

  • Comfortable, light-weight underwear
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants
  • Base and thermal layers
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • Fleece jacket
  • Down jacket
  • Gloves, socks, scarf, beanie, sun hat, etc
  • Trekking boots and a casual pair of shoes/slippers
  • Duffel bag and daypack
  • Trekking pole, map, reusable water bottle
  • Sleeping bag
  • Toiletries, first aid, snacks
  • Camera, adapter, charger, power bank
  • Journal/pen and traveler games (optional)
  • Cash, documents

The best time to do the Tsum Valley trek

If you are planning to do the Tsum Valley trek, choose spring (March to May) or autumn (late September to November). These two seasons are the top trekking times in Nepal. The Tsum Valley trek route is in the best condition in these seasons and also offers the most stunning scenery.

You will not face rain or snowfall. Likewise, the long daylight hours allow you to enjoy nature fully. In spring, the trail blooms with rhododendrons and many other flowers and vegetation. The scenery is quite incredible. Likewise, Nepalese festivals in the autumn season add a lovely essence of festivity and a feeling of home to your trip.

Why do the Tsum Valley trek with Adventure Treks Nepal?

The Tsum Valley trek package is our gem. We provide complete logistics and guide/porter support during this trek. Our team will arrange everything so that you can experience a hassle-free journey. With our thirty-plus years of expertise and knowledge of our on-field crew, you will have a fantastic time during the trek.

For your convenience, we have a custom-made Tsum Valley trek map that you can find below. The map will show you our itinerary and all the significant landmarks along the way. Likewise, you get the best Tsum Valley trek cost with us. Note that there have to be two trekkers in the group for the Tsum Valley trek.

If you are a solo traveler, contact us. We will see if we can find another trekker to join you.

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Meet our staff at the arrival exit gate holding your namecard. They will welcome you on our behalf and transfer you to the hotel. We have booked a hotel for you in Thame. It is the tourist hub in Kathmandu and the perfect place to start your trekking adventure.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

Visit a few historical monuments like Bouddhanth Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square in the morning with our guide. The guide will be able to speak English, so there will be no communication difficulty. After the tour, you will get to know your mountain guide and the trekking program. End the day by packing duffel bags and purchasing trekking essentials.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Drive to Machha Khola today. The trek starts from here. The highway is well made up to Arughat. From here, the ride gets bumpy till Machha Khola. You will see beautiful scenery and mountain vistas on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 890 m/2,919 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Distance: 169.7 km/105.4 miles

Start trekking from Mahha Khola via dense forests. You may see langur monkeys and different species of birds and butterflies while trekking. The trail ascends to Tatopani, where you can stop for half an hour to enjoy natural hot springs. Further, cross two suspension bridges and trek past Doban and a landslide area to Yaruphant. Crossing another bridge, you will trek to Jagat.

  • Max Altitude: 1,410 m/4,625 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6/7 hours
  • Distance: 22.2 km/13.7 miles

The trail ascends to Salleri and continues along a river bank. You will cross a long suspension bridge and ascend towards Philim. The trail gradually opens up to much clearer views of mountains. Reach Ekle Bhatti, and from here, follow the route to Tsum Valley. This is where you get off of the Manaslu Circuit route. Passing by lush forests, small settlements, and stupas, reach Lokpa.

  • Max Altitude: 2,040 m/4,493 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 17.5 km/10.8 miles

The trail is offbeat from Lokpa to Chumling. You can see stunning views of Bauddha Himal and Ganesh Himal VI while trekking. Descend to Lungwa river and follow an uphill route from here through dense pine and rhododendron forests. There is no settlement between Lokpa and Chumling, so we will carry a packed lunch.

  • Max Altitude: 2,386 m/6,692 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Distance: 6.3 km/3.9 miles

Today, you will enter the upper part of the Tsum Valley, the inner Himalayas. Following the bank of the Syar River, the trail drops to Domje, the biggest village in the valley. Further, you will walk up to Chhokhang Paro, enjoying outstanding views of the Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli mountains on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 3,010 m/9,875 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Distance: 8.4 km/5.2 miles

The trail first ascends to Lamagaon. You have two routes to continue from here. One goes via Rachen Gompa, and another ascends straight to the Nile settlement. The terrain will be steep and rugged, so be careful. Following the straight uphill route, you will cross a bridge and reach Phurbe. Keep ascending from here and cross two more bridges before arriving at the Nile for the night stay.

  • Max Altitude: 3,361 m/11,026 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 9.7 km/6 miles

Start the day with an early morning hike to Mu Gompa. It is the highest point in the Tsum Valley, and there is no village above here. While climbing, you can see breathtaking snow-capped mountains and a jaw-dropping view of Lungdang Glacier. Mu Gompa is believed to be 77 years old. On the way, you will also explore the Dephyu Dolma Nunnery Gompa, which is 600 years old.

  • Max Altitude: 3,700 m/11,026 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 3 hours

You will trek back from the Nile to Chumling, following the same route. Start the day with a big breakfast and enjoy your downhill walk. If you have not trekked via Rachen Gompa while ascending, consider descending via this route.

  • Max Altitude: 2,386 m/6,692 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Distance: 24 km/15 miles

From Chuling, the trail goes via terraced fields and lush forests. Cross multiple suspension bridges on the way and also pass by the gorgeous Samba Fall. The views of Shringi Himal are phenomenal along the way.

  • Max Altitude: 1,570m/11,026 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 13 km/8 miles

Leaving Philim, you will mostly trek through dense forests of pine and rhododendrons. The trail passes small villages, where you can see the locals doing their activities.

  • Max Altitude: 970 m/3,182 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Duration: 7-8 hours
  • Distance: 24 km/15 miles

It is the last day of walking. From Khorla Bensi, you will trek through forests and lush hillsides to Machha Khola. From here, you will drive back to Kathmandu with your guide. Upon entering the city, the guide will drop you at the hotel. The remaining day is leisure.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,594 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 1-2 hours trek & 7-8 hours drive
  • Distance: 10.3 km/6.4 miles

You have one more full day in Kathmandu. Take your time to enjoy and explore the city. Rest and dine as you wish. Explore local markets and window shopping in Thamel.

  • Meals: Breakfast only

Please meet with our team in your hotel lobby at the designated time. They will drop you off at the international airport.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Cost Details
Included
  • Arrival and Departure Transport.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Trekking Duffle Bag using for Trekking.
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with an entrance fee.
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in Tea house (mountain lodge) while trekking.
  • Kathmandu Machhakhola and Sotikhola Kathmandu by Jeep.
  • Trekking Porter with Insurance. (We Provide 01 Porter for 02 Pax).
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Trekking Guide and Porters food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • Tsum Valley Trekking map.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • Special Permit for Tsum Valley.
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Farewell dinner with cultural program.
  • Government taxes.
  • Office services charge.
Excluded
  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 30 for 15 days and US$ 50 for 30 days, you should get visa open your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Heater charge, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.
Route Map
Tsum Valley Trek - 15 Days
Altitude Chart
Tsum Valley Trek - 15 Days
Essential Information

Tsum Valley trek permit

For the Tsum Valley trek, trekkers need to obtain the restricted area permit for the Manaslu region and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit. You will not need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for this trek. Below, we have mentioned the price of the permits for your information:

Manaslu Conservation Area permits: USD 30 per person

Tsum Valley Restricted Area permit:

  • September to November: USD 40 per person for the first seven days and USD 7 per person per day after that
  • December to August: USD 30 per person for the first seven days and USD 7 per person per day after that

The Tsum Valley trek difficulty and altitude sickness

The Tsum Valley trek is challenging. It is an offbeat trek in one of the remotest parts of the Himalayas. The terrain is steep and rugged. Likewise, the facilities for the trekkers are lacking. You will rarely come across fellow trekkers on the way. Likewise, you will traverse diverse climatic zones.

Trekkers have to be in good shape to do this trek. Previous trekking experience will make the journey much more manageable. You will trek 6 hours daily at a minimum, so ensure you have decent stamina and strength. The highest point touched during the Tsum Valley trek is 3,700 meters.

Compared to the generally famous trekking programs in Nepal, the gain in elevation is definitely low. However, it does not mean the risk of altitude sickness will be any less. You must be mindful of the symptoms and keep yourself hydrated to avoid them. Also, maintain your pace, listen to your body, and do not consume alcohol while trekking.

Tsum Valley trek travel insurance

Travel insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation is compulsory for foreigners who want to trek in a restricted area in Nepal, such as Tsum Valley. In case of any medical emergency, natural disaster, or other distress, helicopter evacuation can only provide quick access to Pokhara or Kathmandu. With the help of travel insurance, you will get the most immediate rescue service, and it will also not cost you hefty money.

Accommodation and meals during the Tsum Valley trek

The accommodation on the Tsum Valley trek is a tea house. It is one of the most basic accommodations for trekkers in the Himalayas. Tea houses mostly have shared rooms and washrooms. Single rooms cost extra money and may not be available everywhere. The rooms are small and humble, but the experience will be very authentic.

The meal options on the Tsum Valley trek are also simple. Some standard options are Dal bhat, thukpa, thenduk, Tibetan bread, chapati, fried rice, stew, soups, porridge, pancakes, eggs, toast, oatmeals, and potatoes. In villages at lower elevations, you will also get pasta, burgers, sandwiches, etc. Carry ample snacks and nuts for the journey.

Boiled water is also available everywhere for drinking. Use water purification tablets for more safety. A variety of teas and coffees are found in all tea houses. Likewise, make sure you pack all essentials for the trek, including soap, toilet paper, moisturizer, etc. You will also need a sleeping bag.

Travel visa to enter Nepal for the trek

A travel visa is important to enter Nepal. You can obtain it upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport or from your country's Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office. We are not responsible for the travel visas, so make sure you get it on time.

The on-arrival travel visa is not available for travelers from these countries- Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria, along with refugees with travel documents.

FAQs

It takes around two weeks to 16-17 days to complete the Tsum Valley trek. The number of days varies according to your itinerary.

Tsum Valley is located in the Manaslu region. The only way to get there is by foot. You can drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and then trek to Tsum Valley. It takes around three days to enter the upper region of the Tsum Valley from Machha Khola.

The Tsum Valley trek is very demanding. This trek includes off-the-beaten terrain and high altitude. Trekkers must be physically fit and have a strong determination to complete the trek. Very limited facilities are available for trekkers along the trail, so you have to adjust and try your best to enjoy nature.

The highest altitude reached during the Tsum Valley trek is 3,700 meters (11,026 ft). Mu Gompa is located here. You will start trekking from Machha Khola, situated at 930 meters (3,051 ft).

The locals of the Tsum Valley trek are called Tsumbas. Their language, beliefs, practices, and traditions are highly influenced by Tibetans. Likewise, in the lower part of the trail, you will meet with communities like Gurung.

Yes, Tsum Valley is a restricted area because it is located close to the Nepal-Tibet border. Likewise, the region has rich biodiversity and endeared wildlife and birds.

Solo trekkers can join our fixed departure Tsum Valley trek. By joining our fixed departure, you will trek in a small group of 6 to 8 trekkers from around the world.

The network along the Tsum Valley trek route is poor. Many sections of the trail have no network. Similarly, the connection will get poorer as the elevation rises and you travel deep into the valley.

Yes, a sleeping bag is needed for the Tsum Valley trek. Good-quality sleeping bags are available to rent in Kathmandu for USD 2 to USD 3 per day.

During the Tsum Valley trek, you will see mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Bauddha Himal, Himalchuli, Mt. Manaslu, Shringi Himal, and Simnag Himal.

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