Highlights-Tsum Valley Trek
- The unbeaten trails are located in the northern belt of Nepal in the Manaslu region.
- The Tsum Valley is mainly known for its natural beauty and cultural uniqueness
- Explore the traditional villages of the Tsumba People
- Along the trails, you will be passing via the long stone-carved mani with colorful Tibetan flags
- The trail passes through the Budhi Gandaki River
- Explore the remote villages and the unbeaten trails of the Tsum Valley
- Visit/explore the ancient Monasteries And witness the daily mantras chanting and practices
- Explore the Mu Gompa at the hilltop and witness the mesmerizing views of the mountain ranges
- Enjoy and explore the traditional food prepared with organic vegetables
- Learn about the culture and traditions of the Tsumba people
- Bath in a Natural Hot spring to relax your muscles
Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek is a newly opened trekking trail that takes you through the mesmerizing mountains and the different species of Flora and Fauna found in Manaslu Region. The valley is located in the northern belt of Nepal, between the beautiful mountain ranges. The Tsum Valley trek is mainly known for its hidden natural beauty, cultural uniqueness, and spiritual significance.
Usually, the Tsum Valley Trek begins from Machhakhola which lies in the Gorkha district of Nepal and the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River. The trekking trail takes you through the dense forest of Rhododendrons, Oak, and Alpine and suspension bridge. While the villages are inhabited by the Tsumba People. You will get an opportunity to explore the unique culture and traditions of the Tsumba people during your trek to Tsum Valley.
The major highlight of the Tsum Valley trek is that you will explore the ancient Tibetan monasteries and stupas in the villages. These monasteries and stupas are made in ancient centuries which carries the history and significance importance.
The trail also takes you through the Mu Gompa at a hilltop, from here you may experience the beautiful mountain ranges and the tranquility of the unbeaten trails and the remote corner of the Tsum valley.
The Tsum Valley trek is mainly covered by the Tibetan people as being near to the Tibet Border and mainly follows the Buddhist culture in the region. You will love to interact with the local people, the priest, and the monks in the monasteries.
However, trekking to the Tsum Valley is not as challenging as trekking to the Everest base camp trek which requires good physical fitness and mentally prepared to overcome the unpredictable weather in the high altitude. The trail is perfect for those who are willing to trek in unbeaten trails and less commercialized trekking destinations in the Manaslu region.
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll depart for our journey in the Himalayas to Nepal’s western belt via our own Bus, Jeep, Vehicle, or public transport of your choosing.
The best panoramic views and people rafting down the Trishuli River may be seen from the road.
To get to Machha Khola, you’ll have to travel along some rugged and crowded roads with narrow bridges.
Along the route, the picturesque forest and rushing water streams will greet you. Since Machha Khola, a tiny village, is where we plan to spend the night, we’ll be stopping there.
While doing so, you may also visit the natural hot spring in Machha Khola to help you recover from the high altitude and regain your hiking vigor.
Early morning in the Himalayas, taking in the scenery and enjoying the kind hospitality of the locals. After a hearty morning meal, we’ll set off on the legendary Manaslu circuit Trek.
We’ll be able to see a variety of animals and birds when we enter the forest and go along the Budhi Gandaki River Gorge.
We will travel through the woods to get to the Gurung village, where you will be able to learn about and participate in the community’s authentic, time-honored culture and way of life.
After hiking for three hours through the hills following Gurung village pathways, we will finally reach Doban after crossing the Suspension Bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River.
Following the Yaru as we pass the wooden bridge, we arrive in the village of Jagat, where we must provide all of our special licenses in order to enter the restricted area in the Manaslu region. And we’ll be staying the night at the Tea House in Jagat.
After breakfast, before commencing our trek to Lokpa we will collect our Tsum Valley and Manaslu Permit in the Checkpoint.
After completing the checking procedure the trail ascends to the big rocky ridge to the Salleri Village, will stop for a few minutes and have a cup of tea, and again descend down to the Sirdibas.
Crossing the suspension bridge near Sirdibas and entering the Philim and continuing the trail we will reach the Village of Lokpa which will be our first village of Tsum Valley Trek. And overnight in Lopka tea house/Lodge.
Today we will be trekking toward the north following the Trail that leads to the Tsum Valley. The trek takes us through the dense forests of Rhododendrons, Oak, Pine, and the different species of flora and fauna found in the Manaslu region.
After trekking for 3-4 hours we reach the Chumling, stop for tea and again move towards the classic Tsum Valley Trail which leads us to the village of Domje.
Reaching the Domje village you may explore the culture and traditions of the local communities and visit the monasteries. You may also interact with the local people and stay in a guest house or lodge in the Domje Village.
The trail beginning from Donje we will trek towards the north following the trail to the classic Tsum Valley Trek that leads to the Nile. The trail takes us through beautiful traditional villages, lush green forests,s and the majestic panoramic.
Hiking for around 2-3 hours you will reach Rachen Gompa at an elevation of 3,240 M above the sea level. The Rachen Gompa is a beautiful monastery that offers a beautiful view of mountain ranges.
As we explore the monasteries we will continue our hike following the trail to the Nile Village. It is a good way to express yourself within nature by experiencing the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the local communities. Overnight stay in the Nile Village.
Early this morning after our breakfast we hike to Mu Gompa which is the oldest monastery in the Tsum Valley.
The trek to Mu Gompa is challenging but it will be worth it when you reach the Mu Gompa monastery which offers you the unique culture and traditions of the ancient people and the beautiful mountain ranges.
After exploring for a few hours we danced back to the Nile village and had our leisure time in the Village. Overnight at the tea house/lodge.
The trek from the Nile to Chumling is known for its scenic route in Tsum Valley Trek.
The trekking route takes you through beautiful villages, panoramic landscapes of the mountain ranges, and the lush green forest.
Along the trail, you will be passing through the long stone carved mani and the colorful Tibetan flags. As passing via the Village of Gho and Chhule we reach the Chumling for our overnight stay in the Village.
Today after our pretty trekking breakfast we will commence our trek beating the trail with beautiful majestic Himalayan ranges and the traditional villages along the trail.
As we pass through the villages such as Gumlung, Siyar Khola, and Chhokpangro to reach the Salleri.While trekking back you need to face lots of up-and-down climbing to reach the final destination. Our overnight stay will be at Salleri.
On the last day of the trek in the Himalayas, we will pass through the beautiful landscapes and the lush forest along the trail. You will pass through the traditional unique villages and reach Machh Khola for an overnight stay.
Reaching there you may also explore the natural hot springs to relax your muscle body and have a good trekking party with the team members.
After Breakfast, we pick up by Private jeep and then drive back to Kathmandu. Where excellent food and drinks are waiting for us. When you finally arrive in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, and that night we’ll celebrate the end of our walk at a nice restaurant in the Thamel.
What is cost included in Tsum Valley Trek ?
What's Included?
- Kathmandu – Machhakhola- Kathmandu round trip by Private Jeep
- Best available lodge accommodation during the trek twin sharing
- All standard meals full board with tea/ coffee (Lunches, Dinners, and Breakfasts) during the trek
- Government licensed holder Blue Lake Adventure experienced trek Guide and porter ( Every two trekkers 1 Porter Carry 11 kg Baggage
- Guide and porter include their salary, meals, lodging, and insurance
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water during
- Tsum Valley Trekking Permit
- (TIMS) card Trekkers Information Management System
- Everyday Seasonal Fruits
- Down Jackets, Sleeping Bag, Blue Lake Adventure T-Shirt, and Annapurna Base camp map ( Down jacket and Sleeping bag to be returned after the trek )
- Medical Kits
- All Nepal Government taxes and office expenses
- Rescue operations in case of complicated in funded by travel insurance
- Blue Lake Adventure Certificate after the successful trek
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
- Airport drop
What's Excluded?
- International Flights ticket
- Nepal Entry visa fee
- Visa Cost on Arrival in International Airport Kathmandu (15 Days, $ 25- $30 30Days – $40-50 and 90 days- $100-110)
- Extra luggage (limit is 11 kg per trekker
- All Accommodation and meals before and after the journey in Kathmandu
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Personal Expenses (Snaks, ( tea/ Coffee) cold drinks, Alcohol, Boil water Wi-Fi, hot shower, battery re- Charge, telephone call, and extra porter
- Personal Gear and clothes
- Personal Trekking equipment
- Tips, Guide, Porter, restaurant, Driver
- Additional Costs like delays caused due to circumstances beyond our control, for example- itinerary modification, change of government policy, Strikes , illness landslide, etc
Accommodation in Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through different landscapes, traditional villages, and beautiful mountain scenery. Along the trekking route, people stay in simple tea houses or lodges that offer basic services and facilities.
On the Tsum Valley Trek, you can expect to stay in the following places:
- Tea House And Lodge: Along the Tsum Valley Trek, the Tea Houses and Lodges offer basic rooms with shared or private bathrooms and cozy, comfortable rooms. The rooms will be small, with simple furniture and only the most basic amenities.
- Facilities: The Tea House and Lodge offer basic facilities to all the trekkers along the trail to the Manaslu circuit with shared bathrooms and private bathrooms, a dining room to have delicious food, and get to know other trekkers.
- Availability: There are several hotels and Tea houses during the trek to Manaslu Circuit Trek and the availability varies on the trekking season and the popularity of the trekking route. So, when it’s peak trekking season, it’s highly recommended to book a tea house in advance for ease.
Altitude and Terrain in Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek is a difficult trek in Nepal that takes you through a variety of landscapes, such as lush forests, remote valleys, and high mountain
- Altitude: The Tsum Valley trek starts in the town of Soti Khola, which is about 700 meters above sea level. As you walk through remote valleys and over high mountain passes, you slowly gain altitude. Mu Gompa, at 3,700 meters, is the highest point of the trek.
- Terrain: The Tsum Valley Trek has a variety of terrain. There are steep climbs and descents, river crossings, and narrow mountain paths. The terrain is hard to navigate because it has rocky trails, muddy paths, and rocky outcroppings.
- Weather: The weather on the Tsum Valley Trek varies by season, with the monsoon season (June to August) being the wettest and the winter season (December to February) being the coldest. People say that the best times to trek the Tsum Valley Trek are in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is usually dry and mild.
- Altitude sickness: Because the trek is hard and the altitude is high, people who go on the Tsum Valley Trek may worry about getting altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can be prevented with proper acclimatization and preparation, such as drinking enough water, eating well, and getting enough rest.
Cultural Diversity
Tsum Valley Trekking is a less Popular trekking destination for those who want to trek in less crowded trails of the Manaslu region. While allowing exploring more in-depth the unique lifestyle, traditions, cultural history, and language of the region.
The following is the overview of the People and Culture of Tsum Valley Trek :
- Ethnic Groups: The Region is mainly home to many ethnic groups such as Tamang, Sherpa, Gurung, and Rai with their unique traditions and culture.
- Religion: The Manaslu Region is mainly full of the Buddhist religion which follows the Buddha Philosophy in the high Himalayas. They worship in the Monasteries, Stupas, and the Carved Stone Mani.
- Lifestyle: The people in the high altitude of the Manasu region do follow a very simple lifestyle. Their main occupation is Tourism, animal husbandry, agriculture, etc.
- Food: The food in the Tsum Valley is mainly organic with the grown in the farm with the compost without any pesticides. It makes the food taste good with proper nutrition etc.
- Traditional Clothing: The people of Tsum Valley do have a unique dress code that reflects the unique history and culture of the people.
Essential Gears and Equipment
While trekking to the High altitude in the Tsum Valley it is more important to pack the proper gear and equipment for the trekking in the High altitude of Manaslu Region.
The following gear and equipment should be carried with you during the Tsum Valley trek:
- Backpack(Bags): Pack a high-quality backpack that can hold at least 35 to 45 liters of gear and supplies is essential.
- Trekking Boots: High-quality hiking boots or trail running shoes, ideally with plenty of support and traction, are a must for rough terrain.
- Sleeping Bag: Comfortable sleeping gear is required for overnight stays at the trail’s teahouses.
- Tent: A tent that is both lightweight and durable is an absolute necessity if you enjoy camping.
- Clothing: Due to the unpredictability of the weather, you should bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and quick-drying clothes.
- First Aid Kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes are just some of the essentials that should be included in a first-aid kit.
- Water Bottle: Keep yourself hydrated by packing at least a couple of water bottles and, if possible, a water purification system.
- Snacks and Chocolate: High-energy snacks, like energy bars, trail mix, and dried fruits, are essential for sustaining you on the trail.
- Google Maps and Compass: If the weather turns bad, you will need a good map and compass to find your way.
- Trash Bags: Use trash bags, and remember to empty them before you leave. Garbage bags help transport trash from one location to another.
- Sunscreen Cream: Sunscreen is crucial for skin protection, especially at higher altitudes, where the sun is more intense.
Best time for Tsum Valley Trekking
The Tsum Valley Trek which mainly reflects the Buddhist religion which carries the unique history and the traditional culture of the Tibetan People of the Manaslu region in the Northern part of Nepal. So, while planning to trek to this region you are highly recommended to trek during the Autumn and Spring season.
During the Autumn Season (September to November) the weather will be dry with a warm environment and the high mountain ranges will closely open up which offers you the proper view of the Himalayas.
As the season is peak trekking time there will be more crowd of trekkers along the trail and you need to book the tea house and lodge on an advance basis for better availability.
You will meet with many trekkers of the different nations and you may explore with each other for better bonding and connection between you.
During the Spring season (March To May) the weather will be good and it looks more beautiful with the blooming of the flowers and the different species of birds and animals sounds make a better way to trek. You will enjoy the views of the forest with beautiful different flowers along the trails.
Permits in Tsum Valley Trek
The Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The Restricted Area Permit should be issued before commencing the Manaslu circuit Trek which costs USD 70 per person per week during the Peak trekking season (September to November) and USD 50 per person per week during the off-season (December to August). The MRP can be issued from the Department of Immigration in the Kathmandu Office. The trekkers should hire a Government-licensed trekking guide during their entire trekking days in the Manaslu region.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP)
While planning to trek in Tsum Valley trek, the trekkers need to issue a permit to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP) which cost USD 30 per person. The ACAP permit is required for the trekking route from Arughat to Jagat.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permits(MCAP)
The Manaslu Conservation area permit is required to enter the Manaslu Conservation area. Which costs around USD 30 for foreign and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.
Trekkers Information Management System(TIMS CARD)
The TIMS card is mandatory for all trekkers planning to trek in Nepal. It costs USD 20 for individual personnel and USD 10 for group members.
Tsum Valley Trek Cost
The Tsum Valley Trek is a less popular and challenging trekking trail in the Manaslu region which offers a wide opportunity to explore the mixture of natural beauty, cultural diversity, stunning mountain ranges, waterfalls, and traditional villages. The cost may depend upon the various factors that determine the cost of the Tsum Valley trek.
The major cost of the Tsum Valley trek is as follows:
- Nepal Visa: First, when you enter Nepal, you have to pay certain fees to the Department of Immigration. These fees cost USD 10, USD 20, and USD 30, according to the rules and regulations for trekkers traveling in Nepal.
- Permit Fees: To enter the restricted area in the Manaslu region on the Tsum Valley Trek, you need to get a Special Permit, which costs USD 100/100 per person per week USD $15 per day. To get into the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), you also need an ACAP permit, which costs about USD 30/30.
- Guide and Porters: The Tsum Valley Trek is best done with a guide and a porter because the trail can be difficult and far away. A guide can cost anywhere from $25 to $35 per day, and a porter can cost between $20 and $25 per day.
- Transportation: The Tsum Valley trek begins and ends in the town of Soti Khola, which is about a 9-hour drive from Kathmandu. Whether you hire a private jeep or take a public bus can change how much it costs to get around. A private car can cost between $200 and $300, while a public bus costs between $10 and $20.
- Accommodation: Along the trekking route, you’ll need to stay in tea houses or lodges, which are simple places to stay and eat. Depending on the location and time of year, the cost of a Tea House can range from $5 to $20 per night. Meals can cost anywhere from $5 to $10.
- Food and Drinks: During the trek to Tsum Valley, the food and drinks you get depend on what you want to eat and drink, as well as where you stay. For example, a typical Nepalese meal, Dal Bhat, costs about USD 10, but the price of other meals depends on what you want.
- Equipment and Gears: For the Tsum Valley Trek, you’ll need to bring the right gear and equipment, like a good sleeping bag, trekking poles, and warm clothes. The price of these things can vary based on their brand and quality.
FAQ-Tsum Valley Trek
The Major Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek are exploring the unique culture and traditions of the Tsumba people and visiting the Mu Gompa at an elevation of 3,700 M above sea level.
Your Accommodation will be mainly at the Tea House and Lodge along the trail or in the Village.
The Tsum Valley Trek can be completed in 10-14 days depending on your itinerary and the walking pace.
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