Highlights of the Tsum Valley Trek
- Walk through the sacred valley hidden deep in the mighty Himalayas, where ahimsa (non-violence) is part of life
- Discover timeless Tibetan Buddhism monasteries such as Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Tsum Monastery, and many more
- Explore traditional villages and experience the daily lifestyle of the local communities
- Treat yourself to a breathtaking view of majestic mountains such as the Ganesh Himal, Baudha Himal, Churke, Kipu, Shringi, etc.
- Feel the solitude and serenity - An off-the-beaten-path trek done only by a few people
- Scenic trails of rhododendron and pine forest, mani walls, chortens, and colorful prayer flags
Trek Overview
The Tsum Valley Trek is a wonderful display of cultural and natural beauty. This region was cut off from the outside world for a long time due to its remote location, and it was restricted to foreigners by the government of Nepal. It was opened only in 2008. As a result, the number of tourists is low compared to other regions. Hence, the local people have been able to preserve and keep their ancient art, culture, and tradition in pristine condition.
The relatively unexplored and isolated trails consist of quiet hamlets, captivating forests, mountains, deep gorges, gompas, chortens, and mani walls. The valley is surrounded by Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal Range from three sides, providing spectacular mountain scenery during the trek. We can add a short hike to the Ganesh Himal Base Camp for more awesome mountain scenery.
The people of this valley practice Tibetan Buddhism. The culture and tradition are similar to those of the Tibetan people. Sacrificing or killing animals is restricted throughout the entire valley because of their Buddhist belief in Ahimsa (nonviolence). The region has many ancient Buddhist Gompas like Milarepa's Cave, Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Nunnery Gompa, which are not to be missed. For enthusiasts of the Tibetan Buddhist culture and splendid mountain scenery, the Tsum Valley Trek is a must-do trek.
Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary
Our 15-day Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary starts from Machhakhola, also the trailhead of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Then it follows the same trail up to Gampul, just ahead of Nyak Phedi, before crossing the Larke River, and continues to Tsum Valley. After visiting Mu Gompa, we hike back the same trail with a few detours and end the trek at the same place: Machhakhola. Here is a brief itinerary of the trek:
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1350 M)
Day 02: Half-day Kathmandu Valley sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 03: Drive to Machha Khola (870 M), 7-8h
Day 04: Trek to Jagat (1340 M), 7h
Day 05: Trek to Chisopani (1600 M), 4h
Day 06: Trek to Chumling (2350 M), 6-7h
Day 07: Trek to Chokhangparo (3030 M), 4-5h
Day 08: Trek to Nile (3361 M), 4-5h
Day 09: Day hike to Mu Gompa, 6h
Day 10: Trek to Chokhangparo (3030 M) via Rachen Gompa (3240 M), 5h
Day 11: Trek to Lokpa (1900 M), 7h
Day 12: Trek to Jagat (1340 M), 5-6h
Day 13: Trek to Machha Khola (870 M), 6h
Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu (1350 M), 7-8h
Day 15: Final departure
Note: The above itinerary is our standard one. You also have the option to customize to meet your unique needs and preferences. Just let us know, or click here, and we will craft the right one for you.
