Tsum Valley Trekking

19 Days

Main Highlights:

‘adventure around remote and high area of Tsum valley within Nepal far mid-west Himalaya’

“Adventure on newly and fresh opened area to far end corners of Himalaya at Tsum valley Explore pristine and untouched country of strong Tibetan culture and Buddhism religion Exciting dramatic scenery with glorious views of mountain range and dramatic landscapes Walk into lovely hill villages of interesting traditional farm life with age-old heritage custom From low warm paddy fields to cooler alpine hills ending at windswept arid territory at Tsum”

At a Glance

Destination

Nepal

Accomodation

Hotels and Local lodge

Trip Difficulty

Difficult

Max Altitude

3,695 m

Max People

14

Duratiton

19 Days

Activities

Tour and Trek

Meals

Breakfast and Lunch

Vehicle

Private Car

Kathmandu – Soti Khola- Tsum Valley

Brief trip Profile:

  • Hotels in Kathmandu with local lodge on treks.
  • Moderate to Adventurous walks.
  • At Mu Gompa / Monastery above 3,695 m.
  • Minimum 4 hrs with Maximum of 6 hrs
  • Guided tour, overland journey with scenic, cultural treks
  • 15 Nights and 16 Days (with drives both ways)
  • 18 Nights and 19 Days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)
Emily

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing an unforgettable vacation, thanks to the exceptional services provided by seven peaks. From the moment I started planning my trip to the very last day of my journey

Michael

During the trip itself, every aspect was carefully curated to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

john

My journey with them was truly a dream come true, and I look forward to entrusting them with my future travel adventures.

Cost Includes:

  • An experienced registered English-speaking local trekking guide.
  • Assisitant guide to take care of group if above 6 pax
  • Porters to carry your main pack during trek (weight limit 25kg per porter)
  • All meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek.
  • Round local ground transportation to and from trekking.
  • Lodge and home stay accommodation on twin sharing basis during the trek.
  • Food, accommodation salary of the guide and porters.
  • All necessary Tsum Valley trekking permits.
  • Documentation charge and all government taxes.
  • Insurance and trekking gear for guide and porters.

Cost Excludes:

  • Transfers, accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
  • Hard drinks, beverages such as coke, fanta, mineral water, laundry service and toiletries.
  • Hot shower, hot water, internet, phone calls and personal nature expenses.
  • Personal travel insurance, Nepal visa, international air ticket laundry services.
  • Rescue operation charge in case of emergency, hiring horse and extra porter.
  • Gratitude and tips for your guide and porter.

Itinerary

On arrival at Nepal international airport in Kathmandu, where Professional Trekking Guide staff receives with warm welcome and then transfer to your hotel in the hub of Kathmandu.

On checking your rooms getting refreshed then join in at hotel foyer / lobby meeting with other members of the trek, where our guide will brief you with information on Around Tsum Valley Trekking.

Evening group welcome dinner in a nice Nepalese environment restaurant with native folk culture programs along with the dinner.

A free day in Kathmandu you can enjoy at leisure as well preparation for the trek, on this day interested people can join in our exciting guided sightseeing tour for half or full day tour at places of great interest around World Heritage Sites.

Morning after breakfast depart from the hotel in Kathmandu for long and interesting drive towards Nepal Mid-West around low warm areas of Gorkha district to reach Arughat, a farm town with many shops and stores as well lodges.

From Arughat drive continues further following Burigandaki River upstream to reach Soti-Khola for overnight stop in a small farm village close to a stream of Soti (khola).

First day walks starts heading into steep sided valley within forest and past many small farm villages, as walk leads into a wide valley opposite to a large tributary stream that joins with Burigandaki River.

Nice views of cultivated terrace of Lapbesi upper village then route descend to a wide riverbed as path leads to climb towards Machha Khola for overnight stop, a small farm village with teashops and nice simple small lodge for overnight accommodation, where the word Maccha Fish hence the name as Machha Khola (stream).

After Machha-Khola encountering many nice farm villages with neat cultivated fields, where vegetation changes gradually as altitude gains along with cooler climate, as morning walk leads to cross a stream where Machha Khola (Fish stream) name comes from.

From here walk upstream towards Bensi village a place with natural hot spring known as ‘Tatopani’ in Nepali, walk continues crossing over bridge, after a short period of walks enter into cool shade of forest to reach at Doban located on the high shelf of Burigandaki River.

After few refreshing stops walk leads across a broad gravel field towards Lauri stream and then crossing suspension bridge which leads to a climb on high trails and then descending into open valley of Yara Khola, as our journey continues on for another hour to reach at Jagat village for overnight stop.

Jagat a nice looking farm village of moderate size after Arughat; people are of mix race with Magar, Chettries, Brahman, Manaslu Bhotia (Tibetan looking tribes) and some Newar people.

From Jagat village, walk heads on high side of a hill past rural farm villages and descend to cross a bridge reaching at Nagjet and then walking past Philim, a large farm village with scattered houses.

Beyond the village of Philim route leads to farm terraces of golden agriculture fields of wheat, barley, and then climb above rocky ridge within a forest of bamboo to reach Deng village with refreshing stop, where our route leads beyond the main Manaslu trail heading further north east to reach at Lokpa village for overnight stop.

From here enter into fresh and hidden country away from main trekking trails of Manaslu route to reach into Tsum around the valley of happiness, walk lead past few small farm lands and scattered villages with views of Ganesh and Manaslu Himal, as our day walk ends entering a nice village at Chumling for overnight halt.

After a pleasant stop at Chumling catching fresh cool mountain air, as walk leads higher as our adventure progress to enter inner side of Tsum valley, as walk lead with descend and to cross a bridge of Smatiking Khola, facing wonderful views of Ganesh Himal also called Yangra by natives of the area of Tibetan origin, as walk finally ends at Chokanparo for overnight stop.

From here onward wholly within the valley of Tsum, as morning lead to higher ground to reach a nice Nili village within well exposed and open wide valley, a dramatic arid and dry country similar to Tibetan landscapes.

Where tree lines drops for few smaller juniper and pine trees, as journey continues facing views of Ganesh and Manaslu Himal mountain range, after a scenic good trek finally ending the day at Nili.

As walk follows towards Nile having time visiting a meditation cave a great Buddhist saint called Guru Milereppa a 11th century Milereppa a poet, singer as well tantric guru where his folk stories, good words and songs are still remembered by large number of Tibetans to this day.

An extra day in Nile, where one can observe local culture around traditional and fascinating villages with strong influence of Tibet custom and same Buddhist religion and traditional way of life.

Today short day and a lovely morning walk to reach at Mu Gompa, an old interesting monastery of the region.

Walk leads to a climb within high and dry country facing views of surrounding high peaks from North, East to West direction, and then slowly walk completes on reaching at Mu Gompa for overnight stop.

Afternoon enjoy exploring around least visited areas by other trekkers and westerners where you will certainly have peaceful time and moments around its traditional villagewith impressive ancient monastery of Mu Gompa, treasures antique important idols, statue and relics, Mu Gompa highest spot of the trek.

After an interesting time on high Tsum valley, walk leads to next monastery of great interest at Rachen Gompa, where walk leads on gradual trail with short ups and downs with lovely panorama of snow capped peaks, heading through yak herders summer pasture to reach Rachen Gompa and its moderate size village for overnight stop.

Return walks after an excellent time around high Tsum valley, where walk leads lower areas to reach at Chumling where our route leads back within tree lines and green vegetation at Chumling village, for last and final overnight in Tsum Valley area.

From here retrace the journey back to Lokpa to join Manaslu valley route, where walk leads further down leaving behind Tsum the valley of happiness, as good walk continues facing grand views of mountains and surrounding dramatic landscapes all the way to Lokpa for overnight stop.

Morning walk leads with some down section entering into sheer cliff walls, after leaving the dramatic areas walk continues to reach at main trail of Manaslu, as our route leads further south direction to reach at warmer farm village at Philim, an interesting place for overnight stop, a village with spread out houses with immense farming crops and vegetables.

After a lovely overnight at Philm village, where morning walk leads following Burigandaki river downstream, on the same trail of previous past days on the way up to Tsum as our route leads to further descend reaching low sub-tropical area at Tatopani a village with natural fresh hot-spring.

Here enjoy refreshing moments on natural hot-spring with time to explore around the farm villages.

From here enjoying refreshing time on hot-spring, as walk continues on almost level path following river downstream coming across farm villages and walking small forest of oaks and Sal trees to reach our last overnight stop and then end of the walk at Soti-Khola village

Morning depart from Mid-West Himalaya region at Soti-Khola village for exciting drive to reach back at Kathmandu where ride follows on interesting road to reach down at low farm villages town, and past Arughat town within Gorkha area where drive takes on main highway to reach Kathmandu then back at your hotels with afternoon free to enjoy personal and individual activities and shopping.

Last day in the country of high Himalayan mountains enriched with colorful culture, after a memorable time and experience Around Tsum Valley trekking, as per your time for your international flight our staff and guide transfer you to airport for flight homeward bound or to your next port of call.

Tsum Valley Trekking

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Trip Detail:

Best Seasons for Tsum Valley Trekking:

Around Nepal Himalaya where all higher destinations almost the same as season wise, including Around Tsum Valley the best and the high times from April to May with September to November months of the year.

April and May most days are clear for views and for pleasant walks of moderate climate temperatures, and with longer sunlight hours when wild flowers are in season, especially rhododendron of many different species from tall tree to bushes with varied colors (Rhododendron national flower of Nepal).

April and May late afternoon can get overcast sometimes with chances of rain and snow around high altitude as well on high Mu Gompa area.

September to early November during autumn /fall another best months with clear blue sky and sunny days (for short while from morning to mid day) can be cold and freezing during morning and night times above 1,800 m high with chances of snow.

People and Culture:

High Tsum Valley populated by mountain people known as Bhotia of Strong Tibetan origin the ethnic hill tribes of North Mid Western Himalaya follows Buddhism religion similar culture as Tibetans with colorful impressive custom and heritage life of farming and cattle herding, people of high Tsum valley where bartering and trade of goods still exists with Tibetan as the border located close to high Tsum valley area.

Lower area and mid hills inhabited by mix hill tribes of both Hindu and Buddhism religions with various interesting cultures of Gurung, Magar and Bhotia with some Newar people includes Hindu Brahmin and Chettries also within farm villages on route trekking.

Introduction:

Around Tsum Valley Trekking leads you to one of the restricted region of Nepal Himalaya which was closed for centuries and flung its door open for interested travelers and trekkers to enjoy and sharing its beautiful treasures of exciting grand scenery in the harmony of local immense culture.

Around Tsum Valley due to its remoteness and isolation where few trekkers often visits this magnificent country located within Nepal Far North Mid-West of Gorkha district a pure wilderness area and interesting to venture to explore around wonderful places of Tsum Valley.

The word Tsum itself means Valley of Happiness taking from ancient Tibetan scriptures and language known as ‘Beylung Kyimolung’ for centuries the native of Tsum villages besides farming and cattle herding also barters and trade into Tibet with exchange of goods between the two countries, as the border to Tibet / China frontier at close distance from high Mu Gompa.

Around Tsum Valley trekking where visitors require special permission and permits to enter into the hidden country within time forgotten and weather-beaten villages which will be a delight and highlight of the adventure to explore around this nice villages interwoven with age-old Buddhist heritage and colorful culture.

Tsum Valley situated directly behind massive Ganesh Himal range of mountains, where the local name is Yangra, and close to Manaslu peak where native calls as Kutung, an interesting and scenic walk leads you to reach this high and scenic valley of Tsum.

Around Tsum Valley trekking begins with exciting overland journey to reach around Nepal Mid-West within the district of Gorkha, where adventure starts following Burigandaki River and on the same trail of Manaslu route for some days.

Walking from low warm farm villages to reach alpine hill of cooler temperatures where people, culture and climate changes as walk diverts further east to reach Tibetan like villages around Tsum Valley with ample time to observe local impressive cultures and custom as well visiting the area oldest monastery of Mu Gompa and the highest spot of the trip.

Enjoying glorious views and moments around beautiful villages in shade of mighty mountains, where return journey takes you on the same route this allows to see more of this marvelous areas before ending back at Soti-Khola for enjoyable drive to Kathmandu, after a remarkable adventure and experience Around Tsum Valley Trekking.

1. What is the Tsum Valley Trek?

The Tsum Valley Trek is a culturally rich and relatively unexplored trekking route in the Manaslu region of Nepal. It takes you through the remote Tsum Valley, known for its ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, stunning landscapes, and close views of the towering Himalayan peaks.

2. How long does the Tsum Valley Trek take?

The duration of the Tsum Valley Trek typically ranges from 14 to 18 days, depending on the specific itinerary chosen, the starting point, and the pace of the trekker. It's advisable to allow some extra days for acclimatization and exploration of the valley's cultural sites.

3. What is the best time to do the Tsum Valley Trek?

The best time to undertake the Tsum Valley Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, favorable weather conditions, and spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks. During the monsoon season (June to August), the trail can be slippery and prone to landslides, while winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures and snowfall, making trekking more challenging.

4. Is a permit required for the Tsum Valley Trek?

Yes, a special permit is required for trekking in the Tsum Valley. Trekking in this restricted area necessitates both a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and a Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, which can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.

5. What is the difficulty level of the Tsum Valley Trek?

The Tsum Valley Trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. While it doesn't involve technical climbing, trekkers should be prepared for long days of walking, varied terrain, and altitude gains. Adequate physical fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.

6. What is the altitude of the Tsum Valley Trek?

The highest point of the Tsum Valley Trek is the Ngula Dhojhyang Pass (5,093 meters or 16,707 feet) located near the border of Nepal and Tibet. Trekkers should be mindful of the altitude and acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.

7. What accommodation options are available during the Tsum Valley Trek?

Accommodation during the Tsum Valley Trek mainly consists of teahouses or lodges operated by local communities along the trail. These basic guesthouses provide simple rooms with shared facilities such as bathrooms and dining areas. Camping is also an option for those seeking a more remote experience.

8. What should I pack for the Tsum Valley Trek?

Essential items to pack for the Tsum Valley Trek include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a waterproof jacket, sleeping bag, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, trekking poles, water purification tablets, first aid kit, and high-energy snacks. It's important to pack light but be prepared for various weather conditions and altitude challenges.

9. Are there cultural attractions to visit along the Tsum Valley Trek?

Yes, the Tsum Valley is renowned for its ancient Buddhist monasteries, chortens (stupas), and traditional villages inhabited by the Tsumbas, an ethnic group with Tibetan origins. Trekkers have the opportunity to visit historic sites such as Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and the sacred Milarepa Cave, gaining insights into the local culture and way of life.

10. Is it possible to combine the Tsum Valley Trek with other treks?

Yes, the Tsum Valley Trek can be combined with other treks in the region, such as the Manaslu Circuit Trek or the Annapurna Circuit Trek. These extended itineraries offer trekkers the chance to explore more diverse landscapes, cultural sites, and Himalayan vistas while experiencing the unique charm of the Tsum Valley.