Tour Overview

Trip Code
DE-0004
Starting Point
Kathmandu
End Point
Kathmandu
Max Altitude
4,200m / 13,780ft
Duration
16 Days
Country
Nepal
Trip Grade
Challenging
Activities
Trekking
Best Season
Spring and Autumn

Tsum Valley is located in the northern Gorkha region of Nepal and is a renowned Himalayan Buddhist pilgrimage destination. With the spectacular Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Baudha Himal as the background, Tsum Valley is full of life. As “Tsum” refers to “vibrant,” this beautiful Himalayan valley is full of ancient art, color, culture, and religion.

Trekking in the Tsum Valley gives you a scenic view of a green, fertile valley full of Tibetan-style villages, ancient Tibetan Gompas, and traditions. It takes around 16 days from Kathmandu, including travel and rest days, while the actual trek itself spans about 12 days through the untouched beauty of the region that has escaped from modern civilizations and still maintains strong links with Tibet.

Explore amazing landscapes close to the Tibetan border with Nepal. Here, numerous gompas, monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags line the trail, introducing us to Tibetan lives and culture. You will get a complete trek itinerary to prepare for each stage of this exceptional adventure, offering a genuine insight into the isolated and spiritual way of life in the Himalayas.

Tsum Valley Trek: Nepal’s Remote Hidden Route

Tsum Valley Trek is a unique and newly open trekking route in Nepal. Also known as Hidden Valley, this trek route was restricted for a long time due to its proximity to the Tibetan border and its sacred cultural significance. As a new destination on the tourism map, this difficulty of trek is graded as challenging as you are required to pass through the most remote part of Nepal.

However, despite the difficulty, this beautiful destination will reward you with an incredible view. You can explore Buddhist monasteries, gorgeous river valleys, majestic views of snow-capped mountains, and the vibrant, diverse landscape of the region. Navigating through hills and rivers, you will travel through beautiful villages and forests to reach Gumba Lungdang (3,200m), a significant Buddhist religious place.

The Tsum Valley trek by Destiny Excursion starts and ends in Kathmandu. The best seasons for this trek are spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November). In spring and autumn, you can experience stable weather with clear skies and breathtaking views of mountains, flower blooms, and vibrant landscapes.

Tour Highlights

  • Trek in one of Nepal's most isolated regions
  • Open to outside trekkers since 2008
  • Visit incredible Buddhist monasteries
  • Witness gorgeous river valleys
  • Magnificent views of snow-capped mountains including Mount Manaslu, Sringi Himal, Himalchuli, Baudha Himal, and Ganesh Himal
  • High-altitude trek to Mu Gompa and Gumba Lungdang (3,200m)
  • Visit historically and spiritually significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and sacred caves

Points of Attraction

Tsum Valley is a beautiful hidden valley located close to the Tibetan border in Nepal’s northern Gorkha region. The region was restricted to outsiders until 2008, protecting its unspoiled natural beauty, historic Buddhist tradition, and authentic Tibetan culture. Even though the trek is challenging, it offers travelers breathtaking scenery, spiritual experiences, and friendly locals in one of Nepal’s most remote valleys. Tsum Valley is more than just a trekking location; it’s an emotional exploration of a secret realm of Himalayan culture, spirituality and beautiful nature.

The main points of attraction of the Tsum Valley Trek are as follows:

Cultural and Heritage Attraction

  • Mu Gompa (3,700m): Mo Gompa is one of the significant monasteries located at the highest place in the Tsum Valley region. Here, you can feel the spiritual energy and cultural influence of Buddhism with a relaxing sensation of peace. Mu Gompa also offers beautiful views of majestic mountains, including Ganesh Himal.
  • Gompa Rachen: You can experience the culture of women’s monasteries at Rachen Gompa, a remote Buddhist religious site. Here, you can learn about the daily life and activities of monks, including their way of cooking, spinning prayer wheels, and instructing younger practitioners.
  • Milarepa Cave: Milarepa, the famous yogi of Tibet, is believed to have meditated in this cave. While visiting the cave, you can light butter lights, experience the peace and feel the importance of the sacred cave.

Scenic and Natural Attractions

  • Ganesh Himal and Manaslu Panorama: You can explore the stunning panorama of the Himalayas, including the Manaslu’s west face and Ganesh Himal summit from Chhokang Paro and Nile viewpoint.
  • Spring Rhododendron Blooms: You can enjoy the beauty of Nepal’s national flower rhododendron, which blooms in pink, red, and white color, along the trek route between Ekle Bhatti and Chumling if you are visiting in April-May.
  • Views of a Terraced Hillside Village: From settlements like Chumling and Nile, you can get a beautiful view of terraced land in the hillsides, that changes with the seasons, from golden barley fields to green rice paddies.

Adventure and Trekking Highlights

  • High-Altitude Trail Challenges: Test your stamina and navigation skills by tackling steep ascents and descents on rough, rocky trails, especially the journey to Mu Gompa and the Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
  • Suspension Bridge Crossings: Feel the unique experience of crossing narrow and swinging suspension bridges over the rushing rivers.
  • Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,200m): Push yourself to the maximum limit by completing the optional side treks to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,200m), which will reward you with extra elevation gain and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
  • Acclimatization: Gaining endurance through planned acclimatization at Gumba Lungdang and rest days is essential for trekking safely over 3,000 meters.

Stay and Experience

  • Traditional Tea houses: You will spend the night in a family-run tea house in villages like Chumling, Chhokang Paro, and Nile. Gather near the wood-burning stove to share experiences with other trekkers and enjoy an authentic taste of simple dal-bhat prepared by the locals.
  • Night stay at Gumba Lungdang: Staying overnight at the women’s monastery in Gumba Lungdang gives you a chance to experience warm Himalayan hospitality. Enjoy a packed lunch with the monks, observe their daily life, prayer and rituals and awaken to the vibrant chant of morning puja.
  • Hotels in Kathmandu and Machhakhola: Experience the warm hospitality of hotels in Kathmandu and Machhakhola before, during, and after the trek.
  • Explore the culture of Kathmandu: Through its UNESCO World Heritage sites, bustling marketplaces, holy sites, traditional cuisine, and beautiful mountain views, discover Kathmandu’s rich cultural, spiritual, and historical importance.

Itinerary

Elevation: 1,400m

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you and drive to the hotel. After hotel check-in, you can spend your time relaxing, refreshing, and resting. You may take a stroll through the surrounding streets or just relax at the hotel, depending on when you arrive. In the evening, you will join us for dinner, where you can meet with other trekkers, discuss the adventure, and enjoy the unique taste and heritage of Nepalese traditional cuisine.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Welcome Dinner

Elevation: 1,400m

After breakfast at the hotel, your trek guide will visit the hotel and give you the full information and preparation guide related to the trek. You will review the schedule, necessary equipment, and safety details. Ensure you are prepared and have all the required accessories and equipment for the trek. You can spend the morning getting ready for the trek and doing last-minute shopping. Following this, you head towards the tourism board to get the required permit for the trek. You can roam around the day or simply relax in the hotel for the rest of the day before ending with a warm dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 869m / 2,952ft

We start our journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, following the Prithvi Highway heading to the river valley of Budi Gandaki. The 8-9 hours drive offers breathtaking views of the surrounding towns and villages, rivers, and hills. Break for snacks and rest will be provided during the journey. You might get a glimpse of the Ganesh Himal range once you cross Salyantar. As we near the isolated trailhead for our trek, the last 1.5 to 2 hours journey from Soti Khola to Machhakhola gets rougher and bumpier, which increases the thrill of adventure.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 1,600m

Following breakfast, we start the day with a 3-4 hour jeep ride to Nagjet village. We take a quick stop in Jagat village alongside the route to acquire our permits for entry into the Manaslu Rural Municipality. After arriving in Nagjet, we start our journey with a 1-hour walk uphill to Philim. Before continuing our journey to Ekle Bhatti, we halt there for lunch and rest. With glimpses of the surrounding valleys and terraced hills, the walk from Philim to Ekle Bhatti takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once you reach Ekle Bhatti, you can discover the bubbling stream and beauty of the surrounding hills and prepare for the coming trek.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,386m

We will trek 5-6 hours from Ekle Bhatti to reach the peaceful villages of Chumling. After a short distance walk from Ekle Bhatti, we reach the entrance of Tsum Valley, renowned as a Non-Violence Zone where hunting and slaughtering of animals are not allowed. The trail offers a peaceful trekking experience as it gradually climbs through traditional villages and forests. We may stop for short breaks and experience the warmth of the locals at a few modest tea cafes along the route. In the route, you can observe the prayer flag fluttering alongside the mani walls in small sacred stupas and temples. By the afternoon, we will reach Chumling, a peaceful settlement with views of the Shringi Himal.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,031m

After breakfast in Chumling, we leave for Chhokang Paro. On the way, we get a breathtaking view of the Ganesh Himal range. Simple tea houses offer opportunities for quick stops and refreshments as we go through the beautiful villages of Rainjam and Gho. We cross a lengthy suspension bridge at Rainjam and continue the journey through quiet pine forests. After that, the trail makes a gentle ascent toward the upper Tsum Valley for almost 2 hours. We will walk 5-6 hours to reach the beautiful village of Chhokang Paro by the afternoon, which is renowned for its ancient stone homes and unique landscapes of the valley.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,361m

We will walk 5-6 hours from Chhokang Paro to Nile, the final village in the Tsum Valley, before moving north. During the walk, we can feel the change in terrain and surroundings as the trail gradually unfolds into a broad-level valley. We can admire the majestic Himalayan range, the beauty of the dense forest, and the rugged terrain during the day. As we travel, we come across cultural sites, such as old gompas, monasteries, mani walls, and chortens that show strong Tibetan Buddhist influences. You can also visit the holy Milarepa Cave on the way, which is named after Milarepa, Tibet’s renowned yogis, poets, and saints.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,031m

In the morning, we will have breakfast on the Nile. After having breakfast, we begin a 3-hour climb to one of the oldest monasteries in Tsum Valley, Mu Gompa. Mu Gompa is located at an elevation of 3,700m above sea level and is close to the Tibetan border. From Mu Gompa, you can get breathtaking views of the Ganesh Himal range and other snow-capped peaks. Also you can get information about the monastery and Tibetan Buddhist culture. We explore the monastery before returning to the Nile for lunch. After that, we will move towards the direction of Chhokang Paro and visit a women’s monastery known as Rachen Gompa. Rachen Gompa is a renowned women’s monastery for its peaceful surroundings and spiritual significance. We will walk a total of 6-7 hours throughout the day.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,200m

From Chhokang Paro, we will walk for 4 to 5 hours to reach Gumba Lungdang following breakfast. We start our walk with a gentle descent through forested paths and open trails. After we reach Gho village, we take a break to have a light lunch and for refreshments. Following the light lunch and refreshment break, we descend by taking a left turn, stepping through lush ferns and dense foliage to Shiar Khola by crossing a small wooden bridge.

For the next 3 hours, we will walk in a steady ascent through the lush forest to reach the peaceful hilltop of the monastery of Gumba Lungdang. Gumba Lungdang is also a women’s monastery where they provide accommodation and local food like dal, bhat, and tarkari to the tourists. They perform daily puja or prayer ceremonies every morning and evening in the main Gompa. During the ceremonies, they welcome tourists to witness the deep spiritual and peaceful experience.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,200m

We will take rest and well-deserved acclimatization at Gumba Lungdang to help our body adjust to the altitude. You can enjoy the beauty of a peaceful and respected location surrounded by mountains. This is an ideal spot for a break because of its calm atmosphere and breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Manaslu, Himalchuli, Baudha Himal, Ganesh Himal, and several other snow-capped peaks. A magnificent sunrise over the Himalayan landscape awaits those who wake early, and the sunset is enchanting, illuminating the surrounding area in golden hues. If you are interested, we can have a whole day hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,200m) and return to Gumba Lungdang the same day. The total hike takes about 8-9 hours walk, offering a beautiful view of the beautiful landscape. We will have to carry a packed lunch from the Gumba since there are no tea houses or villages on the way.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,470m

After breakfast, we begin a descent from Gumba Lungdang in the direction of Ripchet village. Following a gentle downhill path through beautiful pine trees and isolated hillside terrain, today’s trek is easier than it was the previous day. We pass the Dumje village and cross a pretty suspension bridge on the way. Crossing numerous small stupas, prayer wheels, and historic monasteries hidden away in the mountains along the route, we can feel the spiritual and cultural influences. After around 3-4 hours of walking throughout the journey, we are accompanied by the pleasant surroundings and breathtaking views of the mountains to Ripchet.

Once you reach the destination, you can relax, freshen up, and spend some time exploring the village. If you want to deepen your spiritual connection, we suggest spending the afternoon at the Ripchet monastery.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 1,570m

Today is the last day of our trekking journey as we head back to Philim village. We have breakfast and then begin coming down through dense green forests. The path is mostly downhill and is around 5 to 6 hours of walking time, which gives us plenty of time to enjoy the natural scenery of this region.

On our descent, we get to pass through small villages and interact with friendly locals, attending to their daily chores. We can stop for short tea or lunch breaks at tea houses along the trail and enjoy the atmosphere of the area. Upon reaching Philim, a scenic Gurung village, you can relax and take pride in yourself for completing an amazing trek along the hidden Tsum valley.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 869m

After an early morning breakfast, we head down to Nagjet. The downhill hike takes about 40 minutes and is the last chance to enjoy the scenic views and beautiful paths of the place. Those who feel that they wish to continue their walk further can choose to continue for another hour or so before they reach Jagat village.

From either Jagat or Nagjet, we continue by jeep and return towards Machhakhola. The road goes through familiar river valleys and villages, giving one last view of the scenery we’ve come to know on this trek. The ride may be bumpy in some locations, but it’s a relaxing ride after a few days of walking. After arriving in Machhakhola, we check into a lodge, have a meal, and spend the night.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 1,400m

As we have breakfast in Machhakhola, we will get into the vehicle and begin the 8-9 hours drive to Kathmandu, giving farewell to the Tsum region. Much of the route is along the same road we entered by, passing through small villages, terraced farming fields, and along the bank of the Budi Gandaki River. Even though the journey is lengthy, it gives you time to think back on the amazing journey you’ve had, which is rich in culture and natural beauty.

After arriving in Kathmandu, we check into the hotel, where you can relax, change, or spend the evening exploring the busy streets of Thamel.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 1,400m

You can discover the historical, cultural, and architecturally rich Kathmandu Valley on this day. The historic valley is home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cultures and traditions. We start our sightseeing tour following breakfast by visiting famous sites, including the Pashupatinath temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, the historic royal palaces of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, and the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the biggest stupas in South Asia. Each place gives you a deep insight into Nepal’s spiritual and artistic heritage. You’ll witness centuries-old temples, courtyards, and bustling local life. In the afternoon, you can also choose to go to local markets, shop for souvenirs, or just relax at a cozy cafe in the tourist area of Thamel. The day makes for a perfect conclusion to your Himalayan adventure.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 1,400m

Our representative will pick you up from the hotel after breakfast and take you to Tribhuvan International Airport in accordance with your flight schedule. We wave goodbye to you with a heart full of precious memories and experiences of Tsum Valley. We hope to have another adventure with you in Nepal. Bon voyage!

Overnight:

Meals: Breakfast

Trek Route

What's included

  • Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
  • Hotel accommodation with breakfast in city areas
  • Lodge or tea house accommodation during trekking
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) mentioned in itinerary
  • Domestic flight arrangements for trekkers and guides
  • Private transport for airport and hotel transfers
  • Certified guide and porter service with flights, food, lodging, and insurance
  • All required permits including trekking region and national park entries
  • First aid kit for basic health support
  • Single room supplement managed among travelers

What's excluded

  • International airfares, Nepal visa charges, and airport fees
  • Mandatory travel insurance covering emergencies and trip cancellations
  • Optional services or tours outside the itinerary
  • Personal trekking accessories such as walking poles or warm clothing
  • Personal expenses including snacks, drinks, laundry, and souvenirs
  • Extra lodge costs for hot showers, battery charging, or attached bathrooms
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and porters
  • Unforeseen expenses from delays, weather, or itinerary adjustments

Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

Tsum Valley Trek is classified as challenging because of the remote location, difficult landscape, challenging climates, and high altitudes. Trekkers here are required to walk for around 5-7 hours a day in diverse terrains, including uneven terrains, steep ascents and descents, river passing, and stone-paved surfaces. As the elevation rises to 4,200 m at the Ganesh Himal base camp, you might require proper acclimatization. The changing weather and unavailability of modern amenities and facilities in the region further increase the difficulties of the trek. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, you can tackle the challenging circumstances of the trek.

Yes, with proper preparation, a beginner can do Tsum Valley Trek. However, certain difficulties and issues can be faced by beginners due to exposure to remote locations and challenging circumstances for the first time. Despite difficulties, commitment to succeed in the trek, adhering to proper guidelines and preparing strength training and exercises further ease the journey. Also, beginners must strictly comply with the acclimatization plans while getting enough rest and sleep.

Tsum Valley Trek is a safe trekking route for beginners or experienced trekkers. However, all the trekkers are required to follow the precautions, guidelines, rules, and regulations during the trek. It is essential to adhere to the acclimatization plans, consume a proper diet, wearing appropriate clothes and gear to tackle the challenging environment. Every trekker must carefully adhere to instructions provided by the trek guide for enhanced safety.

No, trekking without a licensed guide is not allowed to trek in Tsum Valley. For the safety of trekkers and the environment, all foreign trekkers are required to hire a guide to trek Tsum Valley, located in the Manaslu Conservation area. Guides will assist you in navigating the path, managing permits, and acting as points of contact with the locals. In addition to safety and guidance, they also enhance the journey by giving crucial information about the locations, cultural sites, and nature.

The entire duration of the Tsum Valley trek lasts around 16 days from arrival at Kathmandu to departure from Kathmandu. Meanwhile, the actual trek covers 12 days that begins from Macchakhola, ascending through Jagat, Lokpa, Chumling, Bhokang, Paro, Nile, Mu Gompa, and Gumba Lungdang, and descending via Ripchet and Philim back to Machhakhola. The remaining day can be spent in Kathmandu, where you can explore the heritage sites and culture and go shopping in the busy streets of Thamel.

Yes, you will require a permit for trekking in Tsum Valley, as a permit is mandatory in Nepal. You need to obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit to enter the Manaslu region where Tsum Valley is located.

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Starting From:

US$1831

No. of peoplePrice per person
1 Pax$ 2954
2-3 Pax$ 1831
4-5 Pax$ 1706
6-7 Pax$ 1684
8-9 Pax$ 1568
10 Pax$ 1569

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