Known for its rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and stunning mountain vistas, this trek provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heritage of a region that remains largely unexplored by mainstream trekkers.
Overview
The Tsum Valley Trek is an extraordinary journey into one of Nepal’s most secluded Himalayan valleys. Nestled between the majestic Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal, the Tsum Valley is rich in ancient art, culture, and religion. The trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the valley’s hidden gems, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the traditional lifestyle of the Tsumba people. This 17-day trek takes you through pristine landscapes, picturesque villages, and serene monasteries, providing an unforgettable adventure.
Trip highlights
- Explore the hidden and mystical Tsum Valley
- Trek through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and terraced fields
- Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, including Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa
- Experience the unique culture and traditions of the Tsumba people
- Enjoy stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and other Himalayan peaks
- Walk through the serene and beautiful Milarepa Cave
- Witness the traditional lifestyle of local communities untouched by modernity
- Opportunity for sightseeing in the historical Kathmandu Valley
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. You will have some time to relax and explore the nearby areas. In the evening, a welcome dinner will be organized where you can enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine and get a brief overview of the trek. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
After an early breakfast, we will embark on a long drive to Machha Khola. The journey takes us through the beautiful countryside, passing lush green hills, terraced fields, and quaint villages. We will take a brief stop at Soti Khola for lunch before continuing to Machha Khola. This scenic drive offers a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of Nepal. Overnight at a guesthouse in Machha Khola.
Our trek begins today as we follow the trail along the Budi Gandaki River. The path winds through forests, small villages, and terraced fields. We will cross several suspension bridges and pass by waterfalls. The trek offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and provides an opportunity to interact with local villagers. We reach Jagat by late afternoon. Overnight at a guesthouse in Jagat.
Today's trek takes us through lush forests and alongside the Budi Gandaki River. We will pass through the villages of Salleri and Sirdibas before reaching Philim, where we will have lunch. From Philim, we will continue on a relatively easy path to Lokpa, which is the entry point to the Tsum Valley. Lokpa offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Overnight at a guesthouse in Lokpa.
We leave Lokpa and trek through dense forests of rhododendron and pine. The trail gradually ascends, providing spectacular views of the Ganesh Himal range. We will cross several small streams and pass by quaint villages before reaching Chumling. Chumling is a beautiful village with traditional stone houses and terraced fields. Overnight at a guesthouse in Chumling.
Today's trek takes us further into the Tsum Valley. We will cross the Siyar Khola and climb steeply to reach the village of Rainjam. From Rainjam, the trail ascends gradually to Chhokhang Paro. The village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and a glimpse into the unique culture of the Tsumba people. Overnight at a guesthouse in Chhokhang Paro.
We continue our trek, passing through the villages of Lamagaon and Burji. Along the way, we will visit the Rachen Gompa, one of the largest nunneries in the region. After exploring the gompa, we will continue to the village of Chhule and then to Nile. The trail offers stunning views of the Shringi Himal and other surrounding peaks. Overnight at a guesthouse in Nile.
Today's trek takes us to Mu Gompa, the highest point of our trek. The trail ascends gradually, passing through yak pastures and barren landscapes. We will visit the ancient Mu Gompa, which is one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley. The monastery offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Overnight at a guesthouse or Gompa in Mu Gompa.
We will spend a day at Mu Gompa to acclimatize and explore the surrounding area. You can visit the monastery and interact with the monks, who are known for their warm hospitality. There is also an option to hike to the Dhephu Doma Gompa, a smaller monastery situated higher up the valley. This rest day will help us acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for the remaining days of the trek. Overnight at a guesthouse or Gompa in Mu Gompa.
We descend from Mu Gompa and trek to Burgi Village. Along the way, we will visit the famous Milarepa Cave, where the revered Tibetan saint Milarepa is believed to have meditated. The cave offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. After visiting the cave, we will continue to Burgi Village, which is known for its traditional stone houses and warm hospitality. Overnight at a guesthouse in Burgi Village.
We retrace our steps back to Chumling, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Tsum Valley. The trail descends gradually, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. We will pass through several villages and interact with the local people, who are known for their unique culture and traditions. Overnight at a guesthouse in Chumling.
We continue our descent to Philim, passing through lush forests and terraced fields. The trail offers stunning views of the Ganesh Himal and other surrounding peaks. We will cross several suspension bridges and pass by waterfalls before reaching Philim. Philim is a beautiful village with traditional stone houses and terraced fields. Overnight at a guesthouse in Philim.
Today's trek takes us further down the valley to Khorlabesi. The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, passing through lush forests and small villages. We will cross several suspension bridges and pass by waterfalls. The trek offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and provides an opportunity to interact with local villagers. Overnight at a guesthouse in Khorlabesi.
We continue our descent to Machha Khola, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Tsum Valley. The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, passing through lush forests and terraced fields. We will cross several suspension bridges and pass by waterfalls before reaching Machha Khola. Overnight at a guesthouse in Machha Khola.
We will drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You will have some time to relax and explore the nearby areas. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Explore the historical and cultural sites of Kathmandu Valley with a guide. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Durbar Square. Learn about the rich history and culture of the Kathmandu Valley. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. Our representative will assist you with your departure arrangements and bid you farewell.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- All airport transfers on a tourist vehicle
- Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights, including breakfast
- Twin-sharing or dormitory guesthouse accommodation during the trek for 13 nights
- All standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner), including seasonal fruits
- Experienced, first-aid trained, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) & Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and back to Kathmandu in a Private Tourist vehicle
- Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients)
- Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
- Filtered water in the trails using Water Filter or using water purification tablets
- Duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jackets
- Welcome dinner and farewell dinner
- Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley with a guide, transportation, and entrance fees
- All administrative expenses and government taxes
Cost Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Personal expenses
- Costs during the trek for water, coke, Wi-Fi, hot shower, etc.
- Tips for guide and porter
- Nepal visa fee
- International flight
- Travel insurance
FAQs
The Tsum Valley Trek is considered to be moderately difficult. It involves walking 5-8 hours per day on rugged trails with significant altitude gain. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.
You can book the Tsum Valley Trek by contacting us directly via email or phone. A deposit is required to secure your booking. Once your booking is confirmed, we will provide you with all necessary information and assist you with preparations.
Tipping is appreciated and is a common practice in Nepal. The amount is at your discretion, but a general guideline is $5-10 per day for guides and $3-5 per day for porters.