Tsum Valley, with views of the Ganesh and Sringi Himal ranges, is a natural region situated in northern Gorkha, Nepal.
It is home to the Tsumba people, who are renowned for their distinctive way of life, ancestry in Tibetan Buddhism, and historic monasteries like Mu Gompa.
You will pass this protected area, which offers chance to see wildlife, including the rare snow leopard.
Trekkers will find the varied terrain, which ranges from high alpine peaks to lush woodlands and terraced farmland, to be both demanding and enjoyable.
Less populated than other well-known trekking routes in Nepal, providing a more tranquil and pleasant trekking experience.
Experience the kind hospitality of the Tsumba people, who provide homestay lodgings and a window into their customs and everyday life.
Breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, such as Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal.
Explore historic Buddhist temples, prayer flags, and chortens that are a reflection of the area's deeply rooted Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Overview
The Tsum Valley Trek is a fascinating excursion through a hidden jewel tucked away in Gorkha, Nepal's northern region. The journey, which is well-known for its magnificent scenery and rich cultural legacy, provides a special fusion of spiritual experiences and the breathtaking beauty of nature.
Starting from Arughat, the Tsum Valley trekking route progressively ascends past verdant fields, terraced woods, and charming Tsumba villages. These native people are of Tibetan origin and have managed to hold onto their centuries-old customs, which can be seen through the monasteries, prayer flag-draped chortens, and kind greetings they give to trekkers.
The Tsum Valley trekking trail leads into the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the critically endangered snow leopard. Trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of magnificent peaks like the towering Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Ganesh Himal, and Sringi Himal.
Highlights of the culture include trips to historic Buddhist monasteries like Mu Gompa, where visitors can witness the calm atmosphere of Tibetan Buddhism. Trekking takes on a deeper spiritual meaning because the valley is considered holy in itself. Trekking to Tsum Valley requires a high degree of fitness due to the high altitude, long days, and minimal accommodations along the way.
EXPLORE THE SERENE TSUM VALLEY
Tsum Valley is a secluded and surreal destination known for its pristine natural beauty and rich cultural history. It is tucked away in the northern region of Nepal's Gorkha District.
Tsum Valley is a place of natural beauty, verdant forests, and terraced farms that merge into the backdrop of snow-capped peaks such as Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal.
The uncommon snow leopard is among the many creatures protected by the Manaslu Conservation Area, adding to the valley's attraction as a trekking destination.
Culturally speaking, the Tsumba people, who have Tibetan ancestry, make up the majority of the population of Tsum Valley. The valley's unique architecture, ancient monasteries adorned with prayer flags, and warm welcomes to guests are witnesses to its rich traditions.
The valley is also very important religiously, as several Buddhist monasteries, like Mu Gompa, are spiritual hubs where tourists can observe traditions and experience the peaceful atmosphere of Tibetan Buddhism.
Tsum Valley is still mostly unexplored by tourists, giving trekkers a unique chance to see untouched Himalayan scenery and interact with a warm and welcoming local community.
TSUM VALLEY ALTITUDE CHART
Place
Altitude (m)
Altitude (ft)
Kathmandu
1,350
4,429
Arughat
790
2,591
Soti Khola
1,200
3,937
Machhakhola
800
2,624
Jagat
1,730
5,675
Lokpa
2,230
7,316
Chumling
2,770
9,087
Chhokangparo
3,050
10,006
Nile
3,350
10,990
Gompa Prayer Wheel
2,575
8,448
Gumba
3,600
11,811
Ganesh Himal Base Camp
4,000
13,123
Lapu Bensi
200
656
BEST SEASON FOR TREKKING TO TSUM VALLEY
The ideal season for trekking to Tsum Valley is most enjoyable in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is usually bright and steady throughout these times, providing good visibility of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and cozy walking conditions.
Tsum Valley experiences mild to roughly warm spring temperatures, with lower elevations seeing average daily highs of 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The vibrant, lush rhododendron and other wildflower blooms in the valleys add to the trek's scenic appeal.
With pleasant daytime temperatures in the lower elevations of 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), autumn is another great season to hike to Tsum Valley. The frequently clear sky gives stunning views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks. In contrast to the monsoon season, hiking is easy because of the dry and sturdy routes. Trekkers can expect an amazing experience in Tsum Valley's tranquil scenery and rich cultural legacy during both seasons.
BOOK YOUR TREK TO TSUM VALLEY WITH US
Here at Snow View Trek, we offer visitors a wide selection of options to see Nepal. One of several programs that lets you discover the Himalayas and heightens the excitement of high-altitude trekking is our Tsum Valley Trekking package.
Our team of knowledgeable and skilled specialists has meticulously designed this 11-day trekking itinerary for the Tsum Trek. We make sure to take care of everything, including permits, lodging, food, and transportation, so you can travel safely and comfortably with us. Please get in touch with us if you have any further questions or to book your trip.
Itinerary
Day
Following an early morning meal, we will start the tour with a picturesque drive to Arughat and then to Soti Khola. The bus will go along the banks of the Trishuli River and the Prithivi Highway west of Kathmandu. We are going to Dhading Bensi, the district capital of Dhading, in a few hours. The bus will go to Arughat Bazaar from Dhading Bensi by following the Budhi Gandaki River, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal along the route. We will reach Soti Khola from Arughat after around two hours of driving.
If the provided schedule isn‘t suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE: - Airport pickup and drop services on a private (Car/Jeep /mini Bus) Vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU: -Star hotel in Kathmandu, double /twin sharing bed with breakfast.
FOOD AND DRINK: - All meals [Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with soup] with 3 cup of hot drinks during the trek day.
ACCOMMODATION IN TREKKING: -Accommodation on twin sharing bed with Guesthouse/Lodge as per the itinerary.
PERMITE: - Manaslu and Annpurna Conservation Area Permit/ Manaslu Special Permit and Trekkers Information Management System [TIMS].
RESCUE: -Arrangement of emergency (cover by your travel insurance) helicopter service.
GUIDE AND PORTERS: -English speaking with government licensed holder guide with (1 porter for 2 trekkers).
ASSISTANT GUIDE: - Assistant guide for group of 10 or more peoples.
LUGGUAGE: - 15 kg baggage allowance for during trekking per person carried by porters.
SALARY AND ALLOWANCE: - Staffs, insurance, salary, equipment, flight or transports, food and accommodation.
TREKKING EQUPMENT: - Duffel Bag, Trekking Map, down jacket and sleeping bag (if you don’t have your own, to be return after trip).
TRANSPORTATION: - Transfer to Arughat/Sotikhola and Arught- Kathmandu /Pokhara with private transportation.
MEDICAL: - A comprehensive medical kit for emergencies.
GOVERNMENT TAXES: - Necessary paper works, all government and local taxes.
FAREWELL DINNER: - Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a cultural restaurant.
What‘s not Included
AIRFARE: - The package cost does not include any international airfare.
FOOD IN KATHMANDU: - Lunch and Dinner during your stay in Kathmandu.
INSURANCE POLICY: - Does not include an insurance policy for the trekkers and climbers. We recommend that trekkers get travel insurance before going for the trek.
NEPAL ENTRY VISA FEE: - Nepal entry VISA fees will also not be included in the package cost (Visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu 15days-$30,30days-$50 and 90days-$125).
PERSONAL TREKKING EQUIPMENT: -Trekker’s are suggested to bring all of their trekking equipment on their own because that will also not be included in the package cost.
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU: - If your arrival early from trekking or want to stay in Kathmandu for some extra days, the expenses will completely be on your own.
PERSONAL EXPENSES: - All the personal expenses made during the ascend and descend shall not be covered by the package cost.Like (phone calls, laundry, boiled water, shower, battery recharge, bar bills, Extra Tea or extra porters).
INTERNET SERVICE: - Trekkers will have to pay an extra amount of money for basic internet services at a higher altitude. This will also not be covered by the package cost.
FILMING: - Special Camera, filming and drone permit fees.
TIPS: - We expect the climbers, trekkers to provide guides, porters and driver with some tips for acknowledging their hard work and assistance.
Dates and Price
Good to Know
ACCOMMODATIONS DURING TSUM VALLEY 16-DAY TREK
The majority of lodging options for the Tsum Valley Trek are teahouses and homestays. Along the road, some teahouses provide simple but comfortable overnight alternatives. These usually consist of twin or dormitory-style rooms with common toilets. After a hard day of trekking, trekkers can get the vital nourishment they need at these teahouses, which serve meals like dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, and other regional specialties.
In certain Tsum Valley communities, homestays with local families are also offered for a more in-depth cultural experience. Trekkers can build a closer relationship with the Tsumba people, experience their hospitality firsthand, and learn more about their traditional way of life by staying in a homestay. Homestays provide a true window into the habits and culture of the host community but with fewer amenities than teahouses. This makes for an interesting and fulfilling trekking experience in the Himalayas.
MEALS DURING TSUM VALLEY TREK
Meals are usually served at teahouses along the Tsum Valley Trek route. These filling lunches are intended to help hikers regain their energy. Dal bhat, a typical Nepali meal of rice served with lentil soup (dal), veggies, pickles, and occasionally meat (commonly chicken or buffalo), is frequently the main course of choice. This dish is filling and gives you the proteins and carbs you need to hike at high altitudes.
Teahouses provide a wide range of other meals besides dal bhat, including fried rice, pancakes, porridge, noodles (chowmein or thukpa), and soups. Typical breakfast fare consists of porridge, Tibetan bread, boiled, fried, or omelette eggs, along with tea or coffee. Along with snacks, the majority of teahouses sell packaged snacks, chocolate bars, and biscuits.
Teahouses sell either bottled or boiled and filtered drinking water. Having a personal water filter or tablets with you can help you carry more water when you need it while walking. Overall, teahouses in Tsum Valley make sure that trekkers are well-fed and sufficiently powered throughout their journey, despite the menu selections being fairly basic and restricted.
PERMITS REQUIRED FOR TREKKING TO TSUM VALLEY
To hike to Tsum Valley, you must have the necessary permits:
Restricted Area Permit: Tsum Valley requires a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which is provided by the Department of Immigration in Nepal. Seasons affect the cost.
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): Trekking through the Manaslu Conservation Area requires a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). Acquired from the Nepal Tourism Board or approved organizations.
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit: If any portion of your itinerary passes through the Annapurna region, you may need to get an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS DURING TREKKING TO TSUM VALLEY
Due to the high altitudes, altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can cause symptoms including headaches, nausea, dizziness, and weariness during a walk to Tsum Valley. Severe instances require immediate descent since they might develop into potentially fatal disorders such as high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).
To reduce dangers, proper acclimatization is necessary. This includes a slow ascent and the "climb high, sleep low" approach. Other advantages are drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet, and abstaining from caffeine and alcohol. Under medical advice, some medications, such as acetazolamide (Diamox), may be administered. To prevent severe altitude sickness and ensure a safer and more pleasurable journey in Tsum Valley, it is essential to monitor symptoms and respond promptly.
PACKING ESSENTIALS FOR 16-DAY TREK TO TSUM VALLEY
Clothing
Base layers (thermal tops and bottoms)
Insulating layers (fleece or down jacket)
Outer layers (waterproof and windproof jacket and pants)
Trekking shirts (long and short-sleeved, quick-dry)
Trekking pants (lightweight and comfortable)
Warm hat and gloves (insulated)
Sun hat
Buff or scarf
Underwear and socks (several pairs, including thermal socks)
Alpine Wonder Treks made my dream of trekking to Everest Base Camp a reality. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and supportive throughout the journey. Every detail, from accommodations to meals, was meticulously planned. I can’t recommend them enough for anyone seeking an authentic Nepal adventure!
Alpine Wonder Treks provided exceptional service during my Langtang Valley trek. The guides were friendly, experienced, and always eager to share their knowledge of the region. The itinerary was well-balanced, allowing us to enjoy the stunning landscapes without feeling rushed. A must-choose operator for Nepal treks!
I recently completed the Annapurna Circuit with Alpine Wonder Treks, and it exceeded all expectations! The team’s expertise and care ensured our safety and comfort at every step. The breathtaking views and cultural experiences along the way were unparalleled. I’ll definitely be returning for another adventure with them!
