Tsum Valley Trek

Manaslu Valley Trekking

The Tsum Valley is both a superb introduction to Trekking in Nepal and a cultural adventure amongst some of the most beautiful scenery in the whole country, with rich Tibetan culture, amazing natural scenery and awesome mountain vistas.

The sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley “Tsum Valley” situated in Nepal mid western part of Gorkha districts nearby Tibetan Border. ‘Tsum’ derived from Tibetan word ‘Tsombo’ which means vivid. Traditionally, Tsum Valley was a currently distinct geographical area called 'Tsum Tso Chucksums', which means thirteen provinces ruled as a single territory. Beside the majestic backdrop of the snowcapped Himalayan ranges, this tranquil Himalayan valley is rich in ancient art, culture and religion. The local people of Tsum Valley are of Tibetan origin “Gurung ethnic groups” practice Buddhist religion, speak their own dialect and they have their own culture and custom. The varies altitude of Tsum Valley trek begins from 1,905m in Lhokpa to over 5,093m at Ngula Dhojhyang pass on the Tibatan border. The hidden Tsum valley is surrounded by the Boudha Himal and Himal Chuli to the west, Ganesh Himal to the south and Sringi Himal to North. Unique natural beauty, Mountains, Landscape, its pristine culture and Tradition similar as Tibet people of here are main appeal of the Trekking in Tsum Valley trek.

The trial of Tsum Valley Trekking is strewn with artistic Chortens and lined with Mani walls made of thousands of stone slabs carved with drawings of deities and inscribed with prayers. The famous Kyimo Lung, a pilgrimage circuit in the central Trans-Himalaya is a well known seat of learning and meditation. Local believed that Buddhist saint Milarepa meditated in the caves of these mountains, so this place is holey. Tsum valley preserves steps of the great Buddhist Yogi Chyuchin Milarepa and story about Guru Padmasambhava circumbulation. The people here never slaughter animals, even as sacrifice to the gods. People in Tsum Valley still follow polyandry system and they have their own unique culture, tradition, and dialect. Tsum people celebrate unique festival like Lhosar, Dhacyhang, Saka Dawa, Faning and others. Many residents of this valley report that they have seen or found the signs of Mehti, commonly referred as the 'Yeti' or 'Abominable Snowman'. Upper Tsum valley (part of the inner Himalaya) opens from remote VDCs Chhekampar and Chumchet (Lower Tsum), where hospitable local people (Tibetan group "Tsombo") welcome you with traditional Tibetan Chiya (butter tea) and local meal. The Tsum Valley is extremely rich in cultural assets. It is so remote that the ancient relics are still seen. The valley is dotted with Gumbas (Buddhist monasteries), chortens and mani walls. The longest mani walls (over 250m) are at Dzong and Phurpe. Due to its remoteness and inaccessibility, this sacred valley and its people have been bypassed by mainstream development for centuries. As a result, the unique culture of this valley has remained intact. The restricted area Tsum Valley Trekking begins from Arughat in Gorkha district, which is easily accessible from Kathmandu and the trail, follows the winding Budi Gandaki River through wild and unexplored country inhabited mainly Gurung until it reaches the first elevated Tsum Valley with magnificent vistas of the Ganesh Himal and other surrounding peaks. The Valley is bounded by high passes - the Ngula Dhoj Hyang (5,093 m) to the west and Yamdro Pass (5,326m) to the north. Tsum Valley Trekking is possible to make shorter and longer as our Clients demands; most of trekkers do this trip via the Larka La Pass then over in Besi Sahar but some trekkers continue their trek to Annapurna circuit, Tilicho Lake or Narphu valley as well as Rupinala Pass. So, it is also possible just 19 to 29 days Tsum valley Trip begins and end same point in Arughat. Trekking in Tsum Valley use to operate mostly camping basis / tent camp treks but now a day’s it is possible simple Teahouse Trekking (stay in the lodge) or Home stay Trek. Off the beaten trail Tsum Valley Trekking offers you ultimate experience in your lifetime.

Himalayan Unforgettable Adventures organize recently open “Tsum Valley Treks” any time all over the year except snowing season with our highly experienced guides and staffs according our Clients requirement and holiday schedule. But the best time is September, October, November and March, April, May. This is recommended only for highly qualified and adventurous people who love to test adventure travel in Nepal Himalaya adopting real rural lifestyle. Come and join us for a life changing experience – with Himalayan Unforgettable Adventures!

Day to day outline itinerary

Day 01:Arrive at Kathmandu,
Day 02:Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing pre- Treks (1,350m)
Day 03:Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930m) -7,8 Hours
Day 04:Trek Machha Khola to Doban (1,070m) -6 to7 Hours
Day 05:Doban to Philim (1,570 m) -5 to 6 Hours
Day 06:Trek Philim to Chumling (Lower Tsum) (2,361m)-6 to 7 Hours
Day 07:Trek Chumling to Chhekampar (Upper Tsum) (3,010 m) -5 to 6 Hours
Day 08:Trek Chhekampar to Chhule-Nile (3,361m)
Day 09:Trek Chhule-Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700 m), visit Dhephyudonma Gompa (4,060 m) -3 to 4 Hours
Day 10:Extra day for excursion This is day of leisure,
Day 11:Trek Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa (3,210 m) -5 to 6 Hours
Day 12:Trek Rachen Gompa to Dumje (2,405m) -6 to 7 Hours
Day 13:Trek Dumje to Philim (cross Ripchet) (1,570 m) -6 ½ to 7 ½ Hours
Day 14:Trek Philim to Tatopani (875m) -6 to 7 Hours .
Day 15:Tatopani to Kathmandu 8, 9 Hours
Day 16:final Departure to your Destination
Day 17: OPTION

Cost Details

Cost Include

All airport/hotel/land transfers by private or public vehicle unless otherwise requested
Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Welcome and farewell dinner.
Camping / teahouse accommodation during the trek with all meals included
Sightseeing tours in Kathmandu, Paten and Bhaktapur including a tour guide and entrance fees (if the option is chosen)
Experienced trek leader, assistant guide and Sherpa porters including their salaries, insurance, equipment, flight, food and accommodation.
All necessary permits (national park entrance fee, TIMS).
A comprehensive medical kit.
All government and local taxes wherever applicable

Cost Exclude

Nepal visa fee ($30 and two passport photographs are required).
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Excess baggage charges
Lunch in Kathmandu, unless requested for
Extra accommodation nights other than stated in the itinerary.
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, chocolate, beverages, showers etc)
Tips for guides and porters

Useful Info

The Tsum Valley Restricted area. Tsum Valley trek permit costs USD 40.00 for the first 7 days and USD 7.00 each additional day from September to November. Tsum Valley trek permit costs USD 30.00 for the first 7 days and USD 7.00 each extra day from December to August. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) Per person, for SAARC USD.10 per person, and for other Nationals USD.30 per person. guide is compulsory this areas

Note

we try to follow the itinerary below, at times local trail or weather conditions may make slight changes necessary. The trekking itinerary may also vary slightly depending on our trekkers' acclimatization condition.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01Arrive at Kathmandu, Upon arrival at international airport, our waiting support team will meet and greet you at the airport assist and transfer to the Hotel (star category, very nice and centrally located at Thamel, take rest and free at afternoon.

Day 02Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing pre- Treks (1,350m) Our Tour Guide led you to explore around Kathmandu valley for the sight seen. Have explore historical and spiritual attractions; including the historic Durbar Square, Bouddhanath; one of the largest stupas in Nepal, Swayambhunath; top on the hill in the city knows as the Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath; Hindus holy place, Sadhus and pilgrims bathing at occasionally, funeral pyres burning on the ghats, located on the holy Bagmati river. After these activates back to hotel and pre- prier for the treks. Stay overnight at hotel. Please, check your insurance details and have a copy of your travel medical insurance policy with you.

Day 03Kathmandu to Machha Khola (930m) -7,8 Hours On this day, we will drive to Machha Khola. The bus ride will be a special one as we will leave the city and cross through several towns and rural areas. We will see terraced farm fields, forests, and blue rivers. The even road will come to an end, and we will take the off-road until we reach Machha Khola via Arughat.

Day 04Trek Machha Khola to Doban (1,070m) -6 to7 Hours The trail involves some steep ascents and descents to the Doban. The trail gives the glimpses of diversity of flora & fauna, and people with different religion and cultures. We ascend a well – crafted staircase over a ridge to Doban. Doban means confluence of the stream, where Shiar Khola comes from the east, and the Sarpu khola meet from the west. We set our camp here or stay overnight at tea house.

Day 05Doban to Philim (1,570 m) -5 to 6 Hours After hot breakfast, journey leads us to ascend on a rugged rocky trail. Then we climb up and down ravines and notched trees. Several water falls on both side of the Budhi Gandaki River and hundred species of Birds in the forest makes our trip enjoyable. Liding, Machhakhola, Jagat and Philim provide the unique hospitality with culture and religion. During this trekking the narrow valley shaping by Budhi Gandaki provides the magnificent vistas of Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal and Himal Chuli, as we continue up to the large Gurung village and fields of corn and millet. There are several good campsites and we set up camp surrounded by alder, blue pine and poplar trees or stay at the tea house.

Day 06Trek Philim to Chumling (Lower Tsum) (2,361m)-6 to 7 Hours The trail goes up through Philim and head up over a ridge that leads to Ganesh Himal Base camp and Chumling (Lower Tsum). We camp for the night at Chumling. Each individual can enjoy with songs of Bird and roaring sound of river on the trail. There are several good campsites at Chumling. Or stay overnight at local house.

Day 07Trek Chumling to Chhekampar (Upper Tsum) (3,010 m) -5 to 6 Hours After breakfast, we trek to Chhekampar. Upper Tsum valley (part of the inner Himalaya) opens from Chhekampar/Chhekamparo. This village situated on flat land and made up of two settlements Chhekam and Paro. From the valley, we have view of Ganesh Himal range in front to the south where it provides spectacular views of the Baudha and Himal Chuli peaks to the south-west. Some households in this village practice polyandry system. We stay overnight here.

Day 08Trek Chhekampar to Chhule-Nile (3,361m)We visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave on the way -6 to 7 Hours On the way we pass the Piren Phu cave. Piren Phu (pigeon cave) is one of the most sacred caves in the Tsum valley. It is located at the foot of a rugged cliff near the village of Burji. Milarepa, the famous Tibetan saint, was believed to have meditated here. There are two separate Gumbas attached to the rocky cave. Richly painted Buddhist murals, excellent artistic scripts carved on stones, long prayer flags and significant Buddhists paper scripts make this cave one of the most important socio-cultural asset in the valley. Beautiful views can be had of the Shiar Khola, Rachen Gumba, the mountains and settlements amidst vast agricultural land. This is the last village heading north of the upper Tsum Valley. Stay overnight.

Day 09Trek Chhule-Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700 m), visit Dhephyudonma Gompa (4,060 m) -3 to 4 Hours After breakfast, the trail gradually ascends to Mu Gumba (1895 AD), the largest monastery in the region and farthest point in the Tsum valley. The monastery houses religious books, including Kangyur, a life sized statue of Avalokiteshwara, and images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara. Chhosyang Tal is about two to three hours uphill walk.Then we visit Dephyudonma Gumba is one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley and is situated in the rugged mountains, a 2 hr walk from the village of Chhule and Nile. The history of this monastery is directly associated with the dawn of Buddhism in the valley. The monastery is run by Lama Serap of Nile Ladrang from the Kangin sect. There are a few campsites and drinking water facilities.

Day 10Extra day for excursion This is day of leisure, After having late breakfast hike up Mu Gumba and reach the base of Pika Himal (4,865m).We are quite close to Tibet and get a good view of the Tibetan peaks as well as the beautiful Ganesh Himal range. We may visit to Rikang Gompa and Dheron Gompa this day. After the day's excursion we return to our camp at Mu Gumba.

Day 11Trek Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa (3,210 m) -5 to 6 Hours We take the trail to Rachen Gumba, a nunnery. It is situated in the Shiar Khola Valley in the foothills of the mountains bordering Nepal and Tibet. Rachen Gumba was established in the year 1905 AD and is one of the largest nunneries in the Tsum valley. It is belong to the Ngak-pa sect, which does not allow animal slaughter. The nunnery houses one thousand clay, mud statues of Avalokiteshwara, a brightly colored, carved throne and pillar, and a large prayer wheel. The interior is richly painted with murals about Buddhism and its history. We stay overnight at camp or local house.

Day 12Trek Rachen Gompa to Dumje (2,405m) -6 to 7 Hours Today, we proceed towards Dumje, is small and scattered settlements with some houses and adjoining cattle sheds. Dumje is wide flat land, good for cultivation especially barely and potato. Where, patches of purple-hued amaranth interspersed with fields of brown barley, dozens of yaks grazing in grassy meadows, rustic stone houses hugging the trail, long stretches of hand-carved mani stones and stacked mani walls, ancient villages dotting the landscape, rock chortens perched high on ridges, snow-capped Himalayan peaks scratching the deep blue sky, high remote mountain passes threading into Tibet, maroon-robed Buddhist monks and nuns fingering prayer beads, and hard-working kind-hearted villagers warmly welcome you into this scenic and soaring valley where Tibetan culture is still celebrated today.

Day 13Trek Dumje to Philim (cross Ripchet) (1,570 m) -6 ½ to 7 ½ Hours After breakfast, we are heading to Philim and cross Ripchet. We pass one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Lower Tsum Valley, Samba Tingding Chhupyang. This is the village which lies along the trial from Gumpa Laundang to Philim. The houses are completely built from stone and roofs are pine wood. The houses are associated in linear pattern along the trial. There are remarkable numbers of Mani walls, Chortens and gateway chortens. We make camp in Philim for overnight stay.

Day 14Trek Philim to Tatopani (875m) -6 to 7 Hours . From Phillim we trek to Tatopani (hot spring) about 6 to 7 hours, most of the trail is descend. You can relieve your tired muscles from many days by soaking yourself in the hot spring. We make camp here for overnight stay or stay in local house

Day 15Tatopani to Kathmandu 8, 9 Hours We will be ready at 7:00 morning to having breakfast or advice as your trekking guide or you’re wise. We will back to Kathmandu through the road passing terraces, streams, rivers, local settlements, high hills and along the same road. It takes about 8 to 9 hours (conditional) to reach your hotel in Kathmandu by bus.

Day 16final Departure to your Destination Today is free or last minute shopping for souvenirs or gift to your family, friends or relatives for you until departure flight/drive. Nepal Mother House Treks assist will be transfer to the International Airport for your departure flight to your onwards destination.

Day 17 OPTION Days 10: Itinerary

Day 1:
Kathmandu to Machha Khola
On this day, we will drive to Machha Khola. The bus ride will be a special one as we will leave the city and cross through several towns and rural areas. We will see terraced farm fields, forests, and blue rivers. The even road will come to an end, and we will take the off-road until we reach Machha Khola via Arughat.

Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
The trail is pretty simple on this day as we encounter moderate climbs. We will pass through a forest and will cross several suspension bridges. We will also come across pasture lands and terraced fields. We will finally reach Dovan. After some hours of walk, we will reach the village of Khorla Besi. After a gentle incline, we will head to Tatopani. Tatopani has natural hot springs; if you are interested, you can spend some quality time here. We will continue with our journey and then cross a ridge and cross another, the suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river. We will then head to Dobhan, and after crossing this village, we will encounter another suspension bridge and find the Yaru river below us. Then we will walk down a steep decline until we reach the banks of Budhi Gandaki and finally reach Jagat.

Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa
We will head to the famous town of Chisopani on this day. The trail will first lead us through Salleri and then to Sirdibas through a narrow path. Then after a slight climb from Sirdibas, we will reach Ghatta Khola. While on our way, we will also see the beautiful mountain ranges and then reach Lokpa.

Day 4: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling
After Lokpa, we will make descend to Lungwa Khola. The trail is narrow and confusing for a while, and we will again climb to Gumlung. After Gumlung, the trail is pretty straightforward, and we will reach Chumling, a beautiful village.

Day 5: Trek from Chumling to Chhekamparo
Glorious views of the Ganesh Himal serve as our backdrop during the day as we steadily ease higher along the Shiar Khola, a minor tributary of the Budhi Gandaki, a small Tibetan monastery along our path reminding us of the valley's strong Tibetan influences. The day finishes off with our arrival at Chhokangparo, the largest settlement in the valley. view
Day 6: Trek from Chhekampar to Nile
With the tributary still acting as our guide we make our way deeper and higher into the valley, following the ancient trade route to Tibet as we make our way past chortens, stupas, mani walls, monasteries and nunneries, all reminders of the close cultural and historical bonds. You will explore the Milarepa’s Cave and Burji village. Milarepa’s cave sits at the slope of Langju Himal. On walking a little east from the cave, you will reach at the Chi Pu monastery. You will cross the southeast bank of Siyar Khola from where the route will take you to Phurbe. On reaching Phurbe, you will head up towards Pangdun. Pangdun consists of a Gompa with a large prayer wheel. Before you enter the large village of Chhule, you will explore the round stupa. On walking further, you will explore the Gonhgye Monastery.

Day 7: Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa and back to Chhekampar. The trekking trail today is close to Nepal- Tibet border. From Nile, you will head towards the westward direction. You will have a very short hike from Nile to Mu Gompa. Mu Gompa is the highest point of the trek. It sits at the height of 3700 meters and is 77-year-old Gompa. Mu Gompa gives you the best views of the surrounding mountains and Lungdang Glacier. You will get to see two passes towards the east and west of the Gompa. They are Mailatasachin Pass (5,093m) and Thapla Bhanjyang (,5104m) respectively.
After exploring around the Mu Gompa, you will descend towards Chekampar. From Nile, you will take the route which will take you to Pangdun and then towards Phurbe.
The trail from Phurbe will lead you to Rachen monastery.
You will then follow the river bank of Siyar Khola towards Milarepa's Cave and then towards Burji village. From the village, the trail will take you to Lama Gaon. A downhill walk from Lama Gaon will take you to the twin village from where you will walk towards Chhekampar.

Day 8: Trek back from Chhekampar to Eklei Bhatti
Chumling is also popular as the Lower Tsum Valley. After crossing the bridge, you will finally descend to a narrow trail to Chumling. Chumling is a fascinating village that sits towards the southern direction of Sangrila Himal. Most of the houses in Chumling are classic Tibetan styles. After then you will reach to Lokpa which rewards you with the best view of Ganesh Himal and Sangrila Himal. After exploring the village, you will walk towards the Ekle Bhatti.

Day 9: Trek from Eklai Bhatti to Lapu Besi
On walking further, you will have a slight view of the village of Philim. The view of Sangrila Himal is spectacular today. You will walk through several uphill and downhill sections. After descend from ridge, the trail will then lead you towards Jagat. Jagat is a small village that sits along the bank of Budi Gandaki river. You will walk through a narrow route towards Tharo Khola today. The trail is comparatively which you will lead you to Khorlabesi. You will cross a suspension bridge before you reach Khorlabesi. You will then walk along the bank of Budhi Gandaki river to reach Khanibesi. Khanibesi will give you an amazing view of Ganesh Himal. The route becomes rocky from here. You will cross terrace fields, waterfalls, and cliffs. You will walk towards the rice paddy fields and climb towards Lapu Besi. Lapu Besi is an attractive Gurung village with small settlements.

Day 10: Drive from Lapu Besi to Kathmandu
At first, you will reach Khursane and then cross the suspension bridge over Soti Khola. You will follow the trail to Machha Khola and to Kathmandu.

INCLUDING:
Arrival transfer from the international airport to your hotel
Accommodation in Kathmandu with BB plan
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area Park entry
Restricted Area Permit
Experienced Trekking guide and porter (2 trekkers: 1 guide and porter)
Local transportation from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and back Kathmandu
Tea house lodge during your trek.
First Aid Kit during the trek
Staffs Insurance
Salary, food, and accommodation of your staffs during the trek
All ground transportation as per itinerary
Farewell Dinner

EXCLUDED
International flight ticket
International airport tax
Visa Fee
Other personal items. (Phone calls, snacks, cold drinks, laundry, alcohol, extra porter, shower, etc.
Excess baggage cost during your domestic flight
Travel insurance
Tips for staffs and guide
Private Travel Equipment
Excess baggage cost during your domestic flight
Everything that is not listed in the