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Tsum Valley Trek
All Meals on Trek Included
Duration
Grade
Max Altitude
Walking Days
Accommodation
Trip Overview
Explore the hidden valley of Tsum.
The Tsum Valley system lies behind the Ganesh Himal and is an expansive, lesser-travelled valley often bypassed by those attempting the more familiar Manaslu Circuit Trek. Indeed, this trek can readily be combined with the Manaslu Circuit Trek too. This linear trek, which ultimately leads to the remote Mu Gompa, a “stone's throw” from the mountainous border with Tibet, starts and ultimately returns via the lower section of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The Tsum Valley Trek splits away by turning away from the main Manaslu trail to head in a totally different direction and into a world seldom seen. In season, intrepid locals come in search of the highly prized Yarsagumba and up until recently, a total absence of teahouses deterred many trekkers too. Indeed, this area could still be considered “restricted access”, although the recent addition of a handful of rather simple and basic teahouses makes the trek a more appealing short Nepal trek proposition. Needless to say, for the trekkers bold enough to explore the Tsum Valley, an almost secret world of tiny, authentic, mountain villages can be found beneath spectacular mountain scenery, where the influence of Tibetan Buddhism remains traditional and by and large unchanged. Don’t forget that our trekking holidays are tailor-made, and although the rate of altitude gains is reasonable, you may wish to consider adding acclimatisation days, rest days, and even contingency days. The itinerary is merely a suggested itinerary and is not entirely 'set in stone'. Sleeping bags (4-season) will be required for nights spent in trekking lodges. We can arrange sleeping bag rentals if required.
As this trek begins on the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail and, after heading into Tsum Valley, returns to the Manaslu trail, it can be readily extended by combining Tsum Valley with our Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Explore the hidden valley of Tsum.
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The Tsum Valley system lies behind the Ganesh Himal and is an expansive, lesser-travelled valley often bypassed by those attempting the more familiar Manaslu Circuit Trek. Indeed, this trek can readily be combined with the Manaslu Circuit Trek too. This linear trek, which ultimately leads to the remote Mu Gompa, a “stone's throw” from the mountainous border with Tibet, starts and ultimately returns via the lower section of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The Tsum Valley Trek splits away by turning away from the main Manaslu trail to head in a totally different direction and into a world seldom seen. In season, intrepid locals come in search of the highly prized Yarsagumba and up until recently, a total absence of teahouses deterred many trekkers too. Indeed, this area could still be considered “restricted access”, although the recent addition of a handful of rather simple and basic teahouses makes the trek a more appealing short Nepal trek proposition. Needless to say, for the trekkers bold enough to explore the Tsum Valley, an almost secret world of tiny, authentic, mountain villages can be found beneath spectacular mountain scenery, where the influence of Tibetan Buddhism remains traditional and by and large unchanged. Don’t forget that our trekking holidays are tailor-made, and although the rate of altitude gains is reasonable, you may wish to consider adding acclimatisation days, rest days, and even contingency days. The itinerary is merely a suggested itinerary and is not entirely 'set in stone'. Sleeping bags (4-season) will be required for nights spent in trekking lodges. We can arrange sleeping bag rentals if required.
As this trek begins on the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail and, after heading into Tsum Valley, returns to the Manaslu trail, it can be readily extended by combining Tsum Valley with our Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Example Itinerary
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Day 1Arrive Kathmandu
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Day 2Overland to Machha Khola
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Day 3Trek to Doban
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Day 4Trek to Philim
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Day 5Trek to Chumling
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Day 6Trek to Chhokangparo
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Day 7Trek to Nile
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Day 8Trek to Mu Gompa
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Day 9Return to Chhokangparo
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Day 10Down to Lokpa
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Day 11Descend to Machha Khola
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Day 12Overland to Kathmandu
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Day 13Depart Nepal
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DAY
1Arrive Kathmandu
Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be met and receive a private transfer for the short distance into central Kathmandu and to the "KGH" Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. You'll be given a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening, you can take dinner at your leisure in one of the many choices of cafes and restaurants in Kathmandu, although the open-air courtyard cafe of the KGH Hotel is as good as anywhere. Please note that a special permit is required for this trek. In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office. The permit office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, and all day Saturday. The permit office is also closed on Nepali Public holidays. Please anticipate that you may require extra days in Kathmandu as a result so that we can obtain your permit.
DAY 1
Arrive Kathmandu
Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be met and receive a private transfer for the short distance into central Kathmandu and to the "KGH" Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. You'll be given a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening, you can take dinner at your leisure in one of the many choices of cafes and restaurants in Kathmandu, although the open-air courtyard cafe of the KGH Hotel is as good as anywhere. Please note that a special permit is required for this trek. In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office. The permit office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, and all day Saturday. The permit office is also closed on Nepali Public holidays. Please anticipate that you may require extra days in Kathmandu as a result so that we can obtain your permit.
DAY
2Overland to Machha Khola
It's a full day's drive today as a private vehicle takes you from Kathmandu along the main highway to then turn towards the mountains on a road that follows the Burhi Gandakhi Valley. At some stage (usually around Arghat), a locally chartered jeep will be used in order to reach Machha Khola. Approx. 8 hours of driving.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Machha Khola
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerFind out more about Trekking Lodges
DAY 2
Overland to Machha Khola
It's a full day's drive today as a private vehicle takes you from Kathmandu along the main highway to then turn towards the mountains on a road that follows the Burhi Gandakhi Valley. At some stage (usually around Arghat), a locally chartered jeep will be used in order to reach Machha Khola. Approx. 8 hours of driving.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Machha Khola
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerFind out more about Trekking Lodges
DAY
3Trek to Doban
Over the Machha Khola River and up to Tatopani. Across a suspension bridge to the other side of the valley and through forests to Doban (1070m). Around 5 hours walking
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Doban
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 3
Trek to Doban
Over the Machha Khola River and up to Tatopani. Across a suspension bridge to the other side of the valley and through forests to Doban (1070m). Around 5 hours walking
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Doban
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
4Trek to Philim
It's a stiff (but relatively short) climb up to Louri, and then just over an hour more walking to Jagat (1410m). Trekking permits having been checked, a stone-stepped trail descends to the river, followed by an ascent through terraced fields to Saguleri and a further climb to Philim. Around 6 hours walking
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Philim
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 4
Trek to Philim
It's a stiff (but relatively short) climb up to Louri, and then just over an hour more walking to Jagat (1410m). Trekking permits having been checked, a stone-stepped trail descends to the river, followed by an ascent through terraced fields to Saguleri and a further climb to Philim. Around 6 hours walking
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Philim
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
5Trek to Chumling
From this point, you leave the Manaslu Circuit trail and begin to head up towards Tsum. The accommodation also becomes even more basic and simple from here, and the more remote you get as the days progress, An hour of stiff ascent brings you to a collection of teahouses known as Ekle Bhatti. From here, there’s further ascent before descending to join the trail that leads into Tsum. You then begin to ascend on a well-graded but exposed track through pines and rhododendrons.If the slopes here have recently had their annual burn, there is a real risk of stone falling from the cliffs above, especially if there are goats grazing. An ascent up zigzag steps becomes increasingly exposed before a descent through forest to then again climb steeply on a well-made but exposed stone-stepped trail. Further ascent and descent follow as the Tsum Valley begins to reveal itself before reaching your overnight halt at 2360m. All in all, it was a pretty tough day. Walking time is approximately 6-7 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Chumling
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 5
Trek to Chumling
From this point, you leave the Manaslu Circuit trail and begin to head up towards Tsum. The accommodation also becomes even more basic and simple from here, and the more remote you get as the days progress, An hour of stiff ascent brings you to a collection of teahouses known as Ekle Bhatti. From here, there’s further ascent before descending to join the trail that leads into Tsum. You then begin to ascend on a well-graded but exposed track through pines and rhododendrons.If the slopes here have recently had their annual burn, there is a real risk of stone falling from the cliffs above, especially if there are goats grazing. An ascent up zigzag steps becomes increasingly exposed before a descent through forest to then again climb steeply on a well-made but exposed stone-stepped trail. Further ascent and descent follow as the Tsum Valley begins to reveal itself before reaching your overnight halt at 2360m. All in all, it was a pretty tough day. Walking time is approximately 6-7 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Chumling
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
6Trek to Chhokangparo
Today is pretty much all ascent, with some minor descent, although any height loss must ultimately be regained. Not easy, but not as hard as yesterday. Heading further into the Tsum Valley and passing through small settlements such as Ripchet (2468m) and Rainjham (2400m), the impressive Ganesh Himal (7000m) is a sight to behold. The Tibetan Buddhist influence becomes more apparent, and the valley opens out as you walk by fields of hardy arable crops such as barley and maize. Reaching Chhokangparo (3010 m), there’s a small lodge here for your overnight halt. Walking time is approximately 5–6 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Chhokangparo
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 6
Trek to Chhokangparo
Today is pretty much all ascent, with some minor descent, although any height loss must ultimately be regained. Not easy, but not as hard as yesterday. Heading further into the Tsum Valley and passing through small settlements such as Ripchet (2468m) and Rainjham (2400m), the impressive Ganesh Himal (7000m) is a sight to behold. The Tibetan Buddhist influence becomes more apparent, and the valley opens out as you walk by fields of hardy arable crops such as barley and maize. Reaching Chhokangparo (3010 m), there’s a small lodge here for your overnight halt. Walking time is approximately 5–6 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Chhokangparo
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
7Trek to Nile
Heading up the valley, you climb up to a chorten-lined ridge and pass the village of Lamagaon (3202m). Things level out a bit for a short while as you rise steadily to Rachen Gompa (3240m). Beginning to climb once more to reach Milarepa’s Cave, which you can visit for a small donation to help with restoration and any maintenance. Crossing the Shiar Khola River, you pass through the hamlets of Phurbe (3251m) and Pangdun (3258m) to then encounter an unusual round stupa before reaching the larger village of Chhule (3347m) through an entrance gate (kani). Here, the children all wear the Tibetan dressing gown called chubas, and yak herds may also be encountered. Heading further upstream, a final bridge crossing is followed by a climb up to the Nile (3361m). Walking time is approximately 4-5 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Nile
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 7
Trek to Nile
Heading up the valley, you climb up to a chorten-lined ridge and pass the village of Lamagaon (3202m). Things level out a bit for a short while as you rise steadily to Rachen Gompa (3240m). Beginning to climb once more to reach Milarepa’s Cave, which you can visit for a small donation to help with restoration and any maintenance. Crossing the Shiar Khola River, you pass through the hamlets of Phurbe (3251m) and Pangdun (3258m) to then encounter an unusual round stupa before reaching the larger village of Chhule (3347m) through an entrance gate (kani). Here, the children all wear the Tibetan dressing gown called chubas, and yak herds may also be encountered. Heading further upstream, a final bridge crossing is followed by a climb up to the Nile (3361m). Walking time is approximately 4-5 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Nile
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
8Trek to Mu Gompa
From Nile, the trail gradually ascends to the spectacularly located Mu Gompa (3700m), the largest monastery in the Tsum Valley. Established in 1895, the monastery houses religious books, including Kangyur, a life-sized statue of Avalokiteshwara, images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara and is home to around 100 monks. On three sides now there are tantalising views of the mountain border with Tibet. There are extensive seasonal yak pastures here too along with the Lungdang Glacier to the east. If you made it here in good time then one option is to hike to Yaksha Hill (4200 m) (an additional 2hrs up & 1hr down) to take in a fabulous close-up view of Ganesh Himal. One option would be to add an additional day here up at Mu Gompa. The accommodation at Mu Gompa is actually more of a basic guest house and part of (and run by) the gompa itself and the monks here. It is a much simpler affair than the other lodges, with more rudimentary, shared facilities. The meal choice here is also more restricted.
Walking time to Mu Gompa approx. 3.5 hrs.Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Mu Gompa
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 8
Trek to Mu Gompa
From Nile, the trail gradually ascends to the spectacularly located Mu Gompa (3700m), the largest monastery in the Tsum Valley. Established in 1895, the monastery houses religious books, including Kangyur, a life-sized statue of Avalokiteshwara, images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara and is home to around 100 monks. On three sides now there are tantalising views of the mountain border with Tibet. There are extensive seasonal yak pastures here too along with the Lungdang Glacier to the east. If you made it here in good time then one option is to hike to Yaksha Hill (4200 m) (an additional 2hrs up & 1hr down) to take in a fabulous close-up view of Ganesh Himal. One option would be to add an additional day here up at Mu Gompa. The accommodation at Mu Gompa is actually more of a basic guest house and part of (and run by) the gompa itself and the monks here. It is a much simpler affair than the other lodges, with more rudimentary, shared facilities. The meal choice here is also more restricted.
Walking time to Mu Gompa approx. 3.5 hrs.Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Mu Gompa
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
9Return to Chhokangparo
As this is a linear trek and Mu Gompa is the head of the valley, it’s time to turn around, and the route back down to the roadhead at Soti Khola is therefore the same one you used to get up here. So, today you’ll retrace your footsteps as far as Chhokangparo. Walking time is approximately 4 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Chhokangparo
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 9
Return to Chhokangparo
As this is a linear trek and Mu Gompa is the head of the valley, it’s time to turn around, and the route back down to the roadhead at Soti Khola is therefore the same one you used to get up here. So, today you’ll retrace your footsteps as far as Chhokangparo. Walking time is approximately 4 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Chhokangparo
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
10Down to Lokpa
A longer day as you head back down and as far as Lokpa. Walking time is approximately 7 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Lokpa
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 10
Down to Lokpa
A longer day as you head back down and as far as Lokpa. Walking time is approximately 7 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Lokpa
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
11Descend to Machha Khola
Another long day, and by now it should be feeling a little warmer than the past few days as you rejoin the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail and head back to Machha Khola. Walking time is approximately 7 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Machha Khola
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY 11
Descend to Machha Khola
Another long day, and by now it should be feeling a little warmer than the past few days as you rejoin the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail and head back to Machha Khola. Walking time is approximately 7 hours.
Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Machha Khola
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDAY
12Overland to Kathmandu
Remember the long drive from Kathmandu to get here? Well, now it’s time to face it again, only in the opposite direction.
Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
Included Meals: Breakfast, LunchDAY 12
Overland to Kathmandu
Remember the long drive from Kathmandu to get here? Well, now it’s time to face it again, only in the opposite direction.
Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
Included Meals: Breakfast, LunchDAY
13Depart Nepal
A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.
Included Meals: Breakfast
DAY 13
Depart Nepal
A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.
Included Meals: Breakfast
IMPORTANT
This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY and can be customised for you accordingly.
Please consider whether you want your customisable, private trip itinerary to also include CONTINGENCY.
See our ABOUT CONTINGENCY Information
Please CONTACT US to discuss CONTINGENCY and ADDITIONAL ACCLIMATISATION, as well as other CUSTOMISATION POSSIBILITES for your PRIVATE CUSTOM TREK
Price Guide
- $ US 1435 per person
IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT OUR PRICE GUIDES
Restricted Area Permit: A special permit is required for this trek. The current cost of $US 140 per person is NOT INCLUDED in the above price guide. Extra days on trek may increase the cost of the permit and we will advise you of the permit cost applicable to your customised itinerary and indicate this to you separately. The permit cost will be charged in addition to the custom trip cost on your final balance invoice.
What's included
The price shown is for guideline purposes only. The price is inclusive of all accommodation described in the detailed itinerary, all airport and land transfers, private overland travel, meals as indicated in the itinerary (all meals on trek), porterage on trek, permits and fees, and a Snow Cat Travel Trekking Guide. All guides are English-speaking professionals and fully licenced.
Restricted Area Permit: In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted, so we are unable to arrange Restricted Area Permits in advance) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office in Kathmandu. Restricted area permits are issued for a minimum of two people only. However, a permit for a solo traveller can be obtained, provided the minimum two-person total cost is paid
Don't Forget
We can customise
all our trips.
extend. shorten. upgrade
Read our Nepal Travel Guide
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