Nepal
13 Days Tsum Valley Trek
Overview
The Tsum Valley Trek is an unforgettable journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions, nestled within the majestic Manaslu Conservation Area. Known as the “Hidden Valley”, Tsum Valley offers trekkers a unique blend of stunning Himalayan landscapes, ancient Buddhist culture, and untouched natural beauty.
Starting from Kathmandu, the trek leads you through charming villages, dense forests, and along the winding Budhi Gandaki River. As you ascend, the trail reveals breathtaking views of Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and Manaslu. One of the key highlights is visiting sacred Buddhist sites like Mu Gompa (3,700m), Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa’s Cave, offering deep spiritual significance and insights into Tibetan culture.
The Tsum Valley Trek is perfect for trekkers seeking a less-traveled path, rich in both culture and nature. You'll encounter warm-hearted locals in traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages, cross suspension bridges, relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani, and spot diverse wildlife along the trail.
This 13-day itinerary offers a well-balanced adventure, combining scenic trekking, cultural immersion, and serene landscapes. The highest point of the trek is Mu Gompa, providing panoramic views and a peaceful spiritual retreat.
If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with culture, history, and nature, the Tsum Valley Trek is the perfect Himalayan escape.
🌟 Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek
- 🏔️ Tsum Valley Exploration: Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich valleys, with stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Himalchuli.
- 🛕 Ancient Monasteries & Spiritual Sites: Visit sacred spots like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa’s Cave, immersing yourself in Tibetan Buddhist culture.
- 🌋 Natural Beauty & Hot Springs: Enjoy diverse landscapes—lush forests, rivers, and terraced fields—with a rejuvenating soak in the natural Tatopani hot springs.
- 🌄 Authentic Cultural Experience: Interact with friendly locals in traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages, experiencing unique customs and lifestyles.
- 🚶 Scenic Trekking Adventure: Traverse suspension bridges, rugged trails, and picturesque ridges along the Budhi Gandaki River, with wildlife sightings along the way.
Notes:
- The above rates are net inclusive all taxes on twin/double sharing basis.
- The timing of sightseeing points shall be fixing by local operator due to traffic & weather conditions
- Non-refundable for any cancellation that made by clients after tour start
- Following language guide are available on the supplementary charge: "Spanish, Germany, French, Italian, Chinese, Japanese & Korean etc as per your requirement"
Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the city or resting to get acclimatized to the high altitude.
Accommodation:
- Hotel [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- There are no Meals included on this day
Drive to Maccha Khola (160 km/9-10 hrs drive) via Arughat & Soti Khola.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, passing through stunning landscapes. After breakfast, prepare for the journey along the Prithvi Highway, enjoying views of the Trishuli River and Dhading’s lush hills. The route takes you past Arughat and Gola Bhanjyang, offering breathtaking sights of Ganesh Himal and Mt. Manaslu. Navigating narrow cliffside roads, you reach Soti Khola, a picturesque village with stunning Himalayan views. A final 1.5-2 hour drive brings you to Machhakhola, where you can explore, enjoy local cuisine, and rest overnight at a cozy lodge.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 14 kilometers (8.6 miles) (5-6 hrs trek)
Your trek begins along the twisting trails beside the Budi Gandaki River, passing through lush forests where monkeys and langurs roam. As you reach Lower Khorlabeshi, a Gurung village, you’ll see shepherds wearing traditional Bokkhu capes.
Continuing forward, arrive at Tatopani, where you can relax in natural hot springs. Afterward, cross a suspension bridge to Doban and trek past landslides and Yaruphant. A wooden bridge leads you to Yaru, followed by a long cantilever bridge to Jagat, a beautiful Gurung village. Here, you must verify your trekking permits as you enter the restricted Manaslu region.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 17 kilometers (10 miles) (5-6 hrs trek)
In the morning, we continue on the Manaslu Circuit Trek route, enjoying breathtaking landscapes. After lunch, we diverge towards the scenic Tsum Valley Trek trail, passing rivers, streams, lush forests, and charming villages like Salleri and Siribass. The journey takes us to Philm, a large Gurung village, and Ekle Bhatti, a small settlement leading to a stunning river gorge and another crossing of the Budhi Gandaki River.
As we approach the Tsum Valley, we pause to admire spectacular mountain views of Himalchuli and Boudha Himal. We end the day with an overnight stay in Lokpa, anticipating tomorrow's adventures.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers (3 miles) (5-6 hrs)
Today’s trek involves steep ascents, but the breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile. We pass through lush pine, juniper, and rhododendron forests, with glimpses of majestic Himalayan peaks above us. The vibrant landscapes and mountain views create an unforgettable experience.
We stay overnight in Chumling Village, a charming, stone-paved settlement reminiscent of Tibetan culture. Arriving by lunchtime, there’s ample time to explore the Panago Gompa and Gurwa Gompa, the first of many Buddhist monasteries encountered on the Tsum Valley Trek. The spiritual ambiance and cultural richness of Chumling offer a unique highlight on this remarkable trekking journey.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6miles)(4-5 hrs)
Today’s journey leads us to the Upper Tsum Valley, a remote and culturally rich region. The trail crosses a landslide area and ascends a high ridge offering breathtaking views of the Ganesh Himal. For early risers, a spectacular sunrise view awaits at Shringri Himal, a true highlight of the trek.
In the Upper Tsum Valley, the Tibetan influence becomes even more apparent in the architecture and way of life. The region’s houses and people, including the Tsum communities, reflect their Tibetan heritage, as many Gurung and Tamang ancestors migrated from Tibet centuries ago. It’s a fascinating cultural and scenic experience.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 9 kilometers (5 miles) (3-4 hrs)
On the way to Nile, the final settlement in the Tsum Valley, we pass one of the sacred caves where Milarepa, the renowned 11th-century Buddhist scholar and yogi, meditated during his journey across Nepal and Tibet. This spiritual site is a significant highlight of the Tsum Valley Trek.
Nearby, we visit the serene Rachen Gompa, a revered monastery that adds to the spiritual ambiance of the region. As we approach the Tibetan border, the peaceful surroundings and Tibetan influence become more prominent, offering trekkers a deeply cultural and spiritual experience in this remote Himalayan valley.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers (4 miles) (5-6 hrs)
The serene spiritual atmosphere continues as we trek to Mu Gompa, surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountains. Mu Gompa is the most prominent monastery in the Tsum Valley, offering a sacred retreat for lamas and monks to pray, meditate, and immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings.
The monastery features stunning murals, including depictions of Tara and Guru Padmasambhava, showcasing its rich cultural and religious heritage. Trekkers can take part in a Buddhist ritual or light oil lamps to honor their loved ones. Overnight stay at Mu Gompa or return to the Nile Village, a 3-hour trek.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) (5-6 hrs trek)
As we descend to Chumling, the lush greenery of the lower Tsum Valley becomes more prominent, offering a refreshing change in scenery
Overnight stay at Chumling Village
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 12 kilometers (7 miles) (7-8 hrs trek)
The trail from Chumling descends through scenic terraced fields and dense lush forests, immersing you in the natural beauty of the Tsum Valley. A highlight is crossing the Siyar Khola River on a suspension bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
As you progress, you’ll encounter the stunning Samba Falls, a must-see along this route. The trail weaves through charming villages, forests, and open fields, with panoramic views of the majestic Shringi Himal in the distance. Along the way, you’ll meet friendly locals, grazing yaks, and other livestock, enriching your trekking experience.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 3 kilometers (1 miles) (4-5 hrs trek)
We reconnect with the Budhi Gandaki River as the trail descends along a ridge toward the river and the charming Labubesi village. This marks our final full day on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, offering one last opportunity to soak in the region's stunning natural beauty.
We spend our last night in a trekking lodge at Maccha Khola, reflecting on the incredible journey through the Himalayas.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Road Distance: 160 km(9-10 hrs drive )
The final stretch of the trek takes us from Soti Khola to Arughat, where we will board a public bus or a private jeep back to Kathmandu.
Even on this last leg, the trail offers stunning views of the countryside, with highlights including a picturesque waterfall and the convergence of the Arkhet Khola at the end of the Budhi Gandaki Valley.
As we return to Kathmandu, a mix of emotions sets in—pride in the incredible journey we’ve completed and a touch of sadness as this unforgettable adventure comes to an end.
Accommodation:
- Local lodge [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Today is your last day in the highest country on earth.
Free time until departure
Transfer to the international airport for final departure (Or stay longer for short tours - ask us)
We hope you had a magical experience in the Himalayas and we hope to see you again soon.
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Includes
- Airport pick & drop by comfortable private air-conditional vehicle
- All tours & transfer as per the given itinerary by comfortable private air-conditional vehicle
- All sightseeing tours with an English speaking local guide as per itinerary
- All applicable monument entrance fees
- Manaslu & Annapurna conservation area permit
- Restricted area permit
- Trekking guide & porter
- Free Trekking Bag
- All activities which are mention in above itinerary
- Daily buffet breakfast in Kathmandu
- Daily breakfast, lunch, dinner during the trekking time
- All accommodation in the mention hotel
Excludes
- Nepal Visa fees
- International airfare
- Tips for driver, guide & porter [It is not compulsory]
- Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara [US$ 10-20 per lunch/dinner]
- Necessary trekking equipment and things as per check list
- Any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation
- Any transportation cost outside of the regular itinerary
- Personal expenses such as insurance, medical charges, laundry, shopping, liquor etc
- Cost arising by flight cancellation/road blockades/landslides and reasons beyond our control
EPE (Estimated Personal Expenses)
The daily expenses per person listed below are based on market estimates and can vary slightly depending on the hotels, shops, and restaurants you choose, as well as your spending habits. We recommend using services outside of hotels, such as local restaurants, department stores, and markets, to save money.
Upon your arrival in Nepal, we will guide you on how to save money during your tour. This information is provided to help you estimate your tour budget.
This information is only for the city area. On the trekking route, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Package Category | Lunch, dinner & Water |
---|---|
Luxury | US$ 60-70 Per person per night |
Comfort | US$ 50-60 Per person per night |
Standard | US$ 40-50 Per person per night |
Budget | US$ 30-40 Per person per night |
Informations
CLIMATE & BEST TIME TO GO
The best time to trek the Tsum Valley is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, the trails come alive with blooming rhododendrons, mild temperatures, and clear views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu. Autumn offers stable weather, crystal-clear skies, and vibrant landscapes, making it the most popular season for the trek.
Winter (December to February) brings colder temperatures, especially at higher altitudes like Mu Gompa (3,700m), with snow covering the trails. While it’s quieter with fewer trekkers, some paths may become challenging due to ice and snow. Monsoon (June to August) is the least favorable time, with heavy rainfall leading to slippery trails, landslides, and obscured mountain views. However, the valley becomes lush and green, offering a different kind of beauty.
For the best trekking experience with clear skies and pleasant weather, plan your Tsum Valley Trek between late March to May or mid-September to early December.
RESCUE/EVACUATIONS
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we hope will not happen; you shall be rescued by a helicopter. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back in Kathmandu.
INSURANCE
It is recommended of joining any of Destination Nepal Tours & Travels trips that be protected against comprehensive expenses potential to incur due to medical issues or accidents (to include air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and treatment costs). Please be noted that we do not arrange insurance. Please note that your insurance should be covered 5600m
VISA
All visitors (except Indian nationals) must have a valid passport and visa to enter Nepal. Visas are available at Nepalese embassies/consulates or entry points. To avoid queues, complete the online visa form within 10 days of your arrival date. Children under 10 are exempt from visa fees. Citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan are not eligible for visas on arrival. Check official sources for updates. Click here
VISA FEES
15 Days: 30 US$
30 Days: 50 US$
90 Days: 125 US$
For more details; Visit Immigration website
PASSPORT AND VISAS:
You must have a valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond your trip) and all required visas, permits, and certificates for your destinations. Ensure you possess the correct documents as outlined in the Trip Notes. We are not responsible for entry refusal due to missing or incorrect travel documentation.
TIPPING
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. Tips are not mandatory in Nepal but recommended. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. Where restaurant meals are involved, the tipping is usually 10% of the bill. We would like to request all travelers to give tips separately for driver & guide. Our suggestion is US$ 5 per day by per tourist to driver if same driver is there for whole trip & US$ 10 per day to guide.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
Your booking will be confirmed via email after a 40% deposit of the total trip cost is made through our payment gateway via credit/debit card. The remaining 60% is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu. You may pay the 40% deposit by card or cash, with at least 20% required in cash (USD, AUD, EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY, or SGD).
CANCELATION
If the traveler cancels, the agency charges a cancellation fee based on the following:
- 20% if canceled up to 30 days before the trip
- 30% if canceled 15-29 days before the trip
- 60% if canceled 7-14 days before the trip
- 90% if canceled 6 or fewer days before the trip or in case of no-show
There is no charge for postponing the trip.
Why Book With Us?
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- We are local tour operator
- 99% satisfied customers
- Prompt response
- 100% Instant booking confirmation
- Secure online payment gateway without extra charges
- Personal care
- 24 hrs & 7 weeks available in email & Viber/WhatsApp +977 9851148105
- 16 years of experienced in tour & trekking operation
- All insured vehicle we use in our tour
- All insured trekking guide & porter
- Government certified guide
- Trustworthy travel agency
- Unbeatable value for money
- Real care customer service
- Tailor made itinerary as per clients interest
- Flexibility in itinerary, price, dates & during the tour operation
- You can book upto 12 person group directly through website; so you can travel togather with your family, co-worker, realtivies.