Explore one of the remotest Himalayan valleys on the Tsum Valley trek 17 days. Tsum Valley is a hidden valley in the northern Gorkha, east of Mt. Manaslu (the eighth-highest mountain in the world). Known for its barren beauty, tranquility, and spectacular mountain vistas, the Tsum Valley trek offers an incredible adventurous retreat.
The Tsum Valley is flanked by Himalchuli and Boudha Himal in the west, Ganesh Himal in the south, and Shringi Himal in the north. This trek route is the extended part of the famous Manaslu Circuit trek. The trail separates from Lokpa village. You will walk northeast and travel deep into the Tsum Valley.
The Tsum Valley was opened in 2008. The trekking route is a restricted area and is protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP). Trekkers who want to do this trek have to follow some compulsory rules like mandatory trekking with a guide in a group of at least two trekkers.
As the valley remained closed to the outside world for a long time, everything remained intact there. Moreover, only a handful of adventure enthusiasts trek in the Tsum Valley, so the trail is less crowded, and there is no sign of mass tourism. Not only that, but the trekking infrastructures for the trekkers are also limited.
Highlights
- Explore one of the remotest Himalayan valleys in Nepal- Tsum Valley
- Trek closely to the Tibetan border in a restricted area
- Witness stunning mountain vistas and jaw-dropping landscapes
- An adventurous, offbeat trek through picturesque villages and dense forests
- Meet with communities like Gurung and Tsumbas
- Experience the simple mountain life and explore the rich Tibetan cultural heritage of Tsum Valley
- Ascend deep into the valley and visit Milarepa Cave, Mu Gompa, and Rachen Gompa.
- Enjoy nature, wilderness, less crowded trails, and tranquility
- May get to see the exclusive snow leopard
What to expect during the Tsum Valley trek 17 days in Nepal?
On the Tsum Valley trek 17 days, you will traverse picturesque villages and dense forests of rhododendron and pine. Once you enter the Tsum Valley, you will see the huge influence of Tibetan Buddhism. The trail is dotted with stupas, monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags.
You will see the villagers' simple lifestyle and visit ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa and Ranchen Gompa. From Chumling village onwards, the trail enters upper Tsum Valley, which is much more isolated. Walk following the Syar River and descend to Domje.
From here, you will trek to Chhokang Paro. Spend the night here and hike to the Nile settlement the next day. Visit Milarepa Cave on the way. Further, you will ascend to Mu Gompa, the final ascent in the Tsum Valley.
You can also hike to the Pika Himal Base Camp and visit Dephyu Dolma Nunnery Gompa, a 600-year-old Gompa. Then, follow the same trail back to the Nile and take a different route to descend to Lamagaon from the Nile, visiting Rachen Gompa.
You can also extend the hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp. The trail then descends to Ripchet, Philim, Dovan, and Machha Khola. The trek ends at Machha Khola, and you will drive back to Kathmandu. You will meet with the Gurung community in the lower parts of the trail.
Once you enter Tsum Valley, you will see Tsumbas, the locals. The locals along the Tsum Valley trail offer basic accommodation and food service. You can expect small shared rooms and food like dal bhat, momo, thukpa, Tibetan bread, etc.
Who can do the Tsum Valley trekking?
The Tsum Valley trek route heads up the Budhi Gandaki River and takes you to a pristine and rarely-visited valley. The terrain is offbeat, steep, and rugged. Likewise, the trekkers have to adjust to the limited services along the trail. Good mental and physical fitness is required for the Tsum Valley trek.
The Tsum Valley trek is on the difficult side, but the journey offers stunning landscapes and mountain views of Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), Shringi Himal (7,155 m/23,474 ft), Simnang Himal (6,251 m/20,508 ft), Boudha Himal (6,672 m/21,890 ft), Samdo Peak (5,117 m/16,788 ft), etc.
You will be traveling near the Tibetan border. Tibetan ranges are also visible from some parts of the trails. Likewise, the Tsum Valley is also home to rare snow leopards. Trekkers do not usually spot them, but some lucky ones get a glimpse.
Overall, the Tsum Valley trek is very adventurous and thrilling. It is also very culturally and naturally enriching. Enjoy nature, wilderness, and an epic voyage in Nepal. Bookings are open for Tsum Valley trek 2024/2025 departures.
Tsum Valley trek preparation
Good strength, stamina, and endurance are needed for the Tsum Valley trek. Even if you are a beginner trekker but can walk 6 hours a day and endure the limitations of the remote trek, you can join this trek. To prepare for the trek, start with light exercise and walking. Gradually, build up the intensity and combine aerobic exercises.
Packing list
You will need the following things for the Tsum Valley trek:
- Underwear
- Base layer
- Thermal layer
- Trekking shirt & pants
- Fleece jacket
- Down jacket
- Windbreaker/waterproof jacket & pants
- Dry towel, cotton socks, woolen socks, scarf, gloves, sunhat, beanie
- Trekking boots
- Casual shoes/crocs
- Daypack
- Duffel bag
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle and water purification tablet
- Map, pocket torch, traveler knife, hand sanitizer, GPS
- SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, wet wipes, soap/shampoo bar, comb, toothpaste/brush, deodorant, toilet paper, etc
- Antiseptic cream, band-aid, crack bandage, pain reliever spray, general medicine, electoral powder, insect repellent, etc
- Adapter, charger, power bank, spare batteries for your camera
- Snacks, journal/pen, travel insurance document, passport, visa, passport-sized photos, cash
Why do the Tsum Valley trek with us, Himalayak Trekking?
By doing the Tsum Valley trek with us, you will get the finest service and price in the market. Remote treks like this require special attention and meticulous planning. Our professional team ensures your safety and comfort during the trek.
We arrange all the reservations, permits, and transportation so you can start the trek hassle-free. We have specially designed the Tsum Valley trek map for our guests. The map will give you an easier and better idea of the trail.
Similarly, our Tsum Valley trek cost is also affordable. Whether you are trekking alone or with your loved ones, we will be your reliable travel partner in Nepal. If you want to customize the Tsum Valley trek itinerary or have any questions, feel free to contact us anytime.
