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A Complete Guide to Tsum Valley Trek
In the Manaslu region of Nepal, The Tsum Valley Trek is a hidden gem. This valley is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks like Mt. Manaslu and Mt. Ganesh. Known as the “Veiled Basin of the Manaslu region,” it offers you an unforgettable experience of solitude and natural beauty. The Syar River flows through this secluded valley, adding to its charm. Tsum, meaning ‘evocative’ in the local language, is a place where you can find peace and tranquility away from the crowds.
Most of the people residing there follow Bon Buddhism, which can be a unique culture to witness. Ancient Gompas like Mu and Ranchen, along with the famous Milarepa Cave and Gumba Lungdan, provide historical and cultural significance to the journey. While trekking, you will be amazed by the green forests, clean rivers, wide landscapes, and snow-covered mountain peaks. The Tsum Valley trek is for those who are looking to experience the raw and untouched beauty.
Table of Contents
Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Drive Kathmandu- Dhadingbensi- Arughat – Soti Khola – Machhakhola (869m, 9 -10 hours’ drive).
- Day 02: Trek Machha Khola – Jagat 1340m.
- Day 03: Trek Jagat- Philim Gaun – Lokpa 2240m.
- Day 04: Trek Lokpa-Chumling(2386m).
- Day 05: Trek Chumling-Chhokang Paro (3030m).
- Day 06: Trek Chhokang Paro – Chele/Nile (3360m).
- Day 07: Trek Chhule/Nile- MU Gompa (3910m) and back.
- Day 08: Trek Chhule/ Nile -Rachen Gomba – Chumling 2386m.
- Day 09: Trek Chumling -Lokpa- Philim gaun – Jagat.
- Day 10: Trek Jagat- Divan – Tatopani -Machhakhola.
- Day 11: Drive Machhakhola- Sotikhola – Arughat-Kathmandu.
Tsum Valley Trek
11 Days
USD 850 per person
Tsum Valley Trek Map
Trekking permit for Tsum Valley trek
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (TVRAP)
You need this permit to enter the restricted Tsum Valley beyond Jagat. The permit helps protect the local culture and nature. Officials will check it at Jagat, Chumling, and other points on the trail. You can only get this permit through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu.
Cost:
December to August:
- First 7 days: USD 30 per person. From the 8th day onward: USD 7 per person per day
September to November:
- First 7 days: USD 40 per person. From the 8th day onward: USD 7 per person per day
Tax is not included in these rates.
Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit
This permit is for entering the Manaslu Conservation Area, which protects animals, plants, and the environment. Rangers will check your permit at Philim and other points. You can get this permit at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara through a trekking agency.
Cost:
- Foreigners: NRS. 3000 (Approx. USD 30)
- SAARC Nationals: NRS. 1000 (Approx. USD 10)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Permit
You need this permit for safety reasons. It helps track trekkers and assists in case of an emergency. Officials will check it at different entry and exit points. You can only get this permit through a registered trekking agency.
Cost:
- Foreigners: NRS. 2000 (Approx. USD 20)
- SAARC Nationals: NRS. 1000 (Approx. USD 10)
Preparation and fitness
Tsum Valley is a moderately difficult level trek. For 10 days, trekkers are required to walk daily for 5-6 hours on rugged trails, which is demanding. Elevation gain is another concern. The highest point during the Tsum Valley Trek is Mu Gompa, at an elevation of 3700 meters. For beginners, it will be challenging. Therefore, physical fitness and preparation are essential. We recommend to prepare physically about a month before your trek begins. If necessary, do a health check-up or consult a doctor for a better trekking experience in the Himalayas of Nepal.
Accommodation and Internet facilities
Teahouses and lodges are accommodation types for trekkers. The basic rooms with facilities like quilts, mattresses, and pillows are provided. Most rooms have power for charging devices. Pay an additional payment for the use of facilities like Wi-Fi, hot shower, laundry, and charging devices. With the Himalaya Trip, be relaxed with our full accommodation arrangements.
Foods during the Tsum Valley Trek
During the Tsum Valley Trek, you will find simple yet nutritious meals in local teahouses along the trail. Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables) is the most common meal, providing enough energy for trekking. You can also have Tibetan bread, noodles, momo (dumplings), and soups. Breakfast usually includes eggs, porridge, pancakes, or chapati with tea or coffee.
As you go higher, food choices become more basic, and prices increase due to transportation costs. Fresh vegetables and meat are limited, so it is good to eat vegetarian meals for hygiene. Carrying snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates can be helpful.
Drinking water
Drinking water during the Tsum Valley trek is either buying bottled water or paying additional costs at lodges for boiled water. Always carry a water bottle for easy filling of water, to minimize plastic pollution. Also, don’t forget to carry water purification kits for safety.
Mode of transportation
There is no airway route in the Manaslu region. Therefore, roadways are the only possible best mode of transportation.
Kathmandu to Machha Khola: You can take a public bus or opt for a private jeep, depending on your preference and budget.
Machha Khola to Kathmandu: Upon completing the trek, you can return to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
How hard is the Tsum Valley trek?
The Tsum Valley Trek is a moderately difficult trek due to its remoteness, high altitude, and rugged trails. You will walk for 5 to 6 hours daily, sometimes on steep ascents and descents, which can be physically demanding. The highest point of the trek is around 3,700 meters (Mu Gompa), where altitude sickness can be a concern.
Himalaya Trip is as good as it gets
Himalaya Trip is as good as it gets! The owner, Harka Gurung is an extremely patent gentleman, very easy to communicate with, and his response time to email questions is great. Harka’s brother Hari was our guide to the Tsum valley and up to the Mu Gompa and Ani Gompa Monasteries. Both Harka and Hari very informative and professional.
I would highly recommend their services to anyone looking to trek in Nepal. Five out of five stars!
USA, May 2014Taking acclimatization breaks and staying hydrated will help your body adjust. Since the region is less developed, you will face basic accommodations and limited facilities, making the trek more challenging. Thus, it is advisable to participate in physical cardio exercises, build strength, and be physically and mentally healthy to complete the Tsum Valley Trek successfully.
Packing List
- The highest elevation of this trek is 3700m. You do not need special gear. If you have normal warm clothes it is fine.
- Backpack
- Sleeping Bag
- Flashlight or Headlight
- Hat
- Sunglass
- Sunscreens
- 3-4 Long sleep and T-shirts
- Warm Jackets
- 2-3 Trousers
- 2-3 pairs of Socks
- Trekking Boots
- Slipper
- Water Bottle with filter or water purifying kits
- Quick dry Towel
- Soap and shampoo
- Toilet paper
- Tooth brush etc.
Conclusion
Tsum Valley Trek is a unique trekking experience in the Manaslu region of Nepal, completely different from the popular Everest and Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The remoteness and the raw beauty of the Tsum Valley are the major attractions of this trek. The trek offers beautiful views of the Himalayas, lovely landscapes, and traditional villages.
Besides this, Tsumba ethnicities, Bon Buddhism, and ancient monasteries add a memorable adventure in the Himalayas. The warm hospitality of the locals and the opportunity to learn about their lifestyle make this trek a memorable adventure in the Himalayas. Whether you are looking for a peaceful trek or an immersion in local culture, the Tsum Valley Trek offers both.
