Tsum Valley Trek

Your journey commences with a delightful breakfast at your accommodation in Kathmandu on the first day. Following that, you will be transported to Maccha Khola, the starting point of your trek. Departing from Naag Dhunga, we exit the Kathmandu valley and continue along Prithvi Highway for 110 kilometers until reaching Aabu Khaireni. Throughout this scenic drive, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Ganesh and Gorkha mountain ranges.

From Aabu Khaireni, we proceed northbound on a narrow road that leads us towards Gorkha district. We then drive towards the dense town of Ghyampe Sal from here. After 2 hours, we reach the densely populated settlements of Arughat. From here our drive follows along Budhi Gandaki river basin. This roadway after Arughat is characterized by mud slabs and uneven roadway. After driving for about an hour from Arughat, you will arrive at Machha Khola where we will settle down for the night at a teahouse.

Optional: If you do not want to drive public bus from Kathmandu - Machhakhola. Private Jeep option is available with extra cost.

The journey from Macchakhola to Jagat commences with a stroll along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki river. The trail steadily follows the riverbed, which is filled with sand and rocky boulders. This particular section of the river is flanked by imposing hills on either side. After approximately one hour of walking, you will arrive at KhorlaBesi, where a crossroad leads westward towards Barpark in Gorkha. We continue following the course of the river, and shortly after Khorlbesi lies Tatopani - named after a natural hot spring found in this area.

Continuing onwards from Tatopani, we encounter two significant landslides in Dobhan - an important point where Budhi Gandaki and Dobhan Rivers converge. From Dobhan, it takes around two hours for those maintaining a steady pace to reach Jagat. The trail involves multiple ascents and descents throughout this stretch. Jagat itself is a small village that houses the MCAP office at its center; here you will be asked to present your MCAP permit. It's also worth noting that Jagat marks the starting point for entry into Tsum Valley's restricted area - so don't forget to show your RAP (Restricted Area Permit) here as well! Overnight accommodation options are available in Jagat for those wishing to stay overnight.

Descending steeply from Jagat, the trail leads to Bhatu Khola where a suspension bridge awaits your crossing. Moving forward from Jagat, you'll come across Salleri which offers a mesmerizing view of the magnificent Mt. Shringi (7155m), your first encounter with the Himalayan mountains on this journey. We reach Philim Gaun for lunch. As you continue, you'll pass Buddhist mani walls, monuments, and chhortens before arriving at Nagjet. From Nagjet, the route takes you to the opposite side of the river.

The trek from Jagat to Lokpa takes approximately 6-7 hours, including short breaks and a lunch stop along the way. Lokpa is situated at the confluence of Syar River and Budhi Gandaki River. From here on out, your trek follows along Syar River's path.

The journey from Lokpa to Chumling is relatively easy, with occasional ascents up muddy hills and rocky parts of the riverbank. Along the way, we pass over the Sarli Khola suspension bridge and travel through small villages in the area. Catching glimpses of the majestic Manaslu mountains will provide you with a renewed sense of energy during your trek. The hike to Chumling is short, taking approximately 4-5 hours for the day. On arrival, you'll be greeted by a picturesque Nepalese village adorned with stone buildings and houses topped with tin roofs, all overlooking lush paddy fields. We will spend the night in Chumling for a well-deserved rest before continuing our journey.

Chumling boasts a native monastery that holds great importance for the local community. We pass through this traditional architectural marvel and descend towards Yarju. Continuing on, the trail gradually ascends before leading to a junction at Tumje/Dumje. Dumje serves as a pivotal point connecting the Tsum Valley trek and Ganesh Himal Base Camp trek, situated at the confluence of Syar, Sarpu, and Langdang Rivers.

Perched at an altitude of 2440 meters above sea level, Dumje marks our starting point for following the banks of Syar River towards Chokkang Paro. The path becomes steeper as we navigate through a narrow river gorge. Eventually, we arrive at Chhokangparo where a flat valley unfolds before us. From hereon, it is smooth sailing with an easy-going trail over flat terrain.

After approximately two hours of trekking from Chhokang Paro, we reach Rachen Gompa. This monastery showcases exquisite Tibetan and Tsumba architecture and holds deep significance for the people of Tsum Valley. Starting from Rachen Gompa, the flatlands of Tsum Valley unfold before you. As you journey through this picturesque region, you'll be surrounded by lush hills on both sides of the Syar River. Also, Chi Phu Gompa, Milarepa Gompa and Milarepa Piren Phu Cave are notable landmarks located in this stretch. This particular section of the Tsum Valley trek is renowned for its stunning views and natural beauty. Along the river banks, there are vast stretches of land dedicated to agriculture, while charming settlements inhabited by the Tsumba people can be found scattered throughout the valley. Our route takes us through Tsumba village of Phurbe before reaching Nile for the night.

The trail from Nile towards Mu gompa is full of divine ambiance with numerous Buddhist heritages located. Along the trail, you will encounter several numerous Mani walls. These villages exude a sacred atmosphere of Buddhism and create a spiritual ambiance. Once you reach Chho Syong, the path veers to the west and goes through Dhephyudoma Nunnery Gompa before ascending to Mu Gompa.

Mu Gompa is a captivating place that offers breathtaking views of the landscape. The surroundings of the Gompa are otherworldly, with the Himalayan vista encompassing every side. A day will be dedicated to exploring the neighboring areas and enjoying the abundance of greenery and picturesque mountain scenery in this region.We begin our return journey towards Nile from Mu Gompa which takes about 3 hours.

We backtrack on our path to arrive at Dumje. Unlike the way you traveled when going up, we do not cross the Syar river for this particular route. Instead, we stay on the left side of the Syar river and proceed further. In the evening, we reach Chumling, a small town inhabited by Gurung and Thakali communities. Chumling is positioned directly across Ripchet village with the Syar river flowing between them as a separation.

Optional: Trek to Gumba Lungdang and Ganesh Himal Base Camp hike

Its a relatively easy trail traverse for today. As you leave the flatlands behind, you will find yourself entering a narrow passageway formed by the Syar river. Upon reaching Lokpa, the Syar river merges with the Budhi Gandaki river. From there, we continue our descent alongside the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through Ekle Bhatti and Philim gaun along the way. By evening, we will arrive at Jagat where we will spend our night rest stopover.

Following a satisfying morning meal in Jagat, we proceed with our descent along the Budhi Gandaki river corridor. Along the way, you will pass through various ancient monasteries and Buddhist communities such as Salleri, Yaruphant, Lhakpa, Dobhan, and Tatopani before reaching Macchkhola by evening. Prior to leaving the MCAP office area, it is necessary to complete the check-out procedure in order to exit the restricted zone.

Upon your departure from Macchakhola, your vehicle will be ready and waiting. The initial part of the journey involves traversing off road terrain until you reach Arughat. From there, a paved road leads to Aabu Khaireni. Continuing on an easterly route from Aabukhaireni, you will travel along Prithvi Highway until you reach Kathmandu. Your trekking journey ends after you check into your hotel in Kathmandu.

Optional: If you do not want to drive public bus from Machhakhola -Kathmanud. Private Jeep option is available with extra cost.