Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek provides for an unmatched trekking experience in the Himalayan nation, Nepal. Lying in between two gigantic massifs, Mt.Manaslu(8163m) and Mt.Ganesh(7422m), Tsum valley is a piece of heaven. This small section of trans-himalayan dale is located in the outskirts of Gorkha district. Tsum valley stands as a dale cut by the Syar river in Himalayan belt. This basin surface is flattened out by this river and stays in between the two gigantic mountain ranges.

The name of the dale flattened by Syaar Khola is “Tsum ” that translates into “evocative” in the local tongue. Considering the ambient environment, it has been named perfectly. Another popular nickname this region beholds is “Veiled Basin of Manaslu region”. Located right in between two towering massifs, this valley provides for arable land. Tsumba people reside practicing Bon Buddhism in this region.

Tsum Valley Trek Route

Trek to Tsum valley has its starting point in Kathmandu. Our journey navigates west bound via Prithvi highway for 110 kms prior to reaching Aabu Khaireni. The roadway branches off  at Aabu Khaireni and heads north. We then arrive at the compact community of Gorkha district, Aarughat. Aarughat secludes Dhading district from Gorkha and dirt road starts from hereon. Our drive will largely tail along Budhi Gandaki river and so will our trek. We navigate through small Gurung villages to reach Machhakhola. Our trekking days commences from Machhakhola.

For the initial 3 days, our expedition will be a rollercoaster ride down the route paved beside raging Budhi Gandaki river. This river serves as one of the prominent tributaries of the Saptagandaki river system. Your walk will follow along several small rural villages that cater as teahouses for trekkers. Tsum Valley trek uncovers villages like: Machhakhola ,Tatopani, Dovan, Jagaat, Salleri, Phillim, before reaching Lokpa village. And continue to Chumling, Chhokang Paro ,Rana gaon, Rachen Gumba,  Chhule / Nile and finally to Mu Gumpa.

Pathway to Manaslu Circuit Trek  diverge at Lokpa. Another major river, Syar river, meets with Budhi Gandaki at Lokpa. Our trekking days then are spent walking down the route paved by Syar river. This river has a sacred significance and provides an agricultural source for the Tsumba people. Tsumba people are popularly known for their committed devotion towards ethnic Buddhist culture. You will encounter several traces of Buddhist heritage in the Tsum area of this trek. Dotted with divine monasteries, the trail hereafter is filled with spirituality and history. Rachenn Monastery, Milarepa Piren Phu, and the most primordial monastery of Tsum valley, Mu Gompaa, will fill your trek with spiritual enlightenment. Your trekking adventure will end at Mu Gompa and then we retrace our footsteps back.

What Not to miss in Tsum Valley Trek

Mu Gompa:

The most primordial Buddhist architecture of Manaslu region is Mu Gompa. Mu Gompa is situated at an altitude of 3700 meters boasting ancient carvings of Tibetan monasteries. This site has been a revered monument for followers of Bon buddhism. The monastery portrays ancient paintings, wooden pillars and doors, golden colored art, wooden floors and statues of Lord Buddha. The main statue is erected at the northern end of the monastery and the sides are filled with pictures of the Dalai Lama and other holy priests. Sacred prayers and offerings are made at the monastery every day alongside a procession. The monastery is surrounded by high mountains on all sides with Syar river paving its way at the bottom.

Rachen Nunnery:

Rachen Nunnery in Tsum valley is another remarkable sight to visit. This nunnery located at Rachen Gompa village is a testament of both spirituality and cultural heritage. Built on a Tibetan architectural design, this nunnery is home to Buddhist nuns who have dedicated their life for contemplation, learning and prayer. You will have a sense of spiritual insight as you enter this space. The nunnery has been built beautifully having its base as Tibetan art. The primordial designs of the walls, pillars, roofs of the place will take you back in history.

Milarepa Cave

In between Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa lies Milarepa cave. This cave bears religious history pertaining to Tibet’s most renowned yogi and poet, Milarepa. While the cave seems ordinary to the outsiders, it is a revered location for people from Buddhist communities. The cave is secluded from a nearby village and is believed to have been a meditation space of Milarepa in the 11th century. This cave bears a significant history of Tibetan buddhism and still sparks spiritual energy to this day.

Chhokang Paro

You will encounter several Buddhist villages during your trek to Tsum valley. That being said, Chhokang Paro resembles a perfect Buddhist settlement located in the area. This small hamlet located in between Chumling and Racchen Gompa reflects a typical Buddhist village. Stone and mud built houses with the trail passing from the middle of it. Mani walls, Chhortens and Prayer flags ornate the village.

Gumba Lungdang

Gumba Lungdang is another notable Buddhist heritage site in Tsum valley trek. Located in between Dumje and Ganesh Himal Base Camp, this monastery bears a long history. The outer structure of this monastery depicts a distinct Tibetan art and intricate carvings. You will discover a whole new perspective of Bon Buddhism upon gazing at this monastery. It sits surrounded by an amusing mountain vista that includes: Ganesh I(7422m), Ganesh II(6908m), Voke Peak(4617m) and Ganesh IV(6908m). Design your Tsum valley itinerary with our professional staff to include such hidden spaces in your trek.

Natural Hot Spring

Natural Hot springs erupt out of the ground in most inner Himalayan areas of Nepal. Similar to Annapura, Langtang and Rolwaling areas, Manaslu region has one such natural hot spring. Specifically located at Tatopani in between Macchakhola and Jagat, is a hot spring right by the Budhi Gandaki river. The hot water that originates from inside of the landmass is believed to be full of minerals and nutrients. Nepalese believe that taking a bath in such hot springs relieves you of many skin related anomalies.

Tsumba people:

Named after the valley they reside in, Tsumba people are native to Tsum valley. These group of people are believed to have migrated from Tibet long before. Since, Tsum valley serves as the trade transit between Tibet and lower areas of Gorkha district, these people have been living here since the inception of time. Their cultural practices and cult directly matches with Tibetan Buddhism which is followed in many areas of Nepal including Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Humla and other Tibet bordering areas. If you happen to be at the right time, you will get to witness several festivals celebrated by Tsumba People. Lhosar, Saga Dawa, Dumje and other festivals are celebrated in Tsum valley and are observed with full of energy and passion by the Tsumba people. Please consult with Himalaya Trip to plan the best time for Tsum Valley that coincides with these festival dates.

Ganesh Himal Base Camp

The route that diverges from Dumje headed east leads to Ganesh Himal Base Camp. This base camp serves as the starting point for the Ganesh Himal expedition. This base camp is located at 4200 meters right below the shimmering peaks of Ganesh range. The name “Ganesh” refers to a holy Hindu deity with his head representing that of an elephant. The mountain peak resembles the face of this Hindu deity, hence the name. You will have a wondrous time at Ganesh Himal base camp as it is located amidst gigantic mountains. The area is surrounded by towering peaks like: Ganesh I(7422m), Ganesh II(6908m), Voke Peak(4617m) and Ganesh IV(6908m). We suggest you buy a detailed Tsum Valley trek map to not miss important points of interest. The standard itinerary of Tsum valley trekking does not include Ganesh Himal Base Camp trek. If you want to add this side trip, please inquire with us.

Communication

Unlike the last decade, network access now is favorable in Tsum valley trekking. Cellular network and data services work in most areas of your trekking trail. The network carrier services are available in most parts. If you happen to have any communication problems during your trekking days, your trekking guide will have access. Every teahouse has telephone lines if you want to make a call. Wifi services are also available in many places but may cost extra depending on the place and lodge.

Best time Tsum Valley trek

Nepal receives one of the best climatic conditions for trekking. Out of the 12 months in a year, 6 months are perfectly favorable for trekking Tsum valley. Spring, Winter and Autumn months are the most preferred times for Tsum valley trekking. Spring and Autumn months as general provide the best weather window and temperature for trekking. Hence, Tsum valley trekking can be best enjoyed during this time of the year. Also, early winter months are favorable for trekking to Tsum valley.

Meals in Tsum Valley Trekking

Your meals during Tsum Valley trek will be prepared in the teahouses. We will stop for lunch at midpoint villages during your trek. Dinner and Breakfast is to be served at the teahouse you will be staying at. There are ranges of food options that you can choose at the teahouses. These small lodges provide Basic Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine for the most part. Continental dishes are also available. The usual meal that we recommend is “Dal Bhaat”. This meal is filling and nutritious. Dal Bhaat is a Nepalese set dish that includes rice, lentil soup, curries and pickle. This is preferred by most trekkers as it is nutritious and filling. Pasta, noodles,pies or other delightful treats are also available. Let us know if you have any specific food requirements.

Duration and Distance

The approximate distance of trek to Tsum valley is 170 kilometers for a roundtrip journey. This includes trekking from Machhakhola until Mu Gompa and return to Macchakhola. From Kathmandu to Macchakhola, the road distance is 168 kilometers which takes about 7-8 hours. From Machhakhola we begin our trek, walking at least 6-7 hours each day. We reach Mu Gompa and return back the same route and drive back to Kathmandu. The duration of Tsum valley trek can range from 11 days to 15 days. You can custom make your itinerary or we can design it for you. If you want to take it slow and comfortably, it is possible to lengthen the duration of the trek.

Lodges and Tea House

The trail leading to Tsum valley is dotted with small teahouses. The people inhabiting the area have converted their houses into lodges. You will find several of these mountain lodges for the most part of your trekking journey. These teahouses provide much needed rest during your trek. The houses are usually built with wooden structure and have rooms that can accommodate from 2-6 people. Quilts, Mattresses, pillows are provided as a standard facility. The teahouses in Tsum valley have power access so you can charge your electricals. Wifi is subject to availability and hot showers usually costs extra ($1-$2). Tsum valley trekking package offered by Himalaya trip provides full accommodation during the trekking days. We will arrange for the best accommodation service available in the area.

Preparation and fitness

As per the standard trekking norms, Tsum valley difficulty is considered moderate. Our 11 Days Tsum valley trekking has short stopovers in between.We advise you to carry out short hikes, cardio related exercises and endurance training prior to your travel dates. The highest point of Tsum valley trek is at MU Gompa at 3700 meters. A beginner can easily make this traverse without much difficulty and physical challenges. However, you will still have to walk for at least 5-6 hours each day during the trekking period. Also, it is paramount to be in the best physical shape for a comfortable trekking experience. Cardio exercises improve your stamina and endurance training provides for much needed muscle strength. Taking short hikes before your trekking days helps you break into your shoes and other gears as well. We suggest you start your physical preparation 1 month before your trekking begins.

Trekking permits for Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum valley as stated earlier lies in a restricted area. The entry point for the restricted area is at Jagat (Day 3) and encapsulates all the landmass located till Mu Gompa. Apart from this, Tsum valley is a part of Manaslu Conservation Area Project(MCAP). This project is aimed at preserving the biodiversity spread across the area and conserving the ecosystem. You will need 2 permits for trek to Tsum valley. These area:

1. Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit(TVRAP):
   MRAP cost is dependent on the number of days you stay in the restricted area. The cost is different for peak seasons and off-season.December to August:

For the first 7 days: USD 30 per person

From 8th day onward: USD 7 per person per day

September to November:

For the first 7 days: USD 40 per person

From 8th day onward: USD 7 per person per day
Note: The rates provided are without tax levied by the Government of Nepal.

2.Manaslu Conservation Area Project(MCAP) Permit:
A MCAP permit can be obtained in Kathmandu. It costs approximately $30 per person.

Additionally, restricted areas in Nepal have a distinct rule pertaining to guide for trekking in Nepal. Being a restricted area, you cannot trek solo to Tsum valley. You will require at least 2 trekkers in your group accompanied by a licensed trekking guide. Also, you need to apply for MRAP via a registered trekking agent. Inquire with us to know more.

Tsum Valley Restricted Permit Issue day

Tsum Valley is restricted area trek. We need your original passport with visa details to process this permit. One extra day is recommend for this permit.

Packing list for Tsum Valley Trek ?

• The highest elevation of this trek is 3700m. You do not need special gears. If you have normal warm clothes are fine.
• Backpack
• Sleeping Bag
• Flash Light or Head light
• Hat
• Sunglass
• Suncreams
• 3-4 Long sleep and T-shirts
• Warm Jackets
• 2-3 Trousers
• 2-3 pairs of Socks
• Trekking Boots.
• Sleeper
• Water Bottle with filter
• Quick dry Towel
• Soap and shampoo
• Toilet paper
• Tooth brush etc.

When is the best time to do Tsum Valley Trek ?

We organize this trek all the months. But if you are planning to do this trek at the best time. We recommend you following time.

• Winter (December – February): This is coldest time of the year. It will be snowing this region. But it is also possible to do this trek.
• Spring (March – May): This is best time to trek on Tsum Valley Trek. You will have wonderful weather with warm temperature.
• Summer (June – August): This is monsoon in Nepal. There is chances of raining every day and it will be cloudy and risk of landslide. The rain poncho or rain jacket is needed.
• Autumn (September – November): This is another best time to do this Tsum Valley Trek. After the raining season. It will be fresh and clear weather will be appear. It will be warm temperature.