Trip Facts

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Trip Duration 23 Days
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Trip Difficulty Strenuous
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Maximum Altitude 5,135m/16,847ft
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Best Season To Visit March-May/September-December

Trip Overview

Tsum Valley Trek, part of the Great Himalaya Trail, reveals a restricted paradise in Nepal’s Manaslu region. Established after 2008, it demands rigorous trekking due to its isolation and historical significance as a trade route to Tibet.

Tsum Valley

Tsum Valley Trek is the hidden treasure of Nepal and the valley of happiness that carries mystery, myth, and majestic beauty. The secret Tibetan Buddhist land is one of the world’s most remote Himalayan valleys. Trekking to Tsum valley let you explore from the incredible landscape to the unique culture. Originally, the name of the valley came from the Tibetan word ‘Tsombo’ which means vivid. The valley lies in northern Gorkha, to the east of Manaslu, bordering Tibet. The majestic backdrop of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal ranges makes for rewarding hiking every day.

In addition, Tsum valley is rich in ancient art, culture, and religion. The valley is dotted with numerous Mani walls and chortens.  While, you can see a quaint monasteries including Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Dephu Doma Nannery Gompa, and Milarepa Gompa.

Shear Khola (river) starts from the western glacier of Ganesh Himal and the east and southern glaciers of Sringi Himal drain this valley. Later it meets the Budhi Gandaki at Nyak.

Facts and History

In fact, Tsum is considered to be ‘Beyul’, the holy hidden valleys of happiness which Padmasambhava blessed as refuges to be discovered when the planet is approaching destruction and the world becomes too corrupt for spiritual practices.

In ancient times, the Tsum valley was a separate geographical area with the name “Tsum Tso Chuksum”. It means the thirteen provinces ruled as a single territory. Most importantly, the ancient remains of the Tsum Kingdom are still unexplored and untouched.

Likewise, the untouched and hidden Tsum valley is a preservation of ancient Buddhism. According to the stories, a Buddhist saint named ‘Milarepa’ meditated in the caves in the mountains. The local people have a great faith to worship and pray Gautam Buddha, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), and some other Bodhisattvas. The people also strongly believe in the reincarnation of the Lamas.

Several Buddhist monasteries are giving life to the Tibetan culture. The colorful flags and the Mani walls encourage the trekkers to further follow the trail with courage. Walking through the beautiful shaded forest of pine, juniper, and Rhododendron, the Tsum Valley Trek will amaze the trekkers with the splendid views of the Lamjung Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Mount Manaslu (8,163 m).

Why Choose Nepal Sanctuary Treks for the Tsum Valley Trek?

With over 26 years of experience in Himalayan trekking, we design Tsum Valley Trek itinerary with safety, sustainability, and authentic cultural immersion at its core.

Our Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary is fully customizable to suit your personal pace, fitness level, and interests. We specialize in both teahouse treks and camping treks along the Great Himalayan Trail, offering flexibility for trekkers of all kinds.

Our experienced Sherpa guides bring invaluable knowledge and insights into the rich local culture while ensuring your safety throughout the Tsum Valley Trek With years of experience, our professional team knows the Tsum Valley Trekand surrounding regions intimately, ensuring a memorable and well-guided adventure.

We focus on small group sizes to provide personalized attention and maintain strict safety protocols. Our long-standing partnerships with trusted suppliers ensure carefully selected accommodations and reliable transportation throughout Tsum Valley Trek.

As a Travelife Certified company, we are committed to promoting sustainable and eco-friendly travel. When you choose Nepal Sanctuary Treks for your Tsum Valley Trek, you support local communities, help minimize environmental impact, and practice responsible tourism. Your safety, comfort, and unforgettable experience are our top priorities.

By trekking with us, you are not just embarking on an adventure—you are contributing to ethical, sustainable tourism while exploring one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine trekking trails. Join Nepal Sanctuary Treks for a purposeful and transformative Tsum Valley Trek.

This is a sample itinerary of the Tsum Valley Trek. We shall customize the program as per your needs and preferences.

Are you ready to have an awesome experience in Tsum Valley Trek? Contact Us

Note: Below trekking hours, altitudes and distances are approximate, and absolutely for the general idea only.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu Airport

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.

Day 02: Cultural Introductory Tour and Trek Preparation

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Tour Duration:  Approx. 8 hours

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Meal: Breakfast

9:00 AM: Guided Cultural Tour of Kathmandu Valley

Start your day with a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley. Explore the vibrant Kathmandu with our expert guides, who will share insights into the area’s rich history.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Durbar), a royal historical complex filled with temples, palaces, and shrines from the 15th century. Highlights include Kumari Ghar (the home of the living goddess) and Kasthamandap, an architectural marvel built from a single tree.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Next, head to Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple, a sacred site for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Admire the stunning white dome and golden spire, while soaking in the serene atmosphere filled with incense and prayer wheels.

PM: Boudhanath Stupa

Visit the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a spiritual center for Tibetan culture, surrounded by prayer flags, monks, and devotees chanting ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’.

Pashupatinath Temple

Conclude your tour at the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples, located along the Bagmati River. Here, you can witness profound spiritual rituals, including the moving sight of open-air cremations, which hold deep cultural significance. After immersing yourself in this sacred experience, you will transfer back to your hotel.

Day 03: Drive to Macha Khola

Altitude above sea level: 900 m/2,952 ft. (Macha Khola)

Driving duration: 9–10 hrs. Approx. 

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Start your adventure early in the morning with a private vehicle journey from Kathmandu, heading west along the picturesque Kathmandu–Pokhara Highway. This full-day drive takes you through charming mountain villages, terraced rice fields, and lush green hillsides, offering stunning views of rural Nepal.

You’ll veer north at Dhading to reach Arughat Bazaar, following the Budi Gandaki River upstream toward Macha Khola, a remote village in the Manaslu trekking region. Although the final stretch of the road gets rough and dusty, the journey rewards you with dramatic landscapes and occasional glimpses of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Himal ranges — perfect for landscape photography and cultural immersion.

This scenic drive is a visual feast and the perfect start to your Manaslu Circuit Trek or any off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal.

Day 04: Trek to Jagat

Altitude above sea level: 1,440 m/4,724ft. Jagat

Hiking duration: 6-7 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast in Machha Khola , the trail winds through river gorges and forested hills, following the Budi Gandaki River. You’ll pass Khorlabesi (970 m / 3,182 ft) with its small natural hot spring, then cross ridges and suspension bridges toward Dobhan (1,070 m / 3,510 ft).

The path continues through Yaru Khola and Tharo Bharyang (1,190 m / 3,904 ft), featuring stone staircases and river crossings. Finally, after a scenic ridge climb, you’ll reach Jagat, the gateway to the Manaslu Conservation Area.

A diverse trekking day with hot springs, river valleys, and traditional Himalayan villages.

Day 05: Trek to Lokpa

Altitude above sea level: 2,240 m/7,349ft. Lokpa

Hiking duration: 6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Your day begins with a trekking permit check at the Jagat police post before ascending a rocky ridge to Salleri. From there, you descend to Sirdibas, with the trail gradually opening into a wider valley toward Ghatta Khola.

You’ll walk along the riverbed and cross a suspension bridge to reach Philim—a large Gurung village. A gradual uphill climb brings you to Ekle Bhatti, where the trail splits: one path leads to Manaslu, and the other into the Tsum Valley.

Continuing north, you reach Lokpa , the first village of the remote and mystical Tsum Valley, surrounded by dense pine forests and mountain serenity.

Day 06: Trek to Chumling

Altitude above sea level: 2,386 m/7,828ft. Chumling

Hiking duration: 4-5 hrs. Approx

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast in Lokpa, descend into the river valley and then climb gradually to Gumling. This stretch winds through a peaceful forest trail, with no villages or tea houses in between—just the sounds of nature.

After navigating several ups and downs, you’ll cross a suspension bridge where the trail splits—one way to Ripchet, the other to Chumling. Take the Chumling route, passing a small mani wall before reaching the village.

Chumling welcomes you with its quiet charm, a few tea houses, and your first real taste of life in the Tsum Valley.

Day 07: Trek to Chhokang Paro

Altitude above sea level: 3,031 m/9,944ft. Chhokang Paro

Hiking duration: 5-6 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast in Chumling , begin with a gentle descent and cross the river. The trail then climbs steadily through pine and mixed forests, eventually opening onto a high-altitude plateau with pasture lands and drier terrain.

You’ll arrive at Chhokang Paro , a village made up of two settlements—Chhokang and Paro—set on open flatlands in the upper Tsum Valley. The area offers stunning views of the Ganesh Himal range and a glimpse into the unique culture of the region.

Day 08: Trek to Nile

Altitude above sea level: 3,360 m/11,023ft. Nile

Hiking duration: 4-5 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast in Chhokang Paro , the trail continues north on a relatively flat and open path. As you trek, you’ll pass grazing fields, Mani walls, chortens, and Buddhist stupas, reflecting the deep Tibetan influence of the region.

You’ll reach Nile , the last village before the Tibetan border, located along the Shiar Khola River. This peaceful village is home to traditional stone houses and offers a serene overnight stay in the upper Tsum Valley.

Day 09: Trek to Mu Gompa

Altitude above sea level: 3,700 m/12,139ft. Mu Gompa

Hiking duration: 3 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a morning hike to Mu Gompa, the highest point of the trek. The trail ascends through dry, rugged terrain with stunning panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks.

Though the climb is steady, the breathtaking vistas, the peaceful mountain atmosphere, and the ancient Mu Monastery make the effort worthwhile. After arrival, you can take a short 30-minute walk to Dhephu Doma Gompa, home to Buddhist nuns practicing meditation in this serene setting.

Day 10: Trek to Rachen

Altitude above sea level: 3,240 m,10,630ft. Rachen

Hiking duration: 4 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, begin your descent from Mu Gompa  into lower altitudes, trekking along the Shiar Khola River. The trail winds through the serene Tibetan landscape as you approach Rachen Gompa, a striking red-roofed Buddhist nunnery founded in 1936.

This historic monastery is home to nuns, many of whom enter the monastery as young as seven, offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual life of the Tsum Valley.

Day 11: Trek to Chumling

Altitude above sea level: 2,386 m/7,828ft. Chumling

Hiking duration: 7 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, retrace your steps on a descending trail from Rachen back to Chumling. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend through forests and peaceful valleys, soaking in the natural beauty of the Tsum Valley.

 

Day 12: Trek to Deng

Altitude above sea level: 1,860m/6,102ft. Deng

Hiking duration: 7–8 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, begin your descent through lush forest toward Lokpa village. Cross the bridge over the Buri Gandaki River and merge onto the main Manaslu Circuit Trail. Continue trekking to Deng, a charming village surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and traditional culture.

Day 13: Trek to Namrung

Altitude above sea level: 2,630 m/8,628ft. Namrung

Hiking duration: 7–8 hrs. Approx.

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, cross the Budhi Gandaki River and ascend to a suspension bridge. Then, join the trail from Bihi, trekking west through lush forests and alpine vegetation. Pass through charming villages like Prok, offering stunning views of the snow-capped Siringi Himal.

The trail follows the Buri Gandaki River, passing several gompas before entering a narrow gorge. After trekking through thinning forest, tackle a final steep climb to reach Namrung via a traditional stone archway.

Day 14: Trek to Samagaon

Altitude above sea level:3,450 m/11,319 ft.-Samagaon 
Hiking Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin your morning with a nourishing breakfast in Lho village.

Today’s trek takes you higher into the breathtaking Manaslu region. The trail gently ascends and leads you through the peaceful village of Shyala. Shyala offers panoramic views of snowy peaks and glacier-fed rivers.

Continue past a river formed by the Pungyen Glacier, surrounded by chortens and monasteries. As you walk along the ridge, the stunning landscapes unfold before you.

Eventually, the trail opens into the wide barley fields of Samagaon. You’ll notice that weaving is a key part of daily life here. Samagaon is a picturesque village with stone houses and welcoming locals. Take time to explore and soak in the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere.

Day 15: Rest day in Samagaon

Altitude above sea level:3,450 m/11,319 ft.-Samagaon 

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is an essential acclimatization day in Samagaon. Start your morning with a warm breakfast at the tea house. You can choose to rest and relax or explore the surroundings.

For active trekkers, there are exciting day hike options. One hike leads to a small hill near Sama village. This trail offers breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.

Discover thousands of mani stones etched with Buddhist prayers.  Meet Sherpa women dressed in traditional clothing and jewelry. You may also visit the ancient Pungyen Gompa monastery. From the ridge, enjoy a panoramic view of the glacier.

Alternatively, take a scenic walk toward Manaslu Base Camp. On the way, pass the stunning and frozen Birendra Lake. Whichever option you choose, the day helps your body adjust. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and immerse in Sherpa culture.

Day 16: Trek to Samdo

Altitude above sea level: 3,860 m / 12,660 ft.-Samdo
Hiking Duration: Approx. 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your scenic trek to Samdo. Descend towards the Budhi Gandaki River and follow the trail. Cross a bridge over a sidestream and spot countless Mani walls.

As the valley opens up, stunning mountain views come into sight. Marvel at Manaslu North, Nike Peak, and the majestic Samdo Peak. This section of the trail nears the Tibetan border, offering alpine charm. Along the way, mountain goats and grazing yaks might appear.

Continue along a gentle ridge lined with juniper and birch forests. You’ll reach Kermo Kharka, a peaceful spot with stone herder huts. From here, descend to the Budhi Gandaki and cross a wooden bridge.

Then ascend steeply onto a cliff nestled between river confluences. Pass through a stone arch and push onward to the village of Samdo. Enjoy the alpine beauty and the tranquil atmosphere of this high-altitude settlement.

Day 17: Acclimatization and rest day at Samdo

Altitude above sea level: 3,860 m / 12,660 ft.-Samdo

Accommodation: Tea House Lodge

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is another acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the altitude.

You may choose to rest in Samdo or explore the surrounding trails.

For adventure seekers, hike toward the Gya La Pass (5,300 m), a traditional trade route to Tibet. This trail offers incredible views of Manaslu and the Tibetan plateau.

Alternatively, walk up the valley behind Samdo to a lesser-used trade route. Enjoy panoramic views of Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkya Peak, Cheo, and Kang Guru.

Pass several seasonal yak herder shelters known as doksas. Keep your eyes peeled for Himalayan birds like the Lophophorus, Lammergeyer, and Himalayan Griffin.

Whether resting or hiking, today’s goal is simple—let your body breathe and acclimate.

Day 18: Trek to Larkya Phedi

Altitude above sea level: 4,460 m / 14,632 ft.-Larkya Phedi
Hiking Duration: Approx. 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, begin your short but scenic trek to Larkya Phedi.

First, pass the seasonal Tibetan market known as Larke Bazaar. Then descend toward the Budhi Gandaki River and cross a wooden bridge. From here, ascend steadily, crossing two glacial streams along the way. Enjoy spectacular views of the Larkya Glacier as you hike.

Next, follow the trail through the peaceful Salka Khola Valley. Ascend further to reach Dharamsala, also called Larkya Phedi. Along the route, admire Samdo Peak towering behind you. To your left, spot the Manaslu summit climbing route.

The landscape here is dramatic and truly unforgettable. Finally, settle into your teahouse and rest before tomorrow’s high pass adventure.

Day 19: Trek to Bimtang

Altitude above sea level:Larkya La Pass (5,135 m / 16,847 ft) to Bhimtang (3,590 m / 11,778 ft)
Hiking Duration: Approx. 8–9 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, set out on one of the most challenging days of the trek.

Begin your gradual ascent to a small valley north of the Larkya Glacier. Take in mesmerizing views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak along the way. Continue across glacial moraines as the trail steadily climbs toward the pass.

The final ascent becomes steeper, but the mountain views are incredibly rewarding. At Larkya La Pass, marvel at peaks like Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.Spend a moment soaking in the stunning panoramic landscape.

Then, begin your descent from the high pass into misty alpine pastures. Manaslu towers in the distance, making the descent even more spectacular. The trail winds down through rocky terrain and into greener valleys.

Finally, arrive at Bhimtang, a tranquil village surrounded by peaks and meadows. Settle into your lodge and rest after a long but unforgettable day.

Day 20: Trek to Tilche

Altitude above sea level: 1,900 m / 6,233 ft. -Tilche
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hours (approx.)
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin the day with a downhill hike alongside the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross a wooden bridge and enter a lush rhododendron forest. The trail follows a narrow valley, rich in flora and scenic beauty.

Reach Karche, the highest cultivated land in the valley. Continue along the riverbank, enjoying views of quiet villages and terraced fields. Pass through the peaceful village of Gho, a perfect rest stop. From Gho, trek further to reach Tilche, a charming Gurung settlement.

Tilche welcomes you with a warm atmosphere and traditional architecture. Enjoy your evening with hearty food and reflections on the journey so far.

Day 21: Drive to Bandipur

Altitude above sea level: 1,030 m / 3,379 ft. -Bandipur
Driving Duration: 4 hours (approx.)
Accommodation: The Old Inn or similar
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before leaving the mountains behind. Begin your scenic drive towards Bandipur, a hilltop town rich in culture.

Bandipur is a hidden gem nestled in central Nepal. The cobbled streets are lined with traditional wooden Newari houses.

Wander through Bandipur Bazaar and admire its timeless charm. Be inspired by the artistic buildings and local lifestyle. Locals live simply but radiate warmth and happiness.

Take the rest of the day to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 22: Drive back to Kathmandu

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft.- Kathmandu
Driving Duration: 4–5 hours (approx.)
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After a hearty breakfast, begin your drive back to Kathmandu. Enjoy scenic views as you descend from the hills.

Upon arrival, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. Take time to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

Reflect on your incredible journey through the Himalayas.

Day 23: Final departure

Meal: Breakfast

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to fly back home, cherishing all the incredible memories of Nepal. A representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Please make sure to check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight for a smooth departure.

Price Included

What's Included

  • Private airport transfers,
  • Private transfer to/from trek point
  • Guided Kathmandu Sightseeing tour with entrance fees
  • 3 nights in Hotel Tibet or similar with breakfast
  • 1 night in The Old Inn or similar in Bandipur with breakfast
  • Tea house lodge during the trek on full board
  • Conservation fee & Restricted Area permit,
  • Staff insurance on the trek,
  • Trek guide & porter/s
  • Duffel bag
  • Map

What's not Included

  • Additional tours and meals that are not mentioned,
  • Beverages
  • Personal equipment
  • Visa fee: US$ 30 for 15 days and US$ 50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days for multiple entries
  • Insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects), Liability insurance
  • Tips

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Affiliations & Recommendations

Tsum Valley Trek (GHT)