Tsum Valley Trek takes you to one of the most remote Himalayan valleys which lie on the backdrop of Ganesh Himal. The word ‘Tsum’ literally means vivid, as one can vividly see the picturesque panorama, lush green vegetation, and unique local culture that very much resembles Tibetan culture, as this valley used to be an important junction for trade with Tibet.
The indigenous people that inhabit this region are quite unique in their culture, dialect, art, and ways of living and those rare visitors who make it to this valley will surely be able to have a unique experience. The element of adventure will never leave you as you will be venturing into a land that is relatively untouched!
Tsum Valley Trekking region was opened very recently, in 2008. Thus, visiting this place is very different from trekking to other well-known routes that the Himalayas has to offer. This region is still pristine, less crowded, and the fact that you can see and experience the continuation of an ancient culture that still imbibes the lifestyle of people is quite astounding.
This mystical place is believed to be where ancient Tibetan sage Milarepa meditated when he was on his mission to spread the ethos of Buddhism in his lifetime. One will see religious relics that are unique to this place, carved on the stones, Chortens, Mani walls, and Gumpas all around. Any form of animal slaughter, hunting, or fishing is not allowed in this region as this hidden gem of a place lives and breathes Buddhist spirituality.
The Tsum Valley is surrounded by the Buddha Himal and Himal Chuli to the west, Ganesh Himal to the south, and Sringi Himal to the North. Tsum valley trek lies in the Manaslu region. The attractive views of Himalchuli (7893m), Manaslu (8163m), Ganesh Himal, and NgadiChuli (7879m). Apart from these majestic mountain ranges, the diverse flora and fauna and very warm hospitality of local people will make for an unforgettable experience.
The Tsum Valley Trek trip starts from Arughat also the start point of Manaslu Trek, which is about 8 hour of drive from Kathmandu and we hike towards Macchakhola and then to Jagat passing through the hills, rice fields, and local villages. Once we leave the main Manaslu Circuit Trek and enter the valley, beautiful Rhododendron forests will greet us. Once you are in the valley, you have a choice of homestay at tea houses or camping.
Tsum Valley Trek Brief Itinerary
Days | Description | Destination | Altitude |
01 | Arrive in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel | Kathmandu | 1400m |
02 | Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation | Kathmandu | 1400m |
03 | Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola | Soti Khola | 710m |
04 | Trek to Machha Khola | Machha Khola | 920m |
05 | Maccha Khola to Jagat | Jagat | 2340m/7676ft |
06 | Jagat to Lokpa | lokpa village. | 2,040m/6,692ft |
07 | Lokpa to Chumling | Chumling | 2,386m/ 7,828 feet |
08 | Chumling to Chokhangparo | Chokhangparo | 3,010m/9,903ft |
09 | Trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile | Nile | 3,361m/11,026ft |
10 | Trek from the Nile to Mu Gompa, visit Dhephyudonma Gompa (4,060m/13,320ft) | Mu Gompa | 3,700m/12,139ft |
11 | Trek from Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa. | Rachen Gompa | 3,240m/10,629ft |
12 | Trek from Rachen Gompa to Gumba Lungdang | Gumba Lungdang | 3,200m/10,498ft |
13 | Trek from Gumba Lungdang to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,200m) | Ganesh Himal Base Camp | 4,200m |
14 | Trek Gumba Lungdang to Lokpa | Lokpa | 2,040m/6,692ft |
15 | Trek from Jagat to Lapu Bensi | Lapu Bensi | 900m/2,952ft |
16 | Drive back to Kathmandu | Kathmandu | 1400m |
17 | Final departure | ———— | ———— |
Tsum Valley Trek Highlights
- Unique Landscape with preserved Buddhist culture.
- Newly open trek trail.
- off the beaten route.
- Meditation cave of famous sage Milarepa.