Overview
Tsum Valley is one of the world’s most remote and isolated Himalayan valleys, located east of Manaslu and on the Tibetan border. Compared to other tourist destinations, the Manaslu region is far less accessible, requiring special permits. The Tsum Valley walk takes people to the enigmatic Tsum Valley, which means “vivid” and is home to the immediate descendant Tibetans (known as Tsumbas). The valley is rich in Tibetan spirituality, breathtakingly beautiful villages, and magnificent Himalayan landscape. It was opened to hikers in 2008. The Tsum Valley trekking route takes you through the breathtaking scenery of the Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and Boudha Himal mountains. This Tsum Valley hike is unique due to its close proximity to Tibet, a lengthy Buddhist tradition, natural beauty, and pure environment.
Trails are adorned with innovative chortens and mani walls constructed of thousands of stone slabs with deities and prayers carved throughout. The Tsum Valley and Manaslu trip begins with a bus ride to Arughat, then follows the rushing Budhi Gandaki River via the Soti Khola, Machha Khola, Jagat, and Ekle Bhatti roads. Following Ekel Bhatti, the path leads northeast through the magnificent Tsum Valley to the settlement of Mu Gompa. After Tsum Valley, the trek continues to Manaslu Larke Pass (5,106 m) before descending to Bumthang, Tilche, and Dharapani. Simple guesthouses can be found all along the trail, and you can pick between camping and staying at the teahouses/guesthouses.
Top Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek
- Stunning Mountain Views
- Unique Tibetan Culture
- Serene and Remote Landscapes
- Traditional Villages
Itinerary
You will arrive in Kathmandu valley at the Tribhuvan International Airport, and our agents from Gravity Expedition will be there to pick you up. They will take you to your hotel, where you can rest and enjoy a delicious and traditional Nepali meal. In the evening, you have the option to attend a fascinating folk cultural performance.
Following breakfast the following morning, you will go for a full-day sightseeing trip of the Kathmandu Valley. You may see Swyambhunath, a very old temple that is essentially classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the revered Pashupatinath Temple.
Highlights of our guided trip include the largest Buddhist stupa at Boudhanath and the exquisite artwork and old architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square, which showcase the ancient culture of Nepal.
Patan City’s historic architecture and renowned fine arts will charm you on a visit. You will have time to explore the neighborhood, eat supper, and maybe take a leisurely stroll down the well-known streets when you get back to your hotel. A traditional Nepalese dinner at the Nepali Cultural Restaurant rounds off the day.
This adventure to the Manaslu Circuit begins in Arughat, a large town within the district of Gorkha near the Buri-Gandaki River. The drive passes through farm villages and towns as it approaches Arughat. From here, take a jeep or other vehicle for a few hours on a remote road to Soti-Khola, a small rural community adjacent to the Soti-khola, for an overnight stay.
Our first day’s journey begins at Soti-Khola and continues upstream along the Buri Gandaki River, passing Nuali-khola with fantastic waterfall views before arriving at Machha-Khola for the night. Machha-Khola translates to “stream with fishes.
Cross the bridge and go through the stunning Sal woodlands before climbing to a peak above the Budhi Gandaki’s massive rapids. The rocky road then winds up and down, passing two tropical waterfalls on a steep, rocky trail that clings to the side of a cliff. It finally descends and passes a few rice terraces before ascending and turning around to reach the Gurung settlement of Labubesi.
Climb behind a rocky ridge, where the valley widens and the Budhi Gandaki flows between huge gravel bars. Drop to the sandy riverbed and walk around rounded stones before ascending a side ridge. Return to the river and go to Machha Khola village. Overnight in Machha Khola.
The narrow trail has several minor ups and downs before crossing the Tharo Khola, which flows in a rocky gorge and eventually leads to Khorlabesi. After a few more ups and downs, there is a little trailside hotspring from which we may reach Tatopani. From the hot spring, we ascend another ridge before crossing the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge.
Climb a wide, well-crafted staircase, then over a landslide and over a ridge to reach Dobhan. After crossing a suspension bridge across the Dobhan Khola, the trail leads to Duman over a difficult trail. Ascending again to the Budhi Gandaki, we arrive at Yaru Khola. We cross a suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola and climb the stone stairs before dropping to the river again climb more stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang.
Cross to the west side of the Budhi Gandaki, ascend over a ridge, hike along the river, and then climb to Jagat.
After finishing the ACAP protocol, we climb a rough slope to Salleri before descending to Sirdibas. The valley widens slightly as the trail ascends to Ghatta Khola. Continue upstream to a long, modest hanging bridge. Climb up to Philim, a big Gurung settlement. Philim Valley is well-known for its Japanese-made schools and police stations. Walk past Philim to the north through a woodland with views of the shrinking valley to reach Chisopani. Overnight in Chisopani.
After Ekle Bhatti crosses the gorge and a half-hour walk to the right, we can view the large and gorgeous waterfall and enter the pine tree forests. Descend the trail leading to the Tsum Valley. Climb through the pine and rhododendron forest. Lokpa, a small and lovely settlement, offers views of the Himalchuli mountains at 7893m and Boudha Himal.
Pass Lokpa, descend half an hour to Lungwa khola, and then climb a steep track for two hours north through pines and rhododendrons to reach Gumlung. Crossing the Siyar Khola, we arrive at Chumling, from whence we can see Shringi Himal. Visit the historic Chumling Gompa and the village’s stone streets.
Cross the suspension bridge to the opposite bank. Enjoy the stunning views from Ganesh Himal. Walking from Rainjam to Serpu Khola and across another bridge, we arrive at Gho Village. Another 2-hour hike to Tsum brings us to the town of Chhokangparo. Weather permitting, enjoy views of Himalchuli at 7893 meters and Ganesh Himal at 7140 meters. Overnight at Chokhangparo.
While climbing over Chokhangparo, be cautious of altitude difficulties. Walk beyond Lamagaon’s rope suspension bridge to Rachen Gompa, also known as Nunnery Gompa. We make a brief stop and then cross the Shiar Khola. Continue trekking through the well-managed settlements of Lar (micro hydro), Phurbe, and Pangdun.
Leaving the old historic Stupa of Bhudda, travel through the town of Chhule, ascend upstream, and pass the bridge to reach the Nile. If you are interested, we may arrange a tour to the famous monastery of Chhule, which is located at the top of the area.
We are now practically at the Tibetan border. Walk down the valley’s west bank via Tibetan vistas. Climb up to Mu Gompa. We also visit the monastery. Then we pay a visit to the Dhephu Doma Gompa.
Today we take a tour of the entire Mu Gompa Region. Mu Gompa is the region’s largest monastery. The Gompa is located in the highest and most distant region of the Tsum Valley. After exploring the Mu Gompa area, consider heading to the base of Pika Himal (4865m).
Return via Chhule and Phurbe, on the east bank of the Shiar Khola. Finally, we arrive in Burgi village. Burgi is a small, charming village. Climb up to Milarepa’s Cave. Milarepa Cave (piren phu) is famed for its breathtaking views of Poshyop Glacier, Kipu Himal, and Churke Himal.
Continue trekking while admiring the lush greenery of nature before returning to Chhokang Paro. They then continued their descent to Gho. We descend farther and arrive at the bridge over the Sarpu Khola. Trekking down the lower Tsum Valley returns you to Chumling.
The trail continues to Lokpa. After lunch south on a flat trail we move ahead. Enjoy the gorgeous Samba Falls. Finally arrive at Philim after 6 or 7 hours long trekking. A trail passes through the Phillim village that leads to the Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
The trek begins today from Philim to Khorlabesi via Jagat and Tatopani. Descend to Sirdibas and ultimately reach Jagat. A further descent leads us to Yaruphant. The parched Tibetan climate has given place to subtropical green vegetation. Continue walking to Dobhan.
Finally arrive in Tatopani. There is a hot spring in Tatopani. If you want to relieve your tired muscles, you can soak in the hot spring. If not, continue trekking up and down from Tatopani to Khorlabesi, where we will rest for the day.
The trail crosses the Tharo Khola, which flows in a steep ravine. Return to the river and go to Machha Khola village. Walk down the Budhi Gandaki River till you reach the Gurung settlement of Labubesi. A steep rocky trail on the side of a cliff leads past the two waterfalls. We then get to Khursane. Walk over the ridge above Budhi Gandaki, across the Sal trees. Finally, cross the bridge to reach Soti Khola.
Climb to the ridge of Kyorpani. Descend to the cascading waterfall. Trekking farther leads to Arkhet. Cross the Arkhet Khola. We’re currently leaving the Budhi Gandaki Valley.
Arrive at Sante Bazaar and travel through the jungle to Maltar. Finally, after passing by the hydropower plant and following the stone streets, we arrive at the Arughat Bazar. Return to Kathmandu via the banks of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers, with stunning views of verdant hills, mountains, farming terraces, and villages on both sides of the road. The trek takes four hours and the driving takes seven to eight hours. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Leisure day in Kathmandu, followed by a farewell meal and celebration. You can ask your guide to take you on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. On this day, you can visit the valley’s numerous museums, including the Narayanhiti Museum, which was previously the residence of Nepal’s last king. You can also visit the hilltop of Nagarkot. After exploring the valley’s world heritage sites, you will enjoy a farewell supper with your Nepali friends and guide. You and your guide may even decide to extend your stay to include a Chitwan jungle safari, rafting activities, and other activities.
Our representative of Gravity Expedition will accompany you to Tribhuvan International Airport as you prepare to board your flight back home. While you travel home, you can start thinking about your next adventure here in Nepal, and rest assured that Gravity Expedition will be there to provide excellent service for your future endeavors.

Map
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel transfers
- 4 nights Kathmandu in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- A full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu valley including tour guide, Transportations and entrance fees
- Transportation cost both of trip
- Food and Accommodation during trekking (full board service – breakfast, lunch and dinner + hot water)
- An experienced English speaking trekking guide and Sherpa porters to carry luggage including their salary, insurance, equipment, transportation, food and lodging
- All necessary paper works (National Park Fee )
- TIMS (card)
- Travel and rescue arrangement
- Insurance for Nepali Staff
- Special Welcome and Farewell Dinner.
Cost Excludes
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
- Personal trekking and climbing gear
- Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast and farewell dinner)
- Alcohol and Beverages during the trek and climbing season
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, shower etc.)
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & any medical costs,
- Any other expenses that are not included in Cost Includes.
FAQs
Nestled between the Ganesh Himal and the Sringi Himal, this valley is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique Tibetan-influenced culture. The trek takes you through lush forests, traditional Tibetan villages, and ancient monasteries, offering a rare glimpse into the way of life of the Tsumba people. Its isolation from more frequented trekking areas contributes to its pristine environment and authentic cultural experiences.
The Tsum Valley Trek is considered moderate to challenging. It involves trekking at altitudes that can exceed 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) and navigating diverse terrain, including steep ascents and descents. While the trek is accessible to those with a reasonable level of fitness and some trekking experience, it requires stamina and proper acclimatization. The journey’s remote nature also means that physical and mental preparedness is crucial.
Key highlights of the Tsum Valley Trek include the stunning scenery of the Tsum Valley, with its terraced fields, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The trek also offers a chance to explore traditional Tibetan villages, such as Chhekampar and Nile, where you can experience local customs and hospitality. Visiting monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa provides insight into the region’s religious practices and spiritual heritage.
Food on the Tsum Valley Trek typically consists of traditional Nepali and Tibetan dishes. You can enjoy meals such as dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momo (dumplings), noodle soups, and various vegetable curries. Some teahouses may also offer a selection of Western-style dishes. The food is designed to be nutritious and energy-rich, supporting you through the physically demanding trek.
Preparation for high-altitude trekking involves acclimatization, physical conditioning, and appropriate gear. Follow a gradual ascent schedule to allow your body to adjust to higher altitudes. Engage in cardiovascular and strength training exercises to build endurance and prepare for the trek’s physical demands. Equip yourself with warm, layered clothing, a high-quality sleeping bag, and trekking poles. Staying hydrated, eating well, and following your guide’s advice are crucial for managing high-altitude conditions effectively.
If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, inform your trekking agency well in advance. Most agencies can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian or vegan diets or allergies to certain foods. Communicate your requirements to your guide at the start of the trek to ensure suitable food arrangements. Bringing along some specialized food items or snacks can also be useful to meet your dietary needs throughout the trek.
Equipments
1.0 Travel Documents
- Valid passport
- Credit/Debit card
- Passport size photo (6 pieces)
- Insurance paper and contact address
- Family contact number
2.0 Upper Body Wear
- Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs)
- Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Gore-Tex Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Down Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Cotton T-Shirt (2 Pcs)
3.0 Lower Body Wear
- Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs)
- Fleece Trouser (1pcs)
- Gore-Tex Pant (1 pcs)
- Mid Weight Pants (1Pcs)
- Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants (2-3 Pairs)
- Gaiters for trekking boots
4.0 Headwear
- Sun Cap
- Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs)
- Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs)
5.0 Handwear
- Thin fleece gloves
- Wind stopper/screen tap gloves
6.0 Footwear
- Normal Socks (2-3 Pairs)
- Trekking Shoes (Gore-Tex)
- Slipper (1 Pair)
7.0 Sleeping Bags
- Sleeping bag -20°c to -30°c for Base camp
- Down Sleeping Bag -40°c for extreme comfort
- Thermarests Mattress (Cell foam)
- Sleeping bag Liner
- Inflatable Pillow
8.0 Trekking Equipment
- Power Bank
- Pee Bottle
- Altimeter watch
- Pocket Knife
- Walking Stick/Trekking Pole
- Satellite Phone with credit
- Battery
- Headlight 500-700Lumens
- Spare Tape Slings/240cm
- Unlock Carabiner
- Lock Carabiner
9.0 Bag packs
- Rucksacks 35 L -50 L
10.0 Sun stuff
- Banana Boat/ Nivea Sun Cream (-20 Spf)
- Lip Guard -20 (Spf)
- Sun Glasses (Uv Protection)
11.0 Toiletries (Personal)
- Toilet Paper / Wet Tissue
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Towel
- Garbage Bag
12.0 Eating & Drinkings
- 1 ltr. Water Bottle
- 1/1.5ltr. Thermos Mug (Opt.)
- Spoon / Fork (opt.)
- Bowl (opt.)
13.0 Medical / First Aid
- Brufen / Ibuprofens
- Antibiotic
- Diamox
- Paracetamol
- Handy Plaster
- Crack Bandage
- Tincture Iodine
- Ondem
- Cetirizine
- Electrolyte
- Minil 10mg (Palpitation, anxiety)
- Codopar (Headache & chest pain)
- Salbetol 4mg (Breathless)
- Azithromycin 500mg (chronic tonsillitis, fever, nose, throat infection-must take 5 days)
- Flupen 250mg (prevent wound infection)
- Allegra 120/180mg (Allergic tonsil)
- Menstrual Products
14.0 Miscellaneous
- Nail cutter
- Umbrella /Raincoat
- Hot water bag
- Camera
- Trails Maps
- GPS Tracker (Recommended)
- Hand & Toe Warmer
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