An incredible hike with an amazing group of people. Badri managed to get us in and out of Lukla on days when we thought flights may not be possible and he tried his very best to accommodate the needs of the group. The team of porters supporting Karen Darke were out of this world and did an incredible job, with big smiles. Wonderful people. The trek itself was incredible and we had fantastic weather during the whole trip. Although the ‘B Team’ snail ed it, we had an excellent adventure thanks to Badri and his very supportive team.
Travel Nepal
Himalayas Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Tsum Valley Trek – 13 Days
The Tsum Valley Trek is a beautiful 13-day restricted-area trekking package in Nepal that takes you into one of the most peaceful and culturally rich hidden valleys of the Manaslu region. Known as a sacred Himalayan valley, Tsum Valley is famous for Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, traditional stone villages, prayer flags, mani walls, deep gorges, waterfalls, and mountain views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Himalchuli, and the Manaslu region.
This 13-day Tsum Valley Trek begins in Kathmandu and follows the Budhi Gandaki river valley toward Machha Khola, Jagat, Lokpa, Chumling, Chhokangparo, Nile, and Mu Gompa. The highest main point of this itinerary is Mu Gompa, commonly listed around 3,700m / 12,139ft, making this trek lower than many high-pass treks but still remote and adventurous. Trekking operators commonly describe Tsum Valley as a remote sacred valley with important places such as Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Milarepa Cave, Chumling, Chhokangparo, and Nile.
The trek is ideal for travelers who want a quiet cultural journey rather than a crowded trekking route. The trail passes through forests, suspension bridges, cliffs, riverside paths, terraced fields, Buddhist villages, monasteries, and remote mountain settlements. The Tsum Valley Trek is especially suitable for trekkers who want to experience untouched Himalayan culture, spiritual atmosphere, and peaceful mountain scenery.
The Tsum Valley Trek – 13 Days is suitable for active beginners with preparation, cultural travelers, photographers, nature lovers, spiritual travelers, and international trekkers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide who want a guided restricted-area trek with local experts.
Why Choose Tsum Valley Trek?
The Tsum Valley Trek is a perfect choice for travelers who want to explore a hidden Himalayan valley with deep culture and peaceful trekking trails. Unlike the busier Everest, Annapurna, or Langtang trekking routes, Tsum Valley offers a quieter and more traditional mountain experience.
The main attraction of the trek is the journey into the upper Tsum Valley, where you can visit Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Milarepa Cave, and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages. The route gives a strong cultural and spiritual feeling because Buddhism is deeply connected with daily life in the valley.
This trek is ideal for travelers looking for:
• A 13-day Nepal trekking package
• A guided Tsum Valley Trek in the Manaslu region
• A restricted-area trekking experience in Nepal
• A peaceful alternative to busier trekking routes
• A cultural trek through Tibetan Buddhist villages
• Ancient monasteries such as Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa
• A route through Chumling, Chhokangparo, Nile, and Mu Gompa
• Mountain views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Himalchuli, and Manaslu region peaks
• A moderate trek without crossing a high mountain pass
• A remote tea house trekking experience
• A package for travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide
Tsum Valley Trek Highlights
• Explore the sacred hidden Tsum Valley in the Manaslu region
• Visit Mu Gompa, one of the most important monasteries in upper Tsum Valley
• Visit Rachen Gompa, a beautiful nunnery and cultural landmark
• Explore Milarepa Cave, connected with the great Tibetan Buddhist saint Milarepa
• Walk through Chumling, Chhokangparo, Nile, Chhule, Lokpa, Jagat, and Machha Khola
• Enjoy mountain views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Himalchuli, and surrounding peaks
• Experience Tibetan Buddhist culture, prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and monasteries
• Trek through deep river gorges, forests, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and terraced fields
• Enjoy a peaceful and less-crowded trekking route
• Stay in local tea houses and mountain lodges
• Trek inside the Manaslu Conservation Area
• Experience one of Nepal’s best cultural trekking routes
Best Time for Tsum Valley Trek
The best time for the Tsum Valley Trek is spring and autumn.
Spring, from March to May, is a beautiful season for this trek. The weather is generally warmer, the lower forests may be green and colorful, and the mountain views are often clear in the morning. This is also a good time for travelers who enjoy nature, village life, and comfortable trekking temperatures.
Autumn, from September to November, is the most popular trekking season in Nepal. After the monsoon, the sky is usually clearer, the air feels fresh, and the mountain views are sharp. Autumn is also a good season for photography, cultural travel, and stable trekking conditions.
The trek can also be done in December and February with proper warm clothing, but nights can be very cold in higher villages such as Chhokangparo and Nile. Monsoon season from June to August is less recommended because rain, landslides, clouds, leeches, and slippery trails can affect the lower Budhi Gandaki valley.
Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty
The Tsum Valley Trek is a moderate trek. It does not require technical climbing skills or high-pass crossing, but trekkers should be ready for long walking days, stone steps, suspension bridges, forest trails, rocky paths, uphill and downhill walking, and basic tea house accommodation.
The highest main point of this itinerary is Mu Gompa at around 3,700m / 12,139ft. This altitude is lower than treks such as Annapurna Circuit, Everest Base Camp, or Manaslu Larke Pass, but altitude can still affect some trekkers. Proper pacing, hydration, warm clothing, and following your guide’s advice are important.
This trek is suitable for active beginners with preparation, but the route is remote. Trekkers should have good fitness and be comfortable walking around 5 to 7 hours per day.
Tsum Valley Trek Permits
The Tsum Valley Trek is a restricted-area trek, so trekkers need special permits and must travel with proper guided arrangements. Nepal’s Department of Immigration states that trekkers in restricted areas should apply through authorized trekking agencies, must trek in a group of at least two people, and must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide.
For the Tsum Valley restricted area, the Department of Immigration route-and-fee page lists the area as Sirdibas–Lokpa–Chumling–Chekampar–Nile–Chule, Chumnubri Rural Municipality ward nos. 3, 6 and 7. The official fee listed there is USD 40 per person per week from September to November, plus USD 7 per person per day beyond one week; and USD 30 per person per week from December to August, plus USD 7 per person per day beyond one week.
The trek also lies inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, so trekkers need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit / MCAP. NTNC’s official e-permit page lists the conservation area entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included, and says the entry permit must be carried during the entire trip.
Nepal Tourism Board also lists Tsum Valley Trek under the Manaslu Region routes where a licensed guide and trekking-agency-issued TIMS Card are required under the revised TIMS provision. NTB lists the TIMS charge as NPR 1,000 for SAARC applicants and NPR 2,000 for others.
Your trekking agency should arrange the restricted-area permit, MCAP, TIMS Card, licensed guide, transportation, accommodation, and full trekking logistics before the journey begins.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
• Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
• Day 03: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
• Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa
• Day 05: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling
• Day 06: Trek from Chumling to Chhokangparo
• Day 07: Trek from Chhokangparo to Nile via Milarepa Cave
• Day 08: Hike to Mu Gompa and Return to Nile
• Day 09: Trek from Nile to Chumling via Rachen Gompa
• Day 10: Trek from Chumling to Jagat via Lokpa and Philim
• Day 11: Trek from Jagat to Machha Khola
• Day 12: Drive from Machha Khola to Kathmandu
• Day 13: Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. You can rest after your international flight and prepare for your Tsum Valley Trek.
In the evening, there will be a short trip briefing. Your trekking guide will explain the route, walking hours, restricted-area permit rules, accommodation, meals, weather conditions, packing list, altitude safety, and important trekking information.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Welcome Dinner
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
After breakfast, you will begin the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The road follows rivers, hills, terraced fields, local towns, and countryside landscapes.
The drive passes through Dhading Besi, Arughat, Arkhet, Soti Khola, and rural settlements before reaching Machha Khola. The road can be rough in some sections, especially after leaving the main highway, but the journey gives a good introduction to the lower Manaslu region.
• Altitude: Machha Khola – approx. 870m / 2,854ft
• Drive Time: Approx. 7–9 hours depending on road condition
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 03: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
After breakfast, the walking journey begins. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley and passes through narrow paths, small villages, forested sections, waterfalls, and suspension bridges.
You will pass places such as Khorlabesi, Tatopani, Dobhan, and Yaru Bagar before reaching Jagat. Jagat is a beautiful stone-paved village and an important checkpoint area for the Manaslu and Tsum Valley routes. This day gives a good mix of river scenery, village life, and lower Himalayan landscapes.
• Altitude: Jagat – approx. 1,340m / 4,396ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa
After breakfast, you will continue along the Budhi Gandaki valley. The trail passes through villages, forests, terraced fields, and suspension bridges. You will walk through areas such as Salleri, Sirdibas, Philim, and Ekle Bhatti before turning toward the Tsum Valley trail.
Lokpa is the gateway to Tsum Valley. From here, the route leaves the main Manaslu trail and heads toward the hidden valley. The atmosphere becomes quieter, and the route starts to feel more remote and spiritual.
• Altitude: Lokpa – approx. 2,240m / 7,349ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling
Today, you will enter the lower Tsum Valley. The trail descends and climbs through forested slopes, narrow paths, river valleys, and beautiful suspension bridges.
As you approach Chumling, you can begin to feel the Tibetan Buddhist influence of the valley. Chumling is a peaceful village with traditional houses, prayer flags, mani walls, and mountain views. You can explore the village and visit local monasteries if time allows.
• Altitude: Chumling – approx. 2,386m / 7,828ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 06: Trek from Chumling to Chhokangparo
After breakfast, you will trek from Chumling toward Chhokangparo, also written as Chhekamparo or Chhokang Paro. The trail passes through beautiful villages, cultivated fields, small monasteries, prayer walls, and open valley landscapes.
As you gain altitude, the valley becomes wider and the mountain scenery becomes more impressive. Chhokangparo is one of the main villages of upper Tsum Valley and offers excellent views of Ganesh Himal and surrounding peaks on a clear day.
• Altitude: Chhokangparo – approx. 3,010m / 9,875ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 07: Trek from Chhokangparo to Nile via Milarepa Cave
Today, you will continue deeper into upper Tsum Valley. The trail passes through Tibetan-style settlements, stone houses, chortens, mani walls, and open highland scenery.
On the way, you can visit Milarepa Cave, a sacred meditation site connected with the famous Tibetan Buddhist yogi Milarepa. The trail then continues through villages such as Phurbe and Pangdun before reaching Nile or nearby Chhule. Nile is one of the last major settlements before Mu Gompa.
• Altitude: Nile – approx. 3,360m / 11,024ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 08: Hike to Mu Gompa and Return to Nile
Today is one of the most important days of the Tsum Valley Trek. After breakfast, you will hike from Nile toward Mu Gompa, one of the most sacred and remote monasteries in upper Tsum Valley.
The trail climbs gradually through highland landscapes, yak pastures, dry slopes, and wide mountain scenery. Mu Gompa is located near the northern end of the valley, close to the Tibetan border region. From the monastery area, you can enjoy a peaceful spiritual atmosphere and views of the surrounding mountains.
After exploring Mu Gompa, you will return to Nile for overnight stay. If time, weather, and group condition allow, your guide may also include a short visit toward Dhephyudonma Gompa or nearby viewpoints.
• Altitude: Mu Gompa – approx. 3,700m / 12,139ft; Nile – approx. 3,360m / 11,024ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours round trip
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 09: Trek from Nile to Chumling via Rachen Gompa
After breakfast, you will begin the return journey from Nile. The trail descends through upper Tsum Valley villages, mani walls, chortens, and open landscapes.
On the way, you can visit Rachen Gompa, an important nunnery and spiritual center in the valley. After exploring the monastery area, you will continue descending toward Chhokangparo and then Chumling. This is a longer walking day, but the route gives one more beautiful experience of Tsum Valley’s culture and scenery.
• Altitude: Chumling – approx. 2,386m / 7,828ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Trek from Chumling to Jagat via Lokpa and Philim
After breakfast, you will leave Chumling and descend toward Lokpa. The trail returns through forested slopes, suspension bridges, and peaceful valley scenery.
From Lokpa, you will rejoin the main Manaslu route and continue toward Philim, Sirdibas, and Jagat. The scenery changes again from the high cultural valley to lower villages, green hills, and river trails. Jagat is a comfortable overnight stop before descending back toward Machha Khola.
• Altitude: Jagat – approx. 1,340m / 4,396ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Trek from Jagat to Machha Khola
After breakfast, you will trek back from Jagat toward Machha Khola. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River and passes through villages, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and rocky paths.
You will pass through Yaru Bagar, Dobhan, Tatopani, and Khorlabesi before reaching Machha Khola. This is the final full walking day of the Tsum Valley Trek. After arrival, you can rest and enjoy your last night in the lower Manaslu region.
• Altitude: Machha Khola – approx. 870m / 2,854ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Drive from Machha Khola to Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will drive back from Machha Khola to Kathmandu. The road follows the lower Budhi Gandaki valley, rural villages, terraced fields, hills, and river landscapes.
The drive can be long and bumpy, depending on road and weather conditions. After arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you can enjoy a farewell dinner and share your Tsum Valley Trek memories with the team.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Drive Time: Approx. 7–9 hours depending on road condition
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Final Departure
Your 13 Days Tsum Valley Trek ends today. Our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.
You can also extend your stay in Nepal with Manaslu Circuit Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Kathmandu sightseeing, Pokhara tour, Chitwan jungle safari, rafting trip, Bhutan tour, or Tibet tour.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Not Included
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Cost Details
Cost Includes
• Airport arrival and departure transfer
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
• Restricted-area permit assistance for Tsum Valley
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit assistance
• TIMS Card assistance as per current rules
• Tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek
• Breakfast in Kathmandu
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days
• Licensed trekking guide
• Trekking staff support as per group size
• Porter support as per package policy
• Kathmandu to Machha Khola transfer
• Machha Khola to Kathmandu transfer
• Basic first aid support
• Restricted-area trekking support
• High-altitude safety guidance
• Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
• Government taxes and official service charges as per package policy
Cost Excludes
• International airfare
• Nepal visa fee
• Travel insurance
• Personal trekking equipment
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu unless mentioned
• Drinks, snacks, hot shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and personal expenses during trek
• Tips for guide, porter, and trekking staff
• Extra hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, road delay, weather condition, or itinerary change
• Additional cost caused by landslide, political strike, road blockage, natural disaster, or weather condition
• Emergency rescue, medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, or insurance claim cost
• Extra restricted-area permit cost caused by itinerary extension
• Any cost not mentioned in the Cost Includes section
FAQ
Tsum Valley Trek
Is Tsum Valley Trek good for beginners?
Yes, the Tsum Valley Trek can be suitable for active beginners with good fitness and preparation. It is not a technical climb and does not cross a high mountain pass, but the route is remote and includes long walking days.
How many days is this Tsum Valley Trek package?
This is a 13-day Tsum Valley Trek package including arrival in Kathmandu, drive to Machha Khola, trekking through Tsum Valley, Mu Gompa visit, return to Kathmandu, and final departure.
How high is Mu Gompa?
Mu Gompa is commonly listed around 3,700 meters / 12,139 feet above sea level. It is the main high point and cultural highlight of this 13-day itinerary.
What is the best time for Tsum Valley Trek?
The best time for Tsum Valley Trek is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. These seasons usually offer better weather, clearer mountain views, and more comfortable trekking conditions.
What mountains can I see during Tsum Valley Trek?
You can see Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Himalchuli, Boudha Himal, and other peaks of the Manaslu region depending on weather and route section.
Is Tsum Valley Trek difficult?
The Tsum Valley Trek is moderate. The trail includes uphill and downhill walking, river valleys, suspension bridges, rocky paths, forest trails, and remote villages. Good fitness and steady walking are important.
Do I need a special permit for Tsum Valley Trek?
Yes. Tsum Valley is a restricted trekking area. Trekkers need a special restricted-area permit arranged through an authorized trekking agency. The Department of Immigration lists the Tsum Valley restricted route and seasonal permit fees for this area.
Is a guide required for Tsum Valley Trek?
Yes. Nepal’s Department of Immigration states that restricted-area trekkers should trek in a group of at least two people and be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide.
Do I need MCAP for Tsum Valley Trek?
Yes. The trek lies inside the Manaslu Conservation Area, so trekkers need the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit / MCAP. NTNC lists the conservation area entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover trekking, medical treatment, emergency rescue, road delays, and helicopter evacuation if needed.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation during the trek is mainly in local tea houses and mountain lodges. Facilities are basic but comfortable. In Kathmandu, accommodation is arranged in a hotel.
Can travelers from USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe book this trek?
Yes. Travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide can book this Tsum Valley Trek as a private guided package or group joining package depending on travel dates and permit rules.
Can I book a private Tsum Valley Trek?
Yes. This package can be arranged as a private guided trek depending on your travel date, budget, fitness level, and group size. Because Tsum Valley is restricted, your trekking agency must arrange the required permits and licensed guide.
Can I customize this 13-day Tsum Valley Trek?
Yes. The itinerary can be customized. You can add Kathmandu sightseeing, extend to Manaslu Circuit Trek, add extra acclimatization days, visit Gumba Lungdang, include Ganesh Himal Base Camp side trip, or make the route slower for comfort.
Cost & Date
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|
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Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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USD 790Per Person
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An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.