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Tsum Valley Trek

15 Days
  • 3700m
  • Soti Khola - Arughat
  • Moderate
  • Lodges
  • 5-7 hours
  • Spring (March-May) & Autumn (Sept-Nov

Overview

The Tsum Valley trek is an excellent gateway that takes you on a cultural journey and is famously known as ‘the hidden valley.’ The name itself comes from the Tibetan word ‘Tsombo,’ meaning vivid, which perfectly encapsulates your trekking experience.

You will get a warm welcome by snowy peaks like Mt. Ganesh and Manaslu. From the first day of the trek itself, the rocky terrains and stone ridges will add the challenge and thrill you’ve been seeking. The swift-flowing rivers and the gushing waterfalls will dot your journey as you weave into thick oak and pine forests and out to terraced farmlands.

The trek itself will include 13 days of walking and 15 days in total. It will also take you to the natural hot springs of Tatopani, where you can enjoy a hot soak that promises unparalleled relaxation. Walking alongside cliffs and tackling the ever-changing landscape beneath you, you are sure to have a trekking experience that you won’t be able to forget easily.

If natural beauty is not stunning enough, this trip offers places of huge spiritual and cultural significance. Whether it is exploring the Pigeon cave or visiting the Mu Gompa, established in 1895 AD, there is never a shortage when it comes to sights. The various gompas along the way have an array of ancient murals and scriptures that will transport you not just physically but through the rich history itself.

The best time for this trek is during Spring and Autumn. This trek is of moderate difficulty, so you don’t need too much trekking experience. However, it is best to avoid trekking during the rainy season for your safety. The skies will also be much clearer and offer a better view during these seasons.

With Nepal Social Trek & Expedition, you can be confident that our trained professionals are fully prepared to guide you in your trails. Whether it is history, culture, or architecture, our guides will be packing along their stories to ensure that you can truly understand the land you will be trekking on. We also have porters and first aid kits handy so that we can ensure that all you have to do is enjoy your trek and marvel at the beauty around you.

For a trip that combines a spiritual, aesthetic, and cultural trekking experience in one, the Tsum Valley Trek is a perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love Tsum Valley Trek!

  • Exploring the hidden valley of Tsum with its rich natural and cultural beauty
  • Magnificent views of Mt. Ganesh and Manaslu
  • Visiting a wide variety of Gompas such as the Rachhen Gompa, Mu Gompa, Mani Dhungyur, Gurwa Gompa, and The Panago Gompa
  • Exploring one of the most sacred caves of the valley, the Piren Phu cave(Pigeon cave)
  • Immersing yourself in the Buddhist culture, art, and history
  • Relaxing and rejuvenating in the natural hot springs of Tatopani

Is Tsum Valley Trek Right For You?

  • The Tsum Valley Trek can be quite demanding. You will be walking for 5-7 hours per day for two weeks. So you need to be mentally and physically prepared.
  • Although this is a moderate difficulty terrain, we recommend maintaining some degree of physical fitness prior to this trip.
  • The lodges in the more remote areas have the necessary amenities. You will have clean, cozy rooms and hygienic food, but you may need to bring any additional materials on your own.
  • The highest elevation on this trek is 3700m. As we will not be crossing very high passes, there is less risk of altitude sickness. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you need to seek medical advice before booking this trek. However, we have a comprehensive first aid kit and a trained staff on board to take care of your safety.
  • The weather can be quite unpredictable. Depending on your travel time, you might want to have preparations for such unforeseeable events.

Permits Required

The following are the permits required for the Tsum Valley trek:

Tsum Valley Trekking Permit

Compared to other trek routes, the Tsum Valley Trekking Permit is super cheap. The costs are as follows:

  • USD 35 per person for the first 8 days from September to November.
  • USD 25 per person for the first 8 days from December to August.
  • USD 30 per person for the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP).

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

This permit is mandatory for all trekkers traveling in Nepal. For this permit, you will need to carry some passport-sized photographs and a photocopy of your passport. The costs are detailed as follows:

  • USD 20 for individual trekkers
  • USD 10 for trekkers in groups
  • USD 6 for individual trekkers from SAARC countries
  • USD 3 for group trekkers from SAARC countries.

Day to Day Itinerary Table – Tsum Valley Trek

DayItineraryAltitude (m)Duration (hours)
1Arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu-
2Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat (Drive)710 - 6709
3Soti Khola to Machha Khola (Trek)8702020-06-07 00:00:00
4Machha Khola to Jagat (Trek)23402020-06-07 00:00:00
5Jagat to Chisopani (Trek)16602020-04-05 00:00:00
6Chisopani to Chumling (Trek)23862020-06-07 00:00:00
7Chumling to Chokhangparo (Trek)30102020-04-05 00:00:00
8Chokhangparo to Nile (Trek)33612020-05-06 00:00:00
9Nile to Mu Gompa (Trek)37003
10Mu Gompa to Burgi Village via Milarepa cave (Trek)32455
11Burgi village to Chumling (Trek)23862020-05-06 00:00:00
12Chumling to Philim (Trek)15702020-06-07 00:00:00
13Philim to Khorla Besi (Trek)9702020-06-07 00:00:00
14Khorla Besi to Soti Khola (Trek)7002020-06-07 00:00:00
15Soti Khola to Arughat (Drive) to Kathmandu6008

Important Notes

  • You might want to carry a universal adapter for your charging needs as we go to more remote places. You can also purchase this in shops at Kathmandu itself.
  • As the weather can be unpredictable, you should pack a down jacket to get comfortable even if it gets cold or rains.
  • ATMs and credit card acceptance are scarce in higher altitudes, so remember to have some cash handy for your purchases.
  • You might need to carry some passport size photographs for your permits along the way.

Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary (15 Days)

Once you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be at your disposal, ready to greet you at the arrival gate. Our staff will be taking you to your respective hotel in Kathmandu, where you can finish the check-in formalities. Once you settle in, our staff will brief you on the outline for the trek. In the evening, you will be joining the rest of the group for an introductory welcome dinner. The first night is all about bonding and resting up.

Highlights

  • Hassle-free airport pick-up and transfer to hotel
  • Short briefing regarding the day-to-day itinerary on the trek

Special Note

Make sure you listen attentively as our tour guide outlines the itinerary for you. You will be gaining insight into the packing list, foods, and what to expect during the trip. The briefing can help you reconfirm whether you have forgotten to pack anything essential. In case you are opting to leave some luggage at the hotel, make sure you double-check your trekking supplies before heading out on the trek.

Dinner
Hotel - 3 Stars

On this day, we will be driving out to Soti Khola. Early morning, we will be heading out for a comfortable drive to Soti Khola. The drive along the well-paved roads of Prithivi Highway will allow you to enjoy a wonderful view. Outside the window, you should see rolling hills and terraced fields that gently transport you from the crowded city.

Once you get to Dhading Besi, the roads might get a little rocky, but that is sure to add to the brewing excitement you will be feeling for your trek. We will be taking multiple breaks for lunch and stretch out your legs now and then. The distant mountains will already give you a glimpse of the mesmerizing views that will follow in the days to come.

You will be seeing small settlements as well as going with the flow of the Budhi Gandaki river. The drive to Soti Khola will take about 9 hours. You will be driven first to Arughat. Soti Khola is simply 2 hours away from here. You can then spend your time stretching your legs and preparing for your trek the next day.

Highlights

  • A comfortable drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola
  • Enjoying the drive through winding roads and leaving the city behind

Special Note

Since you will be on the drive to Soti Khola for 9 hours, we recommend you carry some snacks and entertainment. While the views outside will surely keep your journey from becoming monotonous, it is good to carry some music, podcasts, or books to enjoy your drive.

9 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Early morning, we will be starting our trek. First off, you will be crossing the swift-flowing Soti Khola. Your trek journey will have a fantastic backdrop as well as the soundtrack of a gushing waterfall and river. Trudging on, you will then enter a thick Sal forest. The thin three stumps stretch high above while the branches spread out to provide plenty of shade to keep you cool.

As you trek, you will again hear the familiar splash of the mighty Budhi Gandaki River on your way to Liding. The trails, too, vie for your attention by turning rocky and leading you through small waterfalls as well as cliffs. You will be weaving in and out of forested trails and into terraced rice fields for an all-inclusive experience. Once you reach Labubesi, which is a Gurung village, you will then be climbing up a rocky cliff.

The land under you goes from dirt, to rocky, to sandy, as you once again reach a riverbed and trek across suspension bridges. Following more stone ridges and rocky trails, you will reach Machha Khola after 6-7 hours of walking.

Highlights

  • Trekking alongside and across rivers like Soti Khola and Budhi Gandaki River
  • Navigating lush Sal forests and rocky ridges
  • Crossing suspension bridges over fast-flowing rivers and walking by terraced rice fields for a truly versatile trekking experience

7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will once again be setting out on our trail. Firstly, you will be reaching Tharo Khola, which will lead you to Khorla Besi. From here, you will begin on an incline. You will then be trekking to Tatopani, which translates to ‘hot water.’ Tatopani is a natural hot spring that is sure to help you relax and rejuvenate.

Once we leave Tatopani, the trail will get narrower as you will have to navigate over a ridge. You will be crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river while surrounded by beautiful hills. After trekking through the rocky trails, you will come across a staircase built across a landslide, which will lead you to Doban.

As you ascend, you will be reaching Yaru Khola and once again coming across a stone staircase with a bright array of prayer flags. You will be following these stairs to descend for a while and once again find an incline that leads you to Thado Bharyang. Say hello to the mighty Budhi Gandaki again as you climb over a ridge on the western bank of it. You will be following the flow of this river to reach Jagat. The trek here will take about 6-7 hours of walking.

Highlights

  • Relaxing in the natural hot springs of Tatopani for a naturally refreshing experience
  • Navigating suspension bridges over gushing rivers against a picturesque view
  • Climbing up stone staircases dotted with prayer flags for a unique twist on your rocky trails

7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On this day, you will be heading out to climb over a ridge to reach Salleri. The trail will then descend on to Sirdibas. The narrow trails that you’ve been following will open up a bit as the swift flow of Ghatta Khola welcomes you. You will need to trek upstream and then across a hanging bridge. As you trek on, you will be reaching the Gurung village of Philim. You will be walking across a forest to reach Chisopani after about 4-5 hours of walking.

Highlights

  • Trekking along narrow trails and rocky ridges
  • Only about 4 hours of walking

5 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we will be walking to Ekle Bhatti and crossing a deep and narrow gorge. You will be following the rift and rewarded with stunning views of a big waterfall and tall pine trees. The trail will then descend into Tsum Valley. Here, thick pine and rhododendron forests will welcome you with the majestic views of Boudha Himal and Ganesh Himal cheering you on throughout.

Once you pass Lokpa, you will be walking to Lungwa Khola. The dense forests will envelop you again as you trudge these rocky trails to reach Gumlung. From here, you will be crossing the Syar Khola to reach Chumling village. You will be walking for about 6-7 hours. In the evening, you can explore the surrounding monasteries and gompas such as the Mani Dhungyur, Gurwa Gompa, and The Panago Gompa.

Highlights

  • Thrilling experience walking alongside a deep gorge
  • Trekking through lush pine and rhododendron forests
  • Majestic views of peaks Boudha Himal and Ganesh Himal
  • Visiting gompas like the Mani Dhungyur, Gurwa Gompa, and The Panago Gompa

7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On this day, we will be joining the trail and welcomed by sights of the Ganesh Himal. You will be trekking near the Shiar Khola. As you trek, you will be passing through a Tibetan monastery. You will also see a lot of Tibetan influences in the architecture here. You will be walking 4-5 hours on this day and reaching Chokhangparo, the largest settlement in Tsum valley.

Highlights

  • Appreciating the Tibetan influence on the architecture
  • Mingling with the locals at Chokhangparo

5 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Early morning, we will be heading out towards the village of Nile. First, you will be walking past the Piren Phu cave, which is also famous as the Pigeon cave. It is located right at the foot of a daunting cliff and considered one of the most sacred caves in this valley.

The route that you will be following is quite pleasant. The land is more or less even and dotted with green meadows where you can see local farmers going about their day to day routines. You will be crossing a rope suspension bridge to reach Rachen Gompa. We can take a short detour here to explore this Gompa. Further on, you will be walking by smaller villages like Phurbe and Pangdun.

 

You will be walking past old, historic Buddha Stupas on your way to Chhule. Nile village is only 20 minutes away from here. You will have to climb upstream to get here. This day’s trek will require about 5-6 hours of walking. Once you reach it, you can spend the time exploring nearby monasteries with its murals, artistic scripts, and long stretches of prayer flags.

Highlights

  • Visiting the highly sacred Piren Phu cave
  • Walking along meadows and farmlands and seeing locals in their everyday routines
  • Trekking by gompas like Rachen Gompa that contain ancient murals and scriptures

Special Note

Since we are reaching elevations higher than 3000m on this day, there is some risk of altitude sickness. While the risk differs from person to person, we have our first-aid kit handy. So if any time you feel any strain or shortness of breath, be sure to inform our guide so that they can take the necessary measures to make sure you are safe.

6 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, we will be leaving Nile behind to go towards Mu Gompa. The trail on this day will lead you through various yak pastures. You will be traversing the more arid terrains and might see the local herds grazing away. As you approach the Gompa, you will begin to see rows and rows of chortens.

Mu Gompa is the largest monastery in this region and the highest point in our trek. It is sure to be a pleasant visit as it contains a wealth of cultural history for you to absorb. Established in 1895 AD, this Gompa contains religious books, a life-size statue of Avalokiteshvara, as well as images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara. This day’s trek will only take us about 4 hours.

Highlights

  • Trekking through the dry and barren yak pastures at this elevation
  • Exploring Mu Gompa with its rich historical and cultural significance
  • Only about 4 hours of trekking

Special Note

On this day, we are reaching elevations over 3500m. We will be pacing you slowly with plenty of rests. However, if you still feel any discomfort, notify your guide immediately. Be sure not to push yourself too much and stay hydrated throughout the day.

3 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Once you’ve had your fill immersing yourself in the beauty of Mu Gompa, we will begin our descent. On the way back, you will be taking a slight detour as we will first go to Milarepa cave. This cave is famous for its breathtaking views of the snowy peaks like Kipu Himal, Churke Himal, and Poshyop Glacier. After this, you will be trekking down to the small village of Burgi. This day’s trek will take you about 5 hours of walking.

Highlights

  • Excellent views of peaks like Kipu Himal, Churke Himal, and Poshyop Glacier
  • Exploring the Milarepa cave

5 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On this day, we will be welcomed by greenery as we descend further. You will notice the familiar farmlands and meadows on your way back to the village of Chumling. Trekking past Gho, you will need to cross over the soft-flowing Sarphu Khola. Reaching the lower reaches of the Tsum valley, you will get to Chumling village after about 6-7 hours of walking.

Highlights

  • Descending back to green pastures and meadows
  • Crossing over the soft-flowing Sarphu Khola

6 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Early in the morning, we will be heading out on a fairly flat trail. You will get to enjoy stunning views of the Samba Falls. Once you snap some nice shots and freshen up, you will be joining the trail again as we descend to Philim. This day’s trek will take you 6-7 hours of walking. You can explore the thatched roof settlements and the swinging rope bridge in this settlement in the evening.

Highlights

  • A mesmerizing view of the Samba Falls
  • Immersing yourself in the local lifestyle of Philim village

7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On this day, we will be descending to Sirdibas. The familiar route will take us down to Jagat and then Yaruphant. You will be leaving the dry climate behind as you enter the luscious green vegetation. As you trek on, you will be reaching Doban and further on to Tatopani. Let the hot waters of this natural hot spring relax you as you celebrate your successful trek. Once you are ready to continue, you will be walking to Khorla Besi. This day’s trek will take you about 6-7 hours.

Highlights

  • Relaxing and rejuvenating in the natural hot spring of Tatopani
  • Walking along the familiar pathways filled with greenery

7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we will be crossing the Tharo Khola and following a rocky ravine. The swift-flowing Budhi Gandaki river will be ready to welcome us with its celebratory splash as you reach Maccha Khola village. You will be passing the familiar Labubesi village.

Even as you are near the end of your trek, the sights do not stop coming. With two waterfalls as well as a steep and challenging trail, you will still be trekking cliffside to reach Khursane. As you cross over the Budhi Gandaki, the tall Sal forests will once again eagerly surround you. After walking for about 6-7 hours, you will be crossing a bridge to reach Soti Khola.

Highlights

  • Navigating a rocky ravine, suspension bridges, and uneven trails
  • Rewarding views of waterfalls, forests, and fast-flowing rivers
  • Thrilling cliffside trek to make for an authentic trekking experience

7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

It’s time for the last leg of your journey. You will be following a waterfall and maneuvering ridges to reach Arkhet Khola. Next, we will be reaching Sante Bazaar, where we will briefly be weaving into the forests again. The trek to Arughat will take about 4 hours. Once you reach the Arughat Bazaar, you will notice already how much livelier things have gotten away from the countryside.

From Arughat, we will be driving to Kathmandu. Outside the window, you will be seeing green hills that seem to be chasing along with you as well as with high peaks wishing you adieu. Leaving terraced farms and settlements behind on these well-paved winding roads, you will be reaching Kathmandu. The drive to Kathmandu will take you about 7-8 hours.

Highlights

  • Trekking alongside waterfalls and through forests.
  • Comfortable and scenic drive back to Kathmandu.

8 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tsum Valley Trek Cost

The Cost Include(s)

  • Private Arrival & Departure transfers on both international and domestic flights
  • Assistance for the trekking gears and the shopping for the trekking equipment if required
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Tsum Valley Trekking Permit (USD 35 per person) and TIMS
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during trekking
  • 3-Star Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu on B/B basis
  • Accommodation in camping during trekking
  • All private overland transports included in the itinerary
  • All kitchen teams, including experienced trek Cook and staff
  • Nepal Social Treks Gears – sleeping bag or duffel bag for the use during the trip
  • Professional local guide with extensive experience
  • First Aid Kit Comprehensive
  • Necessary Porters to carry all personal gear and group equipment (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • Insurance for all staff including porters
  • Assistance to evacuation in case of any kind of emergency
  • Tsum Valley Trek map
  • Nepal government tax and service fees

The Cost Exclude(s)

  • Entry visa for Nepal that you can get upon arrival in Kathmandu
  • Any bottled drinks other than tea and coffee
  • Personal insurance if any evacuation is needed during trekking or climbing
  • Any personal gear for trekking
  • International airfare and airport taxes, excess baggage charges
  • Valid Travel Insurance with Medical evacuation in case of emergency
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Additional expenses for batteries, telephones, cold drinks, laundry, and so on.
  • Any tips or gratuities for the staff

FAQs about Tsum Valley Trek

When is the best time to go on the Tsum Valley Trek?

For most treks, including this one, Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to travel. The skies are likely to be much clearer and give you an unobstructed view of the majestic peaks all around you. Especially on this trek, the Ganesh Himal range enveloping you is an excellent sight that you do not want to miss. Similarly, there is less chance of rainfall, so you can trek for long hours without worrying about slippery trails.

If you do decide to go during off-season times, make sure to carry all the additional layers you may need. Also, ensure trekking shoes with plenty of grips and prepare any additional gear that you may need. We recommend carrying water-resistant layers and sturdy, worn-in boots.

What are the accommodations for this trek?

While we are in Kathmandu, our accommodation will be a three-star hotel on a B/B basis. On the trek itself, we will be staying in lodges that are fully prepared to cater to your needs. These lodges will ensure a comfortable bed as well as clean and hygienic food so that there is no compromise.

Do I need any fitness training before going on this Tsum Valley Trek?

Yes. This trail is of moderate difficulty, but we recommend you ensure that you are moderately healthy and living an active lifestyle. You will be walking for 6-7 hours a day, so you might want to ensure that you prepare for this with activities like hiking, cycling, swimming, and jogging. These cardio-oriented activities should help you prepare for the upcoming trek. We recommend at least a month of active physical activity prior to this trek.

Could I get altitude sickness on this trek?

The elevation on this trek does exceed 3000m. While the risk of altitude sickness differs from person to person, there is still a possibility. However, we have designed the itinerary to make sure you can acclimatize properly. Our guides are certified first-aid responders fully trained to take care of you. Furthermore, our first aid kit is also fully equipped to take care of you. We recommend you maintain a steady pace and keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.

Are there provisions for ATMs or credit cards during the trek?

There are many places where you can use your ATM or credit card in Kathmandu. However, as we trek into higher and more remote villages, these facilities are bound to be rare. We advise you to carry the appropriate amount of cash with you to conduct your purchases.

Is it safe to drink tap water during this trek?

We strongly suggest you refrain from drinking tap water as it is likely that your stomach will not have adjusted to the local water just yet. For your safety, only drink bottled water or properly filtered water. Additionally, you should consider carrying water purifying tablets for proper safety.

Do I need to buy travel insurance for this trek?

Yes. We recommend that you purchase insurance in your country before coming on this trek. Nepal Social Treks only covers the insurance for our staff. Please make sure that your insurance covers you for high altitude trekking.

Will there be extra porters available?

Porters are included on our trek package (1 porter per 2 trekkers). If you feel like you need a personal porter help for your bags as you want to focus on the trek and enjoy the view itself, we have got you covered. Typically, a porter can carry about 20kg in weight, which includes their backpack as well.

Trekking Gear List

Trekking Gear List
Tsum valley trek is an easy to moderate trek. Nevertheless, it takes you through uneven trails, inclines, and lush forests. The weather, too, can be unpredictable, so it is in your best interest to prepare yourself for any situation. With this in mind, we have drawn up the following list of trekking gear that you should consider packing:

Breathable trekking shirts, both half and full sleeves
Water and wind-resistant trekking trousers
Comfortable trekking shorts for walking in hot weather
At least one thermal layer for colder conditions
Breathable underwear
Waterproof jacket for unexpected rains
Light fleece jacket for warmer areas
High-quality down jacket in case of extreme weather conditions
Comfortable, worn-in hiking boots
Sandals for leisurely walking
High-quality hiking socks and thermal socks
Sun protection hat
Beanie or headband
Inner and Outer gloves
Good quality sleeping bag
Camera and portable chargers
UV protection sunglasses
Trekking poles
Trekking towels
Water bottle and water purification tablets
Any prescription medications
Headlamp
Spare batteries
Hand sanitizers, sunscreen, lip balm

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Tsum Valley Trek