Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek
Background
Tsum Valley is one of the least traversed trekking trails inside Nepal. The restricted region opened for trekking as recent as 2008. It is a popular discreet destination amongst many international trekkers. Tsum valley offers an authentic Tibetan lifestyle, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage trail, and beautiful Buddhist Monasteries. It can provide an adventurous and solitary outdoor experience.
The influence of Tibetan culture and language is massive in the Tsum Valley. The name itself derived from the Tibetan word “Tsombo,” meaning vivid. The trek begins along the lower Tsum Valley, also known as Chumche. It advances into the rugged and snowcapped Upper Tsum valley or Chhekampar. Trek through the famous Buddhist pilgrimage route to Kyimu Lung and enjoy the magnificent mountainous panorama comprising of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal.
The exciting offbeat trek begins with a scenic drive to Arughat in Gorkha District. You’ll start trekking along with the lush green forests and traditional villages towards Chumche or Lower Tsum Valley. Observe the rich culture, ethnic cuisine, and unique occupations of people living in remote communities such as Soti Khola, Machha Khola, and Jagat. The trail rises through Chhokang Paro and Nile towards Mu Gompa, the largest Buddhist monastery in the region. The beautiful monastery lies inside the Kyimu Lung pilgrimage route that upholds the legend of Buddhist Saint Milarepa. Here on, you’ll begin descending through Tibetan-styled villages while observing the unique lifestyle of “Tsumbas,” the natives of Tsum valley. Catch the beautiful sights of snowcapped Ganesh Himal, Sringi, and Boudha Himal ranges en route to Soti Khola. The trek concedes at Arughat, followed by a scenic road journey alongside Budi Gandaki River and Trishuli River towards Kathmandu.
Book Tsum Valley trek with Himalaya Holiday Service for the best outdoor experience in Nepal. We specialize in all kinds of trekking, such as group, private, and family treks. You can choose from our fixed groups or embark on a private trip at a reasonable price. Our trek package covers entire transportation, meals, lodging, permits, and experienced staff.

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Trip Facts of Tsum Valley Trek
Geography: Himalaya
Location: Gorkha District
Level of Difficulty: Difficult
Duration of Trek: 20 Days
Max Altitude: 3700m
Religions: Buddhism
Ethnic People: Tsumbas, Tibetans
Accommodation: Lodges
Transportation: Private Car, public bus
Minimum Pax: 2 people

Trip highlights
Indulge in one of the most discreet and least visited trekking in the remote Tsum Valley.
Enjoy an overview tour of the famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites inside Kathmandu Valley.
Trek along the famous Buddhist pilgrimage trail of Kyumi Lung and learn more about the legends of Buddhist Saint Milarepa.
Visit the highest and the most beautiful monastery of Mu Gompa located inside Upper Tsum valley.
Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport and Transfer to hotel
Tsum Valley Trek officiates with your arrival in Nepal. We will welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport. After greeting, we will drive you to your hotel where you can enjoy the refreshment. Afterward, you will visit our office to discuss the trip in detail. You will meet your trek guide and explain the trek. We will also exchange essential documents. In the evening, we’ll take you for a lovely welcome dinner in one of the Nepali restaurants in Thamel. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Sightseeing of Kathmandu valley and Trip meeting
Today, you will indulge in a beautiful sightseeing tour of the historic valley. Your trek guide will visit the government office to obtain the special area permit for Tsum Valley Trek. In the meantime, an experienced tour guide will go with you and take you to some of the most popular tourists’ sites around the city. Most of these destinations comprise UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath stupa located atop the hill, the spherical stupa of Boudha, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar (550 m), Driving Duration: 8-9 hours
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you’ll embark on a jeep and begin riding along the northwest of Kathmandu. Arughat Bazaar in Gorkha District lies almost 126km From Kathmandu. The scenic road journey goes alongside the massive Trishuli River and the Budi Gandaki River. The historical Gorkha district lies on the foothills of Ganesh Himal. You can spend the evening enjoying the lifestyle and ambiance of Arughat Bazaar. The village is home to people from various cultural backgrounds.

Day 04: Trek from Arughat Bazaar to Soti Khola (710 m), Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
The first day of the trek begins at Arughat and advances through the lush green forests, small streams, and beautiful villages towards Soti Khola. After crossing the suspension bridge over Budi Gandaki, you’ll continue hiking alongside the hydro-electric power plant and walk through gorgeous rice and millet fields towards Shanti Bazar. The trail gets steeper as you keep climbing. Crossing Arkhet Khola and begin to walk alongside the cascading waterfalls at a ridge in Kuerepani to arrive at Soti Khola.

Day 05: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (887 m), Trek Duration: 4 hours
The trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola will last four hours and will climb 177 meters. The trail begins to rise through the decorated Sal forest and climbs onto a ridge above the Budi Gandaki River. Here on, you may encounter rocky path leading through many detours before arriving at the Gurung village of Lapubesi. After lunch, you’ll continue trekking alongside Budi Gandaki River to reach Machha Khola village. Overnight at Machha Khola.

Day 06: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1350m), Trek Duration: 7 hours
Leaving Machha Khola, you’ll begin climbing through the narrow ridges to arrive at Khorlabesi. The trail may encounter many uphill and downhill climbs that can prove to be difficult, but you can relieve your aching body by dipping into a natural hot spring at Tatopani. The trail continues through Budi Gandaki River and climbs towards Dobhan village. Walk past Dobhan and climb the stone stairs to arrive at Jagat. Overnight at Jagat.

Day 07: Jagat to Chisopani (1660 m), Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
The officials at Jagat will check your ACAP permit before allowing you to enter the region. You’ll have your ACAP permit checked. Afterward, you’ll begin climbing through the rocky ridges towards Salleri village. The trail descends towards Sirdibas that opens a vast landscape leading towards Ghatta Khola. Continue trekking alongside the stream to reach Philim, the largest Gurung village in the region. You can consider visiting a local school established by the Japanese government at Philim. The day ends at Chisopani.

Day 08: Chisopani to Chumling (2386 m), Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Here on, you’ll begin making yours into Tsum valley. The trail rises north of Chisopani and crosses a huge waterfall and lush pine forests towards Lokpa. Catch the beautiful sight of Himalchuli (7893m) and Boudha Himal en route to Lungwa Khola. A short hike through pine and rhododendron forests will bring you at Gumlung village. Cross the Siyar Khola to reach Chumling.

Day 09: Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3010 m), Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Leaving Chumling, you’ll begin advancing towards the Upper Tsum valley. The trail follows the famous Buddhist pilgrimage route to Kyumi Lung. The 4-5hr trail goes past Rainjam village and Gho towards Chhokang Paro. Catch the beautiful sight of Ganesh Himal in a distance as you make your way towards Chhokang Paro village. Chhokang Paro is a Tibetan-styled village inhabited by Tsumbas. Overnight at Chhokang Paro.

Day 10: Chhokang Paro to the Nile (3361 m), Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
After breakfast, you’ll leave Chhokang Paro village and begin heading uphill towards the village of Lamagaon. As the name suggests, the village is home to Buddhist monks or Lamas. Cross a suspension bridge to arrive at Rachen Gompa, an only nunnery in the area. You can enter the Gompa and observe the lifestyle inside before heading forward towards Lar via Shiar Khola. Lar is home to a small hydropower project. You’ll continue trekking through Phurbe and Pangdun village to arrive at Chule. Catch the sight of an old historical Stupa en route Nile.

Day 11: the Nile to Mu Gompa (3700 m), Trek Duration: 3 hours
Today, you’ll make your way towards Mu Gompa, the highest point of the trek. Mu Gompa lies close to the Tibetan border in the north. Here on, you will get to witness many Tibetan influenced villages with a thatched roof and stone houses. The trail continues through rocky terrain and goes past small settlements towards Mu Gompa nestled amidst snowcapped peaks. Visit the historical monastery of Mu Gompa, followed by a visit to the nearby Dephu Doma Gompa. Overnight at Mu Gompa.

Day 12: Sightseeing and acclimatization at Mu Gompa (3700 m)
An additional day in hand offers enough time to enjoy sightseeing around Mu Gompa. You’ll spend the day exploring the beautiful valley along with observing the vibrant Tibetan-influenced villages and lifestyle. First, pay a visit to the largest monastery of Mu Gompa, followed by an adventurous hike to Pika Himal. Located at 4865 meters, Pika Himal is a small mountain that offers a panoramic view of the entire Upper Tsum valley. Spend the night at Mu Gompa.

Day 13: Mu Gompa to Burgi Village (2386 m), Trek Duration: 5 hours
Here on, you’ll begin trekking downhill. Begin climbing along the rugged path and cross Chhule and Phurbe villages en route to Burgi village. A scenic trek lasting almost five hours will take you along the Upper Tsum Valley. You will also get to visit the Milarepa’s Cave (Piren Phu) en route. One of the oldest monasteries, it offers the magnificent sights of Poshyop Glacier, Kipu Himal, and Churke Himal. The day ends at Burgi village.

Day 14: Burgi village to Chumling (2386 m), Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Leaving Burgi, you’ll begin to descend into Lower Tsum Valley. The easy trail will take you through the lush pine and rhododendron forests en route to Chhokang Paro. Consider visiting a local monastery in the village before descending further to Gho. After lunch, you will continue along the forested trail and cross Sarpu Khola to arrive at Chumling village. Overnight at Chumling.

Day 15: Chumling to Philim (1570 m), Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
After breakfast, you’ll begin to trek downhill and cross the forested hills to arrive at Lokpa village. The easy downhill hike offers the fantastic scenery of Samba Falls and mountains. Although an easy trail, it may take almost 7hr to reach Philim village. The largest Gurung village in the region, you can indulge in observing the local lifestyle and occupation along with visiting the bazaar area. Overnight in Philim.

Day 16: Trek from Philim to Khorlabesi (970 m), Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
After breakfast, you’ll begin descending alongside the Dobhan Khola and walk past Jagat and Tatopani villages en route to Khorlabesi. From Philim, you’ll make your way towards Sirdibas village. The decorated terraced fields and larger settlements will offer a great ambiance. You’ll continue walking alongside the terraced farmlands to reach Khorlabesi village. Enjoy a delicious plate of Dal and Bhat at the local lodge before retiring for the night.

Day 17: Trek from Khorlabesi to Soti Khola (700 m), Trek Duration: 6 to 7hours
Leaving Khorlabesi, you’ll begin trekking further downhill and cross the Tharo Khola to reach Machha Khola village. The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River and heads towards Lapubesi village. You’ll continue trekking alongside two large waterfalls to arrive at Khursane and then continue along the river to arrive at Soti Khola village.

Day 18: Trek from Soti Khola to Arughat (550 m), Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours
The trail continues to descend along the familiar route as you walk past lush forests and traditional villages. On the last day of the trek, you’ll begin the trek by climbing a ridge to arrive at Kuerepani. From here, the trail continues for almost 2hr to come at Arughat. You can enjoy the rest of the day celebrating the completion of the trek with your team. Take this opportunity to observe the lifestyle, culture, and occupation of the villager. Overnight in Arughat.

Day 19: Drive from Arughat Bazaar to Kathmandu, Drive Duration: 7 to 8 hours
After a delicious breakfast at the lodge, you’ll embark on your ride and begin driving back to Kathmandu. The road journey may last anywhere from 7-8hr and will take you along the Budi Gandaki River until you arrive at Trishuli. The journey continues through the colorful suburban settlements towards Kathmandu. Spend the evening relishing a delicious farewell dinner in one of the most excellent restaurants in Kathmandu

Day 20: Transfer to international airport for your final flight departure
On the last day of your trip, you can consider visiting Thamel to shop for a souvenir or anything that delights you. If you need relief from pain, you can choose to visit a local massage center to enjoy a full-body massage. We’ll drop you to the airport at the time of your flight.

Key Information

Tsum Valley is a restricted region. It opened for tourism in 2008, making it one of the new trekking destinations. You must get a special area permit before entering the valley.
Due to the abundance of ethnic culture, lifestyle, and biodiversity, the region makes a restricted region. You must adhere to local laws during trekking inside Tsum Valley.
You will go through the daily assessment of health and fitness to ensure that you can continue with the trek. The sheer altitude and harsh weather can become fatal to your overall health.

Stay in comfortable lodges and teahouses along the trail. Accommodation in high and remote regions is made at guest houses or community houses.
The upper Tsum valley lies close to the Tibetan Border. The influx of tourists in this region remains limited. You must follow the guidelines provided by your guide before hiking to any undesignated places.
A Buddhist pilgrimage, you will get acquainted with pilgrims, monks, nuns, and local religious leaders.

FAQ
What is the best time to undertake Tsum Valley Trek?
Due to its acute mountainous location, it is well advised to visit the region during the spring and autumn season when the weather is warm and bright. Spring lasts from March until June and autumn lasts from September until the mid of November. Both these seasons guarantee the best weather and visibility. October remains to be the busiest month for this trek.

How much does it cost to obtain a special area permit for Tsum Valley?
According to Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal, the trekkers must pay the following fee.
September – November
USD 40 per person/week
USD 7 per person/day (beyond one week)
December – August
USD 30 per person/week
USD 7 per person/day (beyond one week)

What makes it a different trekking experience?
You will get to visit the restricted region of Tsum Valley in Gorkha District, along with visiting the famous Buddhist monasteries of Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Dhephu Doma Gompa. To add a cheery on the top, you will be traversing along the popular pilgrimage trail of Kyumi Lung basking in the legends of Saint Milarepa.

Do I need insurance for Tsum Valley Trek?
Since the Tsum Valley Trek involves risks and dangers, you need to have insurance. Make sure that your insurance covers medical evacuation services in case you need an emergency rescue. Learn about the terms and conditions of the insurance carefully. Also, be informed about the highest elevation limit for coverage by the insurance so that there will be no complications later.

Does trekking in Tsum Valley need a TIMS Card?
No, trekking in the Tsum valley will not require you to get a TIMS Card. When you get a special permit, such as a restricted area permit, you do not need a TIMS Card. However, for the Tsum Valley Trek, you must obtain Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). You can get them through your registered trekking agency.