Tsum Valley Trek Overview
If you are on a quest to explore the untouched parts of the Himalayas, far from the mainstream trekking routes, then Tsum Valley Trek is the answer. Located east of the Manalsu, bordering Tibet, Tsum Valley is a hidden Shangri La, which is rarely discussed.
Even though the starting point of the trek is situated only 8-9 hours away from Kathmandu, only a few trekkers approach the Tsum Valley for trekking because of its isolation and lack of adequate tourist infrastructure. Tsum Valley is a restricted area within the Manaslu Conservation Area. Solo Tsum Valley Adventure (without a guide and registered local trekking) is prohibited.
Moreover, you must trek in a group of at least two people and must have a trekking guide. All these factors and expensive trekking permits keep the crowd away from the Tsum Valley walking trail, making trekking in the Tsum Valley a privilege only a few travelers have.
During the Tsum Valley Adventure Holidays Trek, you can explore untouched and unspoiled ancient villages and Tibetan Buddhist roots. Look forward to old monasteries such as Mu Gompa, Dhephu Doma and Gumba Lungdang. The friendly and very welcoming locals host the trekkers.
Being close to them gives you a first-hand experience of their customs and practices. Along the way, the nunneries, chortens, and prayer wheels express the region's cultural abundance. Tsum Valley Trek offers a very different trekking experience than the famous Everest or Annapurna base camp trek. The scenery is quite distinct, too.
The overnight stays in villages like Chumling, Chhokangparo, Nile, and Gumpa Lundang are fabulous. You'll take a side hike to Ganesh Himal base camp, walking on thrilling glacier moraine. Tsum Valley Adventure is for experienced trekkers who can adjust without modern convenience and are not afraid to go offbeat. This incredible trek will give you lifelong memories, teach you a lot, and shape you as a strong individual.
You will have the Trail to yourself. There was no disturbance, no crowd at all. There will be just you, your thoughts, and vast mountain vistas. Book the Tsum Valley trek early with Outfitter Himalaya to give yourself ample time to prepare. Our travel consultants will help you with booking and further information about the trek.
Tsum Valley Trekking Highlights
- Trek to hidden Shangri La, Tsum Valley in the restricted Manaslu region
- A very distinct trekking route with centuries-old monasteries, caves used by renowned sages for meditation, massive mani walls, lush rhododendron forests and vast pastures
- Untouched, unspoiled, and not crowded offbeat Trail
- Come across diverse vegetation and alpine animals
- The region strongly influences Tibetan Buddhism and touches the Tibetan border
- Stunning mountain views and breathtaking landscapes
- Locals host the trekkers in their homes
- Hike to Ganesh Himal base camp
Attractions of Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley is an Offbeat and less crowded trekking route
Tsum Valley Trail is sometimes less explored by trekkers, so it has seen less growth. There is no crowd, even during peak trekking season. You can enjoy tranquil trekking and solitude. The Tsum Valley Trek is perfect for experienced trekkers who are aware of high-altitude mountainous terrain or have previous trekking experience in the Himalayas.
Explore a hidden Shangri La and its reach Tibetan Buddhism cultural heritage
Tsum Valley is known as a hidden Shangri La. Only a few travelers even know about this valley. Tucked in the lap of the Himalayan Mountains, a trek to Tsum Valley presents you with a magical venture.
Tsum Valley remains unexplored and unspoiled. You will get to experience authentic, raw trekking trail. Likewise, the residents of this valley are called Tsumbas. They are descendants of Tibetans and are connected to their roots. Practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism, you'll get to see the unique cultures and traditions of the locals.
Visit ancient monasteries, including Mu Gompa
One of the divine essences of Tsum Valley is its centuries-old monasteries and many stupas, prayer wheels, Mani walls and Chortens scattered around the trekking route. All the major villages of the Trail have a monastery; among them, the most important are Mu Gompa, Doma Gompa, Ranchen Gompa, and Gumpa Lundang. And the best part is you will visit most of these monasteries while trekking with us.
The Mu Gompa was established in 1895 AD by Lama Sherab Dorje Drukpa Rinpoche of the Drukpa Kagyu sect. Located at 3,510 meters around Nile village, the hike to this monastery is outstanding. In the monastery, you can see religious books, statues, and images of safes and deities.
Witness stunning mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
The Tsum Valley trek offers close views of some of the most stunning Himalayan mountains, such as Manaslu (8,163 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), Boudha Himal (6,672 m), and Shringi Himal (7,083 m). The Tsum Valley Trail is awe-inspiring. You get to behold views of diverse sceneries as you go from Machha Khola (2,920 m) to Ganesh Himal base camp (4,200 m).
You will see lush river valleys and green hills, vast meadows and glacier views as the trek progresses.
Trek in the restricted Manaslu Conservation Area
Manaslu region is a restricted area in Nepal and demands particular restricted area permits to trek. Tsum Valley is located inside the Manaslu region. The Tsum Valley region is protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area. The Trail winds through forests and pastures to the alpine zone. On the way, you will see many species of plants, flowers, animals, and birds. The forests range from subtropical to alpine.
Adventurous side excursions during the acclimatization days
Our Tsum Valley trek itinerary includes two acclimatization days. One is in a Nile village, and you hike to Mu Gompa and Doma Gompa from there. Likewise, on the second rest day, we will visit Gumpa Lundang and walk to the Ganesh Himal base camp. Both these rest days are essential for acclimatizing our bodies and allowing us to explore the far-stretched points.
Locals host you in their houses
During the Tsum Valley trek, accommodation mainly includes a home stay and lodges/teahouses. You spend nights in locals' houses, which give you a close insight into the local lifestyle and practices.
You will be amazed by their simple living and kind heart. The locals are welcoming and very hospitable. You will love their company during your resting time.