Tsum Valley Trekking 18 Days
If you are on a quest to explore the untouched parts of the Himalayas, far, far away from the mainstream trekking routes, then Tsum valley is the answer for you. Located east of the Manalsu, bordering Tibet, Tsum valley is a hidden Shangri La that is rarely talked about. The entire region was long prohibited to enter, and as a matter of fact, only opened to travelers in 2008. Home to Tsumbas, the direct descendant of Tibetans, the Tsum valley offers a raw, unspoiled trekking experience.
We have an adventurous 18 days excursion to Tsum valley, fully guided and supported by professional crew members who somewhat ease the venture and make it more meaningful. Being part of the Manaslu region, you can do the Tsum valley trek with the Manaslu circuit too. Even though the starting point of the trek is situated only 7 hours away from Kathmandu, not many trekkers approach the Manaslu region for trekking because of its isolation and not adequate tourist infrastructure.
Tsum valley is a restricted area and falls under the Manaslu Conservation Area. Tsum valley trek solo (without a guide and registered local trekking) is not allowed. Moreover, you have to trek in a group of a minimum of two people, and mandatory need a trekking guide. All these factors and expensive trekking permits keep the crowd away from the Tsum valley trail. Trekking in the Tsum valley is a privilege that only a handful of travelers have got so far.
The untouched and unspoiled ancient villages and Tibetan Buddhist roots are what you get to explore during Tsum valley trekking. Look forward to old monasteries such as Mu Gompa, Dhephu Doma & Gumba Lungdang. The friendly and very welcoming locals host the trekkers. Being so close to them, you will get to have a first-hand experience of their customs and practices. The nunneries, chortens, and prayer wheels along the way express the cultural abundance of the region.
Tsum valley trek gives a very different trekking experience than the famous Everest base camp trek or Annapurna base camp trek. The scenery is quite distinct too. The overnight stays in the villages like Chumling, Chhokangparo, Nile, and Gumpa Lundang are fabulous. You'll go on a side hike to Ganesh Himal base camp, walking on thrilling glacier moraine.
Tsum valley trek is for experienced trekkers who can adjust without modern convenience and do not get scared to go offbeat. It is an incredible trek that will give you lifelong memories, teach you a lot of things, and shape you as a strong individual. You will have the trail to yourself. No disturbance, no crowd at all. Just you, your thoughts, and vast mountain vistas.
The booking for the Tsum valley trek 2023 and 2024 spring and autumn is open. Book the trek early to have ample time to prepare for the trek. Our travel consultants will help you with booking and further information about the trek.
Tsum valley trekking attractions
Offbeat, less crowded trekking route
Tsum valley trail is not visited by trekkers usually, so it has seen less growth. There is no crowd even in the peak trekking season. You can enjoy tranquil trekking and solitude. The trekking route is offbeat, which means lots of hurdles and difficult sections. This 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. Not many 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.
Likewise, the residents of this valley are called Tsumbas. They are descendants of Tibetans and are profoundly connected to their roots. Practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism, you'll get to see very 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 & chortens scattered around the trekking route. All the major villages have a monastery, and among them, the most important are Mu Gompa, Doma Gompa, Ranchen Gompa, and Gumpa Lundang. And the best part is you will be visiting 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. You can see religious books, statues, and images of safes & deities in the monastery.
Witness stunning mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
The Tsum valley trekking offers close views of some of the most stunning Himalayan mountains, like Manaslu (8,163 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), Boudha Himal (6,672 m), Shringi Himal (7,083 m), etc. The trail is very impressive. 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 & glacier views as the trek progresses.
Trek in the restricted Manaslu Conservation Area
Manaslu region is a restricted area in Nepal and demands special restricted area permits to trek. Tsum valley is located inside the Manaslu region. The region is protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area. The trail winds through forests and pastures to the alpine zone. You will get to see many species of plants, flowers, animals, and birds on the way. The forests range from subtropical to alpine.
Adventurous side excursions during the acclimatization days
We have two acclimatization days in our Tsum valley trek itinerary. One is in a village called Nile, and you hike to Mu Gompa & Doma Gompa here. Likewise, on the second rest day, we take in Gumpa Lundang and hike to Ganesh Himal base camp. Both these rest days are important for acclimatizing our bodies and also allow us to explore the far-stretched points.
Locals host you in their houses
The accommodation during the Tsum valley trek mostly is in a homestay. You spend nights in locals' houses. Of course, this lets you have a close insight into the local's 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.
