Tsum Valley Trek Tour

The remote Tsum Valley has only been open to trekkers since 2008. In the past few years, several teahouses and pleasant homestays have opened along this route. The Tsum Valley is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley in proximity to Tibet. Its unspoiled natural beauty and pristine culture make this trekking area unique. Tsum comes from the Tibetan word “Tsombo,” which means “vivid”—a meaning that becomes abundantly clear as you gaze upon the sparkling mountain vistas.

Against the majestic backdrop of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Baudha Himal ranges, this serene Himalayan valley is rich in ancient art, culture, and religion. Trails are lined with artistic chortens and mani walls carved with deities and prayers.

The Buddhist saint Milarepa is believed to have meditated in the mountain caves here, and the ancient remains of the Tsum Kingdom are still visible today. Due to its remoteness and inaccessibility, this sacred valley and its people have been bypassed by mainstream development for centuries, allowing the unique culture of the valley to remain intact.

TRIP HIGHLIGHT:

A challenging and uncrowded trekking experience, unspoiled Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and local culture, magnificent views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal, and visits to Milarepa’s cave as well as the remote villages and gompas of the “Tsomba” people.

DETAIL ITINERARY:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 m):

We will meet your arrival flight at Kathmandu International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. You will have time to rest or stroll around on your own to see some local sights while we complete your trek permits and preparations. In the evening, you will have a trek briefing and enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner with your trek guide.

Day 2: Kathmandu to Arughat (570 m):

We depart early from Kathmandu, traveling via the Prithvi Highway. A few hours before Malekhu, we turn north, taking the single-track road toward Dhading Besi and onward to Arughat—the last hour or so on a dusty section. Due to the roughness of this road, we recommend a private 4WD rather than a local bus.

Day 3: To Soti Khola (730 m):

Most of this stage is easy walking along a flat road, passing rice fields, waterfalls, and lush greenery as you make your way through local villages. Arkhet Bazar (620 m) is interesting for its old bazaar road and the gushing Arkhet Khola, where local children often bathe. (3–4 hrs)

Day 4: To Machhekhola (930 m):

Soon after leaving Soti Khola, the trail enters a rougher part of the Budhi Gandaki and becomes more undulating with rocky sections. You’ll see impressive waterfalls cascading down the opposite side of the valley. Some parts of the trail are particularly narrow or cross landslide areas, requiring extra care, especially when mule convoys pass.

Tropical vegetation adds charm, and the thrilling suspension bridges remain a highlight throughout the trek. Machhekhola (“fish river”) is a pleasant village built along the hillside. (5–6 hrs)

Day 5: To Jagat (1340 m):

We continue trekking along the western side of the Budhi Gandaki until reaching Tatopani, a tiny settlement squeezed between the roaring river and towering cliffs. As we pass Doban and approach Jagat, the valley opens up into a broad expanse, allowing room to walk along the riverbed in most seasons. Jagat is a picturesque Gurung village with slate-paved streets. We’ll stop at the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) office to register our permits and learn about conservation initiatives. (6 hrs)

Day 6: Jagat to Lokpa (2240 m):

The trail descends to the pleasant village of Salleri, which also has a slate-paved main street and friendly residents. About 2.5 hours from Jagat, we reach Sirdibas (1430 m), a compact village with stone houses and slate roofs. Passing Ghote Khola, we cross the Budhi Gandaki on one of the longest suspension bridges of the trek, followed by a steep climb to Philim.

Above Philim, the scale of the Himalayas becomes strikingly evident. After crossing the Budhi Gandaki again, the trail hugs cliffs and winds over ridges, offering views of cascading waterfalls. The trail soon splits, with one path heading toward the Manaslu Circuit and our route heading northeast toward the Tsum Valley. After a steep climb through pine forest, the trail levels out and reaches Lokpa, where a small teahouse sits just below the village. (5 hrs)

Day 7: Lokpa to Chumling (2386 m):

Although the altitude gain is modest today, the trail climbs and descends repeatedly along steep valley walls high above the Syar River. After descending to the river and crossing an old bridge, the trail climbs steadily to Chumling. Surrounded by open meadows and terraced fields, Chumling offers striking contrasts with the dense forests across the valley. We will stay at a spacious teahouse with splendid views. (4 hrs)

Day 8: Chumling to Chukkum Paro (3031 m):

After an easy initial section, we cross the river again. From there, the trail climbs steeply for several hours through mixed forests and eventually into the arid terrain of the higher plateau. As we crest the plateau, the full breadth of the Tsum Valley opens before us. In Chukkum Paro, Tibetan Buddhist culture becomes fully visible, from small gompas to compact slate-roofed houses. (4 hrs)

Day 9: To Nile/Chule (3300 m):

It’s an easy hike along well-constructed trails through primitive yet tidy villages toward Chule and Nile, facing each other across the Syar River. A dramatic headwall and icy waterfall form the backdrop of Chule. A 700-year-old monastery sits just above the village. We cross to the Nile, where we stay in a welcoming local home. (4 hrs)

Day 10: Mu Gompa (3700 m) and return to Nile:

We start early along the Syar River. The trail steepens as we near Mu Gompa, which glows under the morning sun while the valley remains in shadow. After exploring the monastery and its surroundings, we return to Nile for the night unless the group decides to stay at Mu Gompa. (5 hrs)

Day 11: Return to Chumling:

Descending the valley offers new mountain views, dominated by Ganesh Himal. We stop at Ranchen Gompa, a large nunnery hosting Buddhist practitioners from around the world. The terrain gradually shifts from arid highlands to lush forest as we approach Chumling.

Day 12: To Philim:

We descend rapidly, navigating some challenging sections before reaching Lokpa for lunch. Continuing south, we follow the Budhi Gandaki to Philim, where guesthouse accommodations offer more comfort after the remote upper valley.

Day 13: To Khorlabesi:

The trail becomes easier as we leave the narrowest parts of the valley. Khorlabesi is a friendly village known for its excellent “local coffee.” (5 hrs)

Day 14: To Lapubesi:

Continuing down the Budhi Gandaki, we cross a familiar suspension bridge and admire magnificent waterfalls cascading in front of us. Our teahouse in Lapubesi offers beautiful valley views. (4 hrs)

Day 15: To Arughat Bazaar:

The day begins with challenging ups and downs before the trail becomes a mostly level road near Soti Khola. We reach Arughat by mid-afternoon and have time to explore and celebrate the trek. (5 hrs)

Day 16: Return to Kathmandu (or Pokhara):

We travel back by bus or private vehicle, arriving at our hotel in the evening.

Day 17: Departure:

After breakfast and depending on your flight time, you may enjoy some last-minute sightseeing or shopping before transferring to the international airport.