Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek is a deeply spiritual and culturally immersive journey into one of Nepal’s most sacred and secluded Himalayan valleys. Nestled in the northern part of the Manaslu region, near the Tibetan border, Tsum Valley is often called the Hidden Valley of Happiness. Opened to trekkers only in recent years, this region remains largely untouched, offering pristine landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a peaceful Buddhist way of life.
Trip Overview
- Duration: 14–16 days
- Maximum Elevation: 3,700 m (Mu Gompa)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Region: Tsum Valley, Manaslu Region
- Starting Point: Machha Khola
- Ending Point: Machha khola
- Permit Required: Yes (Restricted Area)
🏔 Tsum Valley Trek – 14–16 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – Rest & Preparation
Arrive in Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel in Thamel, rest after your flight, and attend a briefing with your guide about the trek. Explore local markets and enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner. (Altitude: 1,400 m)
Day 2: Kathmandu to Machha Khola – Drive & Overnight
Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (1,035 m), enjoying scenic rivers, terraced hills, and rural landscapes along the way. Overnight in Machha Khola.
Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat
Begin trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River, crossing suspension bridges and small villages. Reach Jagat, an important entry point to the Manaslu region. (Altitude: 1,475 m)
Day 4: Jagat to Lokpa – Entering Tsum Valley
Trek into the sacred Tsum Valley through Lokpa, surrounded by pine forests and traditional villages. Experience your first glimpse of the valley’s peaceful ambiance. (Altitude: 2,005 m)
Day 5: Lokpa to Chumling
Ascend gradually through scenic forests, mani walls, and quaint villages. Immerse in the local Tibetan Buddhist culture as you reach Chumling. (Altitude: 2,345 m)
Day 6: Chumling to Chhekam Paro
Trek further into the valley, passing prayer flags, ancient chortens, and local hamlets. Overnight in Chhekam Paro, enjoying serene Himalayan views. (Altitude: 3,085 m)
Day 7: Chhekam Paro to Chhule / Nile
Follow alpine trails with panoramic mountain views, reaching Chhule/Nile. The valley becomes increasingly remote and peaceful. (Altitude: 3,345 m)
Day 8: Chhule to Mu Gompa – Spiritual Heart of Tsum Valley
Trek to Mu Gompa, the sacred monastery at the heart of the valley. Witness stunning Himalayan landscapes and local spiritual rituals. (Altitude: 3,705 m)
Day 9: Acclimatization & Exploration Day at Mu Gompa
Rest day at Mu Gompa. Short hikes to nearby viewpoints and Dhephu Doma Gompa. Immerse in Tibetan Buddhist culture and observe monastic life. (Altitude: 3,705 m)
Day 10: Mu Gompa to Chhekam Paro
Begin your descent back through the valley, retracing the trail to Chhekam Paro. Enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere. (Altitude: 3,085 m)
Day 11: Chhekam Paro to Chumling
Continue descending to Chumling, passing forests, rivers, and traditional homes. (Altitude: 2,345 m)
Day 12: Chumling to Lokpa
Retrace your steps to Lokpa, exiting the core of Tsum Valley while still enjoying its serenity and culture. (Altitude: 2,005 m)
Day 13: Lokpa to Jagat
Trek back to Jagat through terraced fields and forested trails. Overnight in the welcoming village. (Altitude: 1,475 m)
Day 14: Jagat to Machha Khola
Final day of trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River, returning to Machha Khola. Reflect on the spiritual journey and stunning scenery. (Altitude: 1,035 m)
Day 15: Machha Khola to Kathmandu – Drive & Overnight
Drive back to Kathmandu (1,400 m), enjoying views of rivers, hills, and village landscapes. Conclude your trek and overnight in Kathmandu.
Optional Day 16: Kathmandu – Leisure & Departure
Rest day or explore Kathmandu’s cultural sites, including Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Durbar Square before departure.
Trekking Route
The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, followed by trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River. From Jagat, the trail branches away from the Manaslu Circuit and enters the sacred Tsum Valley through Lokpa. The route ascends gradually through pine forests, suspension bridges, and traditional villages like Chumling and Chhekam Paro, eventually reaching the spiritual heart of the valley at Mu Gompa.
Major Highlights
- Remote and peaceful Tsum Valley with minimal tourism
- Ancient monasteries such as Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa
- Deep Tibetan Buddhist culture and Bon traditions
- Magnificent views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Buddha Himal
- Traditional villages untouched by modernization
- Sacred sites believed to have been blessed by Guru Rinpoche
Cultural & Spiritual Experience
Tsum Valley is one of Nepal’s most spiritually significant regions. The local people practice Tibetan Buddhism and Bon religion, and many villages follow non-violence traditions where hunting is prohibited. Monasteries, mani walls, prayer flags, and centuries-old rituals dominate daily life, offering trekkers a rare opportunity for cultural and spiritual connection.
Accommodation & Food
Accommodation during the Tsum Valley Trek is in simple teahouses and local lodges. Rooms are basic but clean and welcoming. Meals typically include dal bhat, rice, potatoes, noodles, soups, Tibetan bread, and seasonal vegetables. Food is locally sourced and prepared with care.
Difficulty & Fitness Level
The trek is considered moderate and suitable for trekkers with average fitness levels. Although the altitude is lower compared to high-pass treks, the remoteness and long walking days require good stamina and preparation.
Permits Required
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Best Time to Trek
- Spring (March–May): Clear weather and blooming forests
- Autumn (September–November): Best visibility and stable conditions
Why Choose the Tsum Valley Trek?
The Tsum Valley Trek is perfect for trekkers seeking tranquility, cultural depth, and spiritual exploration. With its untouched villages, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery, it offers a rare and meaningful trekking experience far from crowded trails.