Tsum Valley Trek - The Hidden Valley of Happiness

Discover one of Nepal's last truly hidden valleys, where ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture thrives amidst spectacular Himalayan scenery.

Why Trek to Tsum Valley?

  • Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture untouched by modernity
  • Visit sacred pilgrimage sites including Milarepa's Cave
  • Trek through pristine landscapes with few other tourists
  • See unique mani walls carved with sacred mantras
  • Witness traditional salt-trade routes to Tibet
  • Explore remote monasteries dating back centuries

Trek Itinerary (16 Days)

Day Route Altitude Highlights
1 Kathmandu to Soti Khola 700m Scenic drive through foothills
2 Soti Khola to Machha Khola 930m Follow Budhi Gandaki River
3 Machha Khola to Jagat 1,410m Enter Manaslu Conservation Area
4 Jagat to Lokpa 2,240m First views of Ganesh Himal
5 Lokpa to Chumling 2,386m Enter Tsum Valley region
6 Chumling to Chhokangparo 3,010m Traditional Tibetan villages
7 Chhokangparo to Nile 3,361m Ancient monasteries and stupas
8 Nile to Mu Gompa 3,700m Highest point of the trek
9 Mu Gompa Exploration 3,700m Sacred caves and meditation sites
10 Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa 3,240m Nunnery with ancient artifacts
11-15 Return trek via different route Visit more villages and monasteries
16 Drive back to Kathmandu 1,400m Return to civilization

Permit Requirements

Permit Cost Validity Notes
Tsum Valley Restricted Permit $40 (Sept-Nov)
$25 (Dec-Aug)		 For trek duration Minimum 2 trekkers required
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) $30 Single entry Required for entire region
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit $100 (first 7 days)
$15/day thereafter		 For trek duration Required for September-November
Important Notice: Tsum Valley requires a licensed guide and at least two trekkers. Independent trekking is not permitted. Permits must be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu.

Best Time to Visit

  • September-November: Best weather, clear mountain views
  • March-May: Pleasant temperatures, spring flowers
  • December-February: Very cold, possible snow at higher elevations
  • June-August: Monsoon season - trails can be muddy

Trek Difficulty & Preparation

Factor Details
Difficulty Level Moderate to Challenging
Maximum Altitude 3,700m (Mu Gompa)
Daily Walking 5-7 hours
Trail Conditions Some steep sections, rocky paths
Physical Preparation 3 months of cardio and hiking training recommended

Cultural Highlights

  • Mu Gompa: Largest monastery in Tsum Valley with ancient scriptures
  • Rachen Gompa: Important nunnery with beautiful murals
  • Milarepa's Cave: Sacred meditation cave of the famous yogi
  • Mani Walls: Kilometers-long walls carved with sacred mantras
  • Local Festivals: Unique Buddhist celebrations if timing aligns

What Makes Tsum Valley Unique?

  • One of Nepal's most culturally preserved regions
  • The word "Tsum" comes from the Tibetan word "Tsombo" meaning vivid
  • Traditional polyandry system still practiced in some villages
  • Ancient salt trade route between Nepal and Tibet
  • Home to the rare Snow Leopard and Himalayan Thar

Essential Packing List

Category Items
Clothing Thermal layers, insulated jacket, waterproof shell, trekking pants, warm hat, gloves
Footwear Sturdy trekking boots, camp shoes, wool socks
Gear Backpack (40-50L), sleeping bag (-10°C), headlamp, water purification, trekking poles
Health First aid kit, sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, altitude medication, hand sanitizer

Important Considerations

  • No ATMs available - bring enough cash for entire trek (small bills recommended)
  • Basic teahouse accommodation - some nights may be in very simple lodges
  • Limited electricity - solar charging available at some lodges (fee applies)
  • Respect local customs - always walk clockwise around stupas and chortens
  • Altitude sickness is a real risk - proper acclimatization is essential
  • Mobile network is limited - Nepal Telecom works in some villages