Tsum Valley Trek

Due to the construction of roads in lower Budhi Gandaki Valley, the length of Tsum Valley is shrinking. To complete the trek it takes you 10 days (only in mountains) but ongoing road construction along the western bank of Budhi Gandaki River can reduce the length of trekking in the future by a couple of days. If you have flexibility, you can combine Tsum Valley Trek with Tsum Valley Trek which can offer you an immersive experience.

The Tsum Valley Trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, marking the start of an Himalayan adventure. From Machha Khola, the trail leads you to Jagat, crossing the Budhi Gandaki River multiple times on suspension bridges. As you trek further, the route shifts direction at Nyak Phedi, where it veers eastward into the hidden landscapes of the Tsum Valley.

Hiking through dense forests, narrow gorges, and steep ravines, you’ll spend the night in the village of Lokpa and Chumling. Continuing along the remote trail, you follow the deep river gorge until reaching Chhokang Paro, where the valley dramatically opens up. From here, the landscape transforms into wide expanses of buckwheat fields, dotted with chortens, mani walls, and centuries-old Tibetan villages that reflect the valley's rich cultural heritage.]

The highlight of the trek is the day hike to Mu Gompa, the highest and most revered monastery in the valley, reached from the village of Nile. After soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere and spiritual vibes of Mu Gompa, the trail retraces its way back through the valley, eventually leading you back to Kathmandu.

This Tsum Valley trekking itinerary offers a rare combination of unspoiled nature, ancient Tibetan culture, and breathtaking Himalayan views, making it one of the most rewarding off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal.

1. Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure Escape the crowds of Everest and Annapurna and explore Tsum Valley’s remote trails, quiet villages, and untouched Himalayan landscapes.

2. Preserved Tibetan Culture Discover the unique heritage of the Tsumba people, whose Tibetan-influenced language, dress, customs, and traditions remain deeply rooted in daily life.

3. Sacred Monasteries and Spiritual Heritage Visit important monasteries such as Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Gumba Lungdang, and follow trails lined with prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls.

4. Scenic and Varied Landscapes Trek through river gorges, dense forests, alpine meadows, and buckwheat fields, with views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal.

5. Fewer Crowds, Deeper Connections Enjoy quieter trails and opportunities to connect with local communities, their traditions, and their way of life.

6. Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Support local communities by staying in locally run teahouses, enjoying traditional food, and respecting the valley’s cultural and natural heritage.

7. Ideal for Intermediate Trekkers A moderate trek with no technical climbing, Tsum Valley reaches around 3,700 m at Mu Gompa, offering a rewarding Himalayan adventure for fit trekkers seeking a cultural experience without extreme altitude.

The Tsum Valley Trek is moderate in difficulty—challenging enough to be rewarding but not extreme. It’s ideal for fit and physically active trekkers looking for a culturally rich and quiet Himalayan experience without significant altitude gain or technical climbs. Training with regular hikes, cardio, and strength workouts is recommended for preparation.

Your journey begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. To ensure a smooth start to your Tsum Valley Trekking adventure, plan to arrive before 3 PM local time on your scheduled arrival day. This allows time for a group meeting, gear check, and a welcome dinner.

Tourists can easily obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After landing, complete the visa form at a kiosk, pay the required fee at the payment counter (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days), and proceed to the immigration counter for your visa.

Tip: Bring cash (preferably USD) to avoid delays, as card payments may not always be reliable.

You don’t need to bring passport-sized photos for the visa—photos are taken digitally at the kiosk.

After clearing customs, look for our team member holding a Junkiri Treks sign with your name at the arrival gate. You’ll be escorted to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you'll relax before the trek.

All ground transportation mentioned in the itinerary, including transfers to and from the trailhead, is by public vehicle to help reduce our environmental footprint. Private airport pick-up and drop-off are included in the package, while private transportation for other journeys can be arranged on request at an additional cost.

Permits You’ll Need
The Tsum Valley Trek lies in a restricted area, so special permits are mandatory:

1. Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
2. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

These permits are handled by Junkiri Treks and will be arranged before the trek begins.

Expect the Unexpected:
Weather in the Tsum Valley is unpredictable, especially at high altitudes. Even during peak seasons (spring and autumn), be prepared for rain, clouds, and even snow.

1. Listen to your guide for advice on pacing, rest stops, and acclimatization.
2. Trek with a first aid kit and personal medication.
3. Hydrate and pace yourself, especially above 3,000 meters.

You’ll stay in local tea houses with basic facilities and amenities. Accommodations typically feature:

• Twin-sharing rooms
• Communal dining halls
• Shared toilets (squat) and bathrooms
• Limited hot water and electricity at higher elevations

The Tsum Valley is home to diverse ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Tamangs, and Tibetan-influenced Tsumbas. Tsum Valley is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site, with connections to Milarepa, the revered Tibetan saint who meditated in the caves here. It is good to take it into consideration.

We encourage you to walk clockwise around religious monuments (kora).

Respect silence and no photography signs in monasteries.

Tsumba people are ethnically Tibetan, practicing a lifestyle shaped by Buddhism, agriculture, and trade with Tibet. Traditionally, they practice polyandry, though it's less common today. Villages like Chhokangparo and Nile showcase Tibetan-style houses, stone walls, and seasonal transhumance. Ask permission before photographing people or private homes. Show interest in their culture respectfully (e.g., asking questions through a local guide).

• Many locals are shy but hospitable — it's respectful to:
• Offer a greeting with “Tashi Delek”
• Respect local customs and avoid giving money or sweets to children. Bargaining is accepted in local markets, but prices in tea houses are fixed.

From rugged gorges to wide alpine valleys and terraced hillsides, the Tsum Valley Trek unfolds in stunning contrasts. Mornings greet you with crisp air and crystal-clear mountain views, while evenings invite the warmth of shared stories by the fire.

• Start trekking by 7–8 AM
• Tea break mid-morning
• Lunch around noon at a local lodge
• Arrive at the destination by late afternoon
• Evening briefing and social time in the dining hall
• Dinner served by 6:30–7 PM