Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek

Less Crowded Trekking in Nepal
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Duration20 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4200 M
Group Size1-12
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking/Hiking
Best TimeAutumn and Spring

Some places still move at their own rhythm, far from busy trails and ticking clocks. The Tsum Valley Trekking is one of them. Tucked behind deep gorges and quiet ridgelines of the Manaslu region, this hidden Himalayan region opens slowly, through forests, stone villages, and long walls of prayer carved into rock which seems untouched by the time, Tsum Valley is a story whispered by the mountains themselves.

As you walk deeper into the valley, life becomes simpler and strangely calmer. Ancient monasteries sit above fields of barley, prayer flags flutter over suspension bridges, and the peaks of Ganesh Himal quietly watch over everything. There are no crowds here, no rush to finish, just steady footsteps, warm smiles, and a trail that rewards patience. Tsum Valley doesn't try to impress you loudly; it stays with you after the walk is over. 

Tsum Valley Trek Overview

Do you want to visit the hidden valleys closer to the Kathmandu Valley? Do you want to observe the Bon religion, culture, and tradition in the Northern Himalayas? I know, your answer is a big “YES!” Tsum Valley Trek is the only option you have for this wonderful experience once in Nepal. Located in the proximity of Manaslu (8,163 m), Tsum Valley is one of the two important valleys of the Manaslu region trek. Populated by the people of Tibetan origin called “Tsumbas”, this valley has 18 small villages. Around 4,000 people who follow Tibetan Buddhism and Bon religions live here. The Buddhist and Bon shrines are common cultural attractions during this trek.

Tsum Valley Trekking is the most popular off-the-beaten-path trekking in Nepal. The Government of Nepal did not open this valley to international trekkers until 2008. It was done to protect the native culture and tradition from foreign influence. While hiking in Nepal along the rugged trails going up and down, you can enjoy the flora and fauna of the Manaslu Conservation Area Project. This conservation area consists of an estimated 2,000 flowering plants.

The pine, oak, juniper, birch, and rhododendron trees are the major plants. If you make the Tsum Valley trek in the spring season, this area looks exactly like a bride on her wedding day! In addition, you can also have glimpses of Himalayan animal species during this journey. Some common animals are musk deer, Himalayan thar, red panda, Himalayan black bear, etc. Even some bird species play hide-and-seek with you while trekking in Nepal along the isolated trails.

Tsum Valley trek can be further connected with Manaslu Circuit trek and Annapurna Circuit trek as well.  Manaslu Tsum Valley trek takes you to Manaslu Base Camp trek.

Here are some of Major Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek

  • Scenic drive to Machha Khola from Kathmandu
  • Gurung and Tibetan Villages of Manaslu region
  • Astounding view of Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Himalchuli (7,893m), Buddha Himal (6,692m), Shringi Himal (7,165m) and Tibetan Plateau
  • Flora and fauna of Manaslu Conservation Area Project
  • Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa as the landmarks of the Bon religion
  • Best off the beaten path trekking near the Kathmandu Valley
  • Tsum Valley is the hidden gem of the Manaslu region
  • Traditional villags with stone houses, yak pastures, and warm local hospitality that reflect an unchanged mountain lifestyle
  • Moderate trekking days with no high passes, making the journey calm, scenic, and more reflective than physically demanding.

Tsum Valley Trek Cost

The Tsum Valley Trek typically costs around USD 1500-2000 per person for guided trekking package, which usually includes permits, teahouse accommodation, meals, and a licensed guide. The total cost can vary depending on the season, group size, and the level of services chosen. Travelers who prefer more comfort, private transport, or additional support may spend a bit more, while those on a budget can manage slightly lower costs by joining group treks and keeping expenses simple. 

How to Get Tsum Valley Trek

You have a couple of alternatives to start the Tsum Valley trek. One, you can follow Kathmandu-Gorkha-Aarughat-Soti Khola. The other, Kathmandu-Dhading-Aarughat-Soti Khola. But, the scenery of both the routes is not much different. From Soti Khola, you ascend higher by following the uphill and downhill trails. You go past some Gurung villages until you reach the destinations. Trekkers will relish the brilliant view of the Himalayas of the Manaslu region and Ganesh Himal region.

Travelers will reach almost the border of Nepal with the Tibetan Autonomous Region. You will visit Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa as well. After getting first-hand knowledge about Tibetan Buddhism and the Bon religion, you descend towards the lower altitude. It takes nearly 9 hours to reach Soti Khola, the gateway to the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek from Kathmandu. You will remain in this picturesque region for about 12 days by enjoying the cultural and natural features.

Solo Trekking in Tsum Valley: How Sharing Permits Make it Possible

Tsum Valley trek is associate with restricted area trekking in Nepal. It means solo Nepal trekking wouldn't be allowed here. Technically, solo trekking is not generally allowed, but some trekkers can go alone if they arrange the permit through a licensed agency on a "sharing basis". This means your permit is linked with a guide or group, even if you hike mostly on your own.

This rule exists to ensure safety in the remote valley and to monitor visitors, but using sharing permit gives experienced trekkers more flexibility while still complying with government regulations. It's important to coordinate with a registered trekking company to arrange this properly before starting the trek.

Bon Religion in Tsum Valley Trek

Trekking to Tsum Valley lies in the proximity of the Tibetan Plateau in the Northern Himalayas. Although it is located in Nepal geographically, you find a high influence of Tibetan religion, culture, and tradition. It is surrounded by the soaring Himalayas from all three sides except the eastern part. Buddha Himal (6,692 m) and Himalchuli (7,893 m) from the west, Ganesh Himal (7,422 m) from the south, and Shringi Himal (7,165 m) from the north circumscribe this hidden valley.

Manaslu region contains two major valleys: Nubri and Tsum. Nubri Valley is exposed to the outer old and influenced by the imported culture as people of this valley go for foreign employment. However, Tsum Valley is a collection of 18 villages. Around 4,000 indigenous ethnic people called “Tsumbas” live in this region. Most of the people of this valley are of Tibetan origin.

The residents of this valley follow Buddhism and the Bon religion originated from the Tibetan Autonomous Region. You will see many monasteries, chortens, and mani walls reflecting the Bon religion. The most significant shrines of this region are Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa. Both the shrines are resided by around 100 monks and nuns. You can find the mural paintings of Tibetan Buddhism and ancient books.

Mu Gompa contains a full size of Avalokiteshwara and images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara. There are many ancient religious books and a row of chortens. You can have a breathtaking view of the Himalayas close to the Tibetan Plateau.

To Whom is the Tsum Valley Trek suitable?

The Tsum Valley Trek suits travelers who want a quiet Himalayan journey, away from crowded and commercial trails. It's ideal for those who enjoy walking at an easy pace and taking in the surroundings without feeling rushed. 

This trek is a good fit for people curious about local culture and daily mountain life. Tibetan Buddhist traditions, monasteries, and small villages are a big part of the experience, making it rewarding for travelers who like cultural depth as much as scenery. Physically, the trek is manageable for anyone with average fitness. There are no high passes or technical climbs, but the route is remote and facilities are simple, so it suits travelers who are comfortable with basic accommodation and a more traditional trekking experience.

What can travelers expect from the Tsum Valley Trek?

Travelers can expect a calm and unhurried journey through one of Nepal's most secluded Himalayan Valleys. The walk takes you through forests, deep river gorges, and wide mountain landscapes, making each day feel quiet and relaxed rather than rushed.

Culture is a big part of the journey. Along the route, travelers see prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and old monasteries, and stay in traditional villages where people still follow Tibetan Buddhist customs in everyday life.

Mountain views are present throughout, especially of Ganesh Himal and nearby peaks. The walking days are moderate, accommodation is basic, and the overall experience is simple, calm, and more about connection and atmosphere than physical challenge.

Preparation for the Tsum Valley Trek

Preparing for Tsum Valley Trek is more about planning for isolation and simplicity than extreme climbing. Being moderately fit helps, so regular walks, hikes, or even daily stair climbing before the trek will make the days easier.

The valley is remote, so travelers should expect basic teahouse stays and limited facilities. Warm clothing, a reliable sleeping bag, good trekking shoes, and rain gear are must haves, as the weather can shift quickly.

A permit and a licensed guide are mandatory, so these need to be arranged ahead of time. It's also wise to carry enough cash, personal medicines, and travel insurance that covers trekking, because ATMs and hospitals are not available in the valley.

Acclimatization is important for a smooth journey. Taking things slowly, staying hydrated, eating properly, and resting when needed will help travelers enjoy the mesmerising landscapes and culural richness of Tsum Valley safely.

Traveler's recommendation

I did the Tsum Valley Trek with Nepal Trekking Routes, and it was an amazing experience. The valley felt untouched and peaceful, with quiet trails, authentic villages, and absolutely beautiful monasteries. The views of Ganesh Himal were incredible, and the whole trek felt relaxed and personal. I loved how well everything was organized, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone wanting an unseen, unheard Himalayan adventure. 

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand All

Upon the arrival day, reception at the Kathmandu Airport and hotel transfer. In the leisure, you can visit Thamel Bazaar on your own.

 

After breakfast, the tour guide takes you for Kathmandu Sightseeing excursion. You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Swaymabhunath Stupa (the Monkey Temple), Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple and Bouddhanath Stupa will be visited. The art and architecture of these sites allure you the most.

You begin the overland trip towards Soti Khola after you have your breakfast. You drive along the Prithvi Highway until Dhading. Then, by crossing the Trishuli River, you move towards Dhadingbesi.

The trip continue further while following the Budhi Gandaki River banks until Aarughat. You will enjoy the enthralling view of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) and Ganesh Himal (7,422m) en route.

Driving further for around 2 hours, you reach Soti Khola. Although most of the trekkers to Tsum Valley start from Aarughat, you will start from Soti Khola. It has been the gateway to Manaslu Tsum Valley trek after the construction of the roadway.

 

Moving ahead from Soti Khola, you will cross a few natural waterfalls and the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail moves along the sal forests across Siding and Khursane, which are also important stops during the trek.

Enjoying the attractive view of Bahundanda and Syange of Annapurna Circuit trail, you move towards Lububesi. Lububesi is one of the largest Gurung village of Manaslu trekking region.

By crossing the Budhi Gandaki River Valley and the Nauli Khola suspension bridge, you reach Machha Khola. As a large quantity of fish used to be found here, the place is named Machha Khola (Fish  Stream).

 

Today’s trail moves up and down until you cross the Tharo Khola to reach Khorlabesi. Then, you move past Tatopani where you can see a natural hot water spring. By relishing the attractive natural setting all around, you move further towards Dobhan.

Then, by crossing a suspension bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River, you climb the staircases decorated by the prayer flags of Tharo Bharyang. By crossing the mani walls, you reach Jagat at the end of the voyage.

 

As you enter into Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) from Jagat, you need to get it issued or checked here. Then, you move forward along the steep uphill and downhill trial, you walk past Salleri, Sirdibas and Ghatta Khola villages.

Moving a little further, you reach Philim, which is a prominent Gurung Village of this region. Here, you can visit a school made by the Japanese and a Police Post to collect more information. Moving northwards from Philim, you reach Chisopani (Cold Water).

After breakfast, you begin the walk and go past Ekle Bhatti on the way. Then, showing the beautiful waterfalls, the trail hides in the dense pine forests. Ascending through the trail of Tsum Valley trek, you move next to pine and rhododendron forests.

Then after, relishing the wonderful appearance of Himalchuli (7,893m) and Buddha Himal (6,692m), you reach Lokpa. Following the zigzag trail along the rhododendron forests across the Lungwa Khola, you reach Chumling.

From here, you can enjoy the captivating sight of Shringi Himal (7,165m). You can visit the old Chumling Gompa and the well-maintained stone paved streets of this village.

Enjoying the view of Ganesh Himal Range, you move along Rainjam and Syarpu Khola to reach Gho Village. It is also an important stopover of Manalsu Circuit trek.

Ascending for 2 hours along the steep trail, you reach Chhekamparo. On the clear day, you have the stunning view of Himalchuli (7,893m) and Ganesh Himal as well.

 

You begin the trip along the steep uphill trail that takes you towards Lamagaun. You can visit the Rachen Gompa and move further across the Shiar Khola. Then, you walk past the villages like Lar, Phurbe and Pangdun respectively.

By walking across an old stupa, you reach Chule Village. Then, you climb further towards Mu Gompa. It is the largest and oldest monastery of Tsum Valley region. Located close to the Trans-Himalayan Terrain, Mu Gompa was established in 1855 AD.

The monastery contains a full size of Avalokiteshwara and images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara. There are many ancient religious books and row of chortens. You can have the breathtaking view of the Himalayas close to the Tibetan Plateau.

 

You begin today’s journey after having breakfast at Mu Gompa. Following the trail going up and down, you reach Rachen Gompa. Rachen Gompa is located in the Shiar Khola Valley on the lap of Manaslu (8163m) region.

Established in 1905 AD, it is the largest nunnery in the entire Manaslu Tsum Valley region. Only female nuns are allowed to stay and learn Buddhism here. On the way, you might come across some herds of yaks grazing in the green meadows.

 

After breakfast, you descend along the steep downhill trail towards Dumje. You will enjoy the Himalayan views and wildlife of Tsum Valley during the trek. By walking through the rugged trail for about 6/7 hours, you arrive at the destination.

You will meet other trekkers who are making Ganesh Himal Base Camp trek (4,200m there. Also, the trekkers of Tsum Valley waiting to hike to Gumba Lungdang spend the night at this stopover.

 

Today’s journey starts after you have your breakfast. You follow the flat trail passing through the wooded lands up to Ripchet. Ripchet if a large village having around 70 families of the Bhotia people. It also has teahouses that provide basic facilities to the trekkers to Tsum Valley.

By walking past a beautiful natural waterfall, you move further. Then, by following a newly constructed trail, you reach Lokpa Village. Moving ahead, you reach Philim for the night station.

 

You have your breakfast before starting today’s trekking. To reach the final destination of the day, you have to go past a few villages. Some of them are Sirdibas, Jagat, Dhobhan and Tatopani.

The trail leads you to the tropical region quite away from Tsum Valley. You can take a bath at Tatopani (natural hot water spring) if you like. Walking further alongside the steep uphill and downhill path, you arrive at Khorlabesi.

In the beginning, you go across the Tharo Khola to reach Machhakhola Village. Following the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, you reach Lububesi, a Gurung Village. You again cross two small natural waterfalls at the steep cliffs and reach Khursane Village. In the end, by crossing the sal forests and the Budhi Gandaki River, you get to Soti Khola.

 

After breakfast, you start the trip by following the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. Enjoying the enchanting view of the Himalayas, green environment and the picturesque villages, you arrive at Soti Khola.

Then, you drivie along the same roadway you followed a couple of weeks ago. Enjoy the views of Manaslu region trekking and Ganesh Himal Range including small trading centers as well.

After you get to Kathmandu, you will be transferred to the hotel. When you become fresh, you can take a round of Thamel. You can purchase some relics and garments to gift to your people back in the home country.

In the evening, we invite you for farewell dinner at a restaurant around Thamel. You will enjoy the cuisines and cultural performance while staying there.

 

Today is the final day of Tsum Valley trek itinerary for 16 days. Therefore, the member staff of the company escorts you up to the Tribhuvan International Airport in time.

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Cost Details
Includes

Transport

  • Airport pick-up and drop off service.
  • Kathmandu to Machhakhola by Publice Bus round trip

Tour / Trekking Guide and Porter 

  • Professional government licensed local trekking guide

Hotel accommodation

  • Two Nights Deluxe Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Basic Tea House accommodation during the trekking

Meal 

  • Three time meal with cup of Hot drink during the Trekking 
  • Breakfast while you are in Kathmandu

Permits

  • Manaslu restricted area trekking permits(special Permit)
  • Tsum Valley Restricted Area Trekking Permits
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permits 
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS)

Reward and other service

  • Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags and trekking sticks if required,
  • Insurance and equipment for the trekking staffs
  • First aid kit carried by your trekking guide
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program in typical Traditional Nepalis restaurant
  • Appreciation certificate provided by your travel company
  • Arrangement of emergency evacuation by Helicopter which will paid by your travel insurance
Excludes
  • Travel insurance and international Air fare
  • All bar bills and personal expenses (phone calls, laundry service, battery recharge, bottles of water, hot water, etc.)
  • Personal Porter will arrange as per traveler request (Porter carry maximum 25kg between 2 traveler)
  • Tips for trekking crew members
  • Meals & hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (without itinerary)
Route Map
Tsum Valley Trek Map
Essential Information

Food and Accommodation Facilities in Tsum Valley Trek

In the beginning, the Tsum Valley trekking used to be completely a camping trek in Nepal. But, nowadays, it is a teahouse trekking in Nepal as there are teahouses established on the trail. Besides, you can also find homestay facilities in some ethnic villages. Teahouses en route provide basic facilities for food and accommodation to the trekkers. Due to the lack of transportation facilities, people cannot carry all the stuff required for luxurious facilities.

Although basic, beds are clean with warm quilts or blankets to protect against the cold temperature. If you like, you can take your sleeping bag with you. The food items are hygienic and organic. They produce most of the food items and vegetables in their farmlands. They don’t use chemical fertilizers in the plantation of crops and vegetables. Nevertheless, we highly recommend you avoid the non-veg items as they may not be fresh in the high altitudes.

Homestay sites also provide the same kind of food and accommodation facilities. Common options include dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), noodles, momo, soups, and porridge. Breakfast often include porridge, eggs, bread, and tea. Snacks like biscuit, chocolate, and nuts are also useful for energy on long walking days. The more interesting side of homestay is that you get to eat with the host family. You can even learn to cook their food items instead. 

Permits Required for the Tsum Valley Trek

Permits are essential for the Tsum valley trek because the valley is a restricted and culturally sensitive area. They help protect the local communities, preserve the environment, and regulate the number of visitors to keep the region peaceful and sustainable. Without these permits, entry to the valley is not allowed. 

  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is required as Tsum Valley is part of the protected Manaslu region. This permit helps preserve the environment, maintain local culture, and control the number of visitors in this remote area. It costs $40 for the first week and $7 per day thereafter.
  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): The Manaslu Conservation Area Permit is a separate permit you need for the Tsum Valley Trek. While the Restricted Area Permit allows entry into the restricted zones, the MCAP is issued to help manage tourism, protect wildlife, amd support conservation efforts in the entire Manaslu region. 

Best Seasons for Tsum Valley Trekking

The best seasons for Tsum Valley trekking depend on the weather conditions and individual preferences. Here are the different trekking seasons:

  • Tsum Valley trekking in Spring season (March-May): Spring is one of the popular seasons for trekking. The weather is moderate and calm which makes walking easier. The blooming rhododendrons adorn the trail with colorful hues. It is perfect for those who enjoy colorful landscapes and moderate temperatures.
  • Tsum Valley trekking in Autumn season (September-November): Autumn is one of the best seasons for trekking. The weather is stable and comfortable. The clear skies offer spectacular views of mountain peaks. Temperatures are very comfortable, making it ideal for both trekking and photography.
  • Tsum Valley trekking in Summer season (June-August): Summer brings monsoon rain. The trails are wet and slippery due to frequent rain. The lush vegetation and quieter trails offer a unique experience. This season is less recommended unless you are prepared for wet conditions.
  • Tsum Valley trekking in Winter season  (December-February): Winter is a less popular season for trekking. The weather is unpredictable and extremely cold temperatures. The snow and storm make it difficult to navigate the trails. The serene landscape and solitude are the rewards, if you trek in this challenging season. Proper winter gear is necessary.

Cultural Significance During the Tsum valley Trekking 

The Tsum Valley Trek is as much as a cultural journey as it is a mountain adventure. The valley is home to communities that have preserved Tibetan Buddhist traditions for centuries, giving travelers a rare glimpse into a lifestyle largely unchanged by modern influences. You can witness prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens line the trails, and monks can often be seen performing daily rituals in monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa.

The villages along the route, such as Chumling, Chhokang Paro, and Nile, shows how locals live in harmony with the harsh Himalayan environment. Homes are traditionally built from stone, and many families raise yaks and grow barley, maintaining centuries old customs. Festivals, local ceremonies, and the spiritual atmosphere of the valley make the trek deeply enriching, allowing travelers to connect with the culture, religion, and traditions of a remote Himalayan community.

Packing Essentials for Tsum Valley Trekking

Backpack

  • 40–55L backpack
  • Rain cover / dry bags

Clothes (Layered)

  • 2–3 quick-dry shirts
  • Thermal top & bottom
  • Fleece or warm jacket
  • Down jacket (for cold)
  • Waterproof jacket & pants
  • 2 trekking pants
  • Underwear & sleepwear

Head, Hands & Feet

  • Sun hat + warm hat
  • Buff/scarf
  • Warm gloves
  • 3–4 pairs trekking socks
  • Broken-in trekking boots
  • Sandals/flip-flops

Trek Gear

  • Sleeping bag (rated to about -10°C)
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
  • Water bottles (2L+)
  • Water purification tablets/filter

Health & Hygiene

  • Personal medicine
  • Small first-aid kit
  • Sunscreen & lip balm
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Toilet paper & wet wipes
  • Quick-dry towel

Electronics & Documents

  • Phone
  • Power bank + cable
  • Camera (optional)
  • Passport + copies
  • Trek permits
  • Cash

Snacks

  • Energy bars / trail mix
  • Electrolyte powder

Useful Extras

  • Sunglasses
  • Earplugs
  • Notebook & pen
  • Lightweight lock

Most Important Items

If you pack nothing else, take these:

  • Trekking boots
  • Warm jacket
  • Rain jacket
  • Sleeping bag
  • Power bank
  • Water purifier
  • First-aid kit
  • Permits & passport

Travel Insurance for the Tsum Valley Trek

Travel insurance is a must for the Tsum Valley Trek because the region is remote and medical help is limited. Your insurance should cover emergencies, hospital treatment, and altitude related issues such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

It is important to check your policy includes trekking up to highest point of the trek and covers helicopter evacuation in case of serious emergencies. Carry a copy of your insurance details, share it with your guide, and know how to contact your provider from the trail. Having proper coverage ensures safety and peace of mind throughout the journey. 

Altitude Sickness and Remedies

On the Tsum Valley Trek, altitude sickness can affect anyone as you gain height. Common signs include headaches, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and trouble sleeping. To avoid it, take your time going up and allow your body to adjust. Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol or smoking.  Some trekkers use several altitude sickness medicine but that is not recommended unless the situation is actually serious. Instead, use remedies like chewing ginger or garlic and deep breathing to soothe difficulty. If symptoms get serious like severe headache, confusion, or trouble breathing, descend immediately. The trek is not important more than your life. Listening to your body, resting when needed, and pacing yourself are the best ways to stay safe.

Safety Tips

Safety is important on the Tsum Valley Trek because the area is remote and help is not easy to find. Taking precautions, trekking with a guide, and following local rules keeps you healthy and safe, while making sure your journey is smooth and enjoyable. Here are some safety tips for you to follow.

  • Acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness. Take regular breaks and stay hydrated.
  • Travel with a guide, as the region is remote and navigation can be challenging.
  • Respect local culture by following monastery rules, dressing modestly, asking before touching religious items.
  • Stay on trail and avoid shortcuts, especially near rivers and steep areas.
  • Check the weather regularly and be prepared for sudden changes with proper clothing and gear.
  • Keep communication tools like a phone or power bank handy, though coverage may be limited. 
  • Bring basic medicines and a first aid kit for minor health issues. 
FAQs

Tsum Valley is in the northern part of the Manaslu region, near the Nepal-Tibet border. It is a remote Himalayan Valley known for its culture and natural beauty. 

The highest point of the Tsum Valley trek is Mu Gompa area and the surrounding trails, reaching around 3700 meters. 

Moderate fitness is enough. The trek is not technically difficult, but you should be comfortable walking 4-6 hours a day over uneven terrain. 

Yes, Tsum Valley is a restricted so trekking is only allowed with a licensed guide or registered trekking agency. Solo trekking is not permitted. 

You need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) for the Tsum Valley Trek. If you travel with us, we will arrange all these permits on your behalf so you don't have to worry about it.

Meals are mostly Tibetan and Nepali style, including dal bhat, noodles, momos, soups, porridge, and tea. Snacks like biscuits and chocolate are also available.

You should pack warm layers, good trekking shoes, a rain jacket, sun protection, water purification, basic medicines, a sleeping bag, and your personal belongings. 

Yes, including yaks, monkeys, and occasionally Himalayan bears or snow leopards in higher or forested areas, but sightings are rare.

Yes. Many trekkers include Tsum Valley as a side trip within the Manaslu Circuit Trek, adding a few days for exploration. 

No. You should carry enough cash from the starting point, as ATMs are not available in the valley.

Although a remote trek in the Northern Himalayas, Tsum Valley trekking is of moderate type. The highest place to reach is Mu Gompa (3,700m/12,174ft). The trails are steep uphill and downhill but not much difficult to cross.

There is not any high pass to cross during the journey to and back from Tsum Valley. You find teahouses in every stops that provide basic facilities of food and accommodation.

You may find it quite challenging as well due to trekking hours and altitude gain. You have to walk for about 6 hours every day in the less frequented trails. Going uphill and downhill along the steep trail is also not less challenging.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) may not be a problem during this journey. You will walk and spend nights above 2,500m only for three days. You should walk slowly by taking enough rest, have enough water, food and sleep to get rid of AMS.

The cost of any trek depends upon a few things you want to have during this. Food and accommodation services, trekking itinerary as well as number of guides and porters are the determining factors of the cost. The better services of food and accommodation, longer itinerary and more number of guides and porters cost higher. If all these are shorter, the cost of this trek goes far below. To know more about the cost.

What Our Travelers are Saying?
Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek

Thank you Shailesh for organising our Manuslu and Tsum Valley trek. It was very nice to exchange with you all our questions and wishes by email. Very professional, thank you to...

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20 Dec, 2025
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