Highlights from the Tsum Valley Short Trek
- Tsum Valley, the hidden valley in the Manaslu Region, bordering Tibet
- Spectacular natural scenery and mountain peaks like Ganesh Himal (7140m), Boudha Himal(6672m), Shringi Himal(7187m), and Himalchuli (7893m)
- Ancient Buddhist monasteries and sacred sites such as Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Lungdang Gumba
- Less-crowded and peaceful trekking route through the remote and traditional villages such as Chhokang Paro, Chumling, and Nile
- Hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (3,774m) for breathtaking mountain views
Tsum Valley Trek: A Remote Himalayan Paradise
The Short Tsum Valley Trek is a spectacular journey to the remote and unexplored hidden valley in Nepal’s Manaslu Region. Known as the “Hidden Valley of Happiness,” this sacred valley lies beyond the mountains in the northern part of the Gorkha district. Untouched by modernity, this ancient valley is home to the Tsumpa ethnic groups, who have followed Buddhist traditions for generations.
Opened to trekkers in 2008, this restricted area offers an opportunity to explore the untouched wilderness and experience a unique culture. The 14-day Tsum Valley Trek is a blend of pristine natural beauty with pure Tibetan-influenced culture. This trek offers stunning natural beauty and mountain peaks such as Ganesh Himal (7140m), Boudha Himal (6672m), Shringi Himal(7187m), and Himalchuli (7893m). The trek takes you through stunning landscapes, cascading waterfalls, lush rhododendron and pine forests, and peaceful alpine meadows dotted with yaks and prayer flags.
Tsum Valley serves as a centre for Tibetan culture, sharing a border with Tibet. The trekking route goes through ancient villages such as Chumling, Chhokang Paro, and Nile, where authentic Tibetan traditions, culture, and ways of life are evident. Visitors can explore sacred monasteries like Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Lungdang Gompa, inhabited by monks and nuns dedicated to meditation, devotion, and simplicity. Mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags line the paths, adding a spiritual atmosphere at every step.
Unlike popular trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek, the Tsum Valley Trek is peaceful, authentic, and less commercialised. This trek is ideal for those looking for a less crowded trail and a unique cultural experience. With moderate difficulty and manageable altitudes, it suits both novice trekkers and experienced hikers eager to explore the remote Tibetan-influenced culture of the Manaslu region.
What makes the Tsum Valley unique?
Spectacular Landscapes and Natural Beauty
Tsum Valley is a place of unique geography. Lying in the northeast of Manaslu Circuit Trek, this valley is nestled in the lap of Boudha Himal (6672m), and Himalchuli (7893m)in the west, Ganesh Himal (7140m) in the south, and Shringi Himal(7187m) to the north. Tsum Valley Trek takes you through the stunning landscapes, including lush green valleys, terraced fields, and dense forests. The unspoiled beauty of the surroundings, along with the towering peaks, makes it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Situated within the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP), Tsum Valley is a habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Within its boundaries, you can encounter a variety of wildflowers and wild animals like Blue sheep, Musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and Snow Leopard. This region is also home to approximately 2000 species of plants (50 medical plants), 110 species of birds, and 33 species of mammals.
The ongoing conservation initiatives in the region play a crucial role in safeguarding this rich biodiversity, ensuring the sustainability of the ecosystem, and contributing to the overall protection of Tsum Valley's natural treasures.
Cultural Richness and Unique Lifestyle
Tsum Valley is where Nepal and Tibet meet, situated close to the Tibetan border. The lifestyle in this valley is a blend of Tibetan and Nepali influences. Tsumpas, the inhabitants of Tsum Valley, possess a distinct identity characterised by a unique culture, language, and traditions. Embracing Buddhism as their primary religion, they diligently preserve their culture very well. Visiting the valley allows one to witness the presence of artistic monasteries, Chorten, and mani walls adorned with Buddhist prayers and carvings.
Unique practices and restrictions
Tsum Valley is renowned as an open museum for animals. In this valley, the practice of slaughtering animals even as an offering to the Gods is strictly prohibited. Likewise, Poultry farming and BeeKeeping are also not allowed, contributing to the preservation of the local ecosystem. This region is declared a no-fire zone. A 50000 rupee fine is imposed even for any unintentional fires, along with the requirements to perform additional rituals as compensation.
Another unique practice in Tsum Valley is that one of the sons is responsible for taking care of the family. The men who take care of their households are not allowed to leave the village. There is a unique tradition that married women must wear their cultural Amdung and Pandgen, handcrafting these garments by themselves.
Buddhist Monasteries and Sacred Sites
Tsum Valley is adorned with ancient monasteries reflecting the strong influence of Buddhism in the region. The most significant monastery is the largest Rachen Gompa and the famous Mu Gompa. These monasteries not only serve as religious centres but also offer insights into the historical and spiritual heritage of the region. The valley is home to many sacred sites, including the Piren Phu cave and Milarepa's cave. These sites hold great religious importance for the local Buddhist communities.
Tsum Valley Short Trek Itinerary & Route Map
The 14-day Tsum Valley Trek commences with an 8-9-hour scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (870m), following the highway through the Dhading district. The trek starts from Machha Khola, along the Budhi Gandaki River, heading to Jagat (1340m) and then to Lokpa (2240m), the entry point to Tsum Valley. Upon entering the Tsum Valley, the journey continues along the ascending trail towards Chumling (2386m), the largest and cultural hub of this valley.
The following day, the trek unfolds through lush pine forests, farmland, and breathtaking waterfalls towards the Nile (3480m), the last village of Tsum Valley. Then, hike to the revered Mu Gompa (3700m). After exploring the ancient monastery, return to the Nile and then to Chhokang Paro(3480m) before the trek heads towards Ganesh Himal Base Camp(3774m) via Lundang Gumba(3200m).
After spending some valuable time at Base Camp, return to Lokpa and then to Jagat. After a night in Jagat, the journey continues to Lapu Bensi and concludes in Arughat, where a local bus takes you back to Kathmandu.
Why Combine Tsum Valley and Mansalu Circuit?
Both the Tsum Valley Trek and the Manaslu Trek are located in the same Manaslu Region. Combining these two treks allows travellers to experience the rich cultural tranquillity of Tsum Valley and the high-altitude adventure of the Mansalu Circuit, including Larke La Pass (5106m). The Tsum Valley introduces you to remote Tibetan-influenced communities, ancient monasteries, and peaceful landscapes, while the Manaslu Circuit offers dramatic Himalayan scenery, glacial valleys, and high mountain passes. The combined Tsum Valley Trek and Mansalu Circuit takes around 18-20 days from Kathmandu, offering an unparalleled journey through Nepal’s hidden gems, from remote Buddhist villages to stunning alpine terrain.
14-Day Tsum Valley Trek Cost for 2025/26
The price of the Tsum Valley Trek from Kathmandu depends on various factors like the duration, mode of transport, service included/excluded, group size, and customisation. However, we offer you 14-day Tsum Valley Trek packages at USD $1199 per person. The cost includes meals and accommodation during the trek, a government-licensed guide, all the required permits, ground transportation, and all the government taxes.
But our package doesn’t include personal expenses, such as drinks, hot water, showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging. Likewise, if you want a porter for a free trekking experience, it costs around $20 per day.
Benefits of doing the Short Tsum Valley Trek with Us.
14-day Tsum Valley Trek is a remote Himalayan journey delivering incredible cultural and Himalayan experiences. Therefore, to enhance your trekking experience in Tsum Valley, we have brought some of the benefits you will receive during the journey:
- Professional Trekking Experts and crew members who have been to Manaslu Trek multiple times.
- Complimentary Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Route Map, T-shirt, and Cap of Overland Trek Nepal.
- Complimentary trekker's Massage after the trek
- Free luggage store access at Overland Trek Nepal Office.
- First Aid Kit carried by the guide.
- 24-hour communication with the trekking leader and crew members.
- Trip Achievement certificate after the trek, along with a farewell dinner.
For more information regarding this journey to the Manaslu Region, feel free to contact us via email or WhatsApp at +9779841920870. Our travel planner from Overland Trek Nepal is always on a hotline to answer your queries.
