" We did the 14 days Nepal budget tour and we could not be more happy with our choice. In only 2 weeks we visited Kathmandu, Chitwan national park, Pokhara and did a 5 day trek in the Annapurna region. The organization was flawless (like a swiss Read more"
Our Tsum Valley Trek guide offers a remote and culturally rich journey through the majestic Himalayas, providing stunning landscapes, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and encounters with the hospitable local communities.
Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek Guide:
- Enjoy a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola.
- Explore the Tibetan arid region for a unique cultural experience.
- Discover Buddhist monasteries and Gompas dotted along the trails.
- Witness stunning waterfalls en route, adding to the beauty of the journey.
- Picturesque views of the Himalayas throughout the trip
- Visit iconic landmarks such as Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa cave.
- Cross Nepal's first Cantilever Bridge for an adventurous highlight.
- Immerse yourself in Tibetan and Buddhist lifestyle, culture, art, and religion.
Overview
Tsum valley, unknown and undiscovered to most and finally hatched with exploration under initiation from TAAN (Trekking Agent Association of Nepal). Derived from the Tibetan word Tsombo, Tsum holds many passes over 5000m extending from the northern part of Nepal to the border with Tibet.
This beautiful, panoramic landscape can be found in Gorkha District, which has a rich history dating back to the Shah Dynasty of Nepal. It is defined by mountains, culture, traditions, landscape and adventure. Beautiful routes have just become available for exploring.
Crossing through beautiful villages, entering into the restricted area with special permit takes you to the heart of cultural and traditional hub, where you will see the real and true image of ancient habitant, untouched by many.
The altitude varies from 1905m till 5093m at Ngula Dhojhyang Pass on the Tibetan border. Traditionally Tsum valley was culturally district geographical area called ‘Tsum Tso Chucksums’, which means thirteen provinces ruled as a single territory. This hidden valley is surrounded by Mountains called, Boudha Himal, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal. Tsum valley includes two remote VDCs, Chhekampar (Upper Tsum) and Chumchet (Lower Tsum).
Tsum Valley Trek Journey
Tsum is a holy Himalayan pilgrimage valley situated in the trans-Himalayan zone of the Gorkha, Nepal. Arughat, a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu, is the beginning and finishing point of the trek.
In the first part of the tour, Budhi Gandaki Valley is climbed through good roads through a mixture of dense forest, terraced fields and mountain villages. As we exit the central Manaslu trail in the Tsum canyon, we immediately get the feeling that we are really entering the secret valley.
During the ride, pass past alpine trees, glacier flowers, and indigenous peoples' warm hospitality. We go through the Buri, Machhakhola, Jagat and Philim lower Budhi Gandaki districts. The old Gombas of the city, such as Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, Dephyudonma Gompa, are visited as well.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport, extend a warm welcome, and transfer to your hotel. Take advantage of this day to adjust to the new time zone and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Kathmandu. Orientation Program will be at 5 PM. After orientation program welcome Dinner with guide.
Our guide and driver will pick you up from your place (Hotel) at about 9:30 am and your guided sightseeing tour starts from Swoyambhunath following with Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Patan Durbar Square. You will have a lunch break at Bouddha and you will be escorted to your hotel in the late afternoon.
After breakfast, we'll head to Machha Khola, where our trek begins. The journey from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi is a smooth 3-hour drive on a paved road. From there, we'll encounter a rough and winding dirt road to Machha Khola, lasting 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
The total travel time for the day will be approximately 9 to 10 hours. Please note that the road from Soti Khola to Machha Khola is recently constructed and not yet paved. To ensure your comfort and safety, we'll arrange sharing 4WD vehicle with an experienced driver for your transportation.
Once we pass the Machha River and Khorla Besi, we'll come across a relaxing hot spring known as Tatopani. Following a path through the forest, we'll arrive at Dovan, situated beneath the impressive Budi Gandaki river. As we climb higher, you'll notice a change in the scenery and the speed of the rapids.
Our trail moves uphill and then continues through a flat leveled path trail to sandy banks. The path then gets steep near Sirdibas and as we cross a dramatic suspension bridge over the river, we further climb up to a beautiful village of Phillim. From Philim, we lose the height and enter to Tsum valley. As we head a little further with a climb, we reach Lhokpa. The views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal from Lokpa is amazing.
Today will be challenging as we climb to higher altitudes, mostly uphill. Along the trail, we'll catch glimpses of the Himalayas peeking through the scenery. Passing by charming villages like Lungwa Khola, we'll hike through pine forests to Gumlung. Crossing the Siyar Khola, we'll arrive at Chumling, a lower part of the Tsum valley known for its Chumling Gompa and quaint stone streets.
Leaving behind Chumling, we begin our walk to Chhokang Paro. Chookang Paro is also popularly known as Chhekemper and is located on the top of the hill. Our trail for today follows one of the tributaries of the Budhi Gandaki River for the most part of the day. We pass a small monastery on the way and crosses another tributary from where we begin to ascend up to the hill to Chhekampar. Chhekampar consists of two unique settlements namely Chhokang and Paro. Being on the top of the hill, Chhekampar acts as a vantage point that offers close-up views of Ganesh Himal Range.
The village of Nile is to the west, which is the north of the upper Tsum valley last settlement. As we pass into the grotto of Piren Phu, also known as the cave of piegeons. It is one of Tsum Valley's most holy caves. It is located near the town of Burji, at the foot of a steep hill. It was assumed that the revered Tibetan Saint named Milarepa meditated in that cave because of the cave 's footprint. The road is a perfect way to walk through green woods and the landscape can turn lush and low. Two different convents are connected to the rocky cave.
After an early breakfast in the morning we will abandon Nile as the road progresses towards Mu Gompa. This is the region's largest monastery. The highest and most far-away in the Tsum Valley is Mu Gompa. It was established in 1895 A.D. and consists of several books, among them a Kangyur, an images of Guru Padmasambavya and Tara. Chortens rows and spectacular mountain views and houses have been developed into the monastery. One of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum valley is Dephyudonma 's ancient monastery associated with the dawn of Buddhism run by Lama on the lap of rough mountains.
We descend down the valley to Chhule and continue walking down to Phurbe. We stay on the east bank of the Siyar Khola and cross flat boulder-covered plains and follow the power lines to Rachen Gompa/ Nunnery Gompa. We visit this ancient gompa and interact with the monks and nuns living in the gompa.
Next day leaving Rachen Gompa we trek towards Domje village form where the trail starts to cross over a mani wall with several flags of prayer, continuing the steep climb through a oak, junipar and rhododendron wood. It is a lovely view of the Tibetan culture. Eventually, there is a prayer flag in the forest marking the climb and passing through a large silver pine to the Gompa in Lungdang. In the mountains.
After our breakfast we walk down to Rainjam and catch the unforgettable glimpse of the Himal Ganesh. We climb up and down to Ripchet slightly after that. The village of Ripchet is lovely with big houses. It offers you the chance to learn about the local people 's hospitality history, practices and lifestyles.
It's time for us to descend to Jagat, where we'll reconnect with the Budhi Gandaki river. Along the trails, we'll catch glimpses of the mountains. The hike today through forests and downhill terrain should be pleasant and easy on our legs. We'll traverse several suspension bridges to reach Sirdibas village before finally arriving at Jagat.
Both Khorlabesi and Machha Khola are in the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. After hot breakfast, we will take the trail to Machha Khola. It’s mostly a decent today. We will walk on the side of the mountain with the roaring Budhi Gandaki below us, cross suspension bridges and finally arrive at Machha Khola, the end point of our trek.
We will depart for Kathmandu in the morning, starting with a newly built but unpaved road until Dhading Besi, where some bumps are expected due to the current state of the route. From Dhading Besi, the road transitions to concrete, offering a smoother but still mountainous drive. While the terrain can be uneven at times, the journey offers scenic views, and we anticipate arriving in Kathmandu, by late morning or early afternoon, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Use your last morning in Kathmandu according to your flight time. Pack your things, check out of the hotel, Head to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey back home!
Tour Route
Follow the journey path
- Warm jacket (down or insulated)
- Thermal layers (top & bottom)
- Trekking pants & hiking shirts
- Warm hat or cap
- Gloves
- Vest or fleece layer
- Hiking boots (comfortable and broken-in)
- Lightweight sandals or camp shoes
- Warm trekking socks
- Daypack with rain cover
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag –15°C (provided by HSJ)
- Head torch or flashlight
- Power bank
- Water bottle
- Water purification tablets
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Toiletries (toothbrush, paste, soap, sanitizer)
- Basic first-aid and personal medicines
- Lip balm and moisturizer
- Camera
- Mobile phone
- Energy bars or dry snacks
The monsoon that is almost everywhere in Nepal is in the fall (October-Nember) between the mid-June and the end of September, the most popular season is the summer, where the skies are washed and the wetter looks are superior, springs (March-May) are another common time for trekkers. Likewise, most people are unwilling to walk during the winter when the temperature in high elevation is too cold and snow can block high passes. The trail is unworkable and dangerous during the summer / mountain season.
You need some previous trekking activities and good health. Climbing and descending are quite common walking experiences and you may also need to cross little glaciers. Walking in higher altitudes is more physically demanding than walking in lower altitudes, however, the pace of the trek will vary in compensation. If you are in excellent health with average physical fitness and have strong determination, you will complete this trek successfully. Exercising, particularly jogging and climbing stairs regularly for some weeks prior to your arrival is recommended to enhance your strength and fitness. Past hiking experience would be an asset, but no technical skill is required. This kind of trip gives you a lifetime experience, a breathtaking stroll around the mountains.
All accommodations are on twin-sharing room BB basis. Single room will be served on request with paying the supplementary. During the trek at Lodges/Tea houses the room will be sharing basis usually with attached bath room in lower altitude but note that it might be difficult to find with attached bath room at higher altitude.
Mostly during lodge trek, we can enjoy authentic Nepalese fresh produce (Dal bhat, vegetation, curry ...) rice, lentil, along with more widely accepted cuisineYou may select from the menu of the lodge according to your preferences and at the moment our guide would be present with you to help you taste the food and decide what to eat if you have if you find the meals difficult to choose. From the teahouse, or from the lodge table, breakfast and dinner is served, while lunch is provided on the way to the next stop.
The internet service is available at lodges with an extra cost. You can contact your family and friends via lodges, but communication at high altitudes is via the safety phone. For any assistance during the trek, you will always be linked to Kathmandu's HSJ office. Often, the signal may be not very good before the high altitude, depending on the type of network you use. On your request, a separate local sim card can be issued for your good access to the connection (most of the places now have wireless internet services at extra costs).
Electricity for the camera and the handheld battery charge is accessible in the lodges. However extra cost shall incure. Most lodges are equipped with hydropower and some have solar panels.You can charge all your devices staying overnight in one of chosen lodges or tea houses.
The Tap water supplied along the trails are considered safe for drinking and local people drink it without treating, however for the foreigners, it is best that the tap water be only drunk after purification. There are two good options for having proper drinking water during the trek. You can bring water purification tablets or fill your bottle for a nominal fee from the recognized and regulated "pure water" stations along the trek. As the last alternative, you can also purchase bottled water at the lodges but this is not recommended. It is very important that you drink at least 3 liters of pure water daily during the trek
You need Manaslu special permit with Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees, Himalayan Social Journey will take care of all the necessary paperwork.
Please dont forget to bring your 4 PP sized photos for the TIMS and Permits.
We suggest taking out an insurance plan for your individual accountability, accidents and illnesses during the service. Regarding the type of activity, you may be asked to show a certificate of insurance for help and support, sanitation and search. This service is private and not free in Nepal, the helicopter will not take off until it is convinced to pay for the insurance.
There will be two people accommodated in each room for the duration of the tour. If you prefer private accommodation, you'll find the option for "single supplement" of USD 250. Important: Please note that during the trek there are some lodges which won't have sufficient rooms to provide private accommodation. So, even if you purchase single supplement you will end up sharing a room for some days of the trek.
Yes, Himalayan Social Journey is flexible travel partner. It is possible to organize the private trip or private group trip to Tsum Valley Trek. The minimum people for the group is 2 however supplementary charge will be applicable for the solo traveler wanting to do private trip.
In the average, you will be walking for 6-7 hours each day during the Tsum Valley Trek
No, there is no age limit to do the trek. If the person is healthy and physically fit, they can do the trek.
No, the company does not provide trekking poles, you will have to manage it on your own or our guide can help you buy it when you are in Nepal. The pair of trekking poles cost from $10-$15.
Yes, we do provide sleeping bags. The sleeping bags we provide are of good quality. They help you sustain the colder climate in Nepali mountains up to -25 degree Celsius of temperature. However if you need the one of your own, you can buy one here. Your guide shall assist you to get it here. Keep the track of the weather forecast of the area and pack your clothes accordingly. This would help you be prepared for the type of weather Nepali Mountains are accustomed to.
List of Equipments you will need for trek
Clothing
- Trekking boots
- Short-sleeved Trekking shirts
- Trekking pants and jackets
- Thermals underwear
- Long-sleeved Trekking shirts
- Insulating down jackets
- Woolen cap
- Trekking Gloves
- Raincoats
First Aid
- Diamox tablets
- Sanitary pads / Tampons
- Anti-nausea Medicines
- Band-aids
- Mosquito and insect repellents
Toiletries
- Soap
- Toilet Paper
- Shampoo
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sleeping bag
- Cameras
- Batteries
- Water Bottle
- Solar Chargers
- Hot water Thermos
Important Documents
- Passport
- Travel Permits
- 4 PP size photos
Generally, plan on spending around USD 15 to 20 per person each day. This covers expenses like water, tea or coffee, snacks, and hot showers in the mountains, as well as meals in Kathmandu. If you plan to shop for souvenirs or local Nepali goods, it's a good idea to bring some extra cash.
The monsoon that is almost everywhere in Nepal is in the fall (October-Nember) between the mid-June and the end of September, the most popular season is the summer, where the skies are washed and the wetter looks are superior, springs (March-May) are another common time for trekkers. Likewise, most people are unwilling to walk during the winter when the temperature in high elevation is too cold and snow can block high passes. The trail is unworkable and dangerous during the summer / mountain season.
You need some previous trekking activities and good health. Climbing and descending are quite common walking experiences and you may also need to cross little glaciers. Walking in higher altitudes is more physically demanding than walking in lower altitudes, however, the pace of the trek will vary in compensation. If you are in excellent health with average physical fitness and have strong determination, you will complete this trek successfully. Exercising, particularly jogging and climbing stairs regularly for some weeks prior to your arrival is recommended to enhance your strength and fitness. Past hiking experience would be an asset, but no technical skill is required. This kind of trip gives you a lifetime experience, a breathtaking stroll around the mountains.
All accommodations are on twin-sharing room BB basis. Single room will be served on request with paying the supplementary. During the trek at Lodges/Tea houses the room will be sharing basis usually with attached bath room in lower altitude but note that it might be difficult to find with attached bath room at higher altitude.
Mostly during lodge trek, we can enjoy authentic Nepalese fresh produce (Dal bhat, vegetation, curry ...) rice, lentil, along with more widely accepted cuisineYou may select from the menu of the lodge according to your preferences and at the moment our guide would be present with you to help you taste the food and decide what to eat if you have if you find the meals difficult to choose. From the teahouse, or from the lodge table, breakfast and dinner is served, while lunch is provided on the way to the next stop.
The internet service is available at lodges with an extra cost. You can contact your family and friends via lodges, but communication at high altitudes is via the safety phone. For any assistance during the trek, you will always be linked to Kathmandu's HSJ office. Often, the signal may be not very good before the high altitude, depending on the type of network you use. On your request, a separate local sim card can be issued for your good access to the connection (most of the places now have wireless internet services at extra costs).
Electricity for the camera and the handheld battery charge is accessible in the lodges. However extra cost shall incure. Most lodges are equipped with hydropower and some have solar panels.You can charge all your devices staying overnight in one of chosen lodges or tea houses.
The Tap water supplied along the trails are considered safe for drinking and local people drink it without treating, however for the foreigners, it is best that the tap water be only drunk after purification. There are two good options for having proper drinking water during the trek. You can bring water purification tablets or fill your bottle for a nominal fee from the recognized and regulated "pure water" stations along the trek. As the last alternative, you can also purchase bottled water at the lodges but this is not recommended. It is very important that you drink at least 3 liters of pure water daily during the trek
You need Manaslu special permit with Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees, Himalayan Social Journey will take care of all the necessary paperwork.
Please dont forget to bring your 4 PP sized photos for the TIMS and Permits.
We suggest taking out an insurance plan for your individual accountability, accidents and illnesses during the service. Regarding the type of activity, you may be asked to show a certificate of insurance for help and support, sanitation and search. This service is private and not free in Nepal, the helicopter will not take off until it is convinced to pay for the insurance.
There will be two people accommodated in each room for the duration of the tour. If you prefer private accommodation, you'll find the option for "single supplement" of USD 250. Important: Please note that during the trek there are some lodges which won't have sufficient rooms to provide private accommodation. So, even if you purchase single supplement you will end up sharing a room for some days of the trek.
Yes, Himalayan Social Journey is flexible travel partner. It is possible to organize the private trip or private group trip to Tsum Valley Trek. The minimum people for the group is 2 however supplementary charge will be applicable for the solo traveler wanting to do private trip.
In the average, you will be walking for 6-7 hours each day during the Tsum Valley Trek
No, there is no age limit to do the trek. If the person is healthy and physically fit, they can do the trek.
No, the company does not provide trekking poles, you will have to manage it on your own or our guide can help you buy it when you are in Nepal. The pair of trekking poles cost from $10-$15.
Yes, we do provide sleeping bags. The sleeping bags we provide are of good quality. They help you sustain the colder climate in Nepali mountains up to -25 degree Celsius of temperature. However if you need the one of your own, you can buy one here. Your guide shall assist you to get it here. Keep the track of the weather forecast of the area and pack your clothes accordingly. This would help you be prepared for the type of weather Nepali Mountains are accustomed to.
List of Equipments you will need for trek
Clothing
- Trekking boots
- Short-sleeved Trekking shirts
- Trekking pants and jackets
- Thermals underwear
- Long-sleeved Trekking shirts
- Insulating down jackets
- Woolen cap
- Trekking Gloves
- Raincoats
First Aid
- Diamox tablets
- Sanitary pads / Tampons
- Anti-nausea Medicines
- Band-aids
- Mosquito and insect repellents
Toiletries
- Soap
- Toilet Paper
- Shampoo
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sleeping bag
- Cameras
- Batteries
- Water Bottle
- Solar Chargers
- Hot water Thermos
Important Documents
- Passport
- Travel Permits
- 4 PP size photos
Generally, plan on spending around USD 15 to 20 per person each day. This covers expenses like water, tea or coffee, snacks, and hot showers in the mountains, as well as meals in Kathmandu. If you plan to shop for souvenirs or local Nepali goods, it's a good idea to bring some extra cash.