The 14-day Tsum Valley Trek is a breathtaking journey into the secluded Himalayan valley of Tsum. This hidden gem in the Manaslu region of Nepal is largely untouched by modern development, preserving ancient traditions for centuries. On this off-the-beaten-path trek, you will journey through traditional villages, visit historic monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, and witness stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal. Inspired by ancient Buddhist practices, you will travel the pristine landscapes, experience the vibrant Tibetan-influenced culture, and find profound spirituality on this 14-day journey.
14 Days Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal is a journey into Nepal’s sacred “Beyul,” or the hidden sanctuary. This trek takes you across the off-the-beaten-path trails that have remained unchanged for centuries. Snugly located between the towering Sringi Himal and Ganesh Himal, you will experience pristine Himalayan wilderness, deep spiritual discovery, and a glimpse of ancient Tibetan-Buddhism culture on this 14-day Tsum Valley Trek.
Throughout the trek, you will find yourself secluded from modern amenities as you explore the pure serenity of nature. On your adventure, you will trek from one remote settlement, experiencing warm Himalayan hospitality and authentic cultural exploration.
The trek begins from Maccha Khola and takes you across diverse terrain, from subtropical forests to alpine landscapes. You will explore charming Gurung and Sherpa villages, including Jagat, Lokpa, Chumling, and Chekampar, relishing the sights of the majestic Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Langtang, and Annapurna.
On this remote journey, you can also soak in the spiritual aura of the Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa. The spiritual and physical endeavor allows you to experience a profound sense of achievement and establish a unique connection with one of Nepal’s most pristine and culturally rich regions.
Take on the challenge of exploring the remote “hidden gem” of the Manaslu region. Book the Tsum Valley trek with Himalayas on Foot for an ultimate adventure in Nepal.
Why Choose the 14-Day Tsum Valley Trek?
The Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal is a journey into one of Nepal’s most remote regions. Away from the mainstream trekking routes, this trek allows a comprehensive cultural exploration into the heart of the restricted Manaslu region. Though demanding, you can experience some of the most spectacular Himalayan landscapes and cultures that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Here are the top reasons to book the 14-day Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal:
Hidden Himalayan Sanctuary: The Tsum Valley is a sacred “Beyul” or the hidden kingdom that was recently opened to the public. As you travel this restricted area, you will find yourself surrounded by the unspoilt natural beauty of this remote Buddhist valley. Here, you can discover the ancient customs and traditions and a sense of profound serenity.
Cultural Immersion with Tsumbas: You will encounter the traditional Tsumbas community, the indigenous people of the Tsum Valley, during your 14-day journey. As you travel from one village to another, you will witness their unique culture, deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Moreover, you can also explore the ancient monasteries to witness the traditional rituals and gain further insights into the distinct language, customs, and lifestyle.
Spectacular Mountain Scenery: Throughout this remote Tsum Valley trek, you will find yourself surrounded by towering peaks. As you divert yourself away from the crowded commercial routes like the EBC and Annapurna Circuit trek, you will have the opportunity to soak in the panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal range, Sringi Himal, Boudha Himal, and other surrounding peaks at your own pace.
Journey to Ancient Monasteries: Alongside Himalayan adventures, this is also a spiritual journey into the heart of the Himalayas. In this journey, you can explore the revered Buddhist monasteries, including Rachen Gompa, and the historic Mu Gompa – the highest monastery in Tsum Valley. Take the time to participate in prayers and witness the monastic lifestyle of the resident monks as you absorb the spiritual aura of the region.
A Typical Day During the 14-day Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal
The Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal is a harmonious blend of high-altitude adventures, spiritual experiences, and immersive cultural exploration. Each day introduces you to new landscapes and cultural encounters.
Your typical day during the Nepal Tsum Valley Trek begins with a hearty breakfast at your teahouse/lodge. The breakfast typically includes Tibetan bread, porridge, and egg. After breakfast, you will join your fellow trekkers and begin the day’s journey, leading to your overnight destination.
Depending on your location, the trek navigates through sub-tropical forests, along the Budhi Gandaki River, across terraced fields, or over the rugged Himalyan terrain. At around midday, you will stop for lunch at a resthouse en route to your destination. Expect the staple dal-bhat for lunch. You may spend some time resting and refueling before continuing with the rest of the day’s journey.
The afternoon trek is typically shorter. You will reach your overnight destination by late afternoon or early evening. Upon reaching your teahouse/lodge, you can check into your room. You have the rest of the evening to yourself. Take the time to explore the nearby monasteries, interact with the Tsumba community, or simply relax at your teahouse. Enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
In the evening, you will gather for dinner at the communal dining area. After dinner, your guide will brief you on the following day’s trek, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey in the hidden Tsum Valley.
Nepal Tsum Valley Trek Cost for 14 Days: Transportation, Permits, Guides, and Porter Fees
The cost of the Tsum Valley adventure depends on several factors. Your preferred season, level of comfort, group size, and additional services are some of the major contributing factors. With Himalayas on Foot, you will receive a comprehensive and transparent Tsum Valley trek package allowing you to travel the Himalayas with peace of mind.
Our standard 14-day Tsum Valley Trek typically includes two-way ground transport between Kathmandu and Maccha Khola by a local bus, an experienced licensed trekking guide, full-board meals during the trek, accommodation in basic teahouse, and all required permits.
Our Tsum Valley standard trekking package does not include porter services. Porter services, which depend on individual preferences, can be added at an additional cost.
Nepal Tsum Valley Trek Highlights
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola, marking the start of your remote adventure
- Explore traditional Tsumba villages: Jagat, Lokpa, Chumling, Chokhangparo, and Chekampar.
- Trek through pristine landscapes, from lush sub-tropical forests to high alpine valleys
- Immerse in the unique Tibetan-Buddhist culture, untouched by modern influences
- Visit ancient monasteries and nunneries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa
- Experience the warmth and hospitality of the local Tsumba people
- Witness breathtaking views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal
- Day trip to the remote and awe-inspiring Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,200m)
- Opportunity to see diverse flora and fauna within the Manaslu Conservation Area
- Trek along the scenic Budhi Gandaki River, crossing numerous suspension bridges
- A celebratory farewell dinner in Kathmandu, reflecting on your hidden valley adventure
Customized Nepal Tsum Valley Trek
The travel experts from Himalayas on Foot have meticulously crafted the 14-day Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal. Our itinerary ensures a safe and memorable adventure with all-inclusive services like transportation, meals, permits, and accommodations.
However, we understand each traveler has unique preferences and needs. To cater to your individual preferences, we offer a fully customized Tsum Valley Trekking package. Our customization feature allows you to
- Extend your stay in Kathmandu for further exploration and relaxation
- Upgrade your ground transport to a private jeep for added comfort
- Include porter services
- Adjust your trekking pace
- Incorporate additional cultural experiences in the Tsum Valley
Short Itinerary
14 Days Tsum Valley Trek Detailed Itinerary
Kathmandu to Maccha Khola
The journey to Tsum Valley begins from Kathmandu. You will board a local bus and traverse the scenic highway through Nepal’s diverse landscapes. This long, but picturesque, journey takes you across vibrant towns, terraced farmlands, and winding rivers, giving you a glimpse of rural Nepali life.
Upon reaching Maccha Khola, you will check into your teahouse/lodge. You can take some time to explore the village as you prepare for the trekking days ahead.
Maccha Khola to Jagat
Today is the first day of trekking. The day begins by following the trails along the Budhi Gandaki River through dense sub-tropical forests. You will cross several suspension bridges and pass charming villages like Khorlabesi and Tatopani.
You will notice a change in cultural practices as you ascend toward the Manaslu Conservation Area. You will eventually reach the cobblestone streets of Jagat, where you spend the night.
Jagat to Lokpa
From Jagat, you will continue along the Budhi Gandaki trail, gradually ascending through the diverse Himalayan landscapes. On today’s journey, you will pass through villages like Sirdibas and Philim, a charming Gurung village.
As you cross Philim, you will enter a more challenging and rugged section with ascents through pine and rhododendron forests. You will eventually divert away from the main Manaslu Circuit and head toward the Tsum Valley. Taking this distinct Tsum Valley trekking trail, you will make a final climb and reach Lokpa, the gateway to the hidden sanctuary of Tsum Valley.
Lokpa to Chumling
Today, you will enter deeper into the sacred Tsum Valley. The trek takes you on a steep downhill journey from Lokpa. After crossing a suspension bridge, you will take a challenging uphill climb through the dense forests. As you reach a higher altitude, you will experience a more alpine region. With the change in vegetation, you will also find a more distinct architecture that reflects the Tsumba culture. Likewise, today’s journey offers the first distant view of the Ganesh Himal range as you head toward the beautiful village of Chumling.
Chumling to Chokhangparo
As you leave Chumling behind, you will take a captivating journey into the heart of the Tsum Valley. The journey takes you across the long suspension bridge over the Siyal Khola and an uphill climb across charming villages like Ripchet and the famous Rachen Gompa. The Ranchen Gompa is a prominent Buddhist nunnery. Take the time to observe the serene monastic life and spiritual practices of the resident monks.
From the Ranchen Gompa, the journey continues toward Chokhangparo. Nestled against a backdrop of icy giants, you will find yourself surrounded by traditional stone houses that allow an immersive cultural experience.
Chokhangparo to Nile
Today, you will reach further into the upper Tsum Valley. Experience the increased altitude and the more barren landscapes. The journey continues along the Siyar Khola and passes several charming villages with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Ganesh Himal. You will also experience cultural encounters as you find numerous mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags. This highlights the deep influence of Tibetan-Buddhism culture and traditions on the Tsumba people.
The journey continues to Nile, a quaint village located toward the Tibetan border.
Rest day and hike to Mu Gompa day trip
After about a week of trekking, you will spend a day acclimatizing. This allows your body to adjust to the thin atmospheric pressure, significantly reducing the risks of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or altitude sickness.
Today, you will hike to a higher elevation destination of Mu Gompa. This ancient monastery dates back centuries and houses sacred relics and thangka paintings. You can spend some time exploring the surroundings and soaking in the spiritual ambiance. Also enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
To practice the “climb high, sleep low” strategy, you will return to your low-elevation destination of the Nile to spend the night.
Nile to Chekampar
After your high-altitude trek, you will descend to a lower elevation destination of Chekampar. The trek offers familiar scenery but with a fresh perspective. This downhill journey is less strenuous and gives you the time to soak in the majestic views of the Siring Himal and the lush valley.
Chekampar to Gumba Lundang
Today, you will journey to Gumba Ludang. This is a spiritual site involving a gradual ascent across terraced fields and charming villages. Gumba Ludang is a revered Buddhist monastery perched amid a serene alpine setting. This is the focal point of the Tsumba community, where you will find the opportunity to explore the ancient monastery, interact with the resident monks, and absorb the spiritual atmosphere of the surroundings.
Day trip to Ganesh Himal Base Camp
The trek to Ganesh Himal Base Camp is the most challenging yet rewarding journey of the incredible Tsum Valley adventure. This is the highest point of the entire trek and involves journeying through rugged paths with steep climbs. As you ascend the alpine terrain, you will find a close-up panorama of the Ganesh Himal range.
Upon reaching the base camp, you can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and experience the ultimate wilderness and solitude. After spending some time at the Ganesh Himal Base Camp, you will return to Gumba Lundang.
Gumba Lundang to Lokpa
After a spiritual immersion in Gumba Lundang and a challenging Ganesh Himal Base Camp ascent, you will begin a significant descent into the heart of the Tsum valley in Lokpa. The trail takes you through the familiar, diverse terrain. With the gradual decrease in altitude, you will experience warmer temperatures and richer vegetation.
Lokpa to Jagat
Today, you will retrace your steps back to Jagat. Your descent is more relaxed, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beautiful natural surroundings. The trek takes you across charming villages and forests, following the Budhi Gandaki River. You will rejoin the main Manaslu trekking route as you head toward your overnight destination of Jagat.
Jagat to Maccha Khola
Leaving the Manaslu Conservation Area behind, you will trek to Maccha Khola. This marks the end of your full-day trekking as you trail along the subtropical forests and the familiar villages like Tatopani. You can spend some time in the natural hot water springs of Tatopani before continuing along the Budhi Gandaki River to your teahouse in Macchakhola.
Maccha Khola to Kathmandu
After breakfast in your teahouse at Maccha Khola, you will board a local bus back to Kathmandu. The journey takes you along the winding highway, offering glimpses of the picturesque hills and quaint highway life. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you will meet with the representatives of Himalayas on Foot for a farewell dinner to officially end the 2-week Tsum Valley trek in Nepal.
Cost Details
Includes
- Ground transportation: Kathmandu to Maccha Khola & Maccha Khola to Kathmandu by local bus
- Professional trekking guide with a government license, including their salary, food, and insurance
- Full Board Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
- Tea House / Lodge Accommodation during the trek (13 nights)
- Tsum Valley Restricted Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
- TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System card)
- Manaslu/Tsum Valley local rural tax
- Provision of sleeping bags, down jackets, and duffel bags upon request (to be returned after the trek)
- Well-equipped first aid kit and oximeter for health monitoring
- All applicable government taxes, VAT, and service charges
- A celebratory farewell dinner in Kathmandu on the last night
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter rescue (if required, personal travel insurance is highly recommended.
Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fees
- International flights to and from Kathmandu
- Beverages of all kinds, including tea, coffee, soft drinks, and bottled water, are available during the trek.
- Hot showers and Wi-Fi access at lodges during the trek
- Any extra meals desired beyond the standard three daily meals
- Porter services to carry your backpack, if needed (can be arranged at an additional cost)
- Tips for your guide and porter (expected and highly appreciated)
- Personal travel insurance (highly recommended, covering high-altitude trekking and emergency rescue)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment not listed as complimentary
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (except for the farewell dinner)
- Private jeep if required for Kathmandu to Maccha Khola and vice versa (can be arranged at additional cost)
Dates & Availability
Equipment Lists
What to Pack for the 2-week Tsum Valley Trek?
The Nepal Tsum Valley Trek requires careful consideration of clothing and gear. Packing appropriately for this hidden kingdom adventure is crucial for your comfort, safety, and memorable journey.
Below is a comprehensive packing list to ensure a safe and memorable 2-week trek:
Clothing and Gear
- Base layers, fleece, down jacket
- Trekking pants and thermal wear
- Gloves, hat, scarf, sunglasses
- Comfortable hiking boots & evening shoes
- Passport and Nepal visa
- Insurance covering a helicopter rescue
- Copies of permits & tickets
- Trekking poles
- Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent
- Camera, power bank, extra batteries
- Personal first-aid kit
- Water bottle
- Small quick-dry towel
- Plastic bags (for trash, wet clothes)
- Books or entertainment for downtime
- Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit)
Additional Info
When is the Best Time for the Nepal Tsum Valley Trek?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) have the most ideal weather conditions suitable for trekking in Tsum Valley. These seasons are known for stable weather and clear visibility.
In spring, you will trek amid the wildflowers and rhododendron blossoms in the sub-tropical regions. The hills are adorned in vibrant colors. Spring offers warmer weather that makes trekking more comfortable. However, there are slight chances of afternoon showers, but they typically do not significantly impact your itinerary.
Autumn, on the other hand, is the peak trekking season across Nepal. This period gives you uninterrupted views of the majestic mountains, including Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Boudha Himal, and other surrounding peaks. There are reduced chances of rainfall, creating the best conditions to navigate the diverse Himalayan terrain.
How Difficult is the 14-day Tsum Valley Trek?
The 14-day Tsum Valley Trek is a moderately challenging adventure in one of Nepal’s most remote locations. This trek demands good physical fitness, stamina, and mental strength. You will reach a maximum altitude of 4,200 meters at Ganesh Himal Base Camp. Though the altitude is not as extreme as the Everest Base Camp trek, the remoteness and off-grid location make this trek challenging.
For a safe and more successful adventure, we have incorporated strategic acclimatization days. This significantly reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or altitude sickness. Before getting on this trek, we recommend preparing with cardio exercises and strength training.


