Tsum valley Trekking
Tsum valley is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage site located in the northern part of the Gorkha district in Nepal. It is a hidden valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains like Ganesh Himal, Buddha Himal, Shringi Himal, and Himalchuli. The word “Tsum” comes from the Tibetan word “Tsombo” which means “Bright or vivid.” It is named Tsum as the relics of the ancient Kingdom are still bright and vivid in this region. The Tsum valley trek is one of the best treks that offer a superb panorama of the mountains, ancient Tibetan culture, as well as untouched natural beauty.
In this region, trekkers will find untouched wildlife as the people of this region follow Buddhism, which prohibits hunting. The trek offers a close-up view of the Himal Chuli, Buddha Himal, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and many more. The culture and lifestyle of the ethnic people like Gurung, Magar, and Tibetan People is another remarkable feature of this trek.
Tsum valley is rich in cultural assets. In the valley, trekkers can see many ancient Buddhist monasteries, Mani walls, Chortens, and the steps of the great Buddhist Yogi Chyuchin Milarepa. The Tsum valley trek is a newly explored trekking trail that begins from Aarughat in the Gorkha district. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River valley and traverses through a subtropical forest in the lowlands to the Alpine zone at higher altitude. Trekkers will pass through ethnic villages of Gurung, Magar, Tibetan Buddhist people, waterfalls, rivers, natural hot springs, and enjoy views of the snow-capped mountains. On this journey, trekkers can also visit the historical Gorkha durbar in Gorkha, the wonderful palace and home of Nepal’s first king. The best season to go for the Tsum valley trek is autumn and spring when the weather is clear and trekkers can have a clear view of the mountains as well as the natural scenery.
1. Location and Geography:
– The Tsum Valley is located in the Gorkha District of northern Nepal, near the border with Tibet.
– This region is nestled within the Manaslu Conservation Area and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Manaslu (8,163 meters), Ganesh Himal, and Sringi Himal.
2. Cultural Richness:
– One of the most distinctive features of the Tsum Valley is its rich Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions.
– The valley is home to several ancient monasteries, including Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, which are centers of Buddhist spirituality and learning.
– The people of Tsum, known as Tsumbas, are of Tibetan descent and follow Tibetan Buddhism.
3. Restricted Area:
– Until recently, Tsum Valley was a restricted area and required a special permit for trekking. While it’s now more accessible, it still maintains a pristine and less crowded atmosphere compared to some other trekking regions in Nepal.
4. Natural Beauty:
– The Tsum Valley offers diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes.
– The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, which is often accompanied by waterfalls and suspension bridges.
– You’ll trek through pine and rhododendron forests and may spot wildlife like the Himalayan tahr and red panda.
5. Hot Springs:
– At Tatopani, you can relax in natural hot springs, which are a welcome respite for trekkers after days of walking.
The Tsum Valley Trek is a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal. It offers a chance to explore a hidden gem that was once isolated from the outside world, and it continues to preserve its rich culture and pristine environment.
Please note that all itineraries are indicative and will be tailored for each individual trekking group.
Itineraries may also change during the trek as a function of weather forecast and health&fitness of group members. Safety first!
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
– Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
– Transfer to your hotel.
– Explore Thamel, a popular tourist area in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (900m)
– 9-10 hours by bus or private vehicle
– Enjoy the clear river and prepare for the trek tomorrow
– Overnight in Machha Khola.
Day 3: Machha Khola (900m) to Jagat (1,410m)
– Walking time: 6-7 hours
– Trek through terraced fields and small villages.
– Cross the Tharo Khola river.
– Overnight in Jagat.
Day 4: Jagat (1,410m) to Lokpa (2,240m)
– Walking time: 5-6 hours
– Begin the restricted area of Tsum Valley.
– Pass through Philim, a large Gurung village.
– Overnight in Lokpa.
Day 5: Lokpa (2,240m) to Chumling (2,386m)
– Walking time: 4-5 hours
– Pass through quaint villages.
– Enjoy stunning views of the Ganesh Himal.
– Overnight in Chumling.
Day 6: Chumling(2,386m) to Chokhangparo (3,010m)
– Walking time: 5-6 hours
– Continue trekking through forests and villages.
– Cross a suspension bridge over the Shiar Khola.
– Overnight in Chokhangparo.
Day 7: Chokhangparo (3,010m) to Nile (3,361m)
– Walking time: 4-5 hours
– Visit the Milarepa Piren Phu Cave on the way.
– Overnight in Nile.
Day 8: Nile (3,361m) to Mu Gompa (3,700m) and back to Nile
– Walking time: 6-7 hours
– Leave the bags in Nile and continue trekking to Mu Gompa.
– Visit Dhephu Doma Gompa on the way.
– Overnight in Nile.
Day 9: Nile (3,361m) to Chumling (2,386m)
– Walking time: 6-7 hours
– Explore the area and interact with the locals.
– Overnight in Chumling.
Day 10: Chumling (2,386m) to Philim (1,570m)
– Walking time: 5-6 hours
– Retrace your steps through the Tsum Valley.
– Overnight in Philim.
Day 11: Philim (1,570m) to Tatopani (1,190m) (Hot Springs)
– Walking time: 6-7 hours
– Enjoy a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs.
– Overnight in Tatopani.
Day 12: Tatopani (1,190m) to Machha Khola (900m) and Drive to Kathmandu
– Walking time: 1-2 hours (Trek)
– Drive back to Kathmandu: 9-10h
– Congratulations, you have completed the Tsum valley trek!
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