Trek Highlights
- Explore the hidden Tsum Valley, a peaceful Himalayan valley rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions.
- Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, including Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Dephydonma Gompa.
- Enjoy spectacular views of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Himalchuli ranges.
- Experience traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, stone houses, prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls.
- Visit Mu Gompa, the highest and one of the most important monasteries in the Tsum Valley.
- Discover the sacred Milarepa Cave, associated with the famous Tibetan Buddhist saint Milarepa.
- Walk through beautiful forests, river valleys, waterfalls, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes.
- Experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Tsumba people in remote mountain communities.
- Cross scenic suspension bridges and traditional mountain trails while exploring the valley.
- Enjoy an authentic Himalayan trekking experience away from the busy routes of Nepal.
Trip Overview
The Tsum Valley Trek is a beautiful cultural and Himalayan adventure into one of Nepal's most remote and peaceful valleys. Located in the northern part of the Gorkha district, Tsum Valley is surrounded by spectacular Himalayan peaks and is well known for its ancient Buddhist traditions, monasteries, and preserved Tibetan-influenced culture.
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu toward the Manaslu region before entering the Tsum Valley. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through lush forests, traditional villages, suspension bridges, and dramatic mountain landscapes before gradually reaching the higher settlements of the valley.
One of the main attractions of the trek is its rich Buddhist heritage. Along the route, you can visit important monasteries such as Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, while colorful prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and traditional Buddhist practices create a deeply spiritual atmosphere throughout the journey.
The Tsum Valley is home to the Tsumba people, who have preserved their unique traditions, culture, language, and lifestyle for generations. Staying in local teahouses and passing through villages provides an opportunity to experience authentic Himalayan hospitality and traditional mountain life.
The trek also offers impressive natural scenery, including views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Himalchuli. The trail passes through forests, alpine landscapes, rivers, waterfalls, and peaceful mountain settlements, making the journey rewarding for both nature lovers and cultural explorers.
Reaching an altitude of approximately 3,700m / 12,139ft at Mu Gompa, the Tsum Valley Trek requires reasonable physical fitness but does not demand technical climbing skills. The combination of spectacular scenery, ancient monasteries, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and remote Himalayan villages makes this trek a memorable experience in Nepal.
Kathmandu to Tsum Valley Road Journey
The Tsum Valley Trek begins with a scenic overland journey from Kathmandu toward the Manaslu region. The drive passes through beautiful countryside, terraced fields, traditional villages, and mountain landscapes before reaching the trekking starting point. The journey is an important part of the adventure, providing travelers with an opportunity to experience Nepal's changing landscapes from the city to the Himalayan foothills.
Road Journey to Machha KholaFrom Kathmandu, the route continues toward Machha Khola, one of the main gateways for the Tsum Valley and Manaslu trekking regions. The road follows river valleys and rugged mountain terrain, with sections that can be rough and winding. Travel time may vary depending on road and weather conditions.
Return Journey to KathmanduAfter completing the Tsum Valley Trek, trekkers return to Kathmandu by road following the same general route. The return journey provides another opportunity to enjoy the changing Himalayan and countryside scenery before concluding the trek in Kathmandu.
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Plan Your Trek Schedule
Pick Your Start Date
Click any date below to select your departure day. The calendar will automatically highlight your full 21-day trip window. Use the arrows to browse months.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Meet your trekking team and receive a briefing about the trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
What is Included in This Package
Transportation
- Private airport pick-up and drop-off services in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu to Machha Khola and return transportation by private/local vehicle as per itinerary
- Dharapani to Besisahar and Kathmandu ground transportation
- All necessary ground transportation mentioned in the itinerary
Accommodation
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a bed-and-breakfast basis
- Teahouse/local lodge accommodation throughout the trekking period
- Twin-sharing accommodation during the trek
- Accommodation in standard teahouses with basic facilities
Food & Drinks
- Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Breakfast during your stay in Kathmandu
- Tea and coffee during meals on trekking days
- Seasonal fruits during the trek
- Safe drinking water purification support
- Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
Guide and Porter
- Government-licensed, experienced English-speaking trekking guide
- Assistant guide for larger groups
- Necessary porter support during the trek
- Accommodation, meals, salary, and insurance for trekking staff
Permits & Fees
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, as required by the itinerary
- All necessary local trekking permits and entry fees
- Government taxes and service charges
Safety and Support
- First-aid medical kit
- Emergency rescue coordination assistance
- Company duffel bag and trekking map
- Free luggage storage in Kathmandu during the trek
What is Excluded from This Package
Transportation
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Additional transportation not mentioned in the itinerary
- Private vehicle upgrades or transportation outside the scheduled itinerary
Accommodations
- Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or itinerary changes
- Additional accommodation caused by unforeseen delays
Food & Drinks
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except welcome and farewell dinners
- Bottled drinks, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks
- Personal snacks, energy bars, and other personal refreshments
Personal Expenses
- Nepal tourist visa fees
- Personal travel insurance
- Emergency helicopter evacuation costs
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and personal communication expenses
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing
- Tips for guides, porters, and support staff
Guide & Porter
- Tips for guides, porters, drivers, and other support staff
Other Exclusions
- Any costs arising from natural disasters, severe weather, road blockages, political disturbances, or unforeseen circumstances
- Any additional permits or services required due to itinerary changes
- Any services or expenses not specifically mentioned in the Included section
Trek Route Map

Required Equipment List
Clothing
Footwear
Trekking Gear
Personal Items
Documents & Money
Electronics & Accessories
Snacks & Other Essentials
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek -19 Days — Important Trip Info
Your Tsum Valley Trek begins in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Kathmandu provides an excellent introduction to Nepalese culture, heritage, temples, and traditional markets.
We recommend arriving at least one day before the trek departure date to allow sufficient time for rest, trekking preparation, permit arrangements, and the pre-trek briefing.
Accommodation in Kathmandu
Before and after the trek, you will stay in a comfortable tourist-standard hotel in Kathmandu. Most hotels provide facilities such as private rooms, Wi-Fi, hot showers, restaurants, and luggage storage.
Thamel is a popular tourist area with restaurants, cafés, trekking shops, and travel services, making it a convenient base before and after the trek.
History and Culture of Tsum Valley
Tsum Valley is a culturally rich and relatively remote Himalayan valley in northern Gorkha. The valley has strong Tibetan Buddhist influences, with ancient monasteries, chortens, mani walls, prayer flags, and traditional villages found throughout the trekking route.
The local Tsumba people have preserved their traditional lifestyle, customs, architecture, and Buddhist practices for generations. Villages such as Chumling, Chokhangparo, Nile, and other settlements provide opportunities to experience the region's unique culture and hospitality.
Geography of the Tsum Valley Region
Tsum Valley is surrounded by impressive Himalayan landscapes and lies within the Manaslu region. The trekking route follows the Budhi Gandaki River and gradually enters the upper valley through forests, rocky trails, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and traditional mountain settlements.
The region offers views of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Himalchuli, and other surrounding peaks. The highest point of the trek is approximately 3,700m / 12,139ft at Mu Gompa.
Major Geographical & Cultural Highlights
• Tsum Valley• Mu Gompa• Rachen Gompa• Milarepa Cave• Ganesh Himal• Sringi Himal• Himalchuli• Traditional Tsumba villages• Budhi Gandaki River Valley• Ancient monasteries and Buddhist monuments
Food & Beverages on the Tsum Valley Trek
Trekkers can enjoy a variety of nutritious meals during the journey. Local teahouses generally provide traditional Nepalese dishes along with common trekking meals.
Popular Food Options• Dal Bhat with rice, lentils, vegetables, and pickles• Momos and noodles• Fried rice and pasta• Soups and Tibetan-style bread• Pancakes, porridge, eggs, and potatoes
Popular Beverages• Black tea• Milk tea• Ginger tea• Hot lemon• Coffee• Hot chocolate
Drinking Water
Safe drinking water can be arranged throughout the trek. Trekkers are encouraged to carry a reusable water bottle and use purification tablets, filters, or other recommended purification methods to maintain safe hydration and reduce plastic waste.
Health & Risk Prevention
The Tsum Valley Trek reaches approximately 3,700m, so gradual acclimatization and proper preparation are important. Trekkers should maintain a comfortable pace, stay hydrated, eat properly, and inform the guide immediately if they experience altitude-related symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness• Headache• Nausea• Dizziness• Fatigue• Loss of appetite• Difficulty sleeping
Safety Guidelines
Safety is an important part of the trek, particularly in remote mountain areas.
Essential Safety Guidelines• Trek with an experienced and licensed guide• Follow the instructions of your trekking team• Maintain a steady walking pace• Stay hydrated throughout the trek• Carry appropriate clothing and trekking equipment• Avoid unnecessary risks on difficult trails• Report health concerns to your guide immediately• Carry personal medications if required
Altitude Acclimatization
The 19-day itinerary is designed with gradual altitude gain to help trekkers adjust to the changing elevation. The exploration around Mu Gompa also provides an opportunity to rest and experience the upper Tsum Valley before descending.
A gradual ascent, adequate hydration, proper rest, and following your guide's recommendations are important for a comfortable trekking experience.
Accommodation During the Trek
Accommodation during the Tsum Valley Trek is mainly provided in local teahouses and lodges.
Facilities Generally Available• Twin-sharing rooms• Dining halls• Shared bathroom facilities• Basic heating in some dining areas• Charging facilities where available• Simple but comfortable local accommodation
Facilities become more basic in the higher and remote sections of the valley.
How Transportation Works
Kathmandu to Machha KholaThe trek begins with a scenic road journey from Kathmandu toward Machha Khola. The drive passes through countryside, terraced fields, traditional villages, river valleys, and mountain landscapes.
Trekking TransportationFrom Machha Khola, the journey continues on foot through the Budhi Gandaki Valley and into Tsum Valley. The trail includes suspension bridges, forests, waterfalls, rocky sections, and traditional settlements.
Return to KathmanduAfter completing the trekking route, you travel by road from Dharapani toward Besisahar and continue to Kathmandu, concluding the 19-day journey.
Essential Gear
Proper equipment is important for a comfortable Tsum Valley Trek.
Recommended Equipment• Good-quality trekking boots• Warm down jacket• Sleeping bag• Thermal base layers• Waterproof jacket• Trekking poles• Warm gloves and hat• UV-protection sunglasses• Sunscreen and lip balm• Headlamp with spare batteries• Reusable water bottles
Physical Preparation
The Tsum Valley Trek is a moderate-to-challenging Himalayan trek because of its duration, varied terrain, and maximum altitude of approximately 3,700m.
Recommended Training• Regular hiking with a backpack• Walking on uphill and downhill trails• Running or jogging• Cycling• Stair climbing• Cardiovascular and leg-strengthening exercises
Regular preparation several weeks before departure can help improve endurance and make the trekking experience more comfortable.
Weather & Climate
Spring (March–May)• Pleasant temperatures• Clear mountain views• Rhododendron and alpine vegetation• Good trekking conditions
Autumn (September–November)• Stable weather• Clear skies• Good mountain visibility• Favorable trekking conditions
Winter (December–February)• Cold temperatures• Snow at higher elevations• Freezing nights• More challenging trekking conditions
Monsoon (June–August)• Rainfall in lower areas• Green landscapes• Possible road disruptions• Slippery trekking trails
Currency & Payment Information
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
Payment Tips• Carry sufficient cash from Kathmandu• ATM facilities are limited in remote trekking areas• Credit cards may not be accepted in villages• Small denominations are useful for personal expenses
Permit Rules & Fees
Trekking permits are required for the Tsum Valley and surrounding conservation areas. Your registered trekking agency generally arranges the necessary permits before the trek.
Required Permits• Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit• Other applicable local permits and entry fees
Permit requirements and fees may change according to government regulations.
Nepal Arrival & Visa Information
Most international visitors can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
Tourist Visa Options• 15 Days Tourist Visa• 30 Days Tourist Visa• 90 Days Tourist Visa
Requirements• Passport valid for at least six months• Passport-sized photographs• Completed visa application• Applicable visa fee
Visa requirements can vary by nationality, so travelers should check the latest official requirements before departure.
What our travellers say
“The Manaslu trek is incomparable. It's suitable as a first trek in the Himalayas — plenty of time for acclimatisation and such captivating views that spending time on "altitude sickness" would be a pity. And it's a special pleasure to walk with Krishna. He is a knowledgeable, reliable and brave guide, and a very pleasa…”
Kafle
Senior Himalayan Specialist
“Namaste! I have been guiding in the Himalayas for over 15 years. Contact me directly to customize your itinerary or check live trail conditions.”
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