Tsum Valley Trek: A Detailed 11-Day Itinerary
Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most sacred and remote Himalayan adventures, where ancient Buddhist culture, mountain serenity, and dramatic landscapes converge. Located in the northern Gorkha district and bordering Tibet, Tsum Valley was opened to foreigners only in 2008, preserving its authentic Tibetan essence. This 11-day Tsum Valley Trek itinerary for 2025 is designed for trekkers seeking a balance of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and moderate adventure away from the busy Everest and Annapurna trails.
Tsum Valley Trek Overview
- Trip Name: Tsum Valley Trek – 11 Days
- Region: Manaslu Conservation Area, Gorkha District
- Trip Type: Teahouse Trekking (Lodge to Lodge)
- Duration: 11 Days
- Difficulty: Moderate – ideal for trekkers with basic fitness
- Max Altitude: 3,700m (Mu Gompa)
- Start/End: Kathmandu
- Best Seasons: March–May (spring) & September–November (autumn)
- Permits Required: Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, and ACAP
- Average Cost: USD 800–1200 per person (all-inclusive)
The Tsum Valley lies in the shadow of Ganesh Himal and Boudha Himal ranges. The valley is culturally rich, dotted with centuries-old monasteries, mani walls, and chortens. Local people, known as the Tsumbas, practice Tibetan Buddhism and still maintain ancient traditions like polyandry and unique dialects. Compared to popular routes such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek, Tsum offers pure solitude and authenticity.
Top Highlights of the Tsum Valley Trek
- Discover Nepal’s “hidden valley of happiness” – a region blessed by Guru Rinpoche.
- Explore sacred monasteries like Rachen Gompa, Mu Gompa, and Dephyudonma Gompa.
- Encounter ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture preserved for centuries.
- Walk through serene landscapes with views of Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal.
- Cross charming suspension bridges, rivers, and traditional stone villages.
- Experience local hospitality with teahouse stays and authentic Nepali meals.
Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary – 11 Days
This detailed 11-day Tsum Valley Trek itinerary is carefully designed for 2025 travelers, balancing trekking distance, acclimatization, and cultural experiences. Expect 5–7 hours of walking daily, with well-paced ascents through forests, monasteries, and Himalayan valleys.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
Arrive at Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like Swayambhunath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Evening trek briefing with your guide. Overnight in hotel.
Day 2: Drive to Machha Khola (900m | 8–9 hrs)
After breakfast, drive along the scenic Prithvi Highway to Machha Khola. Pass through picturesque riverside villages and green terraced farmlands. The last section is off-road and adventurous. Overnight in teahouse.
Day 3: Trek to Jagat (1,410m | 6–7 hrs)
Begin your trek following the Budhi Gandaki River. Cross multiple suspension bridges and enjoy views of lush hills. Reach Jagat, a stone-paved Gurung village marking the entry to the Manaslu Conservation Area. Overnight in teahouse.
Day 4: Trek to Philim (1,590m | 6–7 hrs)
Walk past dense forests and mani walls to Philim, a cultural hub with schools supported by the Japanese Himalayan Expedition. Admire views of Sringi Himal and traditional Gurung lifestyle. Overnight in Philim.
Day 5: Trek to Chumling (2,386m | 6–7 hrs)
After breakfast, branch off from the Manaslu Circuit trail and head into Tsum Valley. Cross Siyar Khola and ascend through pine forests and suspension bridges to Chumling. Overnight at teahouse with Ganesh Himal views.
Day 6: Trek to Chokhangparo (3,010m | 5–6 hrs)
Climb gradually to Chokhangparo, one of the most scenic villages in Tsum. Visit Rachen Nunnery and interact with the local Tsumbas. You’ll notice the increasing influence of Tibetan culture as you go higher. Overnight in teahouse.
Day 7: Trek to Nile (3,361m | 4–5 hrs)
A short and scenic day following the upper Tsum Valley. Visit Milarepa Cave, a spiritual site where the Tibetan saint meditated. Continue to Nile village and prepare for higher altitude exploration. Overnight in Nile.
Day 8: Trek to Mu Gompa (3,700m | 3–4 hrs)
Reach the spiritual heart of Tsum Valley — Mu Gompa. Founded in the 19th century, this monastery offers serene views of the Tibetan plateau. Explore ancient murals, manuscripts, and monk life. Overnight at monastery guesthouse or nearby lodge.
Day 9: Trek Back to Chumling (2,386m | 6–7 hrs)
Descend through the same route, visiting Chokhangparo and the remote Dephyudonma Gompa, one of Nepal’s oldest monasteries. Enjoy the return journey through changing landscapes and vibrant villages. Overnight in Chumling.
Day 10: Trek to Philim & Drive to Arughat (600m)
Trek down to Philim and then drive to Arughat or Soti Khola. Enjoy the last glimpses of the Himalayan foothills and celebrate your successful trek. Overnight in Arughat or Kathmandu, depending on time.
Day 11: Drive Back to Kathmandu (1,350m | 7–8 hrs)
After breakfast, return to Kathmandu. Spend your evening shopping in Thamel or visiting Nepal Tourism Board for future travel inspiration. Overnight in hotel or transfer for departure.
Cost Includes
- All ground transfers (Kathmandu–Machha Khola–Kathmandu)
- Accommodation (3-star hotel in Kathmandu + teahouses en route)
- Meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Experienced English-speaking licensed guide & porter
- Restricted Area, MCAP & ACAP permits
- First aid kit and government taxes
Cost Excludes
- International flight and Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory for high-altitude trekking)
- Personal trekking gear and sleeping bags
- Alcoholic beverages, hot showers, and internet charges
- Tipping for guide and porter
Travel Tips & Preparation
Fitness: Prepare with light hikes and cardio sessions before the trek. The route includes gradual ascents and descents suitable for beginners with determination.
Altitude: Though the trek stays below 4,000m, acclimatization is essential. Drink plenty of water and ascend slowly.
Sustainability: Carry reusable bottles and avoid plastics. Support local teahouses and respect the Buddhist culture of Tsum Valley.
For more travel information, visit the official Nepal Tourism Board website or our Nepal Travel Guide.
Ready to explore the sacred Tsum Valley with Nepal Adventure Trail? Join our expert local guides for an unforgettable 11-day Himalayan journey filled with peace, culture, and adventure. Contact us at nepaladventuretrail.com/inquire to customize your Tsum Valley Trek 2025.