Tsum Valley Trek is a remote, culturally rich, and “off-the-beaten-path” adventure on Nepal’s Manasalu region, often requiring a moderate to challenging fitness level. Located near the Tibetan border, it offers stunning views of Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal, ancient Buddhist monasteries (like Mu Gompa), and unique Tibetan-influenced culture.
Arrival in Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport and you will be met at the airport by our representative who will be waiting with a Swiss Family Treks sign outside the terminal and transfer to hotel by private car. Welcome drink and after you settle into the hotel there will be a group briefing with your tour leader. He will discuss the trek details and co-ordinate any last minute arrangements. Overnight at 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
After breakfast in the hotel, drive to Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as Monkey Temple. Then visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, followed by Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu site. Explore cultural, religious, and local markets. Overnight at 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
A westward picturesque ride along the Prithvi Highway via lush hills to Malekhu. Pass Dhading Besi and ascend to Gola Bhanjyang for mountain views. Continue downhill to cross Ankhu Khola and Arughat, then follow Budhi Gandaki River to Machha Khola. Overnight at a lodge.
Trek through Tatopani hot springs, cross Buri Gandaki on a suspension bridge, climb marble stairs, and pass Doban and Shyaule Bhatti. Lunch at Yaru. Cross river to Jagat, a Gurung village. Overnight at a lodge in Jagat.
Descend to Sirdibas, continue up-river, cross Nepal’s longest suspension bridge, climb to Philim, then north to Ekle Bhatti. Traverse forest, cross Shiar Khola, and gain views of lower Tsum Valley. Arrive at Lokpa surrounded by barley fields. Overnight at a lodge.
Descend through forest, cross three streams, climb steeply, traverse pines and rhododendrons. Arrive at Chumling, visit old gompa, traditional houses, orchards, and stone streets. Overnight at a lodge in Chumling.
Trails lined with chortens and mani walls. Cross suspension bridge, traverse farmland, climb exposed track, views of Ganesh Himal. Cross Serpu Khola and climb to upper Tsum and Chhokangparo village. Overnight at a lodge.
Climb north through small villages, visit Lama Kongchog’s retreat, pass Lamagaon, Rachen Gompa, Milarepa’s Cave, and Phurbe, reaching Nile village. Explore traditional Tibetan-style villages. Overnight at a lodge in Nile.
Early start with light pack. Climb to Mu Gompa (3700m), visit monastery with 100+ monks, optional Dhephyudoma Gompa and Kalung pass. Return down valley via Rachen Gompa and Chhokangparo. Overnight at lodge in Chhokangparo.
Descend to Gho, cross Shiar Khola, pass Dhumje clinic, climb steeply through pines and rhododendrons, then reach Gumba Lungdang monastery. Small gompa with 40 nuns, night puja, stunning mountain views. Overnight at monastery dormitory.
Guide required due to poorly marked track. Climb from Gumba Lungdang via Laudang Khola, traverse forest, cross yak pastures, reach Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4200m). Return to Gumba Lungdang for evening puja. Overnight at monastery dormitory.
Descend from Gumba Lungdang via Dumje, cross Laudang Khola, climb and descend through Ripchet and Ghumlong. Climb through temperate forest to Lokpa. Overnight at lodge.
Descend to Philim, trek along Budi Gandaki River, cross suspension bridge, pass Sirdibas, continue rocky path to Jagat. Overnight at lodge.
Descend lower Jagat, cross suspension bridge, trek through forest and rocky trails, multiple river crossings. Arrive Machha Khola. Overnight at lodge.
Drive along newly built road to Arughat Bazaar, continue towards Gorkha Bazaar with Ganesh Himal views, reach Kathmandu. Overnight at 4-star hotel.
End of the adventure. Transfer to the airport 3 hours before flight. Option for shopping or sightseeing before departure.
Packing the right gear makes a big difference to your trekking experience. To keep things easy and comfortable, one porter is assigned for every two trekkers. Each porter carries a maximum of 22 kg, so the luggage allowance is 11 kg per trekker.
We recommend sharing a duffle bag (60+ liters) with your trekking partner for porter use. You should also carry a small daypack (20–30 liters) for valuables, documents, water, and daily essentials. Any extra luggage can be securely stored at your hotel free of charge during the trek.
While personal preferences may vary, the following packing list will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable on the trail.
Note: We can provide a used (non-waterproof) duffle bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
