Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary in Nepal – Explore Manaslu & Hidden Himalayan Trails with Adventure Walkways

Introduction – Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary

If you are looking for a unique trekking adventure in the Nepal Himalayas, our Tsum Valley Trek itinerary offers experiences that other treks rarely provide. Unlike popular routes, Tsum Valley has been open to outsiders for less than two decades, making it a truly hidden Himalayan gem.

Here, you’ll traverse remote villages, high mountain trails, sacred monasteries, and untouched landscapes, while being immersed in the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Tsumbas. Trekkers will also discover rare phenomena, such as local legends of the Yeti, polyandry traditions, and ancient Buddhist meditation caves of Milarepa.

This adventure is different from conventional treks, and our guide ensures that your journey is safe, insightful, and personalized. Whether you’re interested in cultural exploration, spiritual experiences, or high-altitude scenery, this Tsum Valley Trek itinerary will help you plan an unforgettable journey.

Trekkers walking through the scenic Tsum Valley in Nepal Himalayas

Why Choosing the Right Tsum Valley & Manaslu Trek Itinerary Matters

Planning a trek to the high Himalayas is not just about walking from one village to another—it’s about creating an experience that is truly unforgettable and uniquely yours. Selecting the perfect itinerary is essential because it allows trekkers to customize trails, pace, and daily distances, ensuring that your journey through Tsum Valley and the Manaslu region is safe, enjoyable, and memorable.

Every trekking adventure in this region comes with several critical considerations:

Budget allocation: Costs for accommodation, meals, permits, and guides must be planned carefully.
Food & local culture: Understanding and respecting local Tsumbas’ traditions, Tibetan-influenced culture, and dietary habits enhances your experience.
Trail difficulty: Himalayan trails can be steep, rocky, and unpredictable; selecting the right route is key to safety and enjoyment.
Physical fitness & acclimatization: High-altitude trekking requires preparation, stamina, and awareness of altitude sickness.
Group size & pace: Balancing the needs of different trekkers ensures smooth progress and shared enjoyment.

By paying attention to these factors and customizing your trek, your experience in the Tsum Valley and Manaslu region becomes not just another Himalayan trek—it becomes a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This level of planning is essential for every traveler or trekker aiming to fully appreciate the hidden beauty, culture, and challenges of the region.

Tsum Valley Trek Overview

The Tsum Valley Trek is a moderate to challenging trek that offers a combination of:

Cultural immersion: Interact with locals and Tibetan Buddhist communities
Breathtaking views: Explore Himalayan landscapes rarely seen by mainstream trekkers
Adventure & exploration: High passes, remote valleys, and hidden monasteries

Tsum Valley is located in the Gorkha district of Nepal and is bordered by the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal ranges. The valley is named after the Tibetan word ‘Tsum’, which means vivid. The name is fitting as the valley is famous for its vibrant culture, colorful landscape, and abundant natural beauty.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Tsum Valley Trek is its cultural significance. The valley is home to a thriving Tibetan Buddhist community that has maintained its unique customs and traditions for centuries. Trekkers can visit the ancient monasteries, interact with the friendly locals, and learn about their rich cultural heritage.

Another highlight of the Tsum Valley Trek is the opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty. The trek takes trekkers through lush forests, high mountain passes, and rolling hills dotted with traditional villages. Trekkers can spot various species of wildlife, including the Himalayan black bear and Himalayan tahr, as well as numerous bird species.

Itinerary of Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trek – 24 Days

Day	Route & Highlights
Day 01	Arrival in Kathmandu. Prepare for your Himalayan journey.
Day 02	Kathmandu sightseeing and trip preparation day. Explore the rich culture of Nepal’s capital.
Day 03	Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (700 m, 7-8 hrs). Scenic journey along the Budhi Gandaki River.
Day 04	Soti Khola to Machhekhola (869 m, 5 hrs). Trek through subtropical forests and local villages.
Day 05	Machhekhola to Jagat (1340 m, 7 hrs). Experience the first glimpses of Manaslu’s high peaks.
Day 06	Jagat to Lokpa (2240 m, 6-7 hrs). Enter the Tsum Valley region. Observe mani walls and traditional houses.
Day 07	Lokpa to Chumling (2386 m, 5 hrs). Explore lower Tsum, visit Pango Gumba, Gurwa Gumba, and Mani Dhungyr monasteries.
Day 08	Chumling to Chhokangparo (3031 m, 4-5 hrs). Traverse rhododendron and pine forests with panoramic mountain views.
Day 09	Chhokangparo to Mu Gompa (3700 m, 6 hrs). Reach the northernmost point; visit the highest monastery in Tsum.
Day 10	Mu Gompa to Chhokangparo (5 hrs). Descend while enjoying spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu (8163 m) and Himal Chuli (7893 m).
Day 11	Chhokangparo to Gompa Lungdang (3400 m, 7 hrs). Explore remote villages and Buddhist monuments.
Day 12	Hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4900 m) then back to Gompa Lungdang (8-9 hrs). Stunning Himalayan vistas and glaciers.
Day 13	Gompa Lungdang to Ripchet (2470 m, 4 hrs). Descend into scenic valleys, observe local flora and fauna.
Day 14	Ripchet to Deng (1860 m, 6 hrs). Cross rivers and suspension bridges; see waterfalls along the route.
Day 15	Deng to Namrung (2630 m, 7 hrs). Traditional villages and Mani walls dot the path.
Day 16	Namrung to Sama (3520 m, 7 hrs). Begin acclimatization; enjoy panoramic Himalayan scenery.
Day 17	Acclimatization day. Hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gompa. Learn about local Tibetan Buddhist practices.
Day 18	Sama to Samdo (3860 m, 3 hrs). Enter high-altitude settlements near the Tibet border.
Day 19	Acclimatization day. Explore Rui La (4998 m) on the Tibet border. Rare high-altitude landscapes.
Day 20	Samdo to Dharmasala (4460 m, 5 hrs). Experience the remote Himalayan environment and pristine wildlife.
Day 21	Dharmasala to Larke La (5160 m) then descend to Bumthang (3590 m, 8 hrs). Majestic mountain passes.
Day 22	Bhimthang to Dharapani (1960 m, 8 hrs). Gradual descent through traditional villages and valleys.
Day 23	Drive back to Kathmandu / Pokhara (9–10 hrs). Scenic route along rivers and mountains.
Day 24	Departure. End of an unforgettable journey.

Note: This itinerary is customizable based on your fitness, preferences, and time availability. Our guides ensure a personalized adventure experience.

Scenic view of Tsum Valley region in the Nepal Himalayas

Unique Experiences in Tsum Valley Trek

Hidden Valley Access: Open to trekkers only since 2008; rare and off-the-beaten-path
Tsumbas People: Tibetan-descent locals, unique dialect, polyandry traditions
Ancient Monasteries: Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa meditation caves
Wildlife & Conservation: Rare animals, hunting prohibited, well-preserved environment
High Mountain Scenery: Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, Hiunchuli
Cultural Festivals: Lhosar, Dhacyhang, Saka Dawa, Faning
Unique Tibetan Influence: Mani walls, Chortens, Buddhist rituals, and hidden nunnery paths
Adventure Elements: Suspension bridges, cascading rivers, high-altitude trekking trails
Secret Historical Sites: Remnants of the Tsum Kingdom, ancient relics intact

Trekkers will notice that the Tsum Valley offers experiences that no other region in Nepal can provide, blending pristine landscapes, spiritual immersion, and cultural discovery.

Tsum Valley Trek Overview

The Tsum Valley Trek is a moderate to challenging trek that offers a combination of:

Cultural immersion: Interact with locals and Tibetan Buddhist communities
Breathtaking views: Explore Himalayan landscapes rarely seen by mainstream trekkers
Adventure & exploration: High passes, remote valleys, and hidden monasteries

Duration: 11–24 days (combined with Manaslu Circuit)
Maximum Altitude: 5160 m at Larke La Pass
Accommodation: Tea houses and local lodges
Best Seasons: September–November & March–May