Trek Overview
The Tsum Valley trek explores one of the most remote and sacred valleys in Nepal. Known as the 'Hidden Valley of Happiness,' Tsum Valley is a recently opened region with deep Tibetan Buddhist roots, ancient monasteries, and a way of life untouched by modernization. The valley is surrounded by stunning peaks including Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal.
Highlights
- Explore the sacred 'Hidden Valley of Happiness'
- Ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and mani walls
- Pristine and untouched by mass tourism
- Views of Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal
- Rich cultural heritage and warm local hospitality
- Combine with Manaslu Circuit for an epic journey
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A carefully designed itinerary with proper acclimatization to maximize your chances of success.
Long drive to the trailhead.
Trek along the Budhi Gandaki River.
Continue through gorges and waterfalls.
Enter the Tsum Valley. Begin seeing Tibetan-influenced culture.
Trek deeper into the valley. Visit ancient chortens and mani walls.
Ascend into upper Tsum. Visit Rachen Gompa monastery.
Reach the sacred Mu Gompa monastery near the Tibetan border.
Full day exploring the monastery, nearby nunnery, and mountain views.
Begin descent through the valley.
Continue descent retracing steps.
Trek back along the river.
Final trekking day.
Return to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- All ground transportation
- Hotel in Kathmandu
- All meals during trek
- Licensed guide
- Porter service
- Tsum Valley and Manaslu restricted area permit
- MCAP and TIMS
- First aid kit
Not Included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear
- City meals
- Personal expenses
- Tips
Cost & Dates
Trip Cost
- Price based on 2+ person group
- Group discounts available for 4+ trekkers
- Solo traveler supplement may apply
- Custom itineraries available on request
Best Dates
Best Season
Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Duration
13 Days
Start/End Point
Kathmandu / Soti Khola
Note: We run trips year-round on custom dates. Contact us to plan your preferred departure date.
Packing List
Here's what we recommend you bring for this trek. Items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu if needed.
Clothing
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece jacket or down sweater
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- T-shirts (3-4)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Gloves (liner + waterproof outer)
- Warm socks (4-5 pairs)
- Underwear (5-6)
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Camp shoes or sandals
- Gaiters (optional)
Equipment
- Backpack (30-40L daypack)
- Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C rated)
- Trekking poles (pair)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2x 1L)
- Water purification tablets
Toiletries & Health
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal medications
- First aid kit
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)
Accessories
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Power bank
- Dry bags for waterproofing
- Snacks and energy bars
- Notebook and pen
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Tsum Valley requires a special restricted area permit. A minimum of 2 trekkers is required, and you must trek with a licensed guide and agency.
Tsum is one of the last truly untouched valleys in Nepal. The people maintain ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions, and the valley is considered sacred – a place of meditation and pilgrimage for centuries.
Guest Reviews
What our trekkers say about their experience
Alex Johnson
United States · October 2024
An incredible trekking experience with stunning mountain views. The guides were professional and the entire trip was well organized.
Sophie Williams
United Kingdom · November 2024
One of the best treks I've done. Beautiful scenery, great accommodations, and wonderful local hospitality throughout the journey.
Kenji Nakamura
Japan · April 2024
A well-planned trek with excellent support. The mountain scenery was breathtaking and the cultural experiences were enriching.