Tsum Valley Trek – 16 Days

Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative from Himalayan Wander Walkers. You will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip meeting with your trekking guide at our office, where you’ll receive a briefing about the entire trek.

If you arrive early, you may rest at the hotel or explore the famous tourist area of Thamel. Please note that you need to arrive at least one day earlier for the special permit; we’ll require your original passport to process this at the Immigration office.
Overnight: Hotel with BB plan.

Drive to Arughat and Soti Khola
After an early breakfast, you will start your journey with a scenic drive to Arughat, followed by Soti Khola. The bus will travel along the Prithvi Highway, heading west of Kathmandu along the banks of the Trishuli River. After a few hours, you will reach Dhading Bensi, the district headquarters of Dhading.

From Dhading Bensi, the bus will continue along the Budhi Gandaki River, heading toward Arughat Bazaar. You will enjoy exceptional views of Mt. Manaslu and Ganesh Himal along the way. Arughat Bazaar is a small settlement located on both banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, connected by a suspension bridge. After about two hours of driving from Arughat, you will reach Soti Khola.

Trek Distance: 160km / 99.4miles
Highest Altitude: (730m/2,896ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Drive to Machha Khola
After an early breakfast, you will head to Machha Khola, the starting point of our trek. The drive from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi is approximately 3 hours on a paved concrete road. From there, the road becomes bumpy and winding, taking an additional 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. The total drive time for the day will be around 9 to 10 hours.

The road to Machha Khola from Soti Khola has recently been constructed, but it is not yet paved. We will arrange a private 4WD vehicle with an experienced driver for your comfort.

Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola
The trek begins by crossing the Soti Khola and enjoying views of several waterfalls and rivulets. You will walk through a beautiful Sal forest, followed by a climb up to a ridge above the mighty Budhi Gandaki rapids. From there, you will make your way to Liding and then to Khursane.

From Khursane, you will descend along terraced farmlands to reach the ethnic Gurung village of Lapubesi. The path then enters a wide valley, and you will follow the sandy riverbanks of Budhi Gandaki to reach Nauli Khola. After crossing this river, you will continue on to Machha Khola.

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
After breakfast, you will embark on a sightseeing tour to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. This tour includes visits to Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Temple (also known as the Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. You’ll have the opportunity to experience Nepal’s artistic palaces, vibrant art, and rich culture, while learning fascinating histories of the region. By the end of the day, your permits and other trek preparations will be ready.

In the evening, you’ll have a briefing with the trip leader (guide) for a Q&A session about the trek.
Overnight: Hotel with BB plan.

Highest Altitude: (890m/2,965ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Trek to Tharo Khola, Khorlabesi, and Tatopani
After an early breakfast, you will begin your trek through a fertile landscape, crossing several ups and downs, and reaching Tharo Khola, which you will cross to enter Khorlabesi. From Khorlabesi, you will continue to Tatopani. The name “Tatopani” means “hot water” in Nepali, and indeed, there is a natural hot spring here for you to enjoy.

The valley begins to narrow as you trek toward the Budhi Gandaki River, which you will cross on a suspension bridge. Following that, you will climb a stone staircase adorned with prayer flags to reach Tharo Bharyang. From there, you will continue on a stone-paved path to Jagat, a town located west of the Budhi Gandaki River.

Trek from Khorlabesi to Tatopani and Beyond
After crossing the Machha River and Khorlabesi, you will reach the hot spring at Tatopani. The trail then follows a forested path leading to Dovan, below which flows the mighty Budhi Gandaki. As you ascend, the rapids and scenery undergo a dramatic transformation.

Scenic Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
Enjoy a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, which gradually reveals the beauty of Nepal’s countryside. The road conditions can vary, ranging from smooth to rugged, depending on the landscape you pass through.

In the early morning, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and escort you to the bus station. The bus journey to Machha Khola takes about 8-9 hours, with stops for toilet breaks, breakfast, and lunch. A few years ago, trekkers would begin their journey to Tsum Valley or Manaslu from Soti Khola, but now the road extends to Machha Khola.

You will first drive from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi along a paved road, enjoying views of hills, terraces, and fields. From Dhading Besi, the road continues to Arughat. From there, the off-road track follows the Budhi Gandaki River, finally dropping you at Machha Khola.
Overnight: Teahouse.
Meals: Three meals a day.

Highest Altitude: (1,400m/4,593ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Trek to Lokpa
Before heading to Lokpa, we will register our permits for the Manaslu and Tsum Valley at the entry checkpoint in Jagat. From there, we will climb a rocky ridge to Salleri, where we will pause to enjoy the views of Mount Sringi. Afterward, we will descend to Sirdibas.

At Sirdibas, we will cross the longest suspension bridge in Nepal to enter Philim. We will continue our trek, reaching Ekle Bhatti and then Lokpa, the entry point of Tsum Valley. This village, the first in Tsum Valley, offers stunning views of the Manaslu Range. It is a remote village, said to have been blessed by Padmashambhava centuries ago.

Trek from Salleri to Tsum Valley
The early morning trek takes us up a rocky ridge to Salleri, where we descend toward Sirdibas. The valley begins to widen as the trail leads us to Ghatta Khola, then upstream toward the Gurung village of Philim. Walking through the forest in a northern direction, we reach Chisopani.

From Chisopani, we cross a gorge and walk for about half an hour to arrive at a beautiful waterfall. Continuing through pine and rhododendron forests, we descend toward Tsum Valley and reach Lokpa.

Trek from Machha Khola to Tatopani
After crossing Machha Khola and Khorlabesi, we will reach Tatopani, known for its hot spring. The trek continues through a forest, and we will ascend to Dovan Khola, entering the Budhi Gandaki Valley. As we ascend, we will pass white sandy beaches along the riverbanks.

Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
From Machha Khola, we follow a narrow trail leading us to Tharo Khola and then to Khorlabesi. After a series of ascents and descents, we will reach the famous hot spring at Tatopani, where we can relax and rejuvenate in the natural sauna.

Next, we will climb a ridge and cross the Budhi Gandaki River on another suspension bridge. We will then climb a staircase, cross a landslide area, and ascend a ridge to reach Dovan. After crossing another suspension bridge, we climb a stone staircase, descend toward the river, and climb more stairs to reach Thado Bharyang.

From there, we will cross the west bank of the Budhi Gandaki River, climb a ridge, and walk along the river to reach the village of Jagat.
Overnight: Teahouse.
Meals: Three meals a day.

Highest Altitude: (2,040m/6,692ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Trek to Chhokangparo

The day begins early with a trek to Chhokangparo, the destination for today. Chhokangparo marks the opening of the upper Tsum Valley, and it is located on flat land. There are actually two settlements in Chhokangparo: Chhokang and Paro. You will follow the Shair Khola and reach Domje, the largest town in Tsum Valley. From Domje, you will climb uphill to Chhokangparo, where you will be rewarded with stunning views of Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli. The local hospitality here is warm, and you will have the opportunity to taste their unique Tibetan butter tea.

The trek begins with crossing a suspension bridge, after which you will walk on the other side of the river. Enjoy the views of Ganesh Himal as you head towards Rainjam and then towards Serpu Khola. After crossing another bridge, you will continue to the village of Gho. From there, it’s about two more hours of walking to reach the upper Tsum Valley and finally arrive at Chhokangparo.

Previous Trek Summary

Starting from Lokpa Village, the trek today takes you deeper into Tsum Valley. The entrance to the valley lies in a narrow gorge that opens up, providing striking views of Boudha Himal (6,672m) and Ganesh Himal. The trail descends into the Lungwa River valley, winding through a thick forest of rhododendron, juniper, and pine.

You will pass through Gumling and reach Syar Khola, which is close to Chumling village. The trek is not long, giving you plenty of time to visit the three main monasteries of Chumling: Panago Gompa, Mani Dhungyur, and Gurwa Gompa.

Before heading to Lokpa, we will register our permits for Manaslu and Tsum Valley at the entry checkpoint. From there, we climb a ridge over Salleri and walk along the riverbank, crossing the Budhi Gandaki River via a long suspension bridge. The valley gradually opens up as we make our way toward Phillim. The trek is pleasant, and as we pass Ekle Bhatti, we’ll notice the sign marking the split between the Tsum and Manaslu trails. We will head toward Lokpa, passing several villages and rivers along the way. The rivers narrow as we approach the convergence of the Syar River from Tsum Valley. Taking a right turn, the trail leads us to Lokpa.

Lokpa is the first village in Tsum Valley where we get our first view of the beautiful Manaslu Range. This isolated village is often referred to as a hidden valley of happiness and is believed to have been blessed by Padmashambhava centuries ago.
Overnight: Teahouse
Meals: Three meals a day

Highest Altitude: (3,031m/9,944ft)
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

From Ghap, our next destination is Namrung. The route takes us through dense forests of fir, rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, with steep ascents, suspension bridges, and stone stairs leading to Namrung. Around Namrung, you’ll encounter large barley fields. From here, enjoy breathtaking mountain views as the valley unfolds before us. As we ascend, the temperate forests gradually give way to the barren browns and grays of the Himalayan landscape, while the bright blue skies become more vivid at higher altitudes.

We arrive in Lho, a picturesque village offering a magnificent view of Manaslu, with the tranquil Rebung Gompa monastery perched close to the mountain. Soon after leaving Lho, the trail descends steeply and then climbs again. We walk through sparsely populated woodlands toward the neighboring village of Shyala, which provides a spectacular view of Ngadi Chuli to the southwest.

Walking along the Budhi Gandaki River from Ghap, we cross the river and stroll through small agricultural communities toward Namrung village, where the North Face of Mt. Manaslu and its surrounding peaks offer the best views. Our trek continues through the settlements of Banjham, Lhi, and Sho, gradually ascending to Lo-Gaon, where we will spend the night.

Highest Altitude: (3,361m / 11,026ft)
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Trek to Mu Gompa

After an early breakfast, you will begin your trek from Nile Village. The trail gradually ascends towards Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in the region.

After approximately two hours of trekking, you will reach Dephyudonma Gumba (Monastery), one of the oldest monasteries in the region. This monastery is significant as it marks the dawn of Buddhism in the Tsum Valley.

Mu Gompa, established in 1895, is located at the highest and farthest point in Tsum Valley. It houses numerous religious texts, including the Kangyur, a life-size statue of Avalokiteshvara, and portraits of prominent Buddhist masters such as Padmasambhava and Tara. To reach Mu Gompa, you will pass through yak pastures and traverse the arid Trans-Himalayan terrain.

Today’s trail takes you closer to the Tibetan border. You will trek along the western bank of the valley, passing through Tibetan landscapes. After walking for about 5 to 6 hours, you will finally reach Mu Gompa.

Return to Nile Village

The return trek to Nile takes approximately four to seven hours. The path gradually climbs through villages and expansive cultivated lands, partly shaded by pine forests.

From Nile, you can also visit the Milarepa Cave Monastery, located about a 45-minute walk from the campsite.

Overnight: Local teahouse
Meals: Three meals a day

Highest Altitude: (4,060m/13,320ft)
Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Trek to Rachen Gompa & Exploration of Mu Gompa

Shortly after breakfast, we will head to Rachen Gompa, a nunnery located in the Shiar Khola Valley at the foothills of the mountains that border Nepal and Tibet. After visiting the Gompa, you will return through Chhule and continue down to Phurba. From there, you will take a route along the eastern banks of Siyar Khola, passing boulder-covered plains to reach Rachen Gompa.

Built in 1905, Rachen Gompa is home to nuns of the Ngak-pa sect. Inside, you will find several murals depicting scenes from Buddhism and its history.

Rest & Exploration of Mu Gompa

Today will be a day of rest and exploration as we visit Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in the region, and explore the surrounding Tibetan landscapes in this remote area of Tsum Valley. After visiting the monastery, you may also choose to trek to the base of Pika Himal (4,865 m) for additional adventure and stunning views.

Ancient Route to Ngula Dhojyang Pass

Today provides a chance to walk along a very ancient route that connects Nepal with Tibet, a land of legends to the north. As you walk high above yak pastures and beneath towering peaks, you will approach the Ngula Dhojyang Pass, where the border crossing is still active. Locals continue their centuries-old trading practices, crossing this pass to connect with Tibetan territories.

Highest Altitude: (3,240m/10,629ft)
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Trek to Chhokangparo, Domje, and Lungdang Gompa

The trek heads south towards Chhokangparo, following a route that leads to Chumling. Within two hours of starting, you will encounter a small white Gompa at Gho (2,485m). From this monastery, you will descend along a path that eventually leads to a wooden bridge over the Siyar Khola. After crossing the bridge, you will reach Domje, a village home to a Tibetan herbal medicine clinic and a school.

Ascend to Lungdang Gompa

From Domje, we continue east, climbing through forests of pine, juniper, and rhododendron. Along the path, you will pass several mani walls and prayer flags. You will ascend once more through the silver pine forest to reach Lungdang Gompa. In spring, the views are particularly breathtaking, with the trails lined by blooming rhododendrons.

Lungdang Gompa is home to around forty nuns and is known for its intense puja ceremonies, held daily from 6:00 to 7:30 pm. From the Gompa, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Return to Chhule and Burgi Village

Today, we retrace our steps back to Chhule and Phurbe. On the east bank of the Siyar Khola, we arrive at Burgi village, a small and picturesque settlement. From there, we hike up to the Milarepa Cave, which offers mesmerizing views of the Kipu Himal, Churke Himal, and the Poshyop Glacier.

Today we walk back the trail to Chhule and Phurbe. On the east bank of Shiar Khola, we arrive at Burgi village. This village is small and beautiful. We climb up the Milarepa cave famous for the mesmerizing view of the Kipu Himal, Churke Himal and Poshyop glacier.

Highest Altitude: (3,240m / 10,629ft)
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Trek to Ganesh Himal Base Camp and Return to Gumba Lungdang

Today will be an exciting day as you trek to the Ganesh Himal Base Camp. The journey begins with an ascent, but the stunning views along the way will make it all worthwhile. The trail takes you through smaller valleys, and since few people venture towards Ganesh Himal Base Camp, the path may not always be obvious. However, you need not worry, as our guides will lead the way. After about four hours of trekking, you will reach the base camp. Take time to appreciate the breathtaking views before returning to Gumba Lungdang for the night.

Return to Chokhangparo and Chumling

We will retrace our steps, walking through dense pine and rhododendron forests as we descend towards Chokhangparo. From there, we continue our journey towards the lower Tsum Valley, heading to Chumling.

Trek to Gumba Lungdang

The day begins with a descent to the village of Dumji. From there, we turn and ascend steeply through dense pine and rhododendron forests towards Gumba Lungdang, a monastery peacefully located beneath Ganesh Himal. Upon arrival at Gumba Lungdang, we will spend the night at the nunnery. While the accommodations are basic, the setting is tranquil and provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and nature.

Highest Altitude: (4,200m / 13,779ft)
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

Trek Back to Lokpa

We head back to Lokpa, starting with a descent to Domje via the upper track, crossing the Laudang Khola. From Domje, we continue south, passing through beautiful dense forests and crossing suspension bridges until we reach Ripche (2,470m). Afterward, we descend to Batti Ghumlong, and from there, we ascend slightly to reach Lokpa.

Today’s trek will take around 6 to 7 hours. As we descend towards Lokpa, we will enjoy the scenic Samba Falls before reaching Philim.

Trek to Ganesh Himal Base Camp

It takes about four hours to ascend to Ganesh Himal Base Camp, though this may vary depending on your pace. From the base camp, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Ganesh Himal and the surrounding alpine wilderness. After taking in the breathtaking sights, we will return along the same trail to Gumba Lungdang. This rewarding trek offers great opportunities to connect intimately with the majestic landscape.

Highest Altitude: (2,040m/6,692ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Descent to Jagat

It’s time to descend to Jagat, where you will rejoin the Budhi Gandaki River. Along the way, you will catch glimpses of the mountains. Today’s hike through forests and downhill terrain should be pleasant and easy on your legs. You will cross several suspension bridges before reaching Sirdibas village, and then continue on to Jagat.

We walk down towards Sirdibas, then to Jagat, and further descend to Yaruphant. As we progress, the Tibetan arid climate gradually gives way to subtropical green vegetation. We continue our descent towards Dovan and finally reach Tatopani. There is a hot spring at Tatopani, and if preferred, you can take a dip to relax your tired muscles. From here, we walk down and eventually reach Khorlabesi.

Return to Lokpa

On the return route, we descend towards Ripchet, offering a fresh perspective of nature as we head towards Lokpa. The scenic trail today allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature while reflecting on your trek through this stunning region.

Highest Altitude: (900m/2,952ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Descent to Lapu Bensi

After an early breakfast, you will begin your descent to Lapu Bensi. The trek will be mostly pleasant as you walk downhill, with suspension bridges adding an element of excitement. On the way, you will pass through Machha Khola, cross a suspension bridge over Nauli Khola, and follow the sandy bed of the Budhi Gandaki River before arriving at Lapu Bensi, a beautiful Gurung village.

Both Khorlabesi and Machha Khola lie along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. After a hearty breakfast, we will take the trail towards Machha Khola. Today’s trek is mostly downhill, as we walk along the side of the mountain with the roaring Budhi Gandaki River below. We will cross suspension bridges before finally reaching Machha Khola, the endpoint of our trek.

Further Descent to Jagat

Continuing further, we begin our descent through the lovely village of Philim, crossing suspension bridges once more. The trail follows the tumbling waters of the Budhi Gandaki River, which cascade down towards Jagat below, providing a scenic backdrop for our journey. Relish the vibrant surroundings and the sound of the rushing river as we make our way back to Jagat.

Highest Altitude: (900m/2,952ft)
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

Trek Back to Arughat Bazaar

Today’s trek back to Arughat Bazaar will be relatively short. We will follow the Budhi Gandaki River for a few hours until we reach Soti Khola. From Soti Khola, we will take a jeep ride to Arughat Bazaar. After a couple of hours of driving, we will arrive in Arughat Bazaar, which has small cafes and shops that you may want to explore.

Drive to Kathmandu

In the morning, we will begin our drive back to Kathmandu. The road starts as a newly built but unpaved track, and we will experience a bumpy ride until reaching Dhading Besi. From Dhading Besi to Kathmandu, the road is paved but remains a mountain road, so the ride won’t be as smooth as city roads. We will assign an experienced driver for your private transfer to Kathmandu.

Optional Extension Activities

If you’re interested in extending your trip, there are many exciting options available, such as a Chitwan jungle safari, river rafting adventure, a Kathmandu shopping tour, mountain biking, and other activities.

Farewell Dinner

In the evening, we will host a farewell dinner at a fine restaurant, where your guide(s) and an office staff member will accompany you. It’s a chance to reflect on your adventure and enjoy your final evening in Nepal.

Final Day in Nepal

Today marks the end of your journey in Nepal. If you have extra time, feel free to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. About 3-4 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from Himalayan Wander Walkers will accompany you to the airport. On your way home, you’ll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the beautiful country of Nepal.

Highest Altitude: (535m/1,755ft)
Trek DurationTrek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Drive Back to Kathmandu

After an early breakfast, we will drive you back to Kathmandu. The drive will be scenic as the bus travels alongside the beautiful Trishuli River, with the lush greenery of the hills providing an eye-pleasing view. Soon, the bus will head east to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway. This marks the end of your trek package, and you are free to explore Kathmandu as you wish.

Departure from Nepal

Once the trip concludes, our Airport Representative will drop you off at Kathmandu International Airport for your final flight departure from Nepal.

Scenic Drive Back to Kathmandu

You will travel back to Kathmandu by local transportation or private jeep, passing through the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers along the way. On this journey, you will experience diverse views of the Himalayas. As you descend, quaint villages come alive with waving locals, surrounded by a breathtaking landscape of green hills covered in terraced crops. In the background, the snow-capped peaks provide an awe-inspiring backdrop, making the drive back to the capital a truly memorable experience.

End of Your Journey

As your journey in Nepal comes to an end today, we bid you farewell. If you have more time, feel free to do some shopping or sightseeing. About 3-4 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from Himalayan Wander Walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home, you’ll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the beautiful country of Nepal.

Trip Duration

This trek can be completed in 16 days or less, depending on your available time.

Trek Distance: 126 km/78miles
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours