Highlights
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Macha Khola
- Observe an unexploited Tibetan region that is highly influenced by Tibetan religion, accent, culture,tradition and lifestyle
- Waterfalls, rivers, and caves along the way
- A comparatively easy trek with little fear of altitude sickness
- Wildlife animals like blue sheep and Himalayan tahr
- Several Buddhist monasteries
- Prayer flags and mani walls along the route
- Stunning views of mountains like Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli and Himal Chuli
- Beautiful pine, juniper, and rhododendron forests.
Overview
Tsum Valley Trek is one of the most prominent trek in the western Nepal.It is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley situated in a trans-Himalayan region of Gorkha, Nepal.The trek to Tsum Valley takes you into the majestic surroundings of the Shringi Himal (7187m / 22998 ft), Ganesh Himal (7,429m / 23772 ft ), and Baudha Himal ( 6672m / 21350 ft) ranges. The region once being part of Tibet looks completely different from what you will find elsewhere. The people of Tsum Valley or the Tsumbas belong to Tibetan origin with their own ancient form of dialect, art, culture and religion. Very few adventure travelers have made it to this high and mysterious valley, which used to be an important trade link with Tibet. In the initial days, we trek the route of Around Manaslu Trek or the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The Tsum Valley lies on the northern part of Manaslu and used to be a restricted area until 2008. The region is still less exposed in comparison to other touristy areas, with relatively virgin and less beaten paths in comparison to the more popular regions. The Tsum people have their own way of family life, which may be quite surprising for many outsiders. All the brothers in the family are married to a single girl, what you may call a practice of polyandry.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, you will be escorted to hotel in Thamel by All Nepal Excursion's staffs. Overnight at hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu full day sight seeing and trek preparation
Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of PashupatiNath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (BouddhaNath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 03-Drive to Macha Khola
A 9-10 hour’s drive from Kathmandu into the western mountains takes us to Arughat via Dhadingbesi, headquarter of the Dhading district. Through the dirt road from Dhadingbesi viewing the greenery hills we reach Arughat. Pass the Budhi Gandaki valley to Arkhet Bazar we see numorous waterfall and finally to Macha Khola after Labubesi. Overnigh at Macha Khola
Day 04: Maccha Khola to Jagat
The narrow trail makes some minor ups and downs and eventually crosses the Tharo Khola, flowing in a rocky ravine, then reaches Khorlabesi. After a few more ups & downs there is a small trailside hotspring, from where we reach to Tatopani. From the Hot spring we climb over another ridge, then cross the Budhi Gandaki on a suspension bridge. Climb on a wide, well-crafted staircase, then across a landslide and over a ridge to Dobhan. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Dobhan Khola, the trail climbs on a rugged trail to Duman. Ascending up again to the Budhi Gandaki, we reach at Yaru Khola. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Yaru Khola we climb the stone stairs and then drop to the river and again climb more stone stairs to Tharo Bharyang. Cross to the west bank of the budhi gandaki, climb over a ridge, and trek along the river then climb towards the village of Jagat.
Day 05: Jagat to Chisopani
After completing with the MCAP procedure, we climb over a rocky ridge to Salleri, and then descend to Sirdibas. The valley widens a bit as the trail continues up to Ghatta Khola. Continue upstream to a long simple hanging bridge. Climb up to Philim, a large gurung village. Philim valley is well known for Japanese made school and police station. Walk past Philim to the north across a forest with the views of the narrowing valley we reach Chisopani. Overnight at Chisopani.
Day 6: Day 06: Chisopani to Chumling
After Ekle Bhatti cross the gorge and half an hour walk in the right side we get to see the big and beautiful waterfall and enter the pine tree forests. Descend down to trail going to the Tsum Valley. Climb through pine and rhododendron forests. Enjoy the views of Himalchuli mountains at 7893m and Boudha Himal from Lokpa, a small beautiful village. Pass Lokpa, descend half an hour towards Lungwa khola and climbing jick jack difficult trail further two hours north through pines and rhododendrons we reach Gumlung. Crossing the Siyar Khola, finally arrive at Chumling, from where we can view Shringi Himal. Visit the old Chumling gompa, and the stone streets of the village.
Day 07: Chumling to Chokhangparo
Cross the suspension bridge onto the opposite bank. Enjoy the great views of Ganesh Himal. Walk past Rainjam to Serpu Khola crossing another bridge we arrive at the Gho Village. Another continues 2 hours climb to Tsum takes us to the village of Chhokangparo. Weather permitting; enjoy the views of Himalchuli at 7893 meters and Ganesh Himal at7140m. Overnight at Chokhangparo.
Day 08: Chokhangparo to Nile
While climbing above Chokhangparo, better to be careful of altitude problems. Walk past Lamagaon crossing rope suspension bridge to the Rachen Gompa, which is also well known as Nunnery Gompa too. We make a small visit and then we cross the Shiar Khola. Continue walking through the well managed villages Lar (micro hydro power), Phurbe and Pangdun. Leaving old historic Stupa of Bhudda in a way crossing the village of Chhule, climb upstream and cross the bridge to finally arrive at Nile. If you consider we can make your visit to a famous monastery of Chhule which is located in the top of area.
Day 09: Nile to Mu Gompa
We are now almost close to the Tibetan border. Walk to the west bank of the valley through the Tibetan landscapes. Climb up to the Mu Gompa. We also visit the monastery. Then after, we make a visit to the Dhephu Doma Gompa.
Day 10: Mu Gompa to Burgi Village via Milarepa cave
Trek back through Chhule and Phurbe, on the east bank of the Shiar Khola. Finally we arrive at Burgi village. The Burgi village is a small beautiful village. Climb up to the Milarepa’s Cave Milarepa Cave (piren phu) is known for its mesmerizing glimpses of Poshyop Glacier, Kipu Himal and Churke himal.
Day 11: Burgi village –Chumling
Continue trekking watching the greenery of nature and descend down to Chhokang Paro again. From their continue descending to Gho. Descending further, we arrive at the bridge over the Sarpu Khola. Trekking along the lower Tsum Valley takes you to again Chumling.
Day 12: Chumling to Philim
The trail continues to Lokpa. After lunch south on a flat trail we move ahead. Enjoy the gorgeous Samba Falls. Finally arrive at Philim after 6 or 7 hours long trekking. A trail passes through the Phillim village that leads to the Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
Day 13: Philim to Khorlabesi
Trek starts today from Philim to Khorlabesi via Jagat and Tatopani. Descend down to Sirdibas and we finally reach to Jagat. Further descend takes us to Yaruphant. The arid Tibetan climate now gives way to subtropical green vegetation. Continue trekking to Dobhan. Finally arrive at Tatopani. There is a hot spring at Tatopani. If interested, you may dip yourself in the hot spring and relax your tired muscles by soaking yourself in the hot spring. If not continue walking up and down from Tatopani to reach Khorlabesi, our rest place for the day.
Day 14: Khorlabesi to Macha Khola and drive to Kathmandu
The trail crosses the Tharo Khola flowing in a rocky ravine. Head down again to the river and traverse to Machha Khola village. After lunch at Macha Khola, we drive to Kathmandu along the banks of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers with splendid views of green hills, mountains, farming terraces and villages on both sides of the road
Day 15: Departure to onward destination
What's included
- All arrival and Departure transfer from the airport to the hotel.
- Full day sightseeing tours in Kathmandu as per itinerary
- 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Twin sharing accommodation on best Lodge available on treks on full board with breakfast-lunch and dinner.
- Public bus transportation drive from Kathmandu-Macha Khola-Kathmandu
- Trekking Information Management System fees
- Manaslu conservation permit (MCAP)
- Manaslu protected area permit
- Tsum Valley Protected Area Permit Fees.
- Group briefing and orientation program on do’s and don’ts of the trip.
- International air tickets re-confirmation.
- Basic First Aid and Medical Kits.
- Applicable government taxes.
- Experienced and well English speaking guide.
What's not included
- Entrance fees for sightseeing places
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, sweets, snacks, tips, etc.,
- All beverages and bar bills.
- Local permit, donations personal equipment.
- Travel Insurance (Essential – Should include emergency evacuation coverage while trekking up to 5545 meters).
- Personal trekking equipment except stated above.
- Entrance fee while doing sightseeing around Kathmandu
- Any loss arising due to unforeseen circumstances that is beyond Apex Himalaya control.
- Tips for guide and porter at the end of the trek
- Do I need a trekking permit In Nepal?
Yes, the majority of the treks in Nepal require trekking permit. A common trekking permit that you require are the National Park/Conservation Area Project Permits which is applicable if your trekking trail passes through any national park or conservation area.
Restricted Area Permits are required in certain remote and rural areas near the borders that the Nepal Government highly regulates. Some areas like Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Humla, Kanchanjunga require this permit. An independent trekker cannot collect it. Hence, one should hire a registered Nepali travel agency to acquire the permit.
- What is the best season for hiking/trekking in Nepal?
The best season for trekking in Nepal is the autumn and spring seasons. The autumn season lasts from September to November, while the spring season lasts from March to May. These are the best months for trekking/hiking in Nepal. The weather is clear during these seasons with blue skies, fresh vegetation, blooming wildflowers, and ideal temperature. The views of the Himalayan range around Nepal are clear.
The winter season from December to February has temperatures dropping to -15 Degrees Celsius, so it is not suitable for higher altitude trek.
- How far will you walk every day?
The average walking distance varies according to the topography, length of the trek and altitude. For example you would cover about 12km/7.5 miles each day during the 7 days Annapurna Base Camp trek. However, for the longer treks in remote areas, the distance covered could be more. On an average you may walk for 5 to 7 hours on a trek in the Himalayas during a day.
- Can you trek alone In Nepal?
Yes, you can trek alone in Nepal except for some restricted areas where the government has made it compulsory to take a guide.
However, we don't recommend trekking alone in off seasons when there is a high chance of getting lost in the heavy snow. It is also not wise to trek alone if you are a first time trekker in Nepal.
- Is guide compulsory while trekking in Nepal?
Being with a Trekking Guide for trekking in Nepal is highly recommended for your safety (especially during emergencies) as well to get full information about the places of visit. So, it is recommended but not compulsory.
Trekking in restricted areas of Nepal like Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Humla, Kanchanjunga, Tsum Valley, Ruby Valley, Nar Phu require a guide and a registered agency to go through. An independent trekker cannot travel solo at these areas. Hence, one should hire a registered Nepali travel agency and a guide to get permit as well as to trek along.
- Is Nepal safe for solo female travelers?
Nepal is a safe country for solo female travelers as the government takes all precautions to maintain the safety & security of travelers. However, in the trekking regions you need to properly plan the trek beforehand, keep your belongings to yourself, and wear non-revealing clothes as a precaution. You can hire a good travel agency and a guide to make your trip memorable.
- What is the trekking boots option during trekking in winter?
Winter in Nepal is too cold especially if you are trekking in high altitude areas. The temperature may go below -20°C during December and January. So, it is recommended to have proper hiking boots with ankle support with gaiters and micro spikes.
- What's it like during the monsoon season?
During the monsoon season (Jun to Aug), most of Nepal experiences heavy rain for a few hours each day. It's humid, wet, and the trails in the lower regions (Ghorepani, Ghandruk, Langtang, etc) can be quite muddy. That being said, it's still a great time to visit if you don't mind the rain — you'll have the trails to yourself, the skies often clear up in the morning, and certain treks offer stone-paved trails that drain the rain and make for easy trekking. Also, certain regions, like Mustang and the upper reaches of Everest, lie in the rain shadow of the Himalaya and receive little rain.
- How much should I tip the guide and porters?
There's no fixed tipping rate for guided tours or treks in Nepal. Nevertheless, tipping is expected—if the service merits it—and it's a nice way to show your appreciation. After all, the guides and porters have ushered you and your belongings across mountain passes and have been your only lifeline (and perhaps a source of entertainment) in remote areas. Your guide and porters are also the people who will ensure you have a memorable experience.
- How can you get drinking water?
You can buy bottled drinking water in the stores or tea houses along the trail. However, the price of bottled mineral water rises as you head up the higher altitude. Alternatively, you can also buy boiled water from the tea houses at a relatively lower price.
To save money, you can also carry a purification tablet or reusable bottle with built-in filtration so that the water from local taps can be filled and filtered for drinking.
- Does a trekking guide carry first aid? Do you need to bring some medicine?
Yes, most of the professional trekking guides assigned by the travel agencies carry first aid so that you won’t have to. Also, they are trained in the first aid response in case of emergency. For an independent trek, you need to make sure of this before you hire a guide. Additionally, you can carry only the medicines prescribed by your doctor.
- Is internet access available while trekking?
Internet connection is available in most of the trekking regions in Nepal. As you go to the higher altitude the connectivity will be erratic. WI fi is accessible in some of the tea houses in popular trekking routes. The teahouse/lodge will charge about USD 2-2.5 for a day usage but the connectivity can be uncertain. The popular trekking trail in the Everest region has Everest Link ISP so the internet works throughout the trail in different tea houses and lodges.
Alternatively, you can also get prepaid SIM card internet service by buying data packages from two popular companies NCELL and NTC. You can expect 3G service in Annapurna and Everest region while using this. In the higher altitude it is tough to get cellular network.