Experience mountain trekking at its finest with a journey through Tsum Valley. Immerse yourself in incredible landscapes, local customs and culture as you explore this breathtaking region of the Himalayas!
Tsum Valley is a unique trekking destination in the Manaslu region of Nepal. This valley is home to many fascinating and sacred pilgrimage sites ranging from caves, monasteries, bon-po shrines to ancient settlements. It is guarded by two 7’000 meter mountains – Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal.
The landscape here consists mostly of steep hills with high alpine pastures that provide breath taking panoramic views throughout your journey. The local cultures are vibrant & diverse with Tibetan Buddhist culture prevailing among both old generations as well as youth.
In addition, The Lungden Gompa and Ganesh Himal Base Camp considered one of the most pristine rhododendron forest walk on Earth lies at an elevation of 4000 meters adjacent from this valley – making it ideal for intrepid travelers looking for alluring scenery!
Highlights of Tsum Valley are:
- Picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola
- Exploration of the Tibetan society as well as lifestyle
- Fairly very easy expedition with no fear of altitude sickness
- Many Buddhist monasteries
- Spectacular sights of mountains like Ganesh Himal
- Lovely alpine, juniper and also rhododendron forests
How to Trek Tsum Valley
The Tsum Valley trek begins by drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola via Arughat same as the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The road is expanding more further up to Machha Khola and some of the trekkers even drive direct to there. The Tsum hidden gems trek traverses through the Manaslu route at Philim towards the Lower Tsum. Since Tsum Valley Trekking is based on Himalayan Home-stay family lodes trek. The lodges offer still only basic arrangements of food and accommodation unlike other trekking regions of Nepal. This moderately adventurous trek in Nepal highlights the two biggest monasteries in the region. Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, which are the schools for young Buddhist monks and nuns.
Tsum is remote land and narrow valley is also an integral pilgrimage route. Because it is believed that the great Buddhist Guru Milarepa had meditated once on the mountain caves of this valley. Ganesh Himal base camp and Lungden Gompa are the another top notch of Tsum valley trek that is highest elevation too. The walking route of Tsum Valley is one of the best sections of the Great Himalayan Trail of Nepal, which runs at the foothills of the Himalayas from east to west.
Overall, Tsum Valley has wonderful aspects of nature and culture. The trekking caters to the exceptional beauty of alpine nature and rhododendron forests. The views of Manaslu and Ganesh Himalayan Ranges throughout the trails energize trekkers to walk further. Similarly, the cultural aspects of this valley are so authentic that trekkers shed tears on seeing the lifestyle of the people living in the region, which is so close to nomad-ism.
Best time to trek Tsum Valley
March to May and September to December is best time to trek in Tsum Valley and exploring around. However, some people like to trek in Monsoon and winter season as well for special interest like photography, bird watching, wild flowers and volunteering in Mu Gompa and Rechen monastery.