Tsum Valley Trek

Today, the trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola. After breakfast, we pack our bags and hop on a bus, journeying along Prithvi Highway. Passing through picturesque landscapes, we navigate bumpy roads, reaching Malekhu and then Dhading. Along the way, we catch glimpses of snow-capped mountains like Ganesh Himal and Mt. Manaslu.

Continuing our drive, we traverse narrow cliffside roads until we arrive at Soti Khola, a charming settlement offering stunning mountain views. Finally, after another 1.5-2 hours of driving, we reach Machhakhola. Here, we can explore the area before settling in at a lodge for the night, enjoying dinner and rest.

Today, we’ll trek from Macha Khola to Jagat, continuing our journey through picturesque trails. We’ll pass by Tharo Khola and trek through Khola Besi village before reaching Tatopani, known for its soothing hot water springs. Here, we can relax and rejuvenate amidst nature’s beauty.

Afterward, we’ll traverse diverse landscapes, including ridges and suspension bridges over the Budhi Gandaki river. Climbing stony paths and crossing landslide areas, we’ll reach Doban and then Thado Bharyang. Continuing along the Budhi Gandaki west bank, we’ll ascend over a ridge to finally arrive at Jagat village, where we’ll spend the night at a lodge or teahouse.

Today, we’ll trek from Jagat to Lokpa, navigating through challenging terrains. Climbing rugged landscapes and crossing ravines, we’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the majestic Sringeri Himal and other snow-capped mountains. After trekking for around 5-6 hours, we’ll reach Lokpa at an altitude of 2,240m and spend the night at lodges.

Today, we’ll trek from Lokpa to Dumje. Starting from Lokpa, we’ll climb over a beautiful ridge offering stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Ganesh Himal Base Camp. Continuing our journey, we’ll reach Chumling and enjoy breathtaking views of the Shangri Himal above the village. Trekking through diverse landscapes, we’ll finally arrive at Dumje, where we’ll spend the night at a lodge and rest for the evening.

After breakfast, we’ll trek for about 6 hours to reach Nile-Chule. Passing through picturesque villages, we’ll enter the beautiful Upper Tsum Valley. Along the way, we’ll cross the Shiar Khola, located near Nile village, and continue towards Chule. We’ll also visit the Piren Phu cave near Tsum village and enjoy views of natural wonders like Shiar Khola and Rachen Gompa. Upon reaching Nile-Chule, we’ll rest and prepare for the next leg of our journey.

Starting from Nile-Chule, we’ll trek uphill to Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in the Tsum Valley. This beautiful 18th-century monastery houses precious religious texts and statues, including Kangyur, Tara, Avalokiteshwara, and Guru Padmasambhava. After a 4-5 hour hike, we’ll reach Mu Gompa, where we’ll stay overnight at a teahouse.

Today is set aside for acclimatization and exploration at Mu Gompa. You’ll wander through the beautiful landscapes, admiring small chortens, walls, and other Buddhist landmarks. Take a short hike to the base of Pika Himal for breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and the Tibetan region beyond. After exploring, return to Mu Gompa for the night.

Today’s journey takes you from Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa. The trail winds through picturesque paths to reach the nunnery nestled in the Shiar Khola Valley, bordering Nepal and Tibet. This village in Tsum Valley houses nuns of the Ngak-Pa sect and features 1000 Avalokiteshvara statues, adding to its allure. After reaching Rachen Gompa, rest for the day and prepare for tomorrow’s trek.

Today’s trek from Rachen Gompa to Chumling is challenging, lasting around 7-8 hours. You’ll navigate high altitudes and steep descents. Upon reaching Chumling, a sizable settlement, you’ll rest overnight at a local lodge.

Today, we trek from Chumling to Deng for about 4-5 hours. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu. Crossing gorges and bridges, you’ll navigate through dense forests until reaching Deng, where we’ll stay overnight in a teahouse.

Today, we trek from Deng to Namrung for about 6-7 hours. We’ll climb uphill, cross the Budhi Gandaki river on a suspension bridge, and pass through forests and villages like Ghap and Prok. After a final climb, we’ll reach Namrung, where we’ll rest for the night.

Today, we’ll trek from Namrung to Lho, which takes about 6-7 hours. The trail is challenging, with steep climbs and forested paths. Along the way, we’ll pass through Lihi, where you’ll see Buddhist landmarks like chortens and prayer flags. We’ll also walk through Simnang valley and Sho before reaching Lho. In Lho, we’ll explore the local monastery and spend the night in a teahouse.

Today, we’ll trek from Lho to Samagaun, which takes about 5-6 hours. Along the way, we’ll pass through Shyala village, where you’ll see stunning views of Mount Manaslu and other mountains. When we reach Samagaun, we’ll explore Ribung Gompa and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the glacial mountains. We’ll spend the night in a teahouse in Samagaun.

Today, we’ll stay in Samagaun to acclimatize to the high altitude. We’ll explore the beautiful landscapes, including Birendra Lake and Ani Gompa. We’ll also visit Pungyen Gompa and hike around the area, but only if you’re feeling fit. This gompa, named after Mount Manaslu, has an interesting story related to Japanese climbers. After exploring, we’ll return to Samagaun and rest for the evening.

Today, we’ll trek alongside the Budhi Gandaki River and cross several suspension bridges. The trail leads us to Larkya La pass, known for its challenge. As we continue, the path becomes easier, winding through forests with prayer flags. Crossing ridges, we’ll reach Samdo, where we’ll rest for the evening.

We’ll trek from Samdo to Dharamsala. Crossing the Budhi Gandaki River on suspension bridges, we ascend and traverse the Larkya glacier. After crossing streams, we’ll journey through the valley until we reach Dharamsala. We’ll explore Larke Phedi and rest for the evening.

Today, we ascend the north side of the Larkya glacier, offering views of Larkya peak. After a steep climb across the glacier, we reach the pass. Enjoy breathtaking views of Kanggru, Himlung, Annapurna, and Cheo. The trek is challenging but rewarding. Descending, we reach Bimtang, with stunning views of Mount Manaslu.

Today’s trail descends through diverse landscapes, crossing a glacier and ascending from a moraine. Enjoy majestic views of Manaslu, Larke, Nadi, and Chuli Himal. Pass through villages like Karcher, Gho, and Tilje. You’ll see local farming and animal rearing. Cross Dudh Khola via a suspension bridge and pass through Thonje village before reaching Dharapani, where you’ll spend the night.

After breakfast, we’ll begin our journey back to Kathmandu by private Jeep. The direct road from Dharapani to Besishar takes about 4 hours, then it’s paved road onwards. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we’ll check into a hotel for the night. You can explore the city, enjoy its nightlife in Thamel, and do some souvenir shopping. The scenic drive takes around 7-9 hours.