Tsum Valley Trek: Difficulty, Routes and Map

 

Tsum Valley Trek Highlights

Beautiful landscapes

During the trip, you pass through various landscapes, including alpine forests, high-altitude grasslands, and mountain peaks covered with snow. Some of the tallest mountains in the world, such as Manaslu (8,156 meters), Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters), and Annapurna II(7,937 meters), will be visible.

 

Cultural diversity

The Tsum Valley trek runs through several villages occupied by several ethnic groups, including Tibetan refugees, Gurungs, and Tamangs. You’ll meet the friendly locals and chat with them while learning about their distinctive cultures and traditions.

 

You may observe the Gurung people’s traditional way of life as you go through several Gurung villages. Additionally, you can connect with them and visit their house to learn about their traditions and culture.

 

Diverse flora and fauna

During the trek, you will pass through various settings, from high-altitude grasslands to subtropical woods. You’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, such as vibrant bamboo forests and rhododendron woods and many bird and animal species.

 

Various animals, such as snow leopards, blue sheep, and other bird species, can be found in the Manaslu region. During your adventure, you can see some of these animals.

 

Moderately challenging

A decent level of physical fitness is necessary for the demanding Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. It is intended for experienced trekkers in good physical shape because it involves several days of hiking at high altitudes and traversing high passes.

 

However, the satisfaction of doing this trek and soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the Manaslu region deserves the effort.

 

Tsum Valley

The Tsum Valley, a hidden gem in the Himalayas, is a significant highlight of the Tsum Valley Trek. It’s a culturally rich and remote region that has only recently opened to tourists. You’ll have the chance to visit ancient monasteries, explore remote villages, and learn about the unique culture and traditions of the Tsum people.

 

Larkya La Pass

The Larkya La Pass, located at an elevation of 5,106 meters, is another significant feature of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The pass provides stunning views of the nearby peaks, including the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges.

 

Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek Route

 

 

Arughat, a small village in Nepal’s Gorkha District, usually is where the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit trek route begins. You will travel from Arughat along the Budhi Gandaki River to the Budhi Gandaki Valley, passing through several small towns and suspension bridges.

 

The trip continues to the little villages through the towns of Arkhet, Machhakhola, Jagat, and Deng. After passing through Deng, it leaves the main Manaslu Circuit path and enters the Tsum Valley through Chumling.

 

Often referred to as the “Shangri-la of Nepal,” the Tsum Valley is a hidden gem in Nepal. Numerous historic monasteries and cultural landmarks can be found there, making it a unique location for Buddhists. You can see monasteries, temples, and other cultural landmarks while trekking through the settlements of Chumling, Chhokangparo, and Nigalpa in the Tsum Valley.

 

 

The highest point in the Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley Trek is the Larkya La Pass, which can be reached by continuing the trek from the Tsum Valley. The pass, located at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet), provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

 

The journey descends to the settlement of Dharapani from the Larkya La Pass, where we trek to Besi Sahar and end our trek.

 

The total distance of the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit trek is approximately 180 kilometres (112 miles) and takes around 14-21 days to complete, depending on your route and the pace at which you travel.

 

Here is the Standard 23-day Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary offered by Swotah Travel and Adventure.

 

Day 1: Arrival

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Day 3: Trek to Soti Khola (700m)

Day 4: Trek to Macha Khola (870m)

Day 5: Trek to Jagat (2340m)

Day 6: Trek to Chisopani (1660m)

Day 7: Trek to Chumling (2386m)

Day 8: Trek to Chokhangparo (3010m)

Day 9: Trek to Nile (3361m)

Day 10: Trek to Mu Gumba (3700m)

Day 11: Explore Mu Gumba

Day 12: Chokhangparo to Lhokpa

Day 13: Lhokpa to Deng

Day 14: Deng to Namrung

Day 15: Namrung to syala

Day 16: Syala to Samagaon

Day 17: Samagaon to Samdo

Day 18: Samdo to Daharamsala

Day 19: Dharamsala to Bhimtang

Day 20: Bhimtang to Tilje

Day 21: Drive to Besisahar

Day 22: Drive to Kathmandu

Day 23: Departure

 

If you prefer to skip the Larkya La Pass and only explore the Tsum Valley, you can return via the same path you initially trekked, avoiding the need to complete the circuit.

 

 

 

Tsum Valley Trek Accomodation

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek often includes accommodation in lodges or teahouses. These simple lodging services are situated along the trail and provide essentials like meals, mattresses, and blankets. It is crucial to select a reliable trekking company or a local guide because the quality of the accommodations can vary.

 

Accommodations can be decent in the larger settlements and more fundamental in the smaller and isolated villages. Packing your sleeping bag, toiletries, and other necessities is as crucial as being prepared for basic facilities.

 

Overall, it is vital to be prepared for basic accommodation facilities. And to bring your essential items to ensure a comfortable and safe stay during the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek.

 

Food and drinks

The Tsum Valley is located in a remote region of Nepal. So, food and drink availability may be limited compared to more urban areas of Nepal. However, there are still a variety of local dishes and drinks you can try while on the Tsum Valley trek.

 

Some local dishes that you may come across in the Tsum Valley include:

Dal Bhat

A traditional Nepali dish consisting of rice, lentil soup, and vegetables

 

Momos

Momo is a Nepali dumpling filled with vegetables or meat. 

 

Thukpa

A Tibetan-style noodle soup with vegetables or meat

 

Sel roti

A traditional Nepali bread made from rice flour and shaped into a circular form.

 

Dhindo

A thick porridge made from cornmeal or wheat flour.

 

Yak cheese

Made from the milk of yaks, which are a type of Himalayan mountain cow and often used in dishes like momos, sandwiches, and pasta

 

Tibetan bread

A flatbread from wheat flour cooked on a flat grill is often served with butter or cheese.

 

Breakfast is usually served between 7:00 and 8:00 in the morning. It typically includes a range of foods such as bread, oatmeal, eggs, and coffee or tea. Around noon, a main dish like daal bhat or a sandwich is often offered for lunch. Dinner is served in the evening and may consist of soup, spaghetti, or curries. Along with these meals, you will also have the chance to try some native snacks and drinks. 

 

Along the way, you can also buy soft drinks, chocolate, and other food or refreshments.

Tea, coffee, and bottled water are among the beverages that are frequently on hand in the Tsum Valley. It is important to remember that the availability of particular meals and beverages may change based on the area and the season. Being adaptable and willing to try new foods is a good idea because some places might need easy access to fresh products.

 

Drinking plenty of water and having electrolyte tablets or powder on hand will help you maintain your hydration while on the trek. It is crucial to inform your guide or trekking business if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies so they can make the proper preparations. Packing a few of your non-perishable snacks and supplements is a good idea.

 

Tsum Valley Trek difficulty

The Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is considered moderately complex and requires excellent physical fitness and endurance. The expedition requires long hiking days, some lasting up to 7-8 hours. The trail has several steep ascents and descents and can be pretty rocky and irregular in some spots.

 

The altitude of Larkya La Pass and the chilly weather make this part of the trip very demanding. People prone to Altitude Sickness should watch out for this spot.

 

The Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit trek can be logistically tricky and physically demanding as it goes through secluded and remote locations. Trekkers should be ready for unforeseen delays caused by bad weather or other conditions.

 

Overall, experienced hikers who are accustomed to longer days of hiking and who have a moderate level of physical endurance might consider the Tsum Valley with Manaslu Circuit trek. It’s crucial to acclimatize before the trek properly and to adhere to all safety precautions.

 

Permits Required for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek and Its Cost

Several permits are necessary for the Tsum Valley trek and the Manaslu Circuit. The Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit is one of the major permits. It costs NPR 2,000 (about USD 18) for the first week and NPR 300 (around USD 3) every day after that. Trekkers must purchase a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, which costs around NPR 2,000.

 

Trekkers also require a special permit to visit the restricted area of the Tsum Valley region. The initial week’s fee for the Tsum Valley permit is NPR 2,000 (about USD 18), and each additional week’s fee is NPR 300 (around USD 3). Trekkers may require a permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area if they approach the area from the Annapurna side. Foreign citizens must pay NPR 3,000 (about USD 27) to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area permit.

 

It is crucial to remember that the stated costs could alter based on the season and other considerations. Before starting the trek, hikers should check current costs and ensure they have all the required permits.

 

Conclusion

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek is an enjoyable and challenging journey that offers a rare combination of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and rugged terrain. It is appropriate for seasoned hikers with a strong level of physical fitness or who are accustomed to long days of hiking. Moreover, it’s crucial to acclimatize before the trek properly and to adhere to all safety precautions.