TSUM VALLEY TREK
TSUM VALLEY TREK
A pilgrimage to a hidden unexplored gem in a remote location away from the more traditional trails.
Tsum Valley (Hidden Valley) is located at an altitude of 1905 to 5093 meters and is rich in Tibetan culture, traditions, and ancient art and mostly untouched by modern civilization.
Tsum Valley is bounded by Boudha Himal and Himal Chuli in the west, Ganesh Himal in the south, and Siring Himal (7187m) in the north. The trail passes through two significant villages in the region, Chumling (Lower Tsum) and Chhaikampar (Upper Tsum). The valley is rich in Tibetan culture with numerous mani walls, chortens and prayer flags adorning the trail and is home to some of the holiest of Tibetan monasteries where the famous sages Guru Rinpoche and the Tibetan philosopher Milarepa once worshipped in nearby caves. It is a place where the trekker can discover oneself and discover peace through meditation.
A visit to this serene valley close to Tibet is alive with wildlife such as the famed blue sheep and Himalayan Thar and its pristine landscape is a sight to behold. The Tsum Valley is predominantly inhabited by Tibetans and even has its own dialect with most villagers dressed in traditional clothes and are devout practicing Buddhists. Their homes also reflect their unique Tibetan architecture.
Highlights of Tsum Valley Trek
- The scenic drive from Kathmandu to Arughat.
- Distinctive traditional Tibetan culture and customs.
- Stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Himchuli, Ganesh Himal and other snow-capped mountains..
- Visit ancient monasteries - Gompa Lungdang, Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa.
- Visit sacred caves and Buddhist monasteries rich in history and spiritual significance to Tibetans.
- Deep gorges and pristine landscape of Tsum Valley.
- High altitude trek to Mu Gompa (3700m) and its monastery..
- Trek to Ganesh Himal Base Camp. below Mt. Ganesh Himal (7422m).
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrive in Kathmandu (1,350m) & transfer to hotel.
On arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be met by a representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking who will take you to your 3-star hotel. You can rest at your hotel or stroll around Thamel and do some last-minute shopping and take in the sights. In the evening there will be a welcome dinner and a short briefing.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola (870m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today we drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola driving through Dhading Beshi and Arughat. The road deteriorates and is quite rough and bumpy from Dhading to Arughat. This afternoon we follow a trail through the woods heading upriver along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River and then across the mountains from where we have frequent views down to the river far below. Tonight we will stay at a guesthouse at Machha Khola.
Day 3 : Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (2,340 m ) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Ahead of us today is a 6 to 7-hour trek following the river to the original route follows the river to Khorla Besi and to the therapeutic hot springs at Tatopani (930m). After leaving Tatopani we follow the trail along the east bank of the continuing on the eastern bank of the Buri Gandaki to reach Doban, Thulo Dunga, and Yara Bagar (1370m). The trail frequently crosses back and forth over the river on suspension bridges before entering the main entrance to the Manaslu Conservation Area and finally Jagat (1410m). At this point, the office will check our area permits.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner. included.
Day 4 : Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,390m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we head off on a 6-hour trek, first reaching Salleri where we have magnificent views of Mount Sringi before descending to Sirdibas, a traditional Buddhist village. The trail continues until we reach Lokpa Village, just north of Philim and then go through Ekle Bhatti and climb to a ridge along a trail through a pine forest. We come to a junction where we take the trail heading to Tsum Valley. We stay the night at Lokpa.
Day 5 : Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (called Lower Tsum) (2,390m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we have a 5-hour trek ahead of us to Tsum Valley. The first sights of Tsum Valley appear as we head down to along with mountain Chumling Village. We then climb up to Ripchet and a short time later reach the authentic Buddhist village of Chumling, well known for its ancient monastery, traditional Tibetan style houses, prayer flags, mani walls, and its stone-paved streets. We stay here overnight.
Day 5 : Trek from Chumling to Chokhangparo (3,010 m ) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today we start by crossing a suspension bridge where we have amazing views of the Ganesh Himal. The trail continues and takes us past Rainjam and across Seru Khola before arriving at Gho Village. After a total of 5 to 5 hours trekking, we reach Chokhangparo. A village from where we have views of Himalchuli (7893m) and Ganesh Himal (7140m). We stay here tonight.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 6 : Trek from Chokhangparo to Nile (3361m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek of 5 to 6 hours follows the trail to Rachen Gompa and to the Shir Khola (river). After leaving the river we pass by Phurbe, and Pangdun villages before arriving at the Nile where we stay the night.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 7 : Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa (3700 m) Duration: 3 hours.
The trail today takes us close to the Tibetan border as we walk through the valley. We continue and climb up to the Dhepu Doma Gompa (monastery) and then on to today’s destination Mu Gompa where we stay the night.
Breakfast. Lunch & dinner included.
Day 8 : Hike to Ganesh Himal Base camp and back to Mu Gomba (4,200m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today’s 7 to 8 hour trek takes us up to Ganesh Himal Base Camp where we have fantastic views of the giant Ganesh Himal massif. We then head back to Mu Gompa for the night.
Day 9 : Trek from Mugumpa to Chumling (2,386m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we trek for 5 to 6 hours through greener countryside and descend to Chumling through the lower Tsum Valley. We spend the night at Chumling.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 10 : Trek from Chumling to Philim (1,570m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trial today heads in the direction of Lokpa and passes the beautiful Samba Falls. After 6 to 7 hours we reach today’s destination Philim Village where we will stay the night.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 11 : Trek from Philim to Soti Khola (7,00m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we follow the trail along the ridge to the Budhi Gandaki River and on to Labubesi until we reach Soti Khola where we stay the night.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 12 : Drive from Soti Khola to Kathmandu (1,350m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Our final day of the trek descends past another stunning waterfall and on to Arkhet Khola which is the end of the Budhi Gandaki Valley. We pass through the villages of Sante Bazaar and Malta. The last leg of our trek takes us past the hydroelectric power plant and then we reach Arughat where we will rest for a while before taking the bus back to Kathmandu – a 3-hour road trip. Tonight we stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 13 : Final Departure day.
Our representative will take you to the airport around 3 hours before departure. This is only ‘farewell’ until we see you again for your next expedition into the Himalaya region.
SERVICES
Costs included in your package.
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two night's standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Tsum Valley special permit with Conservation Area Permit fees.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodation during the trek.
- Kathmandu to Arughat and Sotikhola to Kathmandu transportation by Bus.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Tsum Valley trekking route map.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $25 USD for 15-day visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees($30 USD per person)
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - without the attached bathroom - until Samagaon which is a thriving town seeing many more tourists and a greater range of accommodation. It should be noted that at higher elevations the quality of accommodation may not be as good, with more basic rooms with the bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Khumbu region is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpas’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We do not have to use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
Tsum Valley is a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus!. We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
MAP
PHOTOS/Videos
Departures
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| May 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jun 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jul 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Aug 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 01, 2023 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Feb 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Feb 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Feb 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Feb 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Mar 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Mar 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Mar 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Mar 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Apr 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Apr 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Apr 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Apr 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| May 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| May 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| May 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| May 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jun 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jun 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jun 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jun 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jul 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jul 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jul 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jul 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Aug 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Aug 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Aug 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Aug 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Sep 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Sep 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Sep 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Sep 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Oct 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Oct 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Oct 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Oct 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Nov 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Nov 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Nov 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Nov 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 01, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Dec 02, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Dec 03, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Dec 04, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Dec 05, 2024 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 01, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jan 02, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jan 03, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jan 04, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Jan 05, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 01, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Feb 02, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Feb 03, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Feb 04, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Feb 05, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Trip Date | Duration | Price | Seats Left | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 01, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Mar 02, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Mar 03, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Mar 04, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
| Mar 05, 2025 | 16 Days | $ 1,100 | 10 | Book Now |
FAQS
I have never hike before, can I make Tsum Valley Trekking?
Yes, you can. No matter who you are, as long as you are reasonably fit, can walk for 5-6 hours a day and trek/hike a few uphills, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking team will support you to the fullest to transform your dream into reality.
What is the best Season for trek to Tsum Valley Trekking?
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for Tsum Valley Circuit trek. Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November) are the best months for trekking as the weather will be clear and calm. Also, you can get the opportunity to view High mountains including Tsum Valley with the full of Snow.
How much does it costs for Permit?
Valley region. You will need three kinds of permits issued by the Government of Nepal. Tsum Valley Restricted Permit Tsum Valley trek permit costs USD 100.00 for the first seven days and USD 15.00 each additional day during September to November Tsum Valley trek permit costs USD 75.00 for first 7 days and USD 10.00 each extra day from December to August. Tsum Valley Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) Entry fee for SAARC Nationals is Nepali Currency 200 per person and for other Nationals is Nepali Currency 3,000 per person. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Entry fee for SAARC Nationals is Nepali Currency 200 per person and for other Nationals is Nepali Currency 3,000 per person. Tsum Valley Restricted Permit (Optional: if you want to go to the Tsum Valley) If you choose the Tsum Valley trek, it costs USD 40 for each person per week.
Is there an age limit for Tsum Valley trekking?
No, there is no age limit for the trek to Tsum Valley Trekking but, you need to be in good physical shape and have a positive attitude. We also suggest you to prior to the excursion though we suggest you to please see your doctor and obtain necessary permission and advice, as well as medications for traveling in extreme altitude prior to the excursion.
What are the meals on the Tsum Valley trekking like?
During trekking, you will be served meals in the teahouses. Typical meals are noodles, rice, pasta or potato dishes along with vegetables and egg/chicken/meat dishes. Other items mostly served as breakfasts include egg, pancake, bread, porridge, muesli, and toasts with peanut butter and honey.
What kind of accommodation will be provided during the Tsum Valley trekking?
Accommodation is not an issue in Tsum Valley Trek as trails are usually less crowded and new and improved tea houses are opening up all the time. The tea houses and lodges are ready to serve trekkers.
Are there toilet facilities at the tea houses? What opportunities will I have for shower during trekking?
Most of the teahouses on the Tsum Valley Trekking trail have squat toilet facilities but recently built lodges have western-style toilets as well. Nowadays, flush toilets are also being introduced with number of increasing trekkers each year. It is highly recommended to carry your own toilet paper and other required toiletries. Do not expect full bath or daily showers while on the Tsum Valley trek. If you insist on taking a hot shower daily, spare a lot of money for that. For hot water showers in the trek, you have to pay a few dollars at a time.
What kind of clothes do we require for the trekking and is it possible to purchase it in Kathmandu before the start of the trip?
What you want to wear depends on you but we suggest you wear warm clothes during the Tsum Valley trekking. A down jacket, thermal longs and top, comfortable trekking trousers, t-shirts, fleece, windproof jacket, hat, scarf, and gloves might be useful. There are numerous trekking shops in the Thamel area of Kathmandu where you can get all of these items in both local and branded stores alike. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking may also accompany and assist you if required.
Do I need to bring any bags for trekking? If yes, what kind?
During the Tsum Valley trekking, you will be on a long journey for which you will need two bags to keep your belongings. A rucksack/duffle bag and a day bag for personal items. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide you with a duffle bag (which is need to refund after the trek) that you can use throughout your entire journey and even afterward. These bags are durable and hence perfect for any kind of trekking journey. While the duffle bag will be carried by the potters, you will have to carry a day bag on your own. A day bag is a small backpack that has enough room for everything you will need on a day hike such as lunch, water, extra clothing and perhaps a few personnel items like camera, battery chargers, etc.
Do I need to bring any personal equipment like sleeping bags, down jackets, Trekking poles etc?
If possible, we suggest you bring your own equipment. However, sleeping bags and down jackets will be provided to you by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking. With regards to trekking poles, if you are used to walking with it then take them with you, as you will probably find them useful especially on the way down. They are not essential though and the walk is manageable without them. It is mostly a personal preference. If you prefer to take the trekking poles with you on the trekking then you can either bring your own pole or buy it from numerous options available in Kathmandu itself.
Is it possible for me to store extra clothing that I will not need?
Yes, if you have a bag of extra clothing for when you return from the trekking, you will be able to store it safely in Kathmandu at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking office. Also, the storage facility is provided by most hotels and lodges in Kathmandu or you can also store it in our office for the duration of the trekking.
What problems can arise on high altitude?
Our itinerary has been specially tailored to prevent any kind of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) while moving up to higher altitudes. Normally, altitude sickness starts from 3,600 meters and above. You will be trekking at a relatively slow and gradual pace as part of the acclimatization process. Cut off caffeinated, alcoholic and smoking items. Drink at least 4 liters of water a day. Trek slow. Don't skip the acclimatization days. Better to continue with Diamox (if any symptoms show up). Drink Garlic Soup. In the higher elevation, there is less oxygen in the air and this is more so while crossing high passes. Our expert guides will advise you on how to avoid AMS and treat it when/ if required.
Do I need insurance for Tsum Valley trekking?
Make sure to have both medical and evacuation insurance before coming to Nepal for Tsum Valley trekking. You should be careful in choosing a policy while traveling to a Himalayan country like Nepal as some insurance companies may make special exceptions for adventure travel. If you are confused about the insurance, please inform us and we will help you. It is usually better to arrange your insurance in your country before travel.
How long do I need to walk per day during my trek to Tsum Valley Trek?
The trekking will be 5-7 hours a day depending upon the landscape and destination.
How long will it take to reach Tsum Valley Trekking?
It takes 6 to 21 days to complete Tsum Valley Trek depending upon the mode of transportation and packages of Sherpa Expedition and Trekking offers.
How safe is Tsum Valley trekking?
We at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team always have the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of our valued customers as our foremost priority at all times, and we assure you a wonderful and unforgettable time with us in our beautiful country. Sherpa team members of Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will be carrying all the necessary gear, equipment, and first aid kits and they have extensive first aid training. If a trekker falls sick on high altitude, the leader will decide whether to continue the trek. In case of emergency, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking have a rescue helicopter to bring you back from the higher elevation. Moreover, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking also provides oximeter to monitor the oxygen level at high altitude and offers regular health check-up facilities.
What is the mode of transportation?
As Tsum Valley has recently gained popularity among trekkers, not many facilities are available on the trails. Due to its isolation and off-road trails, the region is not yet connected to the outer world via proper roads. So, you will need to take local buses or hire a private jeep to reach the starting point of the trek to Arughat or Sotikhola. A local bus would cost around US $10 per person whereas a jeep would cost between $150 and $200 each way but is worth the convenience than the packed buses. If you are traveling in a group, the cost can be shared by all and would be around $30 per person. The same rate would apply to your return trip from Tal or Besisahar to Kathmandu.
What is the luggage limit for porter?
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide one porter for two trekkers to carry 20 kgs of luggage (maximum 10 kg for each trekker). Please be sure your porters are not overloaded because they do not carry only your equipment but also lift your spirit to reach new heights, and your love, affection, and generosity can be the reason for them to work hard to take you to your destination.
What types of liquid do I need to drink at high altitude?
Garlic soup is a must while trekking. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking recommend trekkers to drink green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon ginger tea and drink at least 2-4 liters of water a day. However, it is better to avoid alcohol and alcoholic beverages, caffeinated items, and hot-chocolates at high altitude.
I am a vegetarian. Am I supposed to get enough meal on my trek?
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking also encourage to avoid dairy and cheesy items and strongly suggest not to consume them during the trek. Our packages are suitable for both vegan and vegetarians.
Do I need to tip my porter and guide?
Your guide and porters are a big reason why you got a chance to feel something very few can have. Apart from guiding and carrying your necessities and being mindful of your safety, they want to see you happily succeeded more than anyone like family and help you successfully complete the trek safely. So, your tips reflect gratitude towards them. So, tipping is a recommended culture for porters and guide in Nepal as a gesture of thankfulness.
Can I buy the gear in Nepal and sell it afterwards?
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will introduce dozens of shops selling knock-off gear in Kathmandu. You can also barter those gears at the knock-off places but be sure you keep the receipt safely. Moreover, you can rent the needed gears if you do not want to buy them.
Is there Wi-Fi on the trek?
There is no WiFi available during the trek.
Are there ATMs available during the Tsum Valley trekking?
ATM services are not available only during the trekking. SO be sure you carry enough cash with you.
Will I be able to charge my batteries during trekking in the Tsum Valley Trekking?
Most of the tea houses/ lodges have electricity whereby you will be able to charge your iPod or camera batteries. Please note that lodges/tea houses will charge you some extra money for the services. The fee may vary from 1 USD to 3 USD per hour.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 16 Reviews
Harris
United States
9 months ago
Tsum Valley Trek with Sherpa Team!
Pre-trip Info
Staffs
Accommodation
Meals
Transportation
Value for Money
The company was very accommodating and made sure I was taken care of. No hesitation among the staff when it came to customer service. I would book again with this company! Do be sure to look at the weather in Nepal before booking!
Martin
Finland
1 year ago
Great Experience!
Pre-trip Info
Staffs
Accommodation
Meals
Transportation
Value for Money
We had a great experience with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking arranged everything in a very professional way. Even when my wife got an accident (fell off a horse) things were taken care of professionally, both from the office in Kathmandu and our porter/guide Youbraj. Thanks so much to you guys, Ram and Sherpa Team.
Thomas
Australia
1 year ago
Tsum Valley Trek
Pre-trip Info
Staffs
Accommodation
Meals
Transportation
Value for Money
Wonderful trek experience, my favorite part was the Tsum Valley extension - walking through the pine forest, with rhododendrons in bloom and surrounded by birdsong, was lovely, particularly with the reduced levels of donkey traffic relative to the main route! It was really great trip!
Write Your Review
Average Customer Ratings
How The Travellers Have Rated This Package
5
15
4
1
3
0
2
0
1
0
People Considering This Package Right Now
