TSUM VALLEY TREK 8 DAYS
TSUM VALLEY TREK 8 DAYS
Tsum Valley Trek is a unique and challenging Himalayan adventure designed especially for travelers who have limited time but want to explore one of Nepal’s most pristine and culturally rich regions. Organized by Sherpa Expedition, this short trek lasts just 8 days and offers an unforgettable experience into the remote Tsum Valley, blending breathtaking natural scenery with ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture.
The journey begins early in the morning with a private jeep drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, which takes approximately 8 to 9 hours. This drive itself is a scenic introduction to Nepal’s diverse landscapes, passing through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and rugged mountain roads. Jagat marks the gateway to the trek and the beginning of your authentic Himalayan exploration.
From Jagat, the trek commences with a walk to Philim (1,590 meters), a charming village nestled in the foothills. The trail from Philim to Chumling passes through dense forests, traditional settlements, and mani walls carved with Buddhist prayers. Chumling is part of the Lower Tsum Valley and offers trekkers their first deep cultural immersion into the lifestyle of the valley’s residents, who preserve centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
The trek then continues from Chumling to Chekanparo (sometimes spelled Chokhangparo), situated in the Upper Tsum Valley at approximately 3,000 meters. This segment of the trek is more demanding, with steep trails and increasingly stunning Himalayan panoramas. Along the way, trekkers witness remote villages where time seems to have stood still, offering a rare glimpse into a traditional way of life untouched by modernity.
One of the highlights of the trek is the visit to Nile and Mu Gompa monastery, located at around 3,361 meters. Mu Gompa is the spiritual heart of the Tsum Valley, one of the largest and most important monasteries in the region. The monastery provides not only a cultural experience but also awe-inspiring views of surrounding snow-capped peaks and the serene valley below. The peaceful atmosphere here invites reflection and connection with Tibetan Buddhist spirituality.
After spending time exploring Mu Gompa and Nile, the trek retraces the same route back to Chekanparo, descending gradually through the sacred valley. Returning to Philim, trekkers experience the valley’s lush lower forests and terraced landscapes one more time before continuing to Jagat, where the trek concludes.
From Jagat, a private jeep transports trekkers back to Kathmandu, marking the end of this incredible Tsum Valley Trek journey. This short but challenging trek is perfect for adventure seekers who want to experience the hidden gems of Nepal’s Himalayas within a limited time frame.
Organized by Sherpa Expedition, this trek guarantees professional guides, supportive Sherpa porters, and well-arranged logistics to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The Tsum Valley Trek is not just a physical challenge but a spiritual and cultural immersion into one of Nepal’s most sacred and pristine regions.
If you have only a week or slightly more, this 8-day Tsum Valley Trek is an ideal way to connect with the Himalayan wilderness, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and stunning mountain landscapes without committing to longer, more demanding treks.
Book your Tsum Valley Trek with Sherpa Expedition today and embark on an unforgettable journey to one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets!
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300m) – Duration: 10-12 hours.
Your Tsum Valley Trek adventure begins early with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat by private vehicle. The journey, which takes 10 to 12 hours, takes you through winding mountain roads, lush hills, and riverside villages. As you travel deeper into the Manaslu region, you'll get your first glimpses of rural Nepalese life and the landscape that defines the Himalayas. Jagat is a small village where your trek officially starts.
Day 2 : Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (1,800m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek from Jagat to Lokpa introduces you to the diverse terrain of the Manaslu Conservation Area. As you walk through dense forests, stone-paved trails, and narrow ridges, you'll reach the entry point of Tsum Valley. The trail becomes quieter as you leave the more trafficked Manaslu route and enter the remote Lokpa village, known as the gateway to Tsum Valley.
Day 3 : Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (Lower Tsum Valley) (2,390m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Leaving Lokpa behind, the trail heads deeper into the mystical Lower Tsum Valley. This day involves some uphill climbs, suspension bridge crossings, and forest paths. After 5 to 6 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Chumling, a peaceful village with beautiful views of Ganesh Himal. This area is culturally Tibetan, offering your first real taste of the spiritual charm of Tsum Valley.
Day 4 : Trek from Chumling to Chokhangparo (3,010m) – Duration: 4-5 hours.
As you ascend from Chumling to Chokhangparo, the trail takes you into the Upper Tsum Valley, where the air is thinner and the culture even more authentic. Chokhangparo, located at 3,010 meters, is one of the most beautiful settlements in the region, offering panoramic views and ancient monasteries. Tibetan-style homes and sacred mani walls make this village a cultural highlight of the trek.
Day 5 : Trek from Chokhangparo to Nile/Mu Gompa (3,361m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
This is one of the most exciting days of the trek. You’ll trek to Nile and continue to visit the sacred Mu Gompa, the highest and most significant monastery in the Tsum Valley. At 3,361 meters, this serene spot offers panoramic Himalayan views, spiritual ambiance, and a deeper connection to Tibetan Buddhism. It’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience at the heart of the Himalayas.
Day 6 : Trek from Nile to Chumling (2,386m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
After soaking in the spirituality and beauty of Mu Gompa, you begin your descent back through the Upper Tsum Valley, retracing your steps to Chumling. This downhill journey allows you to enjoy the stunning scenery from a new perspective and rest at a lower elevation. It's a great day to reflect on the rich experiences of the past few days.
Day 7 : Trek from Chumling to Philim (1,590m) – Duration: 8-9 hours.
Today’s long trek takes you from Chumling back toward Philim, a picturesque Gurung village situated in the lower regions of the valley. You'll pass through lush forests, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy continuous views of rivers, cliffs, and terraced fields. The drop in altitude makes the walk more comfortable but still full of scenic variety.
Day 8 : Trek to Jagat & Drive to Kathmandu – Duration: 10-12 hours.
On your final day, you trek from Philim to Jagat, where your vehicle will be waiting. From Jagat, enjoy the private jeep ride back to Kathmandu, reflecting on your incredible journey through the remote, sacred, and culturally rich Tsum Valley. The 8-day trek may be short, but the memories will last a lifetime.
SERVICES
Costs Included in Your Package
- Private ground transportation from Kathmandu to Jagat and return to Kathmandu by well-maintained private jeep for a safe and scenic journey.
- All standard meals during the trek – including breakfast, lunch, and dinner – with a variety of nutritious local and continental dishes.
- Best available teahouse and lodge accommodation along the trekking route, typically in clean and comfortable twin-share rooms.
- Licensed and experienced English-speaking trekking guide, provided by Sherpa Expedition. For groups of 10 or more, an assistant guide is also included for added support.
- Reliable and friendly Sherpa porters to help carry your luggage (one porter for every two trekkers), equipped with proper trekking gear. Their wages, meals, accommodation, equipment, and insurance are fully covered.
- All guides and porters are arranged by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking, including their meals, insurance, salaries, lodging, local transport, and necessary equipment.
- Restricted area permit for Tsum Valley and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), allowing full access to the region's remote and protected zones.
- Complimentary use of quality trekking gear such as a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and trekking poles (to be returned after the trek if borrowed).
- All government taxes, local fees, and official administrative charges included—no hidden costs.
- Medical support equipment, including a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen levels and heart rate twice daily. This is crucial for identifying symptoms of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) early.
- Full assistance in coordinating any emergency evacuation or rescue in the case of serious health issues (expenses covered by your travel insurance).
- Sherpa Trekking & Expeditions souvenir t-shirt as a token of appreciation.
- Certificate of trek completion and appreciation from Sherpa Expedition, celebrating your successful journey through the magical Tsum Valley.
- Additional assistant guide provided for groups of 8 or more trekkers, ensuring your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the journey.
Costs Exclude from Your Package
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Hotel accommodation, lunch, and dinner in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
- Nepal entry visa fee, which can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Fees are as follows: $30 USD for a 15-day visa, $50, USD for a 30-day visa, and USD 125 for a 90-day visa
- Any extra nights of accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek.
- All personal beverages during the trek, including: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, Soups, teas, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, Bottled/mineral water and other cold or hot drinks purchased in tea houses
- All desserts and sweet items such as chocolate, cakes, pies, and puddings, which are not included in standard meals.
- Fees for hot showers and battery/electronics charging in tea houses along the trail.
- Travel insurance is not included but is mandatory. Your policy must cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation.
- Tips for guides and porters, which are not included in the package price. Tipping is customary in Nepal and is a meaningful way to show appreciation for their hard work.
- Any additional costs or delays caused by unforeseen events beyond our control, such as: Natural disasters (landslides, heavy snow, floods) Adverse weather conditions, Changes to the itinerary due to health or safety concerns, Illness or injury during the trek and Political unrest, government restrictions, or strikes
- Any other services, activities, or expenses not explicitly mentioned under the “Costs Include” section will be considered as excluded.
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
Best Time to Visit Tsum Valley Trek
The best time to undertake the Tsum Valley Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Avoiding the monsoon season ensures safer trekking conditions with dry trails and minimal risk of landslides.
Difficulty Level of the Tsum Valley Trek
The Tsum Valley Trek is moderately challenging due to its rugged terrain, high altitudes reaching over 3,300 meters, and long trekking days. It requires good physical fitness and stamina, but is manageable for trekkers with some prior hiking experience. Proper acclimatization and walking at a steady pace help prevent altitude sickness.
Permits Required for the Tsum Valley Trek
Tsum Valley is a restricted area, so trekkers need a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in addition to the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits are mandatory and can only be obtained through registered trekking agencies like Sherpa Expedition. The permits help preserve the region’s pristine environment and culture.
Accommodation and Facilities on the Trek
Accommodation along the trek consists mostly of basic teahouses and lodges offering twin-share rooms with shared bathrooms. Facilities may be rustic but clean, with simple meals provided. Hot showers and charging facilities are limited and usually come with an additional charge. Staying hydrated and carrying essential supplies is recommended.
Cultural Highlights of Tsum Valley
The valley is renowned for its well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture and ancient monasteries such as Mu Gompa. Trekkers witness traditional festivals, prayer flags, mani walls, and remote villages where locals maintain their age-old customs. This cultural richness makes the trek not only a physical journey but a spiritual exploration.
Packing Essentials for the Trek
Key items include sturdy trekking boots, warm layers, a down jacket, trekking poles, and a good sleeping bag. Since weather conditions vary greatly, packing moisture-wicking clothes and rain gear is essential. Sherpa Expedition provides trekking gear like sleeping bags and down jackets if you don’t have your own, ensuring your comfort and safety.
Health and Safety Tips for the Tsum Valley Trek
Altitude sickness is a risk due to the elevation. Trekkers should acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and avoid rushing. Carrying a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen levels is beneficial. Travel insurance covering high-altitude rescue is mandatory. Always follow your guide’s advice and report any health symptoms immediately for a safe trekking experience.
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FAQS
What is the duration of the Tsum Valley Trek?
The typical Tsum Valley Trek lasts about 7 to 10 days, depending on the itinerary. A popular option is the 8-day trek, perfect for those with limited time who want to experience the valley’s highlights.
How difficult is the Tsum Valley Trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to rugged trails, altitude reaching over 3,300 meters, and long trekking days. Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
Do I need a special permit for Tsum Valley?
Yes. Because Tsum Valley is a restricted area, trekkers require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits must be arranged through a licensed trekking agency.
Can I trek independently without a guide?
No. Independent trekking is not allowed in the restricted Tsum Valley area. You must trek with a registered guide and agency for safety and to comply with Nepalese government regulations.
What type of accommodation is available on the trek?
Accommodation consists mainly of basic teahouses and lodges with twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Facilities are simple but comfortable enough for rest after a day of trekking.
What is the best time to do the Tsum Valley Trek?
The ideal seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These times offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and pleasant temperatures.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
Altitude sickness can occur because the trek reaches altitudes of over 3,300 meters. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are essential. Always listen to your guide and seek help if symptoms appear.
Are meals included during the trek?
Most trekking packages include all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at teahouses along the route. Food options are generally local and Tibetan-inspired dishes like dal bhat, noodles, and soups.
What should I pack for the Tsum Valley Trek?
Essential gear includes sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a down jacket, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, and rain protection. Sherpa Expedition can provide some gear if needed.
Is travel insurance necessary for the trek?
Yes, travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and medical expenses is mandatory for the Tsum Valley Trek to ensure your safety in case of emergencies.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 5470 Reviews
Emily Zhao
Singapore
May 28, 2025
Professional Trek, Heartfelt Memories – Led by Tshering
I signed up for the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Sherpa Expedition based on a friend’s recommendation, and now I can confidently say it was the best travel decision I’ve ever made. Our guide, Tshering, was truly special. Calm, experienced, and incredibly warm-hearted, he guided us through every step with confidence and care. What I admired most was how he made sure everyone in the group felt supported. Whether it was helping with altitude or simply offering a kind word during steep climbs, he was always there. The trek itself was stunning—every day revealed a new landscape and view. We trekked through rhododendron forests, past rivers and waterfalls, and finally reached the snow-filled amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp. Sherpa Expedition managed all logistics perfectly—from flights to accommodation to delicious meals at the tea houses. Tshering taught us about the culture, pointed out peaks, and even made us laugh during the tough sections. The views from base camp were beyond anything I’ve ever seen—pure magic. I left Nepal with new friendships and a heart full of gratitude. Thank you, Tshering, and thank you, Sherpa Expedition, for an unforgettable experience.
Laura Petrovic
Canada
May 13, 2025
Absolutely Magical Trek with Guide Dendi
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp was one of the most magical experiences of my life. Sherpa Expedition made the entire journey smooth and stress-free, and a huge part of that was thanks to our guide, Dendi. His professionalism, combined with his kindness, made him the perfect companion for this adventure. Dendi was extremely knowledgeable and knew the region inside out—he explained the culture, the peaks, and ensured we were adjusting well to the altitude. Every day was an adventure—crossing rivers, walking through thick forest trails, and climbing toward snow-covered landscapes. Sherpa Expedition’s planning was excellent. The flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara was on time, the porters were friendly and hardworking, and the tea houses we stayed in were comfortable and offered surprisingly good food. Dendi checked our health daily, helped with gear issues, and created a supportive group atmosphere. When we finally reached base camp, the sheer beauty brought tears to my eyes. It felt like standing in the heart of nature. This was not just a trek, but an emotional and beautiful journey. I’m thankful to Dendi and the Sherpa Expedition team. I would absolutely recommend this company for anyone looking to experience the Himalayas.
Marcel Mastenbroek
Netherlands
April 9, 2025
Beautiful adventure
My brother and I had a great trip to the Everest Base Camp. Together with Santa our very well informed gide, who took care of us in a fantastic way and gave us much information during the hike, and Gulzen our porter (who carried each day our two bags of 10kg each plus his own bag....unbelievable). We had a wonderful time in the beautiful Himalayas, it was a lifetime experience!
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