Explore the sacred Hidden Valley of Happiness, visit ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan villages, and experience one of Nepal's most authentic and culturally preserved Himalayan trekking regions
The Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most remarkable cultural trekking experiences, leading into a remote Himalayan valley that remained largely isolated from the outside world until recent decades. Often referred to as the “Hidden Valley of Happiness”, Tsum Valley lies close to the Tibetan border and preserves a unique culture, language and way of life deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism.
This extraordinary journey follows the Budhi Gandaki River through traditional mountain villages before entering the sacred Tsum Valley. Here, ancient monasteries, prayer walls, chortens, meditation caves and centuries-old settlements remain largely unchanged. The valley is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, strong spiritual traditions and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Unlike Nepal’s more popular trekking routes, Tsum Valley receives relatively few visitors, allowing trekkers to experience authentic Himalayan culture away from the crowds. Along the trail, stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal and surrounding snow-capped peaks accompany visits to important Buddhist sites including Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa.
The trek offers a fascinating combination of mountain landscapes, cultural immersion and spiritual heritage. Passing through forests of pine and rhododendron, traditional Tibetan villages, dramatic river gorges and remote alpine terrain, trekkers gain a rare insight into one of the Himalaya’s most culturally preserved regions.
Ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure, the Tsum Valley Trek provides an unforgettable journey into one of Nepal’s most sacred and least-explored mountain valleys.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Tsum Valley Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer and passport collection for permit processing.
Day 2: Trek briefing and preparation in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,240m), 17km, approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2,386m), 9km, approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3,031m), 10km, approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 8: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Mu Gompa (3,700m), 11km, approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 9: Trek from Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa (3,240m), 10km, approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 10: Trek from Rachen Gompa to Chumling (2,386m), 12km, approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 11: Trek from Chumling to Jagat (1,410m), 15km, approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 12: Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu, approx. 8-9 hours.
Day 13: Depart Nepal.
The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Passport Collection and Transfer
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After settling in, passports will be collected for the processing of the Manaslu region restricted area permit. The remainder of the day is free to relax and recover from your journey.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Trek Briefing and Preparation (B)
Today is dedicated to final preparations for the trek. Your guide will conduct a detailed briefing covering the route, altitude awareness, safety procedures and equipment checks. There will also be time for any last-minute shopping or gear rental before your adventure begins.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Leaving Kathmandu, the journey follows the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers through terraced hillsides, rural settlements and increasingly remote mountain landscapes. The scenic but adventurous drive provides an excellent introduction to rural Nepal before arriving at the trailhead village of Machha Khola.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,410m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
The trek begins by following the Budhi Gandaki through narrow river gorges, forested hillsides and traditional villages. Crossing numerous suspension bridges and passing the natural hot springs of Tatopani, the trail gradually climbs to Jagat, a charming stone-paved village and gateway to the upper Manaslu region.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,240m) | 17km | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trail climbs steadily through subtropical forests and over a series of suspension bridges before entering increasingly remote terrain. Along the way, enjoy views of Shringi Himal and the Ganesh Himal range. Lokpa is the first village of the Tsum Valley region and offers a true sense of entering a hidden Himalayan world.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 6: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2,386m) | 9km | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today marks your first full immersion into the Tsum Valley. The route traverses dense forests of pine and rhododendron, with sections of narrow trail and occasional exposed viewpoints overlooking deep valleys. Chumling is a traditional Tibetan-style settlement known for its stone houses, ancient monastery and beautiful mountain surroundings.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 7: Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3,031m) | 10km | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
The trail gradually ascends through forests and open landscapes while offering spectacular views of Ganesh Himal and the Shiar River Gorge. The valley widens considerably as you enter the cultural heart of Tsum. Chhokang Paro is one of the largest villages in the region and is rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage, with prayer wheels, mani walls and monasteries throughout the settlement.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Mu Gompa (3,700m) | 11km | Approx. 6-7 Hours. (B L D)
As you climb higher into the upper valley, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and open. Dry mountain terrain, panoramic views towards Tibet and an overwhelming sense of tranquillity characterise today’s journey. Mu Gompa, the highest point of the trek, is the largest and most significant monastery in Tsum Valley. The monastery contains ancient murals, Buddhist relics and meditation caves used by monks for centuries.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 9: Trek from Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa (3,240m) | 10km | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route follows a high valley plateau before descending gradually through dramatic landscapes. Fresh perspectives of the surrounding mountains accompany the walk to Rachen Gompa, one of the most important nunneries in the region. Visitors can learn about daily monastic life and admire the monastery’s beautiful architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 10: Trek from Rachen Gompa to Chumling (2,386m) | 12km | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Descending through traditional villages and forested trails, today offers an opportunity to revisit many of the landscapes encountered on the ascent. Upon reaching Chumling, there is time to explore the village further, visit the monastery or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 11: Trek from Chumling to Jagat (1,410m) | 15km | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
The descent continues through lush forests, waterfalls and scenic river valleys. As altitude decreases, the cultural influence gradually shifts from Tibetan traditions back towards the Gurung communities of the lower Budhi Gandaki Valley. Reaching Jagat marks your return to the main Manaslu trekking route.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 12: Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu | Approx. 8-9 Hours (B L)
After breakfast, begin the scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Following the Budhi Gandaki and Trishuli rivers, the journey passes through beautiful countryside, traditional villages and terraced farmland. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest after your trek.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 13: Depart Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, trail conditions, permit requirements or operational considerations.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Tsum Valley Trek Map
Additional Information
Permit Information: To obtain the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, your original passport is required at least two working days before departure.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 nights pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
| FOOTWEAR | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Tsum Valley Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
24 Days
Manaslu Region
Moderate/Strenuous
