Tsum Valley Trek is the short trekking trip of Manaslu Region of Nepal. At an abode of the world’s 8th tallest mountain Mt. Manaslu, the trekking trail offers quintessential walking moments. Moreover, the journey of Tsum Valley help you soak into the mythical and mystical elements of hidden valleys. There are two popular trekking routes in the region. Besides Tsum Valley Trekking route, Manaslu Circuit Trek route is also equally famous. It is not exasperation to say that Manaslu region is the most famous restricted trekking route of Nepal.
The word Tsum is derived from Tibetan word Tsombo that means bright. Yes, Tsum Valley is bright and spiritual due to presence of splendid landscape, green lush forests, and century old monasteries.
Why Tsum Valley Trek is a special restricted trekking trip to do in Nepal?
Jewels are better when it’s hidden. Similar to this quote, Tsum Valley has numerous sensitive elements that must be preserved to gain sustainability in terms of environment. Culture and nature of the region are unique and Nepal’s hidden treasures. The trek is a special restricted trekking trip to do in Nepal because of its diverse attractions. In one single trek, trekkers can experience mountain vistas, monasteries, multi-ethnic culture, diverse vegetation, and varied landscapes.
Highlights
- Century Old Monasteries
- Glacial Rivers and Suspension bridges
- Sub-tropical to alpine vegetation
- Less risk of Altitude Sickness
- Authentic Nepalese Rural Experience
- Terraced Farmlands
- 8th Eons’ Meditation Caves
- Mountain Vistas
What are the requirements to do restricted region’s trekking in Nepal?
Arranging the trekking trip in Nepal is comparatively simple. Easy visa policy of Nepal makes it even easier. However, restricted region’s trekking in Nepal requires additional paper works and formalities. You are not allowed to do solo trekking in these trekking routes. At least two trekkers are necessary to do the trek. A trekking guide is compulsory and must be assigned by Nepal Government registered trekking agency. The trekking agency must obtain special immigration permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit, and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS). In some places, trekkers may have to obtain Rural Municipality Permit.
Comprehensive Itinerary Guide for Tsum Valley Trek
Like regular Manaslu Trek, the journey of Tsum Valley starts from Machhakhola (890 m). A local bus or jeep will take you to this riverside small village. The trail is in the vicinity of Budi Gandaki River for most of the days. The trail has many steep uphill and downhill. There are many landslide prone areas. Therefore, always heed the instructions of trekking guide and maintain uniform pace.
On fifth day, trekkers reach the final destination on this trek. The final destination is either Nile or Mu Gompa. Most of the trekkers prefer to stay overnight in Nile and do a hike to Mu Gompa monastery. It is due to altitude factor. Mu Gompa is at an altitude of 3700 m and Nile is at an altitude of 3361 m. After exploring these villages and monasteries, trekkers will retrace back to Machhakhola via Chumling and Philim.
Can I do Manaslu Circuit Trek after Tsum Valley Trek?
Yes, it is possible to do Manaslu Circuit Trek after Tsum Valley Trek. All the permits are same except that you must get the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. Instead of heading back to Macchakhola via Philim, trekkers have to take route to Deng or Namrung for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Please remember that Manaslu Circuit Trek is a high altitude trekking route. The maximum elevation gained during Manaslu Circuit Trek is 5106 m. This is an altitude of Larke La Pass.
Do I need to do acclimatization rest during the trek?
No, acclimatization rest day is not necessary for Tsum Valley Trek. The maximum altitude on this trekking route is 3700 m. The trip gradually ascends from Machhakhola (890 m). Overnight rest days during the trek are between 800 m to 900 m altitude gains. Therefore, you don’t need any kinds of acclimatization rest days. However, it is necessary to buy travel insurance. In fact, for any kinds of trekking trips in Nepal, trekkers require travel insurance that has emergency helicopter rescue, medical expenses, accidents, and miscellaneous.
When is the best time to do the trek?
The months of spring and autumn season are the best times to do the trek. Most favorable time to do this trek is during months like May and October. During this time of the year, the air is clear and there is less risk of any kinds of natural disasters like landslide.
Monasteries of Tsum Valley
The journey of Tsum Valley Trek is spiritual because of presence of countless monasteries in the trekking route. The most famous monasteries of the trail are Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa. It is believed that 8th eons monks meditated in the caves of the Tsum Valley. Guru Rimpoche established the monasteries in the region back in 7th century. The valley has numerous nunneries too. Travelers can stay inside the monasteries’ guest house as well.
Meals and Accommodation
The trekking facilities in Tsum Valley Trekking route are very basic. It is not yet commercial like Everest and Annapurna Trekking regions. However, in Manaslu Circuit Trek route, trekkers can find standard teahouses and lodges. During Tsum Valley Trek, you can get healthy local delicacies and basic room to stay overnight. In low altitude places, you may find some Chinese and Nepalese snack items. Highly recommended meals during the trek are local dishes. It helps trekkers to understand local cuisine as well as help in better acclimatization.
Book the Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal with Himalayan Partner Treks & Expeditions. At an affordable rate, visit the spiritual place up in the Himalayas adorned by beautiful mountain peaks like Ganesh, Sringi, and Boudhha. Most of our trekking crew members belong to Manaslu region of Nepal. In order to get the quality services, best hospitality, and authentic information about the places, it is worthy to get services from us. We have expertly knitted itinerary. Our trips ensure satisfaction and always exceed guests’ expectations.
