TSUM VALLEY TREK 9 DAYS
TSUM VALLEY TREK 9 DAYS
The 9-day journey into Tsum Valley, one of Nepal’s most secluded and culturally preserved regions, offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual heart of the Himalayas. Tailored for trekkers with limited time, this adventure blends breathtaking landscapes with deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist heritage, all seamlessly arranged by Sherpa Expedition for a worry-free experience.
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the hillside village of Jagat, taking approximately 8 to 9 hours by private jeep. The road winds through green terraced fields, cascading rivers, and peaceful hill settlements, setting the tone for the remote and off-the-grid journey ahead. Upon reaching Jagat (1,300m), the true trekking experience begins.
The next day’s trek leads to Lokpa (1,800m), the first village within the restricted Tsum Valley area. As you walk through dense pine forests and past thundering waterfalls, the view of the distant Ganesh Himal range becomes increasingly dramatic. This section of the trail is notably quiet, preserved from the crowds found in more commercial trekking regions.
From Lokpa, the route continues toward Chumling, marking your entry into the Lower Tsum Valley. The landscape opens to reveal Tibetan-style villages, lined with chortens, prayer wheels, and colorful mani walls etched with sacred mantras. The cultural shift is immediate and immersive, providing insight into the centuries-old traditions that still thrive here.
Ascending further, the trail leads to Chekanparo (also known as Chokhangparo), situated at an altitude of 3,010 meters in the Upper Tsum Valley. This village is perched on open slopes with expansive views of Shingri Himal and Ganesh Himal. Surrounded by traditional stone homes and ancient monasteries, it’s one of the most visually striking and spiritually rich stops on the trek.
Deeper into the valley lies Nile, the last settlement before reaching the sacred Mu Gompa. Located at 3,610 meters, Mu Gompa is the oldest and most important monastery in the valley. Set against a backdrop of snow-covered peaks and complete Himalayan silence, it offers a rare opportunity to connect with Buddhist spirituality and observe life in a remote monastic setting.
After time spent exploring this tranquil high-altitude sanctuary, the return journey begins, retracing the path back through Chekanparo, Chumling, and Lokpa. Descending gradually through familiar terrain, the trail offers new perspectives on the majestic scenery and quiet villages passed earlier in the trek.
Eventually, you return to Jagat, where your trekking route concludes. From there, a private vehicle transports you back to Kathmandu, wrapping up a powerful and enriching experience in the hidden valleys of northern Nepal.
Ideal for those seeking a shorter yet meaningful Himalayan trek, this route offers a combination of natural beauty, remote village life, spiritual exploration, and cultural authenticity — all in just nine days. With Sherpa Expedition handling permits, transportation, accommodation, and guiding, travelers can focus fully on the journey itself.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300m) – 10-12 hours.
Begin your journey with a scenic private jeep drive from Kathmandu to Jagat. The drive winds through lush hills, rivers, and quaint mountain villages, offering a glimpse of Nepal’s diverse landscapes before the trek starts.
Day 2 : Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (1,800m) – 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek takes you from Jagat to Lokpa, the gateway to the restricted Tsum Valley. Enjoy walking through forests and terraced fields as you ascend gradually, soaking in panoramic views and fresh mountain air.
Day 3 : Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (Lower Tsum) (2,390m) – 5-6 hours.
The trail leads deeper into the Lower Tsum Valley, where dense pine forests and mani walls adorned with Buddhist prayers welcome you. Arrive at Chumling village, experiencing authentic Tibetan culture and traditional architecture.
Day 4 : Trek from Chumling to Chokhangparo (3,010m) – 4-5 hours.
Ascending to Chokhangparo in the Upper Tsum Valley, you’ll navigate steeper trails rewarded by spectacular views of Ganesh Himal and Shingri Himal. This village is rich in ancient monasteries and cultural heritage.
Day 5 : Trek from Chokhangparo to Nile (Mu Gompa) (3,361m) – 5-6 hours.
Continue to Nile, home to the sacred Mu Gompa monastery, the largest in the valley. Surrounded by snowy peaks, the monastery offers a tranquil spiritual experience and insight into the region’s Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
Day 6 : Trek from Nile to Chumling (2,386m) – 6-7 hours.
Begin your descent back to Chumling, retracing the path through serene valleys and picturesque villages. The gradual descent offers a different perspective of the landscape and culture you’ve come to know.
Day 7 : Trek from Chumling to Lokpa (1,800m) – 5-6 hours.
Continue descending to Lokpa, passing through lush forests and rural settlements. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty of the valley as you approach the lower altitudes.
Day 8 : Trek from Lokpa to Jagat (1,300m) – 5-6 hours
Complete the trek with the final stretch back to Jagat. This easier downhill walk allows you to reflect on your journey and relish the last views of the remote Himalayan wilderness.
Day 9 : Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu – 10-12 hours.
Return to Kathmandu by private jeep, driving through diverse landscapes and villages. This marks the end of your unforgettable 9-day Tsum Valley adventure.
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
Restricted Area Permit Required
To enter Tsum Valley, trekkers must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) due to its proximity to the Tibetan border. It must be arranged through a registered trekking agency (like Sherpa Expedition) and cannot be obtained independently.
Trek Duration is Short, But Demanding
Though it's only 9 days, the trek involves long daily walks and high-altitude sections (above 3,600m). A good fitness level is essential for comfort and safety.
Altitude Acclimatization is Built-In
With gradual elevation gains, especially between Chumling, Chekanparo, and Mu Gompa, the trek allows time for natural acclimatization. Still, be cautious of mild altitude symptoms above 3,000m.
Mu Gompa is the Spiritual Highlight
At 3,610m, Mu Gompa is the oldest monastery in the valley. It offers a peaceful atmosphere, stunning mountain views, and the chance to observe Buddhist monastic life in its purest form.
Homestay Accommodation Adds Cultural Depth
Most overnights are spent in local teahouses or homestays—basic, but rich in warmth and authenticity. You'll experience traditional food, Tibetan architecture, and genuine hospitality.
Best Trekking Season: Spring & Autumn
The ideal times to trek are March–May and September–November, when skies are clear, trails are dry, and mountain views are at their best. Avoid monsoon (June–August) due to leeches and slippery trails.
No ATMs or Mobile Network After Jagat
Once you leave Jagat, there are no ATMs and limited to no mobile connectivity in most parts of Tsum Valley. It's advisable to carry enough cash (Nepali rupees) and inform contacts in advance.
Tibetan Buddhist Culture is Strongly Preserved
Tsum Valley is culturally distinct, with villages practicing ancient Tibetan Buddhism. Expect to see mani walls, chortens, lama schools, and monasteries integrated into daily life.
Eco-Conscious Travel is Vital
As Tsum Valley is still largely unspoiled, trekkers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles: carry reusable water bottles, avoid plastic, and respect local customs and nature.
Guided Treks Only
Independent trekking is not allowed. Due to the area’s restricted status, you must trek with a licensed guide and be part of a registered group (minimum 2 people unless a special arrangement is made).
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FAQS
Do I need a special permit to trek in Tsum Valley?
Yes. Tsum Valley lies in a restricted area, and you’ll need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in addition to a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits must be arranged through a government-registered trekking agency, and solo trekking is not allowed.
How difficult is the Tsum Valley Trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging. While there are no technical climbs, trekkers must be prepared for long walking hours (5–8 hours/day) and altitudes above 3,600 meters. A good fitness level is required, though the itinerary includes gradual elevation gain for natural acclimatization.
What is the best time of year to do the Tsum Valley Trek?
The best trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, you'll enjoy clear skies, stable weather, and incredible mountain views. Winter is cold but possible, while monsoon (June–August) is discouraged due to slippery trails and landslides.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
Accommodation along the route is mostly in basic teahouses or homestays, which offer simple bedding, traditional meals, and warm hospitality. Facilities are modest—some villages may not have hot water or Western-style toilets—but the cultural immersion is genuine.
How high does the trek go? Will I get altitude sickness?
The highest point on the trek is Mu Gompa, at 3,610 meters (11,843 ft). While this altitude is significant, the route allows for a gradual ascent, helping reduce the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS). Staying hydrated, pacing yourself, and listening to your body is important.
Is there electricity or charging facilities on the trek?
Yes, but it's limited. Most villages have solar or small hydropower electricity, but charging your devices may incur a small fee. It’s best to bring a power bank or solar charger for backup.
Will I have mobile signal or internet access during the trek?
Mobile and internet access becomes very limited after Jagat. In most areas of Tsum Valley, there is no reliable signal. Some lodges may offer satellite Wi-Fi at a cost, but it's best to inform family beforehand and be prepared to disconnect during the trek.
What kind of food is available on the trek?
Most meals are vegetarian, with staples such as dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, potatoes, pancakes, soups, and Tibetan bread. Since supplies are carried in, options are basic but hearty and energy-rich. Bringing your own snacks or protein bars is recommended.
Can I do this trek solo?
No. Due to its restricted area status, the Tsum Valley Trek cannot be done solo. Trekkers must be in a group of at least two people (unless you pay a special solo surcharge) and be accompanied by a licensed guide through a registered trekking company.
Is the Tsum Valley Trek family-friendly or suitable for beginners?
This trek is not ideal for beginners or young children due to the remote terrain, altitude, and long trekking days. However, it’s suitable for experienced trekkers or active travelers looking for a less-touristy Himalayan route. If you're new to trekking, proper preparation and physical training are essential.
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