Tsum Valley Trek - 16 Days

Arrival & Welcome

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, a representative will greet you at the airport and guide you throughout the journey. From transfers to your accommodations and trek preparation, we’ll ensure a seamless and stress-free start to your Himalayan adventure.

Which mountains can you see in the Tsum Valley?

During the Tsum Valley trek, you get plenty of mountain views. Here are some of them:

• Ganesh Himal
• Shringi Himal
• Boudha Himal
• Himalchuli
• Kiyong Peak
• Sar Peak

How are the roads/routes on the Tsum Valley Trek?

For the most part, the Tsum Valley trek goes through a rugged trekking trail with some decent motorable roads at the lower altitudes. On the first and last day of the trek, you’ll be travelling via a private vehicle.

The itinerary is made in such a way that you’ll pass through quiet paths filled with natural beauty, far from the crowded roads. After surpassing Philim, the trek moves from the Manaslu circuit towards the very sacred and less discovered Tsum Valley.

No doubt, this region is very special, giving you unforgettable memories and experiences. Additionally, you’ll get to know more about Tibetan culture and the lifestyle of locals, too.

Accommodation on the Tsum Valley Trek

Throughout the Tsum Valley trek, you’ll stay in comfortable teahouses. For this 16-day trek, you’ll stay 15 nights at the best teahouses/lodges in the trekking regions.

The rooms are well-equipped with comfortable mattresses, pillows, and blankets. In the lower-altitude villages, you’ll enjoy twin-sharing rooms with shared bathrooms.

You can find western-style toilets at the lower elevations, but as you climb, the facilities will be more basic. In the upper regions, bathrooms are basically outside the teahouse. And instead of western-style toilets, there will be asian-style squat toilets.

You’ll also have the facility of hot showers in some areas. However, it might charge you around USD $ 2 to 5 per shower.

Regardless, the warmth and hospitality of the local people will make up for the simplicity of the facilities.

Food/Meals & Drinks

Tsum Valley and the people, Tsumbas, are strongly influenced by Tibetan culture. So, meals on this trek consist of hearty Nepalese and Tibetan dishes and some foreign cuisine. However, the teahouses have a variety of food included in their menu.

You can find traditional Nepali Dal Bhaat, regional food such as Gyuma, Tsampa, Yurla, Balep, Tibetan bread, Butter tea, etc, and some foreign cuisine like Pasta and Spaghetti.

The food is healthy, wholesome, and ideal for trekking at such high altitudes. There are plenty of options too for vegetarians. Hot drinks such as ginger tea, milk tea, etc, are also available to keep you warm and pumped up for the journey.

Our Tsum Valley trek package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a cup of tea or coffee per person. 

While on the trail, we strictly recommend you not consume any alcohol while you are on the trek, as it can leave you dehydrated, ruining your overall trekking experience.

Drinking Water on the Tsum Valley trek

During the Tsum valley trek, you’ve to drink plenty of water. Hydration is key when you’re trekking at such a high altitude. Thereby, staying hydrated is essential.

You’ve to carry a reusable water bottle with purification tablets. We suggest you drink a total of 3 to 4 liters of water a day. You can buy water purification pills from the shops in Thamel.

We don’t recommend you to drink tap water or water from streams in Nepal. Although they may look clean and clear from the outside but you can’t be sure. This is why it is best to bring purifying tablets.

Best Time to do Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal

Like every trekking destination in Nepal, the ideal seasons for the Tsum Valley trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these months, you’ll enjoy clear skies, mild temperatures, and clear panoramic mountain views.

March to May (Spring)

One of the best times to trek to the Tsum Valley is the Spring season. The weather at this time is clear, allowing you to catch the stunning views of the Himalayas. The temperatures are also quite decent, not too hot, not too cold, and the views are majestic.

Because of the ideal weather conditions and the best trekking experience, many of the trekkers prefer to choose this time for the Tsum Valley trek. Not to forget, this is also the season when you’ll see rhododendron flowers blooming, adding to the beauty even more.

September to November (Autumn)

Alongside spring, autumn is also an ideal season for the Tsum Valley trek. The weather remains favourable with mild cold, making it a perfect trekking climate. The temperature can reach up to 20 degrees in the daytime. However, at night it can drop up to 5 degrees.

Arrive in the November season for the trek, and you will be greeted with gorgeous views of the peaks, and the trail conditions are good as well. The weather remains warm, clear, allowing you to make the most out of the trek.

Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty and Preparation

The difficulty level of Tsum Valley is considered moderately challenging. It is one of the remote trekking areas in Nepal. Tsum Valley Trek does require a good level of fitness and strong mental preparedness.

This trek involves walking around glacial valleys, steep routes, and high passes, which are common on this trail. Therefore, regular cardio and hiking practice will help you build the stamina you need for the trek.

The best is to perform daily hikes of 5–7 hours over different types of terrain, including steep ascents, rocky paths, and narrow trails. You can practice hiking with a backpack beforehand, which helps you get accustomed to carrying some weight while on the route. 

Alongside physical preparation, you must invest in building mental resilience too, with the mindfulness meditation sessions and breathing exercises. Mental strength is equally important in these types of treks.

Altitude & Acclimatization

Though the highest point is about 3,700 meters at Mu Gompa, it’s still important to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can affect anyone with or without proper fitness.

Therefore, acclimatization is very crucial while trekking anywhere above 2500 meters. With Access Nepal, this trek ascends gradually, allowing your body to adjust accordingly. You should stay hydrated and take enough rest to minimize the risks.

Our main priority or goal is to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trek. We have experienced guides who know the trail conditions and the specific region very well.

You don’t have to worry, as they can identify the early signs of altitude sickness and can adjust the pack accordingly. Access Nepal Tour and Trekking, make sure you are properly acclimatized, and schedule rest days so that your body can adjust to the altitude.

The gradual elevation gain makes the acclimatization process even better, significantly reducing the chances of altitude sickness.

What You Should Do To Prevent Altitude Sickness

• You must stay hydrated by drinking at least 3 litres of water.
• Eat healthy, nutritious meals in a good amount, including hot soup.
• Keep in check regarding your body’s responses to the altitude.
• Always follow your guide’s instructions.
• Acclimatize properly and take rest days.
• Don’t smoke or drink alcohol during the trekking period.
• Don’t forget to take a first aid kit containing essential medication.

What You Should Not Do

• Climbing up high too quickly isn’t a good approach. Avoid walking too quickly and do not ignore your rhythm of breathing.
• Avoid overcommitting yourself, which might risk altitude sickness or injury.
• You may be tempted to wander away, especially without your guide knowing. Please avoid this.
• Do not skip your meals.

Gear & Essentials for Tsum Valley Trek Nepal

It is very crucial to pack your daily essentials, but keep them light. If you are not sure what you should include in your packing, here is a simple list of gear & essentials for the Tsum Valley trek Nepal.

Upper Body

• Fleece Jackets
• Waterproof jackets
• Thermal layers
• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Raincoat
• Shirts
• Woolen cap
• Scarf
• Sports bra (for women)

Lower Body

• Trekking pants
• Rain pants
• Base layers (Pants)
• Thermal leggings or long underwear

Gears

• Daypack
• Sleeping bag (We offer it)
• Trekking poles

Hands

• Gloves

Legs

• Warm socks
• Hiking shoes/boots
• Casual shoes
• Camp slippers

Other essentials

• Water bottle
• Headlamp/flashlight
• Water purifying tablets
• Anti-nausea medication
• Mosquito and insect repellent
• Local SIM card
• Tsum Valley Trek Map
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm

Toiletries

• Soap
• Shampoo
• Toothbrush
• Towel
• Toothpaste
• Toilet paper
• Hand Sanitizer

Electronics

• Camera
• Book
• Notebook
• Power Banks
• Solar Charges
• Extra Batteries

Access Nepal Tour and Trekking provides a decent-quality sleeping bag and down jacket for free of cost. These are rated up to -20 °C (68°F). Before borrowing them, we check that these gears are properly and are cleaned after each usage.

If you want one of them you can simply let us know in advance after booking the trip with us. Also, don’t forget to return them once the trek is completed.

Important Documents/Materials to Carry

• A passport with validity for at least six months is needed.
• Make sure to carry multiple copies of your passport.
• You should get a tourist visa
• Trek Permits  
• 4-6 passport-sized photos
• Tsum Valley trek itinerary
• Travel Insurance paper
• Vaccination Certificates
• Agency’s registration copy 
• Booking Confirmation
• Copy of flight tickets along with the date of arrival and departure
• Bring some extra cash, too

Permits required for Tsum Valley Short Trek

To explore on Tsum Valley short trek, you would require multiple permits:

1. Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit

The following permit is needed for anyone looking to trek in the Manaslu region. The following permit is checked throughout the trek, starting from the Philim village. 

The cost for the Manaslu Conservation Area Project is:

NRP 1000 or US$10 approx. for SAARC nationalities.
NRP 3000 or US$30 approx. for other nationalities.

2. Restricted Area Permit for Tsum Valley

It is absolutely mandatory to have this permit mostly checked between Jagat and Dharapani in the Manaslu region.

The cost for the restricted area permit is:

• September to November (Autumn Season): US$40 for the first week and then US$7 for each additional day spent in the restricted area.
• December to August (Winter, Spring, and Summer Seasons): US$30 for the first week, then US$7 for each additional day spent in the restricted area.

3. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

TIMS card costs NRP 2000 or US$20 approx. for international trekkers and NRP 1000 or US$10 approx. for trekkers from SAARC.

Note: You would have to get entry permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area if you would cross the Larke La pass.

The permits can only be acquired by a government-registered, licensed trekking agency in Nepal.

So, Access Nepal would obtain all required Tsum Valley trek permits on your behalf. Also, the costs of permits are already included in your package cost. Therefore, no extra payment is required to obtain them. The following information has been compiled for your understanding.

How to obtain Tsum Valley trek permits?

The details below show where to obtain the Tsum Valley Trekking permits:

The Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit can be obtained from Kathmandu. You can easily get it from the Nepal Tourism Board, which is usually open from Saturday to Sunday.

Similarly, the Tsum Valley Restricted Area permit isn’t used by a person; it must be applied for by a valid trekking agency of Nepal. At the same time, the trekking agency will ask for some personal documents that are required to apply.

Required Documents For Tsum Valley Trek Permit

To obtain the Tsum Valley trek permit, you must show the following documents:

• 1 Passport-size photo
• One scanned photograph
• A photocopy of your passport (with at least six months’ validity)
• Travel insurance papers
• Nepal tourist visa

Access Nepal Tour and Trekking will handle all these aspects for you, so you don’t worry.

Communication during the Tsum Valley trek

While on the Tsum Valley trek, the internet service will be available at the majority of the teahouses/lodges. But they will charge you an extra fee to use the service. With its help, you can get in touch with your closed ones.

We consistently remain in contact with all trek teams at least once a day via the trek lead. For that, you’ve to buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu. Both NTC (Nepal Telecom) and Ncell provide better coverage.

Electricity and Charging of Your Devices on the Tsum Valley Trek

An electricity facility is available at all of the teahouses/lodges that you will stay at throughout the Tsum Valley trek trails. Electricity for charging the electronic devices, such as mobile phones, cameras, etc, can be done by paying a few amount. (This might be the case in higher altitude regions)

You’ve to use power sockets in higher altitude regions to charge your electronic devices (with an extra cost).

The best option is to carry a power bank or a solar charger as a backup, which can be really handy.

Passport and visa

Travel Insurance for the Tsum Valley Trek

It is mandatory to get travel insurance for the Tsum Valley trek. While purchasing travel insurance, make sure to get one that covers all the activities planned on your visit. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and medical expenses.

While the Tsum Valley Trek is generally safe, it’s always best to be prepared for the unexpected. Your insurance should also cover potential trip cancellations and loss of belongings. Make sure to verify the policy’s coverage before purchasing the insurance.

In the matter of travel insurance, we suggest you select the insurance company on your own by doing the best possible research. Once you arrive, you must bring a valid proof of your insurance certificate for the trek.

Guide and Porters on the Tsum Valley Trek

We, Access Nepal Tour and Trekking, provide the facility of a guide and porter for you on the Tsum Valley trek. Guide and porters play a crucial role in the safety, comfort, and successful completion of the trek.

We have experienced, licensed guides who are familiar with the Manaslu region; they help you navigate trails and maintain safety throughout the journey.

Similarly, our porters are physically strong in nature and can walk effortlessly in higher altitudes. They can carry heavy weights, including your backpack and gear.

You’ll get 1 licensed, English-language-proficient guide for a maximum of six travelers. We offer 1 porter for a minimum of two trekkers for the Tsum Valley trek.

Porter Weight Limit

Our porters are strong and experienced, but they have a limit too. Our porter can carry up to 20kg. However, we urge you to keep the weight a bit less than that.

Costs and Booking for Tsum Valley Trek

This 16-day Tsum Valley trek package costs US $1830 per person. For a limited time, we are offering a discounted Tsum Valley trek price of US $1630 per person. For more group discounts, visit our booking page. To book the package, you will be required to make an advance payment of 10%.

If you want to explore more of the Manaslu Region, you can go through our extended package, which includes, Tsum Valley Trek with the Manaslu Circuit.

You can also explore our regional packages like Everest Region, Annapurna Region, Langtang Region, for various trekking adventures in Nepal.

A Typical Day in the Tsum Valley Trek

Once you book our Tsum Valley trek package, you will be warmly welcomed by the team of Access Nepal at the airport. And then you will be taken to the hotel in Kathmandu. Mostly, the trek days begin early, the sun flashing its light on the surrounding humongous peaks.

We wake up in a relaxing, comfortable teahouse. The breakfast will be nutritious, healthy, including tea/coffee, eggs, toast, etc. Once the breakfast is done, we will make our backpacks ready to begin the walking session.

We will pass through rocky and steep paths, meeting new people, catching new monuments, prayer wheels, and different flora and fauna. In between, we take small tea breaks and have hearty conversations.

During lunchtime, we will be having delicious food like soup, noodles, etc. After lunch, we will walk for a while to reach the teahouse where we will spend the night. We take off our boots and say goodbye to walking for the day.

While having dinner, we will talk about the day and share happy moments. We sit by the warm fire, talking, listening to music, sharing joy, laughter, and fun.

At night, the twinkling stars just above the glorious mountains give a different kind of euphoria, and we enjoy the view, and we say goodnight to the day by snuggling into our sleeping bags. Because of the tiredness, the sleep will be sound and smooth.

That’s what the day looks like in the Tsum Valley trek, with us.

Carry Extra Cash on the Tsum Valley Trek

For the Tsum Valley Trek, we suggest you carry some extra cash for your personal expenses. Make sure to withdraw the cash in Kathmandu right before the beginning of the trek.

For a 16-day trek, you should carry around NPR 50,000 to 60,000 (USD 350–420) in total.

Steps For Booking Tsum Valley Trek Package

It is quite easy to book the Tsum Valley trek package. You’ll see a package details section on the right side, where lies a Book Now button. All you have to do is click on that button, which will redirect you to the booking procedure.

Understand that in order to make a booking for a package, you have to pay 10% of the total amount of the tour cost in advance. Only after making the payment, your place will be secured. Similarly, for the second installment, you have to pay within 24 hours of your arrival. 

We accept wire transfers and card/online payments. Ready to book the Tsum Valley trek package? Follow this link: Book Tsum Valley trek package

Why Choose the Tsum Valley Trek Booking Package of Access Nepal?

• We have been in the business for nearly two decades, and our experience speaks for itself.
• We are an authentic Nepal-based team with full knowledge of the Manaslu region.
• We have highly experienced, government-licensed, and English language-proficient guides.
• We provide round-the-clock support during the trek.
• Our trek packages are affordable and are much lower than the majority of the tour operators, providing you with the best value for your money.
• We take care of all the needed permits for the Manslu region for you.
• We have a proper emergency plan in place, and will provide you brief awareness about altitude sickness.
• We are connected with the most comfortable teahouses to make your stay relaxing and enjoyable.