The Tsum Valley Trek, located in northern Gorkha, Nepal, is a journey into an ancient land rich in art, culture, and spiritual heritage. The local people, who trace their origins to Tibet, speak their own unique dialect. As one of the most remote Himalayan valleys, Tsum offers pristine natural beauty and a peaceful trekking experience. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of towering peaks such as Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and Boudha Himal.
Until 2008, the Tsum Valley was restricted to visitors, preserving its untouched charm. The valley is deeply spiritual, with numerous monasteries dotting the landscape—most notably Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa. The region is also abundant in biodiversity, with forests, rivers, and caves that add to its allure.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive to Arughat, followed by a journey to Soti Khola. From there, you trek upstream along the Budhi Gandaki valley, passing through several villages and lush forests filled with rhododendron and pine trees. From Soti Khola, the trail leads to Jagat and then to Lokpa, the gateway to the Tsum Valley.
Continuing north from Lokpa, you reach Chumling, home to three renowned monasteries: Pango Gumba, Gurwa Gumba, and Mani Dhungyr. This village offers breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Himal Chuli (7,893 m), and Ganesh Himal (7,140 m). The next day, you trek from Chumling to Chhokangparo, passing Domje—the largest village in the valley.
As the trail ascends, subtropical forests give way to alpine pastures and high mountain deserts. From Chhokangparo, you continue north, passing the sacred Milarepa Prayer Cave, before reaching Phurbe and then Nile, where you spend the night. The trek’s northernmost point is Mu Gompa, an important spiritual site.
Legend says that the Buddhist Guru Milarepa meditated in the caves scattered across the Tsum Valley mountains. The Shear Khola river, originating from the Ganesh Himal glacier, drains the valley into the Budhi Gandaki River.
On the return journey, you follow a slightly different route from Phurbe to Rachen Gompa. From there, the trail leads south to Domje, then onward to Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,800 m) via Gumba Lungdang. After exploring Ganesh Himal, you head back to Lokpa and then retrace your steps through Jagat, Lapu Bensi, and finally Arughat. From Arughat, you take a local bus back to Kathmandu, concluding this remarkable trek.
Trip Info
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Hotel/ Tea houses/ Camping
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Mar, Apri, May, Sep, Oct & Nov.
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3750m
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Fly/ Car/ Jeep
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5/6 hours
Overview
The Tsum Valley Trek is a hidden gem in Nepal’s Gorkha region, nestled near the towering Manaslu (8,163m). This remote valley offers stunning views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Himalchuli, along with a rich Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Trekkers explore ancient monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags, while uncovering unique traditions—from polyandry (now rare) to Yeti legends. Recently developed with teahouse lodgings, the trek blends adventure with comfort in an untouched Himalayan paradise.
Trip Highlights
- Explore one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich Himalayan valleys.
- Experience authentic Tibetan-influenced culture and language unique to the Tsum Valley locals.
- Visit ancient monasteries including Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, centers of deep spirituality.
- Witness breathtaking views of majestic peaks such as Manaslu (8,163 m), Ganesh Himal, Himal Chuli, and Boudha Himal.
- Trek through diverse landscapes—from lush subtropical forests to alpine meadows and high mountain deserts.
