17 days
5100 m
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Trip Overview
Tsum Valley trek is a one of a kind adventure to the world’s remotest village of Himalayas of Nepal in the Manaslu region. It has not been long that the Government of Nepal declares the Tsum Valley a trekking region. Literally, Tsum comes from Tibetan word ‘Tsombo’ which means vivid and its people are known as Tsumba who spoke an exceptional language and belong to the Tibetan origin. Tsum valley preserves its prehistoric Buddhist culture. This Tsum Valley trek takes the visitors to the east of Manaslu in the mysterious valley called Tsum Valley, region which once had an important trade link with Tibet. The trek to Tsum Valley takes you into the majestic surroundings of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal ranges.
Although the valley is still underdeveloped, you can expect to be treated special by the local residents with all the bests they have to offer. Along the journey, you will have to walk 5 to even 10 hours alongside the rivers, monasteries and of course the colorful prayer flags. Each day you will walk between 5–8 hours, with the high point of the trek being 4,000m above the largest of the monasteries in the valley, Mu Gompa. You will be accommodated in lodges and traditional ‘home stays’ on this trek, rather than in tents. About the difficulty level of the trek, there will both come steep and flat lands when you’re in the mountains. While you’ll be walking easy paths some days, you will have to walk rough ones the other days. There are many Gumbas in the Tsum Valley as people of this region follow Buddhism. Some of the noticeable ones are Rachen Gompa, Galdag Gompa, Nunneries Gompa and of course the Mu Gompa at the top. Spring and autumn is the best season for Tsum Valley Trekking.
Trip Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport). Transfer from airport on a private bus to hotel. Free evening, short pre-tour briefing before dinner.
Guided tour around Kathmandu, which includes visits to places listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some historic and religious significance, such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath & Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Hindu temples, Old palaces (in and around Durbar Square Area) and inner-city market squares.
It takes 10 hours of bus ride to reach Soti Khola in Gorkha district from Kathmandu. On our way we will cross Trishuli River and head towards north to Dhading and Salyantar. We will drive in paved road until Dhading but the drive will be tough road up to Arughat though we can enjoy magnificent view of Shringi Himal and Ganesh Himal. We continue our drive little further ahead to Soti Khola where we will stay overnight.
At the crossing of the bridge, we trek through the beautiful Sal forests, then climb onto a ridge above huge rapids on the Budi Gandaki. Then, take a trail that weaves its way up and down intermittently before leading upwards to a Gurung village of Lapubesi (2.5 hrs). An open walk down to Nauli Khola, cross a suspension bridge and make a steep climb to Khanibesi (1.5 hrs) where we take lunch. The rocky trail continues up and down passing a high cascading waterfall in route to Machha Khola, situated right beside the river bank.
The hiking will through narrow trails with minor ascends and descends along the way. Today we will pass Khorlabesi and Tatopani (Hot Spring) moving on from there we cross Budi Gandaki River on a suspension bridge. Doban Khola and Yaru Khola are two other rivers we will need to pass until we climb more stone stairs to Thado Bharyang. After crossing the west bank of Budi Gandaki and trekking along the river, climb towards the Jagat Village. We will call it off for the day in Jagat.
After completing with the ACAP procedure, we climb over a rocky ridge to Salleri, and then descend to Sirdibas. As the trail continues up to Ghatta Khola, the valley widens up. Without stopping, we continue our trek and climb up to Philim- a village inhabited by the Gurungs. Walk past Philim to the north across a forest with the views of the narrowing valley we reach Chisopani. Stay overnight at Chisapani.
After breakfast at Chisapani early in the morning, today is another challenging day of the expedition. We will have a long walk through the pine and rhododendron forests with a beautiful panoramic view of mountains and waterfalls. Lokpa is a small village that lies along the old trial route. Pass Lokpa, descend half an hour towards Lungwa khola and climbing jig jack difficult trail further two hours north through pines and rhododendrons we reach Gumlung. Crossing the Siyar Khola, finally arrive at Chumling, from where we can view Shringi Himal. We will spend a night in Chumling.
Leaving Chumling in the morning, we move ahead hiking towards Chokhangparo. Crossing the suspension bridge on the opposite bank of the river, today we will travel through farming lands in Tibetan village enjoying the stunning view of Ganesh Himal throughout the entire six hours of trek. Walk past Rainjam to Serpu Khola crossing another bridge we arrive at the Gho Village. Another continues 2 hours climb to Tsum takes us to the village of Chokangparo. Chokhangparo is located on a flat land comprising of two villages- Chokhang and Paro. This region is famous for practicing Polyandry. We will stay overnight in a local lodge.
Today is the lengthiest day of the entire trek. We will hike around 600 meters up to the mountain. The first think you will be asked prior to the trek is to drink a lot of water so your body is in hydration throughout today’s trek. We will climb over several ridge of chortens and pass through many villages, mostly influenced by the Tibetan culture. You will get chance to meet Tsumbas, the local residents who speak Tsumba language and little Nepali. Nile is a small settlement located at the banks of Shiar Khola and the last village before Tsum Valley. Walking to the west bank of the valley for next three hours from Nile, we finally reach Mu-Gompa. Mu-Gompa is an ancient and the biggest monastery in the region giving shelter to over 100 monks. Book a room in a local lodge to stay.
Today we make a sightseeing of the whole Mu Gompa Region. Located at the border of the Tibetan landscape, Mu-Gompa is the largest monastery in Manaslu region. There are no other settlements here. Set at the highest point of Tsum Valley, this place was once an important trading place for Tibet and Nepal. You will see yaks being utilized to carry and supply goods to local villages. Dhephu Doma Gompa is another monastery worth visiting in the region which is said to be 600 years old. You can take a half day walk to Nunnery or consider hiking to the base of Pika Himal (4865 m), it’s upon you. After you’re done with exploring, come back to Mu-Gompa for another night stay.
Leaving Mu-Gompa, we trek back through Chhule and Phurbe, on the east bank of the Shiar Khola, to reach Burgi Village. We will visit a cave called Piren Phu (Pigeon’s Cave) which is believed to have been visited by the saint Milarepa for meditation in ancient times. The cave is also popular for its mesmerizing glimpses of Poshyop Glacier, Kipu Himal and Churke Himal. After five hours of walk, we reach the small beautiful village of Burgi where we will stay a night.
Leaving Burgi Village after a hot breakfast, we trek back down watching the greenery of nature to Chhokhangparo. Moving ahead on a flat trail through rice terraces and farm lands, we also pass Gho and cross a suspension bridge over the Sarpu Khola. Chumling comes right after we hike along lower Tsum Valley. Stay overnight in a local lodge in Chumling.
From Chumling, we proceed towards Philim which is another long hike back through the pine and rhododendron forests. In route we pass Dumje, a small village with around eight to nine houses in total. Enjoy the gorgeous Samba Falls. On our way we can see the trail leading to Ganesh Himal Base Camp. Philim is a great place to stay because it gives a beautiful view of landscape while you can observe the rural lifestyle of village people. Spend a night at one of the local lodges in Philim.
Trek starts today from Philim to Khorlabesi via Jagat and Tatopani. Descend down to Sirdibas and we finally reach to Jagat. Further descend takes us to Yaruphant. The arid Tibetan climate now gives way to subtropical green vegetation. Continue trekking to Doban. Finally arrive at Tatopani. There is a hot spring at Tatopani. Continue walking up and down from Tatopani to reach Khorlabesi, our rest place for the day.
After spending a night in Korla Besi, we move on with our trip back and so today we descend down the stream and pass Machha Khola village. Walking along the Budi Gandaki River, crossing Labubesi and lush pine forests, we continue our hike and finally arrive at Soti Khola. We will spend our second last night of the trip at a local lodge in Soti Khola.
Just as the first day of the trek, we will take ten hours bus ride only this time we will be going back with the wonderful memories of our accomplishment. On your way back we will drive alongside the Marshyangdi and Trishuli River with splendid views of green hills, mountains, farming terraces and villages on both sides of the road. We head up to Malekhu where we will make our stop for lunch. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be taken to your respective hotel.
Transfer to airport by chartered vehicle.
Important Information
Include:
- Arrival/Departure
- 1 day tour in Kathmandu
- All Private transport
- KTM-Soti Khola & Soti Khola-KTM private 4wd Jeep
- Guide for all tour/Trek
- Hotel in Kathmandu
- All meals in trekking
- Porters
- Tea house Accommodation, All permits
Exclude:
- Travel Insurance
- Meals at Kathmandu
- Tipping
- Personal equipment
- International flight
Cost:
USD 1500 per person
Single supplementary: USD 300
Trekking season in Nepal: The usual trekking season starts from September to May. During the remainder of the year, Monsoon makes travelling difficult due to wet areas and offers little in the way of mountain views. Some treks that cross high passes are better attempted in months other than December and January because of the heavy snowfall in some parts of the country. The temperature rises considerably under altitudes of 3000 ft. in April and May in some parts of the country, therefore it is wise to plan accordingly.
Teahouses in mountain: Teahouses are in the mountains where you will be staying are simple yet hospitable with good enough food and stunning views. Compare to city area teahouses are very basic but after 5-6 hours walking in the mountain you will relish the comfort. Most of these lodges have 08-to 12 room can sleep 15 to 20 people, with good food and fairly high hygiene levels. The basics of conversation and ecology are now being practiced with some success.
Guide and Porters: All guides who work with Skylark Himalayan have considerable local experience. The guide concern is his group’s welfare, health, safety and he aims to ensure you are relaxed while providing the best possible food and accommodation. And he’ll also strive to earn your friendship and will be keen for you to come to know and love Nepal.
And all the guides who work with Skylark Himalayan have guiding license from Nepal government, basic first aid training from red cross Nepal, wilderness training from SOLO outdoor school (locally known Initiative Outdoor), Child protection training and others.
Most porter come from rural areas and a farmers for 6 to 7 months of the year. These porter work hard and with care and have aims to progress into guides. Typically they live hard and frugal lives and they are used to carrying heavy loads.
Meals-Food on mountain region of Nepal
A large variety of food is found in the mountain region during trek. Even our clients say there is better food in mountain than in hotels of city. The food variations are defendant on the culture and region background but the tea-house have a menu and they do have varieties of food. Some common day meal is follow:
Breakfast
Porridge, eggs any style-usually scrambled, boiled or fried eggs, toast local bread (Gurung bread), chapatti (Indian flat bread), honey or peanut butter, organic fresh tea, coffee and many more.
Lunch
In many regions, the chief will provide a simple common hot meal in lunch. That could be potatoes, noodles, curry, salad, rice and lentil, fresh meat, vegetables and fruits. Sometimes when walking through high passes, there will be a packed lunch which may consist of common packed able lunch like bread with jam and honey, sandwich, boiled eggs, fruits, chocolates, bottle of juice. While arriving to teahouses there will be tea, coffee.
Dinner
With basic equipment they manage to make excellent cake, apple tarts, pizzas, fried potatoes, chips, spaghetti, pasta. Chefs in tea-houses are well trained in producing a variety of food and almost always ready to serve the food of specific request.
While trekking in Nepal our chefs, and assistant guide are well trained to serve and take order of the food in hygienically way. Vegetarian and vegan meals are easily catered for.
Transportation: Skylark Himalayan using a best transport company for our clients. Before departing on a trip, we using vehicle, we always check insurance of vehicle, good condition of vehicle (seatbelt, seat, wheel, looking glass, all windows etc.), Driver (driver attitude, make sure drunk or not, smartness, driving speed etc.)
Airlines: In Nepal, we have more than 10 Airlines Company but at Skylark Himalayan we only use 3 airlines which we recognize at the most reliable, safest, good companies, 1 airline company (Tara Air) for rural area like short length runway. And another 2 airlines companies (Yeti airlines & Buddha Airlines) for urban area like Pokhara, Kathmandu, Chitwan etc.
Insurance: As strongly recommended by Skylark Himalayan Travel to the clients agree to effect what they consider to be adequate Travel Insurance to cover their person and their personal effects for duration of the tours, Trekking, Rafting or any of activities in Nepal
Health and Safety: Fundamentally we have experienced staffs that have been trained in how to look after clients safely, and what to do in the event of an emergency. Almost all the company’s staffs are experienced, all leaders have done advanced first-aid training from Initiative Outdoor school, Nepal (authorized by SOLO WILDERNESS MEDICINE SCHOOL), Child Protection training, and they are well aware of the high standards that we want in maintain. We also have strong relationships with local communities, health care facilities
Responsible Travel: Skylark Himalayan completely follow tall rules, regulation and code of Nepal responsible trek organizer of responsible tourism. Responsible tourism is an action based on a sustainable idea. We work under eco-friendly environment and we want you to follow and help to save the environment. Skylark Himalayan are keen to preserve and protect the historical places and mountain to show the value of those things to coming generation.
Skylark Himalayan Travel are always aware to operate tours, trekking and other activities in eco- touristic destination to preserve natural and cultural heritages. Skylark Himalayan always aim to make extensive use of the local available products to help local communities. Skylark Himalayan staffs and guides are also employed from local communities, which helps more authentic experience for travellers. We believe that all the staffs including guide, porter, Sherpa are the back bone of organization so its our responsibility to make them happy by providing protections insurance, good salary and outdoor gear. So that, they are happy to serve good service. Without them organization can't serve the costumer need.
Customizing a Trip: The itineraries of all the trips on our website have been organized and put together by us however it does not mean you have to follow the program. If you have your own itinerary or you want to add or decrease number of days or place, we are more than happy to design your own unique itinerary with your entire favorite elements. Choice is yours with the flexibility of our tailor made itineraries.
For the more advice, please contact us via e-mail or telephonically – contact details below.
Skylark Himalayan Travel & Treks
Lakeside-6-Pokhara, Nepal
Contact no: 061-464946
Mobile: +977-9856010460 / 9801050460
Whatapps: +9779801050460
Skype: tara.gautam2
E-mail: sales@skylarkhimalayantravel.com
skylarkhimalayan@gmail.com
Visa Information: Nepal Government makes things easy for foreign travellers. The easiest way to get a tourist visa in Nepal is by applying on arrival in Kathmandu at international airport (TIA) or at any of the land border crossing open to foreigners (each has immigration offices). But you can also apply in advance at one of Nepal's foreign consulates from abroad.
There are three options for the length of a tourist visa (for south Asian country, the first 30 days is free. The cost of visa is depending upon the days you stay. The multiple-entry visa valid for 15, 30 and 90 days costs $25, 40 and 100 USD. It is good idea to keep a number of passport photos with your passport. Indian passport holder doesn’t need a visa to enter Nepal.
Visa Extensions
You can extend your visa from immigration office in only Kathmandu and Pokhara up to 150 days per calendar year. It will cost $30 USD for 15 days and $2 USD per day after 15 days. Visa extension required your passport, the fees, one passport sized photo and an application form to complete the process.
And for more information about visa please click below link: https://www.welcomenepal.com/plan-your-trip/visa-nepal-information.html
Feedback Please: If you have any complains to report, comments or any question about the trip (food, tea-house, guide, porter, management of office or anything) you took with Skylark Himalayan, please send us your feedback because we would like to solve problems that arise uplift our company. If you don't have a specific question, we’re always eager to hear what visitors think of this company.
High Altitude Sickness:
1) What is altitude sickness?
- Altitude sickness is a negative health effect of high altitude on ones health, caused by acute exposure to low amounts of oxygen at high altitude.
- The exact cause of AMS is not exactly known. It is thought to be a response of the brain to the lower oxygen levels in the blood at higher altitudes. This produces some swelling of the brain.
2) Acute mountain sickness (AMS)
- AMS is also called altitude sickness.
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is the effect on the body of being in a high altitude environment. Especially while people are trekking around the Himalayas they face problem related to moving in high altitude areas. AMS is common at high altitudes, that is above 8,000 feet (2,440 meters). Three-quarters of people have mild symptoms of AMS over 10,000 feet (3,048 meters). The occurrence of AMS depends on the altitude, the rate of ascent, and individual susceptibility and activeness.
3) Acute mountain sickness common symptoms?
Symptoms usually start 12-24 hours after arrival at altitude and include
- Headache (not relieved by medication)
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Decreased coordination (Normal activity is difficult.)
- Shortness of breath,
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Disturbed sleep
- General feeling of malaise.
- Inability to walk
- Decreasing mental status
- Fluid build-up in the lungs
- Vomiting
- Loss of energy
- Difficulty in urination
#These symptoms tend to be worse at night when respiratory drive is decreased.
4) Prevention of AMS?
- Take special care if you have previously had acute mountain sickness (AMS).
- If symptoms of AMS develop, delay further ascent.
- If symptoms become worse, move down (descend) as soon as possible.
5) Treatment of AMS?
- The most important treatment if you start to develop symptoms of mild AMS is to stop your ascent and to rest at the same altitude
- For most people, symptoms will improve within 24-48 hours with no specific treatment.
- Simple painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol will help the headache.
- Anti-sickness medication may also be used. (Acetazolamide)
- Treatment with oxygen and the medicine nifedipine may also help symptoms but does not replace the need for descent.
Note- all the trekking leaders and guide from skylark Himalayan are well trained about altitude sickness, AMS and other related sickness in mountain. You should mention, if you previously have any health problem.
TREKKING SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT
(Up to 5,500 m.)
- 1 Pair strong mountain / hiking boots (well worn-in and with ankle support)
- 1 Small daypack
- 1 Sleeping bag (comfortable to -10C)
- 1 Down jacket / all weather Anorak
- 1 Light water & windproof jacket
- 2 - 1-litre water bottles
- 1 Inner sleeping sheet (?)
- 1 Torch / flashlight & spare batteries
- 1 Medium sized travel towel (quick drying)
- 1 Washing kit: include Personal toiletries
- Talcum powder, Blister plasters, Toilet paper
- Bio degradable soap / shampoo
- Anti-bacterial gel for 'washing' hands
- First-Aid kit (please make sure it is trek and wilderness specific) and any personal medication
- 1 Pair sport shoes/sandals (for the time off the trek)
- 2 Pairs lightweight trousers
- 2 Pair shorts
- 1 Fleece / warm sweater
- 1 Sweatshirt / light sweater
- 2 T-Shirts
- 2 Long sleeve cotton (or polypropylene) shirts
- 3 Pairs heavy wool socks
- 2 Pairs light socks
- Walking poles
- Underwear (including thermals)
- Cotton Headscarf / bandanna
- Sunglasses (with side shields and UV protective lenses) and sunhat
- Sunscreen Lotion (30-50 SPF), Money belt (?)
- Warm hat and gloves (preferably waterproof)
- 3 to 4 Plastic bags (for wrapping clothes)
- Water purification tablets/ solutions (preferably iodine)
- Insect repellant
- Adapter plug (for charging camera batteries and other electronic devices)
Trip Gallery
