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The Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most culturally enriching and scenic trekking in the Himalayas. The Tsum valley is locate in the northern part of the Gorkha district, this remote Himalayan valley was only opened to trekkers in 2008, preserving its authenticity and spiritual heritage. Known as the “Hidden Valley of Happiness,” Tsum Valley offers a unique blend of Buddhist culture, unspoiled nature, and peaceful highland trails.
Tsum Valley is in ideal place for trekkers seeking a less-commercialized, off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Tsum Valley Trek traverses through ancient monasteries, traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, and serene landscapes. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through rhododendron forests, narrow gorges, and terraced hillsides before reaching the spiritual heart of the valley.
Along the route, you’ll visit culturally rich villages like Chhokang Paro, Rachen Gompa, and Mu Gompa, where Tibetan Buddhist practices remain deeply rooted. These communities offer trekkers a chance to experience a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
The Tsum Valley trek begins from Machha Khola after a scenic drive from Kathmandu and gradually ascends through diverse eco-zones and Gurung and Tamang settlements. The trail becomes increasingly remote, offering expansive views of Ganesh Himal, Baudha Himal, and Sringi Himal as you ascend further into the Tsum Valley.
The Tsum Valley trek is deeply connected to Buddhist spirituality. You’ll pass mani walls, chortens, prayer flags, and secluded gompas that reflect the valley’s sacred significance. Tsum Valley is believed to be one of the sacred hidden valleys blessed by Guru Rinpoche and remains a key pilgrimage destination.
With fewer trekkers on the trail, the Tsum Valley Trek promises a more personal and immersive experience. Whether you're drawn by the cultural richness, the pristine mountain environment, or the spiritual tranquility, this trek offers a profound Himalayan adventures unlike any other in Nepal.
Drive Duration: 7–8 hours
Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Enjoy views of rivers, terraced hillsides, and rural villages as you follow the Budi Gandaki River.
Overnight: Teahouse in Machha Khola
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Follow the Budi Gandaki River through lush forests and small settlements. Cross several suspension bridges and pass through Khorlabesi and the natural hot springs at Tatopani before reaching Jagat.
Overnight: Teahouse in Jagat
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Continue your trek through the Budi Gandaki Valley, passing through bamboo forests and crossing suspension bridges to reach Lokpa, a picturesque village.
Overnight: Teahouse in Lokpa
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Descend to the Budi Gandaki River and cross to the opposite bank. Continue through forests and cross several streams to reach Chumling, a village known for its traditional stone houses.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chumling
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Ascend through forests and terraced fields to reach Chhokangparo, a village offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chhokangparo
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Continue your ascent through the Tsum Valley, passing through villages and crossing streams to reach Nile, the last village in the valley.
Overnight: Teahouse in Nile
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Rest and acclimatize to the altitude. Optionally, take a day hike to Mu Gompa (3,700m / 12,139ft), a remote Tibetan Buddhist monastery offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Overnight: Teahouse in Nile
Trek Duration: 5 hours
Start the day by hiking from Nile through peaceful trails lined with pine trees, mani walls, and traditional stone houses. Reach Chhokangparo, a scenic village on a ridge with clear views of Ganesh Himal.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chhokangparo
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Cross the river and climb steep trails through thick forest. The trail leads to Gumba Lungdang, a quiet monastery surrounded by the high mountains of the Ganesh Himal range.
Overnight: Teahouse in Gumba Lungdang
Hiking Duration: 8–9 hours
Take a day hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp. The trail is steep and rocky but offers amazing mountain views and peaceful surroundings. After reaching the base camp, return to Gumba Lungdang for the night.
Overnight: Teahouse in Gumba Lungdang
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Hike back down through Ripchet village, passing forest paths and suspension bridges. Reach Lokpa, the entry point of Tsum Valley, where you’ll rejoin the Manaslu trail.
Overnight: Teahouse in Lokpa
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Follow the trail downhill through dense forest, waterfalls, and narrow gorges along the Budhi Gandaki River. Reach the stone-built village of Jagat for the night.
Overnight: Teahouse in Jagat
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Walk through small settlements and rice terraces. Cross several suspension bridges before reaching Machha Khola, where the trek ends.
Overnight: Teahouse in Machha Khola
Drive Duration: 7–8 hours
Take a jeep from Machha Khola and drive back to Kathmandu. The road passes through hills, rivers, and traditional villages.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
October 10, 2025
““Jam, jam, honey, honey, peanut butter” We have had the absolute pleasure to trek with “above and beyond” on 2 occasions (3 passes trek 2019 and manaslu circuit 2025). I would recommend Sam and his company to anyone as the ONLY way to trek in Nepal. For the 3 passes we trekked with the absolute gentleman Gopal and we had an incredible experience doing the very challenging passes. Gopal was always kind, encouraging and knowledgeable with his information. For Manaslu we trekked with the legend that is Sam himself - not only was the trek beautiful, we had epic company in Sam! He was fantastic at telling us about the local area, ensuring we had great places to stay, pacing us on the walk, providing great encouragement and brilliant entertainment. He even helped us learn some more Nepali and compose some trekking songs, most notably “jam, jam, honey, honey, peanut butter!!””
November 2, 2025
“Having sampled trekking in Nepal last year on a section of the Everest trail one view of our son and daughter-in-law’s pictures of their Manaslu trek was enough to make us want to give it a go. Sam at Above and Beyond had been their guide and so on their strong recommendation we contacted him to help us on this trip. From the very start it was clear our kids had given us very good advice. Keeping in touch with Sam during the booking process was easy and he took care of all the necessary permits and advised on equipment for the trek so that all we had to do was turn up in Kathmandu at the right time. From there he had all transport, accommodation and portering sorted. The trek itself is amazing, walking along side thundering rivers through a changing landscape as you climb from 900 metres to over 5000 metres during the course of this adventure. It is a true experience on so many levels. The scenery is breathtaking; you gain an insight into Nepali life; you face a testing physical challenge. Throughout this Sam is there as much as a friend as a guide, helping us to get the most out of our journey. So if you would like to do something that is truly special email Sam and ask him to take around the Manaslu circuit.”