The Tsum Valley Trek is like a well-kept secret, tucked away in the northern reaches of Nepal, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and a sense of exploration that’s hard to find anywhere else. Let’s unravel the mystery of this hidden gem.
Highlights:
1. Remote and Isolated:
- Tsum Valley remained isolated for centuries, and it opened to trekkers only recently. This remoteness has preserved its pristine beauty and unique culture.
2. Breathtaking Scenery:
- The trek takes you through lush green valleys, dense forests, and high alpine landscapes. You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Buddha Himal mountain ranges.
3. Rich Tibetan Culture:
- The people of Tsum Valley are of Tibetan origin and have their own distinct dialect, art, and culture. Explore ancient monasteries, chortens, and mani walls along the way.
4. Natural Hot Springs:
- After a long day of trekking, you can soak your weary muscles in natural hot springs, a well-deserved luxury in this remote region.
5. Remote Monasteries:
- Visit ancient monasteries like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa, where you can witness traditional Buddhist rituals and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.
Trek Itinerary (Typical 18-Day Trek):
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat (600m)
- The journey begins with a scenic drive to Arughat, the gateway to the Tsum Valley.
Day 2: Arughat to Lapubesi (880m)
- Start your trek by following the path along the Budhi Gandaki River to Lapubesi.
Day 3: Lapubesi to Tatopani (990m)
- Reach Tatopani, known for its soothing hot springs. It’s an ideal spot to relax and rejuvenate.
Day 4: Tatopani to Philim (1,590m)
- Trek through the lower Tsum Valley and arrive at Philim, a charming village.
Day 5: Philim to Chumling (2,360m)
- You’ll officially enter the Tsum Valley as you cross a suspension bridge into Chumling.
Day 6: Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3,010m)
- Hike to Chhokang Paro, where you’ll notice the distinctly Tibetan-influenced culture.
Day 7: Chhokang Paro to Nile/Chhule (3,361m)
- Continue your trek to Nile and visit the revered Milarepa Piren Phu Cave on the way.
Day 8: Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700m)
- Reach Mu Gompa, the largest monastery in the Tsum Valley, and explore this spiritual center.
Day 9: Mu Gompa to Chhokang Paro (3,010m)
- Return to Chhokang Paro, retracing your steps.
Day 10: Chhokang Paro to Chumling (2,360m)
- Descend to Chumling, revisiting the lower Tsum Valley.
Day 11: Chumling to Lokpa (2,240m)
- Trek through forests and charming villages to Lokpa.
Day 12: Lokpa to Ghap (2,160m)
- Continue your journey through a dense forest, and reach Ghap.
Day 13: Ghap to Lho (3,180m)
- Trek through a beautiful forested trail and arrive in Lho, a picturesque village with stunning mountain views.
Day 14: Lho to Sama Gaon (3,530m)
- Hike to Sama Gaon, your gateway to Manaslu Base Camp.
Day 15: Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon
- Take a day to acclimatize and explore Sama Gaon, with opportunities to visit the Pungyen Gompa and Birendra Lake.
Day 16: Sama Gaon to Samdo (3,690m)
- Continue your trek to Samdo, a village with stunning views of the Manaslu range.
Day 17: Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m)
- Reach Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi, which is your base for the Larkya La Pass crossing.
Day 18: Dharamsala to Bimthang (3,720m) via Larkya La Pass (5,160m)
- Prepare for an epic day as you cross the Larkya La Pass, offering breathtaking views, and descend to Bimthang.
Day 19: Bimthang to Dharapani (1,860m)
- Continue your descent, reaching Dharapani.
Day 20: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar, and then to Kathmandu
The Tsum Valley Trek is a journey into an untouched paradise, where you’ll experience nature, culture, and spirituality in its purest form. It’s an off-the-beaten-path adventure that rewards trekkers with incredible memories and a deep appreciation for the hidden treasures of Nepal.
