19-Days Trip Cost Details

• The trip cost always depends on group size, hotel accommodation category and client’s desire budget
• The included itinerary is a guideline and standard pattern which AlpineTrav you. This trip itinerary can be modified according to your time and requirements
• The itinerary shall be changed after an understanding between both AlpineTrav and the client. Additional activities could be either added or reduced as per client’s request before the trip confirmation
• Price shall be adjusted in our mutual understanding, if the client intends to add some services we shall charge him/ her for those additional services and if he/she intends to lessen some services, we shall wave the charges accordingly
• The Tsum Valley Trek itinerary has been published in 3-star hotel and tea house/lodge services for better understanding of the customers.

Please contact us on WhatsApp: +9779860751012 for any information about in your selected package.

Useful Info

Please take care to note: Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, the health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek guide will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.

Food and accommodation facilities on the Tusum Valley route

The Tsum Valley Trek, a hidden gem in Nepal, offers basic but comfortable food and accommodation options, primarily in teahouses and homestays.

Along the trail, trekkers can find small family-run lodges that provide simple, hearty meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice with lentils and vegetables), thukpa (noodle soup), and tsampa (roasted barley flour). Western dishes such as pasta, pancakes, and fried rice are also available, though choices become more limited as you ascend into higher and more remote areas.

Meals are prepared with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness, but trekkers should be prepared for a repetitive menu in the more isolated villages.

Accommodation in the Tsum Valley is rustic yet cozy, with most teahouses offering shared rooms with twin beds and basic bedding. While electricity is available in lower regions, higher-altitude lodges may rely on solar power or candles, and heating is usually limited to a communal dining area with a wood stove.

Toilets are mostly shared and may be either Western-style or squat, with hot showers becoming a rarity as you go higher. Despite the simplicity, the warm hospitality of the local Tibetan and Nepali hosts makes the stay memorable, with many teahouses providing blankets and hot water bottles to combat the cold nights.

Due to the valley’s remoteness, it’s advisable to carry some snacks, energy bars, and a reusable water bottle (with purification tablets) for convenience. While major villages like Chhekampar and Nile have better facilities, smaller settlements offer only the most basic amenities.

Booking ahead isn’t usually necessary, except during peak seasons (spring and autumn), but trekkers should be flexible and prepared for occasional shortages. Overall, the Tsum Valley Trek balances adventure with cultural immersion, offering an authentic Himalayan experience with modest yet sufficient food and lodging.

Where are the starting and ending points of the Tussum Valley Trek?

The trekking routes of Tsum Valley can have variations, and descriptions can differ slightly. However, here’s a general overview of the Tsum Valley Trek’s starting and ending points: The Tsum Valley Trek typically begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Arughat or sometimes directly to Machha Khola. Arughat is often considered the initial access point to the region.

From Arughat, the trek gradually progresses towards Machha Khola, which then becomes the starting point of the trek on foot. So, in many cases, the trek begins in Machha Khola. The trek usually concludes by retracing the route back down the valley, with Machha Khola being a common ending point. From Machha Khola, travelers typically journey back to Kathmandu, so the ending point of the foot trekking portion is often Machha Khola. It’s important to note that the itinerary can vary depending on the trekking company and the specific route chosen.

What is the weather and temperature like in Tusum Valley?

The Tsum Valley, located in the isolated northern part of Nepal, has a variety of weather patterns owing to different altitudes and the Himalayan setting. Knowing these weather conditions is useful for anyone considering trekking in this beautiful place. Weather can vary greatly throughout the year and even within distinct seasons, which makes the valley unique.

• January (Weather Conditions): Very cold, heavy snowfall possible, trails icy. Temperature Daytime: -2°C to 6°C; Nighttime: -15°C to -20°C
• February (Weather Conditions): Cold, some snowfall, clearer skies than January. Daytime: 0°C to 8°C; Nighttime: -10°C to -18°C
• March (Weather Conditions): Spring begins, warming, clear skies. Daytime: 4°C to 12°C; Nighttime: -6°C to -12°C
• April (Weather Conditions): Peak spring, ideal trekking weather, dry. Daytime: 6°C to 16°C; Nighttime: -2°C to -8°C
• May (Weather Conditions): Warmer, some pre-monsoon showers possible. Daytime: 10°C to 20°C; Nighttime: 0°C to -5°C
• June (Weather Conditions): Monsoons begin with wet, humid, and heavy rainfall. Daytime: 12°C to 22°C; Nighttime: 2°C to 8°C
• July (Weather Conditions): Monsoon, heavy rainfall, slippery trails. Daytime: 14°C to 24°C; Nighttime: 4°C to 10°C
• August (Weather Conditions): Monsoon, continued rainfall, cloudy. Daytime: 14°C to 23°C; Nighttime: 4°C to 9°C
• September (Weather Conditions): Post-monsoon, clearing skies, good visibility. Daytime: 12°C to 18°C; Nighttime: 0°C to 6°C
• October (Weather Conditions): Autumn, excellent trekking conditions, clear. Daytime: 10°C to 16°C; Nighttime: -2°C to -6°C
• November (Weather Conditions): Cooling, clear skies, colder nights. Daytime: 6°C to 12°C; Nighttime: -5°C to -10°C
• December (Weather Conditions): Cold, potential snowfall, freezing temperatures. Daytime: 0°C to 6°C; Nighttime: -10°C to -18°C

How difficult is the Tusum Valley trek?

The Tsum Valley Trek is moderately complex. Trekkers should expect to hike 6-7 hours daily, with steep climbs and descents. Some parts of the trek have sudden altitude changes, which can cause altitude sickness. You may not need previous trekking experience, but being in good physical shape and mentally ready for unexpected challenges in the Himalayas is crucial, as poor planning can lead to serious injuries.

Before your Tsum Valley Trek, prepare by exercising for at least a month. You can go to the gym, swim, hike, or cycle to build muscles and improve endurance. The highest point you will reach is Mu Gompa, at 3,700 meters. After that, you will face rugged terrain in a remote area. You will cross several chilly hanging bridges that will test your determination.

Altitude Sickness and Remedies during the Tsum Valley Trek

Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when the body cannot adjust to lower oxygen levels at altitude. The Tsum Valley Trek takes trekkers to altitudes above 3,500 meters at high elevations, and symptoms could include headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and shortness of breath due to lower air pressure and oxygen saturation.

If altitude sickness worsens, it can lead to more serious and potentially lethal conditions such as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). The risk of altitude sickness is greater if the trekker ascends more rapidly, gets dehydrated, or exerts themselves too much. Proper acclimatization is essential. The body requires time at altitude to acclimate; more specifically, it takes time to produce more red blood cells to move oxygen to the organs. A hiker can develop pulmonary or cerebral edema if they ascend to high altitude too quickly, where fluid leaks into the lungs or brain, causing pulmonary or cerebral edema.

The Tsum Valley Trek is ideal for improving health; altitude sickness symptoms in Tsum Valley can deteriorate rapidly if not attended to. Trekkers with already damaged hearts or lungs are at increased risk for developing high-altitude sickness and should discuss possible treks with their doctor first. Recognizing early-stage symptoms and acting upon them is very important in order to prevent the progression to severe altitude sickness and greater complications.

Treatment of altitude sickness: For Altitude sickness, fortunately, several remedies—including gradual acclimatization, hydration, medications, and natural treatments—can help prevent and alleviate symptoms, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable high-altitude experience. So let’s get into them.

Gradual Ascent and Acclimatization: One of the most effective ways to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend slowly, allowing the body time to adapt. During the Tsum Valley Trek, follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle—hike to higher elevations during the day but descend slightly to sleep. Schedule rest days at key points, such as in Mu Gompa (3,700m) or Nile (3,361m), to help your body adjust. Rushing the ascent significantly increases the risk of AMS, so a well-paced itinerary is essential for safety.

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration worsens altitude sickness symptoms, so drinking plenty of fluids is crucial. Aim for 3-4 liters of water daily, as dry mountain air and physical exertion increase fluid loss. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they contribute to dehydration. Electrolyte solutions or oral rehydration salts can help maintain balance. Clear or light-colored urine indicates proper hydration, while dark urine suggests drinking more water.

Medication (Diamox/Acetazolamide): Diamox (Acetazolamide) is a commonly prescribed medication that helps prevent and reduce AMS symptoms by speeding up acclimatization. It works by increasing breathing rate, thus improving oxygen intake. Doctors recommend starting Diamox a day before ascending and continuing for the first 48 hours at high altitude. However, it may cause side effects like tingling fingers or frequent urination, so consult a physician before use. Ibuprofen or paracetamol can also help relieve headaches

Eat a High-Calorie, Carbohydrate-Rich Diet: During high exertion or at high altitude, your body will hyperburn energy and deplete its nutrients with high efficiency. It is important to eat well. Focus on higher carbohydrate foods like rice, pasta, and potatoes, which are generally easier to digest as they provide energy quicker than proteins or fats. More frequent, small meals help sustain energy without creating digestive overload. Heavy, fatty foods will slow the body’s metabolism and ultimately help you burn energy more slowly. Garlic soup is a time-honoured Himalayan recommendation. A component of garlic soup has a reputation for aiding in blood circulation and oxygen absorption.

Descend if Symptoms Worsen: If symptoms of altitude sickness become severe (such as confusion, extreme fatigue, or difficulty breathing), the only effective treatment is immediate descent. Delaying can lead to life-threatening conditions like HAPE or HACE. Carry a portable oxygen cylinder or use a Gamow bag (hyperbaric chamber) in emergencies if descent isn’t immediately possible. Never ignore worsening symptoms—prioritize health over reaching the next destination. Proper preparation and awareness can make the Tsum Valley Trek a safe and rewarding experience.

Location and History of Tsum Valley

The Tsum Valley, located in the Gorkha district of western Nepal, is at an elevation ranging from 2,000 to 3,500 meters (6,600 to 11,500 feet). This region is encompassed within the Manaslu Conservation Area, which was established in 1998. The valley comprises 33 villages, housing 529 households with a population of 1,810 individuals.

The lower portion of the valley is characterized by steep terrain and a lower density of settlements. The indigenous inhabitants of the Tsum Valley are known as the Tsumba people, who practice both Bon and Buddhism. To preserve the local traditions associated with Bon and Buddhism, the Government of Nepal has designated the Tsum Valley as a restricted area for foreign visitors.

The Tsum Valley was an important trade route between Nepal and Tibet and was completely cut off from the outside world until the beginning of the early 2000s. The valley exhibits aspects of Tibetan Buddhist culture in the form of ancient monasteries, chortens, and mani walls, which indicate its spiritual importance.

Locally, there are stories of the great Buddhist saint Milarepa meditating in the caves of Tsum. In 2008, the valley opened to trekkers, but it continues to preserve much of its traditional lifestyle. Local people use a cooperative system called Shyakya, which is a community and unique governance structure.

What attracts the Trekkers to explore the Tsum Valley?

The Tsum Valley is a unique combination of unblemished wilderness and untouched culture. Most regions in Nepal share these qualities. However, the Tsum Valley is unlike almost any trekking region due to its remote location and beautiful surroundings.

The trekking experience in the Tsum Valley is site-specific, which is undoubtedly heightened by the astounding beauty of the cascading waterfalls, deep valleys, incredible rivers of drinking water flowing loudly beside you, and the rare opportunity to trek with towering Himalayan peaks in the background, specifically the Ganesh Himal and Manaslu.

While visitors can witness breathtaking scenery, the Tsum Valley is about being immersed in a traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture. Known as Tsumbas, the valley’s population lives differently than most of us. Scattered throughout the valley are ancient monasteries, mani walls, and typical chortens. Additionally, the valley is marked by a prominent adherence to non-violence, and its sacred architecture makes for a tranquil atmosphere.

Moreover, the prospect of observing interesting traditions and friendly local people can make the Tsum Valley a very spiritually and culturally pleasing destination for trekkers. Being an adventure travel destination does not detract from the experience of trekking in the Tsum Valley as a cultural experience.

Permits and Preparation for the Tsum Valley Trek

The Tsum Valley is a remote, beautiful, culturally rich region in Nepal with a strong Tibetan influence. Because of its unique cultural and ecological value, the Nepalese government restricts access to the valley, requiring trekkers to obtain special permits.

To trek in the Tsum Valley, you need two specific permits: the Tsum Valley Permit and the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP). The Manaslu RAP is more costly, priced at USD 100 per week for the first four weeks, and then it increases to USD 15 per day for any trekking beyond that period, depending on the season. The Tsum Valley Permit, on the other hand, is more affordable at just USD 40 per week.

These permits can be acquired in Kathmandu through authorized trekking agencies, or directly from the Department of Immigration or the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).

It’s essential to arrange these permits beforehand, as regulations are strictly enforced to preserve the area’s natural environment and cultural integrity.