Tsum Valley Trek Difficulty:
Experience the captivating Tsum Valley Trek, a moderate-level excursion that unveils a tapestry of climates and the essence of Tibetan cultural villages and the Tibetan plateau. With a maximum elevation of 3800m, you will traverse a distance of 15 km daily. This trek is tailor-made for individuals who yearn to immerse themselves in the enchanting Buddhist culture, explore ancient monasteries, and embark on their inaugural trekking adventure.
Airport Pick-up and Drop-Off Service:
The Comprehensive Tsum Valley Trek offers a complimentary airport pick-up upon arrival and drop-off on the day of departure. Upon your arrival, our airport representative will be waiting at the arrival gate with a marigold garland to welcome you in line with Nepali customs. They will hold a name card along with the company board to easily identify you. After exchanging greetings, you will be escorted to the hotel. Similarly, we will provide you with a Khada at the end of the trip and arrange for a private vehicle to drop you off at the airport based on the group size.
Accommodation:
The Tsum Valley Trek includes complimentary accommodations, as outlined in the itinerary. Your stay in the city will offer private and comfortable lodging. However, during the mountain trek, rooms may need to be shared with fellow travelers due to limited availability. Please take a look at the accommodation options provided in the package, and don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, especially regarding the city. Similar (rustic) categories are available for mountain accommodations.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu: Prior to commencing the Tsum Valley Treks, you will be housed in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu for two nights before the trek and in a similar category hotel after the trek. Moreover, the accommodation provides a complimentary breakfast each morning. The hotel room features amenities such as air conditioning, free wifi, a hot shower, a cozy bed, a working desk, and toiletries. Should you desire to upgrade the hotel, it can be arranged for an extra fee. If you opt out of accommodation, the Tsum Valley Package cost will be adjusted to exclude the accommodation cost.
- Accommodation in the Mountains: During the Tsum Valley Trek, you will be lodged in the mountains for 10 nights at a rustic tea house or homestay. Your room will feature a snug, warm blanket, a simple mattress, and a homely setting. While there is a possibility of having a private room with a personal bathroom, depending on the number of tourists, you may have to share your room with other trekkers and utilize a shared bathroom. Each room is furnished with more than two beds to accommodate multiple travelers simultaneously.
Necessary Permits and Costs:
The Tsum Valley Trek is positioned within the Manaslu Conservation Area, a restricted zone that necessitates three specific permits for entry: the Manaslu Conservation Area permit, TIMS permit, and restricted area permit. It is imperative to gather comprehensive information on the application process for these permits, including the associated costs detailed below. Please be advised that the permit fees are included in the trekking package.
- TIMS Card: In order to ensure the safety of trekkers undertaking the Tsum Valley Trek, it is mandatory to possess a TIMS Card (Trekkers's Information Management System). This card acts as a permit and is specifically required for the trek. To obtain the TIMS Card, individuals must submit a copy of their passport along with passport-size photos. The cost for obtaining the TIMS Card is Rs 2000 per person.
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit: The Tsum Valley Trek is positioned within the Manaslu Conservation Area, hence requiring a permit exclusive to the Manaslu Conservation Area. To procure these permits, applicants must furnish a copy of their passport and passport-sized photos and remit Rs 3000 per person.
- Restricted Area Permit: The Tsum Valley Trek is situated in the restricted zone of the Manaslu Conservation Area. In order to embark on this trek, it is crucial to obtain special permits, starting from Jagat. These permits require a group of at least two trekkers, who must also present their original passport, passport photo, and valid visa. Additionally, a fee of USD 70 for a 7-day trek from September to November is required. For the remaining months, the fee is USD 50 for a 7-day trek. If you choose to extend your trek, an extra USD 10 per person per day is necessary for September to November, while for December to August, it is USD 7 per person per day.
Tranportation:
Our Tsum Valley Trek is designed to be hassle-free, including transportation from Kathmandu to Machhe Khola for the trek's commencement and transportation back to Kathmandu once the trek is finished. If you wish to enhance your transportation experience, please contact us for more information.
- Kathmandu to Machhe Khola: The renowned Tsum Valley Trek commences following a 6- to 7-hour drive from Kathmandu to Machhe Khola. Covering a distance of 160km, approximately half of the journey consists of well-paved roads, while the remaining stretch from Sallentar to Machhe Khola is off-road. The package includes transportation via local bus, offering an authentic local travel experience, albeit not the most comfortable. For those seeking a more comfortable option, a private Jeep is available at an additional cost of USD 200 in total, accommodating up to 6 people. Should you wish to upgrade from a public bus to a private Jeep, please inform us, and we will gladly assist you.
- Machhe Khola to Kathmandu: Upon completing our Tsum Valley Trek, the journey concludes in Machhe Khola. To facilitate your travel from Machhe Khola to Kathmandu, we offer a public bus service. However, it is important to note that due to the bus seat availability and the crowded nature of the passengers, there may be frequent stops for drop-offs and pick-ups, resulting in a longer travel time. If this option proves to be tiring for you, we also provide a private Jeep service at an additional cost of USD 200 in total, accommodating up to 6 people. Should you wish to upgrade from the bus to the Jeep, please feel free to contact us. Our team is here to assist you.
Trekking Guide:
Discover the Tsum Valley Trekking Package with a complimentary local trekking guide provided. The Nepal government has announced new rules mandating the presence of a guide for all trekkers in Nepal. For treks in restricted areas like Tsum Valley, both a local trekking company and a professional guide are compulsory. The Himalayan Trekking Path Company offers professional, friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable guides to accompany you on your dream journey to Tsum Valley, Nepal.
Trekking Porter:
Make the most of your adventure holiday in the Himalayas by enlisting the support of our dedicated Trekking Porter team. With their assistance, we ensure that your experience is not only enjoyable but also comfortable. Our package includes one porter for every two trekkers, guaranteeing that your heavy bag is well taken care of throughout the entire journey. The maximum weight limit for your bag is set at 15 to 18 kg. While having a porter is not mandatory, we highly recommend availing of this service to ensure a hassle-free trek. By choosing to travel with a porter, you not only enhance your own experience but also contribute positively to underprivileged communities, both economically and indirectly, impacting their lives. Our package offers a reliable and capable porter who receives a competitive salary, food, insurance, transportation, and accommodation.
Meals:
Experience the Tsum Valley Trek in Manaslu, a remarkable journey near the Tibet border. Our trekking package includes complimentary breakfast in Kathmandu, as well as accommodation and all meals throughout the trek, encompassing breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When it comes to dining options, you have the freedom to choose from a diverse range of foods, including vegetarian, vegan, and non-vegetarian dishes. However, we advise against purchasing meat items during the trek due to hygiene concerns. From authentic Nepali cuisine to continental delicacies, you'll find a wide array of international culinary offerings available. We recommend selecting your favorite dish and ensuring you consume enough to sustain yourself during the trek. While we suggest one meal, if it proves insufficient, you have the option to order an additional meal. We kindly request that you avoid waste and appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
Packing List:
A well-thought-out packing list is essential for trekking in Nepal. Here are some key items that will help you prepare effectively.
- Essential Gear: Prepare a backpack or daypack (40L) depending on whether you will be using a porter. Remember to bring a 2-3-liter water bottle, trekking poles, a water purification method, and a sleeping bag with a liner (consider a -20-degree capacity for winter treks).
- Headwear: To protect yourself from the sun, you can choose between a sun hat or a scarf. In colder climates, it is recommended to wear a winter hat or a wind-brimmed hat that is designed to shield you from the winter elements. Additionally, it's always wise to carry a headlight with spare batteries to ensure you have adequate lighting in any situation.
- Face Protectors: When it comes to safeguarding your skin, don't forget to include sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, and face and body wipes in your daily routine. These items play a vital role in shielding your skin from harmful UV rays and keeping it clean and refreshed.
- Handwear: Lightweight gloves offer comfort and flexibility, whereas heavyweight winter gloves provide superior insulation for extreme cold conditions.
- Body Requirements: For a successful hiking experience, it is important to have the appropriate clothing. This includes hiking shirts made of synthetic fiber, long-sleeved shirts, a hooded rain jacket, a fleece jacket, lightweight cotton pants, polypropylene underwear, a down jacket for winter treks, and waterproof jackets and pants.
- Footwear: The footwear options include waterproof hiking boots, thick wool socks, and sports shoes or sandals for relaxation during trek-off time.
- Toiletries: When going hiking, make sure to pack a fast-drying towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, soap, shower gel, washing powder, nail clippers, and a compact mirror.
- Rain Protection: When preparing for rain, it is important to remember to bring windproof gear in addition to rain protection. This includes rain jackets or ponchos and bag covers, as well as crampons for the icy and slippery trail.
Travel Insurance:
For trekking in Nepal, particularly on routes like the Tsum Valley Trek, having travel insurance is not just important but mandatory. It is a prerequisite for obtaining trekking permits and can offer crucial assistance in emergencies, covering medical expenses and lost items. We advise selecting a suitable insurance policy to ensure a confident, joyful, and enjoyable journey. While insurance is not included in our package, we are happy to provide recommendations if needed. Various insurance providers specialize in adventure and high-altitude trekking coverage, such as World Nomads, IMG, and Seven Corners. You can explore their websites or contact them directly to inquire about coverage options for your specific trek.
Mountain Amenities:
During the Tsum Valley Trek, you will have access to various amenities at an extra cost, which are not part of the package. These amenities include a hot shower, WiFi, drinking water, laundry service, charging facilities, and more. We encourage you to review the detailed information provided and make the necessary preparations for your holiday.
- Drinking Water: Hydration is crucial during travel, and it is recommended to consume 3 to 4 liters of water daily. There are various options to obtain clean water while on the journey, including spring water treated with a filter or purification tablets. Additionally, you can opt to buy bottled water or boil water for consumption. If you prefer hot water, ensure you have suitable containers. The cost of a one-liter bottle ranges from Rs 150 to Rs 350, depending on the altitude.
- Hot Shower: For your convenience, most teahouses and homestays in the area offer hot shower facilities, which are available at an additional cost. These showers are powered by either gas or solar energy. As you embark on the Tsum Valley Trek, you can enjoy the luxury of a shower at a very reasonable price. The cost per person per shower ranges from Rs. 200 to Rs. 400. It is advisable to carry some Nepali currency with you to pay for this service.
- Wifi Service: Throughout the Tsum Valley Trek, wifi service and local mobile reception are provided at each teahouse in every location. If you wish to acquire a local SIM card and activate data, you can utilize it in areas with strong reception. However, if you prefer to use wifi, a fee ranging from Rs. 200 to Rs. 300 per teahouse is applicable. It is important to note that internet service may not be available during unfavorable weather conditions.
- Laundry Service: When embarking on a lengthy journey, utilizing the laundry service can be an excellent way to reduce the number of belongings you have to pack. In areas with mountains, there are laundry services offered at a reasonable cost, but you also have the choice to wash your clothes yourself. To do this, make sure to bring washing powder or soap and clean your daily-use items. Afterwards, hang them near a wood fire or on the balcony of the tea house, utilizing the wind to ensure they dry quickly overnight.
- Charging Facility: During your Tsum Valley Trekking experience, you will have access to a charging facility for your devices. The hydroelectricity facility extends up to Mu Gomba, ensuring that you have all the necessary amenities. Furthermore, each tea house is equipped with multiple plugs for your convenience. However, it is important to be prepared for unexpected situations such as bad weather or other circumstances that may result in a power outage. To ensure you have a backup power source, it is recommended to bring a power bank. Please note that there may be a minimal cost of Rs. 100 to Rs. 200 for charging your batteries.
The Best Season for the Tsum Valley Trek:
Trekking in Nepal is subject to seasonal variations. The country primarily has two distinct seasons that are considered the prime time for trekking and hiking, while the other two seasons are considered off-season. Similarly, the Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal also requires careful consideration of the best seasons, which are autumn and spring. We recommend checking the weather details thoroughly and selecting the most appropriate season for your trekking expedition.
- Autumn Season: Like any other trek in the Nepal Himalayas, the Tsum Valley trek also requires careful consideration of the season for an optimal experience. The months of September, October, and November stand out as the best times for trekking in this region. Autumn is preferred due to its lower precipitation, clear weather, stable temperatures, picturesque views of lush green valleys at lower elevations, and panoramic Himalayan vistas at higher elevations. If you're looking to explore Nepal during this season, Tsum Valley is an excellent option, as it tends to be less crowded than popular regions like Everest and Annapurna.
- Spring Season: The spring season, spanning from March to May, holds significant appeal for trekkers in Nepal, ranking as the second most favored time for embarking on the Tsum Valley Trek. This season showcases nature at its finest, with vibrant blossoms, clear skies, and awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks. The forests become a haven for a diverse range of bird species. The weather remains stable and pleasant, although the higher elevations can be chilly, while the lower regions experience hotter temperatures. It is advisable to bring a mask to safeguard against dust, as the dry season can contribute to dusty conditions.
- Rainy Season: Commencing the Tsum Valley Trek during the rainy season can be quite challenging. The initial part of the trek takes you along the bed of the Budi Gandaki River, through a deep and narrow valley. Throughout the journey, you will encounter a massive waterfall and frequently face landslides and flooding on the stream. The months of June, July, and August, which constitute the rainy season, make the Tsum Valley Trek less convenient. However, if you still wish to embark on this adventure, August might be a feasible option.
- Winter Season: While the winter season typically encompasses December, January, and February, Tsum Valley trekking can still be undertaken with the proper gear. This trek, situated at a lower elevation, is not affected by heavy rainfall or trail blockages. Although the weather during this time is unstable, extremely cold, and visibility may be limited, opting for a winter trek allows you to escape the crowds. If you are interested in embarking on the Tsum Valley Trek during the winter season, ensure you are well-equipped with suitable gear to withstand the cold weather.
Flora and fauna of the Tsum Valley Trek:
The Tsum Valley region boasts a rich array of wildlife, encompassing a variety of species such as the Himalayan Thar, Musk, Mountain Goat, Deer, Snow Leopard, Yak, Horse, Buffalo, Cow, and an assortment of birds, including Griffon Vultures and Himalayan Monal. Additionally, the region is adorned with diverse forests, featuring rhododendrons, pine, needlewood, sal trees, and more.
Request for the Trekkers:
Tsum Valley is a sacred land that holds great significance for the Tibetan people, as it is deeply rooted in ancient Buddhist culture. It is essential to understand that this region strictly prohibits any form of killing, emphasizing the sanctity of life. This hidden gem is a place of utmost reverence and secrecy, and it is crucial to honor and respect the local culture and traditions. As you explore this enchanting valley, please be mindful of preserving the pristine nature and cultural heritage. If you wish to capture the essence of the local inhabitants through photography, kindly seek their permission beforehand. It is our responsibility to manage our own waste and keep the surroundings clean. While encountering local porters and mules, please exercise caution and ensure their safety by giving them space. Prioritize your well-being by consuming sufficient food and water throughout your journey. In case of any concerns or difficulties, do not hesitate to seek guidance from your knowledgeable guide, whose expertise will enhance your holiday experience. Lastly, ensure that you are thoroughly prepared for this remarkable journey, allowing yourself to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Tsum Valley.
Farewell Dinner:
On behalf of the Himalayan Trekking Path Company, we are delighted to invite you to a farewell dinner in honor of your upcoming departure. This special occasion will also serve as an opportunity for us to present you with an appreciation certificate and engage in a conversation about your trip, allowing us to gather your valuable suggestions and reviews. Your kind feedback holds great significance for our company.
