Destination: Nepal
Transportation: Private Vehicle
Max. Altitude: (4,060 m) Visit Dhephyudonma Gompa
Trek Distance: 178km Approx.
Bast Season: Septembe-November & March –May.
Special Interest: Cultura, Natural walk, photography, Environmental education, Family visit.
Itinerary: Fixes or customized (Group, single, or senior packages availanle)
Groupsize: 2 people
Group size max: 12 people.
Hide DetailManaslu Valley Trekking
The Tsum Valley is both a superb introduction to Trekking in Nepal and a cultural adventure amongst some of the most beautiful scenery in the whole country, with rich Tibetan culture, amazing natural scenery and awesome mountain vistas.
The sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley “Tsum Valley” situated in Nepal mid western part of Gorkha districts nearby Tibetan Border. ‘Tsum’ derived from Tibetan word ‘Tsombo’ which means vivid. Traditionally, Tsum Valley was a currently distinct geographical area called 'Tsum Tso Chucksums', which means thirteen provinces ruled as a single territory. Beside the majestic backdrop of the snowcapped Himalayan ranges, this tranquil Himalayan valley is rich in ancient art, culture and religion. The local people of Tsum Valley are of Tibetan origin “Gurung ethnic groups” practice Buddhist religion, speak their own dialect and they have their own culture and custom. The varies altitude of Tsum Valley trek begins from 1,905m in Lhokpa to over 5,093m at Ngula Dhojhyang pass on the Tibatan border. The hidden Tsum valley is surrounded by the Boudha Himal and Himal Chuli to the west, Ganesh Himal to the south and Sringi Himal to North. Unique natural beauty, Mountains, Landscape, its pristine culture and Tradition similar as Tibet people of here are main appeal of the Trekking in Tsum Valley trek.
The trial of Tsum Valley Trekking is strewn with artistic Chortens and lined with Mani walls made of thousands of stone slabs carved with drawings of deities and inscribed with prayers. The famous Kyimo Lung, a pilgrimage circuit in the central Trans-Himalaya is a well known seat of learning and meditation. Local believed that Buddhist saint Milarepa meditated in the caves of these mountains, so this place is holey. Tsum valley preserves steps of the great Buddhist Yogi Chyuchin Milarepa and story about Guru Padmasambhava circumbulation. The people here never slaughter animals, even as sacrifice to the gods. People in Tsum Valley still follow polyandry system and they have their own unique culture, tradition, and dialect. Tsum people celebrate unique festival like Lhosar, Dhacyhang, Saka Dawa, Faning and others. Many residents of this valley report that they have seen or found the signs of Mehti, commonly referred as the 'Yeti' or 'Abominable Snowman'. Upper Tsum valley (part of the inner Himalaya) opens from remote VDCs Chhekampar and Chumchet (Lower Tsum), where hospitable local people (Tibetan group "Tsombo") welcome you with traditional Tibetan Chiya (butter tea) and local meal. The Tsum Valley is extremely rich in cultural assets. It is so remote that the ancient relics are still seen. The valley is dotted with Gumbas (Buddhist monasteries), chortens and mani walls. The longest mani walls (over 250m) are at Dzong and Phurpe. Due to its remoteness and inaccessibility, this sacred valley and its people have been bypassed by mainstream development for centuries. As a result, the unique culture of this valley has remained intact. The restricted area Tsum Valley Trekking begins from Arughat in Gorkha district, which is easily accessible from Kathmandu and the trail, follows the winding Budi Gandaki River through wild and unexplored country inhabited mainly Gurung until it reaches the first elevated Tsum Valley with magnificent vistas of the Ganesh Himal and other surrounding peaks. The Valley is bounded by high passes - the Ngula Dhoj Hyang (5,093 m) to the west and Yamdro Pass (5,326m) to the north. Tsum Valley Trekking is possible to make shorter and longer as our Clients demands; most of trekkers do this trip via the Larka La Pass then over in Besi Sahar but some trekkers continue their trek to Annapurna circuit, Tilicho Lake or Narphu valley as well as Rupinala Pass. So, it is also possible just 19 to 29 days Tsum valley Trip begins and end same point in Arughat. Trekking in Tsum Valley use to operate mostly camping basis / tent camp treks but now a day’s it is possible simple Teahouse Trekking (stay in the lodge) or Home stay Trek. Off the beaten trail Tsum Valley Trekking offers you ultimate experience in your lifetime.
Himalayan Unforgettable Adventures organize recently open “Tsum Valley Treks” any time all over the year except snowing season with our highly experienced guides and staffs according our Clients requirement and holiday schedule. But the best time is September, October, November and March, April, May. This is recommended only for highly qualified and adventurous people who love to test adventure travel in Nepal Himalaya adopting real rural lifestyle. Come and join us for a life changing experience – with Himalayan Unforgettable Adventures!
we try to follow the itinerary below, at times local trail or weather conditions may make slight changes necessary. The trekking itinerary may also vary slightly depending on our trekkers' acclimatization condition.
Day 01Arrive at Kathmandu, Upon arrival at international airport, our waiting support team will meet and greet you at the airport assist and transfer to the Hotel (star category, very nice and centrally located at Thamel, take rest and free at afternoon.
Day 02Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing pre- Treks (1,350m) Our Tour Guide led you to explore around Kathmandu valley for the sight seen. Have explore historical and spiritual attractions; including the historic Durbar Square, Bouddhanath; one of the largest stupas in Nepal, Swayambhunath; top on the hill in the city knows as the Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath; Hindus holy place, Sadhus and pilgrims bathing at occasionally, funeral pyres burning on the ghats, located on the holy Bagmati river. After these activates back to hotel and pre- prier for the treks. Stay overnight at hotel. Please, check your insurance details and have a copy of your travel medical insurance policy with you.
Day 03Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar (535m) -8 to 9 Hours Our Guide and Potter come to in your hotel at 6:00 am. Then we are heading to Arughat, by bus or Land cruiser (depending on group size) scenic drive. While passing ridge of Kathmandu Valley, you catch a glimpse of Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Langtang Himal magnificent view and terraces and green hills. After Dhading Bisi or Gorkha Bazaar the road is tricky because of the grubby road. To get in Arughat through the Gorkha Bazaar or Dhading Besi depends on your time and choice. The village of Arughat is in two parts, on opposite sides of the Buri Gandaki. Arughat Bazaar is large, clean and prosperous with hotels and shops selling cloth, food and hardware. Stay overnight at Tea House or Tented camp.
Day 04Trek Arughat to Soti Khola (720m) -6 to 7 Hours After having breakfast, we trek to Soti Khola following banding Bdhigandaki river bank. Along the way we enjoy splendid views of Shringri Himal and local live hood. The trail goes through the Gurung and Magar villages, past fields and cascading waterfalls, till we reach Soti Khola. We set up camp on the banks of the Soti Khola (river) or stay in Tea house.
Day 05Trek Soti Khola to Machha Khola (930m) -6 to 7 Hours Today our trek from Soti Khola to Machha khola (Fish River) goes through the rice field and exploring people live hood. Machha khola is a village, which is situated above a stream with the same name of Budahigandaki. We camp for the night by a wide campsite or find some tea house.
Day 06Trek Machha Khola to Doban (1,070m) -6 to7 Hours The trail involves some steep ascents and descents to the Doban. The trail gives the glimpses of diversity of flora & fauna, and people with different religion and cultures. We ascend a well – crafted staircase over a ridge to Doban. Doban means confluence of the stream, where Shiar Khola comes from the east, and the Sarpu khola meet from the west. We set our camp here or stay overnight at tea house.
Day 07Doban to Philim (1,570 m) -5 to 6 Hours After hot breakfast, journey leads us to ascend on a rugged rocky trail. Then we climb up and down ravines and notched trees. Several water falls on both side of the Budhi Gandaki River and hundred species of Birds in the forest makes our trip enjoyable. Liding, Machhakhola, Jagat and Philim provide the unique hospitality with culture and religion. During this trekking the narrow valley shaping by Budhi Gandaki provides the magnificent vistas of Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal and Himal Chuli, as we continue up to the large Gurung village and fields of corn and millet. There are several good campsites and we set up camp surrounded by alder, blue pine and poplar trees or stay at the tea house.
Day 08Trek Philim to Chumling (Lower Tsum) (2,361m)-6 to 7 Hours The trail goes up through Philim and head up over a ridge that leads to Ganesh Himal Base camp and Chumling (Lower Tsum). We camp for the night at Chumling. Each individual can enjoy with songs of Bird and roaring sound of river on the trail. There are several good campsites at Chumling. Or stay overnight at local house.
Day 09Trek Chumling to Chhekampar (Upper Tsum) (3,010 m) -5 to 6 Hours After breakfast, we trek to Chhekampar. Upper Tsum valley (part of the inner Himalaya) opens from Chhekampar/Chhekamparo. This village situated on flat land and made up of two settlements Chhekam and Paro. From the valley, we have view of Ganesh Himal range in front to the south where it provides spectacular views of the Baudha and Himal Chuli peaks to the south-west. Some households in this village practice polyandry system. We stay overnight here.
Day 10Trek Chhekampar to Chhule-Nile (3,361m), visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave on the way -6 to 7 Hours On the way we pass the Piren Phu cave. Piren Phu (pigeon cave) is one of the most sacred caves in the Tsum valley. It is located at the foot of a rugged cliff near the village of Burji. Milarepa, the famous Tibetan saint, was believed to have meditated here. There are two separate Gumbas attached to the rocky cave. Richly painted Buddhist murals, excellent artistic scripts carved on stones, long prayer flags and significant Buddhists paper scripts make this cave one of the most important socio-cultural asset in the valley. Beautiful views can be had of the Shiar Khola, Rachen Gumba, the mountains and settlements amidst vast agricultural land. This is the last village heading north of the upper Tsum Valley. Stay overnight.
Day 11Trek Chhule-Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700 m), visit Dhephyudonma Gompa (4,060 m) -3 to 4 Hours After breakfast, the trail gradually ascends to Mu Gumba (1895 AD), the largest monastery in the region and farthest point in the Tsum valley. The monastery houses religious books, including Kangyur, a life sized statue of Avalokiteshwara, and images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara. Chhosyang Tal is about two to three hours uphill walk.Then we visit Dephyudonma Gumba is one of the oldest monasteries in the Tsum Valley and is situated in the rugged mountains, a 2 hr walk from the village of Chhule and Nile. The history of this monastery is directly associated with the dawn of Buddhism in the valley. The monastery is run by Lama Serap of Nile Ladrang from the Kangin sect. There are a few campsites and drinking water facilities.
Day 12Extra day for excursion This is day of leisure, After having late breakfast hike up Mu Gumba and reach the base of Pika Himal (4,865m).We are quite close to Tibet and get a good view of the Tibetan peaks as well as the beautiful Ganesh Himal range. We may visit to Rikang Gompa and Dheron Gompa this day. After the day's excursion we return to our camp at Mu Gumba.
Day 13Trek Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa (3,210 m) -5 to 6 Hours We take the trail to Rachen Gumba, a nunnery. It is situated in the Shiar Khola Valley in the foothills of the mountains bordering Nepal and Tibet. Rachen Gumba was established in the year 1905 AD and is one of the largest nunneries in the Tsum valley. It is belong to the Ngak-pa sect, which does not allow animal slaughter. The nunnery houses one thousand clay, mud statues of Avalokiteshwara, a brightly colored, carved throne and pillar, and a large prayer wheel. The interior is richly painted with murals about Buddhism and its history. We stay overnight at camp or local house.
Day 14Trek Rachen Gompa to Dumje (2,405m) -6 to 7 Hours Today, we proceed towards Dumje, is small and scattered settlements with some houses and adjoining cattle sheds. Dumje is wide flat land, good for cultivation especially barely and potato. Where, patches of purple-hued amaranth interspersed with fields of brown barley, dozens of yaks grazing in grassy meadows, rustic stone houses hugging the trail, long stretches of hand-carved mani stones and stacked mani walls, ancient villages dotting the landscape, rock chortens perched high on ridges, snow-capped Himalayan peaks scratching the deep blue sky, high remote mountain passes threading into Tibet, maroon-robed Buddhist monks and nuns fingering prayer beads, and hard-working kind-hearted villagers warmly welcome you into this scenic and soaring valley where Tibetan culture is still celebrated today.
Day 15Trek Dumje to Philim (cross Ripchet) (1,570 m) -6 ½ to 7 ½ Hours After breakfast, we are heading to Philim and cross Ripchet. We pass one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Lower Tsum Valley, Samba Tingding Chhupyang. This is the village which lies along the trial from Gumpa Laundang to Philim. The houses are completely built from stone and roofs are pine wood. The houses are associated in linear pattern along the trial. There are remarkable numbers of Mani walls, Chortens and gateway chortens. We make camp in Philim for overnight stay.
Day 16Trek Philim to Tatopani (875m) -6 to 7 Hours . From Phillim we trek to Tatopani (hot spring) about 6 to 7 hours, most of the trail is descend. You can relieve your tired muscles from many days by soaking yourself in the hot spring. We make camp here for overnight stay or stay in local house
Day 17Trek Tatopani to Soti Khola (720m) – to -7 Hours Today, we pass through terraced fields and tropical waterfalls cascading off soaring cliffs, rivers tumbling wildly down precipitous gorges and finally set up camp at the Soti Khola a Gurung Village. We stay overnight at camp or local House.
Day 18Drive from Arughat Bazar to Kathmandu (1,350m) -8 to 9 Hours We will be ready at 6:00 morning to having breakfast or advice as your trekking guide or you’re wise. We will drive back to Kathmandu through the road passing terraces, streams, rivers, local settlements, high hills and along the same road. It takes about 8 to 9 hours (conditional) to reach your hotel in Kathmandu by bus/ private car.
Day 19final Departure to your Destination Today is free or last minute shopping for souvenirs or gift to your family, friends or relatives for you until departure flight/drive. Nepal Mother House Treks assist will be transfer to the International Airport for your departure flight to your onwards destination.
Cannot recommend enough! Durga is extremely friendly and went above and beyond to make our trip welcoming and smooth (not just on the trek- before and after as well)
Samdu (our guide) was extremely friendly and helpful, couldn't have done… [More]
The best thing you'll ever do! The trek was unbelievable, Durga was extremely welcoming, friendly and helpful. Making the whole thing so smooth. Samdu our guide was perfect, couldn't have been more helpful. Hassan our porter was amazing, I don't know… [More]
MR DANIEL HORROCKS, United KingdomGreat experience at Langtang Valley. Durga the owner took care of meeting all my requests and tailor-made the experience according to my needs. My guide was enthusiastic and nice. Highly recommended.
[More] Esteban Camargo, ColombiaTamang Heritage Trail, Langtang Valley Trek
Nach der Empfehlung im Stefan Loose Reiseführer hatten wir uns bereits zuhause bei der Vorbereitung unserer Reise mit Durga Tamang in Verbindung gesetzt. Das persönliche Gespräch in Kathmandu hat uns dann voll bestätigt, mit Himalayan… [More]
Heinz und Elisabeth, GermanyIt was my first visit to Nepal and I was anxious about my ability to manage the trek. I am 58 and keep active and fit but I am not used to the heights of the Himalayas. Thanks to Durga's care… [More]
Katherine Westfold, AustraliaChoosing Himalayan Unforgettable Adventure and Durga Tamang as our (local!) travel company and trekking guide was definitly the best decision for our Nepal trip. Not only that the trekking was organized in a thoughtful way! Durga showed us through spectacular landscapes… [More]
Leonhard Jungwirth, AustriaI came to Kathmandu with the idea in mind to do some trekking, but without having anything planned. When I first arrived there I got in touch with some agencies in Thamel but I didn't trust them much because they seemed… [More]
Allen, ItalyChoosing to have Durga guide my trekking partner and I was one of the best decisions Ive ever made. We trekked Langtang valley at the end of monsoon season and truly experienced the culture of the Nepali and Tibetan. Plus, you… [More]
Noah Willison, United States"Langtang valley Trek"
Mar 28th 2016 Namaste: We really enjoyed out trip to Langtang with you Durga Tamang. Everything was planned perfectly and we were thrilled to get the whole family onto the top of Kyanjin Ri. Langtang is safe now.
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"Tamang Heritage Trek"
May 17 2016 Namaste: Overall our experience in Nepal with you was really amazing, the days we spend in the Tamang Valley, walking around that beautiful views of mountain peaks, forests and little villages were the best part of… [More]
Oriol Fonos, SpainDonna and I had a great experience on our trek of the Annapurna circuit. The scenery, the trail, mountain villages, and the Nepalese people were exceptional as we expected.
Himalayan Unforgettable Adventure provided the transportation, guide, porters, meals and accommodation for… [More]
Bill and Donna Bauer, CanadaWhen we began planning our trip to Nepal in 2015 we began to quickly realise just how many decisions we were going to need to take to put together our itinerary, not least being the extensive options available to you when… [More]
Simon and Caroline, British Indian Ocean TerritoryIn October 2015, my husband and I went trekking in Nepal with our friends Bill and Donna. We were a private group and originally our plan was to hike the Langtang valley. We decided to book our trek through Durga Tamang who runs Himalayan… [More]
Anne and Harry Range, CanadaI just finished the Langtang Valley trek with Durga Tamang as my guide and Nima Lama as my smiling hard-working porter. Unfortunately, the weather was uncooperative – constant clouds, drizzle, mist – making mountain views elusive. (But even with that, I… [More]
Mike, United StatesLe treck etait super! Nous sommes passes de village en village, les paysages sont magnifiques. Nous avons vu les differents métiers, des tisseuses, des bergers, des gens dans les cultures, le travail se fait a l’ancienne, c’ est tres interessant. Le… [More]
Jeanne, Jenny and Sarah, LuxembourgFebruary 10 2014 Namaste: We have very much appreciated an approach combining volunteering for RTEES during one week in the small Tamang village of Gatlang, and a 10 days trek in the Langtang valley, organized by Himalayan Unforgettable Adventure.
This… [More]
Isabelle and Alexis, FranceNamaste. We wanted to organise our trek before we arrived in Kathmandu, and after some extensive research came across Durga Tamang and his organisation (that are doing wonderful things for the villages of the Tamang Heritage Trail). Durga was very responsive… [More]
Nelly and Nathan, AustraliaNamaste. We wanted to organise our trek before we arrived in Kathmandu, and after some extensive research came across Durga Tamang and his organisation (that are doing wonderful things for the villages of the Tamang Heritage Trail). Durga was very responsive… [More]
Nelly and Nathan, AustraliaNamaste. We wanted to organise our trek before we arrived in Kathmandu, and after some extensive research came across Durga Tamang and his organisation (that are doing wonderful things for the villages of the Tamang Heritage Trail). Durga was very responsive… [More]
Nelly and Nathan, AustraliaWe contact Durga to make the Heritage Trail and Langtang Trail (1 march to 13 march 2014) and he offer us to go before starting the trek two days at his village, Gatlang, to see the LOSAR FESTIVAL (feb- march Buddhist… [More]
Margarida and Jorge, SpainThis was undoubtedly a unique, an unforgettable experience that I waited for years to fulfill. Thank you so much for turning it real and for showing me the simplicity and greatness of the Himalayan Tamangs and their own kingdom.
Making your… [More]
Miguel Buto, Portugal6 January 2014 Namaste. We wanted to organise our trek before we arrived in Kathmandu, and after some extensive research came across Durga Tamang and his organisation (that are doing wonderful things for the villages of the Tamang Heritage Trail). Durga… [More]
Nelly and Nathan, AustraliaThe highlight of our trip to Nepal was our amazing two week trek along the Tamang Heritage and Langtang trails. The scenery and moutain views in this area are absoutely gorgeous, something we will remember for years to come. The trip… [More]
Margit McLaughlin, United StatesWe contact Durga to make the Heritage Trail and Langtang Trail (1 march to 13 march 2014) and he offer us to go before starting the trek two days at his village, Gatlang, to see the LOSAR FESTIVAL (feb- march Buddhist… [More]
MARGARITA AND JORGE, SpainFebruary 10 2014 Namaste: We have very much appreciated an approach combining volunteering for RTEES during one week in the small Tamang village of Gatlang, and a 10 days trek in the Langtang valley, organized by Himalayan Unforgettable Adventure.
This approach… [More]
Isabelle and Alexis, FranceNamaste: We did the Heritage Trail and Langtang Valley Trail with Durga and his team and was a wondurful experience. That mountains are so beautiful and the village people are very friendly and kind. I really recommend do that trails with… [More]
Margarida and Jorge, FranceDate: 22 Oct 2013 Our Upper Mustang trek was an amazing experience both in terms of the unusual physical beauty and the ever-present stream of spirituality, especially in the extraordinary medieval city of Lo Manthang. Durga Tamang, our trekking guide, made… [More]
Mylo Schaaf and Dan Lowenstein, United StatesDurga is a really nice men. when we first met him we already had some bad experiences with tour guides in Kathmandu who tried to sell very hard there trekking trips. but durga wasn't like those man. he made directly a… [More]
Antilia and Luc, FranceTravelling alone, and with the idea of going trekking, I started to inform myself, which trail I should choose. I read about different treks and choose the Heritage Trail, because it is a relatively new trek, easy to walk and everyone… [More]
Michael, United StatesDurga is a really nice men. when we first met him we already had some bad experiences with tour guides in Kathmandu who tried to sell very hard there trekking trips. but durga wasn't like those man. he made directly a… [More]
Alex , Jana and Adrian, Germany