Tsum Valley Trekking

Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, our team will warmly greet you and ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel. Once you've checked in, take some time to relax and rejuvenate. In the evening, join us for a delightful welcome dinner hosted by Touching Mountain Treks. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow travelers and kick off your Nepal journey on a memorable note. Enjoy your overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Today, we'll start our day with a delightful breakfast before delving into a guided tour of Kathmandu's rich historical and spiritual landmarks. Our itinerary includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the iconic Durbar Square, the revered Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhunath), and the impressive Bouddhanath Buddhist shrine, renowned as one of the largest stupas globally.

At noon, we'll gather for a pre-trip discussion where we'll meet our trek leader and fellow team members. Touching Mountain Treks will provide us with a detailed briefing about our upcoming trek, giving us the opportunity to ask any questions and ensuring we're fully prepared for the adventure ahead. We'll spend the night in Kathmandu, ready to kickstart our trekking journey.

A scenic journey westward along the Prithvi Highway, passing through lush hills, takes us to Malekhu. Continuing past Dhading Besi, the road winds uphill to Gola Bhanjyang, offering captivating views of snow-capped mountain peaks. Descending, we cross Ankhu Khola before reaching Arughat, where the Budhi Gandaki River awaits. Following the west bank of Budhi Gandaki, we arrive at Machha Khola, where we can stay overnight at a lodge.

After traversing several ridges, you'll reach Tatopani at 930 meters, named for its hot water springs that offer a refreshing evening shower. Crossing a ridge and a rickety suspension bridge over the Buri Gandaki, you'll ascend marble stairs in a narrow valley, passing through Doban (1000m; also known as Duvan). About an hour later, Shyaule Bhatti offers scenic views and a spot for tea amidst wild gorges. Continuing on, you'll cross a landslip and the Yaru Khola bridge (1363m), reaching the river flats for lunch at Yaru (1140m).

Crossing to the left bank after Yaru, you'll have an easy trek with gentle ups and downs to Jagat (1410m), a charming Gurung village with flagstone paths. Jagat, meaning 'tax,' reflects its historical role in collecting taxes on Tibetan trade. Ensure you have your MCAP permit here, as required. In this area, farmers plant potatoes, maize, and climbing beans simultaneously: potatoes for food and weed control, maize for food and bean support, which is a protein source. Marijuana poses a significant weed challenge. The trek continues along the riverbed, then over a rocky ridge to Salleri (1440m) with stunning views of Sringi Himal (7187m). Spend the night at a lodge in Jagat.

Descend in the morning to Sirdibas (also known as Setibas or Tara), located at 1430 meters altitude, where a lodge is said to be available. This area marks your initial encounter with Buddhist cultural elements. Proceed along the left bank of the river, navigating through ups and downs until you reach Nepal's longest suspension bridge, which you cross to the east bank. From there, a strenuous ascent takes you to the thriving village of Philim (also known as Dodang) at 1590 meters elevation, surrounded by lush fields growing maize, potato, and millet.

If you're not venturing into the Tsum Valley, your journey continues towards Ghap, leading to the Larkya-La pass. Departing Philim, follow the well-marked trail heading north towards Larkya-La, passing through scenic forests and witnessing the valley narrowing ahead. After about an hour of climbing, you reach Ekle Bhatti at 1600 meters, despite its name ("lone teashop"), it boasts at least six such establishments. Traverse along high above a breathtaking gorge, entering an area mostly devoid of human settlements but filled with pine trees.

As you descend towards a trail junction, where one path leads to Ghap and the other to Tsum Valley, the route becomes more challenging yet well-graded, taking you through pine and rhododendron forests. Be cautious of potential stonefall if the slopes have recently undergone burning and there are grazing goats around. Zigzag your way up exposed steps, gaining views of the lower Tsum Valley and the steep terrain across the Shiar Khola river originating from the valley's top. On the opposite bank stands Himalchuli at 7893 meters, overseeing steep cliffs.

Traverse through a serene temperate forest to reach Lokpa at 2240 meters, surrounded by barley fields and offering a comfortable lodge with toilet facilities. Spend the night at a lodge in Lokpa, resting after a day of challenging yet rewarding trekking.

Descend through a picturesque forest, crossing three side streams via bridges (although one is incorrectly labeled as Shiar Khola on the map). You'll then circle under a massive bluff along the river before climbing steeply on well-constructed but exposed stairs. After roughly 30 minutes, the path veers north through pine and rhododendron forests, continuing the ascent with steep slopes. The enchanting hidden valley of Tsum unfolds ahead. Eventually, you'll descend to a solitary bhatti called Ghumlong (2130m) situated by the river.

The trail ahead leads to Ripchet (2470m; also known as Ripche) with a steep climb taking about an hour. Alternatively, the path to Chumling (2360m) involves crossing the Shiar Khola on a wooden bridge and ascending. Note that this route is not recommended for those uncomfortable with heights, as there have been incidents of locals falling to their deaths while intoxicated along this track. Upon reaching Chumling, take the opportunity to explore the old gompa, traditional houses, orchards, clinic, and the charming stone streets. Chumling showcases Buddhist agricultural practices, with conical pine needle haystacks adorning the landscape alongside prayer flags. Spend the night at a lodge in Chumling for a restful stay.

The trails ahead are adorned with beautiful chortens and mani walls, crafted from stone slabs etched with divine symbols and prayers. Today's journey is relatively easier compared to yesterday. You'll start by crossing a suspension bridge just east of your hotel, passing through fertile farmlands growing maize and potatoes. The traditional Tibetan houses here feature roofs stacked with firewood, designed to withstand the region's frequent rain and snowfall.

As you continue, you'll encounter a vast area where a landslide and flood once swept through, clearing the land and tragically claiming five lives in 1999. However, nature has reclaimed this space, now lush with a forest of new trees. Looking eastward, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the towering Ganesh Himal at 7000 meters, with picturesque suspension bridges spanning the opposite bank and the elevated village of Ripchet (2468m) perched above.

For lunch, you can stop at Rainjham (2400m), a cozy bhatti with an enclosed courtyard. Crossing the Serpu Khola, you'll embark on a 2.5-hour climb on a well-maintained but exposed trail towards upper Tsum and the sizable village of Chhokangparo (3010m). Here, you'll find stone houses nestled against cliffs, devoid of iron roofs. The valley widens here, showcasing expansive fields of barley, maize, buckwheat, and potatoes, although wheat cultivation has been abandoned due to the 'hill bunt' disease, causing crop failure.

Keep an eye out for Thar herds grazing along the rugged northern cliffs, often descending into the fields. On clear days, you might catch a glimpse of the majestic Himalchuli (7893m) in the distance, downstream. Your overnight stay will be at a lodge in Chhokangparo, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of scenic trekking.

Most trekkers can ascend to 2800m without experiencing altitude sickness. However, caution is advised as the altitude gain in the track notes above Chhokangparo exceeds the recommended limit of 200m per day for safety. Keep an eye out for symptoms of altitude sickness and be ready to rest or descend if necessary. Take the opportunity to explore the interconnected villages of Chhokang and Paro, and venture north to a sanctuary where Lama Kongchog spent 26 years in meditation before his passing. The village is also known for its connection to the child reincarnation, featured in the acclaimed DVD "Unmistaken Child" (available in Kathmandu), and sightings of Thar, a type of wild sheep, are common in this area.

The locals predominantly speak Tsumba, a language related to Tibetan, with limited proficiency in Nepali and a relatively low level of exposure to tourists. Proceed eastward, passing through quaint villages and a local school. Ascend over a ridge adorned with chortens, traverse flat fields with sweeping views of crops and rivers, and arrive at the expansive courtyard of Rachen Gompa (3240m), a prominent nunnery akin to the Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu.

Continue the ascent to Milarepa’s Cave (Piren Phu), a site associated with the introduction of Buddhism to Tibet by Milarepa. The cave is currently undergoing extensive restoration. Cross the Shiar Khola, journey through the hamlets of Phurbe (3251m) and Pangdun (3258m), and encounter a distinctive round stupa before entering the larger village of Chhule (3347m) through an impressive gateway (kani). Here, children don the traditional Tibetan attire called chubas, and the landscape is dotted with yaks.

Follow the river upstream, cross a bridge, and ascend to Nile (3361m; Nyile), where both villages feature traditional architecture blending livestock enclosures into the homes and covered verandas for drying crops. Rest for the night at a lodge in Nile, soaking in the unique cultural and natural experiences of this enchanting region.

Leave your backpack behind and start early, heading up the valley on the west bank. As the sun rises, enjoy the breathtaking views of the narrowing valley walls, yaks grazing peacefully, and a day of light hiking with just a small pack. The final ascent to the impressive Mu Gompa at 3700 meters takes you through dry Tibetan landscapes adorned with rows of chortens and expansive mountain panoramas. This monastery, housing over 100 monks, boasts an ancient gompa that drew the attention of David Snellgrove during his Himalayan Pilgrimage in 1956. If time allows, you can also explore the Dhephyudoma Gompa at 4000 meters, reachable via an obvious track to the west.

Surrounded by tantalizing views of the Tibetan border, with passes like Ngula Dhojyang and Thapla Bhanjyang nearby, you might opt for a day trip to Kalung or venture to the passes for a peek into Tibet. The area features vast seasonal yak pastures, the majestic Lungdang Glacier to the east, and towering peaks in every direction.

Returning down the valley through Chhule, retrieve your backpack and trek further down to Phurbe. Stay along the east bank of the Shiar Khola and traverse flat boulder-covered plains to reach Rachen Gompa at 3240 meters. Here, you can explore the ancient gompa and even camp if you wish, with the older section of the nunnery holding particular interest. In the Tsum region, it's common for families to have a member as either a monk or a nun.

Continue your journey south, crossing a bridge to the west bank before descending once more to Chhokangparo. Spend the night at a lodge in Chhokangparo, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Nepalese landscapes.

Descend from Chhokangparo along the familiar path for approximately two hours until you reach Gho (2485m), where a small gompa awaits. From there, follow a narrow trail that winds through the village, leading to a wooden bridge over the Shiar Khola. After crossing the bridge into Dhumje (2440m or Tumje), which features a Tibetan herbal medicine clinic and a school, the trail ascends just behind the clinic.

Prepare for a steep climb as the track leads you through dense pines and vibrant rhododendrons. Soon, you'll find yourself traversing alongside a mani wall adorned with prayer flags, navigating a narrow and exposed path. As you continue through the pine forest, follow an uphill trail that zigzags sharply, guiding you through towering silver pines until you arrive at Gumba Lungdang (3200m).

Perched on a ridge, Gumba Lungdang offers small cells for the resident nuns and breathtaking views amidst the enchanting rhododendrons. Each night, the monastery hosts an intense and captivating puja, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the place. The panoramic mountain vistas from Gumba Lungdang are truly awe-inspiring. Rest for the night in the monastery's dormitory room, soaking in the serene atmosphere of this picturesque mountain retreat.

For this journey, having a guide is essential as the trail is not well-marked. Start by circling from the gompa, passing by the nuns’ housing, then descend on either dusty or muddy zigzags to reconnect with the lower trail. Proceed up the valley on a rocky, somewhat unclear path through the forest. Cross the Laudang Khola to the west bank using a somewhat shaky wooden bridge, then ascend steeply through pristine pines and rhododendrons along a ridge.

About halfway up, there's a hut in a kharka, with the trail continuing behind it. Further along, you'll climb through a birch-lined dry creek bed until you emerge into grassy flats behind the lateral moraine of the Toro Gompa glacier. As you keep climbing, passing by seasonal yak huts, you'll encounter a trail on the moraine wall that offers breathtaking views of the Cirque of mountains. Somewhere around here is the campsite. Expect around 4 hours of trekking to reach Ganesh Himal Base Camp at 4200m.

While the map shows another base camp on the east side of the glacier, there doesn't seem to be a clear path between them, so it's best to return to Gumba Lungdang in time for the evening puja by retracing your steps. The altitude can make this day challenging for some, but the untouched forest wilderness and stunning vistas make it an unforgettable journey. Spend the night at the monastery's dormitory room in Gumba Lungdang.

Trekkin

Start your day early as it can be quite challenging. Begin by descending from Gumba Lungdang using the upward track. When you reach Dumje, cross the Laudang Khola and continue along the south bank of the Shiar Khola, contrary to what the map might indicate. You'll encounter some deep gorges and shaky cantilever bridges on your way to the picturesque Ripchet (2470m; also known as Ripche). Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this perched valley, abundant with barley and buckwheat fields adorned with chortens, all set against a backdrop of pine forests.

After exploring Ripchet, descend on steep stairs to reach Ghumlong (2130m), a lone bhatti by the river where you passed through six days ago. From there, ascend through pristine temperate forests until you reach Lokpa (2240m), where you'll spend the night at a lodge.

g time: 7-9 hours   , Trekking distance: 15.3 miles (24.7 km)

Today's trek will take you on a more challenging journey, so be sure to have a filling breakfast in Dharamsala. Along the trail, you'll come across several quaint villages, crystal-clear glacier lakes, picturesque valleys, and a diverse range of plant and animal life. The landscape is dotted with impressive snow-covered peaks that add to the scenic beauty.

As you ascend, you'll reach a valley on the northern side of the Larkya Glacier, offering stunning views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak. Traversing the glacier's moraines, the path gradually inclines, becoming steeper towards the pass's final stretch. From here, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and the majestic Annapurna II. The day concludes with a delightful walk-through misty meadow as evening approaches, with the majestic Mount Manaslu visible in the distance.

You'll make your way down to Philim, following the scenic route along the Budi Gandaki River. After a series of ups and downs, you'll arrive at Philim. Continuing on, you'll descend further and cross a lengthy suspension bridge over the Budi Gandaki River, leading you to Sirdibas via the Gatte Khola. The trail then winds through quaint villages and rocky terrain until you reach Jagat, where you'll spend the night at a lodge.

After descending to lower Jagat, you'll follow a rocky path, crossing a suspension bridge and trekking through a forest to reach Yarubagar. The trail continues rocky as you descend further through the forest, crossing several rivers before arriving at Machha Khola, where you'll spend the night at a lodge.

You'll travel back to Kathmandu today in a private 4W vehicle, taking the newly constructed dusty road to Arughat Bazaar, then continuing on to Gorkha Bazaar with stunning views of the Ganesh Himal ranges. Finally, you'll arrive in Kathmandu and be escorted to our 4-star hotel for an overnight stay.

Today is the culmination of our amazing adventure in Nepal! A knowledgeable guide from Touching Mountain Treks will accompany you to the airport, ensuring we arrive about three hours before your flight. During our journey back home, we'll have ample time to reflect on our unforgettable experiences and begin dreaming about our next adventure in this captivating country of Nepal.