Tsum Valley – The Hidden Gems
Tsum Valley, nestled in northern Gorkha, is a treasure trove of ancient art, culture, and spirituality. It’s remoteness adds to the charm, making the trek a delightful experience. With stunning vistas of Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and Boudha Himal, this pristine valley captivates the heart.
Once restricted, the Tsum Valley now welcomes trekkers. Its inhabitants, tracing their roots to Tibet, exude deep spirituality, evident in the revered Rachen and Mu Gompas. Beyond the monasteries, the valley’s biodiversity flourishes, boasting enchanting forests, rivers, and caves.
Embark on a scenic drive to Arughat, then Soti Khola, and follow the Budhi Gandaki river upstream. Pass through charming villages and forests ablaze with rhododendrons and pines. Reach Lokpa, the gateway to the Tsum Valley, and continue to Chumling, home to revered monasteries and awe-inspiring mountain panoramas.
From Chumling, journey to Chhokangparo, where sub-tropical forests transition into alpine landscapes. Traverse Milarepa’s sacred cave, the Nile, and arrive at Mu Gompa, the trek’s northernmost point. Legend has it that the great Buddhist Guru meditated in these mountains. The Shear Khola river nourishes this valley, flowing from Ganesh Himal glacier into the Budhi Gandaki River.
On the return, explore Rachen Gompa and follow a different path, passing through Domje and reaching Ganesh Himal Base Camp. Descend to Lokpa, Jagat, and finally Arughat, where a local bus awaits, ready to transport you back to Kathmandu.
Overview
The Tsum Valley Trek is an extraordinary journey into one of Nepal’s most secluded and culturally rich valleys. Tsum Valley, located in the northern part of the Gorkha District, near the border with Tibet, is known for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and ancient Buddhist heritage. This trek provides a rare opportunity to explore a region that was restricted to outsiders until 2008, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle untouched by modernity.
Key Facts
- Location: Gorkha District, Nepal
- Duration: Typically 14-21 days
- Best Time to Trek: March to May and September to November
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
- Starting Point: Arughat or Soti Khola (reachable by drive from Kathmandu)
- Highest Point: Mu Gompa (3,700 meters/12,139 feet)
- Accommodations: Tea houses and homestays
- Permits Required: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
Tsum Valley Trek Highlights
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of the Tsumba people, who practice ancient Buddhist traditions and maintain a distinct way of life.
- Ancient Monasteries: Visit centuries-old monasteries such as Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Dephyudonma Gompa, where you can observe traditional Buddhist rituals and art.
- Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Baudha Himal ranges, along with lush forests, alpine meadows, and terraced fields.
- Remote Villages: Explore traditional villages like Chhokangparo, Nile, and Chumling, where you can interact with locals and learn about their customs and daily life.
- Sacred Sites: Discover sacred caves, such as Piren Phu (Pigeon Cave), which hold religious significance and feature ancient murals and scriptures.
- Wildlife: Trek through the Tsum Valley, home to diverse flora and fauna, including blue sheep, Himalayan tahrs, and, occasionally, the elusive snow leopard.
- Peace and Solitude: Experience the tranquility and isolation of this hidden valley, far from the bustling trekking routes of Nepal.
