Tsum Valley Trek 2026 | 18 Days Sacred Hidden Valley

Overview

The Valley of Sacred Happiness

The Tsum Valley is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley situated in northern Gorkha, Nepal. 'Tsum' is derived from the Tibetan word 'Tsombo', which means vivid. Traditionally, the valley was a distinct geographical area called Tsum Tso Chuksum.

Trip Facts

Group Size	2–10 Persons
Accommodation	Teahouses / Homestays
Meals	B, L, D included
Starting Point	Machha Khola
Max Elevation	3,700m (Mu Gompa)
Difficulty	Moderate

Highlights

Sacred Wonders

Mu Gompa
The largest and oldest monastery in the valley, perched at 3,700m with stunning mountain vistas.
Piren Phu Cave
The sacred cave where the great Buddhist saint Milarepa is said to have meditated.
Ganesh Himal Views
Unrivaled views of the Ganesh Himal range, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal.
Hidden Culture
Authentic Tibetan-influenced lifestyle and the unique 'Shyakya' tradition of non-violence.
Rachen Gompa
A significant nunnery located in the Shiar Khola valley, rich in murals and statues.
Shiar Khola River
Trek alongside the pristine glacial waters that flow through the heart of the valley.

Daily Route

Detailed Itinerary

18 days, every step planned — click any day to expand

01 Arrival in Kathmandu

Pick up from Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Evening briefing about the trek.

02 Kathmandu Sightseeing

Guided tour of Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath while we process your restricted area permits.

03-05 Into the Foothills

Drive to Machha Khola and trek through the Budhi Gandaki gorge to Jagat, the gateway to the restricted area.

06-10 Entering the Sacred Valley

Ascend to Lokpa - the entrance to Tsum Valley. Traverse through Chhekampar and Nile to reach Mu Gompa at 3,700m.

11-18 Return Journey

Descend via Piren Phu cave and Gumba Lungdang. Return to Kathmandu and final departure.

Visuals

Gallery from The Hidden Valley

Ancient Mu Gompa

Majestic Peaks

Sacred Trails

Beyul Sanctuary

Tsumba Heritage

Alpenglow over Tsum

Common Questions

Tsum Valley FAQs

What makes Tsum Valley different?

Tsum Valley is unique for its deep spiritual atmosphere and strict adherence to non-violence (Shyakya). No animals are slaughtered, and the culture is purely Tibetan Buddhist.

Do I need a special permit?

Yes, Tsum Valley is a restricted area. You need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), must trek with a licensed guide, and be in a group of at least two people.

How difficult is the trek?

It is a moderate trek. Max altitude is 3,700m at Mu Gompa, making it safer regarding altitude sickness compared to Everest or Annapurna circuits.

Reviews

What Our Trekkers Say

★★★★★

"An absolutely life-changing experience. The organization was top-notch and the views were beyond description."

D

David L.Sydney, Australia