Below is a realistic itinerary for a standalone Tsum Valley trek, starting at Soti Khola and ending back there or continuing on the Manaslu Circuit. Altitudes are approximate and lodge locations vary a little, but the pattern is consistent: a lowland approach, a steady climb through the valley and an easy return.
Overview
Figures are approximate, and small differences between maps and your own watch are normal.
From Kathmandu you drive to Arughat or Soti Khola, about 8 to 10 hours depending on road conditions. The walk begins along the Budhi Gandaki river. The trail goes up through Machha Khola, Jagat, Philim and Lokpa before entering the Tsum Valley. A stay of nine to eleven nights on trek is typical for a full valley exploration with rest days.
Day by day
- Day 1: Kathmandu to Soti Khola (about 710 m). A long drive. Lodges are simple.
- Day 2: Soti Khola to Machha Khola (about 900 m). Forest, waterfalls and suspension bridges.
- Day 3: Machha Khola to Jagat (about 1,340 m). Hot springs at Tatopani on the way. Permit checkpoints at Jagat.
- Day 4: Jagat to Lokpa (about 2,240 m). Via Philim and Chisapani. The trail leaves the main Manaslu route at Lokpa.
- Day 5: Lokpa to Chumling (about 2,380 m). The entrance to the valley. Chumling has two parts, upper and lower, with a monastery.
- Day 6: Chumling to Chhokangparo (about 3,010 m). Higher fields, stone houses and mani walls. Views of Ganesh Himal.
- Day 7: Chhokangparo to Nile and Chhule (about 3,360 m). Side trips to Rachen Gompa nunnery and Mu Gompa area.
- Day 8: Mu Gompa (about 3,700 m) and back. The farthest point, close to the Tibetan border. Return to Chhule or Nile.
- Day 9: Descend to Chhokangparo or Chumling. Options for monasteries on the way.
- Day 10: Return to Lokpa and Philim. Rejoin the main trail.
- Day 11: Philim to Jagat or Machha Khola. Retrace or follow the road.
- Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu. Allow buffer days for road delays.
Rest days and buffers
Include at least one rest day at Chhokangparo or Nile. The valley is not high, but the trail is long, and rest days help you recover and visit monasteries. Landslides can block trails, so add a spare day.
Combining with the Manaslu Circuit
If you continue on the circuit after the valley, you rejoin the main trail at Lokpa and walk to Deng, Namrung, Samagaon, Samdo and Larkya Phedi, then cross the Larkya La. This adds five to seven days to the Tsum Valley plan. See Manaslu Circuit itinerary.
Shorter versions
- Short Tsum: Lokpa to Chhokangparo and back, about 4 to 5 days from Lokpa.
- Half Tsum: Lokpa to Nile or Chhule and back, about 6 days.
- Full Tsum with Mu Gompa: 7 to 8 days from Lokpa.
What to expect each day
Walking days are usually 5 to 7 hours. The trail goes up and down, crosses landslide zones and passes through villages with simple lodges. Weather changes quickly, so be ready for rain or cold.
Common questions
How many days from Kathmandu?
About 12 to 14 days for a full Tsum Valley trek including the drive and a buffer.
Where does Tsum start?
At Lokpa on the main Manaslu route, which is reached from Soti Khola or Arughat via Machha Khola, Jagat and Philim.
Is there a road to Tsum?
A road is being extended along the Budhi Gandaki. Ask your operator about the current state of the road and its effect on your walking days.
