Trip Overview
| Duration: 19 days |
Country: Nepal |
| Max. Altitude: 4,030m/13,223ft. |
Walking Per Day: 6hrs |
| Accommodation: N/A |
 Grade: Strenuous
|
| Best Season: Autumn and Spring |
Group Size: 1-15 |
| Mode: Tea-House/Lodge |
Culture: Mixed Culture |
Tsum Valley Trek takes you to one of the most isolated regions of Nepal. Tsum is a hidden valley, surrounded by gigantic mountains and hills so it is an incredible experience of exploring such a valley that is unseen and unexplored. The name Tsum is inspired by the Tibetan word “Tsombo” which refers to bright or vivid.
Major Attractions of Tsum Valley | Unity in Diversity
The major attractions of Tsum Valley Trek include the unity in diversity among people, the sacred history of the region, the peacefulness there, and the astounding sceneries of the Ganesh Himal range, Siringi Himal ranges, and several other peaks.
Various ethnic groups like Gurung, Sherpa, Bhotia, Brahmins, and Kshetris are resident there and their mutual harmony influences to reside with unity. Despite being identical in terms of ethos, foods, uniforms, and festival celebrations, the synchronization among them teaches a lesson to the world about unity.
Tsum Valley : Restricted Area
Tsum Valley, Manaslu is such a nonviolent place on earth where it is not allowed to carry any weapons, even the military and soldiers don’t carry arms. As well as it is strictly prohibited to kill any animals in the name of slaughter for religions.
Thus, Tsum Valley is still a restricted area that is not allowed for trekking unless you are certified with a valid permit. Generally, the special permit for Tsum Valley is valid for seven days. Since Tsum Valley Trek routes are inbounded within the Manaslu Conservation Area, one should have a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit along with a TIMS card and Tsum Valley Special Permit to embark on this trek.
Lifestyle and Culture in Manaslu Tsum Valley
Linked with the Tibetan border, the lifestyle and culture of Tsum Valley are highly influenced by Tibetan culture. Buddhism is the major religion of the region and hence Buddhist monuments are arts such as Monasteries, Chortens, Mani Walls and Prayer Flags are also appreciable during the trek.
On the other hand, there is a cave that is dedicated to the highly incarnated “Lama” and it is amazing to explore such a mystical fact during the Tsum Valley Trek.
Things to Explore in Manaslu Tsum Valley
Most of our hikes will be uphill and downhill thru the river banks of Budi Gandaki River and the lush bushes. Crossing suspension bridges and passing by the small settlements and exploring the ancient trading center such as “Philim” are also adorable during the journey.
Himalayan Wildlife such as Blue Sheep, Himalayan Thar, Snow-leopard, Himalayan Marmot, Yaks, Mountain Pika, Tibetan Snow Cock, and alpine vegetation including Rhododendron, oaks, Yarchagumba, pine, juniper, and so on dwells along the trail to cheer up the trekkers.
Role of Tourism in Society and Environment - Manaslu Tsum Valley
Trekking in Tsum Valley not only enlightens the trekkers with achievement, lifetime experience, and soulfulness but also allows them to contribute to social and environmental awaking. The cost of the permit is utilized in developing manpower and spreading awareness to develop and upgrade the lifestyle of the indigenous people.
Whereas, the locals directly benefit from the trek since the local products are promoted as well and they get income-generating opportunities. In this way, the Tsum Valley Trek is very helpful in civilization with the help of tourism in Nepal.
Trek Difficulty: Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu
Tsum Valley Trek is a B-grade difficulty trek which means it is quite arduous trekking experience. One should be physically fit and prepared enough to tackle the challenges and difficulties during the trek.
Walking through the off-the-beaten trail for hours on narrow and two-footed paths which are risky. Along with that, there are several rock-falling sites and landslide-prone areas along the trail which is challenging if you don’t have proper knowledge of trekking and an experienced instructor along with you.
Best Time for Tsum Valley Trek, Manaslu
The time frame should be planned very wisely to achieve the successful Tsum Valley Trekking experience. Since the winter is snowy and pathways get blocked as well as difficult due to heavy snowfall and during summer there is more probability of floods and landslides and also the leeches, it is not recommended.
Nepal Mountain Trekkers recommends you plan the trip during the months of autumn or spring to gain a complete Tsum Valley Trekking experience. Including the jaw-dropping sceneries, the blossoming of flora and fauna, and the travelers’ safety.
