Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek is a rugged, less-traveled trekking trail near the Tibetan border in the northern Gorkha province. Trekking began there in 2008. Trekking in Nepal is a popular and hard activity for individuals who enjoy exploring distant locations and learning about the distinct culture and traditions of the Himalayan people. The journey begins at Arughat, proceeds down the Budhi Gandaki River, and passes by stunning waterfalls. Ascending further will reward you with breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains covered with snow.Located in the foothills of Ganesh Himal (7422 m), Tsum Valley is a hidden valley renowned for its rich Buddhist culture, historic monasteries and traditional way of life. The main attractions of this trek are the Rachen Gompa and MU Gompa, which are reached by trekking. With over 100 monks living there MU Gompa is 400-year old monastery. Situated at an elevation of 3700m in the Tsum valley, this monastery is the oldest and largest one.

You will see chortens, prayer flags, and mani walls along the route. All things considered as the Tsum Valley Trek is and exciting trekking route that passes through numerous charming little villages, such as Machhakhola, Jagat, Chumling, and Chhekampar, where you can learn about the distinctive customs of the locals and feel their warm hospitality. Nonetheless, it’s a moderate to exciting hike that calls for a decent level of fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience (though it’s not required). Culture and Religion in Tsum valley The majority of the locals in Tsum Valley are Tibetan, and they speak a distinct language. They firmly believe in Buddhism. In Tsum Valley, people offer prayers to various Bodhisattvas and Buddha Gur  Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). In addition, they install player flags, mani walls, khata, light butter lamps in monasteries, and hold the notion that lamas reincarnate. The majority of people commemorate the Lhosar festival, which takes place in January or February. For ten to fifteen days, people visit monasteries and hang fresh prayer flags in their homes to commemorate the New Year. They also offer delectable food as a means of greetings and well wishes. The Dhuchyang festival, held in December or January, is another significant celebration for the people of Tsum Valley. praying and visiting monasteries.

Best Time For Tsum Valley Trek

The best time for Tsum Valley trekking falls in the spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. These months hold favorable weather conditions due to clear weather, mild temperatures, and less rainfall. It is during the spring that the rhododendrons, the national flower, bloom in vibrant colors, while autumn has a crispy atmosphere and an ideal temperature to undertake the trek. This time is advantageous to reduce extreme weather conditions in the region and guarantees safe and comfortable trekking. Understandably, trekking in other seasons than those mentioned may be quite tricky and challenging because of massive snowfall in winter or, vice versa, because of monsoon rains in summer that make the trails slippery and more difficult to trek. Thus, choosing the right season for the Tsum Valley trek guarantees either success or a fun-filled journey.

Difficulty on Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek is categorized as a moderately difficult to challenging trek due to its remoteness, wide altitude range, and varied landscapes it goes through. Although not technically as tough compared to some other high-altitude treks, the trek still requires acclimatization due to its distance, rugged pathways, and many suspension bridges with steep ascents and descents. Altitude also contributes to the challenge the trek poses, as it goes over 3,700 meters altitude at its highest point of 12,139 feet, with the added risk of altitude sickness if one does not follow proper acclimatization. Isolation further makes this a difficult trek since services and infrastructure are at a minimum in this region. This scenic, culturally rich adventure is doable with proper preparation combined with good fitness levels and good acclimatization.

Fitness On Tsum Valley Trek

Fitness and preparation are important for the Tsum Valley Trek, as it includes long days of walking at high altitude on difficult terrain. Therefore, a medium degree of physical fitness is desirable, oriented toward cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and stamina. Training like hiking with a loaded backpack, stair climbing, and long-distance walking or running will help the body be better prepared for the demands of the trek. Leg strengthening, especially quadriceps and calf muscles, is important for steep ascents and descents. It’s also essential to practice hiking at elevations if possible to get your body accustomed to thinner air and avoid altitude sickness. Aerobic exercises, like cycling or swimming, on a regular basis, will help improve cardiovascular health and increase overall endurance. Generally, good physical fitness combined with proper acclimatization during the trek is the basis of successfully completing the Tsum Valley Trek without much risk of fatigue and altitude problems.

Mu Gompa

Mu Gompa is an ancient and famous Buddhist monastery situated within the Tsum Valley, lying at an elevation of about 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). The monastery, along with other villages, gives a prayer-like serenity to the residents and trekkers who pass by, enjoying serene atmospheres surrounded by the stunning Himalayas. This monastery is considered very historical, as it dates back centuries and has been an important site regarding Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Mu Gompa is usually visited by trekkers through the Tsum Valley for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful murals, and the chance to experience the local culture and tradition of the Tibetans. Situated at such a high elevation, its access calls for proper acclimatization by trekkers beforehand for a safe and successful visit.

Healthy Meals and  lodging at Tsum Valley Trek

In Nepal, all trekking is centered around teahouses, which entail lodging and dining in regional lodges. The mountain tea houses offer a breathtaking view from their simple, usually double-occupancy rooms that include a wooden bed, blanket, mattress, pillow, and shared bathroom facilities. Similarly, there are single rooms that can accommodate a female traveler traveling alone. Even though the food is abundant and excellent, we eat at teahouses. They serve soup, seasonal vegetables, rice, and a selection of potato and noodle dishes. You can have pancakes, corn flakes, peanut butter, honey, and jam on French toast, as well as porridge with milk for breakfast. Many types of thukpa (noodle soup), momo (dumplings), Tibetan/chapati bread, macroni, spaghetti, Sherpa stew, sandwiches, pizza, spring rolls, and yak steak are available for lunch. Additionally, there are rice pudding, fruit snickers, apple pie, and hot beverages like hot chocolate, hot mango juice, hot pineapple juice, black/milk coffees, and black/mint/ginger/green/lemon honey teas. There are fresh seasonal fruits available in certain areas.
Suitable time to trek One of the greatest times to visit Tsum Valley is in the spring, which runs from March to May. The weather
is usually clear and warm during the day and cooler at night. It’s a beautiful path and easier to trek in the absence of rain or snow. The autumn season, which lasts from October to November, is one of the best because of the clear skies that return after the monsoon rains, the lush landscape, and the hills covered in verdant forests. Now that the heavier clouds have moved on, the mountain’s summit is once again plainly visible. The best times of year for adventure seekers who wish to take on strenuous and difficult treks while visiting Nepal are thought to be the winter and monsoon. The trail is hazardous and challenging because of the muddy and slick conditions.

Guide and Porters for the safety on Tsum Valley Trek

Since the Tsum Valley Trek is a restricted area trek, entry into the area requires a special permit. As a result, all hikers must hire a certified trekking guide and obtain a permit from approved trekking companies that are officially registered with the Nepali government. A trustworthy and respectable business, Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd., is able to offer guides
with excellent technical proficiency and safety performance. They are amiable, proficient in English, properly trained, licensed, and insured as guides. They always have the necessary supplies, first aid kits, and safety equipment on hand.

Travel Insurance for a Safe Tsum Valley Trek

All hikers who wish to take part in any trek or tour program in Nepal’s mountains must have travel insurance. Trekking at high altitudes like the Tsum Valley Trek can be hazardous and physically taxing. In the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a delayed or canceled flight, or lost or stolen luggage, travel insurance can provide financial protection. In addition, it provides you with financial security and assurance in the event of an unplanned mishap.

Altitude sickness During the trek

Above 3000 meters in the mountains, altitude sickness is a common occurrence. Your body tries to adapt to the lower oxygen and air pressure at high altitudes by producing symptoms like headache, nausea, exhaustion, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, appetite loss, rapid pulse, and severe dehydration, among others. When trekking in the Tsum Valley, if you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention right away to avoid complications. These are some prevention tips for altitude sickness that our knowledgeable trekking guides have tried and tested:

• Take a break and relax where you are.
• Ensure you’re getting adequate water to drink.
• Don’t exercise, consume alcohol, or smoke.
• Consuming crab-containing foods and beverages

Preventing Altitude Sickness (AMS):

1. Rest Well: Ensure that you rest well before starting your trek.
2. Stay Hydrated: Continue drinking plenty of water during the journey.
3. Balanced Nutrition: Maintain the balance of salt and sugar through proper eating habits and not skipping meals.
4. Keep Warm: Layer up to remain warm without profuse sweating.
5. Controlled Breathing: Breathe deeply and steadily from your diaphragm to maximize lung capacity. Maintain a comfortable walking speed that will allow for controlled breathing. Nasal breathing avoids drying your throat—wearing a muff or scarf in high altitudes might be of use.
6. Pace Yourself: It’s not a competition. Pace yourself with a maintainable and Server consistent pace instead of exhausting yourself too early and taking many rest stops. Stop and admire the stunning views.