Polar Trek

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Good to know

Duration11 days

Difficultymoderate

Max AltitudeN/A m

Group Size2 +

Trip StartsKathmandu/Pokhara

Trip EndsKathmandu/Pokhara

Group StyleGroup and Private

ActivitiesTrekking

Best SeasonApril-May & Oct-Nov

Highlights

  • Explore Manaslu Region Off-the-Beaten-Path: Discover hidden gems while trekking in the Manaslu Region, away from the usual tourist trails.
  • Uncover the Enchantment of Tsum Valley: Immerse yourself in the unexplored beauty of Tsum Valley, a lesser-known treasure in Nepal’s trekking landscape.
  • Chortens, Monasteries, and Gompas Abound: Encounter numerous traditional chortens, ancient monasteries, and peaceful Gompas along your trekking journey.
  • Immerse in Tibetan Buddhism’s Influence: Experience the profound impact of Tibetan Buddhism on the local culture as you interact with the region’s spiritual heritage.
  • Breathtaking Panoramas of Himalayan Peaks: Witness awe-inspiring vistas of Hiunchuli, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Poshyop Glacier, offering a visual feast for trekkers.
  • Traverse Cascading Rivers and Waterfalls: Trek alongside cascading rivers, glistening waterfalls, and navigate through sturdy suspension bridges that enhance your journey.
  • Engage with Locals and Lamas: Connect with the welcoming locals, including lamas, and gain insights into their unique way of life, adding a cultural dimension to your trekking experience.

Overview about Tsum Valley Trek

The Tsum Valley emerges as a hidden gem, tucked away in the Manaslu region of Nepal, close to the Tibetan border. This remote enclave exudes a distinctive Tibetan Buddhist ambiance, setting it apart from the surrounding landscapes.

Once a restricted zone until 2008, Tsum Valley remains largely untouched by trekkers, although its starting point is a mere 7-hour drive from Kathmandu, making it accessible and enticing for adventure seekers.

The trek spans around 11 days, primarily at altitudes exceeding 3,000m. Given the high elevations and daily walks spanning 5 to 7 hours, a reasonable level of physical fitness becomes imperative for embarking on this journey.

The trail meanders through enchanting pine forests, tracing the contours of tumultuous rivers adorned with cascading waterfalls and remarkable suspension bridges. It winds its way through captivating villages, leading to numerous gompas, monasteries, mani walls, stupas, and even the renowned Milarepa’s Cave.

The panoramic vista unfolds with the majestic Himalayan peaks, including the Himalchuli (7,893m), Ganesh Himal (7,140m), Manaslu (8,163m), Churke Himal, and the imposing Poshyop Glacier.

Trekking enthusiasts with an affinity for Tibetan culture and mountain scenery will find Tsum Valley an unparalleled opportunity. Here, they can immerse themselves in the daily lives of Tibetan Buddhist communities, witness the devout practices of monks and nuns in their spiritual sanctuaries, and relish the awe-inspiring Himalayan panoramas. This journey feels akin to a pilgrimage through the hidden sanctuary of the valley.

The Tsum Valley Trek can be undertaken as a standalone expedition or seamlessly integrated into the Manaslu Trek, catering to those with a penchant for longer explorations.

Itinerary

Day 0: Arrival in Kathmandu/Pokhara

Upon your arrival at Airport, our company representative or our guide picks you up and transfers you to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu/Pokhara. 

Day 1: From Pokhara/Kathmandu to Machhaa khola village(930m) via Aarughat.

After breakfast around 8 hour drive to the destination, including lunch break. The next day we trek along the riverbank of Budhi Gandaki.We stay overnight at local teahouse.

Day 2: Machha khola village to Jagat village(1,410m)(First permit check point) 7 hrs, including lunch break.

We enter the Manasulu Restricted area. Our trek heads through the several Mane walls, and indicating the Tibetan influence.We cross the Iron Bridge over the Budhi Gandaki river.We stay overnight at local teahouse.

Day 3: Jagat to Lokpa village (2240m) via Philim village(1,590m) 6 hrs, including lunch break.

After the breakfast, the trail ascends towards the village and steep path along the valley with the great views of Baudha himal(6,672m) and beautiful villages. The trail then enters an amazing part of the uninhabited gorge, surrounded by wild orchids on top of it. Ascending steep to the north side of the narrow valley will lead us through pine forest to Lokpa. We stay overnight at local teahouse.  

Day 4: Lokpa to Chumling(2386m) 4 – 5 hrs, lunch camp.

After the breakfast, our trek commences the descend half and hrs towards Lungwa khola and climbing zigzag up hill further north through the rhododendron and pine forest we reach Gumlung. Crossing the Siyar khola reach Chumling(lower Tsum) which offers a beautiful view of Shringi Himal. Time is available to make an excursion to the old Gumba and village of stone streets. Overnight stay at local teahouse.

Day 5: Chumling to Chhokung paro(3,030m) 4 – 5 hrs, luch camp.

After breakfast, we pass through the suspension bridge. Enjoy the amazing view of Ganesh Himal(7,429m). After the short hike we arrive Rainjam to Serpu khola and cross the another bridge to Chhokung paro village. Weather permit, we have another amazing view of Himalchuli peak(7,893m) and Ganesh Himal(7,429m). We stay overnight at local teahouse. We stay overnight at local teahouse.   

Day 6: Chhokhung paro to Nile(3,331m) via Milarepa cave(3,245m), 5 – 6 hrs, including lunch break.

After breakfast, we head through the Lamagaon and suspension bridge to the Rachen Gumba, wich is well known as nunnery Monastery. Shortly visit, and then we continue to Tsum valley trek through the well managed village Lar, where we visit the Milarepa cave, the cave also known as Piren Phu(Pigeon cave).We ascending to the village of Nile via old historic stupas of Buddha and beautiful villages. We stay overnight at local teahouse

Day 7: Excursion day to Mu Gumba(3,700m) 6 hrs, including lunch break.

We are now very much near to the Tibetan border. Gradually ascends to the west bank of valley through the Tibetan landscapes and mani wall to Mu Gumba(it is the largest monastery) in the region. Mu Gumba is located at the highest and most isolated point in the Tsum valley. We’ll visit the monastery houses to see old religious books, including a life sized statue of Avalokiteshwara, and images of Guru Padmasambhava and Tara. And also shortly visit the Dhephu Doma Nunnery Gumba, after exploring all the monastery we descending to Nile. We stay overnight at local teahouse.

Day 8: Nile to Domje(2,460m) via Rachhen Gumba(3,240m) 6 hrs, including lunch break.

After breakfast the trail drops down(easy) to Domje, where there is a small village with about eight housed via Lar village, Rachhen Gumba, and cross over a suspension bridge to Chhekang paro and Gho then Domje. We stay overnight at local teahouse.

Day 9: Domje to Lokpa(2,240m) via Gumba Lungdang(3,200m) and Ripchet(2,470m) 7 hrs, including lunch break.

After breakfast, We hike up to Gumba Lungdang to see the old Monastery and the amazing views of Ganesh Himal range, Shiringi Himal, Baudha Himal many more..with the Tibetan tea which is welcome drinks served by Nun. After exploring the great moment, we descending the same way back to Domje, and continues our destination to Lokpa, on the way we cross the most beautiful waterfalls. We stay overnight at local teahouse.

Day 10: Lokpa to Dobhan(1,078m) via Philim(1,590m) and Jagat(1,410m) 7 hrs, including lunch break.

After breakfast, we hike down to Dobhan. The trail heads along the pine and rhododendron forest and join to the main Manasulu trail again. We continues our hike passing through Ekle Bhatti, Philim, Jagat, and crossing the Budhi Gandaki before reaching and finally Dobhan. We stay overnight at local teahouse.

Day 11: Dobhan to Pokhara/Kathmandu, 8 – 9 hrs drive.

Today we pack up our trekking equipment and leave Dobhan by jeep early morning to reach Pokhara/Kathmandu, lunch will be taken on the way. We then drop you off at your hotel.

There is also the option of a shorter drive to Pokhara and a flight back to Kathmandu or by Tourist bus, many of trekkers spend some days of rest and relaxation there before back to the KTM.

Not satisfied with regular itinerary?

Customize your own

Trip Map

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Inclusions

What‘s included

    Manaslu conservation area permit and Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
    A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking, well-trained, Government license holding guide. Price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
    02 guest to 01 porter (Max weight limit for a porter- 20 kg (10 kg per trekker, weight limit).) with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation and equipment.
    We provide an assistant guide his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance walking with group to support where necessary as per the group size.
    Accommodation in the mountain during the trekking.
    To and Fro from Trek Start Point to Trek End Point by Bus/Jeep.
    Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch and dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
    Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day.
    First aid kit box.
    All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary.

What‘s excluded

    Your Nepal Visa fees.
    All the International air fare to and from Kathmandu.
    All meals and accommodation in Kathmandu and in Pokhara.
    Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu/Chitwan transportation (if you want we can organize for you with additional cost).
    Personal travel and health insurance as well as insurance for helicopter evacuation.
    In case of extra nights’ accommodation, lunch and dinner in city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of itinerary. We can help you arrange extra nights’ accommodation.
    Your personal expenses such as (laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc).
    The tips to the trekking crews and drive.
    Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out of our control.
    Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company).

Essential Info

Suggested Equipment List

Duffel/Rucksack bag

Walking Pole

Day pack.

Trekking shoes.

Sports shoes or sandals.

Sun Hat/cap

Warm woolen cap.

Warm fleece jacket or puffy jacket

Waterproof Gore-Tex layer

Pullover or warm sweeter

Raincoat

4/5 pairs of good quality socks

Hand gloves.

2/3 pairs of trekking trousers.

3/4 pairs of trekking shirts.

3/4 pairs of underwear (non cotton preferred).

Sun glasses

Water bottle

4 season sleeping bag

Flash or Torch light

Camera and batteries

FAQs

1. How challenging is the this Trek?

The Trek is rated as a moderate trek. While it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended as you’ll be walking for several hours each day.

2. What's the best time to undertake this trek?

The best seasons for this Trek are Spring (April to May) and Fall (October to November). The weather is stable, skies are clear, and the trails are vibrant with nature’s beauty.

3. Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?

Yes, altitude sickness can affect trekkers. Our itinerary includes gradual acclimatization days, allowing you to adjust to higher altitudes and minimize the risk of altitude-related issues.

4. What's the maximum altitude reached during this trek?

The highest point of the trek is 3,700 meters. This vantage point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

5. Are there accommodations along the route?

Yes, there are teahouses and lodges available along the Trekking trail. These provide basic amenities such as accommodation and meals. Accommodations might be simpler at higher altitudes.

6. Do I need permits for this trek?

Manaslu conservation area permit and Restricted Area Permit (RAP).

7. Is prior trekking experience necessary?

Prior trekking experience isn’t mandatory, but some hiking experience and reasonable fitness will enhance your overall trekking experience.

8. What should I pack for the trek?

Pack essential items like warm clothing (layers are key), a sturdy pair of trekking shoes, a backpack, a sleeping bag, a hat, gloves, and sunglasses. Our detailed packing list will help you prepare adequately.

9. How can I book the Trek with Polar Trekking and Expeditions PVT. LTD.?

Booking your trek with us is easy! Simply visit our website, choose the Trek, and follow the booking instructions. Our dedicated team will be in touch to guide you through the process.

10. What makes Polar Trekking and Expeditions PVT. LTD. the ideal choice for this adventure?

Polar Trekking and Expeditions PVT. LTD. is renowned for its experienced guides, well-crafted itineraries, and commitment to safety. We offer personalized services, ensuring you have an unforgettable and secure trekking experience.

Get ready to embark on the Everest Gokyo Trekking adventure with Polar Trekking and Expeditions PVT. LTD. Your journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Everest region awaits, promising a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.

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