Nepal · Manaslu Region
Tsum Valley And Ganesh Base Camp Trek
Trip Highlights
Trip Overview
Overview
Tsum Valley and Ganesh Base Camp Trek is remote area trekking in Nepal. It has been only a decade and a year since the trail has been opened for trekking and tourism purposes. Thus, the natural beauty and the all the glorious details of this place is unspoiled and intact in its purest form. Together with that, you can get the majestic views of the mountains like Manaslu, Sringi Himal, Boudha Himal and many other beautiful peaks. Through trekking in Nepal, you get to see the different types of life style of Nepal. Tsum valley in particular is one of the remote trekking destination of Nepal but with rich ancient art, culture and religion Himalayan region. The trails are filled with stunning landscapes, deep valley and pathways through cliffs, roaring rivers, forest and the people with large cattle. These cattle are the constant companion throughout the trek.
The valley possess the ancient history of pioneers of Buddhist religion. It is believed that saint Milarewa has meditated in this place. Therefore, the villager strongly follow Buddhist religion. At the same time, ancient remains of the Tsum Kingdom are still found. Maybe due to poor development of infrastructure, these remains are still intact as they used to be.
Journey To Tsum Valley and Ganesh Himal Base Camp
Tsum valley trek start with a fun sightseeing tour of UNESCO listed world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley. You will be visiting the cultural heritage sites like PAshupatinath, Swayambhunath, Patan Durbar Square and Boudhnath to learn the spiritual and historical side of Nepal. The next day, you will take a scenic drive to Arughat from Kathmadnu. Upon reaching Arughat, you can officially start your trek from Arughat to Soti Khola. From there onwards, you will see some spectacular views and traverse through many villages crossing many suspension bridges. Ganesh Himal Base Camp is another exciting add on the trip. From the Base Camp, you will get the close up view of Ganesh Himal.
Tsum Valley and Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek gives you phenomenal memory of trekking in Nepal. Not only the place is beautiful but this ancient villages have its own charm that attract the visitors. Join Himalayan Social Journey to visit this beautiful place and to make a lifetime memory.
Highlights
- A picturesque journey from Kathmandu to Arughat
- Exploring the Tibetan culture and way of life
- Waterfalls, streams and caves on the way
- Fairly easy trek without fear of altitude sickness
- Wilderness animals such as the Blue Sheep and the Himalayan Thar
- Several of the buddhist temples
- Prayer flags and the walls of Mani along the road
- Spectacular views of mountains such as Ganesh Himal and Himal Chuli
- Wonderful forests of pine, juniper and rhododendron.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport, extend a warm welcome, and transfer to your hotel. Take advantage of this day to adjust to the new time zone and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Kathmandu. Orientation Program will be at 5 PM. After orientation program welcome Dinner with guide.
Following breakfast, our knowledgeable tour guide from Himalayan Social Journey will escort you on a captivating journey to explore Nepal's UNESCO-listed world heritage sites. Today's itinerary includes visits to the renowned Pashupatinath temple, the majestic Bouddhanath stupa, the tranquil Swoyambhunath Stupa and the historic Patan Durbar Square.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Arughat, taking in the picturesque landscapes along the way. Upon reaching Arughat, your trek begins, heading towards the charming village of Soti Khola. As you traverse the trail, you'll experience the serenity of rural Nepal, crossing lush forests, terraced fielda,and rivers , preparing you for the journey ahead.
Today's trek takes you through stunning and diverse landscapes as you traverse numerous suspension bridges, enter the lush Sal forests, and ascend to a ridge that offers breathtaking view of th Budhi Gandaki's powerful rapids below. The rugged trail undulates through the terrain, leading you past cascading waterfalls, along steep cliffside paths, and eventually down to terraced fields before rising again to reach the picturesque Gurung village of Labubesi. After skirting around a rocky outcrop, the valley opens wide, and the Budhi Gandaki weaves through exapnsive gravel bars. From there, descend to the river's sandy shores, walk along smooth, rounded stones, and continue your journey over a side ridge before finally making your way to the welcoming village of Machha Khola for the night's rest.
Your day begins with an easy morning break as you pass through Khorlabesi. Along the way, you'll take a break at Tatopani to explore the natural hot water springs. Afterward, you'll continue your journey through a forested path leading to Dhoban. From Dhoban, you will descend to the banks of the Yaru Kholaat Yaru Beshi,and then ascend a higher trail that takes you through fields before reaching Jagat.
Your trail moves uphill and then continues along a flat, leveld path towards sandy banks. The path becomes steep near Sridibas, where you'll cross a dramatic suspension bridge over the river before climbing up to the beautiful village of Philim. From Philim, you lose elevation and enter the Tsum valley. As you continue a bit further with another climb , you'll reach Lhokpa, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal.
Today you will cross three suspension bridges in the morning before ascending steeply for the rest of the day. As you near the end of your journey, the path becomes more gradual, leading you along a pleasant trail until you reach Chumling. Through the day's walk is short, the long ascent makes it quite tiring, with a actual gain in elevation.
Leaving behind Chumling, you begin your walk to Chhokang Paro, also known as Paro is also Chhekemper located on the top of a hill. The trail follows one of the tributaries of the Budhi Gandki river for most of the day, passing a small monastery along the way.After crossing another tributary, the past ascends the hill to reach Chekkampar, which consists of two distincts settlements: Chokkang and Paro.Positioned on a hilltop, Chhemkpar serves as a vintage point, offerring close view of the majestic Ganesh Himal Range.
Today, you will continue your journey along a gentle and scenic path, passing through charming villages such as Leeru and Ngyaku. As you make your way towards Lamagaun, you will enjoy the tranquil atmosphereand the beautiful landscapes that accompanies the route. Once your arrival at Lamagaun., you'll have chance to explore the village, immersing yourself in local culture and taking in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Today, you will visit the famous Milapera Cave and explore the various gompas in Lama Goan.As we wander through the village, you'll delve through the local culture , tradition and natural beauty of the surroundings.
You will continue your journey to Nile that goes through series of ups and downs to Mu Gompa. Mu Gompa is one of the oldest existing monasteries in Tsum Valley region of Nepal. Due to its remote access, no human settlement is found in area around Mu Gompa. This Gompa exists at the highest and farthest point in Tsum valley. Yaks carrying goods to and from Tibet can be seen on the way.
You will descend down the valley to Chhule and continue walking down to Phurbe. You will stay on the east bank of the Siyar Khola and cross flat boulder-covered plains and follow the power lines to Rachen Gompa/ Nunnery Gompa. You will visit this ancient gompa and interact with the monks and nuns living in the gompa.
After visiting the Nunnery Gompa, you will retrace your steps and make your way back to Chhemkampar, enjoying the familiar route along the way.
After having quick breakfast, you will leave Dumje and choose the descending trail that enthralls with scenic views of Manaslu Mountain and Ganesh Mountain. Moving through few dispersed settlements, you will arrive at Lungdang Gompa. Lungdang Gompa is a Buddhist nunnery where males are not allowed an entrance. The area around Lung Dang Gompa offers the best sunrise view over Ganesh Himal range. Stay overnight in a camp nearby Lung Dang Gompa.
Passing through small pasture lands, a monastery, and crossing the Laudang River, the trail further ascends through pine and rhododendron forests. Climbing along with the pines, you will further pass the lateral moraine of Torogumba Glacier, and through passing along seasonal yak huts and moraine wall, you will reach the Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4200m).After watching magnificient view of Ganesh Himal, you will finally return to Lung Dang Gompa.
Leaving Lung Dang Gompa, you will descend down to Ripchet.The village of Ripchet is lovely with big houses. It offers you the chance to learn about the local people 's hospitality history, practices and lifestyles.After that you will descend down through pine forests with wildlife and descend down the river until you will reach Dobhan.
From Rupchet, you will further descend down along the trail to Yaru Phat, taking in the breathtaking mountains views along the way.As we approach Yaru Phat, the train remains managable with the sound of river below. Upon reaching Yaru Phat, you will settle for the eveningsurrounded by the natural beauty of the region.
You will pass through the same ridge and descend the familiar stairs at Thulo Bhrayang, crossing suspension bridges on your way to Dhoban.From there you will retrace your journey back to the Hot Springs at Tatopani and continue onwards to Macchakhola to Lapubensi.
You'll continue descending down along the slope of the Budhi Gandaki River. Before reaching Sotikhola, you will cross another suspension bridge as you ascend into the valley.As you walk towards the Sotikhola, you will enjoy the view of stunning water fall ahead.Proceeding further, you will eventually reach Arughat.
Youwill depart for Kathmandu in the morning, starting with a newly built but unpaved road until Dhading Besi, where some bumps are expected due to the current state of the route. From Dhading Besi, the road transitions to concrete, offering a smoother but still mountainous drive. While the terrain can be uneven at times, the journey offers scenic views, and we anticipate arriving in Kathmandu, by late morning or early afternoon, depending on traffic and weather conditions
After having breakfast, spend a leisurely day exploring Thamel. Stroll through the vibrant streets, taking in the sights ans sounds of the bustling market. Visit local shops, selling handicrafts, souveniors.
Use your last morning in Kathmandu according to your flight time. Pack your things, check out of the hotel, Head to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey back home!
What's Included
Weather & Best Time
Average temperatures are indicative for Manaslu Region (~3,500–5,200 m). Actual conditions vary with altitude and year.
Recommended Equipment
Available Departures
Frequently Asked Questions
This package of Manaslu is 21 Days long. The number of days can vary depending on the routes and transportation modes, offers and packages you choose.
Best time to do Tsum Valley and Ganesh Himal Trek is during spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). HSJ can however organize the trek at any time of the year with absolute safety while still availing you to have memorable experience.
The trek begins on a spectacular drive to the ancient village of Baluwa, Barpak or Laprach, following the lush Daroundi Valley, and ascending to the Mamche Danda (2800 m), offering a wide range of Himalayans such as the Ganesh Himala, Buddha Himal, Shringi Himal, and the Himal Lamjung. You could take a snap of the beautiful area from Mamche Danda to Pusu Danda before heading down to Laprak. Finally, Laprak's trek from Barpak is sufficient to reach the Budigandaki River. The trip will help the acclimation process and shape the legs and lungs with the help of the fresh mountain breeze.
This is a distant mountain trip, with long ascents, steep descents and straight roads after a straight trekking trails. For trekking, past hiking experience will be an added benefit, as it requires no technical knowledge and skills. Trekkers who can travel with a light day pack five to six hours a day at a respectable pace can take part on this journey. Daily workouts and jogging a few weeks before the trip are a good time to enhance our endurance.
Before booking the trek, participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart and lung disorders and blood disorder should notify us.
Guide is more than just someone that helps you with navigation, guide with knowledge of locality, way of life and also being responsible to attend to your other needs like finding you comfortable accommodation. Having a porter will help you carry your gears and belongings and you can travel at your pace while enjoying your trek. A guide can arrange for permits and TIMS for you and dealing with all other technical aspects of trekking.
Trekking in Manaslu region is fairly moderate trek that people can do this trek independently. Indeed, it is secure and not risky trek. While there is always the possibility of avalanche because it is in mountainous areas, this is usually not dangerous. It's not a complex walk, the pitch is not rough, no tough moves, no sharp hits. That said, accidents can occur on any walk, so caution is of course required. A responsive acclimatization is important.
Electricity for the camera and the handheld battery charge is accessible in the lodges. However extra cost shall incur. Most lodges are equipped with hydropower and some have solar panels.You can charge all your devices staying overnight in one of chosen lodges or tea houses.
You will have working network connectivity in most parts of the trails. However at the higher altitude, the network may become sluggish and unreliable. The stops at the tea houses will have working connection and most of them would have Wi-Fi connectivity too. You may have to pay some extra charge for Wi-Fi connection and electricity at the higher altitude.
Global passengers will be protected by insurance when treking in Nepal. Although Nepal is normally very secure, trekking at high altitudes is physically difficult and often risky. Altitude sickness is common during hiking tours in Nepal, particularly among foreign hikers who may not have taken the right time to acclimatize. Such rescue and related emergency procedures are costly and passengers are forced to pay for these services out of their pockets, unless they are covered by insurance plans.
The Tap water supplied along the trails are considered safe for drinking and local people drink it without treating, however for the foreigners, it is best that the tap water be only drunk after purification. There are two good options for having proper drinking water during the trek. You can bring water purification tablets or fill your bottle for a nominal fee from the recognized and regulated "pure water" stations along the trek. As the last alternative, you can also purchase bottled water at the lodges but this is not recommended. It is very important that you drink at least 3 liters of pure water daily during the trek.
We suggest taking out an insurance plan for your individual accountability, accidents and illnesses during the service.Regarding the type of activity, you may be asked to show a certificate of insurance for help and support, sanitation and search. This service is private and not free in Nepal, the helicopter will not take off until it is convinced to pay for the insurance.
There will be two people accommodated in each room for the duration of the tour. If you prefer private accommodation, you'll find the option for "single supplement" of USD 300. Important: Please note that during the trek there are some lodges which won't have sufficient rooms to provide private accommodation. So, even if you purchase single supplement you will end up sharing a room for some days of the trek.
You may have to apply and obtain necessary TIMS and Permits yourself if you are trekking solo or independently. If you are hiring trekking agency or guide, this will be taken care for you.
You need Manaslu special permit with Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits would be included in your trekking fees and shall be arranged for you by the company.
Yes, Himalayan Social Journey is flexible travel partner. It is possible to organize the private trip or private group trip to Manaslu. The minimum people for the group is 2 however supplementary charge will be applicable for the solo traveler wanting to do private trip.
In the average, you will be walking for 6-7 hours each day during the Tsum Valley and Ganesh Himal Trek.
Insurance of the guide and porter is covered by the company. All our guides and porters are properly insured.
Yes, children are allowed to do the trek, however it is safe to not bring children under the age of 12 to do the trek as they may find it difficult and not able to walk. This could affect your trekking experience as well.
No, there is no age limit to do the trek. If the person is healthy and physically fit, they can do the trek.
No, the company does not provide trekking poles, you will have to manage it on your own or our guide can help you buy it when you are in Nepal. The pair of trekking poles cost from $10-$15.
Yes, we do provide sleeping bags. The sleeping bags we provide are of good quality. They help you sustain the colder climate in Nepali mountains up to -25 degree Celsius of temperature. However if you need the one of your own, you can buy one here. Your guide shall assist you to get it here. Keep the track of the weather forecast of the area and pack your clothes accordingly. This would help you be prepared for the type of weather Nepali Mountains are accustomed to.
Traveler Reviews
"Best way to experience Nepal"
We did the 14 days Nepal budget tour and we could not be more happy with our choice. In only 2 weeks we visited Kathmandu, Chitwan national park, Pokhara and did a 5 day trek in the Annapurna region. The organization was flawless (like a swiss clock). We felt safe and welcomed in every place. Our guides Harka (Chitwan) and Ganesh (Pokhara and trek) + Bishal (our porter) did an outstanding job. We recommend them and the whole trip 100%. It was much better than we could have imagined. In the end, we recommand everyone to visit the beautiful places from Nepal and meet its warm and welcoming people.
"💯"
It was an wonderful experience with himalayan social journey,mingmar and Rupesh are our guide and they did so well. Everyday it was on time ,well planned and executed trek👍
"Amazing Everest Base Camp Trek!!"
Had an absolute amazing time. The Himalayas were beautiful, had blue skies and views everyday. Himalayan Social Journey and our guides Mingmar Sherpa and Rupesh went beyond our expectations. Definety helped us reach Everest Base Camp without any issues. Would definitely do another trek with them and would not use anyone else.
"Awesome Experience!!!"
Mingmar sherpa dai was our trek lead along-with Tenzing dai, Janak and Siddharth. All of them really helped us during entire the trek. Whether it is stay, food or assistance for any additional request. I would highly recommend them as trek leads if you are planning for the trek in and around Nepal. Specially EBC.
"Best Experience"
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Amazing Trishuli rafting experience! I did this rafting in October 2024. Himalayan Social Journey made it safe, fun, and unforgettable. Thrilling rapids and stunning scenery combined for the perfect adventure. Highly recommend!
"Best Experience Of My Life!"
It was my first trekking experience in Nepal and Himalayan Social Journey made the entire experience memorable. They are very professional and will help you at every point. A special word of thanks to Sushma, who helped a lot throughout and was my go-to person. My guide Dinesh was a gem and so was the porter, Ramkrishna. Dinesh saved my life a few times (literally) and he is so efficient and helpful that it is hard to put in words. Want togo back to Nepal through HSJ, there is a lot more to do. If you are planning any activity in Nepal you may blindly book with HSJ and be assured of an experience of a lifetime. These guys are more than a tour planner, they are your friend. philosopher, guide all in one!
