Why choose Tsum Valey Trek?
There is a lot of reason to choose the Tsum Valley trek over other trekking regions in Nepal. Being the most untouched northernmost part of Nepal bordering Tibet, the valley offers a great trekking experience. Relatively new to trekkers, the trails are off-beaten and adventurous full of marvels of nature. The number of trekkers trekking in this region is very less so you can avoid human traffic and immerse yourself in the calmness of nature, and the hospitality of local people and get a chance to learn about the local Bon and Buddhist traditions. A trek that provides full-scale adventure from geography to traditions, from lush green valleys to no man's land, from crowded lower regions to remote and untouched valleys, so why end up trekking in other areas while you can have a completely new experience?
The natural aura and history are as authentic as they can get. The Buddhist settlement in the valley looks completely different than elsewhere. The people here are of Tibetan origin and they possess unique dialects, cultures, and practices. The geographic location of this land in the northern nook of Manaslu is a boon when it comes to witnessing Majestic Mountain. Decorated by Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Buddha ranges, and Himchuli, the backdrop of Tsum Valley Trek is a trekker’s dream come true. Stand anywhere in the middle of your walk and the backdrop is a picture-perfect frame!
Tsum Valley trekking difficulty :
Tsum valley trekking is graded as a moderately difficult trek as the trail passes through multiple ascends and descends. Since the trekking region is relatively new, most of this region remains remote giving trekkers an experience of authentic rural trekking with limited services and resources.
Altitude Sickness at Tsum Valley Trek :
The probability of suffering from High altitude sickness while trekking in the Upper Himalayan region is always high if you are not well prepared and are not careful enough. The highest point attained while trekking is at 5095 m above sea level so there is always a risk of altitude sickness. The level of oxygen concentration in the atmosphere in the upper Himalayan region is low. There are certain steps to avoid the risk of altitude sickness while trekking.
- avoid rapid pace while ascending, take time, rest at certain intervals of time to catch breathe
- drink water frequently to avoid dehydration. Don't drink lots of water at once but take a sip or two at a frequent interval of time.
- avoid heavy backpacks as you spend more energy carrying them.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
-Early symptoms of Altitude Sickness include:
- loss of breathing even while resting
- muscle cramp, early tiredness, and fatigue
- Nausea, dizziness
- sleep disturbances, loss of appetite
- If you do not take care in your early stages, the symptoms may worsen. The further symptoms include
- vomiting, severe headache
- Ataxia ( uncontrolled walking behavior)
- Increased pulse rate
- Severe dry cough
- Fingertips and lips turn to blue color which indicated the low amount of oxygen in the body
- Altered mental status/mental confusion
- Unconsciousness leading to Coma
- Prevention:
- Acclimatization: - After a 1000m. Ascent, stay one more night for acclimatization.
- Do not make RAPID ASCENT; don't go too fast or too high.
- No alcohol, sleeping pills, or smoking.
- Drink more fluid 3-4ltrs a day… clean, boiled, or treated water/tea/coffee/soup/juice, etc.
- Do not carry heavy packs.
- Climb higher sleep lower.
- Do not travel alone.
- Permits and Restrictions in Tsum Valley Trek
Nepal Government has imposed some restrictions on the safety of trekkers. As a completely new trail and with minimum human interactions along the trail, one can get easily lost in the vast forest of the Manaslu region. The minimum number of people to trek in this region must be two along with a licensed and experienced guide from a local trekking agency. This means solo trekking or trekking without guides is completely restricted in this region. Only a registered guide from a local trekking agency can obtain the special Tsum valley trekking permit so like it or not, this region cannot be done without a licensed guide from a local trek agency. A total number of 4 permits are required to trek into this region:
Special Tsum Valley Trek Permit: September to November, 35 US$ per person for the first 8 days and an additional US$ for each additional day. December to August, 25 US$ per person for the first 8 days and US$ for each additional day after that.
- Manaslu Conservation Area permit : 3000 NPR
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit :
- Trekkers Information Management System permits:
- Best time to do Tsum Valley Trek
When speaking about trekking in the high Himalayas in Nepal, there are mainly two seasons. However, with enough preparation, trekking can be done anytime.
Spring Season ( April - May ): Starting from April, the wildlands of the mid-hilly region of the Tsum Valley trek are fully colored with vibrant wildflowers. The colorful rhododendron species provides a different calmness to the tired soul. The lush green forests and clear skies provide you with beautiful views of varied landscapes. Mid or late afternoon may get overcast sometimes with little drizzle and thunder. Snow can be expected at altitudes above 2500 m. The mornings and nights are moderately cold but the afternoon is warm. The lower part of the region is agricultural land with traditional terraced farming.
Autumn Season ( September - November ): The best time to do any treks in Nepal is between September to November. The clean, blue sky with far visibility, less to no hazes and fogs, and cool temperature make this time the best time to trek Tsum Valley. However, the days are shorter and nights and mornings are colder compared to the Spring season. The temperature may fall below 0 degrees in shady areas, morning and night. Occasional light snowfall can be expected during this time of year
