Excitement is building over breakfast in the lodge as we are keen to get out onto the trail in this Manaslu Conservation Area.

This is the perfect trek for those not used to being at high altitudes. The elevation rises slowly over the first few days, giving us plenty of time to get used to the thinner air and the long hours on the trail.

We pass over the Budhi Gandaki River by high suspension bridges, of which there are many. If we are lucky, there are waterfalls to admire and wildlife to spot. We hike through lush forests and small villages of the Gurung and Tamang people, mostly shepherds in this area. And of course, we will go up and down and up and down again on the Himalayan mountain trails. This is what trekking is all about.

Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat: Highlights
– Start Trek: Begin trekking from Maccha Khola after breakfast, crossing the Budhi Gandaki River via suspension bridges.
– Trek Through Villages: Pass through small Gurung and Tamang villages, experiencing local culture and hospitality.
– Lunch Break: Enjoy lunch in a small village along the way, surrounded by lush forests.
– Arrival at Jagat: Arrive at Jagat, a traditional village, marking the day’s end.

About Jagat
Jagat is a traditional village known for its stone-paved lanes and culturally rich atmosphere. It serves as an entry checkpoint for the Manaslu Conservation Area, giving it a unique role in preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

The village is primarily inhabited by the Gurung community, and visitors can experience traditional Nepalese and Tibetan customs. Jagat’s beautiful terraced fields, ancient stone houses, and welcoming locals make it a memorable stop on the Tsum Valley Trek.

In the morning, we follow the Manaslu Circuit Trek route. After lunch we turn off towards the route heading to the Tsum Valley. We follow more rivers and streams, passing through more forests and the villages of Salleri and Siribass. There is a larger village of Gurung people, Philm, and then a small settlement of Ekle Bhatti, which leads us to a river gorge and another Budhi Gandaki River crossing.

Now, we can see the route to the Tsum Valley and look forward to entering the valley tomorrow. But first, there are mountain views to admire: Himalchuli and Boudha Himal are displayed from our overnight Lokpa stop.

Trek from Jagat to Lokpa: Highlights
– Departure from Jagat: Start early to take advantage of the morning’s cool weather.
– Pass Through Philm: Visit the larger Gurung village of Philm, with its unique cultural sites and hospitality.
– Lunch at Ekle Bhatti: Stop for lunch at Ekle Bhatti, a small settlement along the route.
– Arrival at Lokpa: Arrive at Lokpa and enjoy stunning views of Himalchuli and Boudha Himal.

About Lokpa
Lokpa is a charming village that serves as the gateway to the Tsum Valley. Situated at the confluence of multiple trails, Lokpa offers trekkers their first glimpse into the secluded Tsum region.

The village is surrounded by dense forests, providing a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation after a day of trekking. Lokpa is known for its stunning views of Himalchuli and Boudha Himal, and its strategic location makes it an ideal spot for trekkers to rest before continuing deeper into the valley. The village has a unique charm with its traditional houses and welcoming locals who are eager to share their culture and stories with visitors.

Today, we will experience steep climbs and scenery that will make us forget our sore legs. Pine, juniper, and rhododendron forests ensure we play hide-and-seek with the mountain views, but the mountains are definitely above us!

We stay overnight in Chumling villages, a stone-paved settlement similar to Tibet. Arriving at lunchtime, we have plenty of time to explore Panago Gompa and Gurwa Gompa in the afternoon. These are the first of many gompas/ monasteries we will encounter on this trek.

Trek from Lokpa to Chumling: Highlights 
– Departure from Lokpa: Start the day with a steep climb through the pine, juniper, and rhododendron forests.
– Scenic Breaks: Stop for scenic breaks and enjoy the view of the mountains peeking through the forest.
– Arrival at Chumling: Arrive at Chumling, a stone-paved village resembling Tibetan architecture.
– Explore Panago and Gurwa Gompas: Visit these two gompas to learn more about the local spiritual practices.

About Chumling
Chumling is a picturesque village located in the Lower Tsum Valley. Known for its traditional Tibetan-style houses and stone-paved streets, Chumling offers a glimpse into the ancient culture of the region. The village is surrounded by beautiful forests of pine, juniper, and rhododendron, adding to its scenic beauty. Chumling is also home to Panago and Gurwa Gompas, significant spiritual sites where trekkers can explore local religious practices. The peaceful environment and unique cultural elements make Chumling an ideal place for trekkers to rest and immerse themselves in the traditions of the Tsum Valley.

Today, the trail takes us to Upper Tsum Valley. We must cross over a landslide area and climb a high ridge with amazing views of Ganesh Himal. If we are awake early enough, there is an excellent sunrise spot at Shringri Himal.

Now that we are in the Upper Tsum Valley, we note that the houses and people seem even more Tibet-like. Maybe because, hundreds of years ago, the people who are now Nepali Gurung and Tamang did indeed come from Tibet. There are also people known as Tsum communities who also came from Tibet.
Trek from Chumling to Chekampar: Highlights 
– Start the Day: Start early and hike through the valley, gradually ascending into the Upper Tsum Valley.
– Cross Landslide Area: Navigate carefully across landslide-prone areas with impressive views.
– Arrival at Chekampar: Arrive at the village, famous for its high ridge and views of Ganesh Himal.
About Chekampar(Chokhangparo)
Chekampar, also known as Chokhangparo, is one of the first villages in the Upper Tsum Valley. It is well known for its traditional Tibetan-style houses and rich cultural heritage. The village is located on a high ridge, offering incredible views of Ganesh Himal.

Chekampar is also home to several monasteries and mani walls, which are important cultural and spiritual landmarks. The villagers, mostly of Tibetan descent, maintain a traditional way of life, and their warmth and hospitality make Chekampar a highlight of the trek.

On our way to the Nile, the last settlement in the Tsum Valley, we can see one of the many caves where Milarepa, a Buddhist scholar and yogi, meditated during his travels around Nepal and Tibet in the 11th century. We also get to go to Rachen Gompa, which lies nearby.

We are close to the Tibetan border; it feels spiritual and peaceful.
Trek from Chekampar to Nile: Highlights
– Morning Departure: Leave Chekampar and make your way to Nile.
– Visit Milarepa’s Cave: Stop at Milarepa’s Cave for a spiritual experience.
– Pass Rachen Gompa: Visit Rachen Gompa, an important monastery in the area.
– Arrival at Nile: Arrive at Nile, the last settlement before the Tibetan border.
About Nile
Nile is the last village before the Tibetan border, situated in the Upper Tsum Valley. It is known for its traditional Tibetan-style architecture and its proximity to several significant monasteries, including Mu Gompa.

The village is an excellent place to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and experience the peaceful lifestyle of the locals. The surrounding landscapes, with their high mountains and deep valleys, provide a stunning backdrop, making Nile an important cultural and scenic highlight of the trek.

The peaceful spiritual feel continues as we hike to Mu Gompa, the mountains rising around us.

Mu Gompa is the most famous monastery in this area, housing lamas and monks who come to pray, meditate, and live in these rare surroundings. We cannot fail to admire the wonderful murals painted on the monastery’s walls.

These include paintings of Tara and Guru Padmasambhava. We may be able to participate in a Buddhist ritual or light some oil lamps for our loved ones.

Overnight in either Mu Gompa or return to the Nile (3 hours).
Day Trip to Mu Gompa: Highlights
– Depart for Mu Gompa: Begin the journey to Mu Gompa, ascending further into the remote Tsum Valley.
– Explore Mu Gompa: Arrive at Mu Gompa, visit murals and interact with the monks.
– Participate in Buddhist Rituals: Take part in traditional Buddhist rituals and light oil lamps.
– Return to the Nile (Optional): If not staying overnight, return to the Nile for a peaceful evening.
About Mu Gompa
Mu Gompa is the largest and most important monastery in the Tsum Valley. Located at an elevation of over 3,700 meters, it is a significant center of Tibetan Buddhism in the region. The monastery is home to many monks who dedicate their lives to spiritual practice. Visitors can explore the beautiful murals depicting Buddhist deities and participate in traditional rituals. The remote location of Mu Gompa, surrounded by towering peaks and vast landscapes, adds to its spiritual aura, making it a memorable experience for trekkers.

Descending to Chumling the vegetation gets greener as we return through lower Tsum Valley.

Overnight at Chumling.
Trek from Nile or Mu Gompa to Chumling: Highlights
– Start Descent: Begin descending towards Chumling through lush greenery.
– Enjoy the Changing Vegetation: Observe the return of greener, more varied plant life.
– Arrive at Chumling: Reach Chumling in the afternoon.
About Chumling
Chumling, on the return journey, offers trekkers a chance to revisit its tranquil environment and appreciate the cultural richness of the Lower Tsum Valley. The village is an excellent place to relax, explore local monasteries, and interact with friendly locals who are eager to share their customs and stories.

The trail from Chumling descends through terraced fields and lush forests. You’ll cross over the Siyar Khola River on a suspension bridge, getting your first glimpses of the beautiful landscapes along this route.

As you continue, you’ll reach the impressive Samba Falls.

The path winds through small villages, fields, and forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Shringi Himal. Along the way, you’ll encounter friendly locals, some grazing yaks, and other livestock.
Trek from Chumling to Philim: Highlights 
– Depart from Chumling: Start early to descend through terraced fields and cross Siyar Khola River.
– Visit Samba Falls: Take a break to admire the impressive Samba Falls.
– Pass Through Villages: Pass through small villages and interact with locals along the way.
– Arrive at Philim: Reach Philim, a peaceful village with stunning views of Shringi Himal.
About Philim
Philim is a culturally rich village known for its traditional farming practices and warm hospitality. It is surrounded by lush terraced fields and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The village is also a gateway to both the Tsum Valley and Manaslu regions, making it an important stop for trekkers. Philim is home to several small monasteries and cultural landmarks, where visitors can learn about the customs and traditions of the local Gurung community.

We meet with the Budhi Gandaki River again after hiking along the ridge to the river and Labubesi village. This is our last full day on the trail and our last night in a trekking lodge at Maccha Khola.

Trek from Philm to Maccha Khola: Highlights
– Begin Trek: Start the trek from Philim, following the Budhi Gandaki River.
– Pass Labubesi Village: Cross the river and trek towards Labubesi village.
– Arrival at Maccha Khola: Arrive at Maccha Khola for the last overnight stay on the trail.

from Maccha khola to Kathmandu by luxury Jeep.Arriving back in Kathmandu, we feel great achievement check in Hotel.

Drive from Maccha Khola to Kathmandu: Highlights
– Reach Arughat: Arrive at Arughat and switch to a vehicle for the drive back.
– Lunch Break: Enjoy lunch en route to Kathmandu.
– Arrival in Kathmandu: Arrive back in the city and mark the end of the trek.