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Pasang Sherpa (Managing Director)
+977-9851060947
Since 1998 15,000+ Happy Guests Sherpa Owned & Operated Company
*Including healthy meals
*Including healthy meals
based on 1 review(s)
Tsum Valley Trekking in Nepal gains global acclaim for its authentic Tsumpa culture and breathtaking mountain vistas. As one of Buddhism's sacred hidden valleys, it harbors ancient monasteries and vibrant villages of monks and nuns. Traditionally reliant on subsistence farming and trade with Tibet, the valley's paths wind past carved Chortens and stone walls adorned with Buddhist prayers. Situated in the Manaslu Conservation Area, spanning 54,417 hectares between 1600 and 6705 meters above sea level, Tsum Valley offers a haven for wildlife. The region is home to musk deer, blue sheep, Himalayan Thar, snow leopards, and diverse flora and fauna.
Tsum Valley Trekking is a globally favored off-the-beaten-path adventure. The grandeur of the Boudha Ranges, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and peaks above 6,000 meters is a visual treat. The trek is celebrated for its rich culture, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality. Trekkers worldwide embark on this unique journey each year. Our meticulously designed package includes all meals, quality accommodations, private 4W Jeep transportation, expert local Sherpa guides, trek permits, and necessary porters. Explore the wonders of Tsum Valley with us!
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu under clear skies, your journey unfolds as your plane enters Nepali airspace. The spectacle from the aircraft windows reveals a breathtaking panorama of glittering snow-capped peaks below, instilling the initial thrill that marks the beginning of an unforgettable vacation. Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative and driver from Mountain Sherpa Trekking will warmly welcome you with Sherpa hospitality. They will escort you to your hotel, assist with check-in, and later introduce you to our company manager. The manager will provide a comprehensive briefing on the upcoming daily activities and introduce you to our expert Sherpa guide who will accompany you throughout the trek. With the remaining time, feel free to explore the area around your hotel. We offer complimentary guidance on where to eat, where to exchange money, and other necessary information. Rest assured, you will stay at one of the best centrally located hotels in Kathmandu.
After a restful night's sleep and a hearty breakfast, we embark on our tour starting with Swayambhunath, popularly known as the Monkey Temple. The name "Swayambhu" signifies "self-created," rooted in the myth that the hill emerged suddenly from a vast lake that once covered the Kathmandu Valley. Moving on, we head to the renowned Boudhanath Stupa, claimed to be the largest in the world, serving as a significant center of Tibetan culture in Kathmandu. The stupa's design mirrors a giant mandala, symbolizing the Buddhist cosmos.
Following our visit to these key Buddhist monuments, we enjoy lunch at a rooftop restaurant in Buddha. We then explore the Thamel Market for currency exchange, purchasing a SIM card, or acquiring any trekking gear or essentials you may require. Our guide will assist in organizing everything you need. Later, we return to the hotel to pack for the upcoming day's long drive to Sotikhola.
Join us in the evening for a warm welcome to our home, where you can relish a delightful Sherpa feast, immersing yourself in the authentic flavors of Sherpa cuisine. This intimate setting is perfect for engaging conversations and gaining insights into the renowned Tsum Valley trek trails and the vibrant Sherpa culture. Alternatively, we can arrange dinner at a typical Nepali cultural restaurant, offering a taste of Nepali cuisine accompanied by a cultural show featuring traditional dances from various ethnic groups of Nepal. Either way, it's a memorable and immersive experience that goes beyond just the food, fostering lasting connections and a deeper understanding of local heritage.
Today, after enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we prepare for an exciting and lengthy journey from Kathmandu to Sotikhola in a comfortable private Jeep. Our expert Sherpa guide and experienced driver will be at your hotel between 7:00-7:30 in the morning to kick off this adventurous journey.
The approximately 7 to 8-hour drive unfolds as we initially head west along the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway. The landscape opens up like a vibrant canvas, showcasing the captivating beauty of Nepal's countryside. Our private 4x4 jeep serves as a perfect vantage point, offering panoramic views through its windows.
Navigating through winding roads, our route takes us toward the historic hill bazaar of Gorkha, a town rich in ancient tales and pivotal to Nepal's history. Beyond Gorkha, the terrain transforms into a rugged dirt trail, adding a touch of excitement to our expedition. Amidst the bumps and twists, the southern slopes of Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Langtang Himal come into view, providing a breathtaking backdrop for our journey.
After traversing this scenic tapestry, we eventually reach our destination – the charming village of Sotikhola. The seven to eight hours spent on the road from Kathmandu become a captivating odyssey, marked by diverse landscapes and historical echoes that accompany us throughout our expedition.
Following a satisfying breakfast in Soti Khola, your trek unfolds amidst a captivating blend of landscapes. The trail promises a dynamic experience, weaving through jungles, picturesque rice paddies, an exhilarating cliff-face ridge, a lively rushing stream, and a series of breathtaking waterfalls.
As you progress today, the changing elevations become apparent. Starting with a traverse through a broad valley, the path gradually ascends, guiding you through a dense forest. The adventure kicks off with a bridge crossing, leading to a trek through a wooded area. Soon, you'll find yourself hiking along a ridge above the formidable rapids of the Budhi Gandaki River, sourced from the Tibetan plateaus and joined by the Tum Khola River.
The trail then takes you to Khursane, where a rocky path winds through undulating terrain, passing two tropical cascades on a steep, rocky trail clinging to the side of a cliff. Descending past vibrant rice paddies, the ascent continues until you reach the charming Gurung village of Labubesi.
Continuing from Labubesi, you'll ascend near a rocky outcrop, revealing a vast valley alongside a more tranquil river. Crossing another suspension bridge, your next destination is the village of MachhaKhola. The journey doesn't conclude there, as you'll proceed to Khorlabesi, approximately an hour away. We will stay at Khorlabesi and sleep at the Mountain Lodge.
Our day begins with a nourishing breakfast in the delightful village of Khorlabesi. As we commence our trek, the trail unveils a series of invigorating ascents and descents, presenting breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Our journey takes us to the heart of Tatopani, a picturesque village adorned with terraced fields.
Moving onward from Tatopani, we ascend over another ridge, crossing the Budhi Gandaki via a suspension bridge. The path unfolds, guiding us up a meticulously crafted staircase and across a ridge, where a striking panorama awaits. Carefully navigating a landslide, we proceed to Dobhan.
The day's adventure concludes upon reaching Jagat, where a welcoming lodge awaits to offer a comfortable night's rest. The serene surroundings and the echoes of the day's journey set the stage for a peaceful evening in this remote Himalayan haven.
Today, after enjoying our breakfast, we commence our trek from Jagat to Lokpa village. The trail crosses the river, guiding us through several beautiful villages like Philim and Ekle Bhatti before eventually reaching Lokpa. This village is considered the entry point to Tsum Valley.
Along the way, we experience diverse landscapes and cultural immersion. Leaving Jagat behind, we traverse through charming villages and terraced fields, immersing ourselves in the local way of life.
The trail leads us through dense forests, resonating with the sounds of nature and occasional glimpses of wildlife. As we ascend and descend along the undulating path, the scenery transforms, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Passing through quaint settlements, we encounter the warm hospitality of the locals, providing a glimpse into their traditional lifestyles. Crossing suspension bridges over glistening rivers, our journey continues through this captivating terrain.
Our destination, Lokpa, welcomes us with its unique charm and tranquility. Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Lokpa offers a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place to rest and reflect on the day's trekking adventures. The day's trek to Lokpa not only provides a physical journey through diverse landscapes but also an immersion into the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
The trek from Lokpa to Chumling marks another day of exploration and captivating landscapes. Starting our journey after a nourishing breakfast, we leave Lokpa behind and follow a trail that unveils the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Tsum Valley.
The path leads us through picturesque villages, each with its own unique charm. As we traverse the undulating terrain, we enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, creating a breathtaking backdrop to our trek. The sound of rivers and waterfalls adds to the serene atmosphere, providing a soothing soundtrack to our adventure.
As we reach Chumling, we are greeted by the tranquility of this Himalayan village. Nestled amidst the mountains, Chumling provides a peaceful setting for a well-deserved rest. The day's trek not only offers physical challenges but also exposes us to the cultural nuances and natural wonders of the Tsum Valley, making it a memorable and fulfilling journey.
The trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro covers a distance of approximately 7 to 8 kilometers. Starting our day after a hearty breakfast in Chumling, we embark on a trail that meanders through the picturesque landscapes of the Tsum Valley.
The journey takes us through charming villages, and as we ascend, we witness the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains. Chhokang Paro, one of the culturally rich villages along the route, is known for its traditional stone-built houses adorned with intricate wood carvings.
As we traverse the undulating terrain, the cultural heritage of the region becomes more apparent. The local residents, with their warm hospitality, provide a glimpse into their unique way of life. The trail offers opportunities to appreciate the traditional architecture, religious monuments, and the overall tranquility of the Tsum Valley.
Arriving in Chhokang Paro, we find ourselves immersed in the serene ambiance of this Himalayan village. The day's trek not only covers a moderate distance but also allows for a deeper exploration of the cultural and natural wonders that make the Tsum Valley a unique and enriching trekking destination.
The trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile, also known as Chhule, is approximately 10 kilometers. This segment of the journey takes you through the heart of the Tsum Valley, revealing unique cultural and natural wonders.
Starting from Chhokang Paro, with its traditional stone-built houses and intricate wood carvings, the trail meanders through the captivating landscapes of the Tsum Valley. As you ascend, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Ganesh Himal range.
Passing through the villages of Lamagaon and Rachen, you'll encounter the distinctive local culture and hospitality. The Rachen Gompa, a prominent monastery, is a notable highlight along the way. The trek continues along the picturesque Shiar Khola, crossing suspension bridges and traversing through terraced fields.
Nile, or Chhule, is the final destination for this leg of the journey. This village is known for the ancient Piren Phu cave, considered sacred and adorned with numerous Buddhist artifacts. The day's trek showcases the unique blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty that defines the Tsum Valley, offering a fulfilling and enriching experience for trekkers.
Mu Gompa stands in a remote location, just a couple of hours' walk beyond Nile. Established in 1895 A.D. and meticulously restored in 1998, this monastery holds a special place along the trail locals use to journey to Tibet. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to explore the monastery and ascend higher to enjoy breathtaking views before returning for a night's rest.
If Amish is present in the village, we'll visit his small clinic, where healing is done using herbs harvested from the slopes of the mountains that surround the valley. The journey takes us to Mu Monastery, perched on the ancient part below and the new constructions housing the young monks above. As we stand here, we are just a few hours from Tibet, giving us a profound sense of being at the edge of the world. The overnight stay at the lodge enhances the experience of this unique and remote location.
Taking a well-deserved rest, today is dedicated to exploration and immersion in the unique surroundings of Mu Gompa. Surrounded by the pristine landscapes of the Tsum Valley, Mu Gompa offers a tranquil setting for reflection and discovery.
During this rest and exploration day, you have the freedom to delve into the cultural and spiritual aspects of Mu Gompa. Explore the monastery's ancient structures, engage with the resident monks, and soak in the serene ambiance. The day also provides an opportunity to wander through the picturesque landscapes surrounding Mu Gompa, with the towering Himalayan peaks creating a majestic backdrop.
For those seeking a deeper connection with the local traditions, interactions with the monks and participation in any ongoing rituals or ceremonies can be arranged. Alternatively, you can use this day to simply unwind, enjoy the breathtaking views, and absorb the peaceful atmosphere that Mu Gompa offers.
Whether you choose to delve into the cultural richness or prefer a day of relaxation, Mu Gompa's rest day allows you to tailor your experience to your preferences, making it a memorable stop in your Tsum Valley trek.
The trek from Mu Gompa back to Chhokang Paro involves retracing the trail, offering a different perspective of the landscape. Mu Gompa is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters (12,139 feet), while Chhokang Paro is at a lower elevation.
The distance covered during this trek depends on the specific route taken, as there might be variations in the trails chosen. Typically, the trek covers a moderate distance of approximately 8 to 10 kilometers. The trail descends from the higher altitude of Mu Gompa, passing through the serene landscapes of the Tsum Valley.
As you make your way back to Chhokang Paro (3,031 meters/9,944 feet), you'll have the opportunity to revisit the picturesque villages, monasteries, and natural wonders encountered during the initial trek to Mu Gompa. The descent provides unique views and allows for a deeper appreciation of the surroundings.
The journey may take around 6 to 7 hours, depending on the pace and specific stops along the way. This descent from Mu Gompa to Chhokang Paro not only offers a different viewpoint of the landscape but also provides a chance to acclimatize to the changing altitudes.
The trek back from Chhokang Paro to Chumling involves retracing your steps through the enchanting landscapes of the Tsum Valley.The journey typically takes around 5 to 7 hours, depending on the pace and specific stops along the way.
As you descend from the higher altitude of Chhokang Paro, you'll retrace the trail through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and serene forests. The trek provides an opportunity to revisit the cultural gems and natural wonders encountered during the initial journey to Chhokang Paro.
The route may include crossing suspension bridges over glistening rivers and passing through quaint settlements, allowing for a continued immersion into the local way of life. The descent offers unique perspectives of the surrounding mountains and valleys, creating a different experience compared to the ascent.
We kick off our day in Chumling with a delightful breakfast, energizing ourselves for the day's adventure. Commencing our trek at around 7:30 in the morning, today's journey is predominantly a descent. The trail leads us through charming villages, surrounded by lush pine and rhododendron tree forests.
As we traverse the picturesque landscapes, the panoramic views of the mountains unfold, providing a breathtaking backdrop to our trek. One of the notable villages on our route is Lokpa, adding to the scenic beauty with its unique charm. We will stop for our lunch at Lokpa.
The day's trek offers a serene and enjoyable experience as we immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. The gentle descent allows us to appreciate the terrain and engage with the local culture. The combination of village life, diverse flora, and distant mountain vistas makes this trek a truly enriching experience.
The trek duration is approximately 7-8 hours, depending on your walking speed and rest breaks. We will stay at the best local lodge in Chisopani after the long trek.
Starting our trek from Chisopani, we embark on a new day of adventure towards Dovan. The journey begins after a hearty breakfast, gearing up for the upcoming challenges. The trail takes us through diverse landscapes, offering a mix of terrains and stunning views.
As we set out, we gradually descend from Chisopani, soaking in the beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek leads us through enchanting forests, where the cool shade of pine and rhododendron trees provides a refreshing atmosphere. The chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves add a natural symphony to the trekking experience.
Continuing our descent, we may encounter small villages along the way, each contributing to the cultural tapestry of the region. The trail unfolds before us, revealing panoramic vistas of the mountains, creating a picturesque backdrop for our journey.
Lunch will be a welcome break, providing an opportunity to refuel and enjoy the surroundings. Afterward, the trek resumes, leading us through the captivating landscapes until we reach Dovan. The day's trek offers a balance of challenges and moments of tranquility, making it a rewarding experience.
Upon reaching Dovan, we can rest and rejuvenate, reflecting on the day's adventures. Accommodations at a local lodge are arranged for a comfortable night's stay, ensuring we are ready for the next leg of our trekking expedition.
Today marks the culmination of our Tsum Valley trek. As is our routine, the day commences with a hearty and hygienic breakfast at the Local Lodge, preparing us for the exciting adventures ahead. Our journey unfolds amidst lush forests, meandering rivers, and the awe-inspiring backdrop of the majestic Himalayan peaks.
Throughout the trek, our Sherpa guide strategically plans stops for lunch, ensuring that you are provided with the best food to sustain your energy for the journey. This midday break serves as a well-deserved pause, allowing us to refuel and immerse ourselves in the scenic beauty surrounding us.
Pressing forward, we traverse through more enchanting landscapes until we reach our destination for the day – Sotikhola. This warm and inviting village signifies the conclusion of our Tsum Valley trek. In Sotikhola, we have the opportunity to unwind, reflect on the day's experiences, and connect with the local community.
Accommodations have been thoughtfully arranged at a local lodge, ensuring a comfortable stay as we bring this leg of our trekking adventure to a close. It provides a valuable moment to rest, rejuvenate, and cherish the memories of the Tsum Valley trek.
Today, after a fulfilling breakfast, our return journey to Kathmandu from Sotikhola begins with the convenience of a private 4W Jeep. For your comfort, we provide a well-maintained Jeep along with an experienced driver, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. As an expert and responsible Sherpa company with over 25 years of experience, our commitment to quality service and prioritizing guest comfort and safety is unwavering for every trek in Nepal.
The scenic drive from Sotikhola to Kathmandu spans approximately 7-8 hours, offering a picturesque view of the Nepalese countryside. Our seasoned guide will ensure a pleasant journey, and a mid-journey lunch will be arranged for your convenience.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to our finest luxury hotel, providing you with a haven to rest and relax after the trekking adventure. Your comfort is our priority, and we do our best to make your Tsum Valley trek enjoyable, safe, and a trip of a lifetime.
As a seasoned local Sherpa company with over 25+ years of experience, we strongly recommend allocating an additional day in Kathmandu as a contingency for any unexpected events such as altitude sickness or adverse weather conditions. While such occurrences are rare, it's always a prudent idea to have an extra day at the end of the trek.
If everything proceeds according to schedule, that's excellent. However, this contingency day can be utilized for a captivating cultural tour, exploring two ancient Newari cities – Patan and Bhaktapur. The tour, lasting about 5-6 hours, provides a fantastic opportunity to delve into the local culture, ancient architecture, and fine arts.
Immerse yourself in the medieval charm of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, where well-preserved palaces and courtyards transport you through time. Your adventure doesn't pause; it becomes even more enriching with every moment. This contingency day adds a layer of flexibility to your itinerary, ensuring that your trek and overall experience are not only enjoyable but also well-prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
After savoring a delightful breakfast, our dedicated representative and office vehicle will be at your service to accompany you to the airport for your journey homeward. It has been an absolute joy serving you at Mountain Sherpa Trekking and Expeditions. We sincerely appreciate your decision to make us your travel partner and to explore the beautiful country of Nepal alongside us.
The bonds we've cultivated during your time with us are truly special, and we are confident that the memories from your Tsum Valley trek, guided by our reliable Sherpa, will be cherished for a lifetime. As we bid you farewell, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and eagerly anticipate the day when our paths cross again.
Please Note: While our goal is to adhere to the provided itinerary, local trail or weather conditions may necessitate slight adjustments. The trekking schedule might also be adapted based on the acclimatization rates of our trekkers. Given the adventurous nature of this trek in the high-altitude wilderness, we appreciate your understanding and flexibility for any necessary changes prioritizing safety. Thank you for choosing Mountain Sherpa Trekking and Expeditions.
If you wish to embark on a private Tsum Valley trek with your spouse, family, or a select group of friends, simply choose the travel dates that suit you and submit a request for a private trek. We are fully prepared to curate the finest private trips exclusively for you and your chosen travel companions.
Discover the enchanting beauty of Tsum Valley with the guidance of local Sherpa private guides. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in well-selected hotels, including charming and cozy local lodges throughout the trek.
All you need to do is select your preferred travel dates—leave the rest to us. Please send an email to reserve your date and make the first step towards an unforgettable private trekking experience.
Embark on a private Tsum Valley trek with your spouse, family, or a select group of friends at a time that suits you. Simply choose your preferred travel dates and send us a request for a private trek. We are ready to curate the best private trips exclusively for you and your chosen travel companions.
Discover the captivating beauty of Tsum Valley with the guidance of local Sherpa experts. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, including charming local lodges, throughout the trek.
Select your travel dates, and leave the rest to us. Please send an email to reserve your preferred date, and we'll ensure a seamless and unforgettable private trekking experience for you and your companions.
Throughout the Tsum Valley trek, our Sherpa guide, Mr. Tashi, and Porter Kaji provided outstanding service. The trek was complemented by delicious meals, and we were accommodated in excellent lodges both in the city and along the trek. This being my first Mountain Sherpa Trekking adventure, I am certain it won't be my last.
I want to express my appreciation for the safety measures implemented by Mountain Sherpa and our guides. Mr. Tashi went above and beyond to ensure our safety on a daily basis. I felt secure and well taken care of throughout the entire trip.
Thank you for facilitating a wonderful journey and providing the opportunity to connect with nature!
Certainly! I highly recommend trekking with Mountain Sherpa Trekking. They are a genuine Sherpa company in Nepal, known for providing quality service. You can trust them to make your trekking experience unforgettable.
What would you advice other travellers?I would highly recommend this trek to fellow trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal that seamlessly blends nature and culture. It's the perfect choice for those wanting a unique and enriching adventure.
Most memorable parts this TripThe trek from Neil to Mu Gompa was exceptionally beautiful, and I am truly impressed by the experience of visiting Mu Gompa. In fact, the entire trek was a captivating journey, filled with stunning landscapes and cultural richness.
By choosing Mountain Sherpa Trekking, you not only experience a fantastic trek but also contribute to meaningful community initiatives and make a positive impact in Nepal.
Our Tsum Valley Nepal Trekking package includes 4 Nights Deluxe accommodations in Kathmandu at a comfortable and luxurious hotel. As we know, the best accommodation is a crucial part of your trip planning, our hand-selected best hotel accommodations are clean, in a good location, and give you value for your money. Our selected luxury 5-star hotels provide a wide array of excellent services and modern amenities. Our handpicked hotels offer a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, privacy when preferred, and attentive service. You can treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at our 5-star hotel in Kathmandu after your trek. Or rest and relax in a tranquil and peaceful garden resort. We have two different package options available as outlined below. Book your perfect dream holiday trek package with a local Sherpa expert and get exceptional service.
Indulge in comfort and luxury with our exclusive 3-star hotel package for your Tsum Valley trek. Starting at just $2170 USD per person, enjoy a premium stay at Kathmandu's finest, Hotel Lo Mustang. Nestled in the heart of Thamel, this modern yet warmly traditional hotel offers the perfect retreat before and after your adventure.
Conveniently located, Hotel Lo Mustang is your gateway to Thamel's vibrant energy. Explore bustling streets, markets, and immerse yourself in rich culture.
Our package includes 4 nights in Kathmandu - 2 before the trek and 2 for post-trek relaxation. Exceptional service ensures a memorable stay at Hotel Lo Mustang, your home in Thamel. We look forward to hosting you, adding joy to your pre and post-trek moments!
Throughout the trek, we ensure your comfort with the best available mountain lodges, providing cozy rooms with shared bathrooms for 14 nights. Twin-bedded rooms with mattresses, pillows, and blankets available. The 'living room' for dining and relaxation is heated in the evenings, fostering a friendly atmosphere where you can connect with fellow trekkers.
Typically, breakfast is served at 8 am, and you'll be asked to pack your bags for the early departure of our porters. Lunch is taken en route at one of the many teahouses, and dinner is generally served at 7 pm.
Morning Breakfast between 7:00-8:00 AM
Afternoon Lunch between 12:30 – 1:00 PM
Evening Dinner between 6:00-8:30 PM
For many of us, the perfect choice may be to go for mineral water. After all, it’s sealed and safe to drink, plus it provides an income for the local traders – right? Regrettably, things are never quite that simple. Mineral water produces a vast number of knock-on problems for mountain societies.
While it does provide an income to local people it also generates an extraordinary, heart-breaking amount of waste and spoiling. Most places simply do not have the resources to do anything with the empty plastic bottles – and they burn them, releasing toxic gases into the air, or leave them in piles just out of sight of travelers, where they take more than 450 years to decompose.
Take, for example, Tsum Valley Trek, The recommended amount of water intake on a high altitude trek like this is 3-4 litters a day. The trek is 14 days long. That’s more than approximately 42 litter and 42 plastic bottles, which won’t decompose until the year 2466 – per person.
For a full MST group of 12 people, just one trip will result in more than 500 mineral water bottles. And the salt in the wound is that plastic doesn’t decompose at high altitudes, so those 500 or more bottles will be up there forever. But what can you do? You have to drink, so how can you get around the problem?
The Alternatives: The great news is that there are really various options that will help you out of the bottled water trap. Here are just four of the best. All you have to do is pick which one is right for you.
Striped- Steripen is the most trusted model on the market. This technique uses exactly the same process as most mineral water undergoes before it is bottled. It’s UV filtering, exactly the same treatment as the majority of bottled water undergoes to be purified, but on the go. The technology has been around for much longer than you think, but it’s only recently been competitively priced enough to be on the market. SteriPen is an American company; other UV filters are also available.
Boiled water– This isn’t always an option if you’re out and about, but boiled water is an excellent option for safe drinking water on trek. Boiling the water kills any nastiness lurking there. It is the safest and most convenient option. Most lodges serve it, and it is great to ward off the cold. Prices range anywhere between NPR 50 and 120 per liter. This means the cost of drinking water will be around $70-$80 for 14 days Tsum valley trek. Please note that 3-4 liters of fully boiled drinkable water will be provided daily during the whole trek. you can book our all-inclusive Tsum Valley trek package for safe and hassle-free service. There is no hidden cost.
Purification tablets– Water refining tablets or chemicals like chlorine dioxide are frequently used. They are easy to carry and cheap to buy. However, they are not as effective as UV filters or boiled water and need a few hours to act. Besides these, LifeStraw and iodine-based treatments are also available but have their drawbacks.
Our comprehensive package offers private, comfortable Jeep transportation from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, covering a distance of 138 kilometers, as the starting point of your trek. Our commitment to your safety and comfort led us to carefully choose experienced drivers and well-maintained Jeeps for this journey.
While there is a public bus option to reach Soti Khola from Kathmandu, we, as a responsible and seasoned Sherpa company with over 25 years of expertise, strongly discourage this mode of travel due to challenging road conditions. Prioritizing the safety and well-being of our guests, we have opted for the inclusion of a comfortable Jeep transport instead of a lengthy and potentially arduous local bus ride.
The journey from Kathmandu to Soti Khola typically takes around 7 to 8 hours, covering a scenic route. Initially, you will follow the Prithvi Highway, a well-maintained road connecting Kathmandu and Pokhara. While traffic congestion may be encountered leaving Kathmandu, the road quality remains commendable. Upon turning off to Dhading, the landscape transitions into a more rustic and remote setting, with a gradual deterioration in road conditions. However, the breathtaking views of Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Himal compensate for any discomfort.
For your convenience, we also provide you a comfortable 4W Jeep pickup from Soti Khola at the end of your trek. By choosing Mountain Sherpa trekking trips, you are assured of the most comfortable and safe travel experience. Our private 4W Jeep, coupled with an experienced driver, ensures a secure and pleasant journey back to Kathmandu. The advantages of opting for a private Jeep include the flexibility to request stops at your convenience and the ability to navigate through traffic more efficiently compared to larger buses. Your satisfaction and safety are our top priorities throughout your entire trekking experience.
When we hike above 8,000 to 12,000 feet above sea level our bodies need to acclimatize to the decreasing amount of oxygen available. You may have symptoms if you travel to a high altitude without giving your body time to adjust to less oxygen. Even if you’re physically fit, you can still experience altitude sickness.
Mountain Sherpa Tsum Valley trek itinerary is carefully designed to avoid altitude sickness. Over the years we have come up with the best itinerary to aid in the acclimatization process. Our trek itinerary is fully flexible & can modify on the spot if required.
Remember the trek to the Himalayas is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness when they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slowly, it will give your body time to adjust to the mountain. However, during the acclimatization process, you may experience some of the following symptoms.
Each Person acclimatizes at different rates. Our best suggestion is to take your time and drink plenty of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience them it does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our Sherpa guides have extensive first aid training and we request you to talk with the Sherpa guide at all times should you believe you have any symptoms in order that we can efficiently monitor your symptoms. The only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend.
You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly. Drink lots of water. And enjoy the Himalayas ' views. If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away –Please note that your guide has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if symptoms persist.
Travel insurance is necessary for any trip but is mainly important when undertaking activities such as high-altitude trekking in remote regions where medical facilities or assistance may not be close at hand. You’ll enjoy your adventure better with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have the right insurance cover in place should a mishap occur. This can be anything from medical emergencies, trip cancellation, trip interruption, delays, lost or stolen luggage to a full helicopter rescue of a mountain.
Obtaining travel insurance before you leave home is strongly recommended. This way, if something happens, and this is rare, you will not be out of pocket a tremendous amount of money. Mountain Sherpa trekking will provide a letter and your invoice to submit to your insurance, in this case, to help expedite your processing.
The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. The packed weight of your kit bag while trekking should be no more than 15 KG/33Lbs. Please note that this gear list is only a guide. Those are basic to bring the listed items, but you can decide from your desired brands using your expertise. Plus, you can shop the trekking gear and clothing at a good price at stores in Thamel, Kathmandu.
Additional Supplies
Basic First Aid Kit including antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhea treatment (Imodium), altitude (Diamox), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). Glucose tablets and multi-vitamin tablets are also a good idea
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE OPTIONAL:
The Nepalese are still traditional and conservative in the way they dress. Hence to avoid discomfiture on both sides we advise that you respect this and do not wear revealing clothing or sleeveless tops while visiting Nepal. Shorts are acceptable, but they should reach just above the knee and be modest and for women, it is better to wear trousers or a long skirt.
As you pack for your trek, remember that your gear will be separated into two packs: your daypack that you will carry each day as you trek, and your duffle bag which will be carried between tea houses by porters. All extra baggage (non- trekking items) can be stored at the hotel before you start your trek. We provide you with a free duffel bag in Kathmandu. You can use it to pack your essential trekking equipment. We provide one-porter services for two people. Porters will carry up to 25 kg - 30 Kg or 55-66 pounds of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and down jackets. Therefore your duffel bag should not weigh more than 12 kg-15 kg or 26 pounds to 33 pounds.
Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always recommend the smaller, the better. Around the 25l to 30l size is good for the Manaslu trek. You need to carry your own backpack (with waterproof cover) where you can carry your daily needed items in your own backpack. For instance: Water bottle, Extra money for drinks, souvenirs & tips, sunhat, camera, important documents, toiletries, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, rain gear, music (iPhone), etc.
If you don’t have your own down jacket & sleeping bag, don’t worry. We will provide you with 4 season sleeping bags and a good down jacket with a hood for complementary use. Good quality sleeping bag and down jacket are most important for high altitude trek.
