Tsum Valley Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek Review

A Simple, Meaningful, and Heartfelt Trip Report

Journey Into Nepal’s Hidden Himalayan Valley

What an unforgettable adventure it was to explore the remote, peaceful, and culturally rich Tsum Valley and to reach the serene Ganesh Himal Base Camp in October 2025. This trek took us through one of Nepal’s most beautiful hidden valleys, known for its untouched landscapes, Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, stupas, mani walls, and friendly local people. Every day felt like opening a new chapter of nature and culture. The mountains, forests, rivers, waterfalls, and villages welcomed us warmly, and the journey slowly connected us to the rhythm of the Himalayas.

The Tsum Valley Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek gave us everything a trekker could ask for: deep river valleys, dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, quiet forests, pure Buddhist villages, ancient monasteries, Stupas, wide-open landscapes, and towering snow-capped mountains. Most importantly, we experienced warm hospitality and many meaningful moments with the Tsumba community.

The Long Scenic Drive to the Starting Point

Our adventure began with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Khorlabesi. Leaving the city early in the morning helped us avoid heavy traffic and smoothly exit the Kathmandu Valley. As soon as we left the urban area, Nepal’s natural beauty opened before us: rolling hills, deep valleys, rice terraces, and dense forests. We followed the Trisuli River for some time, crossed a bridge, and passed countless charming villages along a narrow but beautiful road.

Yes, the roads were bumpy, dusty, and not well-maintained, yet the beauty of the Landscapes and changing views made the journey enjoyable. We stopped at Sotikhola for lunch, enjoyed simple and delicious dal bhat (Traditional Nepali Food), and continued the drive. On the way, we even got out of the jeep to cross a suspension bridge and enjoy a beautiful waterfall. By the time we reached Khorlabesi, we were excited for the trek ahead. Our lodge, a small resort with trout ponds and some coffee plants, felt peaceful and welcoming after a long travel day.

Walking Deep Into the Budhigandaki Valley

The next morning, our trekking spirit was high as we walked through the dramatic Budhigandaki Valley. This narrow valley is surrounded by tall vertical cliffs rising thousands of meters above the river. Villages cling to the slopes, waterfalls drop from the cliffs, and the river curves beautifully through the landscape.

The walk was comfortable at the beginning, following the river along a road track. We even had to walk under a huge waterfall, but the water level was low, so it was easy to pass. The sunny weather made everything brighter, although the midday heat was a little tiring.

We crossed a suspension bridge near Dovan over the Budhigandaki River, and the valley widened slightly as we continued. The hardest section was crossing a landslide area. The uphill climb on a narrow path with loose rocks made it a bit tough, but the scenery was so beautiful that every step felt rewarding. After a long and meaningful walk, we reached the beautiful stone village of Jagat, a small business center and an entry point for both Manaslu and Tsum Valley trekkers.

Entering the Buddhist Region

From Jagat, the environment slowly changed. The trail climbed higher, the forests grew thicker and lush, and signs of Buddhist culture began appearing everywhere: stupas, mani walls, prayer flags, and kani (entrance and exit gate). This gentle transformation made us feel like we were entering a sacred world.

We passed through Sirdibas and crossed the river again before climbing to Philim, one of the major settlements in the region. The village was lively with shops, locals working, and children playing. After Philim, the path leveled out toward Chisopani, where we stopped for lunch and enjoyed amazing views of the valley.

The scenery continued getting greener and more magnificent. After leaving the Manaslu Circuit trail at Ngyakphedi, the climb toward Tsum Valley became steeper. This was the point where the real Tsum Valley Trek began. We walked through forests of pine and bamboo until Lokpa appeared—quiet, small, and surrounded by lush greenery. It was our first true taste of this remote valley.

Climbing Into Tsum Valley

From Lokpa, the trail took us deeper into the valley. The path passed through forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. Although the climb was steep, it began with an exciting walkway, and the views of Sringi Himal were spectacular. This powerful mountain accompanied us throughout the day.

Reaching Chumling felt like stepping into a peaceful world. This traditional Tsumba village, with its stone houses, carved gates, prayer flags, and friendly people, offered a warm welcome. The village is rich in ancient traditions influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. We spent the afternoon enjoying local life, exploring the village, and playing with the children.

Steep Trails, Big Views, and Beautiful Villages

The trail from Chumling to Chhekhampar (Chhokang Paro) was short but challenging. We walked through small mountain settlements, farmlands, and forests, descending to the river before starting a long and steep climb from Renjam. The steep terrain offered breathtaking views and dramatic drops. The sun was strong, and the climb was tiring, but reaching the top definitely felt rewarding.

Chhekhampar is the largest village in Tsum Valley. Traditional stone houses, long mani walls, prayer flags, and snow-capped peaks in the background gave it a picture-perfect charm. The Tsumba culture here was strong, simple, and deeply connected to the Himalayan Buddhist tradition.

From Chhekhampar to Chule, the path was surprisingly easy and mostly flat. We passed countless ancient stupas, mani walls, and beautiful structures, some hundreds of years old. The new monastery in Lamagoan was beautifully decorated, with a large Guru Rinpoche statue and symbolic stupas representing important events from Buddha’s life.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t visit the Milarepa Cave at Burji. The village was closed that day, as the villagers had gone for Puja at a nearby monastery. Near Chule village, there is an iconic Buddhist stupa in Tsum Valley; this style is rarely seen in other areas. Newly colored and looking magnificent, it stood out beautifully in the wide landscape.

The wide-open valley between Chule and Nile, with the two villages facing each other across the river, was one of the most peaceful places of our entire trek.

A Spiritual Journey to Mu Gompa

Our visit to Mu Gompa became one of the most memorable moments of the trek. We started early in the cold morning air, walking under a clear blue sky. The trail was gentle at first but became steeper as we crossed the river and climbed toward the monastery.

Mu Gompa is at least a thousand years old, believed to be the oldest in the region. It is located high above the mountain valley, which gives it a deep sense of peace and power. Inside, ancient statues, art, scriptures, and butter lamps created a sacred atmosphere. We lit butter lamps to pray for peace and for the departed souls. The views around Mu Gompa were unbelievable—snow peaks, dry hills, deep blue skies, and the silent valley below us. We returned to Chule by the opposite side of the river, enjoying a completely different perspective.

Rachen Gompa and Warm Local Encounters

On our way back down the valley, we visited Rachen Gompa, one of the most important nunneries in the Himalayas. The newly built stupa near the monastery was stunning, with bright colors, beautiful carvings, prayer wheels, and detailed artwork. Under the stupa, rows of thousands of Chenrezig statues and huge prayer wheels added to the spiritual feeling.

Along the way, we met some local women, interacted with them, and while we were enjoying hot tea at a small lodge, we also witnessed a woman weaving colorful handmade cloth. These warm interactions and the tea stop made the day special. Rachen Gompa itself was impressive, with beautiful decorations and offerings. As we continued down the valley, the scenery looked different from the way up.

The Hard Climb to Gompa Lungdang

Reaching Gompa Lungdang required strength and patience. After a short descent to the river, we climbed nearly 1,000 meters through dense forest of pine, oak, and rhododendron. The climb was steep and long, but the weather was perfect. As we gained altitude, the mountains slowly appeared, and Ganesh Himal and Lumbo Himal stood proudly above the valley.

Gompa Lungdang is a sacred nunnery with a strong spiritual presence. The views from here were magical—wide landscapes and the towering Ganesh Himal shining in front of us. Inside the monastery, the artwork and evening chanting made the experience unforgettable.

The monastery offered basic accommodation and simple Nepali food. Still, the beds were comfortable, even in small rooms. All the food we had there was very good. The little lady was a great cook, and both the nun and the cook were friendly. Our stay there was wonderful.

Ganesh Himal Base Camp – The Big Reward

One of the toughest days of the trek was the day hike to Ganesh Himal Base Camp. First, we descended to the river and then climbed through beautiful forests. The forest in the valley was just beautiful, and walking underneath that peaceful forest was an amazing feeling. The weather was perfect, giving us clear views and a deep blue sky.

One of the trickiest parts was crossing the river, where the trail had been washed away by landslides. Only a few wooden poles were placed across the water, and the trail was barely visible. This added excitement and challenge to the day.

Higher up, the world became quiet, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Reaching the base camp felt like a big achievement. The views of Ganesh Himal and the surrounding mountains were unbelievably beautiful. We spent time enjoying the peaceful surroundings before returning to Gompa Lungdang.

Returning Through the Valley

The following days were filled with easy walks, familiar paths, and relaxed moments. The trail back to Chumling, Lokpa, and Jagat felt familiar yet new at the same time. The landscapes looked different from the opposite direction.

The day from Lokpa to Jagat was rainy, and we walked under rain the entire time. Although soaked, the temperature was mild, so it didn’t feel too hard. Our spirits stayed high, and we reached Jagat joyfully. The last trekking day to Khorlabesi was cloudy but comfortable. No sun and no rain—just soft, cool air and peaceful walking. We celebrated our successful trek with a joyful dinner, dancing, and plenty of laughter.

A Trek Filled With Beauty, Culture, and Meaning

The Tsum Valley Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek in October 2025 was a journey full of beauty, culture, adventure, and personal connection. The landscapes were breathtaking, from the Budhigandaki Valley to the high ridges beneath Ganesh Himal. The Tsumba culture, ancient villages, monasteries, stupas, and traditions made the experience deep and meaningful.

We faced steep climbs, long days, sunny heat, cold mornings, rocky paths, and even rainy weather—but every challenge brought us closer to the true heart of the Himalayas. The local people welcomed us with warm smiles, the children added joy, and the monasteries filled us with peace.

This trek was not only a physical journey but also a spiritual and emotional one. The memories of mountains, forests, villages, and culture will stay with us forever. The Tsum Valley truly is a hidden gem of Nepal—pure, untouched, and full of life.

Anyone seeking a meaningful Himalayan experience will find this trek to be a perfect adventure. Please remember Blossom Expeditions for this incredible Tsum Valley Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek. Discover the hidden charm of Tsum Valley and enjoy its natural and cultural beauty.

Blossom Expeditions has carefully crafted the Tsum Valley Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek itinerary, blending history, spirituality, culture, and cuisine into one unforgettable journey in the Himalaya.

Further Details Contact Us

Blossom Expeditions
P.O. Box No. 21101, Kathmandu, Nepal.
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Tel: 977-01-4810388
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Watch the Video, it justifies the trip review

Tsum Valley Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek Part 1
Tsum Valley Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek Part-2