Tsum Valley Homestay Trek
Nepal Himalaya Treks
HELICOPTER OPTION
Charter a private helicopter for an epic flight to Chumling, the start of the Tsum valley trek.
Our remote Tsum Valley Nepal trek journey begins in Nepal’s sub-tropical Himalayan foothills, in the scenic Gurung villages of Barpak and Laprak in Lower Manaslu, perched on high, terraced hilltops covered in rhododendrons. We also offer an option to start in the traditional Arugat valley. The Lower Manaslu region is peppered with traditional villages, terraced fields, sparkling rivers, a wide variety of birdlife and mixed ethnicities. Tsum valley is an ethnically Tibetan region nestled in a green valley in the shadow of the Ganesh Himal range, newly opened for trekking and breathtakingly beautiful.
Tsum valley is an ethnically Tibetan region nestled in a green valley in the shadow of the Ganesh Himal range, recently opened for trekking, breathtakingly beautiful, a Tibetan Buddhist region filled with ancient monasteries. David Snellgrove explored this remote valley half a century ago. Tsum is a fascinating and magical region of ethnically Tibetan inhabitants who still maintain strong links with Tibet. The living Buddhist culture was virtually untouched until recently because of their remote location, and wildlife abounds. Tsum is a green and fertile valley of tightly packed, Tibetan-style villages, ancient (and living) Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and spectacular views of the Ganesh and Shringi Himal.
Throughout this epic Himalayan trek, we are treated to wonderful Himalayan panoramas of the Manaslu and Ganesh Himal and the Annapurnas. And of course, we run this wonderful Nepal trek in our unique Kamzang Journeys ’boutique’ style of camping, with extra time in the higher regions, and plenty of exploration …
Customize Your Journey
Customize your journey to include more days in Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara or elsewhere!
Trek
Tsum Valley Homestay Trek – Nepal Himalayan Trekking
Day 1 – Arrive Kathmandu | Transfer Kathmandu Guest House
Day 2 – Kathmandu
Lower Manaslu Region
Day 3 – Drive Arugat & Macchakhola
Day 4 – Trek Jagat
Day 5 – Trek Philim or Ekle Batti
+ Helicopter Option | Charter a private helicopter for an epic flight to Chumling, the start of the Tsum Valley route
Tsum Valley (Chekampar) Region
Day 6 – Trek Lokpa or Chumling
Day 7 – Trek Chhokamparo (Chhokangparo) | via Dhampa Ani Gonpa (Nunnery)
Day 8 – Trek Mu Gompa | via Rachen Ani Gonpa (Gonpa Rangjung) (Nunnery)
Day 9 – Mu Gompa | Day Hike Chhosyong Lake 4230m
Extra Day – Day Hike Yersa Gumba Traders’ Camp Near Ngula Dhojyang Pass 5095m
Day 10 – Trek Rainjam | via Milarepa Piren Phu Cave & Chi Phu Gonpa
Day 11 – Trek Gompa Lungdang
Day 12 – Gompa Lungdang | Day Hike Ganesh Himal Base Camp Valley
Day 13 – Trek Lokpa
Lower Manaslu Region
Day 14 – Trek Philim
Day 15 – Trek Macha Khola
Day 16 – Drive Kathmandu
Day 17 – Trip Ends | Transfer TIA Airport
Tsum Valley & Manaslu Circuit Lodge Trek
Tsum Valley & Manaslu Lodge Trek
Nepal Modules
Nepal & Kathmandu Modules | Customize Your Trip!
Travel Advice
+ Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation required!
+ We recommend purchasing trip cancellation & travel insurance!
Helicopter Option
There are options to charter a private helicopter from Kathmandu to Lower Manaslu. Perfect for those with a shorter break, or who just love Himalayan helicopters!
Kim Bannister Photo Gallery | Trip & Trek Photos
Kim Bannister Photography
Nepal Journeys & Chitwan Photos
Nepal Journeys Photos
Chitwan National Park | Maruni Sanctuary Lodge
Amazing Nepal Heritage Tour | Kathmandu, Chitwan, Bandipur & Pokhara
Chitwan & Bardia Luxury Wildlife Safaris | Tiger Tops Lodges
Tiger Tops Wildlife Safaris | Chitwan Tharu Lodge + Bardia Karnali Lodge
Kamzang Journeys Products
Duffel bags, t-shirts, camp towels, buffs, handcrafted leather passport wallets, totes + bags, Himalayan textile pillow covers + more available in Kathmandu!
Kamzang Journeys Products
Kamzang Design Etsy Shop (On-Line)
Many of these handcrafted products designed by Kim and local craftspeople are available in Kathmandu, including much of the tribal silver collection …
Kamzang Design Etsy Shop
Cafe Caravan & Dolpo Gallery
Dolpo Artist Tenzin Norbu creates wonderful Dolpo paintings, the prints (and some originals) available from our Cafe Caravan at Boudhanath Stupa
Itinerary
Tibetan Tsum Valley Homestay Trek – Nepal Himalayan Trekking
Day 1 – Arrive Kathmandu 1340m (4395′) | Transfer Kathmandu Guest House
Welcome to Nepal! You will be met at Tribhuvan International Airport by a representative from Kamzang Journeys or Khumbu Adventures – our partners Doma, Lhakpa and Nuru Sherpa in Kathmandu. Please look for a sign with your name on it. Transfer to the Kathmandu Guest House (or see Kathmandu Hotels tab for luxury, boutique, and other hotel options in the Kathmandu Valley) where your room has been booked for you. Drink plenty of water to hydrate after your flight, and enjoy your first evening in Kathmandu …
We’ll need your travel medical insurance, a copy of your passport and Nepali visa, and one (or more) visa-sized photos, so please have them ready to give to Lhakpa, Doma or Nuru. And please ask if you need your gear checked, or have shopping or sightseeing questions.
Thamel is a myriad of shops of all imaginable varieties, bakeries, cafes, restaurants, bars, hotels, spas, climbing walls, colorful banners and signs, and eccentrically clad backpackers. Enjoy dinner at Roadhouse Cafe, New Orleans, Denchenling, Yin & Yang, Third Eye, or one of Thamel’s other restaurants. (B)
Day 2 – Kathmandu
Enjoy a free day exploring Kathmandu’s many World Heritage sites or embark on a tour of the beautiful Kathmandu valley, surrounded by Himalayan snow peaks (see Kathmandu Valley Tours for optional tours with a qualified guide, car, and entrance fees included). Or just relax at the hotel, visit the spa, have a massage, wander Kathmandu’s fascinating streets, pop into neighborhood Hindu temples and Newari-styled courtyards, join in on koras of the Buddhist temples. (B)
Kathmandu | World Heritage Sightseeing Tours – Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Durbar Square & Swayambunath
Kathmandu is filled with World Heritage sites and sacred destinations, crowded with traditional neighborhoods and colorful festivals. Spend a few days exploring Nepal’s exotic capital and the history-laden Kathmandu valley. We can arrange sightseeing guides and vehicles as required. See Kathmandu Heritage & Happenings for more details.
We recommend beginning with Pashupatinath in the early morning and moving on to Boudhanath mid-morning. Hindu Pashupatinath on the sacred Bagmati river and its sacred temple complex is one of Nepal’s most important sites, a powerful cremation site, and Nepal’s most important Hindu temple. Here, monkeys run up and down the steps of the burning ghats, and trident-bearing saddhus draped in burnt-orange and saffron sit serenely meditating when they’re not posing for photos-for-rupees. Local guides can explain the significance of the complicated ceremonies. Please be respectful when taking photos.
Boudhanath, in the midst of traditional monasteries (gonpas in Tibetan) and hung with long strings of multi-colored prayer flags, attracts Sherpas, Tibetans, and tourists alike for daily circumambulations (koras) of the iconic stupa. The striking Buddha eyes of Boudhanath Stupa watch over a lively and colorful Tibetan community and attract pilgrims from all over the Himalayan Buddhist realm. There are wonderful spots for lunch at Boudhanath (Roadhouse Cafe has wood-oven pizzas and a breathtaking view of the stupa and colorful Nepals circling it), and it’s a good place to learn the technique of thanka painting and purchase a thanka (Buddhist mural). See also Bhaktapur for more options for shopping for thankas.
Wander through the many temples, pagodas, courtyards, and the museum at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a timeless gathering spot and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Kathmandu Durbar Square, including the old royal palace, is Kathmandu’s ‘Palace Square’, a showcase for the world-renowned artisans and craftsmen of Kathmandu and a synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist palaces, temples, stupas, and statues. The Malla and Shah kings ruled over the Kathmandu Valley during the centuries of the building of the layers of this Durbar Square. Along with their opulent palaces, the square surrounds numerous courtyards and temples, all works of art with intricate and often erotic carvings. Kathmandu Durbar Square is known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, a name derived from a statue of Hanuman, the monkey devotee of Lord Ram, at the entrance of the palace. The social, religious and urban focal point of the city, Durbar Square is often the site of festivals, marriages, and other ceremonies such as Teej. Some important structures are Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (Abode of the Living Goddess), Taleju Temple, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, the 17th century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages.
In the evening (take the interesting back streets from Durbar Square) climb the many steps to the gilded Swayambhunath stupa (known as the monkey temple) which rises from the Kathmandu valley floor at 1420 meters and is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Swayambunath, the ‘self-created’ stupa, was founded over 2000 years ago at a time when the Kathmandu valley was filled by a large lake, with a single lotus in the center. Mythology says that Manjusri, a bodhisattva, drained the lake with one cut of his sword and the lotus flower was transformed into the stupa. From its commanding views of Kathmandu, circumambulate Swayambunath’s white-washed stupa, painted with distinctive Buddha eyes, the complex a unique synthesis of Buddhism and Hinduism. Another interesting time to visit Swayambunath is in the mornings when Nepalis visit the temple dedicated to the God of Smallpox with colorful offerings for the goddess.
Stop to photograph reflections in Kathmandu’s many pokharis or ponds, including the beautiful Rani Pokhari (queen’s bath) near New Road, and the Naga Pokhari (pond of the snake gods of the underworld) just beyond the palace gates. The many bathing ghats, square enclosures with steps leading down to water spouts, often decorated with naga heads, are also interesting and colorful gathering spots.
Cafe Caravan & Dolpo Gallery
Dolpo Artist Tenzin Norbu creates wonderful Dolpo paintings, the prints (and some originals) available from our Cafe Caravan at Boudhanath Stupa, housed in one of Boudha’s original historic buildings, decorated in a bright, Tibetan style and overlooking the magnificent stupa!
Day 3 – Drive Arughat & Macchakhola 875m
You will be up early for your lovely but sometimes bumpy drive from Kathmandu, mostly driving along the Trisuli River, to the starting part of your trek in the scenic Gurung Middle Hills of Nepal. Arughat is a small village on the Bhudi Gandaki River inhabited mainly by Newars, and the major supply depot for the trade route north to the border of Tibet. The route is bucolic and hot as you dive through Nepal’s green middle hills, driving up the Bhudi Gandaki River through villages of mixed Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin-Chhetri denizens. Eventually, you reach the small hamlet of Machakhola (Fish River), which was wiped out by a flood several years ago and rebuilt as a trekking hub and small village, where you will stay at a traditional lodge for the night. (B, L, D)
Day 4 – Trek Jagat 1370m
A long and hot trekking day, starting with a walk through the village of Korlebesi an hour past Macchakhola, and followed by an hour of walking along the river, by tobacco and buckwheat fields, past rocks washed smooth by the river, often climbing up stone steps, to reach the hot springs in the center of the small, terraced village of Tatopani. You have plenty of time to soak our grungy bodies in the gushing hot water streaming out of sculpted spouts. A gentle climb through the woods past some spectacular waterfalls and sculpted rocks brings us to a new suspension bridge across the Budhi Gandaki which you cross. Continue along a forested path and soon reach the large teahouse at Dobhan.
After a short break, you’ll cross the Dhoban Khola on another long suspension bridge. Above Dobhan, the Budhi Gandaki descends in an impressive series of steep cataracts with water and weather-sculpted rocks along the riverside, passing through a tangled green forest of trees, vines and flowers (including orchids), the dusty trail hugging the cliffside. You’ll share the trail with local sheep and goat herders, the youngest of the flock in rope baskets slung over their backs. More steep steps along cliff walls to climb as the river descends even more steeply and stratified river rocks decorate our route. It’s hot and there will be chances to stop at fly-blown Nepali bhattis, shared with local farm animals, for a drink, snack and rest en route. The valley flattens a bit and after a short climb you reach a newer bhatti and campsite. From here your trail climbs high above the river, nearly 200 meters, only to descend to an ‘eye’ of the Budhi Gandaki River. The valley widens, the river makes a large S turn and then calms.
Stop for lunch at another camping spot and group of bamboo teahouses called Yaru just at the bottom of this climb. The hike continues with an exciting elevated walkway (already broken – or ending in nothingness – in 2022) built into the cliffside far above the river, bringing you to yet another long, new suspension bridge crossing the Budhi Gandaki. Crossing the bridge, climb high, descend past the campsites of lower Jagat, and then climb again on neat stone steps to enter Jagat, the entranceway to the Manaslu National Park where your guide will check you into the park. There is WiFi available here, and it’s worth wandering around the beautiful, paved village, with ancient chortens in the center of the village, where village mothers’ groups have recorded how much they contributed to these paving schemes. (6-7 hrs) (B, L, D)
Day 5 – Trek Philim 1570m or Ekle Batti 1580m
Enjoy your short day of less than three hours, a day to restock for the Tsum valley ahead. After descending a long series of stone steps back down to the river from Jagat village, climb on slab steps along a terraced hill-side to the small hamlet of Saguleri, just past where you’ll have your first view of the impressive Shringi Himal (7187m). Beautiful red flame-leaf trees adorn the trail as you continue to climb and descend far above the river. You will pass through the fly-blown paved village of Sirdibas, where the local children sell oranges in the autumn, and soon afterwards pass by the local water mill. Crossing the river again on a long, high suspension bridge at Gata Khola, you have a steep climb past green fields of wheat to reach Philim (1570m), the MCAP headquarters with a health post, a Japanese sponsored school and a micro-hydro plant. You’ll arrive at Philim in time for lunch, and will spend an hour or two exploring the interesting upper levels of this Gurung village, with Chhyoling Sandu Gompa and its friendly care-taker family right at the top of the village.
The fascinating upper village’s Gurung inhabitants are quite poor, and often when camping in Philim we would spend the afternoon tending to wounds. Notice the chorten with the Maoist hammer and sickle in the center of the upper village, the kane chortens with murals inside and the intricately woven baskets which both the men and the women craft. The exquisite gold heirloom necklaces that adorn some of the women come from Barpak. Be careful of village dogs as they do sometimes bite (Kim has firsthand experience in this …), and do keep an eye on the skies as we’ve spotted golden eagles here.
After an interesting afternoon of wandering through beautiful and fascinating Philim, exit along the main, paved trail you’ll hike for 45 minutes, through corn and millet fields on a high trail over the Budhi Gandaki, to reach Ekle Bhatti (which means one teahouse), overlooking the dramatic Budhi Gandaki gorge far below. There are a series of small hamlets with equally good lodges along this high trail, so your guide might decide to continue another 20 minutes to the next lodge. (3-4 hrs) (B, L, D)
Tsum Valley (Chekampar)
Day 6 – Trek Lokpa 1915m or Chumling 2280m | Helicopter Option from Kathmandu
Continuing on this spectacular, high trail, we hike above the right banks of the river through a narrow, dramatic gorge with towering walls, past a thundering waterfall to the right of the trail and more smaller ones along the way. White-faced langurs frolic in the trees above and remote villages cling to the opposite side of the gorge, and everything is green and in full bloom in the springtime. Just as you reach the suspension bridge which spans the Budhi Gandaki (the older Bailey bridge was washed away recently), we take a sharp right above the main Manaslu trail heading to the east, in the direction of the Ganesh Himal. Entering the steep gorge leading into Tsum valley, you reach the purely Tibetan region of Tsum (also called Chum) and start the trek into the remote, beautiful Tibetan Tsum valley, a (once) very remote, ethnically Tibetan region of approximately 4000 inhabitants. You have less than an hour of gradual climbing above the Shiar Khola, hiking through a light forest (much being cut down for timber), to a rest stop for cold drinks from the lovely shopkeeper of the first isolated tea-house. Continue another 15 minutes to the hamlet of Lokpa, from where you’ll be treated to great views of Shringi and Ganesh Himal as well as the 2022 landslide section of trail. Note the large, green village on the flat plateau high above the Budhi Gandaki on the opposite side of the gorge. This is Nyak, a village of Gurung’s who graze their sheep and goats far below Barpak. We continue our trek into Tsum Valley, descending to the woods and crossing two newly built metal bridges over the intersecting Sukki Khola and Shiar Kholas (rivers).
You might decide to stay at one of the lodges in Lopka, as it makes for a long day to continue all the way to Chumling. You can decide once you get to Lopka …
Descend through leafy forest to reach the river level, soon afterwards climbing again, often steeply and on a somewhat exposed, switch backing trail high above the Shiar Khola, the highest point at 2240m. The trails through the Tsum valley have been greatly improved, so once precipitous and exposed trails are now safe and well maintained, and we can keep an eye on the treetops to spot rhesus monkeys as you hike. Continue on this cliff-side, undulating trail for about an hour and then drop back down to a small tea-house at Ghumlung, from where you cross the main Shiar Khola on a long suspension bridge. The hilltop village of Ripchet comes into sight across the steep-sided valley as we climb again on a nicely graded switch-backing trail to camp at Chumling, just above Hotel Ganesh Himal. Enjoy wonderful mountain views from the lodge, with and Himal Chuli rising down valley, so enjoy a well-earned rest if you don’t have the energy to explore the village after this long day! You will return to Chumling on the way back to the Manaslu Circuit trail as well, with plenty of time on that day to explore …
There is a small gompa (monastery) in the northern (righthand) section of the village across the suspension bridge just out of camp, In the main section of the village above town, there are narrow alleyways to explore, a few new lodges, tilled fields and a new health post at the upper righthand side of the village. Shishapangma in Tibet would be visible in the distance if you were at a higher elevation! (16 km, 7 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 14.16 km Elevation Gain: 933m Elevation Loss: 297m
HELICOPTER NOTE | We offer an option to charter a private helicopter from Kathmandu, landing in Chumling. Perfect for those with shorter vacation time, or those who just love Himalayan helicopter rides!
Day 7 – Trek Chhokangparo 3085m
Venturing further into the Tsum valley, you’ll have a beautiful hike to reach Chhokamparo, a twin village which translates as roughly ‘place of wisdom’. Just out of Chumling, cross the suspension bridge over the Shiar Khola and descend slightly as the valley opens ahead with green, fertile villages adding color to the already spectacular setting. Pass several small villages and the tiny Dhampa Gompa, worth a look inside and meeting the old ani (nun) who lives alone at the gompa if she is around. Inside are hundreds of stone statues of Chaktongchentong (a manifestation of Chenrizig, or Avalokiteśvara, the Buddha of Compassion), which line three of the walls. This is unique to the Tsum valley as far as we know and notice these walls of Chenrizigs in most of the Tsum gompas. Descend once again to the small village of Rainjam where you may be welcomed by barking dogs; take the left-hand trail up a bit, cross another suspension bridge and ascend to the small hamlet of Gho (2570m) where friends next to the village tap might be weaving or spinning at their small house. In the fields, wheat (gau), buckwheat and two types of barley (jau and ua, both used for making tsampa flour and chang barley beer).
Passing the small shop, continue to climb on a good trail with tremendous views up and down the valley for another few hours, stopping for lunch at the only teahouse, about half way through the climb. Finally you reach the outskirts of Chhokamparo, marked by several ancient, moss-covered mani walls (prayers etched onto wayside rocks, particularly mani stones with pictures of gods and goddesses), and Buddhist chortens, where we sometimes do a circumambulation with locals. Another few minutes and you’ve reached the lower end of the village. You have a chance to have hot (bucket) showers at Namgyal Ngodup and wife Karma (from Gheling, Mustang)’s Bio-Hotel Khamsangbo (which means good view, high, fresh, clean) just 5 minutes below camp.
Chhokamparo is one of our favorite villages in the Tsum valley, a scenic, interesting village with friendly villagers, small lanes to explore and even a well-stocked local shop for a bit of shopping and re-supplying. Other visitors will almost certainly be the langurs, sneaking into the barley fields to raid the crops, devastating for the villagers. You might have the chance to visit friends in their Tibetan homes for a cup of salt-butter tea, and the shopkeeper Tashi and his wife, and perhaps daughter Tenzin, are friends who own Tashi Delek Lodge. There’s a lot of weaving in this village as in most others in Tsum and Manaslu, an opportunity to purchase a hook rug, apron, kilim or other textiles either from our campsite or the local houses. The intricate, colorful woven belts adorning most women’s Tibetan-style chubas are unique to the Tsum valley as well. (B, L, D)
Distance: 12.98 km Elevation Gain: 1,077m Elevation Loss: 147m
Extra Day | Trek Gompa Lungdang 4340m
It’s a harder day than it looks on the map to reach Gompa Lungdang but worth the effort to get there for the experience of staying with the friendly nuns and the mountain panorama of the Ganesh Himal peaks surrounding the gompa. From the shop and our friend’s small house at Gho take a sharp left turn and descend through ferms and dense folliage to the Shiar Khola which you cross on a small, wooden bridge. A short hike through light forest brings us to the green hamlet of Dumje (2450m), where some of the young nuns from Gompa Lungdang stay and study, and the nuns have their barley fields. From here, you’ll have an often steep 3 hour hike far above the Laudang Khola to reach Gompa Lungdang. The views are great along the way and there are plenty of resting points en route. Note that the first time you’ll see Gompa Lungdang from the second vertical prayer flag pole on a ridge it’s still a good hour and a few hundred meters away. You will stay in basic accommodation at the nunnery, a newly rebuild monastery (it was destroyed during the 2015 Nepal Earthquake, and The Kamzang Fund provided the nuns with some assistance) with a slate courtyard and amazing views. The very friendly family of nuns, all from the nearby village of Ripchet, have a puja every morning and evening in the main gompa, very interesting to sit in on. Dinner and breakfast are usually a tsampa dhiro (mash) with timbur (mountain pepper) and stinging nettle sauce, and of course butter tea. There is also a smaller and older looking prayer room just to the right of the main gompa with some fantastic old murals, perhaps in the northern Indian style. And the views are superb!
Extra Day | Gompa Lungdang | Day Hike Ganesh Himal Base Camp
If you trek up to Gompa Lungdang, you might opt for a rest day at this wonderful spot, a chance to get to know the lively nuns better and go for a walk. We’ll have an optional hike up the valley towards (but not all the way to) Ganesh Himal Base Camp which will be quite strenuous but spectacular. Or just sit, enjoy your surroundings, do some peak-gazing and enjoy the company!
Day 8 – Trek Mu Gompa 3645m
Heading further north on your Tsum Valley trek, heading towards the border of Tibet as you follow the Shiar Khola, your destination is the remote Mu Gompa, the furthest settlement in the Tsum valley besides the seasonal grazing doksas. Leaving Chhokangparo passing the long mani walls in town, begin the morning with an easy hike through the lower section of the village (called Paro), hiking past the larger mani walls on ‘Mani Hill’ (which we may skip, hiking on the larger track, and pass on the return route), with Chhogu Gompa to your right. Views of the green valley above and below us are beautiful as you hike, and the trek continues to be scenic, green and cultivated throughout the day. Trek past many distinctive pyramid-like chortens (often with counting stones lining the base), unique to the Tsum Valley. You’ll hike amongst the blooming blue iris, and might see jackels, Himalayan thar, lammergeier and/or Himalayan griffin along the way.
Continuing to climb gradually past barley, mustard and potato fields, pass a village school and you’ll soon reach Nyakyu village (3225m). The hiking is relatively flat as you head towards the village of Lamagaon (3220m), the architecture a similar style to the last village, with narrow alleyways between the houses. You are trekking through the more open, predominantly level section of Tsum, during which one lovely village runs almost into the buckwheat (used as a medicine for diabetes in Tsum), barley and mustard fields of the next village, and the trails are peppered with mani walls with carved mantras and small chortens.
TRAIL NOTE | Just past Lamagaon, on the left side of the valley, are two small hermitages called Milarepa Piren Phu Cave and Chi Phu Gompa. Across the river, on the right side of the valley, are the new and old monasteries of Rachen Gompa nunnery, affiliated with Kopan in Kathmandu. You cross the river on a suspension bridge if we visit Rachen Gonpa on the way up valley, or you will visit this on the way down the valley, depending on which route your guide opts to take.
After the caves and/or the nunnery, still following the Shiar Khola, (cross a suspension bridge if we come from the caves, and often see herds of Himalayan thar on the cliffs above the river), pass through Phurbe and Pangdum, both with small village gompas, between them an extremely large, unusually shaped, dramatic chorten which dominates the skyline. This unique structure has an equally unusual door in the upper section, with steps leading up to it (locked), also a good stop for lunch. Soon afterward, we pass through Chule village (3250m); across the bridge over the Shiar Khola is the twin Nile village, which you don’t visit today. These are the last villages in the Tsum valley; Ni Le translates as sun-side and Chu Le water side. This older trail on the right of the river, and the jeep road is an option across the Nile bridge, though there is a river crossing mid-way which may or may not be a bit large.
Continue on the older trail on the right side of the Shiar Khola (not crossing to Nile), passing still more mani walls and chortens as we climb for approximately two hours, more strenuous than the first four hours, to reach Mu Gompa. This last section of trail is more desolate, and more difficult, as you gain 400 meters in two hours to camp at our highest spot in Tsum Valley. Finally, cross a new suspension bridge, or an old wooden bridge slightly earlier, and continue towards Mu Gonpa, following the jeep track to the left of the river. Cross a small bridge over a glacial stream and climb a bit more steeply past several larger chortens in the Tsum style, with Mu Gompa just above. Two herder’s huts are sometimes occupied, often with teahouse tents erected to service the locals headed north to Bhajyo to search for yartsa gunbu, the primary source of income for many Himalayan families.
After a big snowfall, mornings at Mu Gompa, with the slate rooftops glittering in the bright morning sunrays, are spectacular. This important monastery is Drukpa Kagyupa, though now affiliated with (and funded by) Kopan Gompa in Kathmandu (which is Gelugpa). It’s filled with old carved stone statues of the manifestation of Chenrisig with 1000 arms and 1000 eyes, the same as in Dhampa Gompa , in the main, medieval feeling Lhakhang (temple). The murals outside of the gompa used to be of the usual guardian Bonpo ‘Kings of the Four Directions’ at either side of the doorway – though in 2022 it was new plywood. There are (or were) about 16 novice monks, or thawas, and another 5 or 6 monks and lamas residing at the gompa, and the central temple is surrounded by the monks’ simple dwellings. From James Giambrone, a Kathmandu-based art historian “ At Mu Gompa, look for Arya Tara, Shakyamuni Buddha and Ekadasa (11 headed) Lokesvara. All are approximately 5’ tall made in the repousse process by Kuber Singh Shakya a famous Newar Repouse artist from Patan.” (6½- 7 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 12.99 km Elevation Gain: 586m Elevation Loss: 182m
Day 9 – Mu Gompa & Lamagaon | Day Hike Chhosyong Lake 4230m
After a scenic breakfast, you have the option for a great day hike, heading up the ridge behind Mu Gonpa and heading to a small mountain lake, with a beautiful slate doksa, overlooking Mu Gompa, small doksas across the river, and the green and snowy valleys leading towards Tibet. Pass ancient, lichen-covered mani walls and stone chortens at the first viewpoint, from where you’ll have spectacular views of the peaks just in front of Ganesh Himal (which is hidden behind these closer peaks). You often share the ridges with grazing flocks of blue sheep as we enjoy the spectacular views down the valley towards Ganesh Himal. Once at the mountain lake, a spectacular lunch spot awaits at the flat and warm doksa, often with Himalayan yaks watching our meal, and surrounded by yellow primroses (primulas) …
En route back to Mu Gompa, you might opt to take some of the small trails, bushwhacking to the newly rebuilt Dhephu Doma Ani Gonpa (nunnery), home to seven nuns from Nile and Chule. We’ve met a visiting (meditating) lama originally from Tibet who in 2022 who participated in a wonderful afternoon puja at about 3pm (though we don’t know if this is the usual puja schedule). (4 hrs r/t) (B, L, D)
Distance: 8.05km, Elevation Gain 1050m, Elevation Loss 1050m
TREK NOTE | You might also opt to return down the valley to Lamagaon today, after your hike, especially if you don’t hike all the way to the lake; there are fabulous views throughout the climb. After returning to Mu Gompa, continue down the valley to the lively village of Lamagaon, where there are some traditional lodges in this village of lamas!
Extra Day | Mu Gompa | Day Hike Bhajyo 4095
On longer treks, take advantage of the remote location to do some exploring. In June 2012, we were incredibly lucky to catch the annual, monthly ‘fair’ at Bhajyo, which a local jokingly called the New York of Tsum valley. The commodity that brings hundreds of Tsum-pas to this grassy doksa for the month is yarsagumba, ‘summer grass winter insect’, a sort of catipillar worm which becomes host to paratical spores-fungus. To get to Bhajyo, we trek north from camp along a high trail to the left of the river, past several chortens and a slide area. About an hour later we’ll reach a small, wooden bridge which we cross and hike up for about 15 minutes to reach Kalung (3830m) where a seasonal Tibetan-styled teahouse is in action in June. Several doksas encamp around the Kalung area, at the intersection of the Changmam Khola and the Yangdol Khola, in both directions.
Heading east along the later river, it’s a few hundred meters of altitude gain along a good trail, across a small bridge at the intersection of this river with the Salbu Khola, to reach Bhajyo. Here, many tea housesyar do a good summer business, kids play on the grassy slopes and the older women sit spinning wool. Mules from lower down stop for the night here as they transport hundreds and hundreds of mule-loads of ‘satua’, a ginger-like medicinal root, over the Ngula Dhojyang Pass (5095m) to Tibet. Locals also hunt for yarsagumba, the caterpillar-fungus fusion that occurs when parasitic mushroom spores infect and inhabit a ghost moth larva living under the soil, and mainly sold to the Chinese as an aphrodisiac (amongst other medical uses). (6 – 7 hrs) (B, L, D)
Day 10 – Trek Chhokangparo
You’ll head back down the green Tsum Valley to Chhokangparo, an easier route back as the trekking is mostly downhill. On the way down you will cross the Khugyu Khola and pass through the large school at Lar to visit Rachen Ani Gompa (locally called Gompa Rangjung), a nunnery also affiliated with Kopan Gompa with a large number of nuns who stay during the summertime. The other option is to stay on the opposite side of Shiar Khola and give people the option to visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave and Chi Phu Gompa, which makes for a longer but very interesting day. Further along the trail, past Lamagaon and Ngakyu, we might have the chance to visit Chhogu Golden Temple if the door is unlocked. Once back at your lodge in Chhokangparo, showers, perhaps a cold beer, a delicious locally sourced dinner and perhaps a bit of textile shopping awaits. (5- 7 hrs) (B, L, D)
Distance: 13.12 km Elevation Gain: 176m Elevation Loss: 580m
Day 11 – Trek Gompa Lungdang 4340m
It’s a harder day than it looks on the map to reach Gompa Lungdang but worth the effort to get there for the experience of staying with the friendly nuns and the mountain panorama of the Ganesh Himal peaks surrounding the gompa.
Backtrack down the large hill on the switchbacking trail that you climbed a few days previously. When you reach the shop and our friend’s small house at Gho, take a sharp left turn and descend through ferms and dense foliage to the Shiar Khola which you cross on a small, wooden bridge. A short hike through light forest brings you to the green hamlet of Dumje (2450m) where some of the young nuns from Gompa Lungdang stay and study, and where the nuns have their barley fields. From here you’ll have an often steep three-hour hike far above the Laudang Khola to reach Gompa Lungdang. The views are great along the way and there are plenty of resting points en route. Note that the first time you’ll see Gompa Lungdang from the second vertical prayer flag pole on a ridge it’s still a good hour and a few hundred meters away.
You will stay with the nuns at Gonpa Lungdang, in basic accommodation; but what a great opportunity to experience monastery life firsthand, and the perfect way to get to know the very friendly family of nuns, all from the nearby village of Ripchet. There’s a cozy kitchen on the other side of the courtyard and the nuns have a puja every morning and evening in the main gompa, very interesting to sit in on. Dinner and breakfast are usually a tsampa dhiro (mash) with timbur (mountain pepper) and stinging nettle sauce, and of course butter tea. There is also a smaller and older-looking prayer room just to the right of the main gompa with some fantastic old murals, perhaps in the northern Indian style. And the views are superb!
Day 12 – Gompa Lungdang | Day Hike Ganesh Himal Base Camp
A rest day at this wonderful spot, a chance to get to know the lively nuns better and go for a walk. You’ll have an optional hike up the valley towards (but not all the way to) Ganesh Himal Base Camp which will be quite strenuous but spectacular. Or just sit, enjoy your surroundings, do some peak-gazing and enjoy the company!
Day 13 – Trek Lokpa 1915m
Back down the steep hillside is easier for some than the ascent and should take us an hour and a half to reach the small nunnery outpost at Dumche. Heading further to the south than our route in, we hike briefly along a narrow trail between wooden fences which actually passes through a local inhabitant’s barn and then drop down to a new suspension bridge over the Laudang Khola. After crossing to the other side we’ll have about twenty minutes of flat hiking before reaching an ancient, lichen-covered chorten and mani wall marking what seems to be the far reaches of Dumche. We continue, climbing very gradually, through a dense forest that looks as if it might be home to snakes, bears and monkeys (although we never saw any). About an hour and a half after this chorten, after crossing another new suspension bridge, we climb briefly to reach the long village of Ripchet.
Ripchet seems a bit poorer than many other villages in the Tsum valley, and is situated on a ridge far above the Shiar Khola with its fields in back. The dogs are a bit ferocious and the flies are plentiful, so it’s more scenic and interesting to view the village from the fields above. At the end of the line of simple wooden houses is another chorten and then a small school (20 students and 2 teachers on a good day) where we’ll stop for lunch. Afterwards we have a steep descent over a small stream and then straight down the hill to the small tea-house at Ghumling which we passed about a week ago. Just past here is a small pool for cooling hot feet, and the teahouse has drinks. Now starts our long undulating trail to return to Lokpa. In theory it should be easier to return to Lokpa as it’s lower than our starting point by a few hundred meters, but in reality it still takes a good 2 1/2 to 3 hours of ascents and descents, and after the last two bridges we should be good and tired upon reaching Lokpa!
Lokpa has a nice, terraced campsite, cold beers at the shop and is a welcome sight after a long day of hiking. Note the large, green village on the flat plateau high above the Budhi Gandaki on the opposite side. This is Nyak, a village of Gurung’s who graze their sheep and goats far below Barpak, and who we might have run into en route. (B, L, D)
Distance: 20.72 km Elevation Gain: 341m Elevation Loss: 1,635m
Return Route
Day 14 – Trek Philim
You’ll return back to the Manaslu Circuit mail trail, and to Philim where you’re back at the same lodge you stayed at on the way up, unless you stayed in Elai Battie … (B, L, D)
Day 15 – Trek Macha Khola
Trekking south along the Manaslu Cirtuit, you’ll reach your starting point at Maccha Khola and stay in a lodge for the evening, enjoying the hot shower! (B, L, D)
Day 16 – Drive Kathmandu
You’ll board your private vehicle for the bumpy ride, followed by a good, paved road to the Kathmandu – Pokhara Highway and on another hour to pass the Bandipur turnoff on the main highway. It is a different world leaving the Himalayan regions, with green hills, traditional villages and gentle light as you drive through the lush, semi-tropical middle hills of Nepal, following the Trishuli River. Back at the Kathmandu Guest House, enjoy a hot shower and a cold beer in the lovely garden before dinner to celebrate the end of a wonderful trek! (8-11 hrs driving) (B, L)
Distance: 250km driving
Day 17 – Trip Ends | Transfer TIA Airport
Transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for your flight home. Namaste! (B)
Not Enough of Nepal?
We highly suggest taking advantage of your trip to Nepal, adding on excursions into the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Bandipur, Gorkha, the Annapurna Foothills, and Chitwan and Bardia National Park. Enjoy heritage tours, mountain biking, Kathmandu valley hiking, Himalayan panoramas with a hike down from the Chandragiri Cable Car, whitewater rafting, yoga and meditation courses, Nepali cooking classes, Buddhist or Hindu retreats, and much more. There are many wonderful, boutique, luxury, and heritage lodges in the Kathmandu Valley, and many options for world heritage sightseeing tours, bicycle trips, hikes, and craft-cuisine tours. Nepal boasts world-class restaurants, chic cafes, timeless alleyways to wander through, countless Hindu and Buddhist festivals, and lots of great shopping.
Don’t miss an Everest sightseeing flight or epic helicopter tour, sightseeing trips to Bhaktapur, Patan, and Panauti (Kathmandu Valley’s other historic and/or capital cities), a weekend at Shivapuri Heights Resort or Dwarikas in Kathmandu, a night at the Fort Hotel in Nagarkot for sunrise and sunset Himalayan panoramas, a spa and wellness getaway at the ultra-luxurious Dwarikas Dhulikhel Resort and visits to ancient temple and monastery complexes such as Namo Buddha, Changu Narayan, and Dakshinkali. Spend a night at The Old Inn in Bandipur or Three Mountain Lodge en route to Pokhara, or The Famous Farm in Nuwakot, and get to know Nepal’s Newar heritage.
Enjoy a luxury 3-6 day trek in the Annapurna Foothills, staying in the wonderful Ker & Downey luxury lodges. Relax in heritage style at Temple Tree Resort in Pokhara for some pampering at the spa and infinity pool, try out paragliding, zip-lining, and enjoy a morning of boating on the lake and the hike to Shanti Stupa. Once refreshed, drive to Chitwan National Park, spending a few nights at Maruni Sanctuary Resort or Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge for wildlife and bird spotting, river trips, and safaris in style. Tiger Tops also owns Karnali Lodge at Bardia National Park, reached by flight from Kathmandu, and there are nearby archeological sites to visit nearby.
Namaste!
Nepal Modules
Nepal & Kathmandu Modules | Customize Your Trip!
Date & Price
Dates
Private Departures
17 Days
Trek Price
$3280
+ Price based on 2+ Trekkers
Lodge Upgrades
+ Single Upgrade Lodges – $275 (Subject to Availability)
Kathmandu Guest House Single & Double Upgrades
+ Deluxe Upgrade Kathmandu Guest House (3 Nights) – $135
+ Suite Upgrade Kathmandu Guest House (3 Nights) – $225
Kathmandu Guest House | Extra Nights Room Price
Includes Breakfast & Taxes
Standard Single – $55
Standard Double – $65
Deluxe Single – $100
Deluxe Double – $110
Suite Single – $130
Suite Double – $140
Includes
- Kathmandu Guest House
- Airport Pick-ups & Drops
- Transportation by Private Vehicle
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Manaslu National Park Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, Tsum Valley Permit
- Lodge/Teahouse Accommodation & Meals
- Nepali Guide & Porter(s)
Excludes
- Insurance (Travel & Medical)
- Nepal Visa
- Helicopter Rescue Service Cost
- Meals in Kathmandu
- International Flights to/from Nepal
- Equipment Rental
- Alcohol & Soft Drinks
- Laundry
- Tips
Tips & Extra Cash
Allow approx $250 for meals (while not on trek), drinks (on trek) and tips. We recommend $250 per trekker thrown into the tips pool for the crew.
Highlights & Reviews
Client’s Highlights
‘Thank you so much for all of the effort, help and patience that you put in to make the trek special for us. We had such an amazing experience, and we will always have such incredible memories that we will remember for the rest of lives. It was truly an experience of a lifetime …
I was so impressed with your whole operation; I don’t know how you juggle it all. You are not only an amazing operator, pulling all the levers, but you are a gifted guide which makes the trip truly special for everyone. Also, your attention to detail is impressive, you can tell you put a lot of thought into how to make the whole experience as comfortable and pleasurable as possible.’ – Rob B, High Manaslu
‘Kim’s support team are uniformly excellent, and all pitch in to ensure a smooth operation and to make sure that you are OK at all times. The equipment is all top-notch and the food is very, very good. In addition, the smaller, more “informal” style really promotes interaction between members of the group and the guys helping out, which is a rare thing. They are all really friendly, down-to-earth people and have a great deal of knowledge about the trekking regions, local history and customs, and are very happy to answer any questions you have. A good measure of the success of these trips is the number of returning trekkers and climbers that choose them again and again for their holidays. I’d have to say that every trip I’ve made with them has been a really special experience. Suffice to say, not once have I been tempted to join any other trekking group.’ – Beau M, High Manaslu
Read More Testimonials
Trekkers’ Comments
Trek Highlights
- Remote, green Tibetan Tsum Valley
- Mu Gompa & Gompa Lungdang
- Ganesh Himal range
- The high Manaslu route from Gorkha (optional)
- Laprak & Barpak Gurung villages (optional)
- The Larkya La pass (5400m)
- The Tibetan region of Nubri
- The mixed Tibetan & Gurung inhabitants of Kutang
- Tibetans of Samdo & Sama Gaon villages
- Tibetan Buddhist gompas (monasteries)
- Manaslu Base Camp day trip
- Pung Gyan Gompa
- Incredibly diverse scenery and cultures
- Spectacular Himalayan views & great side-trips
Kim Bannister Photo Gallery | Trip & Trek Photos
Kim Bannister Photography
Travel Reading | Enhance Your Trip!
Travel Books
Contact & Details
Kamzang Journeys Contact
Kim Bannister
kim@kamzang.com
kamzangkim@gmail.com
Mobile: +(977) 9803414745 (WhatsApp), 9863196743
On-Trek Satellite Phone: +88216 21277980 (Nepal)
Kathmandu Contact
Khumbu Adventures
hiking.guide@gmail.com
Lhakpa Dorji Sherpa Mobile: +(977) 9841235461, 9705235461
Doma Sherpa Mobile: +(977) 9841510833, 9705510833
Nuru Wangdi Sherpa Mobile: +977 9803633783 (WhatsApp)
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Kathmandu Arrival Hotel
Kathmandu Guest House
Nepal Tourist Visas
You can get your Nepal visa at TIA International Airport (or any land border) when you arrive in Nepal, or before you leave home at a Nepali Embassy or Consulate. When you arrive at immigration in Kathmandu, scan your passport at the visa machines (no photo needed) or produce your online, printed visa-on-arrival form, pay the visa fee, and go to the appropriate immigration line.
15 Days – $30
30 Days – $50
90 Days – $125
Tourist Visa Extension (15 days) – $45 (+$3 Additional Day))
Nepal Visa
Nepal Visa Information
Kathmandu Guest House
Ward: 16, Street name: Saatghumti, Area: Thamel, District: Bagmati, City: Kathmandu, Zone: Bagmati, Phone: +977 14700004
Health Information
Nepal Health Information
CDC
We also recommend bringing probiotics with you to help prevent infections while on trek. Doctor’s recommendation!
Travel Medical Insurance
Required for your own safety. We carry a copy of your insurance with all contact, personal and policy information with us on the trek and our office in Kathmandu keeps a copy. Note that we almost always trek over 4000 meters (13,000′) and that we don’t do any technical climbing with ropes, ice axes or crampons.
Global Rescue Rescue Services
We recommend (but don’t require) that our trekkers sign up for Global Rescue services as a supplement to your travel medical insurance. You can book this directly through our Kamzang Journeys site.
Global Rescue
Medical On-Trek
Please do have a full check-up before leaving home, and inform us of any medical issues. This is for YOUR OWN safety. Your guides bring a small medical kit, but you’ll want your own medications with you.
DO bring all prescription medications and rehydration powders-electrolytes. We advise bringing your own Diamox, Ciprofloxin, Azithromycin + Augmentin. We do have all of these with us, but the Western versions are generally more reliable than the Indian equivalents. See Gear List for a full list of recommended medications for the trek.
Travel Reading | Enhance Your Trip!
Travel Books
Not Enough of Nepal?
We highly suggest taking advantage of your trip to Nepal, adding on excursions into the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Bandipur, Gorkha, the Annapurna Foothills, and Chitwan and Bardia National Park. Enjoy heritage tours, mountain biking, Kathmandu valley hiking, Himalayan panoramas (and a hike down) from the Chandragiri Cable Car, whitewater rafting, yoga and meditation courses, Nepali cooking classes, Buddhist or Hindu retreats, and much more. There are many wonderful, boutique, luxury, and heritage lodges in the Kathmandu Valley, and many options for world heritage sightseeing tours, bicycle trips, hikes, and craft-cuisine tours. Nepal boasts world-class restaurants, chic cafes, timeless alleyways to wander through, countless Hindu and Buddhist festivals, and lots of great shopping.
Don’t miss an Everest sightseeing flight or epic helicopter tour, sightseeing trips to Bhaktapur, Patan, and Panauti (Kathmandu Valley’s other historic and/or capital cities), a weekend at Shivapuri Heights Resort or Dwarikas in Kathmandu, a night at the Fort Hotel in Nagarkot for sunrise and sunset Himalayan panoramas, a spa and wellness getaway at the ultra-luxurious Dwarikas Dhulikhel Resort and visits to ancient temple and monastery complexes such as Namo Buddha, Changu Narayan, and Dakshinkali. Spend a night at The Old Inn in Bandipur or Three Mountain Lodge en route to Pokhara, or The Famous Farm in Nuwakot, and get to know Nepal’s Newar heritage.
Enjoy a luxury 3-6 day trek in the Annapurna Foothills, staying in the wonderful Ker & Downey luxury lodges. Relax in heritage style at Temple Tree Resort in Pokhara for some pampering at the spa and infinity pool, try out paragliding, zip-lining, and enjoy a morning of boating on the lake and the hike to Shanti Stupa. Once refreshed, drive to Chitwan National Park, spending 2 or 3 nights at Maruni Sanctuary Resort or Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge for wildlife and bird spotting, river trips, and safaris in style. Tiger Tops also owns Karnali Lodge at Bardia National Park, reached by flight from Kathmandu, and there are nearby archeological sights to visit nearby.
Nepal Modules
Nepal & Kathmandu Modules | Customize Your Trip!
Notes on Itinerary
Although we try to follow our trek itinerary, it is ONLY a guideline based on years of experience trekking in many Himalayan regions. At times local trail, river or weather conditions may make a deviation necessary; rivers may be impassible, snow blocks passes, and landslides wipe out trails. The trekking itinerary and campsites may also vary slightly depending on the group’s acclimatization rate or sickness, or improved campsites and lodges.
The Himalaya are our passion, and we take our trekking and cycling trips seriously. Although everyone is here on vacation, please come with a dollop of patience and compassion added to your sense of adventure …
Arrival Kathmandu
Arrival in Kathmandu
You will be met at the airport by a representative from Khumbu Adventures (see Contact & Details tab). Look for a sign with your name on it as you leave the airport. You will be transferred to the Kathmandu Guest House where your rooms have been pre-booked … Please hydrate!
Nepal Tourist Visas
You can get your Nepal visa at TIA International Airport (or any land border) when you arrive in Nepal, or before you leave home at a Nepali Embassy or Consulate. When you arrive at immigration in Kathmandu, scan your passport at the visa machines (no photo needed) or produce your online, printed visa-on-arrival form, pay the visa fee, and go to the appropriate immigration line.
15 Days – $30
30 Days – $50
90 Days – $125
Tourist Visa Extension (15 days) – $45 (+$3 Additional Day))
Nepal Visa
Nepal Visa Information
Kathmandu Guest House
Ward: 16, Street name: Saatghumti, Area: Thamel, District: Bagmati, City: Kathmandu, Zone: Bagmati, Phone: +977 14700004
Arrival Hotel
Kathmandu Guest House
International Medical Center Kathmandu
CIWEC
Nepal Temperatures + Clothing
See Gear Tab for trekking and cycling clothing, as well as medical supplies recommendations.
Kathmandu during the spring and autumn trekking seasons is usually quite warm (t-shirt, sandals, light pants or skirts) during the day, and gets chilly (light fleece or jacket) in the late afternoon and evenings. Nights can be cold enough for a sweater and/or jacket, or warm enough for t-shirts. Summer is hotter and wetter, and you’ll need a rain jacket and umbrella. The winter months (late Nov – March) are chilly in the mornings and evenings, cold enough that you might start the day in a down jacket, but often warming up enough to wear a t-shirt by mid-day. Nights get cold enough for a down jacket if you’re sitting outside, although many restaurants have heaters or fire pits. It never snows in Kathmandu. Keens, Chacos or other hiking sandals are great for wandering around Kathmandu, and for trekking in lower altitudes. Crocs are good to have for rooms, showers and at camp when trekking or cycling.
Trekking is a mixed bag of temperatures. LAYERS are the key as hot can change quickly to freezing crossing the passes and snowfalls are common. We often have some rain below 3000 meters in the spring and early autumn, and it can rain hard in the summer. Have a wide range of layer-able trekking clothes for summer to winter temperatures. Keep a lightweight down jacket or synthetic jacket with you at all times, available inexpensively in Kathmandu. A lightweight rain poncho and umbrella for trekking are recommended in the spring and summer seasons. Be prepared! See our ‘Gear’ tab for full details on gear, shoes, clothing, electronics, and meds for the trek.
There are lots of real gear shops (North Face, Mountain Hardwear, Marmot, Sherpa Gear, OR) and many ‘fake’ and Nepali-made shops in Kathmandu, so if you don’t think you have the right gear starting the trip, it is easy to pick up gear once in Kathmandu. We have sleeping bags to rent, duffel bags, camp towels and buffs to purchase, and you’ll get a FREE Kamzang Journeys t-shirt for the trip!
Dress conservatively in Kathmandu and on the trail as a rule. Shorts are okay if they aren’t too short, short mini skirts aren’t recommended. Sleeveless t-shirts are absolutely fine, but perhaps avoid skimpy tank tops on the trail. Super tight lycra and very skimpy doesn’t go over so well with village elders or remote villagers, and will generally limit your ability to have meaningful interactions with Nepali villagers. Many of the younger generation in Nepal wear modern Indian or Western-influenced clothes but remember that you haven’t signed up for a beach or surf vacation. Use your good judgment, and be an ambassador for western travelers! Please ask Kim or your guide if unsure about appropriate clothing, we’re always happy to advise.
Nepal Cultural Issues
Nepalis are very open and welcoming, but there are a few issues you should be aware of to make your stay in Nepal more fulfilling. Use your right hand to pass things, shake hands or do most anything. Left hands are somewhat taboo. Nepalis often place their left hand on the right forearm when passing things to others, a sign of respect. Best not to pat kids on heads, or point feet ahead of you at monasteries. Don’t walk over someone’s legs or feet, but put your hand down in front of you to signal them to pull their legs to the side. Take off shoes and hats when going into Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples, don’t use flashes inside monasteries or temples if possible and be respectful when attending pujas (prayer ceremonies). You can talk and move around, all religious are very tolerant, but be aware of your level of voice and where you are walking. Don’t sit on Buddhist monastery benches, they are used as tables. You will often be shown to low, carpeted sitting areas in the back of a monastery. If you’re served tea, it’s fine to accept (in fact, the servers will be happy to give you tea), but also fine to say ‘no thank you’, putting your hand up. If you don’t want more tea, often the salt-butter variety, simply cover your cup with your hand.
Nepalis don’t anger quickly in general, so try not to raise your voice if exasperated or angry as it only will make the situation worse. Do bargain at shops, with taxis and rickshaws, but don’t fleece people as many people are quite poor and need to make a living. Give small donations on the streets if you choose to, but try not to encourage begging and be aware of who you are giving your money to. If you do want to donate to a good cause, ask about our Kamzang Fund or other responsible organizations.
Tips for Staff
We recommend $250-300 per person to go into the tip pool for the staff, which can be given to Kim in Kathmandu in $US. We also pitch in to buy our incredible staff drinks on the last night, or any other night that you feel like treating them to a bottle of Kukure Rum or a few beers!
Tips in General
Tips are always appreciated but they don’t need to be extravagant. 100-300 NRP to carry bags to/from your room is fine, the women who clean your room will be happy with 200-300 NRP when you leave, and 300-500 NRP is great for your airport transfers. Round-up taxi fares, in general. A larger tip would be expected for a day trip in a private car, perhaps 500 NRP, and a tour guide might get 500-100 NRP. 10% is included in most restaurant and hotel bills in Nepal, and if it’s not included it’s still expected. You can round-up the restaurant bills as well.
Cash, Credit Cards & ATMs
ATMs are available all over Kathmandu, and give up to 25,000 NRP per transaction, in general. You can also change money at the hotel counter (a good rate usually) or just outside the hotel at any of the money changers. They’re quite competitive. You’ll want cash in NRP with you on the trek for local shopping, drinks, beers, snacks, beer, laundry and charging electronics. There are usually local crafts and textiles to buy along the way as well! Credit cards are accepted at hotels, most larger restaurants and cafes, and most of the larger gear, craft and pashmina shops in Kathmandu.
Pampering Yourself & Shopping in Kathmandu
We’re happy to book your rooms before or after the trek at boutique and luxury hotels, resorts and spas in Kathmandu and the Kathmandu Valley. We’re happy to help with advice on where to purchase the most authentic crafts, pashmina or other hand-made Nepali products in Kathmandu. We sell local handicrafts at our Cafe Caravan at Boudha, as well as delicious cakes, coffees, meals and snacks.
Cafe Caravan & Dolpo Prints & Paintings
Dolpo Artist Tenzin Norbu creates wonderful Dolpo paintings, the prints (and some originals) available from our Cafe Caravan at Boudhanath Stupa, and more recently the artist Tenzing Samdup also sells his Dolpo prints at the cafe. We also have an extensive selection of ‘caravan’ handicrafts, coffees, teas, t-shirts, ceramic mugs and Himalayan books for sale …
Kamzang Journeys Products
Kamzang Journeys duffel bags, Kamzang Journeys t-shirts, Kamzang Journeys camp towels, Kamzang Journeys buffs, handcrafted leather passport wallets, totes and bags, handcrafted Himalayan textile pillow covers and more unique, handcrafted tribal silver and Himalayan textiles available from Kim here in Kathmandu.
Kamzang Journeys Products
Kamzang Design Etsy Shop (On-Line)
Many of these handcrafted products designed by Kim and local craftspeople are available in Kathmandu, including much of the tribal silver collection …
Kamzang Design Etsy Shop
Great Stays
See our ‘Great Stays’ tab for our picks of some of the best heritage, boutique or interesting hotels, guest houses, and lodges in the Kathmandu Valley and elsewhere in Nepal.
Not Enough of Nepal?
We highly suggest taking advantage of your trip to Nepal, adding on excursions into the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Bandipur, Gorkha, the Annapurna Foothills, and Chitwan and Bardia National Park. Enjoy heritage tours, mountain biking, Kathmandu valley hiking, Himalayan panoramas (and a hike down) from the Chandragiri Cable Car, whitewater rafting, yoga and meditation courses, Nepali cooking classes, Buddhist or Hindu retreats, and much more. There are many wonderful, boutique, luxury, and heritage lodges in the Kathmandu Valley, and many options for world heritage sightseeing tours, bicycle trips, hikes, and craft-cuisine tours. Nepal boasts world-class restaurants, chic cafes, timeless alleyways to wander through, countless Hindu and Buddhist festivals, and lots of great shopping.
Don’t miss an Everest sightseeing flight or epic helicopter tour, sightseeing trips to Bhaktapur, Patan, and Panauti (Kathmandu Valley’s other historic and/or capital cities), a weekend at Shivapuri Heights Resort or Dwarikas in Kathmandu, a night at the Fort Hotel in Nagarkot for sunrise and sunset Himalayan panoramas, a spa and wellness getaway at the ultra-luxurious Dwarikas Dhulikhel Resort and visits to ancient temple and monastery complexes such as Namo Buddha, Changu Narayan, and Dakshinkali. Spend a night at The Old Inn in Bandipur or Three Mountain Lodge en route to Pokhara, or The Famous Farm in Nuwakot, and get to know Nepal’s Newar heritage.
Enjoy a luxury 3-6 day trek in the Annapurna Foothills, staying in the wonderful Ker & Downey luxury lodges. Relax in heritage style at Temple Tree Resort in Pokhara for some pampering at the spa and infinity pool, try out paragliding, zip-lining, and enjoy a morning of boating on the lake and the hike to Shanti Stupa. Once refreshed, drive to Chitwan National Park, spending 2 or 3 nights at Maruni Sanctuary Resort or Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge for wildlife and bird spotting, river trips, and safaris in style. Tiger Tops also owns Karnali Lodge at Bardia National Park, reached by flight from Kathmandu, and there are nearby archeological sights to visit nearby.
Nepal Modules
Nepal & Kathmandu Modules | Customize Your Trip!
Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing & Tours
See our Kathmandu Tours tab for lots of idea of how to experience the real Nepal.
Kathmandu & Kathmandu Valley Information
Our ‘Insider’ list of things to do, places to go, what to visit, the most happening restaurants and the best hotels in Kathmandu and the beautiful Kathmandu Valley.
Happenings in Kathmandu
Gear
Kamzang Journeys Products
Kamzang Journeys duffel bags, t-shirts, camp towels and buffs. Handcrafted leather passport wallets, totes and bags, unique Himalayan textile pillow covers, cashmere stoles and more!
Kamzang Journeys Products
Gear List
A guideline, not a bible, for the gear you will (probably) need on the trek. Do ask (or send gear links) if you have questions! Everyone has their own method of gearing-ups for the mountain, so although these suggestions are based on 20+ years in the Himalayan regions, they may not be exactly what you bring on a trek. Layers are essential for trekking, and quality is more important than quantity. It’s worth investing in some new, warm, lightweight trekking gear! Kim will check your gear before the trek, if needed.
One duffel bag per person. The airline regulations allow 15 kg per person for mountain flights (including your daypack). We find ways to adjust, but be aware of this limitation and please try to limit your duffel bag and daypack combined to no more than 20 kg (50 lbs) total.
- Duffel Bag
- Day Pack (30-40 L)
- Sleeping Bag (-20 to 0F/-15 to -25C Recommended. NOTE the lodges in the Everest region have quilts or duvets in the rooms, so your sleeping bag doesn’t need to be quite as warm. Other trekking regions do not necessarily provide quilts or duvets)
- Trekking Boots, Trekking Shoes &/or Running Shoes
- Crocs (Evenings & Washing)
- Down Jacket(s) &/or Vests (Can be Lightweight Down Jackets. Layering Recommended)
- Wind/Rain Jacket & Pants (Inquire for Your Trek)
- Trekking Pants (2)
- T-Shirts (2)
- Long-Sleeve Shirts (2)
- Technical Jacket (Depending on Other Jackets)
- Thermal (Lightweight) Top & Bottom
- Evening Thermal Top & Bottom (Synthetic &/or Down Pants Optional)
- Socks (3-5)
- Down Booties (Optional)
- Gloves (Lighter Pair & Heavier Pair for Passes)
- Thermal Hat
- Baseball Cap &/or Wide-Brimmed Hat
- Camp Towel
- Trekking Poles (Recommended)
- Micro Spikes (REQUIRED for Passes. INQUIRE)
- Sunglasses (Extra Pair Recommended)
- Reading Glasses (Extra Pair Recommended)
- Head Lamp (Extra Recommended)
- Water Bottles | Nalgenes (2-3)
- Water Bladder (Optional, Recommended)
- Watch (with Alarm)
- Battery Chargers & Extra Batteries
- Camera or Smart Phone (Optional)
- USB Adapter with Multiple Ports (Recommended)
- SteriPen &/or Squeeze Filter Bottle (Optional)
- Travel Umbrella (Optional)
- Laundry Detergent or Bio-degradable Clothes Soap (Purchase in Mountains)
- Book(s) or Kindle &/or Audiobooks
- Zip-Lock | Plastic Bags
- Toilet Paper
- Toiletries
- SPF Sunscreen & Lip Balm
- Personal Medical Supplies
- Hand Sanitizers (Small)
- Reusable Wipes (Recommended, Not Single Use)
- Rehydration | Electrolytes (Required)
- Snacks (Required, Namche)
Available in Namche Bazaar
- Snacks, Chocolate, Snack Bars, Dried Fruit & Nuts
- Laundry Detergent
- Most Trekking Gear (Real + Knock-offs)
- Lemon Tang (Make Lemonade!)
- Batteries
- Trekking Poles
- Micro Spikes
Shopping & Snacks in Nepal
Almost all gear is now available in Kathmandu, from real (North Face, Mountain Hardwear, Sherpa Gear, Marmot or at some shops in Thamel) to inexpensive knock-offs or good Nepali brands. The real gear shops take credit cards. There are many camera and mobile shops, and you can pick up good quality chocolate, snack bars (including gluten free, organic and vegan) and lots of other varieties dried fruits, nuts and snacks in Kathmandu. And, of course, you can shop for pashminas (or cashmere, or fakes, please ask if unsure), good quality silver, handicrafts and locally produced specialty products. We also have a large variety of good quality, unique handicrafts at Café Caravan in Boudhanath.
Lodge Note
Inside the lodge dining rooms, the wood or yak-dung stoves heat the room very well and you’ll often strip down to a t-shirt! Mornings and evenings in your rooms are chilly to cold though, and before the fires are lit you’ll want to put on your thermals! In the Everest region, there are always duvets or quilts available, but not always in other trekking regions, so bring an appropriate sleeping bag for your trek.
Suggested Medical Supplies
Your guide will have a have a small medical kit, including Diamox (for acclimatizing), antibiotics, bandages, re-hydration, antihistimines, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Please bring a supply of all prescription and personal medications. Please have a check-up before leaving home, and inform us of any medical issues. This is for YOUR OWN safety!
SUGGESTED MEDS | Dexamethasone, Nifedipine & Diamox (altitude), Azithromycin, Ciprofloxacin & Augmentin (antibiotics), blister bandages, Tegaderm &/or bandages, knee & ankle supports/braces (if required), ACE bandage for sprains & strains, cough drops.
Bring whatever pain meds you generally use (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol/Tylenol, Diclofenac), meds for diarrhea (Loperamide/Imodium) and nausea (Ondansetron), antihistamines (non-drowsy & Benadryl is good for a drowsy antihistamine that might help with sleep), as well as any medications that you take regularly or that your doctor prescribes. We recommend picking up a combination Salmeterol & Fluticasone inhaler locally, good for (from a doctor trekking friend) “high altitude cough due to reactive airways, which is kind of like temporary asthma. The ingredients in the inhaler relax the bronchial passages and calm inflammation in the airways.”Stay away from sleeping medications, drugs in the codeine-opiate-narcotic family and other drugs that suppress your breathing (not a good at altitude). And don’t forget electrolytes! Have some with you in your pack (as well as snacks) daily …
We’re happy to take excess medical supplies off your hands when you leave if you won’t need them. We use lots of the large amount we have with us to treat locals, our staff and our trekkers…
Kim’s Gear Suggestions
I generally wear a trekking t-shirt, trekking pants, a mid-weight long-sleeve shirt, a lightweight synthetic jacket (sometimes paired with a vest), often starting the morning in a lightweight pair of long underwear. I carry a lightweight wind-rain jacket and pants, an extra pair of socks, gloves, a baseball cap and hat in my daypack, and on colder days also have a lightweight down jacket with me.
I use a 35 L Osprey daypack with a bladder, and an extra Nalgene to refill water on the trail, and often use trekking poles. I generally trek in running shoes, although I use boots on very cold days and over passes, and sometimes on hot days I also trek in Keen or Chaco sandalas. I often carry Crocs with me in case of river crossings and to give my feet a break at lunch (Tevas, Chacos and Keen sandals take a long time to dry and are relatively heavy), and I carry micro-spikes on pass days. I always have snacks, electrolytes, my camera or iPhone, sunscreen, hand sanitizer and some toilet paper, a small medical kit and a SteriPen.
Good trekking boots or running shoes that you’ve hiked in before the trek are essential. You don’t ever need climbing or plastic boots (for mini-crampons or micro-spikes). Trekking poles are not required but strongly recommended, especially for going down passes which are often steep and icy, and for treks with river crossings and rocky trails. Bring gators if you tend to use them but they’re not required if you don’t own a pair. Micro-spikes (mini-crampons) or YakTrax are useful (or essential) for pass crossings (inquire before the trek). We have an ice ax and rope with us during some treks for pass crossing days, for extra safety.
Good (polarized) sunglasses are essential. Do bring an extra pair in case you lose or break them. Don’t forget a sun hat and/or a baseball cap, perhaps an extra headlamp, and have plenty of sunscreen and lip balm with SPF! Don’t get caught with blistered lips that don’t heal at altitude!
Nights are chilly to very cold, so a down jacket(s) and a WARM sleeping bag are essentials. We recommend a down sleeping bag of -10 to -20 F (-18 to -28 C). Mine is -20 F. At lower altitudes I open it and sleep under it like a quilt, and up higher am toasty warm during cold nights. NOTE sleeping bag ratings don’t correspond to how warm they need to be at altitude. Campsites at higher altitudes can be freezing at night and in the morning. The dining tent is a Tibetan style ‘yurt’ with cotton rugs (dhurries), tables and camp chairs on the ground. It warms up in the evenings when everyone is inside having soup, but it is still important to have warm clothes for the evenings. I change into thermals for the evening at camp and to sleep in when we get to camp; stretchy yoga pants over thermal underwear, light down vest and/or jacket over thermal layers. I love my down (or synthetic) booties at night in the tent! We have blankets for everyone if needed, and we even have a small propane heater on some treks …
Bring XL plastic bags or stuff sacks in your daypack in case of rain. The weather is changeable in the Himalaya, so we recommend that everyone has a strong, waterproof duffel bag for the trek. We supply covers that go over the duffel bags to protect them from rain, dirt + rips.
Day Pack
We recommend a 30-45 liter day pack. Better to have it too large than too small as on pass days you’ll need to carry more warm gear, and you can always cinch daypacks down. Many packs come with internal water bladders, or you can purchase them separately; very good for ensuring that you stay hydrated. Make sure your pack fits comfortably when loaded before bringing it trekking!!
In your day pack, you’ll carry your camera or phone, approx 2 liters of water, a jacket, lightweight wind and/or rain pants (often), a thermal hat, a baseball cap or sun hat, a buff (optional, but great to have on dusty trails), gloves, sunscreen, snacks, electrolytes, maybe something to purify water, hand sanitizer, a small bit of medical supplies, a pack-cover and often a lightweight down jacket. I slip my Crocs in for lunchtime stops or unexpected river crossings, and almost always carry a lightweight down jacket!
Drinking Water
We bring KATADYN (or equivalent) expedition-sized water filters along on the trek for fresh drinking water, ecologically the best way to get water in the Himalaya’s fragile trekking regions. Bring your own SteriPen or Sawyer squeeze filter for a back-up filtered water system during the day if you already have one. We bring ours as well, so this is optional. Please bring at least 2 Nalgene or other water bottles in addition to your water bladder.
WATER NOTE | We do not provide boiled water for filling water bottles on our camping treks although there is endless hot water for herbal, black or green teas, hot chocolate, hot lemon as well as delicious Indian chai and Kashmiri tea.
Snacks
You will NEED snacks hiking at altitude, even if you’re not a big snacker. Bring your favorite energy bars, gels, chocolate bars, dried fruit and nuts, jerky or whatever else gives you quick energy. Emergen-C and/or other electrolyte mixes are important in water bottles or before or after the trekking day; it is ESSENTIAL to bring electrolytes with you in your day packs in case you cramp up, get diarrhea or otherwise need them.
Rentals
We have (approximately) 0F super-down sleeping bags to rent for $2.50 per day on our Nepal & Tibet treks. You might want a warmer sleeping bag (I use a -20F); if so, please do bring your own, as we want you to be warm while sleeping at night!
Packing & Extra Gear Storage
It’s easy to pack and unpack from a duffel bag, especially when the temperature drops. It’s a good idea to invest in a strong, waterproof duffel such as a North Face or one of our Kamzang Journeys duffels. You can store extra gear and computers at the hotel while we’re trekking.
Shopping & Snacks in Nepal
Almost all gear is now available in Kathmandu, from real (North Face, Mountain Hardwear, Sherpa Gear, Marmot or at some shops in Thamel) to inexpensive knock-offs or good Nepali brands. The real gear shops take credit cards. There are many camera and mobile shops, and you can pick up good quality chocolate, snack bars (including gluten free, organic and vegan) and lots of other varieties dried fruits, nuts and snacks in Kathmandu. And, of course, you can shop for pashminas (or cashmere, or fakes, please ask if unsure), good quality silver, handicrafts and locally produced specialty products. We also have a large variety of good quality, unique handicrafts at Café Caravan in Boudhanath.
Manaslu & Tsum
Manaslu Region (Lower Manaslu, Kutang & Nupri)
Manaslu, the 8th highest peak on the planet (8163m), ‘Mountain of the Spirit or Soul’, is one of the most spectacular snow-peaks in Nepal. The Manaslu Circuit, officially open for trekking in the early 90s and following an ancient salt-trading route between Nepal and Tibet along the Budhi Gandaki River, is a cultural trek par excellence, and the Larkya La, separating the Manaslu and Annapurna regions, is one of Nepal’s most spectacular Himalayan passes. A trek around the beautiful high Manaslu Circuit is a step back in time, a glimpse of traditional Nepali and Tibetan villages, and a journey through a remote Himalayan paradise. The diversity of the trek, from the sub-tropical Himalayan foothills to the Tibetan Trans-Himalayan high pastures – as well as the awesome mountain scenery of the Manaslu, Annapurna and Ganesh Himals – make the Manaslu Himalayan trek one of the most culturally interesting and challenging, treks in Nepal.
HW Tillman and his team were the first mountaineering expedition to explore the region in 1950, and the Japanese the first team to climb it in 1956; since then, Manaslu has been known as a Japanese mountain, and because of its sensitive location right at the border of Tibet, few western trekkers ventured into the region. Up to the 1840s, Kutang and Nupri were part of western Tibet and paid taxes to Dzongka Dzong in Tibet. Nupri only incorporated into Nepal in the mid to late 19th century when Gorkha power finally extended into the region. The Manaslu region was closed after 1959 due to Khampa guerillas encamped in Nupri, and recently was severely damaged by the 2015 Nepal earthquakes, most of its villages flattened and thousands of locals dying in this tragic few years of earthquakes and aftershocks.
The Manaslu region encompasses the Gurung villages of Lower Manaslu, such as Laprak and Barpak (the epicenter of the 2015 earthquakes), Khotang and Nupri, the former a mix of Gurung and ethnic Tibetan villagers and the later purely a Tibetan region. The Manaslu region has always been an important stage in the ancient salt trade route between Tibet and Nepal, and maintains close ties still to Tibet, with neighboring villages across the borders in Tibet, and yearly trade routes still used at certain times of the year, when the Nepali and Tibetan governments open these now-sensitive borders. Some of the other big (6-7000 meter) Himalayan peaks in the region include Himalchuli (7893m), Ngadi Chuli (7871 m), Baudha Himal (66712m) and Shringi Himal (7187m).
“Manaslu is known in the Tibetan language as “Kutang l”, in which “tang” means the Tibetan word for a flat place. It is a very large peak with an elevation of 8156m (26,759’) (the world’s 8th highest mountain). In view of its favorable topography of long ridges and glacial valleys, Manaslu offers several routes to mountaineers. Important peaks surrounding Manaslu include Ngadi Chuli, Himalchuli and Baudha. A glacial saddle known as Larkya La, with an elevation of 5106m (16,752’), lies north of Manaslu. The peak is bounded on the east by the Ganesh Himal and the Buri Gandaki River gorge, on the west by the deep fissures of the Marysyangdi Khola with its Annapurna range of hills, to the south is the Gorkha town at the foot of the hill (from where trekking operates during the season), which is an aerial distance of 48km (30 miles) to the peak. There are six established trek routes to the peak, and the south face is reportedly the most difficult for climbing.
– Wikipedia
Tsum Valley (Chekampar)
Tsum Valley, only open to trekkers in 2008, shares the honor of being one of the few sacred ‘beyuls’, or spiritual sanctuaries discovered by Guru Rimpoche. Tsum is sheltered in the mountainous border regions of the Nepal and Tibet Himalayan regions, and named a non-violent zone about 100 years ago. The Buddhist saint Milarepa is believed to have meditated in scattered caves in this remote valley, and Tsum is home to over 100 monks and nuns at Mu Monastery and Rachen Gompa (nunnery). One of Tsum valley’s most revered lamas is Drukpa Rinpoche from Tibet, and its most important Buddhist ritual is the Shringa Kyirong Circuit, a sacred Buddhist kora which takes 10 days …
Tsum valley encompasses 18 small villages and about 4000 Tsumbas (locals), all of Tibetan origin and practicing Buddhism and Bon religions. The movie ‘Unmistaken Child’ recounts the true story of a reincarnated lama, called a ‘trulku’, who was discovered in the Tsum valley. Tsum valley follows a policy of non-violence, not even hunting honey and in theory not eating meat, though how much this is practiced is questionable. One of their main trade items is a root plant called ‘saduwa’ which is traded with Tibet from the border, generally above Mu Gompa.
There are many traditional Tibetan villages to explore, ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries with exquisite murals to visit, sublime views of the little-known Ganesh Himal (seven peaks in all) and salt butter tea to be shared with the local Tsumbas and the friendly Buddhist monks and nuns. Tsum is a fantastically green valley in planting and growing season, from March – August, and sees few other trekkers though numbers are increasing yearly. Tsum is surrounded by soaring Himalayan peaks: Baudha Himal and Himal Chuli to the west, Ganesh Himal to the South and Sringi Himal to the north. The north of the valley is connected by three high passes to Tibet, (Ngula Dhoj Hyang (5093m) to the east and Thapla Pass (5326m) to the west). The yeti, known locally as ‘mehti’ as it is in Mustang and other Tibetan regions, is also a visitor to Tsum according to many residents …
‘Tsum Valley is the starting point for the holy Kyimolung Trail, the 120km sacred circumambulation in Nepal and Tibet of Siringi Himal. Pilgrims used to trek around the mountain till Tibet became out of bounds, but they still do the partial trek on the Nepal side. Tourism in the Manaslu Circuit has been picking up with nearly 4,000 trekkers in 2012, but only one-fourth of that number went to Tsum which was opened only in 2008 as a restricted area for which visitors need a permit from the immigration office in Kathmandu.’ – Sonam Lama, from article ‘In the Mountain of the Soul’, Nepali Times.
The Nepali Times wrote of Tsum in an article from 2004, now a bit dated but still essentially ringing true: “Beyul are havens of peace, prosperity and spiritual progress and refuges for believers. In 17th century Tsum (Chekampar), a valley that branches off the Budi Gandaki towards the north of Ganesh Himal in upper Gorkha, was named Beyul Kyimolung. Even non-Buddhists understand why Tsum is perceived as a blessed land. Perhaps one of Nepal’s most beautiful valleys, it is cut off from the southern lowlands of Nepal by deep, forested gorges and swift rivers, and from Tibet in the north by snow-covered passes. The surprisingly flat valley floor provides for some 4,000 inhabitants of almost exclusively Tibetan origin. Clusters of stone houses with slate roofs dot the landscape, enclosed by gentle forested slopes and snow-capped mountains with cascading glaciers. This is century-old Buddhist heartland, with monasteries, bonpa, chortens and mani walls omnipresent.”
“Beyul Kyimolung means “the valley of happiness”, a name echoed in the people, who appear proud and content, an attitude perhaps influenced by a strong feeling of identity, strong social cohesion and small income disparities. The generous Tsum-pa hospitality is the highlight of a visit – countless cups of butter tea, dhindo and boiled potatoes shared generously with strangers. And yet, one cannot help but wonder if the people’s happiness and well-being is not seriously compromised as they struggle with illness, lack of education and income shortages. Tsum has been almost completely neglected by development efforts, and now this isolation is perpetuated as people see themselves living in an area controlled by the Maoists and de-linked from the central government ….
For centuries people have depended on subsistence agriculture, cattle rearing and all-important trade links to Tibet: to the east, Kyirong is only a day and a half walk over the mountains. But the cross-Himalayan trade of Tibetan salt for rice and goods from the Nepali hills has given way to one-sided shopping trips. There is hardly anything that can be bartered from the Nepali side and the once well-stocked village storages that awaited transport to Tibet are now empty. Except for the yearly yarchagumba rush in May, all other traffic over the high passes is one-way into Nepal as even rice and vegetable oil is cheaper in Tibet. The Tsumpa depend on several excursions every year, sometimes risking their lives, to earn small profits from retailing. Still, the challenges in income are nothing compared to problems in health, sanitation and education. One village was completely devoid of children.”
Teachers posted by the government only show up sporadically. Irregular classes result in a low attendance rate, and … the primary enrollment rate has dropped to almost 20 percent. Only half of those enrolled attend school. For most children, the only alternatives are no school at all or the monastery. Samten Dorji, who runs classes in Tsum’s main monastery, Rachhen Gompa, tells us, “Up to 30 percent of children are sent to monastic schools in Boudha and India where they become monks and nuns. … since local elections were suspended in 2002, traditional village-based self-help systems for small repair and maintenance work have revived. The village headman oversees this, and, together with a group of elders, resolves small disputes over issues like trespassing cattle and unpaid debts. In a place where state services don’t exist, self-help initiatives are the only option. Tsum, it seems, is too remote to be of critical importance for those with the power to help.”
Kathmandu Tours
Not Enough of Nepal?
We highly suggest taking advantage of your trip to Nepal, adding on excursions into the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Bandipur, Gorkha, the Annapurna Foothills, and Chitwan and Bardia National Park. Enjoy heritage tours, mountain biking, Kathmandu valley hiking, Himalayan panoramas with a hike down from the Chandragiri Cable Car, whitewater rafting, yoga and meditation courses, Nepali cooking classes, Buddhist or Hindu retreats, and much more. There are many wonderful, boutique, luxury, and heritage lodges in the Kathmandu Valley, and many options for world heritage sightseeing tours, bicycle trips, hikes, and craft-cuisine tours. Nepal boasts world-class restaurants, chic cafes, timeless alleyways to wander through, countless Hindu and Buddhist festivals, and lots of great shopping.
Don’t miss an Everest sightseeing flight or epic helicopter tour, sightseeing trips to Bhaktapur, Patan, and Panauti (Kathmandu Valley’s other historic and/or capital cities), a weekend at Shivapuri Heights Resort or Dwarikas in Kathmandu, a night at the Fort Hotel in Nagarkot for sunrise and sunset Himalayan panoramas, a spa and wellness getaway at the ultra-luxurious Dwarikas Dhulikhel Resort and visits to ancient temple and monastery complexes such as Namo Buddha, Changu Narayan, and Dakshinkali. Spend a night at The Old Inn in Bandipur or Three Mountain Lodge en route to Pokhara, or The Famous Farm in Nuwakot, and get to know Nepal’s Newar heritage.
Enjoy a luxury 3-6 day trek in the Annapurna Foothills, staying in the wonderful Ker & Downey luxury lodges. Relax in heritage style at Temple Tree Resort in Pokhara for some pampering at the spa and infinity pool, try out paragliding, zip-lining, and enjoy a morning of boating on the lake and the hike to Shanti Stupa. Once refreshed, drive to Chitwan National Park, spending a few nights at Maruni Sanctuary Resort or Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge for wildlife and bird spotting, river trips, and safaris in style. Tiger Tops also owns Karnali Lodge at Bardia National Park, reached by flight from Kathmandu, and there are nearby archeological sites to visit nearby.
Namaste!
Nepal Modules
Nepal & Kathmandu Modules | Customize Your Trip!
Kathmandu Valley Guided Sightseeing Day Tours
+ Kathmandu World Heritage Guided Sightseeing Tour (Full Day) | Pashupatinath, Boudhanath & Swayambunath ($125)
+ Kathmandu World Heritage Guided Sightseeing Tour (Half Day) | Pashupatinath & Boudhanath ($75)
+ Kathmandu World Heritage Sightseeing Car – No Guide (Morning or Evening) | Swayambunath ($35)
+ Kathmandu World Heritage Guided Walking Tour (Half Day) | Kathmandu Durbar Square ($50)
+ Kathmandu World Heritage Guided Tour (Half Day) | Patan Durbar Square ($65)
+ Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Sightseeing Tour (Full Day) | Bhaktapur & Changu Narayan ($135)
+ Kathmandu Valley Heritage + Craft Tour (Custom Tours)
+ Cycling Trip in Kathmandu Valley (Custom Trips)
+ Everest Express Sightseeing Flight ($225)
+ Everest Sightseeing Helicopter Tour (Custom Tours)
TOUR NOTE | Additional tour member + $30. Entrance fees not included.
Kathmandu Heritage Multi Day Tours & Hikes
Kathmandu Valley | Heritage Treks & Tours – Nepal
Kathmandu | Full Day World Heritage Sightseeing Tour | Boudhanath, Pashupatinath & Swayambunath
Kathmandu is filled with World Heritage sites and sacred destinations, crowded with traditional neighborhoods and colorful festivals. Spend a few days exploring Nepal’s exotic capital and the history-laden Kathmandu valley. We can arrange sightseeing guide, vehicles and guides as required. See Kathmandu Heritage + Happenings for more details.
We recommend beginning with Pashupatinath in the early morning, and moving on to Boudhanath mid-morning. Hindu Pashupatinath on the sacred Bagmati river and its sacred temple complex is one of Nepal’s most important sites, a powerful cremation site and Nepal’s most important Hindu temple. Here, monkeys run up and down the steps of the burning ghats, and trident-bearing saddhus draped in burnt-orange and saffron sit serenely meditating, when they’re not posing for photos-for-rupees. Local guides can explain the significance of the complicated ceremonies. Please be respectful when taking photos.
Boudhanath, in the midst of traditional monasteries (gompas) and hung with long strings of multi-colored prayer flags, attracts Sherpas, Tibetans and tourists alike for daily circumambulations (koras) of the iconic stupa. The striking Buddha eyes of Boudhanath Stupa watch over a lively and colorful Tibetan community and attract pilgrims from all over the Himalayan Buddhist realm. There are wonderful spots for lunch at Boudhanath (Roadhouse Cafe has wood-oven pizzas and a breathtaking view of the stupa and colorful Nepals circling it), and it’s a good place to learn the technique of thanka painting and purchase a thanka (Buddhist mural). See also Bhaktapur for more options for shopping for thankas.
Wander through the many temples, pagodas, courtyards and the museum at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a timeless gathering spot and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Kathmandu Durbar Square, including the old royal palace, is Kathmandu’s ‘Palace Square’, a showcase for the world renown artisans and craftsmen of Kathmandu and a synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist palaces, temples, stupas and statues. The Malla and Shah kings ruled over the Kathmandu Valley during the centuries of the building of the layers of this Durbar Square. Along with their opulent palaces, the square surrounds numerous courtyards and temples, all works of art with intricate and often erotic carvings. Kathmandu Durbar Square is known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, a name derived from a statue of Hanuman, the monkey devotee of Lord Ram, at the entrance of the palace. The social, religious and urban focal point of the city, Durbar Square is often the site of festivals, marriages and other ceremonies such as Teej. Some important structures are Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (Abode of the Living Goddess), Taleju Temple, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, the 17th century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages.
In the evening (take the interesting back streets from Durbar Square) climb the many steps to the gilded Swayambhunath stupa (known as the monkey temple) which rises from the Kathmandu valley floor at 1420 meters and is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Swayambunath, the ‘self created’ stupa, was founded over 2000 years ago at a time when the Kathmandu valley was filled by a large lake, with a single lotus in the center. Mythology says that Manjusri, a bodhisvatti, drained the lake with one cut of his sword and the lotus flower was transformed into the stupa. From its commanding views of Kathmandu, circumambulate Swayambunath’s white-washed stupa, painted with distinctive Buddha eyes, the complex a unique synthesis of Buddhism and Hinduism. Another interesting time to visit Swayambunath is in the mornings, when Nepalis visit the temple dedicated to the God of Smallpox to with colorful offerings for the goddess.
Stop to photograph reflections in Kathmandu’s many pokhari’s, or ponds, including the beautiful Rani Pokhari (queen’s bath) near New Road, and the Naga Pokhari (pond of the snake gods of the underworld) just beyond the palace gates. The many bathing ghats, square enclosures with steps leading down to water spouts, often decorated with naga heads, are also interesting and colorful gathering spots.
+Entrance Fees not Included for Single Person
Kathmandu | Half Day World Heritage Patan Durbar Square Sightseeing Tour
Visit the third of Kathmandu’s ancient capitals, known as ‘The City of Fine Arts’, best if you have an extra day in hand as Patan is also rich in cultural heritage, has many lovely roof-top cafes for lunch and world-class museums. Some of the highlights of Patan are its Durbar Square, the Krishna Temple within the palace complex of Patan (entirely made of stone, with 21 distinctive spires), and Hiranya Varna Mahavir, or the Golden Buddha Temple.
+ Entrance Fees not Included for Single Person
Kathmandu Valley | Full Day World Heritage Bhaktapur & Changu Narayan Sightseeing Tour
One more day in Kathmandu, with a sightseeing excursion by private vehicle to Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur which translates as ‘Place of Devotees’ and is also known as Bhadgaon, is an ancient Newar city approximately 15 kilometers east of the Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur is one of three ancient capitals of the Kathmandu valley, the capital of the Newar Kingdom and a city of artisans and craftspeople famous for its art and architecture: intricate carvings, sculptures, paintings, thankas, pottery, statues and temples, or pagodas. Bhaktapur has a well-preserved ‘durbar square’, or palace square, and has been named a World Heritage site by UNESCO because of its incredible temples, pagodas, wood carvings, stone carvings and metalwork. Bhaktapur is also famous for its yogurt, called curd in Asia, a taste which hasn’t been duplicated anywhere.
Spend the day exploring Bhaktapur and its rich cultural heritage, where a majority of enthnic Newaris live in traditional ways, and life seems to stand still. There are many great restaurants and cafes to rejuvenate, and it’s possibly the best spot in Kathmandu for purchasing a thanka after watching the technique, as well as shopping for endless other locally produced crafts. Bhaktapur is home to countless local festivals, so if you are lucky and arrive on a festival day, enjoy the timeless and colorful events unfold.
You’ll also visit at Changu Narayan, a few km from Bhaktapur and one of Kathmandu’s oldest Newari temple villages. Legend has it that Changu Narayan was given to the daughter, Champak, of a Kashmiri king of Nepal when she wedded the prince of Bhaktapur. The important Vishnu temple is one of the oldest temples in all of Nepal, and was damaged during the 2015 earthquakes.
+ Entrance Fees not Included for Single Person
Everest Sightseeing Mountain Flight
An hour long extravaganza of the world’s 8000 meter peaks. Airport Transfers not Included. (+$250 or Market Price)
Everest Sightseeing Helicopter Tour
Inquire for prices and options for a once in a lifetime helicopter trip flying right over Everest Base Camp, Kala Pattar, the Khumbu Glacier, plus incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Pumori and more! Cost per helicopter, option to stop at Everest View Hotel for an ‘Everest breakfast’. (+$Inquire for Options)
Cycling Trip Kathmandu Valley
Many options for day trips, or extended trips, in the Kathmandu Valley. We can customize a cycling trip for you in partnership with one of our knowledgeable partners in Kathmandu. (+$Inquire for Options)
Shivapuri Heights Cottages
A wonderful get away 20 km north of Kathmandu, Shivapuri Heights Cottages are stylishly designed and personal cottages built around a ‘common house’, where you can breakfast overlooking the stunningly beautiful Kathmandu valley. Massages available on request. (+$Inquire for Options)
Extra Days in Kathmandu | Customize your Journey!
We have plenty of great suggestions for extra days, or weeks, in Nepal! See our Nepal & Kathmandu Modules | Customize Your Trip! for ideas to put together the perfect journey.
We recommend Kathmandu Valley heritage tours to Bhaktapur or Patan (the Kathmandu Valley’s other historic capital cities), mountain biking, river rafting, yoga retreats, get-aways to Gorkha, Bandipur, Panauti or Namo Buddha to visit traditional hill villages, temples, monasteries and fortresses or a tour of the Newari temple of Changu Narayan and a night at the Fort Hotel in Nagarkot for sublime Himalayan panoramas!
Everest sightseeing flight or an epic helicopter tour over Everest Base Camp, a luxurious stay at Temple Tree Resort & Spa in Pokhara or Himalayan Front in Sarangkot, paragliding, hiking or zip-lining over Phewa Lake, a spa + wellness getaway at Dwarikas Resort in Dhulikhel, a relaxing, luxury wildlife excursion to Chitwan National Park staying at Tharu Lodge or Maruni Sanctuary Lodge, a chic wildlife safari in Bardia National Park at Tiger Tops, a weekend of adventure, sauna and pampering at The Last Resort or 5-star treatment in historic Dwarika’s Heritage Hotel in Kathmandu.
Kamzang Journeys can customize any of these wonderful excursions for you!
Everest Heli Tours
Everest Helicopter Tour Kwondge | Dinner Sunset & Sunrise over Everest – Yeti Mountain Home
An epic private helicopter tour for an extra day in the spectacular Khumbu region. Sunset dinner and sunrise breakfast overlooking some of the best Himalayan views on the planet! Board your private helicopter from Namche for the quick flight to Kwongde YMH Lodge, and enjoy lunch overlooking this vast panorama of peaks. Views include some of the highest peaks on the planet, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Gyajung Khang (the highest peak under 8000m), and the majestic Ama Dambam. From the YMH Lodge, you can look down on Kwonde Lake, generally hidden, and up the awe-inspiring Khumbu valley. The Kwongde YMH (Yeti Mountain Home) is a luxury lodge, one of the world’s highest hotels in one of the Himalaya’s most dramatic locations. Your epic helicopter tour finishes back in Namche Bazaar, but you have the option to charter the helicopter back to Lukla or Kathmandu.
+ Price Per Helicopter – Namche to Namche ($1800)
+ Max 4 Passengers
+ Price Per Person Yeti Mountain Home – Breakfast + Dinner ($175)
+ Single Supplement ($75)
Everest Mountain Helicopter Sightseeing Tour | Namche to Namche | Lukla, Everest Base Camp, Cho La Pass (Gokyo Valley), Renjo La Pass (Thame Valley) & Namche
A once in a lifetime helicopter tour of the Everest region’s spectacular peaks, glaciers, and Himalayan passes! Your private helicopter picks you up in Namche Bazaar, from where you will fly over the Khumbu Glacier and to Everest Base Camp, as well as the incredible Everest icefall. You will have a chance to stop on Kala Pattar for photos of this spectacular setting. Back in your helicopter, your flight path takes you over Dzongla Lake, the glaciated Cho La pass, and into the stunningly beautiful Gokyo valley, flying low over the turquoise Gokyo Lake, with another touch down to splash some sacred lake on yourself before crossing the Renjo La pass to the traditional Thame valley, the old trade route to Tibet. Your epic helicopter tour finishes back in Namche Bazaar, but you have the option to charter the helicopter back to Lukla or Kathmandu.
+ Price Per Helicopter ($2750) – Namche to Namche
+ Max 4 Passengers
Everest Mountain Epic Sightseeing Tour | Kathmandu to Kathmandu | Lukla, Everest Base Camp, Cho La Pass (Gokyo Valley) & Namche
The full helicopter deal, all the way from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp, and much more! A once in a lifetime helicopter tour of the Everest region’s spectacular peaks, glaciers, and Himalayan passes! Your private helicopter picks you up at Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu, from where you will fly up to the fabled Tenzin Norgay airport in Lukla. After a cup of tea in Lukla, you will reboard your helicopter and fly over the Khumbu Glacier and to Everest Base Camp and the sublime Everest icefall. You will have the unique chance to stop at Everest Base camp for photos of this spectacular setting.
Back in the helicopters, your flight path takes you over beautiful Dzongla Lake, the glaciated Cho La pass, and into the stunningly beautiful Gokyo valley, flying low over the turquoise Gokyo Lake and down the Gokyo Valley. Your epic helicopter continues by flying back over Namche Bazaar, and back through Nepal’s lush middle hills to Kathmandu.
+ Price Per Helicopter ($5000) – Kathmandu to Kathmandu
+ Max 4 Passengers
Great Stays
BOUTIQUE & LUXURY HOTELS IN KATHMANDU
KATHMANDU GUEST HOUSE
Kathmandu Guest House
The Kathmandu Guest House (traditional trips) is one of Kathmandu’s first hotels, originally a Rana Palace. Located in the heart of Thamel, the Kathmandu Guest House is a beautiful, lively hotel with a large garden and lovely outdoor cafes, centrally located in Thamel with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, yoga and shopping surrounding it. KGH offers a wide selection of rooms including wonderful deluxe rooms.
“Travelers know that the frenetic pace of a crowded city like Kathmandu needs an escape. The Kathmandu Guest House, a converted Rana dynasty mansion with fragrant gardens and airy corridors, has provided the peaceful refuge of choice since 1967. Since the days of being the first and only hotel in Thamel, the packed tourist district of Kathmandu, it’s become something of an institution. It’s close to everywhere and its gate is the meeting point that nobody can mistake. As a guidebook put it, “Kathmandu Guest House acts as a magnet for mountaineers, pop stars, actors and eccentric characters.” Even the Beatles stayed here in 1968.
Kathmandu Guest House prides itself on being affordable to all budgets, from those looking to treat themselves to total comfort in elegantly modern suites, to volunteers and scholars who take the famous no-frills rooms. Whether you’re returning from the mountains or arriving from the airport, come and relax at the courtyard restaurant, order a cup of fine Italian coffee or a chilled Gorkha Beer, and escape for a moment in the historic surroundings of Kathmandu’s most loved guesthouse.”
Kathmandu Guest House Timeline
KGH History
DWARIKA’S HOTEL
Dwarika’s Hotel
Dwarika’s, Kathmandu’s premier hotel built and decorated with traditional Kathmandu valley architecture, is an oasis of calm located near the airport, where you can relax by the pool, visit the award-winning spa, enjoy the serene, historic surroundings and dine at one of their world-class restaurants.
“Dwarika’s Hotel was registered in 1977, with the idea of reviving the architectural splendour of the valley. All the terracotta work was made in the valley, using local clay and skills. The couple also incorporated elements of Nepal’s diverse cultural heritage, including those from beyond the valley, when designing the rooms. The furniture was crafted by families of traditional carpenters, and the linen, textiles and embroideries were hand woven and used Nepali patterns. In all purposes, Dwarika Das Shrestha took some of the finest elements of Nepali crafts, and presented them in a way that had not been done before. In explaining his vision, he once stated: “My project is to recreate a 15th-17th century environment where tourist and Nepali alike would have a sensation of the original. The hotel as a commercial enterprise is merely a vehicle to finance and carry my dream forward.”
The history of Newari culture in Kathmandu, inspiration for the beautiful heritage architecture of Dwarika’s.
Newari History in Kathmandu
The history of Dwarika’s Hotel
Dwarika’s History
DWARIKA’S RESORT DHULIKHEL
Dwarika’s Resort
A top-notch resort, with a wonderful spa, and wellness, and yoga retreats, on the Kathmandu Valley rim. “With the belief in the need for maintaining harmony between the body, mind, spirit and the planet for a peaceful, healthy and balanced life; the Dwarika’s Resort is built on the philosophy of respecting nature and self. The resort takes its inspiration from ancient Hindu Vedic scriptures (Vedas), Buddhist medicine and traditional Himalayan knowledge.
The Himalayan belt has been home to holistic healing and wellbeing for more than three thousand years. The region’s approach to wellbeing, its serene natural beauty and rare medicinal herbs has attracted great sages through time. The Hindu Vedic scriptures describe Ayurveda, the science of life, as a comprehensive approach to wellbeing that encompasses the study of biology, spirituality, psychology, astronomy, nutrition and beauty. Originating from the same roots the Buddhist approaches to wellbeing also follows similar path and views health as harmony between the mind, body, spirit and one’s environment.
The resort has been designed based on the knowledge of these ancient understanding about holistic wellbeing with all the spaces being consecrated and brought to life. The lifestyle spaces within the resort are designed to attract positive energy and keep negative energy at bay. When you go around the resort you can find details we have placed in various spaces to ensure the energy within the resort is as positive as possible. For example, the resort is surrounded by Cactus (Ketuki), which is believed to cleanse the space around it of all the negative energy and attract positive energy instead. Hence, adding to the calm and nurturing environment offered within the resort. The resort also offers various activities within these spaces to enhance and add value to our guests’ experience.”
YAK & YETI
Yak & Yeti
Yak & Yeti is one of Kathmandu’s historic 5-star hotels, steeped in history, with a lovely pool and garden, located just off Durbar Marg, a tree-lined, upscale road of shops and hotels. ” Yak & Yeti opened in 1977 as a 120 room, 5-star hotel – the first of its kind in Nepal. A new wing of an additional 150 rooms was built in harmony with the architectural features of the old palace, Lal Durbar, bringing the room total to 270. The whole hotel is a sumptuous array of beautiful artifacts, art, and traditionally crafted fixtures. Attention to detail has been meticulously considered throughout, giving the feeling you aren’t just in a hotel as much as an art gallery or museum. Over the years the hotel has been upgraded and extended and now boasts a shopping arcade, a swimming pool, two tennis courts and a state-of-the-art fitness center and luxury spa.”
HOTEL SHANGRI-LA
Hotel Shangri-La
Shangri La is in Lazimpat (a few kilometers outside Thamel), and features a beautifully landscaped garden with a small pool, Asian decor in the rooms, and an outdoor cafe, as well as great restaurants. “Hotel Shangri-La is adjacent to diplomatic consulates … with a traditional touch to the hotel’s interiors fusion with state-of-the-art facilities”
HYATT REGENCY
Hyatt Regency
The Hyatt is a wonderful, 5-star hotel located near Boudhanath, with a large pool, a great buffet breakfast, a gym and a mix of Buddhist and Hindu decor in the lobby and rooms. “Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is a five-star luxury hotel and resort in Kathmandu, set on 37 acres of landscaped grounds and created in the traditional Newari style of Nepalese architecture. This beautiful hotel and resort is located on the road to the Boudhanath Stupa: the most holy of all Tibetan Buddhist shrines outside of Tibet and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located within a five-minute walk from the hotel. The hotel is just 4km (2.4m) from the Tribhuvan International Airport and 6 km (3.7m) from the city center of Kathmandu.”
MARRIOTT
Marriott
The Marriot was completed in 2020, located just near Nag Pokhari, with Kathmandu’s best buffet! “Retreat to Kathmandu Marriott Hotel, a 214-room contemporary hotel in the capital city of Kathmandu. Settle into spacious, well-appointed rooms and suites, many with views of the Himalayan range. Dine in our hotel restaurants, featuring International cuisine at Thamel Kitchen and Asian cuisine at Edamame. Relax at Raksi Music Bar with delicious food and beverages overlooking our waterfall terrace. Get pampered in our full-service hotel spa and salon, take a dip in our outdoor pool or work out in our 24-hour fitness center.”
BOUTIQUE HOTELS
There are many other boutique and character-filled hotels and guesthouses around the Kathmandu Valley. Just a few that we like listed, but this is not AT ALL an extensive list.
KATHMANDU | THREE CAPITALS
Potala Guesthouse – Thamel
Hotel Roadhouse – Thamel
Kantipur Temple House – Thamel
Nepali Ghar – Thamel
Aloft by Marriot – Thamel
Hotel Mulberry – Thamel (Pool)
Maya Manor Boutique Hotel – Hattisar
1905 Suites – Nag Pokhari
Traditional Comfort – Kamal Pokhari
Hotel Shangri-La – Lazimpat (Pool)
Hotel Tibet – Lazimpat
Hotel Manaslu – Lazimpat
Hotel Shambala – Bainsbari – Maharajganj (Pool)
Babar Mahal Vilas – Babar Mahal
Hotel Padma – Boudhanath
Rokpa Guest House – Boudhanath
Hotel Shambaling – Boudhanath
Hotel Tibet International – Boudhanath
Hotel Lotus Gems – Boudhanath (Pool)
Cozy Nepal – Patan
Pahan Chhen – Patan
Traditional Stay Patan – Patan
The Inn Patan – Patan
Traditional Homes | Swota – Patan
Peacock Guest House – Bhaktapur
Hotel Heritage – Bhaktapur
KATHMANDU VALLEY & AROUND
The Fort Resort – Nagarkot
Hotel Mystic Mountain – Nagarkot
Gaia Holiday Home – Dhulikhel
Gokarna Forest Resort – Gokarna
Shivapuri Heights Cottages – Budhanilkanta, Shivapuri
The Old Inn – Bandipur
The Famous Farm – Nuwakot
Gorkha Gaun Resort – Gorkha
Terraces Resort – Lhakuri Bhanjyang Lamatar
Balthali Village Resort – Panauti
Park Village Resort – Budhanilkhanta (Pool)
POKHARA & AROUND
Begnas Lake Resort – Begnas Lake (Pool)
Hotel Karuna – Pokhara
Temple Tree Hotel & Spa – Pokhara (Pool)
Lakeview Resort – Pokhara
Hotel Barahi – Pokhara (Pool)
Summit River Lodge – Kurintar (Kathmandu – Pokhara Highway)
Ghale Gaun Homestay – Ghale Gaun (Near Besi Sahar)
FARMHOUSES & HOMESTAYS
Namo Buddha Resort – Namo Buddha
Herb Nepal – Bhaktapur
Nagarkot Farmhouse – Nagarkot
Srijana Farms – Tansen, Palpa
The Bosan Farmhouse – Bosan Danda
Almost Heaven Farm – Ilam
Barpeepal Bisauni Homestay – Ilam
KATHMANDU POOLS
Hyatt Regency – Boudhanath
Dwarika’s Hotel – Near Airport
Park Village Resort – Budhanilkhanta
Hotel Shanker – Lazimpat
Hotel Shambala – Bainsbari – Maharajganj
Marriott – Nag Pokhari
Yak & Yeti – Durbar Marg
Hotel Mulberry – Thamel
Photos
KIM BANNISTER PHOTOGRAPHY | HIMALAYAN TREKS, CYCLE TRIPS & TRAVELS
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