Tsum Valley Heli Return Trek

9 Days
Moderate

Max. Altitude

3,709m

Best Season

Mar-May/ Sep-Nov

Activity

Trekking/Tour

Start / End Point

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Overview of Tsum Valley Heli Return Trek

Manaslu circuit and Tsum valley Heli return trek await to take you to the unexplored area of Manaslu, which locates to the northwest of the Kathmandu Valley. The peaceful environment and perfect ambiance of this region is the best feature of this trek.

Tsum Valley is located in the remote Manaslu area up in the highlands. The word “Tsum” originates from the Tibetan phrase “Beyul Kyimolung,” which means “valley of happiness.” The valley is rich with an indigenous deep culture that relates to Buddhism. The fact that so few tourists visit this location increases the trek’s uniqueness and adventure.

Enjoy a truly special Himalayan experience and learn about remote culture as you follow experienced local guides on this trip. Receive guidance on this Tsum Valley heli return trek while crossing stiff paths in this stunning region of Nepal. Along the way, we make sure you savor spectacular views of one of the highest mountain ranges of the Himalayas.

The breathtaking scenery of the highest mountains in the world, such as Mt. Manaslu, Shringi Himal, Boudha Himal, Himalchuli, Nagdi Chuli, famous Ganesh Himal, Simnang Himal, Saula Himal, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and many more stunning peaks will be your surroundings on this journey.

The presence of Tibetan Buddhism culture, traditions, customs, and distinct lifestyles make this trek more interesting and adventurous. This trek is made even more appealing by the remote locations, breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, natural hot springs, lovely suspension bridges, untouched wildlife, compassionate people, Buddhist old monasteries, dense oak, and rhododendron forests, a variety of wildlife, waterfalls, and other picturesque features.

Why Choose this Tsum valley Heli return trek?

We know trekking is exciting, but what if we combine it with a helicopter flight to make it more cozy and engaging with nature? It certainly sounds nice. A tour may be started with a beautiful helicopter flight, and it can then continue into the shadow of Mount Manaslu and Tsum valley and again with the heli return.

Experience the stunning mountain views of Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley like never before with a breathtaking heli trek. Embark on this unforgettable journey as you traverse this majestic wilderness and have the pleasure of returning in ultimate comfort via helicopter.

Highlights of Tsum Valley Heli Return Trek

Explore the Tibetan border on the Manaslu region’s northern side.
Wander between the remote villages in Nepal populated by various ethnic groups.
Start with the Scenic Helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Jagat.
See the distinctive wildlife and vegetation that have been preserved in the Manaslu Conservation area.
Take a memorable helicopter flight from the Historical Mu Gompa to Kathmandu to complete the journey.
Pass through the Manaslu region’s riverbanks, cliff-carved paths, and suspension bridges.
Explore the untouched historical chortens, gompas, and mani walls.
Views from up close to the Langtang Himal, the Annapurna Massif, and Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world.

Tsum Valley Heli Return Trek Itinerary

day 01 Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport Kathmandu

After your arrival, a representative of Life Himalaya Trekking Company will greet you and pick you up at the airport.

After that, we will drive you in a private vehicle to a 4-star hotel in the main city and finish the check-in process. There are no activities to perform on this first day. You can relax while exploring the neighborhood by strolling the vibrant streets. Overnight at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Maximum Altitude

1,350 m.

Accomodations

4 Star

Transportation

25 min drive

day 02 Sightseeing and Preparation Day at Kathmandu

On this day, we will embark on a fascinating sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. In Kathmandu and nearby places, you will see historical and artistic World Heritage Sites.

The tour includes stops at important cultural landmarks including Bouddhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. For your information, these historical sites are significant to both Hindus and Buddhists.

We will return to our hotel following the full-day visit to the historic sites. Then after we will hold a preparation meeting for the Tsum valley heli return trek, where you will meet your companion trekkers and your guide. After the briefing is over, you must get ready for the trek by checking your supplies and necessary documents. You may also visit a store to buy or rent the necessary clothing and equipment. Overnight at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Maximum Altitude

1,350 m.

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodations

4 Star

day 03 Helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Jagat and Trek to Chisopani

We depart the hotel in the morning and go to Kathmandu’s domestic airport in the best weather conditions. After a little while, we will board a chopper with a perfect lineup. After the chopper has taken off, you will briefly be able to glimpse the magnificent views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu Range.

As you go closer to your destination, you’ll get great views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and the West facing Annapurna. The route follows the Budi Gandaki River before ultimately crossing it and arriving at Jagat in a short amount of time.

After the helicopter lands in an open field, your tour guide and crew will assist you in exiting it and take you for a little break before heading out to Chisopani. We eventually begin to advance from Jagat till we reach Salleri. Then we go down the path until we arrive at Sirdibas and Ghatta Khola.

Moving further in the direction of the north side will take us to Chisopani, where we will spend the night.

Maximum Altitude

1,660 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

5 hours Trek

Accomodations

Lodge

Transportation

35 minutes Heli Ride

day 04 Trek from Chisopani to Chumling

After 30 minutes of traveling from Chisopani, we can see a beautiful waterfall. Meanwhile, the terrain is rocky and steep on this day, it appears to be challenging. This trail continues to descend until it reaches the Rhododendron Forest, which leads to the Tsum Valley.

Reaching Loka village requires us to cross a jungle. It’s breathtaking to see Boudha and the Himalchuli peak from Loka. Further for a few hours, we proceed to Lungwa Khola. Finally, we reach Chumling after crossing the Lungwa Khola, where we will spend the night.

Maximum Altitude

2,386 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

7 hours Trek

Accomodations

Lodge

day 05 Trek from Chumling to Chokhangparo

As we slowly make our way toward Tsum Valley, the altitude will continue to rise. Views of mountains like Ganesh Himal and Manaslu are becoming more broad and clear.

The settlements and surrounding areas change into a Tibetan barren landscape. We proceed and arrive at the settlement of Gho. Within a few hours, you will arrive at Chokhangparo to spend the night.

Maximum Altitude

3,010 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

5 hours Trek

Accomodations

Lodge

day 06 Trek from Chokhangparo to Nile

On this way, there is a trail uphill, so we will gain some altitude. As soon as breakfast is over, we begin our journey through traditional Tsum settlements such as Lar Phurbe and Pangdun with the crossing of ShiarKhola. We also pass through Buddhist Monasteries and cross the bridge to finally reach to Nile.

Maximum Altitude

3,361 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

6 hours Trek

Accomodations

Lodge

day 07 Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa

The Mu Gompa is going to be today’s big draw. As soon as the sun rises, the trail takes us on a trip through the desolate surroundings, which offer breathtaking views of towering peaks. We go through Tibetan sceneries to the west side of the valley and ascend there to reach Mu Gompa.

At 3700 meters above sea level, this Monastery is regarded as the trek’s highest point. This fascinating old Mu Gompa is filled with historical, antique idols, scrolls, monuments, and artifacts that are extremely important to the people and history of the Tsum Valley and the surrounding Manaslu region.

Earlier, this Monastery was founded by Drupa Rinpoche, a Bhutanese monk who meditated in the valley’s caves. Eventually, you get to observe a few monks performing their chores within the monastery. We’ll spend the night in Mu Gompa, which has a wonderful atmosphere, and we’ll learn about the monastery’s history from the monks who reside there. We see this as a genuine spiritual adventure.

Maximum Altitude

3,709 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

7 hours Trek

Accomodations

Lodge

day 08 Flight from Mu Gompa to Kathmandu

In the early morning, after having a Breakfast and nice chat with the residents we bid farewell to Tsum valley and hop onto the helicopter. On the flight route, you will enjoy the wide Himalayan ranges. On the right side, you can see Manaslu, Pangboche, and Himalchuli peaks up close.

Similarly, on the left side, you can see Ganesh II and Langtang Himal range from a stunning angle. After 35 minutes of an eye-catching flight, we finally land at the domestic airport of Kathmandu. We will then transfer you to your respective hotel in our private vehicle. You can then rest or Explore as per your choice for the rest of the day.

Maximum Altitude

1,350 m.

Meals

Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodations

4 Star Hotel

Transportation

35 minutes Heli Ride

day 09 Departure from Kathmandu

It’s the last day of your Nepalese journey today! Trekkers and Life Himalaya members should exchange greetings and of course, the heartwarming pictures captured during the tour via emails and social profiles.

As soon as possible, one of our representatives will take you to the airport in time for your trip. You may plan your future journey with us in this lovely nation while you are on the way back to your home. Safe journey!

Maximum Altitude

1,350 m.

Transportation

25 min Drive

What's Included

International and domestic Airport pick-up and drop service.
Private transportation picks up and drop off.
03-night 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Two-way helicopter trip from Kathmandu to Jagat and Mu Gompa to Kathmandu.
Best Lodge accommodation & full board meals throughout the trek.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included and chosen from the lodge menu.
Twin-share lodge accommodation during the trek.
Depending on the size of the group: the trek guide with experience and a government license. (1 guide for 5 pax )
Porters with access to food, lodging, wages, equipment, and transportation. (01 porter for 02 pax)
Accidental, Medical and Health Insurance of guide, porters and involved staffs.
A warm Down jacket and seasonal sleeping bag until the trekking period ends.
TIMS Fee- Trekkers’ Information Management System (Please bring 03 passport-size photos for permits).
First Aid kits, for the staff and the groups including the oxi-meter.
Portable Oxygen Bottles
Satelite phone for emergency situations
Government taxes & office service charges.
Manaslu and Tsum valley Trek Map

What's Excluded

International airfare.
Insurance covering 6000 meters
Nepal entry visa charge.
All beverages and other personal expenses.
Snacks and other personal expenses.
Battery charge, hot showers, internet & international phone calls.
Tips for Guide, Porter, and Drivers.
Service not mentioned above.

Tsum Valley Heli Return Trek - Essential Information

Food and Accommodation For TSUM Valley Heli Trek

Accommodation in Tsum Valley is available in the form of tea houses, basic guesthouses, or camping. The accommodation is basic but comfortable and the food is homemade and fresh. Tea houses offer primitive accommodations with shared bathrooms and a menu of simple Nepali meal options such as dal bhat, momo, and local dishes.

Tea houses in the region also offer traditional Tibetan dishes like tsampa, Tibetan bread, momos (dumplings), egg frittata, and thukpa noodle soup. Guesthouses can provide more comfort with twin beds, often with attached bathrooms.

Likewise, they provide blankets and hot water bottles in cold weather. Some of them have Wi-Fi available as well. Most hotels also provide camping sites if necessary, so be sure to inquire about availability before setting out on your trek.

Best time for the trek

The weather and temperature in the area are the most crucial things to consider before undertaking a trip to Tsum Valley. We only execute helicopter rides in optimal weather conditions.

So to complete the trip without any delays and stoppage the best time must be chosen. The busiest and greatest times to trek this Manaslu valley is in the spring and autumn. Spring brings lush green landscapes due to the abundance of mountain flowers. Autumn brings colorful rhododendrons that enliven the region until late November. For that reason, this season is the best season to do a heli trek in the Himalayas.

Although the winter season is known for offering clear views of the Tsum Valley and its stunning peaks, it can be quite cold and dry. Winter temperatures often dip below freezing at higher elevations, making trekking difficult and dangerous. Additionally, snowy weather can make paths hard to navigate.

As a result, you should avoid trekking at Tsum Valley in the winter season. The Monsoon season brings heavy rains and can make for unpredictable weather in the Tsum Valley, making it unsafe for trekking. Furthermore, the rains may lead to landslides that can block routes or make certain areas inaccessible. For these reasons, we do not recommend trekking in the Tsum Valley during the Monsoon season.

Physical fitness

Since you must walk for more than 5 to 6 hours each day, the Tsum valley trek is not simple. However, you won’t have to trek all the way back, it won’t be as challenging as a regular trek but you’ll need to be physically fit. You can do some strength- and cardio-training exercises at home to get fit. It will be easier for you to trek as your stamina increases.

Tsum Valley Heli Return Trek - FAQs

Is Taking a Helicopter Ride to Manaslu Valley Safe?

Yes, helicopter rides to the Manaslu Valley are generally safe as long as all safety protocols are followed. Professional operators are licensed and trained in Nepal’s industry standards, and periodic inspections ensure that helicopters used for mountain sightseeing comply with regulations.

Is a helicopter ride to Tsum Valley worth it?

Since Tsum Valley is one of Nepal’s Manaslu valley’s most gorgeous and remote areas, many trekkers decide to do so despite the additional expense. The journey only lasts about an hour, and the scenery along the route is breathtaking, including high, snow-covered peaks, verdant valleys, and historic villages.

A helicopter journey to Tsum Valley might be undoubtedly worthwhile for individuals who wish to explore the beauty of this area without making a lengthy, difficult hike.

How safe is Tsum Valley trekking?

The Tsum Valley trek is considered to be very safe and hassle-free. The villages are inhabited by well-acquainted locals, who warmly welcome visitors. Furthermore, every village is equipped with an emergency response system that can offer on-the-spot assistance in case of any medical emergencies.

Can we trek the Tsum Valley alone?

Due to potential safety and security issues, it is recommended that you trek with a group or guide on the Manaslu Valley route. Trekking alone is not allowed in the Tsum Valley, so it would be best to join a group of fellow travelers for your journey.

Are ATMs accessible while trekking in Tsum Valley?

While there are no ATMs available in remote locations during the Tsum Valley trekking, you should always bring enough cash with you to cover all your expenses.

e sure to exchange currency beforehand just in case. You can also use debit or credit cards to pay for lodgings and meals at certain stops along the trek, but it’s best to prepare for any situation with cash just in case.

Starting from

$4,550

per person (in USD)

top rated - Based on 200 TripAdvisor & 93 Google Reviews

1 - people
US$ 4700
2 - 4 people
US$ 4550
5 - 9 people
US$ 4290
10 + people 9999
US$ 4090

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Tripadvisor Reviews

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 210 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Stefano G 
 
 
 
 Verified Esperienza di viaggio bellissima Ottima agenzia seria e affidabile. Abbiamo fatto un trekking privato upper Mustang abbinato a visita Katmandu. Tutto perfetto. Guida Badri fantastica con esperienza e grande professionalità. Porter Dan bravissimo. Inoltre hanno sempre mostrato una grande empatia. Bravissimi
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sharon D 
 
 
 
 Verified EBC da sogno + visita Katmandu d’eccezione Grazie a Life Himalaya Trekking, io e mio marito abbiamo potuto realizzare un sogno. Sin dal momento dell’organizzazione dall’Italia, Shiba si è dimostrato estremamente disponibile e celere nelle comunicazioni. E, una volta qui, abbiamo potuto verificare immediatamente quanto efficiente sia l’intera equipe che compone la compagnia. Shiba è di una dolcezza e simpatia infinita, ci ha coccolati accompagnandoci attraverso tutti gli aspetti organizzativi del nostro viaggio, dal trekking al Campo Base dell’Everest alle visite culturali a Katmandu e d’intorni, passando per tutte le tipologie di trasporto di cui abbiamo avuto bisogno. Grazie a lui, abbiamo avuto il piacere di trascorrere il nostro tempo in Nepal insieme a persone uniche, che ci hanno permesso di conoscere da vicino questo meraviglioso Paese e la gente che lo abita. Tika è stato la nostra guida durante l’escursione verso il EBC e, grazie a lui e al nostro porter Podam, abbiamo vissuto un’esperienza meravigliosa ed autentica! Entrambi molto preparati, sono stati bravissimi a prendersi cura di noi, grazie alla loro attenzione anche per le piccole cose, ai consigli e alle nozioni che ci hanno fornito, ma, soprattutto, grazie alla loro simpatia che ci ha permesso di vivere con leggerezza anche le situazioni più difficili. Tika è un intrattenitore eccezionale, nonché ottimo fotografo; è stato la nostra famiglia per più di una settimana e gli siamo molto grati. L’intera esperienza per raggiungere il Campo Base dell’Everest è stata totalizzante, ci ha rapiti sotto ogni aspetto, paesaggistico e umano. È stato emozionante raggiungere la meta attraverso un percorso durato circa una settimana. Ma è stato altrettanto incredibile e commovente volare con l’elicottero da Gorak Shep fino a Lukla, ripercorrendo dall’alto ogni passo conquistato e ogni luogo vissuto durante i giorni precedenti. Ci teniamo a ringraziare anche Promot, Raj, Rajan e, soprattutto, la nostra eccezionale guida turistica Ajya, che ci ha accompagnato attraverso i luoghi più iconici di Katmandu, raccontandone la storia e ogni aspetto culturale. La passione e l’amore per il proprio lavoro ci ha permesso di immergerci in un mondo che, altrimenti, avremmo compreso e vissuto solo a metà. Grazie anche a tutti gli altri membri che hanno collaborato alla riuscita del nostro viaggio. Questo è un arrivederci, non vediamo l’ora di tornare in Nepal!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Inspiration763559 
 
 
 
 Verified Unforgettable life experience We were extremely satisfied with our Everest Base Camp trek with Life Himalaya Trekking. From the moment we were picked up at the airport, everything was organized perfectly. Due to weather conditions, the company arranged a helicopter flight for us, which made the start of our adventure even more special. Our guide, Rabin, was exceptional. He was kind, caring, and looked after us every step of the way. Whenever we felt unwell, he made sure we were comfortable and helped us recover. His knowledge of the mountains, careful approach to acclimatization, and genuine care for our well-being allowed us to continue the journey safely. Most importantly, he treated us like family, making the entire trek feel like a trip with friends rather than a guided tour. Our porter, Arjun, was equally amazing. He was always cheerful, funny, and incredibly helpful. During acclimatization hikes and challenging moments, he even helped with our backpacks when we were struggling. His positive attitude made every day more enjoyable. Both Rabin and Arjun are true gems and a huge asset to the company. We cannot thank them enough for everything they did for us. A special thank you also goes to Shiba, the owner of Life Himalaya Trekking. He was friendly, professional, and made our experience truly special from beginning to end. I also had a unique experience during this trip as I participated in the Everest Marathon. Rabin and Arjun came to support me, pace me, and cheer me on during the final kilometers, helping me reach the finish line. It meant so much to me and is something I will never forget. Thank you, Life Himalaya Trekking, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We are incredibly grateful for the memories, friendships, and support we received throughout this unforgettable adventure. With love and gratitude, Dominika
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dawn G 
 
 
 
 Verified Awesome experience with Life Himalayan I had a wonderful time trekking EBC. Birsha Rai was an awesome guide he made sure I had anything I needed. He made sure my accommodations were good and I had plenty of water and snacks for the trek. Dhan Kajl was my porter and he took extra care of my things my bag was always clean and dry when delivered to my room. He even carried my day pack the last stretch of EBC trek. Life Himalayan took care of me from the moment I landed and was without one bag to making sure I made all my helicopter connections. Someone was there every step of the way. I am so grateful that I chose to travel with Life Himalayan. Thank you! 😊
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Roving04696555305 
 
 
 
 Verified 5 Stars! Life Himalaya Trekking gave us an amazing experience! We had the most wonderful guide, Jal Tamang. Not only did he provide amazing conversation, high spirits, and tons of great information about the Everest region, he went above and beyond when a member of our party got altitude sickness. He worked tirelessly to bring food & water to them during their hospital stay, but also coordinated their time in Lukla after they had had to descend. I still made it to Base Camp, and throughout our journey he made the entire experience unforgettable. The accommodations were also truly top notch, with the earlier tea houses offering hot showers, readily available charging, and even heating pads under the mattresses. Highly recommend, thank you Jal!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Cynthia C 
 
 
 
 Verified Camp de base Everest Quelle belle expérience! Life Himalaya trekking et sont équipe est vraiment super. Notre guide Rabin Ray est un professionnel de la montagne. Il a pris grand soin de nous tout le long du parcours. Notre porteur Tik aussi, toujours là pour nous aider. Shiba le propriétaire est un professionnel et il prend soin de nous rencontrer et s'assurer que tout se passe bien avant notre départ. Les transports, hôtel et autres, tout était parfait. Merci beaucoup à tous
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   david b 
 
 
 
 Verified Lifetime Experience! Life Himalaya Trekking took great care of us. We wanted to do Everest Base Camp in as little time as possible and found this company. We found out they are family owned Sheba is the owner and his son Raj were both awesome. Sheba first started as a Sherpa, then became a guide and now owns his own company. Our guide Rabin was so kind to us! Rabin always went out of his way to take care of us every step of the way. Rabin also started as a Sherpa and now is a guide. I would highly recommend this company our shortened trip to Everest Base Camp from 10 to 7 days because of our tight schedule was a success and a trip of a life time that my good friend and I will remember the rest of our lives. What an amazing experience and a spacial thank you to Sheba, Raj, and our incredible guide Rabin for making it happen and bringing us back safe.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   akrishnappa 
 
 
 
 Verified Submitting Mera Peak - thanks to Sagar and Robin for making it happen I had a truly wonderful 11 days trek that culminated in successfully summitting Mera Peak. My guides Sagar and Robin were outstanding. They built rapport with each hiker in the group and understood each persons capabilities. They walked with us every step of the way and were always on hand to make sure we safely crossed tricky and dangerous sections. They encouraged, entertained, and gave us moral support especially during the push to summit. At one point, the going got so tough that I was almost ready to turn back. Sagar gave me the much needed encouragement, confidence, and made sure I didn't give up. I couldn't have made it to the top without them. The views from the top were just spectacular and it was worth every bit of the effort. Thanks to Life Himalaya Trekking for making it possible for me to have this beautiful once in a lifetime adventure!!!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dhanya J 
 
 
 
 Verified Excellent team fantastic service My friend and I completed the Everest Base Camp trek with Life Himalaya in April 2026, and it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Shiba was incredibly prompt with communication and thoughtfully customised the itinerary according to our requirements and preferences, making the planning process smooth and stress-free. We were warmly welcomed at the airport by our guide, Kiran, and from that moment onward he ensured we were well looked after every step of the journey. His care, compassion, enthusiasm, and deep knowledge of the mountains and local culture were outstanding. Kiran consistently prioritised our safety, comfort, and enjoyment, making the trek both rewarding and memorable. Our porters, Dhan Kumar and Asthan, were equally caring and supportive. I wholeheartedly recommend Life Himalaya for their exceptional trekking experience, professionalism, and genuine Himalayan hospitality. Kiran is truly one of the best guides we have experienced, and we look forward to returning for more adventures with Life Himalaya in the future.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Paul D 
 
 
 
 Verified The best memories and the best of times Life Himalayas were outstanding from the start to finish, every situation catered gor. I especially liked the personal touches from the owners Sheba, he needs every one ate the start of the trip and take toy out for a farewell meal at the end. Our guide Pro and sherpa Arg were both absolute hero's. Would not hesitate in recommending this comany
  
 
  
  
 
 
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