Tsum Valley Monastery Trek
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duration 20 days
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from usd 2,620 All inclusive
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difficulty Hard
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best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
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group size Min. 2 Pax
trip overview
Journey into one of Nepal’s most sacred and secretive valleys on this extraordinary 13-day cultural pilgrimage that transcends ordinary trekking. The Tsum Valley, hidden in the shadow of the Manaslu massif and closed to outsiders until 2008, offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture in its purest form. This is not merely a trek through mountain landscapes—it’s a transformative spiritual journey into a living museum of ancient traditions, where time has stood still for centuries.
Your cultural odyssey takes you deep into the homeland of the Tsumba people, ethnic Tibetans who have preserved their sacred way of life in this remote Himalayan sanctuary. Enter the sacred valley where prayer flags flutter against snow-capped peaks, ancient mani walls tell stories of devotion, and every village resonates with the sound of spinning prayer wheels and chanted mantras. This pilgrimage valley has remained virtually untouched by modern influence, offering you the rare privilege of witnessing a civilization that exists exactly as it has for generations.
The spiritual heart of your journey lies in the monastery stays at Mu Gumba, built more than 120 years ago, and the historic Rachen Gumba, a 110-year-old nunnery where you’ll experience authentic monastic life. These aren’t mere photo opportunities—they’re profound cultural immersions where you’ll share meals with monks and nuns, participate in daily rituals, and gain insights into Buddhist philosophy that will resonate long after your return home.
Key Highlights
Sacred Monastery Stays – Overnight experiences at Mu Gumba (120+ years old) and Rachen Gumba (110+ years old) with practicing monks and nuns
Authentic Tsumba Culture – Immersion with ethnic Tibetan communities practicing unchanged ancient traditions and customs
Hidden Sacred Valley – Explore Nepal’s last secret pilgrimage destination, opened to trekkers only since 2008
Living Buddhist Heritage – Daily encounters with prayer flags, spinning wheels, mani walls, and active spiritual practices
Cultural Transformation Journey – Experience profound personal growth through spiritual engagement rather than just physical challenge
Untouched Traditional Villages – Visit settlements where polyandry, ancient trade routes, and traditional crafts continue as they have for centuries
Escape Modern Tourism – Trek one of Nepal’s least commercialized routes with authentic cultural encounters, not tourist performances
Sacred Himalayan Landscape – Journey through terrain considered holy by local Buddhists, with every peak, valley, and stream holding spiritual significance
Why Choose This Trek
Unparalleled Cultural Authenticity – Experience genuine Tibetan Buddhist culture in its most preserved form, far from commercialized tourist displays
Exclusive Access to Sacred Sites – Stay overnight in working monasteries and participate in daily religious practices with practicing monks and nuns
Transformative Spiritual Journey – This trek changes perspectives and deepens understanding rather than simply checking off mountain destinations
Hidden Valley Exclusivity – Explore one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets with minimal tourist traffic and maximum cultural immersion
Living Heritage Preservation – Your visit directly supports the preservation of ancient traditions and provides sustainable income to isolated communities
Detailed itinerary
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day 01Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft). Pre-trip meeting
A Mountain Kick representative will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, meet your trekking guide for a comprehensive briefing about the cultural journey ahead, including the sacred monasteries and Tibetan heritage you’ll experience in the hidden Tsum Valley.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
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day 02Drive to Machha Khola (2,953ft/900m)
Early morning direct drive to Machha Khola, the starting point of your cultural trek. The 8-9 hour journey takes you through roads carved into hills, offering glimpses of rural Nepal and terraced landscapes as you approach the trailhead.
Distance: 160km by road | Time: 8-9 hours drive | Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
- Meal: Breakfast
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day 03Trek to Jagat (4,396ft/1,340m)
Begin your cultural journey following the Budhi Gandaki River upstream. Trek along the river bank for six hours through forests and traditional villages. Pass through Tatopani village where natural hot springs offer a glimpse into the geological wonders of the region. Jagat serves as an important checkpoint entering the restricted Tsum Valley region.
Distance: 15km trek | Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 04Trek to Philim (5,215ft/1,590m)
A shorter acclimatization day as you climb to Philim, an important Gurung village. The 3-hour trek allows time to interact with locals and observe the gradual transition from Hindu-influenced lower valleys to the Buddhist-dominated upper regions.
Distance: 8km trek | Time: 3 hours | Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 05Trek to Chumling (7,775ft/2,370m)
Enter the sacred Tsum Valley after seven hours of trekking through diverse forests and river crossings. Cross several streams and climb steadily to reach Chumling, your first authentic Tibetan Buddhist village where prayer flags flutter against mountain backdrops.
Distance: 18km trek | Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 06Trek to Chhokangparo (9,903ft/3,020m)
Cross the river at Chumling and head toward upper Tsum Valley. The six-hour trek takes you deeper into Tibetan Buddhist territory with spectacular Himalayan views throughout. Chhokangparo represents the heart of traditional Tsumba culture where ancient customs remain unchanged.
Distance: 14km trek | Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 07Trek to Mu Gumba (12,139ft/3,700m)
Reach the spiritual pinnacle of your journey at Mu Gumba, a monastery built more than 120 years ago at the top of Tsum Valley. The 2-hour trek rewards you with panoramic valley views and the opportunity to experience authentic monastic life in this sacred setting.
Distance: 6km trek | Time: 2 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Monastery (Gumba)
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day 08Cultural immersion day at Mu Gumba. Hike to viewpoint
Spend a full day immersed in monastery life and Buddhist practices. Take an excursion to the hilltop viewpoint for enhanced valley perspectives while staying in this magical location that sits atop the entire Tsum Valley landscape.
Time: 3-4 hours hiking | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Monastery (Gumba)
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day 09Trek to Rachen Gumba (10,827ft/3,300m)
Descend to visit the historic Rachen Gumba, a 110-year-old nunnery in the Shiar Khola Valley. This 4-hour trek offers the unique opportunity to experience both monastic and nunnery traditions, providing complete insight into Tsum Valley’s spiritual heritage.
Distance: 10km trek | Time: 4 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Teahouse
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day 10Trek to Chumling (7,775ft/2,370m)
Begin your return journey with a descent through forests toward Chumling. The 5-6 hour trek through lower Tsum Valley allows reflection on the spiritual experiences of the upper valley while returning to the more populated village environment.
Distance: 15km trek | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 11Trek to Machha Khola (2,953ft/900m)
Complete your cultural circuit by returning to Machha Khola. The 7-8 hour trek follows the Budhi Gandaki River downstream, taking you through diverse ecosystems while processing the cultural richness experienced in the sacred valley.
Distance: 22km trek | Time: 7-8 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
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day 12Drive to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner
Take the scenic road back to Kathmandu with Himalayan views reminding you of your cultural journey. Arrive in the capital for a traditional Nepali farewell dinner celebrating your immersion into one of Nepal’s most preserved Tibetan Buddhist cultures.
Distance: 160km by road | Time: 8-9 hours drive
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
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day 20Final Departure
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure, carrying with you the spiritual insights and cultural connections forged in the sacred Tsum Valley.
Distance: Airport transfer | Time: 30 minutes drive
- Meal: Breakfast
What's Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in our company vehicle
- Three-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis (breakfast included)
- Private vehicle transportation from Kathmandu to Arughat and return from SotiKhola to Kathmandu
- Tea house accommodation during the trek on a twin-sharing basis
- Government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
- Porter service (one porter for every two trekkers)
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) entry fees
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card
- All government taxes and official expenses
- A duffel bag, a sun hat, and a t-shirt as souvenirs from Mountain Kick
- A traditional Nepali feast with cultural shows as a farewell dinner
What's Not Included
- International flights to and from Nepal
- Nepal visa fees
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
- Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled water, etc.)
- Tips for guides and porters
- Additional accommodation before or after the scheduled itinerary
- Personal trekking equipment and gear
- Any services not mentioned in the “What’s Included” section
- Emergency evacuation costs not covered by insurance
Accommodation during the Trip
In Kathmandu, you will stay in a three-star hotel while you will be staying at standard guesthouses during your travel. There will be electricity, internet, laundry and hot showers in all of the places you stay. You will have to share your room with a fellow traveller in our typical package. Single supplement will be served on request and will cost an additional USD 200.Also note that single rooms is easily available in Kathmandu and the trekking regions at lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How difficult is the Tsum Valley Culture Trek?The Tsum Valley Culture Trek is rated as moderately challenging, involving daily trekking at altitudes up to 12,467 feet at Mu Gompa. This trek requires good physical fitness and some previous trekking experience. The main challenges include:
- High altitude (reaching 12,467 feet at the highest point)
- Daily hiking hours (5-7 hours depending on the day)
- Remote location with limited rescue options
- Cultural sensitivity required in sacred Buddhist areas
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Why choose Mountain Kick for your Tsum Valley Culture Trek?
- Comprehensive package: Our price includes accommodation, transportation, permits, and expert guidance
- Local expertise: Deep knowledge of the restricted Tsum Valley region and strong connections with local Tibetan Buddhist communities
- Safety focus: Proper acclimatization schedule with gradual altitude gain
- Small group experience: Personalized attention in one of Nepal's most remote cultural valleys
- Permit expertise: We handle all complex restricted area permits and paperwork
- Cultural immersion: Authentic experience with ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and unchanged traditional villages
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How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?You should be able to hike 5-7 hours daily while carrying a daypack (5-7kg) at moderate altitude. Prepare with:
- Cardiovascular training: 3-4 times weekly for 2-3 months (hiking, jogging, stair climbing)
- Strength training: Focus on leg, core, and back strength
- Practice hikes: Complete 6+ hour hikes with elevation gain before your trek
- Mental preparation: Research Tibetan Buddhist culture and customs
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How do I prevent and manage altitude sickness?Altitude sickness can occur on the Tsum Valley trek, though maximum elevations are more moderate:
- Follow the proper acclimatization schedule in your Mountain Kick itinerary
- Ascend slowly and listen to your body
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters of water daily at altitude)
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco completely
- Consider Diamox (Acetazolamide) after consulting your doctor
- Recognize symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite
- Inform your guide immediately if symptoms appear
- Descend if symptoms worsen
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What permits do I need and how are they arranged?Three permits are required for the Tsum Valley trek:
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit (most important)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) entry permit
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
- Your passport details
- Two passport-sized photos
- Your arrival date in Nepal
- Minimum 2-person group (required for restricted area permit)
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How long do I have to walk each day?Daily walking times vary throughout the trek:
- Most days involve 5-7 hours of walking
- Cultural exploration days: 3-5 hours with monastery visits
- Rest and acclimatization days: 2-4 hours
- Final descent days: 4-6 hours depending on terrain
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What type of accommodation is provided?In Kathmandu:
- Three-star hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- Breakfast included
- Modern amenities including WiFi and hot water
- Standard tea house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- Basic but clean rooms with beds, pillows, and blankets
- Shared bathroom facilities (private rooms rarely available)
- Common dining areas with heating
- Limited facilities due to remote location and restricted area status
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What about food during the trek?Meals during the trek are not included in our package. You'll purchase meals at tea houses along the route. Typical options include: Breakfast options:
- Porridge, muesli, or cornflakes
- Tibetan bread or chapati
- Eggs prepared various ways
- Tea, coffee, hot chocolate
- Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables)
- Momo (Tibetan dumplings)
- Noodle soups and pasta dishes
- Fried rice or noodles
- Traditional Tibetan dishes
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How much should I budget for meals?We recommend budgeting approximately $30-45 per day for meals during the trekking portion. Prices increase with altitude due to porter transportation costs:
- Lower elevations (Days 2-5): $25-35 per day
- Higher elevations (Days 6-10): $35-50 per day
- A typical breakfast costs $5-8, lunch and dinner $8-15 each
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What happens in case of an emergency?In case of a medical emergency:
- Your guide will assess the situation and provide first aid
- For serious injuries, immediate evacuation to lower elevations
- Helicopter evacuation will be arranged if necessary
- Available from most points along the trek (weather permitting)
- Takes 2-6 hours to arrange due to remote location
- Costs $2,000-$4,000 USD (must be covered by travel insurance)
- Weather dependency due to mountain terrain
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What medical facilities are available along the trek?Medical facilities are limited in the Tsum Valley region:
- Chumling: Basic health post with minimal supplies
- Most villages: No medical facilities
- Kathmandu: Full medical facilities upon return
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What essential gear do I need?Critical items for high-altitude and cultural conditions:
- Moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket and pants)
- Warm hat, sun hat, insulated gloves
- High-quality hiking boots (well broken-in and waterproof)
- Sleeping bag rated to -5°C to -10°C
- Daypack (25-35L) for carrying daily essentials
- Trekking poles for stability
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles and purification tablets
- High-altitude sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Respectful clothing for monastery visits (long pants, covered shoulders)
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What can I rent in Kathmandu versus what should I bring?Items you can rent in Kathmandu:
- Down jacket
- Sleeping bag
- High-quality hiking boots (properly broken in)
- Base layers and thermal underwear
- Personal medications
- Electronics and chargers
- Cultural-appropriate clothing for monastery visits
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What additional expenses should I budget for?Beyond your trek package budget for: Daily Trail Expenses:
- Meals: $35-50 per day
- Hot showers: $2-5 per shower
- WiFi: $3-5 per day (very limited availability)
- Battery charging: $2-4 per device
- Monastery donations: $2-5 per visit (optional but appreciated)
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fees ($30-$125 depending on duration)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear
- Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast and farewell dinner
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How much cash should I carry during the trek?Carry enough Nepalese Rupees for the entire trek as ATM access is non-existent:
- ATMs only available in Kathmandu
- Exchange currency in Kathmandu before departure
- Budget $35-50 per day for meals and expenses
- Carry small denominations as change is limited
- Keep money secure in a money belt
- Consider bringing some USD as backup for emergencies
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What is the tipping etiquette for guides and porters?Tipping is expected and important in Nepal's trekking culture:
- Guides and porters should be tipped at trek completion
- Recommended amount: 10-15% of your total trip price
- Typical amounts: $60-100 for guides, $40-60 for porters
- Tips are often pooled and distributed among the support team
- Cash tips in Nepalese Rupees or USD are preferred
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What are the payment terms and cancellation policy?Payment Terms:
- 25% non-refundable deposit required to confirm booking
- Balance payment due upon arrival in Kathmandu
- Cancellations 30+ days before departure: 25% of total trip price forfeited
- Cancellations less than 30 days: 50% charge
- Cancellations less than 15 days: 100% charge, no refund
- Trip rescheduling fee: $200 per person
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What communication options are available during the trek?Communication is limited in the remote Tsum Valley:
- Mobile Coverage: Sporadic and unreliable in most areas
- WiFi: Available at some tea houses for $3-5 per day (slow speeds)
- Satellite Communication: Your guide carries emergency communication devices
- Internet Speed: Very slow, suitable only for basic messaging
- Signal Strength: Limited at higher elevations
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What is the visa process for Nepal?Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport:
- 15-day visa: $30 USD
- 30-day visa: $50 USD
- 90-day visa: $125 USD
- Bring cash (USD preferred), passport photo, and valid passport
- Processing time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
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What if I want to customize my trek?Mountain Kick offers flexible customization options:
- Private Departures: Choose your preferred start date
- Itinerary Modifications: Add rest days or cultural activities
- Combination Treks: Add Manaslu Circuit or other regions
- Accommodation Upgrades: Better hotels in Kathmandu
- Special Interests: Photography, cultural immersion, or spiritual focus
Essential Trip Information
Medical consultation is essential before your Tsum Valley Culture Trek – consult with a doctor regarding any medications you plan to take during the trek, as moderate altitude can affect how medications work in your body. Disclose all medications to your trek leaders and guides. The Tsum Valley reaches 12,467 feet, requiring standard medical preparation for moderate altitude trekking.
Diamox (Acetazolamide) can be used for altitude sickness prevention, though it’s less critical for the Tsum Valley than for higher altitude treks. Consult your doctor about proper dosage and potential side effects if you choose to use it. Consider starting Diamox 1-2 days before reaching higher elevations if you’re particularly sensitive to altitude.
Vaccinations recommended before traveling to Nepal include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza. Consult your healthcare provider at least 6-8 weeks before travel for personalized vaccination advice, especially for remote area travel.
Cultural preparation is essential – Research Tibetan Buddhist customs, monastery etiquette, and appropriate behavior in sacred spaces. The Tsum Valley is considered a sacred Himalayan sanctuary, and respectful conduct is mandatory. Learn basic cultural practices such as clockwise circumambulation of religious sites and appropriate dress codes for monastery visits.
Spare days are recommended – plan 2-3 additional days beyond the standard itinerary to avoid missing international flights due to unpredictable Himalayan weather. The Tsum Valley region can experience weather delays affecting both trekking and transportation. Schedule your international departure at least 2-3 days after planned trek completion.
Restricted area requirements – The Tsum Valley is a restricted area requiring special permits and a minimum group size of 2 people. Independent trekking is not permitted. All trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide and have proper documentation.
Weather contingency planning – The remote location makes the Tsum Valley trek weather-dependent, though less extreme than high-altitude passes. Monsoon season (June-August) and winter months (December-February) can make trails impassable or unsafe.
Travel insurance requirements – Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to 15,000 feet and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory. Ensure your policy covers trekking in restricted areas of Nepal.
Group discounts – Special rates are available for groups of 4 or more people booking together, with larger groups qualifying for greater savings. Contact us for specific pricing based on your party size and preferred departure date.
Emergency communication limitations – Due to the remote nature of the Tsum Valley region, communication options are extremely limited. Inform family and employers that you will be largely unreachable for the duration of the trek.
Physical preparation timeline – Begin serious physical training at least 3-4 months before departure. The Tsum Valley trek requires good fitness levels for daily hiking distances of 5-7 hours, though it’s less demanding than extreme high-altitude circuits.
Cultural sensitivity requirements – Prepare for monastery visits by bringing appropriate clothing (long pants, covered shoulders). Learn basic Tibetan Buddhist greeting customs and understand photography restrictions in sacred areas. Donations to monasteries are optional but appreciated ($2-5 USD per visit)
Packing Checklist
These items are considered absolutely critical by our Mountain Kick guides for the challenging Tsum Valley Monastery Trek. Based on our extensive experience in the remote Himalayas, we strongly recommend prioritizing these items for the high-altitude conditions and monastery visits at elevations up to 4,000+ meters:
- Advanced layered clothing system – Base, mid, and outer layers for adaptability to temperature variations from temperate to alpine conditions
- High-altitude hiking boots – Well broken-in with superior ankle support, waterproofing, and insulation
- Large capacity daypack – For carrying daily essentials during long trekking days in sacred valleys
- Water bottles/hydration system – For maintaining critical hydration at high altitude
- Headlamp with spare batteries – Essential for early monastery visits and emergency situations
- Trekking poles – Critical for stability on rocky trails and steep monastery approaches
- High-altitude sleeping bag – 2-season sleeping bag suitable for mountain conditions
- Respectful monastery visit attire – Appropriate clothing for sacred site visits
Mountain Kick provides a duffel bag for your gear during the trek.
We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.
We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.
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As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.
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