Tsum Valley, Land of Peace: Discover Nepal’s Sacred Valley

Tsum Valley is known worldwide as a land of peace. The people of Tsum have adopted the path of nonviolence under the guidance of Buddhist guru Dukpa Lama.

Inhabitants of Tsum do not kill or hunt animals. Neither do they take part in honey hunting. They do not make forest fires. Meat trading is not allowed in the village. 

Tsumba (the residents of Tsum) follow Buddhist philosophy and Panchsheel. They help protect the environment through their lifestyle and continue spreading the message of peace.

Tsum valley is not only known for observing nonviolence but also for its culturally rich Bhote lifestyle. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Chuli, Himalchuli, Buddha Himal, and Rani Peak from this valley.

This valley also houses Mu gumba, Rajen gumba, and Gumba Laungdang and mane, chaitya, and other monasteries of archaeological importance. Padmasambhava observed his penance in Gumba Lungdang. There is a cave near Lar village where Saint Milarepa meditated.

Nile is the last village in Tsum Valley. From there, one can reach the Tibetan border Ngula Dhojhyang. Uphill, there is the monastery Mu.

One can also study the traditional Himalayan healing practices of Amchi in Tsum.

Tsum Valley is a wonderful gift to the world. Its Buddhist lifestyle, aweinspiring nature, rich culture, and biodiversity make it a precious gem. This valley is completely inhabited by the Bhote community.

A forked road is at the base of the Nyak cliff of the Manaslu trekking route to enter Tsum. Taking a right from that point takes you to Tsum. If you take the left, you reach Nubri Valley.

In Nubri Valley, trekkers will walk across the banks of Budhigandaki, whereas in Tsum Valley, they will walk along the banks of the Shiar Khola. On the third day of walking from the base of the Nyak, trekkers reach the Nile, the last settlement of Tsum Valley.

There are hotels and homestays in Tsum that are convenient for tourists.

Inspiration

Phunjo Lama is the ‘first woman and mother’ to climb Mount Everest from the Manaslu region. She also set a record for the fastest woman ascent of Mount Everest, reaching the summit in 14 hours and 31 minutes on May 23, 2024. She has also summited other mountains, including Manaslu, Choyu, and Ama Dablam. Born and raised in Chekampar in Tsum Valley, Phunjo is a professional trekking guide. She guides trekkers during trekking expeditions. She is also Nepal’s first female long-line helicopter rescuer. She rescues victims during mountaineering by hanging herself from a flying helicopter. Through her courageous deeds, she is an inspiring figure to young people all over the world. Best wishes to Phunjo for making the country’s name shine.