March is when Nepal bids its farewell to winter and welcomes spring. March is also when the Himalayan country of Nepal receives a good deal of trekkers after a long cold winter. You're up for a treat if you plan a trek to Tsum Valley in March.
Though March is the beginning of peak trekking season in the Nepalese Himalayas, you'll only encounter a handful of other enthusiastic trekkers along the way to Tsum Valley due to its secluded location. Only opened for tourists in 2008, the trek to Tsum Valley is a restricted area trekking. Although the Manaslu region isn't super commercialized, you'll find decent accommodation in teahouses during the hike.
The highlight of trekking in Nepal in spring is the pleasant weather, the delightful blossom of wildflowers, the melodious chirping of birds, and the occasional spotting of rare wild species. We'll discuss more of them later, but first, let us tell you, you'll come back from Manaslu with a body full of adrenaline and a soul full of gratitude.
Being a high-altitude trekking destination, Manaslu Circuit in itself is pretty challenging. Adding Tsum Valley to the standard Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you to the secluded valley of Tsum, which is barely influenced by the outer world. Tsum valley is a perfect blend of untouched nature and culture that will leave you in awe.
Tibetan immigrants who initially arrived in Nepal many hundred years ago still call Tsum valley their home. Their culture and traditions have a long, rich history and are being adeptly passed along through generations. Immersing in this lavish Tibetan culture in the mountainous region of Nepal is an experience in itself.
Your recollections will be enriched by elements like expansive views of Nepal's Himalayas, vibrant natural beauty, and diverse regional landscapes. Similarly, the trek to Tsum Valley is a magnificent experience, thanks to the ascent to the famed Larke La Pass at more than 5000m elevations.
In this post, we will learn more about March and the Manaslu region and the benefits of choosing March for your future hike up the mountain. Let's first take a closer look at spring, which is the season that March is held in Nepal.
Highlights of the Tsum Valley in March
Spring in Manaslu and Tsum Valley
For the Manaslu region, spring offers the best features in comparison to other seasons. The Tsum valley and the surrounding area are blessed with incredible natural beauty, and the springtime hues will surely fascinate you!
You need not worry about rain throughout the spring because the weather is unusually pleasant. Since it doesn't rain in the Manaslu region in March, your travel will be enjoyable and relaxing without having to worry about getting slipped on the trail or being sucked by the leeches.
The wind in March is also calm, and the sky is more apparent than ever. You enjoy yourself so much when hiking that you don't feel lethargic while resting at the lodging. And every day of your journey, the Himalayas are right with you! Isn't that amazing?
Weather and Temperature
March favors you with ideal temperature and weather conditions. The sun shines bright, but not too vigorously, the visibility is superb, and the clarity is fantastic. The days are brighter and more evident. Since March is the beginning of spring in Nepal, you'll still walk past snowy trails, giving you the feel of both winter and spring. It is crucial to note that there won't be any rain, blizzards, or even snowfall, making your journey less challenging.
The Manaslu region experiences frigid weather all year round. Although March isn't the warmest month, it still is warm enough to get you going. The temperature in the Manaslu region ranges from -6 to 10 degrees Celsius in March. However, the region's weather fluctuations are greatly influenced by the altitude of settlements, routes, and other points of interest. Similarly, you may expect between 5 and 7 hours of sunshine each day in March.
March is a dry and warm month. Despite the cold, you won't need to bring many layers, and your backpack won't be as hefty. These factors combine to create a stunning March hike to the Tsum valley regions.
Off-the-beaten Trekking Trail
On the rough terrain of the Manaslu Region, the trail features multiple steep climbs. The track leads through a more challenging section of the Himalayas, which puts your physical stamina to the test. It can be challenging if you aren't in good shape or don't have prior high-altitude trekking experience. Make sure you adhere to your guide's instructions.
Compared to other trekking regions, the Tsum Valley remains to be one of Nepal's less-visited places. Previously the trade route to Tibet, the secret valley, is only reached by a few hikers. Trekking to the Tsum Valley in March is the best option if you're a solitude lover.
Lush Green Forests and Wildflower Blooms
While trekking in Tsum Valley region, you will pass by several lush forests that are home to a variety of plants and animals. You may also encounter some endangered species, like Himalayan Tahr and Blue Sheep. Likewise, the blossom of the Rhododendron (the national flower of Nepal) all over the forest makes the trail much more vibrant.
Discover the Beautiful and Secret Tsum Valley
Tsum Region is a sacred Himalayan valley that attracts pilgrims and trekkers to Manaslu. It is said that the locals are descended from Tibetans. They go by the name Tsumbas and have a unique dialect. Due to its solitude, the area's rich culture has remained pure and unspoiled by tourists.
The trek to the Tsum valley is ideal if you don't mind being a little "rough" and away from civilization. The tour will also open doors for exploring the unique traditions of the local inhabitants of the hidden Tsum Valley, letting you have that ideal Himalayan experience.
Visit Historic Monasteries
Several ancient Buddhist monasteries still preserve and promote Tibetan culture in Tsum Valley. The trail's vibrant prayer flags and Mani walls on the monasteries encourage the hikers to continue.
Dukpa Rinpoche, who meditated in the valley's cave, founded Rachen Nunnery and Mu Gompa in 1936. Later, until 2002, his incarnation managed the monastery. These monasteries provide a glimpse into the area's rich and illustrious history.
March Festivities
The Tibetan New Year, Gyalpo Lhosar, is celebrated religiously by Tsumbas. The locals assemble in the area's monasteries, chortens, and stupas. They execute spiritual performances while wearing traditional clothing, playing musical instruments, singing, and dancing in unison. Some ceremonial dances, based on the Tibetan lunar calendar, depict the struggle between Gods and Demons. You should consider yourself lucky if you get to experience this renowned festival in March.
Lodging and Fooding
This hiking trail offers accommodations in teahouses, like the majority of trekking locations in Nepal. Even if you don't find the most opulent lodging facilities so far up in the mountains, you will undoubtedly have a decent bed to sleep in. It would be best if you were comfortable using communal restrooms, as private attached bathrooms aren't reasonable in such high altitudes. So when you sign up for the Tsum Valley hike, be ready for the less-than-comfortable remote lifestyle.
Locally produced cuisine, mainly the traditional "Daal Bhat" dish of Nepal, is prepared by the tea house proprietors, which will keep you moving for the entire day.
An impeccable Journey to Tsum Valley in Itself
While passing through a lovely shaded forest of pine, juniper, and Rhododendron, you will be astounded by the path's stunning vistas of the Lamjung Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Mount Manaslu.
The region's diverse landscapes, vibrant natural beauty, and panoramic view of Nepal's Himalayas will be in your memories for years to come. The trek to Manaslu and Tsum valley is a genuinely magnificent experience with the ascent to the notorious Larke La Pass at 5106 m elevations.
Things to Keep in Mind for the Trek to Tsum Valley
- As you'll be hiking in a restricted area and at high Himalayan altitudes, there are a few things you should consider before commencing on this adventurous journey. We've listed a few for your convenience.
- As the journey is in a restricted area, it is necessary to hire a guide, and there must be at least two other travelers in addition to the guide.
- Verify that you have all the necessary trekking equipment. In case you don't have enough, you can purchase them in Kathmandu.
- Always reserve your tour through a reputable travel agency.
- Carry all of your prescription medications, and inform your tour guides about your medical condition.
- Make sure you're both physically and mentally prepared for the trek.
Now that our blog has come to a conclusion, it's time to emphasize the significance of conducting thorough research before you schedule your excursion. We hope this blog has provided you with a better understanding of what it's like to go on a trek to Tsum Valley in March.
If you have further queries or want to book the trip, feel free to contact us. We're more than happy to help. Happy trekking!
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