History and culture of Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Introduction to Culturally and Historically Rich Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

A journey through Nepal’s most secluded and culturally rich district is what The Manaslu Tsum Valley is like. As a result, this off-the-beaten-path trek is a restricted area requiring Restricted Area Permit along with other Permits. To protect the environment and the heritage, it is only permitted with a special permit, provided that the guide is registered.

Its trek starts on Soti Khola along Budhi Gandaki river through lush subtropical forests and terraced fields up to an alpine mixed terrain landscape. After you reach Tsum Valley, the trekkers are drawn into the land of the Tibetan Buddhist culture, which has almost been untouched by modern civilization. They’ve built old monasteries, chortens, and mani walls and have filled the valley with stories of the past. Mu Gompa is the region's oldest monastery, while Rachen Gompa is another notable monastery where the residents pray. 

The people of Tibetan origin also called Tsumbas inhabit Tsum Valley with a reserved cultural tongue and practice their traditional ways of life. Thus, deep-rooted Buddhist practices of their daily routine bears testimony to their segregated Buddhist culture, which banned hunting and killing of animals within the valley. This has led to harmonious living with nature, managing the region’s biodiversity, and it developed into a den for flora and fauna. Besides being culturally rich, this trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges like Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli. Such territories like the high passes of Larkya La pose quite an adventure for professional trekkers who want to avoid the standard trekking in Nepal. 

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking Tour Route Facts

What is the Historical Significance of Tsum and Nubri Valleys in Nepal?

• Tsum Valley: The Hidden Beyul

Tsum Valley, historically, this Buddhist enclave was referred to as ‘Tsum Tso Chuksum,’ which literally translates to ‘thirteen provinces ruled as a single province,’ after the 13 regions that made up the kingdom. In fact, even today, many exponents refer to it by its historical name. Archeological remains and ancient ruins still lie scattered across the valley floor, offering visitors a glimpse into what once represented one of Buddhism’s purest spiritual enclaves on earth.

In the 8th century, the Buddhist master Padmasambhava is said to have declared Tsum Valley one of the 108 beyuls– mystical hidden valleys where devout Buddhists can find refuge and enlightenment.

Tsum Valley’s geographic isolation has helped preserve its cultural heritage. Until recently, in 2008, few outsiders knew it existed. The people of Tsum – known as Tsumbas – are of Tibetan origin and practice a form of pure Tibetan Buddhism with Bon influences. Their language, customs and religious practices are relatively untouched by outside influences.

• Nubri Valley: A Tibetan Legacy

Nubri Valley’s heritage is deeply tied to that of Tibet. It was geographically and politically a part of the Western Tibetan kingdom of Ngari; a fact further echoed in the local dialect and cultural practices. Nubri people themselves migrated from Tibet approximately 400 years ago, and have preserved their way of life almost unchanged for centuries.

The valley, including all of its ancient monasteries and temples, was off-limits to tourists until 1991, which helped keep much of the Tibetan Buddhist culture and religion intact. In 1998, the government of Nepal declared the entire region a conservation area; it is an open-air museum and living testament to ancient monastic traditions.

Buddhist Heritage and Monastic Traditions

Both valleys are well known for their ancient Buddhist culture.  You will see many age-old monasteries, chortens, and Mani walls that stand as evidence of the region's sacred Buddhist heritage. In Tsum Valley, a cave linked to the great Buddhist saint Milarepa, who journeyed and meditated in this valley, is a highly venerated pilgrimage site.

The declaration of Tsum Valley as a 'Shyagya' (non-violent area) in 1920 bears testimony to the strong influence that Buddhism wields in the lives of its inhabitants and how it has defined their way of living since time immemorial.

Preservation Amidst Modernity

The remoteness of Tsum and Nubri Valleys has proved to be a bane and a boon. While it has inhibited economic development, it has also insulated these valleys from the kind of fast-paced modernization elsewhere. As a result, the valleys are like living museums where ancient languages are still in use, ancient customs are still followed as part of daily life, and ancient religious practices throw light on Himalayan religions.

Exploring the Tibetan Culture, People and Heritage of Manaslu Tsum Valleys

Tsum Valley, located in the northern part of Gorkha District in Nepal, is an exquisite example of rich cultural heritage and age-old traditions. Previously opened to tourism only in 2008, this pristine valley is one amongst those hand places on earth inhabited by Indigenous people–‘The Tsumbas’, who are of Tibetan origin and, till today, have been leading a life based on the fundamentals dictated by Buddhism and age-old Bon religion ie.undoubtedly persevere their unique dialects of Tsumke and Tsumba. Due to the remoteness from the external world, dwellers here have been able to preserve centuries-old lifestyles, customs and practices intact, which gives trekkers a rare privilege to witness such an amazing, untouched way of civilization.

The Tsumbas: Guardians of Tradition

The Tsumbas are the indigenous people of the Tsum Valley. With a total population of 4,000, they are distributed in 18 small villages. They still have a strong affinity with their Tibetan language, culture and religion. The Tsumbas speak a direct descendant of ancient Tibtean called Kyirong-Kagate, which has two dialects, Tsumke and Tsumba, both heavily influenced by Khambu (Rai). The spiritual life of the Tsumbas is a compendium between Buddhism and the animistic faith known as Bon – an illustration that ancient faith embraces new faith in perfect harmony. They also shun violence, especially against animals -” Shyagya”- is one such culture minimizing domination over other beings.

Agriculture and animal husbandry are the main occupations of the people of the Tsum Valley region. The land is very fertile in this region, so they grow good quality barley, maize and potatoes. Livestock like yak and sheep are equally important to them. Besides farming, the seasonal harvesting of Yarsagumba (Ophiocordyceps sinensis), a medicinal fungi, has emerged as a major income source. As the villagers collect the Yarsagumba from high altitude pastures during summer time, it makes good revenue due to its use in traditional medicines in medicines industries outside Nepal.

Since opening to tourists in 2008, the Tsum Valley has lured hikers interested in a road less travelled. Pristine scenery is combined with a rich cultural fabric, home to the Tsumbas, Buddhist people who depend on their agricultural lifestyle but also experience the benefits of tourism by sharing their culture through homestays and festivals, as well as hosting visitors at ancient monasteries. Strict regulations are enforced with regard to development to maintain their unique way of life and picturesque landscape intact.

Cultural Practices On the Manaslu Tsum Trail

The Tsum Valley hosts a number of lively festivals and rituals that provide an insight into the people’s spiritual world. The Tibetan New Year (Losar) and Dhachyang are two of the most important festivals celebrated in the valley with much enthusiasm. Traditional dances, feasts and religious ceremonies mark these occasions. Festivals are an expression of the people’s cultural pride but also serve to increase interaction among villages, help maintain good relations between communities and act as a means of resolving social problems.

The architectural landscape of Tsum Valley is reminiscent of the Tibetan style. Houses are flat-roofed and built of stone. Windows have beautiful wooden carvings. There are many Gompas, some over hundreds of years old, such as Mu Gompa (3700m) and Rachen Gompa (3240 m) in the lap of the valley where Nuns from the Renang sect reside while on Rachen, we will see thousands plus years ancient Thankba Buddha’s mural painting. People in this remote area are mostly farmers who produce Potatoes, Buck Wheat, and Barley, supplying these crops to market at nearby villages Humlung & Sotang via Tibet (Sapteswor). The trail is strewn with stones believed to be engraved with texts (Mantras) dating back to the 1st century, according to Buddhist historians. Large Mani walls (a sacred wall made of mani stones), Chortens and Prayer flags pass across our path as we continue through traditional villages.

What Sacred Mountains Can Be Seen on the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?

While trekking in Manaslu and Tsum Valley region you will come across numerous sacred mountains which are of great spiritual significance in Tibetan Buddhism. Here are the six most prominent peaks :

Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters)

Where is it seen? Mount Manaslu is the 8th-highest peak in the world. It can be seen all over the Manaslu circuit trek. It is mostly clrealy seen from Samagaon and Lho.

Why is it spiritually significance? The name ‘Manaslu’ comes from the Sanskrit word “manasa”, meaning “intellect” or “soul”. It is also said that the mountain is known as the Spirit Mountain of the Manaslu region god, which safeguards the mountains and valleys. The imposing view of this Pinterest-rugged snow-capped summit from any part of this region dominates its exquisite spirit, an exclusive experience to look forward to.

Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters)

Where can you see it? Along the trek at various points, but best seen in the Tsum Valley.

Why is it spiritually significant? Ganesh Himal, as the name suggests, is Lord Ganesha- the elephant-headed god of wisdom and success in Hinduism. Lord Ganesha is said to be a lord who removes obstacles and gives blessings.

Sringi Himal (7,187 meters)

Where is it seen? You can see Sringi Himal in a very prominent way, as you enter the Tsum Valley and will continue to see it as a beautiful backdrop from around the landscapes of the valley.

Why is it spiritually significant? In the local Tibetan Buddhist traditions this mountain deity is seen as a guardian deity of the Tsum Valley. Its spiritual guardianship over this mountain range is believed to usher protection for the valley and its people from any kind of harm or difficulty that might arise to keep peace and prosperity in this region.

Himalchuli (7,893 meters)

Where is it seen? Himalchuli can be seen from many parts of the Manaslu trek, especially near the village of Bimtang.

Why is it spiritually significant? As the second-highest peak in the Manaslu range, Himalchuli holds a certain aura of mystique and admiration. In local legends, it is often associated with divine feminine energy that represents compassion and nurturing, two key aspects of Buddhist philosophy.

Buddha Himal (6,672 meters)

Where is it seen? You can catch a distant view of Buddha Himal from viewpoints along the Manaslu Circuit, but it doesn’t stand out like some of the other giants around it.

Why is it spiritually important? Named after Siddhartha Gautama (later to be known as Buddha), Buddha Himal acts as a spiritual talisman, keeping alive in the minds of both trekkers and locals the concept of enlightenment and Buddhism’s basic tenets that are so integral to this region.

Ngadi Chuli (7,871 M)

Where is it seen? Ngadi Chuli is nicknamed Peak 29 and can be spotted from the southern parts of the Manaslu trek. The mountain looks spectacular with its sheer walls.

Why is it spiritually significant? Ngadi Chuli is spiritually significant because it is closely associated with the local deities and its enormity, which makes people feel wowed right in their existence and is believed to have been protected by divine intervention throughout.

What are the Prominent Monasteries of Manaslu Tsum Valley Trail?

Serang Monastery (Nubri Monastery)

• Location: Kyimolung Valley, which can be reached from Bihi village
• Altitude: Approx 3,050 metres
• How to Reach: A 5–6 hour trek from Bihi village through forests, rocky paths, and small settlements
• Duration: Typically a day trip; overnight stays are possible

The Serang Monastery or the Nubri Monastery is a prominent religious institution of the Kyimolung Valley, which is also often referred to as the "Valley of Peace and Happiness". The monastery was founded by Chokyi Gyaltsen over 500 years ago, and it became the heart of the dissemination of Buddhist teachings and practices. Presently, more than 100 monks and nuns reside in this sacred place.

The serene aura of the monastery, surrounded by the snow-clad Shringi Himal, will provide solace to any spiritual seeker. The daily rituals, meditation and living as monks give you a complete monastic experience. Even before reaching Serang Monastery, there are abundant opportunities at every step to get in sync with wildlife and nature.

Serang Monastery, also known as Nubri Monastery, is one of the major religious cum spiritual centres of Kyimolung Valley or famously known as ‘the Valley of Peace and Happiness’. This institution was founded more than five centuries ago by Chokyi Gyaltsen. Located in Lungwa- Serang region at the foot-life beneath Mt. Shringi Himal, therefore gives an added advantage for higher level meditation practices. It provides one an opportunity to be part of & perform rituals on a daily basis along with rejuvenating oneself (living) for some time like a monkhood.

Longdan Gompa

• Location: Lower Tsum Valley, Nepal
• Elevation: Approximately 3,200 meters (10,500 feet)
• Access: Trek from Soti Khola via Machha Khola, Chumling, and Chhokangparo
• Duration: About 7-9 days from Soti Khola to reach the nunnery

Sacred and secluded, Longdan Gompa is a nunnery tucked away in the magical foothills of the Lower Tsum Valley and jammed between dense forests. It is inhabited completely by nuns and acts as an asylum for young girls desiring enlightenment concerning Buddhist teachings. Also, the nunnery places great emphasis on education, with young nuns studying regular subjects such as English, Nepali and Science in addition to the regular Tibetan Buddhist teachings. Being a very simple and devoted community, the nuns share meals with visitors, and the latter are welcomed warmly with hospitality. The nunnery hosts a special festival in September, which draws the locals as well as travellers for a different kind of cultural experience. A trek through beautiful pinewood, rivers, and traditional villages leading to Longdan Gompa is reached that immerses trekkers into the serene and spiritual ambience of Tsum Valley, which is an area of wonder.

Shyala Monastery (Pungyen Gompa)

• Location: (in or near Syala or Samagaon villages)
• Elevation: Approximately 4,100 meters
• How to Reach: The trail from Samagaon or Syala takes a 2–3 hour trek, and you ascend and pass through open valleys.
• Duration: It’s a half-day trip, but you may add time to it if exploring the neighbouring areas.

Shyala (Pungyen) Gomma is situated in an isolated area around the base of Mount Manaslu. Panoramic views of Himalchuli, Nadi Chuli, and the Pungyen Glacier are the monastery’s offerings. From a spiritual point of view, the located nearby. Today, the monastery is a virgin of traditional Tibetan architecture, with carvings and murals with different deities and historical events. For centuries, they have retained their spiritual practices, and visitors can now see resident monks going about their daily routines and joining these meditation sessions. The Pungyen Gompa journey is worth it, but getting to see yaks grazing alpine meadows or simply the high Himalayas is wonderful.

Rachen Gompa

• Location: the village of Chhokangparo in the Tsum Valley
• Elevation: Approximately 3,240 meters
• How to Reach: The trek to it is a little way from Chhokangparo, and the trail is rather steeped in picturesque landscapes.
• Duration: They do day trips but can arrange overnight stays

One of the biggest nunnery is Rachen Gompa established in the early 20th century. In itself, it is a very important part of local community religious life, offering education and religious guidance to nuns and laypeople alike. It’s actually a big complex of a couple of buildings, prayer halls, meditation rooms, and living quarters, all done in Tibetan traditional art and symbols. Rachen Gompa’s nuns are particularly famous for their belief in Buddhist studies and practices, something akin to a schedule filled with chants, meditation and community service. Guests are shown around and asked to engage in discussions about Buddhism and attend prayer sessions. Stunning alpine scenery towards distant mountains and valleys wraps the GOmpa, which is also quite a peaceful nunnery if you’re looking for spiritual peace.

Mu Gompa

• Location: Upper Tsum Valley, near the Tibetan border
• Elevation: Approximately 3,700 meters
• How to Reach: A trek from the village of Nile
• Duration: Day trip; accommodations are available for extended stays

Mu Gompa is the largest monastery in the Tsum Valley. It was established in the late 19th century, and its relative isolation close to the Tibetan border made it a preferred place for serious meditation-practicing monks and scholars from different parts of Tibet to convene. There are many temples, each dedicated to one or another tantric deity or bodhisattva, meditation caves and a school which houses some ancient Tibetan Buddhist texts. The monks are very friendly, and although their studies are demanding, they seem to delight in meeting visitors, explaining about their spiritual practices and ‘almost’ continuous praying as well as showing them around their ancient monastery. 

Ribung Monastery

• Location: Lho village
• Elevation: Approximately 3,180 meters
• How to Reach: It can be reached easily by the main hiking trail; it is only a short walk from the centre of Lho village.
• Duration: For a wary period, longer if participating in ceremonies

Ribung Monastery is Lho’s religious navel and the main tourist draw for pilgrims and trekkers alike. The monastery itself sits beneath the stunning backdrop of Manaslu, making it an idyllic spot for photography or quiet contemplation. You might get to see some of the younger monks in training, praying, or partaking in Buddhist scripture study. The artistry within these walls is astonishing; they are covered with Tibetan scripts, thangkas and mandalas. Ribung’s evening chanting session is particularly famous as the resonating rhythm generated by their prayer welcomes you on your arrival. The overwhelming sense of faith and community makes for an unforgettable experience.

Hinang Gompa

• Location: Manaslu Region, Nepal, near Lihi Village
• Elevation: About 3,100 meters (10,170 feet).
• How to Reach: A one-hour trek away from Lihi Village
• Duration: This is a brief visit or a stopover before a climb of the Himalchuli Base Camp

Hinang Gompa is a well-known religious and tourist spot of Manaslu region. Located on a hilltop at an altitude of 3,100 meters above the village of Hinang, the monastery is dedicated to practising and promoting Tibetan Buddhism in the area. It serves as a place of meditation and worship for Lamas (monks) who reside here permanently. The monastic complex houses numerous shrines for prayer. On scheduled days, visitors can see and interact with its monks, who live in complete seclusion from modern society. The protective buildings of the monastery are built in traditional Tibetan style, with beautiful frescoes on some walls depicting Buddhist rites as well as statuettes on displays representing various deities. The impressive view dominating this site includes Mount Himalchuli along many other icy peaks. 

Kal Tal Monastery

• Location: Near Prok Village
• Elevation: 3,685 meters
• How to Reach: A 4-5 hour trek from Prok, guided by a local guide.
• Duration: Full-day trip.

Kal Tal Monastery is situated near the beautiful Kal Tal, or ‘Death Lake'. The lake is a high-altitude alpine lake that mirrors the unadulterated beauty and splendour of the majestic Himalayan peaks. The monastery will be an ideal choice for you if you are looking for some spiritual isolation in the lap of untouched nature.

The trek to Kal Tal Monastery begins from Prok village, which, apart from being famed for its centuries-old Tibetan culture, is also known for its warm hospitality. This one can be categorized as a difficult and physically demanding trek, and hence, it would be advisable if you could hire a guide from this village itself, who will ensure your safety on this challenging trail. For the people of Prok, it’s their monastery as well. It’s like their prayer room with monks & nuns living in it. You can attend their rituals, meditate or simply hear them out how they live life in this part of the Himalayas.

What Are the Unique Architectural Features of Tsum Valley Villages?

Tsum Valley is located in the Northern Himalayan region of Nepal, which ideally boasts a totally different beautiful landscape compared to any other part of the Country. Manaslu Tsum Valley TRerkking route houses roofs are made up of planks laid over the top branches of a small tree.

• Gompas (Monasteries): Some 15 large gompas (in monasteries) form the foci of attraction for devil dances or otherwise, and 37 tiny village gompas hold thrice-monthly prayer meetings.
• Chortens: Cylinder-shaped stone structures that are often situated near the village centres and at the mountain passes are meeting places of peace, and they are thought to be protectors from evil spirits.
• Kaanis (Gateway Chortens): Gates intricately designed were erected and embellished with stone and wooden carvings; walls built using stones and mud surrounded villages and are believed to possess the power to keep malignant vibes out of the villages.
• Mani Walls: Long walls with inscriptions of religious texts placed on the sides of village trails for everyone’s protection from evil spirits.
• Mani Bumpa: Pagoda-like structures with some carvings of stone mantras also made by the side of village trails to protect from evil spirits.
• Mani Tungyur: Cylinder forms of prayer wheels which are kept in the monasteries, used by the inhabitants and also the pilgrims for religious practices.
• Purchasing: Stone structures similar to chortens that are erected near a gompa on a hilltop after someone (either an important personality like a lama) passes away.

These architectural features, which are part of the structural and religious system, represent the Buddhist cultural landscape and communal use of the settlements. The use of locally available resources and community knowledge systems form a key interface to sustainable development.

Festivals Celebrated In the The Manaslu Tsum Valley 

Losar

• Duration: 15 days
• Celebration Date in 2025: 28 February 2025 to 02 March 2025
• Location: Tsum Valley, Nepal

Tsum Valley’s main festival is Losar, the Tibetan New Year, which is celebrated on the first new moon of January/February. 

How is it celebrated?

The festival begins with a general house cleaning, followed by decorating the house with auspicious symbols. People prepare different traditional delicacies spe,cially “Guthuk” (a soup made of several ingredients) and go to monasteries to offer their prayers. Various colourful cultural dances and songs are performed where masked dancers perform in order to chase evil spirits away. People visit each other’s houses, sharing best wishes and gifts, which helps create a friendly environment among them. There is a prevalence of incense burning everywhere during this month-long festival in the whole region.

Saka Dawa

• Duration: 1 day
• Celebration Date in 2025: June 11
• Location: Tsum Valley, Nepal

Tsum Valley comes alive with celebration during the month of Saka Dawa as the local inhabitants flock to attend this affair and these festivals are celebrated in order to remember Lord Buddha, his teachings and his contribution towards humanity.

How it is celebrated?

A special prayer ceremony and rituals are held at local gumbas and monasteries, where people chant from sacred scripts and light butter lamps besides making offerings to monks as well as the needy; in other words, the practice of compassion and generosity is taught by Buddha. Many also abstain from meat during this festival, indulge in acts of kindness and refrain from negative actions so that they can accumulate merit. It is also a time for some to begin on pilgrimages to holy sites as they circumambulate stupas thereby strengthening their spiritual journey and link with the teachings of Buddhism.

Faning

• Duration: 1 day
• Celebration Date in 2025: August (specific date varies)
• Location: Tsum Valley, Nepal

Faning is an indigenous festival of Tsum Valley. It is celebrated when we protect ourselves from external disease and illness to internal wellness and happiness. This festival generally falls in August; the date differs every year.

The festival emphasizes the need for nutritious food to provide energy. People collectively cook and eat good, tasty, traditional food. Communities may organize cooking competitions to introduce participants and onlookers to the availability of different recipes and varieties based on locally grown crops. Elders from the community guide everyone about how energizing these foods are. The festival, in this context, reminds people that their diet needs plenty of energy, giving nutrients for perfect health and fitness, which further leads to the importance of eating wholesome food.

Nara

• Duration: Varies by monastery
• Celebration Dates in 2025: 
• Gumba Thosing Labrang Nara: January
• Khansar Labrang Gumba Chipu Nara: June
• Nile Labrang Ghonghe Gumba Nara: October
• Ngag Labrang Nara: December
• Location: Various monasteries in Tsum Valley, Nepal

Nara is a traditional and historical festival in Tsum Valley. It is the masked dance festival celebrated in different seasons by different monasteries of Tsum Valle led by Labrang. 

How it’s celebrated?

Participants wear elaborate masks and costumes and perform a variety of dance forms, including masked dance. In these dances, they enact ancient stories, moral stories and religious themes. The dancers are accompanied by the music of all kinds becoming part of an atmosphere in which tradition preserves the past. 

Dhachyang

• Duration: 1 day
• Celebration Date in 2025: November or December (specific date varies)
• Location: Tsum Valley, Nepal

Festival of Horses is a common festival of Tsum Valley. This festival usually falls in November or December. The main motive for celebrating this festival is to raise social welfare.

How it’s celebrated?

The main attraction of the festival is horse riding, in which men are mounted on horses adorned with vibrant ornaments. Dhachyang reflects equestrian talent and signifies the power and integrity among the people. Women and other spectators sing, dance and cheer, which makes the environment more lively and inclusive. It helps to promote communal harmony among different sections of Tsum living in distinct locations. At the same time, it asserts their distinctive culture and offers an occasion for socializing and amusement, thus strengthening the bond of Tsum society.

Why Is Tsum Valley called Kimolung Beyul (Valley of Peace)?

Tsum Valley, or the Valley of Happiness, is situated in the northern part of the Gorkha district and is also known as “Kimolung Beyul”, which means the valley of Peace. Tsum Valley is well known for its culture, tradition, and high altitude adapted living style of people. There are a few reasons why Tsum Valley is called a valley of serenity :

Spiritual Significance And Sacred Origins

Tsum Valley is one of the sacred "Beyuls"  or ‘hidden valleys’, which are believed to have been created as the kind of peaceful and prosperous sanctuaries of refuge which Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) helped establish in the 8th century to keep especially pure forms of Buddhist teachings during times of strife. Tsum Valley has long been a space for such practice, its mountains having accommodated meditation hermits, including the great Tibetan yogi Milarepa, in its many caves. This deep spiritual significance adds to the valley’s image of being a place of serenity and calmness.

Shayagya Tradition of Non-Killing

Tsum Valley, situated in the northern part of Gorkha is well-known for this distinctive tradition of non-killing known as “Shayagya” in Tsumpa native dialect. Since 1977 B.S., the Buddhist Margi Tsum has been adopting this tradition; no animals or living beings are killed in Tsum Valley. The tradition is based on Tibetan Buddhist script, which mentions that the valley is known as Kimolung Beyul, which literally means “Happy Valley” or “Valley of Peace”. Non-violent guidelines represent high respect and devotion towards staying creatures/life forms and spiritual practice.

Shayagya tradition is based on six main principles of non-violence: not to set fire in the forests, not to hunt wild animals, not to lay traps for animals, not to collect bee hives, etc., not to kill animals and insects and not sell domesticated cattle for slaughter. Mahaguru Dukpa Lama Serap Dorje formally inaugurated these six obligatory vows during Buddha Jayanti in 1977 B.S., which is also known as Saka Dawa in Tsum. On this auspicious day, all the people of Tsum took a collective vow and pledged that they would observe these six obligatory vows strictly forever. This commitment was recorded in Tibetan Sambhota script form and later in the Devanagari script.

Pristine Natural Environment

Tsum Valley’s isolation has helped to maintain the unspoiled natural beauty of this region. Tsum is blessed with a rich and varied landscape characterized by lush forests, rolling hills, waterfalls and rivers, all surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks such as Ganesh Himal and Sringi Himal. The pristine environment of the valley enhances a sense of peace and inner tranquillity. The lack of modern development, in combination with the sustainable approach that local people have towards their lifestyle, seems to work hand in hand with ecological harmony, making it indeed a real sanctuary of peace.

Strong Social Cohesion and Cultural Identity

Tsumbas have a very strong cultural identity. They are closely tied to their age-old customs and traditions, which are deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. This strong sense of their cultural affinity leads to good social cohesion among them. The widening inequality between the rich and poor is not noticed among the people in this region as one would observe in the rest of Nepal. All these go to make this valley indeed “The Valley of Peace”.

What Cultural Etiquette To Follow By Trekkers on Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?

While trekking in Manaslu and Tsum valley region you need to respect the local culture and traditions so that you have a great time with the local indigenous communities. Here are some of the cultural do’s and don’ts that you should consider:

Do’s:

• Greet Locals Respectfully: Say "Namaste" with a smile when you meet people to show respect and to be friendly.
• Dress Modestly: Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, especially in villages and at religious sites, to be respectful of local sensibilities.
• Circumambulate Sacred Sites Correctly: Walk clockwise around Mani walls, chortens, and stupas with the site to your right. This is important to Buddhists.
• Ask Permission Before Taking Photos: Don’t snap pictures of people or religious observances without permission. It’s invasive.
• Remove Shoes and Hats in Monasteries: When you visit a Buddhist monastery, remove your shoes and hats to show respect. Keep silent as well.
• Support Local Economies Responsibly: If you want to help or support local economies, consider supporting community projects such as schools rather than giving money or sweets directly to children. This will promote sustainable development.

Don’ts:

• Avoid Physical Contact with Sacred Items: Do not touch or step over prayer flags, mani stones or other sacred objects.
• Mind Your Feet: Do not point your feet towards people or religious shrines because feet are considered unclean in local culture. If you need to sit, tuck your feet under or sit cross-legged.
• Respect Religious Practices: Monks are often seen performing prayers or religious rituals. Please do not talk to monks when they are doing so. You can observe monks in silence and wait for appropriate time to interact with them.
• Stay on Marked Trails: Going off marked trails destroys the environment (many passes cross through very sensitive ecological zones) and will have an impact on wildlife.
• Limit Use of Technology: Do not use loud music or talk loudly in serene environs. Let the natural sounds prevail and respect the tranquillity.

Following these simple principles can help trekkers benefit local communities, conserve the cultural heritage of the region and enhance their trekking experience in Manaslu Tsum Valley.