Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
Wilderness Trekking
Trip Facts
Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should expect to trek above 5416m/17872ft.
Mode of Travel : Bus,Jeep,Hike100%
Overview
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek: 20-Day Adventure Package
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and culturally rich trekking experiences. This 20-day adventure combines challenging high-altitude trails, pristine Himalayan landscapes, and immersive cultural encounters. Nestled in the remote region of the Manaslu Conservation Area, the Tsum Valley remains relatively untouched, earning its reputation as the “Hidden Treasure Valley.” Trekkers are treated to majestic mountain views, traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and a rare glimpse into Tibetan-influenced Buddhist culture.
The trek follows the upper Budhi Gandaki River and ascends to the base of Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak at 8,163 meters. Along the way, you will pass through scenic viewpoints, lush forests, and rugged high passes, all at a moderate pace to allow proper acclimatization and enjoyment of the surroundings.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Region Overview
The Tsum Valley lies along the Nepal-Tibet border and is renowned for its cultural and spiritual heritage. This remote valley is dotted with ancient Buddhist monasteries and meditation sites, some associated with the revered saint Milarepa. Key monasteries include Mu Gumba, Anni Gumba, and several smaller hermitages near the Tibetan border.
The valley is inhabited by Gurung, Tibetan, and Tamang communities, who maintain traditional lifestyles, weaving practices, and rituals that honor nature. Despite the opening of the region to trekking in 2008, access is tightly regulated, requiring special permits and organized trekking groups. This ensures the preservation of the valley’s pristine environment and culture.
Cultural and Scenic Highlights
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is not only about stunning landscapes but also about cultural immersion. Trekkers can explore:
- Ancient monasteries, Chortens, and Mani walls in every village
- Buddhist and Bon Po traditions are still preserved by local communities
- Festivals and ceremonies tied to the lunar calendar and local beliefs
- Interaction with friendly locals who share insights into their daily lives
From the lower Budhi Gandaki to the high passes of the Manaslu circuit, every step provides a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Mountain Views
The trek offers panoramic views of some of the Himalayas’ most impressive peaks:
- Mount Manaslu (8,163 m) – The crown of the region
- Himalchuli (7,893 m) – The 18th highest peak in the world
- Ganesh Himal (7,422 m) – Peaks over 7,000 meters
- Sringi Himal (7,187 m) – A lesser-known, stunning massif
These peaks, visible from various points along the trek, make every ascent and viewpoint a photographer’s dream.
Local Agriculture
The fertile valleys and terraced fields along the trek support crops such as buckwheat, barley, millet, wheat, and potatoes. The harvest season, from August to September, showcases the vibrant agricultural lifestyle of the valley communities.
Manaslu Valley Trek Itinerary
The Manaslu Valley Trek begins with a bus ride to Arughat-Machhakhola, which is called the lower part of Manaslu, following the Budi Gandaki River and leading to the Manaslu Larke Pass (5106 m) after exploring the Tsum Valley. After crossing the Larkya La Pass, trekkers will arrive at the village of Bimthang, one of the Great Himalaya Trails connecting the Manaslu region. This picturesque village offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and a chance to rest before continuing the journey.
Package Cost
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek package includes accommodation, meals, bus tickets, permits, guide and porter wages, insurance, and equipment. A private jeep option incurs additional costs. There are shorter treks in this area, one is 12 12-day Manaslu circuit trek, and another is a 14-day Manaslu circuit trek.
Best Seasons to Trek
The ideal time for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is:
- Spring (March to May) – Blooming rhododendrons and clear views
- Autumn (September to November) – Stable weather, crisp air, and spectacular mountain vistas
Winter trekking is possible but less recommended due to snow on high passes, while the monsoon season (June–August) can make trails slippery and dangerous.
Highlights of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
- Gorges of the Budhi Gandaki River Valley
- Diverse flora and fauna
- Rich Tibetan culture and friendly locals
- Larkya La Pass (5167 meters)
- Stunning views of Mt. Manaslu
- The picturesque village of Bimthang in the lower Manaslu region
Permits for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
Trekkers need several permits for the Manaslu region:
- Tsum Valley Special Permit – USD 40/week (Sept–Nov), USD 30 (Dec–Aug)
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit – USD 100/week (Sept–Nov), USD 75 (Dec–Aug)
- MCAP Permit – USD 30 (one-time)
- ACAP Permit – USD 30 (one-time)
- TIMS Card – USD 20 (one-time)
All permits must be obtained through registered trekking agencies.
Physical Fitness Requirements
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is moderately challenging, demanding good physical fitness. Trekkers should:
- Practice cardio workouts and strength training
- Prepare for long ascents, rugged trails, and high-altitude conditions
- Be ready for cold weather, snow, and potential altitude sickness
Proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Essential Trekking Equipment
Recommended gear includes:
- Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots
- Warm socks, gaiters, and thermal layers
- Waterproof pants and jackets
- Loose trekking trousers and thermal leggings
- Sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures
Quality gear ensures comfort and safety throughout the trek.
Acclimatization Tips
Proper acclimatization is critical, especially while crossing the Larkya La Pass. Trekkers should:
- Spend acclimatization days in Samdo Valley or similar altitude villages
- Stay hydrated and monitor for signs of acute mountain sickness (AMS)
- Descend immediately if severe symptoms occur
Experienced guides provide first aid and monitor health during high-altitude trekking.
Why Choose the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers a unique alternative to the crowded Everest and Annapurna regions. Highlights include:
- Less-crowded trails with authentic cultural experiences
- Stunning Himalayan panoramas and Larkya La Pass crossing
- Rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage in monasteries and local villages
- Opportunities to explore traditional lifestyles and festivals
Local agencies like Nepal Wilderness Trekking offer personalized, high-quality trekking packages, ensuring a seamless journey for both novice and experienced adventurers.
Conclusion
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is an unforgettable adventure for those seeking remote landscapes, cultural immersion, and a challenging Himalayan experience. With careful preparation, proper permits, and expert guidance, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking scenery, spiritual encounters, and memories to last a lifetime.
This 20-day trek through Nepal’s hidden treasure is more than a journey—it’s a Himalayan odyssey into the heart of tradition, wilderness, and towering mountains.
Detail Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (900m) - 7-8 hours
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Arughat. The drive offers breathtaking views of terraced fields, traditional villages, and winding rivers. As you travel deeper into the hills, you’ll witness rural Nepal’s beauty and experience the gradual shift in landscape. Upon arrival in Machha Khola, settle into a lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. - Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m) - 6-7 hours
Start your trek with a gentle walk through lush forests and charming villages. The trail follows the Budi Gandaki River, passing natural hot springs where you can relax and soothe your muscles. As you ascend, you’ll encounter Gurung villages with traditional stone houses. Arriving in Jagat, a checkpoint for entering the restricted Manaslu region, you’ll find a mix of ethnic cultures and scenic mountain backdrops. - Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa (2,240m) - 6-7 hours
Today, you’ll officially enter the Manaslu Conservation Area, a protected region known for its rich biodiversity. The trail climbs steadily, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls and rugged cliffs. Lokpa is the gateway to Tsum Valley, a remote and culturally significant region influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Enjoy a peaceful evening in this less-traveled part of Nepal. - Day 4: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling (2,386m) - 5-6 hours
The trek continues through dense forests of pine and rhododendron as you make your first entry into Tsum Valley. Chumling, a small village with ancient stone houses and friendly locals, offers spectacular views of Ganesh Himal. Explore the village and visit its Buddhist monasteries, where you’ll get a glimpse of the region’s rich spiritual heritage. - Day 5: Trek from Chumling to Chhokang Paro (3,010m) - 5-6 hours
As you ascend higher into Tsum Valley, the trail opens up to reveal stunning mountain vistas. Chhokang Paro is a beautiful village surrounded by ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan-style houses. This region has remained culturally intact for centuries, with locals practicing a unique form of Tibetan Buddhism. Take the opportunity to explore the monasteries and interact with the warm-hearted villagers. - Day 6: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Nile (3,361m) - 4-5 hours
A relatively short trek today takes you to Nile, one of the last settlements before Mu Gompa. On the way, visit Milarepa’s Cave, a sacred meditation site associated with the famous Tibetan saint Milarepa. The cave is an important pilgrimage site, and you’ll see prayer flags and mani walls marking its spiritual significance. - Day 7: Trek from Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700m) - 3-4 hours
A steady climb brings you to Mu Gompa, the highest and most significant monastery in Tsum Valley. From here, you’ll have breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The monastery houses ancient scriptures and serves as a spiritual retreat for monks. Spend time exploring the monastery and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. - Day 8: Mu Gompa Exploration & Return to Chhokang Paro - 5-6 hours
Spend the morning exploring Mu Gompa and visit Dhephu Doma Gompa, another ancient monastery in the area. After taking in the peaceful surroundings, retrace your steps back to Chhokang Paro, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way. - Day 9: Trek from Chhokang Paro to Lokpa - 6-7 hours
Descend through familiar trails, retracing your journey back toward Lokpa. As you leave Tsum Valley, take one last look at its unique landscapes and cultural gems. The trek is filled with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and serene forests. - Day 10: Trek from Lokpa to Deng (1,860m) - 6-7 hours
Rejoining the Manaslu Circuit trail, the trek continues through lush forests and across several suspension bridges. Deng is a small settlement where Tibetan Buddhist influence is strong, and you’ll notice traditional mani walls and prayer wheels along the route. - Day 11: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2,630m) - 6-7 hours
The trail ascends through rhododendron forests and past beautiful waterfalls. As you gain altitude, you’ll enter a region deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Namrung is a picturesque village with stunning views of Manaslu and other peaks. - Day 12: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3,180m) - 4-5 hours
Today’s trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of Manaslu and nearby peaks. Lho is a scenic village with a large monastery that overlooks the valley. Take time to visit the monastery and observe the daily rituals of the monks. - Day 13: Trek from Lho to Sama Gaon (3,520m) - 4-5 hours
A relatively easy trek takes you to Sama Gaon, one of the largest villages on the Manaslu Circuit. Visit Ribung Gompa and enjoy the stunning mountain backdrop. This village serves as a base for acclimatization before heading to higher altitudes. - Day 14: Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon
Spend the day exploring the area with optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. These hikes offer incredible views and help with acclimatization before heading toward higher altitudes. - Day 15: Trek from Sama Gaon to Samdo (3,875m) - 4-5 hours
The trek brings you closer to the Tibetan border, and you’ll notice a shift in the landscape and culture. Samdo is a small settlement with strong Tibetan influences, and you’ll see traders crossing from Tibet to Nepal. - Day 16: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,460m) - 4-5 hours
A short but significant trek leads to Dharamsala, the final stop before crossing the Larke Pass. The area is barren but offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. - Day 17: Cross Larke Pass (5,106m) & Trek to Bimthang (3,720m) - 8-9 hours
One of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek, crossing Larke Pass offers unparalleled mountain views. The descent to Bimthang takes you through stunning glacial landscapes. - Day 18: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1,860m) - 7-8 hours
Descend through rhododendron forests and picturesque villages, gradually re-entering lush green landscapes. Dharapani marks the end of the trek. - Day 19: Drive from Dharapani to Besisahar
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Besisahar, reflecting on the incredible journey through the Manaslu and Tsum Valley region. - Day 20: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu
The final drive back to Kathmandu offers stunning views of Nepal’s countryside. Upon arrival, celebrate your successful trek and explore the capital’s rich cultural heritage.
Cost Included
- Delicious Meals: Enjoy a variety of Italian, Chinese, Nepali, Indian, and other European cuisines three times a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Accommodation: Clean and comfortable lodges along the trekking route.
- Professional Guide: An experienced, well-trained, fluent English-speaking, and friendly trekking guide, native to the Manaslu region, and government-certified.
- Support Staff: One porter is provided for every two to three participants. (Note: Solo trekkers requiring a porter will incur an additional cost.)
- Guide & Porter Expenses: Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, transportation, and essential trekking equipment for the guide and porters.
- Transportation: Kathmandu to Arughat and Besisahar to Kathmandu by local bus.
- Permits & Entry Fees:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Permit
- Safety & Equipment:
- First aid medical kit for emergencies.
- Trekking gear, including a sleeping bag and down jacket, if you do not have your own.
- Special Perks: Complimentary Trekking Certificate of Completion at the end of the trek.
Cost Excluded
- Accommodation & Meals in Kathmandu (Not included in the trekking package).
- Beverages & Drinks: Soft and hard drinks, including soda, beer, and alcoholic beverages.
- Additional Expenses: Hot showers, desserts, and other personal expenses during the trek.
- Personal Insurance: Travel, medical, and emergency rescue insurance (mandatory).
- Rescue Operation Costs: Any expenses related to helicopter evacuation or emergency rescue services.
- Gratuities: Tips for the guide, porters, and trekking staff.
- Other Costs: Any expenses not explicitly listed under the "Included Services" section.
- Unforeseen Expenses: Additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances beyond management’s control, such as landslides, adverse weather conditions, changes in government regulations, strikes, or itinerary modifications for safety reasons (e.g., illness, or natural disasters).
Trip Map
