Manaslu Region is one of the remote trekking areas of Nepal. Rich in biodiversity, this ‘untouched’ region has spectacular geography with steep trekking trails and unique environment.
Opened in 1992, Manaslu Trek is one of the challenging treks of Nepal. And, the combined Manaslu trek with Tsum valley makes it more rewarding and adventurous. Hidden Valley, Tsum is the valley of wonders. In religious term, Tsum is termed as ‘beyul’ i.e one of the untouched valleys where Padmasambhava practiced his spiritual arts.
The trek is about 177 kilometers in total. The rugged and remote routes of the trek are of the difficult grade. But if you have some experience within the hills, the paths would not be that hard. Being a demanding trek, you need to have a high level of fitness too.
Manaslu Trek with Tsum Valley will take 26 days in total. Out of which you will trek for 21 days- 12 days for the Manaslu and 9 days for Tsum. You will walk for an average of 6-7 hours per day.
The trek has diversified lands with virgin and less beaten paths. They will reward you with gigantic mountains, passes, deep gorges, hamlets, and colorful gompas, chorten, & mani walls.
The trek takes you to the magnificent surroundings of Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, and Buddha Himal ranges.
You will find many teahouses on the trekking trails for the easy food and accommodations as you start trekking in the Manaslu region. While staying in the teahouses, you will have a closer encounter with the typical locals of various ethnicities.
The trek is doable throughout the year, however, the best time for the trek to Manaslu region is during the (late-September, October, November) and (March, April, May).
To trek in the restricted area of Manaslu region, you need a special Restricted Area Permit. You need the following permits:
- Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project Permit
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit
- Tsum Valley Restricted Permit
Highlights of Manaslu Trek with Tsum Valley
- Explore Tibetan border on the northern side of the Manaslu region
- Experience the ‘untouched’ beauty of Manaslu Region, dramatic view of Mount Manaslu 8163 meters
- Jaw-dropping view of Mt. Himalchuli, Mt. Ganesh Himal, Mt. Manaslu and different mountain ranges, views of icefalls and frozen lakes
- Simrang, Hiunchuli, Ngadi, Larkya Peak, Himlung Himal, Cheon Himal, Kanggrung, and the massive Annapurna II
- Beautiful Tsum valley, one of the very peaceful trekking trail
- Larkya La Pass (5100m) through Lho Gaun, Sama Gaun, Samdo, and Dharamshala
- Antique monasteries, chortens, and gompas in the region
- Explore the less explored valleys of the Manaslu region
| Days | Detailed Itinerary | Max. Altitude | Travel Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,338m | - |
| Day 02 | Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation | 1,338m, Kathmandu | - |
| Day 03 | Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola via Arughat | 730m, Soti Khola; 940m, Arughat | 6-7 hours of drive |
| Day 04 | Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola | 930m, Machha Khola | 7-8 hours |
| Day 05 | Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat | 1400m, Jagat | 6-7 hours |
| Day 06 | Trek to Lokpa | 2,240m, Lokpa | 5-6 hours |
| Day 07 | Trek to Chumling | 2,385m, Chumling | 6-7 hours |
| Day 08 | Trek to Chhokangparo | 3030m, Chhokangparo | 6-7 hours |
| Day 09 | Trek to Nile | 3,361m, Nile | 5-6 hours |
| Day 10 | Nile to Mu Gompa | 3700m, Mu Gompa | 4-5 hours |
| Day 11 | Acclimatization and Excursion at Mu Gompa and Dhephyudonma Gompa (Tsum Valley) | 3700m, Mu Gompa | - |
| Day 12 | Trek to Burgi Village | 3,245m, Burgi Village | 5-6 hours |
| Day 13 | Trek to Chumling | 2,385m, Chumling | 5-6 hours |
| Day 14 | Trek to Deng | 2095m, Deng | 6-7 hours |
| Day 15 | Trek to Namrung | 2660m, Namrung | 7-8 hours |
| Day 16 | Trek to Lho | 3150m, Lho | 4-5 hours |
| Day 17 | Trek to Sama Gaun | 3530m, Sama Gaun | 5-6 hours |
| Day 18 | Day Rest in Sama Gaun | 3530m, Sama Gaun | - |
| Day 19 | Trek to Samdo | 3860m, Samdo | 5-6 hours |
| Day 20 | Trek to Dharmasala | 4460m, Dharmasala | 5-6 hours |
| Day 21 | Trek to Bimathang via Larkya La Pass | 3590m, Bimathang; 5125m, Larkya La Pass | 7-8 hours |
| Day 22 | Trek to Tilije | 2360m, Tilije | 6-7 hours |
| Day 23 | Trek to Tal | 1700m, Tal | 5-6 hours |
| Day 24 | Drive Back to Kathmandu (Tal-Besisahar-Kathmandu) and farewell dinner in the evening | 1,338m, Kathmandu | 7-8 hours |
| Day 25 | Final Departure | 1,338m, Kathmandu | - |
Welcome to the capital!
Upon the arrival, our airport representatives will pick you from the Tribhuvan International Airport. Then, they will transfer you to the appropriate hotel. There, you will get a brief introduction and detailed plans for the trek. You will also meet with your guides and other traveling fellows.
After finishing this program, you are free to explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you will start an interesting tour around Kathmandu with our professional city guide.
You get to enjoy the rich culture amongst our ancient and fascinating history and religion. The diversified culture still prevails in this modern environment.
Some of the heritages you will tour around are:
Durbar Squares (Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square)
In Nepali, the word ‘durbar’ means big palace and as the name suggests these ancient places used to be the residence of ancient kings. You will visit the nearby temples and museum. You will see the preference for artistic culture during the Malla period.
All of them has awe-striking temples of many god and goddess. Moreover, the historical story behind every single monument will amaze you.
Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath(Monkey Temple)
Both of them are the sacred Buddhist sites in Kathmandu. Built in the 5th century, these stupas signify the prevalence of Buddhism from ancient times. You will find a peaceful environment and serenity there.
Pashupatinath Temple
One of the most sacred Hindu temples, Pashupatinath is another serene place to visit. Along the eastern riverbank of Bagmati, you will have the pictures of the temple. The pagoda styled temple is the shrine of Lord Shiva. Also, the famous ‘aarti’ here in the evening is something you must see.
After the visit, you will also get time to do last-minute preparations for your trek.
Altitude: 730m (Soti Khola), 940m (Arughat)
Travel Duration: 6-7 hours of drive
Accommodation: Teahouse
After the morning breakfast, you will leave for Soti Khola via private jeep. Soti Khola is the starting point of the trek. You will reach there after 6-7 hours drive from Kathmandu. You will drive via Dhading. Up to Dhading Besi, the path is graveled but afterward, the road is bumpy and dusty.
Along the way, you will enjoy views of the green hills and forests. Crossing the bridge of the Budi Gandaki river, you will reach Arughat at first. The remote and alpine wilderness of the region will welcome you.
From Arughat to Soti Khola, you will see wide fields of rice, millet, and lush forests. You might have to walk a little downhill to reach Soti Khola. Overnight at Soti Khola.
Altitude: 930m, Machha Khola
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Your actual trek begins on this day. The starting trail is difficult with many ascents and descents. The trails are rocky and steep. The distance difference between these places is 14.1 kilometers/8.7 miles.
You will begin with terraced field and follow the path along Budhi Gandaki River. You cross windy riversides and a suspension bridge.
Heading north, you will reach Machha Khola. It is a countryside surrounded by the farmland and picturesque hamlet. Also, the scenic view of mount ranges begins from here.
Overnight at the teahouse.
Altitude: 1400m, Jagat
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Crossing and leaving Maccha Khola, you will get to a place named Khorla Besi. This place is quite special as there is a hot spring- Tatopani. You can take a rest in the place and take a soothing bath. It will re-energize you for your upcoming adventure.
After refreshment, the trail will take you through a deep forest at Dovan. You will encounter numerous rivulets of the massive Budi Gandaki river.
After walking for a few hours you will reach Jagat. Jagat is a beautiful village with stone-paved paths, rugged hills, and waterfalls. It is also the gateway to Tsum valley where you will go through permit checking. You also officially enter Manaslu Conservation Area and restricted area of Manaslu.
Altitude: 2,240m, Lokpa
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Another day of adventure starts! Heading forward, you will cross saggy suspension bridges, local settlements, and few gorges. First of all, you will come across a village called Philim. You will explore the traditional Gurung culture here.
Encountering Philim, you will then reach the junction of Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley. You will take the route on your right to Tsum Valley.
Afterward, you will reach the vantage point of Chisapani. You will enjoy the beautiful waterfall there. Continuing the walk through the dense forest, you arrive at Lokpa- a magical village of Tsum.
The leafy meadows, rich biodiversity, and spectacular views welcome you. Lokpa offers you the glistening view of holy mountains like Sringi and Ganesh Himal.
Altitude: 2,385m, Chumling
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
This could be another exciting day for you as the trails get steep and uphill. However, you will have a short elevation gain. You will continue your walk towards pine and bamboo forests surrounded by stunning mount vistas. The colorful rhododendron flowers will be all over your way.
On the way, the glorious gompa and chorten will welcome you. You will also pass along small rivers like Siyar Khola and Lugwa Khola.
Altitude: 3030m, Chhokangparo
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Another interesting day with comparatively easier path! You will start by crossing a long suspension bridge. From this hidden valley, you will encounter a massive view of Ganesh Himal.
Leaving Chumling, you will head towards your next stop, Chhokangparo. You will witness the changing landscapes and natural ambiance. The untouched Tibetan culture and their typical lifestyle will commence.
On your way, you will visit many Buddhist monasteries and gumbas. If possible, you can also get a chance to spend the night in one of those monasteries.
You will ascend for several hours to reach Chhokang Paro. Chhokang Paro is an outstanding spot of green landscapes and waterfalls. The village has houses made of stone, mud, and clay. Also, the early morning sunrise at Chhokang Paro is much blissful.
Altitude: 3,361m, Nile
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today, you will be ascending to the significant elevation along the trail. You need to prepare in all aspects. Your journey will take you through the mighty jungle with ancient Buddhist Gumbas and mani walls.
You will visit Rachen Gompa, Pagdun village, and Piren Phu. The main attraction for the day is a visit to Milarepa’s Cave (Piren Phu). This ancient spot was the meditating place of Tibetan Gurus.
Talking about Rachen Gompa, it is also called Nunnery Gompa. You will visit the Gompa and spend some time along the border with Tibet. At the place called Lar, you can see a micro hydropower plant.
Then you will pass through Shiar Khola, Phurbe, and Pangdun village. There are many other Buddhist monasteries you can visit. The main walking trail is mostly dry and stoned fields.
Moving under the calm skies, you will reach your day-destination, Nile. You will witness a lot of mani walls, gompas, and chortens as you are already in Tsum valley. Also at the Nile, you will see two dramatic waterfalls. Plus, the mount view of Churke and Kipu Himal is glorious.
Altitude: 3700m, Mu Gompa
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today is a magical day of your trek as you will reach the awe-striking place- Mu Gompa. You will head along the bank of the Tsum chu river. You will walk closer to the Tibetan border along the west bank through Tibetan landscapes. After 3 to 4 hours of the steep and slippery climb, you will reach Mu Gompa.
While you ascend, the valley opens up magically and offers majestic display. Mu Gompa is the most beautiful part of Tsum Valley Trek. Situated at 3700m, Mu Gompa is the largest monastery and the highest point of the trek. It represents the land of ancient Mani wall, unspoiled Tibetan cultures, gumbas, stupas, caves, nunnery, and mani walls.
You can share your experiences with the local monks and nun. You will spend the night in the monastery. The great thing about residing here is the monks themselves will serve you.
Altitude: 3700m, Mu Gompa
Accommodation: Teahouse
On this day you’ll enjoy the day exploration around Mu Gompa. The region of Mu Gompa is fully Tibetan influenced. That is why Manaslu Tsum Valley is also known as ‘Little Tibet’.
After exploration at Mu Gompa, you can walk along the base of the Pika Himal (4,865m). You can mark the white path of Thapla Bhanjyang towards the northern side. This vantage point provides brilliant views of mountains as well as Tsum valley.
Altitude: 3,245m, Burgi Village
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Leaving Mu Gompa, you will retrace your steps towards Burgi Village. You will descend via alternative trekking trail to Ripchet village.
From there, you will walk back the trail to Chule and Phurbe. Walking on the east bank of Shiar Khola, you will arrive at Burgi village.
You will love this small yet, beautiful village. There, you will climb up the Milarepa cave. From this point, you can get the mesmerizing view of the Kipu Himal, Churke Himal, and Poshyop glacier.
Altitude: 2,385m, Chumling
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
You will proceed towards Chumling. You have already accomplished your half journey by reaching Tsum Valley (Mu Gompa). Now, you will head for the Manaslu Trek. From today, the trail proceeds towards Larke La, your another crucial destination.
You will retrace your steps enjoying the dense pine and rhododendron forests, descending down to Chokhangparo and then walk towards the lower Tsum Valley- Chumling. From there, the path is complete descent.
Altitude: 2095m, Deng
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Leaving Chumling, you will ascend through the terraced hill of Saguleri. The view of Sringi Himal is awesome from there. Then, you will pass via Sirish Gaon along the narrow alley of Gandaki. Then, you will follow the trail through the bamboo forest.
The unique environmental scenery will open up as you gain altitude. The biodiversity is exceptionally rich. Along the way, you also walk via lower Nubri region called Kutang. Here, the locals are ethnically pure Tibetans.
Afterward, you have to cross Deng River to get into Deng village. From Deng, you can view Lumbo Himal, Lapuchen, and Dwijen Himal.
Altitude: 2660m, Namrung
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
You will Ghap by following the upstream of Deng River. Ghap is a small settlement with only 4-5 houses. Instead of scare settlement, Ghap has a rich traditional culture with unique mani walls and chortens.
You will walk through the path of the tunnel and face another steep inclination. Walking through the deep forest, you will reach Namrung.
Namrung is another spot for good views of Shringi Himal, Kutang Himal, and Ganesh Himal. Namrung also has a police check post. You can see Hinan river that originates from the Linda glacier and continues to Sho. Sho is another picturesque Tibetan village at 3000m.
Altitude: 3150m, Lho
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
You will cross the bridge over Budi Gandaki and follow the path along cultivated fields. Then, the trail goes to extensive pastureland. Your journey towards the interesting Larke La starts from this day.
On the way to Lho, you will have the spectacular view of Ngadi Chuli and Peak 29. Lho is a beautiful town offering a massive view of Manaslu and Manaslu North. With many prayer flags, you will visit the monasteries nearby. Also, you will have a wonderful sunrise and sunset.
Altitude: 3530m, Sama Gaun
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Leaving Lho, you will pass through the trail of monasteries, stone gates, and long mani walls. You will also get along the Tibetan settlement of Shayla.
The major highlight of this day is Rebung Gumba located at the top of a hill. You will see mani walls, stupas, chortens in this ancient gumba. This point also offers panoramic 360-degree views of Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Nadi Peak, Naike Peak, Kutang Himal, Pangbuche Himal, etc.
Afterward, the alpine landscapes open up and you will reach Sama Gaun. Sama Gaun is the 500 years old settlement with antique monasteries. It is also a popular side trip and also an amazing place for acclimatization.
Altitude: 3530m, Sama Gaun
Accommodation: Teahouse
As you are already at substantial altitude, a rest day is necessary. This will help to reduce the chance of altitude sickness. And Sama Gaun is a good place for acclimatization and exploration. You have options of many side trips here.
You can take a side excursion to Pungen Glacier to get a clearer view of Manaslu. Pungen Gumba is at the altitude of 3870m. You will walk along the lateral moraine of Pungen glacier. You will explore the unique natural beauty.
Another option is to hike around Manaslu Base Camp. You will have a stunning view of lake, glacier, and valley. You will have an amazing panorama of mount ranges. Also, you can walk around Dzongkha Dzong. It is the fortress at the border of Tibet.
All the options are the best. You can choose according to your fitness and desire. All the places offer an undisturbed view of Himalayan vistas, lakes, and glacier, etc. You will have a great time!
Altitude: 3860m, Samdo
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today, you will climb a terraced hill on the opposite of the Budi Gandaki River. You will then head to a permanent settlement Samdo in the Manaslu region.
The trail has beautiful surroundings with mountain scenery, blue sheep territory, and grazing fields. This could be your one of the best trekking days on the whole trip. Samdo is all for its best view and cultural activities.
Samdo is also known as a Tibetan refugee camp. This is the last settlement of local inhabitants. After reaching there, if you’ve some energy, you can hike around the hill to have better acclimatization and scenery.
Altitude: 4460m, Dharmasala
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today, you will walk along the old trade route towards Tibet. You will cross a bridge and climb through the trade market of Larkya Bazaar. On the way from Samdo to Dharmasala, you will not find any teahouses or settlements. You will directly have your lunch at Dharmasala.
As the altitude is high, the temperature might get high and cold. You will walk via grassland with breathtaking mountain scenery. You can also see grazing blue sheep there.
On continuing towards the tree line, you will reach Dharmasala. You will spend your night in Dharmasala. The beautiful snow-capped peaks surround you.
If you will have some spare time, you can hike around. This will let you explore and adapt with the altitude better. You also get to prepare for your final destination.
Altitude: 3590m (Bimathang), 5125m (Larkya La Pass)
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Here comes the highlighted day of the trek. You will cross the astounding elevation of 5160m towards Larkya La Pass.
At first, you will climb the Cho Danda and head through the steep track towards Larkya la Pass. After walking for a few hours you will get on the top of Larkya Peak. This is a great accomplishment that you can be proud of. The leading path is challenging and risky.
From the top, you get the perfect panorama of Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna II, and peaks like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Gyagi Kung, and Kang Kuru.
After Larkya La, your descent towards Bimathang begins. The descent is steep through lateral moraines. Bimathang is a paradise with daunting flora and faunas. The mount views are admirable as well. You will a wonderful time here!
Altitude: 2700m (Karcha La Pass); 2360m (Tilije)
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Heading forward, you will face few gorges and colorful lake along the moraine. Then, you will descend towards the pasture of Sangure Kharka. Following the bridge over Dudh Khola, you will cross the cultivated paddy land of Karcha la Pass, at 2700m.
Then, the route passes through the dense forest of bamboo, fig, and rhododendrons. You will feel the aura of typical floras and faunas here. Moving forward, you will come across the village of Gho. Within a few hours of walking from Gho, you will arrive at Tilije.
Altitude: 1700m, Tal
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today, the trail goes down to Dharapani. The spot, Dharapani is also a part of Annapurna Circuit (Thorang La Pass). So, you might face some traffic while passing through Dharapani. Then the trail goes through several streams and fields of wheat.
You will take the route to the village called Tal. Walking for hours through scattered villages, you will arrive at Tal. Overnight at Tal!
Altitude: 1338m, Kathmandu
Travel Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
The long journey finally comes to an end!
This day, you will leave the Manaslu region and come back to Kathmandu. If you want to extend the trip then you can add Ganesh Himal Trek on your list. The region is the same with two or three extra days.
You will have to walk for awhile up to Besisahar. For that, you will continue through lush forest and a suspension bridge near Chamje.
You will then take a tourist bus/private vehicle. You will drive back the same highway you took before. You will continue along the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers. And you will follow amazing green hills, high mountains, farming terraces, and village settlements. Within 6-7 hours via Tal-Besisahar, you will reach Kathmandu.
After reaching Kathmandu, if you have some spare time, you can relax. You can shop for endeavors. While you will join us in the peaceful farewell dinner. You have full options to celebrate your accomplishment.
The superb Manaslu Trek with Tsum Valley comes to an end today! As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will drop you back at the airport.
You can always remember us for another adventure. We hope you to see in the days to come!
If you want to customize the itinerary of the trip, we will be more than happy to help! Feel free to share such ideas or any query with us.
Also, we offer the tailor-made trip, so do contact us for any details or queries.
