Country: Nepal
Trip Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Activities: Trekking
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. Elevation: 5,106 meters
Group Size: 1-15
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Best Time: Spring and Autumn
Are you ready to discover the hidden gems of the Manaslu Circuit with an additional delightful destination along the way? Extending the Manaslu Circuit journey with the Tsum Valley route is the ideal choice in this case. The Manaslu Tsum Valley trek covers the entirety of Manaslu region, providing an in-depth experience of the authentic rural areas of both Himalayan and Hilly region of Nepal.
Manaslu Tsum valley trek is an 18-day journey that allows you to see the authentic Tibetan culture and tradition while climbing the eighth-highest peak in the world, Manaslu, which stands at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet).
The ascent is difficult, with two crossings of 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) and altitudes above 3,000 meters (9,842 feet). The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary is for experienced trekkers and includes long days of trekking (up to 7 hours) through remote areas that show how people in the area still live in the traditional way.
The ranges of Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, Poshyop Glacier, and Boudha Himal encircle this valley. You will also see Chortens, Gompas, mani walls, Milarepa's cave, and monasteries.
These are not the only great things that Tsum Valley has to offer. There are spine-chilling passes, fields of tsampa, Tibetan Buddhism, a barren tundra that gives way to faraway Tibetan mountain peaks, and a frozen Tibetan plateau. All of these things are beautiful. This place has profound significance and pure spirituality. It might hit you as soon as you walk into this hidden valley of Manaslu.
The prayer flags' messages of peace and the Manaslu people's genuine warmth make the Tsum Valley feel like magic that makes you want to stay longer.
It's also known as the "Mountain of the Spirit." In Nepal, it is in the Gorkha District and in the Mansiri Himal mountain range. Gyaltsen Norbu and Toshio Imanishi led a Japanese group to the summit of Manaslu for the first time in 1956 AD. It is still one of the most popular peaks among serious climbers because of its difficult routes and unpredictable weather.
The expedition was a component of Japan's post-war endeavor to establish a presence in the mountaineering community, as the nation focused on achieving international recognition. Ascending through the northeast face, the team used fixed ropes and aware teamwork to reach the top.
Certainly, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is regarded as a challenging trek to accomplish. It requires a high level of physical fitness and persistent determination, ranking among the most challenging treks in Nepal.
A lot of trekkers visit the Manaslu region each season, despite its difficulties. The challenge of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is affected by a variety of factors, including the distance, difficult terrain, remote location, the climate, altitude sickness, and other services. Nevertheless, beginners as well can successfully trek to Manaslu with proper training and strategic planning.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is situated within the Manaslu Conservation Area and restricted area. A number of permits are required in order to protect the cultural and environmental treasures of the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek, which are protected areas. Obtaining the following permits is necessary:
1. Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
September to November: The first 7 days cost $100 per person, and each additional day costs $15 per person.
December to August: The first 7 days cost $75 per person, and each additional day costs $10 per person.
2. Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
September to November: The first 7 days cost $40 per person, and each additional day costs $7 per person.
December to August: The first 7 days cost $30 per person, and each additional day costs $7 per person.
3. Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Cost: NPR 3,000 (USD 30 approx).
4. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Cost: NPR 3,000 (USD 30 approx).
These permits are required for anyone attempting the Manaslu Tsum Trek because they help to support conservation efforts and environmentally friendly tourism in the region.
| Day | Route | Altitude (m/ft) | Duration (Walk/Drive) | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kathmandu - Machha Khola (Drive) | 1,340m / 4,396ft | 7-8 hrs (drive) | Local bus through scenic mid-hills |
| 2 | Machha Khola - Jagat | 1,410m / 4,626ft | 6-7 hrs (trek) | Trek along Budhi Gandaki River |
| 3 | Jagat - Lokpa | 2,240m / 7,349ft | 5 hrs (trek) | Entering Tsum Valley |
| 4 | Lokpa - Chumling | 2,386m / 7,828ft | 5-6 hrs (trek) | Forest trails, suspension bridges |
| 5 | Chumling - Chekampar | 3,031m / 9,944ft | 6-7 hrs (trek) | Remote Buddhist villages, mountain views |
| 6 | Chekampar - Nile | 3,361m / 11,027ft | 6-7 hrs (trek) | Ancient monasteries, yak pastures |
| 7 | Nile - Mu Gumpa - Chumling | 3,700m / 12,139ft (Mu Gumpa) | 5-6 hrs (trek) | Visit sacred Mu Gumpa, return to Chumling |
| 8 | Rest and Explore | — | — | Acclimatization and cultural exploration |
| 9 | Chumling - Dang | 1,660m / 5,446ft | 5 hrs (trek) | Descend through pine forests |
| 10 | Dang - Namrung | 2,660m / 8,727ft | 6-7 hrs (trek) | Waterfalls, forests, cultural villages |
| 11 | Namrung - Sama Gaun | 3,500m / 11,483ft | 5-6 hrs (trek) | Tibetan-style village, Manaslu views |
| 12 | Rest Day at Sama Gaun (Hike to MBC/Gumpa) | 4,600m / 15,091ft (max) | 5-9 hrs (hike) | Optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungen Gumpa |
| 13 | Sama Gaun - Samdo | 3,860m / 12,664ft | 5-6 hrs (trek) | High alpine terrain, yak herders’ camps |
| 14 | Samdo - Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) | 4,460m / 14,632ft | 4-5 hrs (trek) | Trek to base of Larkya Pass |
| 15 | Dharamsala - Larkya La Pass - Bhimthang | 5,106m / 16,751ft (Pass) | 8-9 hrs (trek) | Challenging high pass crossing |
| 16 | Bhimthang - Tilije | 2,300m / 7,546ft | 4-5 hrs (trek) | Descend through rhododendron forests |
| 17 | Tilije - Tal Village or Jagat | 1,700m / 5,577ft | 5-6 hrs (trek) | Final trekking day through terraced hills |
| 18 | Tal - Besisahar - Kathmandu/Pokhara | 1,340m / 4,396ft | Varies (trek + drive) | Drive back via Besisahar |
Are you in search of the finest Manaslu Trekking Local Guides and Porters?
Hiring a guide is mandatory for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, as it is a controlled area and trekking without a guide is prohibited. You need to get the special permit and hire a guide from a reputable travel agency in Nepal.
Hidden Trek Nepal hires skilled local trekking guides and porters who are strong and know a lot about the area's history, culture, nature, trekking trails, plants and animals, and more. Hidden Trek Nepal provides a professional guide and porter hiring service for your future trek in the Manaslu Tsum Valley region of the Himalayas.
Instead of paying for everything else related to the trek, Hidden Trek Nepal now offers a "guide only" service where you can hire a licensed guide and only pay the guide's fee. We will give you a government-licensed, skilled trekking guide that knows the Manaslu area inside and out as part of this service.
With an expert local path and the freedom to choose your own travel, food, and lodging, trekkers may begin an unforgettable trip in some of the most beautiful mountain scenery.
After breakfast, we will either take a private jeep or a local bus to get to Machha Khola early in the morning. The drive is long (about 24 km). Even if you're tired, the view makes you forget about all the bad things about the trip. Enjoy the beautiful views of valleys, rivers, hills, and villages. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
The trip will begin with a smooth trek through natural jungles and beautiful villages. Along the Budi Gandaki River, the trail goes by natural hot springs where you may unwind and ease your muscles. As you go up, you'll come across Gurung villages that have traditional stone homes. The restricted Manaslu region is entered through Jagat, a checkpoint with ethnic cultures and mountain scenery. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
We will enter the Manaslu conservation area today. After the officials review our trekking permit, we are now free to continue our trek. After we cross the suspension bridge, we'll climb to Philim and then make our way slowly to Eklebhatti, where we'll have lunch. Our journey to Lokpa continues after lunch. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
We cross the Cantilever Bridge after breakfast and begin walking uphill. By foot, we'll make our way through the woods to the Siyar Khola Bridge, and then up to the Chumling. Arrayed before us like a mirror are the mountains of Ganesh, including Ganesh Himal I, Ganesh II, Ganesh III, Ganesh IV, Ganesh V, and so on. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
The trail opens up to breathtaking mountain views as you climb higher into Tsum Valley. Traditional Tibetan houses and old monasteries surround the picturesque village of Chekampar. Residents of this area have practiced a unique form of Tibetan Buddhism for hundreds of years, keeping their culture intact. Take the chance to visit some beautiful monasteries and chat with some friendly locals. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
Although there are no steep ascents on this day, it is important to remain alert and avoid becoming careless. We have the option to stop in Lamagaon for lunch or head directly to Nile.
Next, we stop by Milarepa's Cave, a holy place for meditation linked to the well-known Tibetan saint Milarepa. The cave is a major pilgrimage site, and prayer flags and mani walls show how spiritually important it is. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
A steady ascent leads to Mu Gompa, the most significant and highest monastery in Tsum Valley. You will be able to enjoy awe-inspiring vistas of the Tibetan Plateau and the neighboring Himalayan peaks from this region. Our journey to Chumlung will continue as we descend to Siyar Khola Bridge. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
Mountain names like Ganesh Himal I, Ganesh II, Ganesh III, Ganesh IV, Ganesh V, and more can be seen in front of us from Chumlung. We will be visiting the surrounding area to discover the most exceptional locations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
After reuniting the Manaslu Circuit trail, the trek goes on through greenery and over a few suspension bridges. A lot of Tibetan Buddhism can be felt in a small town, Deng. Along the way, you'll see traditional mani walls and prayer wheels. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
As the trail goes up, it goes through rhododendron gardens along with beautiful waterfalls. As you go up in elevation, you'll reach an area that is highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Namrung is a beautiful village with breathtaking views of Manaslu and other peaks. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
The trek today gives you stunning views of Manaslu and other nearby peaks. Sama Gaon, one of the Manaslu Circuit's largest villages, is reached via a relatively easy trek. When you go to Ribung Gompa, you can enjoy the beautiful mountain view. Before going to higher elevations, this village is used as a base to get used to the altitude. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
We will be entering locations above 3500 m altitude from the sea, so acclimatization is of the utmost importance. Together with your trekking guide, you will decide whether to visit Birendra Lake or Manaslu Base Camp (4800 m). It is quite challenging to trek to the base camp of Mt. Manaslu, but the experience is legendary. Imagine leaving your mark at the base camp of Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-tallest mountain in the world. Overnight at the tea house. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
We'll be trekking through isolated alpine forests and crossing a few streams. The trail doesn't have any hard uphill sections today, but it does go through tiny valleys and along a ridge. So, it will be easy for you to get to Samdo. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
The path to Dharmashala starts at Larke Bazaar, which is above the tree line. We will go through rough terrain to get to Dharmashala, which is also known as Larke Phedi. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
Today is the most important day of our trek. We will start our journey to cross the Larke La Pass (5106 m) around 3:30 in the morning. The trail is challenging, but the scenery makes it worth it. We are going to go into the Annapurna region today. We will have lunch at Larke Phedi and then keep walking to Bhimtang. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
This day is the final day of our beautiful Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. From Bimthang, the way down goes through Dudh Khola, high-grazing grassland, and rhododendron forests. Along the way, you can see Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal. You will finally get to Tiliche after going through Gho village and following the riverbank. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
We will take the transportation all the way to Jagat. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
Depending on your preference, we will either take a local bus or a jeep to Kathmandu/Pokhara. The agency will host a farewell dinner to talk about the events of the trip. Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided.
Early spring and late autumn are the best times to go on the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. These times of year are more dry and warm than others, and they get less rain. The weather is nice and mild during these times, with temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.
The upper Himalayan region is hard to trek in during December and January. Because of the heavy snow and extreme cold, there is a good chance of getting stuck, so most of the villagers move to the lower areas.
Furthermore, Nepal experiences its most intense monsoon season from June to September. The constant rain and blocked view of the Himalayas may make your trekking highly challenging.
Altitude sickness is a condition that arises when the body is unable to adjust to the lower levels of oxygen at higher altitudes.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek allows trekkers to reach elevations exceeding 5,000 meters, where the oxygen content and air pressure are considerably lower than those at sea level. The body has to work harder to get adequate oxygen because of this. Also, altitude sickness can happen if you don't properly acclimate.
To guarantee a safe and enjoyable trek through the Manaslu Tsum Valley, it is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. Adequate planning and acclimatization are essential for minimizing health risks.
Keep in mind that communication with your guide is one of the most critical safety precautions for the Manaslu trek. If you feel any pain or discomfort, let them know right away so they can check you out and suggest the best option for action.
Build your physical fitness by engaging in consistent hiking and exercise in order to get fit for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. Additionally, it is advised to bring the necessary equipment, such as a strong pair of trekking boots, a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, and layers of clothing.
We strongly advice to prepare at least three months prior to your trip. Add strength training, cardio workouts, hiking routine, flexibility, and balance into your routine.
The main challenges of this trek are the high altitudes, long duration, and the weather. Despite these obstacles, the trek is achievable for those with passion, adequate fitness, as well as proper acclimatization.
Accommodations during the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek are primarily provided in modest teahouses, and are operated by local residents. The rooms in these teahouses are simple, and most of the time, two people share a bathroom. However, some rooms may have their own bathroom.
Teahouse Details:
Travellers often stop at Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and other well-known sites. During busy times, they hire skilled chefs to help with food on the trek. Other high-altitude rest stops, like Lho, Samagaon, Samdo, and Dharmashala, have simple tea houses that serve the best local food.
At the bottom of the trails, these restaurants serve typical local food like Tibetan, Indian, or Continental dishes. The variety of food options will decrease as you ascend.
The primary mode of transport for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a combination of local buses and jeeps. The trek typically starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola or Soti Khola, where trekkers often hire a private or shared jeep due to the difficult road conditions.
The journey to Tsum Valley starts at Jagat, which can be accessible by jeep. Trekkers can reconnect to the Manaslu Circuit route upon their return from the Tsum Valley, and then catch a jeep to Besisahar, and then catch a bus to Kathmandu.
Jeeps are the most popular mode of transportation because the roads that are located beyond Arughat are often difficult and rough.
Communication can be difficult on the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek, particularly in the more isolated Tsum Valley. Although mobile phone coverage is accessible in numerous villages along the Manaslu Circuit, it is less reliable in Tsum Valley. Also, there isn't a lot of Internet access. Most tea houses offer Wi-Fi, but Tsum Valley has more difficult facilities. In certain regions, satellite phones are available for rental in order to facilitate emergency communication.
To book the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, you'll need to work with a registered trekking agency in Nepal like us. Hidden Trek Nepal will handle the necessary permits, guide, and potentially accommodation and transportation.
We are concerned about your safety whenever you book a local company like ours, and we are here to help. Throughout every step of your trip, you will constantly have someone with years of experience to provide you with the best recommendations.
By making the reservations as early as possible, particularly during the peak trekking seasons, you may assure that you will be able to secure your desired accommodation without encountering any difficulties. Given that the majority of the most desirable places to stay in the region are often reserved well in advance, it is always a good idea to begin your planning process as early as possible.
Thamel is Kathmandu’s tourist hub and the most visited part of the city. There are hundreds of hotels, guesthouses, and hostels in town; therefore, if you’re a budget traveller or backpacker, you’ll likely stay in this part of town.
You will love spending time in Thamel; It’s a great place to hang out and meet fellow travellers, walk the streets and soak in the atmosphere that only really exists in this area.
It’s also right in the heart of town, close to all of the major things to do in Kathmandu. Thamel is also the perfect place to rent or buy trekking gear.
It is possible to obtain a visa on arrival for individuals from the majority of countries by visiting the online website of the Immigration Department of Nepal. Online forms must be filled out, printed, and brought with you.
The online system can be accessed at https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/ from any location and at any time. The Online Application System can keep your application for 15 days in its system, allowing you to apply at your convenience and present it to the Immigration Authority at the time of admission or visa extension.
Visas on arrival are valid for 15, 30, or 3 months and are priced at:
We recommend hiking before the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, helping your body adjust to higher elevations. Test your gear and break in your hiking boots on these short walks to find and correct any problems while still near city shops and resources.
Some suggestions for hiking places near Kathmandu are: Champa Devi Hiking, Jamacho (Nagarjun Hill) Hiking, Sundarijal Hiking, Chandragiri Hiking, etc.
You can also visit some very popular cultural locations carrying significant histories while in Kathmandu before the trek: Boudhanath (Boudha), the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and three Durbar Squares (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur).
After the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, relaxing and enjoying Nepal's splendor is worth it. After the lengthy trek, Nepal is also a great place to relax with views, and cozy cafés. We recommend:
Hidden Trek Nepal is known for having skilled porters and making each tour unique. They know both the history and geography of the area well enough to make sure you have a safe and useful trip.
Manaslu Tsum Valley trek leads you through hidden valleys far from the usual tourist crowds. Instead, you’ll stay overnight in quiet, beautiful valleys that most tourists don’t visit. We offer a more peaceful, authentic, and immersive experience in nature.
We also provide flexible solutions, such as a "guide only" service for independent trekkers who would rather handle their own logistics with expert advice. With Hidden Trek Nepal, you interact with people, environment, and the desire of adventure at every turn rather than simply travel.
The journey is difficult due to the high altitude, difficult terrain, long Larke La Pass, and extended duration. Prior trekking experience and a high level of physical fitness are highly recommended.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking is a restricted region, and trekkers must accompany a guide and a porter, as mandated by the Nepalese government. They will assist with local knowledge, navigation, and gear carrying. This also benefits the local economy.
No, you cannot see Mount Everest from the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. While the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Manaslu itself and other majestic peaks like Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli, Mount Everest is located in a different region, much further east.
Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Larya La Pass, which also lies in Manaslu, is the longest mountain pass in Nepal. The trek can also be enhanced with add-ons such as the Tsum Valley trek, which provides an original sense of culture and beautiful scenery to the existing itinerary.
The primary places to stay along the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek are in teahouses, which are basic, family-operated businesses providing basic necessities such as beds, shared bathrooms, and shared dining spaces. While teahouses are the most common, certain lodges provide a bit more luxury with private rooms and attached bathrooms, especially after navigating the Larke Pass.
We made a customised 18-day plan that includes the time needed to get used to the altitude and the right amount of trekking. However, you can add or remove days depending on your schedule. The schedule can be changed to fit your needs as long as you follow the rules.
Yes! Kathmandu has many shops (Thamel area) selling:
There are major electricity issues in these remote areas, and power outages occur frequently. To use power, you need to pay extra rupees. If you want to use it at higher elevations, you should definitely bring a power bank and an extra battery.
A lot of tourists now bring smaller solar chargers that they can fold up and carry with them. This way, they can charge their phones and tablets while they walk. It is essential to have these items on hand in case the power goes out or energy levels drop.
Yes, you can always join our fixed departure treks at the last minute. For customised treks, please stay in touch with us to check availability and arrangements.
Our 18-day Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is perfectly curated to cover all highlights while ensuring proper acclimatisation and comfort. It’s possible to complete the trek in less than 18 days, but it depends on how many days you're looking to cut and your trekking experience. Let’s discuss your preferences to see what’s feasible.
The Manaslu region prohibits solo trekking. You need to go on a trek with a qualified local guide and at least one other person.
It is not compulsory to have a porter for the Manaslu Trek. However, we highly recommend hiring one, which will relieve you of your luggage and enable you to fully appreciate the journey. Hidden Trek Nepal provides the best porters, and the service is added on our package too.
The highest point of our journey is over 5000 meters. Most of the time, we'll be walking 3000 to 5000 meters above sea level. At this altitude, the weather is unpredictable and the temperature is low.
The nighttime temperature varies between 5 degrees Celsius in the summer and -15 degrees Celsius in the winter. Manaslu has sunny days and temperatures that range from 15 degrees Celsius in the summer to -5 degrees Celsius in the winter.
Both the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek and the Everest Base Camp trek are moderately difficult Nepalese hiking trails. Manaslu's terrain is easier than Everest's, but it has more remote areas and fewer facilities.
If you're looking for pleasant hotels and restaurants along the way, Everest may be a better option. However, if you only consider the walking time, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is easier to access than the EBC trek.
