Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek

Duration: 22 Days
At a Glance
  • Duration 22 Days
  • Trip Grade Fairly Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End Kathmandu/Kathmandu
  • Group Size 2-12
  • Max. Altitude 5160m

Highlights

  • One of the most adventurous trekking trails in the Himalayas with off-beat and steep routes
  • Enjoy a peaceful trek because the trail is not crowded at all
  • Explore a restricted part of the Himalayas in Nepal
  • Witness jaw-dropping mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
  • Come across a range of flora & fauna, trek through lush forests of rhododendron & pine
  • Explore around Mt. Manaslu (the eighth highest mountain in the world) and the hidden Tsum valley
  • Visit ancient monasteries and hike to Manaslu base camp
  • Get to see the lifestyle of the natives and learn about their values

Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trek 22 Days

Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trek is one of the most adventurous and immersive trekking routes in the Himalayas. Regardless of all the challenges, this trek is quite popular among adventure junkies. The trek combines the Manaslu trail with the hidden Tsum valley. It is a 22 days tea house trekking around the eighth highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu.

Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trek is adventurous, culturally enriching, gleaming with flora & fauna, and lets the trekkers enjoy unspoiled mountain sceneries. Explore this hidden valley with our expert team and enjoy great service, a friendly crew & a safe journey.

The fact that the Manaslu with Tsum valley is one of the least explored trails in the Himalayas makes the venture even more intriguing. Unlike the famous EBC trek and ABC trek, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking route is not crowded. Even the basic tourist infrastructure is not adequate, so you can expect a raw trekking experience. The trail takes you very close to the Tibetan border.

Manaslu trail was opened in 1995, and Tsum Valley opened in 2008 for foreign visitors. Today, these parts of Nepal fall under the restricted area of Nepal. It means that foreign trekkers have to obtain a special permit from the government of Nepal, and solo trekking is not allowed. The restricted area permit is only issued if you are trekking with a registered Nepali trekking company, so there's no way you can trek alone in the Manaslu & Tsum valley.

During the Manaslu with Tsum Valley trekking, you get to see the rich Tibetan Buddhism cultural heritage of the natives. As the region was protected from the outside world for a long time, nothing much has changed in the daily lifestyle of the locals. In a way, Manaslu and Tsum Valley trek is also like traveling back in time. You get to embrace simple living and uncomplicated sentiments.

And like the cherry on the top, diverse wilderness, stunning landscapes, and majestic Himalayan mountains makes the overall trekking experience in Tsum valley far more tempting. The ancient monasteries, nunneries, mani walls, prayer wheels, and sculpted rocks along the way add a further divine aura to the journey. The intimate encounters with the inhabitants, their simple yet fulfilling life, and strong values will blow your mind.

Manaslu & Tsum Valley trek attractions

Offbeat & less crowded trail

Manaslu & Tsum Valley trek route offers off-the-beaten trails. Most parts of the trekking route involve steep uphill walks following rough, forested paths. Because of all the hurdles this trek poses, expensive restricted area permits, and strict regulations, only a handful of trekkers visit this region every year, making the trail less crowded. If you love walking in peace and embracing solitary, then you'll love Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trek.

Unspoiled landscapes & mountain views

Manaslu with Tsum Valley trekking route is heaven for trekkers looking for breathtaking landscapes and stunning mountain views. As the region is closely located to the Tibetan border, you get to witness Tibetan landscapes from some points too. You can look out for beautiful mountain birds, including the Lophophorus (otherwise called Danphe in Nepali, the national bird of Nepal).

Likewise, the lush green hills, waterfalls, glaciers, lakes, and verdant valleys sprinkle more beauty into the region. Mountains like Manaslu (8,163 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Ngadi Chuli (7,871 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Chulu West (6,419 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Shringi Himal (7,083 m), Baudha Himal (6,672 m), Himlung Himal (7,126 m), Kang Guru (6,981 m), etc are seen along the trail. The landscape changes from dense forests, rivers & hills to pastures, moraines, & barren hills.

Trek in the restricted area of Nepal

Manaslu region and Tsum valley are restricted areas of Nepal. The trekker has to obtain restricted area permits (RAP) from the government of Nepal, which is only possible with the help of a registered Nepali trekking company. Not only that, solo trekking is not allowed in the Manaslu region and trekkers have to be in a group (at least two people)- not including a guide & porters) to participate in Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek.

Explore caves & ancient monasteries

The Tsum valley trekking route lets you explore the Piren Phu and Milarepa caves. Both of these caves are sacred. The legendary Buddhist sage is believed to be meditated in these two caves. Likewise, the region has many significant ancient monasteries like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Pungyen Gompa, and Lungdang Gompa, along with small stupas, chortens, sculpted stones, prayer wheels, etc.

Trail teeming with wilderness

Fishing or hunting animals is prohibited in the Manaslu region. This has resulted in wealthy wildlife in the region. The trail is in the Manaslu Conservation Area, so you can hope to see many plants & flowers. This conservation area is home to numerous exotic wildlife, including snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, red fox, blue sheep, brown bear, etc along with diverse species of birds.

Cross Larkya La pass

Crossing Larkya La pass is the most challenging part of the Manaslu with the Tsum Valley trek. With a height of 5,106 meters, it is one of the longest passes in the Himalayas. The pass is located between Dharmashala and Bimtang. The route to the top of the pass is steep and rocky. Once you reach the top, you get rewards with jaw-dropping mountain scenery and find yourself amidst clouds.

Hike to Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake

During your acclimatization day in Sama Gaon, you have two hiking options. One takes to Manaslu base camp and another to Birendra Lake. The Manaslu base camp is the lap of the eight highest mountains in the world, Mt. Manaslu. It is suited at 4,800 meters and offers a sensational mountain landscape around it.

Birendra Lake is a freshwater lake located near Punhyen Glacier. The turquoise color of the lake is surrounded by brown hills and snow-capped mountains. The scenery is heavenly. The lake is suited at 3,691 meters.

For more information, we suggest you talk with our travel consultant. You can text us at 9851137380 (WhatsApp/Viber) or mail us at info@outfitterhimalaya.com. To book Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek 2023/2024 departure, you simply have to send us an inquiry request by clicking on the booking button.

Itinerary

We at Outfitter Himalaya have offered a detailed itinerary for the Tsum Valley and Manaslu with Larke la Pass. It is 22 Days itinerary that covers both Tsum valley and the Manaslu, and it is best for those who have long holidays and want to spend the holiday in the Himalayas of Nepal.

You have the option to do only Manaslu or Tsum Valley only as well. And, the offered 22-day program includes your arrival and departure days and to from Nepal and a day tour in Kathmandu as well. However, the program is customizable as per your requirements and interests, So, let us know your requirement as we are always here to make the trek plan for you.

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We welcome you at the airport and escort you to the hotel in a private vehicle. Our team will help you settle in the hotel and quickly brief you about the day program before leaving you to unpack.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

We’ll spend the day exploring many historical sites in Kathmandu with our guide, who will explain the monuments. The tour involves a visit to palaces, courtyards, temples, monasteries, and museums. Later in the afternoon, we meet you in our office and introduce the trek guide. He'll give a short briefing about the trek, and we begin preparation. The final packing and last-minute shopping.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

After breakfast, we begin the ride to Soti Khola. A long drive with gorgeous scenery. We pass by Arughat before reaching Soti Khola.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude700

It is our first day of the trek. From Soti Khola, we walk through small settlement areas and lush forests to Machha Khola. On the way, we pass by Khorlabesi. The trail also offers beautiful views of green hills and rivers.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude870

From Machha Khola, we cross Tharo Khola and reach Khorla Besi. It is a small Gurung village. From here, we steeply ascend to Tatopani and walk over a ridge. The trail then crosses the Budhi Gandaki River and climbs multiple staircases to Doban. We then trek towards Thado Bharyang and walk along a river to Jagat.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1340

From Jagat, we enter the restricted area. We registered our permits at the checkpoint. We’ll walk along a river bank and descend to Shridibas. The trail then takes us to Philim, where we take a small break for lunch. We cross a suspension bridge and walk to Ekle Bhatti. There are two trails further; one takes to Manaslu and another to Tsum valley. We hike to Lokpa.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2040

It's a short walk from Lokpa to Chumling. However, the route is demanding. There's no lodge in between the trail to stop and have food. After continuous ups & downs, we cross a suspension bridge and walk towards Ripchet. From here, the trail crosses another bridge and walks past small stones to Chumling. We can see excellent views of Ganesh Himal.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2390

The trail from Chumling continues to Domje, and we move towards Chhokong Paro. On the way, we come across several streams. The trail presents striking views of Shringi Himal. In Chhokong Paro, you can see Tibetan-style homes and meet friendly locals.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3030

It's an easy day. From Chhokong Paro, we hike to Phurbe and Pangdun. We then cross Chhule village and gradually ascend upstream. The trail further crosses a bridge and reaches Nile. Here, we visit a famous monster.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3360

We begin the day we a hike to Mu Gompa. It is a religious ancient monastery. We are very close to the Tibetan border on this day. The trail goes along the west bank of the valley offering Tibetan landscapes and mountain views. After visiting Mu Gompa, we visit Dhephu Doma Gompa and descend to Chhokong Paro to spend the night.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3700

After having breakfast, we’ll trace our way back to Chhokang Paro. The trail passes by small monasteries and mani walls. We walk through small settlement areas and reach the sacred Milarepa Cave. From here, the trail takes us to Rachen Gompa. Following a downstream route, we reach Chhokong Paro.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3030

Leaving the Chhokong Paro, we walk, relishing views of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal. The trail passes by Gho village and leads us across Seru Khola. We pass by Rainjam and continue trekking. Further, we cross a suspension bridge and reach Chumling for a night's stay.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2390

The trail between Chumling and Deng offers beautiful views of Lumbo Himal, Lapuchen Himal, and Dwijen Himal. We'll be trekking in the lower Nubri region called Kutang. It's home to natives who are pure Tibetans. Before reaching Deng, we walk past lush forests.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1860

The trail from Deng gradually goes through dense forests to Ghap village. From here, we keep ascending past a river. The final ascent is steep and leads us to Namrung. The scenery along the is fantastic.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2630

We go beyond the tree line into high mountains today. Leaving the lush green valley, we now see muted browns and grays of the Himalayas around us. The trail takes us to Lho village. Here we see a superb view of Mt. Manaslu and visit Rebung Gompa (if possible). The trail then ascends to Shyala village and goes to Sama Gaun via yak pastures.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3520

We take a rest day in Sama Gaon. It's important to avoid altitude sickness. We explore the village and get plenty of rest. There are multiple hike options we have today. We can visit Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp, or Birendra Lake.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3520

The trail from Sama Gaon descends to the Budhi Gandaki River and turns north to a bridge over a side stream. We then walk past several mani walls, and the valley begins to open up. Further, we walk by juniper and birch forest to Kermo Kharka. The trail then descends and crosses Budhi Gandaki. We follow a steep uphill route to Samdo.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3875

We keep walking down the edge and cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. The trail then ascends and crosses two streams. We can see Larkya Glacier as we walk towards Salka Khola. From here, we walk on an uphill trail that leads to a stone guest house at 4,460 m. It's called Dharmshala or Larkya Phedi.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4460

From Larkya Phedi, we ascend and reach the north side of Larkya Glacier. The views of Cho Danda and Larkya Peak are surreal. We walk across moraines and follow a steep uphill route to the top of the pass. From the pass, we get to witness the outstanding view of Annapurna II, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, Mt. Kang Guru, etc. We then descend to Bimtang for the night's stay.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5160

Leaving Bimtang, we cross a stony glacier and soon begin walking through rhododendron & pine forest. The trail descends along the west bank of Dudh Khola and passes by Hompuk & Sangure Kharka. From here, we reach Kharche and trek through the lush forest to Tilje. The trail drops down to Marsyangdi valley and passes by Thonje. We'll cross the Marsyangdi river and reach Dharapani.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1860

After having breakfast, we’ll drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu. The ride is long and offers beautiful landscapes. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we drop you at the hotel. The remaining day is free. You can shop and relax. In the evening, we have a farewell dinner with the team.

  • MealsB, L
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

It's your last day in Kathmandu. We pick you up from your hotel lobby three hours before the flight departure time and drop you at the airport.

  • MealsB

Is the offered itinerary not suitable for you?

Looking for a customized itinerary? Reach out to our experts.

Map & Altitude Graph

Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek map

Inclusions

  • Airport transfers
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu as per the above itinerary
  • 3 - night Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Transport by local bus Kathmandu - Soti khola and Dharapani - Kathamndu
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on the trek
  • Conservation entry permits, restricted area permit, and TIMS permit
  • 11-night accommodations in lodges/tea houses on the trekking
  • A guide and porter (1 porter for every two trekkers)
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (Pay travel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, down jacket, and a duffel bag (return after the trek)

Exclusions

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals while you are in Kathmandu
  • The entire bar bills, hot and cold drinks, water, internet, and telephone charge
  • Entrances fees on Kathmandu Tour
  • Tips for the guide and crews
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

Trip Departures

Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: SundayOct 08, 2023End DateEnds: SundayOct 29, 2023PricePrice Per PersonUS$1500StatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: SaturdayOct 28, 2023End DateEnds: SaturdayNov 18, 2023PricePrice Per PersonUS$1500StatusAvailable

Are the above-offered dates not suitable for you? Check Availability to Book on your own Date!

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Essential Info

Manaslu & Tsum valley trek difficulty

Manaslu and Tsum valley trails are arduous. It is one of the most demanding treks in the Himalayas that not only takes you far away to remote Tsum valley but also crosses the high Larkya La pass (5,106 m). This trek requires a high level of fitness and previous high-altitude experience. So, you can guess Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trekking is for fit trekkers who have high endurance and persistence.

The trails are precipitous. Trekking through lush forests of rhododendron & pine, you have to cross many narrow suspension bridges over rushing rivers. You walk constantly on uphill and downhill paths. On average 6 hours of walking (in a day) is needed during the trek. The terrain is uneven, rocky, and rugged. Likewise, you also walk on a glacial path at some point.

Apart from the terrain, the region itself is very remote. The trekking route has very basic teahouses and teashops with limited snacks. The meals are usually Nepali or Tibetan dishes with not many other options. Likewise, no WiFi and a weak cellular connection. You may have to go a few days without using the internet. All these small things make the overall trekking experience far more challenging.

Preparation for Manaslu & Tsum valley trek

If you wish to have a smooth trekking experience, then proper preparation is a must. From packing all the essentials to getting your body and mind ready for the trek needed. Our team will give you a packing list once the booking is confirmed. Do know that, you have to carry even the smallest things like toilet paper, toothpaste, lip balm, moisturizer, etc.

Now getting your body & mind ready involves strengthening your muscles, building long walking habits, increasing your stamina, and working on your endurance. You can go on short hikes, train in the gym, or do cardio activities like jogging, swimming, cycling, etc. Combining all of these will help you better train various aspects of your body & mind.

These are some other adventurous trekking routes in the Himalayas: Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, and Everest Three High Passes Trek.

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