Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is adventurous, culturally enriching, gleaming with flora and fauna, and lets you enjoy unspoiled mountain scenery in Nepal. You explore this hidden valley with our expert team and enjoy excellent service, a friendly crew, and a safe journey.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Overview
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek combines the Manaslu trail with the hidden Tsum valley. It is a tea house trek around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, the Mountain Manaslu.
If you want to plan to make your holiday more adventurous and enjoy being in the mountains, Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek is one option. Manaslu Tsum Valley is one of the most adventurous and immersive trekking routes in the Himalayas of Nepal. Regardless of all the challenges, the Trek is quite popular among adventure junkies. The fact that the Manaslu Tsum Valley is one of the least explored trails in the Himalayas makes the venture even more intriguing. Unlike the famous EBC and ABC treks, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Hiking route is not crowded.
Even the basic tourist infrastructure is built; you experience a raw trekking experience in this region. The trail takes you very close to the Tibetan border. The Manaslu trail opened in 1995, and Tsum Valley opened in 2008 for foreign visitors. Today, these parts of Nepal are restricted areas, meaning that foreign trekkers must obtain a special travel permit from the government of Nepal to trek in the Region.
The restricted area permit is only issued if you walk with a registered Nepali trekking company like Outfitter Himalaya, so you cannot trek alone in the Manaslu and Tsum valley Region.
During the Manaslu with Tsum Valley himalaya journey, you will see the rich Tibetan Buddhist cultural heritage of the natives. The Region was protected from the outside world for a long time, and little has changed in the daily lifestyle of the locals. In a way, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking 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 make the overall trekking experience in Tsum Valley and Manaslu 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 Highlights
- Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is one of the most adventurous trekking trails in the Himalayas with offbeat and steep routes
- You will 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 and fauna. Trek through lush forests of rhododendron and 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 Tsum Valley Trek Attractions
There are many attractions during the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Trek and find some of them as below.
Offbeat and Less Crowded Himalayan Trekking Trail
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers off-the-beaten-track hiking in the Nepal Himalayas. Most routes 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 few trekkers visit this Region every year, making the trail less crowded.
If you love walking in peace and embracing solitude, want to escape into the Mountains, and enjoy peace and serenity. In that case, you'll love Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal.
Unspoiled landscapes and excellent mountain views
Manaslu Tsum Valley Route is heaven for trekkers looking for breathtaking landscapes and mountain views. The Region is close to the Tibetan border, so you can also witness Tibetan landscapes from some points.
You can look out for beautiful mountain birds, including the Lophophorus (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 and hills to pastures, moraines, and barren hills.
Travel in the Special Areas of Nepal
Nepal's Manaslu region and Tsum valley are restricted areas. The trekker must 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 regions, and trekkers have to be in a group (at least two people) - not including a guide and porters) to participate in Manaslu with Tsum Valley trip.
Explore ancient monasteries
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek lets you explore the sacred Piren Phu and Milarepa caves, where the legendary Buddhist sage is believed to have meditated.
Likewise, the Region has many significant ancient monasteries, such as 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 Region, which has resulted in wealthy wildlife. The trail is in the Manaslu Conservation Area, so many plants and flowers can be seen.
This conservation area is home to numerous exotic wildlife, including snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, red foxes, blue sheep, brown bears, and diverse species of birds.
Cross, the Larkya La, passes over 5,106 meters
Crossing Larkya La pass is the most challenging part of the Manaslu Tsum Valley trekking. At 5,106 meters, it is one of the longest passes in the Nepalese 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: Manaslu base camp and Birendra Lake. The Manaslu base camp is on the slopes of Mt. Manaslu, one of the eight highest mountains in the world. At 4,800 meters, it offers a sensational mountain landscape.
Birendra Lake is a freshwater lake located near Punhyen Glacier. Brown hills and snow-capped mountains surround the turquoise lake, making the scenery heavenly. The lake is 3,691 meters deep.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Booking
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek booking is available with Outfitter Himalaya at the best cost. We offer both fixed departure and private trips. To operate a trek, there should be a minimum of 2 trekkers. So contact us if you are single and looking to join a group trek, as we might already have people booked, and you can join them.
Find the fixed departure dates on the page and book a suitable date. Private departures are available daily; please check availability for your desired dates.
- Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport and transfer to the hotel
- Day 02: Full-day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
- Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola
- Day 04: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola
- Day 05: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
- Day 06: Trek from Jagat to Lokpa
- Day 07: Trek from Lokpa to Chumling
- Day 08: Trek from Chumling to Chhokong Paro
- Day 09: Trek from Chhokng Paro to Nile
- Day 10: Day Trip to Mu Gompa
- Day 11: Trek from Nile to Chhokong Paro
- Day 12: Chhokong Paro to Chhumling
- Day 13: Trek from Chhumping to Deng
- Day 14: Trek Deng to Namrung
- Day 15: Trek Namrung to Sama Gaun
- Day 16: Rest at Sama Gaon for Acclimatization
- Day 17: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo
- Day 18: Trek from Samdo to Larkya La Phedi
- Day 19: Trek from Larkya La Phedi to Larkya La (Pass) to Bimthang
- Day 20: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani
- Day 21: Drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu
- Day 22: Transfer to the international airport for your final flight departure
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu as per the itinerary
- 3-night Accommodation (2-3 star) in Kathmandu with breakfast on twin/double sharing basis
- Transport by local bus/jeep Kathmandu – Soti Khola and Dharapani - Kathmandu
- Three Meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on the trek as per the itinerary
- Conservation entry permits, restricted area permit, and TIMS permit
- Guest House/tea house accommodations on the trek on twin-share
- An experienced, knowledgeable and helpful local trekking guide
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by travel insurance company)
- Sleeping bag, down jacket, and a duffel bag (return after the trek)
- Seasonal fruits after dinner while on the trek
- T-shirt and trekking map
- A farewell dinner
- First Aid and oximeter
- Official expenses and service charge
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Trekking porter (available on Add-on)
- International flight to and from Nepal
- Travel insurance
- Entrance fees on the Kathmandu tour (NPR 2600.00 per person)
- Food (lunch and dinner) while you are in Kathmandu
- Your personnel expenses/shopping
- All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Sweet things like chocolate bars and bar bills
- Hot shower, internet, telephone, and laundry
- Tips for the guide and staff
- Anything not mentioned in the included section
Hire a Trekking porter
We suggest you to hire a porter to carry your bag pack while on trek, trekking with a light day pack is much easier and you enjoy your trekking holidays to the fullest. A trekking porter carries about 20-22 Kg (about 10-11 Kg from each of you), and we suggest to hire a porter in between of two trekkers.
Day 03 of the Itinerary
There is an option to upgrade the transportation to a private jeep instead of the local bus on day three from Kathmandu to Sotikhola. The Jeep costs US $180.00, and 6 passengers can drive on one Jeep.
Day 21 of the Itinerary
There is an option to upgrade the transportation to a private jeep instead of the local bus drive on day 21 from Dharapani to Kathmandu. The Jeep cost US $290.00, and 6 passengers can drive on one Jeep.
Are the dates offered unsuitable, or do you want to take a private trip? Check availability for your date.
Manaslu and Tsum Valley trekking difficulty
Manaslu and Tsum Valley trails are arduous. It is one of the most demanding treks in the Himalayas, taking you far away to remote Tsum Valley and crossing the high Larkya La pass (5,106 m).
Manaslu and Tsum Valley adventure requires a high level of fitness and previous trekking experience. So, Manaslu with Tsum Valley Trek Adventure is for fit trekkers with high endurance and persistence.
Trekking through lush forests of rhododendrons and pine, you have to cross many narrow suspension bridges over rushing rivers. You walk constantly on uphill and downhill paths. On average, 6-7 hours of walking (in a day) is needed during the trip. 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 basic teahouses and teashops with limited snacks. The meals are usually Nepali or Tibetan dishes with few other options. You may have to go a few days without using the Internet. All these small things make the overall trekking experience more challenging.
Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek Preparation
Proper preparation is necessary for a smooth trekking experience, from packing all the essentials to getting your body and mind ready for the odyssey.
You can find the packing list on the page. It would help if you carried even the most minor things like toilet paper, toothpaste, lip balm, and moisturizer.
Now, getting your body and mind ready involves
- Strengthening your muscles
- Building long walking habits
- Increasing your stamina
- Working on your endurance
You can go on short hikes, train in the gym, or do cardio activities like jogging, swimming, cycling, etc. Combining these will help you better prepare various aspects of your body & mind.
Guide and Crew for Manaslu and Tsum Valley trekking
You will have a city tour guide for the sightseeing tour in Kathmandu on day 2 of the Itinerary. You will have an experienced trekking guide throughout the Trek and an assistant guide when there are more than eight trekkers in the group.
We have not included a trekking porter in the cost, And Porter is available as options which you can add on while booking. One porter for each two trekkers is suitable and a porter carries about 20-22 KG, which means 10-11 KG from each trekker.
Accommodation during the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
A total of 21 nights of accommodations are included in our Tsum Valley Manaslu trek package cost. The three nights are in a 3-star standard hotel in Kathmandu, and the rest of the 18 nights are in a lodge/guest house/homestay in the trekking trails.
The best time to do the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
The best time to do the Manaslu Tsum Valley hike is the autumn season (September, October, November, and the first half of December) and spring (March, April, May, and the first half of June).
Meals and drinks on Tsum Valley Trek in the Himalayas
Our package includes 59 Meals (21 Breakfasts, 19 lunches, and 19 Dinners). Daily breakfast is included in the hotel in Kathmandu, and breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included while trekking.
We provide a cup of tea or coffee with breakfast; all drinks such as tea, coffee, water, cold drinks, hot drinks, or alcoholic drinks are not included in our package cost. However, these drinks are available in the lodges/guest houses along the trekking trails, and you can buy them.
Permits are required to do the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
There are a few permits that you are required to have in the Tsum Valley Manaslu Trek Adventure, which is as follows:
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
Tsum Valley-Manaslu trail is located in the Manaslu Conservation Area (MCAP), and you need a permit to enter this Region; the permit costs NPR 3000.00 (Approximately US $30.00).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
Some of the Tsum Valley-Manaslu trail is located in the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), and you need a permit to enter this Region; the permit costs NPR 3000.00 (Approximately US $30.00).
Tsum Valley Trekking Permit
The program's trail from Jagat to Tsum Valley is under restricted areas and needs special trekking permits; the permit cost is below.
- From September to November, per person is US$ 40.00 for the first week and US$7.00 per day for additional days beyond a week.
- From December to August, per person is US$ 30 for the first week and US$7.00 per day per extra day after one week or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
Manaslu Trekking permit
The trail from Jagat to Larke Lass and Bhimtang is under restricted areas and needs a trekking permit; the permit cost is below.
- From September to November, US$100.00 per week per person, and after seven days, US$15 per day per person or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
- From December to August, US$75 per week per person, and after seven days, US$10.00 per day per person or equivalent convertible foreign currency.
Trekkers Information management System (TIMS)
The Nepal Government has applied the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) on all trekker routes. So, trekkers have to have a TIMS permit to trek in the Manaslu-Tsum Valley region, which costs NPR 2000.00 (approximately US $20.00).
Note: All these trekking permits are included in the trip cost. We will apply for and obtain these permits once you book the journey with us. They will be provided to you before starting the Trek.
Packing list for Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Venture
The equipment is vital in making your Trek successful in Manaslu Tsum Valley. So, you must pack your gear carefully, fill it up with only what you need, and carry what you need for the trekking. We have provided a list of tips to help you pack your gear for the Trek in Nepal.
General
- Four seasons sleeping bag (we provide one if you do not have one).
- A duffel or rucksack bag keeps all your gear, which the porter will carry.
- You should buy a daypack to carry your things, such as a camera, water, and what you need for the day.
- You can keep a small lockable bag at the hotel in Kathmandu for the extra stuff you do not use on the Trek.
- A down Jacket (we provide you one if you do not have
- Shade hat
- Warm wool hat to cover your ears
- A pair of lightweight, warm gloves
- T-shirts
- Lightweight thermal tops
- A fleece jacket
- Raincoat (if you are traveling in monsoon time)
- A pair of trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts.
- Some pairs of warm socks
- A pair of Light to medium-weight waterproof hiking/trekking boots
- A pair of light trekking shoes or sandals for camp/lodges
- A water bottle
- Head/torch Light
- A medium-sized towel
- Walking poles (optional)
Medicines and First Aid Kits
- We recommend consulting your doctor for medication and suggestions before booking a trek.
Miscellaneous but Important
- A passport and extra passport photos (2 copies), these additional passport photos are necessary to obtain the trekking permits.
- Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
- Lip balm at least SPF 20, 2 sticks.
- Sun cream with SPF 40
- Water purification Iodine tablets (optional)
- The toiletry kit includes toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, liquid hand sanitizer, a towel, and soap.
Note: We advise you to have your sleeping bag down as they fit well when you use them.
However, we at Outfitter Himalaya provide a duffel bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag to use on the Trek when you book a trek with us, which you must return once the Trek is completed. You should have the rest of the equipment; you can also buy it at a good price in Kathmandu.
Useful Information about Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking
- Best Time to Trek in Manaslu
- Meals and Drinnks in Manaslu Region
- Accommodation in the Manaslu Region
- Weather and Temperature Guide
- Manaslu Trekking Packing list
Useful information for Nepal Travel
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking is located in the Gorkha district of Nepal, in the western part of the country. It is a remote and less-traveled trekking destination in Nepal, known for its scenic beauty, unique culture, and challenging terrain.
Generally, a budget of USD 10 to 15 per person per day is sufficient for basic expenses such as purchasing water, tea or coffee, snacks, hot showers in the mountains, and lunch or dinner in Kathmandu.
However, if you wish to buy souvenirs, you should bring additional money. It is recommended to rely on something other than credit cards while on the Trek, as they may not be accepted in remote areas. Carrying enough cash, preferably in Nepali currency, is advisable to cover your expenses during the Trek.
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