Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, which lies in the Gorkha district of Nepal, is the combined trek of beautiful Tsum Valley with the iconic Manaslu Circuit Trek. This trek takes you closer to the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Mt Manaslu, which stands at an altitude of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet).
The Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is classified as moderate to challenging in terms of difficulty, and it takes around three weeks to complete. Manaslu Tsum Valley trek route takes you to Nepal’s most stunning landscape filled with natural beauty.
Compared to other popular trekking routes in Nepal, like Everest base camp trek(EBC) and Annapurna base camp trek(ABC), the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek trails are less crowded due to less commercialization. The peaceful, serene vibes and grand view of mountain peaks such as Machhapuchhre (6,997m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Gangapurna (7,455m), Ganesh Himal (7422m), the Shringi Peak (7161m), and the Buddha Himal, makes this treks one of the best long distance trek in Nepal.
Additionally, the exploration of thousand-year-old monasteries, ethnic settlements, distinct cultures, and ancient traditions makes this Tsum Valley trek even more adventurous and memorable.
Mt. Manaslu, which stands at an altitude of 8,163 metres (26,781 ft), is the eighth-highest mountain in the world. On this Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek, you will enjoy the Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, stands tall and majestic throughout the trek. You’ll be surrounded by stunning snowy peaks and incredible views that will take your breath away. Every step along the trail brings picture-perfect scenery.
Tsum Valley Trek is one of the refreshing and unique treks in Nepal which was only opened to tourists in 2008. This trek is less commercialized compared to the popular Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC) and Annapurna Circuit Trek, so this trek is untouched by heavy tourism. Situated in the Manaslu region, this Tsum Valley trek is like a hidden gem, and very few tourists have explored this area. There are lots of things to do and see in this region, and the beauty of Tsum Valley is unmatched.
Reaching Larkya La Pass at 5,125 meters is a thrilling challenge and a true highlight of the trek. The effort is worth it when you’re greeted with sweeping views of glaciers and towering peaks. It’s a moment every adventurer will cherish.
You’ll pass through wonderful villages like Samagaun and Chhokang Paro, where life feels simple yet so rich in tradition. The Gurung and Tsumba people welcome you warmly, letting you peek into their way of life. These villages, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, feel like a home away from home.
The trek offers a chance to visit spiritual places like Rachen Gompa and Mu Gompa. These sacred monasteries are peaceful spots that feel timeless, steeped in Buddhist tradition. You’ll see prayer wheels and Mani walls that add a spiritual layer to your adventure.
This combined Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley Trek takes you through dense bamboo and colourful Rhododendron forest. Also, you will spot the various special birds and animals during the trek inside the protected Manaslu Conservation Area. You will feel like you are connected to nature.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek becomes more exciting when you walk on suspension bridges that wobble far above rushing rivers. Along the way, there are charming waterfalls that offer a welcome change of pace. It is an experience you will never forget that combines adventure with beauty.
One of the major highlights of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is meeting the Tsumba people. They have Tibetan and Nepali influences in their lifestyle, festivals, and culture. What makes it more memorable is the fact that they are so warm and so generous.
Unlike congested routes, this trek provides peaceful and unspoiled routes where you can really connect with nature. The unspoiled landscape and the quietness around you make the trek naturally raw and authentic. It’s perfect for people who would like to be by themselves in the mountains.
At High Route Adventure, you will also be accompanied by our knowledgeable guide, who will always ensure that you are at ease and happy with the services. You are assured of the greatest in every way when you work with us, from professional advice to the greatest lodges and accommodations to transportation and meals. It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience a distinct region of Nepal that differs greatly from the more well-known hikes the nation has to offer.
Month | Weather | Day Temperature (°C) | Night Temperature (°C) |
January | Cold and dry | 2 to 5 | -10 to -5 |
February | Cold with occasional snow | 3 to 6 | -8 to -4 |
March | Mild and dry | 8 to 10 | -5 to 0 |
April | Warm and pleasant | 12 to 15 | 0 to 5 |
May | Warm with increasing humidity | 15 to 18 | 5 to 8 |
June | Hot and humid, pre-monsoon | 18 to 20 | 8 to 12 |
July | Monsoon season, heavy rain | 16 to 18 | 8 to 10 |
August | Monsoon season, heavy rain | 16 to 18 | 8 to 10 |
September | Post-monsoon, clear skies | 14 to 15 | 5 to 8 |
October | Cool and dry, peak trekking | 10 to 12 | 0 to 5 |
November | Cool and dry | 6 to 8 | -4 to 0 |
December | Cold and dry | 2 to 5 | -8 to -5 |
Nepal for all seasons; however for trekking around Mt. Manaslu high region’s best time is in spring from March to May and in autumn from September to November.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Cost depends upon the group size. The more you are in a group the more discounts you will get in the package.
No. of People | Price Per Person |
2 – 6 | $1985 USD |
7+ | $1865 USD |
High Route Adventure airport staff will meet you when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. He will help you get transferred to your Hotel. There are no planned activities for the day, thus you may check into your Hotel and relax. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.
You will have a drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola today, passing by Seti Khola along the way. It takes about 8-9 hours to reach, and while the road is bumpy, the natural scenery makes up for the rather long ride. You will be driving along the Prithvi Highway for the first part of the journey. Turning off to Dhading, the landscape becomes quite rural and remote and the road also becomes quite bumpy and dirt-laden. Finally, you will reach the Machha Khola. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Machha Khola tea house.
We begin our ascent to the Manaslu Conservation Area's gate on this momentous day. The distance is eighteen kilometers between Machakhola and our destination, Jagat. Even while it seems like a lot, the process is actually quite simple. Today, we pass through tatopani (hot water) and stroll down a recently constructed road that runs alongside the Buri Gandaki River on the left. There are some dusty spots on the new road, but due to off road there will not be many vehicle, so our walk will be enjoyable.
From Jagat, the path follows the Budhi Gandaki Gorge. You will be following the trail as it winds along many Shankri stones by the riverside. So far, the trail has been a prominent part of the Manaslu Circuit, but after leaving Jagat, the trail enters the Tsum Valley. The Budhi Gandaki River rages past tall green cliffs, and you can enjoy the emerald terrain as you finally reach Lopka. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Lopka.
From Lopka, the terrain becomes exceedingly dense with foliage as rhododendron woods cover the trail. On your way to Chumling, you will be in the company of the Ganesh Himal (7422m), the Shringi Peak (7161m), and the Buddha Himal as they tower over the landscape quite magnificently. After about 4 hours of trekking through the pastures and the forest, you will reach Chumling. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Chumling.
The trekking trail is levelled today, going through the green pastures and beneath tall cliffs. The view of the Hiunchuli Himal and the Ganesh Peak shadow over the ravines as you cross the river over suspension bridges. Finally, you will reach Chhokang Paro, a small settlement whose locals mainly rely on animal husbandry and farming for a living. Along the way, you can also see many mules and yaks grazing in the fields, with goats being herded by shepherds. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Chhokang Paro.
From Chhokang Paro, you will be climbing up steep hills of the valley, going above 3,000 meters. It is a rather difficult trek, but with a slow and steady walk, you can overcome the altitude gain. Along the way, you will come across many stone cairns lined with prayer flags and decorated with red colours. Finally, you will reach the Nile, where you can enjoy the local culture and lifestyle. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at the Nile.
The settlement of the Nile and its surrounding environment resembles the Tibetan plateau a lot. Even the traditional rustic houses at the Nile are reminiscent of the customary Buddhist colours of red and white, much like the monasteries. After a short trek, you will reach the Mu Gompa. Situated at an altitude of 3,510 meters, the Mu Gompa houses religious books, including the Kyangyur, a life-size statue of Avalokiteshwara. Some of the most striking objects in the monastery are the statues of Buddha Amitabha. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
From Mu Gompa, you will follow the same trekking trail past the Nile towards Chhokang Paro, going through the woods and the pastures once again. It is a levelled trek for the most part, and along the way, you can snap glorious pictures of the Ganesh Himal and the Shringi Peaks. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Chhokang Paro.
After a hearty breakfast, head down to Chumling early in the morning. We'll take the same route and make our way down via farmland and woodlands. Beautiful surroundings will keep us company.
Proceed down the same path from Chumling to Lokpa. You will then continue hiking along rough pathways after crossing a suspension bridge. Along the route, there is a great view of Mount Shringi. On your way to Deng, hike through terraced fields and bamboo groves.
Deng is a Gurung village that presents good views of Mt. Manaslu (8163m). From Deng, you will move ahead towards Bihi Phedi to reach Ghap. En route, you will also pass by the small settlement of Prok. Through the pine woods, you will reach Bihi Phedi, which has many Mani stone walls. Further from here, the trail crosses the Sereng River, which forms a deep gorge. Crossing the river via a suspension bridge, you will reach Ghap. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Ghap.
Ghap is surrounded by Fir, Rhododendron, Bamboo, and Oak forests. With occasional steep pathways and streams along the way, you will reach Namrung. Ahead of the village lays an extensive barley field that rolls dramatically with the wind. Passing through the field, the path picks up again and leads you towards Lihi. Finally, after trekking through the grasslands, you will reach Lho, a cultural village adorned with Buddhist monasteries and chortens. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Lho.
From Lho, the trail picks up the steep ascent uphill towards Shyala. The village of Shyala is deeply rooted in agriculture and woodwork. The houses at Shyala are marked with distinct wooden art. Trekking ahead, you will reach the draining slope of the PungGyen Glacier. Further from here lays Samagaon, a prominent village that is a famous overnight stop for many trekkers who do the Manaslu Circuit. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Samagaon.
This day is reserved for acclimatization. You can choose to either visit the PungGyen Gumba or have a visit to the Manaslu Base Camp. Either of the options can be carried out according to your choice. Either way, you will get amazing views of the Manaslu ranges and get to enjoy the beautiful landscape. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Samagaon.
The trail to Samdo turns north on the upper regions of the Budhi Gandaki River. With a gradual ascent, you will pass through the confluence of the Larkya River and the River originating from the Samdo Glacier. Thick juniper woods and Birch forests of Kermo Kharka decorate the landscape. Along the way, you will also see a beautifully ornamented Kaani (a gate arch). Finally, you will reach Samdo. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Samdo.
The trekking trail from Samdo to Dharamsala is relatively short and easy. You will move along the trail through the AthahraSaya River and alongside the Larkya River. Trekking through the Taka Choeling Gumba, you can get good views of the Naike range as you gradually climb uphill. Finally, you will reach the Larkya Bazaar just a few miles from here in Dharamsala. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Dharamsala.
From Dharamsala, you will be trekking to the base of the mountain pass. The Larkya La Mountain Pass is one of the tallest mountain passes in the region. With a steady ascent, you will make your way up the pass. You will have to wake up quite early for this, preferably at 2 in the morning. From the top, you can get breathtaking views of the entire valley, as well as mesmerizing views of the Manaslu Peaks. From the top of the pass, you will begin your gradual and slow descent towards Bimthang. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Bimthang.
Bimthang is a yak herder settlement that the local herders use to store their yak cattle during the winter months. You will follow the trail south of Bimthang to Kharche, passing through the woodlands and pastures. Along the rock-strewn terrain, you will trek towards Tilije, a Ghale Gurung village where the ethnic Manangi and Chhetri people reside. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Tilije.
From Tilije, you will follow the path towards Chyamje, going through the terrace farms and fields of agriculture. The views of the mountain peaks make the journey quite lovely. The trek follows the Marsyangdi River and continues along thickly scattered villages en route to Chyamje. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Chyamje.
Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, you will be dropped off at the airport for your departure.
Before heading for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek in Nepal, it is important to know how hard this trek is so that it helps you plan. Due to various risk factors involved in this trek, it is classified as a moderately challenging off-the-beaten trek in Nepal. Let’s see each factors that add difficulty to this Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek:
You must spend 20–22 days in Nepal in order to finish the Manaslu Tsum Valley trip. You will travel for six to seven hours each day to cover almost 200 km on these lengthy itinerary days. This walk has no shortcuts, and it can be difficult for hikers to spend about three weeks in the mountainous area. Trekkers must plan a holiday for this trek by keeping a watch on its duration.
You will walk over high-altitude terrain for several days in this Manaslu Tsum Valley trek. The maximum altitude that this trek takes you is Larkya La Mountain Pass, which is 5,160 meters (16,930 feet). Walking at high altitudes, some trekkers might feel difficulties due to altitude effects such as altitude sickness(AMS).
To minimize altitude-related difficulties:
Another major challenge that trekkers need to face is the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek remoteness. The Manaslu circuit trail is well-marked, but the Tsum Valley trail is completely unmarked. On this trek, you will pass through the rugged, narrow, rough trails, which include uphill and downhill. Also, you will cross the landslide prone in some areas, which require careful navigation. Additionally, there are very limited tea houses in the Manaslu Tsum Valley trekking trails, which offer the basic facilities of meals and accommodation.
Manaslu Tsum Valley weather can be unpredictable, especially at high altitudes. If the weather suddenly becomes unfavourable then it might ruin your trekking plan. So make sure to travel during favourable weather conditions and check the weather forecast before heading for this challenging trek.
This Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is not for the weak. To walk for straight 3 weeks in the high altitude mountain region demands proper fitness level. You should be able to walk for long hours(6-7 hours) by carrying a backpack in difficult terrain. This trek will test your physical and mental fitness, so be prepared by maintaining your fitness level by staying fit and ready.
Every successful journey begins with proper planning and preparation, no matter how challenging it may be. So, for this challenging Manaslu Tsum Valley trek, you need to plan to make it successful and enjoyable. Let's see how you can prepare for this trek:
Start training at least 3-4 months prior to the trek. Focus on:
If possible make your familiar to the high altitude before attempting the Manaslu Tsum Valley. It will help you to boost your confidence and help you to prepare you for AMS risks.
Lots of trekkers think that you need to pack lots of things for the trekking, but in reality, this is not the case. Most of the things you will find in the tea house and on the trekking route. So pack light and essential items to make your journey comfortable.
The best time for the Tsum Valley trek is during the Spring and Autumn seasons, as they offer the best weather and moderate temperatures. So, when you are planning to do this Manaslu Tsum Valley Trekking, make sure that you select the date that favours trekking.
You don’t need many documents for this trek, but as a reminder, make sure you have a valid passport and travel insurance. Once you have these documents you can proceed for this trek without having any worry.
There is no flight to reach the starting point of the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek so you need to use road transportation from Kathmandu. You will start your trek from the Jagat in 4*4 private jeeps which will be arranged by High route adventure. It will take around 8-9 hours to reach Jagat in a private Jeep.
Once you reach Besisahar after completing your Manaslu Tsum Valley trek, we will arrange a private Jeep for you to reach Kathmandu. From Besisahar it will take around 6 hours to reach Kathmandu.
Note: During the rainfall the road becomes muddy and slippery and prone to landslide and flood so suggest you to avoid travelling during monsoon season and during the heavy rainfall. Also check weather conditions and road conditions before travelling.
Permit Type | Cost (Peak Season) | Cost (Off-Season) | Notes |
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit | $40 USD per person/week | $30 USD per person/week | Additional $7 USD per person/day for extra days. Requires a group of at least two trekkers with a licensed guide. Must be arranged through a trekking agency. |
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit | $100 USD per person/week | $75 USD per person/week | Additional $7 USD per person/day for extra days. Same group and guide restrictions as Tsum Valley. |
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) | $30 USD per person | $30 USD per person | Supports conservation efforts; required as the trek passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area. |
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | $30 USD per person | $30 USD per person | Necessary due to the trek overlapping with a section of the Annapurna Conservation Area near Dharapani. |
Note: You don’t have to worry about getting these permits when you choose High Route Adventure. We will manage this for you and also the permit cost will be included in the trekking package. This is for general information. You need to show the permits when the authorised person asks you during the trek.
Accommodations in Kathmandu, and on the path area unit are enclosed within the package price. You will be staying at 4-star or similar deluxe hotels in Kathmandu and twenty-one nights at the best available teahouse during the trek.
Since the high Mt. Manaslu Trekking region was open for visitors, explorers, and adventurers in 1991 when very few trekkers were aware of this beautiful region, it has been a raw and pristine country where trekkers had to have their own camping equipment and food to carry as there were no lodges or inns for travellers, at present, the area is getting more attention and popularity.
Slowly, villagers built lodges to cater to the requirements of trekkers' comfort. Most lodges en route to Dharapani villages are simple with basic facilities, but the rooms are clean with a large dining hall. As well as a warm and friendly environment serving meals as per the menu and season-wise.
Most rooms are on twin sharing basis with common bathrooms and toilets or washrooms, with a large dormitory where 5 to 10 people could share. A few places like Jagat, Namrung, Lo, and Sama-Gaon do have attached baths, but on very limited.
At the base of Larke-La Pass, called Phedi as well as Dharmasala, the lodge and guest-house of minimum facilities, serving simple beds and foods as well warm refreshments. Sometimes, during peak times of trekking, the place can get crowded, and spend nights in the tents of a lodge.
In every lodge on the route, Manaslu trekked with nice cosy restaurants with simple food menu or La Carte served where trekkers can choose the main meals, snacks, and drinks as well as some homemade bakery products in a few lodges.
Especially around main villages like Jagat, Lo, and Sama Gaon, including at the end of the trek at Dharapani village.
Most meals are served as per the menu, from breakfast with muesli-oats for porridge, fresh oven-made bread served with jam, honey, or butter with eggs as per one choice, from boiled, omelette, scramble to poach, or sunny-side-up.
Lunch served from Nepalese famous Dal / Bhat sets (boiled/steamed fine rice with lentil soup of variation, includes veg or meats if available with some hot/spicy sauce). Includes Fried / Boiled Noodle Soups, veg or meats, as well as eggs; in a few lodges serves Continental, Mexican, Italian, Indian, Chinese to local Nepalese set meals. The menu includes snacks, like French Fries (fresh Potato chips), local Tibetan or normal bread, as well instant noodles.
Dinner is always lavish; one can order from the menu or set meals best for large groups to save time and fuel energy.
After dinner, a choice of desserts from fresh fruits was available, with some bakery products like cakes, pies, or hot custards. Followed by hot drinks of choice, from tea-coffee-hot chocolate to hot lemon with honey.
Altitude Sickness and acclimatization are the main major topics that all trekkers and adventurers have to encounter on high-altitude treks and adventures. Where all trekking involves high passes like on Manaslu with Larke-La at 5,106 m / 16,752 feet high. Very important to know when travelling to high Himalayan destinations.
Altitude Sickness or AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), the symptoms can get to some trekkers from above 2,000 m to 3,000 m high; people with well acclimatized sometimes catch AMS above 3,000 m to 5,000 m high. To avoid AMS, a rest day is very necessary at a certain height, like around 2,800 m or above 3,000 m, spending a few days to support acclimatization. Enough rest and taking a short hike around, as well as drinking much fluid like water, a cup of black or green tea, or lemonade can overcome high altitude sickness or AMS.
Where some can take protective measures using Diamox or Acetazolamide tablets which prevent and reduce symptoms of AMS and can lower headache in high altitude walks and climb. The common symptoms are mild headache, lack of appetite, feeling nausea, dehydration as well as lack of sound sleep. Critical and severe cases are when one gets the symptoms of HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema), which is water in the brain, and HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema), a symptom with some water in the lungs.
Where the victim should be brought down to safe and secure places with a medical team or doctors to attend, the fastest means is emergency evacuation by any means of immediate and fast transportation where available. In Nepal Himalaya, the quickest emergency evacuation by Helicopter services is to bring the victims back to Kathmandu for further treatment.
Safe drinking water is the most important part of daily life as well for trekking, safe drinking water is available at every lodge and restaurant on a trek to the Manaslu region. Three main types of safe drinking water available on the trek, which are fresh from the creek or spring, but one needs to have a good water filter, as Himalayan water contains heavy minerals like iron, magnesium, and bicarbonate.
Mineral or bottled water is available in every store, shop, and restaurant of the lodge, but it can be very expensive. As you reach higher areas, the price will be almost double what you pay in lower villages. To be in good shape and healthy and keep fit as per medical advice on high altitude, one needs to consume a minimum of 2 liters per day. The best to buy a litre or more from the lodge on a route around local lodges and restaurants, where you will be served boiled and filtered very safe water.
All trekkers and adventurers must purchase Travel as well as Medical Insurance for travel around Nepal Himalaya, including Mt. Manaslu higher region. It is very important and necessary to obtain travel and medical insurance for your own safety purposes and benefits. As you never know what circumstance lies ahead, you can get very sick from diarrhoea, altitude sickness /AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), as well as sudden accidents in unavoidable situations. Where patients need to be evacuated immediately by any means of quick transport like Helicopter service is the fastest way to reach medical help.
Where all your medical bills including the service of the Helicopter, will be reimbursed by your insurance company, depending upon the nature of the insurance policy. Another reason for travel insurance is just in case the trip can be obstructed by bad weather if the pass gets heavy snow. Where the trek needs to be re-routed to another destination or might get cancelled, your travel insurance comes in handy in these types of situations.
Our topmost priority is maintaining safeness and security to create an enjoyable holiday for all visitors, booked with High Route Adventure Adventure as well for our field staff, guides, and porters, from the moment of the first arrival where, you will feel safe and pleased with our dedicated staff and guides in taking off your needs and requirements while in Kathmandu and throughout your adventure around high Himalayan destinations, including the Manaslu trek.
Guided by an honest and reliable guide and staff, and can communicate easily to gather information about the trekking region. Our guide is well versed in various knowledge of the area, offering much information from flora/fauna and culture, including religion and villager’s history and background.
Whether in Kathmandu on tours or up in the mountains, where all clients on every trip of ours feel very secure to enjoy memorable Himalayan holidays with us.
Booking: To book the Manaslu Tsum Valley with the High Route Adventure, you can fill out the inquiry form and send it to us. Then we will contact or mail you for further explanation of this trek. To confirm the booking, you need to send us 20% of the total cost, which you can see in the package written in USD. You can convert in your currency and make us payment and the rest of the amount you can pay after you land here.
For online payment click here: Online Payment
Cancellation: As per High Route Adventure Company policy, the advance 20% will be non-refundable. Read more: Terms and Conditions
Packing properly is key to making your Manaslu Tsum Valley trek successful. But while packing, it is extremely important to pack the right things without making your luggage heavy. High Route Adventure will provide you with a porter who can carry luggage of 20kg. And you will carry a light backpack during the trek. So, to make the journey comfortable and safe, make sure to include this thing in your packing list:
Note: Some of the trekking gear, like a down jacket, trekking poles, and sleeping bags, you can rent here in Nepal. Renting can be the best option to save the additional costs, and you can rent this item easily from the rental shops in Thamel.