Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley
Trip Overview
AMT - TREK - 303
Spring & Autumn
Strenuous
Dharamsala/Larke Phedi (4,460m/14, 628ft)
Teahouses/Lodges
Flight/Jeep or Bus
BB/Full Board
Any
Introduction
The route provides the marvellous time to explore incredible Tsum valley of Manaslu region and the famous Larke la Pass (5,160m/16, 924ft) which is a privilege for trekkers to experience a number of thing on the same trail. Manaslu Circuit With Tsum Valley trip begins after a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sotikhola trip guided by experienced crew all over the way.
Manaslu Circuit With Tsum Valley
Cross the deep and long gorge of Budi Gandaki River, amazing waterfalls, suspension bridges and colourful woodland covered with Rhododendron flower along with the adventurous landscapes varying from low to high altitude. Crossing the number of small cultural village settlements such as Chumling, Chhokangparo and making a way through the SerpuKhola, explore the adventurous PirenPhu Cave at upper Tsum valley. The spectacular Mt. Manaslu has its jaw dropping view adjoined by many other immense Himalayas and snow-capped peaks guarding a Tsum valley with its charm.
Manaslu Journey: Peaks & Prayers
Walk towards the prayer flags and know the real Tibetan culture from close along with the exploration of sacred monasteries Mu Gompa (largest monastery of this region), Rachhen Gompa, Chortens, the mysterious Milarepa Cave, and other sites carrying historical significance. Follow the bamboo forest, Pine, Cedar, Birch, Juniper and colourful Rhododendron flowers leading towards Samgaon. Take a step towards High Larke la Pass (5,160m/16, 924ft) to enjoy the breath taking view of immense Mountains Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II; and Mt Manaslu, eighth highest peak of the world.
Manaslu region and its conservation area provide a habitat for number of animals such as Thar, Agali, Pika (Highest living Mammal), Himalayan Marmots and the rare Snow Leopard. Get a special permit to travel one of the wondrous places of Nepal. The trek ends at Jagat village and drive is made towards Kathmandu. Get ready to experience the utmost adventure throughout the lifetime.
Trip Features:
- Manaslu Circuit With Tsum Valley takes towards the charming inhabitant of Buddhist community influenced by Tibetan culture and the stunning view of mountain ranges including the magnificent Mt. Manaslu, the world's 8th highest peak.
- Get rejoiced by the warmth of welcome done by the local people and an opportunity to know the real Tibetan culture from close along with the exploration of sacred monasteries Rachhen Gompa, Chortens, Mu Gompa, Milarepa Cave, and other sites.
- The splendid view of mountains Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II; and Mt Manaslu and the incredible landscape of Larke la Pass (5,160m/16, 924ft)creates mind blowing view making the place heavenly.
- Explore the flora and faunas including the forest covered with Pine, Cedar, Birch, Juniper, colourful Rhododendron flowers and numerous species of birds and animals such as animals including Thar, Agali, Pika (Highest living Mammal), Himalayan Marmots and the rare Snow Leopard.
Trekking Map
Detailed Itinerary
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: 7km
Our company representative will welcome you at International Airport and drive to hotel. Preparation and briefing about the trip.
Duration: Approx. 8-10hrs driving
Distance: Approx. 165 km
Your Manaslu adventure begins with a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The route passes through Dhading Besi, Arughat, and Soti Khola before reaching Machha Khola. Along the way, you'll see traditional hill villages and get a glimpse of rural Nepali life. Machha Khola is a quiet riverside village with simple teahouses and lodges.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 22 km
After an early breakfast, begin trekking along the Budhi Gandaki River. You’ll pass through Khorlabesi, Tatopani (natural hot spring), Dobhan, and Yaru Phat. The trail features waterfalls, terraced fields, and rocky cliffs. Jagat is a traditional stone-paved village and the first permit checkpoint of the Manaslu Conservation Area. It offers basic teahouses, electricity, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 11 km.
After an early breakfast, the trek begins by walking along stone steps and terraced hillsides, eventually entering a wide valley with beautiful river views. This day offers a mixture of valleys, forests, deep gorges, and hillside farms. Lokpa is a small, peaceful village with basic teahouses, surrounded by forests and high cliffs.
Duration: Approx. 4-5hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 6 km
After morning breakfast, we begin the trek with a steep downhill walk through dense forest. After crossing a suspension bridge over the Shiar Khola, the final section of the trail is a steady climb along a narrow path. This day offers beautiful views of Ganesh Himal, along with lush green hills. Chumling is a peaceful village, surrounded by hills, and features mostly stone-built houses.
Duration: Approx. 5-6hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10km
After breakfast, we start with a flat trail and then cross a suspension bridge. The path continues uphill, passing small settlements, mani walls, and forests. This day offers magnificent views of the mountains and green hills. Chhekampar is a beautiful valley rich in culture and heavily influenced by Tibetan traditions.
Duration: Approx. 4-5 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 9 km
After morning breakfast, we begin our trek along an open valley. The trail passes several small settlements, along with mani walls, chortens, and monasteries. This day offers impressive views of towering snow-capped peaks. Nile is the last permanent settlement in the Tsum Valley, located beside the Shiar Khola and surrounded by Himalayan landscapes.
Duration: Approx. 4-5 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 8 km
After breakfast, we trek with a gentle ascent along the river. The trail offers wide mountain views as we approach Mu Gompa, the largest and oldest monastery in the region. Mu Gompa holds strong spiritual significance and offers breathtaking views. After spending time there, we return to Nile via the same route.
Duration: Approx. 4-5 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 9 km
After morning breakfast, we retrace our steps and return to Chhekampar along the same trail.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 km
After breakfast, we continue descending along the same path to Lokpa, passing through the familiar valleys and villages.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12km
After morning breakfast, we begin with a downhill trek and rejoin the main trail of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This day also offers a beautiful blend of valleys, forests, deep gorges, and hillside farms.
Duration: Approx. 6-7hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 19 km
The trail continues along the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through Rana, Bihi Phedi, Ghap, and dense forests. Expect frequent ups and downs, mossy trees, mani walls, prayer wheels, and occasional gompas. A long uphill stretch leads to Namrung. Namring is peaceful stone village with incredible views of Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal.
Duration: Approx. 4-5hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10 km
After breakfast, the trek continues through forests and fields, climbing steadily. You’ll enjoy stunning views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli. The trail features monasteries, mani walls, prayer wheels, and chortens. Lho is a charming village with stone houses and a large monastery, offering great sunrise and sunset views of Manaslu. Teahouses here offer warm rooms, good food, and basic Wi-Fi and electricity.
Duration: Approx. 3-4hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 7km
The trail climbs gently through pine and rhododendron forests and then opens up into wide meadows and riversides. From Shyala village, enjoy panoramic views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Peak 29. After a short rest, continue to Samagaun, a large, beautiful Tibetan village with stone houses, chortens, and monasteries. The area reflects rich Tibetan Buddhist culture.
To adapt to the altitude, you’ll spend an extra night in Samagaun. You can choose a short hike to Birendra Lake (1.5 hours) or a full-day trek to Manaslu Base Camp (6–7 hours). Remember the rule: climb high, sleep low.
Duration: Approx. 3-4hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 9 km
After breakfast, the trail climbs gently, passing yak pastures, mani walls, and crossing wooden bridges over the Budhi Gandaki River. You may spot marmots or blue sheep. Samdo is a small, remote village near the Nepal–Tibet border, offering a glimpse into mountain life.
Duration: Approx. 4-5hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 km
Begin with a gradual climb along dry terrain and yak grazing areas. Cross wooden bridges and walk along a wide but windy trail with stunning views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and moraines. Dharmasala is a basic shelter area, also known as Larkya Phedi, where you’ll rest before crossing the high pass.
Duration: Approx. 8-9hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 16km
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day. Start early (around 3–4 AM) and climb slowly to Larkya La Pass. The ascent is steep, cold, and windy, but offers breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. After the pass, descend steeply through rocky, sometimes snowy terrain to reach Bimthang - a beautiful valley with better lodging options.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 22 km
After breakfast, descend through alpine meadows, cross a glacier stream, and continue through dense forests. Enjoy views of Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, and Phungi Himal. Reach Dharapani, a large village at the junction of the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit.
Duration: Approx. 10-12 hrs driving
Distance: Approx. 240 km
After early morning breakfast we will drive from Dharapani to Besishar through off road and from Besishar to Kathmandu it will take approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 km
Our representative will drop you at International Airport as per your flight schedule.
Cost Includes / Excludes
Includes
- Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
- 2 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe).
- Kathmandu–Machha Khola and DharaPani - Kathmandu both way transportation by private/sharing.
- Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary.
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A duffel bag, Trekking Map.
- Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed).
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit fee.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit fee.
- Manaslu Restricted Area permit (Special permit).
- Tsum Valley Restricted Area permit (Special permit).
- TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit.
- An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide.
- Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio).
- Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
- General first Aid Kit.
- A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
- All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
Excludes
- International Airfare.
- Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking).
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Personal expenses (bar, laundry, personal shopping etc).
- Alcoholic beverage.
- TIPS for Staff.
Equipment Checklist
Embarking on the Manaslu Circuit Tsum valley Trek is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have the right gear can make the difference between a comfortable journey and a challenging one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment needed for the trek, from clothing layers to personal items. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, our comprehensive packing list will help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
1. Clothing
Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket for insulation.
Outer Layer: Insulated down jacket (recommended for high altitudes).
Rainproof/Windproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for unpredictable weather.
Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants for daytime trekking.
Warm Hat and Sun Hat: A warm beanie for cold weather, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
Gloves: Waterproof insulated gloves and lightweight inner gloves.
Socks: Wool socks for cold weather and moisture-wicking socks for trekking.
Gaiters: To keep mud, snow, and debris out of your boots.
2. Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes/Sandals: For comfort when relaxing in the tea houses or lodges.
3. Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C to withstand cold nights in higher altitudes.
Sleeping Bag Liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
4. Backpack and Accessories
Daypack (25-30 liters): For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers.
Duffel Bag: Large, durable bag for porters to carry; waterproof covers are recommended.
Rain Cover: For protecting your daypack from rain.
Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and reducing stress on knees.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
Water Bottles and/or Hydration Bladder: With at least 2-3 liters capacity.
Water Purification Tablets or Filter: To treat water on the trail.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates.
6. Personal and Miscellaneous Items
Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning treks or dark trails.
Sunglasses: UV-protective, high-quality sunglasses to protect against the intense high-altitude sun.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF for sun protection.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister treatment, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and any personal medications.
Toiletries: Eco-friendly soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
Camera and Extra Batteries: Since charging can be costly and unreliable at high altitudes.
7. Documents and Money
Passport and Permits: Passport, visa,TIMS card, and entry permit.
Cash: ATMs are not reliable in the mountains, so bring enough Nepali cash for personal expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Manaslu Circuit With Tsum Valley Trek Is Considered as strenuous trek. You will encounter challenging routes and remote areas where services will be limited. There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walking of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said, the Manaslu Circuit with Tsum valley trek can be done by travelers who have the right attitude and are physically fit.
Mt. Manaslu is at an altitude of 8,163 meters (26,781 ft) above sea level. The maximum height we will ascend during this trek is up to Dharamsala/Larke Phedi (4,460m/14, 628ft).
The prime time for trekking Manaslu Tsum Valley is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.
Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.
All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.
Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.
Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.
We hire our staff according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.
Yes!! The Internet is accessible during the Manaslu Circuit With Tsum Valley Trek. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.
Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.
Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Manaslu region trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude and remote places the service will be limited.
Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring your power bank with you which will be helpful.
The permits Required for Manaslu Circuit With Tsum Valley Trek are:
- Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
According to the standard itinerary our Manaslu Circuit With Tsum Valley Trek is of 24 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.
Yes!! It is possible to trek Manaslu Circuit With Tsum Valley without any trekking experience but trekking alone is not possible. You have to hire a professional guide so you can enrich your trekking experience. Trekking to Manaslu region requires effort, you should have more stamina and good health conditions. If you are planning to trek Manaslu without any experience then you can contact us prior to 30 days so that we can guide you through some exercises and diets you should consider as trek preparation.
Normally, Within 12-24 hours after ascending a certain height(1,500 to 2,500 meter above sea level) altitude sickness symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath are seen. In case of any altitude sickness symptoms we will apply medication and descend immediately for acclimatization.
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