Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trip Fact:
  • Duration 21 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • DestinationNepal
  • Max Altitude5106
  • AccommodationHotel / Tea House
  • Meals3 meals a day in the Mountain
  • Trip Start/EndKathmandu
  • Group Size2-30 pax
  • Best SeasonAutumn (September to November) and Spring ( March to May) are the best seasons.

What to Expect:

  • Opportunities to interact with diverse ethnic communities, such as the Gurungs, Tamangs, and Tibetans, gaining insight into their traditions, customs, and lifestyles.
  • Breathtaking landscapes, diverse vegetation, and wildlife, showcasing the ever-changing beauty of the Manaslu region.
  • Terraced fields to alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks, the scenery is a feast for the eyes.
  • Explore the Tsum Valley, a sacred pilgrimage destination known for its ancient Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and remote villages.
  • You'll witness Tibetan Buddhism, encounter prayer flags, and experience warm hospitality from the friendly locals.
  • High mountain passes like the Larkya La Pass (5106m) offer stunning vistas of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.

Nepal, renowned for its trekking havens, unveils a quiet gem: the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek. Delve into a world of untouched splendor and rich cultural tapestry.

Known as the "hidden valley," Tsum Valley is a beacon of ageless traditions. As you wander its pathways, Tibetan Buddhist practices breathe life into its peaceful villages. Navigate its trails to discover ancient monasteries, stone walls engraved with prayers, and inhabitants deeply connected to their roots.

Beside it lies the Manaslu Circuit Trek, winding around the impressive Mt. Manaslu, the world's eighth tallest mountain. This trekking route is a canvas of nature’s marvels: from lush forests to shimmering mountain lakes, with opportunities to encounter elusive wildlife. The best part? The sense of peace, unhindered by swarms of tourists.

For those yearning for a genuine Nepali experience, away from bustling crowds, the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek beckons. Immerse yourself in nature, soak in the culture, and find your peaceful retreat in this pristine sanctuary.

Why Choose the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Envision a serene hideaway, untouched by touristy clamor, where nature and tradition harmoniously coexist. This epitomizes the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal.

The journey unfurls nature's masterpieces – sparkling lakes, towering peaks, and verdant woods. Along the way, immerse in Nepal's cultural heart. The Tsum Valley shines with its profound Tibetan Buddhist links. Engage with amiable locals, marvel at age-old monasteries, and perhaps partake in age-old festivals. Wildlife enthusiasts may catch a glimpse of the rare Blue Sheep or the enigmatic Snow Leopard.

Additionally, this trek offers solitude unlike any other, allowing a deeper bond with nature. By embarking on this journey, you also uplift local communities who thrive from such visits.

Simply put, the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek promise an unmatched blend of scenic beauty, rich heritage, and serene adventure. For a journey of a lifetime, look no further.

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative who will assist you with the immigration and customs procedures. They will then transfer you to your 3-star standard hotel in Kathmandu, located at an elevation of 1300 meters (3051 feet).

  • 1300 m

After breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, you will embark on a sightseeing tour of the city. This tour will allow you to explore some of the famous cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu, such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. In the afternoon, you will have time to prepare for your upcoming trek. You will spend the night at the same hotel in Kathmandu.

    On this day, you will begin your trekking adventure. You will leave Kathmandu and embark on a long drive to Maccha Khola, which is located at an elevation of 930 meters (3051 feet). The drive takes approximately 9-10 hours, offering scenic views of the countryside and picturesque landscapes. Upon reaching Maccha Khola, you will stay overnight in a tea house and enjoy dinner.

      After breakfast, you will start your trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat. The trekking trail will take you through beautiful landscapes, crossing the Budi Gandaki River and passing through villages and terraced fields. Jagat is situated at an altitude of 1340 meters (4396 feet) and the trek takes around 6 hours. You will spend the night in a tea house in Jagat.

        From Jagat, you will continue your trek towards Lokpa. The trail gradually ascends, offering stunning views of mountains and forests. Lokpa is situated at an altitude of 2240 meters (7349 feet) and the trek takes approximately 5 hours. Upon reaching Lokpa, you will stay overnight in a tea house.

          After breakfast, you will trek from Lokpa to Chumling. The trail passes through lush green forests, charming villages, and terraced fields. Chumling is located at an altitude of 2386 meters (7828 feet) and the trek takes around 5 hours. You will spend the night in a tea house in Chumling.

            From Chumling, you will continue your trek to Chekampar. The trail gradually ascends, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Chekampar, also known as Chhekampar or Chhokangparo, is situated at an altitude of 3031 meters (9944 feet). The trek takes approximately 6 hours. You will stay overnight in a tea house in Chekampar.

              After breakfast in Chekampar, you will continue your trek towards Nile. The trail will lead you through scenic landscapes, crossing suspension bridges over the flowing rivers and passing through quaint villages. As you ascend, you will notice the change in the surrounding vegetation and the majestic views of the mountains. Nile is located at an altitude of 3361 meters (11026 feet) and the trek takes approximately 6 hours. You will spend the night in a tea house in Nile.

                On this day, you will embark on a day trip from Nile to Mu Gompa. The trek takes you to an elevation of 3700 meters (12139 feet), offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and the tranquil landscapes. Mu Gompa is a renowned Buddhist monastery in the region, and you will have the opportunity to explore its ancient halls, interact with the monks, and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere. After the excursion, you will return to Nile and stay overnight in a tea house.

                  After breakfast, you will retrace your steps and trek back from Nile to Chekampar. The trail offers a different perspective as you descend and retrace the path you took earlier. You will enjoy the scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings along the way. The trek from Nile to Chekampar takes around 5 hours. Upon reaching Chekampar, you will stay overnight in a tea house and have your meals.

                    From Chekampar, you will continue your trek towards Chumling. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and picturesque villages. As you descend, you will witness the traditional culture and lifestyle of the local people. Chumling is located at an altitude of 2386 meters (7828 feet) and the trek takes approximately 5 hours. You will spend the night in a tea house in Chumling, where meals will be provided.

                      After breakfast, you will trek from Chumling to Deng. The trail offers a mix of ascending and descending sections, providing you with varied terrain and stunning views. You will pass through rhododendron forests, cross suspension bridges, and encounter charming villages along the way. Deng is situated at an altitude of 1860 meters (6102 feet) and the trek takes around 6 hours. You will spend the night in a tea house in Deng.

                        Continuing your trek, you will make your way from Deng to Namrung. The trail gradually ascends, allowing you to enjoy the panoramic vistas of the mountains and the surrounding landscapes. Namrung is located at an altitude of 2630 meters (8628 feet) and the trek takes approximately 6 hours. Upon reaching Namrung, you will stay overnight in a tea house.

                          After breakfast in Namrung, you will resume your trek towards Sama Gaun. The trail gradually ascends, passing through picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and terraced fields. You will be surrounded by towering mountains and stunning panoramic views. Sama Gaun, located at an altitude of 3530 meters (11581 feet), is a traditional Sherpa village renowned for its cultural heritage. The trek from Namrung to Sama Gaun takes approximately 7-8 hours. You will stay overnight in a tea house.

                            On this day, you will have an acclimatization day in Sama Gaun. Acclimatization is crucial to adjust to the high altitude and prevent altitude-related sickness. You can spend the day exploring the village and immersing yourself in the local culture. Optionally, you can take a day trip to either Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa. These excursions offer magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world. After the activities, you will return to Sama Gaun and stay overnight in a tea house.

                              After a good night's rest and breakfast in Sama Gaun, you will continue your trek towards Samdo. The trail gradually ascends, taking you through alpine forests and crossing suspension bridges. Samdo is situated at an altitude of 3865 meters (12680 feet) and is known for its Tibetan influence and stunning mountain vistas. The trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo takes approximately 3 hours. You will spend the night in a tea house in Samdo.

                                After breakfast, you will leave Samdo and trek to Dharmasala. The trail gradually ascends, offering spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks. Dharmasala, also known as Larkya Phedi, is located at an altitude of 4460 meters (14632 feet). The trek takes approximately 4 hours. Upon reaching Dharmasala, you will stay overnight in a tea house.

                                  After spending the night in Dharmasala, you will have an early breakfast and prepare for a challenging day of trekking. The trail will lead you to the majestic Larkya Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5106 meters (16756 feet). The ascent to the pass will require physical endurance and determination, but the reward is well worth it. As you reach the summit of Larkya Pass, you will be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

                                  After taking in the awe-inspiring scenery, you will descend from the pass, and the landscape will gradually change as you enter the lush forests of the Bimthang region. Bimthang, situated at an altitude of 3590 meters (11778 feet), is a picturesque valley adorned with alpine meadows, vibrant rhododendron forests, and cascading waterfalls. The trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang via Larkya Pass takes approximately 10 hours. You will stay overnight in a tea house in Bimthang.

                                    After a well-deserved rest in Bimthang, you will continue your trek towards Dharapani. The trail descends through the enchanting forested landscapes, passing by traditional villages and terraced fields. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Marsyangdi River. Dharapani, situated at an altitude of 1970 meters (6463 feet), marks the end of the Manaslu Circuit trek. The trek from Bimthang to Dharapani takes approximately 7-8 hours. You will stay overnight in a tea house in Dharapani and have your meals

                                      On the final day of the trek, you will bid farewell to the mountains and embark on a scenic drive from Dharapani back to Kathmandu. The journey takes approximately 10 hours, as you traverse through the rugged landscapes and picturesque villages of the Manang and Lamjung districts. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can take the rest of the day to relax, explore the city, or indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping. You will stay overnight in Kathmandu.

                                        After breakfast at your hotel, you will be driven to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your memorable Manaslu Tsum valley adventure. You will depart with incredible memories, a sense of accomplishment, and a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Manaslu region.

                                          Note

                                          Please note that this itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, the physical condition of the trekkers, and other unforeseen circumstances. It's always advisable to consult with your guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

                                          Cost Details

                                          Includes

                                          • Experienced/professional trekking guide (including meals, salary, and insurance).
                                          • Transportation by Private Jeep from Kathmandu to Machhakhola / Besisahar to Kathmandu, and shared jeep from Dharapani to Besisahar (private car/jeep option available for an additional cost).
                                          • RAP (Special permits) for Manaslu and Tsum Valley.
                                          • ACAP and MCAP permit fees.
                                          • All hotels in the tea houses (during the trek)
                                          • All meals ( breakfast/lunch/dinner) during the trek
                                          • Dream Heaven Adventure duffel bag, and walking poles (available upon request).
                                          • All paperwork necessary taxes for your trekking holidays.
                                          • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the end of the trek.

                                          Good to Know

                                          Essential Tips for Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek

                                          Undertake on the Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is a transformative experience. These tips ensure that your journey is not only enjoyable but also safe and culturally enriching. Trekkers who come well-prepared are rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience.

                                          Ideal Seasons for Trekking

                                          • Spring (March to May): The second most popular time for trekking. The temperatures are warmer, and flowers like rhododendron are in full bloom, beautifying the trail.
                                          • Autumn (October to November): Generally considered the best season due to the clear skies post-monsoon, offering unobstructed, stunning mountain vistas.

                                          Comprehensive Packing List

                                          • Clothing: Think in layers. Base layers that wick away moisture, middle insulation layers (fleece or down), and outer layers to shield against wind and rain.
                                          • Footwear: Your boots are paramount. Ensure they are broken in prior to the trek to avoid blisters. Consider also packing lightweight sandals for evenings.
                                          • Gear: A sturdy tent (if not staying in teahouses), sleeping bag rated for freezing temperatures, and an adjustable trekking pole.
                                          • Health and Hygiene: A comprehensive first-aid kit including bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, altitude sickness medication, and personal medications. Pack toiletries, including biodegradable soap and a quick-dry towel.
                                          • Miscellaneous: Sunglasses, sun hat, woolen hat, gloves, rain cover, and battery packs.

                                          Nutrition and Hydration

                                          • Water: Drink at least 3-4 liters a day. Use water purification tablets or a SteriPen to treat water from streams or teahouses.
                                          • Food: Teahouses offer traditional Nepali meals. Pack energy-boosting snacks, instant soups, and electrolyte powders.

                                          Cultural Respect

                                          • Greeting: The traditional greeting is "Namaste," done with palms together and a slight bow.
                                          • Religious artifacts: Always pass chortens, mani stones, and other religious objects with your right side facing them, respecting local customs.

                                          Employing Local Experts

                                          Local Insights: They can introduce you to hidden locales and ensure you follow the safest paths, particularly in times of landslides or unpredictable weather.

                                          Altitude Sickness Awareness

                                          Acclimatization: It's vital to acclimatize and not ascend too rapidly. Plan rest days, especially when you're above 3,500 meters.

                                          Connectivity and Communication:

                                          Some areas now have mobile coverage. Consider purchasing a local Ncell SIM card, but be prepared for patches with no coverage.

                                          Treading Lightly - Sustainable Travel

                                          • Minimize plastic use: Refrain from buying bottled water. Use your purification methods.
                                          • Solar Charging: Solar chargers are an eco-friendly way to keep your devices charged.

                                          Safety and Travel Insurance

                                          Ensure your insurance covers high-altitude treks, potential health issues, accidents, and evacuations. Keep emergency contact details handy.

                                          Required Documentation and Permits

                                          Trekking permits: Both regions require Restricted Area Permits (RAP) and the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) permit. Tsum Valley additionally requires a Tsum Valley special permit.

                                          Pre-Trek Health Check

                                          Visit a doctor for a health check-up. Discuss vaccinations, medications, and your physical readiness.

                                          Budgeting

                                          While the trek is less commercial than others in Nepal, costs can add up. Account for permits, guide and porter fees, food, accommodation, and potential emergency expenses.

                                          Pre-Trek Training

                                          Given the trek's challenging nature, physical preparation is crucial. Engage in cardio exercises, strength training, and long walks carrying a backpack in the months leading up to your trek.

                                          Mental Preparedness

                                          The trek can be long, challenging, and at times, isolating. Mentally preparing yourself for the journey, being patient, and staying positive are as important as physical readiness.

                                          Price Per PersonUS $1365US $1599
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