Would you like to embark on an adventure that will take your breath away - both from the stunning views and the elevation? If you are new to trekking and looking for an unforgettable experience with the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, you have come to the right place. The unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and exhilarating challenges are the hidden gems that this trek will offer.
For a second, imagine standing in the shadow of the majestic Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world, as you traverse through lush forests, ancient villages, and rugged trails. Also, picture your journey within the Manaslu Conservation Area, untouched by modern advancements and filled with raw natural beauty and cultural richness. Sounds mesmerizing, doesn’t it?
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But where and how do you start planning for this trek? Well, do not worry as we will walk you through the planning, process, and knowledge of the trek to make it a success. Are you wondering what you should expect from it? Curious about what it has to offer? We’ll answer all your burning questions, so you can focus on soaking in the incredible scenery.
Well, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a perfect mix of challenge and beauty, with each day revealing something new and awe-inspiring. In the initial half of your trek, you will pass through the Tsum Valley (also known as the Hidden Valley of Happiness in Buddhist text) and then make your way towards the Manaslu Base Camp.
Hence, it is one of the most remote and enchanting treks in the Himalayas, that combines the majestic beauty of the Manaslu Mountain range with the serene and culturally rich Tsum Valley. As a beginner trekker, if you are willing to push your boundaries while being surrounded by breathtaking scenery, you can not miss the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.
But before you set off on this remarkable journey, you should understand the basics of the trek. Therefore, let this guide be your compass as you prepare to dive for the adventure of a lifetime!
Planning Your Trek
It is always exciting to plan your trek as it sets up the foundation for an unforgettable adventure. Indeed, proper preparation makes all the difference in how stunning your Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek gets. From selecting the best time to visit and understanding the necessary permits to booking with a reputable agency, each detail plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth and memorable trek.
Best Time To Visit
To enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, timing is crucial. While each period of the year offers a unique beauty of the region, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best time to embark on this journey due to their stable weather conditions.
Spring is a magical time with the vibrant blooms of the rhododendrons. The sky is clear and the daytime temperature is mild ranging from 15°C to 20°C which is comfortable for long trails. Additionally, the trek trails are much more tranquil than in autumn due to the fewer crowds.
Likewise, Autumn brings comfortable weather conditions with clear skies and stable temperatures hovering around 10°C to 15°C during the day. Furthermore, this season offers the best clarity for stunning views of the snow-capped peaks.
While Spring and Autumn are the prime trekking seasons, Winter and the Monsoon months come with their challenges. Winter (December to February) has heavy snowfall, making high passes difficult to navigate and leading to freezing temperatures, especially at night.
Also, the Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall at lower altitude levels, which can make trails slippery. Here, the frequent rainfall increases the risk of landslides, hampering your journey. Altogether, Nepal Trekking Experts do not recommend you to trek during the off-season.
Necessary Permit And Paperwork
During the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, you will traverse through a region that is rich in natural and cultural beauty hence, you will need to get the required permits to protect both the environment and the communities you will encounter. Understanding these permits will help you navigate the process smoothly, ensuring you are well-prepared for your adventure.
So, the permits you will require are the Manaslu Special Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Here, the price of the Manaslu Special Permit varies depending on the time you are trekking.
If you are trekking from September to November, it will cost you $100 for a week and an additional $15 for each day extra. However, the price is a bit cheaper if you trek between December to August as it will only cost you $75 for a week with an additional $10 for each day extra for each person. passport-size
However, both MCAP and ACAP permits will cost you NRs 3,000. Now, you can get these two permits from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or through the help of a local trekking agency. But for the Manaslu special Permit, you will only get it from the Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Also, another thing to note, the process for the permit is straightforward but may take some time unless you get help from the local trekking agencies. For the permit, you will need to have a valid passport with passport-size pictures.
Apart from these permits, it is essential to understand that solo trekking is not permitted in the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek; you will need to hire a local guide. This requirement ensures your safety as the local guides are quite familiar with the region and the challenges they offer.
Booking Via Trekking Agency
Given the remote nature of the trails, safety is a big concern during the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek hence, solo trekking is forbidden. Therefore, you must plan your journey with the help of a local trekking agency. But how to choose the right trekking agency?
As you start your search for a local trekking agency, you will find a plethora of options - both good and bad. The first and foremost thing to notice about an agency is whether they are authorized and licensed by the government or not. Oftentimes, you will witness that a genuine agency like Nepal Trekking Experts will prioritize safety, sustainability, and local community engagement.
Additionally, look for their reviews. Nothing tells a better story than the customers themselves. With a reputable profile and transparency in their work, you will be able to plan a safe and engaging journey while also following the local rules and regulations.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary
Spanning approximately 24 days as you trek around 234 km and drive 332 km to and fro from Kathmandu, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a call for adventurers of all scales. From the bustling streets of the capital city, Kathmandu to the untouched Tsum Valley to the base of the giant Manaslu peak, you will experience varied emotions as well as landscapes, culture, and many more within these days.
Guaranteed, you will feel a deep connection throughout this journey whether it be with the intimate view of nature or the raw cultural sense of the villages you will pass. No doubt, this trek is unlike others.
Upon your arrival in Nepal, your guide will pick you up from the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel for relaxation. Well, your journey starts as soon as you step onto the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu city. The following day is for preparation and sightseeing before you embark on the trek.
In Kathmandu, you will be surrounded by a lively atmosphere and rich cultural background. If you have booked this trek in October or November, you will feel the festive mood as the greatest festival of the people, Dashain and Tihar falls during this time of the year. Especially if you are here in Tihar, you will find the streets and houses all decorated with colorful lights all day and night.
Moving forward, before you start your trek, you will take an 8 to 9-hour drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Soon, you will see a clear shift in your surroundings as the urban lifestyle gets replaced with lush forests, terraced fields, and winding roads. If you start to hear a silent stream of water and see the dramatic rise of the cliffs, you have reached Machha Khola.
This particular village is a small and beautiful place just by the side of the raging Budhi Gandaki River. The next day, when you start your trek from Machha Khola, the lush greenery gets more dense as it takes you through the forested trails. Here, you will also get a picturesque view of the river as you cross it from a suspension bridge.
Your resting point for the day will be Jagat, a village located on a hillside. This Gurung village is well-known as the starting point for several treks in the Manaslu region. It is, in fact, a cultural hub and as you enter the village, you will witness traditional stone houses with genuine faces waiting to greet you.
Entry To Tsum Valley
Your simple trek from Jagat to Lokpa, the starting point of the Tsum Valley will be a completely different world. A fun fact, before you start your trek within this valley, the Tsum Valley is known as the “Valley of Happiness” in sacred Buddhist texts. Furthermore, this valley holds a deep and long history of Buddhism. It is generally believed that the Buddhist saint Milarewa is said to have meditated in the caves of the mountains within the valley.
Well, your trekking journey from Jagat to Lokpa will be led by breathtaking scenery, with striking waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs. As you reach the first village of the Tsum Valley, you will be greeted by the stunning view of the Ganesh Himal.
But before that, one thing to note, you will enter each village of the Tsum Valley via a sacred gate. These gates are painted with the pictures of the deities and it is believed that these pictures will cleanse your body and soul of any evil spirits as you proceed with the journey.
As you wander through the village, you will be greeted with a genuine smile and the curious eyes of the locals. Though the trails get a bit rugged, the villages are much cleaner. Here onward, the striking contrast of the rugged landscapes and lush forest trails will catch your eye as you move from this village to Chumling.
Similar to Lokpa, the Chumling village welcomes you with fluttering prayer flags. This village is vibrant with the possibility of witnessing unique bird and butterfly species. As you take a moment to roam around the village, you will discover the community’s strong ties to Tibetan Buddhism.
Chumling is home to three major monasteries - Pango Gumba, Gurwa Gumba, and Mani Dhungyr. Also, you will get one of the most panoramic views of Ganesh Himal and Siringi Himal.
After spending a night at Chumling, your trail will take you to Chhaikampar village which is the vibrant center to interact with the local culture. You will witness local men and women in their traditional attires. Generally, men ride horses and they are often tied with a string of jingling bells.
Additionally, this village, similar to other villages in the Tsum Valley, has a large community prayer wheel. Every month, women of these villages chant prayers and fast as they gather in front of them. Also, the lamas perform a mask dance to purify the area.
Heading towards the Nile village on the other day, you will feel the thrill of traversing ancient trade routes that connect Nepal and Tibet. The tranquil atmosphere, breathtaking mountain vistas, and the presence of several chortens and stupas are the staple points of the village. On the way, you will also pass through the Milarepa Cave.
Also, in Nile, you will get an opportunity to experience the monk lifestyle up close as you get to spend a night in Mu Gompa. Imagine waking up in unique accommodations and witnessing their daily rituals firsthand. The night stay at a monastery is such a peaceful escape - perfect for a bit of soul-refreshing! So, have you ever thought about staying in a monastery?
Additionally, it is also your acclimatization point and during the next day, you can visit the Ngula Dhojyang Pass. It will offer you the stunning views of the Tibetan plateau and high-altitude wildlife. Also, if you happen to be in this village in October, you will get to experience the Nara festival (Mask Dance) in Nile Labrang Ghonghe Gumba.
After two beautiful days at this altitude, you will return to Chhaikampar. The landscape in this village is more pronounced with towering mountain peaks and alpine flora. At this village, you will get a unique opportunity to experience the simple yet profound life of the monks. From Chhaikampar, you will make your way towards the Gompa Lungdang, which is also the connecting route to the Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
Altogether, the Ripchet village is the final destination of the Tsum Valley which offers a fresh perspective. You will hear the silent flow of the Laudnag River in the background during your hike in this village. Also, throughout your trek, you will see a clear view of the Chhumling, Chumchet, and Siringi Himalayan ranges.
While you are within the Tsum Valley, you will easily spot the herds of Himalayan blue sheep, yaks, and wild mountain goats along the way. One of the most beautiful aspects of the Tsum Valley is that it is a protected area, meaning no killing is allowed inside the villages. Hence, any meat or Hindu sacrifice in this region is done below the gateway before climbing towards the villages.
A Side Trip To The Manaslu Base Camp
Following the trails alongside the Budhi Gandaki River, you will trek from Ripchet to Deng. Deng offers unique flora including hardy shrubs and wildflowers. Here onwards, your journey continues to Namrung and Shyala through dense forests, gradually revealing the rugged beauty of the high mountains.
As you are in these villages, the flora transitions to the alpine variety and you will get a chance to witness glimpses of the mountain wildlife. Perched on a hillside, the day to Samagaun via Pungen Gompa is one of the highlights of the trek.
When you are in Pungen Gompa, you will be surrounded by fluttering prayer flags against a backdrop of towering snow-capped mountains and sparkling glaciers. Descending from this point, you will trek through yak trails dotted with wildflowers to the vibrant meadows of the Samagaun.
The following day in Samagaun is dedicated to acclimatization, where you can opt to hike towards the Birendra Lake. Likewise, you will also reach the Makalu Base Camp nestled in a serene environment.
Trek Towards The Larkya La Pass
After this tranquil peace, your journey becomes more intense with an upward trajectory. You will trek through dramatic rock formations and increasingly sparse vegetation to reach Samdo which is a small village. With a good night’s rest in that village, you will trek to the final stop, Dharamshala before you reach the Larkya La Pass. The trail to Dharmasala is a gradual ascent alongside a river. Following it, you will reach one of the highlights of the trek, the Larkya La Pass which is surrounded by the spectacle of snow-capped peaks and vast glaciers. The fluttering prayer flags in the Larkya La Pass will be soothing music to your ears as you drown in the feeling of accomplishment.
From Larkya La Pass, you will descend through several villages such as Bhimthang, Goa, Dharapani, and Besisahar before you end the trek. The journey to Bhimthang will show you a dramatic shift in the scenery with lush pastures and the gentle sounds of streams. Through gradual descent towards the agricultural land, leaving behind the alpine pasture, you will reach Goa and then Dharapani.
Altogether, the final few stretches of the trek take you through the villages in the hills. Finally, the drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu offers a bittersweet conclusion to your journey. Leaving behind the rural lifestyle and serene environment, you will be back to the bustling city life.
Cultural Experience
Long prayer wheels in Samagaun, Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers an immersive cultural experience of the rich traditions of the Tibetan Buddhist communities that inhabit this region. From the moment you start with the trek, you will be greeted by an array of cultural symbols - colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, intricately carved mani stones lining the trails, and the gentle sound of chanting emanating from local monasteries.
As you trek from one village to another, you will notice the iconic stupas and gompas (monasteries) that serve as spiritual centers. Engaging with the local lifestyle during the trek, you will get a glimpse into Buddhist philosophy and even learn about their daily practices.
Talking about the local lifestyle, the people are involved in agriculture and animal husbandry. You will witness several farm fields of barley, potatoes, and medicinal herbs. In all of the villages you pass during the journey, they will celebrate Dashain and Tihar.
As for the higher altitude villages, the major festival is Lhosar marking the Tibetan New Year. During this time, the village comes alive with colorful processions, traditional music, and dance. Likewise, they also celebrate Buddha Jayanti, the birth of Lord Buddha in April.
When you are within the Tsum Valley, you will encounter several celebrations such as Saka Dawa in May, Fanning in August, and Dhachyang in December. These festivals are unique to this valley only and you will not witness these in other parts. However, as you move past the trails of the Tsum Valley towards the Manaslu Base Camp, you will get to experience celebrations such as Mani Chang, Dumche, and Kumje.
Food & Accommodation During The Trek
The meals during the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek are as rich and diverse as the landscapes you will traverse. During your trek, you will discover a delightful blend of traditional Tibetan and Nepali cuisine that reflects the local culture and the ingredients available in this remote region.
Of course, you will find the staple classic meal, Dal Bhat Tarkari (Rice, Lentils, and Curry) as one of the options on your menu. This nutritious meal not only pleases your stomach but also provides you the energy to keep up with the rest of the journey. Some of the other food items on the menu are momo, thukpa, chowmein, noodles, porridge, eggs, potatoes, and dhido among others.
Accommodation during the trek primarily consists of tea houses, which provide a unique opportunity to experience local hospitality firsthand. During your stay, you will have a simple room with basic furnishings and a shared bathroom. Likewise, meals are also served in the communal hall where you can enjoy the food while listening and sharing stories.
Moving on, the facilities are pretty basic. While the lower altitude village may have internet and phone coverage, the higher altitude villages may not have such facilities. Also, the coverage is quite unreliable. Similar to that, the charging is mostly done via solar energy due to the lack of electricity.
Physical Fitness & Acclimatization
While the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek also caters to beginners, you will require a solid level of fitness as you will be trekking through varied altitudes and challenging terrain. Ideally, Nepal Trekking Experts recommend you engage in regular cardiovascular activities such as hiking, cycling, or running for several weeks before the trek. This particular exercise will build your physicality as well as your endurance.
As mentioned earlier, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is filled with beautiful yet demanding landscapes hence, acclimatization is a crucial part of the journey. When you ascend above 2,500 meters, the air pressure and oxygen level drops and your body will take extra time to adapt to the changing environment. Therefore, when you ascend too quickly without allowing for acclimatization, you may experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
These symptoms of altitude sickness if not treated in the moment may worsen and cause severe damage. During the trek, you will therefore find strategically placed acclimatization and rest days. You will need to ascend slowly with no more altitude gain over 500 meters in a day. Similarly, even if you ascend to a high altitude, always return to a lower altitude level for rest.
Overall, below are some tips to manage altitude sickness.
Always stay hydrated. Drink at least 3 liters of water every day.
Be mindful of your body’s signals. Take rest when needed and do not push yourself to the extreme.
Carry a basic first-aid kit, including medication for altitude sickness.
Maintain a balanced diet and carry snacks yourself.
Essential Gear & Packing List
While it is smart to pack light during the trek, it is also essential to pack all your necessary items. For better management, always dress up in layers so you can easily adapt to the changing environment.
Below is the comprehensive list of items to pack for your Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.
Clothing
Moisture-wicking thermal
Fleece jacket or pullover
Lightweight down jacket
Waterproof and breathable trekking jacket and pants
Shorts
Warm hat or beanie
Sun hat
Warm gloves or mittens
Footwear
Sturdy trekking boots (waterproof, broken in)
Lightweight sandals or camp shoes
Thick hiking socks
Gear
Trekking backpack (50-70 liters)
Daypack for shorter hikes
Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C/14°F or lower)
Adjustable trekking poles (highly recommended)
Reusable water bottle (2-3 liters capacity)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Personal Items
Biodegradable soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
Toilet paper
Sunscreen (high SPF)
Lip balm with SPF
Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic wipes)
Pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol)
Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit
Power bank or solar charger
Mobile phone (with a local SIM if needed)
Camera (optional)
Safety Tips & Precautions
Embarking on the Manaslu Tsum Valley trek is an adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the thrill of exploration. However, as with any trekking expedition, safety should always be a priority.
From understanding the risks of altitude sickness to being mindful of your physical fitness, you should always be aware of yourself and your surroundings. Proper preparation for the journey and careful planning ensure your well-being throughout the journey.
Below are some essential safety tips and precautions to keep in mind to ensure that this trek is a success.
Acclimatize gradually. As the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek takes you above 5,000 meters, you should ascend slowly and incorporate rest days in your itinerary.
Drink at least 3 liters of water daily to prevent dehydration and altitude sickness.
Be aware of symptoms such as headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. Descend with your guide or a partner immediately if the symptoms worsen.
Engage in cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and long hikes in your preparation routine.
Carry a satellite phone for communication.
Pack a small first-aid kit with your medication.
Highlights Of The Trek
Experience stunning panoramas of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Siringi, Himal Chuli, and many more.
Take a picturesque hike to Birendra Lake, a serene spot surrounded by majestic mountains.
Conquer the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters).
Encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, blue sheep, and various bird species along the trail.
If timed right, witness vibrant local festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, Lhosar, Nara, Dhachyang, Saka Dawa, and many more.
Witness the local lifestyle of the people and their traditions.
Explore charming villages within the Tsum Valley.
Trek to the Manaslu Base Camp (4,980 meters) to explore the foothills of the Himalayas.
Explore the three major monasteries - Pango Gumba, Gurwa Gumba, and Mani Dhungyr in Chumling village.
Conclusion
From the awe-inspiring views of towering peaks to the warm hospitality of local communities, every step of the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a transformative journey. Whether you are marveling at ancient monasteries, crossing high-altitude passes, or simply soaking in the tranquil environment of the journey, each moment leaves a lasting impression that stays with you even after the trek concludes.
For beginners, this particular journey is a perfect adventure to try and test their limits. With proper preparation, it will be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for you.
Rajesh, known as Raj, is the founder and owner of Nepal Trekking Experts, as well as the company's main guide. He was born and raised in the mountain region of Manaslu and has a deep and abiding connection with the culture and nature of the Himalayan mountains. With more than 20 years in the trekking industry, from working as a porter and guide right through to his present role as the head of the company, Raj has the knowledge base and wealth of experience to customize and organize treks that fulfill each and every requirement for a successful journey, including permits, equipment, clothing, medical supplies, and safety, as well as a familiarity with the fitness levels and experience required for each of the treks on offer in our portfolio. Having traveled most of the trails available in Nepal he has a deep affinity and connection to the broad spectrum of people and their cultures, as well as a deep appreciation for the various religions, history, flora and fauna of the mountain regions and their scattered valleys.
