Tucked away in the remote heart of the Nepalese Himalayas, the Manaslu region offers a rare blend of raw alpine beauty, ancient culture, and off-the-beaten-path trekking. Dominated by Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), the eighth-highest peak in the world, this isolated trekking region promises dramatic Himalayan landscapes, glacial rivers, deep gorges, and authentic village life.
Two standout routes within this hidden gem are the Manaslu Circuit Trek (17 Days) and the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek (24 Days). Both journeys lead through the stunning Manaslu Conservation Area, but each offers a distinct experience. The Manaslu Circuit is known for its high-altitude adventure, diverse terrain, and the iconic Larkya La Pass. In contrast, the extended Tsum Valley Trek ventures deeper into a spiritually rich and secluded valley, home to ancient Buddhist monasteries, meditation caves, and Tibetan-influenced culture.
Larkya La, Highest point in the Manaslu Circuit Trek
Understanding the Manaslu Treks in Nepal
Manaslu Circuit Trek (17 Days)
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a 17-day high-altitude journey through the breathtaking and less-traveled trails of the Manaslu Conservation Area. Often considered as a quieter, more remote alternative to the Annapurna Circuit, this trek offers an immersive experience in rugged Himalayan landscapes, traditional mountain villages, and culturally rich Tibetan-influenced communities.
Your Manaslu adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, where the trek officially starts. From there, you gradually ascend through lush forests, cross swaying suspension bridges, and walk past terraced farmlands that cling to the steep hillsides. As you gain elevation, the surroundings shift dramatically with revealing glacial rivers, snow-covered peaks, and ancient Buddhist monasteries.
The trail takes you through charming villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Samagaun. One of the trek’s biggest highlights is the challenging crossing of Larkya La Pass at 5,106 meters. From the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
After the pass, the trail descends through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, passing through Bhimthang and Dharapani before ending the journey in Besisahar. The Manaslu Circuit is ideal if you are seeking raw mountain adventure, fewer crowds, and a blend of natural beauty and cultural depth.
Pros
Shorter and more manageable with limited time.
Challenging yet rewarding, with a mix of adventure and cultural immersion.
Diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to high-altitude alpine terrain.
Lower overall cost compared to the extended Tsum Valley trek.
Cons
Misses out on the culturally rich Tsum Valley.
Can feel more commercialized compared to Tsum Valley.
Tea houses with basic services only.
Altitude challenges at Larkya La Pass, requiring proper acclimatization and physical fitness.
No major rest days or extended cultural experiences compared to the Tsum Valley Trek.
Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek (24 Days)
If you are seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers an extraordinary exploration of Nepal’s mystical landscapes and ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture. This extended trek branches off from the classic Manaslu Circuit, leading you deep into the secluded Tsum Valley, often called the “Hidden Valley of Happiness.”
Starting by following the well-known Manaslu Circuit route up to Philim, the trail then diverges toward the Tsum Valley. You will traverse dramatic deep gorges, dense pine forests, and vibrant terraced fields. As you climb higher, the terrain shifts into a rugged, high-altitude plateau encircled by soaring peaks like Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal.
Tsum Valley stands out for its rich spiritual heritage, hosting revered Buddhist sites such as Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa monasteries. One of the valley’s most sacred spots is Milarepa Cave, believed to be the meditation retreat of the legendary Tibetan saint Milarepa. Trekking through villages like Chumling, Chhokangparo, and Nile, you will get to immerse yourself in centuries-old traditions and a lifestyle deeply influenced by Buddhist teachings.
This trek is perfect if you want to combine cultural immersion with challenging high-altitude trekking in one of Nepal’s most remote and spiritually significant regions.
Small tea shop on the way to Chumling
Pros
Offers a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience, with fewer trekkers.
Deeper cultural immersion with Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries, and meditation caves.
More time to acclimatize, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
Encounters with Buddhist monks, providing a spiritual trekking experience.
Less commercialized and more preserved.
Cons
Requires a longer commitment, making it difficult for those with limited time.
More challenging due to remote trails, with rougher paths and fewer modern facilities.
Longer trekking hours each day, increasing physical and mental endurance requirements.
Requires good physical fitness and experience, as the extended trek adds extra challenges.
Key Differences Between Manaslu Circuit Trek And Tsum Valley Trek
Trek Duration Comparision
One of the most significant differences between the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is their duration. While both routes navigate through the stunning Manaslu region, the Tsum Valley extension adds an additional 7 days, taking you into the secluded and culturally rich Tsum Valley, deeply influenced by Tibetan traditions.
Both treks typically involve trekking 5 to 7 hours daily, covering distances between 10 to 15 kilometers per day. However, the Manaslu Circuit Trek follows a more direct, fast-paced itinerary, reaching its highest point, the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters), by day 12. From there, you descend toward Besisahar, completing the trek efficiently within 17 days.
In contrast, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek adopts a slower, more immersive pace. It incorporates several extra acclimatization days and cultural side excursions, allowing you to deeply explore the remote Tsum Valley. Along this route, you can visit significant spiritual sites like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and sacred meditation caves, before reconnecting with the main Manaslu Circuit trail. This trek suits you if you have additional time and desire to combine exhilarating mountain trekking with profound cultural and spiritual experiences.
Route And Itinerary Overview
While both Manalsu treks begin in Machha Khola and follow the same rugged trails through the Manaslu Conservation Area, their routes diverge at Philim. The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes a direct path toward Larkya La Pass before descending into the Annapurna region and finishing in Besisahar. On the other hand, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek takes a detour into the mystical Tsum Valley, before rejoining the main circuit.
Manaslu Circuit Route
Starts in Machha Khola → Jagat → Deng → Namrung → Shyala → Samagaun
Acclimatization at Samagaun, with optional side trips to Manaslu Base Camp, Pungen Gompa, or Birendra Lake.
Descend to Samdo for another acclimatization day, with optional side trip to Tibetan border.
Trek continues through Dharmashala, then crosses the Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters)
Descent through Bhimthang, Goa, and Dharapani, ending in Besisahar
Manaslu Tsum Valley Route
Follows the same path starting from Machha Khola until Philim after Jagat, then diverts into the Tsum Valley
Stops in Chumling, Chhaikampar, and Nile, offering deep cultural immersion in Buddhist villages untouched by modernization.
Explore Milarepa Cave, a sacred meditation retreat of the 11th-century Tibetan saint.
Acclimatization day in Nile, with optional side trip to Mu Gompa (3,700 meters) and Rachen Gompa, two of Nepal’s most significant monastic sites.
Trek continues to Gompa Lungdang, Ripchet, and rejoins the Manaslu Circuit at Deng.
Follows the exact route of Manaslu Circuit from Deng to Besisahar.
Trekking Difficulty And Altitude
The trek to Manaslu Circuit is a strenuous high-altitude journey, with its most challenging section being Larkya La Pass (5,106 meters). During the journey, you will experience gradual altitude gain, starting from Machha Khola (1,300 meters) and steadily climbing above 5,000 meters.
The difficulty of the Manaslu Circuit route is contributed by its steep ascents, rocky trails, and glacier crossings. While beginners can complete this trek with proper preparation, they must be physically strong and well-acclimatized.
On the other hand, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is even more demanding, due to longer trekking days, higher altitude, and remoteness. This trek extends the classic Manaslu Circuit by adding an exploration of Tsum Valley before rejoining the Manaslu Circuit.
Besides trekking through the Tsum Valley, this trek also takes you to the Larkya La Pass. Therefore, the Tsum Valley Circuit Trek is best suited for experienced trekkers who can handle multiple high-altitude days and long walking hours (6 to 8 hours daily) without access to modern amenities.
Scenic Views and Himalayan Landscapes
Both the Manaslu Circuit and Manaslu Tsum Valley Treks offer two distinct experiences. If you are looking for dramatic, ever-changing terrain, the Manaslu Trek starts in lush subtropical forests and rice terraces before transitioning into rugged alpine meadows and ultimately barren, high-altitude landscapes.
In contrast, the Tsum Valley Trek feels like stepping into a hidden, mystical world. This secluded valley offers a more intimate and spiritual atmosphere. Unlike the Manaslu Circuit’s rugged high-altitude crossings, Tsum Valley features wide plateaus, deep gorges, and remote monasteries perched against stunning cliffs.
Cultural And Religious Experiences
While both the treks offer a deep dive into the Tibetan-influenced culture of Nepal’s remote Himalayan regions, the level of cultural immersion differs significantly between the two.
On the one hand, the Manaslu Circuit gives you glimpses into Tibetan Buddhism. Along the route, you will encounter beautifully crafted mani walls, prayer wheels, and ancient monasteries like Ribung Gompa in Lho and Pungyen Gompa near Samagaun.
On the other hand, the trek through Tsum valley takes cultural exploration to an entirely deeper and more immersive level. The valley is often called a "sacred Himalayan sanctuary" due to its strong Buddhist heritage and ancient monastic sites.
Here, you will visit Mu Gompa (3,700 meters) and Rachen Gompa, two of the most revered monasteries in Nepal. You will also get a chance to explore Milarepa’s Cave. Unlike the Manaslu Circuit, Tsum Valley remains largely untouched by modernization, offering an authentic Buddhist way of life.
Cost And Budget Comparision
When comparing the budget for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, the extra days in Tsum Valley naturally lead to a higher overall cost. The additional days spent trekking through Tsum Valley translate into increased expenses for everything from accommodation to food, as well as the hiring of guides and porters.
In the Manaslu region, accommodation is typically in local teahouses, with meals costing around NRs 500 to 1000 per day (USD 5 to 10). The cost for a guide is generally around USD 25 to 30 per day, and a porter can cost USD 15 to 25 per day.
So, on the trails of Manaslu Circuit, you can expect moderate daily costs for meals and lodging. However, for the Tsum Valley Trek, the extended duration adds up quickly. With an additional seven days of trekking, all expenses, including food, lodging, guide, and porter fees will be significantly higher.
Altogether, if you are trekking with a budget in check, the trek to Manaslu Circuit offers a more economical experience.
Which Trek Should You Choose In 2025?
Choosing between the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek depends on your time, interests, and trekking goals. If you are an adventurer looking for a thrilling high-altitude trek with breathtaking scenery but have limited time, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is the better option. This trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush green forests to rugged mountain terrain.
However, if you wish to experience both the adventure, culture, spirituality, and untouched Himalayan traditions, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offers a deeper and more immersive experience. This trek extends beyond the Manaslu Circuit into the hidden Tsum Valley.
Conclusion
Both the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek offer breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and a true sense of adventure in the Himalayas. The key difference lies in the duration, cultural depth, and level of remoteness. The 17-day Manaslu Trek is perfect for those seeking a challenging yet time-efficient trek, while the 24-day Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is perfect for those who want adventure and the spiritual heart of the journey in a single package.
Ultimately, your choice depends on what kind of experience you seek. If you are short on time but want an epic Himalayan trek, the Manaslu Circuit is the way to go. However, if you crave a deeper cultural and spiritual connection alongside stunning mountain views, the Tsum Valley extension is well worth the extra days. For a seamless trekking experience, Nepal Trekking Experts can help plan your journey, so you can contact us at any time.
FAQs
Which trek is more challenging in terms of difficulty and altitude: Manaslu Circuit Trek or Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek?
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is more challenging compared to the Manaslu Circuit Trek due to its longer duration, remote trails, and extra elevation gain. However, both treks require good fitness and acclimatization.
Is the Tsum Valley extension worth the extra days?
The Tsum Valley extension is worth it if you seek a deeper cultural experience, remote trails, and stunning Tibetan-influenced villages. It adds unique highlights like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa.
Can I do these treks solo, or do I need a guide?
You cannot trek solo on either the Manaslu Circuit or Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek due to restricted area regulations. You will need a licensed guide and at least one trekking companion to obtain permits.
What is the best time of year to trek the Manaslu Circuit or Tsum Valley?
The best time for both the Manslsu treks is during Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and temperatures are moderate.
Is the Manaslu Circuit or Tsum Valley Trek suitable for beginners?
The trek to Manaslu Circuit is challenging but manageable for fit beginners with prior trekking experience. However, since the Tsum Valley Trek is longer and more remote, it is better suited for experienced trekkers.
How much does it cost to do the Manaslu Circuit vs. the Tsum Valley Trek?
Generally, it costs around USD 1090 for the Manaslu circuit trek and USD 1490 for the Tsum valley trek. This cost includes the trekking agency fee, permits, transportation, three meals a day, accommodation, and guide and porter fee.
Is travel insurance required for Manaslu circuit and Manaslu Tsum valley trek?
Travel insurance is highly recommended for both treks, as they take you to remote, high-altitude areas. Your insurance should cover altitude sickness, medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations.
This is Mr. Rajesh, also known as Raj. I was born and raised in the mountain region of Manaslu and have a deep and abiding connection with the culture and nature of the Himalayan mountains. With more than 25 years in the trekking industry and having traveled most of the trekking trails available in Nepal, I have 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.
