Overview

Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek takes you across the remote Himalayan Mountains north of Nepal. One of the most isolated regions of the country clinging to the mountainside, in the frozen peaks of the Himalayas. The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek is a complete classic trekking destination in Nepal. Secluded, raw, and true here discover magnificent scenery, hidden wonders, and different faces of the place. A chance to miss if you do not explore the back roads are the authentic people. In a world where traditions and cultures are vanishing so quickly here witness communities of rare beauty, great strength, and extreme fragility. A trek where you will sense the entirety of landscapes and then complement that with the people living there. Manaslu translates as the “mountain of the spirit” is the highest peak in the Gorkha District and is about 64 km east of the renowned Annapurna region. Manaslu is derived from the Sanskrit word “Manasa”, meaning “intellect” or “soul”. The region falls under Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) established in 1997. With the primary objective of achieving conservation and sustainable management of the delimited area. The Tsum Valley is one of the Himalayas’ most secluded and hidden valleys. A secret Tibetan Buddhist land only opened for visitors since 2008 yet still remains untouched. Here people of Tibetan origin still practice ancient forms of dialogue, art, culture, and religion. Where nomadic souls are surrounded by nature, in the middle of wild and unspoiled landscapes. On Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek explore hidden valleys, traverse lush woodlands, high alpine grounds, sheer cliffs, and cross high mountains pass on the foothills of the Himalayas. Heaven in its own term remained unseen by most people. Realms lost to the world except perhaps to the monks and the gods. The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek take you across some of the most beautiful locations on earth. The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek starts from Kathmandu and takes you to the small town of Machha Khola located in Gorkha. Machha Khola is the starting point of the trek. From here traversing across the central hills of the country move towards Dobhan. Next following the rapids of the Budi Gandaki river head towards the village of Philim. Then the following day the trail takes you to the Lower Tsum Valley. Traversing across the extraordinary Tsum Valley reach Chhokang Paro a village located in Upper Tsum Valley. The following day heads deeper into the valley and reaches the village of Chhule. Here explore various monasteries and the Milarepa Cave. The Buddhist saint and philosopher are said to have meditated in these caves in the 11th century. Then head closer to the Tibetan border and reach the Mu Gompa nestled on a glacier. Here learn about the rich history and culture of the mountain people. After unraveling, the hidden secrets of the Tsum Valley retrace your steps back down towards Ripchet. From Ripchet head towards Pewa which brings you to the trial of the Manaslu Circuit. After that following the Budi Gandaki River north traversing across wide valleys and a few landslides reach the village of Ghap. From Ghap proceed towards Lho. On the way witness the grand views of the greater Himalayan range and the lush networks of hills. Also, pass by several Gompas and lush agricultural farms of barley and potatoes. Then further the trails gain altitude and take you traversing along the wide valley and eventually to Samagaun. The following day moves towards Samdo passing through Yak grazing lands. From Samdo witness grand panoramic views of several mountains and peaks of the mighty Manaslu. After exploring around Samdo the following day proceed towards Dharamsala, the last settlement before crossing the pass. The most awaited day of the trek finally has come. Today you will be crossing one of the highest passes of the Himalayas. Wake up before dawn and start walking with the views of the sky full of stars and the silhouette of mountains. Gradually gaining altitude reach the summit of the pass and witness extraordinary views and continue down to the other side. Descending across snow and loose rocks you will cross the Manaslu Conservation Area and traverse across the trails of the Annapurna region and to the village of Bimtang. The following day descends down several more villages and reaches Dharapani where the Manaslu circuit connects with Annapurna Circuit. The Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek is where you will leave your footprints behind and bring back memories. Not just mountains but the people you meet. Be a part of this spiritual and natural trek with the Alpine Club of Himalaya.

Trip Highlight

Traverse across raw, isolated, and rural part of the country.
Explore the Upper and Lower Tsum valley.
Visit monasteries and villages which remain frozen in time.
Learn about the unspoiled and primitive culture of the local people.
Explore the extraordinary beauty of the Manaslu region.
Cross one of the longest mountain pass of Larkya La at an elevation of 5,106 meters.
Traverse through Manaslu and Annapurna region trials.
Witness grand views of the Himalayas, icefalls, glaciers and lakes.

Day 1 :

Day 1- Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 meters/ 4593 feet)

Upon arrival at the Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport. A representative from the Alpine Club of Himalaya will assist you with your accommodation. Upon arriving at your hotel, rest for a while. Later join in for a short briefing regarding the trek. In the evening join in for a special dinner program where you will experience excellent Nepalese cuisine.

Day 2 :

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar (535 meters/ 1755 feet) 6 to 7 Hours & Drive Arughat Bazaar to Machha Khola -1 ½ to 2 Hours

After breakfast head on a long journey. Following the winding roads reach the small town of Gorkha District, Arughat Bazaar. The drive takes you following various river networks and hills of central Nepal. After a brief rest at Arughat proceed towards Machha Khola, following the off-road and dusty tracks. Upon arriving at Machha Khola head towards your accommodation, later stroll around the region, and relax soaking in the views of the landscapes.

Day 3 :

Day 3: Trek Machha Khola to Dobhan (1,070 meters/ 3510 feet) -6 to 7 Hours

Today is the first day of the trek. Start the trek traversing across the lush wilderness of the region. Following north along, the Budi Gandaki River on ascending and descending trails. Along the way witness grand views of the Mahabharat range with its complex network of hills. Upon arriving at Dobhan head towards your tea house and relax.

Day 4 :

Day 4: Trek Doban to Philim (1,570 meters/ 5150 feet) -5 to 6 Hours

After breakfast start the trek. Following the tracks cross the rapids of the Doban Khola. Next, the trail takes you on ascending routes to a small settlement of Thulo Dhunga. Then follow the trail across the deep wilderness and progress towards Thado Bharyang. After a brief rest here continue towards the village of Jagat. Jagat is the starting point of the Manaslu Conservation Area, here get your permits checked and continue towards Philim.

Day 5 :

Day 5: Trek Philim to Chumling (Lower Tsum) (2,361 meters/ 7746 feet)-6 to 7 Hours

Start the trek after breakfast. Leaving Philim, traverse an ascending route above the Budi Gandaki Valley. As you gain altitude the trail narrows down in some places. Following the trail reach the village of Chisopani. From here you will be entering one of the most secluded and hidden valleys of the Himalayas. Following ascending trail along the south side of the Siyar River. As you progress witness the lush agricultural belts of the region. Fields of colorful grain, potato, and bean fields overlooking the beautiful Shringi Himal. Continue trekking along the trail and descend to the village of Gumlung. Then continue following the rapids of the Siyar River upstream and finally, you will reach the settlement of Chumling.
You’ll enter the scenic Lower Tsum Valley and begin climbing uphill along the south side of the Siyar River. Continue trekking along the trail briefly descends to Gumlung village and then continues to climb upstream along the Siyar River towards Chumling.

Day 6 :

Day 6: Trek Chumling to Chhokang Paro (Upper Tsum) (3,010 meters/ 9875 feet) -5 to 6 Hours

After breakfast start the trek. Follow the tracks ascending along the banks of Siyar Khola. Along the way witness grand views of Ganesh Himal Range along the exposed ridges. The trail then takes you past the traditional Tibetan-styled settlements of Ripchet village at an elevation of 2468 meters. Next following the flat trails with grand views of the landscape reach the settlement of Rainjam. From here ascending along the banks of Serpu Khola proceed to the village of Chhokang Paro. Chhokang Paro valley is divided into two different settlements, namely Chhokang and Paro. Upon arriving after a brief rest relax soaking in great views of the landscapes.

Day 7 :

Day 7: Trek Chhokang Paro to Chhule-Nile (3,361 meters/ 11026 feet), visit Milarepa Piren Phu Cave -6 to 7 Hours

Start the trek early leaving Chhokang Paro. As you progress on the trail you will be traversing through rough rocky terrain with loose rocks. Following the ascending routes, you will eventually reach Lama Gaon at an elevation of 3202 meters. From here a short uphill trek brings you to the Milarepa Cave. Milarepa Cave is called Piren Phu, which translates to pigeons cave. The locals believe that the revered saint Milarepa meditated in the caves. Explore the caves and soak in the vibrant energy of the region.
After exploring head down and visit the nearby Gompas, Tara, and Milarepa. Then begin the trek follow the banks of Shiyar Khola. As you progress you will reach the village of Pangdun and finally Chhule. After a brief rest head out to explore the hidden beauty of the region.

Day 8 :

Day 8: Trek Chhule-Nile to Mu Gompa (3,700 meters/ 12139 feet), visit Dhephu Doma Gompa (4,060 meters/ 13320 feet) -3 to 4 Hours

Today's trek will take you deeper into the mountain country close to the Tibetan border in the north. Start the trek traversing along the west bank of the Tsum valley. As you progress cross the village of Nile and arrive at Mu Gompa. From here witness the splendid views of landscapes and plateaus around.

A short climb on ascending trails through moraines will eventually bring you to Mu Gompa, nestled on a glacier. From here witness grand views of the landscapes. Also, explore the Gompa and learn about the rich culture and traditions of the people. Later visit the Mu Dhephy Donma Gompa and bask in the splendid views of the sunset starting friendly conversations with the locals.

Day 9 :

Day 9: Trek Mu Gompa to Ripchet (2,470 meters/ 8103 feet) -6 to 7 Hours

Wake up before dawn and bask in the views of the sunrise. After breakfast start your trek. Leaving the beautiful Upper Tsum Valley and retracing your steps back. Along the way cross several villages and lush agricultural belts. Progressing on the trail you will reach the Lower Tsum Valley and finally towards the village of Domje. From here after a brief walk you will be leaving the trails Tsum Valley which brings you to the village of Ripchet.

Day 10 :

Day 10: Trek Ripchet to Pewa (1765 meters/ 5790 feet) -7 to 8 Hours

Today's trek will bring you to the trail of the Manaslu circuit. Following the downwards tracks cross several villages and lush sections of woodlands. Progressing along the trail cross the rapids of the mighty Budi Gandaki river and traverse upstream. Following the trail to the north, you will eventually reach the settlement of Pewa.

Day 11 :

Day 11: Trek Pewa to Ghap (2165 meters/ 7103 feet) - 4 to 5 Hours

After breakfast start the trek. The first section of the trek takes you traversing along relatively flat land to the settlement of Deng. From Deng witness grand views of the Buddha Himal and Shringi mountain range. Next, the trek takes you gaining altitude. As you progress cross the Budi Gandaki river and head on an uphill section. Traversing on loose rocks and dusty tracks reach the small village of Rana at an elevation of 1910 meters.
From Rana village following ascending and descending trails reach the village of Bihi Phedi. Along the way witness grand views of the landscapes. Then eventually head towards Ghap. This section of the trail takes you across wide valleys and few landslides. Following the Budi Gandaki upstream finally reach the settlement of Ghap.

Day 12 :

Day 12: Trek Ghap to Lho (3180 meters/ 10433 feet) – 5 to 6 Hours

Wake up before dawn and witness the grand views of the sunrise. After breakfast start the trek following the rapids of the mighty Budi Gandaki River. As you progress on the trail traverse across majestic riverside woodlands and head on an ascending track towards the Namrung village. At Namrung head towards the Serang viewpoint. From the viewpoint witness grand views of the greater Himalayan range and the lush networks of hills to the south. Also the grand views of the village.
Then following the tracks through deep wilderness cross the village of Lihi. At the village witness several Gompas and lush agricultural farms of barley and potatoes. As you progress cross the village of Sho and finally arrive at Lho. Upon arriving at the village head towards your tea house and rest. Later stroll around the village and visit the monasteries around learning about the culture and traditions of the people. In the afternoon bask in the views of the sunset overlooking the majestic Mt. Manaslu and other peaks.

Day 13 :

Day 13: Trek Lho to Samagaun/ Sama (Ryo) (3520 meters/ 11548 feet) - 5 to 6 Hours.

Wake up early and witness the grand views of the sunrise over the Himalayas. Basking in the splendid views have your breakfast. After breakfast start your trek, traversing along the rapids of the mighty Budi Gandaki River. As you move further the trails takes you gaining altitude. Progressing on the ascending trail witness spectacular views of the mountains around. Ganesh Himal, Himchuli, Manaslu East peak, Naike peak, Ngadi peak (Peak 29), and other endless mountain peaks.
Along the way cross several Chortens perched on the backdrops of the Manaslu massif. As you progress you will come upon a wide valley and eventually to Samagaun. At Samagaun relax soaking in the views of the landscapes and snow-white mountain peaks.

Day 14 :

Day 14: Trek Samagaun/ Sama (Ryo) to Samdo (3875 meters/ 12713 feet) - 4 to 5 Hours.

Today's trek takes you deeper into the mountain country with grand views of the landscapes. Start by traversing the wide flat lands along the rapids of the mighty Budi Gandaki. Along the trail witness grand views of the Manaslu and other snow-capped peaks. Progressing on the trail the landscape change into high alpine topography with patches of shrubs and scattered vegetation.
Upon reaching Samdo head towards your accommodation and relax for a while. Later head out to stroll around the region and learn about the rich culture and traditions of the inhabitants. In the afternoon bask in the views of the sunset and witness the white snowy peaks dancing with the rays of the sun.

Day 15 :

Day 15: Trek Samdo to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi) (4460 meters/ 14632 feet) - 5 to 6 Hours

Wake up early and witness the grand views during the sunrise. After having your breakfast start the trek. Following the dry arid tracks pass by a fair seasonal market of Larkya Bazar and descend towards the Budi Gandaki River. Then, cross a wooden bridge and start traversing uphill sections. As you progress witness the views of the Larkya Glacier. Crossing a couple of streams and Mani walls head around the valley and start ascending towards Dharamsala. Upon reaching Dharamsala relax and rest as tomorrow you will be crossing one of the longest Pass of the Himalayas.

Day 16 :

Day 16: Trek Dharamshala /Larkey Phadi to Bimtang (3590 meters/ 11778 feet) via Larkya La (5,160 meters/ 16929 feet) - 7 to 8 Hours

Today is the most awaited day of the entire trek. Start early around 3 a.m. The mountain weather may deteriorate as the day goes on so it is very crucial to cross the pass before midday. After a light breakfast start the trek. Progressing on the trail traverse across a 5-kilometer incline and an uphill stretch and reach a tea shop. This makeshift tea shop is the last established before crossing the pass.
After a brief stop at the tea shop start the trek. Along the way witness grand views of the Manaslu Himalayas Ranges and other several snow-clad peaks. As you progress the trail gets more and more challenging with snow and ice-covered tracks, glacier lakes, and loose rocks. Gaining altitude reach the summit of the Larkya La pass, at 5106 meters.
From the summit witness views like never before. Views of kangguru, Annapurna II, Himlung, Cheo Himal, Gyaji Kang, Larkya Peak, Namjung Himal, Ratna Chuli, and several glaciers and moraines. After spending a brief time at the summit of the pass descend to the other side.
The 11-kilometer descent takes you on a steep track. Take extra caution in this section as the trails are covered in ice and lose rocks. Continue down and down losing elevation until life starts to appear and finally reach the beautiful village of Bimthang at an elevation of 3590 meters.
In the village relax and soak in the vibrant energy of the region. Enjoy basking in the views of Lamjung & Manaslu North East, Phungi south face, Himlung, Cheo Himal, and various other mountain peaks.

Day 17 :

Day 17: Trek Bimtang to Tilije (2300 meters/ 7545 feet) - 7 to 8 Hours

Today's trek will bring you to lower altitudes. Descend to the greenery as you move downwards. Crossing various villages with grand views of the landscape reach Tilije. After a brief rest head out to explore the village. Visit the Tilije Gompa and attend to the monks chanting scared prayers and practicing rituals.

Day 18 :

Day 18: Trek Tilije to Dharapani (1963 meters/6440 feet) – 1 ½ to 2 hours and drive to Besisahar (825 meters/ 2706 feet)-2 to 3 hours & again drive Besisahar to Kathmandu -5 to 6 hours

After breakfast start the last day of the trek. Traversing on mostly downward sections past various villages and deep wilderness of the region. Along the way witness grand views of the landscape. Upon reaching Dharapani head on a short drive towards Besisahar. After a brief rest at Besisahar head on a long drive towards Kathmandu valley. Upon arriving at Kathmandu proceed towards your accommodation. In the evening join in for a farewell dinner program to mark the successful end of your trek.

If you have any inquiries or require assistance and further information about this trip or any other trips, please feel free to contact Alpine Club of Himalaya – Walk of the Himalaya.

NOTE: All of the aforementioned trekking hours are approximations and should only be used as a general guideline.

FAQs

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Entry and Permits:

The following permits are required for trekking to Manaslu and Tsum Valley Trek

Restricted Area Permit for Tsum Valley:

September to November (Autumn Season) is US$ 40 for the first week and then US$ 7 for each additional day spent in the restricted area.
December to August (winter, spring, and Summer Seasons) is US$ 30 for the first week, then US$ 7 for each additional day spent in the restricted area.

Manaslu Region:

Special Restricted Area Permit for Manaslu (Manaslu RAP): (Approx. US $30)Manaslu
Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP Permit)
September to November: USD 100 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 15 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.
December to August: USD 75 per person for the first seven days and an additional USD 10 per person per day from the eighth day onwards.

Annapurna Region:

· Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP Permit)

Accommodation:

You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses providing basic facilities.

Meals and drinking water:

Along the Manaslu Trek, you will be provided with various Nepali and Tibetan ethnic cuisines. The region has several tea-house along the trail and is run by local inhabitants providing basic and minimal facilities. However, drinking water taps are accessible with natural water supplies all along the trekking trail which is untreated, so direct use of the water is not recommended, you may refill boiling water or cold filter water from any of the teahouses along the trail. If you buy a water purification tablet, chlorine drops or utilize SODIS (sunlight assisted) filtration procedures for further assurance, saving money, and reducing plastic pollution.

Best Time to Visit?

The best season for trekking in Manaslu Region is during autumn and spring. The months of September, October, November, March, April, and May are the best time to visit. These months are better in terms of visibility and climate conditions. During the autumn season, the months of September, October, and November are one of the best times for trekking in this region, as the weather is clear bringing great visibility of the endless mountain ranges and lush green forest with warm temperatures, the nights are clear and is a perfect opportunity for stargazing. The spring season of March, April, and May is also the best time to visit the Annapurna Region, the end of the winter season brings a change in the region, with varieties of colorful blooming trees of the sub-alpine forest, high green pasture lands covered with wildflowers, mild temperatures, and clear weather. In this season you will witness herds of sheep and yaks grazing in the green highlands. Monsoon season is not favorable as the weather gets harsh and it’s hard to get around the country, with frequent rainstorms and landslides. So, monsoon season is mostly avoided by trekkers. In the winter season, Manaslu Region receives high snowfall covering most of the trails and making it impossible to travel for this reason.

Travel Insurance:

All clients participating in any activity must have travel insurance. Personal injury, death, hospital expenditures, repatriation fees, helicopter rescue, and any other disease covered by the insurance plan will be given, we highly advise you to acquire a comprehensive insurance plan from a trustworthy insurance company.

Passport and Visa:

Every client must have a valid passport from the return date with a 6-month prior validity by the Nepalese consulate in your country or the immigration office at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Important Note:

Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full cooperation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalayas. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.