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Step into the hidden Himalayan world where ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, sacred monasteries, dramatic mountain landscapes, and remote mountain villages create one of Nepal’s most unforgettable trekking journeys. The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is more than an adventure—it is a soulful journey through untouched valleys, roaring rivers, high alpine passes, and spiritual Himalayan communities beneath the majestic Mount Manaslu (8,163m). From the peaceful monasteries of Mu Gompa to the thrilling crossing of Larkya La Pass (5,160m), this trek offers a rare blend of culture, spirituality, wilderness, and Himalayan adventure.
The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding and remote trekking adventures, combining the spiritual isolation of Tsum Valley with the legendary Manaslu Circuit route. This 20-day Himalayan journey takes trekkers deep into the restricted Manaslu region, where untouched landscapes and centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist traditions remain beautifully preserved. The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, following winding mountain roads and riverside landscapes. The trail gradually ascends along the Budhi Gandaki River through terraced farms, suspension bridges, waterfalls, and charming Gurung villages.
As the route branches toward Tsum Valley, trekkers enter a mystical Himalayan world filled with ancient monasteries, mani walls, chortens, prayer flags, and remote settlements heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. Villages such as Chumling, Chhokang Paro, and Nile provide authentic cultural experiences, while sacred sites like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa Cave offer spiritual significance and peaceful mountain surroundings. After returning from Tsum Valley, the trail rejoins the Manaslu Circuit and continues toward higher alpine terrain. Trekking through villages like Lho, Samagaon, and Samdo, travelers are rewarded with close-up views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world’s eighth-highest mountain.
The ultimate highlight comes with crossing the dramatic Larkya La Pass (5,160m), where panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Annapurna II, and surrounding snow-covered peaks create an unforgettable Himalayan moment. The trail then descends through beautiful alpine valleys and forests toward Dharapani before returning to Kathmandu.
This trek perfectly combines adventure, culture, spirituality, and raw Himalayan beauty.
The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek stands out as one of Nepal’s most authentic and less crowded trekking experiences. Unlike commercial trekking routes, this journey offers untouched Himalayan wilderness, preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture, and remote mountain life far from busy tourist trails.
What makes this trek truly special:
|
Day |
Route |
Elevation |
Duration |
|
Day 1 |
Arrival in Kathmandu |
1,350m / 4,429ft |
— |
|
Day 2 |
Permit preparation & sightseeing |
1,350m |
Half day |
|
Day 3 |
Drive Kathmandu to Machha Khola |
870m |
6–7 hrs |
|
Day 4 |
Trek to Jagat |
1,410m |
6–7 hrs |
|
Day 5 |
Trek to Lokpa |
2,240m |
6–7 hrs |
|
Day 6 |
Trek to Chumling |
2,386m |
4–5 hrs |
|
Day 7 |
Trek to Chhokang Paro |
3,031m |
4–5 hrs |
|
Day 8 |
Trek to Nile |
3,361m |
4–5 hrs |
|
Day 9 |
Mu Gompa excursion & return |
3,700m |
6–7 hrs |
|
Day 10 |
Trek back to Lokpa |
2,240m |
6–7 hrs |
|
Day 11 |
Trek to Ghap |
2,300m |
7–8 hrs |
|
Day 12 |
Trek to Lho |
3,180m |
5–6 hrs |
|
Day 13 |
Trek to Samagaon |
3,520m |
3–4 hrs |
|
Day 14 |
Acclimatization & Manaslu Base Camp |
4,400m |
6–7 hrs |
|
Day 15 |
Trek to Samdo |
3,875m |
3–4 hrs |
|
Day 16 |
Trek to Dharamsala |
4,460m |
3–4 hrs |
|
Day 17 |
Cross Larkya La Pass to Bimthang |
5,160m |
7–8 hrs |
|
Day 18 |
Trek to Tilje/Dharapani |
2,300m |
6–7 hrs |
|
Day 19 |
Drive back to Kathmandu |
1,350m |
8–9 hrs |
|
Day 20 |
Final Departure |
— |
— |
Spring (March to May) - Spring is one of the best seasons for the trek with stable weather, blooming rhododendron forests, moderate temperatures, and excellent mountain visibility. Trails are colorful and comfortable for trekking.
Autumn (September to November) - Autumn offers crystal-clear skies, dry weather, and spectacular mountain panoramas. This is the most popular trekking season with ideal conditions for crossing Larkya La Pass.
Winter (December to February) - Winter brings cold temperatures and snowfall at higher elevations. The trek is possible for experienced trekkers, but high passes may become challenging.
Monsoon (June to August) - Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and leech-prone at lower elevations. However, Tsum Valley lies in a rain-shadow area and remains greener and less crowded.
The Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to strenuous trekking adventure. Trekkers should have good physical fitness and previous hiking experience is highly recommended.
Challenges include:
Proper acclimatization, hydration, and slow pacing are essential to avoid altitude sickness. Regular cardio exercise and endurance preparation before the trek are strongly advised.
Accommodation during the trek includes comfortable teahouses and mountain lodges with basic but cozy facilities. In Kathmandu, trekkers stay in a standard hotel.
Meals
The package includes:
Popular meals available:
Facilities
The Tsum Valley region is deeply connected to Tibetan Buddhism and remains one of Nepal’s most culturally preserved Himalayan valleys. The local communities mainly belong to the Tsumba and Tibetan-origin ethnic groups who continue practicing centuries-old traditions, language, dress, and spiritual rituals.
Trekkers will encounter:
The hospitality of the mountain people and their peaceful lifestyle create a truly meaningful cultural experience.
The trek begins with a private jeep drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, which takes approximately 8–9 hours covering rough mountain roads and scenic countryside.
After completing the trek at Dharapani/Tilje, travelers return by private vehicle to Kathmandu via Besisahar.
Transportation Summary
All ground transportation is included in the package.
✅ Experienced local trekking guides with deep Himalayan knowledge
✅ Strong focus on safety, acclimatization, and emergency support
✅ Reliable logistics with quality teahouse accommodations
✅ Personalized service and 24/7 customer assistance
✅ Responsible tourism supporting local communities and sustainable travel
Discover hidden valleys, sacred monasteries, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Join Ghumnajaau for an unforgettable journey through the remote Tsum Valley and legendary Manaslu Circuit Trek.
📩 Contact us now to customize your itinerary, check availability, and reserve your trekking experience in Nepal.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representatives and transferred to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the vibrant streets of Kathmandu at your own pace. Overnight stay at a standard hotel in Kathmandu.
Today, we will complete the necessary procedures to obtain your restricted area permits for the trek. Simultaneously, your guide will take you on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tour includes the ancient Buddhist stupa of Swayambhunath, the sacred Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath, and the impressive Boudhanath Stupa. In the evening, the guide will brief you on trek essentials, safety, and dos and don’ts. Overnight stay at a 3/4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
We embark on a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway towards the west. The journey passes through picturesque landscapes including Malekhu and Dhading Besi. The road becomes winding as we ascend to Gola Bhanjyang, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks. Descending past Ankhu Khola and crossing Budhi Gandaki River at Arughat, we finally arrive at Machha Khola. Overnight stay at a lodge in Machha Khola.
The trek begins along a narrow trail following the Budhi Gandaki River. We pass through Tharo Khola, Tatopani, and the villages of Dobhan and Yaruphant, crossing a suspension bridge over the river. Entering the Manaslu Conservation Area, we follow a stone-paved trail leading to Jagat. Overnight stay at a lodge in Jagat.
Today, we enter the restricted regions of Manaslu and Tsum Valley. The trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River past Salleri, Sirdibas, and Philim (checkpoint). Continuing through Ekle Bhatti and passing a scenic waterfall, we reach Lokpa village. Enjoy views of Shringi Himal (7,161m) along the way. Overnight stay at a lodge in Lokpa.
The trail descends through a forest, crosses a stream via a bridge, and ascends steeply through rhododendron and pine forests. Passing Bhatti Ghumlong and Ripchet, we cross Siyar Khola on a wooden bridge before ascending to Chumling village. Overnight stay at a lodge in Chumling.
Cross suspension bridges and trek through fields of potatoes and maize. Ascend gradually, enjoying magnificent views of Ganesh Himal (7,422 m) and neighboring peaks. Crossing the Serpu Khola, we reach Chhokang Paro, where, weather permitting, views of Himalchuli (7,893 m) are spectacular. Overnight stay at a lodge.
The trail passes through small hamlets, ascends towards the Rachen Gompa (3,240 m), and continues to Milarepa’s Cave. Crossing the Siyar Khola, we pass villages like Phurbe and Pangdun, eventually reaching Nile. Overnight stay at a lodge.
Start early to trek along the west bank of the river to Mu Gompa, surrounded by beautiful Chortens and Tibetan landscapes. On the way, visit Dephyudonma Gompa. After exploring the area, return to Chhokang Paro for overnight stay at a lodge.
A gradual descent through Ripchet and Chumling villages brings us back to Lokpa. Overnight stay at a lodge in Lokpa.
Cross Budhi Gandaki River via suspension bridge and enter Nyak, then continue uphill along the gorge past Deng village. Cross Mani walls and multiple bridges before arriving at Ghap, a traditional Gurung village. Overnight stay at a lodge.
Ascend landslide-prone trails, pass Mani walls, meadows, and traditional houses through fir, rhododendron, and oak forests. Continue past Sho village to reach Lho, enjoying panoramic views of Manaslu (8,163 m), Himalchuli (7,893 m), and Ngadi Chuli (7,971 m). Overnight stay at a lodge.
Trek alongside Budhi Gandaki River, passing monasteries and Chortens. Cross Numla Khola and descend into Samagaon village, reaching Pema Chyoling Lhakang Monastery. View Manaslu range, Naike Peak (6,211 m), and Larkya Peak (6,249 m). Overnight stay at a lodge.
Rest and acclimatize at Samagaon. Optional visits include Birendra Tal or Anie Gompa. Afternoon hike to Manaslu Base Camp, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m). Return to Samagaon for overnight stay.
Descend along Budhi Gandaki River, cross wooden bridges and Mani walls. Enjoy scenic views of Samdo Peak (6,335 m) and its glacial basin. Overnight stay at a lodge in Samdo.
Walk across northern village fields and ascend along the gorge above Syacha Glacier, reaching Dharamsala outside Larkya La Phedi. Views of Larkya Peak (6,249 m) and Naike Peak (6,211 m) are stunning. Overnight stay at a lodge.
Ascend to Larkya La Pass, Nepal’s longest mountain pass, passing moraines and frozen lakes. Views of Cheo Himal (6,812 m), Himlung (7,126 m), Gyaji Kung (7,030 m), Kangguru (6,981 m), and Annapurna II (7,937 m). Descend into the scenic Bimthang Valley. Overnight stay at a lodge.
Descend through glacier moraines, rhododendron and pine forests, crossing Dudh Khola and Gurung villages, before reaching Dharapani. Overnight stay at a lodge.
A scenic drive through hills and countryside takes us back to Kathmandu. Enjoy shopping or local cuisine upon arrival. Overnight stay at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
The trek is moderately difficult to strenuous and suitable for physically fit trekkers with some hiking experience.
Previous trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory if you are physically prepared.
The highest point is Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters (16,929 ft).
Yes, altitude sickness can occur above 3,000 meters. Proper acclimatization and hydration are essential.
Yes. You need:
Teahouses and lodges provide basic twin-sharing rooms with local meals and essential facilities.
Limited Wi-Fi and mobile network are available in some villages but may not work consistently.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons.
Yes, solo trekkers can join this trek, but it must be organized through a registered trekking agency with a licensed guide as per Nepal’s restricted area regulations. However, independent trekking is not permitted.
Ghumnajaau offers experienced guides, personalized service, reliable logistics, safety-focused trekking, and authentic local experiences throughout the journey.