Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Region 20 Days TKHTSM23FAM

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.

Overview

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.

 

Trip Facts

Duration 20 Days
Difficulty Moderate to Strenuous
Max Altitude 5,160 m (16,929 ft)
Best Season Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
Style / Activity Trekking & Hiking
Group Size 2+ travellers
Accommodation Lodge/Tea houses
Start / End Machhakhola /Dharapani
Travellers Per person
1 US$2,977
2 US$1,985
3-5 US$1,853
6-10 US$1,730

Licensed local operator. 24/7 support before and during your trip.

Trip Highlights

  • Explore the hidden and culturally preserved Tsum Valley near the Tibetan border
  • Cross the spectacular Larkya La Pass (5,160m), one of Nepal’s longest high passes.
  • Witness breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, Annapurna II, and Himlung Himal.
  • Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries including Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, and Milarepa Cave
  • Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture, local traditions, and mountain hospitality.
  • Trek through diverse landscapes including forests, alpine meadows, glaciers, rivers, and remote Himalayan villages.
  • Discover rare Himalayan wildlife and untouched mountain wilderness in the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Itinerary

Location: Kathmandu (1,350m /4,429 ft
Duration: 30minutes transfer to Hotel.
Altitude Different: N/A
Meal: N/A
Accommodation: Standard Hotel

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.

Location: Kathmandu (1,350m /4,429 ft
Duration: N/A
Altitude Different: N/A
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Standard Hotel

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.


 

Location: Machha Khola (870m / 2,854 ft)
Duration: 6-7 hours trekking
Altitude Different: -480m/1575ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.
 

Location: Jagat (1,410m / 4,626 ft)
Duration: 6-7 hours trekking
Altitude Different: +540m / +1,772 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Lokpa (2,240m / 7,349 ft)
Duration: 6-7 hours trekking
Altitude Different: +830m / +2,723 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Chumling (2,386m / 7,828 ft)
Duration: 4-5 hours trekking
Altitude Different: +146m / +479 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Chhokang Paro (3,031m / 9,944 ft)
Duration: 4-5 hours trekking
Altitude Different: +645m / +2,116 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

 

Location: Nile (3,361m / 11,027 ft)
Duration: 4-5 hours.
Altitude Different: +330m / +1,083 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Nile → Mu Gompa (3,700m / 12,139 ft) → Chhokang Paro (3,031m / 9,944 ft)
Duration: 6-7 hours trekking
Altitude Different: +340m / +1,115 ft, -670m / -2,195 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Chhokang Paro → Lokpa (2,240m / 7,349 ft)
Duration: 6-7 hours.
Altitude Different: -791m / -2,595 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

A gradual descent through Ripchet and Chumling villages brings us back to Lokpa. Overnight stay at a lodge in Lokpa.

Location: Ghap (2,300m / 7,546 ft)
Duration: 7-8 hours.
Altitude Different: +60m / +197 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

 

 

Location: Lho (3,180m / 10,433 ft)
Duration: Trek (6–7 hrs)
Altitude Different: +880m / +2,887 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Sama Gaun (3,530m / 11,581 ft)
Duration: Trek (5–6 hrs)
Altitude Different: +350m / +1,148 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Sama Gaun (3,530m / 11,581 ft)
Duration: Short hikes
Altitude Different: N/A
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Samdo (3,875m / 12,713 ft)
Duration: Trek (4–5 hrs)
Altitude Different: +345m / +1,132 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Dharamsala (4,460m / 14,632 ft)
Duration: Trek (4–5 hrs)
Altitude Different: +585m / +1,919 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Larke La (5,160m / 16,929 ft) → Bhimtang (3,720m / 12,205 ft)
Duration: Trek (7–9 hrs)
Altitude Different: +700m / +2,297 ft ascent, -1,440m / -4,724 ft descent
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

 

 

Location: Tilije (2,300m / 7,546 ft)
Duration: Trek (6–7 hrs)
Altitude Different: -1,420m / -4,659 ft
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

Descend through glacier moraines, rhododendron and pine forests, crossing Dudh Khola and Gurung villages, before reaching Dharapani. Overnight stay at a lodge.

Location: Tilije (2,300m) or Dharapani (1,963m / 6,440 ft) → Besisahar (760m / 2,493 ft)
Duration: Trek (2 hrs) + Private Jeep 8-9 hours
Altitude Different: -1,540m2 ft / -5,05
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Lodge/Tea house

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.

Location: Kathmandu
Duration: 30minutes transfer to Airport
Altitude Different: N/A
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport 3 hours before your scheduled flight.

 

 

 

Cost Includes & Excludes

What's Included?

  • Accommodation: 3 nights standard hotel in Kathmandu 16 nights clean and cozy Lodge/Teahouse during trek
  • Transportation: All ground transfers by private vehicle (Kathmandu to Machhakhola and Dharapani to Kathmandu)
  • Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu & Full board (B/L/D with tea/coffee/seasonal juice) during trek Support Crew: Licensed trekking guide, 1 porter for every 2 trekkers including their allowances & insurance
  • Support Crew: Licensed trekking guide, 1 porter for every 2 trekkers including their allowances & insurance
  • Permits: Manaslu Conservation Are (Special permit from Department of immigration), TIMS & Annapurna conservation (ACAP) Permits.
  • Complimentary Gear: Duffel bag, sleeping bag & trekking poles (return after trek)
  • Additional Services: Airport/hotel transfers by private vehicle, First-Aid & essential kit, emergency rescue arrangements and All taxes & service charges

What's Excluded?

  • Personal expenses: Snacks, drinks, laundry, and other personal items.
  • Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner.
  • Personal trekking gear & clothing: All necessary gear, clothing, and hygiene items.
  • Travel insurance: Must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
  • International travel costs: Airfare, airport taxes, and Nepal entry visa fees.
  • Optional/add-on services: Extra assistant guide, personal porter, horse rental, or additional porters.
  • Emergency and unforeseen costs: Helicopter evacuation, additional expenses caused by strikes, weather, natural disasters, or itinerary changes.

Map and Elevation

FAQ's

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:

  • Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
  • MCAP Permit
  • ACAP Permit
  • TIMS Card

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.

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